Sean 'Diddy' Combs to Receive Global Icon Award and Return to Stage at MTV Video Music Awards

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Sean "Diddy" Combs, a pioneering figure in the rap industry and the founder of Bad Boy Records, is set to be honored with the Global Icon Award at this year's MTV Video Music Awards. The award recognizes Combs for his unparalleled career and significant influence in the world of music and beyond.

The VMAs ceremony, set to air live from New Jersey's Prudential Center on September 12 at 8 p.m. EST, marks Combs' return to the VMAs stage after a 16-year absence, with his last appearance dating back to 2005.

In addition to the Global Icon Award, Combs is nominated in four other categories at this year's VMAs. Notably, he's recognized in the Best Collaboration category for his contributions to tracks like "Creepin' (Remix)" and "Gotta Move On," featuring Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, and Yung Miami. He's also nominated in the Best Rap and Best R&B categories.

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Combs' history with the VMAs goes back to his 1997 debut, where he performed "Mo Money Mo Problems" live. In 2005, he hosted the ceremony, solidifying his connection with the VMAs.

The Global Icon Award has previously been presented to renowned artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers. However, Combs holds a unique distinction as the first Black artist and solo performer to receive this honor.

As part of the celebration, Sean Combs will perform live for the first time in 16 years. His last appearance was in 2005 when he hosted the show in Miami, delivering a memorable medley of songs by The Notorious B.I.G. alongside Snoop Dogg.

Apart from the Global Icon Award, Combs received nominations in the Best R&B and Best Collaboration categories for his work on "Gotta Move On (Queens Remix)" and "Creepin' (Remix)."

Additionally, Combs is set to release "The Love Album: Off The Grid" on September 15 via Love Records. This 23-song album will feature collaborations with notable artists such as Babyface, The Weeknd, Mary J. Blige, John Legend, Herb Alpert, Jazmine Sullivan, The-Dream, K-Ci Hailey and H.E.R.

Combs also has been generating excitement on social media with his collaboration with Mary J. Blige, titled "I Like," believed to sample Blige's 1994 track, "Don't Go."

Me and @MaryJBlige’s legacy is deeper than music. We truly are brother and sister from another mother. Mary was one of the only people to stand by me the first time the world canceled me. She believed in me enough to make the “My Life” album and has always been by my side. I… pic.twitter.com/b3w7zAVkDJ

— LOVE (@Diddy) September 5, 2023

"The Love Album: Off The Grid" follows Diddy's 2006 release, "Press Play," which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This upcoming project marks his return as a lead artist under the name Diddy, following previous releases under different aliases, including Puff Daddy & The Family and Diddy – Dirty Money.

The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards feature a lineup of leading artists, with Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, and SZA leading the nominations. The VMAs will also include performances by Måneskin, Demi Lovato, Karol G and Stray Kids.

Hip-Hop Icon Juicy J Releases Raw Memoir 'Chronicles of the Juice Man'

Juicy J, a pioneering member of the legendary rap ensemble Three 6 Mafia, has unveiled his life's raw and unfiltered journey in his recently published memoir, "Chronicles of the Juice Man." In exclusive interviews with Good Morning America and the Allison Interviews podcast, Juicy J offered a glimpse into the trials and triumphs that propelled him from a humble beginning to hip-hop superstardom.

Born and raised in Memphis, Juicy J reflected on his upbringing as a young, underprivileged African American. "My roots instilled in me the values of hustle, resilience, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Today, I stand here because I never gave up," he shared.

As a pioneering member of Three 6 Mafia, Juicy J and the group boldly ventured into subjects considered taboo in the music industry at the time. "Our lyrics explored uncharted territories — from gritty narratives of drug culture to the mean streets of Memphis, covering the highs and lows. We held nothing back," he reminisced.

When discussing their audacious lyrics, Juicy J explained, "We didn't overthink it. We entered the studio, poured our hearts out, and let the music flow organically. No filters, no inhibitions. We were unapologetically ourselves."

In a poignant revelation during the Allison Interviews podcast, Juicy J candidly discussed his ongoing battle with Xanax addiction and the mental health challenges he's confronted. He underscored the power of resilience and faith, urging others never to give up. "My journey has been marked by trials, guided by a higher purpose. I stand as a testament that, even in the darkest hours, one can emerge victorious," he passionately asserted.

Juicy J also fondly recalled Three 6 Mafia's historic Oscar win for Best Original Song with "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp," featured in the film "Hustle and Flow."

In an unexpected twist from the Allison Interviews podcast, Juicy J shared a chance encounter with Hollywood luminary Will Smith on that very night. According to Juicy J, Smith humorously quipped, "Man, I’m just mad ‘cause y’all got one before me." While the exchange carried a playful undertone, Juicy J found it noteworthy, given his profound respect for Smith's musical legacy.

With no signs of slowing down, Juicy J currently serves as the executive producer for Tyler Dollar Sign's upcoming album and produces records for Megan Thee Stallion. Anticipation builds for his upcoming album, "Memphis Zoo," a collaborative venture with Xavier Wolf. Additionally, a significant partnership with the record label 10K Projects, including executive producer roles, lies on the horizon.

"Chronicles of the Juice Man" is now available at major book retailers.

Birdman Welcomes B.G. Back: Influential Rapper Freed After Extended Prison Stay

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New Orleans rapper B.G., known for his role in the iconic 1990s rap group Hot Boys alongside Lil Wayne and Juvenile, has been released from prison after serving more than a decade behind bars.

B.G., whose real name is Christopher Dorsey, was greeted upon his release by rapper and hip-hop mogul Birdman, who had mentored him and Lil Wayne in the early 1990s at Cash Money Records. Video footage from Birdman's Instagram Live shows the two chatting and embracing, surrounded by supporters.

Dorsey was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison in 2012 after pleading guilty to gun possession as a felon and obstruction of justice. He had spent the last 11 years incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Herlong, California.

Birdman picks up BG from prison after serving 11 years 🔓 pic.twitter.com/l8BPMJeHBI

— HIPHOP CROWN NATION (@hiphopcnation) September 5, 2023

In a recent Instagram post, the 43-year-old rapper hinted at his impending release, writing, "It’s my last #Birthday being buried alive." He expressed determination to focus on productivity, positivity, and peace of mind, signaling a change from his previous path.

Dorsey's early release, ahead of his original July 2024 release date, raises questions about the circumstances, which remain unclear.

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He had actively sought to have his sentence commuted in 2022 with support from notable figures like Birdman and NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, among others. However, a federal judge denied his request for compassionate release, stating that he had not demonstrated "extraordinary and compelling reasons" for a reduced sentence.

The news of B.G.'s release has ignited celebration within the hip-hop community. Houston rapper Bun B even shared a FaceTime call with B.G. and Birdman, hinting at a potential Hot Boys reunion.

Photo Credit Instagram/BunB

Hot Boys, consisting of B.G., Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and Turk, gained fame in the 1990s with their platinum album, "Guerrilla Warfare." After the group disbanded, its members pursued solo careers. Notably, Lil Wayne filed a $51-million lawsuit against Birdman in 2015, alleging withheld payments and exploitation of artists. The lawsuit was settled in 2018.

B.G. is celebrated for his contributions to New Orleans' rap scene, with hits like "Bling Bling" and "Neighborhood Superstars." His unexpected release after more than a decade in prison marks a new chapter in his career.