Rapper Quando Rondo was arrested Friday on federal drug charges in his hometown of Savannah, Georgia.
The FBI announced the arrest, stating that Rondo, 24, whose real name is Tyquian Terrel Bowman, was apprehended without incident during a routine traffic stop. He now faces four serious charges: conspiracy to distribute marijuana and hydrocodone pills and illegal use of a communication facility.
Rondo initially racked up over 135 million views on YouTube with his 2018 collaboration with rapper Lil Baby on the song "I Remember." He has solidified his position in the rap scene with several mixtapes and singles, further cementing his rising star status through collaborations with prominent artists like Lil Durk, 21 Savage and Polo G.
However, this latest episode adds another layer to Rondo's complex legal history. Back in June 2023, he and 18 others were indicted on state drug and gang charges, including accusations of his involvement in the Rollin' 60s street gang. He has also faced charges of weapons possession, aggravated assault and battery in recent years.
The federal drug charges against Rondo are serious and could carry significant prison sentences if he is convicted. His legal team has maintained his innocence and expressed confidence in clearing his name in court.
"Mr. Bowman is innocent of these charges and looks forward to clearing his name in court," said Rondo's spokesperson, Trenae's Public Relations. "We ask that you respect his privacy during this difficult time."
Rondo is expected to appear in federal court later today.
Sunday the music world will commemorate the 56th anniversary of Otis Redding's tragic passing. Though gone, his legacy as the "King of Soul" remains as powerful and impactful as ever.
Otis Redding and Mitch Ryder, December 9, 1967, performing "Knock on Wood" over the ending credits of the American TV show 'Upbeat,' Cleveland, Ohio. Otis was killed the next day in a plane crash. pic.twitter.com/QIkNzI0gBP
Born in Dawson, Georgia, in 1941, Redding's rise to fame was meteoric. Discovered in 1960, he soon signed with Stax Records, becoming one of the leading figures in soul music. His powerful, raw voice and soulful songs, infused with gospel and blues influences, captured the essence of the soul experience. He quickly became a star, collaborating with renowned musicians like Booker T. & the M.G.'s, Isaac Hayes, and Sam & Dave. His electrifying stage presence and undeniable talent cemented his status as a true performer.
Redding's musical accomplishments were remarkable. He amassed a treasure trove of accolades, including two Grammy Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and the Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award. Rolling Stone further solidified his legacy by placing him among the "200 Best Singers of All Time" in January 2023.
Tragically, on December 10th, 1967, at just 26 years old, Redding's life was cut short in a plane crash. The Bar-Kays, his backing band, also lost four members – guitarists Jimmy King and Phalon Jones, organist Ronnie Caldwell, and drummer Carl Cunningham. They were all exceptional musicians in their own right, integral to Redding's sound and success.
Despite the tragedy, Redding's music continues to inspire and move countless artists and audiences across generations. His soulful anthems like "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" and "Respect" continue to uplift and energize, reminding us of the transformative power of music.
The Otis Redding Foundation, established by his wife Zelma in 2007, honors his memory and supports young people with a passion for music and the arts. The Foundation offers various programs and initiatives, including the Otis Music Camp and the upcoming Otis Redding Center for the Arts, ensuring that Redding's spirit continues to empower young minds and nurture the next generation of musical talent, ensuring that his music continues to resonate for years to come.
In a recent statement, the Foundation expressed gratitude for the continued support of Redding's music and announced the nearing completion of the new Otis Redding Center for the Arts, set to open in Fall 2024 in Macon, Georgia. This multi-purpose space will provide students aged 5-18 with unique opportunities to explore their artistic talents and hone their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors and renowned musicians.
Zelma Redding, echoing her husband's dream of educating children through music, wrote on the Foundation's website, "(This) emphasis on creativity and inspiration is something I think he would have been proud of and it is the kind of program we will continue to champion through our foundation."
Redding's legacy continues to shine brightly through the Foundation's dedication to empowering and enlightening young people. Fifty-six years after his passing, his spirit remains vibrant, reminding us of the transformative power of music and the enduring impact of a true musical legend.
Diddy finds himself under fire once again, as a fourth woman comes forward with accusations of sexual assault. The Bad Boy founder took to social media to vehemently deny the allegations, declaring, "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH" and asserting his innocence amidst what he perceives as character assassination.
The latest accuser claims to be a victim of a "gang rape" orchestrated by Diddy and others in 2003 when she was just 17 years old. The shocking revelation adds to the already complex web of legal troubles facing the music mogul, who recently settled a lawsuit filed by singer and ex-girlfriend Cassie under the New York State Adult Survivors Act.
A new lawsuit accuses hip-hop mogul Diddy of raping a 17-year-old. Here's the full complaint.https://t.co/iz7c96vlAX
Cassie's lawsuit, which accused him of physical and sexual abuse, was swiftly settled, with Diddy's lawyer emphasizing that the resolution should not be seen as an admission of guilt. Despite the settlement, two more accusers followed suit, alleging incidents dating back to 1991 and adding further layers to the controversy surrounding Combs.
Here's the lawsuit filed last month against Diddy and singer Aaron Hall over an alleged sex assault in 1990.
The lawyer is Tyrone Blackburn, who also represents the woman suing Nicki Minaj's husband, Kenneth Petty, related to his 1995 attempted rape conviction. pic.twitter.com/qo7FPJcbRq
Amidst these serious allegations, hip-hop icon 50 Cent has seized the opportunity to shed light on the unfolding drama. The rap mogul announced that his production company is working on a documentary focused on the myriad of sexual assault accusations against Diddy. In a teaser shared on Instagram, former Bad Boy Records rapper Mark Curry makes shocking claims about Diddy spiking bottles of alcohol at parties, only serving them to unsuspecting women.
The documentary, yet untitled, aims not only to expose the allegations but also to contribute to a cause larger than the controversy itself. 50 Cent declared that the proceeds from the documentary will go to victims of sexual assault and rape. In a statement, a representative for Curtis Jackson & G-Unit Film and TV confirmed the documentary's development, solidifying 50 Cent's commitment to supporting the victims.
