Rihanna Drops “FourFiveSeconds” Single w/Kanye West and Paul McCartney

The Beatles legend Paul McCartney and Kanye West dropped their second high-profile collaboration on Saturday (January 24), in what could be the first taste of Rihanna’s upcoming eighth LP. Titled “FourFiveSeconds,” the acoustic track is more stripped down than Rih’s usual fare, as she and Yeezy sing about being on the verge of snapping. “I’m four, five seconds from wildin’/And we got three more days ’til Friday…” the 26-year-old Pisces vents. You can buy “FourFiveSeconds” on iTunes, and listen below.

Lil Wayne Is Taking Birdman/Cash Money to Court

One of hip-hop’s greatest bromances is going to court in what’s becoming an ugly battle for freedom and a modest $8 million. Lil Wayne is suing Baby for allegedly violating their contract by withholding the release of Tha Carter V. The suit’s $8 milli was supposed to be an advance payment for the project, which Wayne says was never delivered. Wayne will reportedly continue recording music, but release it outside of the Cash Money umbrella. Last week, Weezy dropped his Sorry 4 the Wait 2 mixtape, jacking beats from Bobby Shmurda, Beyoncé and OT Genesis songs; the latter contains jabs at Birdman and Cash Money.

Read it at TMZ.

Jay Z Cosigns Gov. Cuomo’s Criminal Justice Reform Efforts

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has received a Jay Z stamp of approval following his proposed criminal justice reform package. Following the controversial non-indictment of the officer who killed Eric Garner on video, Cuomo proposed increased transparency of statewide racial data on police actions. He also committed to stop prosecuting 16- and 17-year-olds as adults.

Hov expressed his support for the strides in a statement given to Capitol Confidential: “The criminal justice reform package proposed by Governor Cuomo today is a huge step forward in restoring fairness, protection, sensitivity and accountability for all under our justice system. I commend Governor Cuomo for his bold leadership in taking this issue head on at this critical time. This package presents comprehensive steps to protect and improve relations amongst all citizens. We cannot be divided, as every single human being matters. Together, we can move forward as a community, with mutual respect for each other and continue to make this great state stronger than ever before.”

Not all are showering Cuomo with praise. Detractors have expressed disappointment over his lack of push for a special prosecutor to investigate fatal police encounters with New Yorkers.

Read it at The Urban Daily.