Kendrick Lamar, Drake lead 2019 Grammy nominations, Taylor Swift snubbed
The 2018 Grammy nominees were announced live on "CBS This Morning" on Dec. 7. Kendrick Lamar leads the pack with eight nods, while Drake has seven. Producer Boi-1da and Brandi Carlile each earned six nods, while Cardi B, Childish Gambino, H.E.R., Lady Gaga, Maren Morris, producer Sounwave and mastering engineer Mike Bozzi have five each. Among the notable snubs? Recording Academy darling Taylor Swift, whose "Reputation" — the biggest selling album of the year — only earned one nomination (best pop vocal album).
Drake settles lawsuit against woman over false pregnancy, rape claims
Drake settled a fraud lawsuit against a woman who falsely accused him of raping and impregnating her during a one-night stand. The rapper filed documents on Nov. 30, explaining to the court that he and Laquana Morris, who's known by the stage name Layla Lace, have come to a resolution regarding the terms of their dispute, according to TMZ.
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Former MTV VJ Pinfield suffers "major injuries" after being hit by car
Former MTV VJ Matt Pinfield was seriously injured after he was hit by a speeding car in Los Angeles on Dec. 3. The host reportedly suffered "major injuries" and underwent surgery at a local hospital. He is now in stable condition and will begin physical therapy, his rep confirmed to TMZ.
Justin Timberlake announces postponement of December concert dates
Justin Timberlake announced that he is postponing all of his December concert dates. The news comes just two months after he pushed back a slew of concerts in October. "Hey guys, I'm sure you have heard that I've had to postpone several tour dates due to bruised vocal cords," JT wrote in an Instagram post on Dec. 5. "My vocal cords are healing, but they are not all the way back to normal, so my doctors want me to continue to rest my voice. They have asked me to hold off on singing until next month. I'm really sorry, I want to be back on the stage and I am doing all I can to get there quickly. Thank you for understanding — I see all of your posts and I appreciate the support and the love. I look forward to coming back stronger than I was before. More to come on the rescheduled dates."
Oak Ridge Boys, Reba McEntire sing at President Bush's Texas funeral
The Oak Ridge Boys and Reba McEntire solemnly performed during a funeral service for former President George H.W. Bush in Houston, Texas on Dec. 6. The group, who were George's favorite band, sung "Amazing Grace" after promising the president that they would perform at his service. Reba followed the Boys with a rendition of "The Lord's Prayer."
Beyonce-Ed Sheeran photo sparks online discussion about gender
Beyonce and Ed Sheeran wore vastly different outfits while performing at the Global Citizen's Festival in Johannesburg on Dec. 2, and the contrast has sparked an online discussion about gender inequality and sexism. Twitter users commented that the outfit difference — Beyonce's elaborate couture gown and Ed's plain jeans and T-shirt — show what society expects of men and women at the "top of their game."
Activists criticize Black Eyed Peas over Saudi Arabia concert
The Black Eyed Peas have created a storm of controversy over their planned performance at a musical festival in Saudi Arabia. Human rights activists called for the band to cancel their appearance in light of Saudi officials' alleged involvement in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. "It is outrageous that these artists — who millions of people admire and idolize — have agreed to do business with the murderous regime of MbS," Human Rights Foundation Chairman Garry Kasparov said on Dec. 1.
Kanye West apologizes after being called out for using phone during Broadway show
Kanye West publicly apologized on Twitter after a cast member called him out for using his phone during a Broadway performance of "The Cher Show." The rapper went to see the musical with his wife, Kim Kardashian West, on Dec. 3 and reportedly began using his phone while the cast was performing. "Hey @kanyewest so cool that you're here at @TheCherShow! If you look up from your cell phone you'll see we're doing a show up here," actor Jarrod Spector tweeted. "It's opening night. Kind of a big deal for us. Thanks so much." Kanye tweeted back, "…please pardon my lack of etiquette. We have so much appreciation for the energy you guys put into making this master piece."
Buzzcocks frontman Pete Shelley dead at 63
Pete Shelley, the lead singer of the rock band the Buzzcocks, died on Dec. 6 after suffering a suspected heart attack in Estonia. He was 63.