50 Cent is extremely unserious when it comes to beef. He’ll mercilessly troll his adversaries at any given moment, even if it isn’t the time. Sometimes though, he can be profoundly cruel in how he mocks people and his latest tirade proves that.

In a report from Complex, Rick Ross’s son William Roberts III was attacked outside of Bethune-Cookman University. One night, he was outside with another woman when 20-year-old Don Roberts III stepped out of his vehicle with a handgun. Allegedly, William was dating a woman that Don had previous relations with. Consequently, Don was looking to inflict pain and reportedly told William, “I don’t care who your daddy is, I’ll kill you right here.”

Then, the gunman allegedly pistol-whipped Rick Ross’ son in the head and drove off afterward. He eventually turned himself in after the report was made. In his typical, mean-spirited fashion, 50 Cent had jokes about the whole affair. He joked on Instagram that he would bail the gunman out of jail and said things just got out of hand. Then, of course, he promoted his latest film, Street Fighter.

“I got him he will be out tomorrow I’m sending @drewfindling . This is a big misunderstanding that can easily be resolved. This was a street fight, I mean STREET FIGHTER is in theaters!” 50 wrote in the caption.

50 Cent Jokes About Traumatizing Experience for Rick Ross’ son

The feud between the G-Unit leader and Rick Ross dates back to an alleged incident at the 2008 BET Hip-Hop Awards. Tensions between the two skyrocketed immediately when 50 made it a point to highlight the Miami legend’s past as a correctional officer and mocked the drug kingpin image he crafted.

Ross’s career never suffered too much from 50’s brutal attacks. As a result, the two would spend the next 15+ years sparring back and forth with each other. For instance, back in August 2025, Rick Ross made it a point to make fun of 50 Cent’s past record deals and threatened to buy his masters. That way, he would be the one to profit off of his work, not 50.

“I got a question,” he said. “50 Cent, after your first album went diamond, no one around you thought it would be a good idea to renegotiate that horrendous contract you was in for ownership of your master’s after that first album? The second album? Third album? The fourth album?”

Photo by Frazer Harrison/WireImage

The post 50 Cent Takes Feud With Rick Ross to New Low After Rapper’s Son Reports Gun Attack appeared first on VICE.

In 1981, Ian MacKaye of Minor Threat coined the term straight edge. It became a movement within the hardcore punk community, abstaining from the use of drugs and alcohol. This movement vehemently rejected the use of drugs and alcohol, citing a silent class war that was destroying ghetto neighborhoods. With this movement catching on, the hardcore punk community rehabilitated countless hardcore fans throughout the decade.

Straight edge hardcore carried over into the 90s but slightly dissipated towards the end of the decade. Due to this, there was a full straight edge revival in the 2000s. These 3 hardcore punk bands were at the forefront of the revival of straight edge in the 2000s.

Have Heart

One of the main bands to introduce straight edge to a new generation was Have Heart. Fronted by Patrick Flynn, they were a primary fixture in the Boston hardcore scene. Formed in New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 2002, Have Heart released their first EP in 2004, What Counts. With this EP release, the band helped usher in a new era of youth crew hardcore. Additionally, they contributed to the straight edge revival with songs such as “Something More Than Ink”.

They became hardcore icons with their 2006 debut album, The Things We Carry. Their track “Armed With A Mind” became a straight edge anthem. For their sophomore release in 2008, the band transitioned into a post-hardcore sound while carrying over their straight edge ideals. Songs To Scream At The Sun was the band’s final release before their legendary final show on National Edge Day, October 17, 2009. Patrick Flynn and drummer Shawn Costa are now members of the post-hardcore band Fiddlehead, which also features members of Basement.

Champion

Formed in 1999, Champion was also signed to Bridge 9 Records, much like Have Heart later on. Members of Champion were in other hardcore punk bands hailing from Seattle, Washington, in the late 90s and early 2000s. These included Betrayed, fronted by Champion guitarist Aram Arslanian. Champion released only one studio album, three EPs, and a compilation album before disbanding in 2006. Their only album, Promises Kept, became a defining and foundational straight edge album in 2004.

Their final show was filmed, recorded, and released in 2007 as a DVD/CD combo. This last live performance film will give you a special glimpse into the straight edge movement in Seattle in the mid-2000s.

Carry On

While Champion emerged from the northern Pacific coast, bands like Carry On emerged in Southern California to help continue the straight edge movement. Formed in 1997, the band released a string of EPs in the late 90s and early 200s. In 2001, they released their only studio release, A Life Less Plagued. It was the first album released by Bridge 9 Records, which became a massively influential hardcore punk label in the 2000s. Members of Carry On went on to form or join bands such as Stand & Fight, Betrayed, Terror, Go It Alone, Internal Affairs, and Piece By Piece.

Photo by Ian Dickson/Redferns

The post 3 Hardcore Punk Bands That Revived Straight Edge in the 2000s appeared first on VICE.

💾

Many will know these artists as being the icons of 90s grunge. When grunge broke into the mainstream in 1991, the genre dominated the alternative music world for the next five years. During this time, some members of leading grunge acts created side projects. These three side projects may have been forgotten after 30 years.

The Jury

Before Nirvana broke into the mainstream, Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic created a forgotten side project with Mark Lanegan and Mark Pickerel of the Screaming Trees. Both Nirvana and Screaming Trees were part of the Pacific Northwest grunge scene in the late 80s and early 90s. Cobain and Lanegan shared a love for Lead Belly, an American folk and blues musician from the early 20th century. They created the acoustic-driven project The Jury, in contrast to the heavy sounds of their respective bands. Originally, Cobain wanted to name the band Lithium, a name he later used for a track on Nevermind in 1991.

The Jury recorded four songs in August 1989 with producer and engineer Jack Endino. They recorded four covers of Lead Belly songs, including “Where Did You Sleep Last Night?” This version later appeared on Mark Lanegan’s 1990 solo album The Winding Sheet. Nirvana recorded their own live version on MTV Unplugged in 1993.

M.A.C.C.

One of the most notorious side projects of 90s grunge is Temple Of The Dog. In 1990, members of Soundgarden and future members of Pearl Jam released a tribute album for their friend and grunge pioneer Andrew Wood. These same members, excluding Eddie Vedder and Stone Gossard, came together for another side project. In 1993, Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready and bassist Jeff Ament teamed up with Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell and drummer Matt Cameron. Together, they recorded a cover of “Hey Baby (Land Of The New Rising Sun)” for the tribute album Stone Free: A Tribute To Jimi Hendrix. It was the only song recorded and released by this group.

Brad

In 1992, Pearl Jam rhythm guitarist Stone Gossard formed a side project with Regan Hagar. Hagar was a member of the band Satchel. He had previously played drums in Malfunkshun, a pioneering grunge band that featured Andrew Wood, whose death inspired the creation of Temple Of The Dog. Gossard, Hagar, and vocalist Shawn Smith of Satchel released two albums in the 90s and four in the 21st century. The core of the group has been Gossard and Hagar, though vocalist Shawn Smith performed with the group until his death in 2019.

Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage

The post 3 Forgotten Side Projects Featuring Iconic 90s Grunge Artists appeared first on VICE.

💾

Spotify somehow became an industry standard for music streaming when we weren’t looking, and now artists and listeners alike are looking for alternatives. The platform has a tight grip on the music industry, to the point where it often feels like the only choice. But the past few years of layoffs, insulting artist payouts, AI features, and questionable investments are catching up. Here are three platforms that could send Spotify toppling from its throne.

Subvert

Subvert is a cooperative music marketplace that gives ownership directly to artists, independent labels, and supporters. It was formed in 2022 as a response to layoffs when Bandcamp was sold. An essay titled “A Collectively Owned Bandcamp Successor” garnered support from artists, labels, and others in the industry. From there, the platform started taking shape as a music platform owned by those who actually use it.

It officially launched in 2026, with three free sign up options for artists, labels, and listeners. There’s also a lifetime support membership for $100. The tiers offer different benefits, like discounts on purchases, zero platform fees for artists, co-ownership of Subvert, access to forums and more. The co-op model offers fair payouts for artists and complete business transparency, putting Subvert at a unique advantage over Spotify.

Vocana

Vocana was founded in 2021 with the idea of user-centric music streaming. The platform went public in August 2025, with more than 40 million tracks in its library. But Vocana’s unique angle is that it only hosts independent artists. Its indie-only model has the benefit of 100% human-based music discovery, with no algorithms or AI features.

Additionally, Vocana’s payout method is interesting, and overall a refreshing change from the industry standard. Instead of money from subscribers going into a global pool and distributed across the platform, like Spotify’s model, Vocana subscriptions go directly to the artists a listener streams. No money pool, no measly payouts. Your money goes to your artists.

Bandcamp

When all else fails, there’s still ol’ reliable Bandcamp. While there have been some shakeups at the platform, its model is still one of the best compared to Spotify. There’s a decent mix of independent artists and small to mid-sized labels in their library. Plus the ability to purchase physical albums and merch right from the artist page.

Bandcamp has a distinctly human touch in its editorial section, especially the genre highlight posts. One of the most beloved features of the platform might be the ability to purchase a digital album and download the mp3s. In a throwback to iTunes in its prime, you can buy an album one time and then own the files forever. The way music ownership was meant to be.

Photo by Samuel Boivin/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The post 3 Platforms That Might End Spotify’s Reign in Music Streaming appeared first on VICE.

In 1991, Alice In Chains got the opportunity of a lifetime. They got to go on tour as the opening act for one of their favorite bands. By 1991, Van Halen had already dominated the 1980s with two lead singers. Well into their Sammy Hagar “Van Hagar” era, the band released their third album with Hagar on June 17, 1991. For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge had a bit of a rougher edge than their previous albums, 5150 (1986) and OU812 (1988).

By this point, a grunge band out of Seattle had released a defining album in 1990. It’s one of the main tracks that helped push grunge into the mainstream. Grunge officially broke with Nirvana in September 1991, but many forget Alice In Chains’ “Man In The Box” went to No. 18 on the Mainstream Rock Chart in January 1991.

Sammy Hagar saw the music video on MTV and decided to bring the young band along as the opener for their North American tour. Alice In Chains, their guitarist Jerry Cantrell in particular, were huge fans of the band, so they gladly accepted.

An ON-STAGE Prank War Unfolds

In one single night, Van Halen pulled multiple pranks on Alice In Chains. Guitarist Jerry Cantrell spoke about these pranks in a 2013 interview with Jim Dunlop, later reported by Loudwire. “A lot of pranks get pulled on stage; it’s kind of a tradition to f*** with each other at the end of the tour, especially the opening bands.”

Cantrell went on to tell, “I remember the Van Halen guys got us like four times in one set, back in 91, at the end of that tour. When we came out on stage, they had taken a bunch of three-foot strips of duct tape and put them all over the stage, face-up. So we walked out, and within a couple of seconds we were all dragging around huge wads of duct tape on stage. They sent out some strippers, not very attractive ones, who stayed out there for a whole song. Then they sent out one of their techs. I think he was a guy named Zeke. He was in a Little Bo Peep outfit with some live sheep.”

“And at the very end of our set, we were playing “Man In The Box,” Cantrell explained. “Their crew came out and started dismantling our entire set around us. They left Sean with a kick and snare, left me with one cab, and they just unplugged Mike Starr. And that was all in one set! I don’t think anyone has ever topped that commitment to f***ing with the opening act.”

Alice In Chains Retaliates

Jerry Cantrell then explained that they did get Van Halen back. “On the flip side of that, there’s a photo, which I think some people have seen, but I don’t think it’s necessarily public knowledge… So Van Halen used to do this signature walk across the stage, and at the time they had these skimpy panties that they would sell to the chicks in the audience.” Cantrell then explained that they wore these to do the signature Van Halen walk across the stage, though it didn’t fully cover their private parts. It was enough to throw Eddie Van Halen off with laughter, missing a few notes on guitar in the process. This was a rarity for the legendary guitarist, and it made Cantrell feel their retaliation prank was a success.

Photo by Al Seib/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

The post In 1991, Van Halen Pranked Alice in Chains by Storming on Stage Nude, Covered Only by Cardboard Boxes appeared first on VICE.

💾

Acclaimed shoegaze band They Are Gutting a Body of Water has canceled their planned fall tour. The news comes as frontman Doug Dulgarian announced he was diagnosed with cancer.

In a lengthy Instagram post caption, Dulgarian shared the unfortunate news. He found out the same day the band released their new mixtape, KOOL FAITH / LOOSIES II. “Damn. Super bummed to have to talk about this. And super bummed to do this,” Dulgarian wrote. “I was diagnosed with cancer last Friday, same day we put out Kool Faith. Crazy day, every possible emotion lmao.”

“We obviously can’t do the tour, as I need to get this figured out,” he continued. “I have treatment in a couple weeks. I have a feeling it will all work out. Been [through] a lot of things in my crazy and (atp) relatively long existence, and I’m no stranger to putting my best foot forward and facing some difficult s**t.”

Dulgarian then added, “I wanna make this clear. I’m not seeking pity. I do not want to sway your emotions to feel bad for me; I just want to inform you. I genuinely believe this will work out just fine. There are many people with much worse problems, and my life has been so infinitely blessed and privileged & I never lose sight of that.”

They Are Gutting a Body of Water Frontman Doug Dulgarian has been diagnosed with cancer

As a result of Dulgarian’s cancer diagnosis, TAGABOW has canceled their upcoming tour. However, they are keeping three December dates: two shows in Brooklyn on December 9th and 10th and one hometown Philly show on December 18th.

A GoFundMe has been started for Dulgarian to help mitigate the financial burden of his medical issues, as well as make up lost income from the band’s canceled tour.

A description of the fundraiser explains where the funds will be going. “Douglas Dulgarian of the band They Are Gutting a Body of Water was diagnosed with cancer last Friday. Douglas needs to undergo treatment immediately, which means TAGABOW has to cancel their tour that was supposed to start next week.”

“The hope is that Douglas will be recovered by their NYC and Philly shows in December,” the description adds. “But everything is up in the air right now. This has left Douglas and the band in a financially precarious spot.”

“Douglas has already paid for thousands of dollars of medical bills out of pocket to get the cancer diagnosis,” The GoFundMe goes on to explain. “There are upfront tour-related costs that can’t be reimbursed, and the profits from the tour was supposed to be the band’s income for the rest of the year. We are praying for a speedy recovery and asking for donations at this time to cover medical bills and living expenses while he navigates cancer treatment and recovery.”

At the time of this writing, the GoFundMe has raised more than its $40,000 goal.

Photo by Samantha Tellez/Rolling Stone via Getty Images

The post Shoegaze Guitarist Reveals Cancer Diagnosis, Band Cancels Upcoming Tour Dates appeared first on VICE.

If you’re already familiar with these three bands, you’ll know that their weirdness is a beloved aspect of their image. For those who don’t know, you’re in for a surrealist, avant-garde, art rock experience.

Mr. Bungle

Mr. Bungle formed in 1985 while the founding members were still high school students. It started as a speed and thrash metal outlet, but the band reportedly got tired of that after about a year. They dabbled in ska and funk, recruiting horn and drum players. With new influences guiding them, the band found they could really do whatever they wanted.

Their first demo, The Raging Wrath of the Easter Bunny, was recorded in 1986. It still featured a solid thrash metal sound, with the new ska additions blended in. The art rock experimentation showed up in their use of bongos, kazoo, saxophone, and train whistles. As Mr. Bungle released more music in the following years, their sound evolved to include swing, funk, free jazz, carnival music, avant-garde improv, and more ska elements. According to founding member Mike Patton at the time, Mr. Bungle was essentially “weirdo funk music”.

Oingo Boingo

Danny Elfman’s avant-garde art rock project formed in 1979 after seven years as a surrealist theater group called the Mystic Knights of Oingo Boingo. As the group evolved, they initially made ska-punk music. But Oingo Boingo, by design, wouldn’t be boxed in. They incorporated elements of new wave, art rock, punk, ska, jazz, and had an overall experimental approach.

Oingo Boingo was known for their high-energy stage presence, which built on their theater troupe foundations. Although there were several lineup changes throughout the years, Elfman, Leon Schneiderman, Dale Turner, Sam Phipps, Steve Bartek, and John “Vatos” Hernandez stayed consistent. In the mid-90s the group turned to a more rock-oriented sound, leaving behind their keyboards and horns. This proved to be their final change, as they retired after a final concert in 1995.

Idiot Flesh

Idiot Flesh was an experimental art rock band that formed in 1985, originally under the name Acid Rain. They released a demo under that name in 1987, before changing to Idiot Flesh before the release of their first album, Tales of Instant Knowledge and Sure Death, in 1990. Its founding members were students at the University of California at Berkley.

The band incorporated many different theatrical elements in their music and stage shows. They used marching band routines, puppet shows, circus acrobatics, fire breathing, and instruments made out of household objects. Idiot Flesh also included skits and interludes on their albums. Although they disbanded in 1998, several members went on to work with Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, the Sun and Moon Ensemble, Cirque du Soleil, and Les Claypool of Primus.

Photo by Rafael Macia /Redferns

The post 3 Art Rock Bands That Made Being Weird Their Entire Business Model appeared first on VICE.

💾

Being one of the greatest rappers of all time means having all-time feature verses on your resume. Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Drake, Kendrick Lamar—all of them are known for completely hijacking another artist’s song to turn an ordinary song into something truly blockbuster. Eminem is no exception, tagging in on songs for the sake of competition to prove who’s the best.

We selected three instances where the Detroit MC absolutely stole the show on a song. Moreover, they’re all times where he’s on records with other rappers that are in the discussion for the greatest of all time.

Three Times Eminem Absolutely Killed a Guest Verse

“Forever”

The energy shifted drastically when Em joined Drake, Kanye West, and Lil Wayne on “Forever”. Perhaps it’s the breakneck pace at which he rapped, but even the simplest rhyme schemes feel contagious with how frequently he changed tempos.

Additionally, it helps that the other rappers on the song didn’t give their A game. Lil Wayne gives a par-for-the-course verse in a year where he was basically giving them out for free. Drake rapped in a lot of dad puns, and Kanye West was mostly just hilarious, saying “Super bad chicks givin’ me McLovin”. Eminem essentially had an open canvas for him to challenge their bombastic Boi-1da production.

“Renegade”

Less of a complete hijacking and more of a constant tug-of-war between two all-time rappers. Ultimately, it’s a matter of preference when picking between Jay-Z and Slim Shady. Where Hov zeroes in on the mindset it took for him to thrive, Eminem grapples with the perception and controversy around his name. Sure, he’ll rock the boat like usual, but ultimately, he looks at hypocrisy as the smoking gun for the media’s disdain.

“But there’s a huge interference, they’re sayin’ you shouldn’t hear it/Maybe it’s hatred I spew, maybe it’s food for the spirit/Maybe it’s beautiful music I made for you to just cherish/But I’m debated, disputed, hated and viewed in America/As a motherf**kin’ drug addict, like you didn’t experiment?” Em raps.

“Don’t Push Me”

Just because they’re good friends and he signed 50 Cent doesn’t mean that Eminem was going to take it easy on him. He spends the verse hopscotching through the blunt force of the drums, scoffing at anyone questioning his legitimacy as a rapper. He’s not just some poser, and he’s definitely not someone that kids can just emulate. Cosplaying is fun and games until someone actually dies behind it.

“Man these teenie boppers see me on these magazine covers/In these beanies and these rags living fantasies, frontin’ (C’mon)/Like it’s all fun and games ’til they shoot ’em up bang/And you see your brains hang and you see we ain’t playing,” Eminem snarls.

Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for MTV/Paramount Global

The post 3 Times Eminem Completely Hijacked Someone Else’s Song appeared first on VICE.

💾

Shoegaze was well established by the 2000s, after a decade of genre pioneers. But while it may not have felt as novel then, plenty of shoegaze albums still made their mark in the 2000s. Of those that may have slipped from memory, these few deserve a reminder.

‘Despondent Transponder’ by Fleeting Joys

Fleeting Joys released Despondent Transponder in 2006, earning devoted fans but flying relatively under the wider shoegaze radar. In later years, it was considered an underrated classic of the genre. Despite comparisons to My Bloody Valentine’s Loveless, Despondent Transponder remained a beloved album for longtime fans.

A vinyl re-issue in 2020 made the album more accessible to newer fans, as physical copies had become collector’s items in the ensuing years. Fleeting Joys are still appreciated for their alternating vocals, dreamlike wall of sound, and psychedelic-influenced style that references 90s shoegaze pioneers.

‘Deathconsciousness’ by Have a Nice Life

Post-punk shoegaze duo Have a Nice Life released Deathconsciousness completely independently in 2008. As a result, the album was relatively overlooked, especially as a debut. But it gained a cult following over the years as Have a Nice Life’s fanbase grew, effectively becoming a shoegaze staple.

Even though Deathconsciousness didn’t break through immediately, it’s longevity despite that indicates its genuine artistry. Recorded sporadically between 2002 and 2007, the album didn’t start taking shape cohesively until around 2005. Details of the rudimentary recording set-up and DIY ethos captured interested fans and brought the experimental duo more attention in the ensuing years.

‘Primary Colours’ by The Horrors

The Horrors released Primary Colours in 2009, after the album drummed up much anticipation from fans and critics alike. The band debuted in 2007 with Strange House, which mostly contained previously released tracks. Primary Colours also had the band adding more shoegaze and post-rock elements to their style.

Overall, Primary Colours provided The Horrors with a bit of a sonic makeover. They went from goth rock to shoegaze psychedelia, and listeners wanted more. This album effectively ushered in a psych-rock revival for the U.K., but fans and critics often note that their contribution isn’t properly acknowledged. In any case, Primary Colours landed on eight year-end best-of lists in 2009, so clearly it deserves the accolades.

Photo by Wendy Redfern/Redferns

The post 3 Legendary Shoegaze Albums From the 2000s That Millennials Somehow Forgot About appeared first on VICE.

In 1992, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus asked country legend Dolly Parton to be the godmother of his daughter, Miley. Parton gladly accepted, and throughout Miley’s life, the two were very close. Many mistook Dolly for being Miley’s aunt, since she played Aunt Dolly on Hannah Montana. In real life, she was her godmother, which was special because Dolly never had kids of her own.

Following Dolly Parton’s passing on August 25, 2026, Miley Cyrus has been struggling with her grief. Miley Cyrus performed two sold-out comeback concerts at the Hollywood Bowl on October 16 and October 18.

On the second evening, October 18, Miley performed a cover of Parton’s legendary hit, “Jolene”. Before this tribute, she shared a story with the crowd. “I actually have a Dolly mannequin in my bedroom. She gave it to me for Christmas, and it’s dressed like her, it’s built like her, and when I was by myself, I actually took my phone and I played ‘Jolene’ for her on video, just holding it up to the mannequin and lit a candle.”

Next, Miley began to play with the supernatural. “And I put a flower down for her, and I said, ‘Dolly, if you’re here right now, flicker the lights,’ and I didn’t say anything out loud, but the entire hallway started flickering.”

Miley Claims Her FIANCÉ can Vouch for This Experience

It’s only natural to be a little skeptical. This specific “flick the lights” attempt to contact the supernatural has been attempted time and time again, mostly by children. But Miley claims her fiancé, Maxx Morando, can vouch for her claim, as he also witnessed the experience.

“He was there, but he didn’t know what I said. But I know Dolly’s here with me tonight, and I’m feeling some of the feelings that I’m most afraid of, but having her here with me is getting me through, and having you here with me is getting me through. So no matter what it takes, this show is for you. And for Dolly.”

Throughout Sunday’s performance, Miley burst into tears numerous times when honoring Dolly Parton. Not only did she cover “Jolene”, but later in the set, she also asked the crowd to sing along to “Used To Be Young” while holding a framed picture of the country star. She told the crowd, “Let my Aunt Dolly hear you!”

Miley Cyrus’ sold-out performances at the Hollywood Bowl came just one month after her tenth album was released. Bass Persuades, released on September 18, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

Photo by: Vijat Mohindra/NBC via Getty Images

The post This Pop Icon Claims Dolly Parton Contacted Her From the Beyond Ahead of Sold-Out Comeback Shows appeared first on VICE.

The 90s were a goldmine for strong vocal performances. R&B was operating at the peak of its powers, on tender yearning ballads and dance records alike. Rock was shedding the absurdity of hair metal and into the morbidity of grunge. Pop, indie, country, every genre was thriving due to the fruitful, bustling music industry.

1993 is easily one of the best years of the 90s for showing off vocal chops. Consequently, we’ve picked three classic songs that show the incredible range singers showed that year.

Three Vocal Performances That Still Blow Me Away Over 30 years Later

“Cry for You” by Jodeci

Jodeci were masters at harmonizing on records. They had the fundamental understanding that the more you layer your vocals, the richer the singing sounds. Growing up in the church as part of gospel groups, they understood how singing in unison adds to the soul of a record. When the 90s came around, they applied that principle to R&B songs. Their devotion went to the women in their lives instead of the Almighty.

The result led to legendary yearning anthems like “Cry for You”, where K-Ci and JoJo beg in the desert for their woman to come back home— even though it’s only been an hour. It’s easy to take their singing for granted because of how generally great they are as vocalists. However, the a cappella version of the song really highlights how much gravity they hold with their vocal performances.

“So Fine” by Mint Condition

While Jodeci were largely a group operation vocally, Stokley Williams was never afraid to take center stage with his show-stopping vocal chops. “So Fine” is the greatest example in the Mint Condition catalogue, where he belts as if he’s rivaling the instrumentation. When the guitar squeals and the drums cascade like violent waves, his voice pierces the grandiose instrumentation. His high notes sound even sweeter when paired with the gorgeous voharmonies backing him.

Anyone who doesn’t have this Mint Condition classic in their greatest vocal performances of all time is either ignorant or has to be hard of hearing.

“Questions in a World of Blue” by Julee Cruise

A common misconception about strong vocal performances is that they have to be very loud and showy. Frankly, shows like American Idol and The Voice seem to judge their contestants almost exclusively on their vocal grandiosity. It’s like they have to over-sing in order to prove they have value. This mindset frequently overlooks the singers who could really tap into the subtlety and emotionality of a great record.

That’s what makes “Questions in a World of Blue” so heartbreaking. The tragic context of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me adds to its haunting nature. But Julee Cruise sings so delicately, it’s as if the last pieces of light are dying out as the Angelo Badalamenti composition plays. Moreover, it allows her songwriting to take center stage and amplify the sadness.

“When did the day with all its light turn into night? When all the world seemed to sing/Why, why did you go? Was it me? Was it you?/Questions in a world of blue,” Cruise coos.

Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images

The post 3 of the Most Impressive Vocal Performances of 1993 appeared first on VICE.

💾

50 Cent used to be pivotal to The Game’s career. Before his classic debut album, The Documentary, released, it was nearly shelved. But the G-Unit leader came in to help take the record to the next level. Then, he ended up with classic singles like “Hate It Or Love It” and “How We Do” on the album, launching him into rap stardom. This led Game to join the rest of the G-Unit group.

However, that also meant beefing with every single rapper that 50 Cent was beefing with. Ultimately, the Compton MC didn’t like getting involved in that kind of mess, Really, he wanted to work with artists like Nas and Jadakiss. Moreover, 50 argued that he never got the proper credit for writing six of the songs on the album. Consequently, he ousted The Game as quickly as he joined them.

Eventually, their feud led to violence between crews. One of Game’s associates was shot while trying to enter the Hot 97 building. Not long afterward, Interscope intervened between their two artists asking for a peace treaty to prevent any further violence.

That didn’t mean they would stop dissing each other, though. It all culminated in Game’s 15-minute epic “300 Bars N Runnin”.

The Game Releases The Longest Diss Track of All Time with ‘300 Bars N Runnin’

Released on his mixtape You Know What It Is Volume 3, he unloaded a hefty 300 bar verse trashing G-Unit. It’s a standard affair from Game, mocking their credibility the same way they did to him.

The pair would trash each other back and forth for years before eventually cooling down their explicit disses on each other by the start of the 2010s. Admittedly though, The Game thought the beef would devolve into the kind of feud that led to Tupac and Biggie dying.

In a January 2026 interview with VIBE, he thought their youthful rage would cause both of them to lose their lives. “I was prepared to die in that beef,” he told the publication. “I was almost 100 percent sure that me and 50 was going to die in that… We already seen it happen, and I was the biggest rapper on the West and he was the biggest rapper on the East at that point, and we were both young, in our 20s, and I just thought that we wouldn’t make it out of that.”

Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for INTERSCOPE RECORDS

The post How The Game’s 15-Minute Diss Track Turned This Feud Into Mixtape History appeared first on VICE.

💾

Pop band MUNA are safe after their bus caught fire on the highway. The trio was stranded on the side of the road, but thankfully no one was injured.

On the morning of Oct. 19, 2026, news outlets began reporting the incident, which happened on the 5 Freeway in Burbank, CA. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze, but not before the most severe damage was done.

The band—made up of Katie Gavin, Josette Maskin and Naomi McPherson—later confirmed in an Instagram post that they were, in fact, the ones involved in the bus fire. They noted that “many personal items were lost, but we’re all safe, thank goodness.”

MUNA was involved in a Burbank highway bus fire, but no one was injured

In a comment on the post, McPherson—the band’s guitarist—quipped, “If anyone could help me find the grandchild of the warlock whose curse is wreaking havoc on my life so that I can carry em up the mountain & fulfill the prophecy / undo the curse that has befallen me that would be much appreciated.”

In response, one person joked, “ordering an Etsy witch to help reverse it for you.” Someone else added, “I’ll get into witchcraft just for you.”

Tragically, the bus fire came after McPherson announced she was taking a step back from MUNA. She needed to spend more time with her mother, who was diagnosed with a terminal illness. McPherson, it was explained, would miss multiple shows at the beginning of the Gets So Hot tour. Sadly, her mother, Harriet, was in her “final days.”

Muna’s bus fire comes weeks after guitarist Naomi McPherson announced the passing of her mother

“Tragically, Naomi’s mother Harriet has been suffering for some time now from an extremely aggressive and terminal form of cancer that has escalated in severity over the past few weeks,” MUNA said in the statement, per PEOPLE. “Now, it has become clear that her passing will coincide with the beginning of this headline tour.”

All of MUNA’s tour dates went on as scheduled, with the band bringing in a temporary guitarist to fill in. Following her mother’s death, McPherson returned to the tour.

Photo by Valerie Terranova/Getty Images

The post Pop Band Stranded on the Side of the Road After Their Bus Catches Fire on a Major Highway appeared first on VICE.

Slipknot is heading out on a big 2027 tour, and it’s already sparked some controversy. Specifically, the inclusion of Marilyn Manson has led to calls for him to be removed from the lineup. Even politicians are getting in on the boycott.

Currently, Slipknot is scheduled to play a show at Wembley Stadium on July 3, 2027. Manson is listed as their direct featured support performer. Hatebreed and Lorna Shore are set to open the gig. However, Councillor Anton Georgiou hopes to change that.

Georgiou is the leader of the Liberal Democrat Group at Brent Council in London. In a new Instagram Post, he’s urging Wembley officials to refuse to allow Manson to perform. This is due to the numerous sexual assault allegations and legal cases the shock rocker has faced.

Councillor Anton Georgiou is calling out Wembley Stadium for allowing Marilyn Manson to perform

“I was shocked to learn that Marilyn Manson has been booked to play here at Wembley,” Georgiou said in the video. “Given the historic sexual abuse allegations made against him. This really does fly in the face of the council’s ongoing work to tackle violence against women and girls. I’m so disappointed that Brent Council haven’t put out a public statement in relation to this really controversial booking.”

“The Brent Liberal Democrats are seeking a review of this decision by Wembley Stadium,” he added. “We’re also asking the stadium: what considerations were given to survivors of sexual abuse when this decision was made?”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anton Georgiou (@anton_georgiou)

Georgiou has been getting some pushback from Manson fans on his post. However, his sentiments do echo those of Slipknot fans who were not thrilled about the initial announcement in September 2026.

In response to being asked about it directly, Slipknot guitarist Jim Root indicated that he, personally, had no involvement with the decision. “I stay out of the logistics of touring and all that. I concentrate on writing and being a guitarist,” he said at the time.

“So forgive my ignorance about who we do shows with,” he added. “There are other people with much bigger brains than I that coordinate all that, and I honestly don’t keep up with new bands or new music, etc.”

It’s unclear if Manson will be dropped from the London show, or any other scheduled gigs with Slipknot.

Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images

The post Marilyn Manson Faces Calls for Removal From Slipknot’s 2027 Stadium Tour appeared first on VICE.

In one of the strangest moments of 2026, West Coast rapper Blueface was arrested in a superhero costume. In a report from TMZ, someone made a call to the authorities about a man pointing a gun at someone in Santa Clarita, California. Ultimately, they determined that it was a swatting call and that there was no need for alarm. However, he made the whole operation a lot more difficult by delaying their investigation. Meanwhile, he stayed dressed as a superhero the entire time, insisting no guns were involved.

By the end of the investigation, authorities brought Blueface into jail for refusing to follow police orders. His fiancée, Chrisean Rock, was spotted on the streaming service Kick, trying to communicate with police officers about the whole ordeal. Afterward, he was released when they eventually determined it was a swatting call.

The Los Angeles MC, streamer, and boxer is currently on probation for his involvement in a 2022 shooting in Las Vegas. Due to this, he’s received numerous swatting calls while streaming, causing many to believe they’re being made by people watching.

Blueface Deals With Yet Another Swatting Call While Dressed in a Superhero Costume

For instance, back in August 2026, he was detained at gunpoint again by authorities. He was streaming on Kick while eating at King of Crabs seafood restaurant in Santa Clarita. Reports suggested “severe violence” while he was there with his then-girlfriend Nevaeh Akira and son. Once again, police released him shortly afterward after determining it was a swatting call.

In the video of him being handcuffed, even the officers understood that swatting has been a frequent occurrence for Blueface. Consequently, all parties involved acted calmly as they sorted out the confusion. Footage of that incident can be seen below:

Blueface got swatted again during a live stream over bogus 911 calls alleging an altercation between him and his newborn son's mother, Nevaeh. pic.twitter.com/ue3vul4Ok4

— livebitez (@livebitez) August 24, 2026

Similarly, another stream saw him lightly and jokingly kick Akira into a pool while she was still pregnant. She wasn’t distressed by the incident, reacting confused that she was even kicked when he said he did.

Later in the stream, police showed up to respond to the footage, asking if she had gotten into a physical altercation. She responded with a firm no before they clarified further. “Were you kicked today?” the officer asked. “Specifically, were you kicked in the stomach?” After another firm denial, the police left shortly afterward. Then, Blueface and Akira went back to receiving massages on stream.

Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella

The post Rapper Arrested While Wearing Superhero Costume After Fake Gun Call appeared first on VICE.

Australian model and swimwear designer Sahara Ray, who reportedly once dated Justin Bieber, has died. She was 34.

In a statement shared with TMZ, her family said: “She passed away last night surrounded by family at the hospital. She was so loved.” At this time, no cause of death has been disclosed.

Ray was the daughter of iconic Australian surfer Tony Ray. She spent much of her life between the coastal United States and her homeland. Over the years, she built a successful modeling career and her own swimwear brand.

In 2016, Sahara Ray was rumored to be dating Justin Bieber. The pair were spotted vacationing together in Hawaii. Notably, Ray was also once romantically linked to singer Cody Simpson.

Justin Bieber and Sahara Ray reportedly dated back in 2016

Ray was the mother of one daughter, Snow, who is less than a year old. She got pregnant with her child roughly a year after surviving a car accident and developing Guillain-Barré syndrome. Ray’s final Instagram post from July 2026 was a photo of her baby.

In 2024, she spoke out about his illness and clarified some misconceptions. “This is really hard to deal with,” she said then. “And I’ve been trying to keep a good attitude and be hopeful that my feeling comes back. But there’s always a chance it just stays like this.”

Ray explained that she was paralyzed “from the tops of my thighs all the way down to my upper feet”. She added that she was “primarily in a wheelchair,” because she could not “walk at all.”

Sahara Ray was a mother of one who also lived with Guillain-Barré syndrome

The model noted that she was living with “a very serious & rare neurological disorder I have to live with. The condition is called Guillain-Barré syndrome that is triggered by an acute bacterial or viral infection.”

She went on to say, “It’s so unbelievably sad that people would make such a false narrative on such a sensitive subject. Anyone with this illness, feel free to speak out. & I’m here to help; just send me a DM. Love u all.”

Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images

The post Justin Bieber’s Ex, Sahara Ray, Dead at 34 appeared first on VICE.

On October 16, 2026, Miley Cyrus took the stage at the Hollywood Bowl for her first major concert in four years. With her latest September 18 release, Bass Persuades, landing her a sixth No. 1 album on the Billboard 200, Cyrus was poised to make a triumphant comeback. But during the second show of a two-night appearance, she took a moment to address the crowd. Specifically, those who criticized her previous performance.

“I have never heard that I don’t put my heart into something,” Cyrus told the crowd near the start of the show, per reports from The Hollywood Reporter. After night one, comments circulated online criticizing an apparent lack of energy and commitment from Cyrus. Notably, she labeled these comments “clickbait”.

She then added that the Hollywood Bowl concerts were not “an experiment of you, this is an experience for me.” Cyrus clarified that, even if she didn’t feel 100 percent confident, she still wouldn’t leave the audience disappointed.

Miley Cyrus Addresses Critics, Admits Live Performing Isn’t as Natural as It Used To Be

Around 2022, Miley Cyrus took a step back from large-scale headlining concerts. She played a few intimate shows following the 2023 release of Endless Summer Vacation. There was also her soulful rendition of “Flowers” at the 2024 Grammy Awards. But she hasn’t embarked on a big headlining stadium tour since 2014.

Cyrus was willing to admit to her audience that live performing doesn’t come “as natural as it once did.” She also said that she considered not performing the second show, but added, “Never would I leave you all sitting in these seats, unfulfilled from a show.”

She continued, “I can take a lot, but one thing I will not stand is any question about where my heart is when I’m on the stage. Not one. I’m fully present … the only thing that I have is this moment with all of you.”

According to the online criticisms, some fans were disappointed that Cyrus seemed to rely on her backing tracks and crowd engagement for some older songs. Allegedly, she let the audience take over a few too many times on “Wrecking Ball” and “Party in the USA”. But, in a way, that’s understandable. Ultimately, Miley Cyrus has grown as a performer since “Wrecking Ball”. And she has simply grown up since “Party in the USA”.

Still, she allegedly engaged more with those songs during the second night. While she addressed the criticism at the start of the show, Cyrus also took a moment to clarify a comment she made about the concerts feeling “overwhelming”.

“I’m excited to see you, feel you, touch you, but just know, this is deeper than a concert—someone up here singing and you all receiving the songs,” she explained. “It’s more than that to me. And that’s what I meant by ‘it’s overwhelming.’ It just means so much to me, that’s what I meant.”

Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation

The post Miley Cyrus Calls Out ‘Clickbait’ Criticism of Her First Major Performances in Four Years appeared first on VICE.

We’re running out of great options for a Super Bowl halftime show. At the end of the day, it’s about choosing someone who feels larger than life. They have to be recognized by a broad audience of people, proof that they’re a true staple of pop culture. For the last several years, it’s been easy to pick an artist operating at the peak of their powers and popularity. However, 2027 feels like the first year where there’s no obvious answer. Consequently, Jay-Z reportedly found that there’s only one reasonable answer: himself.

Reports are swirling online suggesting that Hov decided he was actually the best option for the next Super Bowl headliner. Ultimately, the timing adds up. He sold out Yankee Stadium numerous nights and consistently booked out massive venues in celebration of his most iconic albums Reasonable Doubt and The Blueprint. They essentially acted as career retrospectives for arguably the greatest rapper to ever live. Moreover, Jay-Z’s gravity as an artist and celebrity let him bring in superstar guests and make the occasions feel like blockbusters.

That same principle would apply to the Super Bowl stage. He has enough mainstream hits to dangle in front of people with passing rap knowledge. Then, he can use the platform to write his grand love letter to hip-hop. Maybe it can even be a launching pad to promote his first album in almost a decade.

More than anything, though, there’s also just a lack of great options.

Why Jay-Z is The Best Option We Have for the 2027 Super Bowl Halftime Show

Who could really fill in the role for one of the biggest performances we have every year? Taylor Swift will always feel like the most obvious pick. She’s the biggest artist in the world, and she has the NFL connection with Travis Kelce.

But there are a couple of problems there for Jay-Z. For starters, it’s increasingly unlikely that she would perform for free. She doesn’t need the extra exposure; it would just be another line on her resume. Additionally, outlets like Time Magazine suggested that a sponsorship clash is the only reason it hasn’t happened sooner.

Kanye West certainly has the resume and the gravitas to pull off a monumental Super Bowl halftime show. However, the controversy around him will always make him an unlikely choice. Jay-Z would never pick Drake due to their quiet civil war. Eminem could be a reliable option, but he feels best suited if the NFL ever moves its big game to Detroit. Other rumored artists like Miley Cyrus and Dua Lipa don’t have the white-hot momentum needed. Every other option has already worked the stage.

In a way, Hov really is the only option that doesn’t feel like an obvious stretch. Maybe it’s overestimating the mainstream’s interest in modern Jay-Z. But given the lack of choices and the timing with his stadium shows, there’s no other time for him to take the stage.

Photo by BG048/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

The post This Artist Says He’s the Best Choice for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, and I’d Have to Agree—He’s Long Overdue appeared first on VICE.

A new police probe into the death of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain may uphold doubts on his suicide ruling.

The NY Post reports that sources connected to the investigation indicated that Seattle’s Office of Police Accountability has gotten involved. The department is looking into the claims against former Chief Shon Barnes.

According to the allegations, Barnes “acknowledged evidence collected” at the scene of Cobain’s death was “contradictory” to details of the original police report. In 2025, Barnes had a sit-down with private investigators. He allegedly told them that no blood was found on the hand that Cobain supposedly shot himself with. This was considered a crucial piece of information in police’s suicide determination.

Police ruled Kurt Cobain’s death a suicide shortly after he died in April 1994

Kurt Cobain died on April 5, 1994. Police investigators ultimately ruled his death a suicide. Over the years, theories have purported that Cobain did not kill himself and that there was, in fact, evidence to the contrary.

In early 2026, a group of independent researchers announced that they’d found enough evidence to support the notion that Cobain’s death was a homicide. This “unofficial private sector team of forensic scientists” included independent researcher Michelle Wilkins and investigative specialist Brian Burnett.

“This is a homicide,” Burnett told journalists at the time. “We’ve got to do something about this.” Watkins went on to explain some of the evidence they found. “There are things in the autopsy that go, well, wait, this person didn’t die very quickly of a gunshot blast,” she stated. “The necrosis of the brain and liver happens in an overdose. It doesn’t happen in a shotgun death.”

Until now, Seattle city officials have remained steadfast in upholding Kurt Cobain’s suicide ruling

In response to the original report, the Medical Examiner’s Office spokesperson offered a statement. “King County Medical Examiner’s Office worked with the local law enforcement agency, conducted a full autopsy, and followed all of its procedures in coming to the determination of the manner of death as a suicide,” they stated.

“Our office is always open to revisiting its conclusions if new evidence comes to light,” they continued. “But we’ve seen nothing to date that would warrant re-opening of this case and our previous determination of death.”

A Seattle Police Department spokesperson also issued a statement. “Our detective concluded that he died by suicide,” they stated. “And this continues to be the position held by this department.”

Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc

The post Kurt Cobain’s Death Faces Renewed Scrutiny as Police Watchdog Launches Investigation appeared first on VICE.

Before alternative music invaded the mainstream in the 1990s, it dominated college radio. Indie bands emerged in the 1980s, appearing on college rock radio shows. As alternative remained in the underground, these bands inspired some of the biggest names in 90s alternative rock, such as Nirvana, Weezer, Green Day, and more. Here are three college rock bands from the 1980s that basically invented the holy grail of 90s bands.

Hüsker Dü

Hailing from St. Paul, Minnesota, Husker Du formed in 1979. Aside from their mark on the Twin Cities underground scene, the band influenced 90s artists such as Nirvana, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Uncle Tupelo, and many others. Specifically, their sophomore album, Zen’s Arcade, blended elements of hardcore punk and indie rock. This became highly influential and crucial to the 90s alternative rock sound. Sadly, Hüsker Dü broke up in 1988, just before alternative rock broke into the mainstream. Still, their massive influence on the decade was duly noted throughout the 90s.

Violent Femmes

Violent Femmes are among the pioneers of folk punk, fusing together traditional folk with punk rock of the late 70s. The group formed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1981. Their self-titled debut album became a college rock radio hit in 1983, generating the band’s signature hit “Blister In The Sun.” Notably, the song was quite different compared to other emerging indie rock bands of the decade. It became the template for Nirvana’s acoustic side of Kurt Cobain’s songwriting. As Nirvana’s Nevermind was rising to the top of the Billboard 200 in January 1992, the band was opening for Violent Femmes on tour.

R.E.M.

Almost no other band dominated college rock radio quite like R.E.M. They were the epitome of college rock radio throughout the decade. The band famously targeted college rock radio stations, offering exclusive interviews and hand-delivering their albums. This led to their early breakout single “Radio Free Europe” becoming a staple on college radio. In the late 80s, the band started to break into the mainstream after their hit “The Only I Love” peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.

When alternative music broke into the mainstream in late 1991, R.E.M. became closely associated with this movement. Due to this, their 1991 album Out Of Time became their best-selling release. Additionally, lead singer Michael Stipe’s close friendship with Kurt Cobain was publicly noted during this time as well. The two became so close that Stipe was named the godfather of Cobain’s daughter, Frances Bean Cobain.

Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images

The post 3 College Rock Bands From the 1980s That Basically Invented Your Holy Grail 90s Bands appeared first on VICE.

💾