N.O.R.E. pulls up to Hot 97 for the first time since 1997 — but this time he’s not promoting an album. The Drink Champs host stops by Mornings With Mero to talk about running the NYC Half Marathon with his crew Run Champs, premiering his new Caesar haircut live on air, and reflecting on how he’s evolved from War Report Nory to a healthier, more purposeful version of himself. Plus: The team breaks down Pastor Jamal Bryant’s controversial call to end the Target boycott, and pays tribute to legendary NYC news anchor Ernie Anastos. Topics covered: N.O.R.E.’s journey from hip-hop to running cultureRun Champs and the “Home for the Half” movementThe new haircut premiere (no, he didn’t go to Turkey)Appreciating your competition — Mobb Deep, podcasting & growthPastor Jamal Bryant vs. the Target boycottRIP Ernie Anastos — a New York City legend Subscribe for more Mornings With Mero on Hot 97

Caridad De La Luz — spoken word artist, cultural leader, and executive director of the Nuyorican Poets Cafe — shares her story of identity, heritage, and what it means to be a steward of one of New York City’s most iconic cultural spaces. From growing up deeply rooted in Puerto Rican tradition to leading a $25 million renovation of the legendary Nuyorican Poets Cafe, La Bruja opens up about preserving Nuyorican culture, navigating leadership as a woman, and the spiritual power that guides her mission. In this video: What “Nuyorican” means and why the name matters Resurrecting the Nuyorican Poets Cafe after the pandemic The connection between New York and Puerto Rico Women as leaders, healers, and matriarchs The café’s reopening — Halloween 2026 “I just hope that every woman that hears this knows that they are much bigger than the world tells them they are.”

Kiki Shepard, actor and longtime host of Showtime at the Apollo, has died at age 74. According to her rep, Shepard (born Chiquita Renee Shepard) passed away on Monday (March 16) after reportedly suffering a massive heart attack, per an exclusive TMZ report. Shepard was best known as the co-host of the syndicated variety show Showtime at the Apollo between 1987 to 2002, sharing the stage with Steve Harvey for seven years and helping to introduce aspiring performers at the Harlem theatre. In recent years, Shepard played herself in the semi-autobiographical sitcom Everybody Hates Chris, created by comedian Chris Rock and Ali LeRoi, and appeared in Grey’s Anatomy. Her other appearances include Baywatch Nights, NYPD Blue, and Mind Your Business and the film Blackjack Christmas. She appeared in multiple Broadway productions including Bubbling Brown Sugar, Comin’ Uptown, Your Arms Too Short to Box with God, and Porgy and Bess. She also snagged an uncredited role as a dancer in The Wiz as one of the citizens of the Emerald City. Path to the stage Before her 15-year stint at the Apollo, Shepard’s foray into entertainment started from her childhood home. Born in Tyler, Texas in 1951, she witnessed both of parents participate in competitive dancing. She attended Howard University, where she became a charter member of the D.C. Repertory Dance Company and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., before taking her talent to stages far beyond campus. During her time in Harlem, she became known as the “Apollo Queen of Fashion.” Heartfelt tributes from friends and family TV personality Elgin Charles wrote a heartfelt tribute honoring Shepard as a “dear friend” who “was more than a cultural icon.” Talk show host Roland Martin shared that Shepard, who he describes as “a legend,” most recently asked if he could play in her annual golf tournament. Just seeing the awful news that Kiki Shepard passed away today after suffering a massive heart attack. She was 74. I just saw her Feb. 12 at the NBA All-Star Weekend Gospel Celebration. She asked me to play in her annual golf tournament. I said yes and we traded numbers. We all… pic.twitter.com/S9qApTHqCt — rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) March 17, 2026 One of my favorite Kiki Shepard memories is her turning up to Kirk Franklin “Stomp”. She was partying down on the side of that stage. And she’s usually back stage during the performances. She said nah this one’s my jam! pic.twitter.com/ogHTjt40q2 — CalQuin (@GimmieABeat) March 17, 2026

Veteran reggae singer Wayne Wonder stepped into the spotlight on March 16 with a fiery public statement aimed at fellow dancehall icon Buju Banton, reopening a long-simmering conflict between the two artists. Wonder posted a lengthy message on Facebook responding to comments Banton reportedly made during a recent interview. The singer said the post would remain visible for only 48 hours, setting a confrontational tone from the beginning. “I’m addressing this interview, and it will only remain up for 48 hours because this DEMON Buju Banton is not worthy of staying on Wayne’s page,” Wonder wrote. Wayne Wonder puts Buju Banton on BLAST!! pic.twitter.com/kBGR3CQG05 — ☈O2☈EAL (@_romeko) March 17, 2026 Despite the harsh introduction, Wonder acknowledged Banton’s musical reputation in reggae and dancehall culture. “When it comes to artistry, he is truly great at what he does,” Wonder wrote. “However, talent and character are two very different things.” The Jamaican vocalist strongly rejected accusations that he behaved “greedy” or misrepresented their creative relationship. Wonder also disputed claims that he failed to support Banton during the legal case that led to the artist’s federal drug conviction and prison sentence. “You also said Wayne never checked on you while you were in prison. Let’s tell the truth,” Wonder wrote. According to the statement, Wonder visited Banton during his detention in a Tampa jail while the singer awaited trial. Wonder recalled that the first encounter was tense. “When you were brought out and picked up the phone you saw him on the camera,” the post reads. “You held your head down for almost twenty-five minutes before finally saying, ‘You are the real surprise.’” Wayne Wonder Explains Ongoing Feud With Buju Banton Wonder claimed he continued visiting Banton while the artist lived under house arrest in Tamarac, Florida. “Wayne came almost every morning and spent entire days with you while the police monitored the house during your trial,” the statement says. The singer added that he remained present until the day Banton was convicted and taken back into custody. Wonder also alleged that Banton later declined additional prison visits because he disliked security procedures. Beyond personal grievances, Wonder raised concerns about songwriting credits tied to reggae classics such as Murderer and Deportee. “Wayne, Frankie, and you, Buju, wrote ‘Murderer’ in Japan in 1992,” Wonder claimed, alleging that his name later disappeared from the official credits. Wonder closed the statement by explaining why he rarely spoke publicly about the conflict. “Wayne has never spoken publicly about many of these things because his heart and character would not allow him to tear anyone down publicly,” he wrote. Still, he insisted the recent accusations demanded a response. “Wayne Wonder continues to stand on respect, humility, and truth,” the statement concludes. “That has always been his way.”

Jay-Z is making a long-awaited return to the stage. In an announcement on Tuesday (March 17), HOV will hit the stage for the first time since 2018 along The Roots . The show will be held at Belmont Plateau in Philadelphia Shawn Gee—Roots manager and Live Nation Urban president, described JAY-Z’s upcoming performance as a “bucket-list moment” for the team. “After meeting with Mayor Cherelle Parker and hearing her vision for Philadelphia 250, she truly inspired us to dream even bigger.  ‘And we’re grateful to her, Commissioner Susan Slawson, Jazelle Jones and everyone who helped make it happen,” Gee’s statement read. “We can’t wait to see everyone in May at the Plat.” View this post on Instagram

Actor and television host Keke Palmer faced an unexpected interruption during a live event at the South by Southwest festival when a fan proposed marriage in front of a packed audience. The moment occurred March 13 during a panel connected to Palmer’s podcast and the premiere of her upcoming film I Love Boosters. The 32-year-old entertainer was seated onstage alongside several co-stars when a man from the audience approached the stage and dropped to one knee with a ring box. Palmer appeared stunned but remained composed as the audience watched the unusual exchange unfold. “I can’t marry you, I don’t know you, I’m so sorry,” Palmer said into the microphone, responding to the proposal in real time. The unexpected moment was captured on video and quickly circulated online. Security personnel soon escorted the man away from the stage while Palmer attempted to steer the conversation back to the panel discussion.  A Surprise on Stage The proposal happened during a live recording tied to Palmer’s podcast and promotion of I Love Boosters, a satirical crime comedy directed by Boots Riley. The film premiered at SXSW and is scheduled for theatrical release later this year.  Palmer was joined onstage by cast members including Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González and Demi Moore when the interruption occurred. Their reactions ranged from visible shock to awkward laughter as the situation unfolded. Witnesses said the man had been behaving suspiciously earlier at the venue before approaching the stage. Security removed him after he refused to leave the area. Authorities later identified the individual and arrested him on a criminal trespassing charge.  Despite the disruption, Palmer maintained a calm tone and continued speaking to the audience after the man was escorted out. “Sorry, guys, let’s just take a deep breath,” she said while the event resumed. Palmer Reflects on the Viral Moment Palmer later addressed the incident in interviews during post-event appearances. She said she initially thought the proposal was meant as a joke. “I was shocked. I thought it was a joke at first,” Palmer said. “And then it seemed like he was really serious.” The Emmy-winning actor also spoke about the complicated dynamics between celebrities and devoted fans. She noted that public figures sometimes feel pressure to respond carefully during unexpected encounters. “When I see the whole parasocial relationship and stuff like that, you don’t want to break anybody’s reality,” Palmer said. “But you want to be real. I was trying to be delicate with the situation.”  Online reactions largely praised Palmer for keeping her composure. Many fans applauded the performer for setting clear boundaries while remaining respectful. The incident added an unusual moment to an otherwise celebratory SXSW appearance for Palmer, who continues promoting I Love Boosters ahead of its scheduled release on May 22.

Cardi B is taking her beauty influence to the next level with the launch of a new hair care brand, Grow Good. The Grammy-winning superstar announced that the line will debut April 15, marking her latest venture beyond music and into the fast-growing world of celebrity beauty brands. The rollout arrives while Cardi is traveling across the country for her Little Miss Drama Tour, which supports her chart-topping sophomore album Am I The Drama?. Even while performing for sold-out crowds, the Bronx-born rapper continues building a lifestyle empire that extends far beyond the recording studio. View this post on Instagram For years, Cardi has openly shared her personal hair journey with fans. On social media, she regularly posted videos explaining homemade treatments, natural oils, and protective styling techniques. Those posts often drew millions of views and sparked conversations among followers curious about maintaining healthy hair. Now, Grow Good appears to transform those viral discussions into a full beauty brand. According to Cardi, the line focuses on strengthening strands, restoring damaged hair, and supporting long-term growth. RApper Cardi B’s “Grow Good” Hair Care Launches This April “Grow Good is something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time,” Cardi shared while discussing the upcoming launch. “I’ve always talked about my hair routines online, and people kept asking what products I use.” The rapper added that the brand reflects the lessons she learned while caring for her own natural hair. “I wanted to create something that helps people grow healthy hair and feel confident about their texture,” she said. While the complete product lineup has not yet been revealed, the name Grow Good suggests a focus on scalp health, nourishment, and restoration. Fans also expect formulas designed to work across diverse hair textures and styles. The announcement has already sparked excitement across beauty communities online. Supporters are eager to learn more about ingredients, product benefits, and pricing before the April launch. With millions of followers across social platforms, Cardi holds a powerful promotional advantage. Tour appearances, backstage content, and personal styling moments will likely introduce the brand to audiences worldwide. For Cardi B, Grow Good represents more than a beauty launch. It signals another chapter in her evolution from rap superstar to cultural entrepreneur.

A federal appeals court has delivered another legal victory for Donald Glover, the artist known as Childish Gambino. The ruling forces rapper Kidd Wes to pay $286,475 in legal fees after losing a copyright dispute over the hit song “This Is America.” A panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld the financial penalty after reviewing Kidd Wes’s claims. The rapper argued that “This Is America” copied elements from his 2016 track “Made in America.” Courts rejected that accusation. The legal fight began in 2021. Kidd Wes filed his lawsuit three years after “This Is America” dominated popular culture. The song went viral upon release and captured multiple honors at the Grammy Awards. Judges viewed the delayed complaint with skepticism. Court documents described the lawsuit as opportunistic. The panel wrote that the accusation appeared “without merit on its face.” Judges stressed that weak copyright lawsuits strain courts and harm artists facing baseless claims. Childish Gambino Receives $300k Victory Against Rapper Kidd Wes In “This Is America” Lawsuit The dispute collapsed on a fundamental legal requirement. Kidd Wes never registered a copyright for the musical composition he said was copied. United States copyright law requires that step before filing an infringement claim. Without registration, the case lacked a legal foundation. A lower court initially considered awarding more than $934,000 in attorney fees. The presiding judge reduced that amount to $286,475. The court reasoned that a smaller figure would still discourage weak litigation while avoiding excessive financial harm. Kidd Wes appealed the reduced fee, arguing that the penalty remained too severe. The appellate panel rejected that argument and affirmed the earlier ruling. Judges also noted that Kidd Wes received warnings about the missing copyright registration. Despite those warnings, he continued pursuing the lawsuit. The ruling delivers a clear signal to artists and industry participants. Courts expect creators to follow copyright law before filing infringement claims. Legal protection begins with registration and proper documentation. For Glover and the creative team behind “This Is America,” the decision closes another chapter in a dispute tied to one of the most influential songs of the decade. The Grammy-winning track remains a cultural landmark, while the failed lawsuit now carries a costly lesson about copyright procedure.

Snoop Dogg is saluting a fallen rap legend, Tupac Shakur, while expanding his business footprint. The West Coast icon has launched a new wine honoring late fellow Death Row labelmate, keeping the spirit of their classic collaboration alive decades later. The bottle carries a familiar title: 2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted. The name references the legendary track and video that captured a defining moment in West Coast hip-hop. That visual, released during rap’s turbulent mid-1990s era, remains a powerful symbol of the bond between the two artists. 30 years since 2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted. We’re pouring a little out for Tupac. Limited edition #calibysnoop out now. #pouralittleout pic.twitter.com/9TPXILGvR4 — Snoop Dogg (@SnoopDogg) March 10, 2026 The wine arrives through Cali by Snoop, Snoop’s partnership with Treasury Wine Estates. The release also commemorates the 30th anniversary of the video that united the rappers during hip-hop’s explosive rise. Priced at $14.99, the bottle features a Petite Sirah-driven California red blend. It joins a growing Cali by Snoop lineup that includes Cali Gold sparkling wine, Cali Rosé Gold, Cali Blanc, Cali Rosé and Cali Chill. Snoop Dogg Remembers Tupac As “2 Of Amerikaz Most Wanted” With New Wine The brand grew out of the success of 19 Crimes Cali Red, released in 2020. Market research firm Circana later ranked that bottle among the top-selling wine launches tracked in its annual New Product Pacesetters report. Beyond business, the release taps into real history. In the early 1990s, both Snoop Dogg and Tupac recorded for Death Row Records, the powerhouse label founded by Dr. Dre, The D.O.C., Suge Knight and Dick Griffey. The era placed both men under enormous pressure as hip-hop’s spotlight intensified. Snoop has often reflected on that shared weight. “In a lot of ways, we was the only ones who understood each other,” Snoop said in a tribute video. “The biggest stars in music with the biggest targets on our backs.” Today, Snoop’s reach stretches far beyond rap. The Long Beach legend has built a global brand across television, sports commentary, food ventures and spirits. Cali by Snoop now sells in more than 50 countries. Still, this release carries deeper meaning. It blends commerce with remembrance, honoring Tupac’s legacy while reminding fans of a partnership that shaped hip-hop history.

Rapper Blueface’s mom, Karlissa Saffold, extends an offer to fight rapper Papoose while going off on his girlfriend and boxing superstar Claressa “GWOAT” Shields after her son’s loss to Chibu over the weekend on Brand Risk. The “Thotiana” rap star received a comment from the GWOAT about his boxing performance via social media. Social media personality Chibu scored a decisive win over the rapper, prompting Blue’s next opponent, Nick Young, to question whether he still wants to fight Blueface. “Egypt loss her fight, Blueface loss,” GWOAT tweeted. “I think these public figures need at least 6 months in the gym before they start fighting in real fights, my opinion.” Egypt loss her fight, blue face loss…I think these public figures need at least 6 months in the gym before they start fighting in real fights, my opinion — Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) March 15, 2026 Her comment echoed a broader sentiment within professional boxing. Many fighters argue that influencer and celebrity bouts blur the line between entertainment and legitimate competition. Blueface’s mom would react to Shields’ criticism on social media. Immediately offering the GWOAT’s boyfriend to fight Blueface. “Tell Claressa to tell her man to fight bluefasebabyy or shut tf up with her funny lookin ssa tf,” Saffold wrote online, referencing Shields’ partner, rapper Papoose. Saffold later expanded on her frustration in the post’s caption, suggesting that the champion boxer should have offered encouragement rather than criticism. “She could have said something positive, knowing he just getting started. like she ain’t never lost,” Saffold added. Karlissa Saffold, Blueface’s Mom, Suggests Claressa Shields’ Boyfriend & Rapper Papoose Fight Her Son After Boxing Critique The exchange quickly circulated across social media timelines, fueling debate among fans. Some users agreed with Shields, arguing that serious training remains essential before stepping into the ring. Others defended Saffold’s response, viewing her remarks as a mother standing up for her son after a difficult night. Shields is one of the #2-ranked women’s boxers in the sport with an undefeated record. Celebrity boxing continues to draw massive attention across digital culture. Musicians, influencers and athletes now headline exhibition cards watched by millions online. For now, Blueface’s defeat remains a trending topic, with the online clash between Shields and Saffold adding another layer to the ongoing conversation around celebrity fighters.