Entertainment
Rapper Nipsey Hussle’s Killer Sentenced To 60 Years To Life In Prison
A Los Angeles judge on Wednesday sentenced the man convicted of gunning down Nipsey Hussle to 60 years to life in prison after hearing testaments to the immense cost of the killing of the hip-hop star and neighborhood leader, and of the lifetime of mental illness, abuse and struggle of the man who shot him.
Superior Court Judge H. Clay Jacke II handed down the sentence to Eric R. Holder Jr., 33, who was found guilty of the 2019 first-degree murder of the 33-year-old Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist outside the clothing store Hussle founded, the Marathon, in the South Los Angeles neighborhood where both men grew up in very similar circumstances.
“I am very mindful of what was presented as to Mr. Holder’ mental health,” Jacke said. “I am also mindful of the devastation caused to the victims and their families. I believe this sentence balances the two.”
After the monthlong trial, jurors in July also convicted Holder of two counts of attempted voluntary manslaughter and two counts of assault with a firearm for gunfire that hit two other men at the scene who survived.
Jacke sentenced Holder to 25 years to life for the murder, 25 more for a firearm sentencing enhancement and 10 for assault with a firearm. He set several other sentencing additions and ordered that others run concurrent. He also gave Holder credit for the nearly four years he has served since the shooting.
Holder, dressed in orange jail attire, stared straight ahead throughout the proceedings and did not react when the sentence was read, and spoke only to tell the judge he understood the circumstances when he was asked.
In an impact statement before the sentence was handed down, Herman “Cowboy” Douglas, a close friend of Hussle who was standing with him when he was killed and testified during the trial, told the judge that the killing was a tremendous loss both for him personally and for the South Los Angeles community where Hussle was a business leader, and an inspiration.
“Nipsey was my friend, he was like a son, he was like a dad,” said Douglas, who took off his black cowboy hat as he entered the courtroom and wore a sweatshirt with a picture of Hussle on the front. “Our community right now, we lost everything, everything we worked for. One man’s mistake, one man’s action, messed up a whole community.”
Douglas said Hussle’s store and surrounding businesses that he owned and supported have been closed down, and it has meant that “the Homies don’t have nothing to do.”
Douglas told the judge, “I don’t care what you give this guy. It ain’t about the time. I just want to know why. The world wants to know why. Why someone would do that?”
Actor Lauren London, who was Hussle’s partner and the mother of his two young children, did not attend any part of the trial, nor did any of his relatives, and none gave similar impact statements.
Asking for a lesser sentence of 25 years to life that would allow some chance at release and rehabilitation, Jansen detailed a childhood of physical abuse and poverty for Holder.
As he reached adulthood, Jansen said Holder suffered “a terrible descent into mental illness” that led to “years of torment and struggle” with issues including agonizing auditory hallucinations that resisted all attempts at treatment.
Trending News
Winter storm
Alex Murdaugh murder trial
Russia-Ukraine: A Year of War
Search
Nipsey Hussle’s killer gets 60 years to life in prison
By ANDREW DALTON
37 minutes ago
FILE – Rapper Nipsey Hussle attends an NBA basketball game between the Golden State Warriors and the Milwaukee Bucks in Oakland, Calif., March 29, 2018. Eric R. Holder Jr., who was convicted last year of fatally shooting Hussle in 2019, is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, in a Los Angeles courtroom. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
ADVERTISEMENT
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A Los Angeles judge on Wednesday sentenced the man convicted of gunning down Nipsey Hussle to 60 years to life in prison after hearing testaments to the immense cost of the killing of the hip-hop star and neighborhood leader, and of the lifetime of mental illness, abuse and struggle of the man who shot him.
Superior Court Judge H. Clay Jacke II handed down the sentence to Eric R. Holder Jr., 33, who was found guilty of the 2019 first-degree murder of the 33-year-old Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist outside the clothing store Hussle founded, the Marathon, in the South Los Angeles neighborhood where both men grew up in very similar circumstances.
“I am very mindful of what was presented as to Mr. Holder’ mental health,” Jacke said. “I am also mindful of the devastation caused to the victims and their families. I believe this sentence balances the two.”
After the monthlong trial, jurors in July also convicted Holder of two counts of attempted voluntary manslaughter and two counts of assault with a firearm for gunfire that hit two other men at the scene who survived.
Jacke sentenced Holder to 25 years to life for the murder, 25 more for a firearm sentencing enhancement and 10 for assault with a firearm. He set several other sentencing additions and ordered that others run concurrent. He also gave Holder credit for the nearly four years he has served since the shooting.
Holder, dressed in orange jail attire, stared straight ahead throughout the proceedings and did not react when the sentence was read, and spoke only to tell the judge he understood the circumstances when he was asked.
ADVERTISEMENT
In an impact statement before the sentence was handed down, Herman “Cowboy” Douglas, a close friend of Hussle who was standing with him when he was killed and testified during the trial, told the judge that the killing was a tremendous loss both for him personally and for the South Los Angeles community where Hussle was a business leader, and an inspiration.
“Nipsey was my friend, he was like a son, he was like a dad,” said Douglas, who took off his black cowboy hat as he entered the courtroom and wore a sweatshirt with a picture of Hussle on the front. “Our community right now, we lost everything, everything we worked for. One man’s mistake, one man’s action, messed up a whole community.”
Douglas said Hussle’s store and surrounding businesses that he owned and supported have been closed down, and it has meant that “the Homies don’t have nothing to do.”
Douglas told the judge, “I don’t care what you give this guy. It ain’t about the time. I just want to know why. The world wants to know why. Why someone would do that?”
Actor Lauren London, who was Hussle’s partner and the mother of his two young children, did not attend any part of the trial, nor did any of his relatives, and none gave similar impact statements.
Asking for a lesser sentence of 25 years to life that would allow some chance at release and rehabilitation, Jansen detailed a childhood of physical abuse and poverty for Holder.
As he reached adulthood, Jansen said Holder suffered “a terrible descent into mental illness” that led to “years of torment and struggle” with issues including agonizing auditory hallucinations that resisted all attempts at treatment.
He showed photos of a head injury Holder suffered at the hands of other inmates during the trial, saying he has been targeted as Hussle’s killer and that his life behind bars is “going to be brutal. It’s going to be short. He’s already received numerous death threats.”
Jansen also read a letter from Holder’s father, Eric Holder Sr. apologizing to Hussle’s family and to the other victims.
“I know there are not enough words that would fill the void, the pain, the deep sorrow that they feel,” the letter read. “I question myself every day asking if I as a father did everything to help Eric Jr. stabilize his mental health.”
Hussle, whose legal name is Ermias Asghedom, and Holder had known each other for years growing up as members of the Rollin’ 60s in South LA. Both were aspiring rappers. But Holder never found the same success as Hussle, who would become a local hero and a national celebrity.
A year after his death, he was mourned at a memorial at the arena then known as Staples Center, and celebrated in a performance at the Grammy Awards that included DJ Khaled and John Legend.
The evidence against Holder was so overwhelming — from eyewitnesses to surveillance cameras from local businesses that captured his arrival, the shooting and his departure — that Jansen conceded during trial that he had shot Hussle, asking jurors to find him guilty of voluntary manslaughter. But jurors took just six hours deliberating before returning with the first-degree murder verdict.
As Holder was taken from the courtroom Wednesday, Douglas sang “Hit the Road Jack” toward him. Jacke shouted “Out!” and deputies led Douglas out.
Source: AP
Entertainment
Second Edition Of The GHANA COMEDY AWARDS Scheduled For May 2025
The second edition of the GHANA COMEDY AWARDS happens in May this year as it promises to be bigger and better than it has ever been. The scheme is touted as one of Ghana’s biggest events and has gained dominance in the entertainment space after making it’s break in 2024.
It was a big deal on the first edition as it took place on 20th April last year amidst Glitz, Glamour and endless Humor from Ghana’s finest Comedians on the big stage. Highlighting on past winners, the likes of Clemento Suarez, OB Amponsah, Lekzy Decomic, Jacinta and many big names winning Big on the Night.
This year promises to be a great one as we look forward to having a splendid event on the night. It has series of projects and activities lined up to Celebrate Comedy in a grand style and some will include targeted events for Women, Legends and the Industry as a whole” by Dennis Boateng, CEO of Ghana Comedy Awards.
A big question looms as the event approaches: Will Lekzy Decomic retain the title of Comedian of the Year, or will another talent rise to claim the crown? Only time will tell.
Brace yourself for the GHANA COMEDY AWARDS in May as we promise to keep you posted on every detail and information leading to the big night to Celebrate Comedy.
Entertainment
Maame Grace Warns Ghanaians Against Nonsensical Spiritual Directions!
Entertainment
DJ Lord OTB To Feature In Transit Live’s House Music Experience At Sandbox Beach Club
Award-winning Ghanaian DJ, DJ Lord OTB, is set to make his debut headline at a house music event dubbed ‘Transit Live’ on February 1st, 2025. The highly anticipated event will take place at the scenic Sandbox Beach Club, where DJ Lord OTB will join an elite lineup of international DJs for the second edition of Transit Live.
An amazing set with a strict house music feel is guaranteed by DJ Lord OTB, who is renowned for his impeccable mixes and ability to cut across genres. With a sunset-to-sunrise journey of music, wellness, and community, this edition of Transit Live promises to further enhance the experience following the inaugural event’s overwhelming success.
Insert embed link here: : https://www.instagram.com/p/
What’s in Store at Transit Live:
- Yoga, Fitness & Wellness Activities: Start the night with calming and energizing sessions.
- Rejuvenating Massages: Stay refreshed throughout the event with all-night massage services.
- Live Percussion: Enjoy a cultural touch with performances from the traditional band, The Local Dimension.
- Curated DJ Sets: International and local DJs spinning the best in house music.
- Face & Body Art: Get creative and complete your festival look.
- Bonfire on the Beach: Gather around for warmth, vibes, and connection.
- A Welcoming Environment: A safe space for all to enjoy the ancestral healing power of music and dance.
- Special Surprises: Expect the unexpected as Transit Live delivers unique moments.
Whether you’re a lover of house music, a wellness enthusiast, or someone looking for a transformative experience, Transit Live is the place to be.
Date: February 1st, 2025
Venue: Sandbox Beach Club, Accra
Secure your tickets and come ready to find your flow at this one-of-a-kind event: https://tix.africa/
Entertainment
I’m Fully Focused On My Music This Year” – Empress Ghadafi
Entertainment
King Paluta Donates To Kumasi Children’s Home
Telecel Ghana Music Awards’ 2024 New Artiste of the Year, King Paluta, has made a donation to the Kumasi Children’s Home as part of his philanthropic project, Give Time Some Time.
The donation took place on Sunday, January 12, 2025, when King Paluta presented items such as bags of rice, cooking oil, toiletries, bottled water, beverages, sugar and among others aimed at easing the daily needs of the children and staff at the home.
Apart from the donation of the items, he also spent quality time with the children and had a pep talk with them.
The management of the Kumasi Children’s Home expressed their gratitude for the thoughtful gesture, knowing how the items would go a long way in supporting their operations and caring for the children.
Entertainment
Mary Owusu Releases New Song Dubbed “Divine Selection”
Gospel sensation Mary Owusu makes a triumphant return to the music scene with her latest single, “Divine Selection”.
After a brief hiatus, during which she received a prestigious VGMA 2016 nomination for Best Gospel Song, Mary Owusu is back with a spirit-filled masterpiece that’s generating buzz among music lovers.
Produced by the talented Shar, “Divine Selection” is a must-listen.
Check it out below
Entertainment
Inpha Reblitive Joins Reggae Legends At 2024 Reggae Sting Concert
Rising Jamaican artist Inpha Reblitive is set to perform at the prestigious 2024 Reggae Sting Concert, sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in Reggae and Dancehall, including Tommy Lee, Jamal, Jamiel, Yaksta, Turbulance, and more. This marks a significant milestone in Inpha’s career, as he takes the stage at one of the most iconic events in Jamaican music history.
Reggae Sting, often referred to as “the greatest one-night Reggae and Dancehall show on earth,” has been a cultural cornerstone since its founding in 1984 by Isaiah Laing under Supreme Promotions. Established during a time when Dancehall lacked a major stage in Jamaica, Laing’s vision was to create an event that could unite communities and showcase the heartbeat of Jamaica’s cultural identity through music. Over the years, the event has launched the careers of countless superstars, including Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, Bounty Killer, and Sizzla, while also hosting international icons such as Busta Rhymes and Maxi Priest.
For Inpha Reblitive, the opportunity to perform on the Sting stage alongside a lineup of Reggae legends is a testament to his rising status in the industry. Known for his innovative fusion of Dancehall and modern influences, Inpha is rapidly becoming a voice for a new generation of Jamaican artists. Fans attending Reggae Sting 2024 can expect a performance that highlights his creativity, passion, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre.
This year’s event marks a return to its legendary home at Jamworld in Portmore, a venue synonymous with the golden moments of Reggae Sting’s storied history. After undergoing renovations, Jamworld is once again ready to welcome thousands of music fans to experience the unmatched energy and cultural vibrancy of Sting.
As Reggae Sting prepares for the future, the event is undergoing an exciting transformation. The Sting team has also embraced technology, introducing a revamped ticketing platform, a new online music distribution division, and a dedicated streaming network to enhance the experience for fans around the world.
Inpha Reblitive’s performance at Reggae Sting 2024 is set to be a highlight of the event, further cementing the show’s reputation as a launchpad for rising stars and a celebration of Jamaica’s unparalleled musical heritage.
Entertainment
Rising Star Kaset Takes Dancehall By Storm
In the vibrant world of dancehall music, a new star is shining bright. Meet Kaset,Ghanaian sensation who’s taking the industry by storm with her unique sound and captivating stage presence.
Born and raised in Ghana, Kaset grew up surrounded by the rhythms and beats of dancehall. She began writing her own lyrics and experimenting with music production in Ghana. After honing her craft and performing at local shows, Kaset released her debut single “Chosen One” in 2023, which quickly gained traction on social media and music streaming platforms.
Kaset’s music is a fusion of traditional dancehall with modern electronic and hip-hop elements. Her lyrics often focus on themes of empowerment, self-love, and social justice. With her powerful vocals and energetic live performances, Kaset is quickly becoming a fan favorite among dancehall enthusiasts.
In addition to her music, Kaset is also making waves with her striking visuals and bold fashion sense. Her music videos and social media posts often feature vibrant colors, eclectic styles, and a blend of Jamaican and African cultural influences.
Kaset is poised to take the dancehall world by storm. Keep an eye out for this rising star, as she’s sure to ignite the music scene with her unique talent and infectious energy.
Stream Kaset songs here:
https://www.boomplay.com/share/music/130933727?srModel=COPYLINK&srList=IOS
Entertainment
Amos K Returns With The 2nd Chapter of His Groundbreaking EP Series
That’s the mantra versatile Ghanaian Rapper and Producer, Amos K is standing on as he officially releases the second instalment of his successful extended play (EP), “Tell Them, We Are Coming.”
“Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” just like the first one is a five-song project that highlights grim persistence, rebellion against tradition, and breaking of convention, a recurring theme in Amos K’s projects. On the opening track, the skilled rapper returns from the underworld as a “Zombie” – a song where he talks about putting in the work and letting rationality prevail over emotions. There’s no fear in his voice, he raps boldly in two verses disbanded by a melodious hook.
Any rapper eyeing the Best Rap Song of the Year award must buckle up because they have nothing on track two of the project. Crafty word smith Nii Black joins Amos K on “Nothing On Me” as they deliver the best rap song of the year.
The rappity-rap record produced by Kel Beats and 85 Savage is pure flames and hardcore rap for over three minutes. Legend has it that the “booth turned into a furnace” during the recording session. Ride on into the middle track as “Stallion” featuring S.I.N District duo Boi Mack and Spoonz follows. The Hip-Hop track, produced by Bxndit, is a three-verse open mic session where all three artistes take turns to spaz and tell personal stories of pain, struggles, and eventual triumphs.
On “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” there is “Bad Boy 2.” The themes of rebellion, unconventional, and preaching against conformist behaviors heighten in the second edition of the self-produced record. Amos K taps Yung Demi, Nana OT, and Dess, who all bring different perspectives of being a “Bad Boy.” That hook could not be changed.
But does the rapper regret being a “Bad Boy,” find out on the final track as he sends a reflective letter to his younger self on “13-Year-Old-Me.” The song was produced by the rapper and Kel Beats. Amos K has refined his craft over the years, and “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” presents a more mature Amos K with a better perspective and sound.
All the songs were mastered by Emunah except track 3, which was mastered by Dab Beatz.
The versatile Amos K mixed every song on the EP. listen here
Entertainment
Rison Jeneral And Strongman Bring The Heat On Christmas Banger “Chilling Sorr”
Ghanaian Afrobeat sensation Rison Jeneral has teamed up with rapper Strongman on a sizzling hot Christmas banger titled ‘Chilling Sorr’.
The highly anticipated collaboration is set to take the music scene by storm, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz.
The song, which masterfully blends the energetic vibes of Afrobeat with the infectious rhythms of Amapiano, is a game-changer.
Rison Jeneral’s smooth vocals and Strongman’s rap lyrics come together in perfect harmony, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Rison Jeneral, who has been making waves in the music industry, has already racked up an impressive list of accolades. In 2022, he took home three prestigious awards at the Wassaman Entertainment and Business Awards, including:
Best Collaboration of the Year
Best Music Video of the Year
Best Afropop Song of the Year
Strongman, on the other hand, is currently riding high on the success of his recent wins at the TGMA 2024, where he was crowned the Best Rapper of the Year. This latest collaboration with Rision Jeneral is sure to take over the industry as the number one song.
With ‘Chilling Sorr’, Rison Jeneral and Strongman are set to bring the heat this Christmas season. Mark your calendars, as the song is set to be officially released on December 13th.
-
Music3 months ago
King Paluta Drops Visualizer To His New Single ‘For The Popping’
-
Entertainment3 months ago
Obuasi Cricket Academy Sets A Historic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
-
News3 months ago
Celebrating Excellence: The Inspiring Journey Of Fredouse Iddi-Amin, Ogbojo Presbyterian Basic School’s Outstanding Educator
-
Entertainment3 months ago
Iconic DJ Bags Nomination At The Guinness Ghana DJ Awards 2024
-
Music2 months ago
Lyrical Joe Drops New Single “Julie” Featuring BeezTrap Kotm
-
Music3 months ago
“Etri Mu Yesum” – A Powerful New Release Featuring Nana Opugya Ist, Yourboiblack, Rebbel Ashes, And G Ranks
-
Entertainment3 months ago
Ganda Ranks Calls For Responsible Leadership And Active Citizenry In His Upcoming Song ‘Leave Ghana Alone’
-
Entertainment2 months ago
Bra Desmond To Unleash Scathing Diss Track “Fake Life” Featuring Natty Lee And Joint 77
-
Music3 months ago
Kobby Herbz Unleashes Infectious Afrobeats Anthem “Kasket”
-
Music2 months ago
Rap Sensation Freodon Makes A Powerful Comeback With “Very Soon” Freestyle