Latest news with #TheVolume
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Angie Martinez Speaks on Her New ‘IRL' Podcast and the Importance of Vulnerability in Her Interviews
How did Angie Martinez become The Voice of New York? She remained true to Angie Martinez. After beginning her tenure at HOT 97 as a teenager answering phones, Martinez skyrocketed to fame with 'The Angie Martinez Show.' Interviewing hip-hop icons such as The Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Jay-Z, the show quickly became one of urban radio's most influential programs. Martinez has continued at Power 105.1, her 'Voice of New York' nickname hard won after years of being as authentic as possible within radio's parameters. On June 2, Martinez took the leap into podcasting to break out of those parameters. Titled IRL, the weekly pod aims to further expand on the radio host's signature brand: Exploring the human truth that binds us all together. More from Billboard 'Democracy Forward' Compilation Features Tracks From Michael Stipe, Wilco, Brandi Carlile, John Prine and Tyler Childers Gracie Abrams Shares Snippet of New Music & Gets Support From an Excited Olivia Rodrigo Cardi B Blasts Donald Trump's 'Dictatorship Vibe' Over ICE Raids & National Guard Deployment 'What is the truth of that?' Martinez tells me over Zoom. 'It sounds basic and simple, but [that question] really is what motivates me and pushes me. That's the button I'm always looking to hit. What's real here? What can we really get into?' While IRL was initially a grassroots-led effort via Martinez herself, she has now joined forces with The Volume to take this self-financed passion project to the next level. Having helped create some of hip-hop media's most successful podcasts (Club Shay Shay, Joe and Jada, Rory and Mal), The Volume will turn Martinez podcast into a weekly endeavor, with a big budget and even bigger expectations. 'I'll be honest, it is a little scary,' Martinez admits. 'Cause I don't ever wanna not give it the full effort that I'm giving to them now. There will need to be a little more time and effort to make sure every episode delivers in the same way, at a higher volume.' Regardless, Martinez reaffirms that she's up to the challenge. Below, Billboard talks with The Voice of New York about her pod, some of her favorite interviews so far and how reflections on her own mortality inspired her to enter the crowded podcasting sphere. How did IRL come together and how are you feeling about podcasting so far? It's been exactly what I wanted it to be. I started quietly and was self-funding it at first because I really wanted to control the creative and the narrative because it was special to me. I really wanted to have meaningful conversations. I had a really bad car accident five years ago and, you know, when something like that happens and you're reminded of your mortality, you ask yourself those important questions: 'What do you really care about?' 'What do you really wanna do?' I just wanted to have more meaningful conversations on that level. So that's why Lauren London was my first guest. She set the tone of the type of conversations I wanted to have, and people really resonated with it. I just did it from a place of purpose. That's interesting what you said about having authentic conversations, because to me that's been the Angie Martinez brand for years now. How have these conversations been different from the ones you have on radio? Any conversation I have whether on the podcast or radio or in my real life I'm always searching for authenticity. That's the core of who I am, so that's gonna be with me no matter where my conversation is, but the difference is radio is more about what's happening today. What is current? What is trending? What is the news story of the day? It's very current, and I love that! But the conversations on the podcast are specifically designed to be tools for people in their real life. So yes, somebody happens to be really famous or talented, but these are the things real life has taught them. It's a very specific conversation that's different than what we're doin on the day to day with radio. How have you navigated the challenges of carving your own lane in the podcast space? It feels like everyone's got a podcast. It really has gotten bloated, even from the time we launched to now! But you can't worry about that. It's the same thing as music. There's a lot of music out, but there's podcasts of certain things people need from certain artists. I just think people who know me and know my brand they know what they're gonna get. Actually — how's this for a name drop? — I was talking to Michelle Obama the other day. Casual. That might be the coolest thing I've ever said! She was calling into my show, because she has [a show too] and she told me there's always white space, there's always a need. There's always people out there — even though it's busy in a lot of spaces. When you have a unique perspective and viewpoint, there's space for that. So I try not to [overthink], I'm gonna let the Volume deal with that. When I get in the chair I just try to make content that matters to someone. Tell me more about this deal with Volume, how is this gonna bring the podcast to the next level? We're definitely gonna be regular now. [IRL] kinda just came when the wind came and we had time to shoot it, now this will be a weekly podcast, for sure. You're gonna know when to expect us. After all your years talking to people, what do you think the key is to conducting a good interview? I don't think there's one thing, but I think it starts with listening. Sometimes you can have an agenda, or a thought like, 'Oh this would be a really cool thing to talk about with this person.' That person sits in the chair and that's not where they're at in their life! Or they just had something happen in their life the day before — which, if you're not paying attention to them, listening to their story or being present with them, you could miss it. But also, I find my best interviews are when there's something going on in my life that connects. I try to find the common denominator, the little piece of life that this person and I can look at and see each other. It goes back to meeting people at an honest place. What are a few of your favorite moments on the podcast so far? Some of my favorite conversations so far have been one's where it's not an interview at all. I did an interview with Kelly Rowland, [she] had a very similar situation where she grew up without her father, reunited with him later in life. I shared an experience with her that I just recently had where I found out my father was alive when I thought he was dead. The way Kelly saw me, it became two women talking about a situation we both felt deeply and could understand. There's so many great ones, Kelly Clarkson was great. Lauren London taught us so much about grief and how to survive on the other side of that, because I was coming off of having lost some family members while I was launching this pod. So talking about that was really the blueprint for how I wanted this show to go. I had an interesting conversation with Mike Tyson about anger and rage, Mike was telling me they did a scan of his brain and you could literally see rage in his brain. Something about knowing that you can see the rage inside Mike Tyson on a brain scan, it made me look at him in a different way. Knowing he walks around life trying to manage that. On other radio programs like , there are other people to bounce off of in these environments. But it's been just Angie Martinez the whole time. With people coming to specifically for you and your takes, how do you make sure the goal of the pod gets met while also keeping your personal boundaries stay in tact? Yes, thank you for noticing that! Honestly, If I take anybody to a certain place, I have to be prepared to go there with them. We're in the boat together, and it's come up a lot more in the pod. But at this point in my life, I'm not afraid to share, so I feel the pod is giving me that opportunity to dig into that a little more…you're either in it or you're not, and I'm in it! If not me, then whom — and if not now, then when? Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Controversial Ex-NFL Player Dead At 72 On Thursday
A former NFL player who overcome a stint in prison to continue his NFL career has passed away at the age of 72. On Wednesday, the Miami Dolphins announced that former defensive tackle Randy Crowder passed away. Crowder was a part of their organization from 1974 to 1976, during which he played 39 games and recorded 12.5 sacks. Advertisement But Crowder's NFL career and his entire life was put on hold after he was sent to prison in 1977. Crowder and Dolphins teammate Don Reese were convicted of selling cocaine. The two both served one year in prison but got another chance in the NFL in 1978. Upon returning to the NFL, Crowder signed a deal with the fledgling Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played in all 16 games for the team in 1979, helping the Bucs reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. "We are saddened by the passing of former Dolphins player Randy Crowder, who played for the team from 1974-1976," the Dolphins said in a statement. Randy Crowder was the father of Channing Crowder, another former member of the Dolphins who played linebacker for the franchise from 2005 to 2010 and remains a beloved alum. The Crowders are the only father-son duo to be drafted by the Dolphins in franchise history and one of the few father-son duos drafted by the same team in league history to boot. Advertisement Dolphins fans on X have been offering their condolences to the Crowder family ever since the news broke: "I'm sorry to hear that. I am sending my heart to @OfficialCrowder and his family in this tough time," one user replied. "Was blessed to be old enough to have watched him play. My condolences. @OfficialCrowder and family," wrote another. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 08: Channing Crowder speaks onstage during The Volume - Nightcap Live Show with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco at Redtail on February 08, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo byfor The Volume)"Condolences to his Family and Friends. May His Memory Live in your Hearts Forever," a third wrote. "We lost a good one. My deepest sympathies @OfficialCrowder to you and your family." Randy Crowder finished his NFL career with 19.0 sacks - 12.5 with the Dolphins and 4.5 with the Bucs. He started 35 of 71 games. Advertisement Our hearts go out to the Crowder family and their loves ones. Related: Prayers Pouring In For U.S. Congressman's Family Wednesday Controversial Ex-NFL Player Dead At 72 On Thursday first appeared on The Spun on May 22, 2025


Time of India
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Did Shannon Sharpe's $100 million contract lead to his $50 million lawsuit? Here's everything to know
Shannon Sharpe has been sued for $50 million. (Image via Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Shannon Sharpe, the NFL legend, is facing an expensive lawsuit as he was sued for a whopping $50 million. Shannon Sharpe's sexual assault scandal has completely confused his fans as he has been accused of sexually assaulting a young woman multiple times, while the NFL legend claims it was a 'consensual' relationship. But there are also speculations that the young woman accused Shannon Sharpe of sexual assault only when he was about to sign a $100 million contract. Here is everything about the $100 million contract that has divided fans. Everything about Shannon Sharpe's $100 million deal that many believe is the reason behind his sexual assault scandal — LegionHoops (@LegionHoops) Shannon Sharpe has a successful career in hosting and has different sources of income, including his own popular YouTube show, Club Shay Shay and the Nightcap podcast. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Regain confidence with WAYT-less®. This Rapid Dissolve Tablet could support your weight loss. Nu Image Medical Shop Now Undo According to Front Office Sports, before the sexual assault scandal, Shannon Sharpe was ready to sign a media deal with Colin Cowherd's The Volume podcast. Apparently, sources have revealed that Shannon Sharpe has had multiple offers and the contract was set to be worth more than $100 million. For the unversed Shannon Sharpe had previously signed a deal with The Volume back in August 2023. Since then, Club Shay Shay and Nightcap has really attracted a lot of engagement. With the deal expiring soon, the NFL legend was all set to sign a expensive deal that would have included all the shows on the Shay Shay network. As per The US Sun, the deal might have already fallen apart but there are no confirmations on it yet. Fans are convinced that Shannon Sharpe has been sued because of the news about his $100 million deal But fans are convinced that Shannon Sharpe's $100 million deal was the reason he was sued for $50 million. A fan took to X and posted, 'I'm not a fan of Shannon sharp, but this comes out right after it's talked about him signing a $100 million contract?', while another fan wrote, 'Look at black men, laughing and hoping Shannon Sharpe miss out that 100 Million deal…Sh*t Disgusting….' A third fan wrote, 'Reports come out that Shannon sharpe is about to sign a 100m media deal and all of a sudden allegations start coming out of nowhere . Women should have to face the same consequences as the man if they are caught lying.' Another user posted, 'Super ironic a week after Shannon Sharpe gets a 100 million podcast deal he then gets a new lawsuit for 50 million. From the same money hungry lawyer that targets rich celebrities.' For now, Shannon Sharpe claims innocence and as per his lawyer, had even offered the young woman a whopping $10 million before she decided to sue him. Also Read: "I believe him": Stephen A. Smith defends Shannon Sharpe days after making controversial comments on the scandal


Time of India
23-04-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Shannon Sharpe allegedly offered $10 million to settle rape claims before shocking lawsuit was filed
Shannon Sharpe , the NFL Hall of Famer-turned-media personality, is at the center of a fierce legal storm after being accused of sexual assault by a woman referred to as 'Jane Doe.' Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The lawsuit, filed in Nevada, alleges a series of disturbing incidents that occurred during what's described as a 'rocky consensual relationship.' However, the case has taken a complicated turn—both legally and publicly—as revelations of a multimillion-dollar settlement offer and claims of blackmail surface. Lawyer reveals Shannon Sharpe nearly paid $10 million to resolve rape accusation quietly Shannon Sharpe, through his lawyer Lanny J. Davis, has strongly denied all allegations. In a virtual press conference, Davis described the suit as a calculated move meant to exploit Sharpe's rising financial status. 'It was a big surprise to us a few days ago when this case was filed,' Davis said. He emphasized that during mediation, an offer of 'at least $10 million' had been made to settle the dispute quietly—an offer that was ultimately rejected. This rejection, followed by a sudden lawsuit, has fueled Sharpe's claim that the accusation is nothing short of a 'shakedown.' 'Her knowledge that Mr. Sharpe's about to receive a very lucrative contract… she knew that, took advantage of it… This is a classic definition of blackmail,' Davis asserted. Sharpe is reportedly on the brink of signing a deal exceeding $100 million for his 'Club Shay Shay' podcast after his exit from Colin Cowherd's The Volume network. In support of their narrative, Sharpe's legal team released alleged text exchanges between him and Jane Doe , aiming to paint a picture of a consensual and adult relationship that featured sexual role-playing and financial negotiations. Davis further pointed out that the accuser, who has not been publicly named by the courts but was identified by Sharpe on social media, is an active content creator on OnlyFans—a fact he cited to support the consensual nature of their interactions. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In stark contrast, Jane Doe's attorney Tony Buzbee has remained defiant. 'On the one hand Mr. Sharpe and his lawyers claim that the case filed by Jane Doe is meritless, yet on the other hand they now have disclosed that Mr. Sharpe offered Jane Doe $10 million in writing not to file her lawsuit,' Buzbee wrote in a fiery Instagram statement. According to him, the plaintiff declined the offer to pursue what she believes is justice. The lawsuit alleges graphic instances of abuse, including one where the plaintiff tried to share her location with friends during a confrontation, only for Sharpe to allegedly choke her and threaten her life. 'If you ever do that again, I will (expletive) kill you,' she claims he said. Another incident involved Sharpe showing up to her residence under the guise of delivering gifts but allegedly sexually assaulting her instead. These harrowing details have cast a shadow over Sharpe's public persona, even as he continues his appearances on ESPN's First Take. While the network has yet to comment officially, Stephen A. Smith has acknowledged the severity of the situation, noting that ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro is "taking this matter very seriously." What's further complicating the narrative is Sharpe's recent counteroffensive—announcing intentions to sue both the accuser and Buzbee for defamation. He also accused Buzbee of 'targeting Black men,' referencing his involvement in lawsuits against figures like Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Jay-Z. Sharpe's camp insists this is all an effort to extort money amid the backdrop of his soaring career, while Buzbee paints it as a typical defense tactic aimed at silencing survivors through character attacks. As both sides gear up for a courtroom battle, the public is left sifting through a deeply polarizing case that blends allegations of violence, fame, money, and media manipulation. While the legal process unfolds, the central question remains: is this a matter of justice, or a high-stakes financial power play? Only time—and perhaps a jury—will decide. Also Read:


Los Angeles Times
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Los Angeles Times
Shannon Sharpe denies rape allegations after being sued for $50 million
Pro Football Hall of Famer and sports media personality Shannon Sharpe has been accused of raping a woman he had been in a consensual sexual relationship with in a lawsuit filed Sunday night in Clark County, Nev. The woman, identified in the lawsuit as a Jane Doe, is seeking $50 million in damages for claims of assault, sexual assault, battery, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress after three alleged non-consensual sexual encounters in Las Vegas (twice in October, once in January). 'The lawsuit filed under the pseudonym 'Jane Doe' lays out a pattern of intimidation, manipulation, and abuse, including allegations that Sharpe repeatedly threatened to choke and slap Jane Doe,' attorney Tony Buzbee said in a statement emailed to The Times on Monday. Sharpe responded to the accusations Monday by posting a statement from his attorney, Lanny J. Davis, on social media. 'Mr. Sharpe categorically denies all allegations of coercion or misconduct — especially the gross lie of 'rape' — and will not submit to what he sees as an egregious attempt at blackmail,' the statement reads. 'He stands firmly by the truth and is prepared to fight these false claims vigorously in court. He looks forward to vindication through due process and a judgment based on the facts and the law.' According to the lawsuit, Sharpe and his accuser met while working out at a Los Angeles gym in 2023, when he was 54 and she was 20, after which he 'incessantly pursued' her for a couple weeks before they started 'a rocky consensual relationship that lasted nearly two years.' During their relationship, the lawsuit alleges, Sharpe was controlling and manipulative, with his accuser allegedly discovering over time 'that Sharpe was extremely emotional and possessed an uncontrollable temper.' 'Sharpe's behavior demonstrates that he believed Plaintiff to be his personal property, possessed and owned by him,' the lawsuit states. 'He also believed that the laws did not apply to him, that he could take what he wanted, and that no one could or would stop him. He was and is wrong.' According Davis' statement, the consensual sex between Sharpe and his accuser continued until Jan. 2. It also includes several examples of sexually explicit text messages allegedly sent by the accuser to Sharpe. 'The evidence paints a clear picture: this was a consensual adult relationship that included role-playing, sexual language, and fantasy scenarios explicitly requested by [the accuser,]' Davis stated. Sharpe has found massive success as a podcaster, hosting such shows as 'Club Shay Shay' and 'Nightcap.' On Friday, Front Office Sports reported that Sharpe's media deal with The Volume podcast network has expired and that sources say Sharpe 'has received multiple offers and is expected to sign a deal that would exceed $100 million.' An eight-time Pro Bowl tight end, Sharpe played 14 NFL seasons and won three Super Bowls, two with the Denver Broncos and one with the Baltimore Ravens. Upon retiring in 2003, Sharpe went into sports broadcasting. He currently works for ESPN and makes regular appearances on 'First Take.' ESPN declined to comment for this story. Buzbee and his firm have represented numerous plaintiffs in high-profile sexual assault cases against hip-hop mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. Davis has had numerous high-profile clients as well, including President Trump's former personal attorney Michael Cohen.