The high-profile trial of rapper A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, commenced in Los Angeles on Friday. The artist faces two felony assault charges stemming from a 2021 shooting incident near a Hollywood hotel. If convicted, he could face up to 24 years in prison.

The incident, which occurred on November 6, 2021, involves Terell Ephron, a fellow artist, childhood friend, and former member of the A$AP Mob hip-hop collective. Prosecutors allege that a heated argument between the two escalated, with Mayers pulling out a firearm in a threatening manner before firing twice in Ephron’s direction. Ephron sustained minor injuries, claiming bullets grazed his knuckles, leading him to seek medical treatment after returning to New York.

Mayers, however, has pleaded not guilty, maintaining that the weapon involved was a “prop gun” incapable of firing live ammunition. His defense team has questioned the validity of the evidence and the delay in Ephron’s reporting of the incident.

A jury comprising seven women and five men was selected earlier this week. The trial is expected to last approximately three weeks, during which both sides will present evidence and testimonies to support their claims.

Mayers’ attorneys have raised concerns about the investigation, arguing that Ephron waited two days to report the incident and returned to the scene himself to gather shell casings, which he later presented to the police. Authorities reportedly found no shell casings or the alleged firearm at the scene during their initial investigation.

Additionally, the defense has cast doubt on the nature of Ephron’s injury, suggesting it could have been caused by a punch rather than gunfire.

This trial comes at a pivotal time for the Grammy-nominated rapper and fashion mogul, who has two children with global superstar Rihanna. In May, he is set to co-chair the 2025 Met Gala alongside Anna Wintour, Pharrell Williams, LeBron James, and Lewis Hamilton. He is also scheduled to appear in Spike Lee’s upcoming film Highest 2 Lowest with Denzel Washington.

Mayers previously faced legal trouble in 2019, receiving a two-year suspended sentence for his involvement in a street brawl in Stockholm.

As opening statements begin, the trial marks a significant moment in A$AP Rocky’s career and personal life. His attorney, Joe Tacopina, emphasized the need to resolve the case swiftly. “It’s been something that’s been hanging over Rocky’s head, and Rihanna’s and their family’s heads, for a while. We’re ready to get this behind him,” Tacopina said.

John Sykes, the acclaimed British rock guitarist known for his work with Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy, has died at the age of 65 after a courageous battle with cancer.

A statement on his official website paid tribute to Sykes, describing him as a “thoughtful, kind, and charismatic man whose presence lit up the room.” The message also shared his heartfelt gratitude to his fans, whom he cherished deeply in his final days.

Sykes began his career in 1980 with the heavy metal band Tygers of Pan Tang, recording two albums before joining Thin Lizzy in 1982. His work with the band culminated in the 1983 album Thunder and Lightning and a European tour with Phil Lynott in The Three Musketeers.

In 1984, Sykes joined Whitesnake, contributing to their Slide It In album and later co-writing hits such as “Still of the Night” and “Is This Love” on their self-titled 1987 release, a landmark album in rock history.

After parting ways with Whitesnake, Sykes formed the group Blue Murder and released two albums before creating a touring version of Thin Lizzy, honoring the band’s legacy following Lynott’s death in 1986.

Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale expressed his sorrow, sharing photos from their days together:
“Just heard the shocking news of John’s passing… My sincere condolences to his family, friends & fans…”

Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash also paid tribute, sharing an image of Sykes performing with the simple caption, “RIP.”

Sykes’s family and representatives shared a heartfelt statement:
“It is with great sorrow we share that John Sykes has passed away after a hard-fought battle with cancer. While the impact of his loss is profound and the mood sombre, we hope the light of his memory will extinguish the shadow of his absence.”

Linda Nolan, a cherished member of the iconic pop group The Nolans, has passed away at the age of 65 after a courageous two-decade battle with cancer. Known for her vibrant energy and remarkable voice, Linda rose to fame in the 1970s alongside her sisters Coleen, Maureen, Bernie, Denise, and Anne, creating unforgettable hits like the 1980 disco anthem I’m In The Mood for Dancing.

Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and celebrated remission in 2011. However, her journey took another turn in 2017 when she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer, which ultimately spread to her brain by 2023. Despite these challenges, Linda faced her illness with grace and strength, inspiring countless fans and supporters.

Coleen Nolan, Linda’s sister and fellow entertainer, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram:
“Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humor, and laughter were infectious, and her presence could light up any room. Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.”

Linda’s legacy extends beyond her music, as she was a source of light and positivity for her loved ones and fans alike. Her ability to bring joy through her songs and her enduring spirit in the face of adversity will remain an inspiration.