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Rave News Digest: Travis Scott Accused Of Using A Sample Without Permission, Rema Sets Record In New Zealand, Marcus Rashford + More

Rave News Digest: Travis Scott Accused Of Using A Sample Without Permission, Rema Sets Record In New Zealand, Marcus Rashford + More

Travis Scott accused of using a sample without permission, Rema’s “Calm Down” becomes the highest certified Nigerian song in New Zealand, A deal in principle agreed for Marcus Rashford to join Barcelona. Stay in the know with our Rave News Digest, which summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to catch up on, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix. 

Here is a rundown of five of the hottest news topics…

1. Travis Scott accused of using a sample without permission

Travis Scott has come under fire from Chicago-based electronic band Pixel Grip, who allege that the rapper used a sample of their track “Pursuit” without permission on his new song “Kick Out,” part of the “Jackboys 2” compilation. The band took to the social media platform X to express their frustration, writing: “Travis Scott sampled ‘Pursuit’ (without permission)… we are active. and hungry… trying to make a career out of thin air with only underground support.” They further shared that even a mention or shout-out could have made a major difference for their visibility. “Would love to talk,” the band added in a follow-up message addressed to Scott and his team.

Pixel Grip’s drummer, Tyler Ommen, confirmed in an interview that the sample was instantly recognizable, saying: “This is the song in the background.” According to the band, Travis Scott’s producer Sean Momberger has since reached out, stating that the label would follow up to resolve the sample issue. Scott himself has not yet publicly responded. Meanwhile, “Jackboys 2” is projected to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 with over 250,000 equivalent units sold in its first week, outperforming recent releases, including that of Scott’s current rival, Pusha T.

2. Rema’s “Calm Down” becomes the highest-certified Nigerian song in New Zealand

Afrobeats superstar Rema has made history once again as his global smash hit “Calm Down” has officially been certified 4× Platinum in New Zealand. The certification, issued by Recorded Music NZ, represents over 120,000 units sold, making it the highest-certified Nigerian song in the country to date. Originally released in 2022, “Calm Down” soared to international fame, especially following the chart-topping remix featuring American pop star Selena Gomez.

This latest accolade not only reaffirms Rema’s global appeal but also underscores Afrobeats’ expanding reach in non-traditional markets, like New Zealand. The continued success of “Calm Down” cements the track as a cultural phenomenon and a landmark for African music worldwide, spotlighting Rema as one of the most impactful African artists of his generation.

3. Andy Byron resigns after controversy over video captured at Coldplay concert

Andy Byron, the CEO of Cincinnati-based tech company Astronomer Inc., has resigned following the circulation of a viral video showing him embracing a colleague during a Coldplay concert at Gillette Stadium. The company confirmed his resignation in a statement posted to LinkedIn, saying, “Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.” The resignation comes just a day after Byron was placed on leave pending a formal investigation by the board of directors.

The video, which captured Byron and the company’s chief people officer, Kristin Cabot, on the venue’s jumbotron, quickly ignited debate online after Coldplay frontman Chris Martin playfully quipped about the pair. While the moment may have seemed lighthearted, internet sleuths identified both executives, sparking concerns over workplace conduct and leadership accountability. Astronomer cofounder Pete DeJoy has been named interim CEO as the company begins the search for Byron’s replacement. The incident has also reignited conversations around digital privacy, public surveillance, and the speed at which viral moments can upend professional reputations.

4. South Africa: Kelly Khumalo reacts to claim she killed Senzo Meyiwa

South African singer Kelly Khumalo has spoken out forcefully against renewed allegations connecting her to the 2014 murder of her boyfriend, soccer star Senzo Meyiwa. In a viral video shared on social media, Khumalo responded to claims made by disbarred advocate Malesela Teffo, who alleged during a recent episode of Podcast and Chill that Khumalo unintentionally shot Meyiwa while handing him a gun. Teffo also claimed there was a warrant of arrest issued against the singer.

Khumalo, who was present at the Vosloorus home where Meyiwa was killed alongside family members and friends, firmly denied the claims, calling them part of a long-running “humiliation ritual.” “Enough is enough. It stops here and it stops today,” she said in the video. “If you strongly believe I am capable of what you are accusing me of, very simple, come and get me. I’m not above the law.” Declaring she would no longer issue press statements or hire lawyers, Khumalo warned her detractors to stop dragging her name through the mud. “I fear no man,” she said.

5. A deal in principle agreed for Marcus Rashford to join Barcelona

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is on the verge of a dream move to Barcelona, with a deal in principle reportedly reached for an initial loan that includes an option to buy. Rashford has been pushing for a new challenge since December, after being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim, and has made no secret of his admiration for the Spanish giants. Talks have taken place through intermediaries, and while no official confirmation has been made, sources suggest the agreement is well underway. Rashford, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, has been training away from United’s first team and was not included in their pre-season squad.

A move to Barcelona would provide a fresh start for Rashford and welcome wage relief for United, with the 27-year-old among the club’s top earners on £325,000 a week. Rashford, whose contract runs until 2028, has not played for the Red Devils since December and is said to believe he has no future at the club under Amorim. Barcelona sporting director Deco has previously praised Rashford’s abilities, and the player has publicly expressed his desire to play alongside rising star Lamine Yamal. Joining the reigning La Liga and Copa del Rey champions under manager Hansi Flick could mark a major turning point in Rashford’s career.

Featured image: @travisscott/Instagram


Our Weekday News Digest brings you a curated selection of the most compelling stories from around the globe. This week, we delve into the latest celebrity headlines, from Hollywood to Nollywood, explore trending global news, and highlight the most exciting sports developments of 2025.


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