Marilyn Manson’s faced a number of accusations from former flings who accused him of heinous acts. However, one of his accusers, Ashley Morgan Smithline, recanted her statements in a recent court filing. Smithline accused Manson of rape and abuse during their relationship in the early 2000s shortly after others emerged with similar accusations. Earlier this month, she filed documents to court rescinding her claims, alleging that she faced pressure to publicly call out Manson from other accusers, such as Evan Rachel Wood and her girlfriend, Ilma Gore.

Smithline alleged Evan Rachel Wood and others manipulated her into making these claims against the rockstar. “I succumbed to pressure from Evan Rachel Wood and her associates to make accusations of rape and assault against [Manson] that were not true,” she said in a court filing. She also explicitly stated that she and Manson had a “brief, consensual sexual relationship.” While her claims have been previously corroborated by others, she claimed she was “repeatedly gaslit” into believing that she was abused.

Evan Rachel Woods Denies Smithline’s Claims 

(EXCLUSIVE, Premium Rates Apply) TORONTO, CANADA – SEPTEMBER 10: Evan Rachel Wood and Marilyn Manson at the Gala Screening of Sony Pictures “Across The Universe” during the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival held at the Roy Thompson Hall on September 10, 2007 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Wireimage)

In a recent court filing, Evan Rachel Wood slammed Smithline’s claims, denying that she manipulated anyone into making statements. Wood provided screenshots of text messages, DMs, and even an alleged voicemail of Manson’s lawyer contacting Smithline. “I never pressured or manipulated Ashley Morgan Smithline to make any accusations against [Manson], and I certainly never pressured or manipulated her to make accusations that were not true,” wrote Wood. Among the screenshots she included is one text where Smithline allegedly wrote, “I can’t breathe. I have no reason to make this up!” in response to her story getting published. 

Wood said that they only came in contact in 2019 after Smithline’s allegations against Manson. She said they met in person in October 2020 during a meeting with other alleged victims of Manson, where Smithline shared details of the abuse she endured. However, Smithline has since shut down Wood’s recent declaration in a statement to Rolling Stone. “Evan’s full of s—. That’s my comment. She’s saying anything she can to discredit me,” Smithline said. We’ll keep you posted on any further updates. 

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This week, Empire actress Serayah revealed a few juicy things about her relationship life. For starters, she confirmed that her relationship with fellow actor Jacob Latimore was over. First getting together in 2016, Serayah and Latimore’s relationship was a favorite among fans. “Me and Jacob are no longer together.— Sadly we just grew apart and I love and respect his journey moving forward,” she said.

However, it seems she quickly transitioned to a new boo shortly while simultaneously announcing her breakup. Both Joey Bada$$ and Serayah each posted photos with each other on Instagram recently. Each succinctly captioning their posts with a heart, fans concluded that the rapper and actress could now be an item. Then, after going public with their new fling, Joey announced a new music video on the way. Set to drop on March 1, Joey plans to deliver the third music video for his 2022 album 2000. But, what makes the impending release of the “Show Me” video even more enticing is that his co-star is his brand new girlfriend.

Joey Bada$$ & Serayah On Screen

Joey posted the trailer for the “Show Me” music video on Feb. 28. Lasting less than 30 seconds, the clip shows Joey and Serayah fiddling with a camcorder while unpacking moving boxes. Asking him to show her how to use it, the clip ends at that point and fans will not be able to see the rest until March 1. The song samples “Show Me How,” a 2018 song from the Canadian band Men I Trust. One of the most enjoyable tracks on 2000, “Show Me” undoubtedly deserves the visual treatment.

With this video on the way, it likely solidifies the Joey Bada$$ and Serayah couple rumors even more. There’s no telling how long the two have been dating though. If they’ve been together since the video first began filming, it could be weeks by now. Considering this, the rollout of their romance on social media was timed perfectly. Revealing their relationship and then a video they collaborated on shortly after effectively manufactured buzz around the two stars. Now, we just have to wait and see how they perform in the new music video.

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Busta Rhymes reflected on his upbringing, his family, and more during a heartfelt speech at Carnegie Hall on Monday, February 27. The veteran rapper had been performing for the “Carnegie Hall Presents Power Network: A Black History Month Conversation and Concert.” He was joined by Earn Your Leisure hosts Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings. ED Lover, Al Sharpton, DJ Clark Kent, and more were also in attendance. Other speakers included Robert F. Smith, Dr. Paul Judge, Derek Ferguson, Yvette Badu-Nimako, Lisa Francoeur, Ibrahim Sagna, and Kim Keenan.

As for Busta, he spoke about how meaningful the moment was for him by reflecting on watching morning cartoons as a kid. “While she was making breakfast, I used to see ‘Transformers and Voltron,’” he said. “So, names like Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Soundwave [I would hear]. It was interesting when I went to the corner store to get my Charleston Chews … I would see brothers on the corner and they would have names like Lord Victorious and Supreme justice … Peace to the Gods! The point that I’m trying to make is that I learned a lot tonight while in my dressing room looking at the TV monitors and watching these incredible gentlemen speak.”

Busta Rhymes At Carnegie Hall

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 27: Busta Rhymes performs during Carnegie Hall Presents Power Network A Black History Month Conversation And Concert at Carnegie Hall on February 27, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

From there, Busta explained that he had to learn things they don’t teach in school. “Interestingly, what I learned today they don’t teach at school. Same way I learned from these brothers that stood on the corner … like how much is the earth weighs … how far the was each planet from the sun … what’s the total square mileage of the planet … the original man is the Maker, the Owner, the Cream of the Planet Earth, the God of the Universe.” He continued: “So, to come from those humble beginnings, I was being taught like this from dudes that looked like the ones would racially profile. I was taught by these brothers to believe that I was made in the likeness of God and I believe this so much I claim that divine that everything that I wanted after I would just claim.”

Before finishing, Busta admitted that the weight of the moment wasn’t lost on him. In fact, he cried twice beforehand. “32 years later by professional recording career on stage at Carnegie Hall,” he said. “Leading up to this moment, I had two tear-jerking moments. I cried a lot. They were tears of joy. I am so happy to be here.”

Busta’s Performance

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Avid hip-hop fans will be pleased to learn about the current auction of rappers’ prized possessions. Until Friday (March 3), the website Gotta Have Rock and Roll is responsible for the handling of nearly 100 pieces either signed or owned by the genre’s most legendary acts. That’s right, you now have the opportunity to snag vintage concert tickets, shoes, and even handwritten lyrics from artists like Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Snoop Dogg. The “Hip Hop Legends Auction” also includes autographs from Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, and late Florida lo-fi originator, XXXTentacion.

Bids are currently climbing for the hip-hop gold as the auction nears its end. Eminem has several of his clothing items listed, with his “Free Tony Yayo” ensemble going for a minimum bid of $1,000. The Detroit emcee wore the iconic tee during the G-Unit member’s jail stints in the early 2000s. You can also cop a signed copy of Em’s fifth studio album Encore, which is estimated to sell for $2-$4,000 or the pair of Nike Shox he wore while on tour.

Tupac’s Iconic Red Bandana Has A Current Bid Of $1,000

American rapper, songwriter, and actor (1971-1996) Tupac Shakur poses for a portrait during the 1994 Source Awards on April 25, 1994 at the Paramount Theatre in New York, New York. (Photo by Bob Berg/Getty Images)

When it comes to our fallen rap legends, Gotta Have Rock and Roll does not disappoint, by far. Fans of Tupac Shakur can place bids on his signature red bandana and gold chains. Eazy-E supporters are currently bidding for a signed copy of his debut album, 1988’s Eazy-Duz-It. Five bids have already been placed for the aforementioned LP, evaluated to sell for up to $1,500. Other notable items from those who’ve passed on include authentic promotional posters from The Notorious B.I.G. They also have well-conditioned magazines from Biggie’s iconic ’90s era. DMX memorabilia can be found as well, with signed copies of It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot and the Belly soundtrack up for bid.

Drake supporters, don’t be alarmed: there are a couple of things they’re offering for you to grab, too. The Canadian rap superstar appears to have given the site permission to sell lyric pages, too. Written in his personal notebook, the auction includes original lyrics to Drake’s diss track “Exposed.” The triple-threat penned the words in red ink as he went on to call former collaborator Voyce. You can also find lyrics to his unreleased track “It’s All Timing,” currently going for $500.

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Tyler, the Creator has long been a marquee name in the music industry. First blowing up off of the wonky New-York-based banger “Yonkers,” the Los Angeles-born-and-raised artist would soon found music and entertainment collective ‘Odd Future.’ Undeniably himself, he’s never been one to hold his tongue. With the spotlight on him in his early 20s, he wasn’t one to shy away from controversy. For example, he was banned from the UK for his “derogatory” and “offensive” lyrics. However, his unwavering insistence on being himself would soon curate the artist a cult-like fanbase.

Tyler, The Creator Is Known For Being Very Controversial

Calling Tyler the most controversial rapper of the early to mid 2010s hews far closer to fact than opinion. Tyler’s raspy voice meshed with grimy bangers on his earlier records, such as ‘Bastard’ and ‘Goblin’. Rapping amidst distorted drum patterns and screeching guitar riffs, his sound blended the soundscapes of New York and Los Angeles. The confident MC and producer is well-known for his “do it yourself” personality. From riding bikes around Santa Barbara to pioneering a distinct clothing style, he’s captured the imagination of an entire generation.

As Tyler references on ‘Call Me If You Get Lost,’ he really began to hit his stride around the age of 25. Releasing the controversial “Cherry Bomb,” he began to approach his career with a higher level of intent. This would bleed over into a new era for Tyler, beginning with “Flower Boy.” While he toyed with blends of pop and soul on previous records, songs such as “See You Again” and “911/Mr. Lonely” would force fans to take him more seriously. He would go on to release ‘Igor’ and ‘Call Me If You Get Lost’. Both projects ended up winning Grammys for Rap Album of the Year.

Now approaching the Spring, Tyler fans will know that he has a tendency to release every 2 years over the Summer. While there’s been rumblings of a disco record, Tyler publicly refuted this over Twitter. Fans will have to keep guessing about what’s next for one of the most talented and influential artists today.

Tyler, the Creator performs onstage during 2022 Made In America at Benjamin Franklin Parkway. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Roc Nation)

7. Goblin

Considering the sudden rise of the eclectic ‘Odd Future,’ ‘Goblin’ represents the first album that was highly anticipated from Tyler. Many of you may be surprised to see this record at the bottom of our list. In fact, ‘Goblin’ features both two tracks that established him as more than just an oddball internet personality. “Yonkers” is a 808-induded NYC banger, with menacing lyrics such as “I slipped myself some pink Xannies and danced around the house in all-over print pannies.” Tyler has stated that he’s never really been into drugs. However, the purposefully dramatic songwriting added to the aura and mysticism of his fame.

“She” proved that Tyler didn’t need to rely on rapping to create hits. It featured melodic vocals from Frank Ocean, 80s synths and a heavy bass. It had thousands crying out the lyrics at concerts around the world. Frank Ocean wouldn’t be the only Odd Future member on the record, with the likes of Domo Genesis and Hodgy making appearances on multiple tracks. However, Tyler purposefully keeps the feature list limited in order to draw attention to his songwriting.

‘Goblin’ very much has its flaws as an overall record. As he attempts to redefine himself amidst lofi beats and piano chords, the frequent result is tracks that feel under-produced, or are a flat-out mess. Similar to his debut mixtape, Tyler lashes out in anger through multiple personas throughout the record. However, the production doesn’t represent that in as cohesive of a manner compared to ‘Bastard.’ While he doesn’t stick the landing, it’s still an important record in his discography.

6. Bastard

Tyler’s debut mixtape, ‘Bastard’ predated much of the Odd Future hype and drama. Releasing the project at 18 years old, Tyler is very much existing in his own world rather than attempting to adhere to mainstream sounds. The production is purposefully messy, and his rapping dabbles into overtly offensive or “out of pocket” lyricism. However, there’s a certain appeal to the frankness of it all. Tyler’s messy voice was highly distinctive from the rest of the Odd Future collective, meshing well with the “ugliness” of the production on the record.

‘Bastard’ sees Tyler take a swipe at multiple aspects of his life. Whether it be his negligent father or the overall toxicity of the rap industry, he’s angry from start to finish. Distorted 808s and rugged synths parallel this emotion from start to finish, making for a cohesive listen. Tyler paints himself as a menacing, villainous character while rapping about dark topics such as kidnap or murder. At times, it’s hard to tell whether he’s playing a character or just being himself. However, it’s a record where he dives into the darkest corners of his mind.

Created on a limited budget, ‘Bastard’ is a stark contrast to the polished quality of his recent work. Therefore, it’s an essential listen for any new Tyler, the Creator fans who want to learn about how he matured both artistically and personally.

5. Cherry Bomb

Tyler’s fourth studio album, ‘Cherry Bomb’ is an awkward record that symbolized the transition phase of his career. Wanting to prove he was more than a rapper, ‘Cherry Bomb’ sees Okonma hone in on his producing and singing. More soulful than ever, the likes of Kali Uchis and Charlie Wilson contribute features. Opting to focus more on sound and less on lyricism, the result is a mixed bag.

‘Cherry Bomb’ mixes the old and new eras of Tyler. He doesn’t want to let go with the old version of himself. However, the consistently muddy and painfully mixed beats come off as worse than his older works, such as on the wild title track “Cherry Bomb.” As previously mentioned, he’s looking to root his soul influences into more of a soul-based sound. However, the result is more so an impersonation of those soundscapes rather than something that’s genuine. “Find Your Wings” and “Perfect” are charming enough, but pale in comparison the pop-soul blends on ‘Flower Boy.’

Ultimately, ‘Cherry Bomb’ was the record Tyler needed to create in order to eventually get to ‘Flower Boy’ and ‘Igor.’ His uninspiring singing would morph into the exhilarating vocal pitching on ‘Igor.’ The chord-filled tracks that were lyrically surface level would inspire him to hone in on his songwriting on ‘Flower Boy.’ Point beating, ‘Cherry Bomb’ represented the metamorphosis into who he is today.

4. Wolf

‘Wolf’ is the first record that hints at more of a conceptual, mature Tyler. More vulnerable than ever about his trying childhood, he opens up about his complex relationship with his father. On “Answer,” he’s torn between hating his father, yet knowing that “when I call, I hope you pickup your phone” amidst layered guitar strings.

A stark departure from his first two records, his third studio album is more glossy from a mixing perspective. However, his natural rapping voice doesn’t mesh with the new sonic ideas. To put it simply, his rapping and production levels don’t meet the levels he would set on projects. In many ways, ‘Call Me If You Get Lost’ symbolizes Tyler redefining the flaws on this record.

Even if ‘Wolf’ feels like an awkward departure from the “messy” days of his music, there’s still numerous quality tracks on the record. “Tamale” is goofy in the best ways possible, with a mystic chorus that somehow works. “IFHY” features Tyler’s main inspiration, Pharrell Williams. The colorful synths blended with Pharrell’s voice makes for one of the standout moments in his entire discography. Tyler experiences the full spectrum of infatuation with his love interest, repeating the phrase “I f**king hate you, but I love you.”

Tyler The Creator performs during the 2022 Forecastle Music Festival at Waterfront Park. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)

3. Call Me If You Get Lost

Traveling from Geneva to Paris, ‘Call Me If You Get Lost‘ is a collage of experiences from Tyler. Mirroring the aesthetics of 80s European films, Tyler takes on the alter-ego of Sr. Baudelaire to aid to the theme of travel. The listener is taken across the world as he curates a banger-focused mixtape from “Lumberjack” to “Lemonhead.” His lavish lifestyle puts the audience into a dreamy setting, as he unequivocally boasts about his extensive car and jewelry collection.

While his previous two albums drifted from rap into more conceptual, genre-bending releases, ‘Call Me If You Get Lost’ sees Tyler return to his roots. After falling out of love with rap, he described how working with Westside Gunn reinvigorated his love for the genre. In fact, intro track “Sr. Baudelaire” samples a Westside Gunn beat as he introduces us to his pristine world. Bringing the likes of NBA Youngboy, Lil Wayne, and 42 Dugg into the mix, he drew many comparisons to Kanye West regarding his ability to maximize the talents of his features.

However, ‘Call Me If You Get Lost’ is more in-depth than a getaway vacation. In fact, all of this boasting is a mask for his broken heart. He exposes the story on “Wilshire” on top of a lofi drum beat. It’s not a straightforward rap album. “Sweet / I Thought You Wanted To Dance” meshes reggae and soul into a groovy 10-minute experience that’s undeniably one of his best. Tracks such as “Wusyaname” and “Hot Wind Blows” sample 70s soul cuts. While “Call Me If You Get Lost” isn’t quite as threaded together or conceptual, it’s a fun vanity project that sees him in peak rapping form.

2. Flower Boy

‘Flower Boy‘ still feels like Tyler’s career-defining record. Up to this point, many argued that his artistic growth after ‘Bastard’ hadn’t lived up to his initial hype. ‘Cherry Bomb’ was met with a predominantly mixed reception, which meant that there was an inevitable pressure on Tyler to deliver with his next project. Fulling diving into the elements of pop/soul that he half-way committed to on ‘Cherry Bomb,’ ‘Flower Boy’ throws the listener into the soundscape of a lonely summer day.

Tyler sings about loneliness throughout the record. Sitting in a room with the sun shining through, he’s waiting for someone to “call me sometime.” However, the emphasis on the record is absolutely on the sound rather than the lyrics. Love-stricken and lonely, his music is rooted in sunny days biking around the park. Growing up listening to the likes of Stevie Wonder or Marvin Gaye, their influence is apparent throughout the record.

From “find some time to do something” to “can I get a kiss, and can you make it last forever,” there are so many quotable moments that stick. As Tyler puts it, his ultimate goal of music to blend ‘pretty’ and ‘hard’ music. ‘Flower Boy’ is the prime example of him doing that. While the record is missing some of the messy kinks that would distinguish his sound on ‘Igor,’ it’s drop-dead gorgeous from start to finish.

Tyler, the Creator performs on day 3 of Wireless Festival 2022 at Crystal Palace Park. (Photo by Burak Cingi/Redferns)

1. Igor

‘Igor‘ is Tyler, the Creator’s best album. In our opinion, it’s really not close. In fact, Tyler himself agrees with us. During an interview with Rick Rubin, he said this was the first record he created where “when people told me they liked it, I said “I know””. While ‘Flower Boy’ saw Tyler tone down his radical ideas in favor of a smoother record, ‘Igor’ is the best of both worlds. The character ‘Igor’ originates from Frankenstein. His deformed body represented a symbolic threat to the politeness of society. Tyler takes the frame of this character to archetype the overall record.

Integrating wonky vocal pitching and distorted drums with soft soul chords, ‘Igor’ sounds like Tyler more than any record before or after it. Darting from rap bangers such as “What’s Good” to the rapid punk drums on “New Magic Wand,” the 2019 record was one of the best breakup albums of the decade. The 40-minute experience was initially met with a mixed reception. However, it’s cocooned into being widely accepted as his best work. Hidden features add to the unpredictable initial listening experience. From the shocking contribution from Kanye West on “Puppet” to the Kali Uchis’s mellow vocals on “I Don’t Love You Anymore,” not explicitly putting their names on the album aids to the idea that ‘Igor’ is meant to be experienced from start to finish.

‘Igor’ Would Be The Perfect Movie Soundtrack

With Tyler openly speaking about his desire to one day direct films, it’s no coincidence that ‘Igor’ is structured like the soundtrack to a saddening romantic film. ‘Igor’s Theme’ begins with static synths, as if we’re being introduced to an 80s film. The album transitions through every stage of love to acceptance. Tyler falls in love on the groovy “I Think,” to then feeling like he needs a “New Magic Wand” to make this person love him, to finally accepting his loss on “Gone, Gone / Thank You.” ‘Igor’ is his best record from both a sonic and thematic perspective.

Let us know how you would rank Tyler’s albums in the comments below!