Entertainment
R. Kelly Prosecutors Want Jury To Be Anonymous, Claims He Is “Capable Of Inflicting Violence”
We may not have heard much about R. Kelly in the media lately, but the disgraced singer’s trials are moving forward swiftly. R. Kelly is facing a slew of charges across multiple states lines, but it’s now being reported that federal prosecutors in New York are asking for jurors to be kept anonymous. Meaning, they are petitioning for Kelly’s entire trial to be held in front of an anonymous jury because authorities believe the singer is “capable of inflicting violence.”
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This sort of rare move is usually held for cases that involve the mob or terrorists, but prosecutors reportedly noted that Kelly was accused of obstructing justice in his previous child pornography trial back in 2008. There are allegations that during the trial he paid off and intimidated witnesses and alleged victims.
“Multiple witnesses will testify that (Kelly) physically and violently assaulted them when they broke one of (Kelly’s) ‘rules,’” prosecutors wrote while adding “the fact that jurors are aware that their identities are publicly known may subtly and unconsciously impair their impartiality.”
The Chicago Sun-Times spoke with Steve Greenberg, R. Kelly’s attorney, who called the prosecutor’s request “ridiculous.” He added, “To suggest that (Kelly) may harm a juror because there are allegations that he may have engaged in domestic violence is, frankly, insulting. It’s insulting and illogical… We have to know who these people are.”
It’s been about a year that Kelly had remained behind bars as he awaits trials and faces charges of racketeering, sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, among many others. The singer’s Brooklyn trial is reportedly slated to begin on September 29 while his trial is his hometown of Chicago has a start date of October 13.
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Artist Spotlight
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 makes a stand for afrobeat against corruption on latest release Na Dem feat. Tom Morello.
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 deliver a powerful afrobeat statement with “Na Dem,” Featuring Tom Morello and produced by Femi Koleoso. The track has been a fan favourite even before its official release, and comes with the unmistakable spirit of protest, truth-telling, and social accountability that have long characterized Afrobeat’s most impactful moments.
The song’s heart is a direct challenge to corruption and the abuse of power. Instead of singling out one profession or institution for its critique, “Na Dem” identifies a larger culture of dishonesty, targeting bad lawyers, bad doctors, bad politicians, and anyone who would sell their integrity for personal gain. The message is sharp and uncompromising and delivered with the urgency that has become a hallmark of Seun Kuti’s artistry.
The inclusion of Tom Morello adds another level of intensity to the record. His presence adds to the song’s rebellious energy, creating a powerful intersection between the rhythmic activism of Afrobeat and the confrontational edge of rock. The result of the collaboration is a track that is both timeless and of the moment.
The song’s dedication to principle is what rings true. The moral center of the record is Seun’s statement that he would never prostitute his conscience for money. It turns “Na Dem” from a critique into a declaration of personal values, responsibility, and resistance.
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Artist Spotlight
Marsha Bartenetti reinvents in her own style “New York Minute”
Marsha Bartenetti’s latest release, “New York Minute,” written by Don Henley, Danny Kortchmar, and Jai Winding, offers emotional depth, turning a timeless look at life’s fragility into a reflective, cinematic journey. Stephan Oberhoff’s arrangement perfectly frames Bartenetti’s voice, and Kevin Bate’s expressive cello adds a warm resonance that makes the track feel like a movie.
The way each instrument sounds makes it feel planned, which lets the listener stay in the fleeting moments the song so beautifully describes. Bartenetti’s singing is the best part of the song. She shows an openness that feels real, as if she has lost something and still fully embraces love and presence with complete honesty. Her choice of words and small changes in tone make the lyrics feel even closer.
“New York Minute,” is a new version that pays tribute to the original while showcasing Bartenetti’s own style. The movie-like instruments and heartfelt vocals make the song feel both personal and universal. It makes us think about how hard it is to let go and hold on.
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