The Latest with Loren LaRosa: Episode Summary
Episode Title: True or False (Keri Hilson breaks her silence and Kenya Moore updates)
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host: Lauren LaRosa
Produced by: The Black Effect and iHeartPodcasts
1. Introduction and Promotion of Black Effect Podcast Festival
The episode kicks off with Charlamagne Tha God promoting the third annual Black Effect Podcast Festival in Atlanta, Georgia. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26th at Pullman Yards, the event features a diverse lineup of podcasters including:
- Decisions, Decisions, Mandy B., and Weezy
- R&B Money Podcast with Tank and J. Valentine
- Woman Evolved Podcast with Sarah Jake Roberts
- Good Mom's Bad Choices with Carrie Champion (Naked Sports Podcast)
- Trap Nerds Podcast
Charlamagne emphasizes the festival’s expansion beyond podcasts, highlighting the Black Effect Marketplace showcasing black-owned businesses and a food truck court to cater to attendees' culinary needs. He encourages listeners to purchase tickets at blackffect.com.
Notable Quote:
Charlamagne Tha God [00:00]:
“...we’re bringing the Black Effect Marketplace with black owned businesses, plus the food truck court to keep you fed while you visit us.”
2. Keri Hilson Breaks Her Silence
Lauren LaRosa transitions to discuss her recent interview with Keri Hilson on The Breakfast Club.
a. Background of the Controversy
The discussion centers around a leaked remix of Keri Hilson’s song "Turning Me On" from 2009, which led to speculations about tensions with Beyoncé. Keri addressed these rumors, asserting there was no conflict with Beyoncé despite the song’s lyrical implications.
Notable Quote:
Keri Hilson [04:23]:
“I was young. I felt I had no power. I felt I had no choice... But that is definitely a regret of not fighting even stronger.”
b. Keri's Statements and Public Reaction
Keri elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the leaked song, expressing regret over not defending herself more robustly. Lauren highlights the mixed public response, noting that Keri faced backlash on Twitter for sharing her side of the story.
Notable Quote:
Lauren LaRosa [05:02]:
“When we posted this clip online... people were like, 'Nothing does not erase the moment. I'm sorry for my part in it.'”
c. Esther Dean’s Apology
Esther Dean, the co-writer of the leaked song remix, publicly apologized on Instagram, acknowledging her role and the hurt it caused, especially to women in the industry. She stated:
“Looking back, it was childish and didn't age well. I see how it hurt people, especially women. I take full accountability... Growth is real and so is apology real, y'all.”
d. Keri Hilson’s Upcoming Music
Keri is set to release new music titled "We Need to Talk" on April 18th, marking her return to the music scene after a 14-year hiatus since her last release in 2011.
Notable Quote:
Keri Hilson [04:23]:
“I am still eating it to this day. But that is definitely a regret of not fighting even stronger.”
3. Kenya Moore Updates
Lauren shifts focus to updates about Kenya Moore from The Real Housewives of Atlanta, detailing recent controversies and her suspension from the show.
a. Background on the Controversy
Kenya had a contentious relationship with fellow cast member Britney Edie, leading to her indefinite suspension from the current season. The crux of the issue involved Kenya showcasing explicit photos of Britney at an event, which sparked debate over whether this constituted revenge porn or sexual assault.
Notable Quote:
Lauren LaRosa [Timestamp Unavailable]:
“She signed a release for it, so it's fair. Then she put receipt in all caps. So Kenya is alleging that there were release forms signed where these images could appear online.”
b. Definitions Debate
Lauren explores the definitions of sexual assault and revenge porn, clarifying that showing explicit images is typically classified as revenge porn. She references rapecrisis.org for definitions and contrasts it with the legal implications Kenya presented.
Notable Quote:
Lauren LaRosa [Timestamp Unavailable]:
“If you are not an attorney and familiar with Georgia law, then shut the F up. Sick of the bias and selective outrage.”
c. Kenya’s Response and Legal Threats
Kenya responded on Instagram, condemning the co-hosts of Andy Cohen’s show for misunderstanding the legal definitions, and threatened legal action if her stance was not respected. She emphasized her rights and previous activism against revenge porn.
Notable Quote:
Kenya Moore [Timestamp Unavailable]:
“Sexual assault is rape. Remember, that's what Phaedra accused Kandi of attempting to do to Portia... Digital threats if ignored.”
d. Suspension from the Show
Following the incident, Kenya was suspended indefinitely from Real Housewives of Atlanta. Lauren expresses uncertainty about whether Kenya will return in future seasons, reflecting on Kenya’s significant contributions to the show and urging grace and understanding from the audience.
Notable Quote:
Lauren LaRosa [Timestamp Unavailable]:
“Don’t let these girls trick you out your spot. Do not. You were OG we needed you this season, and now we ain't got you.”
4. Conclusion
Lauren LaRosa wraps up the episode by reaffirming her role as "the homegirl that knows a little bit about everything and everybody." She encourages listeners to stay engaged with ongoing discussions and to share the podcast with friends. Lauren expresses support for both Keri Hilson and Kenya Moore, emphasizing the importance of hearing all sides of a story before forming judgments.
Notable Quote:
Lauren LaRosa [End of Episode]:
“There is always a lot to talk about and a lot of places y'all could be listening to talk about it. I appreciate y'all for tuning in, and I will see you guys in my next episode.”
This episode of The Latest with Loren LaRosa offers an in-depth exploration of significant pop culture events, featuring candid discussions with high-profile figures and updates on ongoing controversies. By providing comprehensive insights and multiple perspectives, Lauren LaRosa ensures listeners are well-informed on the latest happenings in the entertainment industry.