Teddy Riley took to social media late Thursday to walk back earlier comments he’d made about wanting to work with the disgraced R&B singer R. Kelly.
In an interview with The Times published on Wednesday, the veteran producer and musician — widely known as the architect of the New Jack Swing sound that dominated Black pop in the late 1980s and early 1990s — said he’d “talked a few times” with Kelly, who’s serving a 30-year prison sentence after a jury convicted him of racketeering and sex trafficking charges, and that he’s “bringing in investors” to help release some portion of the 25 albums Kelly has said he’s recorded in prison.
“Everybody deserves a second chance,” Riley told The Times. “Everyone deserves to repent, and everyone gets forgiven by God when you come to him. People miss [Kelly’s] music. I’m the messenger to bring R&B back.”
Yet Thursday he appeared to changed course.
“As a producer, I’ve always been excited about the possibilities of music and creative collaboration,” he wrote in an Instagram post. “That excitement has defined my career. But I also understand that words carry weight, and I never want my passion for music to overshadow the very real pain that many people have experienced.
“If my comments caused hurt, I sincerely apologize,” he added. “That was never my intention. I take seriously the impact that abuse and misconduct have had on survivors and their families. Their experiences matter, and they deserve to be acknowledged with care and respect.”
Riley, whose long career has included collaborations with Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown and Keith Sweat, described his plan to work with Kelly as “a creative idea discussed in passing. It is not something that will move forward. Loving music and recognizing its cultural impact does not mean condoning harmful behavior, and I want to be clear about that.
“I have spent my life building a legacy rooted in innovation, integrity, and love for the art form. That remains my focus. I appreciate the dialogue, and I remain committed to moving forward with intention and accountability,” said Riley, who this month published a book, “Remember the Times,” about his life and work.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to support me, my memoir, and the journey,” he wrote on Instagram.
Mass tourism and property taxes in Spain could be to blame for the dip in the destination’s popularity among expats as another beautiful hot spot is tipped to take its crown in the coming years
Brits have historically loved Spain’s sunny climate(Image: Getty Images)
With its warm, sunny climate, lower cost of living and excellent healthcare, Spain has long been a favourite for British retirees and remote workers looking for a slower pace of life. But that could be changing, according to experts who warn that another country is gaining in popularity.
While it still remains one of the top destinations for expats, it has become trickier for those hoping to permanently relocate and buy property in the country. Search data around emigration suggests that interest in Spain is starting to wane among those considering a move abroad.
Experts claim a glorious neighbouring country, with mild winters, a welcoming culture, and an exceptional safety record, has recently seen a spike in searches among the group.
For the second year running, the relocation company, 1st Move International, analysed Google search data around emigration. As well as the expected 22% rise in the search term at the start of the year, presumably thanks to the New Year blues and dreary British winter weather, they discovered that Spain’s expat appeal had declined by 28%.
Not only that, but they noticed an 18.9% year-on-year increase in searches for Portugal. Already in the top 10 destinations for UK expats, the popular holiday spot looks to be snapping at the heels of its Spanish neighbour, perhaps in part to its relatively straightforward path to residency.
In comparison, one of the ways Spain has addressed its housing shortage and battle with mass tourism is by introducing new tax measures on foreign property buyers. Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, explains: “Spain’s long been a UK favourite for retirees and Brits looking for a warmer, calmer pace of life, and for now that remains true. However, mass tourism and the decision to impose taxes on foreign property buyers have affected affordability, making it more complex for retirees and long-term residents to move to Spain.”
He adds: “While these measures aim to address housing shortages, they may also have unintended consequences for international buyers and those seeking a flexible lifestyle abroad. Spain’s interest among Brits has begun to dip, and neighbour Portugal may take Spain’s crown in the coming years. Portugal’s already firmly among Brits’ top 10 expat hotspots, and it’s creeping up the ladder with emigration searches increasing.”
Spain ranked ninth among countries with the steepest drop in emigration-related searches, with Rwanda at the top, followed by Iceland. On the flip side, Portugal – a popular holiday destination with celebrities such as Madonna, Holly Willoughby, and even Prince Harry – saw a 4% year-on-year increase in searches.
It seems movers are generally motivated by lifestyle and language, with English-speaking countries and a sunny climate dominating overall trends. Canada was once again the most desirable place to relocate to globally, ranking as the top destination among 75 countries worldwide. The United States is the most popular destination for UK movers, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia. New York City is the most searched US city among UK residents, followed by Los Angeles and Miami.
“Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie will not head to Milan for NBC’s 2026 Winter Olympics coverage as she deals with the ongoing police investigation into the suspected abduction of her mother.
“Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time,” an NBC News representative said Tuesday in a statement. “Our hearts are with her and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother.”
Guthrie was scheduled to co-host NBC’s telecast of the Friday opening ceremonies for the Milan Cortina Games alongside Terry Gannon of NBC Sports. The network representative said alternative plans will be announced shortly.
June 2023 photo of Savannah Guthrie and mother Nancy Guthrie. (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)
(Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)
Law enforcement officials believe Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her home outside of Tuscon, Ariz. on Saturday night. Police were called after relatives were told she missed the Sunday church service she regularly attends and did not find her at home.
Police found Nancy Guthrie’s cell phone, wallet, car and medication were left behind, indicating she did not leave voluntarily. She has no cognitive issues, but has limited physical mobility and could not walk far on her own, family members have told police.
On Tuesday, Lima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said at press briefing that authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will. He also said the department is aware of “reports circulating about possible ransom note(s)” in the case. TMZ reported on the existence of an alleged ransom note Tuesday, but Nanos did not verify the account,
According to law enforcement sources not authorized to speak about the case publicly, there was blood at the scene and someone appeared to have forced their way inside.
Guthrie, a “Today” co-host since 2012, has been off the program since Monday. She was scheduled to head to Milan early this week.
Guthrie’s mother, who lived on her own, has been an occasional on-air guest at “Today.” Her appearances made her a favorite of Guthrie’s co-workers and staff at the program.
Teddy Riley says he no longer plans to work with R. Kelly
Teddy Riley took to social media late Thursday to walk back earlier comments he’d made about wanting to work with the disgraced R&B singer R. Kelly.
In an interview with The Times published on Wednesday, the veteran producer and musician — widely known as the architect of the New Jack Swing sound that dominated Black pop in the late 1980s and early 1990s — said he’d “talked a few times” with Kelly, who’s serving a 30-year prison sentence after a jury convicted him of racketeering and sex trafficking charges, and that he’s “bringing in investors” to help release some portion of the 25 albums Kelly has said he’s recorded in prison.
“Everybody deserves a second chance,” Riley told The Times. “Everyone deserves to repent, and everyone gets forgiven by God when you come to him. People miss [Kelly’s] music. I’m the messenger to bring R&B back.”
Yet Thursday he appeared to changed course.
“As a producer, I’ve always been excited about the possibilities of music and creative collaboration,” he wrote in an Instagram post. “That excitement has defined my career. But I also understand that words carry weight, and I never want my passion for music to overshadow the very real pain that many people have experienced.
“If my comments caused hurt, I sincerely apologize,” he added. “That was never my intention. I take seriously the impact that abuse and misconduct have had on survivors and their families. Their experiences matter, and they deserve to be acknowledged with care and respect.”
Riley, whose long career has included collaborations with Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown and Keith Sweat, described his plan to work with Kelly as “a creative idea discussed in passing. It is not something that will move forward. Loving music and recognizing its cultural impact does not mean condoning harmful behavior, and I want to be clear about that.
“I have spent my life building a legacy rooted in innovation, integrity, and love for the art form. That remains my focus. I appreciate the dialogue, and I remain committed to moving forward with intention and accountability,” said Riley, who this month published a book, “Remember the Times,” about his life and work.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to support me, my memoir, and the journey,” he wrote on Instagram.
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Spain is no longer Europe’s ‘best country for expats’ as Brits ditch it for sun-soaked alternative
Mass tourism and property taxes in Spain could be to blame for the dip in the destination’s popularity among expats as another beautiful hot spot is tipped to take its crown in the coming years
Brits have historically loved Spain’s sunny climate(Image: Getty Images)
With its warm, sunny climate, lower cost of living and excellent healthcare, Spain has long been a favourite for British retirees and remote workers looking for a slower pace of life. But that could be changing, according to experts who warn that another country is gaining in popularity.
While it still remains one of the top destinations for expats, it has become trickier for those hoping to permanently relocate and buy property in the country. Search data around emigration suggests that interest in Spain is starting to wane among those considering a move abroad.
Experts claim a glorious neighbouring country, with mild winters, a welcoming culture, and an exceptional safety record, has recently seen a spike in searches among the group.
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For the second year running, the relocation company, 1st Move International, analysed Google search data around emigration. As well as the expected 22% rise in the search term at the start of the year, presumably thanks to the New Year blues and dreary British winter weather, they discovered that Spain’s expat appeal had declined by 28%.
Not only that, but they noticed an 18.9% year-on-year increase in searches for Portugal. Already in the top 10 destinations for UK expats, the popular holiday spot looks to be snapping at the heels of its Spanish neighbour, perhaps in part to its relatively straightforward path to residency.
In comparison, one of the ways Spain has addressed its housing shortage and battle with mass tourism is by introducing new tax measures on foreign property buyers. Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, explains: “Spain’s long been a UK favourite for retirees and Brits looking for a warmer, calmer pace of life, and for now that remains true. However, mass tourism and the decision to impose taxes on foreign property buyers have affected affordability, making it more complex for retirees and long-term residents to move to Spain.”
He adds: “While these measures aim to address housing shortages, they may also have unintended consequences for international buyers and those seeking a flexible lifestyle abroad. Spain’s interest among Brits has begun to dip, and neighbour Portugal may take Spain’s crown in the coming years. Portugal’s already firmly among Brits’ top 10 expat hotspots, and it’s creeping up the ladder with emigration searches increasing.”
Spain ranked ninth among countries with the steepest drop in emigration-related searches, with Rwanda at the top, followed by Iceland. On the flip side, Portugal – a popular holiday destination with celebrities such as Madonna, Holly Willoughby, and even Prince Harry – saw a 4% year-on-year increase in searches.
It seems movers are generally motivated by lifestyle and language, with English-speaking countries and a sunny climate dominating overall trends. Canada was once again the most desirable place to relocate to globally, ranking as the top destination among 75 countries worldwide. The United States is the most popular destination for UK movers, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia. New York City is the most searched US city among UK residents, followed by Los Angeles and Miami.
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Savannah Guthrie will no longer be part of NBC’s Winter Olympics coverage
“Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie will not head to Milan for NBC’s 2026 Winter Olympics coverage as she deals with the ongoing police investigation into the suspected abduction of her mother.
“Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time,” an NBC News representative said Tuesday in a statement. “Our hearts are with her and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother.”
Guthrie was scheduled to co-host NBC’s telecast of the Friday opening ceremonies for the Milan Cortina Games alongside Terry Gannon of NBC Sports. The network representative said alternative plans will be announced shortly.
June 2023 photo of Savannah Guthrie and mother Nancy Guthrie. (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)
(Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)
Law enforcement officials believe Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her home outside of Tuscon, Ariz. on Saturday night. Police were called after relatives were told she missed the Sunday church service she regularly attends and did not find her at home.
Police found Nancy Guthrie’s cell phone, wallet, car and medication were left behind, indicating she did not leave voluntarily. She has no cognitive issues, but has limited physical mobility and could not walk far on her own, family members have told police.
On Tuesday, Lima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said at press briefing that authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will. He also said the department is aware of “reports circulating about possible ransom note(s)” in the case. TMZ reported on the existence of an alleged ransom note Tuesday, but Nanos did not verify the account,
According to law enforcement sources not authorized to speak about the case publicly, there was blood at the scene and someone appeared to have forced their way inside.
Guthrie, a “Today” co-host since 2012, has been off the program since Monday. She was scheduled to head to Milan early this week.
Guthrie’s mother, who lived on her own, has been an occasional on-air guest at “Today.” Her appearances made her a favorite of Guthrie’s co-workers and staff at the program.
Source link