Friday, August 20, 2010

Soup Bonus: Dr. Laura's Racial Tirade



Roy Wood Jr. weighs in on Dr. Laura's name-calling controversy. Hear why he thinks she's not in hot water.

wayne & drake miss me nino 3 leak

Foreign Exchange

ORISUE at S.L.A.T.E. MAGIC 2010 VIDEO MONTAGE



ORISUE CLOTHING video montage of S.L.A.T.E. at MAGIC 2010.

EATV - Big Boi and MaddenGras



The legendary Big Boi was on-hand at MaddenGras in New Orleans to celebrate the release of Madden NFL 11



During MaddenGras EATV's Milynn had the chance to play a quick game of Madden against the one and only Big Boi.

Ne-Yo’s New Album, Hat and Fragrance Line Coming Up!

The hardest part of being a gentleman is: there’s always a speculation of one’s sexual orientation. Ne-Yo, however, has learned to brush these things off and walk proud with his signature style. In fact, the R&B singer is so into his style, that he’s been trying to change the ways of your average g’s into classy gents since the release of his 2008 album, “Year of The Gentlemen”. So, move over Kanye and Rosewood movement, Ne-Yo is down with the whole gentleman steez and he’s coming up with a hat and fragrance line. Ne-Yo revealed the plan to MTV:

“I’ve been talking to some people about doing a hat line, in that the hat is what I’m most known for. Weird, right? That the hat is more popular than the music? And possibly a fragrance, but I don’t know what I smell like so I don’t know if I want people to smell like me. I mean, I know I don’t stink. But everything is in conversation right now.”

Although busy with his upcoming album “Libra Scale”, Ne-Yo still pays a good attention to his style. About the importance of style, he stated:

“I feel like clothing is a lot like music, it’s a representation of who you are. So if you are a slouch, if you are an idiot, then dress like that, go ahead, belt your jeans at your thighs, and keep your jeans hanging out so everyone can see your boxer shorts even though we didn’t ask, go ahead. Wear your shirt 17 sizes too big, please, by all means, because that’s who you are. … Again, what you look like, speaks before you speak.”

Noting down that being a gentleman is not only about the outlook, Ne-Yo also stated that he wants to continue The Year of The Gentleman.

“I feel like people missed the point of the Year of The Gentlemen thing. People think, ‘OK, if I put a suit on, I’m a gentleman, right?’ No! You could put a ribbon on a pig, but it’s still a pig, it just has a ribbon on it now. It’s not all about looking good, because you can look good and still be a jerk.”

What will his hat line look like? SoJones noted down the importance of tracking this because we feel it’s going to be a hit.

Magnum T.I.



Jimmy Kimmel Live - Magnum T.I.

T.I. on Jimmy Kimmel Live



Jimmy Kimmel Live - The first part of Jimmy's interview with T.I.



Jimmy Kimmel Live - The second part of Jimmy's interview with T.I.

Jason Derulo - Heartless (KANYE WEST MASHUP MONDAYS COVER)



Watch 20-year-old "Whatcha Say" pop-star Jason Derulo revamp Kanye West's "Heartless".

SHOULD 50 CENT GIVE UP ON ACTING?

I thought the whole point of 50 Cent making all of these movies is that you can make a shedload of money making movies?

Fiddy went through all of that trouble slimming down to crackhead weight, like Donnie Wahlberg in the Sixth Sense (the one from New Kids on the Block, not the one from the underwear commercials), just to come in #14 on Forbes’ annual list of hip-hop’s Cash Kings, down there with the likes of T-Pain (who can now claim to be on an album that got five mics in the Source) and Soulja Boy. Jay-Z hasn’t acted in shit, unless you count that extended version of the video for “Streets Is Watching” with all of the gratuitous nudity, which came out way back when Jay-Z’s current fans were still into Boyz II Men and/or the Teletubbies. I copped that shit from Best Buy for like $8. I didn’t even know there was gonna be all that nudity in it. I just liked the song. Bonus!

It was only last year or the year before (note my dedication to accuracy) when Fiddy made anywhere between $100 million and $400 million, depending on who you believe. How in the fuck could his income decrease so precipitously? He had been making way more than Jay-Z - now Jay-Z is making something like 8x more than he does. And it’s not like Jay-Z has received a substantial pay raise. He probably lost a shedload of money from those Stringer Bell-style real estate deals I tried to warn him about, it’s just he made so much from touring. Can’t you make like $200 million a year from touring? I remember reading in Rolling Stone, when I was waiting to pick my mom up from the dentist, that Madonna made something ridonkulous like $400 million. Not in her life, mind you. I mean last year. I was also surprised to read that that song “Hung Up” is her most popular song evar, and that’s why it’s the first song on her greatest hits album. Literally no one here in the US likes it, but it’s very popular in the rest of the world, where people don’t have as good taste in music.

But I digress.

It seems like 50 Cent is working entirely too hard to be making as little as he makes. I could see if he hadn’t been doing shit, but he’s been in a shedload of bad movies these past few years. I know at least one of thme he also wrote and directed. I saw the trailer, and it seemed bad enough that he wasn’t lying about it. His Hollywood productions haven’t been much better. He’s building a veritable cottage industry around playing the black heavy in movies starring white actors on;y dumb people still respect at this point, like Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. I remember it was a big deal when they were in that movie Heat together, even though it was hard to tell if they didn’t just use CGI to make it look like they were sitting across the table from each other. The technology had been around at least since that movie where Jean Claude Van Damme played his own evil twin. They may have been too conceited to be in the same room together. (You’ll recall that they were also both in the Godfather Part II, but they didn’t have any scenes together.) No one seemed to give a shit that Pacino and De Niro were in Righteous Kill together, perhaps because of how much bullshit they put out in the interim.

This probably didn’t occur to him before he set out on the path that he’s on, but if I made somewhere in between $100 and $400 million last year, and this year I had the choice to either make umpteen movies with white guys who used to be pretty good actors, but then they put on 30 pounds that they apparently can’t lose (I’ve lost 30 pounds in a good BM), and now they can’t get a job in a movie that’s actually released in theaters, like Val Kilmer and Ray Liotta, and make $8 million dollars, or sit around all day talking shit about Rawse, and not make shit, I’d opt for the latter. I happen to enjoy sitting around all day talking shit about Rawse anyway, so for me it’s a no brainer. And I make something pretty close to jack schitt - once you subtract what it costs for necessities like food, clothing and shelter, plus the alcohol regimen I’m on, it pretty much is jack schitt. It’s not as bad as you’d think. The key is to not want anything. Or in other words, to lack ambition. Fiddy is at least famous enough that chicks will bang him just to say they did it. (That’s where I’m trying too get to.) What else does he need?

VIA - XXL

Questlove answers fan questions live (Part 1 of 6) - 'fro, shirts & snea...



Part 1 of Billboard's Live Q&A (May 6th, 2010) with legendary roots drummer

Paramore on Working with B.o.B. and other Influences (Q&A Part 3 of 6)



Paramore talks about working with B.o.B. and their musical influences In pt. 3 of our live Q&A on April 29, 2010.

B.o.B Unplugs for MTV

Before B.o.B. makes his VMA performance debut next month, fans can catch an intimate performance with Bobby Ray during his first session for MTV's 'Unplugged' series, which was recorded live at Metropolis Studios in New York City on Wednesday (Aug. 18)

With the support of a full band, and his own guitar in hand, B.o.B kicked off the six-song set with the heartfelt tune 'Letters From Vietnam,' off of the new album. The eclectic emcee was smartly styled in wide-rimmed glasses, a newsboy cap, bow tie and a full-length trench coat, which he shed by the time he transitioned into his performance of the album's intro track 'Don't Let Me Fall.'

After warming up with the two ballads, Bobby Ray turned up the energy levels a bit with the upbeat song 'Magic.' Despite having to replay the song twice due to some sound snafus, he remained in good spirits and lightheartedly joked with the intimate crowd about the mishaps. For his hit 'Airplanes,' B.o.B. invited his pal Melanie Fiona to the stage to lay down the vocals in place of Paramore's Hayley Williams. The bubbly songstress was well-received by the crowd, and Bobby Ray kept the guest features rolling by summoning crooner Robin Thicke to the stage next, to perform the album's lead single 'Nothing On You.'

After an encore performance of the smash single -- which required Thicke's help one more time -- an energetic B.o.B. took a few minutes to ham it up with the audience, even parodying the 'Family Guy' theme song.

The last number of the evening was the Janelle Monae-featured track 'The Kids,' which commanded an appearance from the eccentric songstress. Monae appeared on stage just long enough to drop her vocals on the track, and then exited as B.o.B. flowed into his guitar-heavy rendition of MGMT's 'Kids,' to wrap up the set.

B.o.B.'s Unplugged special will air on MTV on September 1

via - theBoomBox

Ice Cube - Drink the Kool-Aid [OFFICIAL VIDEO]



Ice Cube - Drink the Kool-Aid [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Drake Feat. Lil Wayne - Miss Me (Official Video)



New Public Enemy Single is a Birthday Tribute to Chuck D


Chuck D has long been one of hip-hop's godfathers, but things are turning a bit more official as he just turned 50-years old at the beginning of August. In response, there's a new Public Enemy single that pays tribute to Chuck and other group members nearing their half-century mark. The new track is called 'Say It Like It Really Is' and was recently released by Chuck's SLAMjamz digital label.

"This song is a birthday song to myself," said Chuck. "...The dizzy whirl of society today has trained people into robots and consumers thinking that we celebrate younger age, not the rite of graceful passage into knowledge, wisdom and understanding."

The Public Enemy leader also stressed that he doesn't care if people request the song on radio, but bemoans the fact that "classic" white artists are given precedence on release schedules due their track records.

"I do not pine or sell myself, especially to an industry and society that considers black art, black history and black life a disposable, joke unless it can be cashed," he says. "I don't joke nor play with the legacy of the contributors that made it possible," said Chuck. Check out the birthday track after the jump.




via - theBoomBox

Chelsea Handler to Host VMAs



The E! funnygal is picked to host the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards--and she couldn't be more excited! Hear what she's saying.

Baby Says Lil Wayne Makes More Money Than Jay-Z

In a recent interview, Cash Money's Birdman aka Baby said that, despite Forbes Magazine ranking him hip hop's 4th highest earner, Lil Wayne is actually the best and highest paid rapper "in the business." Furthermore, he discredited Jay-Z, for not making as much money (in his eyes, not according to actual reported income) as Weezy. "I don't think he [Jay-Z] a number one emcee in no kinda way...Wayne the best he do the most and he make the most money. I don't think no n---a in the business make more money than us. How could you be the best if you don't make the best money, the most money and you don't do the most. Lyrically, come on man be for real man can't nobody f--k with Wayne. And to me, if you number one and you ain't getting no money it don't mean nothing. Who's making the most money. That's number one to me...."No [beef]. Nothing personal, they just asked me my opinion and that was my opinion. I think we do the most and make the most, so if you don't like it, that's on you. I can't see past Wayne, so I can't see Jay-Z." [HipHopWired]

Jessica Simpson wishes she had more back...and perhaps a little less upstairs. "I have a white girl booty. I don't have a big butt. I'd rather have a happy medium and take some off my chest and put it towards my butt so I could balance out a bit." Happy medium... All we know is John Mayer said you got that crack, girl. [ImNotObsessed]

via - theBoomBox

Michael K. Williams on KarmaloopTV



Actor Michael K. Williams a.k.a. Omar Little from "The Wire," sits down with KarmaloopTV to talk what it's like being acknowledged by Obama, what to expect from his latest character, Chalky White, appearing in the upcoming HBO series, "Boardwalk Empire," and The Omar Little Wallet -- out now!

Wyclef Jean - Jean 'Not On Official Presidential Candidate List'

Jean 'Not On Official Presidential Candidate List'
Hip-hop star WYCLEF JEAN is out of the running for the Haiti presidency - the rapper's name is not on the list of approved candidates, according to new reports.

The former Fugees frontman announced plans to run for office earlier this month (Aug10), after stepping up his charity work in his native country in the wake of January's (10) devastating earthquake.

The official line-up of presidential candidates was due to be announced on Tuesday (17Aug10), but was delayed until Friday (20Aug10).

An unnamed official from Haiti's provisional electoral council has now told Reuters that Jean is not included among the hopefuls, saying, "He is not on the list as I speak."

Jean, who was born in Haiti and moved to New Jersey aged nine, reportedly did not fulfil the criteria needed to run for office, with candidates required to have lived in the country for five consecutive years before the election and have complied with tax laws.

The musician's bid for the presidency was not popular with some citizens and the star's lawyer admitted on Tuesday that Jean had received "anonymous threats from people who are saying that he should think twice before running for the president."

via - ContactMusic

Thursday, August 19, 2010

First Person: Wyclef's 'wild Card' Candidacy



Haitian-born musician Wyclef Jean says his presidential candidacy is a "wild card" for Haiti. Jean spoke to the Associated Press on Wednesday from a heavily-guarded compound, and says he has received death threats. (Aug. 19

Nick Cannon Interviews rapper T.I.



Nick Cannon Interviews rapper T.I.

Mel B. Gets Charitable



Style's newest reality star shows off her shoe design skills to raise money for Children's Hospital LA! Check it out.

Legendary Record Store Fat Beats Closes Retail Locations

Yet another legendary music retailer is preparing to shut its doors.

Hip-hop vinyl retailer/distributor Fat Beats announced the closing of its last two retail stores in New York and Los Angeles today, shutting doors on a hip-hop institution that championed independent music and culture for more than 16 years.

Though Fat Beats will continue business as an online retailer and record label, the closing of its retail shops marks the true end of an era. Fat Beats was at once a performance space and sanctuary for hip-hop heads, hosting countless in-store appearances and ciphers.

"The closing of Fat Beats is just like one of my friends passing away," lamented DJ Premier. "They promoted vinyl at its highest degree for the culture of good music and that makes it more difficult to say goodbye." The shop also employed future industry leaders, MC's, DJ's and producers, from DJ Eclipse, DJ Eli, Babu, J.Rocc and Rhettmatic to Ill Bill, Breeze Brewin and Cipha Sounds....



"Anyone that's ever been to Fat Beats knows that it was much more then a record store," longtime manager and underground hip hop king DJ Eclipse told The BoomBox. "Other places claim to host 'where hip-hop lives,' but we really did live, eat and breathe Hip Hop. It was a meeting place for artists, DJs and customers alike. We took pride in promoting and pushing the indie artist that the average person may not have known about. Unfortunately in these times we are suffering from both the state of the music business and the economy. As sad as I am to see the retail portion of the company close I'll always remember the great in-stores we had here and fun times working with the staff."

While Fat Beats owner Joe Abajian claims to be "exploring options for alternate retail locations in the future," and the label will continue to release albums by its artists, including Black Milk, Ill Bill, Tru Master & KRS-One, former Fat Beats A&R Bill Sharp contends that the retail store's closing is indicative of a much larger issue for record sales.

"Record stores -- especially vinyl-driven shops like Fat Beats -- had the power to validate new artists and act as an incubator for new acts to grow into something bigger," Sharp told The BoomBox. "They also acted as community centers where people could meet each other and find out what else is going on within that scene or subculture. Now all of that has migrated to the internet and it's really sad."

"Stores with very storied pasts are closing all over the world, and at an unforgiving pace," Sharp continued. "There used to be over a dozen great shops in London's Soho district, and now there are only a couple. In New York City, even a few years ago, there used to be specialty stores all over the East Village that sold reggae or house or drum&bass or all of the above -- they're all gone."

Visit Fat Beats and support your favorite artists while you still can. Fat Beats NYC closes doors Sept. 4. The Los Angeles location closes on Sept. 18.

via - theboombox

Wyclef Jean Reportedly Receiving Death Threats over Candidacy



Wyclef Jean recently revealed his intention to run for President of Haiti. According to emails sent to the associated press Jean is currently in hiding after receiving numerous death threats over his potential candidacy. This all comes before Jean knows if he can legally run for office. Haiti's electoral commission has still not ruled if they will exempt Jean from the residency requirements.

The Daily Loop 8/18/10



The Daily Loop covers Bobby Fresh, Avatar re-release, and kids going deaf.

Kanye West, Justin Bieber And Raekwon Collabo: Hip-Hop Heads Weigh In

Hip-hop heads, DJs and fans alike are buzzing about the Kanye West/Justin Bieber/Raekwon collaboration.

According to Rae himself, 'Ye and Bieber are currently en route to New York to make good on this weekend's Twitter love fest.

"Yall asked for it now we're gonna deliver," the Chef tweeted.

DJ Scream of Atlanta’s Hot 107.9 (and the region’s elite mixtape DJ) thinks that the collaboration could be huge.

"Even if it’s the wackest record ever created, it’s still a big record because you got the biggest pop star out right now, a hip-hop legend and a current hip-hop superstar. So you gotta at least give it a chance people. It could be the next big pop hit or it could be just a conversation piece."



He added, "I understand where the hip-hop purists might be coming from and I can imagine what their comments are. I wasn’t a big fan of the Kanye, Beyonce and Charlie Wilson record, but let’s hear it and if it’s garbage, then let’s talk about it then, but let them work."

Music journo Jozen Cummings calls the potential jam "a great look for music as a whole."

"Today's fan isn't as concerned about genres as they are about acts. As artists, they should be free to do what they want," he said.

But he’s still hoping that the song actually makes sense musically.

"I hope it sounds like something only Raekwon, Kanye, and Bieber can do. The last thing I want to hear is a verse from 'Ye, a verse from Rae, and Justin on the hook with a bridge. Any two rappers and a singer can do that. They need to make sure the song sounds as unique and different in the studio as it does on paper."

New York Hot 97’s DJ Bobby Trends says "I can see myself playing it on the radio…would love to hear [it] first…anyone can flop."

But, he knows it’s unlikely that this record will disappoint.

"I definitely think that this collaboration makes sense and can't wait to hear it. Three different generation artists together bring three different generation listeners…[I’m a] big Raekwon fan, I see Bieber’s hustle and whatever Kanye touches is usually spectacular!"

Kanye fan Christina Claire weighed in on twitter and is not feeling it at all. "I definitely don't want a song with Bieber, Raekwon and 'Ye!"

Others are more interested.

"I'm curious about how they'll mix," fan Tyrrea Glover said on Twitter. "But knowing Kanye, it'll probably just be a painting or something.

via - MTV

Usher Feat. Pitbull - DJ Got Us Falling In Love (Official Teaser)



Usher Feat. Pitbull - DJ Got Us Falling In Love (Official Teaser)

The Daily Loop 8/17/10



The Daily Loop covers tanks, sexting, and Curren$y

Kanye West Will Not Face Suge Knight in Lawsuit

Suge Knight is still going ahead with his $1 million lawsuit against Kanye West, despite it being five years after the fact. Back in 2005 Knight was shot in the leg at a Miami Beach party hosted by West. It's now being reported that as a result of a ruling by a Miami federal judge, Ye doesn't even have to attend the latest arbitration in person.

West's lawyers basically laid out that the lawsuit was important to him but a relatively small deal compared to his other business activities. Yeezy will be overseas and has "long-standing business commitments" during the time, so it looks like Suge won't be receiving any additional face time regarding his lawsuit.

This is the second head-to-head arbitration between Knight and West. The first found both of them in the same room and apparently Ye's legal strategy fell pretty close to the silent treatment.

"He basically put his hands over his head and didn't say anything for six hours. He evidently doesn't know anything about anything, despite the fact that he hosted the party," Knight's lawyer, Marc Brumer, told the New York Post at the time.

via - theboombox

Fabolous - Body Count



Fabolous - Body Count

Eminem Hosting Red Bull EmSee Rap Battle in Detroit

(AllHipHop News) Eminem is heading back to his old stomping grounds to host his own competition rap battle competition fashioned after the famous battle scenes in his hit movie 8 Mile.

The Detroit rapper will host a freestyle rap competition titled "Red Bull EmSee: The Road to 8 Mile National Finals" at St. Andrews Hall in Detroit, one of the most legendary hip-hop venues in the country.

The rap battle will be similar to those featured in Em's movie 8 Mile where he starred as "Rabbit," an up and coming Detroit rapper.

The competition will feature eight rappers who emerged from regional battles in cities like New York, San Francisco and Philadelphia......



Slaughterhouse, the hip-hop foursome that is rumored to be signing a deal with Eminem's Shady Records (and includes Detroit rapper Royce da 5'9"), will also perform at the event.

During the final showdown, Em himself will determine the winner is slated to take place on August 26th and

Tickets can be purchased for $8 from LiveNation.com.

In related news, Eminem’s most recent album Recovery has been certified double platinum by the RIAA after a summertime of airplay across the country.

via - allhiphop

RL - Girl Like Her (Feat. Lil Wayne)



RL - Girl Like Her (Feat. Lil Wayne)

Wyclef Jean's presidential candidacy in limbo

(CNN) -- A decision on who is eligible to run for president in Haiti has been postponed until Friday, leaving hip-hop artist Wyclef Jean and the other presidential hopefuls in limbo, said Berto Dorce, Jean's lawyer.

Haiti's election commission was scheduled to make a decision Tuesday night.

Jean's eligibility was under question after claims that he has not lived in Haiti for five consecutive years before the election, a mandate in the nation's Constitution.

Jean's lawyer said his client meets that criteria.

"His candidacy has been contested and we went to court and proved that he is legally entitled to run for president," Dorce said. "Jean's position is pretty strong. He should be on the list."

Dorce said Jean has been paying taxes in Haiti, which makes him eligible.

"Wyclef has been a shareholder of the local TV corporation called Telemax, and was paying taxes at least for five years; this was sufficient for the Justice of the Peace to issue a certificate of residence for Mr. Wyclef and confirm his residency," Dorce said.
Video: Wyclef wants to be president

Jean announced August 5 on "Larry King Live" amid fanfare that he had filled out the paperwork to run for president.

But since then, Jean's announcement has met with some criticism.

Pras, who once performed alongside Jean and Lauryn Hill in the '90s group The Fugees, said he supported Jean's opponent.

Actor Sean Penn, who has lived in Port-au-Prince for months helping displaced Haitians, also questioned whether the Haitian-born musician could make moves to lead the devastated nation.

And now, Jean said he has received multiple death threats.

"We have been getting threats since last night telling me if I know what's good for me, I would get out [of] the country," Jean wrote in an e-mail to CNN late Tuesday.

Jean's lawyer also talked about the alleged threats.

"Wyclef has been repeatedly getting anonymous threats from people who are saying that he should think twice before running for the president. We cannot tell who are sending these threats, but the closer the announcement, the more threats Jean is getting," Dorce said.

CNN's Soledad O'Brien contributed to this report.

via - www.cnn.com

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Happy Birthday August 19: MC Eric and Lil’ Romeo

1970, Born on this day, MC Eric, Technotronic, (1989 UK No.2 single 'Pump Up The Jam').




1989, Born on this day, Lil’ Romeo, rapper, actor Lil' (Percy Romeo Miller Jr), appeared in his own Nickelodeon show called Romeo. Son of rapper Master P, (2001 US No.4 single ‘My Baby’).


Today in Music: Kanye is Stronger and Lauryn is the Artist of the Year

1978, The Commodores started a five-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Three Times A Lady'. Lionel Richie wrote the song about his love for his wife, mother and grandmother hence 'Once, Twice, Three Times a Lady.'

1996, James Brown appeared in Montauk, New York, as part of his Back at the Ranch tour. Brown who had a history of beating his wife, offered money that was raised at the event to an anti-violence organization called The Retreat, but was turned down.

1999, Lauryn Hill won New Artist Of The Year and Album Of The Year at the US 'Source Hip Hop Music Awards' in Los Angeles. R. Kelly won R&B Artist of The Year; DMX won Artist Of The Year and solo and live performer Of The Year.

2007, Kanye West went to No.1 on the UK singles chart 'Stronger', the American rappers first UK No.1.

Watch the Videos Below:







Nike SB - Zoom Paul Rodriguez 4 Commercial

Nike SB is proud to announce the global launch of the Zoom Paul Rodriguez 4 on 8/21/2010. This year we brought Paul to New York to hit the streets and spend time in the studio with one of his idols, hip-hop legend NAS. The result is a 60-second commercial, directed by Nike SB's own Jon Humphries, following Paul's journey through iconic New York City skate spots, accompanied by music and a voiceover from Nas.

Drake - On My Way

Drake - On My Way

Mos Def Returns to Theater in 'A Free Man of Color' Play

Mos Def has starred in films like 'Cadillac Records' and 'Next Day Air,' but the rapper-turned-thespian is ready to make his triumphant return to the theater. The entertainer, whose real name is Dante Terrell Smith, has been tapped to star in Lincoln Center's production of John Guare's 'A Free Man of Color,' which reunites the emcee with actor Jeffrey Wright, who co-starred with Mos in the 2002 Broadway production of 'Topdog/Underdog.'

The play, which begins previews on Oct. 21 before opening on Nov. 18, stars Wright as Jacques Cornet, a wealthy man residing in New Orleans in 1802. Jacques believes that everything is peaceful in his town until his world begins to crumble. There's no word on what role Mos will play, but other announced actors in the production include Paul Dano, Peter Bartlett, Nicole Beharie, Arnie Burton and more.

Mos, who won an Outer Critics Circle Award for his role in 'Topdog/Underdog,' was recently linked to HBO's 'Enlightened,' but the rumor was subsequently squashed after he was replaced by Timm Sharp.

Despite success as a thespian, he hasn't entirely turned his back on his music career. He recently linked up with longtime collaborator Kanye West to lay a verse on his remix to 'Power,' which is rumored to also include guest appearances from Nicki Minaj, Swizz Beatz and Clipse's Pusha T.
 
http://www.theboombox.com/2010/08/17/mos-def-free-man-of-color-play/#comments

Kanye West - Ghetto University (Feat. Drake)

Kanye West - Ghetto University (Feat. Drake)

Dr. Laura Quits After N-Word Rant

Radio Host Dr. Laura Schlessinger announced she will quit her radio show at the end of the year after controversy over her repeated use of the N-word on air.

Jay-Z’s Limited Edition Nike Sneakers Up For Auction

Jay-Z’s Limited Edition Nike Sneakers Up For Auction

Jay-Z is a man of business and this time he’s linking arms with Nike to create a limited edition sneaker. In conjunction with the World Basketball Festival which takes place in New York from August 12th – 22nd, Jay-Z created only five pairs of Nike’s “All Black Everythings”. Each pair represents each country which participates in the event: France, China, Brazil, Puerto Rico and the USA.

Nike donated all five pairs to Jay-Z’s nonprofit foundation: The Shawn Carter Foundation, for charity. Trevor Edwards, Nike VP Global Brand and Category Management announced last weekend prior to the launch of the World Basketball Festival:

“We’re excited to bring together the international prestige of Jay-Z and the USA Team on stage at famed Radio City Music Hall to open the first World Basketball Festival. This will be a historic night. We’re also honored to collaborate with Jay-Z on limited edition Air Force 1’s that celebrate the countries participating in this inaugural event.”

Jay-Z is the only other person on earth with the full five pairs of sneakers so if you want to collect all five and pull a Hova, go over to eBay right now because the auction is still up until August 22nd, 2010. So far (at press time), the China edition is the one getting the most bids and has the most expensive price of $2,225. Here are some pictures of the US edition:

Pictures of the Shoes below:

In other Jay-Z news, the hip-hop mogul is also set to release his memoir, titled “Decoded”, written by Dream Hampton. If you want to take a peek inside the very private hip-hop figure, you’ll get quite a lot from the book. Jay-Z opened up to Rolling Stone magazine recently:

“It’s too much. For the book, I was interviewed, people close to me were interviewed. So I was learning a lot of things I didn’t know as a child. It’s not anything i haven’t said in the past, in songs. It’s just more detailed. A song is three minutes long. A book doesn’t have to rhyme, and it has no time limit, so you can say exactly how everything went.”

Although the book will drop on November 16, 2010, it’s available now for pre-order at Amazon.







Trey Songz Feat. Nicki Minaj - Bottoms Up (Official Video)



Trey Songz Feat. Nicki Minaj - Bottoms Up (Official Video
North says: For the second straight year Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter tops the 2010 Forbes Cash King List raking in a cool $63 Million. A busy year for Jay-Z included the release of his last album The Blueprint 3, investments in the 40/40 Club/Sports Bar chain, the New Jersey Nets (who are moving to his hometown of Brooklyn. NY in 2012) and the Broadway play “Fela”. Add in his highly successful Blueprint 3 tour that brought in $1 Million per concert and you see why he’s been #1 for three of the past four years.

Rounding out the top 5 are: Sean “Diddy” Combs at $30 Million, Aliuane “Akon” Thiam at $21 Million, D’Wayne “Lil’ Wayne” Carter at $20 Million and Andre “Dr. Dre” Young at $17 Million.

Props to RR

After the jump the full Top 20 list…



1) Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter – $63 Million
2) Sean “Diddy” Combs – $30 Million
3) Aliuane “Akon” Thiam – $21 Million
4) D’Wayne “Lil’ Wayne” Carter – $20 Million
5) Andre “Dr. Dre” Young – $17 Million
6) Christopher “Ludacris” Bridges – $16 Million
7) Calvin “Snoop Dogg” Broadus – $15 Million
8 ) Timothy “Timbaland” Mosley – $14 Million
9) Pharrell Williams – $13 Million
10) Kanye West – $12 Million
11) Aubrey “Drake” Graham – $10 Million
12) Clifford “T.I.” Harris – $9 Million (tie)
12) Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean – $9 Million (tie)
14) Marshall “Eminem” Mathers – $8 Million (tie)
14) Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson – $8 Million (tie)
14) Jay “Young Jeezy” Jenkins – $8 Million (tie)
17) Lonnie “Common” Lynn Jr. – $7 Million
18) DeAndre “Soulja Boy” Way – $6 Million (tie)
18) Faheem “T-Pain” Najm – $6 Million (tie)
20) Jonathan “Lil’ Jon” Smith – $5 Million (tie)
20) Radric “Gucci Mane” Davis – $5 Million (tie)
20) William “Rick Ross” Roberts – $5 Million (tie)

Jeremih Feat. Ludacris - i Like (Official Teaser)



jeremih ludacris teaser official video sneek peek preview video officiel clip

Swizz Beatz - T.I. Makes Live Return With Star-Studded Secret Show

T.I. Makes Live Return With Star-Studded Secret Show
Hip-hop superstar T.I. left fans in awe at his comeback concert in New York on Monday night (16Aug10) when he invited MARY J. BLIGE, SWIZZ BEATZ and B.O.B. to join him onstage.

The Live Your Life hitmaker recently completed a prison stint stemming from his 2007 arrest for weapons possession and he marked his return to the music industry by staging a free secret show at Capitale - his first full gig since his release and also his first performance as a married man.

And the rapper didn't disappoint - he treated devotees to a two-hour performance which saw him collaborate with a slew of stars.

He teamed up with Blige for their hit song Good Love, while his protege B.o.B. hit the stage to perform his chart smash Airplanes.

R&B singer Keri Hilson and rappers Cam'ron and Maino also made appearances, while T.I.'s good pal and producer Beatz helped to get the crowd pumped with an energetic rendition of Bring Em Out and Swing Your Rag.

T.I., who is preparing to return to the charts with his upcoming album King Uncaged, took to his Twitter.com blog immediately after the show to thank his fans and special guests for their support.

In a series of tweets, he writes, "Special thank you to (show sponsor) AXE for providing a magical night for my 1st concert back!!

"S/O (shout out) to my playa (sic) partners for holding me down tonight - MJB, Keri, Cam, MAino, Ricco, Swizz, B.o.B, Playboy Tre and Grand Hustle!!

"And last but not least thank you to NY and all the fans for hanging with da king!"

T.I. wed his longtime girlfriend Tameka 'Tiny' Cottle in Miami, Florida last month (Jul10).


Swizz Beatz - T.I. Makes Live Return With Star-Studded Secret Show - Contactmusic News

IN THE STUDIO WITH SEAN C


KarmaloopTV links up with prolific hip-hop producer Sean C, one part of Grime Music, to talk what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favorite hits, what it was like working with Jay-Z on "American Gangster"... plus some crazy Big Pun stories!

Ja Rule Talks 50 Cent, Rick Ross, And Maintaining Financially

There was once a time when Ja Rule’s music dominated urban radio, but that has long since changed. Many hip-hop fans attribute Ja’s stalled career to 50 Cent, but in a recent interview with Vibe.com, the former The Inc. (née Murder Inc.) recording artist downplayed the impact his very public beef with the G-Unit captain had on his position as one of the biggest stars in hip-hop:


“Really, I feel that my situation was an unfair situation. A very unique, very odd situation. Nobody ever seen anything like that in hip-hop, you know? I laugh when I see people say shit like, ‘Yo, [50 Cent] kilt Rule, but he didn’t kill Ross.’ No disrespect to Ross, but he did 180-something [first week sales of Teflon Don]. I went platinum with R.U.L.E. after I made Blood In My Eye. I look at shit like that and… I don’t know, take it how you want to take it. I was a much bigger selling artist than just platinum so I guess that’s why people felt I took a hit. But the music industry was taking a hit at that time, too. You can’t really judge it or try to make an issue out of it, or an excuse. It just is what it is.”


During the course of the interview, Ja was also questioned about how he’s been able to maintain financially in the years since federal authorities seized the assets of The Inc. Records because of allegations that money from drug trafficking helped the company’s founder, Irv Gotti, break into the music business:

“It was a tough time, but like I said, I keep my hands in a lot of things. I don’t like to talk about it. I keep pushing it, stay in the background and make my money off it. Sometimes when you have a dark cloud over your head you stay inside. You don’t come out and get wet. That’s kind of what I’ve been going through the last couple of years. Now when the sun come out, I come out, smile and everybody is like, ‘Wow.’ [Laughs] The touring has been great for me, overseas running around killing it for the last four, five years. Having a great time. Also looking deep into the markets and getting them ready for my new releases, my new artists and stuff like that.”

Despite the past drama, Ja’s career prospects look promising, as he has his own label, and both a reality show and sitcom currently under development. Now I’m all for Ja making a musical comeback, but he’s on his own with that sitcom situation. With the exception of Will Smith and Queen Latifah, rappers and sitcoms are usually a recipe for a hot pile of mess (does the Method & Red show ring any bells?).

via - http://live.drjays.com/index.php/2010/08/17/ja-rule-talks-50-cent-rick-ross-and-maintaining-financially//

Nicki Minaj creates Fantasy Female Rap Group (Live Q&A)

Part 1 of 6. For more click here: http://www.billboard.com/#/news/nicki...

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Dr. Dre - Turn Me On (Detox Track) [DDotOmen.com]

Lil Chuckee (Young Money) - Pretty Boy Swag (Remix) [Official Video]


WeAreYoungMoneyEntTM | 16 agosto 2010
Lil Chuckee (Young Money) - Pretty Boy Swag (Remix) [Official Video]

Buyer Wire Men: OBEY


Karmaloop Men's Buyer Danni Concepcion shows you what's hot from OBEY for the fall and pairs up some of her favorite pieces to show you how to layer up for the cold and still look fly. OBEY your right to look good!

Drake and Selena Gomez Lead List of Announced Performers and Presenters at 2010 MTV Video Music Awards

Only three performers have been announced for the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards which will take place September 10, 2010, but it is already a powerful set. Leading off the group is Drake who is nominated for Best Male Video for "Find Your Love" as well as Best Hip Hop Video. Kanye West is being asked to take the stage despite last year's fiasco with Taylor Swift. He is a co-nominee for Best Hip Hop Video. Also taking the stage to perform is critically celebrated Florence and the Machine who is up for four awards including Video of the Year for "Dog Days Are Over."


Reigning Disney pop princess Selena Gomez is the leader of the Presenter list. Nicki Minaj, a nominee for Best New Artist will also be presenting as well as Ne-Yo and Trey Songz. Rounding out the announced presenters are actors Emma Stone and Penn Badgely. More performers and presenters will be announced in the coming days.

via - http://top40.about.com

The Daily Loop 8/16/10


The Daily Loop covers G.O.O.D ASS MUSIC, Joyrich, and MAGIC!

Trey Songz Feat. Nicki Minaj - Bottoms Up (Official Teaser)


Trey Songz Feat. Nicki Minaj - Bottoms Up (Official Teaser)

teaser sneek peek official music video clip vidéo officiel preview new 2010

Lil Wayne - Wayne's Prison Demands Revealed - Contactmusic News

Wayne's Prison Demands Revealed
LIL WAYNE's demands in prison have been made public in a list which includes the hip-hop star's requests for potato chips, chocolate bars and cookies.

The rapper, real name Dwayne Carter, is serving time at New York's tough Rikers Island prison after pleading guilty to charges of gun possession, and is expected to be released in November (10).

Now a list of the star's requests from behind bars has been leaked, with documents showing the Lollipop hitmaker has been able to enjoy his favourite foods during his prison stretch.

Wayne's list of food requests for the month of July (10), obtained by TMZ.com, includes 25 bags of Doritos and Ruffles potato chips, five bottles of Gatorade drink, chocolate chip cookies, Hershey bars and four bottles of Kool-Aid.

The star also asks for 20 postage stamps and 20 envelopes.

Lil Wayne - Wayne's Prison Demands Revealed - Contactmusic News

Mario Balotelli: nessuno ha voluto trattenermi intervista tg1


Mario Balotelli è ormai un giocatore del Manchester City. Ha parlato in esclusiva al Tg1. Lo ha incontrato Donatella Scarnati.

Has Dissing President Obama Become As Cliché As Dissing Jay-Z?

If you’re a rap fan, then you already know there are a couple pretty simple ways to get your name hot in the streets (and on the blogs) today. The first is to grind your a$$ off, put out mixtapes, drop freestyles, go on tour, try and build up your buzz organically and then maybe—maybe—get the opportunity to sign a deal with a major label. From there, you can either make or break your career by putting out a debut album and hoping the masses catch on to your music.

The other way to get your name out there is to simply throw other peoples’ names out there. If you can’t get Jay-Z to listen to your music, well, then by all means, diss the hell out of him and hope that someone out there hears it and decides you’re worth a blog entry on NahYouHeardThatRapRadar.com. Of course, even if they do, you’ll still need to go through the whole process listed above. But at least people will know your name—and that’s a start, right?

That kind of thinking used to be restricted to hip-hop. Building a rep depended on your ability to call someone out and then back up your skills. But it’s even gotten played out in that arena, now that everyone is calling Jay-Z or some other well-known rapper out in the hopes of getting a response, starting a war on wax and using that to launch a career. We have 50 Cent to thank for that.

Unfortunately, it’s spreading into other walks of life now, too, most notably taking root in politics. That shouldn’t be particularly surprising. Politicians have been slinging mud since the dawn of America in order to try and make themselves look like the best candidate to represent the people. But it’s taking on a new form that’s both tasteless and classless and getting a little bit out of hand.

Of course, I’m talking about the recent TV commercial released by Ben Quayle—the son of former Vice President Dan Quayle—who is running for a congressional seat in Arizona. With no political experience to his name, Quayle launched an assault on President Obama last week in the hopes of getting some attention for his race. Sitting against a plain background, Quayle spoke these words:

“Barack Obama is the worst president in history. My generation will inherit a weakened country. From drug cartels in Mexico to tax cartels in D.C., what’s happened to America? I love Arizona. I was raised right. Somebody has to go to Washington and knock the hell out of the place. My name is Ben Quayle and I approve this message.”

It’s obvious Quayle is using Obama to try and further his cause. He’s taking a shot at one of the most prominent people in politics and hoping the response from it helps him get his name out there. He’s dissing the President.

Let’s hope this doesn’t catch on. Because he has so many eyes on him and because so much is riding on the success of his first term as President of the United States of America, there’s bound to be other coming-of-age politicians who resort to throwing shots at Obama to try and make a name for themselves. There’s going to be another guy out there who sees what Quayle has done and decides to use Obama’s shortcomings to try and show he’d be a great candidate for political office. Like the countless number of rappers who’ve thrown shots at Hov, there’s sure to be more politicians lining up to throw shade to the guy at the head of the country right now.

We all know how we feel when we see Rapper X’s new song, “Dead Presidents (Jay-Z Diss),” posted up to the rap blogs. After awhile, dissing a well-known figure to further your cause turns into a lost cause. So let’s hope this Ben Quayle thing isn’t just the beginning. Because there are a lot of guys who want to get their names hot right now—and dissing President Obama seems to be only thing they can think of to do it.

via - www.drjays.com

Exclusive Interview w/ Erykah Badu


Erykah Badu discusses her artistic style and performing at Lollapalooza 2010.

Check out more photos and reviews from Lollapalooza 2010 @

Monday, August 16, 2010

Damian Marley - Nas And Damian Marley's 'Common Approach'


Nas And Damian Marley's 'Common Approach'

Nas and Damian Marley have revealed fusing reggae and hip-hop together for their collaborative album 'Distant Relatives' worked because they have a similar approach to life.

Damian Marley and Nas work well together because they have a similar approach to life...

The pair - who released reggae and hip-hop fuse album 'Distant Relatives' in May - admit they have a lot in common in terms of the message they want to give out with their music.

Damian said: "I think we share a lot of philosophies of life. Just how we look at things, and the things we choose to pay attention to. We have a lot in common when it comes down to how we approach music, what kind of people we want to be the voice of, and what kind of people we want to get through to."

Nas - who a total of nine solo studio albums to his name - explained working alongside the Grammy award-winning artist helped him to be less selfish as a musician.

He added to The Guardian newspaper: "Each artist is trying to be the greatest they can be at their thing and they're trying to make each record greater than the last. We don't get the chance to say, 'Let me stop thinking about me, and let me do something that's more than me'.

"This was more than me. The stuff I've been doing my whole life was primarily hip-hop and I know what it is before I get to the studio. This is exciting because I didn't know what to expect each time. And there was the excitement that I'm actually in the studio, recording with another artist - I've never done that before."

Via - Damian Marley - Nas And Damian Marley's 'Common Approach' - Contactmusic News

Also:
Nas and Damian Marley Cypress Hill Smokeout
Foxy Brown Says Firm Reunion Is Up To Nas And Cormega

Asher Roth - Roth's Student Show Angers Anti-Drugs Group

Roth's Student Show Angers Anti-Drugs Group

Rapper ASHER ROTH has come under fire from officials at an anti-drugs group after he was booked to play a concert for students in Virginia - with campaigners accusing the star of promoting "illegal and unhealthy behaviours".

The I Love College hitmaker has been hired to perform at the Back To School gig, which is organised by a student committee at Virginia Commonwealth University for incoming freshmen.

Roth and Airplanes star B.o.B. are both reportedly earning $100,000 (£66,666) for the show.

But the choice of performers has angered Denise Miller, the president of the Regional Drug Free Alliance, who insists Roth and his support acts are bad role models for impressionable young college-goers.

She says, "Having this artist come to the campus normalises inappropriate, illegal and unhealthy behaviours. It also lowers the expectations for the students."

Asher Roth - Roth's Student Show Angers Anti-Drugs Group - Contactmusic News

Busy Signal Breaks new Ground with Suavemente!

Busy Signal is one of the best Dancehall artists whose versatility has made him one of the most sought after artists. Whether implementing the soulful importance of the Commodores "Night Shift" on his song of the same name, or his lyrical versatility connecting with fans young or mature such his mastery with Reggae Queen, and member of the I-Three’s, Marcia Griffiths on the song "Automatic," Busy Signal knows what buttons to push, and where.

His third album for the VP Records imprint, D.O.B, gives listeners Busy's extended versatility, and also sees the young star break new ground with a Latin audience by teaming with Elvis Crespo for the chune "Suavemente", Busy’s second release following "Sum'n Ah Gwaan" featuring Bounty Killer.

Based off of Crespo's 1998 hit record "Suavemente" Busy introduces authentic Dancehall to a new Latin audience by performing lyrics over the fast paced backdrop of trumpets, a salsa drum beat and piano proving that there is no genre of music the award winner can't add 'busy' flavor to. A recording like this has not been done by a Dancehall DJ from Jamaica in recent memory, especially with an artist of Crespo's caliber being a Grammy award winning, platinum selling artist with this single.

ReadMore-color.jpg

If Crespo's success with the song is any indication, Busy Signal can look forward to a possible Grammy nomination for 'Best Latin Single,' and can look forward to hundreds of thousands of digital downloads by new fans via online portals such as i-Tunes. A nomination would mark the first time in Grammy history that a Dancehall artist is nominated for a Latin Recording.

Busy recently returned from performances in Europe, one of which was the 2010 Uppsala Reggae Festival held in Sweden, where tens of thousands of people packed the venue to hear the artist perform. People from all backgrounds sang word for word with the lyrical master. "Night Shift," "One More Night" and "Peace Reign" went over especially well, allowing Busy to hold the microphone out to the audience and have them sing parts of the song.

"Anytime I can perform for my fans makes me happy," said Busy in between shows. "The fans inspire me to do more musically, and explore new grounds such as what we did with Suavamente."

In partnership with manager Shane Brown, Busy continues to explore and conquer new territory musically, and in business as the pair recently launched the 'Turf Gear' clothing line which is doing well.

Via - www.outaroad.com

Mickey Factz - Paradise [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Blending ethereal beats and nuanced delivery Battery Records' Bronx-bred MC Mickey Factz rips through his new single, "Paradise," off his upcoming release, "The Achievement."



History - Mickey Factz attended Adlai E. Stevenson High School in The Bronx, New York City; the same high school as hip hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa. After working as a paralegal, Factz began his rap career online in 2005.

For 2008's The Leak, Vol.1: The Understanding, Factz leaked one song every week on MySpace for 17 weeks. One of the songs, "I'm Sean (50 Shots More)", was written from the perspective of Sean Bell, who was killed by New York police in 2006. In a 2008 interview Factz recalled, "I had heard a few records from some New York artists, whose names I won’t mention, and I wasn’t very pleased with what they were doing. [...] I decided that I was going to get in the shoes of Sean Bell and talk about the night of him dying, him at his funeral, him seeing the press conferences and him just talking to the youth and letting them know that we have to come together and do better than what’s going on right now." Factz's song-per-week release strategy was also used for The Leak, Vol.2: The Inspiration, which contains guest appearances by Drake, Travie McCoy, and Tanya Morgan. The music video for "Rockin' N Rollin'", featuring The Cool Kids, was added to rotation at MTV.[4] Factz was named to XXL magazine's annual "Freshmen 10" issue in 2009, and he appeared in a Honda commercial later that year as a spokesman for the Accord. Factz contributed a song, "Rocker", to the soundtrack of the Fight Night Round 4 video game, and he signed to Battery Records in May 2010.

History Via - Widipedia.org

Beyonce Knowles - Feminist Beyonce Knowles

Beyonce Knowles believes one of the main reasons she has always had successful relationships with men is because she has feminist values.

Beyonce Knowles believes being a feminist has helped her have successful relationships with men.

The 'Halo' singer - who is married to hip-hop superstar Jay-Z - says she's always had good friendships with females and thinks that has played a big part in her never falling for the wrong type of man.

She said: "I think I am a feminist in a way. It's not something I consciously decided I was going to be; perhaps it's because I grew up in a singing group with other women, and that was so helpful to me. It kept me out of so much trouble and out of bad relationships. My friendships with my girls are just so much a part of me that there are things I am never going to do that would upset that bond. I never want to betray that friendship because I love being a woman and I love being a friend to other women.

"I think we learn a lot from our female friends - female friendship is very, very important."

While her personal relationships are very important to her, Beyonce admits she sometimes finds it hard to balance everything in her life.

She told You magazine: "For me, balance is always really hard to find. I love so many different things, and to have the discipline to turn certain things away and focus on one thing at a time so that I can give it 100 per cent is really hard.

"Probably the biggest challenge in my life is time - making sure I have time to be a wife, to be a singer, to be a songwriter, to be an actor and still have time for my clothing line and now for my perfume. I am like any other woman who has a child, who has a husband, who has a job. I think it's the hardest thing about being a woman because we have so many responsibilities."

Beyonce Knowles - Feminist Beyonce Knowles - Contactmusic News

Swizz Beatz Previews New Song #2 [DDDotOmen.com]


Swizz Beatz Previews New Song

Happy Birthday August 16: Madonna, Mc. Remedee & LL Cool J

1958, Born on this day, Madonna, (Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone), singer, actress, (first hit 1984 UK No.6 single 'Holiday', 1984 US No.1 'Like A Virgin', first UK No.1 1985 'Into The Groove', plus 6 other UK No.1's & over 10 US No.1 singles and over 30 other top 40 hits).



More Vids &
1967, Born on this day, MC. Remedee, Cookie Crew, (1988 UK No.5 single 'Rock Da House').



1968, Born on this day, LL Cool J, (1995 US No.3 single 'Hey Lover', 1997 UK No.1 single 'Ain't Nobody' and 2000 US No.1 album 'G.O.A.T.).