R.I.P. MICHEAL JACKSON

Singer, songwriter. Jackson was born August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, to an African-American working-class family. His father, Joseph Jackson, had been a guitarist but had put aside his musical aspirations to provide for his family as a crane operator. Believing his sons had talent, he molded them into a musical group in the early 1960s. At first, the Jackson Family performers consisted of Michael's older brothers Tito, Jermaine, and Jackie. Michael joined his siblings when he was five, and emerged as the group's lead vocalist. He showed remarkable range and depth for such a young performer, impressing audiences with his ability to convey complex emotions. Older brother Marlon also became a member of the group, which evolved into the Jackson 5.

Behind the scenes, Joseph Jackson pushed his sons to succeed. He was also reportedly known to become violent with them. Michael and his brothers spent endless hours rehearsing and polishing up their act. At first, the Jackson 5 played local gigs and built a strong following. They recorded one single on their own, "Big Boy" with the b-side "You've Changed," but it failed to generate much interest.

The Jackson 5 moved on to working an opening act for such R&B artists as Gladys Knight and the Pips, James Brown, and Sam and Dave. Many of these performers were signed to the legendary Motown record label, and it has been reported that Gladys Knight may have been the one to tell Motown founder Berry Gordy about the Jackson 5. Impressed by the group, Gordy signed them to his label in 1968.

Relocating to Los Angeles, Michael and his brothers started work on their music and dancing with their father as their manager. They lived with Gordy and also with Supremes singer Diana Ross when they first arrived there. In August 1969, the Jackson 5 was introduced to the music industry at a special event, and later served as the opening act for the Supremes. Their first album, Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5, hit the charts in December of that year. It's first single, "I Want You Back," hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in January 1970.

More chart-topping singles quickly followed, such as "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I'll Be There." At the age of 13, Jackson launched a solo career in addition to his work with the Jackson 5. He made the charts in 1971 with "Got to Be There" from the album of the same name. His 1972 album, Ben, featured the eponymous ballad about a rat. The song became Jackson's first solo No. 1 single.

For several years, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 maintained a busy tour and recording schedule, under the supervision of Berry Gordy and his Motown staff. Gordy wrote many of the songs recorded by the group and by Michael Jackson as a solo artist. The group became so popular that they even had their own self-titled cartoon show, which ran from 1971 to 1973.

Despite Jackson's individual achievements and the group's great success, there was trouble between the Jacksons and their record company. Tensions mounted between Gordy and Joseph Jackson over the management of his children's careers, and their level of participation in making their music. The Jacksons wanted more control over their recordings, which led to most of the Jacksons breaking ties with Motown in 1975. Jermaine Jackson remained with the label and continued to pursue a solo career, having previously released several albums none of which had matched the success of his younger brother Michael.

SOME TIME WITH: ROCK THE BELLS 2009 ARTISTS
Salutations everybody this is Quentin M. Milroe, here to inform you, the reader, about the great time I had at Rock the Bells. In the midst of all the artists there (there were two stages) I got a chance to talk to a few folks. Some are up and comers, others are legends. So here is the rundown of individuals I spoke with along with their credentials.



NECRO: An individual whose one of the mainstays of the underground hip hop scene, it was an honor to talk to someone who clearly is one of the hardest working dudes in Hip Hop. His latest album entitled Death Rap is in stores now.

Quentin M. Milroe: What's good man. First of all how has Rock the Bells been treating you?

Necro: Mad love mad love.

Quentin M. Milroe: That's good man, real good. For years you've been on it with the rhymes and the boards too. You nasty on the boards! Just wanted to know do you have musical inspirations or favorite producers?

Necro: DJ Premier, Marley Marl, Pete Rock, Large Professor, you know.

Quentin M. Milroe: Yes sir, you named the kingpins right there. Yeah man so what you got going on right now?

Necro: Well I can't announce that yet.

Quentin M. Milroe: Oh okay that's cool. One last question. Who are some of your favorite live artists? Of all the live shows you ever been too, who are three of your favorites?

Necro: Live artists? Um, Slayer and Metallica.

Quentin M. Milroe: Oh okay yeah they go hard. Thank you for your time.





MICKEY FACTZ: A newcomer to the world of Hip Hop, Bronx native Mickey Factz has made quite an impact in a short amount of time. Gaining buzz with his series free mixtapes entitled The Leak, aswell his amazing freestyles all over the internet and an appearance on Rap City, Mickey Factz is making quite a name for himself.


Quentin M. Milroe: First of all how you doin' right now?

Mickey Factz: Good man, enjoying life, last year I was broke, this year I'm at Rock the Bells.

Quentin M. Milroe: Yeah man. I saw you on Rap City how was that?

Mickey Factz: Yeah that was with KRS. Yeah that was something I dreamed off for a very long time. Somebody I looked up too, withholding a legacy that's been started, is something I'm proud of.

Quentin M. Milroe: Cool cool. Is this your first time in Chicago?

Mickey Factz: Naw it's like my third or fourth time out here.

Quentin M. Milroe: How you like it?

Mickey Factz: Well, for the first time in a long time, I came out here and it's straight hot.

Quentin M. Milroe: Yeah, it's straight up sun today. Straight downsouth heat.

Mickey Factz: Yeah it's all good though it's all good.

Quentin M. Milroe: You got anything coming out, like any albums or anything like that?

Mickey Factz: Album's supposed to be droppin' later on this year, plus I got something going on with EA sports, I can't really speak too much about it...

Quentin M. Milroe: Right right.

Mickey Factz: It's gonna be crazy, comin' out probably October or November.

Quentin M. Milroe: Okay cool. Who are your three favorite live artists.

Mickey Factz: Chanel Monet, BOB...

Quentin M. Milroe: Aw yeah I saw BOB last year at Rock the Bells.

Mickey Factz: And I gotta say myself. If I had a band it would even be crazier, but I put on a pretty good live show.





KRS-ONE: What can I say about this man. He really does not need an introduction. MC, producer, author, over 20 years in the game, credentials for weeks, this is my interview with the icon, the legend, KRS-ONE.

KRS-ONE: Alright so what you sayin'?

Quentin M. Milroe: First of all man, it's an honor for me to do this interview.

KRS-ONE: No doubt.

Quentin M. Milroe: I've been liking you since I started listening to rap. Just two quick questions. First of all, where were you when you heard about Michael Jackson passing?

KRS-ONE: I was here, I was here in Chicago, I was on my way up to Chicago, on I-80West and the news came in. You know and anytime someone of popular stature, respect, and love even, passses, it's that hit, boom! Oh shit. What was that? You know you never thought Michael, death you know has no respect of people, kind of puts things into perspective.

Quentin M. Milroe: True indeed. You been in Chicago for a lot, and your live show is the best. What kind of preparation do you use?

KRS-ONE: Well you gotta use the right words, with your energy and stuff. I don't really ever go out there, I'm there now.

Quentin M. Milroe: Okay.

KRS-ONE: You know what it's like to give you a prime example, look at you hand, okay. Look at your palm, when you make a fist where does the palm go? Palm is still here but, it's gone, it's a fist. When you open your hand, where does the fist go? It's still here, but now you're with the palm, extended open hand, you're pointing, etc. But the fist is still here, you just chosen to manifest a certain thing. When I go on stage, right now, I'm on stage right now. I purposely stood there so the front row could see the side of my face. They're already getting prepped now, KRS is in their DNA, in the memory. So I just stand there first and communicate from the side of my head first. I'm rockin' the party right now, from the time the flyer comes, with my name on the flyer, you get hit in your head, 'oh shit', now when I come out there I use that energy to get the crowd stupid!

Quentin M. Milroe: Okay last question. The book, Temple of Hip Hop...

KRS: Gospel of Hip Hop is the book, available in September it's an 800 page book on the spiritual living of Hip Hop, uh it's too many people in urban areas that love God, that love spirituality. But are not apart of any specific church, temple, mosque, syangouge or any denomination, but they love God they love philosophical thought, and they want to be around people who are not afraid or ashamed to discuss...oh gotta go Buckshot's getting ready to go on, Temple of Hip Hop is like a think tank who could think beyond music, Hip Hop spiritual based. We're here today, you can go to...(KRS gets called to the stage) okay I gotta go.

Quentin M. Milroe: Thanks!






BILLY DANZE OF MOP

One half of the legendary rap duo MOP (along with Li'l Fame), Billy Danze has been in the game a little over 15 years. Known for their hardcore deliveries and energetic live shows, MOP are definitely Hip Hop mainstays. I had the privilege to have a few words with Billy Danze.

Quentin M. Milroe: First of all, how has Rock the Bells been treating you?

Billy Danze: Aw great, I mean this is first time we actually been on the bill, one of the guys that put us on is a good friend of ours. Main thing right now is that we're in Chi-town and Chi-town shows us tremendous love. And I am happy as fuck. And if I get another cold beer, I'll probably be lookin' for an apartment.

Quentin M. Milroe: Right right. Yeah man, that's good. You and Fame got anything new coming out?

Billy Danze: Well another MOP album coming out, after that my solo, Fame solo; first drop of the MOP album will be out soon.

Quentin M. Milroe: Okay cool cool. Oh one last question. Who are your favorite live performers?

Billy Danze: Bustah Rhymes, KRS-One, and I would have to say Cypress Hill.

Quentin M. Milroe: 'Ppreciate it man. Best luck on all your endeavors, peace.



GZA:
As part of the legendary and iconic Wu-Tang Clan, the GZA has truly made his presence felt on both solo and group outings. He's been doing his thing for quite a while now, and it was a great honor to talk to this legendary lyricist.

Quentin M. Milroe: First question I wanna ask you, how has Rock the Bells been treating you so far?

GZA: It's only been about two hours since I been here...

Quentin M. Milroe: True indeed.

GZA: It's only been about two hours but it's aiight, they gave me a few drinks, couple bottles of water, a beer or two, backstage passes.

Quentin M. Milroe: Cool. In terms of live shows/performances, you put on one of the best. I just need your opinion on something, who you think are three artists or groups that put on a great live show besides Wu-Tang.

GZA: As far as Hip Hop?

Quentin M. Milroe: Hip hop, or any other type of music.

GZA: You know I listen to more music than attend shows I actually haven't had a chance to see a lot of shows. We usually get there late or get there when it's time to perform.

Quentin M. Milroe: Right.

GZA: So I really can't say since we tend to miss a lot of performances, but I will say that KRS-One gives a good performance since I seen him over the years. I mean it's plenty artists out there that put a lot into their show, some that probably don't put that much time; enough to even practice or write down the songs they're gonna do. I can't really say.

Quentin M. Milroe: Like I say, that's great. One last question though. You're one of the best lyricists ever to hold the mic, but, besides yourself, who are your favorite lyricists?

GZA: GZA, Genius and Allah Justice. Naw, but I have some many I can't really start naming.

Quentin M. Milroe: Cool cool I understand. Really appreciate this.

KANYE'S NEW KICKS!

As we previously reported, Kanye recently confirmed to he was designing new Louis Vuitton shoes when a paparazzi member caught him coming out of a Louis Vuitton store. Now Kanye is giving everyone a sneak peak at "one of six designs" he did for "Louie."







LUDACRIS GOES HD!

Ludacris has teamed up with Monster Cable to re-release his new album, Theater Of The Mind, this time in high-definition stereo surround sound. Mixed by Monster's head honcho Noel Lee, the album reportedly will make listeners feel as if they are in the studio with Luda.

Don't get too hyped, in order to truely listen in HD, you will need at least a surround sound system. Monster also plans to make the CD compatible with Dolby so fans can experience the new HD in their headphones.

Luda's standard-D version of "Theater Of The Mind" is close to reaching gold-status. To date the 7th album from cris' has sold over 470,000 copies in only six weeks. The High-D version of Luda's new album should hit stores next month.



JERMAINE DUPRI GETS DROPPED FROM ISLAND RECORDS!

Jermaine Dupri has been booted out of his President spot over at Island Records Ubran Music, according to AHH. JD held the position for less than two years where he oversaw the label's entire urban music operations, reporting directly to the label chairman Antonio "L.A." reid and Steve Bartells (President of Island Music and COO of the Island Def Jam Music Group).

Jermaine has had other problems lately. Back in August, it was reported that he closed his Atlanta restaurant [more here]. Jermaine Dupri says he closed "Cafe Dupri" because “The economy has changed dramatically and people just aren’t eating out as much anymore."

In related news, Jermaine Dupri recently appeared on Bow Wow's new single "Roc The Mic". The new video for the single features JD and Bow Wow hitting the road in a classic car, so make sure you watch it now!





NOTORIOUS K.I.M.

Biggie's mom is upset over the relationship Notorious had with Lil Kim. In a recent interview, Mrs Wallace is upset at how BIG treated Kim saying “I would love to speak to Lil’ Kim, because I need to ask more about this love relationship because I really didn’t like the way he treated her and I’m praying that that’s not it,” she continued. “Only she can answer those questions. She’s a sweet girl and I didn’t think she deserved to be treated the way he treated her, if that’s the case.”

Lil Kim recently announced she didn't approve of the way she was portrayed in the new "Notorious" film. Talking about Big's mom and Faith Evans, Kim said “I’m very disappointed in Faith,” she added. “There’s nothing Faith or Ms. Wallace could do to stop me from reppin’ B.I.G. all day. I’m gonna always do that … It’s time for Ms. Wallace to be exposed.”



WEEZY FLIPS FROM RAP TO ROCK & ROLL!

Lil Wayne is reportedly working on a complete Rock album and Canadian rapper Drake says he's on it. "Wayne's coming out with a new album, it's a rock album," Drake told MuchMusic, continuing "a complete rock album. I have a song on there." Wayne will join Kanye West as artists who put out albums in a complete different genre. "It’s something different in just that whole 808's and Hearbreaks, just throwing individuals off," Drake says.

Drake recently signed a management deal with Kyambo "Hip Hop" Joshua (who manages Kanye) and Cortez Bryant (who manages Lil Wayne). Drake will be joining Lil Wayne (along with T-Pain, Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole and other) on the 'I Am Music' tour when it hits Canada.



VIDEO VIXENS GET TV SHOW ON E!

E! has given the green light to a new series called "," that will focus on the women in rap music videos, better known as video vixens. The 30-minute show (being pushed as a "docu-soap") centers around aspiring and established female actresses who work for an agency that casts them into videos.

"Candy Girls" will air on Sunday nights at 10:30 following the premeire of the third season of 'Keeping Up WIth The Kardashians." E! ordered 8 episodes of the series that E! says "In order to reach the career pinnacle of appearing in 'A-list' music videos and gain access to the world of superstars, private jets and exclusive parties, you need to be able to play the game as well as you look."



WEEZY & CLEF HELP ESPN ROCK THE SUPERBOWL!

Lil Wayne and Wyclef Jean will help ESPN kick off their "Big Weekend" event during Super Bowl weekend. Wyclef will perform for the ESPN "The Magazine's NEXT" party on January 30th at 9 PM next to DJ Samantha Ronson (better known as the girl f*cking Lindsay Lohan) on the 1s & 2s. Sean Kingston will rock a free concert the next day, titled the "NEXT Day Tailgate" from around noon to 5pm joined by the University of South Florida Marching Band.

Lil Wayne, who already blogs for ESPN, will be reporting from the event's red carpet. Weezy recently appeared on ESPN's "Sportaphile" [watch here] show where he took on Skip Bayless in a debate over sports. Check out Lil Wayne's three-part appearance on ESPN.





JIM JONES THE NEW VP OF URBAN A&R OF KOCH RECORDS!

Friday, Koch Records announced the addition of Jim Jones to its executive team. Earning the position of Vice President of Urban A&R, Jones will oversee the signing and development of new talent on the label’s urban roster. Boasting the title of largest independent record label in the United States, Koch Records hopes to gain even more clout with the appointment of the Dipset rapper.

Jones said, “It feels good to know that the hard work has been recognized by the same people that have helped me get to this point in my career. They recognize that I'm not only an artist but a person that can smell talent and be able to mold a superstar.”
Previously, in 2005 through 2007, Jim Jones held an executive job at Atlantic Records, before both parties agreed to cease the relationship over a year ago.
In addition to his selection as VP of A&R, Jones is also prepping for the release of his album Pray IV Reign, dropping next month.



KANYE WEST POSES NUDE!

After pushing the boundaries of what is considered “Hip Hop” with his latest album, "808s & Heartbreak", Kanye West wants to push the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable. The rapper/producer now wants to bare it all in a nude photo shoot.
Before Kanye takes it off for the camera, however, he wants to make sure he’s pleasing to the eye.
"I definitely feel, like, in the next however many years, if I work out for two months, that I'll pose naked,” West told Vibe.
West adds that he’s not necessarily looking for attention, but wants to challenge American and black culture norms.
“I break every rule and mentality of hip-hop, of black culture, of American culture.”
Though a potential nude spread from West would challenge norms, the star also knows it would dominate the headlines—more so than other celebrities who have done the same thing.
"If [Bjork] wanted to pose naked, you'd (public and media) be like, 'Oh, that's Bjork.' But if I wanted to pose naked, people would draw all type of things into it.”
If Kanye goes through with the photos, the Chicago representer will be following in the footsteps of several rappers. Big Daddy Kane jumped off the trend, posing with Madonna and Naomi Campbell.
Ice-T followed suit several years



DR.DRE PISSED WITH SONG LEAK!

To add to the pressure on Dr. Dre with his highly anticipated album Detox expected to be released this year, earlier this week a track titled, “Could Have Been You” was leaked.
The song was recorded during the Detox sessions and it was believed the song was meant to be on the album. Although Dre’s camp has not commented on the issues but sources state the legendary producer was not pleased with the un-mixed and un-mastered version hitting the net.
“Could Have Been You” featured R. Kelly, 50 Cent and Slim the Mobster discussing a troubled unsuccessful relationship with a girl.
On the hook Kelly sings, "The reason why you didn't get picked, 'cause you got your nose up your ass smelling your shit/ But tonight you met your match, 'cause I be smelling my shit too/ Now how you like that?"
50 opens the song chanting “It’s the D, R, E” and goes on to explain his own problems with woman.
Although the song was leaked, due to the quality and the respect for Dre most websites have pulled it or did not post the track altogether. A song called “Crack A Bottle” by 50, Eminem and Dre was also released this week yet it is still unclear if this is a track for Detox or Eminem’s new project Relapse.
No release date has been set for either album but Relapse is expected to be released this spring with Dre’s long awaited album following.



DEATH ROW RECORDS FINALLY DEAD!

After years of turbulence, Death Row Records is again being put on the auction block due to a Chapter 11 proceeding.
Founded by Suge Knight and Dr. Dre in 1991, Death Row Records filed for Chapter 11 protection in 2006, and only months later a bankruptcy trustee was ordered to take over the label. After being taken over by the bankruptcy trustee, Death Row Records received several bids but all of them fell through.
With the upcoming auction set for January 15, co-founder of Death Row Records, Lydia Harris spoke with Billboard regarding the label's recent misfortunes and why bidders have shied away from purchasing the label.

"Everybody wants to hide behind the fear of Suge Knight--the fear is something they are latching on to--but all them still do business with him," Harris told Billboard. "At the end of the day, he's still living, he made people a lot of money and opened doors for a lot of them. It isn't about them being scared. That's what people need to realize. These people still deal with Suge everyday. It's the money. It's the greed."
In 2005, Harris received a $105 million settlement after battling Knight for a share of the label she says she and her now incarcerated husband Michael "Harry-O" Harris helped launch.
Bidders have also expressed concern over the monetary value of the label as well; Koch Records backed out of a bid for Death Row two years ago, because it did not believe that the company was worth the $25 million bid they placed.
The auction on January 15 will include a large number of Tupac Shakur and Snoop Dogg recordings that were not included in the previous auction.

Jay-Z Mashes Up With Radiohead

Jay-Z was recently combined with Radiohead to create the "Jaydiohead" album. The new album from DJ Minty Fresh Beats combines Jay-Z's "Black" and "American Gangster" albums with multiple albums from Radiohead.
In related news, Jay-Z was also recently combined with Coldplay to create the top mixtape of 2007 titled "Viva La Hova." Other mash-up's from Jigga include the "White" album (Jay-Z combined with The Beatles) and the official album "Collision Course," a mash up with Linkin Park. You can download the new "Jaydiohead" mixtape at jaydiohead.com



50 Cent & Busta Rhymes

50 Cent and Busta Rhymes, Vodka and Cognac

50 Cent and Busta Rhymes have made recent deals between the rappers management company, Viloator Management, and Drinks Americas will have the rappers market a Leyrat Cognac and Sparkling Vodka brands.

Drinks Americas previously signed a deal with Dr Dre to help develop and market a series of premium alcolhol and non-alcoholic beverages, marking the first equal partnership between a music and beverage company. In August, Drinks Americas revealed it would introduce Dr. Dre’s Aftermath Cognac plus a sparkling vodka around the release of Dr Dre's highly anticipated Detox album.

Kanye West's New Louis Vuitton Shoe



Kanye gave a sneak peak of his new Louis Vuitton sneakers to the paparazzi recently. Kanye was spotted leaving a Louis Vuitton store by TMZ cameras and said "I was just showing them my new Louis. I can't show you too much of that, though. These aren't coming out until June." [watch here] Kanye already has a rumored shoe coming out through Nike.

Kanye also commented on his infamous incident with the paparazzi at the LAX airport saying "That airport thing didn't really happen," he jokingly confessed. "It was an optical allusion. That didn't really happen." [watch here] Kanye says he will be focusing on "clothes" in 2009. As previously reported, Kanye stated he plans to step away from music to become a fashion intern.




DMX Home Foreclosed

No it's not more legal trouble, but it isn't good news. DMX's home in Cave Creek, Arizona has been foreclosed. SWAT team raids destroyed the carpets and left windows and doors blown out allowing things to be stollen. "I think people showed up, walked the house and took what they wanted," says Andrew Wheeler, who is in charge of selling the home. The things left at the house were thrown into the pool, leaving the only sign of DMX being an old magazine cover hanging out of a car window.

According to the realtor, the quad-motorcycles DMX was often seen riding on the property, were stolen, along with almost everything else, leaving behind a damaged shell of a once-glamorous home. X paid around $600,000 for the house in 2003 and the bank set the sale price for $429,000. DMX is currently in jail, waiting to be sentenced on animal cruelty, theft and drug convictions.


Dre's Son Died Of Accidental Drug Overdose

Dr Dre's son died of an accidental drug overdose. A toxicology report shows that Andre R. Young Jr. died of "morphine and heroin intoxication" according to Ed Winter, assistant chief of the Los Angeles County coroner's office.

As previously reported, Dre's 20 year-old son was found dead in August at the family's Woodland Hills home. Young's mother found him dead at 10:24 a.m on August 23rd. An initial autopsy was completed a few days later but the results were delayed pending the outcome of a "gamut of tests, including toxicology," Winter said.

A publicist for Dr Dre, Lori Earl, stated "Dr. Dre is mourning the loss of his son. Please respect his family's grief and privacy at this time."


Lil Wayne Talks Acting, Says There Is No One Like Him

Lil Wayne plans on acting more. In a new interview the New Orleans rapper talks about his role in the upcoming movie "Hurricane Season." Co-Starring Forest Whitaker, Isaiah Washinton and fellow rapper Bow Wow, "Hurricane Season' is the true story of a Lousianna basketball team during the Katrina hurricane.

Weezy goes on to talk about recording his "Lollipop" hit, recording with T-Pain and even where he was at when he heard Barack Obama was elected. "I just feel like I'm different," Wayne says, "theres not anyone that does what I do, you don't have anyone to compare it to." Weezy finishes by saying "therefore everytime it comes out, it's new, because no one else does it."




Beyonce Starts 09 At Number One

Beyonce will kick off 2009 with her fourth week at number one. Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)" sold another 382,000 downloads last week, up more than 157%. T.I. dropped one spot to number 3 with his Rihanna-backed "Live Your Life" song, while Kanye stays at number 4 with "Heartless."

Beyonce, T.I. and Kanye's other singles ("If I Were A Boy" , "Love Lockdown" and "Whatever You Like") round out the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Beyonce's new album "I Am... Sasha Fierce" was 2008's 10th highest selling album with just over 1.46 million copies sold.

T-Pain Track List And Album Cover

The much anticipated third studio album from T-Pain call "Thr33 Ringz" hits stores on November 11th but today the track list and album cover leaked (see below). T-Pain hopes to continue the success he had with his last album "Epiphany" last year. The first single from "Thr33 Ringz" is called "Can't Believe It" that features Lil Wayne has already achieved much success.





1. Welcome to Thr33 Ringz
2. Ringleader Man
3. Chopped N Skrewed (Feat. Ludacris)
4. Take a Ride (Skit)
5. Freeze (Feat. Chris Brown)
6. Blowing Up (Feat. Ciara)
7. Can’t Believe It (Feat. Lil Wayne)
8. It Ain’t Me (Feat. Akon & T.I.)
9. Feed the Lions (Skit)
10. Therapy (Feat. Kanye West)
11. Long Lap Dance
12. Reality Show (Feat. Musiq Soulchild, Raheem DeVaughn & Jay Lyriq)
13. Keep Going
14. Superstar Lady (Feat. Young Cash)
15. Change (Feat. Akon, Diddy & Mary J. Blige)
16. Digital (Feat. Tay Dizm)
17. Karaoke (Feat. DJ Khaled)

Deluxe Edition Bonus Tracks
18. Distorted
19. Sweet
20. Bad Side
21. Phantom





T.I. Parties With Franz Ferdinand and Chaka Khan

It's not a normal thing to see T.I. on the same bill as say Franz Ferdinand or Chaka Khan but they were all party of Diesel's 30th Anniversary "Rock'N'Roll Circus" this past Saturday (10/11) in Brookly, New York. Famous artists with periods in their names , N.E.R.D. and M.I.A. (who is visably pregnant) [watch here], took the stage to perform songs include M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes"

Getting back to TIP, T.I. had the most explosive performance, getting the crowd waving their hands and peforming five of his hit songs. Opening up "Bring Em Out" then going into "Swing Ya Rag," T.I. continued with "What You Know" before he fnished up with his current smash hit "Whatever You Like." Plus M.I.A. even jumped on stage to do the back vocals for "Swagga Like Us."







C-Murder Seeks Delay In Trial Because Of The Elections

C-Murder has filed papers in court today seeking a postponement of his murder trial, as it's set to start on October 14th. Jury selection started today but C-Murder wants to delay it due to the upcoming elections and the fact that the judge overseeing his trial, is seeking re-election.

C-Murder is charged with the January 12, 2002 shooting death of a 16-year-od male Steve Thomas inside of Club Platinum. C-Murder was convicted for the charges in 2003 and sentenced to life in prison but months later the ruling was overturned because prosecutors withheld key evidence and expunged the criminal records of key witnesses.





Lil Wayne Leads American Music Awards Nominations

The American Music Awards takes place on November 23rd at 8pm on ABC and it looks like Lil Wayne will lead the nominees as he is nominated for 3 awards including "Artist Of The Year," "Favorite Male Artist" plus "Favorite Album-Rap/Hip-Hop" for his "Tha Carter III." In that last category, Weezy goes up against Kanye West ("Graduation") and Jay-Z ("American Gangster"). Kanye West and Lil Wayne will also go against eachvother in the "Favorite Male Artist" category.

View A Complete List Of The Nominee's - Click Here
The American Music Awards takes place on November 23rd at 8pm on ABC and it looks like Lil Wayne will lead the nominees as he is nominated for 3 awards including "Artist Of The Year," "Favorite Male Artist" plus "Favorite Album-Rap/Hip-Hop" for his "Tha Carter III." In that last category, Weezy goes up against Kanye West ("Graduation") and Jay-Z ("American Gangster"). Kanye West and Lil Wayne will also go against eachvother in the "Favorite Male Artist" category.





Joey Says You Cant Compare Wayne To Anyone

Although Fat Joe is busy working on his next new album, he took time out to talk to MTV News recently about another rapper's new album... Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter IV." Fat Joe told MTV “Lil Wayne, don’t bet against him right now!” continuing “Don’t bet against this guy ever right now. He calls me in the middle of the night: ‘Come to the studio.’ I get there, this nigga pressed play, and everything he played was super-duper phenomenal, number-one [smash]. He’s singing, ‘So I went to get her in my spaceship.’ Craziest thing you ever heard in your life.”

Joe ignored the comparisons to Jay-Z saying Lil Wayne will be in a class of his own with this new album. “They compared him a lot to Jay-Z, and you could see where he was influenced, but after this next album — I’m not saying he’s the best rapper of all time, [but] you can’t compare him to any rapper in the world. Because no rapper has done what he’s about to do. That’s crazy! He’s a rock star, man. Hit mania!”

In related news, meaning news that JOE wants you to KNOW (thats why you see rappers talking about other rappers that are currently "hot) is Joey's new album "Nino Dubs DeLuca" doesn't have a release date but it will feature Akon, Ron Brownz and Infamous.





DJ AM Becomes Jay-Zs DJ

As I'm sure everyone knows by now, DJ AM and Travis Barker were the two sole survivors of a plane crash that killed 4 people including Barker's assitant and security gaurd. Now after weeks in the hospital, DJ AM is coming back HARD. AM has been tapped to perform with Jay-Z in Hollywood this Wednesday night. DJ AM will be on the 1s & 2s for Jigga at the event marking the reopening of the Palladium Theater.

Wait, the news gets better...DJ AM's publicist, Jenni Weinman, also said that DJ AM will be Jay-Z's new DJ on his upcoming tour. Only 2 dates so far are scheduled for the tour (10/16-Houston, TX & 10/25-Charlottesville, VA). Calling Jay-Z "the greatest rapper in the world," AM described becoming Jiggas DJ as "the biggest thing that's happened in my career."

Tomorrow's show with Jay-Z at the Palladium Theater will be DJ AM's first since the plane crash. To help AM deal with it, his friends are throwing him a party. Mark Ronson, Steve Aoki, Mix Master Mike and other DJs are hosting a party for DJ AM Tuesday night (October 14), the proceeds of which will benefit the families of the accident's victims.



Aubrey O Day and D Woods kicked out of Danity Kane

Making the Band Live Finale was last night which we were told would find out the fate of Danity Kane.

Not short into the program you find out that Diddy kicks Aubrey O'Day and D. Woods out of Danity Kane. He says its because they were hard to work with and it showed them getting into a small arguement. Aubrey kept asking why she didnt have any communication with Bad Boy. Diddy than did what he always talks about and displayed total BITCHASSNESS and started cuttin contracts. Kicking Aubrey out than quickly firing D. Woods after.

But will this exit be for real? Or are they going to fix it or replace them?

After declaring, “I am not the bad guy,” Diddy was a bit non-committal. “If there was a situation where the Aubrey that I signed ever showed up, I don’t know what the future could hold,” he said in a live interview with MTV’s Sway. “That young lady that was in front of me, that wasn’t really respectful of me and respectful of everybody else, I didn’t have any interest of going forward and working with that person.”

O'Day arrived to the live show (Woods didnt show at all) and started talking about how she had left the building after hearing what Diddy had said about her. “This isn’t about me. This is about life. We’re all trying our best everyday. I know how many people are out there – people are criticizing you at your job, your friends are calling you things, people are telling you you’re something you’re not – and you fight those struggles every day to just prove who you are.”

Her confrontation (via satellite) with Diddy was also odd, as he told her she was heading to a cold and lonely place because of her attitude, and all she had to say back to him was a complimented about his “I Heart Michelle Obama” t-shirt.

Diddy than hinted that Making the Band is coming back for another season. Who knows if it will be with DK or not though. D. Woods will move on to work with her other group, The Girls Club, whereas the future is currently unclear for Aubrey.







Suge Knight Witness Goes Missing

The supposed girlfriend of Suge Knight who was alledgedly kicked and punched and left naked on the side of the road by Suge is missing.

TMZ has reported that the Las Vegas PD went to re-interview the victem, but their was no one of that name living in the apartment building where she claimed to live.

Even if she doesn't turn up, the D.A. can still go on with the case.





Baby Sued For A Cool 275,000

It looks like Bryan "Birdman" Williams (otherwise known as Baby) is being sued with accusations of fraud, breach of contract and money paid with no return. TMZ is reporting that promoter Jose Fernadez has filed the lawsuit against baby after paying over a quarter million dollards for a concert in November of last year that never took place. The show has been rescheduled twice and the suit reads "As a direct and proximate result of the the breach of contract, Plaintiffs have been damaged in a sum in excess of $275,000." Fernandez also says that Baby's promise to bring additional performers like Lil Wayne was a total lie.

In related news, Baby's financial seems great. He was recently photographed giving Lil Wayne a briefcase containing one million dollars as a surprize at Lil Waynes birthday party in Miami, Florida.





Kanye West Unveils Details Of New Album

Details about Kanye's new album "808's and Heartbreak" have now been unveiled. Kanye selected a few journalists and guests to attend a listening session, including getting Italian artist Vanessa Beecroft to set the stage for the guests. "After waiting in a loading area with an open bar and a DJ, we walked up a driveway illuminated by florescent lights to a darkened room where approximately forty nude women, most of them wearing face-obscuring masks seemingly made of faux lamb's wool, stood in the middle -- black girls in the front, white girls in the back," a Fader journalist wrote. "Mos Def sat down front-and-center, Michael Rapaport talked excitedly to the security guards, Will.i.am watched from one end of the U the audience formed around the women, Rick Ross watched from the other end."

Fader says there are only a few guests on Kanye's album, incluing the only rap verses coming from Young Jeezy on "Amazing" and a duet with Lil Wayne. More importantly Fader says what the album "West delivered a monologue about how this album is about the freedom to do what you want to do and that he used Auto-Tune because it is the most fun thing ever."

Kanye said "If I wanna rap, I'll rap," he said. "If I wanna sing, I'll sing. I told Jay, L.A Reid and everyone at my label that I needed to put this out right now, I'll have another album in June, but this has to come out right now. The way these songs connect with you, God uses me as a vessel- he puts me through pain so that I can go through it, and create..."

The album was put together in three weeks in the area code of 808 (hence the title), it will hit stores on November 25th.





Rick Ross Signs Memorabilia Deal, Remixes T.I.

Rick Ross continues to be a hustler as the rapper has signed an exclusive agreement with Hollywood Collectibles to offer fans the chance to buy personalized memorabilia, that’s right, Rick Ross memorabilia. The deal will bring custom framed autographed photos but will end up with sports jerseys, hats and concert-used items autographed by the Miami rapper. Currently, the company's custom framed photos will start at around $149.

In related news, Ricky Ross continues to do remixes of every song that comes out. This time he decided to remix T.I.'s "Live Your Life." [listen here] Like the original, the remix also features Rihanna, just Rick Ross is added.





Weezy Signs British R&B Star

British R&B artist Jay Sean announced last night that he just signed a deal with Lil Wayne's Cash Money Records. During a trip to Miami, Jay signed the deal with Cash Money and met Wayne and the rest of the family. As a result of the deal, Cash Money has exclusive rights to Sean's new album "My Own Way" for the United States. "My Own Way" will be released in the US during the spring of 2009.

"It's always been a dream for me to sign to an American label," Jay wrote in his blog. "And it's great to be accepted by the best in the game." Jay Sean has collabs with Weezy in the works and Wayne will also be droppin ga verse on the remix of his single "Tonight."





The Game Talks Life After The Math

The Game plans to release a DVD called "Life After The Math" next week. The DVD will feature Game's problems after his rise to success in hip-hop plus a lot of rare never-before-seen material from artists like Snoop Dogg, Kanye West and Katt Williams, not to mention Dr. Dre and 50 Cent. Produced by Black Wall Street, the DVD is expected to give fans a different way to look at the controversial rapper.







50 Cent To Host Hustler Reality Show

These days 50 Cent puts his name on and sells just about everything. From clothes to watches to even water, 50 has proved that he is the ultimate hustler. MTV is planning a new show called “50 Cent: The Money and the Power,” that 50 will host. Contestants will compete against eachother in a series of challenges and the winner will get seed money for their idea from 50. In the show the 14 contestants will share a house in "Camp Curtis" (a warehouse in Brooklyn) and will be judged by not only 50 but guests like LL Cool J, Danity Kane’s Aubrey O’Day, Lloyd Banks, and Hot 97’s Miss Info. G-Unit member Tony Yayo will serve as Fif’s “Underboss” on the show on the show that premieres on Thursday, November 6th at 10PM.

“If I was just my image,” 50 said in a statement. “I wouldn’t have made this much money.” 50 was recognized by Forbes as a big entrepreneur who manages a record company, clothing company, radio shows, stakes in Glaceau Vitaminwater and neeted around $100 million in profits alone.



Jay Z Uncle Murda diss track to Fat Joe and Khaled surfices

Thisis50.com leaked a major diss track that was given to them from DJ Kay Slay. The track is a Jay Z featuring Uncle Murda track produced by Pharell. Jay Z ends up going off on Fat Joe DJ Khaled and the whole Terror Squad.
"Your off beat DJ if he anything he play // sound familiar holla to pharrell say "blam" // now im gonna have to diss you joe// you can get a smack for that matter fact the gat will blow natural//"
However within a few hours of the track leaking people in the industry were already airing their opinions on it. Jus Blaze weighed in on the track on his blog themegatrondon2.com proclaiming that the track was recorded around the Blueprint 2 era and that it was 6-7 years old.
“So for some reason people think this "new" Jay/Uncle Murda thing is a Fat Joe Khaled dis. It’s not.
really..
It’s also like 8000 years old and somehow dude got his hands on it and put a verse on it. Now that I recall, it’s Blueprint 2 era.. I was going to use this verse for the S.Carter Remix CD but we couldn’t get the Pro Tools in time. The illest Rap Nerd moment was Sadat coming back in and doign the hook for us. Ahh the Good ‘Ol Days. Anyway I really have nothing to do with any of this, but it’s funny to see a 6 or 7 year old record that I wtinessed being made come back as a "new dis record" Or maybe Jay was just psychic and new that Khaled would be big one day and and decided to set away a dis verse just in case.. 6 or 7 years in advance. Uhh.. yeah Don’t fall for the Okeydoke folks..
Yours Truly,
King Bongo Beat.(Jus Blaze)“



DJ Quik says Dr Dre has 400 songs for Detox

West Coast producer DJ Quik who recently did the mixing for Snoop Dogg's Ego Trippin and Murs Murs for President.

DJ Quik spoke about working with West Coast legend Dr. Dre in a recent Loud.com interview.
“Nobody gets to say this, I’m gonna snitch. The man is getting piano lessons from Burt Bacharach and he’s reinterpreting [Frederic] Chopin symphony stuff. It’s crazy, he’s lost his mind. He’s got like 400 records. As a matter of a fact I was there for like four hours, and I think I only heard maybe 60 songs.” Honoring Dre’s work ethic, Quik continued, “This man’s got like six or seven Detox records if he wants, it’s just crazy.”
Quik than confirmed the latest rumor that Snoop Dogg is back in the studio with Dre
“Another cool thing too that some of y'all don’t know, Snoop is now back in the studio with Dr. Dre. It’s about to crazy!”





50 Cent unveils Before I Self Destruct Movie Trailer

50 Cent's new album and movie with the same name "Before i Self Destruct" is set to drop on December 9th.

Promising an action packed flick, the "Before I Self Destruct" trailer [watch here] hit the internet today, and shows a corn rowed Fifty pulling triggers. The trailer also debuted Fifty's newest single "Get Up" [listen here], a Scott Storch produced track, which you can listen to here.

And Fifty has a lot more on the line than with previous movies he has starred in, as "Before I Self Destruct" marks the rappers first step into the world of directing. Fifty is also not the only star in the line up, and the movie will feature Clifton Powell(Pinky in the Friday Series), video vixen Angel Lola Love as well as Treach from Naughty by Nature.





T.I. works with King and gets Political

The self proclaimed King himself T.I. will get a chance to at least work with King. As he becomes a guest editor for the mens magazine 'King' for the November issue.
"It's only right that King would indeed have a King as editor in chief," T.I. said in a statement. "I guess this is, indeed, my magazine. Understand that. ... Keep it pimpin'."

"We always intended to work with Tip on a bigger level," King's regular Editor In Chief, Jermaine Hall said. "He had done [the fashion section] Tag for us in the past and other sections of the magazine and always did a really good job. He was always thorough with it. So when we started the discussion for this issue, we saw he was taking it seriously. He really wanted to run the magazine for an issue. That was the deciding factor."
The King issue with Reagan Gomez-Preston, the co-star from Tip's current video Whatever you Like [watch video], as the cover girl — has a political theme. Besides his guest editing, some of T.I.'s thoughts show up in print, such as a dream collaboration with T-Pain and blunders made by President Bush over the past eight years. One of the mag's highlights is a roundtable discussion moderated by the Parker Report's Erik Parker. Tip and other notables, such as Kevin Powell and Yung Berg, discuss a myriad of topics, including voting.
"When I'm speaking to young people," T.I. said, "and they say, 'Who you voting for?' I say, 'Well, what you think's wrong with the country? What problems do you need to be fixed? OK, then cut your PlayStation off and turn to CNN and listen to these people. Listen to each of the candidates' platforms, and whoever you think is speaking passionately and intelligently and will do the things you think need changed, that's who you vote for.' It ain't as easy as saying, 'T.I., OK, tell me who to vote for.' "

"I got a phone call on my cell from Tip saying, 'Yo, I'm at the roundtable,' " Hall recalled. " 'I'm gonna hit this point, that point. What else do you need me to take care of for the issue?' It was his suggestion to grab Reagan for the cover. He went far and beyond really doing his job for the magazine. It reminded me when Bono had the guest-editor spot for Vanity Fair — dude went in. It was very important for me with this issue to be able to really reach the 18-, 19-, 20-, 21-year-olds, those people who weren't so politically aware in the past. With his reach and influence, it was really a no-brainer."



Lil Kim sued for 2.5 Million by Record Company

Just months after Lil Kim was last sued for failure to complete a book she is now getting sued again. Again for not deliverying content, this time its stated as "failure to deliver content". Seems Kim might need to do what her name spells out and Keep It Moving, get off her fat ass and do some work.

The lawsuit was filed in Manhattan’s State Supreme Court on Tuesday by Brookland Media, who say they spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on recordings, equipment and advance payments.

The suit says Lil' Kim, whose real name is Kimberly Denise Jones, tried to change the contract after signing and halted recording until Brookland agreed to her terms, reports the Associated Press.

Brookland wants the court to declare the contract valid and bar Lil' Kim from recording for another company.



Scarface calls Mccain a F'n Racist Redneck

As it gets closer to November 4th, Election Day, more and more rappers are getting political and talking and giving their opinions.

O.G. geto boy himself Scarface recently had an interview with Rolling Out TV [WATCH VIDEO HERE] discussing politics with endorsing Obama and tearing apart Mccain (or as we call him Mccant or Mcsame).

"I think Barack Obama has the right idea," he said. "I think he played his campaign very well. He didn't lean his meter 'either or,' he came right in dead center, and that's politics."

But than Face starts talking about Mccant and he doesnt hold back.

"If you've never in your life seen a nigga-hatin' motherf*cker that just hates niggas, look at that f*ckin pink ass white boy," Face bluntly states.

"At least he's real with himself. The whole time they had their debate, you know that motherfuckin' peckerwood would not look that nigga in his eyes. And that right there showed me the respect he had for niggas. John McCain man, I respect that."

"You fucking racist red neck piece of shit white boy, short arm no top-lip movin' brown teeth motherfucker. I love you dude."





Wu-Tang To Be On BET Awards

It wasn't too long ago Wu-Tang was having some problems as the group disagreed over production and songs for their new album but it seems they have worked that out as the New York group will appear at this years BET Hip-Hop Awards. This years awards will feature a tribute to "Iconic Woman In Hip-Hop," although no names have been given yet for this tribute.

Jadakiss will MC the eventby announcing the festivities as they take place while DJ Drama will be on the 1's & 2's. The 2008 BET Hip-Hop Awards take place in Atlanta, Georgia and will be hosted by Katt Williams. Airing on Thursday, October 23rd at 8pm on BET, the awards will also feature Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy, Common, Ludacris and T-Pain.



Ice Cube Dedicates Song & Video To Victims

Ice Cube is no stranger to sharing thes spotlight and in his new video "Why Me" [watch here] he shares camera time with dozens of victims of violent crimes. The video from his new album "Raw Foootage" finds cube dedicating lines of the song to senseless crimes.

The video for "Why Me" was release in September but it began to get headlines after the mother of Jamiel Shaw (a 17-year-old who was shot to death outside his home) pushed for legal and harder penalties to illegal immigrant gang members. For his part, Cube says the video isn't related to the legal battle "It ain't really a commentary on that," Cube says. "You've got a person being killed by a person he don't know for a reason he don't know ... Who cares if it was an immigrant or if it was a taxpaying citizen?"






Nelly Returns To TV, Finishes Tour

Although his new album, Brass Knuckles, continues to go down on the charts and is no where close to having a chance at being anything but a flop, Nelly is doing well in other aspects of entertainment.

Nelly will return to television with his recurring role on the CBS: CSI New York show tomorrow (October 7th). The St. Louis and head Lunitic will be playing a club owner who also serves as an informant for the CSI team. Make sure you check it out as it airs at 10pm on tonight.


In related news, Nelly will be wrapping up his 'Brass Knuckles' tour tonight in Minneapolis at club Myth. Listen to Nelly ft. Gucci Mane and R.Kelly in "U Can Get It" or Nelly featuring T.I. and LL Cool J in "Hold Up"





Lil Jon Finds A New Home, Plans New Album In 2009

Although its body is laying cold in the morge with a toe tag and funeral arrangements have already been made, Crunk Music isn't dead, according to Universal Republic. They announced today that they signed the Crunk King Lil Jon to a major label deal that will have Lil Jon as a producer and artist delivering solo albums plus even an A&R for the entire company.

“Lil Jon is a larger than life figure who casts a giant shadow over every facet of the entertainment business,” Universal Republic CEO Monte Lipman said. “His name is synonymous with brand-building and we want him plugged into multiple Universal Republic platforms for maximum results. I view him as our Urban Music Czar!" Lil Jon's very-long-delayed follow up to his 2005 Crunk Juice is set to release sometime early in 2009.

As everyone knows, Lil Jon was previously signed to TVT Records where he put out many albums including "Kings Of Crunk' and "Put Yo Hood Up," too bad TVT filed for bankruptcy protection earlier this year, although it's a good thing for the "YAAAAA" man as he became a free agent able to sign deals like the one mentioned above.



Jim Jones Makes His Own SLU, Talks Sh*t About T.I.

Jim Jones is pissed he wasn't on "Swagger Like Us" from T.I. Jones thinks it was on purpose, “I really do think it was deliberate; maybe in my sick twisted mind I’m a little crazy. People know who set the precedent as far as fashion in this industry and people know who damn near changed the world as far as fashion...in the past five years I stepped in and gave them a taste of what rock and roll looks like from my side. I guess people would say from an urban side, and it seemed to catch on like wildfire, to the point that people was going to stores and asking for that Jim Jones look.”

Jones is making his own version of the track called "Jackin Swagger From Us" that will feature Lil Wayne and Juelz Santana. Jones went on to talk about T.I. (who he has beef with) saying “I don’t feel like he possesses any swag. Not like that. It’s fabricated. They’re watching other people, then they try and do it. You know people that dress like T.I.? You know people that go out and say let me get a T.I. outfit or do you know people who say, 'Yo, you’re looking like Jim Jones?' Which one? Lemme hear it! When the bitches want to fuck you and the niggas want be like you, who got the swag? Niggas with money and fame always going to look like they doing something ’cause they got the camera in front of them. But the cool dudes always stick out no matter where they at.”

Previously this week, Clinton Sparks talked to T.I. [watch here], filled him in on the Jim Jones comments and TIP said “Well you know what, that's very funny that either one of you should mention that because my clothing line Akoo will be in stores in November and I believe there will be quite a few people going out to get it. So hopefully, I can step my swag up a little bit. Maybe I can meet his standards. I ain't trippin' over that, man.”





Beyonce And Mos Def Release Cadillac Records In December

The highly anticipated movie starring Jay-Z's girl, better known as Beyonce Knowles, and rapper Mos Def, will hit theatres on December 5th. Called "Cadillac Records," the movie is the story of legendary Chicago record label Chess Records, home to a number of artists include Etta James (played by Beyonce) and Chuck Berry (played by Mos Def). Set in Chicago in the 1950's the movie also details the story of Muddy Waters, Howlin Wolf, Litter Walter and founders of Chess Records, Leonard and Phil Ches.

Besides the two music stars rounding out the cast will be Garielle Union (Bad Boys II, Martin's under cover cop sister), Emmanuelle-Chriqui (Entourage, E's girlfriend Sloan), Eamonn Walker (Lord Of War, Crazy African Leader), Tammy Blanchard (Stealing Harvard, Noreen Plummer) and of course Cedric The Entertainer.

Darnell Martin (known for his television directing on "Law & Order," "Greys Anatomy," "OZ," "ER" etc ) wrote and will direct the film while Beyonce will executive produce. Beyonce will also produce the films soundtrack that features classic Chess Records recordings plus new material from Beyoncé herself, plus Mos Def, Buddy Guy, Raphael Saddiq, Solange, and Q-Tip.

Cadillac Records hits theatres on December 5th while it's soundtrack hits stores on December 2nd.



50 Cent Says Get Up With His First Official Single From New Album

50 Cent's new album "Before I Self Destruct" is not scheduled to hit stores untill December 9th but his first single hit the internet just now! "Get Up" [listen here] is produced by Scott Storch and 50 said via his website, with the single people should "prepare for total domination."

So will this song help boost 50 and his new album back to the sales ranks he saw with "Get Rich Or Die Tryin" and help compete with his friends rumored albums (Eminem & Dr Dre)? No one knows yet but time will tell.





Kanye Debuts Love Lockdown Video On Ellen Show

Mr. West visted the Ellen DeGeneres show yesterday and opened up about the way he looks at life since his mother, Donda West, died last November from complications following a cosmetic-surgery procedure. Kanye says the new outlook on life is what made him decide to work with MTV again, after he said he would never do so following the 2007 Video Music Awards. "Well, a lot of things changed and, you know, with my mom passing ... one of her goals was, she really supported me and she always wanted me to be the best that I could be and not get hung up on the small things," Kanye told Ellen. "So, with her not being here to try and talk me into doing things, I ... just try do things she would want me to do," Kanye continued. Ellen even commented on Kanye's mom (who she actually met), saying "She was amazing. ... She was just lovely, and you were as close to her as I am with my mom."

Things did get more positive when Kanye started talking about fashion. West praised Ellen for her wardrove choices saying "You have really great style," and even admitted that he would "completely wear" her outfits. Kanye gave advice to viewers who don't know how to find their own style, saying "Seriously, [DeGeneres] is one of the people you should look at whenever you're trying to figure out how to put together an outfit — especially for guys."

The main reason for Kanye's visit to Ellen's show was to debut his new video which DeGeneres called "brilliant." Kanye West let Ellen debut his new video for "Love Lockdown" [watch here] on the show and her website. "Love Lockdown" is the first single from his new album 808s and Heartbreak, due in stores on November 25th.



Rick Ross Admits He Was A Correctional Officer

Rick Ross has finally given up the denial and is admitting to in fact being a Florida correctional officer for 18 months. Pictures first surfaced showing Ross in a correctional officer uniform then TheSmokingGun published actual documents proving that "William Leonard Roberts" (Rick Ross's real name) was in fact an officer. At first Rick Ross denied it telling AllHipHop that the photos were simply doctored, "Online hackers put my face when I was a teenager in high school on other peoples' body."

NOW Rick Ross has given up denying it. In the recent issue of Don Diva magazine, Rick Ross says "Yes, it's me." continuing "I never tried to hide my past. I put my name inside my CDs. My company has my [Social Security number]. I could've put a company name...I done been up and I done been down and that's what makes me what I am. I never ratted on a nigga. I never prosecuted a nigga. I never locked up a nigga, that's first and foremost. I always felt that me being the nigga that I am, I never owed a nigga an explanation. When I'm making my music and I'm talking about blow, it's because I did it. When I say that I'm rich off cocaine, it's because I did it. Those are the street principals that apply."



Jay-Z Cancels Show, Releases New Song

As we reported yesterday, Jay-Z planned to do a second free Obama concert last night but he ended up cancelling the show because he had throat problems. Organizers first tried to stall, saying Jay-Z was just late, but they eventually had to announce Jigga wasn't coming. Yesterday was the last day for eligible voters to register so organizers feel like it was a huge opportunity missed, although they should be greatful for the free show Jay-Z did the day before. Also scheduled to perform at the free show were Wyclef Jean and Rick Ross but the entire event ended up being cancelled after backlash from fans after Jay-Z pulled out.

In related news, Jay-Z recently put out a new song called "Lick A Shot For Obama" [listen here] The song is actualy an interlude from Green Lantern's upcoming "Yes We Can" mixtape, so make sure you check it out now!



R. Kelly Wins 3.4 Million, Ne-Yo Gets 700k

R. Kelly won another court case, this time it resulted in him getting close to $3.4 million dollars. A judge today awarded the R&B singer the money for unpaid touring fees. R Kelly's company filled paperwork in Los Angeles requesting a judge to review and confirm the money he was granted from an arbitrator last month.

In R. Kelly tour related news, Ne-Yo was recently given $700,320 last month when he sued the same company R. Kelly is waiting payment from. Ne-Yo claimed he was the opening act for R. Kelly and when he was kicked off, he wasn't paid for his work.