The Hip Hop News Network

Lil Wayne's Manager Explains Third Concert Cancellation

2009-01-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

While Lil’ Wayne fans in Rochester, New York may not be getting the show they expected at the Blue Cross Arena tonight (January 21), the superstar promises he will make it up to them with a bigger and better show this spring.

His manager Cortez Bryant told AllHipHop.com exclusively that a stop in Rochester is being added to the third leg of the I Am Music Tour, which is being routed right now.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Daz and Mother Prep Gospel Video

2009-01-21T09:44:00.000-08:00

Daz Dillinger is set to make a surprising foray into gospel alongside his mother, Dr. Allean Varnado Lang.

Dr. Lang is an evangelist who signed last year with Empty Vessel Music, an independent Atlanta-based label.

The video is for the song "I'm Good," which Dr. Lang conceptualized around the premise of children who are neglected and written off as lost causes.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Artists Talk Barack Obama's Inauguration As 44th President

2009-01-21T09:41:00.000-08:00

As the nation prepares for the inauguration of Barack Obama today (January 20), hitmaking R&B crooner D’Angelo and a number of rappers are weighing in on the impact the soon-to-be President will have over the next four years.

The singer is among those who believe Obama's presidency will result in an upward swing for the country in light of current economic issues and negative perceptions among those living in and outside the U.S.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Jim Jones Charged with Assault For Scuffle w/ Jay-Z Associate

2009-01-06T00:20:00.000-08:00

On Monday January 5, 2009 Dipset Capo Jim Jones appeared at the 18th Precinct in New York City to speak to the police about an alleged physical altercation that took place on Christmas Eve. As a result of the meeting, Jones has been slapped with a misdemeanor assault charge and a court appearance has been scheduled for February 4th.

As SOHH.com's Gyant Scoop blog previously reported early rumors said Jim Jones got into an altercation with the brother of Ty-Ty Smitha long-time Jay-Z associate. Jones has had a very public beef with Jay-Z.

FULL STORY at HIPHOPDX

T.I. Makes Court Appearance Over $8,000 Attorney Fee

2009-01-03T23:56:00.000-08:00

With a just a little more than a month before serving time on federal weapons charges, T.I. will head to court for another legal matter.

According to the Associated Press, lawyers for LaShon Dixon, the mother of T.I.’s son’s, claim the rapper owes $8,000 for an attorney bill in Dixon’s child custody case against the rapper.

In September, T.I. was ordered to pay more than $3,000 a month to Dixon as well as the private school tuition and uninsured medical bills for the boys.

FULL STORY @ ALLHIPHOP

Lil Kim Upset at New NOTORIOUS Film

2009-01-02T23:51:00.000-08:00

In a new interview with Hip Hop Weekly, Lil Kim slams Big’s mother, Ms. Voletta Wallace, and the late rapper’s wife, Faith Evans, for their involvement in the upcoming Biggie biopic, Notorious, in theaters January 16.

“I’ve had enough and I’m about to expose them both… I’ve been quiet for a long time. I’m very disappointed in Faith,” Kim told the hip hop tabloid this week. “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.”

Lil Wayne Becomes Voice of Gatorade

2009-01-02T23:37:00.001-08:00

Mega rap star Lil' Wayne has been chosen as one of the voice-overs for the newly designed Gatorade beverage.

In a new commercial for the popular sports drink, Weezy is heard narrating a description of what "g" represents, as popular sports figures like Dwayne Wade, Serena Williams and Bill Russell glare into the camera.

"[G's] the emblem of a warrior, it's the swagger of an athlete, a champion and dynasty," Weezy says in the commercial. "It's gifted, golden, genuine and glorious. It is a lower-case god. It's the goat. Ha-ha. The greatest of all time."

As the 60-second video continues to scroll past other public figures, including the Yankee's Derek Jeter holding a bat and Muhammad Ali facing off with his fists, Weezy wraps up the meaning of "G." "What's G," he asks. "It is the heart, hustle and soul of the game. That's G."

Aiming for a new look, Gatorade's parent company, PepsiCo, is using the new "G" campaign as an opportunity to create new packaging and rename line extensions.

"For Gatorade," the company wrote in a statement, "G represents the heart, hustle and soul of athleticism and will become a badge of pride for anyone who sweats."

Renamed line extensions include Gatorade Fierce becoming Bring It and X-Factor receiving the newly amped name Be Tough.

In related news, Weezy's Tha Carter III sold the most overall albums of 2008 with around 2.88 million units sold.

According to Billboard, the rapper's latest project outsold efforts from mega acts including Coldplay, which sold 2.15 million, and Kid Rock with over 2 million.

However, this is the first time a best selling album of the year has moved less than 3 million albums since the start of Nielsen SoundScan began recording scanned units.

Dr. Dre's Son Died of a Drug Overdose

2009-01-02T23:33:00.000-08:00

A California coroner has confirmed Dr. Dre's son, Andre Young, Jr. passed away last summer over a drug overdose.

According to People, the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner said the 20 year-old died after using heroin and morphine.

"This case has been closed," coroner spokesman Larry Dietz told People. "It's been ruled an accident due to morphine and heroin intoxication."

While early reports suggested an overdose, an official confirmation had been pending for nearly four months.

As previously reported by SOHH, Young Jr. was discovered motionless by his mother, Jenita Porter, August 23 in their Woodland Hills, California residence.

In related news, Interscope head Jimmy Iovine recently promised the release of Dre's long-delayed Detox album this year.

"Dre's going back [to the studio] in January," Iovine told Billboard. "He'll be finished with Eminem by then, and he'll finish his album."

As of now, no release date information for Detox has been released by Interscope/Aftermath.

Oprah Donates To Kids For T.I. Voting Song

2009-01-02T23:27:00.000-08:00

Atlanta's Ron Clark Academy students, who famously remixed T.I.'s "Whatever You Like" with lyrics about the 2008 presidential election, received an unexpected Christmas gift from Oprah Winfrey.

Clark's middle school received a letter and a $365,000 check from Winfrey to help more children attend the institution which assists low income students receive a top notch education. The school runs almost completely on donations and now with the generous donation would be to pay the $14,000 tuition for 26 children to attend the academy.

"We teach school all day and fund raise at night," said Clark. "To have an unsolicited gift come like that is incredible."

Full Story at Hip Hop DX

Hip Hop Sampled Jazz Legend Freddie Hubbard Passes Away

2009-01-02T23:10:00.000-08:00

After suffering a heart attack one month ago, famed Jazz horn player Freddie Hubbard passed away just before the new year in Sherman Oaks, California. On December 29, the 70 year-old was surrounded by loved ones at the city's hospital as he passed away.

Hubbard recorded in over four decades, for CTI, Columbia and Atlantic Records. Work from the trumpeter has been sampled by Hip Hop groups including Pete Rock & CL Smooth [click to read], A Tribe Called Quest [click to read], Souls of Mischief and early Blackalicious [click to read] hit "Swan Lake."

A tribute show is said to be planned in New York this February.

Story at Hip Hop DX

18-year old flashes gang signs in Santa picture, faces jail time

2009-01-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Survey: Many would take Internet over sex

2008-12-16T13:21:00.000-08:00

Just how reliant are you on the Internet?

More women would give up sex rather than go without Internet access, according to a new survey.

Nearly half of the women questioned by Harris Interactive said they'd be willing to forgo sex for two weeks, rather than give up their Internet access, according to a study released Monday by Intel, which commissioned the survey.

While 46 percent of the women surveyed were willing to engage in abstinence versus losing their Internet, only 30 percent of the men surveyed were willing to do likewise.

The U.S. survey, which queried 2,119 adults last month, found that the gap grew even wider for both men and woman who were 18 to 34 years old. For woman, the percentage of those willing to skip the sheets in favor of the Web rose to 49 percent, while it climbed to 39 percent for men.

Check Out Full Article @ CNN

Lil Wayne Responds To 'A Milli' Being MTVs Hip-Hop Single Of The Year: 'Man, That's Big!'

2008-12-16T13:19:00.000-08:00

'We're gonna come harder and stronger in '09!,' Weezy promises.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

New Dr. Dre Track Leaks

2008-12-16T13:16:00.000-08:00

Dr. Dre Raps On Leaked Remix Of Kardinal Offishall's 'Set It Off'DJ Skee premieres the new track on his radio show Monday night.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

The Hip Hop Wars

2008-12-16T13:13:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to have gotten a copy of The Hip Hop Wars, subtitled What We Talk About When We Talk About Hip Hop -- and Why It Matters, by Tricia Rose, who is currently a Professor of Africana Studies at Brown University:

"Rose explores the most crucial issues underlying the polarized claims on each side of the debate: Does hip-hop cause violence, or merely reflect a violent ghetto culture? Is hip-hop sexist, or are its detractors simply anti-sex? Does the portrayal of black culture in hip-hop undermine black advancement?"

Check Out Full Article @ Pro Hip-Hop

T.I.'s "Whatever You Like" A Sign Of The Times?

2008-12-16T13:11:00.000-08:00

When we look back on 2008, many people will remember two distinct and opposite events; America’s economic turmoil and the election of Barack Obama to presidency. Though the latter provides us with hope for the future, the former is something we cannot escape from memory. Or is it?

In a recent study done by Terry Pettijohn, II and Donald F. Sacco, Jr., entitled Psychology of Music, they looked at #1 chart topping songs and how they are interrelated to the times of that year. “When socioeconomic conditions were more challenging, the songs that had more meaningful themes and content were most popular,” Pettijohn told Rolling Stone.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

UK Producer Endemic Readies Debut With Sean Price

2008-12-16T13:07:00.000-08:00

2009 is set to be a big year for US releases but UK producer Endemic hopes to hold his own against the heavyweights with his debut album Terminal Illness.

With guest appearances that include Sean Price, Hell Razah, Planet Asia and Killah Priest [click to read], Endemic is attempting to capture the mid-'90s New York sound that he loved to listen to growing up.

"My album isn't necessarily what you expect of when you think UK Hip Hop," said the Nottingham producer.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Mos Def Sued by His Own Divorce Lawyers

2008-12-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

Mos Def has recently received an early Christmas present from his own lawyers, yet it’s a good bet that he likely won’t enjoy it.

According to StarPulse.com, the Philadelphia-based legal firm Blank Rome, who represented and aided Mos Def in his 2006 divorce with his then-wife Maria Yepes, has filed a lawsuit against the rapper/actor. The lawsuit is stated to amount to $60,000, which includes unpaid fees and retainers for which Blank Rome alleges Mos Def has not paid off. A representative for the Brooklyn rapper could not be reached for comment.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Tanya Morgan, Souls Of Mischief Close Knitting Factory

2008-12-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

Hip Hop groups Souls Of Mischief and Tanya Morgan are just a few of the acts lined up for the December 16 show at New York's legendary Knitting Factory.

The show will serve as one of the last Hip Hop shows to be performed at the Knitting Factory before they close their doors at the end of the year.

The Knitting Factory will officially close its doors at the end of the year and will re-open next year at a new, smaller location in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Since it's opening in 1987, The Knitting Factory has served as an outlet for both independent artists and well known acts.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Mike Jones Launches New Cognac Line; New Album

2008-12-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

Houston rapper Mike Jones has announced a new venture with ProConcept Marketing Group, Inc to endorse an exclusive new line of Cognac liquor from the “House of Dobbe’.”

Jones and ProConcept will together strategize promotional events and concert tours in major markets to promote the product.

Currently, both parties are planning a special Super Bowl event to dually promote Mike Jones’ new album and the Cognac line.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

50 Cent Opens Up About Long Island House Fire

2008-12-16T12:50:00.000-08:00

Months after his Long Island home was destroyed by fire, rapper 50 Cent is speaking out on the circumstances leading up to the blaze.

During an upcoming interview with Access Hollywood‘s TV One Access, the G-Unit frontman revealed his home went up in flames, just days after his ex-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins was ordered to leave the residence.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Turntablist DJ Rob Swift Reveals Secrets In 'As The Technics Spin'

2008-12-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Hip-Hop turntablist Rob Swift is making good on his vow to give back to the art of DJ’ing with his upcoming DVD, As the Technics Spin.

The DVD, which was directed by Eljay Williams, offers a glimpse into Swift’s creative process as the X-ecutioners member creates his classic battle/showcase sets and reveals the origin behind his style of Djing.

According to Swift, As the Technics Spin falls in line with his goal of expanding his musical reach among fans.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Bun B., Timbaland Assisting Ginuwine On New Album

2008-12-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

As he prepares his long delayed return to the R&B world, singer Ginuwine has enlisted the help of two Hip-Hop heavyweights, one a long-time collaborator.

The singer, who rose to superstardom in the late 90s following the success of his debut single “Pony,” is currently in the studio with producer Timbaland working on his sixth studio album, Asylum Records revealed today.

The New Beginning will be Ginuwine’s first since in four years.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Common: Obama will change hip-hop's attitude

2008-12-09T17:09:00.000-08:00

The rapper Common wants to take hip-hop in a new direction, he says, and he has an unsuspecting ally -- President-elect Barack Obama.

Common says he was looking for a new sound on his eighth album, "Universal Mind Control."

"I really do believe we as hip-hop artists pick up what's going on in the world and try to reflect that," he told CNN, outlining his belief that mainstream as well as so-called "conscious" rappers -- the more socially aware -- will pick up on what he sees as the more optimistic prospects of an Obama presidency.

"I think hip-hop artists will have no choice but to talk about different things and more positive things, and try to bring a brighter side to that because, even before Barack, I think people had been tired of hearing the same thing," he said.

Check Out Full Article @ CNN

will.i.am Rumored To Produce On New U2 Album

2008-12-09T16:08:00.000-08:00

After serving as producer on albums for artists such as Usher, Flo Rida, Estelle, and Whitney Houston, will.i.am may also serve as producer for Irish rock group U2's newest album. Via his blog, Kanye West stated the multi-talented Black Eyed Peas frontman would be lending his production ear to U2, who have three albums which have sold over 5 million copies.

In an interview with Billboard, will.i.am discussed the Black Eyed Peas' upcoming album The END which will be released next year. Described as a virtual album, The END, which stands for The Energy Never Dies, will be somewhat of a continuous album, with songs being added to the album on a continuous basis.

http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.8230/title.will-i-am-rumored-to-produce-on-new-u2-album

Keys 2 The City Continues With Blu, Concert Tonight

2008-12-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

In Imeem's "Keys To The City" series, joined in support by HipHopDX, 2DopeBoyz and Urb magazine, the next tour guide of Los Angeles is Blu.

The new episode can be found [click to read]. “In this first of three Keys 2 The City clips, Blu describes the 'west coast bubble' that makes up LA's inclusive Hip Hop/Jazz/Rock/Soul scene and highlights the musical fusion L.A.'s next movement of artists brings to the game," said Keys To The City producer Will Abramson.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Akon talks Hip Hop Harmony, Kanye And Michael Jackson

2008-12-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

There is an undeniable trend in rap that has emcees trading their 16's for some crooning. Akon has noticed and feels he is responsible for that trend.

"As an artist, depending on who you are, you should never be in a situation where you feel threatened by another artist," he told MTV in a recent interview. "If anything, I embrace the fact that they're doing it. Music changes every year. I'm just happy [about] the fact that people are jumping on what we're already doing. I look at it like a tribute to what we're already doing, and I look at it like a compliment, really."

"I say 'you're welcome' every time I hear [rappers singing]...A melody has a way of describing [words], 'cause of the emotions that come with melody. Melody brings it out better than a bland vocal. It's easier to relate."

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Common Calls Universal Mind Control His New Child

2008-12-09T15:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune may not have been so enthusiastic about Common's eighth and latest studio release Universal Mind Control. However, the biggest critic for Common can only be himself.

Serving as a rebuttal, Common gave his own assessment of the new album in a video blog from his website Thinkcommon.com today. "I wanna review this album," Common starts off. "After listening to this album extensively and really assessing it and just listening to the songs and seeing how I really thought about it, I would say I'd have to give this album an A-plus. A 10, really an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10. Five stars if I was Rolling Stone, XXL if I was XXL [magazine]."

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Shawty Redd Reacts To "Sensual Seduction" Grammy Nom

2008-12-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

After years producing primarily for Young Jeezy as well as Pastor Troy and 8Ball & MJG, Atlanta producer Shawty Redd was honored this year from the Grammy's with his work earlier this year with Snoop Dogg.

Redd was nominated for "Rap Song of The Year" for "Sensual Seduction," a hit from the beginning of this year on Snoop's Ego Trippin'. On the album, the song was titled "Sexual Eruption," a title change was made for the radio single.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

DMX Arrested In Miami, Florida

2008-12-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

DMX has been apprehended by FBI Agents at a friends house in Miami, according to reports.

The rapper was arrested today (December 9), after police followed up on a tip in regards to his location.

Police could not confirm if the rapper was being treated at a local rehab facility as his lawyer Bradford Cohen has suggested in previous, published reports.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Unauthorized Bobby Brown Biography Hits Stores Today

2008-12-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

The tumultuous life of Grammy award-winning singer Bobby Brown is now the subject of The Truth, The Whole Truth, and Nothing But…, a new “unauthorized biography” of the artist’s life.

Initially, the book was a private memoir for Brown to reflect on his volatile 20-plus years in the entertainment industry.

Author Derrick Handspike, a longtime friend and co-writer of Andre Rison’s autobiography, urged the singer to seriously consider transforming his memoir into a no frills autobiography.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Busta Apologizes For 'Arab Money' Misunderstanding

2008-12-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

Only hours after expressing his outrage over Busta Rhymes’ controversial song “Arab Money,” Iraqi-born rapper The Narcicyst told AllHipHop.com that he received a personal phone call from Busta himself last night (December 8), apologizing for the misunderstanding created by the song.

According to Narcicyst, the two rappers spent nearly half an hour on the phone discussing Busta’s original intent in making the song, which the veteran rapper says was meant to pay homage to Arab culture.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Violator All-Star DJ's Drop K-Swift Dedication Album

2008-12-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

Violator All-Star DJs and M.I.A. are partnering with Koch Entertainment to celebrate and support the release of the late K-Swift’s Greatest Hits album.

K-Swift, real name Khia Edgerton, died in a tragic pool accident on July 21.

A growing star, Swift at the time of her death had the one of the top rated radio shows in the Baltimore market, and a wildly popular mixtape series entitled The Jump Off.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Grandmaster Flash Enlists Snoop, Q-Tip, Busta for New Album

2008-12-08T16:04:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Hip-Hop turntablist Grandmaster Flash is set to kick off 2009 with a brand new studio album entitled The Bridge: Concept Of a Culture.

Backed by Strut Records and Flash’s very own Adrenaline City Entertainment, the LP marks the DJ's first major label release of all original material since 1988’s On the Strength, the last album that featured the original Furious Five lineup.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Big Boi, Ludacris, Others Unite For Urban Ball Inaugural Celebration

2008-12-08T16:00:00.000-08:00

Ludacris and Big Boi are teaming up. The Atlanta duo is reportedly putting together a show for President-elect Barack Obama. According to a variety of reports, Ludacris and Big Boi have joined forces to host the Urban Ball, part of the American Music Inaugural Balls, an event set to take place in Washington, D.C. on January 20.

T-Pain, David Banner, Cedric the Entertainer, Bobby Valentino, Lil Jon, The Cheetah Girls, Monica and Fantasia Barrino are confirmed to perform, according to various news outlets. Former NBA players Alonzo Mourning, Kenny "The Jet" Smith and Jalen Rose are also said to be confirmed to attend.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

MC Eiht & Nik Bean Talk Mixtape, Squashing CMW Beef

2008-12-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

West coast Hip Hop fans this morning may have noticed "Def Wish V" in HipHopDX's audio section. The MC Eiht track comes from Nik Bean's new mixtape with the Compton legend entitled All Starz & Strapz (Streetz of L.A.)

The latest entry in the "Def Wish" series may have come as a surprise to some. Whereas the series began over 15 years ago in Eiht battling DJ Quik in the highly publicized Compton feud between rival gang members and emcees, the latest edition was turned on longtime collaborator and Comptons Most Wanted member Tha Chill.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

T.I. Addreses Young Buck And Killer Mike Rumors

2008-12-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

Since moving from LaFace to Atlantic, T.I. has enjoyed a string of success matched by few artists. While his current deal gives him the ability to sign acts to his Grand Hustle imprint, artists such as Big Kuntry and Young Dro have yet to attain a level of critical or commercial success anywhere near that of Tip. According to his recent interview with MTV, two additions to Grand Hustle--one rumored, and one very much in the preliminary phase--may change things

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Sterling Simms Talks Hip Hop, Debut, Soul Renaissance

2008-12-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

Listeners first heard Sterling Simms on Jay-Z's "Dig A Hole" from 2006's Kingdom Come album. In the two years since, the 26 year-old Def Jam artist has appeared prominently with rappers, with his Jadakiss-assisted "All I Need" in rotation now.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Lil Wayne Documentary Will Premier At Sundance

2008-12-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

Although a teaser trailer of Lil Wayne's The Carter documentary has been around since the summer, it was recently revealed that it will be unveiled in its entirety at the Sundance film festival.

The film is directed by respected music documentary film maker Adam Bhala Lough. According to various sources, Bryan "Birdman" Williams and Wayne's manager Cortez Bryant will also be featured in the film.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Topps and Funkmaster Flex Create First DJ Card

2008-12-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

Influential New York DJ Funkmaster Flex has announced a brand new partnership with The Topps

Company to unveil the Funk Master Flex autographed card, the first ever awarded to a DJ.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

OJ Simpson Drops Gangsta Rap In Outrageous New Video/DVD

2008-12-08T13:24:00.000-08:00

O.J. Simpson’s recent 15-year jail sentence hasn’t prevented him from releasing “Get Juiced,” the NFL Hall of Famer’s first ever rap video.

O.J. Simpon’s new rap video was conceived as a prank for a DVD entitled Juiced, which showcases the controversial football great performing pranks on unsuspecting victims, in the vein of Ashton Kutcher’s Punk’d.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Actor De'Angelo Wilson In Eminem's '8 Mile' Found Dead

2008-12-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

An aspiring Dayton, Ohio actor who starred in Eminem’s hit movie 8 Mile has been found dead of an apparent suicide, AllHipHop.com has confirmed.

Actor De'Angelo Wilson, who starred as “DJ Iz” in 8 Mile, apparently hung himself on November 26, just one day before Thanksgiving.

According to police, Wilson, who also had a role in the hit movie Antwone Fisher, was found dead in the back room of a Los Angeles business, although it took police a week to locate his next of kin.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Black Eyed Peas Tap Into New 'Energy'

2008-12-05T14:19:00.000-08:00

The Black Eyed Peas are planning more of a "music diary" than a conventional album when the group releases "The END" in March.

Group leader will.i.am tells Billboard.com that "The END" stands for "The Energy Never Dies," which describes his model for a project that will be living and frequently updated throughout its designated cycle.

Check Out Full Article @ Billboard

Lil Wayne Producers Shocked By Grammy Nod

2008-12-05T14:16:00.000-08:00

Sibling duo Play-N-Skillz scored their first Grammy last year for best rap performance by duo or group for their production on Chamillionaire's "Ridin'." But for Play, this week's album of the year nomination for Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III" is by far the "biggest accolade you can receive." The pair produced the album's third single, "Got Money."

Check Out Full Article @ Billboard

Morello: Don't Hold Breath For Rage Album

2008-12-05T14:10:00.000-08:00

With two albums out, more than 50 songs that have not yet been recorded and a world gone awry, Tom Morello plans to stay busy as the Nightwatchman for the foreseeable future.

But one project he won't be working on is a new album from Rage Against The Machine, which reformed in 2007 after a seven-year break.

"There are no plans for that," Morello tells Billboard. "We've had a wonderful year and a half of playing shows, and I don't see any reason to not play more shows. The thing is there's only so many hours in the musical day, and mine are very occupied right now."

Check Out Full Article @ Billboard

DJ Drama Says He Wants To 'Make History Again' With Young Jeezy, Not Beef

2008-12-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

If there are things me and Jeezy need to speak about, that's for us to do,' Dram tells MTV News.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

New Eminem Song 'Number One' -- Apparently Produced By Dr. Dre -- Drops On Mixtape

2008-12-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

No official word yet on whether song will appear on either Em's Relapse or Dre's Detox.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

Juelz Santana Explains Album Delays

2008-12-05T14:02:00.000-08:00

Due to label issues and what appears to be at least one internal rift within the Diplomats, Juelz Santana hasn't released a full-length studio album since 2005. His sophomore effort, What the Game's Been Missing!, peaked at number one on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart during the height of Diplomat popularity. Now, with his own Skull Gang crew in tow, and a renegotiated deal with Def Jam, Juelz speaks to HipHopDX about his future plans.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

T.I.: There's 'No Place In My Life' For Shawty Lo Beef

2008-12-05T13:54:00.000-08:00

T.I. spoke to MTV News recently on the set of "Saturday Night Live," during which the rapper will be serving as the musical guest.

During this time, T.I. spoke about his oft-talked-about beef with fellow rapper Shawty Lo. Members of both rappers' entourages got into several fights during last week's Dirty Awards in Atlanta. At some point, T.I. and Shawty Lo had a private conversation about the squashing their beef.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Kanye West Plans To Intern In The Fashion World

2008-12-05T13:49:00.000-08:00

Recently, HipHopDX reported that Kanye West was looking to explore his artistic options after touring and promoting the release of his fourth studio album 808's & Heartbreak. At the time, Kanye stated, “I'm going to go and take an internship with something and just do something that's like completely normal, and just rap on the weekends.”

Looks like Kanye is following through on these plans.

According to the New York Times, Mr. West has his sights on joining the likes of Louis Vuitton or Raf Simons, with an internship as his starting point. As odd as it would be to see a multi-platinum artist begin another career from the bottom, it was equally astounding when West contacted Simons himself.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

DJ Vlad Talks Website, American Gangster Finale

2008-12-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

Already a power player in the mixtape world, multi-faceted DJ Vlad has now set his sights on conquering the website and film markets.

In October DJ Vlad launched www.vladtv.com, an already fast growing Hip-Hop based video site birthed from the success of Vlad’s YouTube channel and website, Vladtv.com.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Charges Against Suge Knight Tossed

2008-12-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

Two felony drug charges and one misdemeanor assault charge against Marion “Suge” Knight were dismissed by a Las Vegas judge.

Prosecutors accused Knight, 43, of assaulting a female acquaintance named Melissa Isaac, on August 27, during a heated argument.

Knight was accused of striking Isaac, who was allegedly found by LVPD officers naked on the side of the road, as Knight stood over her with a knife.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

DMX In Rehab; Judge Issues Arrest Warrant For Rapper

2008-12-05T13:36:00.000-08:00

An arrest warrant has been issued for troubled rapper DMX, who missed a scheduled court appearance in Arizona today (December 5).

DMX was due in court today to face charges related to drug, identity theft and animal cruelty charges but missed the date, because he is currently in rehab at an undisclosed location.

A judge in Maricopa County has ruled that the rapper must post $120,000 cash bond or he will be arrested and held in jail. DMX, born Earl Simmons, faces a litany of charges, stemming from several different incidents.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Producer Polow To Pay 'Rent For A Year' To ATL Resident

2008-12-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

Polow Da Don and Zone 4, Inc. have extended the submission deadline for this year’s Free Rent For A Year contest due to the popularity and level of interest in the charitable endeavor, the label announced this week.

The essay competition, now in it’s second year, is open until January 1, 2009 at midnight to applicants 18 and over residing in the Atlanta Metropolitan area.

The Free Rent For A Year contest kicked off last Tuesday (November 25) during Zone 4’s second annual Give Thanks Carnival.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Will Smith's Red Pearl To Distribute Films In Middle East

2008-12-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

Will Smith is taking his knack for success overseas, with a new venture involving his production company Overbrook Entertainment.

According to Variety, Overbrook has joined forces with D Media to launch Red Pearl Pictures, a new company that will distribute Western films throughout the Middle East.

Red Pearl joins a number of key Middle Eastern distributors that have existing deals with the U.S. studios and independents.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

8 Best Gifts Under $15

2008-12-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

Need a grab-bag toy or stocking stuffers? Check out these inexpensive standouts.

Check Out Full Article @ CNN

As genocide raged, general's pleas for help ignored

2008-12-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

In 1993, Romeo Dallaire was full of hope for the future of Rwanda.

Romeo Dallaire, now a Canadian senator, says that in Rwanda, he "shook hands with the devil."

A year later he left Rwanda a broken man, having watched helplessly as more than 800,000 people perished in Rwanda's genocide despite his pleas for more troops to stop the massacre.

"We could have actually saved hundreds of thousands," Dallaire told CNN's Christiane Amanpour for "Scream Bloody Murder."

Check Out Full Article @ CNN

'Notorious' Soundtrack Details Revealed

2008-12-03T12:49:00.000-08:00

Features Jay-Z, Jadakiss, Faith Evans, Biggie's SonGreatest hits, rare tracks fill out soundtrack to biopic, due in January.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

Kanye West Denouces Wet Seal Carries Clothing Line

2008-12-03T12:47:00.000-08:00

It seems Kanye West has a lot on his mind. Yesterday, we reported his latest comments regarding his mother's passing and the break up he endured. Kanye's blogging didn't end there, however. Instead, 'Ye hit the blogs once more to speak on which rapper actually gets some rotation in his apartment and on why his work ethic is something to be proud of.

In his latest entry, West also denounces rumors that his clothing line will be available at Wet Seal, a store that carries women's clothing. The store does carry some West gear online, including a t-shirt for his last album. With all of this talk, message boards and blogs went crazy with the news, but 'Ye announced that he would not be designing clothes for Wet Seal.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 11/30/08

2008-12-03T12:45:00.000-08:00

Black Friday fueled the domestic record sales market last week, with millions of Americans flocking to the electronic stores that carry CDs. An exciting week to begin with, Kanye West assumed his pole position with his departure from rapping 808's & Heartbreak. The release significantly under-sold last year's Graduation and sold less first week numbers than Beyonce saw last week with her I Am...Sasha Fierce, despite an extra day of sales (amidst a holiday week).

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Houston Radio KPFT Pays Star Studded Tribute To Pimp C

2008-12-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

At midnight, it will be one year since Chad "Pimp C" Butler tragically died last year. The rapper and producer, one half of UGK, has been honored throughout the year since, notably Bun B's "Angel In The Sky", and through memorial shirts and lyrics.

Houston's KPFT 90.1 FM radio will honor the Texas rap pioneer with a three hour radio show at midnight tonight, to bring in the one year anniversary with music, commentary and heartfelt praise of Pimp C. The show will also broadcast on 89.5 FM in Galveston.

Invited call-ins and guests include David Banner, DJ Paul [click to read], Greg Nice, Pimp's mother "Mama Wes" and others. Bun B will be in the studio to help orchestrate the event.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Suge Knight's Mansion Sold In Bankruptcy Court

2008-12-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

On the heels of yesterday's official announcement that the economy is in a recession, Death Row Records co-founder Marion "Suge" Knight may be Hip Hop's first casualty. The Los Angeles Times reports Knight's $6.2 million Malibu mansion was recently sold in bankruptcy court for $4.56 million.

The sale is likely the last in a financial freefall that began when Knight and Death Row filed for bankruptcy protection in April of 2006. Since then, both Warner and Global Music Group have either claimed ties to or tried to acquire the former home of artists such as Dr. Dre, 2Pac and Snoop Dogg.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Photographer Sues Chris Brown, Rihanna For $1 Million

2008-12-03T11:27:00.000-08:00

A photographer is seeking $1 million in a lawsuit against singers Rihanna and Chris Brown.

Luis Santana, 26, alleges that the two stars' bodyguards beat him and stole their camera in May. Santana is seeking the money to replace a $3,000 camera that was broken and stolen, the photos he lost, and to compensate him for his injuries and emotional distress.

According to the St. Petersburg Times, the lawsuit is based on a May 6 incident during Brown's 19th birthday celebration at Vintage Ultra Lounge in St. Petersburg. The club, as well as three bodyguards, are also named in the suit.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

DJ Suspended Over Busta's 'Arab Money'; Busta Replies To Critics

2008-12-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

Busta Rhymes continues to face adversity in the United Kingdom, as the airing of the rapper’s latest single “Arab Money” has resulted in a popular DJ’s suspension.

Global Radio owns and operates Galaxy Radio, which broadcasts Steve “Smooth” Sutherland’s show in Manchester, Yorkshire, Birmingham, York Shire, the South Coast, the North East and Scotland.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Giants suspend, fine Burress; WR's season over

2008-12-02T20:31:00.000-08:00

Just 10 months since he became a Super Bowl hero, Plaxico Burress's season is over -- and his future is very much in doubt.

The New York Giants fined and suspended Burress on Tuesday for four games — the rest of the regular season — after he accidentally shot himself in the right thigh over the weekend at a Manhattan nightclub. The team also placed him on the reserve non-football injury list, which means the wide receiver couldn't come back for playoffs, either.

Check Out Full Article @ USAToday

Penny pinchers can find nifty gifts for under $100

2008-12-02T20:25:00.000-08:00

Like many people concerned about the economy, Juan Castro, 27, says he's going to pass on the tech gifts he was planning to buy his wife this holiday season, which included a 26-inch HDTV and high-end speakers for her iPod. "I'm anticipating a rough 2009, and these items are upgrades to things we already own," says Castro, a publicist who lives in Fremont, Calif. "Although it would be great to have them, we can get along just fine without them."

Indeed, tech analysts including Roger Kay at Endpoint Technologies say the tough economy is going to spur people to buy less-expensive items and forgo some fancy upgrades. The good news: You can buy great gadget gifts for under a $100. Here are a few suggestions.

Check Out Full Article @ USAToday

Slaves helped build White House, U.S. Capitol

2008-12-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

In January, President-elect Barack Obama and his family will make history, becoming the first African-American first family to move into the White House -- a house with a history of slavery. In fact, the legacy of American presidents owning slaves goes all the way back to George Washington.

Twelve American presidents owned slaves and eight of them, starting with Washington, owned slaves while they lived in the White House. Almost from the very start, slaves were a common sight in the executive mansion. A list of construction workers building the White House in 1795 includes five slaves - named Tom, Peter, Ben, Harry and Daniel -- all put to work as carpenters. Other slaves worked as masons in the government quarries, cutting the stone for early government buildings, including the White House and U.S. Capitol. According to records kept by the White House Historical Association, slaves often worked seven days a week -- even in the hot and humid Washington summers.

Check Out Full Article @ CNN

Kanye West-Produced Jay-Z Song Confirmed For Bad Boy's 'Notorious' Soundtrack

2008-12-02T20:15:00.000-08:00

There is also talk that the Notorious B.I.G.'s son will appear on a 'One More Chance' remake for the disc.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

Young Jeezy And Nas Pay Tribute To Barack Obama, MLK, Public Enemy In 'My President' Video

2008-12-02T20:11:00.000-08:00

Jeezy hints at a possible tour with fellow Georgians T.I. and Ludacris.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

VidRap: The Three/21 Films Collection

2008-12-02T20:05:00.000-08:00

VidRap's back and I'm going to be posting large batches of videos around specific themes. Today's focus is Three/21 Media.

Check Out Full Article @ Pro Hip-Hop

Biographer Provides Excerpts From Controversial ODB Biography

2008-12-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

It's been a little over four years since Wu-Tang Clan's Ol' Dirty Bastard died from heart failure, due to what was believed to be an accidental drug overdose. Today, Jamie Lowe releases a biographical critique, entitled Digging for Dirt: The Life and Death of ODB.
Since news of the books release was made public, Ol' Dirty's mother, Cherry Jones, called for a ban and boycott of the book. HipHopDX has excerpts from the book via the Village Voice. As the courtroom battles continue, Wu fans can view exactly what hit bookshelves earlier today.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Young Jeezy, T.I., Ludacris Unite To Support Jim Martin

2008-12-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

Last night at the State Capitol in Georgia, Young Jeezy, T.I., Ludacris, and Kevin Liles teamed up to help bring out voters for Democrat Jim Martin.

Martin and Republican Saxby Chambliss have had their senate election sent into overtime due to the close number of votes. Today was the last day in Georgia for voters to cast their ballots to determine a winner in this long running battle.
The group of multi-platinum rappers and exec called on voters to help elect Jim Martin and add another Democrat to their Congress majority.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Kanye West Speaks Candidly About Mother, Religion, Rap

2008-12-02T19:55:00.000-08:00

When Kanye West speaks, it almost always causes some news buzz. Recently, 'Ye spoke at a press conference in New Zealand and lived up to the hype bestowed upon him. Journalists in attendance were told Kanye would accept all questions, except any dealing with his mother or gossip. However, 'Ye actually broke silence on the subject of his mother's tragic passing and went on to add more on whether he listens to Hip Hop or not and why he doesn't want to be like Jesus Christ.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Imeem Launches Keys To The City: L.A. With U-N-I

2008-12-02T19:46:00.000-08:00

Just as Hip Hop itself is inseparable from its birthplace in The Bronx, every aspiring emcee is eternally connected to the neighborhood they grew up in.

Imeem's "Keys 2 the City" series explores the bond between community and emcees by following them to the barbershops, BBQ joints, basketball courts, swap meets and schoolyards that shaped them into the artists we admire today. The Los Angeles series features collaborative work with HipHopDX, 2DopeBoyz.com and Urb magazine.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Beanie, Gillie, Philly Rappers Unite For 'Brotherly Love' Concert

2008-12-02T19:42:00.000-08:00

Former Philadelphia Hip-Hop rivals Beanie Sigel and Gillie Da Kid have put their differences aside and will appear on stage during a free concert next week.

The free “Brotherly Love Concert,” which is being presented by Nike’s ACG brand, will also feature performances by Freeway, Reed Dollas, Joey Jahad and E-Ness.

The concert was the idea of Sigel himself, who is attempting to unify rappers in Philadelphia, some of whom are currently at odds with each other.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

New EPMD Album Set for Dec. 9th

2008-12-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

The nine-year album drought of legendary group EPMD comes to a close in two weeks, as the duo will release their long-awaited 7th album We Mean Business.

The LP comes nearly 10 years after Out of Business (1999), then billed as the duo’s final studio album.

Despite that tagline, the album failed to connect with critics and fans, and to date is the only EPMD album not to go gold.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Soulja Boy Donates Toys for the Holidays

2008-12-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

Soulja Boy has delayed work on his forthcoming album to participate in the 6th annual Toyz N Da Hood charity event, which donates holiday toys throughout Atlanta during the month of December.

Toyz N Da Hood was founded by Hittmenn DJ president Robert “Kaspa” Smith, and is partnered with the non-profit Kids with Strong Opinions, Inc.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Bone Thugs Reunite On Stage; Announce "Uni 5"

2008-12-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

Last night (December 1) Los Angeles played host to the reuniting of the original five man roster of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

The reunion is 10-plus years in making.

Over the last decade the group became fragmented due to infighting and the incarceration of Flesh-N-Bone.

Flesh-N-Bone was sentenced to 11 years in 2000 on assault charges and released in July and the group reconciliated, paving the way for a reunion.

Hundreds of fans had to be turned away at the Club Nokia venue, and lucky attendees were treated to such classic Bone tracks as “1st of Tha Month,” “I Tried,” “Notorious Thugs,” and the Grammy-winning “That Crossroads.”

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Bush: 'I was unprepared for war'

2008-12-01T19:46:00.000-08:00

President Bush made some interesting comments about his readiness to command the country in wartime and his regrets about the intelligence that his administration relied on before the invasion of Iraq.

He also said the 2008 election, which delivered the White House to Democrat Barack Obama, "was a repudiation of Republicans."

Here's an excerpt from the interview with Charles Gibson of World News

Check Out Full Article @ USAToday

Kanye Posts Slow Debut-Week Sales

2008-12-01T19:42:00.000-08:00

While mainstream media is touting that the Black Friday weekend started the holiday selling season with a bang, music merchandisers certainly didn't have that experience.

Music sales were down anywhere from 10% to 30% and hit albums released for Black Friday didn't perform up to expectations, according to merchants contacted by Billboard. Sources say Kanye West's "808s & Heartbreak" will sell in the range of 425,000-450,000 units, significantly down from 700,000-975,000 units previously projected.

Check Out Full Article @ Billboard

Mixtape Monday

2008-12-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

Kanye West Inspires Lil Wayne; Notorious B.I.G. Performs With Big L. Plus: Chamillionaire drops a new mixtape just two months after his last one.

Check Out Full Article @ MTV

Hip Hop Album Releases for Dec. 2: Akon, Cadillac Records Soundtrack, Scarface

2008-12-01T19:35:00.000-08:00

It's super quiet post-Thanksgiving in the land of new releases.

To receive this report separately each week, please visit Weekly Hip Hop Albums and sign up for our free weekly newsletter delivered every Monday with Tuesday's releases.

The following new releases are available from Amazon.

Akon - Freedom
Bloods & Crips: Bangin' On Wax [3 Disc Box Set]
Scarface - Emeritus
Soundtrack - Cadillac Records
Soundtrack - Cadillac Records [2 Disc Deluxe Ed.]
Soundtrack - Cadillac Records [LP]

Check Out Full Article @ Pro Hip-Hop

50 Cent Admits to Losing Money Because of Failing Economy

2008-12-01T19:33:00.000-08:00

As stock markets and real estate values take a terrifying nose-dive, the average American citizen is not the only person feeling the effects of what many have deemed an official economic recession. Rapper and Hip Hop mogul 50 Cent is also feeling the backlash of the failing economy.

“I lost a couple million dollars already,” 50 admitted to the Canadian Press. “I sit with my investors and business managers and accountants looking at the numbers and I'm like, ‘Yo, the values of stocks in different areas that I invested in are decreasing!’ So I take the loss like everybody else.”

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Yung Berg Plans Equal Opportunity Love Reality TV Series

2008-12-01T19:17:00.000-08:00

Amid all the recent controversy surrounding Yung Berg, the Chicago rapper will be the centerpiece for a Flavor of Love-style reality show.

According to numerous sources, Yung Berg will be inviting a number of ladies onto the show so that he can find his one true love.

Management for Yung Berg released the statement, “We are looking to find exceptional stand out beautiful dark skin/brown skin women to showcase all races of beauty on the show.”

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Puma Hosts 60th Birthday Concert With The Knux

2008-12-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

Shoemaker and athletic company Puma is celebrating their 60th birthday. The creator of famed shoes like the Clyde, Suede and others is thanking supporters with a series of free events today (December 1) through December 11th.

Tonight in Brooklyn, at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, a free concert with The Knux, Chester French, Charles Hamilton [click to read] and others will be held.

Doors open at 8 pm. Tickets can be gathered at any of the three New York City Puma store locations. No purchase is required.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Gorilla Zoe Begins Weight Loss Challenge

2008-12-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

In honor of the release of his sophomore album Don't Feed Da Animals, Atlanta rapper Gorilla Zoe is embarking on a 12-week weight loss challenge also entitled "Don't Feed Da Animal."

Zoe's goal is to lose 40 pounds with the help of fitness expert Ed Bowen; the 40-pound weight loss would bring Zoe's weight down to around 190 pounds.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Alchemist And Oh No Plan Gang Green Album

2008-12-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

The current economic downturn has artists rethinking their budgets, while others are seeing their projects delayed until 2009. But, to hear Alchemist tell it, this could be exactly what the game needs.

"With this era in rap, where SoundScan is all horrible, it’s like, 'What’s going on?'" Al tells HipHopDX. "Being able to just do this with Oh No out of thin air makes me feel like we’re past that hump. We didn’t make records with radio in mind; it was just fun and creative. I’m seeing the power, because we don’t have to wait to get commissioned every time."

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Webbie Concerts Marred By Violence

2008-12-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

A Florida man was stabbed outside of a nightclub in Boca Raton on Friday (Nov. 28), where rapper Webbie was performing.

Authorities were called to Club Pulse after shots were fired outside. According to local news station WPTV, one man with a stab wound was found, but no one had been shot.

The man was rushed to a nearby hospital, his condition currently unknown.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Jacob The Jeweler Headlines Youth Charity Event; Readies For Jail Term

2008-12-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

With only a few weeks to go until the start of his lengthy federal jail term, Jacob The Jeweler is partnering with community organizers in Dallas, TX to introduce a new youth support network. Jacob, born Jacob Arabo, is scheduled to co-headline a press conference next Thursday (Dec 11) to introduce Positive Xchange, an initiative that aims to curb violence by creating alternatives to mainstream entertainment for at risk youth.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Travis Barker and DJ AM Reunite for New Year’s Eve Party

2008-12-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

Travis Barker and DJ AM are set to reunite this month to headline the New Year Nation (NYN) New Year’s Eve Party at The Lot (Los Angeles).

New Year Nation is a high-end promotions company that targets young professionals for technology-based social networking.

This year, their New Year’s Eve party is expected to simultaneously air in 10 major market cities and four time zones.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Jermaine Dupri Honored By ACLU

2008-12-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Music producer Jermaine Dupri will be honored by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California next week.

The ACLU will honor Dupri, along with fellow honoree Earvin “Magic” Johnson, with the Bill of Right Award.

Dupri, who is on the board of directors for The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, has also worked to help repeal Rockefeller Drug Laws and has also participated in a variety of voter registration programs.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Freeway Declares December Month of Madness

2008-12-01T18:47:00.000-08:00

Roc-a-Fella/Def Jam artist Freeway has begun a December “Month of Madness,” where the Philly emcee will release a song per day for the entire month.

The new project comes one year after the release of his critically acclaimed sophomore album Free At Last, which was executive produced by Jay-Z and 50 Cent.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Lil Wayne Enlists Friends for Winter Tour

2008-11-30T21:35:00.000-08:00

Riding the wave of his latest effort, The Carter III, Lil Wayne has announced dates for his winter “I Am Music” tour.
The tour kicks off December 14 in Miami and will feature a packed lineup of the Gym Class Heroes, Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole, and everybody’s go-to guy for a hook, T-Pain.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Attack Cancels Mumbai Live Earth Concert

2008-11-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

Live Earth India, a benefit concert for solar energy projects scheduled for December 7, has been cancelled due to the terrorist killings in Mumbai, India.

The scheduled concert featured an eclectic mix of artists including rapper will.I.am, Roger Waters of Pink Floyd, Bon Jovi, Anoushka, and Indian emcee Hard Kaur.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Jimmy Iovine Explains Aftermath Delays

2008-11-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

With rumors constantly circling the Aftermath Label, Interscope Chairman Jimmy Iovine sat down with Billboard yesterday to clear the smoke around the recent delays in Aftermath’s major upcoming releases.

With a new freestyle entitled "I'm Having A Relapse" hitting the web earlier this month, Eminem’s new project was rumored to be dropping this fourth quarter, but Mr. Iovine explained, “We only tried to put him [Eminem] out this year to replace Dr. Dre, but we got into a quagmire. Eminem was always coming next year.”

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Alchemist Explains Prodigy's Penitentiary Philosophy, Refutes Illness Rumors

2008-11-25T17:55:00.000-08:00

Despite being in the middle of serving a three year sentence for weapons possession , Mobb Deep's Prodigy has continued to make headlines. In addition to blogging for several media outlets, P has been sounding off on everything from his disdain of Jay-Z to his thoughts on politics. While speaking exclusively with HipHopDX, Prodigy's friend and frequent collaborator, Alchemist, gave his take on the situation.

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Ludacris Talks T.I. Collaboration, Clarifies DJ Premier Comment

2008-11-25T17:46:00.000-08:00

With Ludacris’ new album Theater of the Mind out in stores now, fans will be welcomed by a few firsts from the southern rapper; a collaboration with T.I., and a production credit from DJ Premier. Speaking with Rhapsody.com, Luda delved into the topics of working with T.I., chopping it up with Premier, and whether or not he was the “first southern rapper with a Primo beat.”

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Karrine Steffans Gets Defensive At Cal State Event

2008-11-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

Former video vixen Karrine Steffans, who is most well known for her appearances in a number of Hip Hop videos and her New York Times best-selling book Confessions Of A Video Vixen, recently addressed a boisterous crowd of California State University Northridge students.

In a question and answer format, Steffans answered several questions from students, but became defensive when answering specific questions from the group of college students.

"What's changed is what I do. I am not what I do. I'm not what I've done. I am not my past," Steffans explained to the crowd. "My past does not define me as a woman. As a mother, as anything. And as I stand here, don't break your concentration to look at me. I want you to hear this."

Check Out Full Article @ Hip-Hop DX

Lil Wayne Clears Up 2nd Rochester Cancellation

2008-11-25T17:41:00.000-08:00

With criticism mounting after this week’s second aborted Rochester concert, New Orleans superstar Lil Wayne is now striking back against accusations of unprofessionalism.

In an exclusive statement to AllHipHop.com, Wayne publicist Myiah Hughes from AR PR Marketing first illuminated the reason for the concert’s first delay on October 26.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop

Diddy Unveils New Fragrance Image on Times Square Billboard

2008-11-25T17:37:00.000-08:00

As he prepares to officially unveil his newest fragrance next month, Sean "Diddy" Combs is giving shoppers an up-close look at the results of its use with a new billboard on New York's Times Square.

The giant ad, which features the rap mogul dressed in a sleek white tuxedo, is part of a new campaign for I Am King, Comb's latest scent.

The front lit 172 X 54 feet I Am King billboard, located at Broadway and 47th Street, will replace the current Sean John campaign image for several months.

Check Out Full Article @ All Hip-Hop