Soulfège, Live Hip-Hop, Highlife and Reggae Jam in New York

Soulfège will perform Thursday May 11th at 9:30pm at Makor, Steinhardt Building, 35 West 67th Street, New York.

Fusing highlife, reggae funk, and hip-hop, Soulfège has electrified audiences from Boston to Ghana and beyond. The video for Soulfège’s first single, “Sweet Remix,” from the album Heavy Structured, has aired in more than 50 countries across Africa, the Caribbean & Europe and the band has been featured in such major media as BBC Worldservice, NPR, the Boston Herald and MNET Africa.

Their latest record includes a remix of the West African classic "Sweet Mother," entitled "Sweet 3Mix" and features Grammy-winning Dancehall star Bounty Killer. The Noise: Rock Around Boston describes theirs as “an African-proud, drum-conscious hip-rap-reggae type of sound.”

Tickets $15. For advance tickets visit www.makor.com. More information at: www.soulfege.com or call 617-492-3673.

-article courtesy of WorldMusicCentral.Org

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Suga Free: Just add Water (Exclusive Track!!!)

Posted at 5/07/2006 12:12:00 PM

Hey playas and playettes, I'm wanna show some love to all our California Readers. My nigga Suga Free got a new cd coming out on May 9th called "Just Add Water". I copped an exclusive single,"So Fly" w/Snoop Dogg and Katt Williams, for you fools to listen to. Hey let me know what you think about it by submitting your opinion in the comment box Niggettes!!

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Bobby Holiday out at KKBT/LA.

Posted at 5/07/2006 11:42:00 AM

May 3rd was Bobby Holiday's last day on KKBT/Los Angeles(100.3 THE BEAT). Holiday was part of the morning team, and stayed on after host John Salley was let go last month. The syndicated Tom Joyner show is expected to take over mornings on the Radio One outlet.



-article courtesy of UrbanInsite.Com

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Hot 97 Fights Eviction, Sues Building Owners

Posted at 5/07/2006 11:17:00 AM

Emmis Radio LLC, the owner of New York radio station Hot 97, has filed a breach-of-contract lawsuit against the landlord that is attempting to evict them, despite having six years left on its lease.

As previously reported, the New York District Council of Carpenters, which owns the Hudson Street building that houses Hot 97, filed a lawsuit last week demanding the eviction of the infamous hip hop radios station after the recent shooting of Brooklyn based rapper, Gravy.

Gravy (born Jamal Woolard) was shot in the buttocks outside the Hudson Street building on Wednesday night (April 26) after arriving for an interview at Hot 97.His shooting was the third shooting in five years at the building involving rappers and their entourages who were visiting Hot 97's studios.

The Carpenters Union lawsuit accused the station of promoting violence and put tenants' lives at risk. The suit cited three shootings, two bomb threats, and various altercations and also stated a complaint from Thomson Financial, which is another tenant in the building.

Emmis' lawsuit, which was filed in a Manhattan Supreme Court on Friday (May 5), seeks a court order declaring the The Carpenters Union in violation of the lease.

The suit also accuses the Union of unfairly banning visitors from coming to Hot 97 and its other two stations in the building, Kiss-FM and CD101.9.

Hot 97 claims the ban has hurt its ratings and advertising revenue because they are unable to host artists of interviews and performances.

Emmis' suit also responded to the eviction lawsuit saying, "It's not responsible for the string of violence outside the studio, which it blames on criminal acts perpetrated by third persons in the public street, outside of tenant's control."

Robert Abrahams, the Union's lawyer, responded to the Emmis lawsuit via The New York Post, saying that it was "utterly without merit" and that they agreed in writing to the restrictions on visitors.

Since Gravy's shooting, The New York Police Department has installed a video camera and stationed extra police cars outside the Hudson Street building.

Hot 97 has been plagued with shooting incidents in the past few years. Back in 2001, a shooting took place in front of the station between the entourages of Lil' Kim and Capone-N-Noreaga. When questioned about the shooting, Kim later denied the presence of two of her associates, which eventually led to her perjury and conspiracy conviction. She's presently still serving a one year and a day sentence in the Philadelphia Detention Center.

Last year, another shooting took place when The Game and his comrades attempted to enter the station to confront 50 Cent. 50 had announced to listeners that Game was being kicked out of his crew G-Unit minutes earlier. The incident resulted in Game's friend, Kevin Reed aka P-nut being shot in the leg.

On a lighter note, the station recently announced the lineup for its annual Summer Jam concert. This year's event will take place on June 4th and will boast performances by artists including Busta Rhymes, T.I. , Three 6 Mafia, Mary J. Blige, Young Jeezy, Mobb Deep, Remy Martin, Sean Paul, Dipset and Jamie Foxx, among others.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Kanye West Debuts 'Impossible' Single For 'M:I:3'

Posted at 5/07/2006 11:15:00 AM

Kanye West flew into New York last week amidst a promotional blitz for Tom Cruise's "Mission Impossible III" to unveil his new single for the film, which features Twista and Keyshia Cole.

The single, titled "Impossible," was performed at MTV's TRL and BET 106 & Park, just days after the rapper/producer performed before more than 50,000 fans at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Cali.

In addition, "Impossible" has become available exclusively at the iTunes Music Store, which will appear exclusively for 10 days before hitting other digital retailers.

The single release coincides with the release of "M:I:3" in theaters nationwide.

"I went and met with Tom (Cruise) in the studio, and he personally asked me to do a song for the movie and to rework the Mission Impossible theme," recalls West. "How do you say no to Tom Cruise?

"He's always been a favorite actor of mine, and it's been a real honor to be involved with the film," added West.

West is scheduled to perform "Impossible" on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Thursday, May 11 and The Ellen Degeneres Show on Monday, May 15.

-article courtesy of BallerStatus.Net

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Saturday, May 06, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Watch Tom Cruise TWO STEP PLAYAAA!!!

Posted at 5/06/2006 09:55:00 PM

I don't care what the media says about Tom Cruise, this CAT is alright by me!!!



Damn, I think I'll TWO STEP RIGHT NOW!!!! (ANOTHER CLASSIC FROM HIP HOP RUCKUS>>> TELL YO PEEPS WHERE YOU SAW THIS CLIP, PEACE!!!)

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T.I. Resumes His Nat’l Tour Halted by Shooting

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:55:00 PM

T.I. plans to resume his national tour in New Orleans on Tuesday, nearly a week after the fatal shooting of his personal assistant and the wounding of three others in his group Grand Hustle after a show in Cincinnati.

The Atlantic recording artist, whose real name is Clifford Harris, will also reschedule an appearance that had been set for Wednesday in St. Louis.

Police in Cincinnati said they had no new leads in the gun battle that began early Wednesday at an after-party held for T.I. and Bad Boy’s Yung Joc.

T.I. and his entourage left the party after a verbal dispute, but were later pursued by two SUVs and gunshots were exchanged, according to police. The vehicles pursuing them were gone by the time police arrived.

Philant Johnson, 26, was pronounced dead at a hospital. A Minnesota woman was hospitalized, and a driver and bodyguard were treated and later released.

-article courtesy of NobodySmiling.Com

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Hip Hop Congress Plays 'Mindgames' With Emcees, $3,000 Up For Grabs

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:46:00 PM

The non-profit hip hop organization, Hip Hop Congress, has linked up with Phillup Drummond and 2232 MLK to bring forth "Mindgames II: An Emcee Battle".

The emcee battle is set to go down June 2nd and 3rd at 2232 MLK in Oakland, California. This battle is sure to feature many talented emcees and continue the strong tradition of healthy competition going down in Cali.

The first Mindgames went down last year in Menlo Park. The battle featured emcees such as former Scribble Jam winner Illmacculate, Thesaurus, Franco, F.L.O, Passwerdz, Otherwize, and Oroku Saki. This year's winner of the 32-man singles competition will walk away with $2,000, while the winners of the 2 on 2 16-team competition will take home $1,000.

The battle will also raise money for the Hip Hop Congress National Conference being held June 22nd-25th in Boulder, Colorado. Hip Hop Congress uses hip hop culture to unite, inspire, and empower individuals and groups. With close to 30 chapters at colleges, universities, and community centers across the globe, Hip Hop Congress is able to touch people worldwide. Chapter events include lectures, meetings, emcee/deejay/b-boy battles, food drives, concerts, and much more.

Hip Hop Congress President Shamako Noble spoke about the emcee battle, citing "Mindgames is rapidly becoming a culture cornerstone of the California hip hop community. The competition is fierce and the move to Oakland is going to give us just the kind of vibe we want. Hip Hop Congress is honored to be a part of this."

Phillup Drummond echoed those sentiments, saying, "Nothing of this magnitude is being done in California. At Mindgames, we're sure to bring out all the best talent to bring a contest to the Bay Area, the likes of which hasn't occurred."

The preliminary rounds kick off June 2nd with performances by Oakland artists such as D.Labrie, and Grunge. For ticket prices and information fans can visit, 2232MLK.com.

For more information on getting involved in Hip Hop Congress, please contact Shamako Noble at 408-332-6262 or shamako@hiphopcongress.com. For emcees whom may be interested in entering the Mindgames battle, please contact Phillup Drummond at phillipdrummond1@yahoo.com.

-article courtesy of SoundSlam.Com

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Busy Lil Wayne Says 'I Am The Kobe Bryant Of Hip-Hop'

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:40:00 PM

Lil Wayne says it's official: He, too, has signed on for a summer tour with Ne-Yo, Chris Brown, Dem Franchize Boyz and Juelz Santana. Gutter hip-hop meets R&B and snap music.

"August 3rd, I think, it starts," Wayne said. "Right now, I do a lot of college shows. But basically, what I'm doing now, I go from old [songs], then to [Tha Carter, Vol. II], then go back to old stuff and end with Carter II. But the tour is going to be totally different. I'm going back in the studio. I actually think we're gonna have a band. A live band, a DJ."

Wayne is also working on the third installment of his Tha Carter series, as well as a duet LP with Baby.

"It's where Wayne goes, that's where nobody can," he said about Tha Carter, Vol. III.

In regards to who he'll be working with, he didn't divulge too much.

"I don't want to throw away what I'm doing," he said. "I have a formula, and I'm going to keep it. I don't want to sprinkle their names out there, but I got the people you know and the people you should know and will know after Tha Carter III drops."

Wayne said tops on his wish list of collaborators are still Eminem and Jay-Z. "They actually sent me a song to do with Obie Trice," he said about getting a chance to work with Slim Shady. "That right there was a little piece of the connection. I am still trying to get him."

Obie is one of many artists Weezy is rhyming for.

"If you can think of their name, I done something for them," he said. "Yung Joc, Remy Martin's 'Conceited' remix, I did the 'What You Know' remix with T.I. I just done a song with Kardinal Official ... Trick Daddy, Fat Joe, T-Pain ... and, oh yeah, Ms. Beyoncé. I can't forget about Ms. Beyoncé. Everybody. Everybody is always sending me something, and I never say no. I make sure the price is reasonable. If they can't do it, we gonna work something out. I am the Kobe Bryant of hip-hop. I'm gonna get my 81 points this year."

Wayne thinks after he turns 24 in September will be the most opportune time to unleash Tha Carter, Vol. III.

"Kobe is changing his [jersey] number to 24," he said. "I'll make my statement real big with that."

With Tha Carter and Tha Carter, Vol. II, Wayne set out to prove he's no longer the teenager who helped coined the phrase "bling-bling" with his team of Cash Money Millionaires. And if you ask some of Wayne's fans and peers, he's the best MC in the game ("10 Candidates For The Next 'Greatest MCs Of All Time' List").

"I'm honored," said Wayne, who has a song on Tha Carter, Vol. II called "Best Rapper Alive." "If that's what they think, that's exactly what I think. I try hard to keep them saying the same thing."

Wayne's next video is for "Shooters," featuring Thicke, and there might be a clip right after for "D-Boys." The next album from the Cash Money family will be from Currency, an artist handpicked by Wayne and signed to his imprint, Young Money. Currency's debut is titled Music to Fly To. It's still unclear if Carter II mixtape Like Father, Like Son will come before or after Tha Carter, Vol. III.

"Like Father, Like Son is me and the Birdman going at it," he explained. "Me and Stunna never did an album together. People seem to forget that because we've done so many songs together, but this is actually the first album me and him did. If we would have done something like this back in the day, it would have been more or less Baby saying, 'Wayne, let's do a song about this.' Now he knows I'm the lyricist and he's like, 'Wayne, you come up with the ideas, and we gonna go with it.' Stunna is still being Stunna, though."

As president of Cash Money Records, Weezy's always looking for new talent; even legendary singer Betty Wright has some young singers she wants him to hear.

"If you're a singer, you got more of [a chance to get a] green light," he said. "You would get more leeway over here. If you're a rapper, I'm hard on you because I feel I'm the best."

-article courtesy of VH1.Com

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The Source Magazine Founder Files For Bankruptcy, Magazine Shares Up For Auction

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:36:00 PM

David Mays, founder and former owner of The Source Magazine, has recently filed for bankruptcy, according to court documents.

As SOHH previously reported, Mays and longtime president/rapper Raymond "Benzino" Scott were ousted by the magazine's new board of directors and replaced by president/CEO Jeremy Miller.

In the last two years, The Source has been plagued with problems, ranging from defaulting on an $18 million loan to a prominent sexual harassment lawsuit filed by former employees Kim Osorio and Michelle Joyce.

Textron Financial, the company that loaned The Source $18 million dollars in 2002, has been attempting to auction 82% in shares that is controlled by Mays and Scott.

The auction, initially scheduled for yesterday (May 4), has been postponed until further notice.

The remaining 18% of The Source is owned by The Black Enterprise private equity fund, which is backed by Earl Graves, Sr. and Citigroup. The Black Enterprise loaned the magazine $17 million in 2002 as well.

Mays and Scott filed a multi-million dollar lawsuit against Black Enterprise earlier this year, claiming the fund plotted to steal the magazine from them.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Rappers Ice T, Noreaga, Cypress Hill Lend Voices To 'Scarface' Video Game

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:32:00 PM

Ice T, Noreaga and Cypress Hill's B-Real and Sen Dog are among the Hip-Hop artists lending their voices to Vivendi Games' new video game Scarface: The World Is Yours.

The game, which is distributed through Vivendi's Sierra Entertainment, is based on Brian DePalma's classic 1983 movie of the same name and takes place in 1980's Miami.

The objective is to rebuild Tony Montana's drug empire while fending off enemies.

The cast includes James Woods ( Casino ); Robert Davi ( Die Hard ); Michael Rapaport ( Beautiful Girls, The War at Home ), Anthony Anderson ( Hustle & Flow ); Richard Roundtree ( Shaft ); Tiny Lister ( Next Friday ); Bam Margera ( Viva La Bam ); Tommy Lee and others.

Al Pacino lends his image likeness to the lead role in the game and key lines from Pacino's performance in the original film appear in the game.

" Scarface is a brand universally recognized for its cutting-edge cool, even two decades after the movie's original release. It's no surprise that so many of the top talent from film, television and music would want to be a part of that world," said Vivendi marketing executive Cindy Cook. "The video game is allowing people to be part of one of the most popular franchises in Hollywood."

Scarface: The World Is Yours hits stores this fall for PlayStation2 and Xbox.

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Master P Claims Sony Exec's Blocking Lil' Romeo, Filing $500 Million Lawsuit

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:27:00 PM

Hip-Hop mogul Master P said he is filing a $500 million lawsuit against Sony Music, alleging that its executives are trying to keep Lil' Romeo's, "U Can't Shine Like Me" from getting played on radio.

The song, which responds to Bow Wow's "Fresh Azimiz," began playing on Los Angeles radio station KKBT in February.

Apparently the beef between the young stars started when Lil' Romeo took offense to the track, "Fresh Azimiz," which the Miller's considered a shot in their direction.

In "U Can't Shine Like Me," Romeo responds by saying he could take Bow Wow's "chick," and the video features a woman resembling Ciara, the pop star Bow Wow dated until recently.

Since debuting several weeks ago, it has been streamed more than 700,000 times on Yahoo! Music.

The record is not enjoying the same success on the radio stations in the United States.

According to monitoring charts, only three stations in the U.S. have added the song to rotation - KKBT, WQUE in New Orleans, and WEMX in Baton Rogue.

According to Master P, unnamed Sony Music executives have been calling radio stations, demanding that Lil Romeo's record not be played.

"How can Sony Music executives call radio stations and tell them not to play the Romeo record "U Can't Shine Like Me?" an inquisitive Master P asked AllHipHop.com. "Los Angeles was the first city to play it. Usually, if you get played in Hollywood, the world will follow. Every station that played the Bow Wow song should have at least tested the record once or twice or played it on their 'Hit or Dis' show by now."

"I had a distribution deal on the table with Jive Records that fell through the crack - hint. Sony BMG," Master P continued. "I wonder why. Jive is a Sony BMG label. Sony BMG is the parent label for Bow Wow's label, Columbia Records.

"There is no beef with us and Bow," Master P explained. "We got love for the little dude. He just doesn't know when to shut his mouth. His arrogance and cockiness are turning fans and their parents off."

According to Master P, Romeo's upcoming LP, God's Son is scheduled for an August 22 release with or without major label distribution.

Lil' Romeo will also tour to support the album.

Representatives for Sony Music were not available as of press time.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Jamie Foxx Talks About Summer Jam and Kissing Beyonce

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:24:00 PM

To say Jamie Foxx is a busy man would be an understatement at this point in time.

That’s because the Oscar-winning actor/R&B singer has done everything in past months from busting guns with Colin Farrell to kissing Beyonce. However, he doesn't want fans to get it twisted.

“I play Beyonce’s husband,” Foxx told Hot 97 host Angie Martinez about his role in the impending Dreamgirls movie, which also features Eddie Murphy. “Respect to Jay-Z. I don’t want any problems.”

In addition to playing Beyonce’s husband, Foxx will also be the manager of an all-girl group in the film. Foxx also mentioned that fans will be taken aback by Beyonce’s stirring performance. However, before Dreamgirls, which is slated for a Dec. 21 release, fans can look out for Foxx in Miami Vice and performing on Hot 97’s Summer Jam concert stage.

Despite having won an Oscar, Foxx feels honored and humbled in sharing this year’s Summer Jam stage with the likes of Busta Rhymes and Mary J. Blige.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Suge Knight Financially Down and Out

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:21:00 PM

Suge Knight is claiming he’s down to just $11 in the bank and some ice in a jewelry box.

According to a 22-page bankruptcy filing obtained by the New York Daily News, Knight owes $137.4 million in debts. His debts include $11.3 million in federal income tax, $437,000 in state income tax, $9,300 to Nextel, $1,100 to Cingular Wireless and $15,000 on his Orchard Bank credit card.

Knight filed for bankruptcy last month. The intimidating former Death Row Records mogul was ordered to pay $107 million to ex-business associate Lydia Harris, and her ex-husband, Michael Harris, who claim to have aided Knight in building his empire.

In addition to the $11 in his checking account, Knight estimates having $25,000 worth of personal jewelry, $1,000 worth of clothes and $2,000 worth of furniture.

Knight is scheduled to face questioning by his creditors before a bankruptcy trustee Friday (May 5).

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Ricardo Mayorga Insults Oscar De La Hoya Before Saturday's Fight

Posted at 5/06/2006 03:16:00 PM

Never is there a dull moment in the sport of boxing when Ricardo ‘El Matador’ Mayorga is involved. Since the beginning of his promotional tour for his fight against Oscar 'Golden Boy' De La Hoya (37 wins, 0 KO's, 4 losses) on Saturday (May 6), he has savagely taken verbal jabs at his opponent.

Mayorga has openly made derogatory statements aimed at De La Hoya's Mexican heritage, his wife, and shouted out numerous homosexual slurs, all quips that De La Hoya hasn't taken lightly. "You insulted my race and my wife and on May 6th I'm going to break your face," Oscar said during a press conference.

Mayorga (28 wins, 23 KO's, 5 losses) unleashed one of his latest blows early this week when the Nicaraguan native threatened to withdraw from the 154lb, Super Welterweight bout scheduled to take place at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Wednesday's Las Vegas press conference was delayed nearly an hour due to Mayorga not willing to participate. Mayorga insisted that if he didn't get $8 million dollars for the fight -6 million dollars more than the $2 million he agreed to receive - he wouldn't fight. "Oscar ain't going to pay $8 Million and that's not what the deal was," Mayorga's promoter Don King said.

When Mayorga finally decided to show, it was business as usual and he assured De La Hoya that he would be defeated on Saturday night. The crowning comedic highlight of the conference came when Mayorga presented a gift to his opponent - a cheerleading skirt/dress, embroidered with the words, Golden Girl and www.latinasgonecrazy.com scribed on the back.

De La Hoya's trainer, Floyd Mayweather, Sr., quickly came to his boxer's defense: "He gave Oscar a silly little skirt. The last person that said something about that girl thing called my son [Floyd Mayweather, Jr.]Pretty Girl...there it is," he said, referring to Mayweather's win over Zab Judah.

However, at the end of the conference, Mayorga reverted to his unwillingness to engage in the Mega Fight. "I'm thinking about not fighting. I'm not scared of Oscar, but I'm not going to fight unless I'm given what I'm worth." Mayorga said.

"You have to realize that events like this make people nervous," De La Hoya retorted. "A lot of times you can be beat outside of the ring before the fight."

But yesterday Mayorga made a statement to ensure the public that he would proceed with the fight."I have decided to fight," Mayorga said. "I'm a man and I will defend my World Boxing Council super welterweight title against Oscar De La Hoya on Saturday night." He also made a prediction that he would knock De La Hoya out in less than six rounds.

Although De La Hoya hasn't fought in 20 months and has been using that time to expand his company, Golden Boy Promotions, he says he's confident he will defeat Mayorga. "I've been training for four months and I'm ready physically and mentally."

The De La Hoya vs. Mayorga fight will air on HBO PPV Saturday at 9 p.m.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Friday, May 05, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Nas, Mos Def To Join The Roots For 'Wet-Dream' N.Y. Show

Posted at 5/05/2006 04:38:00 PM

For the Roots' double dose of Radio City Music Hall shows in a couple of weeks, calls are pouring in to drummer ?uestlove to get down onstage.

"Everybody is calling us by the minute, like, 'Please, can we do one song with y'all?' I'm like,'Michael, no, wait until you finish your Thriller follow-up,' " ?uest joked.

Nas, Common and Talib Kweli have been confirmed for the show on May 18, while Erykah Badu, Mos Def, J*Davey and Angélique Kidjo are on the bill for the next night, May 19. ?uestlove said those names were released just to "sweeten the pot," and that the surprises they have on tap are mind-blowing.

"If you have to ask yourself, 'I wonder if such-and-such will be there?,' chances are they will be there," he said. The Roots aren't strangers to sharing a stage, as they do every year at their annual pre-Grammy jam session ("Snoop, Chappelle And Fall Out Boy Jump Onstage And Jam With The Roots").

The Roots have performed around the world but have never touched the legendary stage at Radio City, which ?uest said was a dream of his.

"This is the most important dart throw of our career," he said. "My girlfriend's former job was down the street from Radio City. I used to walk there picking her up like, 'Damn, I've done Lincoln Center, but my dream was to always play Radio City Music Hall.' Fortunately, the opportunity came up when the people at Verizon asked us to put together our wet-dream show. We're pulling out the big guns. The hardest thing about this show will actually be keeping under wraps who the special guests are. If you know the Roots, you know our history in New York. Anybody is probably liable to come out with us."

Performing with Nas is also a milestone for the group, ?uest said.

"It's weird, we've pretty much shared the stage at one point or another with every hip-hop luminary with the exception of Nas," he said. "I know he's been to two or three Roots shows, but he's been as a spectator in the audience. Nothing's gonna make me happier [than performing with him]. As a DJ, when I play 'Made You Look,' it goes into absolute chaos. With him onstage with us, it will be crazy."

The Roots will be promoting their upcoming LP, Game Theory (due in late August), but the concerts also are a charity event for late beatmaking guru J Dilla, a.k.a. Jay Dee (see "Jay Dee — Producer For Common, Busta And Tribe — Dies").

"J Dilla was one of the most incredible, invisible geniuses of the hip-hop field and of music in general," ?uest said (see "Jay Dee: Hip-Hop's Shy Giant"). Dilla is the only outside producer on Game Theory.

"The direction of the new record is definitely darker, a more serious record," ?uest said. Although the Roots have been doing well, their take on world affairs has caused a shift in their music.

"It still don't mean the dog don't eat your homework every now and then," he said. "Basically, during the time we made this, a lot of the times when we were touring, especially in countries where the only English you get is CNN ... on days off, you might have CNN on for eight hours. You're almost forced to be political. When you're in Europe, you're either watching CNN or BBC World News.

"It's also something we haven't done before," he continued about the darker LP. "As far as the Roots are concerned, people know that our prowess on the mic and onstage is bar none. But there's only so many times you can say that before you start thinking it's stale in your mind. It's really time to evolve for us. A lot of this writing also occurred during a period of August and September, when we were watching what was going on with Katrina. This is not the Katrina record, but definitely for the catalog of the Roots, it's not the 'Mellow My Man' stuff. We're going balls to the wall with this record."

-article courtesy of MTV.Com

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ER’s Mekhi Phifer Focuses on Darfur Conflict

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:54:00 AM

Actor Mekhi Phifer helps call attention to the political and ethnic conflicts in Darfur, Sudan in the latest episode of ER. Phifer, known among hip-hop fans for his role in the 2002 film “Paid In Full,” plays Dr. Gregory Platt on the popular medical drama.

“Darfur is a glaring example of a situation in the world that people don’t know enough about, that they need to know more about, and hopefully help start to find solutions,” said David Zabel, ER’s executive producer.

Although there has been an increased focus on the atrocities occurring in Darfur -- thanks greatly to rallies being held across the country -- this episode was actually filmed eight months ago. Its budget reached approximately $7 million, more than triple the usual cost for a one-hour episode.

During one dramatic scene, a hopeless mother in a Sudanese refugee camp asks a doctor about her hepatitis-stricken child. “She wants to know if her daughter will die today or tomorrow,” an interpreter says, as the child is beyond any medical help.

“There is so little space on regular network news for coverage of underreported humanitarian stories,” said Kris Torgeson, spokeswoman for Doctors Without Borders, an organization that delivers medical aid throughout Africa.

“It’s really great when a popular TV show like ‘ER’ can put resources into trying to show the challenges of a situation like we’re seeing in Darfur.”

The episode, titled “There Are No Angels Here,” airs tonight at 10 p.m. EST.

-article courtesy of NobodySmiling.Com

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VING RHAMES ON A ‘MISSION’: Actor talks about returning to the lucrative franchise, and why the third time is a charm.

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:49:00 AM

There’s a new movie that arrives in theaters today – you may have heard of it. It’s called “Mission: Impossible III?”

Its star Tom Cruise has been in a few different countries promoting it? Its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival this week was the focus of a half-hour TV special on NBC, and even MTV and BET devoted programming to the opening.

Perhaps smothered by all of the attention surrounding Wednesday’s four premiere events in New York’s Times Square, Tribeca, Harlem and Midtown Manhattan – not to mention the rage surrounding TomKat and their new baby – is the film’s story. Is it actually worth all of the garish promotion?

“The beauty of this one for me, in coming back, is the script,” notes Ving Rhames, who returns to the franchise for the third time as computer expert Luther Strickell. In “M:iIII,” Strickell is called to duty by his old friend, super spy Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) to help handle a wicked arms dealer played by Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Rhames says this film is superior to the first two “Mission: Impossible” outings because “it’s more similar to the television series, you have the ‘Mission: Impossible’ team, and the importance of each team member.” He adds: “I also think because you have Tom and you have a love interest with his character – the scenes where he’s in danger also his loved one is in danger, his family is in danger – if something happens to him, what happens to them? So I think adding those elements with all of the high octane action puts this a level or two above ‘Mission’ I and II.”

Writer-director J.J. Abrams, the mastermind behind TV’s “Alias” and “Lost,” sits in the director’s chair this time around, while Cruise also served as the film’s executive producer. Both filmmakers have an acting background and could have approached the set expecting actors to bow down and obey their vision of the film. But that wasn’t the case, says Rhames.

“What I love about Tom as an executive producer, and even with J.J., to me we work as actors in what I call a structured freedom,” Rhames explains during interviews for the film. “We have freedom to do things and move within certain parameters, and I think part of that is because J.J. as an actor, and Tom as an executive producer/actor understands that sometimes actors do things action/reaction. Having that kind of freedom, I think, just adds a fluidity to the piece.”

Whether or not the film can live up to its hype remains to be seen. But one thing’s for certain, notes Rhames: “It was a chance to have some fun and make a good deal of money.”

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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Field Mob Climbs "Light Poles and Pinetrees" With Ludacris and Ciara

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:48:00 AM

After nearly a four-year absence, Field Mob is scheduled to make their Disturbing Tha Peace/Def Jam debut, Light Poles and Pinetrees, this June.

After creating a buzz on DTP's "Georgia," the Albany, GA emcees are now ready to unleash their third LP. Rather than rely on big name cameos and A-list producers, Field Mob provides a platform for lesser known producers (Ken Jo, Polow, Ole-E, and CKAY1) and remain guest-free for the bulk of the album.

However, Ciara appears on the Jazze Pha-produced lead single "So What" while Ludacris spits 16 on "Smilin," which samples James Brown's "A Man's World."

The album marks the group's third effort. To date, Field Mob has released 2000's 613: Ashy to Classy and 2002's From the Roota to the Toota on the now defunct MCA Records.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Hoopz Fires Venom at Wendy Williams, Denies T.I. Threesome

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:31:00 AM

Since winning VH1's "Flavor of Love," Hoopz has become a regular topic in the rumor circuit. In this SOHH exclusive, Hoopz goes off on gossip queen Wendy Williams, denies rumors of a threesome with T.I. and dismisses "Flavor of Love" as "fake."

Forget New York. The harsh words Hoopz had for the "Flavor of Love" runner-up were tame in comparison to the shots she fired at New York gossip queen and radio jock, Wendy Williams.

"Fuck that bitch!" Hoopz told SOHH.com by phone. "Who the fuck is she? A fat ass bitch with a mouth. That's it."

An irate Hoopz fumed as she targeted Williams as the source of the rumors being spread about her alleged love affairs and sexcapades. SOHH.com contacted Williams who could not be reached for comment.

"I'm in her mouth 23/7," Hoopz told SOHH. "[There are] two hours out of the whole damn week [when] she's not talking about me all together. Now her new thing is I'm fucking everybody in the industry. I'm supposed to be married in three different sides of the world. I'mma get back with her though."

The latest rumor has Hoopz engaging in a threesome with ATL rapper T.I. and an anonymous video vixen. While the Detroit model denied the ménage a trios, she admitted to "hanging out" with T.I. and revealed there is tension between her and Tip's boo, Tiny, formerly of R&B quartet Xscape.

"Absolutely not! It's so not true," Hoopz told SOHH of the threesome rumors. "Whenever they see me with somebody I'mma probably end up sleeping with him or whatever, people gon say. Come on, come up with something new. Actually, the altercation between me, him and Tiny is true. Actually she never said anything directly to me. Tiny got on the radio talking shit. Me and T.I. were at a club in Atlanta -- Fox Sports Club. It was Nelly's party, I believe. Anyway, so we're in the back or whatever, everybody was just kicking it and Tiny grabbed him off me like, 'Who the fuck is this?' That's the extent I know cause I turned around 'cause that shit was so bad. I wasn't even trying to hear nothing. I moved away. I kept having fun."

"[Then] Tiny gets on the radio like...'If I would have known her. If she would have known me, I would have whooped her ass.' Bla, bla, bla, bla, bla, talking this mad shit," she added. "Of course she didn't say nothing to me personally. She got on the radio talking shit. I guess she felt protected more like that. Me and her never exchanged words in person and that's all it was with that."

For the record, Hoopz says she isn't married or dating anybody in the industry and is definitely not having ménages. She makes it clear that the Myspace pages out there for her are fakes. And as for the reggaeton video that recently surfaced on the internet showing her writhing and grinding in the background, she says it's "old footage."

There's one more thing she considers fake... "Flavor of Love." In fact, she's growing annoyed by people, including Tony Yayo, who think she somehow wronged Flav. The G-Unit soldier recently shouted her out at Lloyd Banks' recent birthday bash, only to say, "I don't like how you did my man Flav" seconds later.

"What are you talking about?" Hoopz said in regards to Yayo calling her out. "Yayo came up there [and] was like, 'You know I'm just messing with you. I'm trying to hype the crowd up.' That's what they do, knowing we just got done talking about how fake it was. They casted for the second show during the first show, come on. How true is it?"

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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"You got my cornbread"

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:23:00 AM

I was listening to 97.5 out of Richmond, VA this morning and was shocked to hear that Michael Taliferro has passed due to complications from a recent heart attack. Man, he was one of my favorite actors. I remember him best from the movie "Life" with Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence. He also starred in the football movie, "The Replacements." Hey, we will definitely miss you big guy!

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Cymande Wins Against Fugees In Copyright Case

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:16:00 AM

A federal judge recently issued a ruling in favor of 1970's British soul group Cymande, in a sampling lawsuit against the Fugees and Sony Music.

The lawsuit, which was filed by group members Steve Scipio and Patrick Patterson in March, claims the Fugees illegally sampled the song "Dove" on their 1996 album The Score .

In 1998, the two parties attempted to negotiate a settlement agreement.

Cymande accepted a royalty payment of $400,000 and Sony Entertainment attempted to settle. However, according to the lawsuit, members of Cymande denied that the $400,000 payment was for settlement.

Sony Entertainment claimed that in 1998 the parties "entered into a settlement" and that members of Cymande "ratified the 1998 settlement by accepting several hundred thousand dollars of Defendants' payments and by seeking money under the terms of the 1998 settlement from Defendants' foreign representatives."

Judges from the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the payments do not amount to "ratification of an unsigned agreement to settle an infringement dispute."

"We determine that the Proposed Agreement was never ratified and that Plaintiffs should not be equitably stopped from pursuing their infringement claims," the ruling stated.

The $400,000 payment must be repaid or subtracted from Cymande's damages if they prevail on the copyright infringement claims.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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LA Lakers' Kwame Brown Accussed of Alleged Sexual Assault

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:10:00 AM

Police are investigating a report of sexual assault allegedly involving Los Angeles Lakers center Kwame Brown.

Although no charges have been filed yet and authorities are not disclosing when the report was filed or by whom, police have started a preliminary investigation into an alleged sexual assault by Brown. The incident reportedly took place early Saturday (April 29), after the Lakers defeated the Phoenix Suns in Game 3 of their playoff series.

Despite the news beginning to overshadow the underdog Lakers 3-2 lead over the Suns, Brown is strongly denying early allegations.

"I want to assure everyone that I am completely innocent of any wrongdoing and look forward to the truth coming out when this matter is fully investigated," Brown said through an issued statement released by the Lakers to The Associated Press. "I'm just staying grounded and staying with my family. I'm confident it will get resolved.

“You've just got to roll with the punches -- life goes on. I just come out and play."

Police have yet to interview Brown about this alleged sexual assault.

Brown, Kobe Bryant and the rest of the Lakers can advance to the second round of the playoffs with a win over the Suns, Thursday night at the Staples Center. A win tonight would set the stage for an all-Los Angeles second round matchup, as the Lakers would meet the Clippers.

The HipHopRuckus Staff writes,"Why is it that these bitches (gold diggers, poppers,etc.) always have to get a brotha for his riches. I tell you...you really gotta watch these shady ass hoes 'cause they keep trying to get to a brothas' paper. Maybe next time he'll bring a waiver form. Damn!!"

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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VH1 May Debut Paul Wall Series Soon

Posted at 5/05/2006 09:07:00 AM

Paul Wall may have another outlet to flash his platinum, disco ball grill in very soon.

VH1 has ordered a pilot for an unscripted series featuring Houston's Paul Wall, according to Reuters. The show will be produced by Pink Sneakers, the production company responsible for former wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan’s Hogan Knows Best series. A title for the series hasn't been confirmed as of press time.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Thursday, May 04, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Bambino up First for Roc La Familia

Posted at 5/04/2006 10:29:00 PM

Def Jam’s President Carter(Jay Z) has chosen reggaeton artist Hector "El Father" Bambino to lead off for his 'world music' imprint, Roc La Famlia, this June. "Hector blends genres and brings real stories and messages to the listener," said Carter. "His huge following and his passion for the music made us immediately realize that this is the right first release for Roc La Familia."

Roc La Familia & Hector Bambino 'El Father' Present Los Rompe Discotekas will feature the lead single "Here We Go Yo" and appearances by reggaeton artists Don Omar, Wisin Y Yandel and Alexis Y Fido, plus Fat Joe, Memphis Bleek and Freeway, among others. "World music has evolved, it now blends contemporary styles such as hip-hop, rock and electronica with traditional and roots music," said Carter.

The Puerto Rican Bambino started out in the mid ‘90s as half of the Latin rap pair Hector & Tito. A La Reconquista earned the duo a 2003 Billboard Latin Music Award for Latin rap album of the year. This year Bambino won reggaeton song of the year for an appearance on Baby Ranks' "Mayor Que Yo," also featuring Daddy Yankee, Tonny Tun Tun and Wisin Y Yandel. Roc La Familia was established last summer to provide a conduit for reggae, reggaeton, calypso and West Indian music. The label also houses Hip Hop acts Tru-Life and Aztek Escobar.

-article courtesy of NobodySmiling.Com

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Rapper wanted in Md. slaying is arrested in Virginia Beach

Posted at 5/04/2006 10:26:00 PM

Police on Wednesday morning arrested a 22-year-old rap artist as a suspect in a homicide that occurred in Baltimore County, Md., nine months ago.

Shortly after 8 a.m., FBI agents and police found Marcus Conaway at a home in the 3800 block of Tiffany Lane, near Tidewater Community College.

He was taken into custody without incident, police spokeswoman Margie Long said.

Conaway, known professionally as Barnes, is being held on a fugitive warrant at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center until he is extradited to Maryland.

He is a suspect in the killing of William Green III on Aug. 12, according to Baltimore County Police Cpl. Michael Hill. Another suspect was previously arrested in Baltimore. Hill did not release further details .

Investigators in Baltimore County tracked Conaway to Virginia Beach, where he was staying with family and friends while promoting his CD. "The Last Shall Be First " was released in April.

-article courtesy of HamptonRoads.Com

According to his record label's Web site, Conaway lists his home as Virginia Beach and Baltimore.

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Ballyhooed Rapper, Lil’ Cease, Sets the Record Straight on DVD

Posted at 5/04/2006 10:23:00 PM

One of the biggest feuds in hip hop history has been brewing, with all eyes and queries directed at one man - Lil’ Cease. On Reality Check: Junior M.A.F.I.A vs. Lil’ Kim (Phoenix Entertainment Group), Cease sets the record straight - separating fact from fiction and telling his side of the now infamous “snitching” controversy.

When federal grand jury charges stemming from a shootout at radio station HOT 97 were filed against Lil’ Kim, the media and the public watched the trial closely. Many testified against Lil’ Kim, but only one man became the subject of unparalleled scrutiny and scorn -- Lil’ Cease. Labeled a “snitch” and a “rat” by many for doing what was legally required of him, Lil’ Cease has been forced to deal with the aftermath of allegedly “breaking” the hip-hop code of silence.

Hosted by MTV’s Sway and featuring court transcripts and commentary from rap heavyweights Jadakiss, Method Man, Snoop Dogg and more, Reality Check: Junior M.A.F.I.A vs. Lil’ Kim exposes the truth about the trial, examines the effect the feud will have on the late-great Notorious BIG’s legacy and allows viewers to decide for themselves who is the real traitor. “We worked with Cease in the past, he is a pleasure to work with, he is still young and eager and has a professional attitude. We are looking forward to future projects with him” says CEO, Anthony Perez of Phoenix Entertainment Group.

The DVD features special commentary from Cavario, the CEO and editor-at-large of hip-hop bible Don Diva, as well as a new Junior M.A.F.I.A. mixtape, on the streets, June 27th.

-article courtesy of PRWeb.Com

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DMX & HAGAR STAR IN BIKE ADS

Posted at 5/04/2006 10:18:00 PM

Motorbike fans DMX and SAMMY HAGAR are giving Suzuki bosses a boost by appearing in new ads seated on customised cycles.

Former VAN HALEN star Hagar poses on his bike in the new ads in front of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, while rapper DMX's scowls from the seat of his leopard-skin print cycle in New York City.

DMX also recruited rap posse the RUFF RYDERS for his nighttime shoot. (KL/WN/JB)

-article courtesy of Pr-Inside.Com

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To all the Playa Hata's Out There Who Didn't Promote Hip Hop Ruckus

Posted at 5/04/2006 08:27:00 AM

By Destro the Bigga Figga - Well, we at Hip Hop Ruckus try hard to branch out with the other web sites (blogs, hip hop sites, etc.) in efforts to grow as a major force in the hip hop news game. We have tried to extend our hands to other sites by offering link exchanges and such so that we could both come up. Well, for those who didn't extend their hand when we requested help....F-ck you because we go come up regardless of what you playa hating b-tc-es do...ain't that right 'Pac!!



Here's a list of websites that didn't show love ...just to name just a few..."Eat a D-CK!":
http://Dlisted.blogspot.com (Especially this site)
http://tdb.nukefx.info
http://ohfree.blogspot.com
http://bigcratez.com
http://www.claycane.blogspot.com (Your site is booty dawg)
http://www.candistar.com
http://www.undergroundhiphop.com
http://gofugyourself.typepad.com
http://www.nappydiatribe.blogspot.com

So If we write you asking for a link exchange and you don't write back...F*CK YO CANDY ASS and whatever you stand for!!

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Gnarls Barkley Makes UK History

Posted at 5/04/2006 08:08:00 AM

Rapper Cee-Lo, last seen paying for his daughter’s flamboyant birthday party on MTV’s “Sweet 16,” has become a phenomenon in the U.K. as a member of the duo Gnarls Barkley. Along with bandmate and producer Danger Mouse, the two have spent four weeks at No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart with “Crazy,” the first single from their upcoming debut album, St. Elsewhere. The single is set to blaze a heatwave on U.S. Billboard Charts as it shows no signs of slowing down in the U.K.

A jazzy, disco throwback that features Cee-Lo belting in falsetto, “Crazy” also entered the history books in April as the first song to debut at the top solely on the basis of download sales. The following week, it remained No. 1 by selling more than 10 times as many copies (194,000) in stores as it had previously via downloads (18,000). St. Elsewhere was released internationally on April 24 via Warner Music, but arrives here in North America today in digital form, and next Tuesday (May 9) as a physical CD via Atlantic Records/Downtown Records.

The album was financed solely by Cee-Lo and Danger Mouse, and took about a year to create. Cee-Lo’s vocals on “Crazy” were captured on the first take, while the music track was crafted by Danger Mouse to defy the strict categorization of mainstream radio. “Some of what we did is definitely more accessible,” Danger Mouse says. “We can understand that. But it wasn’t intended that way. We’re fortunate that something came out that’s easier for people to enjoy.”

The song is gaining ground on U.S. radio, embraced by urban outlets as well as modern rock stations. Ebro, of New York’s Hip-Hop Station Hot 97, says the song is “in the vein of (OutKast’s) ‘Hey Ya!’ but it will probably take a little bit longer to come home for my audience than it would for other types of audiences.”

Meanwhile, you can catch Gnarls Barkley on “Late Night With Conan O’Brien” (May 24), “Lollapalooza” (August 5) and the United Kingdom’s Creamfields Fest (August 26).

-article courtesy of MyHipHopSpace.Com

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Brother J Announces X-Clan Foundation

Posted at 5/04/2006 08:07:00 AM

Brother J, the X-Clan’s co-founder and spokesman, doesn't want people to forget about Professor X.

Therefore, Brother J has announced The X-Clan Foundation in honor of Professor X, whose sudden passing in March surprised the hip hop community. Created as a project by Communities Organizing to Reach Excellent Concepts (C.O.R.E.), the foundation hopes to raise money for positive youth programs, such as the Crisis Prevention Program.

The Crisis Prevention Program hopes to offer positive alternatives to gang recruitment.

In addition, the The X-Clan Foundation plans on utilizing the Internet, community service, and urban music to educate and empower its young adult participants.

The foundation will also offer martial arts lessons and classes in music theory, mathematics and history.

“I am proud of the evolution of X-Clan for this new millennium beyond the music,” Brother J said in a press release statement. “The collaboration of C.O.R.E. and the X-Clan Foundation allows us to address self-destruction issues in our youth on a national and international scale.”

A portion of proceeds from the foundation will go toward the family and burial costs of Lumumba Carson, aka Professor X.

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KARRINE STEFFANS AND BILL MAHER BACK TOGETHER?: TV host speaks; plus, judge denies author’s restraining order against porn company.

Posted at 5/04/2006 08:00:00 AM

Veteran entertainment columnist Liz Smith, who says she and TV commentator Bill Maher go way back, asked the host of HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher” about his romantic relationship with dancer-turned-author Karrine Steffans. For starters, Maher revealed that he has begun seeing her again.

“About Karrine, I have only good things to say,” Smith quotes Maher as saying. “If the lovemaking was 'super,' it's because when we were out together, I truly felt like Scott and Zelda. I used to tell her that. Not that I ever, of course, met F. Scott Fitzgerald and his lovely wife, but from what I read, they were this couple that just sizzled with wit when together. And Karrine and I did that with and for each other.

“We unfortunately fought too much. But all we needed to get back on track was - nothing. Just each other, a quiet restaurant and that was it. The conversation always crackled, the laughs were effortless; it was the most delirious sort of mental ping-pong. Anyone who didn't tap into this woman's mind missed the best part of her!"

Maher is referring to the string of celebrity hook-ups she mentions in her best-selling book “Confessions of a Video Vixen,” including Usher, Sean Combs, Shaquille O'Neal, Vin Diesel, Bobby Brown and Ja Rule.

Meanwhile, the adult entertainment company that repackaged and released old footage of Steffans from a porn video she filmed years ago has released a statement announcing that her temporary restraining order against them has been denied.

Federal Judge George Schiavelli has tossed the TRO against Vivid Entertainment Group, which released the DVD “Superhead” on April 21. Steffans was seeking to block the company from distributing the film, which features her performing explicit sex scenes with famous adult actor Mr. Marcus.

Steffans' underlying lawsuit against Vivid Entertainment Group and Vivid Entertainment LLC for a permanent injunction and money damages over the DVD remains pending before Judge Schiavelli.

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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Mobb Deep Rocks NYC In-Store, Preps For Tour

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:56:00 AM

Mobb Deep was in the house at retail store FYE on May 2 in New York City for an exclusive performance and album signing in support of their new album, Blood Money.

Aside from the entourage and tight security who laced the entrance and makeshift stage inside, The Alchemist was in attendance to support Havoc and Prodigy.

With the release of their first project under the G-Unit umbrella, the Mobb were due to perform exclusively for those fans that came out to get their copy of Blood Money.

After performing "Put 'Em In Their Place," Prodigy concluded humbly by telling the now pumped up fans that filled the first floor of FYE: "I'm feeling real good right now. We could do this all day. Infamous Mobb Deep... We'll see you in the world my niggas!"

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Bay Area Rappers Create Hyphy Energy Drink

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:51:00 AM

A Bay Area rap group has started a full-fledged campaign for a new Hyphy Juice Energy Drink, a beverage based on the popular cultural movement in the region.

The drink is the brainchild of an Oakland group called The Team, which has begun to promote it through a song called "Hyphy Juice."

"The music and the movement was so strong," said group member Clyde Carson. "We wanted to create a drink to go along with the flavor on the streets. So we made the juice."

The Hyphy Movement was made popular nationally by rappers like E-40, The Team and Keak Da Sneak, but the group--comprised of Kaz Khyzah, Clyde Carson, and Mayne Mannish--opted to make a drink to correspond with the Hyphy Movement's dance, culture and way of life.

The energy drink is lightly carbonated with the flavor of "grapple," a unique mixture of grape and apple that increases a person's energy, Carson says.

"It's almost dangerous," Carson stated. "It tastes so good, you have remind people that it's an energy drink. We can never supply the demand. It's crazy."

The drink has also been endorsed by Too Short.

On the musical front, The Team recently released World Premier , an album that features Too Short, Richie Rich, singer Goapele and others.

In a similar manner, Lil' Jon released Crunk Juice in 2004 to correspond with Crunk music, another musical phenomenon marked by high energy and aggressiveness.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Ice-T Teaches Hip-Hop On 'Ice T's Rap School'

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:47:00 AM

Rap legend Ice-T is set to star in a new Vh1 reality series, where he teaches young students the fundamentals of Hip-Hop and emceeing.

In Ice-T's Rap School, the rapper-turned-actor will coach and train a class of seventh and eight graders from New York City's exclusive York Prep on the basics of becoming an MC.

Ice-T (born Tracy Marrow) will educate the students on a variety of subjects, including learning to rhyme, timing, scratching and break-dancing.

Rap School is geared toward exposing the prep school scholars to Hip-Hop culture, while proving to skeptical parents and faculty that rap can be a positive force.

The show will also concentrate on teaching students how to express themselves through rap, as well as how to find their voices and conquer personal issues such as shyness, speech problems and divorce.

After pressure-packed auditions and recording sessions, the kids' skills will be put to the test with a final exam: opening up for rap pioneers Public Enemy at the acclaimed B.B. King's Club in New York City.

No stranger to both the small and silver screens, Ice-T has starred in a multitude of movies and television shows, including New Jack City, Surviving the Game, 3000 Miles to Graceland, and the Hip-Hop classic Breakin'.

Ice T currently has a starring role as Detective Odafin "Fin" Tutuola on NBC's Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Ice-T's Rap School premieres on Vh1 this September.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Kim Mathers Seeks Compensation in a Detroit Court

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:41:00 AM

Eminem’s pending divorcee, Kim Mathers, solicits a Detroit Court to collect on a 17-year love-worn entanglement with the Oscar-winning MC.

On Wednesday (April 26), attorney Michael J. Smith filed paperwork in Macomb County Circuit Court on behalf of Mathers, requesting joint custody and child support of the duo’s 10-year-old daughter, Hailie Jade Scott. The petition also seeks mortgage payments, insurance and utility expenses for their 15,000 square-foot Clinton Township, Michigan home, as well as attorney fees.

The new legal demands were filed as an addendum to divorce papers docketed by the Circuit Court to end the three-month nuptial agreement between Mathers and Eminem in their second failed marriage since 2001.

The paperwork disclosed no further information detailing reasons behind the divorce, proceedings for which began in early April.

The Hip Hop Ruckus Staff writes,"Bitch please....get a job you deadbeat! Eminem, that's what you get for fucking with that Skank Hoe!!"

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Tiger Woods' Father Dies at 74

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:36:00 AM

Earl Woods, the father of superstar golfer Tiger Woods, died Wednesday morning at his Cypress, California home.

According to The Associated Press, Woods was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1998 and was treated with radiation. However, the cancer returned in 2004 and spread throughout his body. Earl Woods was 74.

Tiger issued a statement on his website today about his father’s passing.

"My dad was my best friend and greatest role model, and I will miss him deeply," he said. "I'm overwhelmed when I think of all of the great things he accomplished in his life. He was an amazing dad, coach, mentor, soldier, husband and friend.

“I wouldn't be where I am today without him, and I'm honored to continue his legacy of sharing and caring."

Perhaps Earl Woods will be best remembered for capturing America’s warm sentiments, when he stepped onto the green and gave his then 21-year-old son a big hug at the 1997 Masters.

Author Pete McDaniel assisted Earl Woods in penning the 1997 book, Training a Tiger: A Father's Guide to Raising a Winner in Both Golf and Life.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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T.I.’s Entourage Caught in Gunfire, One Man Dead

Posted at 5/04/2006 07:32:00 AM

A member of rapper T.I.’s entourage was killed, and three others were injured, in a gun battle early Wednesday that began in a Cincinnati nightclub.

Witnesses told police a verbal dispute began at Club Ritz, which was hosting an after-party held for T.I. and Bad Boy recording artist Yung Joc following an earlier performance at Bogarts. The fight prompted T.I. and his group to leave the party, but they were pursued by two SUVs, according to police.

A gun battle then ensued between T.I.’s crew and the passengers in the pursuing vehicles. Officers who arrived at the scene found four people with gunshot wounds.

Philant Johnson, 26, was pronounced dead at a local hospital. He was described as a spokesman for T.I.’s Grand Hustle record label and the rapper’s personal assistant.

Three other members of the rapper’s entourage received hospital treatment, including a Minnesota woman in stable condition, and a bodyguard and a driver who were later released. T.I. (born Clifford ‘Tip’ Harris) was not injured.

No arrests have been made as police say the shooters were gone by the time they arrived.

-article courtesy of NobodySmiling.Com

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Wednesday, May 03, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Jewish rapper facing concert dilemma

Posted at 5/03/2006 07:00:00 AM

Matisyahu's faith creating problems with his touring schedule.

He's been on the road for close to two years, building up a major fan base and selling over 100,000 records in the process. But the bigger fan bases are starting to have their downside for Hasidic reggae star Matisyahu.

An important part of the Jewish faith is Shabbat - which forbids Jews from working from sunset on Friday until Saturday when it's dark enough to make out three stars in the sky. With Matisyahu's transition to bigger concert venues - which require longer set-up and soundcheck time, the weekend performances could become a real issue.

"We do play Saturday night, but that's getting harder because we're playing bigger arenas," he says. "I can't ask people to work for me before sundown, so soundcheck and stage setup is tricky."

-article courtesy of SoundGenerator.Com

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NEW HIP HOP BEATS AND SAMPLE SITE LAUNCHED: 20Dollarbeats.com Offers Fresh 'Modern' Types of Beats and Music Instrumentals

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:44:00 AM

20 Dollar beats.com is a relatively new site that launched early in 2006. The main focus for the site is to offer hip hop emcees and other vocal artists as well as video producers, the ability to use fresh "modern" types of beats and music instrumentals in their projects.

With a 20DollarBeat, you get a high quality "RADIO-READY" track ready for your vocals to be mixed right in. Break Beats and Loops are just loops in 4, 8 or 16 measures ready for your favorite looping software. Our Studio Mixed Full Tracks are already pre-arranged with hook, and verse sections. All you need to do is mix your vocals on top and you have a hit ready for any talent scout or production company.

FULL TRACKS: You get a full length track with pre-arranged sections for verse, hook etc. Most tracks are 4:00 or longer but none are less than 3:30. You will get a "Radio Ready" version of the track Ready for your vocals. You can also receive a CD of your track in 16/24 bit 44-48khz stereo files. Available formats are: .wav & .aiff. Direct downloads are available right after payment. Your direct download will be in high quality (160k) .mp3 format, which is perfect for demos, samples and more.

LOOPS & BEATS: Loops are not full tracks! They are 4, 8 or 16 measures long and do not contain verse and hook sections. Loops & Beats are great for creating your own version of the track. You will receive a direct download after payment with a link to the file. All loops and beats samples are exactly what you will receive (without the voice over).

BREAK BEATS: Break Beats are 3:00 minute dance/club tracks for DJ's. These tracks are perfect for voice overs, radio spots, TV ads, commercials, video production, music for just about anything. You will receive a direct download after payment with a link to the file. All Break beats are exactly the same as on the site except without the voiceover. They are MP3's compressed at 160k stereo CD quality.

20 Dollar beats.com brings you high quality affordable hip-hop beats and club tracks to DJ's and vocal artists alike. Please read our Leasing Policy before purchasing to understand how leasing beats works. Download your favorite beats and get your demo ready today!

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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DJ Shadow Enters The Majors, Signs Deal with Universal

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:44:00 AM

Underground hip-hop stalwart DJ Shadow recently signed with Universal Records and announced that his third solo album will hit streets this summer.

The Cali-bred DJ/producer (born Josh Davis) has kept busy releasing indie albums featuring some of the most innovative hip-hop production of the past. Shadow is best known for his 1996 debut, Entroducing...

"I'm thrilled to join the team at Universal," said Shadow via a statement. "Finally, after years of feeling like an orphan I feel like I finally have a home."

His upcoming untitled fourth album will feature underground stars such as Keak Da Sneak and Turf Talk as well as hip-hop heavyweights Q-Tip and David Banner.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Russell Simmons Gets Multi-Million Dollar Donation for Arts Center

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:38:00 AM

Brooklyn, NY real estate tycoon Ron Hershco will be donating a $2.5 million neighborhood arts center to Russell Simmons' Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation.

The 10,000-square-foot space, located at 2590 Atlantic Ave. in East New York, will feature a gallery, studios for artists who are also teachers, and classrooms.

The gift will also allow Rush to significantly expand beyond its 900-square-foot Chelsea gallery and the 1,000-square-foot Corridor Gallery in Clinton Hill.

"We intend for it to be an active and lively hub for neighborhood youth to come and learn about art," Ellen Haddigan, president of Rush's board told the New York Post.

Formed a decade ago, by the Simmons family, Rush promotes arts education for disadvantaged urban youth, and support for emerging artists of color.

In related news, Russell Simmons' "Get Your Money Right" financial literacy and empowerment national tour will be making its next stop at Miami on May 20. Launched in 2005, the "Get Your Money Right" tour's main objective is to speak to young adults and community members about the importance of financial literacy.

This year's "Get Your Money Right" tour kicked off last month in Detroit with the support of Three 6 Mafia, MC Lyte and Obie Trice. The tour's most recent stop was in New York and rappers including T.I., Nas and LL Cool J turned up for the summit.

"Get Your Money Right" tour will also be making stops in Miami on May 20, September 16 in Atlanta, September 30 in Los Angeles and October 14 in Dallas.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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NFL Draft: Reggie Bush Hopes to Bring New Orleans Joy, Vince Young a Titan

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:30:00 AM

Just several months after Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city of New Orleans, the region is now being hit with a jolt of positive electricity. His name is Reggie Bush.

Hours after the dynamic running back was selected by the New Orleans Saints as the second overall pick in Saturday’s (April 29) NFL Draft, Reebok announced that it had received a record-setting 15,000 orders for Bush's yet to be numbered jersey.

In addition, Bush has cemented pacts with Hummer, Adidas, Subway and EA Sports.

“This has been one of the most memorable times in my life,” Bush said.

Bush has had to keep his mind on football in recent weeks, as NCAA officials launched an investigation looking into the activities of the former USC star's family. Apparently an alleged arrangement was made where Bush's parents were allowed to live rent-free in a home owned by a man, who once sought to market the former USC star. Los Angeles attorney Brian Watkins also contends that he advanced the family upwards of $100,000 in cash. Bush himself has not been directly tied to the situation.

"This is a special time for me and my family and beyond that I'm just going to continue to focus on football," said Bush. "I'm a football player, that's where my mindset is."

In related NFL Draft news, defensive end Mario Williams was selected by the Houston Texans as the first overall pick, and quarterback Vince Young was taken third overall by the Tennessee Titans. Young graciously brought his mother on the Draft podium with him to thank her for all she’s done.

Despite Young being a Houston native, he has a lot to look forward to playing in Tennessee. With the Titans, Young will be schooled by his mentor Steve McNair, despite reports that McNair may be traded by to the Baltimore Ravens. Off the field, Young already has been signed to an endorsement deal by Reebok and will star in his own BET reality show entitled, Next Level. The show will follow Young, as he is hit with offers from both endorsers and women, all while having to adjust to the rigors of professional football.

“We have all been praying and praying for Vince to be put in a beautiful situation in life,” his longtime pastor Samuel Smith told Vibe.com.

Another player that has been placed in an enviable situation is D’Brickashaw Ferguson, who was selected by the New York Jets as the fourth overall pick. Ferguson, a Freeport, Long Island New York native will get to play at home.

The 2006 NFL season kicks off Thursday Sept. 7, when the Miami Dolphins visit the world champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Marc Ecko Helps Graffiti Artists Beat NYC in Court, Preps 2nd Annual Save The Rhinos Concert

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:27:00 AM

Fashion and media mogul Marc Ecko took his battle on behalf of New York City graffiti artists to court…and won.

This past Monday (May 1) a judge ruled in favor of young graffiti artists in a First Amendment lawsuit against New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Councilman Peter Vallone, and the city of New York.

Judge George B. Daniels granted the plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary injunction against recent amendments to anti-graffiti legislation. The amendments included criminalizing the possession of spray paint and broad-tipped markers for all people under the age of 21.

Effective Thursday (May 4), the New York Police Department and all City agencies will be prohibited from enforcing the amendments, pending the final outcome of the case.

“Today’s decision is a victory for the plaintiffs and everyone else whose First Amendment rights were being trampled upon with these laws,” said Ecko via a press release statement on Monday. “I am very pleased that the courts have recognized the hypocrisy of this anti-graffiti legislation and its effect on the right to free expression for legitimate artists under the age of 21.”

In addition to Monday’s landmark decision, Ecko will have another reason to celebrate next month.

On June 8 the likes of Common, Rakim, Lupe Fiasco, DJ Z-Trip, Rhymefest, DJ Kid Capri and other surprise guests will help Ecko charge New York City’s Central Park for the Save the Rhinos 2nd annual benefit concert.

“Last year, we welcomed an extraordinary crowd to our first annual Save the Rhinos benefit concert, raising much needed awareness of the plight facing these majestic animals,” said Ecko via a press release statement. “Building on the success of that event, I am delighted to bring another great line-up to Central Park this June.”

Proceeds from the concert will go directly to efforts hoping to double the populations of the Indian, Black, and Sumatran rhinos, three of the planet’s most endangered species.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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THE SOURCE, GOING ONCE...

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:24:00 AM

THE auctioneer's gavel should slam down tomorrow on The Source.

When it is over, The Source founder David Mays will see the stock he once held as the controlling shareholder passed to a new owner who will try to revive the magazine he founded more than a decade ago.

Mays and his partner Ray "Benzino" Scott, the sometime rapper and ex-president, were stripped of their positions when a new board of directors took over.

But the pair are still living large in Miami. They have continued to claim that new owners seized control of the company illegally, and last week they even managed to get the auction postponed by a week.

In Miami, Mays was involved in an altercation with Busta Rhymes, and after insulting the rapper, was allegedly bashed in the head with a champagne bottle. All in a day's work in the wacky world of hip-hop.

Mays, who once described Media Ink as a "rude motherf*****," and Benzino, who once described Media Ink as "irrelevant," could not be reached for comment on their cellphones.

David Finkler, the lawyer said to be representing the pair in their tussle for The Source, did not return several calls for comment.

Who will emerge as the new owner is by no means clear. Black Enterprise Greenwich Street Growth Partners, affiliated with Black Enterprise magazine, is believed to be the front-runner.

Rapper Jay-Z, with backing from recording executives Peter Lofrumento, Lyor Cohen and Steve Stout, have also been mentioned as potential bidders. They did not return calls for comment.

Right now the board is controlled by the Black Enterprise investment group, which had initially invested $12 million and saw its minority stake become a majority stake.

The stock, on the other hand, is in the hands of Textron Financial Corp., a Providence, R.I.-based lender that at one time rode to the rescue of the embattled company only to have Mays and The Source default on an $18 million loan, according to claims made in court filings.

Textron ousted Mays and Benzino, naming a new board of directors to The Source earlier this year.

The once-profitable magazine was the bible of hip-hop in the movement's early years. It fell on hard times when it failed to weather competition from rival mags, feuded with employees and gratuitously ticked off recording companies, which pulled their ads from The Source.

As their firm's fortunes fell, Mays and Scott allegedly used the company as a personal piggy bank to finance fast cars, lots of bling and stays in expensive Miami hotels - all accompanied by the occasional outburst of gunfire, reports of marijuana smoke, sexual-harassment charges and scrutiny from law-enforcement agencies ranging from the FBI to the NYPD.

Jeremy Miller was installed as the new president and CEO.

He brought in Fayhim Ratcliffe as the editor-in-chief - just in time for the magazine to celebrate its 200th issue.

Subscriber copies, which Mays and Benzino stopped sending because they couldn't afford the postage, have since resumed, Miller said.

-article courtesy of NYPost.Com

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LL COOL J MAKES FRIENDS WITH FOXX ON NEW ALBUM

Posted at 5/03/2006 06:16:00 AM

LL COOL J asked JAMIE FOXX to make a guest appearance on his new album to show the world their well-publicised feud is over.

The pair fell out on the set of American football film ANY GIVEN SUNDAY after Foxx accused his co-star of taking himself far too seriously.
The spat rumbled

on in press interviews for months but now the two musicians and movie stars have put their differences behind them.

The rapper says, "We made peace. That (fight) was like high school. We were playing football, we were lifting weights. We were a bunch of maniacs running around screaming." (KL/SP/SC)

-article courtesy of PR-Inside.Com

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Tuesday, May 02, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Houston Rapper Big Hawk Shot And Killed

Posted at 5/02/2006 12:56:00 PM

Rapper and Screwed Up Click member Big Hawk was shot and killed last night (May 1) in Houston.

Big Hawk, born John Hawkins, was struck multiple times around 10:30 pm in front of an associate's house.

Sources said Hawkins' car was still running when he was shot and according to police, no one witnessed the shooting.

Big Hawk became popular as a member of the late DJ Screw's pioneering group, Screwed Up Click.

Big Hawk's younger brother, Fat Pat was murdered in 1998.

Big Hawk recorded with such rappers as Lil' Flip, Lil' KeKe, Big Moe and was featured on Lil' Troy's hit single, "Wanna Be A Baller."

In 2000 he released Under Hawk's Wings, on Dead End Records.

Big Hawk leaves behind a wife and two children.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Hip Hop's Eminem Covers His Mothers Costly Medical Bills

Posted at 5/02/2006 07:12:00 AM

Detroit based rap artist Eminem is looking past the troubled relationship that he and his mother once shared as expressed through his violent lyrics.

His mother Debbie Mathers-Nelson is currently engaged in a fight for her life with stage four breast cancer. This serious stage of cancer generally begins to spread rapidly to other areas of the body.

A source close to the family says "she is very weak and knows the prognosis is bleak. She is desperate to build bridges with her son and put things right before it's too late."

Marshal Mathers AKA Eminem has stepped up and started supporting his mother by paying her medical bills. The bills are said to total nearly $400,000.

The recent events have come as a shock to some of Eminem's fans since he had not spoken to her since 2002.

Earlier this month a rash of horrible events have been announced by Eminem. First he announced his most recent divorce with his ex-wife, Kim, just a few short weeks ago.

Then the hype man, known as Proof from the rap group D12, was recently shot in an incident at a local Detroit nightclub ending with two people dead, and one in custody awaiting trial.

-article courtesy of RapNetwork.Com

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MJ Unit - The Takeover, A Hoax

Posted at 5/02/2006 07:08:00 AM

Apparently as it seems, the MJ and 50 Cent collaboration is not in the making. Turns out, it was a hoax. According to MTV, an e-mail claiming to originate from Michael Jackson’s Two Seas record label confirming a collaboration between 50 Cent and the superstar was just a prank.

In the weeks leading up to the fake e-mail sent Sunday, DJ Whoo Kid had done interviews about a recent trip to Bahrain to visit Jackson, and talked about a phone conversation he arranged between the two artists. While that trip actually happened, no concrete projects had come out of the meeting, contrary to recent reports. Sunday’s phony e-mail plugged a song called “Now That I Found Love” that featured Jackson, 50 Cent and new singer Lucy Diamonds, and gave its release date as Nov 21. Two Seas, however, says that e-mail did not come from them.

“I do not know who put this story out, certainly not us,” Two Seas spokesperson Sue Harris said, according to MTV. “But it doesn’t surprise me.” Whoo Kid echoed Harris’ bewilderment. “I don’t know who made that up,” he said, according to MTV. “I don’t know who Lucy Diamonds is.”

Diamonds’ spokesperson Jonathan Hay told the network: “How are they saying it is a 50/ MJ/ Lucy song? This whole thing is freaking strange.” There was also talk that the song would appear on a Whoo Kid mixtape called “MJ Unit - The Takeover,” which would supposedly feature five unreleased Jackson songs and mash-ups of his prior hits with songs from G-Unit members, including Lloyd Banks, Mase, Young Buck, Mobb Deep and M.O.P.

According to MTV, Whoo Kid’s forthcoming collaboration with Banks, Mase and Mobb Deep may have contributed to the rumor regarding Jackson. But “Now That I Found Love,” according to MTV, gives shout-outs to 50’s rival, the Game, as well as DJ Skee, Nu Jerzey Devil and Black Wall Street.

Hay says the MiJac/50 rumor might ruin Diamonds’ potential collaboration with The Game. “This isn’t good because Lucy is talking to Game, she’s been talking to Game for a while,” Hay said. “So she won’t be on that [MJ Unit] mixtape, not unless they stole her song.”

Meanwhile, Jackson’s camp is washing its hands of the whole thing, even refusing to separate fat from fiction.

“As far as we are concerned, details regarding the recording of Michael Jackson’s albums are being kept under wraps,” Harris said, according to MTV. “We will not be making any comments as to who may or may not be working with Michael Jackson in the studio. We will not be making any announcements, nor will we be reacting to any speculation or reports in the media.”

-article courtesy of MyHipHopSpace.Com

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DUTTON’S BLACK SEPARATIST MINISERIES CONCERNS HBO: Film wonders what would happen if lower class blacks were given their own state.

Posted at 5/02/2006 07:03:00 AM

Consider the plot of the forthcoming 10-hour miniseries being developed by actor Charles S. Dutton for HBO: African Americans in a black separatist movement are given their own state within the U.S. under a multibillion-dollar reparations package.

But...

The new state must only take in the poor, imprisoned and downtrodden blacks in the U.S. The theme of the series is supposed to ponder the possibility of blacks prospering in an environment where there is no white man to blame for their predicament.

"HBO seems a little afraid of it; it's very provocative,” the actor tells entertainment columnists Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith. The cable network reportedly wants Dutton to write the story as a novel first before moving forward with a miniseries.

Dutton says that other networks have expressed interest in airing the project as is, and he will soon decide whether to stay with HBO or move on.

"With this, I'm holding up a mirror to society, and every aspect of the story actually has a historical precedent," Dutton said of the project.

In the meantime, the actor/director stars as the father of Omar Epps’ character in Part 2 of a special “House” episode airing tomorrow on Fox. The show marks their third appearance together in a film, following the TV movie “First Time Felon” and the motion picture “Against the Ropes.”

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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Jimmy "Henchmen" Rosemond Launches Czar Squad D.J.'s

Posted at 5/02/2006 07:00:00 AM

In hope to help launch the careers of upstart DJs and artists, Czar Entertainment, management home to Rick Ross, The Game and Shyne, among others, is readying to launch The Czar Squad D.J.'s.

The squad features 18 professional hip-hop and reggaeton DJs in the U.S., Europe and Canada. Czar CEO Jimmy "Henchmen" Rosemond says the Squad D.J.'s will provide an outlet for artists to skip politics and get their music heard. The squad includes established DJs like West Coast mixtape veteran DJ Warrior, The Game's official tour DJ Kris-Styles and Chris Brown's tour DJ Babey Dew, among others.

"The Czar Squad D.J.'s is designed to offer new and established artists the opportunity to gain exposure, while giving fans the chance to hear fresh talent which they may not be exposed to from their local radio station," Rosemond said in a statement. "My objective is to build the Czar Squad D.J. initiative into the premiere DJ movement in the world by offering quality music and creating a presence in every major market."

In related news, Rosemond and 50 Cent recently settled a lawsuit the rapper filed against Czar. 50 accused Czar and two other video production companies for using an interview of him for The Original 50 Cent DVD without his permission.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Diddy Among Time Magazine's "100 Most Influential"

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:56:00 AM

Sean "Diddy" Combs was recently named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People.

The mogul joins a list that includes President George W. Bush, former President Bill Clinton, Microsoft CEO Bill Gates, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and NBC News anchor Katie Couric, among others.

In an essay, Diddy is described as "a force of nature." The piece chronicles Puff's rise from an aspiring entrepreneur to a multimedia giant. Diddy oversees several businesses, including Bad Boy Entertainment, Sean John Clothing, his Estee Lauder-created Unforgivable fragrance, a production agreement to executive produce MTV projects and HBO's "Bad Boys of Comedy." Diddy is also involved in charity work.

Diddy recently scored big with his Unforgivable fragrance. The cologne has generated millions of dollars per week since its launch this past February.

On the flip side, the Diddy-produced "Celebrity Cooking Showdown" was recently canceled. NBC canceled the show with two episodes remaining in the series. The network was initially slated to air the show five consecutive nights starting April 17.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Lloyd Banks Celebrates Birthday With Playboy-Themed Bash

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:53:00 AM

Lloyd Banks celebrated his 24th birthday last night (April 30) in decadent style at Club Strata in New York.

G-Unit mates Tony Yayo, Young Buck, and Olivia were in attendance to celebrate. 50 Cent, who is currently shooting his new film Home of the Brave, was not.

Banks' security was tight and the police presence unusually heavy, which may have deterred partygoers from filling the half-empty club.

Banks lived up to his "Blue Heffner" moniker by sprinkling the party with a dozen beautiful multiracial women dressed in all-white lingerie, Playboy Mansion style. However, Banks received special attention from his own belly dancer who sprang out of a birthday cake to service him.

Other VIPs in attendance included Nikki "Hoopz" Alexander of VH1's "Flavor of Love," Beanie Man, M.O.P.'s Billy Danze and Floetry's Marsha Ambrosius.

In related news, Banks announced last week on G-Unit Radio that he is set to release a Timbaland-produced single from his new album, Rotten Apple, the follow-up to 2004's Hunger for More disc.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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Lil' Kim Loses Prison Visitor Privilege

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:48:00 AM

Imprisoned rapper Lil' Kim and other inmates at Philadelphia's Federal Detention Center recently ran afoul of the rules governing cell phones.

The rap star and some of her fellow female inmates lost their visitor privileges after a visitor tried to smuggle a cell phone into the prison, sources told the Philadelphia News.

Nearly half the female population at the prison have been without visitors for about two weeks, the sources said.

The source also said Kim, who began serving a one year and one day sentence for perjury in September, was rumored to be the intended source of the contraband.

"It has nothing to do with Kim," her attorney, James J. Leonard Jr., told the newspaper, adding she has been a "model inmate" and is expected to be released in July.

A spokeswoman for the federal prison said she would not comment on "any internal security procedures or any specific incidents within the facility."

Lil' Kim loses prison visitor privilege.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Bishop Don Magic Juan: P.I.M.P. (Exclusive Interview)

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:38:00 AM

I f a man named Donald Campbell called to speak to your sister, you might not object. But if the man known better as Bishop Don Magic Juan rang, things would be different. That’s because through the mid 1970’s to 1985, Don was the self-proclaimed king of pimping. From the North Side of Chicago, to the curbs of Las Vegas, Don has been booted and suited, as the prostitutes were recruited.

Hip-Hop culture today knows the Bishop differently. He’s seen as the flamboyant advisor in Snoop’s entourage and obligatory pimp on records from DaBrat, Twista, and 50 Cent. But not so long ago, the lights and cameras were off, but the action certainly wasn’t.

The pimp-turned-pastor recently released a compilation, Green is for the Money, Gold is for the Honies. The Avatar Records project captures 11 crooning classics great for the Caddy or the Continental, as it circles the block.

AllHipHop.com circled the past in a blunt, two-part conversation with Bishop Don Magic Juan. Powerful truth comes out on both sides of the pimp game, Don’s evolution, Snoop’s pimp cred, and some real talk from Don on the Oscar Awards. Preach!

AllHipHop.com: Chuuch. How’s it going playa? Bishop Don Magic Juan: Chuuch. Hey man it’s going down right now, you know? Right now, we cracking that Gold Is For The Honey, Green Is For The Money Volume 1, ya dig? It’s just to calm the nerves down, to bring people back to reality, and give them a chance to think again. The songs are very inspiring and I’m skinning game between each track. You know what I mean?

AllHipHop.com: How did you get into pimping?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I come from what we consider the ghetto. It’s all started by money. People don’t get into it just because [of the] girls, it’s really because of money. I lived next door to dope dealers and pimps, so my role model was looking at a dope dealer or a pimp come out every day getting in a flashy car or wearing flashy suits, having diamonds and girls. That’s what I wanted to be. If I was living next door to a doctor or a lawyer, maybe that’s what I would have been. But unfortunately, I wasn’t. So I patterned myself like that. I asked the girl would she do it, and she said, “Yeah,” and I was off and running.

AllHipHop.com: What did you say to her to get on her on the track?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I said, “If you want to be down for me, I’m trying to get up with this pimp game.” I just wanted to get in the game and have one girl, a flashy Cadillac, a ring and a slick suit. I didn’t know I would be able to rewrite this thing. Even today, by the pimp game being strong everyone wants to pimp. A pimp song done won an Oscar [Academy Award]! So pimping is really what’s happening. One time it was really being persecuted. Now people are glorifying it.

AllHipHop.com: How did you get your name?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: My original name is Donald, so the girls started calling me Don. When I got in my teens, the girls started calling me ‘Don Juan.’ [The original] Don Juan was known to be a lover. At the time, I was a player. I kept on playing the game. The Pimpgod named me ‘Magic.’ He said, “Man, you playing the game so live, everybody else falling off and you still bringing magic to the game, they ought to call you magic.” The ‘Bishop’ came on as I got into the church in 1985, when God saved me and made me realized that he does exist. I started [preaching] at the church, and that’s how the bishop came in at. And the ‘Arch’ comes from Dolemite. The legendary Dolemite [Rudy Ray Moore] called me the ‘Arch Bishop.’ He said that’s the highest bishop there can be.

AllHipHop.com: Was there an actual Pimpgod?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: Yeah. His name was at the time was King Barrell. They started calling him the Godfather. He was like the number one pimp in Chicago before I came up in it. He’s about ten years older than me. As a little boy, I used to run behind his car and I used to look up to him and as I got in the game he was more like my mentor. He became the pimp god over the pimps.

AllHipHop.com: When did you know you were a good pimp?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: When the chick came back and gave me the money! I knew then it was going to be a lasting thing. [Or,] when one day, a female came home with the handcuffs on. I actually got a bobby pin, stuck it in there and [freed her]. When I did that it, I proved to the chick that I was a qualified to be a pimp, and it let me know that this was my game. From there on, I played it. When I was in the pimp game I was the number one pimp in the country thirteen years in a row.

AllHipHop.com: What’s the difference between a pimp and a mack?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: One thing about it is a pimp is superior; he is number one over all the macks, the players, the hustlers, the dope dealers. [Out of] All the people in the night life, the pimp is superior. The difference between a pimp and a mack is about convo. [The mack] don’t have to have a girl on the street. In order to be a pimp, you got to have a prostitute on the street. That’s the difference between the pimp and the mack. A pimp is going to have a prostitute getting him money. A mack might not even have a girl; he just got good convo, where he can con people.

AllHipHop.com: What was your most glamorous moment of your pimp career?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: [In 1983] That was the tenth anniversary party of the pimp game. Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes were performing; Mr. T was there body guarding me and my mother. Dolemite was there, [Blues player,] Albert King was there too. That was one of the greatest heights and moments of my life in the pimp game.

AllHipHop.com: How did the pimp game change from the 70’s going into the 80’s?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: One thing about it is drugs invaded the pimp game. More-so than anything else, a lot of the pimps thought they could profit more if they involved the drugs in their game. A lot of pimps thought they could hold their girls by putting them on drugs. When the drugs came in, the pimps started looking like drug dealers and the dealers started to look like pimps.

AllHipHop.com: Were you careful about your girls abusing drugs?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I was definitely against that. I didn’t do it myself; I never sold drugs. I never used cocaine, heroine. I used to smoke a little PCP and mix it with marijuana, but that was as far as I went. I never shot the needle, never snorted cocaine; I never wanted my girls on it or anything like that. They knew I was strictly against it. I had no problem [with the girls] smoking marijuana. But I was strictly against hard drugs.

AllHipHop.com: Get into your upcoming show Holding Court.

Bishop Don Magic Juan: It will be a highly rated show like Judge Judy, People’s Court, or Mills Lane’s show. I’ll be settling cases and beefs between rappers or marriage problems. Whatever problems they have in court, they bring them to me, and they definitely going to get properly solved. I mean this show is going to be off the hook. I’ll be bringing in some of my celebrity friends to get their opinion. I’ll bring in expert advice to get their opinion from attorneys. I’ll be bringing my flavor to the courtroom. During deliberation, I would be having entertainment going on to the audience while in trying to figure out who’s right and who’s wrong.

AllHipHop.com: How would you feel if one of your daughters wanted to become a prostitute?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I don’t encourage it; I do have a son who’s involved in the pimp game. I didn’t encourage it, like anybody else. If they come to me for advice, I’m going to give them the best advice I can considering the matter. AllHipHop.com: What’s the difference between a prostitute and a hoe?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: The difference between a prostitute and a hoe is that the hoe gives it away and the prostitute sells it.

AllHipHop.com: Where do you buy your clothes?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I get my stuff made. I spend seven to eight hours in the garment district whether I’m in LA, New York, or Chicago, looking for specific materials different than anyone else. Then I take it to my tailor and have the shoes made, the suit made, the hat made. My stuff be custom. I’m suited and booted from head to toe. So when I show up I don’t have to worry about nobody up in the club looking like me or whatever the activity maybe.

AllHipHop.com: How did you get your column in Elemental Magazine?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: I got game man! A lot of people been asking me about giving them some game and I got this thing on my website called “Ask the Bishop.” And so I do that out of love for Elemental, where people call in the Archbishop Don Magic Juan. I’ve been the spiritual advisor to Snoop, Mike Tyson, P. Diddy, Lil’ Kim, and Mariah Carey.

AllHipHop.com: Can a square with no natural game in them become a good pimp?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: For sure, they got to get around someone that has the game to give them the game. It definitely can be taught to a square. Like I always tell them, I got game for the lames.

AllHipHop.com: How did you go about choosing which songs made it to the CD?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: People are so interested in seeing what makes me tick. What do I listen to? That’s how I broke them down. Like track number four, “Be Thankful,” people got to be thankful for what they got. It brings joy to your home.

AllHipHop.com: You start off the CD with The Isley Brothers’ “Between The Sheets.” This song is held dearly by the Hip-Hop culture because of B.I.G’ version on “I Love it When You Call Me ‘Big Poppa’”… Bishop Don Magic Juan: Well, the Isley’s are very powerful, and I know Ronny. It just goes to show you everybody is familiar with a classic. It helped B.I.G. step up his game because he recognized it definitely was a classic, and he used it.

AllHipHop.com: Then again, not too many people are up on Peabo Bryson.

Bishop Don Magic Juan: Now that one is really a sleeper. I dedicated it to the house. It’s a love song and not only that I’m going wake up some people to some of these artist’s catalog.

AllHipHop.com: How did you hook up with Snoop?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: Snoop came to Chicago to perform in the 90’s. [He saw me in the crowd,] and he told security he wanted to meet me. He and I talked and had fellowship; we had a little pow-wow during a small chronic break. From there on, we have become friends. He told me if I’m ever in California to hook up with him. I bumped into him at the airport. He gave me his number and I started giving him hat game. Showing him the right way to maneuver.

AllHipHop.com: I need you to keep it 100% funky with me. Does Snoop really have girls on the track?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: That’s really for TV. He is a married man. His game is much bigger than the pimp game, theatrical wise. [It’s] doing movies and rapping. No sense in dropping that for pimping.

AllHipHop.com: Do you consider yourself a role model?

Bishop Don Magic Juan: [It] depends on who wants to follow me. Different strokes for different folks. I’m a role model for all famous players around the world, because they seem to take my advice. Because one thing is, if you take it, it’s definitely going to work for you. I give advice that works.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com (Part 2 Coming Tommorrow!!)

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Sticky Fingaz Directing Second Feature Film

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:31:00 AM

Kirk "Sticky Fingaz" Jones recently went into post-production on the movie Caught on Tape, the second feature film directed by the rapper.

Jones, who also wrote and stars in the movie, directs a cast that includes Cedric the Entertainer, Vivica A. Fox, Bokeem Woodbine and others.

Jones' directorial debut, a Hip-Hop musical entitled A Day in the Life, starring Omar Epps, Mekhi Phifer, Fredro Starr and others is in post-production and is also expected to hit the big screen this summer.

In related news, Jones was recently cast as the half-human/half-vampire "Blade" in Blade: The Series, based on the movie franchise.

Blade: The Series, premiers this summer on Spike TV.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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La Kalle Spring Blin Blineo 2006

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:27:00 AM

If Kanye personifies Black Star Power, then Daddy Yankee, Ivy Queen and the rest of those who performed at La Kalle 105.9’s Spring Blin-Blineo on April 21, embody Latino Star Power.

Sure, reggaetón may be monotonous and there are those who feel the genre has reached its peak, but, tell that to 20,000+ screaming fans in attendance, both young and old, at a packed, sold-out Nassau Coliseum.

The night began incredibly hectic, as arena officials kept most of the excited crowd waiting on line for a long amount of time (reason unknown) even as Puerto Rico’s Alexis Y Fido opened the event. Los Pitbulls ran through their hits “Tiburon”, “Eso Es” and their rendition of the wildly popular “Mayor Que Yo”.

As about another 10,000 people settled into their seats, N.O.R.E. took the stage with his reggaetón counterpart, Big Mato, and went through his hits including his verse on "Superthug", “Nothin”, and his verse on the remix of “Gasolina”.

While performing his latest posse cut, “Maz Maiz”, he brought out Nina Sky and the “The Ghetto Vaquero”, Chingo Bling, who, with signature cowboy hat and boots, had the crowd on his side with his charismatic performance. Then, Mr. “Hang Hang Sangria” - for those of you who didn't know, yes, N.O.R.E. has his own Sangria! - ended his set by performing “Oye Mi Canto” with Nina Sky at his side.

Ivy Queen, la reina de reggaeton, added some femininity - sort of - to a show full of males. Her set consisted simply of her, a hypeman, and her signature oversized Puerto Rican flag, which appears at all her shows. Performing with a grace exhibited only by veterans, she effortlessly ran through songs like “Te He Querido, Te He Llorado” and ”Dile” and even kicked a few freestyles to the audience's content.

In probably one of the best moments of the night, la diva broke down on stage when the crowd began reciting her lyrics without instruction. She commenced her set by walking off draped in her native flag to the crowd’s heavy ovation.

Contemporary bachata/pop group Aventura helped keep the attention of all the ladies, and added some variety to an otherwise entirely-reggaetón show. Lead singer Romeo kept the females happy as the crowd sang along to all their hits. Sans Don Omar, the group brought our their 5-year-old little homie to perform Don’s lyrics on “Ella Y Yo”, much to the crowd’s amusement (it isn’t every day a little kid gets to tell a grown man that he slept with his wife).

In between sets, DJs Spin One and Precise helped keep the crowd vibrant alongside radio personality and Heavy Hitter hypeman L Boogs, as they waited for the main event. And when Daddy Yankee emerged from backstage, the crowd simply lost it.

Amongst the pyrotechnics and extravagance, Yankee (who featured a Jay-Z-esque swagger), put on a legitimately thorough show, kicking acapella freestyles in between songs both newer (“Machucando”, “Rompe”, “Machete”) and older (“No Me Dejes Solo”, “Mirame”, “Mayor Que Yo”, “Gasolina”).

Although there were no surprise guests, the audience ultimately left satisfied and looking for the after party. At night’s end, concert-goers were convinced of 20,000 more reasons why reggaetón’s popularity isn't going anywhere.

-review courtesy of Vibe.Com

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NYPD to Install Surveillance Camera Outside Hot 97

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:24:00 AM

In response to last week’s shooting of Brooklyn rapper Gravy, the NYPD will install a camera outside the West Village studios of New York radio station Hot 97. “We’ll keep it in place until Hot 97 is evicted or cleans up its act,” a police source told New York’s Daily News. The camera, which bears the NYPD logo, is among the first in a $9 million plan to install 500 video cameras around the city. The cameras have zoom lenses and can be monitored in real time at remote locations. While most cameras will watch high-crime areas or potential terrorist targets, Hot 97’s studios are located in a generally safe neighborhood, meaning the camera’s intended to capture rapper-related violence. The Gravy shooting is the third case of gunfire to erupt outside the studio in the last five years. Hot 97’s landlord announced last week that they are beginning an eviction process.

-article courtesy of Vibe.Com

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Prince Paul To Record Special Show For XM Radio

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:20:00 AM

Grammy award winning producer Prince Paul has signed on to produce a special show for XM Satellite Radio called "The Ill Out Show with Prince Paul," which will highlight classic tracks, interviews, rare outtakes and unreleased demos from the veteran artist.

In conjunction with The Room Service Group, XM will air the show on May 15th on XM's hip-hop channel, The Rhyme 65. Paul will also be joined by longtime partners in crime, Bimos, Newkirk, Buster, Nyce and the infamous Mr. Dead.

"I really look forward to bringing a different spin and having some fun on The Rhyme 65. I just want listeners to expect the unexpected," said Paul.

"Paul's career ranges from Stetsasonic to De La [Soul] to Handsome Boy Modeling School to Chris Rock. That type of longevity is rare if not impossible to find. The show is great and working with Paul is an honor," added Dion Summers, Senior Program Director of Urban Programming for XM Satellite Radio.

Prince Paul has an impressive resume under his belt. Starting out as a DJ for the first hip-hop band Stetsasonic, Paul became instrumental in exposing a group by the name of De La Soul, worked with Rza to form the short lived group The Gravediggaz and released two critically acclaimed records with Dan The Automator as the Handsome Boy Modeling School.

He also worked with Chris Rock to produce his comedy albums Bigger and Blacker and Never Scared, both of which won Paul Grammy awards.

"The Ill Out Show with Prince Paul" is will be recorded in XM's state of the art New York Facility, with the first show scheduled to air May 15th and will re-air several times each month.

-article courtesy of BallerStatus.Net

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JR Writer Plans To Make History On Debut Album

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:17:00 AM

While Cam'ron, Juelz Santana and Jim Jones riding high on their Dipset success, the Harlem crew's successors wait in the wings for their turn. Next in line, JR Writer.

Spitting verses since the age of 16, the young JR is on deck to release his much-anticipated debut album, History In The Making, through Diplomat Records/Koch.

The forthcoming release is jam-packed with features from the entire Dipset, Paul Wall and Lil' Wayne, among others. Although you will witness the Dipset soldier's lyrics along the aforementioned, JR says it's all about him.

"The album is about me...everybody has a story -- this is mine," said JR Writer. "These are the things I see."

Since debuting on Juelz Santana's debut, From Me To U, on "Sqaulie," JR has consistently dropped track after track, including features on releases like Diplomatic Immunity 2, More Than Music, Vol. 1 and Jim Jones' Harlem Diary Of A Summer.

Like Cam'ron says in the JR's lead single, "Birdcall," he is what "the streets have been waiting, they've been asking."

Aside from appearing on his fellow Dipset's albums, he has also continued to keep his buzz in the streets via countless mixtapes, including Writers Block -- Volumes 1 – 3, which are among the most popular and sought after Dipset mixtapes to date.

The debut single, "Birdcall," which features Cam'ron and Lil' Wayne was released late last year and garnered the young emcee burn on New York's HOT 97 radio and various mix shows across the country.

The current single is "Grill Em," which also has a featuring Hell Rell and Cam'ron.

History In The Making is slated for release June 27.

-article courtesy of BallerStatus.Net

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Family Of Shooting Victim Sues Proof's Estate

Posted at 5/02/2006 06:15:00 AM

The family of slain bouncer Keith Bender filed a wrongful death lawsuit on Monday (May 1) against the estate of the late D12 member Proof.

Bender was killed last month at the CCC nightclub in Detroit, allegedly by Proof, after the two got into a verbal argument inside the club.

According to the lawsuit, which was filed by Bender's wife Jacqueline and mother Leona, Proof "violently assaulted and battered (Bender), culminating with the infection of a gunshot injury that caused the death of Mr. Bender."

In addition to Bender's death, Proof was also killed during the shooting by Bender's cousin, Mario Etheridge.

Etheridge was charged with carrying a concealed weapon and discharging a firearm, but was not charged with murder.

"It's shameful that Mr. Holton is being lauded as a hero and martyr, when in fact, it was his own criminalistic conduct that not only led to his death, but took the life of an honorable, innocent man," Michael Cafferty, a lawyer representing the Bender family told the Associated Press.

Proof's lawyer, David Gorosh, was unavailable for comment at press time.

Bender was rushed St. John Hospital shortly after being shot, where he is listed in critical condition and died a week later.

-article courtesy of BallerStatus.Net

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Monday, May 01, 2006   MUSIC |  VIDEOS |  INTERVIEWS  | HOME

Game Time 2006 By Big Mike w/Ron Artest for $5.99

Posted at 5/01/2006 10:50:00 AM

Game Time 2006 by Big Mike w/Ron Artest - $5.99
For a limited time only, Hip Hop Ruckus is offering 50 limited edition copies of the the Blazin' New Mixtape CD: GameTime 2006 by Big Mike (Hosted by Ron Artest) for $5.99 with $0.99 S/H for US orders and $1.99 for International Orders. Big Mike hooks up with Sacramento Kings' superstar Ron Artest to ball out on some Playoff sh*t for his latest hip-hop mixtape. Packing all-new heat and exclusives from Styles P, Lloyd Banks & 50 Cent, Mobb Deep (four new tracks), Corey Gunz & Lil' Wayne, Beanie Sigel, Jadakiss, JR Writer, Cassidy, Hell Rell, Purple City, Team Arliss, Nature/Mike Jones.

In the words of the Hip Hop Ruckus Staff, "this album is a classic". As another staff member writes, "It could be the Best Mixtape of 2006" (see track listing below). Grab your copy today so you can be the first on your block to bang these hot, new joints!!!

Shipping & Payment Information
Orders ship immediately and arrive in 3-4 business days. We accept PayPal and Money Orders. Any questions feel free to call us at 434-548-5068 between 10am - 5pm EST for questions or email us at HipHipRuckus@lycos.com. Once payment is received an order confirmation will be sent by e-mail. All CDs are authentic (not bootleg) and come individually wrapped in bubble pack packaging.

For PayPal Orders (Press Button Below):

For Money Orders: (Send to this address)
Hip Hop Ruckus
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Building #C
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Track Listings
1 - Ron Artest - Move Bitch, Get Out The Lane (Intro)
2 - Styles P - Pain
3 - Jadakiss & Beanie Sigel - Listen
4 - Beanie Sigel - I'm Still #1
5 - Lloyd Banks & 50 Cent - Cake
6 - Mobb Deep - Gangsters Die
7 - Mobb Deep ft. 50 Cent - Creepin'
8 - Mobb Deep ft. Lloyd Banks - Stole Something
9 - Hell Rell, Purple City, Smoke & Numbers - The Apocalypse
10 - J.R. Writer - U Not Like Me
11 - 40 Cal - Pimpin'
12 - Moxberg & Styles P - We Run Wit 'Em
13 - Team Arliss - It Is What It Is
14 - Ron Artest, Nature & Mike Jones - Get Low
15 - Corey Gunz & Lil' Wayne - What U Know About This
16 - Mook & Fair - Fire (Connecticut Heat)
17 - Hell Rell - Dipset Main Event
18 - J.R. Writer - Complicated
19 - Mobb Deep - I Want You
20 - Lloyd Banks - 70 Bars Freestyle
21 - J Trap - The Foulness
22 - Smoke - Pop Off
23 - Cassidy - Hustler Music Freestyle (Rap City)
24 - Ron Artest Outro

*Special Offer brought to you by the staff of HipHopRuckus

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news Tha Dogg Pound & Ice Cube Invade Portland!

Posted at 5/01/2006 08:02:00 AM

Tha Dogg Pound and Ice Cube have been touring through the States along with The Clipse opening up for them, and they've been tearing down every venue they hit. On the 28th, they stopped in Portland, OR and our forum member 187Proof was present and posted a detailed review, aswell as a series of pictures from the show. I've posted highlights of the review below, aswell as a couple pictures, but to see the full review and all the pictures, click here to view the topic on the forums.

"First off, let me start off by saying that I have been to this venue (The Roseland Theatre, in downtown Portland) MANY times....seen MANY concerts there, but I have NEVER see a show packed like this one! I mean, you had to almost have a snorkel that was 6 ft tall in the air to get fresh air to your lungs....that's just how packed this place was!

.....

After a brief break to set up their equipment, Tha Dogg Pound came storming out to the stage! Daz & Kurupt were in the building for sure on this Friday night! At this point the crowd was the loudest as it could get, all night! I mean everyone was AMPED!!! I don't remember the last concert I was at where this kind of atmosphere, this kind of electricity could be matched! It was uncanny! They performed such hits and verses from tracks such as "What Would U Do", "New York, New York", "Cali Iz Active", "Who Ride Wit Us", "Xplosive", "All That I Need" and several more!

.....

Next up Ice Cube & WC were brought to the stage by DJ Crazy Toonz. They did about an hour set where the performed hits such as "Jackin For Beats", "Today Was A Good Day", "Bow Down", "The Streets", "Gangsta's Make The World Go 'Round", "Natural Born Killaz", and many others. At one point, before going in to "Bow Down", WC declared himself & Ice Cube as "The Real Westside Connection". Ofcourse Mack 10 was never mentioned throughout the night so I guess their's still decension between the camp.

-article courtesy of DubCnn.Com

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DEBO (TINY LISTER) ROBBED AT GUNPOINT: A press release says it happened at a well known restaurant in South LA.

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:55:00 AM

According to a press release emailed to EUR and other media outlets, actor Tommy "Tiny" Lister, known for his role as "Debo" in Ice Cube's "Friday" films was robbed at gunpoint at Harold and Belles restaurant on Jefferson Boulevard in South Los Angeles yesterday.

The release stated that "Lister, who has starred in over 60 motion pictures, had summoned key clergy to the restaurant to discuss gang violence. All the key Bishops and major churches agreed that law and order and safety are paramount to this community if we are to create the kind of community that South Los Angeles deserves. Bishop Turner, one of the hosts, spoke of safety in the community and what was needed in order to ensure a safe community for all. After they all agreed to band together as a group of clergy to focus on gang violence, homelessness, jobs and safe communities the meeting came to an end and all parties proceeded to leave in their fancy automobiles.

"'Debo' was the last to leave. Two young men approached him. He thought they were coming to ask for an autograph or to say hello. Instead, they pulled out a gun and proceeded to take his jewelry, his phone, his wallet and threatened to kill him on the spot. He complied."

The release closed by saying that this morning at 9:30am (Pacific) a press conference will be held, literally at the scene of the crime, at Harold and Belles Restaurant (2920 West Jefferson in Los Angeles, at the corner of 10th Avenue).

"The whole matter will be addressed along with how we in South Los Angeles must help ourselves to ensure that we have a safe community," the release also said.

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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50 CENT HAS NO LOVE FOR OPRAH: Rapper sounds off on TV mogul when asked about her ban on rappers as guests.

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:47:00 AM

Don’t be surprised if the next DJ Whoo Kid mix tape contains a 50 Cent joint dissing the mighty Oprah Winfrey.

The talk show host is in the rapper’s crosshairs for her unwillingness to invite certain types of hip hop artists on her show.Winfrey has often voiced disgust against artists who use their free speech to spit the N-word, degrade women and promote violence in their lyrics.

When asked about Oprah’s stance in a recent interview with the Associated Press, 50 didn’t bite his tongue.

"I think she caters to older white women," said the 29-year-old MC. "Oprah's audience is my audience's parents. So, I could care less about Oprah or her show."

Taking it a step further, 50 said any stamp of approval from Oprah would be disastrous for his career anyway.

"I'm actually better off having friction with her," he said.

The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, also spoke about his mentor Eminem following the shooting death of D12 member Proof earlier this month at a Detroit nightclub.

"He's coming along," 50 said of Eminem. "He's gonna be all right. I mean, it was definitely a big loss for him. Proof was actually his best friend in the world from forever."

The rapper also took time to address the study released last week by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation – a nonprofit public health research group – which suggested that young people who listen to rap music are more prone to alcohol and drug use and aggressive behavior.

The Queens native disagrees with the findings, believing that parents should take most of the blame for failing to explain that his music is entertainment, not a blueprint for breaking the law.

"I think that the violence that happened to Proof and the violence that's happening across America right now has nothing to do with hip-hop," he said. "It has something to do with the people - the state of them - and the music doesn't alter that."

-article courtesy of EurWeb.Com

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Rakim, Common and Lupe Fiasco Pitch in to Save Some Rhino Hide

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:40:00 AM

Rakim, Common, Rhymefest, Lupe Fiasco and DJ Z-Trip are scheduled to perform at this summer's Save the Rhinos benefit concert presented by Marc Ecko on June 8th.

This is the second year for the benefit, which will be held at New York's Central Park Summerstage. Proceeds from the event will go to the International Rhino Foundation, an organization aiming to double populations of three kinds of rhinos, currently listed among the world's most endangered species.

Tickets for Marc Ecko Presents ... Save the Rhinos can be purchased from Ticketmaster.

-article courtesy of SOHH.Com

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T.I. Tapped To Kick Off Apollo Theater's Black Music Month

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:31:00 AM

T.I. has been tapped to kick off the Apollo Theater's June Black Music Month celebration.

The Atlanta rapper will also be the first Hip-Hop act billed under the Apollo New Legends Series.

The latter event aims to honor and showcase top artists from a variety of musical genres whose music has had a strong impact on society.

In celebration of Black Music Month, T.I., whose fourth album King hit gold in its first week of release, will perform his first solo concert for one night at the Apollo Theater.

The event will take place June 1 at 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Tickets are available at the Apollo Theater Box Office and all Ticketmaster locations.

T.I. also recently kicked off his nationwide King tour at Tennessee State University, with support from Grand Hustle/Atlantic labelmate Young Dro and Yung Joc of Block Entertainment/Bad Boy South.

-article courtesy of AllHipHop.Com

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Chris Brown To Join Ne-Yo, Dem Franchize Boyz On The Road

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:27:00 AM

With the summer tour season kicking off in a few weeks, 16-year-old Chris Brown says he's going on a major outing with some of the other hot young stars of hip-hop and R&B.

"Summer tour plans? We have a big summer tour called Up Close and Personal," he said last weekend in Chicago (see "Singles, Film, All-Star Tour: Chris Brown Says 'Gimme That' "). "It's me, Lil Wayne, Juelz Santana, Dem Franchize Boyz, Ne-Yo. We have a couple of other artists, but they're not confirmed yet. It's gonna be like 8,000-, 10,000-seaters. I can't wait. We gonna go out there and have fun."

Brown has some experience hanging out with these guys. Santana's assist on Brown's "Run It!" helped that song become a hit. And Lil Wayne raps on the remix of "Gimme That."

"He's one of my favorites," Brown said of Weezy. "Lyrically, he's incredible to me. I was like, 'I really want to get Lil' Wayne on the record.' He was like, 'Yeah, I'll do it.' The song was already done. When he put his vocals on it, he enhanced the track. I was like, 'Yeah, I can't wait to shoot the video.' "

Brown said he co-directed the video and came up with the concept.

"The chemistry was great," he said. "The dancing came out great, as well as my idea of going back to the '20s and '30s. It was like, 'Yeah, my vision was complete.'

"Just something different," he added about why he wanted to give his vid a retro look. "The beat sounded like a regular club beat. You go in the club and start dancing. I said, 'Well, what if they got Lil Wayne in a suit? What if they got me in a suit? What would they think?' Let's do something out the box that nobody would think about."

Brown said he's already writing songs for his next album and plans to begin recording his LP in October. This time around, he wants to work with Pharrell Williams and Kanye West and maybe get up with Scott Storch again ("Gimme That").

Reps for Dem Franchize Boyz and Ne-Yo have confirmed that they'll be going on the Up Close and Personal Tour. Lil' Wayne's publicist said the Cash Money Millionaire has been in talks for the tour, but nothing has been solidified. Santana's rep couldn't be reached.

-article courtesy of MTV.Com

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Ice Cube Inks Movie and TV Production Deal with Weinstein Company

Posted at 5/01/2006 07:20:00 AM

According to the Hollywood Reporter, rapper Ice Cube and producing partner Matt Alvarez have signed an exclusive two-year first look deal with the Weinstein Company and Dimension Films to produce film and TV projects through their Cube Vision Productions company. Since being formed in 1998, Cube Vision has hit it big with both the Friday and Barbershop franchises, as well as last year’s family comedy Are We There Yet?. Cube and Alvarez were also executive producers on FX’s hit reality show Black.White.


-article courtesy of XXL.Com

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