Our friends over at The Grio.com have posted a scathing article calling Stevie J out as a woman abuser. No, not in the same sense as Memphitz, allegedly – but they say Stevie is emotionally abusive towards his baby mama, Mimi Faust and his girlfriend, Joseline Hernandez.

The article was written by domestic violence survivor and advocate, Sil Lai Abrams, and she believes that although Stevie has publicly never laid a hand on the women, he is abusive towards them in other ways. Check out an excerpt of her article below:

Chronic infidelity is a form of abuse, as is bullying, name calling, put downs, intimidation and repeated threats of abandonment. Love & Hip Hop, Basketball Wives and its reality sistren consistently portray female cast members as belligerent, sexually manipulative, emotionally unstable and physically violent.

Those who sit in judgment of Joseline and Mimi don’t understand that one of the consequences of abuse is its effect on a victim’s mental health. The reality is that, women who are battered suffer from a disproportionately higher rate of mental health disorders. Look, I’m not a psychologist, but could it be possible that some of the “ratchet” behavior we ridicule on L&HHA or other exploitive “reality” shows are actually just a symptom of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder that often results from being abused? And if that’s the case, why are we laughing at women for having “normal” emotional responses to long-term trauma?

You can read the full article here. So, what do you think? Does Stevie J fall into the category of an emotionally abusive man?

Although Chris Brown’s rep released a statement earlier this week saying that he would not be at the MTV VMAs next week, rumors are swirling that he will be at the VMAs to perform alongside Rihanna! The two are rumored to be performing their collaborative song, “Cake”.

Rihanna tweeted her fans late last week and asked if they would be mad at her if “Cake” was turned into a single. According to MediaTakeOut.com, MTV suits expressed concern about the backlash they may receive due to the joint performance, but Rihanna was hearing none of that. She allegedly demanded that Breezy perform with her, and the producers of the show had no choice but to oblige.

Not sure why Rihanna is pressing the issue so much; maybe those hook-up rumors are true. Rihanna did tell Oprah that she was still in love with Chris. “I still love him. We’re very, very close friends. We built a trust again and that’s it. We love each other and we probably always will.”

But I just don’t understand how that works with Breezy’s girl, Karrueche Tran always around. Are you excited to finally see these two perform together? I wonder what Jay-Z has to say about this.

Police reports confirm that Chris Lighty took his own life amidst a difficult year for the veteran music executive.

Longtime Hip Hop executive Chris Lighty has died. News broke today (August 30) first on Twitter and then confirmed on VIBE.com that the Bronx, New York native and founder of Violator Entertainment died from an alleged suicide. Details are still emerging.

Lighty was integral to the careers of 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, N.O.R.E., Diamond D, and many others. After growing up under the tutelage of Hip Hop icons like DJ Red Alert, Lighty began working professional at Russell Simmons' RUSH Management firm in the late 1980s, where he helped work with Def Jam Records artists and others in securing endorsement deals and touring.

A part of the Native Tongues at the turn of the decade, Lighty and his brother as The Violators, helped the movement alongside A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul.

The Violator name carried on in the late 1990s and 2000s, when Lighty launched his own firm. The management company handled clients ranging from Diamond D and Foxy Brown to Busta Rhymes and Q-Tip. In recent years, Lighty was working on Brand Asset Group with Lyor Cohen, his longtime associate and friend, and Warner Music Group. Last September, Violator merged with Primary Wave to form powerhouse management company Primary Violator.

N.O.R.E. mourned the passing on Twitter, saying, "I will be a Violator for life 4ever."

UPDATE: The New York Daily News confirms that Lighty was found dead at his apartment in Bronx, New York this morning at 11:30 am EST. He was shot in the head in what arriving officers reported was self-inflicted. Police officials also told the newspaper that Lighty, 44 years old, was newly divorced and owed the IRS several million dollars.

It looks like the wave has been cut short, as Max B will remain incarcerated until 2042.

Even though Harlem, New York rapper Max B sounded optimistic about his appeal case earlier this year, it looks like the courts feel differently about the matter. According to a recent report from HipHopWired, Biggavelli's 75-year prison sentence for his 2006 robbery-murder case has been upheld.

It was announced today that an appeals court has upheld Wavy Crockett's 2009 conviction for the murder of David Taylor. As a result, Max will be forced to serve out the entirety of his 75-year sentence without the possibility of parole until his release on November 9, 2042.

Despite claims to the contrary, Biggavelli's appeal was rumored to have been denied as early as February of this year. In his appeal, he argued that the judge who tried him had made a mistake in refusing his request to serparate Max's trial from that of his partner, Kevin Leerdam.

As of June, Max B had been planning to drop several projects upon his release. There has been no word on whether the upheld conviction will prevent the release of said efforts.

Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson is probably going through the most trying time of his life. First, he was arrested for domestic violence against his wife, “Basketball Wives” star Evelyn Lozado, then he was cut from the Miami Dolphins and it was aired on ESPN. He also lost two lucrative endorsement deals. Now we hear that Chad may be going to jail for one year for his domestic violence offense against Evelyn.

Unfortunately, this was not Chad’s first time being accused of hitting a woman. In 2000, Chad plead guilty in a California court for slapping his then-girlfriend after they got into a heated argument. He was sentenced to community service, but because of that, Johnson’s current misdemeanor domestic violence charge could be upgraded to a felony. If the prosecution chooses to upgrade the charge, Johnson could be facing a year in the slammer. Do you feel bad for Chad?

Trey Songz gets his first #1 spot with "Chapter V." DJ Khaled gets the best chart spot of his career, as MF DOOM and Jneiro Jarel's JJ DOOM collaborative album makes a dent in the charts.

There is a fresh #1 on the charts this week, and it's not a rapper. Trey Songz' Chapter V man-handled the charts for the singer's first #1. DJ Khaled also scored a career best with his second major label release since officially joining the YMCMB fold through Universal Records.

Lastly, MF DOOM's latest collaborative effort, this time with Philadelphia, Pennsylvania artist Jneiro Jarel. Key To The Kuffs sold over 3,000 first-week units, making this the masked villain's second consecutive Top 200 debut, following 2009's Born Like This. Earlier this week, the former K.M.D. front-man was in headlines again for a show impostor.

Trey Songz Steals The #1 From 2 Chainz With Chapter V

Singer Trey Songz snagged the #1 spot in the latest change of command. The Atlantic Records veteran sold over 130,000 first-week units on his fifth album. The effort features Hip Hop elite including T.I., Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and Meek Mill. This is Songz' first album to contain a parental advisory warning, with clean versions also available.

The album out-sold Based On A T.R.U. Story by over 85,000 units.

DJ Khaled Scores Best Chart Performance Of Career In Kiss The Ring

Miami, Florida-based deejay/radio personality and producer DJ Khaled had a benchmark debut week for his sixth studio album, Kiss The Ring. Khaled's second album in as many years sold over 40,000 units. Now a Cash Money/Universal Records artist, the former indie titan topped We The Best Forever, which debuted at #5, although the 2011 album sold approximately 13,000 more units in its first week at retail.

Kiss The Ring features Kendrick Lamar, Big K.R.I.T., J. Cole, Scarface and many of Khaled's frequent collaborators.

Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 8/26/2012

#1. Trey Songz - Chapter V - 135,000 (135,000)

#2. 2 Chainz - Based On A T.R.U. Story - 48,000 (195,000)

#4. DJ Khaled - Kiss The Ring - 41,000 (41,000)

#8. Rick Ross - God Forgives, I Don't - 28,000 (350,000)

#26. Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded - 14,000 (640,000)

#29. Nas - Life Is Good - 12,000 (272,000)

#39. Frank Ocean - Channel Orange - 10,000 (272,000)

#60. Tyga - Careless World: Rise Of The Last King - 62,000 (290,000)

#124. JJ DOOM - Keys To The Kuffs - 3,300 (3,300)

#192. Wale - Ambition - 2,000 (450,000)

Lupe Fiasco shares his thoughts on Chief Keef, speaks on violence among the younger generation.

While Chief Keef’s “I Don’t Like” single has garnered remixes from the likes of Kanye West and Game, there’s one rapper who isn’t terribly impressed with the content the young rapper chooses to rap about in his music.

During an interview with Baltimore’s 92Q Jams, Lupe Fiasco had quite a lot to say in regards to Keef. The rapper even went on to state that he’s frightened by the kind of culture that Keef’s music represents.

“Chief Keef scares me. Not him specifically, but just the culture that he represents,” said Lupe in a video posted on FakeShoreDrive.com. “Specifically in Chicago. And I don’t speak this about any other city because I’m not from there. But like my family lives in Chicago. So my nephews, my cousins, my friends, and my peoples they all in those hoods that he represents. When you drive through Chicago…The hoodlums, the gangsters, and the ones you see killing each other. And the murder rate in Chicago is skyrocketing and you see who’s doing it and perpetrating it, they all look like Chief Keef.”

Lupe broke down his thoughts on Keef further as he spoke on the violence that has plagued the city of Chicago and numerous other cities and the damage that can be done when music similar to that of Keef’s is celebrated.

“When it comes to the point that you know that the kids who are doing the killings, and they’re kids 13 to 19-years-old, and you can replicate that in New Orleans, you can replicate that in Oakland. All the kids look the same,” Lupe explained. “But to know that those are the kids doing the killing and you take one of those kids and you celebrate that…When you’re at high schools speaking to students, telling ‘em how to survive the summer and you turn on the radio and you hear that? You like, ‘Aw nah.’”

DJ Khaled and a rotating ensemble of guests dominate, while Slaughterhouse snags strong debut.

Another week, another chart of the top digital downloads. This time, DJ Khaled and company stake an impressive claim with a bevy of singles from his latest album placing in the top 200, while Slaughterhouse debuts in the Top 50 with a little help from their pal Eminem.

DJ Khaled Dominates Charts With Seven Singles

Last week, DJ Khaled delivered his sophomore effort under YMCMB Kiss the Ring, and while the album didn't sit well with DX's reviewers, that didn't stop him from making the most of it on the charts. Khaled was able to place a whopping seven singles on the digital sales charts this week, with his Lil Wayne, T.I. and Future-assisted cut "Bitches & Bottles (Let's Get It Started)" leading the pack at #68. Other singles on the charts include "I Wish You Would" with Kanye West and Rick Ross at #103, "I'm So Blessed" with Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa, Ace Hood and T-Pain at #106, "Take It To The Head" with Chris Brown, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne at #125, "They Ready" with J. Cole, Big K.R.I.T. and Kendrick Lamar at #165, "Hip Hop" with Nas, Scarface and DJ Premier at #176, and finally, "Don't Pay 4 It" with Wale, Tyga, Mack Maine and Kirko Bangz at #177.

Slaughterhouse Crack Top 50 With "Throw That"

Slaughterhouse also had a big week this past week with their latest single "Throw That." The song, which features their Shady Records boss Eminem, came in at #40 on the charts with nearly 37,000 in sales. The track is the latest single off their widely anticipated major label debut welcome to: Our House, which dropped just yesterday. The last time the self-dubbed Voltron crew was featured on the list was for their single "My Life" with Cee-Lo Greene, debuting at #55 with 33,000 in sales.

Hip Hop Digital Singles Sales: The Week Ending 8/26/2012

#6. Justin Bieber f. Big Sean - "As Long As You Love Me" - 131,000 (901,000)

#12. Nicki Minaj - "Pound the Alarm" - 80,000 (336,000)

#23. Kanye West f. Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz - "Mercy" - 53,000 (1,533,000)

#40. Slaughterhouse f. Eminem - "Throw That" - 37,000 (37,000)

#68. DJ Khaled f. Lil Wayne, T.I., and Future - "Bitches & Bottles (Let's Get It Started)" - 24,000 (24,000)

#108. 2 Chainz f. Lil Wayne - "Yuck!" - 15,000 (15,000)

#137. Frank Ocean - "Thinkin' Bout You" - 12,000 (217,000)

#165. DJ Khaled f. J. Cole, Big K.R.I.T., and Kendrick Lamar - "They Ready" - 8,600 (8,600)

#187. Lupe Fiasco - "Lamborghini Angels" - 7,400 (48,000)

#198. T.I. - "Go Get It" - 6,900 (99,600)

It's looks like Beanie Sigel will be heading to jail earlier than expected after today's arrest.

Fans were shocked when news broke that Beanie Sigel - already preparing to serve a two-year sentence for tax evasion - was arrested on drug charges earlier today. Now, in an exclusive from XXL, it looks like the Philadelphia emcee will begin serving his sentence earlier than anticipated.

The Broad Street Bully was supposed to begin serving his two-year bid on September 12, but now, after the recent arrest, authorities took him into custody today instead. Although the rapper's lawyer Fortunato N. Perri did not indicate whether his client would serve any extra time for the arrest, he did say that he needs to review the specific nature of the arrest before moving forward with any kind of legal action.

“At this point, the Federal authorities will take him into custody and he’ll begin serving the sentence that he was going to start on September 12 anyway,” said Beans' lawyer. “He had bail set on the new charges, but the Federal authorities have issued a detainer—a warrant, essentially—that will transfer him to Federal custody and he’ll start serving his sentence...we’re still reviewing the allegations and the circumstances of the arrest. I don’t don’t know a whole lot about the specifics at this point. We’re still reviewing specifics.”

As mentioned earlier, Sigel was arrested for possession of a bottle of codeine with the label scratched off and a bag prescription pills. A gun was also found the center dashboard of the vehicle in which Sigel had been riding.

The Notorious K.I.M. is rumored to be in talks with VH1 for a new VH1 “Behind The Music” TV special on her music career. The Queen Bee is said to be revealing everything, and is even said to be talking about her plastic surgery and her relationship with Biggie Smalls. These brand new VH1 “Behind The Music” episodes have been a lot more revealing. Will you be tuning in to see Kim finally open up about her career and plastic surgery?

Another bystander injured in the scuffle emerges with a lawsuit against the W.i.P. club.

In the past two weeks, two separate lawsuits have emerged stemming from Chris Brown and Drake's notorious brawl at SoHo club W.i.P. Now, in recent report from the New York Post, a new suit has been served against the nightclub due to the scuffle.

Brooklyn resident Howard Clement has filed a suit against W.i.P. for injuries sustained during the fracas back in June. Clement was lacerated during the bottle-tossing affair and since has been suffering from migraines and is unable to sleep on his back or left side.

"We will fully evaluate the claim once we receive formal notice," a representative from the club said.

As previously mentioned, this is the third lawsuit in the past month to come about in the aftermath of the battle. Two other club-goers and San Antonio Spurs player Tony Parker have also filed multi-million dollar suits over the matter.

Lil’ Wayne has been pretty hush-hush when it comes to the beef between YMCMB’s Drake and his friend and often collaborator, Chris Brown. Our friends over at MTV got Weezy to finally break his silence on the matter, and to our suprise, Lil Tunechi actually thinks that the situation is funny. Check out what he told Rahman Dukes from MTV below:

“I can’t front, I just laughed at ‘em, like, it’s funny to me. I thank God that I ain’t going through it though. I done been through too much.”

Well, Wayne didn’t say too much, but it’s good to hear that he’s not taking sides or taking the matter too seriously.

In related news, the people at club W.i.P that night are taking the matter very seriously and have slapped both Drake and Chris Brown with two lawsuits. One suit was filed by the club owner alleging that the two artists “ordered security personnel, bodyguards, friends and entourage to join the fight, which erupted into a violent brawl on a massive scale.” The second lawsuit comes from a NYC based male model who claims that he suffered “severe personal injuries” including a severed tendon on his right hand, thanks to the flying chards of glass. This is in addition to the 20 million dollar law suit filed by NBA star Tony Parker.

I think that celebrity fight worth millions may be looking a lot more tempting to Drake and Chris Brown. These lawsuits have merit and don’t seem to be going anywhere.

Snoop Dogg thinks Hip Hop's opinion on homosexuality has shifted.

Much has been written about Hip Hop's changing stance on homosexuality after Frank Ocean penned an open letter about his sexuality.

Now, Snoop Dogg can be counted among the emcees who believes Hip Hop is ready for an openly gay rapper.

"People are learning how to live and get along more, and accept people for who they are and not bash them or hurt them because they’re different," said Snoop Dogg in an interview with the Salt Lake Tribune.

"When I was growing up, you could never do that and announce that," said Snoop of Ocean's letter. "There would be so much scrutiny and hate and negativity, and no one would step (forward) to support you because that’s what we were brainwashed and trained to know."

Other artists to have announced their support for Ocean include Busta Rhymes and Lil Scrappy.

But it is a very CURIOUS decision, given that Tameka was not found to be an unfit mother. And courts usually give MOTHERS full custody, unless they are PROVEN to be unfit.

But a scandal might be brewing. MediaTakeOut.com EXCLUSIVELY learned that Usher's lawyer, John Mayoue, worked on the judge Bensonetta Tipton Lane's election campaign. In fact, he was the treasurer.

Here is what Tameka had to say about the proceeding, last week. Before the decision was announced.

To begin, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the countless number of people who opened their hearts, extended their prayers, well-wishes and remained hopeful for my son Kile during the last weeks of his life. I truly believe that he has always been an Angel from birth and the World was just too small to contain a spirit so vast. I’m thankful and blessed to merely be the vessel that carried him and humbled that God gave him to us to love. I also feel humbled by everyone’s show of concern, and knowing that Kile Glover touched the lives of so many has given me strength during my worst & darkest hour … Again I THANK YOU ALL!

Sadly, I remain in the unfortunate position of having to respond to and attend court proceedings that were not initiated or begun by me. I did not file this custody case (January 2011) and was content with the ‘joint custody’ arrangement that we share. Most importantly, nor do I wish to appear in court while I am mourning the loss of my son. But I do not want to delay thus prolong these proceedings either; I’d rather continue this arduous process hoping it will help move me through this most difficult period in my life.

People seem to be privy to only my filed responses as ‘Defendant’ to the initiation of this case (Jan 4, 2011), when I have only been defending myself and protecting the best interests of my children through my counsel. I cannot control how the media reports are written/slanted/spun or even how court documents may be manipulated in their attribution of certain statements as if they are direct “quotes” from me- yet I can control what I actually say myself.

This may sound really cliché but you must NOT believe everything you read or hear and never judge… especially without solid facts and always, but always consider the source. Discernment is key. My boys are my entire world and I will fight tooth and nail to keep all of my sons together as a family, I pray for a swift, peaceful resolution so that we all can move forward.

Again, thank you for your concern, positive energy and hope for my family during this surreal time. There have been times when just the right words, at the right time, have provided me shelter through this storm and I appreciate you all. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

With Love & Light,

Tameka Foster Raymond

Beanie Sigel reflects on his time spent at Roc-A-Fella Records, expresses his appreciation for Meek Mill.

With the days winding down until the start of Philly rapper Beanie Sigel’s prison sentence, the State Property leader has been making the rounds in the media. Just yesterday Sigel appeared on MTV’s Rap Fix Live alongside fellow rapper Jadakiss and earlier today (August 24) he appeared on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club to discuss his upcoming prison sentence, Roc-A-Fella, and even fellow Philadelphian Meek Mill.

Although it’s been several years since Sigel left Roc-A-Fella Records, the rapper’s distaste for the label is still quite present. During his interview with The Breakfast Club he went on to reveal that he felt used by the label during his time there.

“I was an asset. I was a commodity to Roc-A-Fella,” Sigel explained in a video posted on 2DopeBoyz.com. “Like I said people got rich off of my unique thinking out loud. And Jay made a statement, ‘Beans I ain’t tryna change you. I’mma just give you some game.’ But where the game coming from?”

On a less serious note Sigel spoke on Maybach Music artist Meek Mill who he says reminds him a lot of himself at that age.

“I love Meek man for what he doing. Looking at Meek Mill is a fun thing to do cause it’s like looking at myself coming with Roc-A-Fella at the age of 22, 23-years-old,” said Sigel. “And him the same thing with him with Ross with Maybach Music and him accomplishing what he’s doing is a good feeling. A lot of people, like when you in the mix of it and you running time go by quick. You on the road and you’re doing shows and you on tours, you don’t really get to see your career until it’s over…But me I’m blessed with being able to look at Meek Mill do his thing with Ross.”

Sigel is expected to begin his prison sentence on September 12. His upcoming album, This Time, will be released prior to the start of his prison sentence on August 28.

Birdman explains that whatever Lil Wayne says is "law."

Earlier this week, Lil Wayne made a controversial statement that he "flat out [doesn't] like New York." After Senator Malcolm Smith demanded an apology from the Young Money chief, Wayne's mentor Birdman said that he backs his feelings against the Big Apple, stating that whatever Weezy says is "law."

"Well, to me, I feel personally whatever my son say, I’ma ride with," he told Fuse. "So if he say he don’t like it, that’s what it is. He don’t like it, we don’t like it. I don’t like it if he don’t like it. If he say it, that’s law."

Senator Smith held a press conference yesterday in Times Square to put Wayne on blast. “If you don’t like New York,” said Smith, “you don’t have to come to New York. You don’t have to sell your products here. And perhaps we won’t come to your concerts.”

Lil Wayne asks fans "please don't judge me" from his verse on 2 Chainz's "Yuck!"

Lil Wayne helps open 2 Chainz's chart-topping debut Based on a T.R.U. Story by dropping a verse on the track "Yuck!" But as his own worst critic, Weezy says he doesn't feel like lived up to his full potential on the track.

During an interview with MTV News, the Young Money honcho said that he didn't know the song would be the first on the album and that when they were in the studio, he was just messing around with the verse. He emphasized that fans shouldn't "judge me from that."

"I'm very upset at that just so everybody know, he put me on that, I sound wack as hell on there," he said. "He did not tell me that was gonna be the first song on his album. We was just in the studio and he was like man, I just did that. I was in there just messing around and I come back and hear it's [the] #1 [track] on his [album]. Please don't judge me from that. My bar game is way higher than that, man."

Star Magazine just threw a curveball to everything we have heard so far. So far, we have heard that Jay and B abhor Kim K. and really wanted to have nothing to do with her until recently. You know, then they started to embrace her more. But, they are now reporting that Jay is encouraging Ye to marry Kim K! What! Now, I have to admit, Kim is fine, but is she the ONE for Kanye? I’m not even going to ask anybody to answer that. But….here is the rumor.

“Kanye West runs everything about his professional and personal life by Jay,” an insider tells Star. “When Kanye mentioned that he thinks Kim is a keeper, Jay said, “Then don’t risk losing her – put a ring on her finger!’”

Now, the Beyonce part is more in tune with with what we have heard so far.

“Beyonce isn’t as keen on Kim as Jay is,” says the source. “She thinks Kanye should take a wait-and-see approach.”

In my mind, this picture says more than that rumor.

2 Chainz says he once performed with Lil Wayne for Unplugged but that MTV edited him out of the show.

Before his buzz as 2 Chainz took off and certainly before this week's number one album Based On A T.R.U. Story, MTV edited him out of a Lil Wayne performance. Recently, Chainz discussed how this experience also added fuel to his fire. 

"The homie [Lil Wayne] invited me for Unplugged," Chainz explained in an interview with Sway in the Morning. "[At the time,] everything was happening in the South. It wasn't making it anywhere else so this was a look that I needed. This was another look. All the stars are lining up. Then I tell everybody like I shouldn't have. And then they edit my ass slap out of it. No 2 Chainz!" 

As Chainz explained, this experience provided some ammunition for his hunger. 

"Sway actually sent me the footage of when I came out and the people, the reception I got. Even though the world didn't see it, it was something cool for me to have. It was cool for me to see how Wayne introduced me as one of his best people in the game. And it made me more hungry. It made me be like, 'Okay, MTV! I'm finna turn up on your mawfuckin' ass.' And that's what I did."

Shyne lashes out at Diddy after he failed to make good on a few promises.

Shyne has renewed his beef with Sean “Diddy” Combs, releasing a new diss track titled “You’re Welcome" via Miss Info.

Po, who reconciled with his former Bad Boy boss earlier this year, says that he recorded the track years ago but decided to release it after Diddy failed to make good on a few promises. Puff offered him money, which he declined, as he preferred that Diddy lobby on his behalf to get a U.S. visa. He also says Diddy ignored his request to tweet about a White House petition for Shyne to be allowed back into the country.

Shyne also says that Diddy should take care of the mother of his late bodyguard Anthony “Wolf” Jones, who was killed in 2003.

“Look, I seen the plot / What he did to Mase and did to LOX / What he did to Wolf and he did to [Ak] / God bless the dead, Notorious Pac / Why would I think that I was different? So I just sat in the distance,” he raps on the cut. “This kid got millions, that’s how he talks / Should’ve took that paper, made his soul walk.”

2 Chainz' "Based On A T.R.U. Story" is the #1 album on the charts, securing one of the biggest reinventing comebacks of recent time. Insane Clown Posse and Kottonmouth Kings also debut in Top 40.

As early reports indicated, 2 Chainz' solo debut scored a #1 overall album. The longtime member of Playaz Circle, f/k/a Titty Boi re-emerged throughout the last 24 months into one of the biggest career comebacks of the last decade. Based On A T.R.U. Story gives 2 Chainz the highest chart placement of his career, beating out the group's best by over 27 places. Following success of albums by Frank Ocean, Nas and Rick Ross, this also continues Def Jam Records' powerful summer run of multiple Top 3 debuts, with all but Frank grabbing #1's.

Two veteran acts within the Rap community, Insane Clown Posse and Kottonmouth Kings debuted on the charts. Both cult-followed indie acts secured Top 40 debuts. Last week K.M.K. released Mile High on the news of a tragic death of a former member, Pakelika.

2 Chainz Based On A T.R.U. Story Goes #1

2 Chainz' Based On A T.R.U. Story was the solo debut of the Atlanta, Georgia rapper. His Def Jam release features Kanye West, Drake, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Scarface and Mike Posner, to name a few. Production on the effort met with mixed reviews is by Bangladesh, Carlos "6 July" Broady, The-Dream and West's ensemble. 

The album is supported by singles "No Lie" and "Birthday Song."

Tyga & Nicki Minaj Climb The Charts Waving The Young Money Flag

Two releases from earlier this year made a strong surge during last week's sales accounting. Nicki Minaj's sophpmore album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded climbed 22 places to #26. The April album continues to be the highest-selling of 2012 Hip Hop releases.

Minaj's Young Money Records label-mate, Tyga, also got a strong surge. The California native's own sophomore release, Careless World: Rise Of The Last King rose 21 spots. The February release was one of the year's first Rap Top 5 debuts. This week, Tyga announced plans for his third solo release, Hotel California.

Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 8/19/2012

#1. 2 Chainz - Based On A T.R.U. Story - 147,000 (147,000)

#3. Rick Ross - God Forgives, I Don't - 43,000 (322,000)

#4. Insane Clown Posse - Mighty Death Pop - 41,000 (41,000)

#22. Nas - Life Is Good - 15,000 (260,000)

#26. Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded - 14,000 (627,000)

#32. Frank Ocean - Channel Orange - 11,000 (262,000)

#35. Kottonmouth Kings - Mile High - 10,000 (10,000)

#59. Maybach Music Group Presents... - Self Made, Volume 2 - 6,600 (216,000)

#64. Flo Rida - Wild Ones - 6,100 (80,000)

#69. Tyga -  Careless World: Rise Of The Last King - 5,500 (284,000)

LL Cool J stopped an intruder from stealing from his home and managed to detain him.

LL Cool J thawrted a robbery after an intruder broke into his home last night.

According to TMZ, the suspect entered his Los Angeles, California residence at 2 a.m. LL, who was in the home at the time, heard some commotion coming from downstairs and decided to check it out.

The burglar tripped the alarm system, altering the cops, but LL took matters into his own hands by engaging in a brawl. LL detained the intruder until the LAPD arrived a few minutes later to arrest him.

The intruder will be charged with burglarly and ended up with a few bruises, while LL remained unscathed.

DJ Khaled addresses an eviction notice for failing to cough up $55,000 in unpaid back rent.

DJ Khaled was hit with an eviction notice for failing to hand over $55,000 on unpaid back rent, a claim that he's chalking up to being "rumors." During an interview with Hot 97's Angie Martinez, the Miami, Florida mogul said that it's possible that it's true, but that he moved out of the place and apologizes if that's the case.

"Nah, that’s just people missing me. They miss me. I apologize," he said. "We ended up moving into something different, something with an elevator and a few stories. They’re trying to say I owe $55,000 or something like that. $66,000, I odn’t know. I don’t know where people get this information from. If I do, holla at my accountant. It’s nothing, man. That’s what my rugs cost and my trips cost and my wrist costs. It’s rumors. I realize that the more hustle you do, the more rumors come out. I appreciate the promotion, but I’m definitely alright and we’re OK."

Watch the full interview below, where he talks about Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's relationship, as well as his new album Kiss the Ring.

Senator Malcolm A. Smith takes Lil Wayne to task for his recent comments.

Though one might argue that a United States senator should be concerning him or herself with more important matters, Senator Malcolm A. Smith of New York has decided to take time out of his schedule to respond to recent comments by Lil Wayne.

"I take strong exception to the words 'I don't like New York,'" responding to Wayne's recent revelation about his feelings for the city. The Senator, who described himself as "angry," "taken aback," and "shocked" at Wayne's words, held a news conference in Father Duffy Square to demand an apology, according to the New York Times.

Smith opined that Wayne's comment was the result of "a lapse in mental judgment." 

“If you don’t like New York,” said Smith, “you don’t have to come to New York. You don’t have to sell your products here. And perhaps we won’t come to your concerts.”

The Senator erroneously added that Hollis, Queens was "essentially the home and the origin of HIp Hop," despite general agreement that the Bronx holds that distinction.

"New Yorkers are forgiving people," concluded Smith. "We're prepared to forgive Lil Wayne if in fact he makes a sincere apology."

Nicki Minaj was recently forced to cancel a few shows in Dublin, the UK, and Ireland due to strained vocal cords, and a few of her International fans were upset and barraged her Twitter with complaints. Nicki was not trying to hear any of them and put them in their place quick. Check out Nicki’s Twitter rant below:

I will NOT let you people make me feel horrible for a f*cking HEALTH issue! That’s what got me in this mess! I shldve listened 2 the doctor!

I am so thankful to my true fans who understand WHY I couldn’t play #VFestival & WHY I can’t play Dublin. Absolutely gutted However, if u have anything negative to say to me, please #EatSh*tAndDie – I am human. I was in jeopardy of losing my voice entirely and needing surgery on my vocal chord. If u can’t understand that, your mother’s a WHORE!!!!

I will NOT let you people make me feel horrible for a f*cking HEALTH issue! That’s what got me in this mess! I shldve listened 2 the doctor! Like people are hitting me telling me I shldve mimed. No! Then you woulda made a f*cking STORY out of that too! #killyaf*ckingself

My beloved United Kingdom, u know how much I f*cking love u! Ireland, I truly appreciate you. Barbz, thnku for the well wishes. All you do is rip people apart and when they’re dead & gone u won’t lose a wink of sleep. #goF*ckYourselves

Why must artists rant over Twitter when they are unhappy with something? Are you guys turned off by this kind of behavior?

Side note – Nicki tweeted that she had a surprise for her fans. Could it be the rumored announcement that she has landed a coveted judge position on “American Idol”?

Did you watch the finale of VH1′s “Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta” last night? The finale was very explosive and one of the most talked about topics on Twitter last night. The highlight had to be when Hip Hop Weekly owner Benzino proposed to Karli Redd, and then quickly reneged on the offer. Burn! So the question popped up again, is the show scripted or not?

Benzino recently did an interview with Hip-Hop Wiredwhere he admitted that there was one part that was scripted.

“I met Karli off camera, she asked me for my number and we went on a date,” said Benzino. ” I was trying to keep it away from the Love & Hip Hop camera’s, but then I get a call the next day from Mona (Scott, LAHH producer) saying ‘Nah, if you’re going to date one of the cast members we have to bring the camera’s out.”

“The only thing that probably was re-enacted was when we met. Because when we met the camera’s weren’t there. So they had to get it as close as possible on how we met. Everything else is me and Karli.”

So, if one part of the story is fake, why should we believe that it all isn’t staged? I’ll tell you why, because you can’t make this stuff up! You can’t make up Stevie J and his crazy love triangle with the helpless Mimi and the ex-stripper-turned-spitter, Joseline. (Okay, she probably isn’t much of a spitter, but I like the way it sounds.)

And how about K.Michelle and her alleged abusive relationship with music exec, Memphitz? Yes, the same Memphitz that recently married Lil’ Wayne’s ex-wife, Toya. See, you can’t make this stuff up!

illseed got the exclusive on the reunion show. He says Rasheda and K.Michelle got into a huge fight and Rasheeda left the building in an ambulance. READ THE STORY HERE: Exclusive Rumor: Hip-Hop Atlanta Reunion: Fights, Marriage Proposals And Flashings

“Love & Hip-Hop Atlanta” was the #1 show on cable TV this year, so I’m pretty sure they will be getting a season two. Will you be tuning in again next season?

Damn. After I stopped going gaga for Kelly Rowland, I had a few moments where I was all on Keri Hilson. At the time, Keri was very…oh lala. Basically, she was one of the few chicks that were surviving the Beyonce era. Most singers were destroyed by B and anybody else was just struggling. But now, it appears that the B-curse has finally caught Keri. I was always wondering what happened to her and why didn’t she come back around after being pretty successful. In 2009, Keri said these fateful words on the remix to “Turning Me On.”
I shot the sheriff, but wait till i shoot these b*tches……down


now i ain’t tryin to start no mess it just something of my chest…..that i need to get off
cause you turnin me off


ya vision cloudy if you think you the best
you can dance, she can sing but need to move it TO THE LEFT


you need to go have some babies, she needs to sit down she fadin



those other b*tches ain’t even worth my time to talk about


been had dollas boy, go get ya money up
know you ain’t the only homie

homie lined up / 
i ain’t turnin it off, im still turning it on
go head and tell these folks how long i’ve been writing your song


i been putting you on
 / just check the credits ho
and if you want me you can find me in decatur ho

Seems like Interscope has gotten the Illuminati word and cut off Keri’s lifeline. I’ve heard her own haughty behavior has contributed to her situation. Now, nobody is wiling to work with her, rumors say. Crazy thing is, Keri is a very accomplished song writer! Somebody get Timbaland on the phone!

Damn it Keri! You still fine though!

 Jay-Z is suing his former personal chef, who also ran the 40/40 Club’s kitchen, over the menu at the rap mogul’s famous sports bar.

The rapper recently filed a $1.5 million lawsuit against Mike Shand, in Manhattan Federal Court.

According to the lawsuit, Mike Shand failed to perform significant aspects of his deal with the 40/40 Club, which called for him to spice up the menu for the club’s $10,000,000 renovation earlier this year.

But the lawsuit claims that the chef’s lack of performance cost the club lost profits, along with the alienation of its patrons.

Additionally, the 40/40 Club claims it was not able to replace the menu items that Shand was paid to provide.

A lawyer for Shand told the New York Post that his client, who has traveled around the world with Jay-Z, was surprised by the lawsuit.

“Mike’s a great chef, and it is unclear why 40/40 would contemplate a lawsuit against him,” Shand’s lawyer Vik Pawar said. “Nevertheless, we will respond accordingly when he gets served with the complaint.”

Facing up to three years in prison, Lauryn Hill now has new tax troubles.

Lauyrn Hill is facing up to three years in prison after failing to pay $1.8 million in federal taxes, but her problems with Uncle Sam run deeper than thought.

According to TMZ, the reclusive singer is also accused of failing to pay $446,386 in state taxes, says the State of New Jersey. The State entered a civil judgment against Hill on June 14th, but it hasn't yet become a criminal matter for the artist.

In June, Hill pleaded guilty to intentionally failing to file federal tax returns in 2005, 2006 and 2007. She faces up to three years in prison, and will be sentenced in November.

Responding to the situation, Hill took to Tumblr at the time to give her side of the story. "My intention has always been to get this situation rectified.  When I was working consistently without being affected by the interferences mentioned above, I filed and paid my taxes,” Hill explained. “This only stopped when it was necessary to withdraw from society, in order to guarantee the safety and well-being of myself and my family.”

Kanye West is "on the fence" about taking on a role as judge on the reality singing competition.

After news broke that Nicki Minaj was on track to become a judge on the next season of American Idol, TMZ is reporting that Kanye West is in negotiations to grab a seat on the judging panel.

Sources close to production claim that Idol producers reached out to 'Ye to appear as a judge on the singing competition, and he expressed interest in joining the fold. The source continues that he is unsure about accepting the offer and is "on the fence," because he doesn't know if its suits his best interest.

Nicki Minaj is now "close to signing a deal or has signed one to become a judge," but producers are going to add a fourth judge. Other artists being considered for the slot include Keith Urban, Enrique Iglesias and Brad Paisley. Mariah Carey has already inked a deal to appear, netting a reported $18 million for the gig.

2 Chainz scores a chart-topping entry with his debut album.

2 Chainz has scored a number one album with his solo debut Based on a T.R.U. Story, released via Def Jam.

According to HDD, Tity Boi sold 145,809 copies of B.O.A.T.S., unseating Now That's What I Call Music 43 from the top of the charts. The final tally is above estimates, which ranged from 135,000 to 140,000. Label mate Rick Ross slips a spot from number two to three with God Forgives, I Don't, moving another 41,186 copies this week.

Insane Clown Posse had a surprisingly high debut with Mighty Death Pop, which bows at number four on the chart with 39,337 copies sold in its first week. Nas' Life is Good takes a hit this week, dropping from 14 to 21 15,551 copies sold.

Benzino says he regrets beefing with Eminem and taking extremely personal shots at the rapper's daughter Hailie.

Perhaps one of the most volatile and highly publicized Hip Hop feuds of the past decade occurred between Benzino and Eminem. Now, in a recent video interview with Global Grind TV, Benzino reflects on his verbal back-and-forth with the Detroit emcee.

Benzino said that in that era, he felt untouchable because of his position as CEO and co-owner of The Source. As a result, he had no qualms about publishing content disparaging Em or even threatening Em's daughter Hailie on a song. But now, 10 years removed, Benzino says that he regrets taking their beef to such a personal level, and would apologize to the Shady Records impresario if he ever got the chance.

"When the Eminem situation happened, I was just on top and I didn't have to answer to nobody," he said. "When you're on top and even with a lot of people in New York [and] even with labels, you still have to answer to somebody. Me and Dave [Mays, co-founder] was [at The Source], and at that point, I wanted to prove to everybody like, 'Listen, I'm the one running this here and I can do this without reservation'…it was a mistake for me getting involved in the situation with Eminem."

He added, "The Eminem thing started getting uglier and uglier, and of course I can take responsibility for some of the stuff I said as far as directly towards his family, you know, really personal shots. It was out of order. I believe some of the stuff that he said was out of order also, but at the end of the day, it's all fair in war…if I could do it over again, I definitely would. Eminem was and still is a major force. Hip Hop has brought cultures together - Asian, Latino, Black, White - and I should have been more responsible…[If I met him today] first I'd want to apologize for the Hailie references."

Lil Wayne tells MTV how he really feels about the Big Apple, and it's not too friendly.

Between getting arrested on gun charges following a performance in the city and his YMCMB starlet Nicki Minaj being insulted by Hot 97's Peter Rosenberg at this year's Summer Jam, Lil Wayne hasn't had the best history with New York City. Now, in a recent interview with MTV, the Louisiana rapper explains his true feelings for the home of Hip Hop.

Weezy said that he simply doesn't like New York City, regardless of the recent events at Summer Jam 2012. Still, he said that he feels he made the most of negative situation at Nicki's performance last week at the Roseland Ballroom, which was intended to make-up for pulling out of Summer Jam at the last second this summer.

"Flat out, I don't like New York," he said. "The whole Summer Jam/Nicki thing, I can't really remember the situation, but I know it was my call. As far as last week['s show], last week was awesome. I think everything happens for a reason, and I think when people say that, you're not supposed to leave it at, 'Everything happens for a reason.' I believe everything happens for a reason and then you make the most of that reason. I think we made the most of it last week."

Demetrius Ellerbee claims that Young Jeezy cut him out of the equation.

Demetrius Ellerbee, business partner to Young Jeezy, has filed suit against the rapper and Def Jam Recordings, claiming the defendants have failed to share millions of dollars in profits from songs he helped produce and promote.

According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ellerbee, who said he founded CTE Music with Jeezy in 2000, filed the suit in Fulton Count Superior Court. He asserts that he has seen little of the millions in advances and royalties paid to the company. He claims Jeezy intentiontally “misappropriated” funds and directed them to personal accounts.

Ellerbee claims that he’s owed $5 million, a number that could inflate when royalties and interest are taken into consideration. He says he’s still awaiting an accounting of all Def Jam payments to CTE in order to find out exactly how much he’s owed.

“They were partners," said Ellerbee’s attorney Mario Breedlove. "They started the company together. They grew the company together. And he's entitled to one-half."

Last month, Nelly did an interview and said that the hilarious skit from the 2011 BET Awards, The Real Husbands of Hollywood was coming to a TV near you.

Well, Nelly ain’t never lie. According to the Hollywood Reporter, the skit has been reworked and will now be an improv show mixed with scripted material. The cast members for the show are confirmed as Kevin Hart, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Duane Martin, Boris Kodjoe, and Faizon Love. So what network has snagged the sure to be hit? None other than BET!

BET is making sure that the show will be a success and has wrangled famed director Stan Lathan to direct the project. I can’t wait to set my DVR for the show. I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a riot.

The rumors are swirling around Kim and Kanye. There is alleged trouble on the horizon. I don’t know a lot about Kim K, but it seems like she dated one of the Jacksons named TJ Jackson. This young man was her first. TJ is the son of Tito Jackson, the bass player for the Jackson Five. Well, with all the drama surrounding the Jackson fam, is seems that Kim reached out to offer her support. No bueno. The National Enquirer, which is surprisingly on point these days, says KANYE WENT OFF. Here is what they said.
Now here’s Kicker No. 2: Kim phoned old friend/teen-throb TJ, now a married father of three, to tell him she’d help out any way she could with his “new kids” – but that touched off the hair-trigger temper of Special K’s thug/lover KANYE WEST, who fears his big-bootied cutie might rekindle the flames of hot teen love!

Revealed a close friend: “Kanye’s boiling! He told Kim to stay a million miles away from that crazy family, and not to get caught up in their drama – because he won’t stand for it! But his reaction’s made Kim apprehensive. Friends think that more and more, she sees that Kanye wants her at his constant beck and call – because he wants to shrink her life outside of their relationship!”

I don’t know how close they are to getting married, but Kim and Kris marriage will not be settled until next year so any hopes of KimYe tying the knock are going to be held off. They said Kim has already paid $250k to her lawyers already. Now, that s**t CRAY!

This is crazy. I don’t have a lot more to say that this: FREAKING CHRIS TUCKER DENIES THAT HE’S GOING TO BE IN THE NEW FRIDAY! We just had the exclusive confirmation that he WAS in it.

Exclusive: Ice Cube Has A New “Friday” With EVERYBODY! Yes, Chris Tucker!

Well, here is what he said to Tom Joyner.

“You know what? I don’t know. I talked to Ice Cube, because it’s such a big rumor and people get mad if you say you ain’t doing something so I’m real careful. Me and Cube, we’re talking about it and they’re working on a script. If it comes back, but I don’t think it’ll be as special as the first one.”

Chris knows he’s on that IRS list! Just do the damn movie! Nothing he has ever done is as special as Friday! So, lets make it happen!

Its doubtful and that’s in Chris Tucker’s words.

WHOOOOOAAAAAAAAA!

I know Chief Keef is like the man of the hour, but this kid seemingly has no censor. Either that, he doesn’t have very good friends. Right now, Keef is 16 and there is a video of him reportedly calling Lil Wayne a h*mo…at the age of 16!  This is right after he reportedly tweeted that Kanye West really didn’t help him.

READ: Hip-Hop Rumors: Did Chief Keef Talk Slick About Kanye West?

Oddly, Baby of Cash Money wanted Keef to be down with YMCMB earlier this year. Anyway, I couldn’t barely make this mess out. Could this be the actual evil media turning nothing into something. I think they can get over it if he did actually call Weezy the derogatory term. Nevertheless…lets get this kid a muzzle. All he needs to do is diss Jay-Z, 50 Cent and Rick Ross and he would have burned all the commercial bridges in rap!

Here is the video:

 

Despite not being in a relationship with Chris Brown, Rihanna says the two will always have feelings for one another.

In 2009, Chris Brown brutally assaulted then-girlfriend Rihanna, leading fans of both artists worldwide to assume that the two would never have any sort of relationship again. Not so, says the Def Jam starlet.

"We've been working on our friendship again," said Rihanna in an interview on Oprah Winfrey's "Oprah's Next Chapter" series. "Now we're very, very close friends. We built a trust again, and that's it."

"We love each other, and we probably always will," added the Pop star. "That's not something you can shut off if you've ever been in love."

Rihanna was explicitly asked whether she was in a romantic relationship with Brown. "No. He's in a relationship of his own. I'm single. But we've maintained a close friendship since the restraining order's been dropped. We've just worked on it little by little. And it has not been easy. It's not easy."

"It's awkward. It's awkward because I still love him. My stomach drops. I have to maintain this poker face and not let it get to the outer part of me. I have to maintain that and suppress it."

"I think he was the love of my life," said Rihanna of Brown.

Juvenile was arrested for engaging in a fight at a hotel.

Juvenile was arrested last night at a Miami, Florida hotel for engaging in a fight.

According to TMZ, Juvie, whose real name is Terius Gray, performed with Lil Wayne at LIV nightclub earlier that evening. Around 7 a.m., he was involved in a fight that spilled outside to the front of the hotel.

Security told police that the brawlers were "creating a threat to life and property as well as the overall safety of the patrons inside." The Miami Beach police department arrived at the scene and took Juvenile to jail, where he is still in custody.

Nicki Minaj is reportedly confirmed to take a seat on the judge's panel next to Mariah Carey.

Nicki Minaj has reportedly been confirmed as a judge for the upcoming season of American Idol.

According to US Weekly, the Harajuku Barbie is "definitely" going to sit in the judge's chair, as confirmed by two sources, but the deal is still pending completion. "I'm not sure the deal is completely done yet, but yes, she is definitely doing it," said a source. "A few more slight things to sign off on but it is happening."

Another insider claims that it's a done deal and that she's "100% confirmed to judge American Idol."

Mariah Carey was recently tapped as one of the judge's on the upcoming season of the singing competition. Her deal was reportedly worth $18 million.

Flo Rida continues top ten dominance with "Whistle," while Kendrick Lamar finds success with "Swimming Pools (Drank)."

Despite many DX readers' aversion to his music, there's one thing can be said of Flo Rida: the man knows how to top charts. Sixteen weeks since its release, his song "Whistle" continues its streak - and that's not his only single placed on the list. But Flo Rida's not the only rapper flexing his muscles on the charts; a host of other emcees continue to pull five-figure downloads with multiple tracks, while dark horses like K'Naan and Outasight prove their worth with top 200 hits.

Flo Rida, Nicki Minaj Top Charts With Multiple Singles

Flo Rida's single "Whistle" was ousted from its number one spot this week, only to drop to number two with over 200,000 digital sales. This isn't the only single that the Florida pop rapper has on the charts, however; he's also secured spots #44 and #102 with singles "Wild Ones" and "Good Feeling," respectively. Nicki Minaj also proved prolific on the charts this week. Her single "Pound the Alarm" rose from #36 to #18 in its third week on the charts. She also snagged positions #62, #95 and #191 with songs "Starships," "Beez in the Trap" and David Guetta's "Turn Me On," respectively.

50 Cent's Single Plummets, Kendrick Lamar Enjoys Solid Week

Despite major fan appeal, 50 Cent's latest single "New Day"  featuring Dr. Dre and Alicia Keys had a rough week. In only its second week on the digital charts and a strong #26 debut, the G-Unit general's latest single plummeted nearly 70 spots to #103. On the flipside, however, Fiddy's Interscope labelmate Kendrick Lamar enjoyed a nice solid week with his song "Swimming Pools (Drank)." The track, which is slated for his good kid, m.A.A.d city debut, dipped 13 spots in its second week to a comfortable #70.

Hip Hop Digital Singles Sales: The Week Ending 8/12/2012

#2. Flo Rida - "Whistle" - 205,166 (1,622,369)

#18. Nicki Minaj - "Pound the Alarm" - 66,029 (171,203)

#24. Kanye West f. Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz - "Mercy" - 56,708 (1,425,705)

#33. 2 Chainz f. Drake - "No Lie" - 43,203 (612,960)

#40. Wiz Khalifa - "Work Hard, Play Hard" - 37,870 (917,596) 

#52. Ca$h Out - "Cashin' Out" - 31,374 (627,651)

#70. Kendrick Lamar - "Swimming Pools (Drank)" - 24,335 (58,745) 

#103. 50 Cent f. Dr. Dre and Alicia Keys - "New Day" - 15,707 (65,398)

#152. Outasight - "Now Or Never" - 10,118 (74,127) 

#166. K'Naan - "Hurt Me Tomorrow" - 9,144 (43,946)

#177. DJ Drama f. Meek Mill, 2 Chainz and Jeremih - "My Moment" - 8,429 (59,577)

Although Jay-Z has influenced the Brooklyn Nets on everything from the team’s logo to the uniforms, and even on what music to play in the arena, according to a new article in the New York Times, Jigga’s only owns less than one percent of the team. The actual amount of his percentage is one fifteenth of one percent. So how much is this in dollars and cents? The team itself is worth $300 million, so what’s one fifteenth of one percent? Well, one percent of $300 million is $3 million, so you get the picture…it’s not really that much when you figure Jay-Z is on the cusp of being a Billionaire. But does it really matter? Jay-Z has a remarkable amount of pull and control of the team.

UPDATE: THANKS TO M-11 FOR DOING THE MATH FOR US. JAY-Z’S FULL STAKE IN THE TEAM IS $200,000.

So with this new revelation, do you think Jay-Z should stop saying that he “owns the Nets” in his music, since he definitely doesn’t? You can read the full New York Timesarticle here.

I never fully understood where Bow Wow fit in the Cash Money machine. But, wherever that is, its not on the inside of the clique. It seems like Bow Weezy is doing is own thing and not doing such a bad job. The only thing is its not with the rest of YMCMB. He’s out doing just about everything on his own, which is not good. Meanwhile Wayne is killin’ em with the anticipation of dedication. Rhymes with Snitchgathered the tweets and surmised the lil’ homey’s inner thoughts that were put on Twitter. No emo.

 Lil Wayne and DJ Drama were to deliver the highly anticipated Dedication 4 mixtape yesterday (August 15), but the project has been pushed back until further notice for a good cause.

The Young Money mogul didn’t want to interfere with the release of 2 Chainz’s Based On A T.R.U. Story album which was released on same day.

“I know I was supposed to drop that mix tape and all that, all that. But listen, my homeboy 2Chainz just dropped his album yesterday,” Lil Wayne said in a viral video. “That’s my real, real, real, real good homeboy right there and I refuse to put any attention on me when he spotlight – everybody’s eyes, everybody’s attention, everybody’s focus – should be on my n***a 2Chainz album Based On A T.R.U. Story. So therefore, I ain’t giving you Dedication 4 yet.”

Mack Maine delivered the news to fans via Twitter yesterday.

“Dedication 4 will not drop today….we will announce the new date soon…(Dodges bullets). Announcement and something special will be delivered by@LilTunechi today….#stayTUNEd.”

2 Chainz will most likely top the charts with his debut album "Based on a T.R.U. Story."

The first-week sales projection for 2 Chainz's Based on a T.R.U. Story has been released.

According to HDD, the Def Jam recording artist's solo debut is expected to move between 130,000 and 140,000 copies in its first week. Those numbers should put Tity Boi's LP at the top of the charts.

Additionally, Insane Clown Posse's new LP The Mighty Death Pop!; Smothered, Covered & Chunked; Freaky Tales; Mike E. Clark's Extra Pop Emporium is expected to sell between 35,000 and 40,000 copies, which should give it a top five debut.

2 Chainz's Based on a T.R.U. Story has spawned singles including "No Lie" featuring Drake and "Luv Dem Strippers" featuring Nicki Minaj. It also features guest appearances from Kanye West, Dolla Boy, Mike Posner, Lil Wayne and more.

It looks like Kanye West took a cue from Jay-Z by not writing down his lyrics for his first four albums.

It looks like the Throne and "a song with Coldplay" aren't the only things Kanye West and Jay-Z have in common. Now, in an outtake from Ice-T's directorial debut The Art of Rap, Yeezy says that he didn't write down his lyrics for his first four album.

'Ye said that he didn't begind actually writing down his lyrics until he began recording his last solo album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. He went on to say that he noticed a major difference in the quality of his lyrics when he began writing them down, as evidenced by his 2010 single "Power."

"I didn't write my raps down for my first four albums - like all, I did it from the head straight to the booth," he said. "But on this last album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, I wrote it because I really put myself in the zone that my life was dependent on the success of this album. With that being the case, I said, 'You know what? No matter what anybody says about me, I can write something that can make someone that hates me the most have to really respect or love the song.' So even a song like 'Power,' I spent 5,000 hours writing it, and it's really the psychology behind the lyrics; it's not just blatantly, 'I've got all the powers' - [it's] 'No one man should have all that power.' It's word[ed] it in a really sensitive way that opens it up for everyone."

In the second webisode of his "DEWeezy" series, Lil Wayne details his infatuation with skateboarding.

In the past year, one of Lil Wayne's most publicized past times has been skateboarding.

In the second webisode of his Mountain Dew series "DEWeezy," Lil Wayne spoke on the hobby, and how it is a private experience for him.

"You can ask anyone around here," said Wayne. "Does Wayne let anyone come to skate with him? They'll tell you 'No.'"

Wayne continued, explaining his drive to master the art of skateboarding. "I don't know. It's just something about conquering the whole idea of something difficult as riding a skateboard."

"That's what so great about skating to me. It's about challenge," added Wayne, who injured himself earlier this year skating. "It's about a physical challenge and mental. It's about a challenge in front of you that you actually say to yourself, 'This can't be done. It can't be done by me.'"

"I really found a second love. And music is in trouble. Because I'm in love with this skateboarding shit."

Is Jay-Z following in the footsteps of Eminem and 50 Cent and putting together a movie on his life? Sort of! According to the NY Post, Oscar winning Director Ron Howard and producer Brian Gazer will be filming Jigga’s “Made In America” music festival in Philadelphia. Whether it’s a documentary or an actual movie, we don’t know…but maybe this will be another “Back Stage” type of film. Check out what Brian Gazer told the NY Post below:

“The festival showcases 20 pre-eminent artists that speak to the new generation. I am producing the film with Steve Stoute and Jay. Ron is directing. It is going to be born through Jay-Z’s perspective . . . how he puts the event together.” Grazer added, “Jay stayed the king for a very long time . . . I can’t even begin to explain how he is capable of remaining relevant. He is a phenom, like a musical Michael Jordan.”

This sounds very exciting! The Budweiser sponsored festival is taking place on September 1-2 at Philly’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Fairmount Park. Everyone who’s anyone will be hitting that stage, including Drake, Rick Ross and Maybach Music Group Run-DMC, and even Pearl Jam.

The film is the brainchild of Jay-Z and Steve Stoute. Hov went out and got an Oscar winning director and producer – he does everything BIG! What type of footage do you think will be included in the doc-movie?

Last night at the Roseland in NYC, Nicki Minaj made good on her promise and held a free concert in NYC. This concert was to make up for her Summer Jam no-show. As expected, Nicki had a gang of special guests, including the ill nana, Foxy Brown. If you remember, Nicki partied with Foxy the night she sh*tted on Hot 97 and Summer Jam 2012.

Anyway, it looks like Nicki Minaj has inspired Foxy to step back into the booth and record new music. Check out what she yelled on stage when Nicki brought her out:

Rozay is covering the newest issue of Rolling Stone, and for the first time ever, he speaks about his correctional officer past. Ross says that he had to “wash my hands” after his best friend was sentenced to 10 years in jail for drug trafficking. Check out what he told the magazine below:

“This was my best friend, who I ate peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches with, and pork and beans with, my buddy, my partner, my number-one dude. Suddenly I’m talking to him over federal phone calls. Hearing the way it was building, I knew I couldn’t take nothing for granted,” says Ross. “My homey’s father was a huge influence on my life, too . . . He was the one who was like, ‘Yo, go get a job somewhere, man. Go be a fireman. Or go be a fucking corrections officer. Just go sit down somewhere.”

So, he didn’t really talk about it that much, but at least he gave us a look into the reasoning behind it. Maybe he will speak about it more freely.

RELATED: From Behind Bars, BMF’s Big Meech Talks Rick Ross’ Correctional Officer Past!

Rozay also spoke about the recent theater shooting in Colorado and said that it was “such a cowardly act” – so does this mean he’s in favor of gun control? Check out what he said below:

“I think we all have a right to bear arms, whichever amendment that is.” Even assault rifles? He shrugs. “I got ‘em.”

Ross seems to be in favor of free speech of all kinds, and even defended Chik-fil-A’s recent stands against gay people:

“Chick-fil-A obviously took their stand. That’s their right – the same way the pro-gay people are taking their stand. I believe everybody got the right to live their own life the way they want to.” So does that mean he’d support a Chick-fil-A boycott?:

“Naw. I love that spicy chicken.”

Does anybody even still care about his correctional officer past anymore? Are you satisfied with his explanation?

Another health-related incident has Tone Loc in the news.

West Coast emcee Tone Loc apparently had a seizure during a comedy show at the Laugh Factory on Monday (August 13).

The comedy show was a charity event to benefit "My Friend's House," which provides food for the homeless.

TMZ cites reports that Loc began flailing around in his seat, fell to the floor, and was "gasping for breath." The emcee apparently recovered quickly, so the ambulance that had been called was canceled.

Tone Loc has had a recent history of medial emergencies. In December 2010, Loc was arrested for a DUI after being pulled over for erratic driving, but the rapper blamed it on a seizure. Additionally, Loc collapsed during a performance in 2009 in Florida, in 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia, and this year in Austin, Texas.

Tone Loc's manager maintains that the rapper did not suffer a seizure, blaming the incident on bad food.

Rick Ross' "God Forgives, I Don't" gets squeezed out of the #1 spot, as Mayday! makes their second appearance on the charts in 2012 with "Thrift Store Halos." Mac Miller and Aesop Rock bounce back.

Following his #1 debut, Rick Ross slipped a spot with his God Forgives, I Don't. The Def Jam Records artist lost out, by approximately 50,000 spots to the Now 43 compilation. 

The lone addition to the charts this week was from another South Florida act, ¡Mayday!. The Strange Music Hip Hop band's second release of 2012, Thrift Store Halos, debuted at #124. Their March album, Take Me To Your Leader, debuted at #86.

Aesop Rock's Skelethon and Mac Miller's Blue Slide Park also returned to the Top 200, after weeks away.

Nas' Life Is Good Slips Out Of The Top 10

One of the most-discussed albums of 2012, Nas' Life Is Good, fell from the Top 10 for the first time this year. In its fourth week on the charts, the Def Jam Records release featuring Rick Ross, Swizz Beatz and Large Professor went to #12. Nas' eleventh solo album has scanned just under 250,000 overall units to date.

¡Mayday!'s Thrift Store Halos Needs No Consignment

Miami sextet ¡Mayday! continues to enjoy their biggest career in a long-building career. The group's seven-song digital EP, Thrift Store Halos sold just under 3,000 units. After working with Tech N9ne and Murs on their spring LP, the group led by Bernbiz and Wrekonize kept it all in-house on this one.

Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 8/12/2012

#2. Rick Ross - God Forgives, I Don't - 60,000 (279,000)

#12. Nas - Life Is Good - 19,000 (245,000)

#21. Frank Ocean - Channel Orange - 13,000 (251,000)

#36. Maybach Music Group Presents... - Self Made, Volume 2 - 7,800 (209,000)

#46. Flo Rida - Wild Ones - 6,700 (74,000)

#48. Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded - 6,500 (612,000)

#124. ¡Mayday! -  Thrift Store Halos - 2,800 (2,800)

#162. Mac Miller - Blue Slide Park - 2,200 (344,000)

#165. Aesop Rock - Skelethon - 2,100 (24,000)

#185. Big K.R.I.T. - Live From The Underground - 2,000 (83,000)

Na Cola Darcel Franklin was supposed to be a newlywed. Instead, she’s in a Pennsylvania prison.

Franklin is being held without bail on a charge of criminal homicide, The Express Times reported. Police say she stabbed her fiancé, puncturing his heart, just hours before they were set to wed Saturday.

At her arraignment hearing, she reportedly told the judge, “I did not mean to kill him.”

The pastor who was supposed to perform the wedding ceremony for Franklin, 31, and 36-year-old Billy Rafael Brewster, arrived at their apartment Saturday to find the bloody aftermath and the scene swarming with cops.

Monique Kali, the wife of one of Brewster’s cousins, said the couple got into an argument in their Whitehall Township apartment shortly before 2:30 a.m. Saturday.

She told police she heard someone yell “knife!” and saw her husband standing between Franklin and Brewster, with the bride-to-be waving a kitchen knife and the groom bleeding from his side.

Fearing that her husband would be stabbed next, Kali said she tackled Franklin and her husband disarmed her. Meanwhile, Brewster staggered to the landing outside, still bleeding. He was pronounced dead at 3:24 a.m. and Franklin was arrested.

Four children were inside the apartment when Brewster was stabbed, according to The Express-Times.

A kitchen knife and a bloody piece of carpet were seized as evidence.

News broke today that Michael Jackson’s estate has put in a request to pay a portion of Janet Jackson’s mortgage on her Las Vegas condo. So is Janet Jackson broke or what? Sources have confirmed to TMZ that Katherine Jackson is claiming that she stays at the condo and wants the estate to pay a pro-rate share of Janet’s mortgage. There sounds like there’s some funny business going on with Michael’s money. But not sure if this means that Janet is broke or not. She’s had a more than 30-year career for Pete’s sake!

Janet’s image has taken a huge hit lately. Just a few weeks ago, she was accused of allegedly conspiring with her brothers and sisters to “kidnap” their mother, Katherine. Around the same time, Janet was also accused of being an evil aunt by Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson, and was seen on video snatching the cell phone out of the little girl’s hand.

What’s going on with Janet Jackson?

A rep for Missy Elliott and Timbaland says they will not appear on Aaliyah's upcoming posthumous release.

Even though Drake and Noah "40" Shebib have signed on as executive producers, it looks like things have gotten off to a rocky start with Aaliyah's upcoming posthumous album. Now, two of the late singer's most frequent collaborators - Missy Elliott and Timbaland - will not be appearing on the final tracklist.

In a recent report from Billboard, Missy's manager Mona Scott-Young revealed that Timbo and Missy will not be working on the Blackground-released effort. She said that the two have yet to be contacted to appear on it and would not likely agree to work on the album if they were contacted.

"Although Missy and Timbaland always strive to keep the memory of their close friend alive, we have not been contacted about the project nor are there any plans at this time to participate," said Scott-Young. "We've seen the reports surfacing that they have been confirmed to participate but that is not the case. Both Missy and Timbaland are very sensitive to the loss still being felt by the family so we wanted to clear up any misinformation being circulated." 

Last week, Blackground's Jomo Hankerson declared that Aaliyah's longtime collaborators were going to be involved in the release. DX will keep you updated as more information comes to light.

To this day, I have never heard a song from Chief Keef. Now, that’s not hate. That’s just a fact. Ooops! Let me take that back. I heard the remix to “I Don’t Like” which featured Kanye West, Pusha T, Big Sean and Jadakiss. That joint was a big move for the kid. Now, even though Keef is making major moves, that’s the only song I have heard. But, despite the gesture, Keef insists that he did it all my himself. Keef was buzzing in the streets, but Keef says otherwise. Peep the tweet!

What do you all think about this? I hope the lil feela doesn’t talk too slick. Anyway, the tweet was later erased so perhaps he realized that was CRAY.

Los Angeles Lakers forward/rapper Metta World Peace has signed on to play a vampire in a new comedy series titled “Real Vampire Housewives.”

The original scripted series will feature Metta World Peace as “a gregarious and overly sexual vampire elder.”

The “Real Vampire Housewives” series follows a group of women who are married to vampires.

The show focuses on the women’s devious exploits during the day, while their vampire husbands rest at night.

Metta World Peace will play the vampire “Gossamer,” according to producer Robert A. Parada of Streetwise Entertainment.

“Metta is charismatic, very funny, one of a kind on and off the court and throws himself into everything he does,” Parada said in a statement. “All of these are traits you’d expect from one of these mythical creatures.”

The independent series, which is slated to begin shooting this fall, is being co-produced with writer/director Andre Jetmir.

“Robert mentioned Metta World Peace and it was yes in an instant. Metta is perfect as a vampire; he is physically intimidating in an Alpha-male way, very charming, a little mischievous and he has a raw sexuality I think most actors try to find when they play a vampire,” Jetmir said.

Tony Yayo says that the media is trying to tear G-Unit apart.

Tony Yayo has responded to 50 Cent's widely publicized comments that he "disabled" Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo by handling much of their promotion, thereby rendering them lazy about their careers.

Taking to Twitter, Yayo acknowledged Fif's comments but blamed the media for trying to pull G-Unit apart. "GPG 5 you fucking with the best man these other rap niggas is fantasy life and shout out to the haters keep your hate up," he wrote. "Why would I blow shots at 50 the media want see Gunit fail so bad we won to much in front of niggas everybody running with our format."

Last week, 50 explained that he's at fault for not communicating with his fellow group members, but acknowledged how he negatively impacted their current work ethic. "I actually haven’t spoke to ‘em very much. I’m to fault for that, though. I think I disabled them," he said. "I did so much for them that they don’t have a continuous work ethic. They got both of those tapes out there, but did you see any visuals? Anything? There’s certain things that the new guy is doing to create momentum or energy. They just sit there and wait. When someone works for you, you have the habit of dealing with things by not dealing with them. You may get in the regimen of coming over and doing it for them."

Tony Yayo

• ✔

@TonyYayo

Why would I blow shots at 50 the media want see Gunit fail so bad we won to much in front of niggas everybody running with our format.

"The Dark Knight Rises" has finally fallen out of first-place at the weekend box office.

Jeremy Renner's action tale "The Bourne Legacy" took over as the No. 1 movie with a $40.3 million debut, according to studio estimates Sunday.

Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis' political comedy "The Campaign" opened at No. 2 with $27.4 million.

The new movies pushed "The Dark Knight Rises" down to third-place with $19.5 million, raising the superhero blockbuster's three-week domestic total to $390.1 million.

The weekend's other new wide release, Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones' marital comic drama "Hope Springs," opened at No. 4 with $15.6 million.

"The Dark Knight Rises" had been the No. 1 movie for three-straight weekends since debuting amid tragedy as a gunman killed 12 people and wounded 58 at a midnight screening of the film on opening day in Colorado.

The violence seems to have had little effect on the runaway success of the Batman finale.

"The opening weekend in our business is very important, and this incident took place before the picture officially opened. It took place at a midnight screening. I can't give you an actual number, but I'm sure we were affected on that opening," said Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner Bros., which released "The Dark Knight Rises."

Universal's "The Bourne Legacy" casts Renner and Rachel Weisz in an offshoot of the three hits that starred Matt Damon as unstoppable operative Jason Bourne. Renner plays an agent pursued by Bourne's old spy masters after they try to snuff out the espionage program in a cover-up conspiracy.

"The Bourne Legacy" came in well behind the $69.3 million debut of Damon's last entry in the series, 2007's "The Bourne Ultimatum." But the new film had a strong start and establishes Renner as a sturdy frontman to keep the franchise running.

"I love the fact that we were able to reboot this and do as well as we were able to. It leaves it open for us to think about it going forward," said Nikki Rocco, Universal's head of distribution. "We are very much into what it's going to look like the next time."

While Damon was absent, his presence is felt throughout "The Bourne Legacy," with characters commenting on Jason Bourne sightings and his former handlers jittery over the fact that the rogue agent is still out there.

Renner is a bankable star to carry on solo, but Universal might really cash in if the studio managed to lure Damon back.

"The dream-team scenario of a 'Bourne' with both Damon and Renner would just be irresistible," said Paul Dergarabedian, box-office analyst for Hollywood.com. "That would be cool. I'd be first in line for that."

"The Campaign" stars Ferrell and Galifianakis as rivals in a mud-slinging congressional election. Distributor Warner Bros. hopes real-life politics can help keep the movie afloat as the election season enters the homestretch.

"We hope so," Warner distribution boss Fellman said. "We hope they run their campaigns a little more professionally than the one in the movie, but sometimes, you have to wonder."

Sony's "Hope Springs," featuring Streep and Jones as a couple in marriage therapy at a weeklong retreat, had a modest start but drew strongly among older women, a crowd that does not tend to rush out in big numbers over opening weekend.

Rory Bruer, Sony's head of distribution, said the studio hopes the film will have a long shelf life at theaters as women talk it up to friends.

"The Dark Knight Rises" is nearing $400 million domestically and will become only the second film in Warner Bros. history to reach that mark. The first was 2008's "The Dark Knight," the middle chapter in director Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy, which topped out at $533.3 million.

Revenues for the finale are running 12 percent behind "The Dark Knight," which had climbed to $441.6 million at the same point in its theatrical run.

While the Colorado shootings may have scared away some viewers, the Olympics have dampened Hollywood's overall business as fans stay home to watch the games. "The Dark Knight" also had an advantage the new film lacks: a mesmerizing, Academy Award-winning performance by Heath Ledger as the Joker, with the actor's death helping to fuel anticipation for the film.

"All things considered, 'The Dark Knight Rises' is doing incredibly well," Dergarabedian said.

"The Dark Knight Rises" has proven more popular than its predecessor overseas, where it has taken in $445.3 million to give it a worldwide total of $835 million. The finale is on track to top the $468 million international total of "The Dark Knight."

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "The Bourne Legacy," $40.3 million ($7.8 million international).

2. "The Campaign," $27.4 million ($2.1 million international).

3. "The Dark Knight Rises," $19.5 million ($34.2 million international).

4. "Hope Springs," $15.6 million.

5. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days," $8.2 million ($1 million international).

6. "Total Recall," $8.1 million ($18.7 million international).

7. "Ice Age: Continental Drift," $6.8 million ($16.2 million international).

8. "Ted," $3.3 million ($20.3 million international).

9. "Step Up: Revolution," $2.9 million.

10. "The Amazing Spider-Man," $2.2 million ($3 million international).

___

Estimated weekend ticket sales at international theaters (excluding the U.S. and Canada) for films distributed overseas by Hollywood studios, according to Rentrak:

1. "The Dark Knight Rises," $34.2 million.

2. "Ted," $20.3 million.

3. "Total Recall," $18.7 million.

4. "Brave," $17.2 million.

5. "Ice Age: Continental Drift," $16.2 million.

6. "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted," $10.1 million.

7. "Step Up" Revolution," $9.9 million.

8. "The Thieves," $9 million.

9 (tie). "The Bourne Legacy," $7.8 million.

9 (tie). "Prometheus," $7.8 million.

SHOTS FIRED!

Now, Tony Yayo has bee the most loyal person that 50 Cent has ever been exposed to, but he JUST sent out a tweet that suggests all is not sweet with the pair.

First and foremost, 50 Cent has recently said some oddly disparaging things about both Banks and Yayo, two founding members of G-Unit. Earlier this year, 50 said: “fuck Banks, fuck Yayo, fuck the group.” That was on April 1 so I really didn’t acknowledge it. But, in an interview with radio host Big Boy, 50 said much more.

”People have habits they refuse to change…I’ve enabled them to a point that they don’t feel like they have to do anything. [I] end up doing their job too…they don’t have managers”.

“Yayo had to do a lot more…he just doesn’t do what he’s supposed to do. I don’t think [G-Unit] actually over, they just need to get themselves together”.

“Ya’ came back from jail, he was different…his energy was different.”

And Tony Yayo just posted the following.

As far as I know, Yayo has never said such a greasy statement at the boss!

A lawsuit has been filed against popular Miami personality DJ Khaled, over back rent for his luxurious Miami apartment.

Misci LLC rented an apartment to DJ Khaled last September in Miami, according to documents filed in court.

According to the original agreement, DJ Khaled agreed to make two bulk payments of $66,000 for his rent.

The producer made the initial payment, but failed to make the second one.

Misci LLC’s lawsuit claims that the deal was re-worked, to allow DJ Khaled to pay $11,000 to Misci, with the remaining $55,000 balance due the following month.

But Misci LLC’s lawsuit claims that DJ Khaled has also reneged on the new deal, yet he is refusing to vacate the property.

DJ Khaled is being sued for the rent, plus attorney fees.