Nas is the subject of a federal lawsuit filed Friday.
In December 2011, American concert promoter Patrick Allocco was kidnapped allegedly because Nas failed to show up for a New Year's Eve concert in Angola after getting paid.
Allocco said he was held ransom by Angolan promoters because they wanted their money back. The promoter was released in February 2012.
TMZ reports that according to a new federal lawsuit, Allocco is following up on an earlier promise and is suing Nas for $10 million, claiming that he suffered psychologically, physically, and financially over the 50 days he was held captive.
Nas spoke on the matter in March 2012, stating that he was being used as a scapegoat by the promoter, and that the concert had significant planning issues.
Now, this rumor hurt me to the core! But, it seems like the Wayan’s brothers – Damon and Keenan – are at odds for some reason or another. I grew up watching “In Living Color” growing up. It was just the funniest show at that time and made a lot of stars like Jamie Foxx and Jim Carey too. But anyway, the show was supposed to come out again and the old cast was supposedly down! What the hell? The show re-boot is now completely cancelled! Its been speculated that Damon Wayans, at the last minute, refused to do the show, causing others to pull out too. Now, one thing I don’t believe is that all the original cast was down. Why? There were too many seasons for everybody to go back to that place. I doubt that Jim is going to be doing Fire Marshall Bill again. Will Jamie Foxx be doing Wanda? UH….NO. He’s too busy playing a vengeful slave. Anyway, heard this has caused a huge riff and subsequent beef.
There is no way that this dude is Trey Songz even though he looks JUST LIKE TREY SONGZ! Now the internet is going wild that Trey is out here kissing men in the mouth!
I am not a Trey Songz forensic analyst but if there are any ladies out there. Can you tell me if this is Trey or not?
Damn it! I wish I never learned how to write. Why? Because it appears that people like Rihanna are Jay-Z picked a better lifestyle than me! Whatever mannnnnn! I checked in with my dudes over at 4umf and they gave up the goods on what Jigga gave RiRi for Christmas.
But, here is the catch. Rumor are swirling that Jay-Z secretly blessed RiRi with this massive gift for divesting from CB. You know Jay never approved of that. “That’s like his little sister. He never wanted her to be with him, but she does what she wants,” a source emailed. “She had to learn on her own.” I think RiRi will be back with Chris eventually. No doubt, but for now…rejoice.
Atlanta rapper Waka Flocka Flame and the company owned by his manager/mother, have been ordered to pay over $500,000 in damages, over a 2011 shooting in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The incident unfolded in February 2011, when Waka Flocka Flame was upgrading the sound system in his tour bus at a car stereo store in Charlotte.
The rapper, who was wearing $100,000 worth of jewelry, claimed that he noticed two suspicious vehicles pulling into the parking lot of the store.
When three men got out of the two vehicles, Waka Flocka’s security team open-fired, because they claimed the men had threatened the rap star.
Police initially described the altercation as a shootout between Waka Flocka and the victim, named Antonio Stukes.
Stukes was originally charged with attempted armed robbery and other charges, but authorities dropped the charges, due to lack of evidence.
According to Stukes’ lawyer, he was simply attempting to hand Waka Flocka his demo CD, when the security guards shot him.
Stukes was shot in the shoulder during the incident.
Yesterday (December 18), a jury awarded $501,000 in damages against Mizay Entertainment, the company that manages Waka Flocka Flame.
One blogger for NBC may find himself in hot water after he called Chief Keef "a minstrel show."
Whether it's Hip Hop listeners or his fellow Chi-Town emcees, Interscope rapper Chief Keef has been earning some critical disapproval from many members of the industry. Now, however, one blogger has taken his complaints too far by calling Keef's music "a minstrel show."
According to a recent report HipHopWired, Edward McClelland, a Caucasian blogger for Chicago NBC 5, recently attacked Chief Keef and the drill music scene in a blog, calling it "a minstrel show." He said that the shootings at the Sandy Hook Elementary School last week moved him to decry the 17-year-old rapper for his violent lyrics.
"[F]rom what I've heard of it, is pretty lunkheaded: simplistic rhymes, primitive beats. But it's also a window into the world that has made Chicago the murder capital of America, and that piqued my curiosity," wrote McClelland. "Since last week's murders at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, though, I haven't had the stomach for any violent entertainment…I also don't want to pay $14 for the minstrel show of listening to a real live South Side thug. I don't want to support a scene that makes gangbanging a resume builder for music success."
Two of Jay-Z and Kanye West's collaborations hit milestones this week.
It's been over a year since Jay-Z and Kanye West released Watch the Throne, but tracks from the album are still going strong.
"Niggas in Paris," one of the most popular tracks from the album, hit the triple platinum mark with digital sales eclipsing the 3 million units sold, reports HHNM.
The awards didn't stop there, however, as the duo scored a gold plaque for "No Church in the Wild," the album's opening track. "No Church in the Wild" has been prominently featured in advertisements for cars, movies, and other products since Watch the Throne's release. The song features Frank Ocean.
"Niggas in Paris" became a fixture in Hov and Yeezy's concerts, leading the duo to perform it as much as eleven times during their live shows.
Fat Joe admits to failing to pay roughly $700,000 in taxes.
Fat Joe has pleaded guilty to tax evasion after failing to pay income taxes for the years 2007 and 2008.
According to TMZ, the Terror Squad chief was accused of dodging roughly $700,000 in income taxes over the two-year period. He appeared in federal court in New Jersey earlier this morning to enter his guilty plea, and was subsequently released on $250,000 bond.
In 2010, Joey Crack listed his $2 million Florida mansion for sale to reportedly liquidate assets to cover debts of nearly $140,000. He was also given a tax lien by the State of New Jersey from 2008 in the sum of $105,000, as well as a Mercer County, New Jersey lien for just under $32,000.
Joey Crack will be sentenced in April and is facing up to two years in prison.
Reports are surfacing that Young Money CEO Lil Wayne was involved in a massive brawl, after a radio concert in Los Angeles over the weekend.
Reports are surfacing that Lil Wayne appeared at Power 106′s “Cali Christmas Show,” on December 14, where he was supposed to take the stage with Kendrick Lamar.
An eyewitness told gossip website Hollyscoop.com that a brawl broke out between the rapper and unknown individuals backstage at the Gibson Amphitheater, where the concert took place.
“Punches were thrown but no arrests were made,”an eyewitness said. “It was a serious fight and was witnessed by everyone who was backstage.”
The rest of the concert went on without incident and included performances by Kendrick Lamar, Big Sean, Rick Ross, 2 Chainz, Ca$h Out and others.
So far, representatives for Power 106 or Lil Wayne’s record label Young Money have yet to comment on the situation.
Kendrick Lamar earns a gold plaque only a few months after his album's release.
Kendrick Lamar has earned himself a gold plaque for his major label debut good kid, m.A.A.d city.
According to a press release, the album has been certified by gold for selling excess of 500,000 copies as of December 13th. The LP was originally released on October 22nd.
Upon release, good kid, m.A.A.d citybowed at No. 2 on the charts with an impressive 242,000 copies sold. It also debuted at No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Wiz Khalifa, Drake and others earn placement on Forbes' recent "30 Under 30" list.
With the year 2012 quickly coming to a close, media publications across the board are making lists honoring the best and brightest stars of the past 12 months. Now, Forbes has named Hip Hop artists like Wiz Khalifa and Drake to its annual "30 Under 30" list.
Forbes' "30 Under 30" list celebrates 30 of the most successful "young disruptors, innovators and entrepreneurs" under the age of 30 who struck it big over this past year. This year, however, a number of Hip Hop's biggest young artists ranked high on the list.
Coming in a the top position on the list is Wiz Khalifa, who Forbes credited for, "rak[ing] in $20 million over the past two years [and] twice landing on Forbes' Hip-Hop Cash Kings list." Wiz was not alone in this honor, as Drake, Mac Miller, Kendrick Lamar and Frank Ocean also appeared on the list.
Other artists named to the "30 Under 30" list in the world of music include Justin Bieber, Rihanna and more. Check out the full story over at Forbes.
Ice-T may have to get all “6 in the morning” with this new dude AP.9! This dude is suggesting that he tapped CoCo’s reserves! Now, the thing is, why? Ice-T and CoCo are a loving couple that have done some great things together! But, now it is looking like they may have to endure some other level of drama.
The dude AP.9, basically said in a new interview that he hit it. As you may know, pictures surfaced that CoCo had been taking some pretty inappropriate pics with this dude. Well Ice took her back. And they were seen smily faced. But, now, his face is going to be more like this:
The TMZ interviewer dude kept asking AP that there were rumors that he tapped CoCo’s white chocolate and he just kept saying, “That’s a RUMOR? Is that a rumor?” He was basically saying, “That’s a FACT, not a rumor.” He also said that he wasn’t afraid of Ice-T, because he’s “from the hood.”
Lil Wayne has reportedly paid off the millions he owed in taxes stemming from as far back as 2008.
According to recent reports, Lil Wayne has had to pay more than $7 million for tax liens stemming from as far as back as 2008. Reports from Gossip Extra show that the YMCMB emcee became the target of liens for different years.
According to these reports, Wayne owed more than $3 million for 2008 and more than $2 million for 2009. The site also reports that their source was Miami Dade County records.
In September, Weezy purchased a new home on La Gorce island. The home reportedly cost him more than $11 million to purchase. which allowed the IRS to bring forth the liens.
Odd Future turn to Twitter to prove that they didn't throw the first punch in concert altercation.
California-based rap collective Odd Future are catching a heavy amount of heat following the release of video footage that pictures the group in a physical altercation with a concertgoer at the Odd Future show in San Antonio, Texas that took place earlier in the month.
From the video footage it’s unclear if the first punch was thrown by 17-year-old accuser Chassan Rasagi or a member of the Cali collective, but the members of Odd Future are claiming that Rasagi did in fact throw the first punch.
According to Pitchfork.com, the group has even turned to a series of Tweets allegedly made by Rasagi to prove that the teenager incited the altercation. In one post made on his Twitter account, Rasagi ReTweeted a user who stated that, “I give you props even tho u swung 1st those lame ass niggas suck I would of had your back. Probably would of got my ass beat too.”
On top of that ReTweet, Rasagi also commented on the check he may or may not receive from his lawsuit against the group.
“I’ll remember to send you a picture of the check when I get it,” Rasagi Tweeted to three different Twitter users, reports Pitchfork.com.
No other details in the lawsuit between Rasagi and Odd Future have been revealed.
Attorneys for Meek Mill asked a judge to lift any ban on travel restrictions so he can tour easier.
Meek Mill has asked a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania judge to loosen travel restrictions so he doesn't have as hard a time touring.
According to NBC 10 Philadelphia, attorneys for the Maybach Music Group rapper filed a request last Wednesday for a Philly judge to lift any ban on travel so he can have an easier time touring. Defense attorney Dennis Cogan says that Mill's earning power is limited by the ban.
But the 25-year-old artist may not be in luck. Assistant District Attorney Noel DeSantis told The Philadelphia Inquirer that she will oppose the request, stating that he was already cut a break in serving only eight months of an 11- to 23-month sentence for being found guilty of assault, gun possession and drug charges.
"I'm out here doing good. Until I start doing bad, that's when I think it should be a problem," said Mill in an interview with NBC.
Kendrick Lamar is seeking a cameo from Janet Jackson for the video to "Poetic Justice."
Last month, it was revealed that Kendrick Lamar was looking to release his Drake-assisted track "Poetic Justice" as the second single to his widely successful good kid, m.A.A.d city. Now, in a recent interview with MTV, the Compton rapper discusses some ideas he has for the song's video.
Kendrick revealed that he's looking to secure Janet Jackson, who's song "Any Time, Any Place" is sampled in the beat, to make a cameo appearance in the video. He said that he would like to arrange the appearance without the help of managers, but rather as "artist to artist."
"I would say 'Poetic Justice,' that'll be a good follow up single," he said. "That'll be a blessing [if Janet Jackson were to appear in the video]. Janet, c'mon, Janet. No paperwork with the managers, contact the managers. This is artist to artist. This is a young boy that looked up to you for years. Please, yeah, video, Janet Jackson 'Poetic Justice.' It'll only be right."
T.I. says his new track is a diss - but doesn't say towards whom.
In a recent interview on Shade 45 with DJ Drama, an animated and heated T.I. discussed his song "Addresses," which appears to be a diss track.
"It was direct," said Tip of the diss. "Now, the thing about who it was directed to - it benefits him more than me for me to put that out there. So I made that directly in a way that only they will know. Therefore, so they cannot get any shine off of it."
The Atlanta rapper surmised that others would step into the fray to bolster their reputations. "I'ma make a prediction... There shall be a few rappers that feel they will be benefited by accepting that burden, and they will step into that line of fire, knowing it is not them, but they will feel it is better for them to step into that line of fire, be hit and receive the benefits that come with being hit by a T.I. bullet. It'll be the greatest thing that ever happened to them in their lives."
T.I. continued, addressing his unnamed foe. "It brings me great pain to say, had it not been for their outright, direct disrespect and disregard for the G code, and what is known to all to be real... they lack all integrity. Trap Music is a genre that I created, homes! Before me, it was Lil Jon, Crunk Music, and OutKast! You don't fit in nowhere! The closest thing that come to what you do is what I created, homie. So for you to come out your face bad about me, dog, when I ain't never do nothin' but try and help you and niggas like you? ...And you tryin' to come at me that way? ...You deserve everything coming to you."
Odd Future may be in hot water after allegedly beating a fan who jumped on stage.
Several members of Odd Future allegedly beat a fan who jumped on stage, and now the fan plans to sue.
17-year-old Chassan Rasagi filed a police report with the San Antonio Police Department, claiming that the group severely beat him, reports TMZ.
Apparently, OF member Hodgy Beats pushed Rasagi back into the crowd, which pushed Rasagi back to the stage. The group allegedly commenced with beating Rasagi.
Rasagi says he's suffered lacerations on his head, scratches, and burns to his body, and suffered two seizures. Some in the crowd say the fan threw the first punch.
Larry Merchant is leaving his job as a ringside boxing commentator for HBO Sports after 35 years.
The network said Thursday his last broadcast will be Saturday's season finale of "World Championship Boxing'' from Houston.
Merchant had worked with Jim Lampley since 1988. Max Kellerman will now be the full-time HBO ringside boxing commentator and post-fight interviewer. Kellerman joined HBO Sports in 2005 and has alternated with Merchant the past few years.
Merchant says he will become a "Tom Brokaw-like senior kibbitzer on major news and events in boxing.''
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2009.
LOL! I’ll tell you. What constitutes news is nothing shy of hilarious! Trey Songz got arrested because he made it rain and one of the bills stuck to her eye. Trey has to go to court over the whole thing and I’m hearing the stripper is going to sue if anything sticks. LOL!
Throwing dollar bills at a woman (aka MAKING IT RAIN!!!) seems harmless, but it got Trey Songz arrested for assault in New York recently … TMZ has learned.
Songz (real name Tremaine Neverson) had an album release party on August 21 at a gentleman’s club in Queens. According to police, somewhere between 4:00 and 4:15 AM on the 22nd, Trey became involved in an altercation inside the club.
Cops described the incident this way in the criminal complaint: “Tremaine Neverson, did throw a sum of United States currency at the complainant and said sum of United States currency struck the complainant’s left eye causing substantial pain to her left eye.”
It is unclear if the woman in question was … how do we say this nicely … a stripper.
Songz was not arrested that night, but rather a month later for misdemeanor assault. Songz had a court date in NY on November 1 and an order of protection was issued. He is due back in court in February.
We reached out to a rep for Songz, but have yet to hear back.
Did you all catch Yeezy rocking a black leather skirt on the Hurricane Sandy Relief concert the other night? Now, Kanye has been rocking skirts on tour for a few years, so this is nothing new, but most of America has never seen him rocking the feminine frock, until the nationally televised relief concert. The skirt set Twitter ablaze, and even though Kanye thinks the skirts are “fashion forward” – most of America just doesn’t agree.
Outspoken rapper Cam’ron went in on Yeezy’s choice of wardrobe, and even threatened to block anyone who didn’t agree with him. Check out his tweet below slamming Yeezy’s outfit:
Cam wasn’t the only one to voice his dislike for the outfit. Chris Brown also commented on Yeezy’s fashion choice. Blogger Nicole Bitchie posted a photo of Yeezy, Diddy, and actor Vin Diesel all in skirts. Chris Brown was not feeling the look and clowned all three, even suggesting that “n*ggas gonna be wearing heels next!” Check out the photo along with Chris’ comment below:
Oh man, Breezy took it there. Do you think the skirt look on men will catch on? GOD help us if it does! Hide your sons!!!
With rumors circulating since last week, Trinidad James confirms signing to Def Jam.
Rumors have been circulating on Twitter and the Internet for the past few weeks that Trinidad James signed a $2 million contract with Def Jam. Now, Billboard has confirmed that the buzzy rapper has in fact inked a deal with the label.
"Def Jam, thank you for believing," said James. Def Jam President Joie Manda added, "We're excited to welcome a young talent like Trinidad James to the Def Jam family. ... Def Jam prides itself as both a cornerstone of hip-hop's rich tradition, and as a vital, forward-thinking label dedicated to breaking and nurturing emerging artists. Trinidad James represents the cutting-edge of what's happening in the culture today. We are thrilled to have him at the label, and look forward to growing his already massive buzz."
The Atlanta, Georgia emcee has been on the rise over the past few months thanks to his breakout single "All Gold Everything." Over on YouTube, the video has clocked more than 3.1 million views.
James recently performed at New York City, New York's Santos Party House for a sold-out crowd that included executives from Def Jam and Atlantic Records.
Ma$e says he got jewels from Notorious B.I.G. and that he's doing "what Tupac envisioned to do" with his life.
After discussing his release from Bad Boy earlier this week, Ma$e is back in the press, now focusing on other topics. In this interview for Sway in the Morning, Ma$e shared jewels that Notorious B.I.G. once gave him. He also said the Biggie/Tupac beef changed his perspective on life and added that he is doing "what Tupac envisioned to do."
"I remember B.I.G. used to always tell me stuff," he said in the piece. "He used to give me jewels and one of the jewels I gave to 2 Chainz when we was talking that while you're doing this you gotta do all you can and can everything you get because you not guaranteed to be loved next year. They lovin' you now. I understood that. That's what made me take advantage of doing something else."
But one of Ma$e's important life lessons came after B.I.G. was killed in Los Angeles.
"When Biggie passed, it changed my whole perspective for many reasons," he explained. "It was the first time I saw - ah, man, I'm on a truth campaign. It was the first time I saw people that were supposed to be who they are not act like who they are. That's the best way I could say that. Somebody that important, something happen to, and nobody respond?" ... If you don't rock for that, what you gon' rock for? At that point, my focus became different. If ain't nobody do nothing about this, I shouldn't think something's gon' happen different for me. So, my decision became real easy."
During the interview, Ma$e explained that he also learned a lot from Tupac.
"I believe I'm doing right now what Tupac envisioned to do but he never got around to doing because he wasn't able to make that decision."
He also explained that he is not beefing with Jim Jones or Cam'Ron saying that they are both his brothers.
Game took to Twitter to denounce Michelle Malkin for calling his cover art blasphemous.
Game is no stranger to controversy and isn't afraid to hold back when it comes to criticism of his work. Chuck Taylor has lashed out at FOX News correspondent Michelle Malkin after she called the cover art for his Jesus Piece album blasphemous, speaking with DJ Skee about how he wants to boycott the network.
"It's basically there's a reporter on FOX News 11 named Michelle Malkin who voiced hate for the album cover and racist remarks because of what is our art form, what is something as simple as just art in the album cover," he explained. "We artists, and everything we do is artistic from the music to fashion to covers."
He went on to say that he's calling for a boycott of the network and that he will relentlessly see to it that it gets "shut down." "She has no place to make racial remarks or call the album blasphemous. This is the same lady who said President Obama is not American. I don't know the rationale, it doesn't make sense at all," he continued. "I was a big supporter of FOX News. I grew up on The Simpsons. they come on FOX 11, and now I'm going to do everything I can to shut them down because we can't allow that, especially going into a new year."
Malkin was met with threats and expletives on her Twitter account, to which she responded, "Note that @thegame and his fans use his salary to justify bad behavior. He makes more than me, so it's ok to call me a [insert expletive]."
Policeman in Chicago, Illinois are searching for people who hung posters advertising Chief Keef's "Finally Rich."
Policeman in Chicago, Illinois are seeking to issue citations to individuals who are hanging up posters advertising Chief Keef's Finally Rich around his Englewood neighborhood.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, people have been putting up advertisements for the young rapper's debut, releasing December 18th. Chicago Police union Vice President Daniel Gorman described the acts as a "smack in the face" to police officers.
“It seems as if he’s being hailed a hero,” he said. “But it’s a smack in the face to the police officers who are serving the citizens of those communities.”
Chicago Police Commander Kevin Ryan noted that this isn't a personal attack on Keef, who is currently on probation for pointing a gun at a policeman. "We used to do this when I was commander in [a downtown] district," he explained.
Keef's manager, Rovan “Dro” Manuel, disagreed, stating that this is in fact an issue with the rapper. "I don’t think it’s fair,” he said. “If they [don’t] do that with Britney Spears, Madonna, the Goo Goo Dolls, why do they have to do that to us?
"I think they’re targeting Chief Keef a little bit for more reasons than one,” he continued. “He’s a spokesperson for Englewood, they had problems way before Chief Keef. When something bad happens they want to put it all on him."
Authorities say at least 26 people, including 20 children, were killed Friday when a gunman clad in black military gear opened fire inside a Connecticut elementary school.
The shooter, identified as 24-year-old Ryan Lanza, lived in Hoboken, N.J., and had ties to Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. He was found dead inside the school, according to officials.
A source told Fox News that Lanza's mother and father, who were divorced, were also killed. It's not clear whether Lanza's mother, a teacher at the school, was killed there or at another location.
Local news outlets report that the shooting occurred inside a kindergarten classroom, and that all the pupils in that classroom are unaccounted for.
An official with knowledge of the situation said the shooter was armed with a .223-caliber rifle. Four weapons in total were recovered from the scene. The motive is not yet known.
Police are also questioning another person in connection with the shooting. Witnesses told the Connecticut Post that a handcuffed man, dressed in camouflage, was led out of a nearby woods by officers. The individual is Lanza's younger brother, according to the Associated Press.
Lanza is a 2006 graduate of Newtown High School. He is believed to have graduated from Quinnipiac University in 2010. On a Twitter page believed to be the Lanza's, a series of disturbing posts were found, including one that said, "I would actually love if the world ended in 2 weeks."
Connecticut State Police Lt. Paul Vance said during an afternoon news conference that police arrived at the scene "within minutes" of a 911 call placed shortly after 9:30 a.m.
"Every door, every crack, every crevice of that school" was checked, Vance said. “The entire school was searched.”
Vance did not give details about the number of victims other than to say they included students and staff, pending notification of the families. He said more information would be released, possibly later Friday.
The massacre began inside the school's main office as the principal was making morning announcements. Sources told Fox News students throughout the school could hear gunshots over the intercom system before the gunman entered the kindergarten classroom and continued his bloody rampage.
A dispatcher at the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps said a teacher was shot in the foot and taken to Danbury Hospital. Local news outlets also reported that the principal was among those shot.
Parent Lisa Procaccini told Fox News that her daughter was sitting in a classroom when she and others heard gun shots.
"She was in a small class -- a reading group and they started hearing bangs," Procaccini said. "Her teacher, and I’m grateful for this, rushed kids into the bathroom and locked the door. They told kids it was hammering and tried to keep them calm.”
"Children were crying," Procaccini said. "She did tell me about a little boy that was in a police officer’s arms, bleeding. I don’t know if she gets it."
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said two firearms were found at the scene.
President Obama was notified of the shooting around 10:30 am ET, White House officials said.
The Newtown School District has locked down schools as a preventive measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
A statement on the district's website stated that afternoon kindergarten classes have been canceled.
The elementary school has close to 700 students.
Newtown is in Fairfield County, about 45 miles southwest of Hartford and 60 miles northeast of New York City.
Oh lawd, this story reads like a true soap opera. According to an exclusive Bossip.com source, Nelly and Ashanti’s relationship has imploded over rumors of cheating and sleeping around. Ashanti has allegedly been leading a double life, and while she plays the doting, faithful girlfriend of Nelly to his face, behind his back she has allegedly been intimate with Jay-Z and Nas, as well as producer Chink Santana.
Remember, this is all allegedly! And, in Ashanti’s defense, Nelly has also had his share of infidelity rumors, and his affinity for trickin’ on strippers and video vixens is legendary in the industry.
Well, according to the source, Nelly was ready to change and move forward with their relationship, but found out that Ashanti was allegedly having a relationship with Chink Santana on the side since 2005. When he confronted Ashanti about the rumors, she allegedly denied it, but the source says that Nelly knew she was lying and dumped her.
These two never quite reached the celebrity power couple potential they had in the beginning of their relationship. Hopefully they can work it out. They were cute together.
Game says there's a possibility of G-Unit reforming if 50 Cent "lets go of his ego" and shares thoughts on likelihood of a collaboration with Jay-Z.
In promoting his latest project, Jesus Piece, Game has been asked to speak on his past. In one recent interview with BET, Game was asked about past feuds with Jay-Z and 50 Cent. While discussing this, Game shared his feelings on a possible collaboration with Jay-Z and explained how G-Unit could reunite.
"It wasn't that I resented Jay-Z or had any real beef," Game explained, when discussing his lyrical feud with Jigga. "I just wanted to pick a fight and maybe he would spit at me and I could spit at him and get into a lyrical war...I tried and he responded with little lines here and there and I think the possibility of a song happening over the years kind of got tainted. But it's a new day. I'm a new person. I'm a little bit older. Hopefully one day we'll be able to make that happen. If not, I've had a glorious career. I'm on my fifth album and not really looking for anything else to fall out the sky for me so it is what it is."
Jay-Z isn't the only former foe he'd collaborate with. According to Game, he and 50 Cent could collaborate in the future and there's still a possibility of "G-Unit reforming."
What 50 gotta do is let go of his ego. I don't hold grudges. I was mad for the time being when we were going through that and after that, I immediately graduated to a neutral ground where that could have happened but it's 50, man. Once he calms his ego and realizes that there still could be the possibility of G-Unit reforming, then who knows? But I know you can't put together G-Unit without Game and you can't do it without 50," he said. "It's kind of like that John Lennon/Paul McCartney thing. Jimmy Iovine used to say that a lot."
Wiz Khalifa nearly grabs a #1 with "O.N.I.F.C." as Wu-Block stays strong on the Top 200.
The key addition to the charts this past week was courtesy of Wiz Khalifa. The DXnext alum and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania emcee's O.N.F.I.C. was within striking distance of a #1, but fell just shy of Taylor Swift for a #2 debut. This matches Wiz's first release with Atlantic Records, last year's Rolling Papers, which sold over 50,000 more units than the sophomore.
The leader of the Taylor Gang released his second solo album with Atlantic (following a string of independent projects). O.N.I.F.C. (Only Nigga In First Class) was led by a six-month single in "Work Hard, Play Hard" followed by "Remember You." The Rostrum Records flagship artist maintained personnel on his Rolling Papers follow-up, working with I.D. Labs, Jim Jonsin and Stargate on production.
The album, selling approximately 141,000 first-week units, featured wife Amber Rose, along with appearances by Wiz's usual cast of Rap veterans, this time including Juicy J, Cam'ron, Pharrell and 2 Chainz.
Wu-Block Back For A Second Round
The Wu-Block project, led by Ghostface Killah and Sheek Louch, sold another 4,000 units in its second week at retail. The Staten Island and Yonkers delegates brought in members of their crews on various songs from the project. Notably absent from the Wu is RZA, both as a vocalist and producer, as well as U-God, while Erykah Badu appears on the Termanology-produced "Drivin' Around." Other producers of note include Erick Sermon and Red Spyda.
A$AP Rocky was sentenced to three days community service and must pay $250.
Following an altercation that took place back in July in New York City, New York, A$AP Rocky pled guilty to attempted grand larceny.
According to TMZ, the Harlem, New York native got into it with two photographers for taking pictures of him while he was verbally fighting with another person. A$AP tried to grab the camera, which is where his larceny charge originated.
In exchange for pleading guilty to the larceny charge, his attempted robbery in the second degree and assault charges were dropped.
He was sentenced to three days community service and must pay a $250 fine, in addition to staying out of trouble until his next court hearing in February.
Rick Ross is finally opening up and speaking out about the incident between him and Jeezy at the BET Hip-Hop Awards earlier this year, and it seems as if Rick Ross still has some unfinished business with the snow man. Check out what he told Felisha Monet from 99 Jamz in Miami below:
“This is nothing personal to me. At the BET Awards it basically just boiled down to me running across Young Jeezy, he had five security guards in front of him, five police officers behind him and we crossed paths I said ‘what’s up?’ soon as he said ‘what’s up?’ I tried to choke him. His security guards hemmed me up; whoever the big black dude with the bumps on his face, he should give that dude something special for Christmas.”
Ross got jokes! The bawse must have been in an open and honest mood, because he even spoke about his ongoing feud with 50 Cent and how he’s nice with his hands.
“I’m a hands on type dude. I’m better with my hands than I am at making music. So it’s not personal but if I see Young Jeezy again will I try to choke him? I don’t know that’s an option. If I see 50 Cent, is it personal? Not at all but it’s an option.”
Somebody get that boxing promoter on the phone! Hell, someone get 50 Cent on the phone – isn’t he a boxing promoter now? Maybe he can negotiate a match between Jeezy and Ross. I’d love to see that! But hold up, in the interview Ross reveals that he may go out and get a boxing license, too, so he and 50 can have something else to beef about. Crazy!
You can check out the interview with Ross and 99 Jamz below, where he also explains the reason why GunPlay got separated from MMG and ended up becoming a target for 50 and his boys in the parking lot:
Wiz Khalifa was honored for being an ambassador to his hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Wiz Khalifa appeared in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's City Council chambers earlier this morning with his family to accept a proclomation for being an ambassador for his hometown.
According to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the council declared December 12, 2012 to be "Wiz Khalifa Day." The Taylor Gang leader, who is in town for a performance at Consol Energy Center tomorrow, said that "he has always bragged about being from Pittsburgh and that he doesn't feel as though he's accomplished much yet."
The Rostrum/Atlantic signee most recently released his sophomore album O.N.I.F.C., which features guest appearances from Cam'Ron, 2 Chainz, Juicy J and more.
Rick Ross says Maybach Music Group moving to Atlantic Records is "the biggest move of the year."
Following chatter of Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group possibly moving to Atlantic Records, the label news was confirmed earlier today (December 11) when the full video footage of Ross’ interview with Miami’s 99 Jamz hit the internet.
The MMG head honcho seemed quite confident in his announcement made on-air and even referred to the label change as being “the biggest move of the year.”
“I got another announcement as well. I’m excited for this year we got coming up man. This is really huge. MMG we just merged with Atlantic Records. It’s the biggest move of the year. We gonna leave it right there,” Rick Ross revealed in a video posted on HipHop-n-More.com. “I’m signed as a solo artist to Def Jam. And Meek Mill, Wale, we all MMG at the end of the day.”
Ironically, Atlanta rapper Young Jeezy, who Ross has feuded with in the past, became the Senior VP of A&R at Atlantic Records back in August of this year. Ross also commented on Jeezy prior to making the Atlantic Records announcement, but his words weren’t as cheerful.
“It's not personal, but if I see Young Jeezy again, will I try to choke him? I don't know. That's an option,” said Ross.
Prior to moving to Atlantic Records, Maybach Music Group was distributed via Warner Bros. Records.
Public Enemy joins Heart, Donna Summer, Randy Newman and more in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
After being nominated earlier this year, Public Enemy is officially set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
According to Rolling Stone, the veteran Hip Hop group joins Heart, Randy Newman, Rush, Albert King and Donna Summer in the class of 2013. Additionally, Lou Adler and Quincy Jones will both receive the Ahmet Ertegun Award for non-performers.
Chicago police are now investigating the threats leveled at Rick Ross by the Gangsters Disciples.
Last week, the world of Hip Hop was shocked to learn that Rick Ross cancelled the remainder of his Maybach Music Group tour over threats of gang violence. Now, in a recent report from TMZ, it appears that police are investigating into the matter.
The Chicago Police Department is beginning to investigate the threats levied at the Carol City rapper by the notorious Chicago-based gang the Gangster Disciples. Prior to the North Carolina leg of Rozay's tour, the GD's posted a video threatening the rapper's life if he were to perform.
According to the video, the GD's are demanding that Ross pay them for likening himself to the gang's founder, Larry Hoover, in his song "B.M.F. (Blowin' Money Fast)." They are also claiming that he ripped off their six-pointed star gang symbol on the cover of his mixtape The Black Bar Mitzvah.
As of now, the police are investigating into the video and the parties who made the threats in it. DX will keep you updated as more information comes to light.
Although Jay Electronica has been spending a lot of time in London, he still makes time to hang out with his daughter, Mars. Mars is Jay’s child with singer Erykah Badu. Unfortunately, while hanging out with her, Jay intsagrammed a photo of her to his followers – something Erykah Badu apparently told him not to do. Check out her chastising tweet below to Jay Elect:
Below is the photo that set Erykah off:
Cute kid! Do you think Erykah has the right to order Jay not to post photos of his own daughter? Also, couldn’t she have called or texted Jay Elect directly with this information? Why make the request so public?
Representatives for the Los Angeles Police Department have issued an apology to the family of the Notorious B.I.G., over the unexpected release of the slain rapper’s autopsy report.
Captain Billy Hayes issued a statement in regards to the autopsy, which revealed that B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace, was shot four times, with one of the bullets ripping through his colon, left lung and heart.
B.I.G. was rushed to Cedars Sinai Hospital in full cardiac arrest and despite attempts to revolve the rapper, he died shortly after arriving at the hospital on March 9, 1997.
According to theLos Angeles Times, the autopsy was released prematurely due to “an administrative error,” the LAPD said in the statement.
“Our detectives personally spoke with the Wallace family (Friday) night, and apologized for not notifying them prior to the release” said Captain Billy Hayes, head of the Robbery/Homicide Division. “Obviously this has been a challenging case for us to solve. We hope that witnesses or other people with information will come forward and give us the clues we need to solve this case.”
A security hold on the autopsy and other documents relating to B.I.G.’s murder were released after a security hold on the 23 page report was lifted last week.
The LAPD claims they are looking for new leads in the murder case of Notorious B.I.G., who was killed in front of the Petersen Automotive Museum on Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles.
His rival, Tupac Shakur, was shot on the Las Vegas Strip on September 7, 1996. He died from his wounds on September 13.
The offspring of N.W.A. and Run-DMC linked up for their own reality series titled "Seeds of Hip Hop."
Taking notes from their fathers' entertainment careers, sons of N.W.A. and Run-DMC are shopping a reality show to major networks.
According to TMZ, the show will be titled Seeds of Hip Hop and star Dr. Dre's son Curtis Young, Eazy E's son Eric Lynn Wright Jr., MC Ren's son Anthony Dunbar, E-40's son Droop-E and Jam Master Jay's son Jason Mizell.
The show is reportedly created by music producer D'Extra Wiley (II D Extreme) and will follow the 20-somethings as they "make it on their own -- while trying to escape the shadows of their famous dads."
Networks currently being shopped the project include VH1, TV-One, Fuse and BET. Production is scheduled to begin in a month.
Beyonce to appear on limited-edition Pepsi cans and also star in a Pepsi commercial thanks to her deal with the brand.
Following news that Beyoncé’s self-directed documentary would be airing at the top of next year on HBO, the superstar singer has revealed yet another major piece of news. XclusivesZone.net reports that the songstress has just inked a deal with Pepsi worth a hefty $50 million.
While deals between big-name brands and artists rarely go beyond the ads and commercials realm, Pepsi’s deal with Beyoncé will also include a multi-million dollar fund that will support the singer and any of her creative projects.
“Pepsi embraces creativity and understands that artists evolve,” Beyoncé said in a statement. “As a businesswoman, this allows me to work with a lifestyle brand with no compromise and without sacrificing my creativity.”
As part of the multi-million deal, Beyoncé will appear on a limited-edition Pepsi can and will also appear in a Pepsi commercial that will air during the Super Bowl on February 3, 2013.
Shortly after the debut of Beyoncé’s Pepsi commercial, HBO will air the Houston singer’s self-directed documentary on February 16.
Nicki Minaj is said to be furious over not getting any Grammy nominations this year. At this same time last year, Nicki was the Grammy golden girl, making a huge grand entrance with a priest in a red Versace robe, performing “Roman Holiday” and being nominated for three awards, including Best New Artist. But things are completely different this year, with Nicki not scoring any nominations for her album,Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded.According to an industry insider, the Barb is said to be so upset over the snub, that she is considering “boycotting the show altogether in protest.”
Do you think Nicki should boycott the Grammy’s over her nomination snub? Nicki’s top singles this year were “Starships” and “Pound The Alarm” – do you think either of those songs deserved a nomination?
Oh, and Nicki was so upset that she even blocked one of her precious “Barbs” for merely mentioning it. Check out the tweet that caused her to get put on ice below:
Nicki is not having any of that negativity. Do you think Nicki will go so far as to boycott the Grammy’s this year?
Miami Hip-Hop star Rick Ross continues to face challenges in his career, after a hearing yesterday between former drug baron Freeway Ricky Ross and Warner Brothers Records.
Lawyers for both sides squared off in court yesterday (December 6), over a ex lawsuit over the name Rick Ross, and the alleged usage of the former drug barons image.
A new lawsuit was immediatley filed against Warner Brothers for false advertising, unjust enrichment, and unfair business practices, resulting in the hearing yesterday.
Yesterday, trial dates in the case were set for January and the case is slated to go to trial in early 2013.
According to Freeway Ricky Ross, he has received support from hip-hop mogul Marion “Suge” Knight, who actually showed up at one of the court hearings earlier this year, to reveal on record that he officially spoke to rapper Rick Ross about the case.
“The reality is I want justice done. I know that he took his name and image from my life and believe he is unfairly profiting off my story,” Freeway Ricky Ross told AllHipHop.com in an exclusive interview. “At one point Suge Knight came down to the hearings earlier this year and specifically laid it out to all of us, including all the lawyers, that he spoke to William the rapper directly. Rozay (the rapper) said clearly he talked to people that were around me when I was dealing and studied me in taking on my image and name.”
Just yesterday, Rick Ross was forced to cancel two concerts in Greensboro and Charlotte North Carolina, due to security concerns, after threats of gang violence on the Internet has appeared over recent weeks.
Members of various factions of the Gangster Disciples around the country have taken issues with Rick Ross’ usage of Larry Hoover’s name in his hit song “B.M.F.,” as well as his use usage of the gang’s six-point star.
“This guy (Rick Ross) just doesn’t have the right people around him to explain the streets, and then say that when you violate someone just address it as a man,” Freeway Rick Ross told AllHipHop.com. “You need to say that it wasn’t intentional or nothing like that. It’s ok to apologize and make things right with a real agreement out of respect.”
A lawyer for the Notorious B.I.G. recently blasted the Los Angeles Police Department, for releasing an autopsy of the slain rapper.
Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace, was gunned down on March 9, 1997, during a drive-by shooting in front of the Petersen Automotive Museum in downtown Los Angeles.
The rapper died after he was struck by four bullets that pierced the passenger side of the Chevy Suburban, in which he was a passenger.
The LAPD claimed they released the autopsy photo in hopes of generating new leads surrounding the murder.
Perry Sanders Jr., long time lawyer for Notorious B.I.G.’s estate, criticized the LAPD for releasing the autopsy report after all almost 16-years.
“What legitimate lead could be stimulated by releasing an autopsy that says Mr. Wallace was shot. When everyone knows that ” Perry Sanders Jr. toldThe Los Angeles Times. “Why don’t they release some of the clues they have?”
Notorious B.I.G was killed by a shot that tore through his colon, liver, heart and lung, before coming to a stop near his left shoulder area.
No one has ever been arrested for the murder of Notorious B.I.G. or Tupac Shakur, who was gunned down six months earlier, on September 7, 1996 on the strip in Las Vegas.
Entertainment mogul-turned-boxing promoter 50 Cent will debut his star pugilist, Yuriorkis Gamboa, tonight in the undercard of the mega fight with Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao.
Gamboa, an undefeated former Olympian, represents a cornerstone of 50′s entry into the sport, but the Cuban-bred boxer is heavily favored over his opponent Michael Farenas this evening.
In fact, after AllHipHop.com asked, 50 said that he’d be willing to put Gamboa up against emerging super star Adrien Broner in the Super lightweight division (140-pound).
“I would [put Gamboa against Broner]. Gamboa’s next fight, he’ll probably move up to 135. That’s exciting, right? That what people want to see, right?,” 50 told AllHipHop.com about a potential bout with Broner.
Moreover, 50 Cent – through his SMS Promotions – said that he wants to match boxers in the ring that will entertain the masses as well as boxing enthusiasts.
“I want to make the fights that fight fans really want to see without the running and dipping and dodging.” the newly anointed promoter said, addressing a criticism of the sport. “If you got the best talent, and as long as the dollar amount is correct, I go back and talk to Gamboa and he’ll say we’ll fight.”
Broner has been compared to champion Floyd Mayweather, but mostly regarded as a future major attraction to boxing for his braggadocios ways and flamboyant style.
50 Cent continued: “Based on his last performance, [Broner] is going to be the face [of boxing] or the future of the actual sport in some way. He’s a talented fighter and [Broner vs. Gamboa] is something that everybody would like to see, right? That’s what I want to do. I don’t want to do the thing that the promoters do when they don’t want to make the real events happen. That’s what happens when you promote fighters like Gamboa. People pull out [ the fight] when they realize what they are up against.”
Right now, Gamboa represents in the 130 division, and has a record of 21-0-0 with 16 KOs.
50 Cent recently received his promoter’s license from the Nevada State Athletic Commission and has signed four fighters, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Andre Dirrell, Billy Dib and Celestino Caballero. Initially, a promotion s venture was a with Floyd Mayweather, but the pair were unable to continue with the business.
The Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao will play live tonight on HBO Pay-per-view from Las Vegas.
After calling off shows in Charlotte, North Carolina and Greensboro, North Carolina due to gang threats, Ricky Rozay has decided to cancel the remainder of the tour, which was scheduled to go until December 16th.
In a statement released to AHH, the Teflon Don's reps blamed the abrupt end of the tour to “apparent lack of organization and communication on the part of the tour promoter," noting that the first leg of the trek went smoothly.
“I want to apologize to all of my fans who I missed performing for due to the cancellations and want to let them know that I will get back to their cities,” said Ross. “I enjoyed my experience with my little bros Wale and Meek Mill and I’m ready to get back in the studio to make good music.”
According to the Dallas Morning News, Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Joshua Brent has been arrested and charged with intoxicated vehicular manslaughter by the Irving Police Department following an accident on East State Highway 114 early Saturday morning that claimed the life of Cowboys practice squad linebacker Jerry Brown.
Brent and Brown were teammates at the University of Illinois.
According to the report, Brent was traveling at a high rate of speed when his vehicle "hit the outside curb", causing it to flip over and come to rest in the middle of the road. Brent was given a field sobriety test, which he failed, and had blood drawn at a local hospital before booked on the second-degree felony by the Irving PD. According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN.com, Brent was trying to drag Brown from the burning car when the police arrived on scene.
Brown was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Sadly, this isn't the first time Brent has run afoul of the law in this kind of circumstance. The Associated Press reports that Brent was arrested in February of 2009 near the Illinois campus for driving under the influence, driving on a suspended license and speeding. Nobody was hurt in that case. Brent was also sentenced to two years probation, 200 hours of community service, and a fine of about $2,000. Per his plea deal, prosecutors dropped the aggravated DUI/no valid driver's license charge.
According to the AP, court records show that Brent completed his probation in July, 2011.
The Cowboys have issued the following statement (via ESPN Dallas):
"We are deeply saddened by the news of this accident and the passing of Jerry Brown," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. "At this time, our hearts and prayers and deepest sympathies are with the members of Jerry's family and all of those who knew him and loved him."
Brown, 25, went undrafted in 2011 and began his professional career in the arena league before playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League. Brown went to training camp in 2012 with the Indianapolis Colts and posted 10 tackles before he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad. Brown appeared in one game for the Colts, logging 11 special teams plays in a 35-9 loss to the New York Jets.
The Colts would waive Brown the following week and re-sign him to their practice squad. One week later, Brown's practice squad was terminated and he was signed by the Cowboys.
Colts general manager Ryan Grigson also issued a statement:
"On behalf of the entire Colts family, our sincerest condolences go out to Jerry's family and friends. He was a good teammate that was well liked by all. Today's tragic news is just another reminder of how fragile life is and how every day given is a gift."
Brent entered the NFL in 2010 when the Cowboys selected him in the seventh round of the 2010 Supplemental Draft. Brent served time in jail for misdemeanor DUI while a student-athlete at Illinois.
The 6-foot-2, 320-pound nose tackle totaled 16 tackles while playing in just under 25 percent of the Cowboys' defensive snaps in 2010, but was limited to 11 games and 13 percent of the defensive snaps in 2011. With starting nose tackle Jay Ratliff battling injuries throughout the season, Brent has started five of 12 games and played in over 41 percent of the Cowboys' defensive snaps, setting career-highs with 22 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
In an unrelated transaction, the Cowboys added defensive tackle Rob Callaway to the 53-man roster, placing cornerback Orlando Scandrick on injured reserve.
Miami rap star Rick Ross canceled two
concerts in North Carolina this weekend, after police stated security would be beefed up over gang threats against the rapper.
Rick Ross canceled concerts in Greensboro and Charlotte, although the exact reason has not been confirmed.
According to theCharlotte Observer, local police were on high alert, over numerous threats against Rick Ross in recent weeks, by various factions of The Gangster Disciples.
The GD’s are upset over the fact that Rick Ross allegedly reneged on some sort of agreement and over the usage of the gang’s six-point star on the cover of his mixtape “The Black Bar Mitzvah.”
Freeway Ricky Ross, who is currently in court with Rick Ross, over claims that his image was hijacked by the rapper for commercial usage.
“It’s not just disrespectful to have crossed a line. But when you stay crossed. A fan brought to my attention you look at the guys twitter TONIGHT @rickyrozay the issue they have is front and center with their image being used,” Freeway Rick Ross told AllHipHop.com. “It’s just like my name RICK ROSS and the blatant disrespect and profiteering despite a clear request to stop. It’s disrespectful!”
The concerts in North Carolina were also supposed to feature Maybach Music Group artists Meek Mill, Wale and others.
Live Nation Entertainment, which promoted the concerts, said refunds would be available beginning tomorrow (December 7).
The Bone Thugs-N-Harmony emcee gets three years probation for getting busted driving drunk this summer.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony leader Krayzie Bone was sentenced in court today (December 6), according to TMZ. The Cleveland, Ohio native's July arrest in Los Angeles, California for driving under the influence of (D.U.I.), when he had a blood alcohol level of .10. Additionally, the former Ruthless Records star will have to serve three years of probation.
In October of this year, Krayzie and Bizzy Bone released Krayzie Bone's Neighborhood Super Starz on the emcee's Thug Line Entertainment.
Ludacris is taking a Texas twosome to court over allegedly stealing his label's name.
Even though it's hardly a household name like G.O.O.D. Music or the Roc, Ludacris' label Disturbing Tha Peace has racked up a number of successes in its twelve year run. Now, it looks like Luda is taking a Texas couple to court over the name of his imprint.
According to a recent report from TMZ, Ludacris has filed suit against Demetri and Donna Evans-Brown copy illegal use of his copyrighted name. The Texas-based couple has been using the phrase "Disturb Tha Peace" in marketing their audio equipment and recording business.
Luda claims that he's owned the copyright to the aforementioned phrase since 2003 and that the couple's use of the name will mislead consumers over his affiliation with the products. Luda is suing the duo for damages and lawyer's fees
It’s GRAMMY season and the nominees have just been announced. Leading the pack are the likes of Jay-Z, Kanye West, fun., Frank Ocean and Dan Auerbach. In the mix, we see 2 Chainz got the nod for Best Rap Album, and tough competition for Best Rap Performance. Check some of the nominations below and after the jump.
Music’s Biggest Night, the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards, coming live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, air on CBS on February 10 at 8 p.m. EST.
Record Of The Year:
“Lonely Boy” — The Black Keys
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” — Kelly Clarkson
“We Are Young” — Fun. featuring Janelle Monáe
“Somebody That I Used To Know” — Gotye featuring Kimbra
“Thinkin Bout You” — Frank Ocean
“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” — Taylor Swift
Album Of The Year:
El Camino — The Black Keys
Some Nights — Fun.
Babel — Mumford & Sons
Channel Orange — Frank Ocean
Blunderbuss — Jack White
Best Rap Album:
Take Care – Drake
Food & Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album, Pt. 1 – Lupe Fiasco
Life Is Good – Nas
Undun – The Roots
God Forgives, I Don’t – Rick Ross
Based On A T.R.U. Story – 2 Chainz
Song Of The Year:
“The A Team” — Ed Sheeran, songwriter (Ed Sheeran)
“Adorn” — Miguel Pimentel, songwriter (Miguel)
“Call Me Maybe” — Tavish Crowe, Carly Rae Jepsen & Josh Ramsay, songwriters (Carly Rae Jepsen)
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” — Jörgen Elofsson, David Gamson, Greg Kurstin & Ali Tamposi, songwriters (Kelly Clarkson)
“We Are Young” — Jack Antonoff, Jeff Bhasker, Andrew Dost & Nate Ruess, songwriters (Fun. featuring Janelle Monáe)
Best New Artist:
Alabama Shakes
Fun.
Hunter Hayes
The Lumineers
Frank Ocean
Best R&B Album:
Robert Glasper Experiment -Black Radio
Back To Love – Anthony Hamilton
Write Me Back – R. Kelly
Beautiful Surprise -Tamia
Open Invitation – Tyrese
Best Rap Performance:
“HYFR (Hell Ya F***ing Right)” -Drake Featuring Lil’ Wayne
“N****s In Paris” – Jay-Z & Kanye West
“Daughters” – Nas
“Mercy” – Kanye West Featuring Big Sean, Pusha T & 2 Chainz
“I Do” – Young Jeezy Featuring Jay-Z & André 3000
Alicia Keys takes a #1 spot on her new label, and some interesting numbers. Ghostface Killah & Sheek Louch wave the Wu-Block flag into the Top 100, as Krizz Kaliko lights up the charts for a second time.
In addition to a new #1 on the R&B/Pop side of things, two veteran releases hit the Top 200, as well as another re-packaging of an earlier 2012 album, for the second straight week.
Alicia Keys' fifth album, Girl On Fire, sold over 150,000 units in its first week. This is Keys' first release since J Records, where she was the flagship artist, merged into RCA. In addition to a Nicki Minaj featured appearance, Keys collaborated with husband Swizz Beatz and Dr. Dre on this effort.
The long-discussed Wu-Tang Clan & D-Block collaboration, by way of Ghostface Killah and Sheek Louch sold nearly 9,000 first-week copies. The eOne release featured the three active members of D-Block/The LOX, as well as seven original Wu members. Krizz Kaliko's second release of 2012 and first EP slipped into the Top 200. Neh'Mind is the latest in a series of digital EPs from Strange Music's roster.
Finally, following Nicki Minaj's recent re-packaging of Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (as The Re-Up), Epic Records' Future re-released Pluto (as Pluto 3D). This pulled the album containing "Same Damn Time" from the bottom of the charts last week at #191 to #63, and increasing weekly sales by over 6,000 units.
Alicia Keys Still Is A Girl Who Can Set The Charts On Fire
Alicia Keys' Girl On Fire took the #1 amidst a crowd of musical ladies including Taylor Swift, Rihanna and P!nk. The New Yorker's latest album features the self-titled hit single as well as the recently-released "Brand New Me." Now with RCA Records, this is Alicia's lowest-selling first week of her career. 2009's The Element Of Freedom sold over 275,000 more copies in its first days at retail. A platinum mainstay, the new label regime behind the the talented vocalist/piano player will be challenged to follow suit in the coming months.
Wu-Block Comes Out
The long-discussed merging behind two New York high-profile Hip Hop groups came to fruition this fall. The Wu-Block project was took official shape when led by Ghostface Killah and Sheek Louch, who have toured together multiple times. The Staten Island and Yonkers delegates brought in members of their crews on various songs from the project. Notably absent from the Wu was RZA, both as a vocalist and producer, as well as U-God, while Erykah Badu appeared on the Termanology-produced "Drivin' Around." Other producers of note included Erick Sermon and Red Spyda.
Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 12/2/2012
#1. Alicia Keys - Girl On Fire - 159,000 (160,000)
* data comes from Nielsen Soundscan, rounded to nearest thousandth for units above 10,000, nearest hundredth for units below 10,000. Each week, HipHopDX presents top albums in Hip Hop/related, and five notables.
Jay-Z, Eminem, Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur cover the latest issue.
Rolling Stone magazine has named Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five's "The Message" as the greatest Hip Hop song of all time.
According to Reuters, the 1982 hit crowns the list of the 50 most influential Hip Hop songs of all time. The magazine refers to the song as the first track "to tell, with Hip Hop's rhythmic and vocal force, the truth about modern inner-city life in America."
The full list, compiled by 33 members of a panel that included ?uestlove, editors and experts, will be released online at RollingStone.com and will be included in the magazine on December 7th. That issue will feature four different covers: Eminem, Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur, the picture of which can be viewed below (via Instagram).
When I heard Katt Williams got arrested AGAIN, I thought it was something old. The brother had just slapped up a Target worker and rolled out on a Rascal scooter! What else can happen? It happened.
Katt reportedly got into a fight in a Seattle Bar and was doing everything from throwing cigarettes in peoples eye to tossing rocks at cars! But, what caught my eye ewas the fact that they said that Suge Knight bailed him out of jail AND is Katt’s tour manager!
What the?
Why does this now sound eerily familiar. Now, this is the first I have heard of this situation, Suge as Katt’s tour manager.
But it appears this is true. Unbeknownst to me, Suge has been with Katt for sometime. He’s even pulled him off the stage when the comic was clearly on stage high as a MFer. Peep the video below and you can see Suge getting Katt under control. Apparently, they told him that he can’t get so high in Oakland.
Wiz Khalifa talks about his plans for a second child after learning he'll have a boy and also takes time to explain where the name Wiz Khalifa came from.
With a baby boy on the way, Wiz Khalifa has some major plans. While he's excited for his new son, he also spoke with Funkmaster Flex about the idea of having a second child. He also took some time to discuss the origin of his Rap name.
"It's a boy," he shared during the interview.
The topic then transitioned into the idea of having a second child, which he seemed on board with.
"Yeah, he's gotta have a buddy, right? Can't be trying to take up all my time [laughing]."
Khalifa also shared information about the origin of his Rap name, saying he got it from his grandfather.
"My grandad is Muslim. So the Khalifa means successor, leader, shining light. At a young age, he kinda seen that in me. He gave me that name," Wiz explained. "The Wiz part comes from being wise beyond my years."
Khalifa's latest project, O.N.I.F.C., is out today, December 4.
Trina was sued over pulling out of an event called "America's Next Top Rapper."
Trina has been sued for $50 million in damages over allegedly pulling out of an agreement to appear as a judge during an event called "America's Next Top Rapper."
According to Courthouse News Service, Omnipresent Media and Lawrence "Amar" Wright filed suit against the Miami rapstress, her managing agent Rarebreed Entertainment, its principal Josh Burke, the State of Florida and J Ego Entertainment and Nunoise Travel.
The suit claims that Trina agreed to judge the online streaming video platform and competition where aspiring rappers compete to win $20,000, a Universal distribution deal and a "hit production team," among other rewards.
Omnipresent, which throws the competition, said that Trina agreed to judge and then backed out of the show, which was to be held on December 30, 2011. The problem began when Trina and management allegedly failed to send promotional videos for organizers to promote the event. Omnipresent says that its promotions "generated significant traffic on the blogs of major entertainment networks, including BET and MTV."
Trina and management then asked for more money and that the taping would not be publicly broadcasted. Her travel agent then said that she would not appear to judge unless the company paid her travel expenses. Omnipresent says it agreed, but she still didn't provide the promo videos. Because of her absence, Omnipresent says that some attendees became "unruly" and "heckled competition participants."
Chris Brown gets back on the social media network after deleting his account.
Chris Brown deleted his Twitter account yesterday after getting into a verbal spat with comedienne Jenny Johnson.
Johnson was first to lash out at Breezy by retweeting his comment "I look old as fuck! I'm only 23..." and adding, "I know! Being a worthless piece of shit can really agge a person."
He snapped back by telling her to "take them teeth out when u Sucking my dick HOE," continuing with a few more tweets along the same lines. The R&B star then went off on his own rant, ending his series of messages with, "To teambreezy… Know that I’m not upset. Just felt like entertaining the ignorance. These bitches crazy..Further proved my point of how immature society is. #CarpeDiem…Catch me in traffic."
Check out some of the tweets below.
[November 26]
UPDATE: Chris Brown has returned to Twitter after deleting his account following an altercation with a comedienne, deleting his entire timeline and starting over. Check his tweets below.
Chris Brown is on the cover of the latest issue ofXXL Magazine.He and Big Sean actually both share their own covers. Breezy appears on his cover with his hand covering half of his face, rocking blinged out bottom grills, a pinky ring, and a nose ring – under the headline “No Apologies.” How fitting.
Chris Brown opts to pen his own cover story, and give you his truth straight from his mouth. He touched on a lot of issues, like Rihanna and his temper, but let’s get to the Meek Mill/Drake comment first. Breezy attempted to clarify what happened, but because of “legal issues,” he could only say that they are from different musical genres. Yes, that’s basically what he said.
Check out his comments below:
“A lot of people wanna know about the whole situation with me, Drake and Meek Mill. At the end of the day, I’m me, they’re them. They rap, I sing. Totally different caliber. I rap, I play around on mixtapes. But our words don’t collide as much as you’d think.”
Okay, that’s for clearing that situation up, Breezy..NOT! He kept it completely politically correct on that and didn’t really shed any light on it at all. Breezy was more forthcoming when speaking about his lover, Rihanna:
“One thing people often want me to talk about is my public love life. When it comes to my love life, the perception seems as though I am a player. But that’s not true. Love is something I am still learning. It’s just an obstacle that I haven’t yet mastered. I think that’s my biggest hurdle in life. I use music or painting as my outlet to get through the confusion. I try to promote positivity and love.”
Last weekend, Chris Brown went nuts on a female comedian and told her he wanted to “sh*t in her mouth.” Yuck!
While it seems like his anger issues are still very present, in the article, CB says that his temper has gotten better:
“In the beginning, I used to be hot. I’m normal. I’m human, so if anybody says something that’s a lie, I’m numb to it. I’ve smartened up.”
“I haven’t been as mature and thought out in the past, so, me growing now, it’s showing my progression. I used to use my Twitter account to vent, but now I mostly use it for marketing and promotions. Even if the media asks me something, if it’s cool then it’s, ‘What’s up?’ But if it’s anything that’s too negative, I don’t care to respond.”
Well, so much for that “truth”. But like he said, he is human and is going to make mistakes..and he sure is making them.
Sidenote – Did anyone see that instagram pic that Rihanna posted of her and Chris Brown last night? Ri Ri is definitely open off of whatever Breezy is giving her. Check out the pic below:
Wow, talk about PDA (public display’s of affection). Rihanna is staking claim in her man. Oh, I almost forgot, Media TakeOut is reporting that Karrueche, Breezy’s ex, is pregnant with his baby. Not sure I believe this one, but what a hell of a twist would that be in the Rihanna/Chris Brown love story.
50 Cent and French Montana take to the social networking site for the latest round in their war of words.
After 50 Cent made comments this morning that French Montana sold out DJ Khaled by giving him footage of his mother and homes, the two are back to exchanging words on Twitter.
Fif was first to tweet about the incident, stating that he's going to release a tape of him and French's manager Gaby Acevado discussing how French sold out Khaled. "Tell @Frenchmontana to just say ok I'm a snake I went and made tape Cause if he lie. I'm gonna put out the tape of me and Gobby talking about it.fool SMSAUDIO," he wrote.
French responded by stating that they should drop their new albums on the same day to see who sells more, and then poked fun at 50 for waiting in the desert for Chief Keef's video shoot.
After a snippet of a track leaked, Pusha T confirms that he in fact aimed his bars at Lil Wayne and Birdman.
Earlier this week, a snippet of a new Ludacris song that features Pusha T and Swizz Beatz released to the web, with the G.O.O.D. Music rapper reportedly firing shots at Lil Wayne and Birdman.
On the cut, he raps, "With your baby mama fucking every rapper in the business / Niggas saying you was better when the drugs was in your system / Now your crack swag gone ever since you came from prison / Got you tweeting all stupid, is you skatin’, is you dissin."
During an interview with VIBE.com, he confirms that he was in fact going at the Cash Money rappers, “It’s new and was for Luda’s album,” he said, explaining why he went at them on the track. “Oh, because it’s a Swizz beat. You got to blame Swizz. See, when Wayne got a Swizz beat… with the 'Goulish' track; he got busy, well, he tried to.”
As for why he didn't mention them by name, he explained, "I play by old school rules. I play by the fundamentals and foundation of what hip-hop was based on."
After some recent comments from Hot 97's program director, Nicki Minaj demands the station stop playing her music.
Despite patching things up after this year's Summer Jam fiasco, it looks like Nicki Minaj is at odds with Hot 97 once again. Now, in a recent interview with Cipha Sounds and Rosenberg, Hot 97's program director Ebro says Nicki told him she doesn't want the station playing anymore of her music.
Ebro explained that the most recent tiff with Minaj began after he said that Rosenberg's comments ruined her career when her rap-heavy Pink Friday Roman Reloaded: The Re-Up only moved 36,000 units upon its release. According to Ebro, the YMCMB starlet called him from overseas, insulted him and demanded he never play her music on air again.
"I said, 'Rosenberg ruined Nicki Minaj's career' - evidence suggests based on this Re-Up release, the things [Rosenberg] said about her being pop and selling out and making that pop music came back to haunt her," he said. "Now, she puts six rap records on this album and it didn't sell…I get the phone call, the international number pops up, I answer the call, it's my friend Nicki Minaj, who then starts to proclaim how I'm fake. She used every woman's stab she could - 'I thought you were a man, you're a cornball, I thought we were friends, you're fake, everyone told me you were fake'…I said, 'Nicki, I'm helping you. I'm keeping you in the Hip Hop conversation. This Hip Hop thing's a competition; you're either ringing, or you're not, and just like I said yesterday, i love you, boo and I'll dust you off and make sure this thing is popping off again.' And she goes, 'Don't ever play my music again'…of course we are [still playing Nicki Minaj], I love Nicki Minaj."
