Blu To Release Production Album, "Open" On September 27, Sene Featured

Johnson Barnes is having one busy year, with his fourth 2011 release, with a fifth on the way.

Los Angeles, California emcee/producer Blu has had a busy 2011. The Sire Records artist released three independent works, Amnesia, Her Favorite Colo(u)r, and J e s u s (coming later this month). All three of those works, previously offered for free download, have been mixed, mastered and formally released by Brooklyn, New York's Nature Sounds imprint. Nature Sounds has now announced that Blu has a fourth work planned, Open.
Open is Blu's first production concept album, featuring 14 tracks, which are accompanied by various emcees, including Fresh Daily and longtime collaborator Sene. In 2009, Blu produced Sene's ADayLateAndADollarShort album, which was released under both artists' names.
Blu is presently working on his major label debut, No York, planned for later this year.

Gym Class Heroes Announce Fall Tour, Outasight To Open

Travie McCoy and crew bring New York City underground veteran Outasight out with them this October.

Geneva, Hip Hop Rock/Pop/Hip Hop band The Gym Class Heroes have announced the tour dates to their fall Tour today. The group, who last released The Quilt in 2008 has also announced that Asylum/Warner Brothers Records emcee Outasight will be joining them on tour.
The dates are as follows:

10.09 Dallas, TX @ Prophet Bar (w/The Dirty Heads only)

10.10 Houston, TX @ Scout Bar (w/The Dirty Heads only)

10.12 St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live!
10.13 Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution
10.14 Orlando, FL @ House Of Blues
10.16 Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade Music Park
10.18 Charlotte, NC @ Fillmore
10.19 Baltimore, MD @ Ram's Head
10.20 Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
10.21 Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
10.24 Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
10.25 Albany, NY @ Northern Lights

10.26 Long Island, NY @ Paramount Theater (w/The Dirty Heads only)

10.28 Toronto, ON @ Kool Haus
10.30 Pontiac, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theater

 

Scotty McCreery Shocked by Long Island Beach

‘American Idol’ winner and North Carolina boy Scotty McCreery was the victim of a rude awakening while visitng the New York City tri-state area today.
The ‘I Love You This Big’ singer visited Long Beach in Long Island, N.Y. and was completely and utterly shocked at having to pay to use one of nature’s facilities! He demonstrated his country boy way of thinking with his tweets about the matter, especially when he showed his local pride and stated his preference for the Outer Banks beaches in his home state.
He tweeted: “chillin at Long Beach, Long Island and you have to pay to go on the beach? I ain’t never heard of such.. #criminal”
In addition to being miffed about shelling over cash for a beach tag, he lamented: “and the beach ain’t even nice. tractors going over the sand, planes flying over head makin noise, no waves. OuterBanks, NC > Long Beach … just think if they made Christopher Columbus pay to pull up at the beach.. what if he didn’t have his wallet on him like me?”
McCreery, who also rang the closing bell on the NASDAQ floor while in the area, has made his thoughts and feelings about pay-to-use beaches clear, and can’t say we blame him! Beaches, like hugs, should be free to all who want to enjoy them.

Dolly Parton Saves Gay Couple’s Relationship

A middle-aged gay couple and their obsession with country legend Dolly Parton was the subject of a recent episode of TLC’s ‘My Collection Obsession.’ The men, Harrell and Patrick, have filled just about every last inch of their 2,500 square foot house with over a million Dolly artifacts.
They even thought about breaking up once, but as the singer explains in the clip below, they couldn’t decide how to split up their collectibles — so they worked it out.
“Isn’t it amazing that someone could love you that much,” Parton says. “I don’t get that kind of thinking, but I’m impressed. I couldn’t be that devoted.” In the video clip, the singer surprises the men by knocking on their door one afternoon. After they work past their emotions, they begin giving Parton a tour of their home. Patrick explains that he was a fan first, and “Dollyfied” Harrell after they began dating. The kitchen, master bedroom, bathroom and even the bathtub are filled with Parton treasures, including pictures, albums, outfits and personal letters. “But the mother load’s in the basement,” Patrick says as he leads Parton downstairs.
“The woman is very rarely speechless, but she was speechless,” Harrell says. One of the most unique treasures is a picture of Parton with her rarely photographed husband Carl Dean. The then-young couple are leaning against a car, looking ready for a road trip. Cardboard cutouts, coffee mugs and a pinball machine are just a few of the hundreds of other types of collectibles.
Parton is currently on tour in Europe with shows scheduled in Denmark and Sweden through the weekend.

Watch the Video of Dolly Parton on ‘My Collection Obsession’

New George Strait Greatest Hits Album to Be Released

September is going to be quite a month for George Strait. In addition to his new album, ‘Here For a Good Time,’ the singer will release ‘George Strait – Icon,’ a greatest hits album featuring 11 of his signature songs. The project — available on September 13 — will include nine No. 1 hits and two of his other best known tracks.

The ‘Icon’ series is a specially priced series of albums featuring the best known songs from some of the most influential artists in music history.
Strait’s album is available for pre-order at Amazon for under $9. The Country Music Hall of Famer has 57 No. 1 songs and has sold nearly 69 million records during his 30-year career.
‘Here for a Good Time,’ available on September 6, will be Strait’s 26th original studio album. The title track is nearing the Top 10 on country music charts. Seven of the songs were written by Strait, his son Bubba Strait and frequent collaborator Dean Dillon. Faith Hill is confirmed to make a guest appearance on a song called ‘The Showman’s Life.’ The ‘Icon’ project will be Strait’s ninth collection of greatest hits.
‘George Strait – Icon’ Track Listing
1. ‘Amarillo By Morning’
2. ‘Ocean Front Property’
3. ‘All My Ex’s Live in Texas’
4. ‘Love Without End, Amen’
5. ‘I Cross My Heart’
6. ‘Check Yes or No’
7. ‘I Just Want to Dance With You’
8. ‘Living and Living Well’
9. ‘Give It Away’
10. ‘I Saw God Today’
11. ‘River of Love’

Whitney Duncan Keeps the Faith With ‘Bring Holly Home’ Bracelets on ‘Survivor’ Preview

Nashville country singer Whitney Duncan may be set to star on ‘Survivor: South Pacific‘ this fall, but that doesn’t mean she has forgotten about her cousin Holly Bobo, who is still missing since being kidnapped from her home in April. In a new promo for the show, Duncan sports pink bracelets that read “Hope for Holly” and “Bring Holly Home” in honor of her cousin.

Duncan wrote a blog post on August 22 to make the official announcement that she’s headed for ‘Survivor,’ and in her update, she made sure to call attention to the pink bracelets. “Only for her will I wear pink! (I hate pink),” she says of Bobo. “No new news on Holly right now. Please just keep praying for my family to be strong & that we will have her back with us again soon. It’s been over 4 months now, but we have to keep the faith.”

Bobo was last seen by her brother on the morning of April 13. Unfortunately, though she was dragged into the woods by a man on foot, very little information has been found regarding her disappearance.
Duncan will keep Holly Bobo in her thoughts when she takes on the 23rd season of ‘Survivor,’ and the former ‘Nashville Star’ contestant assures that she’s ready to jump in head first. “I’m stoked, I mean, I’ve never done anything like this. This is completely out of my comfort zone,” Duncan says in the show promo. She assures, “People may think I’m Barbie, but I’m actually closer to kick a— Barbie.”
Additionally, Duncan will release a new EP this fall, and her song ‘So Sorry Mama’ is lined up for the ‘Footloose’ remake movie soundtrack. Of that accomplishment, she says, “Never been on a soundtrack before, so that’s pretty cool!”
‘Survivor: South Pacific’ starts on September 14 on CBS.

Meet the Cast of ‘Survivor: South Pacific’

Amy Winehouse Had No Drugs in Her System at Time of Death

The cause of Amy Winehouse’s death is still uncertain. Toxicology tests have determined that “no illegal substances” were in the “Rehab” singer’s system at the time of her death last month.

“Toxicology results returned to the Winehouse family by authorities have confirmed that there were no illegal substances in Amy’s system at the time of her death,” stated her family. “Results indicate that alcohol was present but it cannot be determined as yet if it played a role in her death.”
The statement continued, “The family would like to thank the police and coroner for their continuing thorough investigations and for keeping them informed throughout the process. They await the outcome of the inquest in October.”
Amy Winehouse was found dead at her apartment in London at the age of 27.

Q-Tip and DJ Spinna Announce Michael Jackson Birthday Tribute Show

Tip and Spinna are joining forces once again to celebrate the King of Pop.

Q-Tip has announced an upcoming Michael Jackson Birthday Tribute Show with special guest DJ Spinna. The event, taking place at New York City, New York’s Irving Plaza, will take place on Saturday, August 27^th at 9 p.m.
"Michael Jackson was a huge influence on my music and was an inspiration to me and so many others. I want to bring people together to celebrate the man, his music and his legacy that will undoubtedly live on forever!" said Q-Tip in a statement.
The event is set to take place two days before what would have been MJ’s 53^rd birthday. Q-Tip’s first Jackson birthday took place in 2009 and featured guest appearances from Mark Ronson, Spinna and a call from Quincy Jones.

DJ Drama Says T.I. Plans On Releasing A Book

Mr. Thanksgiving explains that he emailed with Tip and that they plan on getting back into work mode once he's freed from prison.

With nearly a month before T.I. is released from prison, DJ Drama explained that he’s been emailing with him and that he has a few new projects in the works. During an interview with Montreality, Mr. Thanksgiving revealed that upon completing his bid, Tip will release a new book.


“Tip’s good, we talked via email about two weeks ago. I told him I had a record for him. He should be home in a couple of weeks, he’s ready to get back to work,” he said. “I know he has a book in the works, and definitely the music, expect some good records.”
T.I. recently wrote an open letter to fans that he posted on his mixtape, promising that he’ll return to music with a hunger like he was just starting out.
“When I touch down, I’m going all the way back to square one, like I’m fresh in the game and never sold a record. Back on some I’M SERIOUS, TRAP MUZIC shit… But until then RESPECT to all who deserve it.”

Wale Reunites With Kid CuDi On "Focused," Explains Reconciliation

The Maybach Music Group and G.O.O.D. Music members hop on the same track on the former's upcoming album, "Ambition."

After squashing their beef in February 2011, Wale and Kid CuDi have collaborated on the track “Focused,” set to be included on the former’s upcoming sophomore album Ambition, dropping November 1^st.
During a listening session in New York City, New York, the Maybach Music Group member told MTV News that their beef grew from circumstance. "We're 23 years old at this time, we're trying to figure it all out," he said. "We went from not having sh-- to having money at our disposal, so it kind of f---ed up our friendship. He doesn't smoke as much anymore, but his name is Scott."
Wale recalled an incident at Governor’s Island three years ago that he refers to as a “weird exchange,” followed by a similar experience at Drake’s birthday party. He next heard from CuDi via his 2010 interview with Complex Magazine that sparked the beef, with the G.O.O.D. Music rapper stating, “We don’t fuck with you, musically.”
The two mended fences over Twitter earlier this year, which prompted them to get on the phone to apologize. “I was like, 'Sup, man, how you been?' He said, 'I been good, man. I just wanted to get right to it: I know I've been acting kind of f---ed up and weird,' and this that and a third and all that other personal sh--. He threw that out there, and we just made amends. The next morning, he called me like, 'I just wanted to let you know I wasn't high or anything when I called you. I really meant it.'"

Nas Reflects On "Illmatic" Producers, A "Belly" Sequel

Nasir checks in from rehearsal for Rock the Bells 2011 to reflect on his classic debut.

Nas is currently on the road as part of the Rock the Bells 2011 tour, where he’s performing his 1994 debut Illmatic with DJ Premier and AZ. While in rehearsals for the first show, Nasir phoned Live From HeadQCourterz’s Panchi about how using the hottest producers at the time changed Hip Hop.


“Big crazy honor just to have all of those dudes,” he said. “My man was telling me this, that my album was the first album to come out with multiple producers that was killing the game. Before that, Erick Sermon did EPMD, Bomb Squad did P.E., Premier did Gang Starr, Pete Rock did CL… It was just one house, one team, one man controlling all the sound. He said, yo man, you changed the game when you did this.”
He also implied that a sequel to the film Belly depends on DMX, shouting him out when asked about the potential for another flick.
“I gotta say shout out to my man DMX. I heard he’s home, I heard the barking, I heard him out there. He’s home. Big up to my man X,” he said.
Listen to the full interview below.

Evidence Recounts His Formal Introduction To Hip Hop Via QD III

Graf writer-turned emcee/producer, Evidence recalls how QD III put him on a path to becoming an emcee and looks forward to his "Cats & Dogs" album and a new Dilated People's project.

For some casual Hip Hop fans, the name QD III is most commonly associated with the Beef documentary series and as a name commonly found in the closing credits of “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” But, over the years, his work with artists such as 2Pac, Ice Cube and Tech N9ne has gained QD III increased notoriety—whether he wanted it or not. In a profile for Flud Watches’ Beats Per Minute series, Evidence found his initial interactions with QD III to be similar.
“At that point, I didn’t even really know how Rap music got made,” Evidence explained. “One day, I mustered up the guts to go up to him and go, ‘Yo, my name is Mike.’ I couldn’t understand how he didn’t want to be in the forefront, but he was like, ‘Nah, my place is here…behind the scenes.’  And I respected the shit out of that, because I was a graffiti artist.”

Ev said QD III’s place became a hub for a group of like-minded Angelinos that would eventually become artists as well, including Alchemist, will.i.am, Ahmad, and even Redfoo of LMFAO. And those early influences find their way onto projects such as his upcoming solo effor Cats & Dogs, which will be released on Rhymesayers Entertainment September 27.

And for those wondering, Evidence also has plans to assist in another Dilated People’s project.

“We haven’t put out a record since 2006,” Ev said. “I enjoy anybody who’s down to trust me when I work. That’s the best shit to me.”

Finally, as an additional note, if you’re interested in winning a free version of the Beats Per Minute watch Evidence wore in the above video.

Young Jeezy Reveals Producers For "TM103," Speaks On "The Real Is Back 2"

Jizzle explains that his new mixtape will drop sooner rather than later.

With his new album Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambiton hitting stores September 20th, Young Jeezy chopped it up with Brooklyn Martino, speaking on the anticipated release. During the chat, he revealed some of the producers on the project, explaining that he pushed them to deliver their best material.


"Lil Lody, Shawty Redd, D. Rich, Midnight Black, Drumma Boy, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, the usual suspects," he said. "But we went in this time. I put pressure on everybody. If it’s not your best shit, then don’t bring it to me."
He also touched on his upcoming mixtape The Real is Back 2, with which he explains he's almost finished. "I’m on the road with it right now. I’m a song out. But I might just wake up tomorrow and put it out. I could," he continued. "They gon’ get it. I definitely think they deserve it. I came in the game on the mixtape hustle grind, and I’m a hustler. So I refuse to sit on my hands and wait until the album come out. I’m gonna be proactive, that’s what we do."
Watch the rest of the interview below.

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith Split?

Supermarket tabloid In Touch is questionably reporting that actor/rapper Will Smith and actress/singer Jada Pinkett Smith have split after 13 years of marital bliss.
The likeable couple have two very successful, showbiz kids: Jaden, 13, and Willow, 10. The source of the story is someone who claims to have inside knowledge of the matter, which makes the story one of great speculation.
While there has been no official statement on the matter, the sleuths at TMZ did speak with Pinkett-Smith’s publicist Karynne Tencer, who said, “What? In Touch said that? I know nothing about this … Lord. I’m going back to bed.” Apparently, this gossip report is not enough to get Pinkett-Smith’s handler out of bed and into damage control mode! That reaction also makes us wonder if the story is completely false.
Both Smith, who is said to be working on a new album, and Pinkett-Smith have expressed their disdain for divorce. Smith told MTV in 2006 that when the couple got married on Dec. 31, 1997, “I stood up in front of God and said, ‘Til death do us part.’ So there are two possible outcomes. One, we are going to be together till death, or two, I am dead.”
His wife echoed those sentiments in Ebony in 2009, saying, “When Will asked me to get married, I said, ‘Understand this, there will be no divorce.’ So, you might be in one bedroom and I might be in another, but we’re gonna be under the same roof and we’re gonna be married.’”
Stay tuned for more information on this possible split.

Game, ‘The R.E.D. Album’ – Album Review

Rapper Game‘s new LP ‘The R.E.D. Album’ was long in the making. Originally due to hit stores in 2010, the album was plagued with delays and numerous album leaks. Now after several mixtape drops and a bubbling new single, ‘Pot of Gold’ (Featuring Chris Brown), the Compton, Calif. rapper is in beast mode with his new album.

The 17-track collection (sans the Dr. Dre narration) is a good listen with only a few skippable tracks. The Game is still lyrically sharp and he name-drops constantly throughout the album. Some of the standout joints on the LP are his hardcore records including ‘Ricky,’ ‘The Good, The Bad, The Ugly’ and ‘Born in the Trap.’ While Game needs to have radio-friendly singles to sell the album — like ‘Pot of Gold’ — they slowed the LP down to a near halt.
Overall, Game’s ‘The R.E.D. Album’ shows that he still has enough lyrical “game” (excuse the pun) to compete with the young rap lions coming out of California right now including Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle and Jay Rock to just name a few.
You can listen to Game’s ‘R.E.D. Album in its entirety here (Thanks to Jus Hustle).
1. Dr. Dre Intro
Dr. Dre talks about Game’s upbringing in Compton, Calif.
2. ‘The City’ Feat. Kendrick Lamar
Game recounts his rise from the streets of Compton to now becoming one of the top rappers in the game. The Cool & Dre-produced track also features fellow Comptonite Kendrick Lamar on the chorus.
3. ‘Drug Test’ Feat. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and Sly
A bumping club jam produced by DJ Khalil featuring Dr. Dre spitting some bars. Sadly, Snoop Dogg doesn’t get to shine on the track but still comes through with stellar rap quip. [Listen Here]
4. ‘Martians Vs. Goblins’ Feat. Tyler, The Creator & Lil Wayne
Game does his best to mimic the macabre lyrics delivered by featured guest Oddfuture madman Tyler, the Creator. It really doesn’t work for him. Of course, Tyler is weird as ever as he raps homoerotic lines about Bruno Mars, Mel Gibson and Tyler Perry all in the same breath. Sadly, Tunechi is relegated to chorus duties and doesn’t rap on the song. A big mistake on Game’s part.
5. ‘Red Nation’ Feat. Lil Wayne
The kick-off single from ‘The R.E.D. Album’ in which Mr. Chuck Taylor and Tunechi wave their red flags in the air. [Listen Here]
6. Dr. Dre (Narration)
Dr. Dre talks again.
7. ‘Good Girls Go Bad’ Feat. Drake
A standout track on the album with Game and Drake spitting rhymes about all the groupies they have met after rap shows. “I don’t hit on girls / I just hit on girls / Like, ‘Hey little momma’ / Come in Game and Drizzy’s world / Get busy, girl,” Game spits.
8. ‘Ricky’
Another hard-hitting track on the album as Game raps about the perils of street life over orchestral strings and a thunderous beat. The song is inspired by Morris Chestnut’s character in John Singleton’s classic ’90s coming-of-age film ‘Boyz ‘N’ the Hood.’
9. ‘The Good, The Bad, The Ugly’
One of the most interesting joints on the collection as Chuck Taylor resurrects Notorious B.I.G. and does a great job of mimicking the late rapper’s mush-mouth vocals and storytelling style. On the song, the rapper is being interrogated by police as he recounts his daily routine of dodging bullets, committing crimes and avoiding the police. It’s a phenomenal track, in our opinion, and for a few moments we actually felt Biggie’s presence on the record.
10. ‘Heavy Artillery’ Feat. Rick Ross and Beanie Sigel
Game enlists two of the biggest men in hip-hop — Rick Ross and Beanie Sigel. All three spit bullet-riddled rhymes over the somber, orchestral-sounding track.
11. ‘Paramedics’ Feat. Young Jeezy
A guitar-charging song with the Compton bomber and the Snowman rapping street rhymes about crime and death. Unfortunately, their lyrics are mundane, so we pushed the fast-forward button.
12. ‘Speakers On Blast’ Feat. E-40 and Big Boi
Bay Area rap legend E-40 and Atlanta rhyme-spitter Big Boi joins Game on this bouncy tune with blaring trumpets and repetitive chants.
13. ‘Hello’ Feat. Lloyd
The requisite rap ballad with Game in loverboy mode. The rappers promises his lover all of the finer things in life — money, traveling, cars and clothes. Apparently, he’s the Prince Charming of Compton.
14. ‘All The Way Gone’ Feat. Mario and Wale
Another rap ballad? ‘All the Way Gone’ sounds better than the previous song ‘Hello.’ Over a melodic piano groove and 808 drum kicks, Game and Wale boast about their bedroom prowess and how many girls they can catch. If you’re too thug to love, you can skip this track.
15. ‘Pot of Gold’ Feat. Chris Brown
Game and Brown follow the rainbow in search of radio gold and didn’t find it with this single. It’s not a bad song but it didn’t connect with pop audiences. [Listen Here]
16. ‘Dr. Dre 2′
Dr. Dre, again.
17. ‘All I Know’ Feat. Lu Breeze
Game raps over some live production, which is quite refreshing. Unfortunately, he doesn’t say much on the song. Skip it.
18. ‘Born in the Trap’
Game recovers nicely with this fantastic DJ Premier-produced track. There’s plenty of great one-liners on here, including this one: “S— deeper than The Roots band / 15′s drumming, Questlove in the coupe fam / Riding through Pittsburgh, Wiz got the Steelers / Born by the jungle so I came with gorillas.” This song will definitely get instant rewinds.
19. ‘Mama Knows’ Feat. Nelly Furtado
Hitmaker Pharrell Williams produced ‘Mama Knows,’ which is dedicated to all the ‘hood mothers raising their sons. Game gives props to his own mother for raising him through hard times and supporting his aspirations to be a rapper. Pop songbird Nelly Furtado (where has she been?) sings the chorus on the song, which is slightly reminiscent of Tupac‘s classic ode ‘Dear Mama.’
20. ‘California Dream’
The album ends with a song that will pull on your heartstrings. On the sentimental ballad ‘California Dreams,’ Game reflects on the final hours of his girlfriend giving birth to his baby daughter Cali Dream Taylor. Honestly, we got a little teary-eyed when Game let us hear the audio of the actual child birth. A nice way to end the album.
21. Dr. Dre Outro
Dr. Dre closes out the album.

Brett Easton Ellis Calls ‘Glee’ Cast ‘Talented’ Despite Past Negative Remarks

When ‘American Pyscho’ author Brett Easton Ellis made negative remarks about ‘Glee‘ back in April on his Twitter account, we never thought we would see the literary figure compliment the FOX series. However, that is just what he did — at least when it comes to show’s cast.

Although Ellis compared watching ‘Glee’ to stepping “into a puddle of HIV” a few months ago, the writer is now giving kudos to the cast for their acting skills. Over the weekend, Ellis tweeted, “Whatever my problems with Glee have nothing to do with the incredibly talented cast itself. Have tastelessly bashed the show not the actors.”
If you know anything about Ellis, you have to appreciate his unapologetic honesty about the show itself. However, we have to wonder if Ellis posted this comment in hopes of back-peddling from his original statement about the “puddle of HIV,” especially since Darren Criss may be starring in the upcoming film ‘Downers Grove,’ which Ellis wrote the screenplay for.
Although it is a reasonable question to ponder, the author is assuring his followers that Criss’ rumored involvement in the film project has nothing to do with his latest, semi-sweet ‘Glee’ comment. “And no the producers of the script I wrote (Downers Grove) which Darren Criss might (or might not) star in didn’t make me write that tweet,” Ellis wrote on Twitter.
Ellis is known for his dark humor and his twisted plot lines, penning books like ‘Rules of Attraction’ and ‘Less Than Zero,’ but when he tweeted a message that some took as homophobic about ‘Glee,’ the backlash began. Back in April, Ellis wrote, “I like the idea of “Glee” but why is it that every time I watch an episode I feel like I’ve stepped into a puddle of HIV?” Later, he followed up with the message: “No, I wasn’t drunk last night. I was watching Chris Colfer singing, um, ‘Le Jazz Hot’ and felt like I had suddenly come down with the hivs.”

Amy Winehouse Toxicology Report Showed No Signs of Drugs

The toxicology reports are in and indicate that there were no drugs in Amy Winehouse‘s system when the ‘Rehab’ singer passed away exactly one month ago. Winehouse, 27, was found dead in her bed in her London home on July 23.

Due to the singer’s public battles with drugs and alcohol, it was almost a foregone conclusion that she had overdosed. But the Associated Press reports that the tests showed that no illegal drugs were present in her system.
While no drugs were found, there was alcohol present in her system but it has yet to be determined if it factored into her death.
A statement released by spokesman Chris Goodman on the Winehouse family’s behalf read as follows: “Toxicology results returned to the Winehouse family by authorities have confirmed that there were no illegal substances in Amy’s system at the time of her death.” A full investigation into the cause of death is set to begin in October.
There were many rumors and reports about what caused or could have caused the singer’s tragic death. Some reports stated she partied hard and bought illicit substances then night before, while others indicated she may have died of alcohol withdrawal, since she was said to be in the process of beating her alcohol addiction, but that the battle was fraught with relapses.
Mitch Winehouse told mourners at the singer’s July 26 funeral that she had said to him, “Dad I’ve had enough of drinking, I can’t stand the look on your and the family’s faces anymore.”
Mr. Winehouse is currently working on establishing the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which will assist others who struggle with addiction as Amy did. Those plans are on hold while he deals with wrestling the already registered name away from its owner.

Beyonce to Perform at Michael Jackson Tribute

Beyonce can’t be in Wales on Oct. 8 for Michael Forever: The Tribute Concert, but organizers have announced that the A-list diva will beam in via satellite with her own special tribute to the late Michael Jackson.

“A unique, never-before-seen performance by Beyonce of one of her favorite Jackson 5 songs will be shown at the concert on October 8th!,” organizers wrote on the event’s Facebook wall.
It was not clear from the announcement whether Beyonce will be singing live via satellite or if fans will simply be shown a taped performance. Billboard noted that Bey performed the Jackson 5 song ‘I Wanna Be Where You Are’ last week during one of her intimate New York City gigs and speculated that might be the clip shown during the tribute.
Beyonce has called MJ “my hero” and began dedicating performances of her smash hit ‘Halo’ to the King of Pop after his death in 2009. She joins previously announced ‘Michael Forever’ tribute performers Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, Leona Lewis, Craig David and Alien Ant Farm. The event takes place at Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales on Saturday, Oct. 8.

Lauryn Hill Reflects on ‘Miseducation’ in New Interview [Video]

Lauryn Hill reminisces on her 1998 Grammy-winning solo debut The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill in a rare interview for the film series “Classic Albums by Classic Artists” presented by Reebok Classics and Rock the Bells.

“I was excited about taking this music that I thought was beautiful—old school, doo-wop music, cats used to harmonize—just taking that and making something contemporary that my generation could get excited about,” explained the former Fugees member, who is headlining the Rock the Bells Festival.
“I acted as sort of a bridge between an older generation and younger generation and how to put those styles together,” she continued. “I think Miseducation was really what that was all about, being a bridge between generations that could very well have drifted off in separate directions. I made a piece of music from a sincere place. I think that sincerity has no choice but to resonate with people.”

Chris Brown Lives It Up in Las Vegas with Swizz Beatz

Chris Brown invaded Las Vegas with Swizz Beatz for Reebok Classics’ PROJECT kick-off concert for over 500 friends and tastemakers at the Moorea Beach Club at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino last night. Joined by Funkmaster Flex and “America’s Best Dance Crew” contestants, Swizz had patrons going wild with tracks off his upcoming album Haute Living including “International Party,” “Everyday (Coolin’),” and other crowd pleasers. Chris Brown even made a surprise appearance during “Dance Like a White Girl.”
“Me and swizz rocked the hell out of the stage tonight and the REEBOK party! Performed dance like a white girl! Epic,” tweeted Breezy following the performance.

Rihanna Sets Date for ‘Cheers’ Video Premiere

Say “Cheers”! Rihanna has announced a date for the premiere of her latest music video.

The visuals for the pop star’s celebratory single “Cheers (Drink to That)” will debut on Wednesday, August 24, via iTunes. She broke the news on Twitter, informing one fan, “WEDNESDAY!!!!! Premiere on Itunes.”
The video was partially shot during her concert at Kensington Oval in Barbados earlier this month and is expected to feature footage of her homecoming and live performance clips.
“Cheers” is the sixth single off Rihanna’s fifth album LOUD. The Runners-produced song is currently No. 25 on the

Nickolas Ashford of Ashford and Simpson Dead at 69

Nickolas Ashford, one half of songwriting/production team and performance group Ashford & Simpson, died Monday afternoon. The 69 year old Ashford was battling throat cancer before succumbing to the disease.


Ashford along with with his creative partner Valerie Simpson's career started to emerge in the 1960s as the pair wrote and/or produced "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "Your Precious Love," "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing," and "You're All I Need to Get By."

By 1966 the music production duo signed to Berry Gordy's Motown records working with Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles amongst others.

In 1974, Ashford & Simpson were married as they continued to work together for their musical careers. The couple birth two daughters, who were by their father's bed side as he passed away.

Nickolas Ashford May 4, 1942 – August 22, 2011(RIP).

Beyonce Added to Michael Jackson Tribute, Fans Pressure Promoters to Cancel Event

Beyonce will pull another BET Awards stunt for the upcoming Michael Jackson tribute concert. Due to scheduling conflicts, the “Party” singer will perform one of her favorite Jackson Five songs via satellite during the event, which takes place at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, on October 8.


Writing on their Facebook page, promoters of the concert confirmed: “BEYONCE Beams Into Michael Forever Tribute!! A unique, never-before-seen performance by Beyonce of one of her favorite Jackson 5 songs will be shown at the concert on October 8th! A lifelong Michael fan, Beyonce really wanted to be involved in this tribute concert. Due to scheduling issues she can’t be there in person, but this performance is not to be missed!”

The Beyonce announcement came on heels of fans urging event organizers to cancel the tribute in an open letter.

"Please understand that this concert is doomed to fail now," said the letter from the 80,000 strong members of MJJ Community, and more than 30 other fan clubs. "Do the right thing for Michael Jackson and cancel this tribute."

The fans continue: "From the timing of this tribute, in the middle of Dr. Murray's trial, to the ticketing prices, to the obscurity over what charities will be receiving the donation, to the no-guarantee policy of performers, the addition of Gene Simmons and dishonoring, thus tarnishing Michael Jackson's legacy was simply the last straw."

Simmons and his band KISS was removed last week due to a plethora of complaints, which called their participation an insult to the King of Pop due to Gene's statement back in 2010, which degraded the late singer.

Attorneys for Jackson's estate also expressed concerns last week about the planned concert, which is supported by the singer's mother Katherine and several of her children, but not by Jackson brothers Jermaine and Randy Jackson.

Also confirmed to perform at "Michael Forever Tribute Concert" are Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson, Cee-Lo Green, Leona Lewis, Craig David and Alien Ant Farm — who had their own hit with a rock cover of MJ’s “Smooth Criminal” in 2001. Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, Kanye West and Beyonce’s husband Jay-Z have also been asked to perform at the event.

Ne-Yo, Jessie J and Company Added to 2011 MTV VMAs, Plus Lil Wayne Commercial

Ne-Yo, Jessie J, Pitbull and Joe Jonas are the latest stars to be added to the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, which already holds Adele, Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga on the bill.



Ne-Yo will join rapper Pitbull and Nayer for a performance of their smash single “Give Me Everything, while Jessie J will be the awards show's house artist, a duty previously held by stars such as Wale and Mark Ronson.



Jessie J tweeted: "So it was announced that I'm this year’s entertainment at the MTV VMAS while I was on the plane :) it was supposed to be a surprise... Lol. *SURPRISEEE*"


The ceremony will take place at Los Angeles' Nokia Theatre on August 28, and will see celebrity presenters such as Nicki Minaj, Drake, Taylor Lautner, Kim Kardashian and Joe Jonas.


In related news, a new VMAs commercial featuring rapper Lil Wayne was recently revealed. In the clip, Weezy spits likes from his Rick Ross-assisted single "John," while talking about emotions that inspire him to make music.



"Emotion is a great inspiration for my music," Wayne said. "We all have a billion emotions bottled up inside of us, so I try to find risky at times and catchy ways to get those emotions out." The rap mogul added, "I have this crazy drive inside of me that's never die and never lose. And I breathe that."

Jessie J to Serve as VMA House Artist

Jessie J is headed to the U.S. for her first MTV Video Music Awards. The British pop export will serve as the house artist at this Sunday’s big show.

The “Price Tag” singer will perform hits off her debut Who You Are plus more during the live event. She follows in the footsteps of Wale, Mark Ronson, deadmau5, and the late DJ AM, who have all held down house band duties.
Pitbull has also been added to the lineup. Mr. Worldwide will perform his smash “Give Me Everything” with Ne-Yo. Other previously announced performers include Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, Bruno Mars, and more, while Nicki Minaj, Drake, Rick Ross, and Odd Future are scheduled to present.
The VMAs will air live on Sunday, August 28, from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles at 9 p.m. EST.

Eminem, Royce da 5’9″ + Bruno Mars See the Light in New Video for ‘Lighters’

Bad Meets Evil consists of rap duo Eminem and Royce da 5’9″ who are pretty much two of the fiercest rappers to come out of Detroit. They just released a new video for ‘Lighters,’ which is from their celebrated EP ‘Hell: The Sequel.’

The Rich Lee-directed clip features Em chilling on the couch writing raps for a new song with intercuts of him rapping in a dark tunnel. Meanwhile, we see Royce wandering in his jail cell when he notices a secret panel in the wall and decides escapes through it. While both men are walking through a dark tunnel, they spit acidic lyrics to the haters and vow to become the best rappers in the game. “This rap game’s nipple is mine for the milking / Till nobody else even f—— feels me, till’ it kills me / I swear to god I’ll be the f—— illest in this music,” Em raps. Royce follows suit with his line: “Life is wacky now / Used to have to eat the cat to get the p—- / Now I’m just the cats meow / Ooww / Classic now / Always down for the catch / Weight like Pacquiao.”
Singer Bruno Mars simply plays the piano belting out the yearning chorus, “Until lighters are in the sky.” In the end, we eventually see a sky full of lights as Em, Royce and Bruno look on in amazement. With ‘Lighters,’ Em and Royce — as Bad Meets Evil — are finally getting some shine on the pop charts.

Watch the Bad Meets Evil ‘Lighters’ Video Feat. Bruno Mars

Brandy Signs Deal with RCA Records; Sixth LP Due in 2012

It looks like Brandy‘s music career is back on track. The R&B songbird has inked a pact with RCA Records. The agreement brings her back to the Sony Music family as a recording artist under Breyon Prescott’s label Chameleon Records. In 2008, Brandy released her one album for Sony, ‘Human,’ but left the label in 2009 after it sold miserably in the marketplace.

The 32-year-old singer is currently in the studio working on her sixth album, which is slated for an early 2012 release.
“Throughout her career Brandy has consistently won the vote as everyone’s favorite female vocalist,” said RCA CEO Peter Edge in a press release. “I am sure that in her next chapter at RCA and in partnership with Breyon Prescott, we will record her most exciting music to date.”
Likewise, Brandy is thrilled to be back recording music again. “This is truly a blessing,” she said. “Breyon Prescott, Peter Edge and Tom Corson [RCA Music Group’s CEO and chief operating officer] believe in me and have introduced me to a home that also believes and knows exactly what to do with the type of music I’m doing. Breyon and the team at RCA/Chameleon are creative and forward-thinking and I am thrilled to be working with them.”
As we previously reported, Brandy is documenting her journey back into the music scene in a new reality series ‘On My Own.’ In a trailer for the show, the Grammy-winning singer was adamant about making the hottest R&B album possible. “This is my last opportunity, I’m bringing everything I have to this project,” she says. “I really feel like this is my last chance.”
This may not be Brandy’s last chance but it’s certainly her third go-around at being relevant in the music game. We hope she will make this one count and show us that you can still hang with the rest of the R&B divas. Good luck!

Tonedeff, CunninLynguists, PackFM Rock QN5 Megashow 2011: Evolution

The QN5 crew and many others were in full effect this past Friday live at their latest Megashow event

Over the past decade, Tonedeff’s QN5 Music imprint has transformed from a small, under-the-underground independent label to one of Hip Hop’s most critically acclaimed musical families. Now, ten years into QN5’s collective career, the collective decided to give their fans a look into its extensive discography with this year’s QN5 Megashow 2011: Evolution.


This past Friday August 19, hundreds of QN5’s most ardent supporters pack in to the Highline Ballroom on West 16th Street for four hours of indie Hip Hop history. With a set list covering a decades worth of boom-bap hits, this year’s QN5 Megashow proved was a testament to the label’s legacy.
In a departure from previous performances, the show was organized more as a musical narrative chronicling the label’s rich history. Although the show kicked off with the label’s head honcho Tonedeff, the rest of the label’s line-up moved fluidly on and off stage. QN5 balanced its past and present history, as Tone, the CunninLynguists, PackFM, Mr. SOS, Substantial and Kokayi jumped on stage to rock hits with one another.
The show also saw the QN5 crew give blue schoolers a number of surprises. In addition to performances from iCON the Mic King, PH, Sheisty Khryst, Cashmere, Anna Wise, IAmMany, and Steph, Session joined his former group the Extended Famm for a performance, while former CunninLynguist SOS rocked with partners Kno and Deacon to perform hits from their ’03 album Southernunderground.
The music wasn’t the only thing that kept fans’ attention, however. QN5 kept the stage show live with a series of hilarious puppet show videos, while Tonedeff crowd surfed during “Optimist,” DJ JS-1 scratched records with his foot and PackFM tagged a canvas live on stage during his performance of ‘04s “Clik Clak Spray.”
In addition, Tonedeff and Kno gave fans a look into the future of the label by premiering the video to the song “One Thousand Ships,” off their upcoming project together as Chico and the Man (they also announced that evening that the project would drop this December 13).
The trailer for the QN5 Megashow can be viewed below.

Jay Electronica And Jeymes Samuel Plan "Mos Eisley" Joint EP

In addition to working together as part of The Bullitts, Samuel and Jay Electronica are also working on a five-song EP together entitled, "Mos Eisley."

After a calendar year that has seen Jay-Z and Kanye West collaborate on Watch The Throne as well as Eminem and Royce Da 5’9 reform Bad Meets Evil, Jay Electronica is also looking to put out a collaborative project. Jay and Jeymes Samuel will record their Mos Eisley EP after working together with the likes of Lucy Liu and Idris Elba on The Bullitts album, They Die By Dawn And Other Short Stories. After a live performance at the Chill Festival, Samuel and Jay Electronica explained how they work together to SoulCulture TV.


“The only person that is equally non-linear as me is Jay Electronica,” Samuel offered. “So we’d argue over particular tracks. ‘Run And Hide’ is a track that Jay Electronica produced. He’ll make a track like that, and we’ll both record it. But secretly, I want it for my album. Jay would sample stuff from Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory or Superman II. We have the exact same train of thought.”

Jay Electronica, who has announced that his Act II album was completed in July, co-signed the idea of he and Samuel being kindred spirits.

“What comes out of him musically and where he goes and pulls…it gives me satisfaction to see somebody doing that,” Jay Electronica added. “The end result was something that I liked, and I wanted to be a part of it.”

The pair jokingly described the proposed five-song EP as a “hive of scum and villainy.” Samuel went on to call it an audio-equivalent of the movie Being John Malkovich, due to the fact that listeners would get a look inside both he and Jay Electronica. While there was no scheduled release date, the songs “Weirdo” and “Run And Hide” are currently available and expected to be on the EP.

Juelz Santana Speaks On "Reagan Era" Mixtape, New Album

The Dipset member explains that he will release a music video for every track off his new mixtape.

Juelz Santana plans on releasing his new album Born to Lose, Built to Win by December, but he plans on dropping his Reagan Era mixtape ahead of time. Speaking with RealHipHopDaily, the Dipset member explained that he’s putting the “finishing touches” on the mixtape at the moment and that he plans to drop it on a holiday.


“It’s been about four years since my last album, so I really want to just roll this out the right way. I got my mixtape coming, Reagan Era, long-awaited, better late than never, well worth it. I apologize, but when you get it, you’re definitely going to be satisfied,” he said. “No specific date, but I want to make it something, so I’ma definitely pick a holiday or something, drop it on a special day. So probably whatever the next good, decent holiday is to gear up. But you’re definitely going to know, there’s going to be a whole bunch of commercials and shit leading up to that.”
He also announced his ambitious plans to film a music video for every song on the mixtape, which includes unreleased material as well as newly recorded tracks. “I’m going to shoot a video for every song on the mixtape. My mixtape is going to pretty much like an album. A lot of songs, a lot of unreleased music. I’ma put a lot of freestyles out and I’m going to get back to the radio.”

New Music: Gloria Estefan f/ Pitbull – ‘Wepa (Remix)’

Pitbull adds some flavor to Latin superstar Gloria Estefan’s spicy single “Wepa.” The hip-shaking rhythm, which was originally produced by Pharrell and remixed by Holland DJ R3hab, contains English and Spanish lyrics plus a verse from Pit, who will perform “Give Me Everything” with Ne-Yo at Sunday’s VMAs. Gloria has been working closely with The Neptunes producer on her 11th studio album, due later this year.




[Ryan Seacrest]

Beyoncé to Perform Via Satellite at Michael Jackson Tribute Concert

Beyoncé will pay tribute to her idol Michael Jackson during a star-studded tribute concert in October.

The singer will appear via satellite at “Michael Forever: The Tribute Concert,” promoters announced on Facebook. She will perform one of her favorite Jackson 5 records in what’s being billed as a “unique, never-before-seen performance.”

She was unable to appear live due to a scheduling conflict. “A lifelong Michael fan, Beyoncé really wanted to be involved in this tribute concert,” read the statement. “Due to scheduling issues she can’t be there in person, but this performance is not to be missed!”
The concert, sanctioned by Michael’s mother Katherine Jackson, will take place on October 8 in Cardiff, Wales, with members of the Jackson family taking the stage including the King of Pop’s brothers and 3T, which consists of Tito Jackson’s three sons.
Previously announced performers include Christina Aguilera, Leona Lewis, Cee Lo Green, Smokey Robinson, JLS, Alien Ant Farm, and Craig David.
[TMZ]

Chris Colfer Says He’d Like Kurt Hummel to ‘Go Crazy’ on Third Season of ‘Glee’

Chris Colfer — Kurt Hummel, as most Gleeks know him as — revealed some details about Season 3 of ‘Glee,’ as well as his dream storylines for his well-dressed alter ego in a chat with Huffington Post.

He also said that one of his preferred “storylines” would involved Kurt losing his cool. “I’d love for Kurt to go crazy, maybe go Norma Desmond,” he said, referencing the old Hollywood film ‘Sunset Boulevard.’
Season 3 has been in production for about two weeks and being back on set is like being back to school for Colfer, except without that whole three month vacation sprawl! “We really didn’t have a summer off, so it doesn’t really feel any different, it feels like we’re continuing to do what we were doing,” Colfer said. “I don’t think I’ll ever take for granted the back lot, the huge back lot right behind our sound stage that I still get excited to walk through. It feels exactly the same, like we never left. I guess we never really did.”
Colfer said he’d love for guest stars Gwyneth Paltrow or Kristin Chenoweth to return this season so he could act with them. He doesn’t want Kurt to tone down his ensembles this season, acknowledging that “it wouldn’t be Kurt if he didn’t have something ridiculous to wear. But it’s definitely changed a bit. He’s getting older, he has a boyfriend now, so I think he’s kind of stepping up his game a bit.”
Colfer lifted the lid on a dream storyline he’d love for Kurt to be involved in, and it’s one he’s been pitching to show creator Ryan Murphy since the middle of last season. Colfer described the storyline as “controversial” and that Murphy kept saying, “Maybe Season 3, maybe Season 3.”
Well, by our clock, it’s Season 3, Ryan Murphy! Colfer said, “It is controversial but it does happen every day in school. I’m still pitching that one, and I don’t want to give that one away. But it’s really good. People always ask, ‘Does it involve Blaine and Kurt?’ I’m like, yes it does, but not in the way that they would think.”

Rihanna + Eminem Surprise V Festival Fans With ‘Love the Way You Lie’ Performance

On Sunday, Rihanna closed out England’s V Festival with a bang. The pop star surprised fans by bringing out Eminem for a live performance of ‘Love the Way You Lie.’

The rapper and the R&B diva were co-headlining the event, so the likelihood of a team-up was high. A video of the performance shows the crowd going crazy at the sight of the Detroit rapper, who took the stage after Rihanna belted out the lead chorus.
“#VFESTDay1 I LOVE YOU!!! 80’000 screaming rockstars!!! I can’t wait to see Eminem!!!!” Rihanna tweeted on Aug. 20. It’s hard to make out the two stars in the footage, but viewers can make out the chestnut hair of the singer and see Em in a close-up on a big screen.

‘Love the Way You Lie’ was the second single from Eminem’s 2010 album, ‘Recovery.’ It rose to No. 1 on Billboard’s Pop Songs and Hot 100 charts, and received five Grammy nominations, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
Later, Rihanna released the sequel song, ‘Love the Way You Lie (Part 2)’ on her 2010 album ‘Loud,’ sung from the female’s perspective.

Watch Rihanna and Eminem Perform ‘Love the Way You Lie’ at V Fest

Lil Wayne Slapped with Lawsuit Over ‘How To Love’ Beat

It must be raining lawsuits over there at Young Money headquarters. Rapper Lil Wayne and the production team Drummer Boyz are being sued for breach of contract by a Los Angeles rapper named Rich Rick who claims he was robbed out of a beat that was used on Weezy’s current hit song, ‘How to Love.
’
According to the suit, obtained by TMZ, Rick bought several tracks from the Drummer Boyz between 2006 and 2009 including the beat that they allegedly turned around and sold to Wayne in November 2010. Of course, ‘How to Love’ is a chart-topping smash and now Rick is looking for some cash. He is seeking monetary damages including royalites the production crew received from the song under their agreement with Weezy, as well as 10 percent interest. Whoa!
This new lawsuit adds to Lil Wayne’s long list of pending court cases and mostly all of them have to deal with producers claiming that the Young Money leader owes them money. Among the litigants: Production company Done Deal Enterprises is suing Weezy for $15 million for copyright infringement, producer Deezle has a $20 million lawsuit against Wayne, and producer David Kirkwood is seeking $1.5 million in royalties owed.
Whew! At this point, Lil Wayne should relocate his Young Money offices next door to a courthouse.

Kendrick Lamar Shares His Thoughts On "Watch The Throne,” Says DMX's Music Inspired Him

Kendrick Lamar says DMX's first album, "It's Dark And Hell Is Hot,” encouraged him to start writing rhymes.

While taking part in an interview with Hot 97.5’s Bootleg Kev in Las Vegas, Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar made a few interesting revelations. Among them was the fact that DMX’s first album, It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot, inspired him to start writing rhymes.


“Well, I started rhyming off of DMX first album,” Lamar explained when asked if there was anyone aside from Tupac he looked up to as an artist. “I’ll never forget I was in 7^th grade [and] my homie Antonio just threw the CD in my hand said ‘Listen to this.’ I put that in man and I was blasting it and I started penning my own music.”
During the interview Lamar gave his thoughts on what was one of the year’s most anticipated Hip Hop releases, Watch The Throne.
“Watch The Throne, I like it. I’m not even gonna front, I like it. I rolled with it for a while in the iPod…I mean I like it just because of the fact [that] I can get it. I mean I can’t relate to it, but I understand what they was doing,” said Lamar. “Watch The Throne, its two kings right here.”
Lamar also spoke on his still untitled debut album and revealed that he would like to do without any features unless they really make sense for the project.
“I really want to go dolo on it because I really want to get the full story out and make it make sense. If I do do a feature it has to make a hundred percent, the best sense,” the rapper revealed. “I don’t really wanna force nothing. Well, all of my music. Even the features I do within my camp, them features have to make sense with me. I can’t just do it just because.”

Chris Brown Battles Affion Crockett in Michael Jackson Dance Off [Video]

Chris Brown has paid tribute to Michael Jackson before, but now he takes his adoration to a new level, impersonating the King of Pop on Affion Crockett’s Fox sketch comedy show “In the Flow with Affion Crockett.” The R&B superstar channels the pop legend from the Thriller era with his iconic red leather jacket, sparkly glove, tight pants, and Jheri curl hair.


“You not bad, I’m badder,” joked Breezy before the comedian challenged him to a “Michael Off.” Affion showed off his best MJ moves before Chris moonwalked circles around him. Who’s bad?

Lowkey Enlists M1 & Immortal Technique For "Soundtrack To The Struggle"

The English rapper also links with producers ShowNProve, Sivey, Red Skull, Nutt P and more.

England's Lowkey has revealed the tracklist for his upcoming sophomore release Soundtrack to the Struggle, dropping October 16th.


The 26-track LP features guest appearances from Immortal Technique, M1 of Dead Prez, Shadi Mansour, Mai Khalil, Klashnekoff, Sanasino, Crazy Haze and Black the Ripper. Production comes courtesy of Nutty P, Sivey, ShowNProve, Red Skull, Quincey Tones, Big G, Vendetta, Beatnick & K-Salaam, Jetsun and Last Resort.
Check the tracklist below.
1. Soundtrack To The Struggle (produced by Nutty P)
2. Too Much ft Shadia Mansour (produced by Nutty P)
3. Voices Of The Voiceless ft Immortal Technique (produced by Sivey)
4. Hand On Your Gun (produced by ShowNProve)
5. Skit 1
6. Terrorist? (produced by Red Skull)
7. Something Wonderful (produced by Red Skull)
8. Dreamers ft. Mai Khalil
9. Skit 2
10. Obama Nation (produced by Red Skull)
11. Skit 3
12. Cradle Of Civilisation ft. Mai Khalil (produced by Quincey Tones)
13. Skit 4
14. Blood, Sweat and Tears ft Klashnekoff (produced Nutty P)
15. Everything I Am (produced by ShowNProve)
16. Skit 5
17. Long Live Palestine (produced by Nutty P)
18. We Will Rise ft Sanasino (produced by Big G)
19. My Soul (produced by Vendetta)
20. Skit 6
21. The Butterfly Effect (produced by Beatnick & K-Salaam)
22. Obama Nation Part 2 ft M1 (DEAD PREZ), Black The Ripper (produced by Nutty P)
23. Dear England ft Mai Khalil (produced by BeatNick & K-Salaam)
24. Haunted ft Mai Khalil (produced by JetSun)
25. Terrorist? Part 2 ft Crazy Haze & Mai Khalil (produced by Last Resort)
26. Million Man March ft Mai Khalil (produced by Big G)

Jennifer Lopez Shares Crazy Footage From Upcoming ‘Papi’ Video

Jennifer Lopez caused concern on Sunday when she tweeted a photo of what looked like a riot. However, die-hard fans weren’t duped. Thanks to a hashtag hint from the singer, J. Lo devotees instantly knew the photo was of a scene from her new video, ‘Papi.’
“#omg yesterday got a ‘lil hectic #papi #staytuned.” she wrote on Twitter along with the riotous image. The photo depicted an angry mob on a littered street along with an overturned, burning car in the background.


While some were alarmed by the pic, other followers quickly pointed out that the image was from the video shoot and that the men in the photo were just actors on the downtown Los Angeles set. Lopez later posted a short video, showing men jumping from buildings, running down the street and getting into fist fights. “It was out of control yesterday!!!!! #imexcited,” she tweeted.
Celebuzz posted additional photos from the set, and by the looks of the images, it seems the recently separated diva is the reason for all the chaos. The pics show men going out of their minds just to get near the ‘American Idol‘ judge.
‘Papi’ is the third single from the 42-year-old’s latest album, ‘Love?.’ While its official release date is set for Sept. 25, the singer unveiled the song on her Facebook page in April. The tune follows the chart-topping club banger ‘On the Floor’ and her Stargate-produced track ‘I’m Into You.’ A premiere date for the video has not yet been set.

Watch Behind-the-Scenes Footage from Jennifer Lopez’s ‘Papi’ Video

[Photo Credit: x17Online.com]

Demi Lovato Announces First Set of Fall Concerts

Demi Lovato just announced her first pair of live performances scheduled for September 2011. Lovato was excited to share the big news with her fans, as this will be the first time she is performing in concert since October 2010, when she toured with the Jonas Brothers as a special guest before dropping off the radar to enter a rehab facility for personal problems.

The ‘Skyscraper’ singer, who recently performed onstage for the first time in months at the Do Something awards, announced the shows on her Twitter account. She wrote, “SO EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE … MY FIRST TWO CONCERTS!!! I’ll be performing at The Hammerstein Ballroom on 9/17 and at Club Nokia on 9/23! Can’t wait to see you there!!!! : D.”
The show on Sept. 17 will occur in New York City, and then Lovato will trek 3,000 miles across to country to perform in Los Angeles at Club Nokia, giving fans on both coasts the opportunity to see her live.
On top of these concerts, Lovato also revealed her album art for her upcoming LP ‘Unbroken,’ which is slated for release on Sept. 20. Next month is going to be a big one for the 19-year-old, and we couldn’t be happier for her!

Nikki Jean Shares Homemade Lyric Video for ‘My Love’

Singer-songwriter Nikki Jean plays with letters and words in a new lyric video she created herself for her song ‘My Love.’

“I hope you love it. I made it myself. Check it out!,” she writes on YouTube. The video features a few shots of her at the piano, but mostly it consists of still images of the song’s lyrics. The words are spelled out in very unusual ways, created with Scrabble tiles, colored chalk on the sidewalk, letter tiles on a refrigerator, pennies, colored candy pieces, grains of rice and kernels of corn.
It’s a fun video for a fun soul-pop song in which Jean sings about being love-drunk over a special someone: “My love, nothing but the best for you / That’s why I’m givin’ you my love / Nothing less, you know it’s true / When I lay me down to sleep / I pray that you’ll forever be my love.”
Jean is a rising star from Minnesota who hooked up with Lupe Fiasco in 2008, singing on his song ‘Hip-Hop Saved My Life.’ Jean temporarily took over Fiasco’s Twitter account this summer to help promote her album ‘Pennies in a Jar.’

Watch the Nikki Jean Lyric Video for ‘My Love’

Sunny Sweeney, ‘Concrete’ – Album Review

Sunny Sweeney‘s latest album may largely fly under the radar. The blond Texan hasn’t had a big radio hit yet, nor has she found a plum opening slot on a major tour this summer. Don’t let either of these blanks on her resume cast a shadow upon the quality of the 10 songs on ‘Concrete,’ however. It’s the mature and focused project one usually gets from an artist on his or her third or fourth effort.

The seven songs Sweeney co-wrote come from her sorted personal life. Until recently, it’d been a hard couple of years for the 35-year-old singer. She wears the memories from a few failed relationships like a rain-soaked sweater. They’re uncomfortable, not always pretty and difficult to shed. Her first two singles, ‘From a Table Away‘ and ‘Staying’s Worse Than Leaving,’ find the singer writing on the edges of her emotions. Then she was courageous enough to record what she wrote along that same sharp ridge. One slip and things could go horribly wrong, but Sweeney never slips. After ‘Amy’ and ‘Worn Out Heart’ it’s clear she’s spent a lot of time along that rail.
‘Drink Myself Single’ is one of the singer’s favorites on the album, and her enthusiasm pours through. “Bottle of red / Bottle of white / Which one will it be / I can’t decide / I guess I’ll find out when I drink those bottles dry,” she sings with enthusiasm. But the uptempo country rocker doesn’t stray from the album’s theme. Some songs only add a dash of heartache, while others — like ‘Helluva Heart’ — serve up a shattered heart as a main course. This album works because Sweeney doesn’t wallow in self-pity. Most of these emotional songs are performed with a touch of sarcasm, and a surprising majority are fast-paced and fun.
‘Concrete’ is the best album from a new artist this year. Technically it’s the singer’s second album, but the first was released with so little fanfare that it’s plenty safe to call this her debut album. Fans of a more traditional country sound will find this project flawless.

Sara Evans Follows a Cheating Heart in ‘My Heart Can’t Tell You No’ Video

In the new video for her twangy cover of Rod Stewart’s ‘My Heart Can’t Tell You No,’ the incredibly fit Sara Evans finds herself involved in an emotionally murky plot. Her knockout figure almost feels like another “character” in the video, since she shows it off many times — especially in the silky coral blouse and black shorts she wears while singing in what looks like a parking garage. We can’t blame her: If you’ve got it, flaunt it.

Evans plays an apartment dweller who watches the unpleasant goings on between a young, good-looking couple across the hall. She goes to enter her unit and sees the sad-eyed blond girl looking reluctant to let her “boyfriend” into her apartment. Evans gives off a knowing look, which suggests that she is either a part of this triangle somehow or that she is simply a witness who has been made aware of what’s going behind the girl’s back. Whatever the case, it’s not a fun position to be in.
Evans also sings in building’s lobby, and there are a few longing stares between herself and the suspected cheater. Again, it could be the look of “I know” or the look of unrequited desire. It’s never made quite clear which it is. There’s also lots of tears from the girlfriend/Evans’ neighbor.

The “can you say ‘awkward?’” moment comes when both Evans and the girlfriend are alone in the apartment complex’s elevator, but they don’t say anything as Evans stares at her feet. This exchange — or non-exchange — only heightens the mystery, and the claustrophobia of the closed-in space further illustrates the video’s point of emotional suffocation.
Evans and the blond girl actually engage in conversation when they run into each other at the grocery store, which is neutral territory. That’s when they see the guy with someone else.
Clearly he has a problem with fidelity. He mouths, “This is my wife,” further complicating things and making the lyrics “When the one you love is in love with someone else / Don’t you know it’s torture / I mean it’s a living hell” more vivid.

Watch the Sara Evans ‘My Heart Can’t Tell You No’ Video

Scarface Released From Prison, Already Working On New Music

UPDATE: The Geto Boys founder has been released from prison after nearly a year behind bars.

While reports of public figures heading to jail are far from uncommon, it is quite unusual for such news to be concealed for almost four months. It was confirmed on Thursday that Texas rapper Scarface was incarcerated last October, and has been held in the Montgomery County Jail since, for failing to pay child support.

According to XXLmag.com who spoke with a representative of the jail, the veteran rapper is facing charges in four different child support cases. Even more unusual, he is also facing additional federal charges that have not yet been publicly disclosed.

Before the incarceration, Scarface had been working on his twelfth album, The Habit, said to be featuring both John Legend and Drake. There is no update yet on the specifics regarding the federal charges, bail, or when he is scheduled to appear in court.
[February 3]
UPDATE: After nearly a year in prison, Scarface is reportedly a free man. According to HHW, 'Face was released from Harris County Jail where he remained incarcerated for failing to pay child support. "Face is home and he’s already busy working on releasing new material," says a representative. "It’s not going to take him long to fall right back into the swing of things."