LL Cool J & The Beastie Boys Nominated For Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

The list of 15 nominees for the 2011 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is one of the most eclectic yet, encompassing everyone from punk-inspired rap trio the Beastie Boys to one of rap's most enduring icons, LL Cool J, New Jersey rock warhorses Bon Jovi, original shock-rocker Alice Cooper and gravel-voiced troubadour Tom Waits.

Joining that group are such luminaries as crooner Neil Diamond, folk legends Donovan and Laura Nyro, New Orleans "Night Tripper" Dr. John, funky bar-band rockers the J. Geils Band, disco queen Donna Summer, funk act Chic, girl-group graduate Darlene Love, soul singer Joe Tex, and R&B singer and "King of the Stroll" Chuck Willis.

The nods are the first for Bon Jovi, Donovan, Cooper, Dr. John and Diamond, though Chic, Beastie Boys, Cool J, Summer and Love have lodged a number of previous nods without making it to the musical promised land. The final list of a handful of inductees will be announced in December, and the 26th annual induction ceremony will take place on March 14 at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel in New York.

Artists become eligible for nomination 25 years after the release of their first album or single and more than 500 music professionals and industry members vote on the nominees. Among the 2010 inductees were Iggy and the Stooges, ABBA and Genesis.

Drake And His Bodyguard May Face Assault Charges (Video)

Drake and his bodyguard may face assault charges after a pair of fans say the pop star and his security attacked them.

Jeremis Soriano claims he was punched in the mouth after approaching Drake after a Florida club date. Soriano's friend approached Drake, but was allegedly shoved away. At that point, Soriano says he acted. He claims he called Drake several derogatory names and was punched by security. "Before I got to say his name, [the bodyguard] hit me in the mouth and I fell back," he told ABC Action News in Jacksonville, Florida.

His female friend vouched for Soriano.

"He never put his hands on Drake. He never made a fist toward the security guard for them to hit him that hard," said Soriano's friend. The punch left Soriano with a busted lip which required six stitches. The female witness also said that Drake gave them the middle finger.

Soriano said he wants to sue, but his aim is not to get any windfall of money from Drake, who is signed to Lil Wayne's Young Money Records. He simply wants his medical bills paid, but admitted he was going to speak to a lawyer as he pushes forward to press charges against the rapper.

"I don't even want to hear his songs on the radio," he said. "They are the same people that are buying your C.D.'s. You shouldn't treat us like that."

The Jacksonville Sheriff's department is investigating the matter, but Drake was not available for comment.

Kanye West's Album Pushed Back

Kanye West's album is the latest to fall victim to a pushback.


As previously reported, Ye was originally supposed to drop his new project Good A** Job on September 14, a date he declared “G.O.O. D. Music Day” to coordinate the release of Kid Cudi, Big Sean and Consequence' s albums.

With that deadline passing, the album was set to drop November 16 but will now hit stores on November 22.

Along with a new release date comes a new name; My Dark Twisted Fantasy, the tentative title.

Reported features include Nicki Minaj and T.I.

Paul Wall Apologizes For Beating A Fan Incident

Paul Wall is the latest in Hip-Hop to get into a scuffle with a fan.


The Texas rapper was onstage Sunday at the San Antonio ” Low Low Car Show” with fellow Texan Slim Thug when things took a turn for the worse.

According to TMZ, a fan in the front row exchanged words with Paul Wall and gave him the middle finger.

Infuriated, the rapper was caught on camera beating the man repeatedly with a microphone.

The fan was escorted off the premises and so far has yet to press charges.

Paul Wall  issued an apology via XXL.

“I want to sincerely apologize to my San Antonio Fans as well as Paul Wall Fans worldwide for allowing myself to become distracted during my recent performance at the Low Low Car Show in San Antonio, Texas. My goal as a live performer is to always provide my fans with a great show experience and I apologize for temporarily taking my eyes off that goal. We all learn from experiences both good and bad. I will learn and grow from this incident and be a better person, artist and performer as a result.”

Rihanna's Loud Album Cover

 

Things are going to get pretty rowdy on November 16, but until then, here’s the cover art for Ms. Fenty’s next LP. All red everything.

Obama Now Bumps To Nas & Lil Wayne On His Ipod

On the song “I Want To Talk To You”, Nas said he wanted to talk to the muthafuckin’ president. Well, it looks like he’s gotten a step closer. In the new issue of Rolling Stone, President Barack Obama says that he’s added Nas and Weezy to his playlist.

What music have you been listening to lately? What have you discovered, what speaks to you these days?
…Thanks to Reggie [Love, the president's personal aide], my rap palate has greatly improved. Jay-Z used to be sort of what predominated, but now I’ve got a little Nas and a little Lil Wayne and some other stuff, but I would not claim to be an expert. Malia and Sasha are now getting old enough to where they start hipping me to things. Music is still a great source of joy and occasional solace in the midst of what can be some difficult days.

Snoop Dogg Releases Limited Edition T-Shirts

West Coast rapper Snoop Dogg is collaborating with urban lifestyle brand, Upper Playground and to release a limited-edition micro collection of three t-shirts designed by Dustin Canalin.


Canalin, a designer whose created logos for Chauncey Billups, Jason Richardson, Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan, designed the new Snoop collection with inspiration from his “Gin and Juice” music video.

The collection features three brand-new t-shirts titled 'Chronics', 'Hockey Snoops', and 'You Don't Love Me' available in limited quantity exclusively at Snoop Dogg's "Snoopermarket" and Upper Playground's retail locations and online store. 

Speaking on the new T-shirts, Snoop released a statement saying,

"This is a natural collaboration for me. Upper Playground and Dustin understand my style, so they took a little bit of that classic Snoop Dogg and made it pop."

Upper Playground and Snoop are holding a special giveaway and giving a person the entire collection along with a VIP trip for them and a friend to see Snoop perform live and meet him after the show.

To win, fans can follow Snoop's Twitter page and be a fan of Upper Playground's Facebook page .
Contestants must then post on Upper Playground's Facebook wall and make a post on Twitter that includes #SNOOPUP to win.

The winner will be announced on the Twitter and Facebook pages on October 8, 2010.

Chris Brown Announces Guests for All-Star ‘Deuces’ Remix (Fabolous, T.I., Drake, Kanye West, and André 3000.”)

Those watching Chris Brown’s Ustream session got a sneak peek at the guests featured on his all-star remix to “Deuces,” and it’s one hell of a lineup.


The Tyga and Kevin McCall-assisted single from his Fan of a Fan mixtape currently sits at No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and its star-studded remix will probably give it even more life. “I’mma let ya’ll know a little secret. We got the ‘Deuces’ remix coming,” Breezy told his fans during Monday’s Ustream chat. “‘Deuces’ remix features myself, Fabolous, T.I., Drake, Kanye West, and André 3000.”

The track was still awaiting a verse from Yeezy and could arrive as early as this week. “I’m actually supposed to be getting Kanye’s verse any minute now,” said Chris. “I got everybody else’s very ready, so we’re waiting right now. We’re gonna put it together and have it to ya’ll either by next week or this week, probably Friday. I ain’t making no promises.”

A video is already being discussed. “We’re gonna shoot the video for that. The video’s gonna be sick.”

The remix to “Deuces” may be included on Chris Brown’s fourth album F.A.M.E. (Forgiving All My Enemies), which will feature the pop single “Yeah 3x” and Polow Da Don-produced “Calypso,” plus much more. “We got a gang of records,” added Breezy

Jay Rock Inks Multi-Album Deal With Tech N9Ne's Strange Music

Watts rapper Jay Rock has inked a deal with Tech N9Ne's Kansas City, Missouri, independent powerhouse label, Strange Music for a multi-record deal.

The two rappers decided to enter into a deal together after a pair of successful business collaborations.

On September 15th, Jay Rock hit the road on the "Tech N9Ne Independent Grind Tour" with rappers like E-40, Glasses Malone, Krizz Kaliko, Kutt Calhoun, Big Scoob and others.

Jay Rock was also featured on Tech N9Ne's independent album The Gates Mixed Plate, in addition to an upcoming DJ Whoo Kid mixtape with TechN9Ne.

The first release under the new deal with be Jay Rock's Strange Music full-length debut, titled Follow Me Home.

“Man, I'm excited about this," Jay Rock said in a statement. "Tech and Strange approached us once I became a free agent and we went to KC to see first-hand what we had been missing and saw why they're the #1 independent rap label. The word had spread about me leaving Warner Bros. and I was getting offers left & right from majors wanting to sign me, but in the end, Dude Dawg [Top Dawg CEO] and I had no doubts that Strange had the perfect situation for us."

Jay Rock, along with Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul and Schoolboy Q form the Black Hippy Movement, a group described as N.W.A meets the Pharcyde.

"I was hyped when I got the news that Jay Rock and TDE decided to go with Strange instead of any of the other many labels that were tugging at them," said Tech N9ne. “I knew that Jay Rock, being the hardcore artist that he is would add another wonderful dimension to our Strange roster. Strange and TDE all day, baby!"

Jay Rock's Strange Music debut Follow Me Home is due in stores sometime in the Spring of 2011.

Kid Cudi Pleads Guilty To Possesion Of A Controlled Substance

Ohio emcee Kid Cudi has pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance.


Cudi has been convicted of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a spokesperson for Manhattan's district attorney confirmed to the press.

As previously reported Cudi was arrested in June after police responded to a call from a woman stating that the rapper was having a drunken tantrum that ended with Cudi, whose real name is Scott Mescudi, ripping her apartment's front door off of its hinges before smashing her phone against the wall.

As a part of his sentence, the rapper must perform two days of community service for the misdemeanor and if he avoids further legal trouble for the next six months, his case will be officially dismissed.

It isn't all bad for Cudi, his sophomore album, Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager, is due later this year and the rapper is currently starring in the Mark Wahlberg produced HBO series, “How to Make it in America”.

Lil Wayne Releases "I Am Not A Human Being" To Celebrate Birthday

Young Money CEO Lil' Wayne has decided to bless fans with the release of his EP I Am Not A Human Being on September 27th, the same day as his 28^th birthday.

According to published reports, although the digital release debuts online today, physical copies of I am Not A Human Being won't  hit retailers in October.

Although dedicated fans are excited about the release, not everyone is excited.

According to the Washington Post, some retailers are reportedly upset about the digital release stating that the early release will affect the physical sales.

In addition to Weezy dropping the album digitally himself, songs from the album have been leaked on to the Web for the past few weeks.

"It's disturbing," one retailer told Billboard, "It's definitely putting brick-and-mortar second, and we are going to lose business that we would normally get. How is the consumer going to know that the album will have a second physical release?"

I Am Not A Human Being features guest appearances by Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Jay Sean and is available on iTunes.

See below for the detailed track listing:
1. "Gonorrhea" feat. Drake
2. "Hold Up" feat. T-Streets
3. "With You" feat. Drake
4. "I Am Not a Human Being"
5. "I'm Single" feat. Drake
6. "What's Wrong With Them" feat. Nicki Minaj
7. "Right Above It" feat. Drake
8. "Popular" feat. Lil Twis
t 9. "That Ain't Me" feat. Jay Sean
10. "Bill Gates"
11. "YM Banger" feat. Jae Millz, Gudda Gudda and Tyga
12. "YM Salute" feat. Lil Twist, Lil Chuckee, Gudda Gudda, Jae Millz, and Nicki Minaj (I Am Not A Human Being)

Mos Def Signs To Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music

It seems that Kanye West's G.O.O.D. label roster is continuing to grow.


In addition to the recent signing of Pusha T and The Clipse, Ye has also added rapper/actor Mos Def to the super roster of talent that is now home to artists Common, John Legend, and Kid Cudi.

The news, which will be featured in the upcoming edition of XXL, revealed his signing in a story about West's G.O.O.D Music label imprint.
An excerpt reads,

"Just as Kanye returned to his roots to scoop up Common, he recently recruited buddy Brooklyn rapper/singer/actor Mos Def into the GOOD Music fold. Long regarded as a formidable talent by underground devotees and mainstream fans alike, Mos appeared on 'Two Words' (from Kanye's 2005 The College Dropout) and 'Drunk and Hot Girls' (from KW's 2007 Graduation). Since his 1999 solo debut, Black on Both Sides, Mos has increasingly been pushed — whether by generational choices or self-exile — to the fringes of indie, alternative hip hop. Maybe it will take Kanye to rein him in."

The two emcees, who's most recent collaboration "Good Fridays" and "Lord, Lord, Lord" has the internet blazing, shows that the chemistry the two emcees have is undeniable.

As of press time Mos Def has not released any information regarding an upcoming album or release date for his new venture, I just hope that we won't have to wait 5 years.

Judge Declares Mistrial In Buju Banton Drug Case

Reggae star Buju Banton's drug trial was declared a mistrial by U.S. District Judge James Moody after the 12-person jury sent him a second note on Monday saying they couldn't reach a verdict.

They had been deliberating since Thursday, after a four-day trial.

Buju had been accused of  conspiring to buy cocaine from an undercover police officer last year.

The Dance Hall star was charged with conspiracy to possess and distribute cocaine and aiding two others in possessing a firearm during the course of cocaine distribution and faced life in prison.

Banton's attorney has asked the judge  to release Banton on bond who has been held in jail since December with no bond.

According to The Associated Press, Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, testified that he talked a lot about cocaine with a U.S. government informant, but he was only trying to impress the man, who claimed to have music industry connections, and not secure a drug deal.

The informant, Alexander Johnson, testified that Banton admitted involvement in drug trafficking, and he wanted to give Johnson money so he could buy and sell cocaine.

Their recorded conversations from July 2009 through December were played for the jury.

Banton said he never wanted nor expected Johnson to set up a cocaine deal, despite what he said in the recordings. The singer had told Johnson that he financed drug deals, wanted to sell drugs in Europe, buy drugs from the Caribbean and South America and use Johnson's boat to transport drugs.

Banton said he was surprised when the informant presented him with cocaine at an undercover police warehouse in Sarasota on Dec. 8. Surveillance video shows Banton peering over co-defendant Ian Thomas' shoulder at the cocaine, and the singer tasting the drugs with a finger.

On Dec. 10, Thomas and another co-defendant, James Mack, were arrested at the warehouse after trying to buy the drugs. Banton was not present and was arrested at his Miami-area home.

Thomas and Mack pleaded guilty, and each faces up to life in prison. Neither testified in the trial that began Monday in Tampa federal court.

The Diplomats (Jim Jones, Camron & Juelz Santana) Sit Down W/Angie Martinez To Talk About Their Reunion [Video]

There have been a lot of whispers and rumors ever since The Diplomats announced they were getting back together.

Is the reunion real? Do these guys really get along with each other? Will the old chemistry be there?

Jim Jones, Cam'ron and Juelz Santana recently sat down with Hot 97's Angie Martinez to clear the air, and let all their fans know the reunion is one hunnid.

MC Hammer Heated At Jay-Z Over "So Appalled" Diss. Goes Hard At Punching Bag To Show What He'll Do To Jigga! [Video]

Jay-Z is the king of subliminal disses. Most of the time, rappers and fans have to dissect his lyrics trying to figure out who he is going at. But Hov obviously wasn't too worried about MC Hammer replying back to his diss on Kanye West's "So Appalled" record, because he mentioned him by name.

“Hammer went broke so you know I'm more focused. I lost 30 mill, so I spent another 30 / ’cause unlike Hammer, 30 mill can’t hurt me.” Jigga spit on the track.

Well, Hammer was listening and he's heated. Replying to Jay, both on Twitter and on film by releasing a video showing him hitting a punching bag

"Warming up... all substance.. no hype... What's the rhyme that can make you tough??? Yeah.. Ok... thats what I thought.. Slap the taste out them #HellBoys mouths... #IamHammer," is written in the video description.

"Hellboy" is the nickname Hammer has given Jay-Z, possibly referring to rumors that Hov is a satanist.

Hammer became famous and wildly popular in the late 80's and early 90's with songs like "U Can't Touch This."

He made millions, and then lost most of it due to bad investments and lavish spending that included a $12 million dollar crib. So that Jigga line has got him feeling like he's gotta fight back....literally.

This is a strange beef. Check out Hammer, who recently became an MMA promoter, going at his punching bag (Jigga) in the video below.

Lyfe Jennings Cries & Apologizes In Court

Earlier this week, Lyfe Jennings was sentenced to three and a half years in prision due to an incident in 2008. When the singer appeared in court he was remorseful and apologetic about his actions but was still ordered to start his sentence immediately although he was hoping to spend time with his kids before going in. After the jump watch Jennings emotional apology...




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Wyclef Jean Hospitalized, Suffering From Stress & Fatigue Following Failed Bid For Haitian Presidency

Hip-hop performer Wyclef Jean, who recently failed in his bid for the Haitian presidency, has been hospitalized for stress.

A spokesperson for Jean announced on Monday that the rapper, producer and outspoken Haitian activist checked into a hospital in an undisclosed location over the weekend.

He is "suffering from stress and fatigue based on the gruelling eight weeks he's had," said his representative, Marian Salzman.

Jean, who is slated to release a new album in February and launch a corresponding world tour, made headlines this summer when he confirmed rumours that he was running for president of Haiti, where he was born.

However, Jean — whose family moved to New York when he was nine and who is currently based in New Jersey — was ultimately deemed ineligible because he did not meet residency requirements.

Though the former Fugees rapper attempted to appeal the electoral council's disqualification of his bid, he officially withdrew his candidacy last week. Jean, who is one of his country's best-known advocates and champions, reported being targeted with threats during his brief bid.

"This was not an easy conclusion to reach," Jean said at the time, "but it is one that was thoughtfully made, taking into account many, many competing factors."

According to Salzman, Jean plans to "take it easy" and is expected to be released later this week.

A New Twitter Is Coming Soon, Check Out This Preview [Video Inside]

Apparently, the folks over at Twitter have been working hard on a brand new experience for user ... and it's coming on the 14th, according to a trailer they've posted recently. It boasts an all-new design, the ability to easily see embedded photos and vids from several services and a lot more.

Overall, it looks pretty nice. But will all the new features, take away from what made it so big? The simplicity. What do you think?

Below are a few of the highlights coming:

New Design: You will now find @mentions, retweets, searches, and lists just above your timeline – creating a single, streamlined view on the left of the screen. On the right, you can see the features you're familiar with, including whom you recently followed and who recently followed you, favorites, and Trending Topics.

View photos, videos, and other media content: Now, it's easy to see embedded photos and videos directly on Twitter, thanks to partnerships with DailyBooth, DeviantART, Etsy, Flickr, Justin.TV, Kickstarter, Kiva, Photozou, Plixi, Twitgoo, TwitPic, TwitVid, USTREAM, Vimeo, yfrog, and YouTube.

Discover related content: When you click a Tweet, the details pane shows additional information related to the author or subject. Depending on the Tweet's content, you may see: @replies, other Tweets by that same user, a map of where a geotagged Tweet was sent from, and more.

Mini profiles: You can click a @username to see a mini profile without navigating from the page, which provides quick access to account information, including bio and recent Tweets.

Rollout Timing: These changes will roll out as a preview over the next several weeks. During the preview, you'll be able to switch back and forth so you have time to grow accustomed to the way things work. Eventually, everyone will have the updated version of Twitter.com.

Court Plays Tapes Of Buju Banton Talking Drug Deals, Tasting Cocaine

Buju Banton was seen shaking his head in court Wednesday after prosecution provided potentially damning evidence of the reggae star discussing drug deals and footage of him tasting cocaine.


As previously reported, Banton  was arrested last December after police say he conspired to buy more than five kilograms of cocaine from an undercover police officer.

According to the Jamaica Observer, Banton, real name Mark Anthony Myrie, was comforted by his lawyer after hearing recordings of his conversations with government informant Alexander Johnson, discussing drug deals and even diamond smuggling from Africa to Europe.

The Observer reports that as tapes were being played, one woman could be seen clutching her head and covering her ears.

By contrast, others listened sat attentively to the conversation between Banton and Johnson, a convicted drug trafficker who has been working with the US Government since 1996 to sink other dealers.

Possibly the most damning evidence of all was a video from December 8. 2009 of Banton tasting cocaine from a knife given to him by his friend Ian Thomas after opening a box containing five kilograms of cocaine during a police sting.

Banton's cohorts Ian Thomas and another man, James Mack, have both agreed to testify against him.
If found guilty he faces life in prison or millions in fines.

Q-Tip & Kanye West To Produce On Jay-Z's Follow Up To Blueprint 3. Cover Of Hov's New Book 'Decoded' Revealed + More Details [Pic]

While there has been no official word on when Jay-Z's next album will drop, we have at least gotten an insiders' peek at who will be producing music for it.

Q-Tip revealed to XXL that both he and Kanye West will be putting in work on the project.

"Kanye and I are gonna continue to work together. We’re doing some stuff for Jay-Z’s new album that’s coming out in the spring, and then after Jay’s thing I’m gonna start recording my new album…Kanye should be working on that, too," Q-Tip said.

Jigga is also about to release his first book. 'Decoded' features an image of Andy Warhol's "Rorschach" on the cover.

According to Billboard, the fully illustrated book decodes 36 of Hov's songs.

Check out an excerpt from the book below:

"When I first started working on this book, I told my editor that I wanted it to do three important things. The first was to make the case that hip-hop lyrics-not just my lyrics, but those of every great MC-are poetry if you look at them closely enough. The second was I wanted the book to tell a little bit of the story of my generation, to show the context for the choices we made at a violent and chaotic crossroads in recent history. And the third piece was that I wanted the book to show how hip-hop created a way to take a very specific and powerful experience and turn it into a story that everyone in the world could feel and relate to."

'Decoded' will be released November 16, with a hardcover edition, and an ebook. As well as an interactive iPhone/iPad application that will include exclusive video and customizable content.

Album Preview: Akon – ‘Akonic’

After a couple years off from the music scene, Senegalese singer-songwriter Akon hits the club on his fourth album, Akonic. Devyne Stephens, vice president of Akon’s Konvict Muzik imprint and credited with discovering the entertainer, introduced the album at the exclusive MPD club located in New York City’s Meatpacking District, where patrons including Shontelle, Maino, DJ Enuff, and Universal Motown president Sylvia Rhone sipped complementary cocktails and grooved to the Euro-tinged sounds of the new offering. Akon made a guest appearance only near the end of the event, hopping on the mic to thank everyone for coming.

Check below to see what you can expect when the project, formerly titled Stadium Music, drops November 23.


1. “Give It to ‘Em”
An ominous chorus makes way for rapid handclaps and epic instrumentation on this heavily Auto-Tuned track. Akon robotically coos “na na na” on the chorus as a gruff male chants the song’s title. “200 percent, I’m on my job,” Akon sings on the fast-paced jam.

2. “Time Is Money” featuring Big Meech
Black Mafia member Big Meech, popularized on Rick Ross’ anthem “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast),” introduces this Timbaland-esque jam with a stern speech on how you’ve only got “time or money.” Soon, double-time snares kick in on the bass-heavy joint, where Akon plays with a fast delivery against a slow-rolling rhythm. “I’m on my grind, money on my mind,” he sings.

3. “Be Me”
Akonic hits its dance floor stride on this tune, where Akon lays out the difficulties that come with being a superstar over effervescent percussion. “Know what it’s like to be me,” he yearns on the chorus as drums rattle beneath his deadpan vocals.

4. “Drop Down Low”
The Konvict boss flips the switch to Euro-house music on this aerobically-paced tune. Over snapping handclaps and sliding synthesizers, Akon commands the listener to “break it on down” on the brooding tune.

5. “Angel”
Akon’s first single, “Angel” is a fast-paced romp that fits in nicely with the other house-friendly tracks on the album. “Way above the clouds in the sky singin’,” croons the performer. A surefire club banger.

6. “Hold You”
The dance party continues on this gradually building song, with Akon singing in a lower tenor as the track grows into a ’90s-influenced thumper. The hitmaker asks his lady to take his hand after realizing he’s unable to shake off his girl’s spell. Unapologetically fervent, “Hold You” epitomizes the athletic, club-geared tone of the album.

Trey Songz Lands Career Best Debut on Albums Chart

Trey Songz had the biggest debut of his career this week with the release of his fourth album Passion, Pain & Pleasure. The R&B sensation came in a close second to Linkin Park’s new offering A Thousand Suns, entering at No. 2 with 240,000 copies sold in its first week on the Billboard 200—a mere 1,000 units less than Suns.


The 25-year-old heartthrob bested his previous first-week sales record by over 100,000 copies, with last year’s Ready bowing at No. 3 with 131,000 units moved in the first seven days. Its lead single “Bottoms Up” featuring Nicki Minaj also peaked at No. 13 on the Hot 100 chart, up four spots from the previous week.
Eminem dropped a spot to No. 3 with Recovery, though it gained 10 percent in sales on the strength of Em’s opening performance at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards.

Rihanna also had a big week over on the Digital Songs chart, with her new single “Only Girl (In the World)” bumping Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are” from the top spot. The Barbadian singer logged 249,000 downloads, making the carefree tune her eighth No. 1 on the chart and sixth debut at the top.

Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler Join ‘American Idol’ Judges Panel

It’s official. After weeks of speculation on who would be next to join the judging panel on “American Idol,” Jennifer Lopez and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler have signed on to judge the reality show competition alongside Randy Jackson on the 10th season of the show.


Following the departure of Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres, and Kara DioGuardi, Fox announced its new trio of judges during a live press conference from The Forum in Los Angeles, with Interscope Geffen A&M chairman Jimmy Iovine slated to appear as a mentor to contestants.

“I’m looking for the next Michael Jackson,” an excited J.Lo said after being introduced by Ryan Seacrest at The Forum. “We’re looking for the best ‘American Idol’ ever.”

The official announcement comes after Lopez signed on to judge for a reported $12 million last week. Other rumored possibilities for judges included Chris Isaak, Shania Twain, Harry Connick Jr., and Elton John.

Cee Lo Green’s ‘Lady Killer’ Pushed Up

Following the success of his viral single “F**k You,” Cee Lo Green is capitalizing on the attention. The Atlanta native has bumped up his solo album The Lady Killer from December 7 to November 9, with plans to offer the LP with extras including a T-shirt, screen-printed poster, a download of the hit “F**k You,” and vinyl single of album cut “Georgia.”

As previously reported, the Gnarls Barkley vocalist has enlisted the help of producers Salaam Remi (Amy Winehouse), Jack Splash (Missy Elliott, Jamie Foxx), and Fraser T. Smith (Nelly Furtado, James Morrison), mashing up hip-hop and soul like on the LP’s soulful “Georgia.”

Fans can also get a taste of The Lady Killer’s unique sound by signing up for Cee Lo’s mailing list to get a free download of “ChamPain,” set to be included on the album. In anticipation of the November release, the former Goodie Mob member will headline a special gig at NYC’s Irving Plaza on October 7.

Lyfe Jennings Sentenced to Three and Half Years in Prison

R&B singer Life Jennings was sentenced to three and a half years behind bars today (Sept 22) in an Atlantacourt for a 2008 indictment.

“This will be my last post” Jennings wrote yesterday on his Twitter. “To everyone who gave me a chance I am forever in your debt. I have had a fabulous career because of you. All I can say in parting is that I have been honest with [ya'll]. I didn’t sugarcoat a word didn’t hold back a single [syllable] of my life from [ya'll]. I’ve lived a hundred lives in these 6 yrs so I not only won’t,I don’t have the right to complain. I would like to think that I’ve changed lives by changing my own, tho[ugh] I can’t be sure. But one thing I am sure of is God gives and takes away in measure. He is fair, just and forever. Amen from a man… Smile, its contageous:)”

In October 2008, the “Statistics” singer got into a heated confrontation with ex-girlfriend and mother of his children Joy Pound. Jennings reportedly kicked in the door of a house in Smyrna, Georgia, belonging to Jeff Kendrick, then fired rounds from a .40 caliber glock in the street according to police.

Jennings then fled the scene in his 2005 Corvette and according to his warrant allegedly refused to stop for officers when given audible and visual signs to do so. Driving in excess of 70 miles per hour, Jennings was eventually stopped and refused to take a sobriety test.

Booked at Cobb County Jail, the singer was charged with DUI test refusal, criminal trespassing, discharging a weapon near a street, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and fleeing or attempting to elude a police offer.

After being freed on$50,000 bond, Jennings released his fourth studio project 'I Still Believe,' August 31, 2010, the follow-up to his 2008's 'Lyfe Change.' The album is said to be his final offering.

The 13-disc track is what Lyfe considers a reflection of his “greatness.” Despite the personal and public trials in his life, Lyfe Jennings still believes in this love. “I keep a lot going on. It’s tragic; I think I have a horribly charmed life. But I think God puts me through stuff and keeps me there so I can talk about it.”

He carries these experiences into the album. “[The album] is about all kinds of relationships,” says Lyfe. “How we try to hold on sometimes for the sake of holding on. But, in reality, no matter how many breakups turn into make-ups, sooner or later we realize that this person is who they are and we need to let go. No grudges, no regrets. Just realization. Just acceptance. Just life.”

Jennings will hit the road in support of his reported final album, 'I Still Believe,' playing in clubs in major markets throughout the nation this fall.

T-Pain Shows Off His Diamond Encrusted Ciroq & Nuvo Chains (Photos)

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Dr. Dre's Aftermath Cognac Due in Stores This Month

Sources saidthat Dr. Dre's new brand of cognac will begin shipping to stores later this month and in the beginning of October.

Dr. Dre announced the details of his new line Aftermath Cognac in August of 2008. The first alcoholic drink from Dr. Dre is a joint venture between Dr. Dre and Interscope/Geffen/A&M Records.

The production and distribution of Aftermath Cognac will be handled by Abecassis Cognac, which will also help introduce a new 80-proof flavored and unflavored sparkling vodka product.

The Aftermath Cognac and accompanying vodka were originally supposed to be released to coincide with Dr. Dre's highly anticipated album Detox, which still has no official release date.

Dr. Dre teased fans during his performance with Eminem and Jay-Z at Detroit's Comerica Park, after they began chanting "Detox" in unison, in an attempt to push the produced to release the delayed album.

“I'm coming,” was all Dr. Dre told the crowd.

Detox is the follow-up to Dr. Dre's 1999 album 2001.

Aretha Franklin's Son. Eddie Undergoes Emergency Surgery After Being Severely Beaten In Detroit

Aretha Franklin's middle-aged son was undergoing emergency surgery on Tuesday after being severely beaten at a gas station in Detroit on Monday night, according to reports.

Two men and a woman assaulted Eddie Franklin, 52, at a station near Plymouth and Evergreen, the Queen of Soul's spokeswoman tells the Detroit News.

Other details were scarce. The female suspect appeared to be about 19 years old, and one of the men had dreadlocks. All three were African American.

An unidentified person at the station took Franklin to an area hospital and then filed a police report, according to authorities. Word of Franklin's condition was not immediately available.

Aretha Franklin, 68, who had Eddie when she was 16, is one of the most decorated singers of all time, having won 20 Grammy Awards.

Chrisette Michele Lets ‘Freedom Reign’ on Fall Release

Her sophomore album saw Chrisette Michele having an Epiphany, but with her third offering, she’s ready to Let Freedom Reign. The Grammy-winning songstress is prepping for a November 30 release with the follow-up to her 2009 chart-topping album.


The bulk of the new material was comprised by Chuck Harmony and Chrisette, and boasts songs of triumph over love loss and freedom to love again. It has already spawned the first single “I’m a Star,” written by Ne-Yo and produced by Harmony—the same team behind her hit “Epiphany (I’m Leaving).”

Fans can add to their Chrisette collection when the feel-good track hits iTunes on October 5. Also look for her in Rick Ross’ video for “Aston Martin Music,” filmed last week in Miami with Drake.

Wale Elaborates On Kid Cudi In Complex Magazine

Washington, D.C. rapper Wale has responded to comments Kid Cudi made about him in the latest issue of Complex magazine.

During the interview with Complex, Kid Cudi took offense to a line from Wale on the "Thank You Freestyle" in which Wale rapped: "Throwing 'round wallets like the dude that Kid Cudi hit…"

"It’s just a simple-ass rhyme by a simple-ass rapper. You can’t let that s**tfaze you," Kid Cudi originally told Complex.  That’s one of those raps that just shows the world that you wack. Why would you even use that as a metaphor? Everybody think they Hov. Ni**as aint got the magic like they think they do."

Wale responded once, early last via week Twitter: "Ni**as lettin' that liquid cocaine get to them. Let's go then."

On Friday (September 17th), Wale appeared on DJ Drama's show on Sirius Satellite Radio and elaborated on his feelings towards Kid Cudi.

It's just rap music. there was not no malice out of it. it is what it is, it was a line. We make lines. 9 out of 10 rappers wouldn't take it as a diss. As I am growing as a man and an artist, you see what you gotta do and how you gotta carry yourself and why you keep your circle small."

Wale also addressed Kid Cudi's comments that the root of their issues could have stemmed from the fact that Kanye West allegedly didn't give him any beats because they didn't like Wale musically.

Ye/s a good dude but I don't recall making too much of an effort to work with anybody. I'm signed to roc nation, there's great producers…It aint really all that deep. this aint 2001, where a producer is end all be all."

Wale was recently in the studio with Yo Gotti and plans on working with Waka Flocka Flame and others.