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DJ HERO EXPANDS WITH NEW MIXES! Joining the critically-acclaimed, 93 original mix soundtrack on DJ Hero the #1 new videogame intellectual property of 2009 are chart topping hits from hip-hop legends and DJ Hero Renegade Edition headliners, JAY-Z and Eminem. Starting March 18, 2010, living room DJs can mix, scratch and battle with the JAY-Z vs. Eminem Mix Pack, featuring the following exclusive mash-ups: Shake That by Eminem Mixed With Show Me What You Got by JAY-Z Without Me by Eminem Mixed With Encore by JAY-Z Can I Get A by JAY-Z Mixed With Lose Yourself by Eminem The JAY-Z vs. Eminem Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft on March 18, 2010 for 640 Microsoft Points and on the PlayStation®Store for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system on March 25, 2010 for $7.99. All mixes will be released as downloadable singles for Wii on March 25, 2010 for 300 Wii Points each. The DJ
Hero Extended Mix Pack 01, featuring two party rockin grooves: 50 Cent
featuring Mary J. Blige All Of Me mixed with Queens Radio
Ga Ga and DARE by Gorillaz vs. Public Enemys Cant
Truss It; and the David Guetta Mix Pack 01 containing remixes of his
hot tracks When Love Takes Over featuring Kelly Rowland, the chart-topping
Sexy Chick featuring Akon and On The Dance Floor featuring
will.i.am and apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas; are available now. For information
on how to connect your console and access DJ Hero downloadable content, please
visit: djhero.com/support/ L.A. Reid,
Chairman - Island Def Jam Records Keith
Swift, L.A. Reid, Reid wouldnt discuss particulars of Shynes contract with Gangland Records reported to be worth US$5 million. L.A. Reid, Keith
Swift, L.A. Reid, Keith
Swift, L.A. Reid, L.A. Reid who is a legendary producer -says that he will be working personally with Shyne on the project. Keith
Swift, L.A. Reid, Keith
Swift, Jamal
Shyne Barrow, Signed Record Deal with Gangland Records LA Reid
was scheduled to leave Belize this evening. Shyne who arrived in Belize this
afternoon from Mexico is expected to record the album in London. While no
figures were discussed it has been rumoured to be US$5 million while
MTV is reporting that it is a US$10 million contract. Gov. Paterson has 99 problems -- and Jay-Z might be one of them. The governor's friendship with the hip-hop impresario is raising questions because of the latter's involvement with AEG, the consortium controversially selected to run a multibillion-dollar racino at Aqueduct Racetrack. Paterson's bond with the man born Shawn Carter was growing at the same time that Jay-Z was being courted to join the Aqueduct Entertainment Group. Paterson tabbed AEG in late January to turn the aging track into a slick gaming venue with 4,500 video slot machines. But the deal is under federal investigation after questions were raised about the secret selection process. Last Aug. 31, Jay-Z and his wife, Beyoncé, shared a podium with Paterson to announce that Jay-Z would stage a 9/11 benefit concert at Madison Square Garden. In early September, AEG Chairman Richard Mays approached Jay-Z through his business partners and asked whether he would be interested in joining the consortium -- which at the time ranked last among six bidders seeking the lucrative project. Within days, Jay-Z had agreed to take a 7 percent stake in AEG through one of his companies, Gain Global Investments Network LLC. Jay-Z had long been interested in the project, sources said. In spring 2009, he'd begun talking with casino mogul Steve Wynn about joining Wynn's bid to operate the racino. No deal was hammered out, and Las Vegas-based Wynn Resorts Limited, frustrated by the long review process and its murky rules, eventually bowed out. "Paterson directly told Wynn he needed to have a minority partner, so he went and got Jay-Z. But when Wynn pulled out, Jay-Z was without a home," a source told The Post. "AEG went and grabbed Jay-Z after his deal with Steve Wynn fell through." AEG jumped at the chance to recruit Jay-Z, who has become increasingly close to Paterson, sources said. The two dined together in June and hung out in the Hamptons. After attending the 9/11 concert at Madison Square Garden as Jay-Z's guest, Paterson wrote to MTV: "I can personally attest to his commitment to New York and the impact he has on New Yorkers of all ages. He is most definitely deserving of the top-MC-of-2009 title." AEG denies that it courted Jay-Z to win favor with the governor. "Given Jay-Z's superstardom and his long and deep connection to New York, the partners thought he could bring a unique perspective to shaping a facility that would truly be an entertainment destination," AEG spokesman Jonathan Rosen said. "The partners were looking to bring in someone who could bring marketing and community advice to the team." A Paterson spokeswoman added: "There is absolutely no relationship between Governor Paterson's friendship with Jay-Z and the choice of AEG." Still. Jay-Z seems an odd fit with the group, considering that he brags in his music about having dealt drugs in his youth -- not to mention that he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault and was sentenced to three years' probation for stabbing a record executive in a 1999 nightclub melee. One member of the AEG consortium, Darryl Greene, has already been forced to drop out over his criminal past. He'd fleeced city agencies out of $500,000. Paterson's relationship with others in the AEG consortium has also drawn criticism. Three days after the winning bid was announced this month, he met with the Rev. Floyd Flake, an AEG partner and Queens political kingmaker, in the governor's Harlem office. The two later said that they talked politics but that there was no quid pro quo. Meanwhile, Paterson continues to pal around with Jay-Z, even lauding him last month in Esquire for supporting the administration through some rough patches. "Jay tells me, 'I've got your back,' " the governor told the magazine. Source: NY post DIDDY TO BE OPENING ACT? Sean Diddy Combs recently offered to take the spotlight off himself and be an opening act for any other artists as he prepares for his upcoming release Last Train To Paris. According to Diddy, he is looking to release the new album this summer. Me and my crew, were putting together a whole new team and we coming to smash and spread a lot of love, Diddy told radio personality Tim Westwood. And we wanna do shows and we wanna go on right before anybody who wants to open up for them. Whoever wants us to open up for them, we just wanna open up and well take shorts on the money, well make you a better performer. Im just coming to do what I do, Im not putting anybody under pressure, Im just here to raise and elevate the level of the game Hey UK, you know Im coming there. Any UK artists want me to open up for yall or whatever, put your boy on. Im gonna do some collaborations out there with some cats you know, just look out for that Last Train to Paris coming at the end of June SHYNE SIGNS 7 FIGGA DEAL WITH DEF JAM? Rapper Shyne has inked a seven-figure deal with Def Jam according to multiple reports. Apparently, Def Jam won a bidding war between Dr. Dre, Jimmy Iovine and other labels, for the rights to release Shyne's highly anticipated album, his first since 2004. Its being reported that Shyne is planning to record his album in London, although he was not allowed entry into the country last week, because of his immigration papers. Shyne is also reportedly being managed by HipHopSince1978, the same company that manages the careers of Drake, Young Jeezy and Lil Wayne. This is the second time that Shyne has inked a deal with Def Jam. He signed a seven-figure deal with the label in 2004, although he clashed with CEO LA Reid over the promotion of his album, Godfather: Buried Alive. UPDATE: DJ PREMIER LINKS WITH MC EIHT. DJ Premier has announced plans to executive produce and score O.G. rapper MC Eihts new album, "Which Way Is West." The project will be released through Dj Premier's Year Round Records. Which Way Is West will be Eihts first release since his 2006 album-- Affiliated. The project will also feature productions from Marco Polo and guest appearances by Year Round artists NYGz. Which Way Is West is expected to hit stores this summer. 50 CENT WORKING ON NEW MOVIE. 50 Cent recently announced plans to star in an upcoming film titled Love Me, Love Me Not, which started shooting in Michigan last week-- shooting at the Grand Valled State Universitys football stadium in Allendale, Michigan. I think the students really enjoyed it, senior associate athletic director Lisa Sweany said. We had a lot of kids standing around watching the (filming). I think its pretty exciting for us. If they shoot the trailer and they get the financial backing they need (for a feature-length film), its possible they could come back here in the future. Its a good opportunity for GVSU. Reps from Grand Valley State suggest, The movie is about a football player who is diagnosed with cancer. JAY-Z AGAINST WE ARE THE WORLD REMAKE? The "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti" was the highlight of the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics on Friday, but was Jay-Z against the remake? In a recent interview with MTV, Hovy Hov said he thinks the original version is "untouchable." ..."I have an interesting take on that," the 40-year-old rapper commented. "I know everybody is gonna take this wrong, 'We Are the World,' I love it, and I understand the point and think it's great. But I think 'We Are the World' is like Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' to me. I don't ever wanna see it touched. I'm a fan of music"...."I know the plight and everything that's going on in Haiti. I applaud the efforts: Millions have been raised through text donations to Haiti," Jay continued. "So I appreciate the efforts and everything, but 'We are the World' is musically untouchable like 'Thriller' is untouchable. Some things are just untouchable. It was a valiant effort, but for me, it's gonna be untouchable." Jay Z also expressed his opinion in writing a new song to raise funds for the devastated country instead of revamping the 1985 classic. "I would have loved that idea better," he shared. "As everyone knows, I have tremendous respect for Quincy Jones. Of course, I think he's genius, as everyone else does. But, I think it's time for us to make a new song"... "I tried to do that with 'Stranded'," he said. "I didn't try to make 'We Are the World,' but I tried to make our take on how we felt." BLACK HISTORY MONTH RECOGNIZES BILLIE HOLIDAY. Profile America for the 15th day of Black History Month. One of America's premier jazz singers was born 95 years ago this year. Named Eleanora Fagan, she performed as Billie Holiday, but was also widely known as "Lady Day." Many jazz critics rank her among the very top of American jazz singers, and her difficult life is thought to have added a note of poignancy to her vocal stylings. Among her most famous recordings are "Lover Man," "God Bless the Child," and "Strange Fruit." Many critics say she was at her best singing before a live audience. In the U.S. today, about 11 percent of adults listen to live jazz at least once a year. This special edition of Profile America is a public service of the U.S. Census Bureau, conducting the 2010 Census beginning April 1st. Profile America is produced by the Public Information Office of the U.S. Census Bureau. RIHANNA LINKS WITH ITALIAN EYEWEAR CARRERA FOR LATEST VIDEO. CARRERA, (Italian fashion sunglass and sports eyewear brand), has announced its inclusion in Rihanna's latest music video "Rude Boy" the latest single off of the singer's hit album Rated R. The CARRERA sunglass model "Endurance," the brand's signature and most colourful style in its recently relaunched "vintage collection," adorns Rihanna throughout her performance. With the narrative set against a bold and bright landscape, the distinctive and fashionable eyewear enhances Rihanna's fearless and flirty performance. WYCLEF TEAM UP FOR NEW VIDEO. Wyclef Jean, engaged digital marketing agency, The Garrigan Lyman Group (GLG) Films division, to create his latest music video, "Hold On," a tribute to his homeland. The compelling new video was premiered on January 25, 2010 on MTV and brings a message of perseverance and hope even amidst the darkest times. As one of the leading celebrities involved in Haiti fundraising efforts, the video includes a message for viewers to text donations to Wyclef's Yele Haiti foundation. GLG Films developed the concept and assembled a production team that included the creators of the opening sequence for HBO's True Blood as well as the cinematographer for The Wrestler. Shot over a series of nights in Brooklyn, "Hold On" intercuts stories of lives in the balance alongside performance footage of Wyclef at the crossroads of a storm. After Haiti was struck by the devastating earthquake on January 12, the song's potential as an inspirational anthem crystallized, and it became the perfect vehicle to raise awareness about the relief effort. A direct call to donate was added as well as new footage of Haiti--not of the disaster, but of Haiti in more hopeful times, in future times, if we just "Hold On." .."We are proud to be working with such a talented musician to help bring his creative vision to life for his tribute to Haiti through 'Hold On'," said Rebecca Lyman, principal of The Garrigan Lyman Group. "Wyclef deserves so much recognition for the profound impact he's had in Haiti over the past decade and now." DRE SUES DEATHROW? Dr. Dre alleges he hasnt received any royalties since dropping his last LP for the imprint, 1996s classic disc The Chronic. TMZ reports that Dr. Dre filed the suit against WIDEawake Death Row, new owners of the label- which was created after the label filed for bankruptcy in 2009. Dre says that WIDEawake has put out a greatest hits compilation, re-released The Chronic, and released a digital version of the disc without his permission. The West Coast legend is seeking $75,000 in damages. "When it came to paying artist royalties and honouring limits on Dr. Dre recordings that could be released, the 'new' Death Row Records, to quote our client, 'forgot about Dre,'" the rapper's attorney Howard King. "This lawsuit will make sure they remember." LIL WAYNE'S REBIRTH SELLS 175K, 1ST WEEK SALES. The official Nielsen SoundScan numbers are in and Lil Wayne took the #2 slot selling 175,600 copies of his Rebirth album. Also on the charts-- the Black Eyed Peas' The E.N.D., sold 69,700 units taking #6.(1,999,000 total after 35 weeks). Michael Jackson's This Is It grabbed #11 with 35,000 units sold (1,439,000 total). Alicia Keys' Element of Freedom took #13 selling 34,000 units (1,000,000 total). Young Money's We Are Young Money took #28 with 28,000 units sold (291,000 total). Drake's So Far Gone sits at #53 with 12,000 copies sold (369,000 total). UMG NAMES NEW CEO. Universal Music Group has promoted Lucian Grainge to CEO of the company, though he will not fully take over the position until 2011. Graigne is currently Chairman/CEO of London-based Universal Music Group International (UMGI). He succeeds Doug Morris, who will remain as Chairman of UMG. Grainge will relocate to New York City as of July 1 and serve as co-CEO with Morris for the remaining six months of this year. As of January 1, 2011, Grainge will be CEO and Morris will be Chairman. Grainge will report to Jean-Bernard Levy and become a member of the Vivendi Management Board. Morris says, "The time has come for Lucian to step up to the CEO role. I am very happy with the new organization as I have been grooming him to succeed me for quite a while now. I know he is ready, willing and able to attack the challenges of the new decade." Jean-Bernard Levy, Chairman of the Vivendi Management Board, stated, "I am delighted that Lucian Grainge has agreed to move to New York to take on the Chief Executive role. His track record speaks for itself, finding stars, growing revenues and building new business models. He has the right combination of experience and innovation to take UMG forward as the migration into the digital era accelerates." Levy added, "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Doug Morris for the extraordinary results he has achieved over the years in a very tough environment. After starting out as a songwriter in 1965, Doug has overseen 35 years in the business and taken it from Vinyl to Vevo. Lucian will be able to benefit from their period in tandem. I know Doug, as the chairman of UMG, will continue to provide a major contribution to the business and the music industry as a whole." Grainge stated, "Stepping into Doug's shoes is an honor and a privilege. This is a great industry which I believe has as much to look forward to as to be proud of. If we keep getting the basics right of exceptional music and artistry, backed by a great team and sound business sense, then we'll continue to achieve success." WMG AND EMI MERGER A POSSIBILITY? CEO Edgar Bronfman Jr. said during WMG's first-quarter earnings call this week that his company may still seek to purchase EMI. Bronfman said that he saw no regulatory issues with WMG purchasing EMI, whose auditors recently expressed "significant doubt" that the label could continue if Terra Firma can't raise $180 million from investors to avoid breaching its debt covenant. If Terra Firma defaults, Citigroup, the bank that owns EMI's debt, is expected to take control of the label and seek to sell all or parts of the company. "We feel consolidation is certainly is possible," Bronfman said, according to the Post. "Should it come to EMI's lenders having the opportunity to rescue value, they're going to try and rescue as much value as possible." BET AND MICHELLE OBAMA LINK UP. BET Networks Chairman & CEO Debra Lee announced today that BET Networks will join the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, in her nationwide Let's Move campaign to address the problem of childhood obesity. BET Networks, and The BET Foundation will offer its combined resources to this initiative. "BET Networks is honored to work with the First Lady and to be a part of the Let's Move campaign addressing the issue of childhood obesity across the nation," said Lee. "The mission of the Let's Move campaign fits squarely within our corporate responsibility priorities and augments the work we have been doing for many years through the BET Foundation around the issue of health education and promoting healthy lifestyles." DRAKE HEADS OUT ON HIS FIRST SOLO TOUR. Drake recently announced his North American solo tour with the launch of the The Away From Home Tour. He will hit the road for a 25-date tour backed by fellow Canadian rapper K-Os and New York City synth-pop band, Francis & The Lights. Kicking off on April 5 at the Eastern Illinois University in Charlestown, IL the tour will hit many different spots before ending on May 8th in Plymouth, New Hampshire at a private location. Teaming with Reverb, a non-profit environmental organization, Drake will make the entire tour eco-friendly by using biodiesel fuel in his tour bus and biodegradable and recycled products on his bus and backstage. During the tour, Drake will hit up a variety of festivals including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, plus the Bamboozle fest. Date City/State Venue:
MARY J TO BE KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT DISNEY ACADEMY. Singer/producer/actress Mary J. Blige, the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," will be the Keynote Speaker as part of the third annual Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey. The event will be held Feb. 11-14 at Walt Disney World Resort. In partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey, Walt Disney World Resort will host 100 high school students from across the nation at this year's academy - giving them unprecedented access to the magic behind Walt Disney World Resort and creating unique, interactive seminars with a wide range of enriching and inspiration topics from "the unseen jobs of entertainment" to "the business of sports" to "the power of networking." Blige, whose latest album "Stronger withEach Tear" hit No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts, will speak at the academy's Commencement Ceremony, a graduation of sorts for the students. Past Keynote Speakers include Judge Greg Mathis and BET Founder Bob Johnson. "We are very excited and truly honored to have Mary J. Blige as our Keynote Speaker and all of our celebrity participants," said Tracey Walters, executive champion for Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey. "This year, Walt Disney World is celebrating the volunteer spirit of families throughout the country; and their words will hopefully inspire our students to think about their dreams as conduits not only to help themselves achieve, but to help others as well." EVE NAMED IN CORRUPTION SCANDAL. Eve is part of a U.S. Senate investigation into the illicit laundering of millions of foreign dollars by her former boyfriend, Teodorin Nguema Obiang. Obiang is the son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of oil rich Equatorial Guinea, a small West African country. Investigators claim Obiang laundered hundreds of millions of dollars in corrupt oil money and gas reserves to fund a lavish lifestyle that included a $30 million Malibu estate, and multiple exotic cars. Senate investigators are looking into a number of Obiangs business associates and business ventures, including Sweet Pink Inc., which was reportedly launched in honor of his then girlfriend, Eve. While they were dating, Obiang allegedly paid Microsoft founder Paul Allen $700,000 to rent his Yacht so he and Eve could take a romantic Christmas cruise. SOULJA BOY SENTENCED TO PROBATION. A judge has sentenced Soulja Boy to one year of probation over an October 2009 incident in Henry County, Georgia. The rapper was among a group of about 40 people who were shooting a video in an abandon house. When police officers arrived to investigate complaints in the area, the group of people fled on foot. Soulja Boy (DeAndre Cortez Way) was arrested and sent to the Henry County Jail, but was quickly bonded out. The rapper admitted to the charges in court earlier this week and was sentenced to 12 months probation and given a $1,000 fine. JILL SCOTT RESPONDS TO HIDDEN BEACH LAWSUIT. This is a statement from the representatives of Jill Scott: "The lawsuit filed on February 3, 2010 by Hidden Beach Recordings against Jill Scott has no legal merit and misrepresents the history of Ms. Scott's relationship with the label. Jill Scott has the legal right to terminate her recording contract with Hidden Beach Recordings under California's 7-year rule, where she had been a recording artist for more than 10 years. During her time at Hidden Beach Recordings, she released several highly successful albums. At this time, with many creative projects in the works which include music, film and television roles and product development, Ms. Scott looks forward to continuing to further her artistry and building the Jill Scott brand in other creative environments." --- On Wednesday Singer-actress Jill Scott was sued by her longtime record label, which is accusing the multi-platinum songstress of skipping out halfway through a six-album contract and potentially owing millions of dollars in damages. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by L.A.-based Hidden Beach Records, claims that the label and its founder, Steve McKeever, helped launch Scotts career and nurtured her into a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter but was unceremoniously dumped in October after a 10-plus year relationship. Hidden Beach is shocked by her decision not only because Scott has apparently chosen to leave the Hidden Beach family, the complaint reads, but also because Scott is contractually required to deliver three more albums to Hidden Beach. HOVY HOV TO APPEAR 2 MIN BEFORE SUPERBOWL KICK OFF. Jay-Z will appear in a two-minute teaser airing at 6:28 ET (right before Super Bowl kickoff) alongside none other than the Rutgers Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Kynan Johns. The Maestro says that being in a music video is outside the mainstream of classical music. The director of Orchestras at Mason Gross School of the Arts admits it doesnt happen in our realm but it seems it will Super Bowl Sunday. The music video is being shot this week in New York City-- a fusion of rap and rock injected with a substantive orchestral presence and will help the students see that it takes a lot of time to get pop music to that level. With an average viewing numbers of around 99 million people, the Rutgers Symphony Orchestra is getting prime face time. Were extraordinarily proud to have our students rubbing elbows and touching knuckles with Jay-Z, George Stauffer says seeming impressed. Stauffer is the Mason Gross Dean and happens to be known as an expert in the early life and work of J.S. Bach. JAY-Z SUES FOR FINANCING FIRM FOR $1 MILLION. Jay-Z is suing a financing firm that he says soaked him for more than a million bucks in a failed hotel deal. Accordign to the NY Daily, Hov says his company borrowed $52 million to build a posh hotel in Chelsea, then abandoned it when the economy tanked. Highland Capital Management was holding the note and agreed to take over the W. 21st St. property - but took four months to finish the deal. Every day of delay cost Jay $20,000. "Mr. Carter's group failed to repay the loan, which remains in default," a Highland spokesman said, adding the suit's claims are meritless. BRANDY AND RAY J TEAM UP FOR NEW VH1 SERIES. Brandy and Ray J are famous for their incredible vocal talent on the stage and screen. But they wouldn't be anywhere without the support and guidance of their parents - entertainment manager and mom, Sonja and talented musical father, Willie Norwood. In this new VH1 series, viewers will get a first hand glimpse into the lives of the Norwood family unit and their family business - Rn'B Productions. Run by Sonja, Rn'B Productions features an impressive roster of musical artists including Brandy, Ray J and their father Willie, who also serves as the company's vocal coach. But with Sonja ready to take a step down, Brandy and Ray J will have to fill her shoes quickly all the while taking the family business to the next level. Will they have what it takes to continue to stay in the limelight while growing an entertainment empire? Watch as the Norwood's join forces and reach new levels of success in "Brandy and Ray J: A Family Business" premieres on VH1 Sunday, April 11 at 9:00 PM. "The Norwood's are an incredibly talented family who truly love each other and I think our viewers will relate to that," said Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production, VH1. "They are also a family in business together in a rapidly evolving industry, which offers a whole other level of complexity in their relationships. I was struck not only by their bond and honesty with each other, but also by their ability to put family first amidst all the rewards and struggles their industry can provide." In their new 11, one-hour episode series, both Brandy and Ray J will expand their roles in the family business. Brandy will step back into the music scene and team up with famous producer Timbaland for a new album all the while raising her seven year-old daughter Sy'rai. We'll also see Ray J stepping out of his notorious bad boy image and collaborating with Rodney Jerkins and other popular R&B heavyweights. Father Willie will continue to sing and coach his famous children while being the original voice of reason. And the matriarch of the family, Sonja, will strive to keep her famous family on the right track, while passing the family business down to her two superstar children. The show is created and executive produced by Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego for 51 Minds Entertainment, LLC. an Endemol Company, who also produced the record-breaking series "Rock of Love," "Flavor of Love," "Charm School," and "I Love New York." The production teams' programming launched VH1 into their highest ratings ever. Ben Samek and Matt Odgers also executive produces for the series and the company. Brandy and Ray J Norwood executive produce the series while Ray J also serves co-creator. For VH1, the series is executive produced by Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes and Kristen Kelly. DIDDY LAUNCHING A BUSINESS ACADEMY? In a recent interview with Anderson Cooper's popular CNN show AC360, Sean "Diddy" Combs revealed future plans to start a business academy. The topic of the show was Diddy's image and whether or not he was a positive role model. According to Combs, he is shedding his bad boy image to showcase his business acumen. I want to take on more responsibility, Combs said during the interview. Im still honestly in search of how I can have the most positive effect that I can have. According to Diddy, he is planning to open a school of business to teach budding entrepreneurs the keys to success. The school will be located in the New York area, most likely Harlem, Combs stated. 50 CENT FLICK SELLS FOR 2 MILL. Twelve, the new Joel Schumacher movie starring 50 Cent, was recently bought at the Sundance Film Festival. The New York Times reports that the film unit of Hannover House, an independent publisher and media company, purchased the drama for $2 million. The movie is based on the 2002 novel of the same name which finds 50 portraying a Harlem drug-dealer named Lionel. 50s character provides Gossip Girl heartthrob Chace Crawford with drugs to sell to his rich friends on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. He is currently filming Gun with Val Kilmer and Jekyll and Hydea remake of the horror classic that he will co-star in with Forest Whitakeris in pre-production according to imdb. A-LIST ARTISTS HOP ON WE ARE THE WORLD REMAKE! On Monday, the day after the Grammy Awards, many of the music stars who were in Los Angeles for the awards ceremony gathered together to record a 25th anniversary remake of "We Are The World." This time, the new charity single will benefit Haiti relief. More than 80 artists participated in the recording, including P!nk, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Nick Jonas, LL Cool J, Robin Thicke, Celine Dion, Akon, Rob Thomas, Wyclef Jean, Barbra Streisand, Jordin Sparks, Good Charlotte's Joel and Benji Madden, Tony Bennett, Josh Groban, Snoop Dogg, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Hudson, Keri Hilson, Jamie Foxx, Katharine McPhee, Carlos Santana, Melanie Fiona, Toni Braxton, Jason Mraz, Miley Cyrus, Busta Rhymes, Nicole Scherzinger, Usher, Julianne Hough, Raphael Saadiq, American Idol judge Randy Jackson, Musiq Soulchild, Heart's Ann and Nancy Wilson, Fonzworth Bentley, Kid Cudi, Nipsey Hussle, the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson and Al Jardine, Trey Songz, Faith Evans, Mya and Gladys Knight, to name a few. The song also features a newly penned hip-hop break written by Will.I.Am that makes reference to the January 12 earthquake in Haiti, according to MTV. "I feel like a kid in a candy store," Wyclef told the press about the idea of remaking such an iconic song. Justin Bieber, who sang Lionel Richie's original opening line, added, "The experience was out of this world." The video for the song, which is being shot in 3-D, will debut on February 12. BEYONCE WINS BIG AT GRAMMYS. Beyoncé set a record at the Grammy Awards on Sunday night. She won six trophies -- the most won by a female artist at a single event. Beyoncé earned the Song of the Year award for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)," and "Single Ladies" also yielded Grammys for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Her other wins were for Best Contemporary R&B album with I Am ... Sasha Fierce, Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for her cover of "At Last" and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for "Halo." The Black Eyed Peas and Kings Of Leon won three Grammys each, the latter picking up Record Of The Year for "Use Somebody." Jay-Z took home three Grammys. Two for Run This Town (Best Rap Song and Best Rap Sung Collaboration) and one for D.O.A. (Best Rap Performance), while Eminem scooped up two Grammys - Relapse won Best Rap Album and Crack a Bottle was selected as the Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. COPYRIGHT CRIMINALS - A MUST HAVE FOR YOUR DVD COLLECTION. Making its rounds at independent film festivals, Copyright Criminals is a documentary film that examines the boundaries between artistic expression and todays copyright laws. The film features some of hip hops most influential figures as it asks the heated question among musicians and lawyers, who owns this sound? . The doc showcases many of Hip Hop music's legendary figures like Public Enemy, De La Soul and Digital Underground along with emerging artists such as audiovisual remixers Eclectic Method. The film also provides an in-depth look at artists who have been sampled, such as renowned drummer Clyde Stubblefield, the world's most sampled musician, best known for his work with James Brown, as well as commentary by Funk legend George Clinton. Copyright Criminals offers an intriguing look into beat and melody sampling, and traces hip-hop from its birth place on the streets of 1970s New York to the multibillion-dollar industry its become today. The documentary recently premiered to great acclaim on PBS's Emmy-winning documentary series Independent Lens, and debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival. SEE SOME FOOTAGE FROM THE DOCUMENTARY HERE DJ HERO CONTEST! - IN HONOR OF THE GRAMMY NOMINEES! In honor of all of the Grammy Nominated Acts that are part of DJ Hero, RAPINDUSTRY.COM and ACTIVISION are giving you the chance to win your own DJ Hero set up! Congratulations and good luck to Black Eyed Peas, Q-Tip, Common, Jay-Z, Eminem, Kid Cudi! ENTER HERE EMINEM AND WEEZY TEAM UP FOR VIDEO. Lil Wayne and Eminem will team up to create a music video for their Rebirth collaboration track, "Drop The World." The shoot is taking place this weekend in Los Angeles. "Drop The World" is off Wayne's latest album Rebirth which hits stores next week (Feb.2). The set features appearances from Shanell, Kevin Rudolf and Nicki Minaj. MARCO POLO AND RUSTE JUXX SETUP THE eXXecution. Marco Polo & Ruste Juxx have combined forces to bring fans a serious dose of hardcore Hip Hop. The eXXecution is entirely produced by Marco Polo with Ruste Juxx providing gut-wrenching vocals over heavy hitting drums. Marco Polo explains that a "simple studio session to play beats turned into Ruste Juxx recording 9 songs. The joints came out so crazy that we said let's turn this into a full-length album. Working with Duck Down all these years it was only a matter of time before Juxx and I got to a specific project. The best part is the work happened organically. Nothing was forced. Ruste came through, heard beats, wrote, recorded...done deal. March 23rd is The eXXecution!" The album, which has been finalized features Sean Price, Black Moon (Buckshot, 5FT & DJ Evil Dee), Rock of Heltah Skeltah, DJ Revolution, and Freddie Foxxx. Ruste Juxx describes the album as "straight eXXecuting. I'm killing off wack MCs and Marco's murdering the producers. I couldn't help but to write some killer shit to the beats Marco made. If I wrote something wack to his production, then it's a wasted beat. I can't have that! " PEEP THE VISUALS HERE KIDZ IN THE HALL SET FOR NEW RELEASE. Kidz In The Hall are embarking on their next journey into the LAND OF MAKE BELIEVE. For Naledge, MC of Kidz In The Hall, he sees the project as "the moment we have worked for has come to a crossroad. We strive for success in this music industry, but we have never taken time to look ourselves in the mirror and analyze what this industry has made us. As a lyricist, I used this album to serve as a soundtrack to my aspirations and to my downfalls, but also as a chance to evaluate who I am as a man compared to whom I envisioned myself to be. Examining the current climate of our world today, LAND OF MAKE BELIEVE, is a timely reminder for us all to take a step back and analyze how we can strive to be better and achieve more. Double-O highlights this further by saying that "The Land of Make Believe is different things for different people. For us it is the space between where we are now as artists and where we feel we should be. It's the idea that until you actually get to your destination or goal you have to act like you are already there. Kidz In The Hall have recently unveiled the second single, JUKEBOX featuring MC Lyte. The video, directed by BB GUN, will be impacting National Video Networks in early February. Kidz In The Hall have landed exciting licensing deals with their music featured in EA Sports Madden 09, Rockstar Game's Midnight Club LA, Activision's Pimp My Ride 2 and EA Sports upcoming game NBA LIVE 2010. The group remained active touring both North America and Europe, performing with the likes of Method Man & Redman, Gym Class Heroes, Atmosphere, The Clipse, MURS, and as a part of Rock The Bells and Paid Dues Tours. Kidz In The Hall are excited for the world to hear their next project. Double-O proclaims, Since we were backpackers on the first album and Hipsters on the second...I am interested to see what they'll call us on this album...how about just Dope artists! 50 CENT'S "SELF DESTRUCT" ALBUM GOES GOLD. Fif's Before I Self Destruct was recently certified Gold by the RIAA due to sales in excess of 500,000 copies. Led by the single "Baby By Me," 50 Cent's Before I Self Destruct closed out a strong decade of hit albums and singles for 50 Cent including the 2003 debut Get Rich or Die Tryin and The Massacre"(2005). EMINEM, DRAKE, AND LIL WAYNE TO PERFORM AT GRAMMYS. Eminem, Drake, Lil Wayne and Travis Barker will team up for a special performance at Sunday night's Grammy Awards. They join a major roster of performers that is already packed with all five Album of the Year nominees Beyoncé, the Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, Dave Matthews Band and Taylor Swift as well as Bon Jovi, Green Day, Lady Antebellum, Maxwell, Pink and the Zac Brown Band. The show will also boast a 3-D tribute to Michael Jackson featuring Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, Smokey Robinson, Carrie Underwood and Usher. CHICAGO ENTREPRENEURS FORM UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP. First Installment Of Closed Sessions Offers New Music From Bun B, Curren$y, Kidz In The Hall, Tanya Morgan, Rhymefest, GLC, Skyzoo, Big Pooh & Emilio Rojas. To truly make a mark in the digital age, you have to be ahead of the curve and Chicagos recently Closed Sessions label may very well be at the forefront of a new movement in the digital music age. With each of the Closed Sessions founders having years of experience in their respective fields, they combined their expertise in Audio Engineering (Mike Kolar who is chief engineer and owner of Chicagos SoundScape Studios), Media Technology (Omar Solis) and Viral Media (DJ RTC EIC and also a renowned DJ who has performed and worked hand in hand with numerous labels and artists) to create a one-stop shop that caters to everything an artist requires to create compelling music. The premise of Closed Sessions revolves around using their hometown of Chicago as a backdrop to further influence the creative process and experience. All of the sessions recorded for Closed Sessions: Vol. 1 are recorded organically with artists who were either visiting the city while on-tour, or in a few cases those who already call it home. Working with a variety of talented producers, Closed Sessions is supplied with with original and high quality production, which is then stored in the catalog at SoundScape Studios. When a participating artist comes to Chicago, they are taken to SoundScape Studios and the studio is equipped and catered to fit their individual needs. Once comfortable, they are able to cycle through the Closed Sessions catalog and pick the beat of their choice. Once they have chosen their beat, they are left to do what they do---make great music. Adding to the intrigue, Closed Sessions participants work with other artists and producers that they may have not previously met and may not typically work with, which creates very compelling music. Each Closed Session is videotaped and photographed, giving fans a candid look into the recording habits of Hip-Hops top artists, well as providing them with new and high quality music from their favorite artists. The finished song and video are released virally via the web by other leading music and culture websites. The songs are released individually, as well as collectively via multi-media EPs that include music, videos, photos, and stories all focusing on the Closed Sessions experience. Since conducting the first Closed Session with New Orleans recording artist Curren$y, artists such as Amanda Diva, Kidz In The Hall, Tanya Morgan, U-N-I, Bun B, Donnis, Rhymefest, Skyzoo, Big Pooh, and many others have participated. The first Closed Sessions EP, presented and mixed by DJ RTC, will be released in March 2010 and will contain nine songs. The collection will be distributed digitally as a free download. While each artist is different and their recording process differs, their individual experiences and testimonials all shed light on how Closed Sessions is poised to brand its name throughout the Urban Music world. "Going to Chicago is always good... Seeing GLC in Chicago is even better... Recording in Chicago with GLC and RubyHornet is guaranteed classic!" ----Bun B. "Closed Sessions made sense for me because I always felt like I wanted SoundScape Studios to be the one place that my artist friends could hang out and feel comfortable when in Chicago. DJ RTC, being my personal friend and Mixtape DJ and Mike Kolar being my engineer made my involvement very logical. Closed Sessions is creating snapshots of some of the great moments in Chicago Hip-Hop through song." ----Naledge of Kidz In The Hall. "Closed Sessions is like being in the club when it's poppin' minus all the hatin' ass ni***z."Rhymefest. With Closed Sessions Vol. 1 already recorded, the team is already embarking on and in the planning stages for Closed Sessions: Vol. 2, which will be recorded with artists who will be attending the March 2010 SXSW Music Festival in Austin, TX. The Closed Sessions team will be setting up shop in a luxurious mansion located one mile outside of downtown Austin. HAVOC DA MOUTHPIECE MOURNS THE LOSS OF HIS FATHER. For most hip hop aficionados, Havoc Da Mouthpiece's claim to fame goes back to the pioneer days of the west coast's gangsta' hip hop era when he was the frontman for the rap crew South Central Cartel, and west coast rap duo Havoc and Prodeje. Few realized that the Chicago native actually had roots that nestled deep in the foundation of R&B, as his father, Robert "Squirrel" Lester was one of the founding members of the legendary soul group the Chi-Lites. When Robert Lester passed away on Thursday, January 21 from cancer, a part of Havoc's spirit went with him. Havoc's latest project, from his new artist Drewp on GaimChng3r Entertainment, entitled "The Final Curtain" was in fact heavily influenced by his dad, while dedicated to the memory of Michael Jackson. While the song's basic flow is hip hop, its heavy old school soul sound is undeniable. In addition, all proceeds from the digital release were earmarked for donation to the American Cancer Society, as Havoc knew the battle Lester was facing. "The last time I saw my dad," reveals Havoc, "was last June when he was performing at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The Chi-Lites were on the bill with all the old school heavies. My dad told me then, I was to carry on his legacy. But I never imagined he would be gone so soon. I am really mourning my dad right now! I've always tried to bring some old school magic to hip hop, and now, more than ever, I've got to do my part to keep the legacy of R&B alive amongst my peers." Havoc first collaborated with his dad on the single, "It's a S.C.C. Thang - featuring the Chi-Lites" back in 1994, on the album in "In Gatz We Trust." The video for the single, now a classic, was directed by Havoc alongside the then, upcoming director Brett Ratner and can be viewed ( WATCH HERE ) Chi-Lites' members occasionally came and went, but Lester was a staple of the Chi-Lites throughout his life, playing concerts all over the world with stops in Japan, Germany, Korea and Greenland. His final performance with the group was last summer. He was 67 years old. The Chi-Lites' hits continue to be sampled. Beyonce and Jay-Z used the horns from "Are You My Woman" for "Crazy in Love," and Jay-Z's "December 4th'' samples "That's How Long." Fantasia sampled "There'll Never Be Any Peace" on her controversial "Baby Mama." M.C. Hammer used "Have You Seen Her" and Paul Young remade "Oh Girl." Funeral arrangements for Robert "Squirrel" Lester are as follows: Robert Lester's body will lie-in-state all day Wednesday, February 3, 2010 from 12:00 noon at the Harold Washington Cultural Center, 47th and King Drive, Chicago, IL. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, February 4, 2010. The service will be as follows: Family hour - 11:00 a.m., funeral at 12:00 noon at Third Baptist Church of Chicago, 1551 West 95th Street (95th and Ashland) Chicago, Illinois 60643. Phone (773) 445-8500. Fax (773) 445-2957. Interment to follow immediately after services. Repast to follow in the church ballroom. Flowers, cards and telegrams can be sent to Minor-Morris Funeral Home, 1018 West 79th Street, Joliet, IL 60433. Robert "Squirrel" Lester is survived by his wife, Louise; 9 children, his mother and 3 sisters. TIP BEING SUED. Reports are surfacing that T.I. is being sued for copyright infringement by a Los Angeles-based rapper named Motoe Blizzid. Blizzid claims that Tip stole his 2004 song Reverence and used pieces of it to create his 2006 Grammy-award-winning hit, What You Know. Blizzid alleges he gave his song to several industry insiders, including Relentless Management, who he believes handed the track to T.I. In court documents, One LLP and Blizzid claimed that the tracks contain the same harmonic range and lawyers even presented documents that showed an algorithm that claimed to show the songs similarities scientifically. Blizzid has requested to a trial by jury and is seeking any damages and the surrender of all profits earned from the song. T.I. is currently serving out the remainder of his 366-day sentence on federal gun charges in an Atlanta halfway house, has yet to comment on the accusations. LIVE NATION AND TICKETMASTER MERGER COMPLETE. After the news broke yesterday that the U.S. Department of Justice and the Canadian Commissioner of Competition approved the merger of Live Nation and Ticketmaster, the two companies confirmed that the merger is complete. A statement said that under the terms of the transaction, Ticketmaster stockholders will receive approximately 1.474 shares of Live Nation common stock for each share of Ticketmaster common stock they own. As of the close of trading on Monday, Ticketmaster common stock ceased trading. The merged entity now bears the name Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. In a statement, the new company said that it's mission will be to improve the live entertainment experience and to drive major innovations in ticketing technology, marketing and service. "Through this merger, the parties believe that the combined company will have the tools to develop new products, expand access, improve transparency and deliver artists and fans more choice. This will drive greater attendance at live events and bringing more value to all major constituents in the industry," the statement reads. HAITI TELETHON RAISES TOP $$. The star-studded "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon Friday has raised more than $57 million, while the telecast album became the biggest one-day preorder in iTunes history. The money raised for the earthquake relief fund came in the first 24 hours after it aired live on more than 50 domestic networks and in 60 countries. It also does not include proceeds from online music downloads of the broadcast, which featured headline performances by Wyclef Jean, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Shakira, Sting, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera and several others."The public has set a new standard of giving for a relief telethon with 'Hope for Haiti Now,'?" said Lisa Paulsen, prexy and CEO of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, which is ensuring proper fiduciary oversight and administration of all donated funds. The "Hope for Haiti Now" album became the No. 1 iTunes recording in 18 countries. The studio version of "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)," the original track performed by Bono, the Edge, Jay-Z and Rihanna during "Hope for Haiti Now," rose to become the No. 1 song on iTunes in 12 countries. SHYNE WORKING ON NEW LP? Shyne is rumored to be working on a new album, which would be his first in ten years. Swizz Beatz further confirmed that new music from Shyne is in the works, but indicated that the rapper needs to find some direction, and that when he does, he will be ready to work with him to produce a hot album, Im rocking with Shyne, Beatz said in an interview. I need him to find himself a little bit. Not to say he dont know who he is, I just need him to vibe off a couple beats and be like, Swizz, these are four joints right here I been rocking with, me and Scott Storch or whoever. This is the lane I wanna go with. Then I could digest those things and then I can come up with the best records for Tip, Shyne, for everybody. These are different techniques so I can use those darts. Scott Storch is also looking to work with Shyne after meeting him during his incarceration, Yeah, Shynes my man. Ive been talking to him and I was talking to him all through his prison sentence. Hes always remained a loyal person to me, Storch explained in an interview. We became friends after he was already in [jail] and I found out he was a fan and hes just a hell of a cool guy. Im looking forward to doing, not just one record, but doing a chunk on his album Hes in full effect. Hes got people sending him tracks. I have a feeling hes going to make a really huge album Hes got a lot to say. Shyne is already looking for ways to help others who are currently in jail by giving advice on being responsible, while expressing regrets over his actions that landed him in jail to inmates: I didnt blame nobody else for my mistakes, Shyne told a room of inmates. It wasnt my co-defendants fault that I shot somebody in the club, I take responsibility, I did that sh*t, it was a terrible mistake and I moved on. So thats what I challenge you guys to do. Dont blame the C.O., dont blame the police you have to take accountability for your actions and you have to decide what your future is gonna be. You cant be following what this one say and that one say, I spent 10 years in the cooker its a lot of gang bangers in New York, I didnt bang because Im universal. Im a boss. GLOBAL MUSIC SALES FELL 10% IN 2009. The IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) has released its annual report on global music sales, and found that overall recorded music sales were down by ten percent in 2009. Additionally, sales are off a whopping 30 percent when compared to 2004. The IFPI noted some positive developments, with over 25 percent of revenue now coming from digital music. Legal digital sales grew by roughly 12 percent to $4.2 billion worldwide last year, though there was a 25 percent growth in the digital sector in 2008 and 30 percent growth in 2007. The IFPI attributed the slowdown of digital growth to illegal music piracy online. The worst markets for digital music are apparently those without a legal digital music retail option. The IFPI said that in Spain, which has one of the highest rates of illegal downloading in Europe, sales fell by 17 percent and the music market is now bringing in about one-third of what it did in 2001. France and Brazil were also singled out as "countries known for the historic vibrancy and influence of their music and musicians...with local artist album sales or the number of releases plummeting." Japan reported flat digital revenue in the first half of 2009, with CD sales dropping 20 percent. According to the report, over 400 licensed digital music services are now available worldwide, with over 11 million songs for sale. Single track downloads grew by ten percent in '09, with digital album sales up by approximately 20 percent. Despite all of this, the IFPI believes that approximately 95 percent of music downloaded in 2009 was done illegally. IFPI Chairman/CEO John Kennedy commented on the report, saying, "Music fans today can acquire tracks and albums in ways not conceivable a few years ago - from download stores, streaming sites, subscription services, free-to-user sites, bundled with their broadband or a mobile phone handset." --- "It would be great to report that these innovations have been rewarded by market growth, more investment in artists, more jobs. Sadly that is not the case. Digital piracy remains a huge barrier to market growth and is causing a steady erosion of investment in local music. The collapse in sales and investment in France, Spain and Brazil, countries with traditionally vibrant music cultures, testify to this and are a warning to the rest of the world." -- "In 2009 the mood has crucially changed. It is now accepted that this is about the future of a broad base of creative industries that have huge economic importance and employ vast numbers of people. Governments, led by France, South Korea, Taiwan, the UK and New Zealand led the way in 2009 by adopting or proposing legislation to tackle piracy. It is vital these efforts are seen through to their conclusion and followed by other governments in 2010." SIRIUS XM RADIO ENDS '09 WITH GOOD NUMBERS. Sirius XM Radio ended 2009 with 18,772,758 subscribers, adding 257,028 net subscribers in the fourth quarter. "Based on preliminary financial data, we expect to report over $100 million of free cash flow for 2009, an extraordinary improvement over the pro forma negative free cash flow of $552 million that the company experienced in 2008," stated Sirius XM CEO Mel Karmazin. "This is the first year in our history that we have generated positive free cash flow for the entire year. Our fourth quarter subscriber results mark two consecutive quarters of net subscriber additions for Sirius XM and are the highest since the third quarter of 2008. Improvements in automotive sales, conversion rates and better than anticipated self-pay churn suggest that the outlook for the auto sector and the effects of the economy on our business are beginning to improve." The company's paid subscriber base increased by 247,182 in the fourth quarter to 15,703,932 subscribers, while total paid and unpaid trials included in the sale of a vehicle remained level with the prior quarter and the prior year at approximately 3.6 million. 50 CENT CALLS JAY-Z SOFT - SAYS HE PLAYS IT SAFE? 50 Cent recently sat down with DJ Clue and DJ Envy. He spoke on what he thinks about Jay-Z and why he feels Hov rarely makes any direct attacks during his beefs and battles in hip-hop. Its the competitive nature of the art form, Fif explained about his relationship with Jay. Its still there, he still competes too. He just does it so subliminal that people dont read it. --- To me, its a softer way to do it. A safer way to do it because no one directly feels offended by it Why not just say it? I dont feel the disses. You gotta at least let the diss be noticeable. A guy thats that subtle, how do you really take offense to those activities? You know, I get really disrespectful, I dont mind. And then its like, we can go to the other space and it can really go down. SNOOP DOGG DROPPING MINI-MOVIE. Snoop Dogg announced today that he will release the follow up to his latest release entitled More Malice: Deluxe Album and Movie on March 23rd. The new album will feature 5 songs from the previously released "Malice N Wonderland" along with 5 entirely new songs and 2 remixes. Included with More Malice will be a never-before-seen mini-movie entitled Malice N Wonderland The Movie which features Snoop in the title role with cameos from Jamie Foxx, Xzibit, Nipsey Hussle and more. In addition to new music, the 40 minute action packed movie included in the package tells the story of superhero Malice (played by Snoop Dogg) in his hometown of crime plagued Wonderland. The safety of the city is up to Malice who fights crime and strives to bring peace back to his neighborhood. Music from the accompanying album is featured throughout the dramatic film. Snoop says, "The response to Malice N Wonderland has been so incredible that I had to drop another banger for the fans. They have been asking for more - so I'm giving them More Malice! I also wanted everyone to get something special so we are adding a mini-movie to the mix - with me in the starring role. The homie Jamie Foxx came through to be a part of it as well - between the action and the storyline, people are in for a big surprise." HOPE FOR HAITI NOW TELETHON TO FEATURE BIG NAMES. Top heavy weight artists will perform a cross-continent televised fundraiser for "Hope For Haiti Now" on Friday. Wyclef Jean, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Shakira and Sting will perform from New York; Los Angeles hosts Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift and a group set from Keith Urban, Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow; Coldplay joins Bono, The Edge, Jay-Z and Rihanna in London. The two-hour program will be simulcast on all major networks, HBO and music-themed cable channels and online at video sites including YouTube and Hulu. It will benefit on-the-ground-in-Haiti charities like Oxfam, Partners in Health, the Red Cross and Jean's Yele Haiti organization. BET HONORS RECOGNIZES. The 2010 honorees included legendary songstress Whitney Houston (Entertainment), multi-faceted entertainer Queen Latifah (Media), respected business mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs (Entrepreneur), accomplished educator Dr. Ruth Simmons (Education), and world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Keith Black (Public Service). Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, India.Arie, ELEW and others will pay tribute to these phenomenal stars with riveting performances. BET Networks Chairman and CEO Debra L. Lee and the Honorable Mayor Adrian Fenty of Washington, D.C. welcomed the audience. Both Lee and Mayor Fenty called out to viewers and audience members alike to support relief efforts for those who were affected by the recent devastating earthquake in Haiti. Lee also referenced BET's own initiatives as part of the worldwide effort to aid Haiti. "Before this disaster, BET Networks, in celebration of its 30th anniversary, was set to donate thirty thousand dollars every month for a year to an organization that has dedicated itself to working towards a brighter future for the African American community," said Lee in her remarks. "In light of the devastation in Haiti, BET plans to donate the first grant to immediate emergency relief in Haiti." Following Lee's remarks, Stevie Wonder, Trey Songz and India.Arie delivered a soulful rendition of the "Wake Up Everybody" in memory of the recent passing of soul-man extraordinaire, Teddy Pendergrass and his message of hope and commitment to the community. Queen Latifah, this year's recipient of the BET Honor for Media, was presented with her award by the talented and always hilarious Taraji P. Henson, while R&B songstress Jazmine Sullivan performed soul-stirring interpretations of "Unforgettable" and "Rock Steady." Next, the powerhouse legend Patti Labelle performed "If Only You Knew." Actor and comedian Chris Tucker then introduced the Public Service award honoree, neurosurgeon Dr. Keith Black, who was treated to an extraordinary performance of "Can't Imagine Love Without You" by the iconic Stevie Wonder accompanied by Take 6. Hip-hop pioneer Andre Harrell presented his longtime friend Sean "Diddy" Combs with the Entrepreneur BET Honor. 2009 BET HONORS recipient Mary J. Blige performed a medley of her greatest hits "Love No Limit," "I Love You," and "Be Happy," as a personal tribute to her mentor and friend. During his heartfelt acceptance speech, Diddy attributed his success to his mother's tireless work ethic, also giving credit to the hip-hop community. BET Networks also paid tribute to Dr. Ruth Simmons (Public Service), who was presented with her award by veteran actress Victoria Rowell. It was followed by the moving performance by India.Arie, who was accompanied by pianist ELEW (Eric Lewis), with songs "Beautiful Flower" and "Someday We'll All Be Free." Lastly, Whitney Houston was on her feet for a surprise soul-rousing performance by one of her favorite artists, gospel great Kim Burrell singing "I Believe In You and Me." And if that wasn't enough, Jennifer Hudson brought the crowd to its feet singing Houston's chart-topping "I Will Always Love You," as she was presented with The BET Honor for Entertainment by Ne-Yo. Other highlights of the show included Trey Songz and Stevie Wonder's medley of each other's hits, "That Girl" and "Invented Sex," as well as Ryan Leslie performing his latest single "I Choose You." Maxwell also performed "Fist Full of Tears" and "Forgive Me." Stephen Hill, President of Music Programming and Specials, BET Networks, and Lynne Harris Taylor, Vice President of Specials, BET Networks are executive producers, along with John Cossette of John Cossette Productions. UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP MAKES SOME BIG CUTS. Universal Music Group has laid off approximately 50 employees throughout the company. Anonymous sources confirmed the cutbacks to the Los Angeles Times today.The 50 employees let go make up less than one percent of UMG's workforce. The cuts were made across UMG's multiple labels (the Verve, Def Jam, Interscope, Lost Highway and Universal Motown labels) and at distribution arm Universal Music Group Distribution. "Universal Music Group is continuing to transform our organization to better serve our artists and business partners," the company said in a statement. "Given the current economic climate, we have to be as agile and efficient as possible. Unfortunately, these ongoing efforts have resulted in some redundancy. However, UMG will now be even better positioned to compete in the growing global, digital marketplace." The Times notes that even though Universal was the market leader once again in 2009, it is not immune to the fiscal worries of the music industry. Last week, Nielsen reported that UMG held just over 30 percent of the total music sales market last year. EVE SAYS NEW ALBUM IS COMING IN 2010 Eve revealed on Twitter Friday (Jan. 15) that she has parted ways with Interscope Geffen A&M Records where she released her first three albums. Let me tell u what happened with music so yall dont think I quit, she told her followers. Left Interscope, free agent now. Went back in re-doing music. Trust me....Not letting this year pass wit out an ABULM! Can't take the non-sense MUSIK ;).. The hood made me and shaped me. Trust me I never 4get!!!! No matter my success I never 4get where I come from! CYPRESS HILL SIGN WITH PRIORITY RECORDS/EMI Legendary hip-hop/rock group CYPRESS HILL have signed an exclusive worldwide deal with Priority/EMI and are gearing up for the April 6th release of RISE UP, their first new studio album in six years. The deal is the first artist signing by Priority Records Creative Chairman Snoop Dogg. "My role as Creative Chairman of Priority Records has put me in the driver's seat to help revive the most important west coast hip hop label," says Snoop. "As such, I'm excited to announce my first signing as Cypress Hill. Cypress Hill is undeniably one of the most important hip hop groups in music history, not only are they incredibly talented and the first Latino hip hop group to go platinum, they are also from the west coast-so this signing is the perfect marriage." "We're very excited to be part of the Priority Records family," says B-Real. "It's a label with a rich history, and together with Snoop we're going to add to its legacy." Last night, Cypress Hill and Snoop performed on the TBS late night show, "Lopez Tonight." Snoop kicked things off with current single "I Wanna Rock" off his new album, Malice in Wonderland, then Cypress Hill took the stage for an electrifying rendition of their blockbuster hit "Insane In The Brain." RISE UP's lead single is its incendiary title track, which features Rage Against The Machine/Street Sweeper Social Club's Tom Morello, who co-wrote and co-produced the song. The famed guitarist also appears on a second track titled "Shut 'Em Down." "It was great to work with my longtime friends and comrades Cypress Hill on these two monster rock tracks," says Morello. "Cypress are back with a vengeance!" The follow-up to 2004's Till Death Do Us Part, RISE UP was recorded over the course of the past three years at B-Real's studio, The Temple, in Los Angeles. "Making this record was so much fun," says Sen Dog. "It felt like the first record we ever made together. We recorded whatever we wanted to with no musical boundaries. And having the chance to work with one of my favorite guitar players of all time, Tom Morello, was amazing. I always knew we would make some kickass music together.".. "We took a little break after the last record to work on individual projects," adds B-Real. "Both Sen Dog and I wanted to put out our own solo records, which we had been working on for some time. And though we were doing other things, we each kept ideas in mind for Cypress Hill and would go into the studio periodically to record. It was great to work at our own pace and without a deadline hanging over us. We'd get together at my studio and record whenever we felt that burst of creativity. It was an amazing way to work and resulted in what I think is our best record yet." Cypress Hill (rappers B-Real and Sen Dog, DJ Muggs and percussionist Eric Bobo), is one of the most successful and influential hip-hop/rock groups in music history, with more than 18 million worldwide sales, an amazing string of chart-topping hits and an international fanbase whose members number in the millions. They've headlined Lollapalooza, been named "Best Rap Group" by Rolling Stone, collaborated with the likes of Pearl Jam and Sonic Youth, hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and have had their music licensed for a plethora of TV shows, commercials and films. KELIS VS PETA. Kelis wasn't too happy about a personal letter she received directly from animal rights organization PETA. Never one to bite her tongue, she decided to respond... "Good morning all! Ok, so youre gonna love this. The other day I got a personalized letter from PETA! Lol so after some thought I've decided to write one back. Goes a little something like this: "There is no humane way to kill anything, let me start there. Its unfortunate but its part of life. With that being said, I would eat pterodactyl if you found some and you told me it was meaty and delicious. And after doing a very minimal amount of research....... I found out that the founder Ingrid Newkirk is completely batty. I had a feeling but she far exceeded my expectations. I mean certifiably insane! Lol this chicks will is nuts, google it its a riot! Beyond the fact that I think she's a diabetic, which means she needs insulin, which is taken from lab pigs (I know this because my sister happens to be in veterinary school), which would be completely hypocritical. Its like don't abuse animals unless it can help me..." WYCLEF RELEASES OFFICIAL STATEMENT. Wyclef Jean, the United States ambassador to Haiti, released a statement to discuss whats going on in Haiti and what Americans need to do to support the Caribbean nation in the aftermath of this catastrophe. Haiti today faced a natural disaster of unprecedented proportion, an earthquake unlike anything the country has ever experienced, he said. The magnitude 7.0 earthquake- and several very strong aftershocks- struck only 10 miles from Port-au-Prince. I cannot stress enough what a human disaster this is, and idle hands will only make this tragedy worse. The over 2 million people in Port-au-Prince tonight face catastrophe alone. We must act now. President Obama has already said that the U.S. stands ready to assist the Haitian people. The U.S. Military is the only group trained and prepared to offer that assistance immediately. They must do so as soon as possible. The international community must also rise to the occasion and help the Haitian people in every way possible. FORMER CLIPSE MANAGER GETS 32 YEARS. Former Clipse manager Anthony Geezy Gonzalez has been sentenced to 32 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to leading a $20 million dollar drug conspiracy. Gonzalez was accused of completing numerous transactions, such as purchasing 625 pounds of marijuana for $540,000, and 10 kilos of cocaine for $200,000 in 2007. Because of his community support, and cooperation with the federal government, Gonzalez received the minimum sentence allowed under federal guidelines. The prosecutors 82-page indictment stated that Gonzalez ran a drug empire that moved a half-ton of cocaine and over a ton of marijuana through Hampton Roads, Virginia since 2003. The former nightclub owner is alleged to have received his drugs from Panama, Florida, California, and Arizona. The federal documents detail that Gonzalez laundered money through several front business, one named as the Clipse booking agency Soul Providers Management, and his organization styled themselves out as music producers, rappers, entrepreneurs, club owners, clothing designers and other legitimate occupations in order to conceal the true source of their income. SHAWTY REDD OUT ON BAIL. Producer Shawty Redd, who is charged with the New Year's Day murder of 35-year-old Damon Martin, was released from jail on Tuesday (January 12), according to Captain Jason Bolton of the Henry County (Georgia) Police and a representative for the Henry County Superior Court Clerk. Redd had his bail set at $200,000 at a hearing on Tuesday afternoon, the authorities said, and was given clear instructions not to leave Henry County and to wear an ankle bracelet. Redd has a preliminary hearing tentatively set for February 3. At press time, his attorney, Marcia Fuller, had not responded to MTV News' requests for comment. Redd was arrested on January 1 after police responded to a call about an early morning shooting at Stewart's home in Hampton, Georgia. According to police, the producer was involved in a physical altercation at his home with Martin, who was described as an "acquaintance." LIVE NATION SHAREHOLDERS APPROVE MERGER. Live Nation announced that at its annual meeting held recently, its stockholders voted to approve the issuance of Live Nation common stock in connection with its previously announced merger with Ticketmaster. Over 99 percent of the shares voted were in favor of the merger. The company's stockholders also approved other proposals submitted to a vote, including a motion to change the company's name to Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. following the completion of the merger. However, the U.S. Justice Department is still waiting for Ticketmaster and Live Nation to offer more concessions before deciding whether or not to approve the deal, sources told Bloomberg News. TIMBALAND LAUNCHES SHOCK VALUE II TOUR. Multi-platinum producer Timbaland has announced details about his forthcoming North American tour in support of his current album Shock Value II, which was released by Mosley Music Group/Blackground Records/Interscope Records on December 8th. The Shock Value II Tour, which begins on January 15th in Virginia, will be a visual and sonic extravaganza, featuring Timbaland performing with a live band as well as surprise live guest appearances. Other special guests will appear via moving digital imagery that will be projected onto a full-size screen, creating an interactive performance experience between Timbaland and his guests, who include Drake, Katy Perry, and Brandy. In addition, New Jersey pop-rock band Honor Society will open several dates on the tour. Timbaland has also written several pieces of original music specifically for the tour and will be making live beats during the show. "I'm so excited to come and give my fans an intimate, up-close and personal experience of my music," Timbaland says. "I want everyone to leave feeling like they never stopped dancing the entire time." The set-list for the tour will feature songs from throughout Timbaland's illustrious career, including the Shock Value II singles "Morning After Dark" (featuring Nelly Furtado and French singer-songwriter SoShy), "Say Something" (featuring Drake), and the latest, "Carry Out" (featuring Justin Timberlake), as well as tracks from Timbaland's multi-platinum 2007 album Shock Value. The latter album spawned several No. 1 pop singles, including the Grammy-nominated "Give It To Me" (featuring Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake) and "The Way I Are," (featuring Keri Hilson and D.O.E.). KANDI SIGNS WITH ASYLUM From multi-platinum albums to Grammy Award winning songs to a top rated and 2010 NAACP nominated TV show: KANDI BURRUSS, formerly of platinum-selling R&B group Xscape and presently a cast member of the hit TV show The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA), has signed a deal with Asylum Records through her label, Kandi Koated Entertainment, to release her yet untitled new full length CD this spring. The new album promises not to disappoint as KANDI wrote or co-wrote all of the songs on the disc and production was done by Jazze Pha, Nitti, Drumma Boy, KP and Malay, Blac Elvis, and Kuya Productions to name a few. Guest features include new label mate Gucci Mane, Rick Ross, Rasheeda, and her sister from Xscape, Tiny. "I am so excited to be working with Asylum on my new release. They loved the music I delivered. Having my own label, Kandi Koated Entertainment, has afforded me the ability to really be true to my craft, sharing my total self with my fans. That's what music should be about." KANDI has already seen success with the TOP 10 Drumma Boy-produced iTunes hit "Fly Above," which, according toKandi, is "an anthem that will inspire anyone who is dealing with issues to 'fly above' the drama." One of the RHOA episodes is centered around Kandi's return to the stage with a performance of "Fly Above." In addition to recently putting out her own EP, the #1 charting iTunes Hit, Kandi Koated Entertainment Presents The Fly Above EP, KANDI is featured on the hit single "Try It Out" by Big Bank Black and the new video for the song was recently shot in Atlanta. The single has been heating up Atlanta radio for some time now and has landed on the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop charts. "Tardy For the Party," the catchy RHOA track she revamped for co-star Kim Zolciak reached TOP 10 on the iTunes Dance chart upon its release. KANDI made a name for herself in the music business when she was a teenager performing with the hit girl group Xscape on Jermaine Dupri's So So Def Records. After the group disbanded Kandi went on to write a Grammy Award winning song for TLC ("Scrubs") and gave Destiny's Child a #1 hit with "Bills, Bills, Bills" which led her to writing for superstar acts such as Pink, Usher, Whitney Houston, and Alicia Keys to name a few. In addition, Kandi is a consummate businesswoman. She recently opened up TAGS, a new boutique, in her hometown of Atlanta. Kandi's star is steadily rising, she recently hosted a tweet and meet party where more than a thousand fans showed up to greet her. GILLETTE GOES BACKSTAGE IN MUSIC WITH NEW, REVEALING DOCUMENTARY FILM SERIES. Gillette® [PG] today announced that it is partnering with some of the worlds most popular musicians to produce Gillette UNCUT, an authentic digital documentary film series which will make its world premiere in Los Angeles in late January 2010. Shot by renowned music filmmaker/photographer Danny Clinch, the Gillette UNCUT films will provide fans with a rare glimpse into the worlds of will.i.am of Black Eyed Peas, country superstar and actor Tim McGraw, Mark Hoppus of Blink-182 and the All-American Rejects featuring Tyson Ritter. Music plays a big part in the lives of young men, said Steve Fund, Gillette Global Marketing Director. Gillette UNCUT shows a side of artists thats rarely, if ever, seen going backstage to show how they prepare, including styling and grooming, and the moments of doubt they experience before taking the stage. MARY J CONFIRMED FOR ESSENSE FESTIVAL. This July will see the return of singer/producer and actress Mary J. Blige to the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL, set for July 2, 3 and 4 in New Orleans. Not only will the Queen of Hip-Hop soul and nine-time Grammy winner serve as one of the headliners, this year she will also take on the role as the festival's official spokesperson in the months leading up to the annual weekend of entertainment and empowerment. Blige has performed eight times at ESSENCE (last in 2008), where she'll be part of a line-up featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment and the nation's most influential speakers, artists, authors and leaders. "We're thrilled to have Mary J. Blige on board for this year's Essence Music Festival," said Michelle Ebanks, president, Essence Communications Inc. "Her history with the Essence brand, both with the festival and the magazine, makes her a great spokesperson for this year's festival and we're looking forward to working with her over the next few months." This year, the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL will celebrate the 40th anniversary of ESSENCE Magazine. The ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL is the nation's largest annual gathering of African-American music and culture; in its 16-year history, it has featured an array of performers including Alicia Keys, Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Beyonce, Chaka Khan, Destiny's Child, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gladys Knight, LL Cool J, Jamie Foxx, John Legend, Kanye West, The Isley Brothers, Lionel Richie, Luther Vandross, Maxwell, The O'Jays, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Toni Braxton, Patti LaBelle and Yolanda Adams. The presenting sponsor for the 2010 Essence Music Festival is Coca-Cola. TIMBO AND DRE PROTEGE HAYES GEARS UP FOR RELEASE. Rapper and actor, Hayes has released a new street album that has taken the industry by storm, entitled "The First 48". The Detroit emcee has the backing of both Timbaland and Dr. Dre, after being co-signed to both Aftermath Entertainment and Mosley Music Group, as well as Interscope. The First 48 features over twenty five tracks consisting of mostly original production, from producers such as Timbaland, The Breakfast Club, and more. Hayes new street album follows two other successful street albums/mixtapes 24 Songs Of Power and Who Da Fuck Is Hayes. Timbaland revealed to MTV that he is excited about the prospect of working with Hayes, saying: "I think people are gonna wanna know about [him]. Me and Dre just signed him, this guy named Hayes from Detroit.. Incredible storyteller. Incredible. Reminds me of how Notorious B.I.G. tells his stories." Hayes is currently touring with Timbaland on his Shock Value II tour, and has been writing for the anticipated "Detox" album by Dr. Dre. HOV ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL BP3 TOUR DATES. After a stellar 2009, surpassing Elvis as the solo artist with the most # 1 albums, scoring a # 1 single with the anthemic "Empire State Of Mind" with Alicia Keys, performing during the World Series at Yankee Stadium, winning American Music Awards, sitting down with Oprah and staging a sold out 2009 tour, JAY-Z has added dates for his BP3 2010 North American tour. JAY-Z will make a triumphant hometown appearance on March 2nd when he returns to Madison Square Garden with a performance that is sure to galvanize New York City fans. He has also added a date at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville on March 5th. It was also announced today that R&B singer Trey Songz will join JAY-Z and Grammy-nominated rapper Young Jeezy on the nationwide tour. Tickets for the newly announced dates go on sale beginning on Friday, January 15th. PRIORITY CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY. Priority Records will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2010 with a year-long catalog campaign showcasing the legendary gangsta rap label's most influential artists and recordings. Snoop Dogg, Priority's Creative Chairman, will oversee the release of several commemorative catalog titles, beginning February 23 with a new CD and digital compilation primer, Snoop Dogg Presents: The West Coast Blueprint, including 16 classic tracks from the vault and a new recording by Snoop of Ice Cube's "Check Yo Self." On the same date, a new CD and digital reissue series, "U.S.D.A." ("Uncut Snoop Dogg Approved"), will launch with three classic, Snoop-recommended Priority titles, Eazy-E's Eazy-Duz-It, EPMD's Strictly Business, and Master P's Ghetto D, each with newly-written liner notes by Snoop Dogg. "I was a long-time fan of Priority Records, even before I had my first record deal," says Snoop Dogg. "Priority was the flagship label for the west coast. This situation is all about me opening up the Priority back catalog, for the fans, and to spark that feeling in new artists as well. You can't go into the future without looking back and seeing how all those great artists laid down the foundation for what we're doing today." Snoop Dogg Presents: The West Coast Blueprint features classic tracks from west coast rap legends like N.W.A, Yo-Yo, Ice Cube, and Mack 10, as well as crucial but lesser-known artists including King Tee and Ras Kass. The compilation showcases the diversity of sounds and styles within the now universally-known gangsta rap aesthetic. "Priority's always been associated with the west coast," explains Snoop, "but now with the power of EMI behind it, we can take this international.".. "I'm going to show you where this gangsta rap came from, who the originators were, and how it got to where it is now," says Snoop. "With The West Coast Blueprint, I've compiled records that have stood the test of time and sound just as good as the new records coming out today. So it's highly relevant. And by reissuing Eazy-E's Eazy-Duz-It, EPMD's Strictly Business, and Master P's Ghetto D, you will hear how many different facets of hip-hop Priority had a hand in. Fans who might not have heard these records in a long time, I know they're going to love hearing them again. And for the youngsters who've never heard them before, it's an important education. See? Learning can be fun." SNOOP CO-SIGNS MACSHAWN 100 Legendary West Coast, Bay Area rapper MACSHAWN100 is getting back to business, with a brand new single, studio album, and a deal with Snoop Dogg and Priority Records. The new album entitled Tha Bigg Fish, will boast features from Snoop Dogg, Daz Dillinger, Kurupt, E-40, and Turf Talk, amongst others. Due for release later this year on Doggystyle/Priority, following Snoop Dogg being named Creative Chairman of the newly resurrected Priority Records, last year by parent company EMI Music. In preparation for the release, the new single And U Do Know That has been serviced, and is receiving support in clubs and at the mixshow level on radio. The single is supported by a new video by noted director Dah Dah, with cameo appearances from DJ Quik, Too Short, Mistah FAB, Rappin 4-Tay, Daz Dillinger, and Snoop Dogg. SEE HERE The Vallejo, CA bred emcee, whose first cousin is rap veteran E-40, has released several successful independent solo albums in the past, and has appeared on more than 70 projects, including E-40s platinum selling album In a Major Way. MACSHAWN100 was also once signed to Death Row Records, appearing on the platinum selling album Chronic 2000 and Too Gangsta For Radio. STATEMENT FROM KEYSHIA COLE "To all my friends and fans - It's time that I clear the air. It's not a secret that I haven't been in contact with my mother Frankie, and my sisters Neffe and Elite and I never wanted to air out our differences to the public. While I won't go into detail here I find it necessary to let you guys know I decided to stop communication with them because I was at a point in my life where I needed serenity and peace to move forward. Please know I love my family very much but it was time to let it go. You guys are a witness to a lot of what was happening from watching on air and online. Now that I am becoming a mom my passion for having a loving and peaceful home for my child is my #1 priority. It's very important to both Daniel and I. My plate is very full; I have a new baby coming, we are planning our wedding and I am working in the studio on a new album that I am close to completing. The stress that my family is giving me with their constant false reports is not healthy and it's not what I need at this time in my life. Please understand that there are only a few people that can officially confirm or deny anything that's happening in my life and that's me, Daniel, and my publicist, Tresa Sanders. And my girl Monica never lies." Love Your Girl, KC SNOOP BOWL VIII IS UPON US. Snoop Dogg has announced that his eighth annual "Snoop Bowl" will be played in South Florida on February 6, 2010. Snoop's nearly undefeated team, the Snoop Dogg All Stars, will square off against a local youth football team from Miami coached by Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter and superstar wide receiver Terrell Owens. The event promises to be a spectacular one and with an amazing plight focused on kids. Annually, the "Snoop Bowl" has the Snoop Dogg All Stars traveling to the Super Bowl to challenge a team of all stars from the host city. Last year, Snoop's team decisively defeated the Mike Alstott led Tampa All-Stars, 22-6, in Tampa. This year the challenge moves to Miami, and anything can happen. During its existence, the Snoop Bowl has drawn huge crowds and raised more than $100,000 for charities; this year will be no different. The game will be played at Miami's mecca for high school football, Traz Powell Stadium. Snoop says, "I am happy that we've been doing this event for eight years - the kids love it and I do too. The future NFL stars play in this game annually and its fun to watch the kids imitate there favorite NFL stars. The Snoop Bowl is as big as the Super Bowl to every kid playing organized football in the USA because they aspire to play against my team or to be coached by Coach Snoop "The Great." I love being me wouldn't you like to be an All Star too?! I also want to thank Title Sports Drink for stepping up to participate in something that is not only good for the community but a ton of fun, ya dig?" The Snoop Youth Football League, now in the sixth year of existence, has recently garnered a ton of credit from prestigious media outlets including the Wall Street Journal and New York Times as being a huge part in the success of Crenshaw High School's undefeated football record. Historically, Crenshaw has not been known for their football team but this year, nine of their players have come through the ranks of the SYFL, and it is no coincidence that the team is currently undefeated, earning them the Los Angeles city title. In fact, college recruiters have already approached a few of the ex-SYFL players, and the league is fielding calls from cities such as Dallas and Pittsburgh that want to replicate the Snoop model. Title Sports Drink is the title sponsor of Snoop Bowl VIII and the official sports drink of all participating teams. "We're very proud to be involved in such a great event. It allows us to both sponsor youth football at its finest and hydrate some of our future stars," says Kevin Sepe, President of Title Sports Drink. "Snoop Bowl VIII" kicks off February 6th at 1:30pm at Traz Powell Stadium in Miami. PHARRELL WILLIAMS TO WRITE ORIGINAL SONGS FOR UPCOMING 3-D FLICK It was announced today that three-time Grammy Award winner and internationally renowned singer, songwriter, producer and designer Pharrell Williams will write original music for Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainments upcoming 3-D CGI feature Despicable Me. This marks the first time The Neptunes and N.E.R.D. artist will compose music for a film. He is joined in the features composition duties by Oscar® winner Hans Zimmer and Heitor Pereira. About his involvement in the project, Pharrell Williams said: I love cartoons and animation, and Ive never seen such incredible 3-D CGI. To score Despicable Me along with Hans and Heitor and write original songs for the film is a dream come true. Despicable Me, which stars the vocal talents of Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand, Will Arnett, Kristen Wiig, Danny McBride, Miranda Cosgrove, Jack McBrayer, Mindy Kaling, Jemaine Clement and Julie Andrews, arrives in theaters on July 9, 2010. In addition to the title track for Despicable Me, which debuted with the features teaser trailer, Williams has already begun to write the films orchestral score as well as several other songs to be incorporated into the score. Chris Meledandri (Ice Age, Ice Age 2: The Meltdown, Robots, Dr. Seuss Horton Hears a Who!) is producing Despicable Me through his new company Illumination Entertainment, which has a longterm partnership with Universal to deliver live-action and animated all-audience films for the Universal slate. Pharrell is one of the most important contemporary songwriters, Hans is one of the truly great film composers and Heitor is the next generation of Hans protégés. This is an extraordinary teaming of talent, said Meledandri. With every note they write, our film is being enriched. KANYE BACK IN THE LAB Kanye West says he is back in the lab working on new material. West says "I'm so happy to be back in the studio making new music. I will bring you the best I have to offer with the same dedication that Kobe Bryant has on the court." Kanye then went on to compare himself to Maya Angelou, Gil Scott-Heron and Nina Simone, saying, "It's funny how so many rappers get worse as their careers stretch out but true poets get better... Their work improved with time. They documented what was happening in culture. That is our responsibility as the modern day artists and poets, to accurately represent what is happening now, so when the powers that be try to rewrite history, you can always look at our works and find truth and sincerity in a world of processed information." GAME TALKS NEW ALBUM. In a recent interview with Billboard, Game says he wants to collaborate with Lady Gaga on his upcoming album R.E.D. "I'm trying to get Jimmy Iovine to throw me in the studio with Lady Gaga," Game revealed. "She's a rebel, and I go against the grain every day, so, if it happens, it'll be monumental for the state of music." R.E.D. is slated to hit shelves in February. Pharrell Williams will be executive producing the album. "R.E.D. is a title Pharrell and I came up with. It was like where I am at in my career," Game explained. " My last album felt like it might've been my last album, but it turned out not to be. So, this album is the rededication -- to myself and to what I care about, like my friends, my family, my city, my hood, my genre and rap." R.E.D. will feature guest apperances from Beanie Sigel, Rick Ross, Justin Timberlake and Robin Thicke, among others. Dr. Dre, Cool & Dre and DJ Khalil got down on production for the album. ALICIA KEYS AND SWIZZ BEATZ GO HOME SHOPPING. The New York Post reports that Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys have recently been seen around New York City doing some house shopping. A source says that the couple are interested in purchasing the multi-million dollar duplex penthouse condo on 170 East End Ave., directly across the street from the Mayors Gracie Mansion digs. The ulta-exclusive building boasts a gym, squash courts and a private screening room. Swizzs marriage to R&B singer Mashonda Tifrere ended in April of 2008. They have a son together. PRODUCER SHAWTY REDD TURNS HIMSELF IN FOR MURDER! According to various reports, Atlanta producer Shawty Redd has turned himself into police for murder. According to the reports..the producer got into an argument at his Georgia home on Jan. 1st with another man, who allegedly threatened him. Redd (real name Demetrius Stewart) reportedly got his gun and shot and killed the man, claiming self-defense. He turned himself into the Henry County Police Department early this morning following the incident. Redd is best known for producing Snoop Doggs hit Sexual Eruption. Redd is expected to be arraigned Saturday morning. ALICIA KEYS TOPS THE CHARTS. Twelve-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys' latest opus The Element of Freedom (MBK/J Records) debuts at #1 on Billboard's R&B Albums and Digital Albums charts and #2 on Billboard's Top 200 Albums chart, according to Nielsen/SoundScan. With a total of 417,277 units sold in a week, this marks the biggest first week sales debut for a female R&B singer this year and Keys' 5th straight chart-topping debut (Keys' previous four albums debuted at #1 on the aforementioned charts). T.I. RELEASED FROM PRISON. T.I. was released from prison on Tuesday after seven months, his attorney confirmed. T.I., whose real name is Clifford Harris Jr., will serve the remainder of a reduced sentence in a correctional center near Fulton County Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. Harris was sentenced to a year and a day in March 2009 resulting from weapons charges related to purchasing machine guns and silencers. Officials charged him with providing a bodyguard with $12,000 to buy weapons. In May, he reported to a federal prison complex in Forrest City, Arkansas, to begin serving his sentence. In addition to serving prison time, T.I. was placed on house arrest, given community service and was ordered to pay a $100,300 fine. Harris was not permitted to own any guns because he had been convicted in 1998 on felony drug charges, possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, in Cobb County in suburban Atlanta. After the rapper's arrest, he entered a plea agreement, which federal authorities called unique because it allowed him to remain out of prison for a year while he performed. Steve Sadow, Harris' attorney, said prisoners with Harris' sentence are eligible for a 54-day sentence reduction for good behavior. Harris is expected to remain at the halfway house for three months and will still be required to finish serving slightly less than 500 hours of community service and about 23 days of home incarceration. WARREN G TALKS NEW ALBUM. Warren G spoke to LA Times about his recent album and more.. So, whats the difference between The G-Files and The X-Files"? Man, thats a cold one right there. Im going to be real with you, I havent watched "The X-Files, but I really liked the name The G-Files. It just sounded right. What do
you think distinguishes this album from your previous material?
One of the strongest songs on the new album is 100 Miles and Running featuring Chef Raekwon and Nate Dogg. How did the collaboration with Raekwon come about and was the song recorded before Nate Dogg had his stroke? Well, as you know, Nate had two strokes, so right now, hes still in recovery. Hes progressing and hope to get him back on the streets soon. But before he had those strokes, wed done six or seven songs in the studio. When I was coming home from the All-Star Game, I was stopped at a rest stop and saw Raekwon with a friend of mine. We said whats up, mentioned that we wanted to work with each other and exchanged numbers. Two weeks later, I called him up and told him that I had a song for him. He went into the studio, laid it down, and it made for a great record. The first song on the album is called The West Is Back. Did you think it was a matter of the West having fallen off? It was just my way of saying that it was time that the original guys who really made the West Coast pop show how to get back in the groove. A lot of the music these days is not like how it was -- everybody thinks its OK to throw together some drums and one synth sound and its a hit record. Its trying to take it back to that great soulful sound and giving props to the things that Dre, Snoop, Ice Cube, Ice T and everyone mentioned in the song did. After giving an interview in Vanity Fair recently, you came under fire from gay rights advocates who called you homophobic for saying that you didnt want to see gay people kissing on TV. What did you mean by that? Theyd
asked me about gay people and I said that I didnt have a problem with
gay people. All I was saying was that I didnt think it was right to
have shows on television where they show two men kissing. I wasnt saying
that it was because I have a problem with it, but because I dont think
its right to show that sort of thing to the youth. I have no problem
with gay people. I have gay family that Im close with. Im not
a gay basher and Id appreciate if people stopped blowing up my Twitter
and e-mail with the accusations that I am.
KELIS SIGNS WITH INTERSCOPE. Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Kelis announced today that she will release her next album through will.i.am Music Group / Interscope Records. The new album features production from will.i.am, David Guetta (Black Eyed Peas), Free School, Boys Noize, Burns and DJ Ammo. Says Kelis, I love that I am now a new part of the Interscope family. 2010 is around the corner and I cant wait to put out new music and spend time with real music fans on tour again. Adds will.i.am, Kelis represents the kind of edge that pushes all of us not just musically but stylistically as well. She has always opened new doors for her audience and were ready to walk through this next one with her. Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records concurs, adding, Kelis is a true artist and were so excited to start this new chapter in her musical life. FONTANA GETS NEW PRESIDENT. Universal Music Group Distribution (UMGD), the award-winning sales, marketing and distribution subsidiary of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company, has promoted Ron Spaulding to President of Fontana, UMGD's independent distribution arm. The announcement was made today by Jim Urie, President and Chief Executive Officer of UMGD, to whom Spaulding reports. Formerly, Mr. Spaulding served as Executive Vice President & General Manager of Fontana. "Since joining us, Ron has brought extensive retail contacts and a wealth of credibility within the artistic community which the Fontana Team has translated into a great success story," stated Mr. Urie. "In the past year alone, Fontana has had enormous accomplishments on both the indie and the Top 200 charts and has up-streamed numerous artists to our labels. Moreover, over the last year, Ron has overseen the restructuring of Fontana into a digital player second to none in the world of music distribution. His sense of humor and infectious enthusiasm has energized all of us that have the pleasure to work with him every day. We are delighted to expand the playing field even more with this well-deserved promotion.".. "Being a part of Fontana has been one of the most personally rewarding and professionally fulfilling experiences of my career," added Mr. Spaulding. "I cannot thank Jim enough for his generous support and confidence; and working closely with the entire Fontana team continues to be a constant source of inspiration since they are second to none. We have built a vibrant and musically diverse company, with a spirited and competitive staff. I am looking forward to building further upon that winning energy; we are only just beginning to realize the possibilities of what we can accomplish." Prior to joining Fontana, Mr. Spaulding served as Executive Vice President/General Manager of Asylum and EastWest Records, overseeing the day-to-day operations of both labels. He also served as the Senior Vice President of Sales at WEA, Warner Music Group's distribution arm. His background also includes serving as Senior Vice President of Sales at Elektra Entertainment Group and in a number of senior positions at Priority Records. BLACK EYED PEAS ANNOUNCE 100 DATE TOUR. Three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist, The Black Eyed Peas today announced dates for their 100-date headline tour. Described as the ultimate Black Eyed Peas party experience, it also marks the first time that the group - will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie - is united for a North American headline tour since their 2006 Monkey Business world tour. The North American leg of "The E.N.D. World Tour 2010," produced by AEG Live, will kick off at Philips Arena in Atlanta on February 4, 2010, and conclude on April 11th at GM Place in Vancouver. After a short break, the tour resumes in May with shows across Europe and the UK. Special ticket pre-sales for The Black Eyed Peas' fan club members will be announced in the days ahead. National ticket on-sale dates begin December 12th. Ticket prices will carry reasonable value and will be accessible to all fans. "AEG Live has always been a company that likes to execute out-of-the-box ideas. Our newest clients, The Black Eyed Peas, have defined that concept like no other group in contemporary music and culture," says Randy Phillips, President & CEO of AEG Live. "We expect our first hundred shows together to be a roller coaster ride that will redefine the live entertainment experience as only the Peas can." EMINEM TALKS RELAPSE 2. Eminem recently spoke to Complex Magazine about his upcoming Relapse 2 album. He says the project will offer more serious material than its predecessor. "When I finished Relapse, I had a whole album of material that didn't make it that I wasn't ready to throw away, so that was going to be Relapse 2. But then I got with Dre in Hawaii and started recording more, and now the new material has knocked out all the old songs," Em says..."The new material is definitely different. Making Relapse, I was still working the drugs out of my system, so there was a lot of...just jokey shit. It was a lot of punchline-y, funny, shock valuekind of going back to The Slim Shady LP. And that was cool, but I've kind of flipped the page, he added. Now I'm going for songs instead of one-liners. I don't want to make shit that you hear once and then the joke's over; I want to make records that you could play a hundred times, a thousand times. "Relapse 2 is slated for release in 2010. DENNIS MCKINLEY DIRECTS TRAVIS PORTER VIDEO WITH DEM FRANCHISE BOYZ. After directing some of the hottest music videos for popular hip-hop, pop and alternative artists from Detroit to Los Angeles, director Dennis McKinley marks his Atlanta directorial debut and official move to the city lensing "Go Shorty Go," an upbeat club video for hip-hop group, Travis Porter. Fellow rappers, Dem Franchise Boyz, Lil Chuckee, DJ Teknikz, and DJ Spinz Hoodrich dropped by the set for cameo appearances. "Travis Porter's energy and positive attitude made the video come to life," said McKinley. "I also respect their hustle; they stay on the grind. Like Soulja Boy, these young men didn't wait around for a record deal. They created their music, put it online and now they're blowin' up across the country." McKinley continues, "That's what McKinley Presents is about. We're not waiting for the studio to make our movies. We're doing our own thing, pushing the limits of new technology to make low-cost films and videos with high production value. In 2010, we're going hard producing feature films and developing music mini-movies comparable to Michael Jackson's Thriller." He continues.."I moved my operations to Atlanta because it's one of the hottest spots in the country for entertainment," said McKinley. "I have two feature films in development and, according to my research, this city has the talent, crew, celebrities, and film incentives to get the job done. It's an economically sound business move for my company and it doesn't hurt that I love Atlanta," said McKinley who holds a bachelors degree in economics from the University of Michigan and a certificate from Dov S-S Simens' internationally recognized, Hollywood Film Institute. RIHANNA TO PERFORM MYSPACE "THE RELEASE" CONCERT SERIES IN NEW YORK MySpace Music will host a special performance by Rihanna on Thursday, December 3 at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City as part of "THE RELEASE," MySpace Music's urban music concert series. This installment of "THE RELEASE" will be a special performance to mark the release of Rihanna's album Rated R, a performance that will mark her only appearance in celebration of the album's availability. Over 500+ tickets will be given out for the free, all-ages show on a first-come, first-served basis at the Hammerstein Ballroom starting at 9 a.m. on December 3, or can be won through radio promotions on HOT 97. JAY-Z RECRUITS NAS FOR BEANS AND 50 DISS? Beanie Sigel recently said that Jay-Z has recruited Nas for an upcoming Empire State Of Mind remix in which he says they take verbal jabs at him and 50. Beans says that Jay-Z has their entire rap battle/beef planned out. Im nice at chess too, Sigel told radio personality DJ On & On. They say he got a record supposed to come out, the remix to the New York shit, hes poppin shots at me, poppin shots at 50. Beanie Sigel then continues He pulled Nas on the record hoping that a nigga will respond to it and come at Nas and Nas is gonna come right back, he aint gonna hold no punches, hes gonna come right back. He should come right back but look at the moves. I see that. Im not worried about Nas, I did that already. I did that already. In defense of him I did that already. I was there when dude was in the studio on the couch scratching his head under pressure. RIHANNA NEW ALBUM PROJECTED TO SELL 200K 1st WEEK. Rihannas new Rated R album will reportedly debut next week with an estimated 200,000 copies according to projections. In related news, Rihanna recently talked how much her former boyfriend Chris Brown influenced the content for the album. This album is an expression of all those feelings that I went through in the last eight months, just different emotions, she said of the aftermath of Browns assault. Rihanna then continued All of it isnt angry, all of it isnt dark and sad, cause I didnt go through that the whole time. That was part of it. It was really a roller coaster, and you get that when youre listening to the album I really vented on this album, and as I said before, all of it isnt about that specific relationship or what I went through, cause thats not who I am. Thats not all of who I am. SEE LAST WEEK'S SOUNDSCAN HERE DR. DRE AND PHARELL TO EXECUTIVE PRODUCE GAME'S UPCOMING PROJECT. Game made the announcement via his twitter on Wednesday (November 25) that Dr. Dre and Pharrell will be serving as the executive producers of Game's upcoming effort, The R.E.D. Album. "The R.E.D. Album is gonna be classic, thats a promise," the rapper wrote. " Executive produced by Dr. Dre and Pharrell. The music is phenomenal." The R.E.D. Album is slated to hit stores in February - 2010. The set will feature appearances from Chris Brown, Gucci Mane, Cuba Gooding Jr and Akon. DEATH ROW COURT BATTLES CONTINUE. The struggle between the Canadian firm that acquired Death Row in January and the hip-hop label's apparently exiled chief executive is set to continue in a New York City court. Songwriter and music lawyer Lara Lavi became Death Row CEO earlier this year after her former company WIDEawake Entertainment bought the label for $18 million ($21.6 million Canadian) with funding provided by Mississauga-based venture capital firm New Solutions Group. Last week, Lavi sought a court injunction against New Solutions, claiming in her submission that its CEO Ronald Ovenden had undertaken "self-dealing actions," that led the label to "adopt unauthorized liabilities." New Solutions had reportedly attempted to fire Lavi from Death Row in the second week of November. New York Supreme Court Judge Barbara Kapnick ordered a temporary restraining order against New Solutions until the Dec. 3 hearing and ordered Lavi to file a $2 million ($2.1 million Canadian) "undertaking." A spokeswoman for Lavi says that money has been provided and adds there are questions about whether New Solutions has the authority to fire Lavi. "Any claim [New Solutions] has about Death Row is being brought into question," she says. Lavi told Billboard the judge had ordered her not to talk about the case. Source: Billboard BILLBOARD FOR SALE? According to a Paid Content report, Nielsen Business Media is about two weeks from selling its print and online properties to a consortium led by James Finkelstein's News Communications. Paid Content editor-founder Rafat Ali writes that, according to "multiple sources," Nielsen is finalizing its plans, and News Corp. board member Lachlan Murdoch may join the consortium. Among the brands that would be included in the deal are the Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Adweek, Mediaweek, Brandweek and Editor & Publisher. Nielsen would retain its events, according to Paid Content, and some international territories. News Communications, which owns congressional newspaper The Hill and the Who's Who franchise, is controlled by chairman Jerry Finkelstein and his son, James, who is president and CEO. The pending sale was first reported by TheWrap.com, although the site's most recent reports said the deal would close today. Source: Variety THE 1ST ANNUAL CHAD 'PIMP C' BUTLER HIP HOP & HEALTH FAIR. There are many ways to keep a legacy alive, or to keep ones name relevant in the entertainment industry after an unfortunate and untimely passing. As for Chad Butler aka Pimp C, his wife Chinara Butler is putting forth her efforts to do just that, Friday, December 4th, 2009. UGQ, Inc., founded by Chinara Butler and her late husband, has united with CCM Foundation and S.E.A.C (Syphillis Elimation Advisory Committee), to bring you the Inaugural Chad Pimp C Butler Hip Hop & Health/Wellness Fair in their hometown of Port Arthur, Texas, which will be held on Friday, December 4th, at 6pm-10pm at the Port Arthur Pavilion. This event will be held every year on December 4th, the unfortunate day we lost a musical Legend, who had many dreams in store for his community...so we start here. The Chad Butler Hip Hop & Health/Wellness Fair was founded in remembrance of Pimp C to start raising awareness for our youth today, whom sometimes lack the resources or even the knowledge to realize the importance of regular physical exams, frequent HIV/STD testing, drug prevention and abuse. The Port Arthur Health Department will be in attendance to provide these services, along with free vaccinations, as they are dedicated in promoting a healthy community. There will be a small donation fee of $5 and can good drop at entry. Port Arthur residents will also get to enjoy live entertainment from special celebrity guests (TBA) to keep this event celebratory and educational at the same time. We will also be holding a Hip Hop 'MC' Battle for contestants who take an HIV/STD test and winner will take home $1000!! (The Texas Department of State Health Services' data from 2005 revealed that Region 6, the region that includes Jefferson County, ranked number two out of the 11 Texas regions in confirmed cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis and #1 in AIDS cases. These numbers can be reduced dramatically by raising awareness and constantly educating the public about diseases that are easily preventable.) HIP HOP HALL OF FAME SECURES $10 MILLION. After two decades in development, and the Hip Hop Hall of Fame Awards TV show broadcast in syndication and on BET Cable Network in the 90s; the Hip Hop Hall of Fame Museum & Entertainment Complex gets halfway to realizing its grand opening in the heart of New York City in late 2010 by securing $10 million in funding. The HHHOF is poised to become the Hip-Hop institution of record for the 21st century, as reported in Billboard Magazine. It has two arms, the non-profit HHHOF Museum Foundation, which will oversee the museum, exhibits, and community outreach with "pioneers" of rap, and the for-profit HHHOF Global Media Group which will operate the restaurant, retail gift shop, concert lounge, TV studios, co-branded entertainment divisions, merchandising, special events, and corporate partnerships. The Advisory Board members are illustrious and include legends Grandmaster Caz of the Cold Crush Bros, RockHall inductee Melle Mel, Kurtis Blow, Pebblee Poo, L.A. Sunshine, Kool Herc, and the late Mr. Magic, and HHHOF inductee Jam Master Jay of Run DMC, to name a few. The HHHOF will provide 300 jobs, internships, co-branded marketing opportunities, as well as educational events and outreach programs for the youth and families. The economic impact in the City of New York is expected to be over $350 million over five years, from on-site and off-site programming, tourism, B2B local commerce, consumer spending, and city tax revenues. The HHHOF, in conjunction with its kids mascot "B-Boy Scratch & Friends," will also mentor over 20,000 NYC public school children per year with special field trips to the complex being dubbed as the new "Urban Theme Park." "After 26 months of talks and negotiations, that yielded a few false starts and stops along the way, has come to a suitable arrangement by matching funds that may be increased," says J.T. Thompson, the chairman and creator-executive producer. The investment package was put together by Jackson Securities & Investment Bankers out of Atlanta in 2004, and was recently re-released for funding to various investment groups, celebrities, athletes, and corporate partners. We can appreciate our struggles and triumphs, like David Blumenfeld of Blumenfeld Development of NYC, who toiled for over 15 years, like the HHHOF, on the Harlem East River Plaza, set to open this year. We encountered many of the same challenges and sacrifices over the years. WMG REPORTS 4TH QUARTER LOSS. Warner Music Group has reported its fourth quarter and full-year results for the label's fiscal year. The company took a net loss of $18 million in Q4, compared to a $6 million profit a year ago. Total revenue in the quarter was up by almost one percent, to $861 million. Digital revenue was $184 million, making up 21 percent of WMG's total revenue in the quarter. This was a 10 percent increase over Q4 a year ago. The growth was attributed to the label's strong release schedule. For WMG's full fiscal year of 2009, revenue was down nine percent to $3.176 billion. The decline was attributed to "general economic pressures and the transition from physical sales to digital sales in the recorded music industry." Digital revenue rose for the year by 10 percent to $703 million, comprising 22 percent of total revenue. For the year, WMG took a $100 million loss from continuing operations, an increase from a $35 million loss the previous year. "WMG had a strong quarter, increasing revenue, growing our cash balance to $384 million and raising digital revenue to 24 percent of total Recorded Music revenue," said WMG Chairman/CEO Edgar Bronfman, Jr. "Over the fiscal year, even in the midst of difficult economic and industry trends, we grew our market share to 21 percent in the U.S. and continued progress on our key strategic goals: diversifying our revenue mix, improving our financial flexibility and maintaining our leadership in the industry's digital transition."... "Looking ahead to fiscal year 2010, the volatile global economy and ongoing recorded music industry transition are likely to continue to affect our results," WMG EVP/CEO Steve Macri added. "Given this backdrop, our conservative approach to managing our costs and our balance sheet gives us the flexibility to optimize results." JAY-Z SWEEPS AMA'S HIP HOP CATEGORY. The American Music Awards (AMA's) were announced this evening to a sold out crowd, from the Nokia Theatre/LA Live. The show aired live on ABC at 8:00pm Sunday night.. Produced by dick clark productions, The 2009 AMA's were produced by Larry Klein and executive produced by Orly Adelson, president of dick clark productions. Highlights of the event included: Stellar live performances from Eminem and 50 Cent performing "Crack a Bottle", Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and an 8 minute opening medley by Janet Jackson featuring "Control," "What Have You Done for Me Lately," "Make Me," "Together Again" and more. The night also marked Whitney Houston's return to stage singing "I Didn't Know My Own Strength". Winners of the 37th Annual American Music Awards included Jay-Z sweeping the Rap / Hip Hop category with 2 awards -- Favorite Male Artist, Favorite Album (Blueprint 3). Taylor Swift taking home 5 awards including Artist of the Year, Michael Jackson honored with 4 awards including Favorite Male Artist (Pop/Rock), Green Day winning Favorite Artist (Alternative Rock Music) and more. DIDDY CELEBRATES THE BIG 40. Last night, Ciroc Vodka Presents Sean Diddy Combs Birthday Celebration took place at The Grand Ballroom at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, NY. A little before midnight, the host walked in with a huge entourage that included Trey Songz, Tyrese, Red Café, Andre Harrell and director F. Gary Gray. Jay-Z, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Kim Kardashian, Martha Stewart, Gayle King, Jimmy Fallon, Bell Biv DeVoe, Jimmy Iovine, Bono and countless others all came to express their love for one of the most important figures in music over the past two decades. "Some people start at 19, by 26 they're done. He's 40. He's better than he's ever been," Russell Simmons said. "He's hotter now than ever. I just watch him. He keeps getting better. He never changes with the hustle. He branches out in different areas, opens new doors. He's an inspiration." Nelly added, "It's incredible, he's one of my biggest inspirations in this," he said. "He does the most in everything, probably working with the least. He maximizes it to the max. You see somebody doing that, how can you not want to be inspired by it?" Estelle said the greatest thing she's learned by watching Diddy over the years is to "do things your way versus doing things anybody else's way. Do it the way you're gonna do it, and be extra big and extra large." "It's 4-0. You just get better," actress Regina King said. "Forty is the new 30; it's elegant. He wants everybody to be beautiful at the party. So the photographs, when he looks back on it 20 years from now, he'll say, 'Look how beautiful we were.' It's an opportunity to get pretty and throw on pretty dresses. "I love the way Diddy's evolved," she added. "I'm glad he's grown up. Whether he likes it or not, he's still a role model. You can be a good role model or a bad role model. He's grown up in a lot of people's eyes. Those kids who want to be like him, they're gonna pull up their pants and look to be [in multiple businesses] as opposed to just the rapper." SEE COVERAGE HERE MYSPACE ACQUIRES IMEEM. MySpace on Wednesday acquired social-networking site Imeem for an undisclosed sum, but sources with knowledge of the deal say is worth about $8 million. CNet reports the News Corp.-owned MySpace has agreed to pay $1 million in cash, but the total figure also includes money for accounts receivable and employee earn outs. Regardless, the price is a big loss for investors who poured upwards of $30 million into the pioneer ad-supported music service. An Imeem spokesman declined to comment. Imeem will continue to operate as a standalone site, at least initially, according to the sources. One source said that Imeem's brand will unlikely live on as they expect Imeem's assets will be folded into MySpace Music. At least half of Imeem's staff will likely lose their jobs, according to the sources. KALI SIGNS DEAL WITH UNIVERSAL. West Coast rapper, Kali, signed a six figure deal with Universal Music Group. The younger brother of R&B singer Danny Boy, Kali has already worked with artists such as Kurupt, Petey Pablo, Eastwood, Roscoe, and more. Under Jazzy Management, Kali is set to release his debut in 2010 through 2Active/Universal Music Group. LUPE FIASCO APPEARS IN DOCUMENTARY. Lupe Fiasco will appear in The People Speak Documentary which debuts on the History Channel December 13th 8pm EST/ 7pm CST. The film is both inspired by and based on co-executive producer Howard Zinn's books A People's History of the United States, which has sold more than two million copies, and, with co-executive producer, Anthony Arnove, Voices of a People's History of the United States. The film was also produced by Josh Brolin, Matt Damon and Chris Moore. The film will feature dramatic performances chronicling the history of this country, including charter documents, letters, diaries and more, from such celebrities as Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, Viggo Mortensen, Kerry Washington, David Strathairn, Marisa Tomei, Don Cheadle, Qorianka Kilcher, Michael Ealy, Lupe Fiasco, Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, Allison Moorer, Jasmine Guy, John Legend and more. 50 CENT TO MAKE STORE APPEARANCES AT BEST BUY THIS FRIDAY. 50 will be at two Best Buy locations where lucky fans will be able to take a photo with him. A limited number of purchasers of Before I Self Destruct at the Jersey City (125 18th St.) and Union Square stores (52 E. 14th St.) On Friday November 20, 2009 will receive an exclusive photo pass for a photo opportunity. This week 50 Cents television takeover included appearances on the Tonight Show with Conan Obrien (11/17), Jimmy Kimmel Live (11/18), Chelsea Lately (11/19), BET 106 & Park (11/19), Tavis Smiley (11/20), and the American Music Awards (11/22). He will make additional appearances on BET 106 & Park on 11/23 and 11/24. ICE CUBE LANDS ON FORBES "MOST OVERPAID ACTORS" LIST. Forbes has included Ice Cube in their list of Hollywoods 10 Most Overpaid Stars. Cube landed at #5 on the list. To qualify for the list every actor had to star in at least three movies over the last five years and each movie had to open in 500 theaters or more nationwide. Forbes then took into account the persons total compensation for their last three roles and divided it by the movies total operating income to determine each individuals return-on-investment figure. GUCCI MANE RELEASES STATEMENT. On November 12, 2009, Radric Davis, better known to his fans as Gucci Mane, was sentenced to 12 months in Fulton County Jail in Georgia due to a probation violation. Gucci was informed by the courts that he is eligible for release in 6 months or less. Gucci has given the following statement in regards to his legal troubles: "I have accepted full responsibility for my actions and I am ready to deal with what is in front of me right now. Thankfully, my label is still moving forward with my album release so I will have plenty to look forward to when I get out. I am remaining positive and want my fans to know that I am grateful for their loyalty and continued support. I will get through this." Gucci Mane's attorney, Dwight Thomas, added the following: "In court, Mr. Davis was extremely articulate and he was remorseful for his conduct. He was able to convince the courts that he was not deserving of the 2 year prison sentence he was facing." In spite of Gucci's recent incarceration, Asylum/Warner Bros. Records have decided to continue forward with the release of Gucci's first major album, The State vs Radric Davis, on December 8. The album includes features by Keyshia Cole, Lil Wayne', Soulja Boy, Keri Hilson and Usher among many others. JAY-Z ON BOARD FOR BROADWAY MUSICAL. Earlier this month ?uestlove, the drummer and producer from The Roots, was reportedly doing everything in his power to get Jay-Z to come on board as a producer of the Broadway musical Fela!, based on the life and music of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti (on which ?uest is an associate producer). Jay-Z, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith have signed on as lead producers of the show, which is choreographed and directed by Bill T. Jones and opens a week from today at the Eugene O'Neil Theater. In related news, Jay-Z has cancelled the remaining 2009 dates of his 'Blueprint 3' tour. The rapper's camp claim the cancellations were caused by a scheduling conflict and refunds would be available for fans. DIRTY: The Official ODB Biography DVD. An ultimate biographical look into the life, music and untimely death of one of rap and hip hop musics most talented and iconic young performers, Russell Jones, aka Ol Dirty Bastard or ODB. DIRTY: The Official ODB Biography hit shelves this month from ZuFilms and SKD (Distributed by Entertainment One). This in-depth documentary traces ODBs life from his childhood in Brooklyn to his eternal influence on music, time spent in prison and, finally, to his untimely death just two days before his 36th birthday. Directed by Raison Allah, ODBs cousin and a member of the Wu-Tang-affiliated rap group Brooklyn Zu, this ultimate biography also features live performances by ODB and the Wu-Tang Clan members, including: The Rza, Gza, Method Man, Ghostface Killa, Raekwon Da Chef, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, Cappadonna, ODBs Brooklyn Zu, Sunz of Man, Killarmy, The Black Knight and more of the 36 Chambers. MTV SCOOPS UP TV RIGHTS TO 'THIS IS IT' MTV Networks has nabbed the TV rights to the Michael Jackson docu "This Is It" from Sony Pictures. According to Variety, The deal will make the pic available to MTV and its sibling nets in 2011 for a six-year window. The pact allows for the title to run the gamut of MTV Networks' music channels, including MTV, VH1, VH1 Classic. "This Is It," a docu chronicling Jackson's rehearsal for series of London concerts that were to have begun just weeks before his death in June, has raked in $222.6 million in worldwide B.O. since it bowed globally on Oct. 28. 50 SAYS HE WONT WORK WITH GAME ON DETOX. 50 Cent said he's open to working with Dre again to break another MC. "We were actually talking about a new artist, working together on a new project," 50 Cent told MTV. "I said, 'Just because we had a car accident, that doesn't mean we're not going to drive again it just means we had an accident with that one.' He laughed at me. He said, 'All right. I'll give it a try,' because he was unsure about how I would feel about helping with another new artist," he continued. "Obviously Dre can create the best possible production for the artist and groom him to the right space. But going to introduce him to the general public would be something you want 50 to go do." 50 has vowed never to work with Game again. And even though Game has reunited with Dre for the Detox LP as well as his own R.E.D. Album, 50 says he wouldn't consider jumping on a record featuring Game. "No," Fif said flatly when asked what his response would be to Dre's request for a reunion collaboration. "No, I wouldn't do it. I'd be on a record, on a song, on the Detox album, but not on that record with Game. That's not making a song, that's making an event things for people to talk about. ... So there's a verse there that you think would be great for both of us, I just say, 'Erase his verse and put something in better than that.' " RAPINDUSTRY.COM TALK RADIO ( Week of 11-11 ) Beans vs Hov, 50's involvement, Twitter, Myspace, & Facebook frauds...Why you frontin'? plus.. what's what in the news.... LISTEN HERE BEANS AND 50 UNVEIL NEW TRACK. ( LISTEN HERE ) Beanie Sigel dropped his brand new joint featuring 50 Cent. The new track I Go Off is the latest chapter in 50 Cent and Beanie Sigels ongoing war of words with rapper Jay-Z. 50 riffs-- You changed man. You let the money change you Jay..yous a pass the Grey Poupon ass nigga. Nigga feed the wolves or the wolves eat you. Eat your ass alive.. Your move nigga." 50 AND VIVICA HOOK UP AGAIN? 50 Cent recently announced that he has patched things up with his former boo Vivica Fox and she will be appearing in his next video. Fif made the announcement when being questioned about rumours surrounding his love life by Houston's Hot 97.9. "I did a video with Ciara a long time ago and that started those conversations. I just did 'Baby By Me' with Kelly Rowland and then they say we're together a little bit," 50 said. Wait till they see my next video. What are they gonna say when they see Vivica Fox?" .. "We were cool, we had good relationship for a short period but we weren't ready for it. I wasn't ready for it," said 50. The next video from 50 Cent is "Do You Think About Me". SIRIUS XM CHAIRMAN STEPS DOWN. Sirius XM Radio announced that Gary Parsons has resigned as a Director and Chairman of the companys Board of Directors. The Board has appointed Eddy W. Hartenstein, an independent director, to serve as non-executive Chairman. Parsons was founder of XM Satellite Radio and was the Chairman of XM Satellite Radio, prior to the merger of SIRIUS and XM. Hartenstein is Publisher of the Los Angeles Times and will remain in that position. "I could not be more proud of everything that has been accomplished in satellite radio," said Parsons. "It has been a true honor to serve the stockholders of these companies since founding through delivery of an unparallel service to millions of loyal and devoted subscribers. While it has been a privilege to serve Sirius XM as Chairman and to have guided the company successfully through the merger of Sirius and XM, I believe now is the right time to step aside. As Sirius XM, we have achieved significant synergies while bringing together two incredibly talented teams and unique service offerings. Moreover, despite the challenging economic environment, we have begun to generate positive cash flow and have substantially improved our financial condition. While challenges remain, Im confident that under the direction of Mel Karmazin and with the assistance of Eddy Hartenstein, Sirius XM will continue to grow and flourish." LUDACRIS HOSTS CONJURE MIX OFF. Chris "Ludacris" Bridges teamed with the Gansevoort South Beach to host the Miami Mix Off, where South Florida's best mixologists battled to create the best Conjure cocktail. Contestants included mixologists from The Shore Club, Delano, Au Pied de Cochon, the Gansevoort, Love Hate Lounge, Meat Market, and Prime 112. The night's "Best Drink" was selected by a prestigious panel of judges that included Jay Law, Gansevoort South's master mixologist; Kim Birkedal Hartmann, co-owner of Conjure and Birkedal Hartmann Cognac; and of course "It was incredible to see the ingredients the mixologists used," said Kim Birkedal Hartmann. "When we created Conjure with Chris we wanted to make something people could have fun with. Tonight's competition proved we succeeded." The Luda, created by Kelly Frie from Miami's Meat Market, received the honor of "Best Drink." Frie was awarded $1,000 and her drink, which includes ingredients like pineapple, thyme and Conjure, will appear on menus of restaurants and clubs throughout South Florida through the month of November. "The Conjure Mix Off was a huge success thanks to all the mixologists who entered the contest," said Chris Bridges. "There is no limit with what you can serve Conjure with. I am definitely looking forward to more competitions like this one." MJ'S THIS IS IT TOPS $200 MILLION! Michael Jackson's THIS IS IT has reached a box office gross of $200 million worldwide, Sony Pictures Entertainment announced today. The film has taken in $61 million domestically and more than $140 million internationally. Commenting on the announcement, Jeff Blake, Chairman of Sony Pictures Worldwide Marketing and Distribution said, "Moviegoers and film critics everywhere have truly embraced this celebration of Michael Jackson and his music. This special film documents Michael's creative genius. We are seeing repeat business throughout the world because this movie is so rich with Michael performing his most renowned and recognized songs while offering such a unique, never-before-seen perspective on his artistry. Kenny Ortega and the filmmaking team did a brilliant job of capturing Michael creating a masterwork and it's a genuine thrill to see audiences respond to the film as they have." Outside of North America, the film has performed best in such countries as Japan ($27.2 million), UK ($14.3 million), Germany ($12.1 million), France ($12.1 million) and Australia ($7.2 million). OFFICIAL LIL BOOSIE STATEMENT: Lil Boosie New Sentencing In a prepared statement for Rapindustry.com, the following statement was prepared: Yesterday, November 9, 2009, Torrance Hatch, better known as the hit-making Rapper, Lil' Boosie, was sentence to four years in the Louisiana Department of Corrections for 3rd Offense Possession of Marijuana, a felony in Louisiana. Judge Richard "Chip" Moore of the East Baton Rouge Parish Court handed down a ten year sentence today, but suspended six years, which will allow Hatch be released in as little as 16 months on parole or approximately 21 months with good behavior. When Hatch originally entered a guilty plea in September, the Court promised Hatch a sentence of two years if Hatch abided by all conditions of bond pending sentencing. These conditions included an electronic ankle monitoring device and prior court approval to leave home for any purpose, including promotion of his Top Ten release of "SuperBad: The Return of Boosie Bad Azz." Hatch violated this agreement and thus received a more severe sentence than originally contemplated. Hatch AKA Lil Boosie was remanded yesterday. Boosie, himself, has written the following statement: "I made some very foolish choices, but I was doing the best I could to provide for my family before I went away to jail. Clearly I exercised terrible judgment and I hope to get the opportunity to prove that I can make great decisions for my family and the community in the future. Boosie may be gone but he won't be forgotten. He recently put the finishing touches on the feature film: "Ghetto Stories: The Movie" due out early 2010 and has just wrapped shooting the DVD: "Boosie The Last Days." Trill Entertainment RICK ROSS EXPLAINS WHY HE IS REMIXING 50 CENT SINGLE. Rick Ross recently sat down in an interview to explain his reason behind remixing 50 Cents new Baby By Me single. He also shares his thoughts on 50's new album Before I Self Destruct -- after it recently leaked. Ross says that he was motivated to remix the track because of the production the song features. Nah, nah, I just had to touch that beat and do it properly, Ross jokingly admitted. Nah, I just touched it and did a verse on there. If they want it for the album, get at me. My engineer, he was online and 50's album was even worse than we originally thought. I was like it couldnt be. So they downloaded it and I heard it. It was a beat or two on there that was cool but for the most part, you know, it is what it is. 50 Cent was actually surprised by learning Rick Ross remixed his single. Ive never seen a bigger fraud in hip-hop with Rick Ross, Fif explained in an interview. He Just did a remix to Baby by Me. Itll count as a spin for my record. Hes an idiot. Id be upset if my babys momma was out there. Hes broke. His last album sold 300,000 copies. Triple C's Custom Cars & Cycles just like sold 4,000 records. COOLIO TO REPLACE DMX IN MMA BATTLE? As reported earlier, DMX was slated to jump in the ring against fighter Eric Martinez next month but the rapper pulled out citing safety concerns. The promoter for the fight, Thunder Promotions, claimed that DMX wanted the fight fixed and they shot down his request. According to TMZ, Coolio will now be taking on Martinez in Alabama on December 12th. Does anybody believe that these artists will ever enter the ring? lol KATT WILLIAMS ARRESTED ON BURGLARY CHARGES. Comedian Katt Williams has reportedly been arrested on burglary and criminal trespassing charges in Georgia. Police revealed that they recieved a phonecall from an unidentified homeowner on Sunday night (November 8) claiming that Williams had broken into their home and stolen items which included jewelry. Other details were not revealed. According to The Associated Press, he is currently in custody at a Georgia jail and a judge is expected to set bond during his arraignment later today (November 9). FORMER CASH MONEY RAPPER ARRESTED ON GUN CHARGES. Former Cash Money rapper B.G. was reportedly arrested on a felony gun charge in New Orleans last week. According To New Orleans local news, He was arrested in eastern New Orleans and booked into jail on a felony gun charge, police said. Christopher Dorsey, aka B.G. was arrested Tuesday night following a traffic stop in which officers recovered three guns, two of which were reported stolen, according to the New Orleans Police Department. Dorsey, 29, was booked with illegal carrying of weapons. He appeared in magistrate court Thursday morning, but the status of his incarceration, such as bond information, was not listed Thursday night in electronic court records maintained by the Criminal Sheriff's Office. Police said Dorsey was arrested along with the two others in the vehicle, Demounde Pollard, 17, and Jerod Fedison, 28. Officers from the NOPD's 7th District halted the late-model Chevrolet Tahoe after watching it commit a traffic violation, police said. They seized the three weapons, along with loaded magazines and two extended magazine clips, according to a police news release. Fedison and Dorsey were each booked with illegal carrying of a firearm, according to court records. Pollard was booked on multiple drug charges -- including possession of hydrocodone, oxycodone and alprazolam -- and two counts of illegal possession of stolen firearms, and a count of illegal carrying of a weapon. Dorsey, who hails from Uptown, is a solo artist and a member of the Hot Boys ensemble, which boasts such big names as Lil Wayne, Juvenile and Young Turk. He signed with Cash Money Records at the age of 13. A former drug dealer who admitted to dabbling in heroin, he released an album several years ago with the Chopper City Boyz that debuted at No. 20 on a Billboard Chart. He also became chief executive officer of Chopper City Records, a Metairie-based label. Dorsey has been arrested several times this year. He was arrested in New Orleans in June and booked into jail on drug charges. He is scheduled to appear in court next week on that case. He was also briefly held in jail this summer on an outstanding warrant from Texas, court records show, without indicating the nature of that case. The case was dropped a month later. He was also arrested in March on drug charges in Jefferson Parish, according to court records. Prosecutors dismissed the case in August. TECH N9NE HAS #1 INDEPENDENT ALBUM IN THE COUNTRY. Add another T.K.O. to TECH N9NEs scorecard. The Billboard Chart results are in after K.O.D.s first week of release: #1 Indie Album, #2 Rap Album, #14 in Top 200, #16 iTunes Album Overall. Complementing TECH N9NEs audio attack is an equally impressive visual assault: After an Oct. 27 All Day Premiere, Techs Leave Me Alone video is currently #1 on MTV University and was recently added to rotation on MTV JAMS. With memorable features from Academy Award winners Three 6 Mafia, Strange Music affiliates Krizz Kaliko, Brotha Lynch Hung and Kutt Calhoun, K.O.D. allows TECH N9NE to paint the most vivid pictures hes ever attempted. Powered by tracks like Leave Me Alone and Show Me A God, K.O.D. is a cathartic masterpiece offering his most personal songs yet. Transforming his passion and pain into creative product for his ever-growing fanbase, TECH N9NE continues to reach new heights and career benchmarks. In 2008, he surpassed 1 million collective units SoundScanned, making him the most successful independent Hip-Hop artist in history. SIRIUS ANNOUNCES 3RD QUARTER RESULTS. SIRIUS XM Radio today announced third quarter 2009 financial and operating results, including $106 million in pro forma adjusted income from operations, marking the company's fourth consecutive quarter of positive pro forma adjusted income from operations. The company also announced a 19% decrease in pro forma total cash operating expenses compared to the same quarter last year. "We are very pleased with what we accomplished during the third quarter, especially when considering the macroeconomic issues affecting consumers and the auto industry," said Mel Karmazin, SIRIUS XM's CEO. "We managed to grow revenue, grow ARPU, reduce operating costs, increase adjusted income from operations significantly, and refinance higher cost debt. We look forward to continuing this performance. We grew subscribers and improved churn in the quarter, and we are well positioned to take advantage of an economic rebound. We expect to grow subscribers, revenue, and cash flow next year regardless of the magnitude of any recovery." Third quarter 2009 pro forma total revenue was $630 million, up 3% from third quarter 2008 pro forma total revenue of $613 million. Third quarter 2009 pro forma subscription revenue was $587 million, up 3% from the third quarter 2008 pro forma subscription revenue of $572 million. Pro forma amounts exclude the effects of stock-based compensation, purchase accounting adjustments, and assume the merger of SIRIUS and XM occurred on January 1, 2008. Monthly average revenue per subscriber (ARPU) was $10.87 in the third quarter 2009, up 3% from $10.51 in the third quarter 2008. SIRIUS XM ended the third quarter 2009 with 18,515,730 total subscribers, a decrease of 2% from the third quarter 2008 pro forma total subscribers of 18,920,911 and an increase of 102,295 from the second quarter 2009 subscribers of 18,413,435. Self-pay subscribers were 15,456,748, up 266,160 from the 15,190,588 self-pay subscribers in the third quarter 2008 and up 35,405 from the second quarter 2009. The self-pay monthly customer churn rate was 2.0% in the third quarter 2009, in-line with the second quarter 2009, and up from a pro forma 1.7% churn rate in the third quarter 2008. Ending promotional subscribers were 3,058,982 in the third quarter 2009. Sirius XM affirmed its year 2009 guidance of over $400 million in pro forma full-year adjusted income from operations. "We expect the company's cash flow growth momentum to continue into 2010, and we project full-year adjusted income from operations to increase approximately 20 percent next year," said Karmazin. Based upon assumed 2010 automobile sales of 11.3 million units, Sirius XM expects to achieve positive full-year subscriber growth in 2010. The company also expects 2010 revenue growth of mid- to high-single digits, and growth in free cash flow compared to 2009. "While the near future's macroeconomic performance is extremely difficult to predict, our business has reached sufficient scale to allow us to continue to grow cash flow," Karmazin added. USHER ANNOUNCES VIP FRAGRANCE CAMPAIGN. Usher Raymond IV -- global superstar, singer, composer, producer, film and television actor, businessman, philanthropist and fragrance designer is proud to introduce Usher VIP, an ambitious and confident new fragrance for men. The print campaign for Usher VIP was shot in Los Angeles at the Sunset Towers by famed photographer Mario Testino. "I consider fragrance to be one of the most important tools of engagement for seduction. With Usher VIP I created a gentlemen's scent, which would also appeal to women," said Usher. "Women tell me they love the scent of a man and I wanted to create that sense of confidence and style that women desire. VIP is a state of mind which is about what you do with that confidence and how you make an impact in the lives of those around you." The debut of Usher VIP comes in anticipation of the release of his new album due out in early 2010. "With Usher's recent accomplishments over the past few years, he wanted to create a new refined fragrance that would represent new ways for him to express himself to his fans," said Art Spiro, Executive Vice President, Liz Claiborne Brands, Elizabeth Arden. "Through Usher VIP, Usher has captured the essence of his self-assurance and poise and utilized it to create a fresh and masculine scent to allow all to be a VIP." GAME'S ALBUM PUSHED BACK TO 2010. Game's upcoming album, The R.E.D. Album won't be released until next year now. Game announced on his twitter yesterday (November 5) that his latest album will be hitting stores in February. "Last night at the Aftermath Headquarters was classic," wrote Game. " Me, Stat Quo and Dre got it in all night. R.E.D. Album's new release is 2/16/10" YOUNG JOC RELEASED FROM BLOCK ENT. In a recent interview rapper Young Joc has confirmed that he has been released from Block Entertainment. He said, "I just got my release and one of the terms of the release was a defamation clause, so honestly, I can't really talk about it too much. I've been released, severed the business ties. May God bless them and their regime, but I'm doing my own thing now." He also spoke about his own label Swagg Team Ent. and a potential label deal with Jive Records. "That's my label. I'm actually working on deals for that as well. Jive is actually the first to put a deal on the table, but there are some other competitors in the marketplace for the label. I'm just trying to make it work and hopefully it will all make sense." RIHANNA SPEAKS ABOUT HER AND CHRIS BROWN. In her first interview of the year, Rihanna opens up about the past year, how it inspired her new album and her message to girls. For her courageous comeback and philanthropy, the magazine will honor Rihanna as a Glamour Woman of the Year at its gala awards ceremony at Carnegie Hall on Monday, November 9. For Glamour's December issue, Rihanna joins 11 other inspiring Women of the Year winners featured in the magazine, on newsstands November 10. Rihanna also talks about her passion working on the Believe Foundation, a fund she started in 2006 to provide educational and medical supplies to needy children. "Rihanna's clearly a superstar for her music and style alone -- but in breaking her silence about what she calls the 'big secret' of domestic violence, she's also sending an important message to young women that they too can move on, and succeed, after personal challenges," says Glamour editor-in-chief Cindi Leive. Here, a few highlights from the interview: On the ordeal with ex-boyfriend Chris Brown: "I went to sleep as Rihanna and woke up as Britney Spears. That was the level of media chaos that happened the next day." On
her message to young women: "My story was broadcast all over the
world for people to see, and they have followed every step of my recovery.
The positive thing that has come out of my situation is that people can learn
from that. I want to give as much insight as I can to young women, because
I feel like I represent a voice that really isn't heard. Now I can help speak
for those women."
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