LIL WAYNE PLEADS GUILTY- 1 YR SENTENCE EXPECTED.
Lil Wayne pleaded guilty to felony gun possession in a Manhattan courtroom on Thursday (October 22) stemming from a July 2007 arrest following his first headlining concert in New York. The rapper will be sentenced to one year in prison as a part of his plea deal and must also give up his passport. Wayne quietly told the judge yes when asked if he understood the terms of the plea he was making. When asked what type of gun he possessed, Wayne said, "A .40-caliber semi-automatic." The hearing began at 10:05 a.m. ET and was over in 20 minutes. Mtv reports that about 20 minutes after the hearing ended, Lil Wayne exited the building, covering his head with the hood of his sweatshirt. Photographers and reporters followed as court officials escorted him to his vehicle. In response to many reporters' questions, all Wayne said was, "What's up?" Wayne will be sentenced in February 2010 and is expected to serve eight to 10 months, assuming good behavior. He must also appear in court in December for a parole update.

SHYNE UPDATE:
Angie Martinez reports that Shyne’s team is fighting to keep Shyne in the US where his mother and his grandmother live and where they raised him….but it seems like he’s going to have to continue the fight from Belize. Shyne will be released from Immigration custody but will then be deported to Belize soon. He has Harvard Professor Charles Ogletree advocating on his behalf in concert with his legal team. They’re still urging fans to reach out to Governor Patterson’s office to petition for Shyne’s pardon but deportation is imminent if that pardon doesn’t come. Angie says “Shyne is one of the strongest people I know and he’s handling this situation just as I’d expect him to. It must be frustrating for all of his friends and family; he served his time, and keeps getting all these different dates and conflicting information. But he’s a soldier, he’s dealing with it.”

50 CENT TO GRACE MUSCLE & FITNESS COVER.
50 Cent’s abs will grace the upcoming cover of Muscle & Fitness. The New York Post reports that 50 was spotted shooting the cover for the magazine last week at a gym in New York City. Before I Self Destruct, 50’s fourth studio album, will finally drop next month (November) after being bumped in 2007 for Curtis, and again from it’s expected 2008 release date.

THREE CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS RESIGN OVER FOXY BROWN ISSUE
Three employees of the New York Department of Corrections have reportedly resigned from their posts months after being accused of allowing Foxy Brown to have a photo shoot, among other things while being incarcerated. Sources said that the BK diva was getting preferential treatment. Brown was reported to be wearing designer clothing and allowed to conduct an interview with a magazine while incarcerated. Now more than a year since her release, officials at Rikers Island are resigning in connection to the allegations. Three corrections officials are giving up their positions, Carolyn Thomas, Frank Squillante and George Okada. The three official's resignations are effective October 31.

RUN DMC HEADED FOR BROADWAY?
Legendary rap group RUN DMC are reportedly planning to bring their story to Broadway as an original musical. According to Variety, Rev Run and DMC will be meeting up with film producer Paula Wagner this week to observe other musical offerings on Broadway. Wagner's Chestnut Ridge Productions will be overseeing the RUN DMC musical which will tell the inspirational story of the rap group's rise and dramatic journey. "I feel their story lends itself perfectly to the stage," said Wagner. " This project has been a passion of mine for some time and I couldn't be more thrilled to be working with them.

RIHANNA ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF NEW ALBUM.
Rihanna announces the completion of her fourth original studio album, Rated R, scheduled to arrive in the physical and digital marketplace on Monday, November 23rd. Rated R's first single pick is "Russian Roulette" The single was written by fellow Def Jam artist Ne-Yo, whose long track record with Rihanna includes the #1 hit "Unfaithful" (2006, from A Girl Like Me), their Top 10 duet "Hate That I Love You" (2007, from Good Girl Gone Bad), and #1 pop/ #1 R&B "Take A Bow" (2008, from Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded). In addition to Ne-Yo, other producers and writers on Rihanna's new album include the team of The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, Chase & Status, Stargate, Justin Timberlake and more.

WYCLEF JEAN'S MEMOIRS TO BE PUBLISHED.
It Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, today announced plans to publish the memoir of Grammy Award-winning multi-platinum musician Wyclef Jean. Jean will be writing the memoir with bestselling author and Rolling Stone writer Anthony Bozza, who co-authored such books as Whatever You Say I Am with Eminem and Tommyland with Tommy Lee. The book was acquired by Mauro DiPreta, Vice President and Associate Publisher for It Books, from Richard Abate at 3 Arts Entertainment. The memoir will chronicle Wyclef's childhood in the tiny rural village of La Serre in Haiti and his subsequent immigration to Brooklyn, NY, where at the age of 9 he began his journey into pop culture. He will recount his struggle between the double life he led as a preacher's son playing music in church with becoming a young rapper trying to fit in with his peers. The book will also document his monumental success as founding member of The
Fugees and then his impressive solo career where he established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians, performers, songwriters, and producers of his generation. Wyclef's work as a global philanthropist, especially in his native country through his work with Yele Haiti which he founded in 2005, will be featured in the book. His philanthropic work has brought him worldwide attention for his tireless efforts to change the way the world sees Haiti. "I am so happy to share my journey which took me from the hut to the projects to the mansion," said Wyclef Jean. "I am just getting started and feel so excited about It Books publishing the early stories from my life." "Wyclef has an incredible story, filled with drama, humor and inspiration," said DiPreta. "It is above all a very human story, not necessarily one of celebrity, and I'm happy to say that he is as gifted a storyteller as he is a musician." Carrie Kania, Senior Vice President and
Publisher of It Books, said, "As we continue to grow the new It Books list, Wyclef Jean is a perfect example of the kind of talent we love working with--a passionate, innovative artist whose book will transcend all expectations."

50 CENT GETS KELLY ROWLAND TO BE IN NEXT VIDEO
50 Cent has decided to recruit Destiny Child's own Kelly Rowland to star in his new music video for his upcoming "Baby By Me" [listen here] single. The new song featuring Ne-Yo, will be included on his upcoming "Before I Self Destruct" album. Early on, there was speculation that suggested 50 Cent and Rowland were in a relationship, but it was later discovered they are shooting Fif's latest music video together.

MASE RUSHED DIDDY ON AIR.
During an interview with his group Dirty Money on Atlanta’s V103 radio station, Diddy was surprised by Mase, who arrived at the studio unannounced with requests to be released from his contract. It was apparent that Diddy was caught off guard by Mase's appearance. Diddy walked over to Mase during a break to sign a document the Harlem-bred rapper later flashes to the camera. When back on the air, Diddy explained what their exchange meant. “Just be clear Mase has the freedom to do whatever he wants to do,” he said. “People have felt like our situation I may have stopped him or whatever, he can do whatever he wanna do. I’m tryna make sure everyone is crystal clear. If you want those Mase verses, getcha hustle on. He gotta slick tongue though, he’s a mean negotiator so you better come with that guap.” After the show, Mase told the cameras, “Took me 10 years to get this paper work right here. I had to put this in UPS; I don’t want nothing to spill on it. I don’t even know what I’mma put out now. Oh my goodness. We good…I got my official papers right here from Puff Daddy. It was love. So I guess we don’t have no problems after all. I don’t even know how to take that. I ain’t used to Puff doing good stuff.”


WWF'S IRON SHEIK TO FIGHT HIP HOP LEGEND PRINCE MARKIE DEE?
Old School Rap meets Old School Wrestling. The Fat Boys take it to the Ring, is an old school fight of epic proportions. Prince Markie Dee of the Original Fat Boys called out retired WWF wrestler, the Iron Sheik, to a smack down due to his racist behavior on the Howard Stern show. The call out came via the Fat Boys Official Twitter Account as well as through two You Tube Videos; one posted by Prince Markie Dee and another by Kool Rock-ski. (SEE HERE) Prince Markie Dee has challenged the Iron Sheik to step up if he continues his behavior. Via Twitter, UFC/MMA Legendary fighter, Frank Trigg has even offered to train him for the fight. When this fight goes down, Prince Markie Dee will do it for money- and will give it to charity.

SNOOP TALKS NEW ALBUM.
Snoop says, "I start off with so much malice in my heart when the record kicks in. By the time I get to the end of the record, I'm in Wonderland. I'm feeling good about life. I'm celebrating, happy about my wife, my kids, life in general. It's just a roller coaster of what I'm going through as I speak."He told Mtv, "I've always juggled the line: 'Should I make a gangster record? 'Cause I could kill all you rappers if I wanted to.' Then I have to sit back and say, 'I'm a business, so I'm gonna make records that can help me in this business.' I have to make radio records, but when I don't care, y'all in trouble." Snoop Dogg's upcoming album, Malice N Wonderland is slated for a December release. In other Snoop news, the rapper will be the Guest Host for WWE Monday Night RAW this coming Monday, October 19 in Jacksonville. The Doggfather participated in WWE's Wrestlemania XXIV last year in Orlando.

BUSTA RHYMES ORDERED TO PAY $75,000 FINE
According to the NY Post, A Brooklyn hearing officer yesterday ordered Busta Rhymes to fork over $75,000 to an Albany man who was doused with water, pummeled with bottles and sucker-punched by the hip-hop star and a bodyguard. The injured man, Alex Duncan, testified that he suffered nightmares and psychological after-effects of the Sept. 13, 2003, attack during a break in a rap concert at SUNY Albany. "It's all right," Duncan, 32, a recently laid-off school groundskeeper, said of the award. "I wanted something to come out of it. I don't even go to parties anymore, because there's always someone asking, 'What happened to that Busta Rhymes case?' " Duncan's lawyer, Ronald Hart, had requested $500,000 of the hearing officer, Luigi Marano. Rhymes' lawyer, Robert Kalina, was a no-show for both the trial and yesterday's damages hearing. He did not return a call seeking comment.

M.J.'S THIS IS IT TO GROSS $250 MILL 1ST WEEK?
Execs with the concert promoter AEG are openly predicting that "This Is It" will make a staggering "$250 million in its first 5 days". And they claim the pic is already $5 million in the black even after Sony Pictures paid $60 million for the movie rights. The film is already #1 in ticket sales on big online movie ticketseller Fandango two weeks from release, outselling all of even this weekend’s new releases. This Is It has already sold out more than 1,000 showtimes on Fandango alone. Rick Butler, COO for Fandango, says theater owners are posting additional showtimes on multiple screens to meet the demand. "At this point in the film’s sales cycle, This Is It is outpacing Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince, Transformers 2: Revenge Of The Fallen, and Star Trek as one of our top pre-sellers of the year.” This Is It debuts in some markets with special advance showings the evening of Tuesday, October 27, and will open worldwide on Wednesday, October 28, in a normal wide release of over 3,000 North American runs, plus day and date in all territories including China or 8,000 foreign screens. Both AEG and Sony execs maintain they're really only going to release the pic into theaters for a 2 week only run. But AEG sources are letting the cat out of the bag that plans are to bring This Is It back at a later date.

50's NEW ALBUM TO INCLUDE JAM MASTER JAY DOC.
50 Cent’s upcoming album “Before I Self Destruct” will finally hit stores on November 24th with the CD and the Before I Self Destruct movie plus it has been confirmed that the deluxe edition will contain the Jam Master Jay documentary Two Turntables and a Microphone.

RAY J GETS PICKED UP FOR 2ND SEASON ON VH1.
Last season, Ray J was introduced to 14 beautiful women with hopes of finding his true soul mate. We all had our favorites but in the end Ray J only had eyes for Cocktail. After going through numerous eliminations, tears, and even a couple of fights, viewers across the country tuned in to see Ray J give his last champagne glass to that one special lady. The finale episode was the highest rated telecast on cable for the night and averaged 4.4 million total viewers. At the reunion everything seemed great for the happy couple, but unfortunately the love didn't last. Now Ray J is back and teaming up with VH1 again to find the woman of his dreams. With a new crop of gorgeous females from around the country, Ray J is determined to find love a second time around on "For The Love of Ray J 2" premiering Monday, November 2( )at 9:00 PM*. In addition to his huge success as a TV reality star, Ray J is the #1 independent recording artist in music today, having scored two hit projects with total sales of 4 million copies released under his own label Knockout Entertainment. Established in 2005, Ray J flexed his entrepreneurial muscle
by producing Raydiation featuring the hit single, "One Wish" which collectively sold over 1 million copies without a major record label. In 2008, Ray J released the hit single "Sexy Can I" which sold over 2 million copies. Fueled by the single's success, Ray J released the CD, All I Feel
that debuted at #1 on the Billboard R&B Album Chart. VH1's "For The Love of Ray J 2" 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 produce for the series and the company. For VH1, the series is executive produced by Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes and Kristen Kelly.

STATS/NUMBERS/SOUNDSCAN- Week of 10-11-09
Jay-Z's Blueprint 3 takes #5 selling 64,224 units (1,062,000 Total). Mariah Carey's Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel grabbed #5 selling 53,920 units (223,000 total). Black Eyed Peas' E.N.D. grabbed #23 selling 25,062 units (1,195,000 Total). Drake's So Far Gone took #30 selling 19,700 copies (162,000 total). Trey Songz' Ready took #41 selling 14,514 copies. Fat Joe's J.O.S.E. grabbed the #73 slot only selling 8,300 copies for 1st week sales. Ghostface Killah's Ghostdini: The Wizard Of Poetry In The Emerald City took #82 just selling 7,200 copies ( 27,000 total). Saigon's Warning Shots 2 took #170 just selling 3,100 copies. Mack 10's Soft White grabbed #183 just selling 2,900 units (6,800 total).

GAME'S LAWYERS SUE FOR UNPAID FEES.
The Game is reportedly being sued by the legal team that represented him in his 2007 gun charges case. According to TMZ, Kinsella Weitzman Iser Kump & Aldisert claim The Game owes them close to $35,000 in unpaid fees. The legal firm recently filed the suit in L.A. County Superior Court. They claim that Game still has an outstanding bill from the 2007 gun charge case. Game faced five years in state prison for pulling a gun on an opponent during a pickup basketball game in February 2007 but he ended up only serving eight days. Reps from Game's camp have not issued any statements regarding these claims.

BET HIP HOP AWARDS RECAP
Jay-Z took the stage with Young Jeezy to perform "Real as It Gets" and rap group Goodie Mob performed its 1995 song "Cell Therapy." Jay-Z was honored as the "MVP of the Year"-- He dedicated his win to Mr. Magic, Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube. "Brooklyn, we did it again," he said at the conclusion of his speech while Drake took home "Rookie of the Year," and Ice Cube received the "I Am Hip-Hop" icon award. Ice Cube said he was humbled by the award, and he believes his career as filmmaker could earn him more honors in the future. "When you get recognized by your peers for a life of work, you got to be humbled," the rap veteran said. "I'm honored by this. I have 20 more years of work left in me. I hope BET is ready to give out two of these awards." Busta Rhymes presented the award for "DJ of the Year" to DJ AM, the ce lebrity spinner who died of an accidental drug overdose in August. Snoop Dogg also made several stage appearances, debuting his new joint, "Gangsta Luv," with The-Dream. Snoop also performed Dorrough's "Ice Cream Paint Job" remix — a remix that included Jim Jones, Soulja Boy and Nipsey Hussle.

YUNG JOC STILL TRIPPN ON DIDDY?
Apparantly Yung Joc has wanted off Bad Boy Entertainment for a while now, Insiders say he is still waiting to be released and that he is currently talking with many new labels but he’s stuck on Bad Boy. “I was seeking a release from the regime that I was a part of and I knew that when I got my release, the streets and the fans, they don’t really give a sh*t about all the woes and the troubles you going through with a label,” Joc said about releasing his free Grind Flu mixtape. ”They on to the next thing so that sh*t don’t matter to ‘em. So you gotta give ‘em more than just a story. Give ‘em some music and that’ what I decided to do.” Joc then goes on discussing how he's trying to get off of Bad Boy. “Also,I knew that in the process of me getting released from Bad Boy, if I get a release, the next label is gonna wanna hear some music… Due to the terms of my release, I can’t talk about the brother. God bless him… I got a few offers on the table… Right now, I’m doing what you would call, a lot of negotiating. Not a lot of BS’ing because these people know I’m very serious about my business."

HIP HOP BITS N PIECES- BEHIND THE SCENES.
Snoop Dog talks reconciliation of Dr. Dre and The Game, Fly Gypsy mixtape FREE download, Royce Da 5 9, and more.. WATCH HERE

XZIBIT HELPS OUT WITH EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION.
Rapper, movie and TV star Xzibit will be helping one family to build out their dream. This Sunday, October 11th at 8 p.m. EST on ABC, Xzibit will be volunteering his time on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to help orchestrate a life-changing event for a large musical family who uplift their comunity through the power of song.

JAMIE FOXX SPEAKS ON HIS ROLE IN NEW MIKE TYSON PROJECT.
Jamie Foxx has revealed he wants to play ex-world heavyweight boxing champ Mike Tyson in a biopic that would reunite the actor with his 'Ray' director Taylor Hackford. Foxx recently told MTV News that he was making plans to team with the filmmaker to collaborate on a feature that would cast an unflinching eye on the fighter. “It’s strange,” Foxx said of why he wants to portray Tyson. “Look at society. Sometimes we put you up so high, and some people say it’s to get aim on you, but once you get up there it’s like: What do you do once you’re up there now?” “The film will be told in his words. A lot of times we’ve just seen everyone else’s take; it would be great to just get his take,” Foxx explained. He's looking forward to rolling cameras on the flick and getting people to look at one of our generation’s most controversial characters in a new light. “I think he has a tremendous story. And if he allows me to do it, I think it will be one of those things were it will be really a serious event.” Foxx said that he can remember back to the late '80s/early '90s heyday of Tyson and how beloved the man once was. “You wanted to see how short it was,” the “Law Abiding Citizen” star said of Tyson’s legendarily brief knockouts of his opponents in those days. “I’ll never forget this: At my house in Vegas, fifty-five people there. Eight guys, the rest were women, corporate. I’m not talking about groupies; corporate women, have their own money, own jobs, watching this fight.” “I’m like, you like Mike Tyson? [And the women said:] ‘Oh yes; something about him. Oh, oh my goodness,’” Foxx grinned. “And he was coming out of the tunnel, ‘Oh he doesn’t have his shirt on. Oh!’ And he was just this ultimate man. I remember telling everybody ‘Okay, everybody get dressed right now because it’s not going to take that long for him to knock this kid out, and we’ve got to get to the after-party. I remember him knocking his opponent out, and it was like the Daytona 500, getting to our cars to get to the after-party just to get a glimpse of this guy. He was bigger than life.”

JAY-Z TALKS MICHAEL JACKSON
In the new issue of NME Jay-Z pays tribute to the legend Michael Jackson, revealing that Jay-Z collaborated with Michael Jackson multiple times, something that was until now unknown. According to Jay-Z, Michael sang on “Girls, Girls, Girls,” a track from the original “Blueprint” album. “He was on my song ‘Girls, Girls, Girls’, singing these background vocals and I didn’t even put his name on it,” Jay wrote. Jigga apparently teamed up with MJ on “You Rock My World” too plus brought him on stage during his 2001 Summer Jam performance. “He played a concert with me in New York, which was great,” Jay continued. “He got up and he walked out and the place went mental, guys were just grabbing their hats and throwing them like, ‘Aiiiiiiiiiieeeeee!’”

N.E.R.D. ADDS NEW MEMBER.
Pharrell, Chad & Shae will be joined by Rhea (a Toronto native of Guyanese descent) on their fourth studio album, Instant Gratification, which is set to drop in 2010. "Musically, we're just somewhere else with her," Pharrell told MTV News. "The music is now very 3-D. It's something you have to hear. But you'll see. We're definitely somewhere else. I want to leave that impact moment for when you purchase your download and you purchase your CD. The music is very three-dimensional. We're just really excited. We feel like N.E.R.D. has always been the punks of hip-hop and the outcasts of alternative music — just a little different. But this time, we're taking no prisoners." The Neptunes artist explained Rhea might be petite, at just 5-foot-4, but her booming voice and her classical background blend in with the genre-bending trio of N.E.R.D., also including Chad Williams and Shae. "Now you have this little Tinkerbell that's just stepped in and has been amazing," he said. "It's made it a fun process. We can go in so many more directions, becaus e we have the vocal support." Rhea, a Toronto native of Guyanese descent, met the fellas only once in person before she auditioned for them via Skype. She sang "His Eye Is on the Sparrow." Her rendition impressed the guys, and she soon found herself signing on. "It was just a really good time," she said of meeting the collective. "When I came in there and I met them and they heard me sing, I think they decided it was the right fit." "Don't be bashful," Pharrell chimed in. "We lost our minds. We thought she was great." N.E.R.D. will be on the road next week with Hov for his Blueprint 3 tour.

NEW DMC WORLD CHAMP DJ SHIFTEE BRINGS THE GOLD BACK TO THE USA.
"I have a detailed, meticulous practice schedule that I follow every day. I really try to get Rocky IV when I train but I want to make sure not to get too excited and amped before a battle, like 'Arrrghhh I'm going to kill everyone!' READ THE FULL REPORT HERE

RZA AND JAMIE FOXX TO STAR IN "DUE DATE" FLICK
Warner Bros. has set RZA to star alongside Robert Downey Jr. and Zach Galifianakis in "Due Date," the Todd Phillips-directed comedy. RZA joins a cast that also includes Michelle Monaghan and Jamie Foxx in the story of a man with a mismatched travel companion who races home in hopes of arriving before his wife delivers their first child. Phillips is producing through his Green Hat banner with Daniel Goldberg. Scott Budnick is exec producer. WB is partnered with Legendary Pictures on the film, and Susan Downey is exec producing. RZA's also attached to Paul Haggis' "The Next Three Days" for Lionsgate and is scoring producer Robbie Brenner's film "Warriors Way" for Relativity Media. Feature credits include "Funny People" and "American Gangster"; he's also the creator-producer of the Wu-Tang Clan and has scored music for films by Ridley Scott, Jim Jarmusch and Quentin Tarantino. Source: Variety.

SHYNE TO BE RELEASED OR NOT?
A Clinton Correctional Facility staffer told Crimesider that New York Rapper Shyne was released from prison today after serving more than eight years for his role in a 1999 New York night club shooting involving mentor Sean "P. Diddy" Combs and actress Jennifer Lopez. But a report from MTV says that the Combs protégé remains in custody at an "unspecified facility in Western New York State," while U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement decides his fate. The Web site of the New York State Department of Corrections seemed to indicate that Shyne was released from Woodbourne Correctional Facility on Oct. 6, 2009 and was on parole but his release was subject to immigration review. According to MTV, his release is now under review, as representatives for the rapper revealed to MTV News that the Brooklyn MC is being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at an unspecified facility in Western New York State. Officials are determining whether or not to deport the rapper, who was born in Belize, a rep explained. "Shyne is currently in federal custody while his future immigration status is determined," the rep said in a message to MTV. Shyne attorney Oscar Michelen emphasized to MTV News on Tuesday afternoon that Shyne has not been released, contrary to media reports. While serving time, the rapper released two albums and reportedly converted to Judaism. He legally changed his name Moses Michael Leviy.

SNOOP DOGG ANNOUNCES WONDERLAND HIGH SCHOOL TOUR DATES
Snoop Dogg announces his latest tour featuring hip hop greats Method Man, Redman and Devin the Dude. The tour, titled "Wonderland High School Tour," is a bonafide hip hop lover's dream and will kick off on October 27th in Baltimore and travel across North America. After 17 years and 30 million albums sold worldwide, as well as stints in both television and film, Snoop has proven he is amongst the greatest artists of all time. With an arsenal of both new and classic hits, fans can expect the best of Snoop Dogg on these tour dates. Snoop will be performing his well known classics as well as material from the forthcoming release, "Malice N Wonderland," due out on December 8th. Snoop recently announced a new title to his ever growing resume, Creative Chairman for famed Priority Records, where he will help spearhead the re-launch of the legendary rap label that helped put West Coast hip hop on the map.

Funeral Arrangements and Viewing will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2009
The viewing for Anthony Williams will be held from 10am to 12 noon, immediately followed by the funeral beginning at 12noon at:
Mount Neboh Baptist Church
1883 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. (W.114th St. & 7th Ave)
New York NY, 10026
Phone: 212.866.7880

For those intending to send flowers, please kindly have them delivered to the church on September 24th, 2009 only between 9am - 10am.

The family requests that no filming or photography take place within the church at all.

Foxx - clad in a classic Michael Jackson outfit of a red leather jacket and one glove - opened the show and set the perfect tone with a stage-long moonwalk and a hilarious, poignant monologue emphasizing Jackson's contributions to the music industry and pop culture.

Keri Hilson also channeled her inner Michael by donning his "Bad" outfit to perform her hit songs "Turnin' Me On" and "Knock You Down." Ne-Yo slowed it down with a powerful rendition of Jackson's "Lady in My Life," while Jamie Foxx and T-Pain got everyone dancing for "Blame It," bringing onstage surprise guest performers Snoop Dogg and Travis Barker.

In a breathtaking performance of her ballad "Ave Maria" and Sarah McLachlan's "Angel," Beyonce had the crowd mesmerized. Ciara also captivated the crowd singing Jackson's "Heal the World," and Mary Mary and Queen Latifah teamed up for a stirring performance of "God in Me." Keyshia
Cole and Monica collaborated on the beautiful song "Trust," and Soulja Boy performed his hit "Turn My Swag On."

Ne-Yo returned to the stage for one of the most electrifyingperformances of the night, putting on a medley with some of his favorite stars, including: Keith Sweat singing "I Want Her"; Guy (Teddy Riley, Aaron Hall and Damion Hall) the originators of New Jack Swing; and Bel Biv Devoe,
who had the crowd on their feet fist-pumping to "Poison." Cultural icon Jay-Z also rocked the house and had everyone standing to celebrate his new single "Death of Autotune."

Maxwell treated the audience to an incredible performance of "Pretty Wings," and in a surprise performance, up-and-coming artist Drake was joined onstage with Lil Wayne and Birdman for a medley of "Every Girl," "Best I Ever Had" and "Always Strapped."

In a surprise appearance, Don Cornelius, host and creator of Soul Train, spoke about the contributions of The O'Jays, the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award recipients. Tevin Campbell, Johnny Gill, Tyrese and Trey Songz all performed to honor The O'Jays' musical career. Alicia Keys and Wyclef Jean both received the 2009 BET Humanitarian Award for their philanthropic efforts.

In an emotional end to the BET AWARDS '09, Janet Jackson made an appearance on behalf of the Jackson family to thank fans for their support. And for the finale, Foxx and Ne-Yo brought the evening to a close with a touching duet, singing the Jackson 5's "I'll Be There."

A star-studded line-up of the hottest A-list celebrities made appearances at the show, including Tyra Banks, Taraji P. Henderson, Idris Elba, Sherri Shepherd, Anthony Anderson, Paula Patton, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Estelle, LeToya Luckett, Chaka Khan, Day 26, Nichelle Nichols,
Keke Palmer, Ray J, Snoop Dogg, Ving Rhames, Zoe Saldana, Mike Epps, Jeremy Piven and Marlon Wayans.

Throughout the show, BET Networks honored local heroes with the Community Humanitarian Award. These inaugural honorees - The Three Doctors, members of Food From The 'Hood (FFTH) and Mayor-elect James Young - were recognized for their activism within their communities.

Other memorable moments included: Zoe Saldana and Nichelle Nichols, the lovely ladies who play the current and original Uhura in Star Trek; a movie trailer spoof bringing together Matthew Lawrence's Shenene character and Foxx's Wanda; Nickelodeon's star of True Jackson Keke Palmer performing Jackson's "Who's Loving You" a cappella; and Ginuwine and other stars
giving testimonials on what Jackson meant to them.

Mj has made me realize i'm waisting valuable time & energy. My family needs 2 B more impt than the work! MJ rest in peace. - Chris Lighty

My girl just woke me up and told me and I am absolutely devastated..Rest In Peace MJ--you deserve to finally have peace...condolences to all. - Peter Rosenberg HOT 97

For as long as I can remember MJ has been a part of my life, culture and my familys as well! Never met him but I feel like I've lost family. Dj Suss One POWER 105 - NYC

We love u Michael. - DJ DRAMA

R.I.P. Michael Jackson. King of Pop. Greatest of all time. - Dj Smetex

R.I.P Michael Jackson!!!! You will alway be in our hearts!!! - Cool & Dre

MICHAEL JACKSON'S INFLUENCE ON HIP HOP - SEE THE CHART HERE

Jackson was rushed to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center this afternoon by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics. Fire Capt. Steve Ruda said paramedics responded to a call at Jackson's home at 12:26 p.m. He was not breathing when they arrived. The paramedics performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation and took him to the hospital, Ruda told The Times. Singer Michael Jackson suffered a heart attack at his home in Los Angeles this afternoon. Reports say that Jackson, 50, went into cardiac arrest and has been rushed to hospital. TMZ is now claiming that the singer has died, but this is as yet unconfirmed. Jackson was seen being taken into an ambulance by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics and moved to the UCLA Medical Centre, says TMZ. The Los Angeles Times reported that Jackson was not breathing when paramedics arrived at his home. Captain Steve Ruda told the LA Times that paramedics responded to a call at Jackson's home around 8:26p.m. The parademics performed cardiopulmonary resucitation on Jackson and took him to UCLA Medical Center. Jackson's mother was said to be at the hospital to meet her son. It is believed a call to 911 was made from Jackson's home in Holmby Hills, LA, at 12.21pm (8.21pm). A member of the Jackson family told TMZ that 'Michael is in really bad shape'. An update from TMZ says, 'We just got off the phone with Joe Jackson, Michael's dad, who says "he is not doing well".' The singer is due to play 50 sell-out shows at London's O2 Arena starting in July. But the King of Pop has already had to postpone the first few nights' shows. Organisers AEG Live said this was in order to make sure everything for the 'massive and technically complex show' was running smoothly. But critics say ongoing concerns about Jackson's health are the real reason behind the gigs having to be postponed. Earlier this year, Jackson was seen emerging from a doctors three times in one week amid rumours that he is battling skin cancer. The claims were denied by his representatives. Jackson has not been on tour for over a decade, but the concerts at the O2 were seen as his final comeback before finally retiring from music.

MIKE JONES ANNOUNCES TEXAS TAKEOVER TOUR.
Who Mike Jones? Who Mike Jones? Mike Jones Announces his plans for the first headlining tour since the release of his first double platnum album Who Is Mike Jones? This Tour will be one of the most satisfying and energy delivered tour for all ages from some of the hottest new artist's Texas has to offer. Tour supporting acts are to include Durrough, GS Boyz, B-Hamp, Lil Wil and other special guests. The Texas Take Ova Tour dates will run through Thursday, August 20th - Sunday, September 13th.

DJ MONTAY WINS 2009 BMI AWARD.
One of the South's hottest producers, Oomp Camp Records affiliate, Southern Style DJ & Grammy Nominated DJ Montay, won a 2009 BMI Pop Award for his production contribution on Flo-Rida's mega hit "Low." Low was a constant on Billboard's Top 10 for at least 10 weeks during the height of it's reign and was featured on the Step Up 2 movie soundtrack, ultimately catipulting Flo-Rida's music career. DJ Montay has once again collaborated with Flo-Rida on "Suga," second single on his sophomore album on Atlantic Records. Suga has been on Billboard's Top 10 for the past 6 weeks and counting! DJ Montay's discography lists a who's who of southern rap stars including DJ Unk's "Walk It out" and "2 Step," along with a bulk of the Beatin' Down Yo Block album, Shawty Lo "Foolish," Three 6 Mafia "I'd Rather," Chamillionaire "Creepin" featuring Ludacris, from the forthcoming Venom album, Ludacris & Shawnna "Everybody with Me" from the forthcoming Battle of the Sexes album, and hit single "Who the F*ck Is That?" for the now deceased rapper Dolla, may he rest in peace.

DIDDY INVITING TROOPS TO HIS WHITE PARTY?
CIROC Ultra Premium Vodka and Sean "Diddy" Combs today have invited Tanya Vinson of the United States Air Force to serve as Diddy's personal guest as he celebrates our nation's independence during his world-famous White Party on July 4, 2009 in Los Angeles, California, which this year isco-hosted by 'Malaria No More,' a non-profit, non-governmental organization determined to end the malaria crisis in Africa. As a sponsor of the event, CIROC Vodka launched a program in April to honor several American service men and women with entry to this exclusive event. The grand prize winner, Tanya Vinson, has received the ultimate CIROC White Party experience for two, including round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, and transportation, in recognition of her outstanding commitment to the armed forces. "As we celebrate Independence Day at this year's White Party, it's only fitting that we show our gratitude for the heroic men and women who protect our freedom every day," said Combs, who entered into a strategic marketing
alliance with the ultra-premium spirit more than one year ago. "I am proud to honor our military by personally hosting Tanya at my Fourth of July White Party." Diddy's White Party is revered as one of the most sophisticated and stylish events of the year. Although traditionally held at the end of summer, this year's fete - themed 'We Are Family' - will occur on Independence Day in honor of our nation's independence and the historic presidential election. Ms. Vinson, a recruiter in the United States Air Force, holds what has become one of the toughest jobs in the military. As one of the faces for this branch of service, she is tasked with replenishing the ranks of our
military during one of the most challenging times in our nation's history.

JAIME FOXX CELEBRATES PLATINUM.
Jamie Foxx celebrated the platinum selling success of his J Records album Intuition during a private party held at New York ’s Armani Ristorante. Foxx’s hit single “Blame It” holds the all-time record for 12 consecutive weeks at #1 on the Urban Mainstream Chart. The single also claimed the #1 spot on Hot 100 charts for 4 weeks and sold over a million singles and ringtones each.

SNOOP LINKS WITH SPACEMAN.
Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, 79,drops a rap video that features Snoop Dogg, Soulja Boy and Quincy Jones. What can the real Buzz Lightyear be thinking? "I'm not too good at carrying a tune, but I do have rhythm," says Aldrin, who got the idea from a family member who felt the genre would have a broad reach. Aldrin's ShareSpace Foundation, which promotes science and exploration, is one of three beneficiaries of the song's iTunes sales. "I want kids interested in space. It's their future." SEE THE VIDEO HERE. "Buzz has got the biggest buzz on the streets right now," Snoop Dogg says. "He's got Talib Kweli and (me) in the studio with him, and I only work with the best." On a more serious note, the rapper says he signed on "because (Aldrin) pushes kids to achieve their dreams." Kweli says he and Snoop "both have kids, and to tell them we hung with Buzz gets your inner geek fired up." Rounding up talent to make the video was easy given Aldrin's fame, says the video producer Mike Farah. But persuading the astronaut — whose flag-in-hand image inspired MTV's "moon man" video music award — to play it funny was another matter. "He wasn't into doing a comedy video at first," Farah says. "But when we heard he was rapping, that was it." As for Aldrin, he says rapping with Snoop Dogg proved almost as daunting as space. "Snoop had this great hand language going as he sang, which was hard for me," Aldrin says. "But when it comes to getting people's attention, comedy goes a long way." Source: Usa Today

STORCH HOPS ON THE REALITY TRAIN.
Scott Storch has signed a deal with reality show giants Bunin/Murray for his own reality show. The show will give an introspective look into the life of this dynamic and incredible talent. The show will also document him making hit records with all of the hottest acts in the industry while opening the door to the hot and trendy Miami music scene. Also, it will capture Mr. Storch's ups and downs in the volatile music business. David Weintraub, one of the show's Executive Producers, said, "This is a monumental moment to see a producer of his caliber let the cameras into his world and see how hit records are made." Weintraub also stated, "A lot of people have tried to get Scott to open up the curtain to this process but have never been successful." GenX's President Derek Jackson said, "The opportunity to collaborate with such a reputable production company marks the beginning for GenX to establish itself in the reality television industry. This venture will provide a platform for Scott to show the audience the process of developing great talent." Storch hit the headlines earlier this year after missing payments on his Miami mansions, his luxury cars and child support obligations. He has also pleaded not guilty to grand theft auto after allegedly failing to return a leased Bentley on time. Bunim/Murray Productions is credited with single handedly creating the reality show genre of television. They are responsible for hit shows like "The Real World," the longest running reality series in TV history, and "Road Rules." They are also at the helm of E! Television's "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" and have taken over production on "Project Runway."

STATEMENT ON BEYONCE LAUNCH PARTY CANCELLATION:
The cancellation of the launch party for Beyonce's "I AM..." tour, first scheduled for this Saturday at M2, was a result of a breach of contract by the promoter. Beyonce never had a contract with the club itself and no one in her camp dealt directly with the venue. The superstar was never scheduled to perform but was to serve as a co-host and introduce singer/songwriter Solange's performance. Patrons were falsely promised a performance by Beyonce. THE STORY: A Manhattan clubowner threatened a million-dollar lawsuit against the R&B Diva, who was slated to perform tomorrow at M2 — the West 27th Street nightclub that used to be Crobar and Mansion — as part of the launch of her “I Am . . . Sasha Fierce” North American tour. M2 owner Joey Morrissey agreed to pay the singer $200,000 for the gig, he says. But on Wednesday, Beyoncé’s people suddenly pulled the plug on the performance, despite having signed a contract that had prompted Morrissey to spend $100,000 preparing for the show, according to the clubowner. “They said they were too busy with the launching of the tour and that they wouldn’t have time to do the kickoff party,” Morrissey said. To make up for the cancellation, Morrissey says Beyoncé offered to stop by the club “to hang out for an hour” on Sunday. He adds, “I mean, we sold tables for thousands of dollars for the show, and spent $100,000 renting a soundboard and other equipment, as per their stipulations. What good does her showing up for an hour do me? They’ve been totally unwilling to agree to another show.” As a result, Morrissey says he’s now preparing to file suit against Beyoncé, claiming his place has suffered a “loss of reputation” in addition to the sunk cash. “We had an overwhelming response from our clubgoers, who were lining up to buy tickets and tables. This will come as a great disappointment to all of them,” he claims, adding, “If Beyoncé cancels and doesn’t give us a new date, this hurts our credibility in night life.”

STREAMING REPORT: MOVIES/TV/AND MUSIC INDUSTRY TO GENERATE 78 BILLION.
Streaming video and music distributed across the Internet, an IP TV network, or a mobile handset will generate more than $78 billion in network-derived and content-derived revenue into the US markets over the next six years, according to a new market research study from The Insight Research Corporation. Streaming media refers to the transmission of digital audio and video files over an IP network or wireless network in real time or on-demand, while prohibiting users from storing the files locally. Insight's market analysis study, Streaming Media, IPTV, and Broadband Transport: Telecommunications Carriers and Entertainment Services 2009-2014, describes the technology and market forces underpinning the network-derived revenues generated from distributing streamed content across the public Internet, content distribution networks, cellular networks, or telco IP networks. The study also estimates the revenue from the various types of content-derived revenues, along with associated advertising revenue. The streaming market is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 27 percent over the next five years, driven by on-demand audio, on-demand video, and the accompanying advertising revenue."Over the past seven years as we've tracked the developments in streaming it has evolved from an esoteric niche to a mainstream market," says Robert Rosenberg, Insight Research president. "What we predicted way back when is coming to fruition. The advertising revenue that long supported traditional TV is gravitating to this new medium, putting downward pressure on traditional TV distribution schemes," Rosenberg concluded.

TRACY MORGAN TO HEADLINE SIXTH ANNUAL NEW YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL.
The New York Comedy Festival (NYCF) announced today that Ricky Gervais, Bill Maher, and Tracy Morgan will be among those to headline the sixth annual NYCF. This year’s festival will feature over 150 comedians performing at more than 10 venues throughout New York City over the course of five days, November 4 – 8, 2009. Tickets will go on sale August 5. “We are thrilled to once again be a part of the New York Comedy Festival,” said Mitch Fried, senior vice president, Live Entertainment COMEDY CENTRAL. “This festival is a natural fit for us. COMEDY CENTRAL has a rich history with the stand-up community and we are home to the largest stand-up library on-air and online. We look forward to a long term relationship with the festival.”

THE GAME HOPS ON NBA 2K10.
The Game will be featured on the upcoming NBA 2K10. He will be featured as the main artist for the upcoming game title which features Kobe Bryant on the cover. LISTEN HERE

BLACK EYED PEAS ARE #1
Black Eyed Peas' "The E.N.D." bows at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, selling 304,000 -- the hip-pop act's best sales week ever. It's also the first No. 1 album for the group, which had previously gone as high as No. 2. Its last set, 2005's "Monkey Business," bowed in the runner-up slot with a then-best 291,000. It had the unfortunate luck to come out the same week as Coldplay's "X&Y," which kept the Peas' at bay when it started at No. 1 with 737,000.

THE GAME GOES HOUSE ARREST.
The Game is set to star in the new movie “House Arrest” with actress Stacey Dash. Dash will star as a “high maintenance girl who meets a quick money scheming man.” The new “dramedy” will be directed by Billy Washington and produced by Cassius Verson Weathersby who’s worked on such films as “You Got Served,” “The Great White Hope” and “D.C. Cab.”

EMINEM GOES PLATINUM
Eminem hits platinum status this week after four weeks on the charts. He sold 87,500 more copies of the disc this week, making the album’s overall sales number stand at 1,049,100.

EMINEM CONFIRMS D-12 REUNION ALBUM.
Eminem has confirmed that he is planning to reunite his Detroit crew, D12, and release the first new album from the group in five years. Eminem told BET's "Rap City: The Relapse" special on Friday that D12 are planning to hit the studio soon to begin work on the disc. The yet-unnamed album from the crew will be their first since the death of member Proof three years ago, a death that Eminem has said caused him to go into a depressive spiral of drugs. "Me and the guys, we got a bond, it's special," Em said of the group, which also includes Bizarre, Kon Artis, Kuniva and Swifty. "It's like, as far as the future of D12, we're gonna be back in the studio soon." Part of the reason Eminem said he decided to reform the group for a third album was because of his respect and love for Proof, who was his best friend and one of his biggest supporters when the then-unknown D-Town MC was trying to make a name for himself. "Right now, my music would probably be the same if Proof was still alive," Em said in the "Rap City" interview. "I think this is what Proof always wanted, was for me to go crazy again. My life would be different because I would still have him."

LIL WAYNE AND FRIENDS TO PERFORM SUMMER FESTIVAL.
Lil Wayne headlines this summer's Young Money Presents: America's Most Wanted Music Festival. Lil Wayne will be joined by artists Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy and Drake for the twenty one city tour through the United States and Canada. Tickets for the tour will go on sale June 20th
and are available via Ticketmaster, Live Nation and venue ticketing systems depending on venue. The Music Festival will be the follow up to Lil Wayne's very successful "I Am Music Tour" playing a total of 47 arena dates across the US. After an opening act, Drake will perform, followed by Soulja Boy and Young Jeezy's sets with Lil Wayne closing out the show. The tour will kick off on July 27, 2009 at the Toyota Pavilion in Scranton, Pennsylvania and end on August 23, 2009 at the Superpages.com Center in Dallas, Texas.

TOM MACKAY PROMOTED TO EXECUTIVE VP.
Universal Republic Records has promoted Tom Mackay to Executive Vice President of A&R, it was announced today by Monte Lipman, President and CEO of Universal Republic Records and
Avery Lipman, Co-President & COO, Universal Republic Records. Formerly, he served as Senior Vice President of A&R for the label. In this expanded role, Mr. Mackay will be responsible for securing and cultivating new talent in all genres of music for the label. Mr. Mackay will continue to be based in New York City and will report directly to Monte and Avery Lipman. "Tom is an extremely gifted A&R executive who has demonstrated in every way his commitment to our artists and their music," said Monte Lipman. "He has an amazing ear for talent and possesses invaluable creative insight, nurturing our diverse roster and helping to forge Universal Republic into a vital and powerful musical force." "I've been fortunate to have worked with Monte Lipman for a great part of my career," stated Mr. Mackay. "He and Avery have built the rarest of labels where the artists' vision still comes first. I'm honored by their continuing support, and grateful for the opportunity to come to work each day and align my efforts with this great Universal Republic team."

E!’s GIRL’S NEXT DOOR REALITY STAR KENDRA TAPS PLAY-N-SKILLZ AND TOO $HORT TO CREATE THE THEME SONG FOR HER NEW SHOW. Producers and recording artists, Play-N-Skillz recently went in the studio with Too $hort and Kendra Wilkinson from E!’s The Girl’s Next Door to record the theme song for her new E! reality show, “Kendra”. The duo teamed up with rap legend Too $hort to deliver the vocals which boasts the line “No butlers and no maids, you gotta do your own thing your way”. “Kendra” debuted at number one with 2.6 million viewers tuning in to watch. “We had extreme synergy going into the studio with Too $hort and Kendra to record the theme song,” says Play from Play-N-Skillz. “We had a great time recording it and we’re very happy that Kendra loved the theme song.” In addition, Play-N-Skillz are back at the top of the Billboard charts with Hurricane Chris’ hit single “Halle Berry” (She’s Fine). The duo produced the track, which features G4 Recordz recording artist Supastar and currently sits at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and is the number two video on BET’s 106 & Park.

BENTLEY LINKS WITH KANYE FOR DEBUT ALBUM.
The first gentleman of Hip-Hop, Bentley, is pleased to announce a new label partnership with E1 Music (formerly KOCH Records). Bentley’s long awaited debut album CoolOutrageousLoversOfUniquelyRawStyle set to be executive produced by Kanye West will be released in the forthcoming months. The album’s exciting first single “Greener” features soul man Anthony Hamilton and was produced by Chris Scholar. “Greener” is part of the soundtrack to a new movement, ushering in a new “COOL”: having Faith in God, the importance of education, self respect and treating others as you want to be treated. Fans have already gravitated toward these tenants through his hit MTV show, From G’s to Gents. “The song ‘Greener’ is about leaving the past and looking to the future…whether it is a relationship, a career change or any type of upgrade in your life. ‘Greener’ ultimately speaks to broadening our horizons and celebrating new possibilities,” states Bentley. “Being Greener is a lifestyle....a better diet, taking care of our environment, and maintaining healthy relationships. I believe that living a greener lifestyle is important, yet challenging. It is my hope that after listening and seeing the visual for ‘Greener,’ people will be inspired to join the movement.” Check out his single : “Greener” featuring Anthony Hamilton: LISTEN

UNIVERSAL AND VIRGIN PARTNER UP TO OFFER MUSIC SUBSCRIPTION MODEL.
Universal Music and Virgin Media have agreed to partner on an unlimited music download subscription service. Financial terms were not disclosed, but the agreement — revealed Monday (june 15) — has been hailed as taking the music business into a new era. The pact will allow Virgin Media's broadband customers to stream and download as many songs and albums as they like, and transfer those digital files to any device that they want, such as iPods, MP3 players, mobile phones or personal computers. In contrast to other subscription services, consumers would be able to keep the music for as long as they like. The cost of a monthly subscription has not been announced as yet, but when it launches later this year, the service will be tiered, with an entry level price on offer to customers who download music regularly, but who might not want an unlimited service, right up to the full-access, unlimited download level. Other record labels and music publishers are expected to follow Universal's lead, meaning Virgin Media customers could soon have access to millions of individual tracks. It is expected that rival ISPs are working on similar deals with the music industry. As part of the deal, Virgin Media is committing to stepping up its efforts to clamp down on the unauthorized distribution of digital files across its network. Although the Virgin Media deal with Universal is not the first of its kind — a similar deal was launched in Scandinavia last year — it is certainly the most significant in terms of the size of the market involved and its announcement has won plaudits from politicians and industry organizations alike. "It is very encouraging to see an ISP and a record label working together as creative partners," Geoff Taylor, CEO of record label trade body BPI, said. "The fact that Virgin Media will apply a graduated response system to tackle persistent illegal downloaders demonstrates that graduated response is a proportionate and workable way forward." Taylor added that the deal could not be more timely as the U.K. government is set to publish its paper on the future for intellectual property in the digital age later, titled Digital Britain, on Tuesday. "We hope the government will support this positive move by announcing prompt and robust measures to deal with online piracy in its Digital Britain report this week," Taylor said. Source: Variety

STICKY FINGAZ SHOOTS FRIEND IN THE LEG.
According to TMZ, Onyx rapper Sticky Fingaz accidentally shot his friend Luce Canon in the leg with his baby Desert Eagle firearm last week. They reported that the bullet is still lodged in Luce’s skin and has shattered a bone in his shin. Despite having to have surgery he did not press charges against his friend. Sticky is legally licensed to own a gun.

ADDITIONS TO BET LINEUP.
Fabolous, Young Jeezy and Mary Mary have been added to the BET AWARDS '09 star-studded lineup that already includes platinum-selling artists like Kanye West, The Dream, Soulja Boy, Ne-Yo and Maxwell. Queen Latifah, Taraji Henson, Sherri Shepherd, Idris Elba, Paula Patton and Solange Knowles will also make appearances as presenters. The show will be hosted by Jamie Foxx, and take place at Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium LIVE on Sunday, June 28 at 8:00 p.m.*
with the most anticipated performance of the evening coming from Jay-Z.

DMX SAYS HE'S READY.
DMX says he's ready to get back into the game. In a new interview with Vibe-- DMX says, “I’m working on the album right now-- Getting this sh*t done. I got a few more songs to go. I got a crazy joint with Sean Kingston. F*cking sick, yo. Fire. And I got some sh*t with Swizz that’s ridiculous… I just hit Kanye West the other day for some beats. Also, the same people that I been f*cking with, like Dame Grease. I’ve been working on this project for so long, I forgot who else gave me f*cking beats… I wanna shut n*ggas the f*ck up! I’m still on probation, so it is what it is. I’m just working man. That’s where my focus is, work… Hopefully the album comes out this year. I’m just getting it done. The release will be in the hands of the powers that be.”

LLOYD SAYS HE'S DONE WITH THE INC.
After three albums with Irv Gotti’s The Inc., R&B singer Lloyd is ready for a change of scenery. “I’m ready for a change,” says Lloyd. “There’s no bad blood. I just feel I need to take more control over my career and get a fresh start. Hopefully Irv can understand my position.” The 23-year-old singer/songwriter says there’s “no bad blood” between him and The Inc. but stressed that he feels his relationship with the label has “run its course.” Lloyd is currently working on a new mixtape and finalizing plans for his yet untitled fourth album. “We have plans to get in the studio with Jim Jonsin, The Runners, Cool & Dre, Rodney Jerkins and others,” he says. “In the future, I still hope to work with Irv as a producer as well.” Lloyd noted he is eager to explore opportunities that will allow him to take his career to the next level and offer a vehicle for him to supply his fans with more great music. Commenting on Lloyd’s relationship with The Inc., Lloyd’s manager, Henry “Noonie” Lee, said, “We find ourselves in limbo for the second time in three years. It’s frustrating to know that opportunities to advance Lloyd’s career are out there but we can’t exploit them due to our current situation. Even though Lloyd is appreciative of the opportunity that has been afforded him by The Inc., he feels it’s time for him to move on and seek opportunities that will allow him to build and enhance his brand.” Founded by music executive Irv Gotti and formerly known as Murder Inc., The Inc. last month announced the release of singer Ashanti from her contract. The label has also ended its three-year joint venture with Universal Records and has yet to partner with another major label.

JAY Z GIVES HIS TOP 5 MCS ALL TIME.
Jay-Z speaks with WGCI radio in Chicago. He talks about leavng Def Jam, D.O.A., DJ Webstar, his motivation, Barack Obama, NBA, Rihanna, Nets coming to Brooklyn, Jay-Z’s Top 5 mc's all time, lack of female MC’s and more .... LISTEN HERE

Jay-Z’s Top 5 MCsof all time are:
BIGGIE
Tupac Shakur
Scarface
Eminem
Andre 3000

LYFE JENNINGS’ NEW SINGLE, “HATERS,” #1
Jesus Swings and Asylum/Warner Bros. is pleased to announce that platinum recording artist, songwriter and entrepreneur, LYFE JENNINGS', new single, "HATERS," is the number one (#1) most added single at radio on three (3) Nielsen BDS & Mediabase charts: Urban Overall, Urban AC and Urban Mainstream. Lyfe is set to release his fourth (4th) album SOONER OR LATER on his new label, Jesus Swings with Asylum/Warner Bros. on September 22, 2009. LYFE tells us that his new CD, SOONER OR LATER, "is about relationships. How we try to hold on sometimes for the sake of holding on. But, in reality no matter how many breakups turn into make-ups, sooner or later we realize that this person is who they are and we need to let go. No grudges, no regrets. Just realization. Just acceptance. Just life." This is the first release to come out on Lyfe's new label Jesus Swings. He notes: "I am happy to be working with Asylum/Warner Bros. to introduce Jesus Swings. It's a new found independence for me and it's rewarding to get to call the shots. It takes a real man to accept living and dying by his thoughts, and rising and falling by his dreams."

EMINEM CLOSE TO PLATINUM.
Eminem takes the #2 slot, after holding onto the top spot for the last two weeks. Em moved 141,200 copies of Relapse this week, bringing his three week total to 961,600. Redman and Method Man’s Blackout! 2 took #30-- pushing 14,400 units-- totalling 92,400 after three weeks. Rick Ross took #40 with Deeper Than Rap, selling 12,000 copies. (315,900 total). J Dilla's Jay Stay Paid took #96. The album sold 5,400 copies in its first week. AZ's latest LP Legendary sold 1,600 units, while Duck Down's Marco Polo and Torae’s collab album, Double Barrel sold 1,300 units for 1st week sales.

RICK ROSS PARTNERS WITH 1800 TEQUILLA.
Proximo Spirits, Inc. and 1800® Tequila announced today a partnership with American rapper and record label founder Rick Ross and his crew Triple C’s. Kicking off this month with a video and photo shoot, Ross & Triple C’s will endorse 1800 Tequila’s Select Silver – the first and only 100 proof clear tequila on the market. “Rick Ross & Triple C’s were an obvious choice for us,” said Elwyn Gladstone, Head of Marketing for Proximo. “1800 Select Silver is a serious tequila for the serious tequila drinker. It’s making a huge splash in the tequila market right now, just as Rick Ross is shaking up the music industry.” 1800 Select Silver is a smooth and sexy alternative to the predictable players behind the bar and is the perfect choice for partygoers. The 100% Agave Silver tequila delivers a refreshing but potent taste, for the true tequila connoisseur. It’s double-distilled for crystal clarity and blended with a touch of aged tequila. “Of all the tequilas out there, the 100 proof 1800 Select Silver is the ‘big boss’ and the only tequila I would put the Rick Ross name behind,” said Ross. “1800 Tequila is a brand I’m really excited to grind and build with, and as I keep pumping out the hits, topping the charts, and discovering new talent like my crew Triple C’s – 1800 Tequila will be rising to the top with me.”

MAX B FOUND GUITY.
Former Byrd Gang affiliate--Max B (Charly Wingate) has just been found guilty on 9 out of 11 counts in his ongoing murder trial. Max is scheduled to be sentenced in Bergen County on July 11, 2009, where he is facing up to 20 years in prison. Today after the jury deliberation Max was taken directly into custody. Wingate, was the alleged mastermind behind a $30,000 heist targeting two men in 2006. Wingate is accused of conspiring with his step brother Kelvin Leerdam, and his girlfriend Gina Conway. Conway served as the prosecution’s secret weapon in the case, testifying against the rapper in exchange for a shorter sentence. Conway testified that she told Wingate of David Taylor and Allan "Jay" Plowden's flashy life style--making them the perfect targets. Plowden and Taylor were robbed of over $30,000 worth of cash and personal effects in a Fort Lee hotel on September 22, 2006. During the botched robbery Plowden was bound with duct tape, and Taylor was killed by a gunshot to the head.

FRED KNUXX INKS 7 FIGURE DEAL.
Delaware’s most recognized MC, Fred Knuxx, has signed a deal with California based record label WongGee Inc. “I decided to sign with WongGee Inc because they understood my vision as an artist and seemed genuine about executing it and taking me to the next level,” said Fred Knuxx, regarding the deal. “This is a big move for me, my family and Delaware. I worked so hard to get to this point and will work even harder to get to the next step. It’s just the beginning for me. I am living proof that hard work really pays off.” Throughout the past few years his buzz had both the streets and Internet going nuts. In 2007, Vibe Magazine featured Knuxx in the top 51 unsigned rappers in the country. His versatile and honest rhyme style made him a well-respected underground heavyweight. Fred Knuxx is currently in the lab finishing up his debut album The Big Deal, which is slated for release early next year. Until his official album hits, he will be offering fans two appetizers. The rapper is planning to release two street albums over the summer, King Of Grind, which is hosted by DJ Bedtyme357, and the long awaited project Delafornia. The latter, a junction of his home area Delaware and California, will feature guest appearances by G. Malone, Spider Loc and many more. The first promo single will hit the streets soon. CEO of WongGee Inc, Antoine Keane, stated “We are very excited making Fred Knuxx the flagship artist for our label. Knuxx is a special artist and we look forward to taking his career to the next level.”

FORMER DEATHROW ARTIST THE REALEST DROPPING NEW ALBUM IN JULY.
Being signed to one of the most storied record labels in music history has its valleys and peaks. And while only a few know the feeling, no one may know it better than Tha Realest who is preparing to release his debut album “Witness Tha Realest” on July 14th from Team Dime Ent. & RBC Records. Proving his depth in the game, “Witness Tha Realest” isn’t your typical debut. The album features assistance from Ray J, Fat Joe, WC, J. Valentine, Crooked I, Yukmouth, EDI of Tha Outlawz, Devin The Dude, Sean P, C-Bo, and more. “Witness Tha Realest” will finally see the light of day after being over 10 years in the making. “Get It N” is the album’s street single, produced by Detail of Konvict Music and is already making rounds in clubs across the nation. LISTEN HERE

LL COOL J TO HOST FASHION FORWARD EVENT.
Fashion Delivers will host the second annual Pay It Fashion Forward event at New York City's hotspot M2 beginning June 18, at 7:30 p.m. where five fashion industry vanguards will be honored for their positive influences on their communities and the environment. The brands selected this year include I/DENTI/TEE, LINDA LOUDERMILK, PHILANTHROPIST and CHLOE JO BERMAN. Additionally, the JONES APPAREL GROUP was selected for distinction as a company for its socially conscious business practices. The evening will be hosted by Grammy award-winning artist and designer LL Cool J.

SOUNDSCAN REPORT FOR WEEK OF 6-03-09
Want the exact numbers and stats on Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Redman & Method Man, Snoop, Lil Wayne, Kanye, and more..? GRAB THE REPORT HERE

KEVIN BLACK APPOINTED COO OF GLOBAL MUSIC GROUP.
Kevin Black has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of, Global Music Group, it was announced today by Roland Turner, CEO, Global Music Group. In his new position, Mr. Black will assume overall responsibility for overseeing the creative vision and brand recognition of the label. “Kevin is one-third owner of Global Music Group along with Mike Wilson and Myself, and is the Chief Operations Officer. He is number one in urban music and we are going to the top,” said Mr. Turner. His track record in music has resulted in breaking some of the biggest names in Urban and Hip-Hop over the past decade. Former Warner Bros. Senior Executive, Mr. Black, exited his post as chairman of urban music at Warner Bros. in November 2008. Two years after joining the label, prior to leaving his post as Vice President of rap at Interscope Records. There he assisted in the multi-platinum success of Eminem, 50 Cent, Dr. Dre, Eve, Black Eyed Peas, and The Game. Winning the Urban Hit-Maker Award at the 9th Annual Multicultural Prism Awards Gala in 2004, for re-structuring the department and guiding the company to unprecedented success. Black, began his career as National Director of Promotions at Death Row Records, before moving onto EMI, Virgin, A&M, Interscope and Warner Bros. The new appointment follows a recent expansion at Global Music Group, a Delaware corporation headquartered in Alabama, with offices now in Los Angeles, New York, and divisions in Canada and Europe, headed by Cliff Wise, CEO, Global Music Group Canada and Scott Shephard, President/CEO, Global Music Group Europe. The label which operates several lines of business as divisions became known in June 2008, when its New York arm, submitted the winning bid, an offer of $24 million dollars, to acquire the Assets of Death Row Records. However, in December 2008, the label announced that it was seeking a buyer for Death Row, with the assets being auctioned again, for $18 million to a Canadian firm. Ron Bush, representative of Global Music Group New York, said today, “We are taking care of other details right now. We aren't involved in Death Row Records now.” Global Music Group releases include musical gems ranging from British rapper Mark Morrison, an all-women country band from Nashville Mustang Sally (street date: August 2009), to R&B songstress Lil’ Mo (street date: September 2009). Global Music Group is distributed by Fontana/Universal.

ALICIA KEYS TO RECEIVE ASCAP AWARD.
Alicia Keys will be the recipient of the Golden Note kudo during ASCAP's 22nd annual Rhythm & Soul Awards. The event, which takes place June 26 at the Beverly Hilton, also recognizes ASCAP songwriters and publishers of the most-performed R&B, hip-hop and gospel songs from 2008. According to the performing rights org, the Golden Note laurel "is presented to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones." Keys sold 11 million copies of her debut LP, "Songs in A Minor," released by Clive Davis' J Records. In 2005 she became the first female R&B artist to have three No. 1 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 chart in as many releases. Her latest disc, her fourth, also bowed at No. 1 and earned her three Grammys. Keys, along with Wyclef Jean, will also receive BET's 2009 Humanitarian Award at the Shrine Auditorium on June 28. Source: Variety

BET NETWORKS PICKS UP THE WENDY WILLIAMS SHOW.
BET Networks has acquired Debmar-Mercury's The Wendy Williams Show to air beginning Monday, July 13. After a four-market, six-week preview last summer on the Fox TV Stations in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas and Detroit, the one-hour entertainment talk show hosted by Williams was cleared on more than 95% of the U.S. ahead of its July 13 launch, and now, on BET.

JAY-Z SETS DATE FOR BLUEPRINT 3?
Multiple sources are reporting that Jay-Z will release his much-hyped new album, The Blueprint 3, on September 11. The original Blueprint record was released on September 11, 2001. Billboard is reporting that Jay's Roc Nation has inked a distribution deal with Atlantic Records and that an official announcement about The Blueprint 3 will happen this Sunday via WQHT (Hot 97)/New York on the air and at the station's Summer Jam concert at Giants Stadium.

IRV GOTTI SAYS EM ISN'T BETTER THAN JAY.
Irv Gotti recently told Mtv that he didn't agree with their top rappers' list. He took exception to Eminem ranking in the top spot. “I got a thing with Eminem,” Gotti said. “This has nothing to do with the beef. I don’t really feel like I have beef with Eminem. This has no hatred or nothing. This is just my opinion on it. Vibe did a thing, and they had him as the #1 rapper. Shit, like that kinda pisses me off. You know why? Because let’s take Eminem’s records. Watch my analogy. Eminem is a great artist, no doubt. He puts words together, he’s witty, a smart lyricist, a great lyricist. But how can we say the guy is the best rapper alive? Look at Hov. He makes real records. Every one of Eminem’s first singles is some clown shit. He’s clowning. Is that the #1? That’s not my #1 rapper, man.” Gotti said he also factored in the battle element in deciding that Jay-Z is better than Em. He said that back in the day, Slim Shady wouldn’t have a chance against a young Jay or DMX and Ja Rule, for that matter. “No disrespect, you’re a great lyricist, but I come from a school. I know they ‘battled’ in ‘8 Mile’ but I come from where they battled on the streets with guns out,” the head of Murder Inc. said. “They would have put you under pressure. All that ‘off the top,’ they would have put you under pressure. I been to battles with X, Jay and Ja, that was some real shit. Homie, you wouldn’t been able to survive. These niggas was going with written shit. In your grill. X would say, 'I don't walk, I stalk, living foul.' Saying some shit you wouldn't been able to withstand." You would have been like, 'My name is Em and I eat M&Ms. I eat you.' What?" Irv laughed. He said the Detroit legend would have been greeted with three harsh words: " 'Shut the fuck up!' It would have been a 'shut the fuck up' moment off the top. Dame Dash would have been like, 'Look at him. He's crunchy! He's wack!' Then I look at the singles he put out. They're all good, but they only work for him. I say take Eminem, and let him say 'Hard Knock Life.' Still hot. Now let's have Jay-Z say the 'We Made You' song. They would laugh him out the fucking building. ... It would be over." Irv finished by saying the best rapper alive has to be Jay-Z or Lil Wayne. Well.. {{ By saying that Lil Wayne is the best alive.. you just fucked up your whole pitch homie..}}

MISHON'S NEW SINGLE IS #1 AT URBAN RADIO.
Teen sensation Mishon is enjoying his buzz at urban radio. His single "Just A Kiss," co-produced by the Interns and Harvey Mason, was the #1 most added song at Urban radio this week. The multi-talented 16 year old is already a TV star thanks to his role as spunky kid brother Tay on the ABC Family Channel drama "Lincoln Heights," which began shooting its fourth season this spring. Though Mishon has developed his own fan base thanks to his acting career, he is set to engage the music world with the release of his debut album, The Yearbook. The album will be released on Vincent Herbert's new Streamline Records, a joint venture with Interscope Records. While Mishon is ready to kick-start his run on the charts and is already shining on the small screen, he remains focused and humble. "I'm extremely thankful for the opportunities that I have had and I look forward to sharing my music with my fans." Mishon recently wrapped filming the video for "Just A Kiss" which was shot in Los Angeles and directed by Paul Hunter.

VH1'S HIP HOP HONORS 09 IS SET.
VH1 Pays Homage to 25 Years of Def Jam Records in Its Sixth Year Celebration of 'VH1 Hip Hop Honors 2009' on Tuesday, October 13 at 9:00 PM* Hosting for the third time is "'30 Rock's" Tracy Morgan. This year, the music, the influence and the artists from Def Jam's history past and present will be recognized through performances in collaboration with some of today's hottest talent. Generations of hip hop will bridge the gap for one exceptional night to set it off with the original style and flavor that sparked and inspired the evolution of this now global music phenomenon. Previous celebrations have honored hip hop luminaries who broke new ground
and propelled the genre into the true cultural phenomenon that it has become. Last year's honorees included Cypress Hill, De La Soul, Naughty by Nature, Slick Rick and Too $hort. Additional talent will be announced as it is confirmed. This is the first time that the show has honored a record label. For 25 years, Def Jam created the stars that pushed hip hop culture forward, including LL Cool J, Public Enemy, Jay Z, Kanye West, Slick Rick, Rick Ross and Rihanna. The men behind the scenes are as legendary as its artists, including Rick Rubin, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles and LA Reid. The Def Jam brand didn't just innovate in
music, it also launched a breakthrough comedy show (Def Comedy Jam), a dynamic spoken-word showcase (Def Poetry Jam), and set trends in fashion, film and advertising. Def Jam led a cultural movement that changed the world. "It is impossible to pay tribute to the best in hip hop without recognizing Def Jam Records. Throughout the years VH1 has honored numerous
artists from the Def Jam label, but due to the magnificent impact that Def Jam as a company has made on not only hip hop culture but pop culture as a whole, we thought they definitely deserved the opportunity to be honored," says Lee Rolontz, EVP of Music Production.

GRAND PUBA MAKES ANNOUNCEMENT.
Grand Puba revealed to XXL that he will drop a follow-up to his comeback disc Retroactive, due later this month as well as reunite with Brand Nubian for another album. Retroactive, slated for release on June 23, is Puba’s first album in eight years and is set to feature guest spots from Busta Rhymes and dead prez, as well as production by Q-Tip, Large Professor. “We’re doing stuff now—the crazy shit about it is I’m still working,” Puba told XXL. “A few dudes missed the release date so what I’m doing is I’m coming with a second joint right after that—like a part two.” As for a release date for the planned sequel, Puba detailed, “Maybe at the top of the year probably—but in between that time, you might see a Brand Nubian joint.”

UJA TO HONOR RCA/JIVE'S BARRY WEISS
Social agency UJA Federation of New York will honor RCA/Jive Label Group chairman and CEO Barry Weiss with the organization's Music Visionary of the Year Award. Variety reports that Justin Timberlake will host the fundraising event, with Jamie Foxx scheduled to perform. Past honorees include Clive Davis, Russell Simmons and Edgar Bronfman Jr.The luncheon will be held June 18 at the Pierre in New York.

MUHAMMAD ALI CENTER WELCOMES HIP HOP ARTISTS D. MAWL AND THE NAPPY ROOTS TO EDUCATE YOUTH D. Mawl and the members of the Nappy Roots were recently challenged with the task of educating local high school students on the six principles that represents the life of the great Muhammad Ali. The hip hop artists each chose a core value and demonstrated what the attributes meant to them and how the youth could apply it to their own lives. The students were grateful to have this unique experience with chart toppers, the Nappy Roots and Louisville's next to blow artist, D.Mawl. In addition, the guests were surprised and honored to have Mrs. Lonnie Ali welcome them to the center that honors and preserves the life of her husband. The Muhammad Ali Center is located in downtown Louisville, KY and shares the story and values of international boxing champ, Muhammad Ali. D. Mawl chose to represent "respect" and expressed his views on what that word meant to him. He ensured that the young adults understood that one must give respect to get respect from another. He heavily emphasized the tremendous amount of respect he has for his wife and children. He also took the time to express how family is the core of everything that one seeks to do in life. D. Mawl was accompanied by his own 7 yrs. old daughter, Ki Ki, and told the students how important it was for her to witness this day. "It's very important for my own children to see their father at work doing something positive for good causes. It lets them know that they have a father who cares; and it gives them a sense of pride about themselves. In addition, Ki Ki got a chance to meet one of the strongest women in the world, Mrs. Ali. She will always cherish this experience."

DNA RESULTS IN BAY BAY RAPE CASE ARE IN.
It’s been over a year since rape charges were brought against respected entertainment industry veteran DJ Hollyhood Bay Bay. Throughout the entire proceedings Bay Bay, born Terrance Stewart, has proclaimed his innocence in this heinous crime, and the DNA results from the crime lab clearly back Stewart’s claim. DNA test done against semen collected from both the victim and the couch where the incident allegedly took place does not match that of Hollyhood Bay Bay, however the Caddo Parish District Attorney, Brady O’Callaghan, has yet to drop the charges against the entertainer in the high profile case. DJ Hollyhood Bay Bay was initially brought to national attention after Hurricane Chris’ ode to the popular personality, Ay Bay Bay, was a multi platinum success in 2007. The long time radio personality, in house Kokopelli’s club MC, and industry fixture has endured the negative attention and effects of this unfortunate situation, taking it all in stride. As a result of these accusations he was terminated from his position at 103.5 The Beat, in his hometown of Shreveport, LA, and can be now heard from 3pm to 7pm on KKDA 104.5 in Dallas, TX. “I believe everything happens for a greater reason and purpose. I was terminated from one station, only to be recruited by the fourth largest black radio station in the country, so there are no hard feelings. I’m just ready to conclude this chapter in my life and get back to what I do, finding the next multiplatinum success story,” he explains. His short stay in Dallas has been very productive and beneficial to the area thus far. He was very instrumental in helping E1 Music (formally Koch Records) recoding artist Dorrough secure his deal, and is featured in both of the artist’s video projects, Walk that Walk and Ice Cream Paint Job. Through his non-profit organization, Bay Bay’s Kids, he is working to decrease the drop out rate amongst high school students and is a regular speaker at local schools and camps on the importance of education. Always the optimist Bay Bay is looking forward to the day when this is all a distant memory, but in the meantime is content with his life and support of his family, friends, and fans, he explains “This entire situation is unfortunate, but all I can do is continue to live my life until it is over and I am fully cleared of all charges.”

DMX HEADING BACK TO JAIL?
8 days after DMX was released from jail, he pled guilty to another crime and he’s now about to find out if he’ll be returning to Arizona’s Tent City Jail. DMX, who originally pled not guilty copped a plea and pled guilty to attempted aggravated assault (a felony) back on May 22 after an incident in which he verbally threatened guards at Tent City back in February. He is due back in Maricopa County court for sentencing on Monday.

KANYE BACK IN THE LAB
Kanye West is back in the lab, and there's only word to describe his new rhymes: "awes-mazing", He told MTV. "I kill that rap shit, that's what I do," he said of his upcoming opus. "Lyrics right now, they're awes-mazing. They're basically untouchable. I'm about to take it to a whole 'nother level. I'd be scared if I was not me." Kanye said he's always making an album, because he comes up with lyrics just by having conversations with people. He still doesn't write his rhymes down and hasn't in six years. The composing process is obviously working out for him.
"As far as rapping goes, how can I say this? Jordan, Michael Jackson — it's what I do," West told us recently comparing his greatness on the mic to what the Mikes do in their respective arenas. "It's time for me to bust another rap album."

EMINEM STILL #1 AFTER 2 WEEKS.
Eminem's Relapse album is at the top of the sales chart for the second week in a row as it sold another 211,000 copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan. With 819,000 sold in total, Relapse already has become the fifth best-selling album of the year.

ELEKTRA RECORDS BACK FROM THE DEAD
Atlantic has announced that effective immediately, Elektra is once again a functioning label under its corporate umbrella. The label is being relaunched under the leadership of Co-Presidents Mike Caren and John Janick. Caren is currently EVP of A&R for Atlantic Records, while Janick is the founder and President of indie label Fueled By Ramen. Signees to the reincarnated Elektra, which is being run by Fueled By Ramen founder John Janick and Atlantic A&R exec Mike Caren, include Gnarls Barkley's Cee-Lo, French electro mavens Justice, and U.K. dance-pop sensation Little Boots. Elektra has also just released the soundtrack to the HBO series True Blood. "Elektra Records will mark its 60th Anniversary in 2010, and it feels like the perfect time to recapture and reignite the spirit which made the label a beacon of great music and eclectic artistry," commented Janick. "Elektra has always been first and foremost about its artists, supporting their vision and giving them the freedom to do their best work. This is a sacred trust that Mike and I take very seriously, and that we will strive to uphold in the years ahead. We’d like to especially thank Jac Holzman for his wonderful support as we begin to build on the legacy of the amazing label he started six decades ago." Caren added, "Our first signings already signal the diversity that has been and will continue to be Elektra’s trademark. The Elektra logo has always stood for quality and integrity, defining genres while crossing and transcending them. John and I are devoted to seeking out original and compelling artists from all walks of music, and giving them a place they can call home. We are thrilled to be partnering with our friends at Warner Music Group and Atlantic Records to reinvent a groundbreaking music culture for a new era." "When Elektra merged with Atlantic five years ago, we always knew the right moment would come to bring it back to life," said Atlantic Chairman/CEO Craig Kallman and Chairman/COO Julie Greenwald. "The great news is that we have found the perfect people to do it. John and Mike are two of the most passionate, creative, forward-thinking young executives in our business. They both started their careers as teenagers and have gone on to champion some of the most exciting new music of the last decade. The independent, entrepreneurial spirit that long defined Elektra is in great hands, and we are truly thrilled to see the label take flight once again." Elektra founder Jac Holzman commented, "Iconic isn't my word but it is how Elektra came to be recognized over the years. I wanted people to be able to trust Elektra, to feel each release had an artistic core of some merit, and that there was someone who stood behind it. Each new label head reverentially built on the accomplishments of his predecessor, zealously guarding Elektra's magical reputation. In 2004, Elektra was allowed to go dormant until bright new talents could be found to re-energize and rebirth it as the ‘artists label’ for a new century. I'm fortunate to have yet another chance to watch Elektra bloom."

EMINEM HIGHEST SELLING ARTIST IN THE LAST DECADE.
Eminem has officially become the highest selling rapper in the past ten years, outselling such names as Jay-Z and Nelly. Eminem's combined totals even outnumber The Beatles. In the last decade, Eminem has sold 31,127,000 albums starting in 1999 with "The Slim Shady Lp." The Beatles came in 2nd place with just over 22.5 million albums sold. (Note: These sales figures reflect United States sales, not world wide.) Eminem's second album, "The Marshall Mathers LP," has sold more than ten million copies by itself giving it the RIAA diamond certification (gold = 500,000; platinum = 1,000,000; diamond = 10,000,000). Other notable artists on the top selling list of the last 10 years include Nelly at number 7 (21,206,000) and Jay-Z at number 10 with close to 20 million albums scanned (19,379,000).

BATTLE BUSTA RHYMES ON XBOX.
Busta Rhymes, fresh off the release of his eighth full-length album Back On My B.S., will play The Lost and Damned(TM) game add-on for Grand Theft Auto IV(TM) with Xbox LIVE Gold Members June 2. If you're an Xbox LIVE Gold Member, and you want a chance to play with Busta, send a friend request to the following Gamertag and be online half an hour before (6:30 P.M. ET) the Game with Fame session starts on Tuesday, June 2, 7:00 P.M. ET. GAMERTAG: BustaRhymes GWF

WARREN G GEARING FOR NEW RELEASE
Warren G is close to finishing his much-anticipated sixth studio outing, The G Files. The album is still a work in progress however, two new street singles are now in circulation. The classic G-Funk anthem, 'Mr. DJ,' is already receiving good reviews online, and the brand new, infectious 'Gigolo's Get Lonely 2,' both expected to be given airplay in the near future. The G Files, Warren's first album in four years, will feature appearances from Nate Dogg, Bishop Lamont, Ice Cube, Paul Wall, and Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker. The first official single is due to be released soon, called 'Swagga Rich' featuring Snoop Dogg. The Long Beach bred, Grammy Award-nominated, music producer/rapper grew up listening to jazz, soul and funk records, and hanging out at the local V.I.P. record store in Long Beach. He soon pioneered a sound that would take rap to a new plateau. The G Files is due in stores this fall.

TARGET ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BLACK EYED PEAS.
Target is partnering with three time GRAMMY® award winning group The Black Eyed Peas on their new collection The E.N.D, which stands for “The Energy Never Dies.” A deluxe version of the album, available only at Target, includes four exclusive songs, six exclusive remixed hits and exclusive video content. “Working with Target to provide this deluxe version of our new album has allowed us to do something special for our fans after years of support,” said will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas. “We were really excited to get back into the studio to record the new songs, plus remix some of our favorite tunes for Target, and hope everyone enjoys this exclusive version. Remember The Energy Never Dies and this is only the beginning.” The Black Eyed Peas have become international superstars with worldwide sales of over 26 million units. The group earned GRAMMY® awards for hits singles “Let’s Get it Started,” “Don’t Phunk with My Heart” and “My Humps.” This will be the group’s first studio album since 2005 and they plan to tour this summer. “We are excited to add The Black Eyed Peas to a tremendous line up of music’s biggest and brightest stars who have partnered exclusively with Target,” said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, merchandising, Target. “Offering the deluxe version of The E.N.D. provides our guests with special content that can only be found at Target. The special collection will be available nationwide beginning June 9.

TERRA FIRMA INJECTS $45 MILLION INTO EMI.
The Wallstreet journal is reporting that Investment firm Terra Firma Capital Partners Ltd. has put up an additional $45 million to bail out EMI Group Ltd., people familiar with the matter said, in a sign that the entertainment group is still struggling despite efforts to turn it around. Industry sources told the New York Post that EMI is buckling under the $4.7 billion in debt that Terra Firma borrowed from Citigroup two years ago to finance the buyout of the label. However, other sources argued that EMI has plenty of cash reserves to keep itself afloat and that it pays a manageable 7 percent interest rate on its Citi debt. The recently appointed chief executive of EMI Music, Elio Leoni-Sceti, has said that a deep cost-cutting campaign launched when Terra Firma acquired EMI has begun to bear fruit, generating cash and improving the company's prospects. Analysts believe a combined Warner Music and EMI would pose a greater threat to the industry's dominant players, Vivendi SA's Universal Music Group and Sony Corp.'s Sony Music Entertainment Inc. It isn't clear, though, who would buy whom if a merger occurred. Mr. Hands held talks last year with Warner Music CEO Edgar Bronfman about EMI buying Warner's recorded-music business, according to a person familiar with the situation—an audacious deal that would have significantly increased Terra Firma's exposure to the troubled music business. The deal floundered over which side would get most of the estimated £1.6 billion in merger savings, the person said. Warner Music executives, meanwhile, are interested in buying EMI's music division and believe they could get the company more cheaply if it went into bankruptcy, according to a person familiar with their thinking. Warner Music has been in the process of raising $1.1 billion through a bond sale, which it plans to use along with cash reserves to pay off all its bank debt, a spokesman said. A clause in the sale documents allows Warner Music to redeem the bond early if a major transaction occurs, a possible sign it is keeping its options open for a deal with EMI. But there are currently no discussions going on between the two companies, people familiar with the situation said.

EMINEM AND JAY-Z HOP ON DJ HERO.
The upcoming DJ Hero video game just landed two heavy hitters as MCs: Jay-Z and Eminem.
Both rappers are bringing their music to the newest offshoot of Activision's successful $2 billion Guitar Hero franchise. The game, played with a turntable-shaped controller, is due out this fall for PlayStation 3, PS2, Xbox 360 and Wii. A limited edition comes with the rappers' exclusive new greatest-hits CDs, possibly including previously unreleased tracks, plus an advanced version of the controller, a DJ stand and metal traveling case. Jay-Z and Eminem will serve as consultants to Activision and the game's developer, FreeStyleGames. The complete list of tracks the rappers are providing is still being worked out. Jay-Z plans on including Izzo (H.O.V.A.) and Dirt Off Your Shoulder for sure. Also possible: tracks from his in-the-works Blueprint 3 album. "I have a ton of content, I just need the pipeline," he says. "I love the freedom of (DJ Hero). I could wake up tomorrow morning with the idea for a song and call the guys at Activision and start working on getting it out." Eminem is more cryptic about his contributions. "I don't want to give away any surprises yet," he says. "DJ Hero will include my music, and I'll be providing additional material as downloadable content by the end of the year." Hov says, "I'm usually heavy into sports. I play basketball, boxing and Madden. Not as much anymore, but I used to be a gamer. I still mess around once in a while. I mess with Guitar Hero as well." He describes DJ Hero as "an extension of what we do. I put out acappella versions of my albums because I encourage mashups and this sort of thing. When I put out an a cappella version of The Black Album (in 2003), The Grey Album (a mashup of Jay-Z's lyrics with The Beatles' White Album) was created by (DJ) Danger Mouse and there was this whole phenomenon on the Internet. That is pretty much how I feel. It's a natural integration and blending of cultures and sounds and genres. I always encourage that. … It's not I want to be in the video game business. I want to be in the business that does that." Players use the features on the game's controller — a rotating record platter, sampling buttons, an effects dial and a cross fader — to match streams of song tracks, create effects and add personal touches to score points. "You actually get lost doing it," says Jay-Z, who has played the game. It creates "a DJ's universe," he says. Eminem said "After seeing what Activision did with Guitar Hero and how innovative and successful that was in combining music and great game play, I felt comfortable with working with them. They are as passionate about video games as I am about music, and we both also really enjoy the other's field of work. I'm an old school classic video game fanatic, I have an entire arcade at my studio. ... I am actually pretty obsessed with the classics like Ms. Pac Man and Donkey Kong. But I have a Playstation, Xbox and a Wii also. Remember, I've got kids at home - so I'm always up for a challenge on whatever games they think they can whup me at." In addition to single-DJ action, two players can compete or play cooperatively. Special mixes will let players use the Guitar Hero controller. The game spans hip-hop, electronica, R&B, soul and pop/rock with songs by 50 Cent, Beastie Boys, KRS-One, Blondie, N.E.R.D., Gorillaz and David Bowie. Superstar DJs such as DJ Shadow, DJ Z-Trip and DJ AM will contribute, too. "You are going to get over 100 songs from 80 artists and 80 brand-new mixes that have never been heard before, including one with Eminem and Jay-Z (together)," says Guitar Hero president and CEO Dan Rosensweig. "This is a game I can see myself actually playing," Eminem says. "DJ'ing is fundamental to rap music, so it's a great fit."

EMINEM TALKS HIS ALBUM SALES
Eminem appeared on BET’s “106 & Park” with 50 Cent. Eminem said his main focus was getting the respect of the fans.”I mean, record sales to me, honestly, since the beginning of my career I’ve always said they’re not as important to me as the respect and things like that,” Em explained. “I would just rather rap and get respect from the fans and my peers and things like that. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to sell any records, but at the same time it’s not my main priority.” 50 Cent added. “I think we absolutely in a great space considering his project is where it’s at, number one,” 50 said in the interview. “And it’s working. Until they find a collaboration of artists that work as well as we do together, I don’t think we got issues…I feel like [Em] is the best rapper because he possesses the way to say things that aren’t supposed to be cool.” Eminem's Relapse came in at #1 on the sales chart this week. Relapse moved 608,244 copies in its first week.

DEF JAM TO BRING RAP KARAOKE?
4mm Games and Def Jam Interactive have announced a collaborative project, Def Jam Rapstar, which is set for release sometime this winter. Lauren Wirtzer, Def Jam Interactive’s vice president of marketing and 4mm CEO Nicolas Perrett gave some incite into the video game to IGN (video game authority). “There are not very many products out there that speak directly to the hip-hop consumer base,” said Wirtzer. “More than just a music game, this is a game that really incorporates all of the crucial elements of this lifestyle. It’s not just about music, it’s about swagger.” “I think, at the highest level, we’re trying to make a game that appeals to a very broad audience of anyone who has really enjoyed hip-hop music at any point in the last 30 years,” Perrett added. “That’s a really important thing for all of those fans out there who don’t have a hip-hop game that can encompass that breadth of music across that whole period, all the way through to right this second what’s coming out. Even stuff that’ll be coming out at the very same time the game is coming out.”

SUPERGROUP SLAUGHTERHOUSE SET FOR JULY RELEASE.
Slaughterhouse (Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden, Crooked I and Royce Da 5'9") are set to Release their Self-Titled Debut Album on E1 Music. The group came together only 10 short months ago when Joe Budden was working on a song for his "Halfway House" album and enlisted the services of Crooked I, Joell Ortiz and Royce Da 5'9" for a song called "Slaughterhouse." Inspired by the vibe of track and the immediate chemistry of the four rappers, a plan was immediately made to form the super-group. Several songs and a handful of viral videos later only created increased demand and curiosity from fans. Hip-hop heads demanded to hear more! And now they'll be able to. The fearsome foursome is now in the studio recording songs for its official upcoming debut album. The album will feature production by The Alchemist, Streetrunner, DJ Khalil and Denaun Porter.
Slaughterhouse member Royce Da 5'9" weighs in, "This group is really something special and this summer I'm excited to show the world what we have to offer! If you thought that we were just gonna release a few tracks to the net and then disappear you are in for a very rude awakening."
Joell Ortiz adds, "We did an entire album in 6 days! When you genuinely love what you're doing everything is effortless. It was like a long party. I can't wait for the fans to experience this album." Alan Grunblatt, Executive VP/GM of E1 Music, offers, "Slaughterhouse is the most exciting new group to hit the hip hop scene in many years. I'm thrilled to be working with old friends Royce, Joell, Crooked and new friend Joe Budden." The album drop July 7th.

RIHANNA TO TESTIFY IN BROWN CASE.
Rihanna is among the witnesses whom prosecutors plan to call during a hearing in Chris Brown's assault case, an attorney said Thursday. Donald Etra, Rihanna's lawyer, told reporters that prosecutors have told him the Barbados-born singer will receive a subpoena to testify at a preliminary hearing June 22. The hearing will focus on whether there is enough evidence to continue the case against Brown. Etra said Rihanna will comply with the order. It would mark her first appearance in court since felony assault and criminal threats charges were filed against Brown in March. If she is called to testify, the 21-year-old singer would be subject to cross-examination by Brown's attorney, Mark Geragos. Other potential witnesses have not been named, but will likely include police investigators. Brown wasn't in court Thursday, but he's required to attend the preliminary hearing. The 20-year-old R&B singer faces possible sentences that range from probation to nearly five years in prison if convicted.

UNIVERSAL MAINTAINS LEADING MARKET SHARE.
According to new research by Informa, Universal Music Group maintained its position as the world's largest recorded music company and music publisher for the third consecutive year in 2008. The report, called Music & Copyright, said that Universal increased its share in terms of revenue generated from the sale of both physical and digital music. Universal had a market share of 28.7 percent in 2008, up from 28.1 percent in 2007. Sony BMG held down 21.1 percent of the music market, while Warner Music Group had 14.9 percent and EMI had 9.6 percent. In music publishing, Universal had a market share of 23.2 percent, ahead of EMI's 18.3 percent. "This marks the third straight year that the same company has been number one in both the recorded music and publishing sector," report editor Simon Dyson said, according to Reuters. "Although all the majors reported reduced recorded music revenues in 2008, UMG's decline was the lowest. This suggests that UMG is simply more successful than the others in marketing and selling music or is cashing in on the influence that being dominant brings."

NEW REPORT SHOWS MOBILE MUSIC TO HIT 5.5 BILLION.
According to a new report from Juniper Research, revenues from streamed mobile music services and full-track downloads are expected to exhibit strong growth over the next 5 years. Combined revenues from these services are expected to more than double from $2.5 billion in 2009 to nearly $5.5 billion in 2013. The report also found that those music services launched using an ad-funded model face a potential shortfall of as much as 50% to reductions in ad budgets. Other findings from the report include: Ringback tone revenues will exceed ringtones by 2010 as service adoption increases outside Asia. The Far East & China will account for the largest share of mobile music revenues throughout the 2009-2013 forecast period, followed by Western Europe. Aggregators must expand the depth and breadth of their portfolios beyond ringtones if they are to remain competitive. According to mobile music report author Dr Windsor Holden, “While some of the more traditional music services – most notably polyphonic ringtones and realtones – are in decline across many markets, we’re now seeing a surge in the adoption of more sophisticated offerings. Recent positive developments, such as Apple announcing that iPhone customers can use the 3G network to download full-tracks, will offer a further stimulus to growth.”

JAY-Z UPDATE: HEADED TO WMG?
Reports are now surfacing that Jay - who recently left Def Jam as a recording artist (he served as its president from 2004-2007) - has been taking top-secret meetings with his old pals and former managers Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles, says a well-placed industry source. Topics of the hush-hush conversations have included giving Jay his own record label at WMG, tentatively to be called the Carter Music Group. "Jay knows Lyor and Kevin from back when they all worked together at Def Jam, and he obviously wants to work something out with his friends," the insider told the Ny daily. "He wants to get the dream team back together. There have been a few whiffs of a reunion in the past, but only now - and very privately - is something finally starting to happen." The inside source adds, "This is big in hip hop. These are three of the most powerful men in music, who might be working together, and there's no question the success they'll have as a team will be huge." WMG Vice President Cohen and Executive Vice President Liles also attempted to convince Jay to bring his Roc Nation label - which is part of the reported $150 million deal he cut with Live Nation - to WMG. Jay, however, has chosen to release his much-anticipated 15th album, "The Blueprint 3," with Live Nation in the fall. "Jay's deal with Live Nation is massive," says another music-biz insider. "But if he were to cut a deal with WMG/Atlantic, he'd make even more headlines. Jay-Z, Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles are all brand names. They're the industry's heavy hitters, and the combination would bring them a lot of attention. They would be unstoppable. Jay himself is the most successful rapper-turned-businessman out there."

MAINO ALREADY GOLD.
“All The Above (Feat. T-Pain),” the breakthrough single from Hustle Hard Entertainment/Atlantic recording artist Maino, has been certified gold by the RIAA for digital sales in excess of 500,000. The track – which remains a Top 10 favorite on iTunes “Top Hip-Hop/Rap Songs” chart – is featured on the Brooklyn-based M.C.’s upcoming debut album, “IF TOMORROW COMES. The single is at Top 40 smash at Urban outlets nationwide, having impacted as the #1 most added single at the format earlier this year. In addition, the track is bulleting into the Top 20 at Rhythmic radio outlets coast-to-coast. The single, which had the highest first week single sales for a new rap artist since Flo Rida’s “Low” – will be followed by Maino’s new smash, “Million Bucks (Feat. Swizz Beatz).” The track has already begun to receive major radio support in such markets as New York, Raleigh, Richmond, and Boston, with incredible feedback coming in from influential DJs across the country. Already notorious in the hip-hop underground for a number of buzzworthy mixtape joints, Maino has been hailed for his blend of gritty lyricism and riveting street flair.

EMINEM SELLS OVER 600,000 1ST WEEK SALES.
Eminem's Relapse came in at #1 on the sales chart this week. Relapse moved 608,244 copies in its first week, according to Nielsen SoundScan, giving the album Gold sales status. This marks Eminem's fifth straight #1 debut, and it is also the biggest sales week of the year for any album. Method Man & Redman opened at #4 with Blackout 2, selling 63,000. Busta Rhymes opened at #6 with Back On My B.S., moving 59,000 units. Lady Gaga's Fame grabbed #8 with 45,000, also very close to going Platinum. Rick Ross' Deeper Than Rap took #22 selling 19,800 copies (290,290 total). Cam’ron's Crime Pays took #35 selling 15, 300 units (58,400 total).

JAY-Z HEADED TO SONY?
Reports are surfacing that Jay-Z is in talks to bring his Roc Nation imprint to Sony. Epic president Amanda Ghost is managed by Roc Nation and Hov’s business partner Jay Brown, and recently Brown has been seen around town on several occasions with Columbia/Epic Label Group Chairman Rob Stringer. Inside sources reportedly involved in the deal say that the partnership should be finalized soon, with Roc Nation releasing material on both Columbia and Epic. Keep it locked as the story unfolds...

PRODUCER FOCUS LEAVES AFTERMATH.
Super producer Focus... leaves Aftermath after many years of service to Dr. Dre to pursue his dream of owning his own production label a.Fam Entertainment. Focus' work has since appeared on The Game's multi-platinum The Documentary ("Where I'm From"), 112's Pleasure & Pain (single "U Already Know"), Beyonce's multi-platinum Dangerously In Love ("Yes") and J.Lo's platinum-plus This Is Me...Then ("Dear Ben"), among others. Focus says he has learned a lot from his mentor Dr Dre. When asked what was it that Dre saw in him that made him take him under his wing Focus... says: "Dre said he liked my style, the way I attacked the music." Focus... recalls, "He heard East and West Coast in my sound and he liked the way that I bridged the two. He said I was talented, so he never made me become a mini him, (Dr. Dre). He always took me for who I was and let me be me." From then on Focus... never looked back, cranking out tracks for 50 Cent, and other artist affiliated with Aftermath. Focus... has recently produced the single "Respect My Conglomerate" for Busta Rhymes featuring Lil' Wayne and Jadakiss. Yes it was fully produced by Focus... himself and now as one of music's hottest producers, Focus... has already worked with Girlicious (Mirror), Marsha Ambrosius (Yours Truly-mixtape), Chino XL (The Secret, RICANstruction), Christina Aguilera, and Bishop Lamont just to name a few. He also co-executive produced the album from 2Pac's Outlawz, Outlaw 4 Life 2005 A.P., produced several tracks on Sway & King Tech Presents Back 2 Basics (including work with Chino XL and Kam) and is shopping his artists while branding his label, a.Fam Entertainment. Focus... plans to make his impression felt in the years to come. "This year I'm really showing people what I'm capable of," Focus...says. "Ultimately, I don't want to be anything but a great producer."

SCOTT STORCH SINKING QUICK?
More financial woes hit Scott Storch. Storch was sued by actor/film producer Matt Sinnreich, 23, over a business dispute, and a Miami-Dade jury awarded Sinnreich $750,000. According to the Miami Herald, they both agreed to form a company in June '07 to sign and produce singer Sindy Espitia and rapper Darrell ''D Shep'' Sheppard, both of Miami. Sinnreich paid Storch $25,000 for 25 percent of the corporation. But Storch, 35, ''failed to form the corporation . . . and failed to return the $25,000,'' according to court documents. Sinnreich's complaint alleged breach of contract and civil theft. Storch failed to respond to the complaint, and Circuit Judge Ronald Friedman granted Sinnreich's motion for default last December. Jurors recently decided the question of damages, rendering the $750,000 verdict, says Sinnreich's attorney Marc Brumer. Sinnreich is trying to collect on the judgment. But Storch, once reported to be worth $70 million, has had money woes. He fell behind in child support and owes $722,906.19 in taxes on his $10.5 million mansion on Miami Beach's Palm Island. In March, SunTrust obtained a judgment of foreclosure for $8,484,835.67. The property sale is set for June 26.

METHOD MAN & REDMAN FREE CONCERT IN CALI.
MySpace Music will host a special "The Release" live performance featuring Method Man & Redman to celebrate the official release of their new album "Blackout! 2." The event is powered by Adidas. MySpace users will be given the opportunity to obtain free tickets to the event. WHEN: Thursday, May 28, 2009 - Doors open: 7:00 pm WHERE: The Highlands of Hollywood, CA . "The Release" is MySpace Music's urban/hip hop series in which artists perform a live concert for fans during the month of their album's release. Past shows have included Busta Rhymes, Asher Roth, Jadakiss, T.I., Q-Tip, Murs, Akon, Lupe Fiasco, and Chamillionaire. "The Release" is powered by Adidas.

ALCHEMIST LINKS WITH EMINEM.
Alchemist gave Shady one of his signature, bass heavy, dark, gritty beats for the title track on his album. On the song, which clocks in at a little under two minutes, Eminem name checks a laundry list of pop culture figures like Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, the Octomom and the Jonas Brothers. Chemical Warfare finds the rapper straight rapping, no hooks, delivering some of his most shocking lines. Along with “playing dick swords with the Jonas Brothers,” Em also says he’ll, “Eat the fuckin Octomom’s pussy lips with some ocra/while I watch Whoopi Goldberg scissoring Oprah.” Eminem is not the only guest on the compilation disc, Alc recruited Maxwell, Twista, Snoop Dogg, Jadakiss, Fabolous, Pusha T, Prodigy, Juvenile, the Lady of Rage and Three 6 Mafia, among others. The Alchemist is currently on a promo tour with Em, serving as his DJ, where he has already performed at several stops in the UK and the U.S. including Em’s Relapse release party in Detroit earlier this week and “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” Alc also served as the Detroit rapper’s DJ in 2005 for the Anger Management 3 tour. The album hits stores on July 7 on E1 music. Source XXl

WILL EMINEM SELL 1 MILLION COPIES 1ST WEEK?
Will Eminem’s new “Relapse” album sell 1 million copies in it's 1st week? While an official count will not be ready for another week.. Some reports are estimating between 500 and 550 thousand copies in it’s debut week. Some reports show that Best Buy alone has an estimate of 300, 000 units moved. Relapse is his first album for Shady/Aftermath/Interscope in almost five years. After listening to the album, RAPINDUSTRY.COM predicts 700,000 copies sold for 1st week sales.

JAY-Z CONFIRMS DEF JAM SPLIT.
Jay-Z confirmed the rumors about his split with Def Jam Records in a new interview. “I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely. I’ve been in the family for almost my entire career,” Jigga said. Hov continued, “Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique “negotiations” ever. Doug won the toss but, we both won in the end..I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music.” Hov reportedly bought out the remainder of his business contract with Def Jam Records, including his upcoming “Blueprint 3" album obligation. Although it hasn’t been confirmed, Jay-Z reportedly paid around $5 million dollars to move away from the legendary rap label into his own “Roc Nation” label under Live Nation.

LIL WAYNE ALBUM PUSHED BACK AGAIN.
Looks like the new Lil Wayne project has been delayed again. Reports are confirming that the album was pushed back, and a label rep has confirmed that the experimental album will now come out sometime in July. It is unclear if the several tracks that have leaked on the net will be included on the CD, like “Politics” with Gudda Gudda or “Spit In Your Face” with Cash Money artist Kevin Rudolf.

THE GAME TO BATTLE JD ON THE STICKS?
The Game says he wants to get Dupri on the battlefield in a sports game of his choice reports Mtv. "They be running from me, man," Game complained about some his celebrity friends who haven't stepped up to play him in sports videogames. "Dwayne D. Wade, Twista, Jadakiss, Bow Wow. Them n---as be running from me. All the video game heads. JD, I don't know, he don't want it. They just be running. But they know what's up with me!" MTV reached out to Jermaine this afternoon to see if he would accept Game's challenge, and the ATL hitmaker was all too willing to compete. "You can't be serious?" JD said in a statement meant for Game. "You can meet me online. I'm there every other night: NBA2K baby! If you are serious, hit me up and I will give you my gamer tag." Game says, " 'G-A-M-E' is my tag and the other one is 'S-O-O-W-O-O'" he said. "Let them n---as know — that's me online."

STRANGE MUSIC SIGNS BROTHA LYNCH HUNG
When Dave Weiner, Vice President of Strange Music West, first heard BROTHA LYNCH HUNG’s certified Gold classic Season of da Siccness (1995), he was blown away. The man responsible for signing Master P to Priority Records in the mid-’90s, as well as orchestrating the joint venture that Tech N9ne and Strange Music entered into with JCOR, now has the honor of bringing BROTHA LYNCH to the Strange Music family. Strange Music is already one of the most successful independent music labels in the world - in 2008, its flagship artist, Tech N9ne, SoundScanned over one million units, making him one of the most successful independent Hip-Hop artists in history. LYNCH and Tech N9ne are far from strangers. LYNCH is familiar to Tech fans due to his standout verse on “My World” from Tech’s Everready album (2006); Tech appeared on “187 on a Hook” from LYNCH’s Blocc Movement (2001). “There’s an incredible synergy,” states Weiner. “Every Tech fan knows that verse [“My World”] and is wondering what’s going on with LYNCH.” Fans need wonder no more, as Brotha Lynch Hung emerges as the newest Strange Music artist. LYNCH has maintained a loyal fan base over the years. He entertains with twisted humor, grim tales and a delivery that rides the beat with both a rapid-fire intensity and smooth soulful flow. He’s seen hard times – the death of his mother, label deals gone wrong, drugs, despair – yet his lyrics are infused with a will to survive and a passion for life that override the dark corners of his mind. Since releasing Lynch by Inch in 2003, LYNCH has maintained his visibility through mixtapes, yet fans have been waiting for a full-length album. You’ve been warned: LYNCH is currently working on Dinner and a Movie, his latest CD, slated to be released later this year. “BROTHA LYNCH fits in with Strange, ideally, it couldn’t be better,” states Weiner. “It makes all the sense in the world. His talent and abilities are incredible.”

KANYE WEST FOUNDATION PARTNERS FOR BENEFIT CONCERT.
The Kanye West Foundation (KWF), founded in 2007 by the late Dr. Donda West, was established to help combat the severe dropout problem plaguing America's communities. It is through the collaboration of community and corporate partnerships that the 2nd "Stay in School" Benefit Concert, taking place at the historic Chicago Theatre on Thursday, June 11th, was born. This is the first major event for the Kanye West Foundation since the 2007 passing of its founder Dr. Donda West, the mother of Kanye West. It is also the first concert Kanye has performed in the city of Chicago in over a year. The concert will be taped by Fuse, the national music network, and will air later this summer. Benefit concert tickets go on sale Thursday, May 21st. Tickets start at $49.50 to $500 for the VIP Reception. Highland Park High School sophomore, David Abrams, conceived the event concept as he listened to a story on NPR about a Chicago Public School (CPS) student who was failing out of school. As an incentive to stay in school, the student's mother offered two tickets to a Lil Wayne concert. David then turned to his mom and said "We should do that - let's get kids to SHOW up to school, get their grades up and put on a free concert for them." David formed S.H.O.W (Students Helping Our World), which is run by a
group of Highland Park teens and supported by parents like Wendy Abrams, an environmental activist and founder of Cool Globes. S.H.O.W formed partnerships with CPS, the City of Chicago, former quarterback of the Chicago Bears Kyle Orton, and ultimately the Kanye West Foundation. "I have always had the desire to help people and make the world a better place. I believe that youth are the music for creating a world filled with harmony. To create such a world, however, we must all do our part," says Mr. West who waived his fees for the events on June 11th. Joseph Collins, CEO of the Kanye West Foundation states, "This cause is directly in line with the mission of the KWF. We see this event as a launching pad and long-term effort to help students in school." He continues, "Immediately upon learning about David Abrams and S.H.O.W, we
knew this was a good match. The fact that a young person chose to lead this effort and challenge his peers to do better in school is amazing and exactly what Dr. West envisioned when she and Kanye created this foundation. I believe these efforts directly support the vision Dr. West
had for the organization and for America's children. I see this concert as the seed that will allow us to 'fulfill a mother's dream.'" "I want to thank the Kanye West Foundation for supporting the Chicago Public Schools and encouraging our students to stay in school and graduate," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "Education is the key to our children's future and by working together we can continue the progress we've made by producing graduates who are prepared for jobs and the global economy." S.H.O.W will offer free tickets to students who demonstrate marked
improvements in attendance and/or grades in the last quarter of the current school year. Approximately 3,000 inner city and Chicago area students will have the opportunity to meet Kanye West and experience an intimate behind-the-scenes snapshot of how he prepares for a concert.

DOLLA'S KILLER IN CUSTODY.
The man police arrested at LAX yesterday after the shooting death of rapper Dolla has been booked for murder. 23-year-old Aubrey Berry was booked early this morning and his bail was set at $1,000,000. Sources say after the shooting, the LAPD put out an alert that the suspect may have fled to the Los Angeles International Airport in an attempt to fly out of the city. LAX police spotted a man who matched the description, sitting in the lobby area of Terminal 1. Cops approached Berry and almost immediately he said he knew why cops were there and then raised his hands and told them he had a 9 millimeter handgun in his waistband. He was taken into custody.

RAPPER DOLLA MURDERED.
Atlanta-based rapper, Dolla was brutally shot and killed at the Beverly Center in Los Angeles earlier this afternoon. Dolla, who was hanging out at the mall with another rapper was shot in the head at around 3:10 PM PST, according to the LA Times. Two suspects allegedly fled the scene after the incident --one was arrested a short time later while trying to catch a flight at LAX.

QUEEN PEN & NON-PROFIT ORG. UNITE CHILDREN FOR FATHERS DAY.
With support from the famed rapper Queen Pen, the Brooklyn-based non-profit organization,
Children of Promise, NYC (CPNYC), is set to unite children from the Brooklyn area and their incarcerated fathers this coming Father's Day by sponsoring free trips to surrounding prisons. Of the estimated 85,000 children in New York who have an incarcerated parent, children from
Bedford-Stuyvesant and surrounding neighborhoods are disproportionately impacted by this trend. The challenges facing these children are significant, wide-ranging and potentially devastating. In fact, the trauma of losing a parent is often made worse by the social and economic problems
connected to their circumstances. As a vocal advocate for children, Queen Pen is working closely with CPNYC to raise awareness of these issues along with funds for programs like
CPNYC's Father's Day Visits. Giving children from Brooklyn the opportunity to join their incarcerated parent on important holidays like Father's Day is a vital part of the process of nurturing the parent/child bond, instilling greater self-esteem and reducing anti-social behavior. To ensure that the experience is both productive and positive, activities are infused with counseling and take place within a safe and trusted environment with other children who share similar experiences. In addition to transportation, children are given food, games for the bus ride and gifts
for their fathers. According to CPNYC Founder and President, Sharon Content, "The support
and advocacy of individuals like Queen Pen has the potential to tangibly impact our local communities. Children who have not seen their fathers since their incarceration will be able to celebrate with them on this special day." Content also believes the rewards associated with these trips will "help to encourage these children as they learn to discover better pathways, recognize new possibilities and realize their full potential."

EMINEM SET FOR FREE MYSPACE CONCERT IN DETROIT.
Eminem will be playing a free concert in his Detroit hometown sponsored by MySpace on May 19. Tickets for the show will be given out at a first come first serve basis today at 5 p.m. only at Record Time in Roseville, Michigan. Fans can pick up one ticket each. Information about where the performance will take place and what venue will be given during ticket distribution. DJ Jazzy Jeff is also scheduled to perform with Em.

UMPG SIGNS EMINEM TO A WORLDWIDE PUB DEAL.
Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has announced the signing of Eminem, to an exclusive, worldwide publishing agreement. The deal includes Relapse, Eminem's sixth studio album set to be released on May 19, 2009. The debut single, "Crack a Bottle," rocketed from No. 78 to No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 setting a new record. It also topped 13 charts worldwide, including the Billboard Pop 100 and the UK R&B Chart. "Eminem continues to be an indelible and iconic musical presence around the world," said David Renzer, Chairman & CEO, UMPG. "I am so pleased that we will be working with his manager, Paul Rosenberg and the Interscope team on continuing to bring his amazing music to a worldwide audience." "We are excited about the future of our continued relationship with UMPG, and we look forward to many more years of chart-topping success together," said manager, Paul Rosenberg. As an artist, Eminem has received nine GRAMMY awards, including three for Best Rap Album (The Slim Shady LP, The Marshall Mathers LP, The Eminem Show); three for Best Rap Solo Performance ("My Name Is," "The Real Slim Shady," and "Lose Yourself"); one for Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group ("Forgot About Dre"); one for Best Rap Song ("Lose Yourself"); and one for Best Short Form Music Video ("Without Me"). Eminem also received an Oscar for Best Original Performance for "Lose Yourself" at the 2003 Academy Awards. Eminem has released seven multi-platinum albums - six of which have reigned as the Billboard No. 1 Album, including 1999's The Slim Shady LP, 2000's Marshall Mathers LP, 2002's The Eminem Show, 2004's Encore, and 2005's Curtain Call – The Hits. Eminem has had a total of nineteen different songs in the Top 10 of various Billboard charts, bringing him more than sixty Top 10 chart positions. Eminem is one of the best selling music artists of the decade, having sold over 70 million albums. He plans to release a sequel to Relapse, Relapse 2, later this year.

COMMON EXCITED ABOUT HIS POSSIBLE ROLE IN THE UPCOMING A-TEAM FLICK.
Common would replace Mr. T's "B.A. Baracus" character in Joe Carnahan’s upcoming big-screen adaptation of “The A-Team.” Common has confirmed with MTV the buzz is indeed building, and that he may someday slip behind the driver’s wheel of that famous black-and-red van. “Yeah, I’ve been hearing that, man,” said the actor/rapper. “I’ve been hearing that.” Mr. T played the role of B.A. Baracus on TV for all of the series’ five seasons, and he has said that he will not appear in the movie unless he returns as the Baracus character. “If I’m considered for that role, I’m excited about it,” Common said of replacing Mr. T. “I mean, I would love to do that. That’s iconic.” Common says, “You’ve got try and bring something new to it,” he said of taking on the roll. For now Common is waiting to get a solid offer on the project. He says he's not practicing “I pity the fool!” lines in front of the mirror yet. “No, not yet, bro,” he said, laughing, “and I don’t know how I’m going to do the mohawk.”

DMX GETS RELEASED FROM PRISON.
DMX was released from the Maricopa County Jail in Arizona this morning. TMZ reports that X was released at around 4 AM after serving 90 days in jail — the minimum sentence for pleading guilty to the following: cruelty to animals, possession of narcotic drugs, theft and possession of marijuana.

50 CENT TAPPED FOR JEKYLL AND HYDE REMAKE.
According to Variety, Abel Ferrara is taking another walk on the wild side with a re-imagining of Robert Louis Stevenson's "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," which will be contemporized and titled "Jekyll and Hyde." Forest Whitaker and Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson are attached to play the lead roles in the classic tale about a doctor who invents a potion that unleashes his violent alter ego. Glasshouse Pictures' Brett Walsh and Cheetah Vision Films' Randall Emmett are producing; Luc Roeg, Michael Robinson and Andrew Orr are exec producing for U.K. production banner Independent. Sean Walsh, Bonnie Timmermann and Chris Lighty also receive exec producer credits. Independent is handling international sales on the project, which will begin lensing in late summer. "The combination of such formidable talent in front of and behind the camera will turn this wonderful gothic story into a modern classic for a whole new generation," said Roeg.

RIK CODERO UP FOR VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR.
"In what has come as a complete and utter surprise, I've been nominated for Video Director Of The Year for the 2009 BET Awards alongside legendary heavy hitters such as Hype Williams, Chris Robinson, Gil Green and Benny Boom. Wow, it is an honor to simply be nominated amongst every single one of those pioneering directors who have been a huge inspiration countless aspiring filmmakers," Rik told RAPINDUSTRY.COM in a prepared statement. "And more importantly, the nomination is a testament to the hard work and due diligence of the entire Three/21 collective who continue to stay true to the art of independent filmmaking. As we've had only a sprinkling of network aired videos, the digital revolution is in full effect. Our motto has always been: By Any Means Necessary and after three long years it's time to make a toast: This one's for the RENEGADES!"

JAMIE FOX MAKES HISTORY!
Jamie Foxx sets the all-time record for 12 consecutive weeks at #1 on the Urban Mainstream chart with his hit single "Blame It" (TLC's "No Scrubs" was #1 for 11 weeks in 1999)! This unprecedented feat is coupled with "Blame It" coming in at #1 on the Hot 100 Audience chart for a 4th week with an audience of 119.6 million. The single also maintains its Top 5 status this
week landing at #3 on the Rhythmic chart (after a 5 week run at #1), and #5 on the Top 40 chart. Additionally, "Blame It" is currently #3 on Nielsen's Ringscan chart as it crossed the million tone sales mark after peaking at #2 a few weeks ago. Foxx's RIAA-certified Platinum album Intuition is
currently #6 on the R&B Albums chart. Officially announced yesterday during his surprise appearance on BET's 106 & Park, Foxx will host and perform on the 9th annual BET Awards on June 28th at Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium. Jamie also garnered three BET Awards nominations for "Best Male R&B Artist," "Best Collaboration" with T-Pain for "Blame It," and "Video of the Year" for the star-studded "Blame It" featuring Ron Howard, Forest Whitaker, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson, T-Pain and more. Prior to the BET Awards, Foxx will perform his
hit single on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on May 18th and several songs from Intuition on Good Morning America's Summer Concert Series on June 19th. With his continuous chart-topping success in music, his widely popular The Foxxhole radio show on Sirius XM, creator and co-executive producer of one of MTV's highest-rated reality shows, From G's to Gents, and
co-starring role alongside Robert Downey, Jr. in the critically-acclaimed film The Soloist, Academy Award winner and Grammy-nominated artist Jamie Foxx is the undisputed "King of all Media."

SONY SUES EMI.
Sony Music Group has sued EMI Music and its North American COO Ron Werre, alleging that Werre broke a promise to join Sony for $3 million. According to Reuters, the suit claims Werre used Sony's offer as leverage to negotiate his recent promotion at EMI. Sony claims that Werre, who was previously EMI President of Music Services, had agreed to a three-year deal with Sony in February and that he would join the label after his EMI contract ran out in February of next year. But last week, EMI promoted Werre, leading to the lawsuit from Sony. "Werre never intended to fulfill his contractual obligations to Sony Music, but was merely using his contract with Sony Music as a stalking horse to solicit a more lucrative contract from EMI with enhanced job responsibilities," the suit claims, according to Reuters. Sony also says that EMI was aware that the label planned to hire Werre and that after the exec had agreed to join Sony, EMI contacted Sony CEO Rolf Schmidt-Holtz to ask for Werre's new contract to be scrapped.

BET AWARDS ARE SET.
The nominees for the 2009 BET Awards have been announced, and the trophies will be presented on June 28. The-Dream, Jamie Foxx, Ryan Leslie, Ne-Yo and T-Pain will go head up for Best Male R&B Artist. Beyoncé, Keyshia Cole, Keri Hilson, Jennifer Hudson and Jazmine Sullivan will go head-to-head for Best Female R&B Artist. Other nominees Best Male Rapper nominees include Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Rick Ross, T.I. and Young Jeezy. Best Female Rapper nominees are Lil Mama, M.I.A. and Trina. In the category of Best Group, the award could go to Day 26, GS Boyz, N.E.R.D., The Roots or Three 6 Mafia.

GUCCI MANE SIGNS TO WARNER BROS AND ENDS RELATIONSHIP WITH BIG CAT.
GUCCI MANE has announced his signing to Warner Bros. Records where he will release his new studio album in August, it also marks the end of his relationship with Big Cat Records. Big Cat is to release its final CD on GUCCI MANE today that consists of pre-2007 recordings and outtakes that were not assembled or endorsed by GUCCI MANE. "I am no longer signed to, booked by, or working with Big Cat Records or any of its employees in any way. The CD that Big Cat is putting out consists of records that were never planned to make my album and is a non-official release. My fans will get the OFFICIAL Gucci Mane album in August on Warner Bros. Records." states Gucci Mane. In 2005, GUCCI MANE released his independent debut album entitled Trap House, which featured the successful single "Icy" with Young Jeezy. Hard to Kill followed in 2006 and GUCCI MANE's career was propelled with the release of Back to the Trap House in 2007. The album was fueled by the hit single "Freaky Gurl." GUCCI MANE is currently putting the finishing touches on his new album and can be seen on the upcoming cover of XXL.

CEO OF NUMARK HAPPY WITH JUDGES DECISION.
Ruling Enables Scratch to Retrieve All Work Product and Source Code and Complete Its Game and Prepare for Launch. Scratch DJ Game LLC, a joint venture between Genius Products, LLC ("Genius") and Numark Industries LLC ("Numark"), announced that the Los Angeles County Superior Court ("the Court") has granted it a preliminary injunction in its lawsuit against Activision Publishing, Inc., a subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATVI - News) ("Activision"), and California 7 Studios ("7 Studios") and former owner and president, Lewis Peterson. The judge, following his issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order in favor of Scratch, on May 7, 2009 further granted a preliminary injunction against Activision's subsidiary, 7 Studios, and ordered the turnover of all Work Product associated with Scratch – The Ultimate DJ game ("Scratch"), including all source code, work-in-progress and all Developer's Pre-Existing Tool and Technology, including the source code to 7 Studio's game engine. The Judge further confirmed in his injunction order that both 7 Studios and its new parent company Activision continue to be "walled off" from disclosing any aspect of the Scratch game or technology with each other or with any third party. The Court's actions on May 7, 2009 dealt with the final materials relating to the game's development that the defendant was still withholding, including the source code to 7 Studios' game engine and other Developer's Pre-Existing Tools and Technology. Activision bought financially distressed 7 Studios, which was a contract "work for hire" developer for Scratch – The Ultimate DJ game, after Scratch refused to sell Scratch - The Ultimate DJ to Activision in March. Thereafter, 7 Studios, under Activision's control, refused to turn over the Scratch game code and attempted to prevent Scratch from obtaining the source code for the game engine. The Court found that Scratch has established a material breach of its Developer Agreement by 7 Studios and ordered that 7 Studios must turnover to Scratch all source code to the game engine and all other Developer's Pre-Existing Tools and Technology. Jack O'Donnell, Manager of Scratch and Chief Executive Officer of Numark, stated, "We are very excited to finish Scratch – The Ultimate DJ. We hope that this clear victory ends the delay tactics employed by the defendants to date to stop our game from being completed and brought to market. We will continue to vigorously pursue our damages case against Activision, 7 Studios and Peterson resulting from their actions to delay and take over the Scratch game. With the injunction order, we will also now be able to move forward to complete and launch our much anticipated Scratch game."

THE ORCHARD ANNOUNCES SIGNING OF GURU.
Guru, the legendary innovator and American hip-hop star best known for the trailblazing hip-hop group Gang Starr and founder of the imitable Jazzmatazz series, will release Lost & Found, his fourth project through his own hip-hop label 7 Grand Records, on May 19th through Orchard.

EMINEM TEAMS UP WITH STEWIE GRIFFIN.
Eminem joins FAMILY GUY's Stewie Griffin to host ANIMATION DOMINATION Sunday, May 17 on FOX. The evening will feature interstitials voiced by and featuring an animated version of the hip-hop superstar. "It was a thrill to work with Stewie," said Eminem about the youngest member of the Griffin clan. "I'm a big fan of talking babies and their humor." On working with Eminem, Stewie said "I was just about to meet him, but after I shook hands with his stylist, his assistant, his lawyer, his bodyguard, his other bodyguard, his photographer, his manager, his hanger-on, his flower girl, his driver, his videographer, his notary, his historian, his her-storian, his texter and his own greased-up deaf guy, I got the swine flu." On the season finale of FAMILY GUY airing Sunday, May 17 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT), Peter has his palm read by a psychic who reveals that he had a fascinating past life in the 17th century as Griffin Peterson, a dignified gentleman from the newly founded colony of Quahog who vied for the love of Lady Redbush. It was a time of great love and adventure where King Stewart reigned supreme, the smartest dog in the room was the court jester, army lieutenants were merely boys and even old England loved "How I Met Your Mother" (Neil Patrick Harris, Josh Radnor and Jason Segel guest-voice).

LLOYD BANKS CONFIRMS G-UNIT DROPPPED FROM INTERSCOPE.
Banks himself has commented on the situation. “I was ready to make a move,” Banks said about leaving Interscope. “I’m a brand-new engine. If anything, it’s their loss. It’s been a dark shadow cast upon that. That’s why you hear Funk Master Flex on the radio boycotting Interscope, because it’s an aura created around that machine, and the artists automatically get smacked in the head.” “An artist signed to Interscope doesn’t even know what’s going on,” Banks added.“You just turn on the radio, and they’re saying, ‘F— Interscope Records,’ and you fall into that batch. So it’s almost a foul taste in the mouth when they deliver the record. I felt it’s time for me to go somewhere where it’s not biased and I get a fair shot. There’s a lot of stuff on the table right now. You don’t wanna speak about it until it gets ironed out all the way.” WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE

HOLLYWOOD’S BIGGEST STARS GET SET TO PRESENT AT THE “2009 MTV MOVIE AWARDS. Denzel Washington, Cameron Diaz, Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, Vanessa Hudgens, Leighton Meester, Jonah Hill and Lil Wayne are the first to be announced in the growing list of presenters. With a stage this hot, viewers can expect another year of incredible pairings and extreme moments. They join previously revealed performer Eminem, who will take the stage to perform music from his anticipated new album Relapse, available May 19, and give one of the captivating and unconventional live MTV performances fans live for. Hosted by Andy Samberg, the “2009 MTV Movie Awards” will be broadcast LIVE from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, CA on Sunday, May 31st at 9p.m./8p.m.C. The “2009 MTV Movie Awards” marks the first year in which the final nominees were decided on by the fans. Mark Burnett serves as Executive Producer for the “2009 MTV MOVIE AWARDS.” Audrey Morrissey is Co-Executive Producer. Lee Rolontz is Executive Producer for MTV, Garrett English is Executive in charge for MTV and Jane Mun serves as Producer. Robin Reinhardt-Locke is Celebrity Talent Executive.

SOULJA BOY TELL'EM ACHIEVES THIRD #1 SINGLE.
Soulja Boy Tell'em will have his third # 1 single in the country as 'Turn My Swag On' will reach the top spot on Billboard's urban airplay chart next week. 'Turn My Swag On' will be Soulja Boy Tellem's third # 1 hit on national radio. Last month, Soulja Boy Tell'em reached the top spot with his 'Kiss Me Thru The Phone' record that reached # 1 on the urban and crossover radio formats and has spent 18 weeks on Billboard's Hot 100 chart. Both records combined have sold over 2.5 million copies digitally and are in the Top 15 on the digital singles sales chart. 'Kiss Me Thru The Phone' and 'Turn My Swag On' are off of his iSouljaboytellem album which was released December 2008. His first number one hit came with 'Crank That (Soulja Boy)' which spent 7 weeks at the top of the charts in all formats in 2007 off his SouljaBoyTellem debut album that sold over a million copies.

EMINEM TAKES OVER JIMMY KIMMEL FOR MULTPLE PERFORMANCES.
In a rare television event, late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel welcomes 9-time Grammy Award winner Eminem for an exclusive late-night musical performance on "Jimmy Kimmel
Live" airing Friday, May 15th on ABC (12:05 a.m. ET/PT). The following week, additional Eminem performances will be featured on both Tuesday, May 19th and Friday, May 22nd, with the performance on the 22nd featuring two live songs from Detroit. Eminem will debut material from his highly anticipated new album, Relapse, releasing Tuesday, May 19th. This is Eminem's first studio album in four years. "Jimmy Kimmel Live" will work in association with 5-Hour Energy to put on this unique performance on the Pontiac Garage Outdoor Stage.

T.I. RELEASES STATEMENT REGARDING ALFAMEGA DRAMA.
T.I. has released a statement about Alfamega. T.I. is disassociating himself and his company from the rapper in light of reports that he was a former informant for the DEA. “I am stunned and totally surprised about the news about Alfa (Ced Zellers),” he said. “Even though all of our artists and employees are asked by us to be honest and open about their past history, at no time did Alfa disclose to me or Grand Hustle what has now appeared in the media. He essentially deceived us by failing to fully disclose the truth about his past and there is no place in our organization for this kind of misleading behavior. This is our way of saying you must take responsibility for your own actions. We at Grand Hustle can not support or condone blaming others for our own mistakes. I hope and pray to God bless his financial plans but I don’t forsee me or my company playing a role in his personal or professional business.”

EMI MUSIC RELEASES FINANCIAL REPORT.
EMI Music has issued its financial report for the year ending March 2009. The company showed strong growth in profits and cash flow in its first full year under Terra Firma’s ownership. EMI reported that EBITDA rose over 200 percent to £163 million. This was driven by a £48 million year-over-year reduction in the cost of returns, strong cost management which has now been embedded in the company, and overhead savings from the significant restructuring that was done in 2008. EMI also said it generated operating cash flow of £190 million during the year, way up from the £142 million it recorded in 2008. The company now says it is "firmly on track" to deliver the £200 million ($301.85 million) of cost savings identified at the time of the acquisition in August 2007. Despite the improvement in operating performance, sales were actually down. Commenting on the performance, EMI Music CEO Elio Leoni-Sceti said, "I am very pleased we have delivered this strong operating performance and would like to thank all the staff and artists whose talent, creativity and hard work made it possible. These results are an important first step in building EMI’s future. We cannot afford to be complacent however since there is still a great deal of work to be done to restore EMI to its former greatness and we are doing it in the face of challenging economic conditions. Looking ahead we have some exciting new releases coming up, a much deeper understanding of the music consumer and a new engaged relationship with our artists to build on. Now it has established this platform, EMI can look to the future with confidence and optimism."

WARNER MUSIC REPORTS 1ST QUARTER LOSSES.
The Warner Music Group released it's first-quarter earnings this morning. The major posted a net loss of $68 million, a number that was close to double its loss of $37 million a year ago. The culprit: A one-time charge of $29 million related to the company's investments in digital services Imeem and Lala. “We do not intend to make more digital venture capital investments," Music Group Chief Executive Edgar Bronfman said in this morning's conference call, as quoted by PaidContent. "The intention was to invest in young companies pursuing innovative business models. Some of these digital venture capital investments have not met expectations." The company's charges included a $16-million write-off in Imeem and an $11-million write-down in Lala. Digital music sales, however, continued to rise, up 6% from the comparable quarter last year. When asked, Are there any superstars left? "We are dependent on identifying, signing and retaining artists with long-term potential, whose debut albums are well received on release, whose subsequent albums are anticipated by consumers and whose music will continue to generate sales as part of our catalog for years to come. The competition among record companies for such talent is intense ... Some music industry observers believe that the number of superstar acts with long-term appeal, both in terms of catalog sales and future releases, has declined in recent years."

CASSIE RELEASES STATEMENT:
Cassie issues an official statement regarding her recent nude photos.
"The recent personal pictures that have been leaked on the internet of me were hacked and stolen out of my computer," the statement read. "These photos were obviously never intended for the world to see and it's sad that people would really take time to steal and post them, it's just evil. At the end of the day breasts are breasts, mine weren't the first you've seen and they won't be the last... people need to grow up. Let's move on."

CASSIE'S NUDE PHOTOS LEAKED!! SEE HERE

MIKE JONES' VOICE #2 R&B/HIP HOP ALBUM IN THE COUNTRY
Mike Jones' sophomore CD, The Voice (Ice Age/SwishaHouse/Asylum Records), landed in the Top 5 (#2) on Billboard's "Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums" chart and Top 20 (#12) on "The Billboard 200" chart. The Voice is Mike Jones' first release in four years and follows his platinum-plus selling debut, Who? Mike Jones.

BABY EXPLAINS WHY LIL WAYNE WON’T RESPOND TO 50 CENT.
In a recent interview, Bryan Williams aka “Baby”/"Birdman" recently talked about why Lil Wayne decided to not respond to the multiple disses from 50 Cent. “We got money man,” Baby explained. “We on islands and jets fucking hoes. We ain’t trippin’ off petty shit. We got money. Ain’t ever a dark day in my life, why won’t I go spend 250 right now, I’ll burn that bitch… We just did a deal for a 100 mil, we got money for real. It ain’t no game. We ain’t got time for bullshit. We getting money man. We go to the studio that’s money, that’s like $20 million. When I hit your town they pay 250 just to say they saw us… We been through the wars, I got scars from wars. Get with that anytime, but lets get with this money shit, that’s what’s up… Me and my son are rich for real, that’s why I won’t entertain bullshit… Today, I’m the only nigga in the industry, me, my son and my brother that own everything, nobody owns nothin’. We 100 percent in this bitch, we make more than they make.”

RAZOR & TIE EXPAND DISTRO DEAL WITH SONY.
Sony Music Entertainment and Razor & Tie Entertainment have expanded their exclusive distribution agreement to include full digital rights, it was announced today by Thomas Hesse,
President, Global Digital Business, U.S. Sales, and Corporate Strategy, Sony Music Entertainment, and Craig Balsam and Cliff Chenfeld, Co-owners, Razor & Tie Entertainment. Sony Music has distributed Razor & Tie's audio products since 1998. Under the terms of this multi-year agreement, Sony Music Entertainment will deliver physical and digital content from Razor & Tie's extensive artist roster across all commercial channels and on a variety of digital
platforms, including online and mobile. "Razor & Tie has been a valued partner of ours for more than a decade now," commented Mr. Hesse. "We couldn't be more pleased to be extending and
expanding our agreement with Razor & Tie as Sony Music continues to further build its distribution business with the best companies in the music industry." "Sony Music Entertainment has been an integral part of our success over the years," commented Mr. Balsam. "The company offers an unparalleled portfolio of distribution services and the team has an unwavering
commitment to customers. With their help, we have continued to grow our business and reach new customers."

BUMPY JOHNSON'S WIDOW PASSES AWAY.
Mayme Hatcher Johnson, a native of North Carolina who spent most of her life in Harlem, died in Philadelphia on Friday, May 1, 2009 of respiratory failure. Mrs. Johnson was born in 1914 in NC, and moved to New York City in 1938, where she found work as a waitress in a club owned by singer/actress Ethel Waters. In 1948 she met and married Ellsworth "Bumpy" Johnson, the legendary Harlem gangster who was depicted in the movies "The Cotton Club," "Hoodlum," and "American Gangster." In her book,, she told of meeting Bumpy for the first time in a Harlem restaurant. "Before long I was known as Bumpy's girl. It was a good title to possess. It meant I could get in anywhere I wanted to go, I was treated as queen wherever I went, and I was showered with gifts and jewelry on a steady basis. It also meant that I was constantly accosted by other women who were in love with Bumpy and wanted me out of the way. At first I was upset, but then I pretty much learned to ignore them. Like Bumpy said, they wouldn't even be stepping to me if they didn't realize that I was the one real woman in his life. And hell if I was going to let them back me away from a man who treated me as good as Bumpy treated me. . . Bumpy and I met in April 1948. In October that year we were driving past 116th and St. Nicholas Avenue in his Cadillac when he suddenly turned to me and said, "Mayme, I think you and I should go ahead and get married." I was stunned, but I kept my composure. I said simply, "Is that right?"
He said, "Yes, that's right," and kept on driving. We were married in a civil ceremony just two weeks later." She remained married to Bumpy until his death of a heart attack in 1968, though he was incarcerated at Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary for ten years of their marriage. Mrs. Johnson was a long-time member of St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Harlem, and was known for her charitable and volunteer activities. "Mayme was a class act, and had a big heart," said Henry "Perk" Perkins, a Harlem restaurateur who was a close friend of both Bumpy and Mrs. Johnson. "She was the sweetest woman in the world, but she didn't take any nonsense. She carried herself like a real lady and expected to be treated as such." In 2004, Mrs. Johnson moved to Philadelphia, and three years later decided to finally write a biography about her husband, so that "people could know the truth about him rather than all the myths." Harlem Godfather was published in February 2008. More than 200 people attended the book launch party held in Harlem. "Yeah, she was tickled pink to tell people she was an author at age 93," Perkins said with a laugh. "Boy, it really made her proud to finally get that book done." Mrs. Johnson was notified two days before her death that a film production company was negotiating to purchase a book option for Harlem Godfather. Mrs. Johnson is survived by a granddaughter Margaret Johnson of New York City; a grandson Anthony Johnson of London, England; a sister Lily Andrews of North Carolina; a brother Melvin Hatcher of North Carolina; and two goddaughters Karen E. Quinones Miller and Camille R. Quinones Miller of Philadelphia. A daughter, Ruthie Johnson and stepdaughter, Elease Johnson both died in 2006. Final arrangements are private at the family's request.

NEW MUSIC - EMINEM FT. DR. DRE.
Check out the latest joint "Old Times Sake" LISTEN

IRV GOTTI LANDS GIG WITH FILA?
Since landing his gig on VH1, The Inc CEO Irv Gotti tells XXL mag that he inked a deal with sneaker company Fila. “The show actually helps business dealings out tremendously,” he said. “I am a Consultant for Fila. And my kids actually have a sneaker with Fila. The ASJ Melrose Edition Fila Sneaker. ASJ is the 1st letters of the kids. Angie, Sonny and JJ. With me having a show a lot of companies see it as a great opportunity for exposure for their brands.” Along with the Fila gig the record executive said the show helps his artists get airplay. “It also helps music- wise because it gives my artist exposure that other artists just can’t get,” he explained. “And you form a relationship with the music channels. So it makes it easier to get videos and other things done with them. You’re a part of the Viacom family.”

FIF COMMENTS ON RICK ROSS' #1 ALBUM.
When asked about the first-week sales of Deeper Than Rap, Ross' latest effort, 50 Cent wondered if the numbers were somehow flubbed by the record company. "I didn't get an opportunity to hear his record," Fif said in an interview. "But a lot of freak numbers come out of the Def Jam system. I mean, just look at it. I think [his numbers] could be a disappointment to the system, based on how much of an effort and money they spent marketing, but I can't call a number one a flop under any circumstances." He continued,"I think it can be a disappointment to the system, based on how much of an effort and money they spent marketing," 50 explained. "But you can't call a #1 [album] a 'flop' under any circumstances. It's still #1." Source: Mtv

T-PAIN LINKS UP WITH AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE.
T-Pain will star in an upcoming episode of Adult Swim’s Aqua Teen Hunger Force as Frylock, a flying box of fries, for a special live-action episode this month, according to Entertainment Weekly. T-Pain says he is a big fan of the show, sporting a pendant of Mooninite character Ignignokt in the music video for the Ludacris collab, “One More Drink,”as well as contributing a voiceover in a past Aqua Teen episode. The show will air on May 31 on the Cartoon Network.

WILLIAM MORRIS AGENCY SIGNS MARY J. BLIGE
WMA has signed Mary J. Blige. According to Variety, the agency will rep the nine-time Grammy winner in all areas and guide the expansion plans of her entertainment company, Matriarch Entertainment. Blige had been repped by ICM. Blige's eight albums have sold over 48 million copies. Her last release, "Growing Pains," won the Grammy for contemporary R&B album. WMA will help her as she broadens her brand into other areas. Blige has already branched out into acting, appearing on "Entourage," filming the series finale of "30 Rock," and starring in Tyler Perry's "I Can Do Bad All by Myself," set for release on Sept. 11. Blige has several endorsement deals, currently featured in campaigns for Chevrolet, Citibank and Carol's Daughter, the cosmetics company that she owns with Will Smith, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Jay-Z. With manager Kendu Isaacs, Blige formed Matriarch Entertainment/ Records, whose roster includes Dave Young and Laneah. Matriarch is partnered with the management shingle Content, run by Jaha Johnson and Chris Hicks, which has also moved its business to WMA.

EX-COPPER RICKY ROSS GOES #1.
Rapper Rick Ross has scored his third #1 debut with his new album, Deeper Than Rap, which sold 158,000 copies in its first week, according to Nielsen SoundScan. His last two efforts, 2008's Trilla and 2006's Port Of Miami, also bowed at #1. Slip-N-Slide CEO Ted Lucas expressed some words towards the ex-copper's battle with 50 Cent. “When I heard about all that was going down, I knew that musically Ross would rebut by making great music and come out on top,” Lucas, who inked Ross to his first deal, told Billboard. “If he wants to get caught up in personal issues, that’s fine, but I never doubted him musically and lyrically.” “Ross is an incredible rapper and not too many people can out-rap him,” praised Lucas further, putting to rest rumors of friction between himself and Ross. “I want his label, Maybach Music, to blow up. I want to see people I help get started doing things. I’m always going to be supportive of him.”

ASHANTI TO PLAY DOROTHY IN "WIZ"
Ashanti has been confirmed to play Dorothy in the musical 'The Wiz’ which will run in New York this summer (June 12-July 5.) The musical, which made its Broadway debut in 1975, won seven Tony Awards and was made into a movie in 1978. Quincy Jones produced the movie’s soundtrack, with Michael Jackson playing Scarecrow and Diana Ross as Dorothy. No other casting has been announced for the production, helmed by Thomas Kail and choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler.

SMIRNOFF SIGNATURE MIX SERIES PRESENTS "I Got Cha Opin' '09 (Smirnoff Signature Mix)" by Buckshot + Kardinal Offishall. Today marks the debut of "I Got Cha Opin '09 (Smirnoff Signature Mix)" by Buckshot + Kardinal Offishall. LISTEN HERE
The Smirnoff Signature Mix Series is part of the brand's ongoing commitment to foster and promote both established and emerging musical talent. This is the second installment of the acclaimed program, designed to bring together respected artists in the hip hop community to recreate clearly original versions of iconic hip hop songs with a newly-mixed interpretation. Buckshot teamed up with Kardinal Offishall to put an original spin on his memorable underground hit, "I Got Cha Opin." Also in the mix, legendary artist Nas teamed up with Marsha Ambrosius, formerly of Floetry, to rework his Grammy-nominated single "If I Ruled the World"; and Nice & Smooth joined musical forces with Pac Div to create a new interpretation of "Funky For You". (See Below)

BEYONCE DOMINATES NATION'S FILM AND CONCERT TICKET SALES.
Beyonce is dominating both the music and film industries this week. "Obsessed," Beyonce's latest film (and first to feature the artist in a non-singing role), is the #1 film at America's box offices, bringing in an estimated $28.5 million for its opening weekend. A taut stalker-thriller,
"Obsessed" holds the record as the all-time highest grossing film for the last weekend in April (surpassing 2004's "Mean Girls"). "Obsessed" is Beyonce's third feature film to open at #1 (following 2002's "Austin Powers in Goldmember" and 2006's "The Pink Panther"). "Obsessed" is Executive Produced by Mathew Knowles, Founder/CEO of Music World Entertainment and Beyonce Knowles. The film is being released by Sony Pictures Screen Gems division. Beyonce launched the European portion of her "I AM..." world tour on Sunday night with an electrifying sold-out performance in Zagreb, Croatia. More than 17,500 ecstatic fans -- the largest single audience for an international artist in Croatian concert history -- danced, sang-along and
partied with the iconic superstar during an unforgettable two-hour show at Zagreb's Arena. "Halo," the current single from "I AM....SASHA FIERCE," Beyonce's latest chart-topping album, is a bonafide international smash. "Halo" has been the #1 on the UK airplay charts for five weeks running and is the #1 single in Norway. The single is #4 this week on Europe's airplay charts and
#6 on the singles chart. "Halo" is already Top 10 or better in Ireland (#3 airplay, #4 singles), Germany (#6 singles), Austria (#5 singles), Sweden (#10 singles, #1 CHR), and Switzerland (#9 airplay, #5 singles). The Northern American leg of the "I AM..." world tour will begin in New
York City on June 21. General public tickets for Beyonce's "I AM..." world tour went on sale Friday, the same day as the opening of "Obsessed." Overwhelming demand for premium packages and general tickets for the shows have made the "I AM..." tour one of the fastest selling concert events of the year. A second Madison Square Garden concert date has been added in New York City on June 22. Beyonce will cap off the tour with a four-night residency at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas July 30-August 2

LIL WAYNE, KANYE AND T-PAIN MAKE TIME'S TOP 100 MOST INFLUENTUAL LIST.
Lil Wayne has taken the number 12 spot on Time magazine’s “World’s Most Influential Person” list. “His Grammy-winning, multi-platinum album, Tha Carter III, was the perfect showcase for Wayne’s raw, hilarious, and often outer-planetary rap style,” Time explains of Lil Wayne. “And his Southern-gentleman act is legit, as evidenced by his slightly flirty interview with Katie Couric.” T-Pain takes #34. Kanye West takes #144. SEE THE LIST HERE

SWIZZ BEATZ TEAM UP WITH COGNAC
Rapper/producer Swizz Beatz and Hennessy V.S. are teaming to launch a new, limited line of cognac, called Hennessy Black. The artist will perform an original song, "When I Step Into the Club," alongside the JabbaWockeez of "America's Best Dance Crew" during a launch event in New York on May 5, According to Billboard. An accompanying video by director Hype Williams will be revealed as well. "Beatz is a long-time fan of the brand and approached us looking for ways we could work together. Since this product is all about having fun in the club, he suggested collaborating on a track that would be a hot dance song in the clubs," Andy Glaser, senior VP of Hennessy Business, tells Billboard. Hennessy will launch a dance contest titled "Up/Down" on their YouTube channel, where consumers will be able to create and post their own "Up/Down" dance for a chance to be flown to LA, where Williams will film and cut them into a new version of the video to "When I Step In the Club." Hennessy Black, the company's first major launch since 1961, will be available in 10 markets throughout the U.S. including Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, New York City, Ohio, Washington DC and Massachusetts. The company hopes the new drink - which has a blend of Jasmine, daffodils and orange flowers mixed with citrus, honey and grapes - will take the Hennessy brand beyond the cognac category to the premium mixed spirits.

FORMER CLIPSE MANAGER INDICTED ON $10 MILLION DRUG RING.
According to the Virginia Pilot, Anthony Gonzalez, former Clipse manager and club owner has been indicted and charged with being behind a 10-million dollar drug this week by a U.S. District Court. An unnamed police officer also is listed as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 60-page indictment. Federal authorities say the six-year drug operation was based at the former club Encore Lounge and led by the club's owner, Anthony Gonzalez. The indictment says Gonzalez bought the club at 1889 Virginia Beach Blvd. in November 2007 from an unidentified co-conspirator for 40 pounds of marijuana and about $80,000 in drug proceeds. The club closed earlier this year after more than 100 incidents of violence, shootings, drug dealing and disorderly conduct. The 82-count indictment charges Gonzalez, 34, of Chesapeake and six others in a drug conspiracy that stretches from Hampton Roads across the country to South America and back. Police and federal agents were still searching for Gonzalez, also known as Geezy, as of late Monday. Two suspected underlings, brothers Raymond D. McCoy, 24, and John Lee McCoy III, 26, were in court Monday and ordered jailed pending bond hearings on Wednesday. Another suspect, Richard W. Hoggard, 25, who was arrested Friday, will have a bond hearing tod