DMX RELEASED FROM PRISON.
DMX was released early this morning from Arizona State jail, after serving seven months of a one-year sentence related to probation violations. We are all rooting for him. Dmx (Earl Simmons) has delivered five # 1 Billboard albums. He has been through alot in his life and deserves to be back on top. He has enormous talent and undoubtedly will get his shine once again. DMX was sentenced to one year in the pokie on December 16, 2010 for violating his probation stemming from an assault conviction, by failing to submit to a drug test and driving on a suspended license.

L.A. REID NAMED CEO OF EPIC RECORDS.
Antonio 'L.A.' Reid has been named Chairman & CEO of Epic Records, it was announced today by Doug Morris, Chief Executive Officer, Sony Music Entertainment.

In this role, Reid will report to Morris and oversee the day-to-day operations of the New York-based label.

Morris stated, "L.A. repeatedly has proven over the course of his celebrated career that he knows how to develop world-class artistry. We are very happy to have an executive of his talents leading Epic Records as we begin an exciting new chapter of growth for Sony Music Entertainment."

Reid stated, "I look forward with great enthusiasm to joining the Sony Music family as it affords us the opportunity to build Epic Recordings as the revolutionary music company of tomorrow. We are deeply committed to discovering and developing the next generation of superstars as well as implementing a fresh and innovative business model. It is also my distinct pleasure to be once again joining Doug who is an amazing leader and the most visionary and forward-thinking executive in the music entertainment industry."

In addition to leading Epic, Reid, as previously announced, will sit alongside Simon Cowell as a judge on THE X FACTOR, the highly anticipated singing competition television series debuting this fall on FOX.

The Epic roster will feature select artists developed from THE X FACTOR franchise, as well as other new signings, including the pop duo Karmin.

Reid most recently was Chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group, where he played a role in numerous hits from superstars including Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, The Killers, Bon Jovi, Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. Previously he served as president and CEO of Arista Records, and before that was Co-Founder and Co-President, LaFace Records, scoring critical and commercial successes with artists such as Avril Lavigne, Dido, P!nk, Usher, OutKast, and Sarah McLachlan among many others.

A3C ANNOUNCE 2ND ROUND OF ARTISTS FOR UPCOMING FEST.
The annual A3C Hip Hop Festival in Atlanta announces a second round of incredible artists and showcases to happen October 6-8, 2011 at The Masquerade.

Additional artists confirmed to perform at the 2011 festival include MURS, XV, Elzhi (of Slum Village), Jon Connor, Young Scolla, Tabi Bonney, ski beatz, Soul Khan, Jarren Benton and Chancellor Warhol.

9th Wonder returns to the 2011 event with his independent label JAMLA and performances from artists Skyzoo, Rapsody, Thee Tom Hardy, Big Remo and Actual Proof.

This fall, A3C debuts its first international showcase, Import/Export presented by World Hip Hop Market and The Bloom Effect, bringing popular hip-hop artists from around the world to Atlanta, GA. Artists include Lidolido (Norway), Eternia (Toronto, Canada), Eyezon Soweto (South Africa), Shokanti (Cape Verde) and The reMinders (Belgium/Congo/USA).

Back for its third year, Perfect Attendance presented by The Smoking Section and Fadia Kader, announce a few of the artists to the perform over the 3-day showcase including Chase N Cashe, Rockie Fresh, Shawn Chrystopher, Rittz, SL Jones, Moe Green, KD, LE$, Ethereal, Willie Evans Jr., P Dukes and Nice Guise. Perfect Attendance features the best up and coming artists from around the country.

Artists from the A3C's first announcement included Random Axe (Sean Price, Black Milk and Guilty Simpson), Freeway, Aleon Craft, Laws, J-Live, Percee P, Ras Kass, Boog Brown, Ultra Beast (Senor Kaos and 4-Ize), Dillon, Paten Locke, Dee-1, Big Rec, Danny! and Goines.

PHARRELL GOT QREAM FOR THE LADIES.
Diageo plc, the world's leading premium spirits, wine and beer company, today announced the launch of QREAM WITH A Q™, an ultra-premium cream liqueur. "Qream" was conceived and developed in collaboration with Diageo, by Grammy Award-winning musician, cultural ambassador and style visionary, Pharrell Williams. Williams was instrumental in the development of the cream liqueur – from the taste and bottle design to the marketing and advertising.

The innovative alliance will focus on an ethos encouraging woman to "live deliciously," inviting them to treat themselves royally. With Qream, every detail was crafted to celebrate women - from the elegant design of the bottle, inspired by royalty, to the delicious flavor and silky lightness of the liquid, to how the brand will be marketed.

"Qream was created for contemporary women who work hard and want to relax with friends at the end of the day," says Williams. "I want them to reward themselves 'deliciously.'" Williams added, "Women make up half the population and Qream is about celebrating that power. To work with Diageo in bringing something original like Qream and the notion of delicious living to market has been a thrill."

The launch of Qream will include an integrated marketing campaign, developed with Pharrell that will live across advertising, public relations, strategic alliances and nationwide events, including programs focused on personal responsibility and responsible decision making when it comes to drinking. Building on his proven track record in music and fashion, the alliance aims to tap into Pharrell's unique perspective.

"Williams' ability to interpret and deliver memorable experiences has the potential to allow Qream to become synonymous with women celebrating life with style, class and quality," says Anna MacDonald, Director of Liqueurs Marketing at Diageo. "We expect Pharrell Williams' unique perspective, coupled with his alliance with Diageo, will help Qream set a new standard as the beverage women choose to honor themselves and their accomplishments."

The beverage itself comes in two varieties, Strawberry Creme and Peach Creme, evoking the flavor of freshly picked strawberries and ripe vine peaches, combined with natural cream and vanilla bean essences to create a light, silky, fruity flavor profile.

About QREAM WITH A Q™
QREAM WITH A Q™ is a one-of-a-kind cream liqueur. It was created by an inspired alliance between Diageo and Grammy Award-winning musician, cultural ambassador and style visionary, Pharrell Williams. Williams was instrumental in the development of the liqueur's creation – from taste and bottle design to marketing and advertising. Available in the U.S. in two flavors – Strawberry Creme and Peach Creme – Qream is 99% lactose free at 12.5% ABV.

D'ANGELO BACK IN THE LAB WORKING ON NEW ALBUM.
R&B cat D'Angelo is apparently back at work on his third album. A studio session took place in New York with Roots drummer Questlove and bassist Pino Palladino, as well as producer/engineer Russell Elevado, according to posts from Questlove on Twitter.

"Most people use midnight as a time to sleep. others are working on their 11 year followup. this of course being hour number one," wrote the drummer.

The album, titled "James River," is said to be set for release before the end of the year through J Records, according to a source,
but could move to early 2012. This will be D'Angelo's long-awaited follow-up to the 2000 album "Voodoo," which won the 2001 Grammy for best R&B album and has sold 1.7 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

ARMOR UP: CALL OF DUTY® ELITE INVITE-ONLY - BETA STARTS NOW!
Call of Duty® Elite beta is live. The pre-release of this innovative new digital community platform, built expressly for the 30-million strong Call of Duty® fanbase, begins its staged launch today on Xbox 360® and Xbox LIVE utilizing Call of Duty®: Black Ops. The beta will be activated in phases for feature testing, with limited invitations rolling out in the coming weeks.

Call of Duty Elite will officially debut this fall as an integral part of Activision Publishing, Inc.'s hotly anticipated release, Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 3, on November 8th. The 2.8 million Call of Dutygamers who have already registered to participate will now have the opportunity to connect, compete and improve in this evolution of the Call of Duty multi-player experience.

"Call of Duty Elite is all about connecting our amazing fans around the globe in ways never before possible and we are excited to get their feedback so they can help us further develop, tune and test the service, as we head into our launch in November with Modern Warfare 3," says Chacko Sonny, Studio Head, Beachhead Studio. "A public beta with the massive Call of Duty community is the best way to generate the scale we need for end-to-end testing. While Call of DutyElite will continue to evolve post-launch, we want to deliver the most polished, complete and rigorously tested service possible on day one. We're looking to get as many participants in the beta as possible, so we ask that fans stay patient as we ramp up in the coming weeks."

Call of Duty Elite will super charge the Call of Duty experience in three key ways:

Connect: Call of Duty Elite gives players unprecedented control over their multiplayer experience. This is a true social gaming platform. Players can compete against friends, gamers of similar skill levels or interests, join groups and clans, and play in organized competitions. They can also track the performance, progress and activity of their personal network, both in the game itself as well as via custom mobile apps for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phones, tablets and on the web.

Compete: Call of Duty Elite hosts events and competitions for players of all skill levels on a regular basis; both in-game and real-world prizes will be awarded across the Call of Duty Elite player roster when the service goes live on November 8th.

Improve: Call of Duty Elite is ground zero for anyone who wants to improve their in-game skills. It dynamically tracks player statistics and performance down to the finest detail. It can show gamers how they compare to their friends or other players community-wide. The user-friendly tools and data will give gamers the insights they need to up their kill/death ratio in no time.

The Call of Duty Elite beta will test select features and functionality, including stat tracking, the use of custom player groups, competitive events and video sharing. A major upgrade of new features will come toCall of Duty Elite at its official launch this November. Premium members of Call of Duty Elite will also receive all downloadable content for the new blockbuster title Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. From all-new maps to themed content, if it's downloadable content,Call of Duty Elite members will get it.

Plus, when the new service rolls-out with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, players will be able to enjoy a level of unprecedented clan support. With a focus on competition, imagine players finally being able to create their own personal experience just like a fantasy football or baseball league in Call of Duty that includes anyone and everyone from close friends to new contacts, who simply share similar gaming abilities.

WHO IS THE MOST POWERFUL PERSON IN RADIO?
Bob Pittman, Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms for Clear Channel Radio, one of the leading media companies in America, topped the 2011 “40 Most Powerful People in Radio” list released by Radio Ink, a leading radio-industry trade publication. According to the magazine, this is the first time anyone has taken the number one spot in their first year. Clear Channel’s President and CEO John Hogan Also Makes the List – at #2.

"Never before has anyone taken the number one slot on the list in their inaugural year," stated Radio Ink Publisher/CEO B. Eric Rhoads. "But Bob Pittman immediately attracted attention when he joined Clear Channel as chairman of media and entertainment platforms last November. Not only did he immediately become a huge presence at America's largest radio conglomerate, he also took on the role of radio's biggest cheerleader. Pittman brings clout and credibility on Wall Street and with the advertising industry."

“No one else in the industry is as passionate and dedicated to radio as a medium. We are privileged to have him as part of the Clear Channel Radio team.”

The top five this year are:
1. Clear Channel Communications Chairman/Media & Entertainment/Bob Pittman
2. Clear Channel Radio President/CEO John Hogan
3. Cumulus Media Chairman/CEO Lew Dickey
4. CBS Radio President/CEO Dan Mason
5. Entercom Communications President/CEO David Field.

Pittman alongside Clear Channel Radio’s CEO John Hogan and team continue to transform Clear Channel from a broadcast radio company into an integrated media and entertainment giant with 850 radio stations, the powerful iHeartRadio digital platform, and strategic partnerships with labels, artists, and key social media players like Facebook and Zynga. Pittman was described by Radio Ink as “radio’s biggest cheerleader. Pittman brings clout and credibility on Wall Street and with the advertising industry."

“I'm honored to be part of the Top 40 Most Powerful People in Radio, especially with John Hogan, so many of the Clear Channel team and the other industry leaders that I have admired for years,” Mr. Pittman told Radio Ink. “I started my career in radio at age 15. Although I've been in many other businesses, I've never lost my love of radio – it's inspiring and stimulating to be back home.”

Pittman was the co-founder of MTV and former CEO of MTV Networks, AOL Networks, Six Flags Theme Parks, Quantum Media, Century 21 Real Estate and Time Warner Enterprises. He was also COO of American Online, Inc. and AOL – Time Warner. Pittman, who has a long history as an innovator and brilliant marketer, has leveraged Clear Channel’s extraordinary reach—the largest of any media outlet in America with 237 million listeners a month—to develop and promote unique content, special events, new music, movies and products nationally and locally.

Mr. Hogan, President and CEO of Clear Channel Radio, followed Mr. Pittman on the list in the number two spot. “It is no surprise that Bob is number one in radio,” said Hogan. “No one else in the industry is as passionate and dedicated to radio as a medium. We are privileged to have him as part of the Clear Channel Radio team.”

Publication of Radio Ink’s “40 Most Powerful People in Radio” comes just one day after Clear Channel Radio announced the iHeartRadio Music Festival, the biggest live concert event in radio history—an unprecedented two-day gathering in Las Vegas of the greatest names in music, which will be hosted by Ryan Seacrest. The Festival will celebrate the New iHeartRadio, which will deliver the nation’s most popular broadcast radio stations as well as the ability to create custom stations with even more songs, more control than the leading custom radio station services and with no commercials through the end of the year, offering listeners everything they want digitally in one fully integrated service – free.

DJ JAZZY JEFF & AYAH PRESENT "BACK FOR MORE" 4FREE!
DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ayah release Back for More today. The duo is giving away a collection of soulful tunes to fans for free download. This 13-track project is sure to have music lovers grooving for the rest of the summer and beyond.

DJ Jazzy Jeff, along with contributions from well-known producers James Poyser, Pete Kuzma and Demien DeSandies, has created an experience that music lovers have long awaited. Yet, those not as well versed in the genre will appreciate these soulful treats just the same. We are already familiar with the success of Jeff's past work with heavy-hitters Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild and Floetry. And his work with the Toronto songbird, Ayah, will be no exception.

Ayah, who is a success in her own right, has already garnered a grass roots fan base of her own with the release of her last two projects, Problem Woman and 4:15. And her most recent release of the When it Comes to You single and short film is continuing to make headway. Having worked with respected MCs like Freeway, Mac Miller, Elzhi and Skyzoo, Ayah is no stranger to hip-hop either. This makes Jeff's jazzy production and classic hip-hop sound the perfect complement for Ayah's full and melodic vocals.

With Back for More, fans should expect nothing less than greatness from soul music's hottest new collaborators. Notable tracks on the project include the soulful tune, Make It Last and title track, Back for More, with its feel good party vibe. Listeners will also witness Ayah's versatility in the already popular single, Notorious. Ayah unveils her inner b-girl and lyrical flair in this hip-hop banger. Back for More also features appearances from Sugar Tongue Slim (STS) and Toronto's own Tona.

To download Back for More, GRAB IT HERE

JENNIFER HUDSON & MARY J BLIGE ON DECK AT RUSELL'S HOUSE.
Ed Norton and Mary J. Blige are set to be honored at Russell Simmons' annual Art for Life benefit, a gala to recognise stars' achievement and charity work. The music mogul will host the Art For Life East Hampton benefit gala at his East Hampton estate in New York for his Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation on 30 July. Norton and Blige, as well as Jimmy Choo co-founder Tamara Mellon, will be honoured for their philanthropy and career achievements during the ceremony, while Jennifer Hudson will perform.

In a series of posts on his Twitter page, Simmons writes, "My Art For Life benefit July 30th... so far honoring Mary J (Blige)... Ed Norton being honored as well."

50 CENT SPEAKS ON SIGNING KIDD KIDD.
"Them boys down in New Orleans, they're active," 50 told MTV News. "It's a lot goin' on down there, and because I experienced it, I didn't move away from it. I actually ID'd with the situation a little more. He got hit six times, he got a bag on now," 50 said as Kidd Kidd lifted his shirt to reveal a colostomy bag on the set of Tony Yayo's "Haters" video. "Columbia, when that situation took place with me, they walked away from me just because they're not familiar with the actual environment and what happens at different points," he continued. "It don't make me no difference: I understand it."

Kidd got his start as a part of Lil Wayne's Young Money camp and even appeared as a guest on Tha Carter III single "Mrs. Officer." Now that he is with G-Unit, the NOLA spitter has since collaborated with Fif on his own single "Better Walk" as well as the title track of 50's upcoming album.

"It's a blessing getting down with Fif. It's real, it's all love," Kidd said. "There ain't too many real people in the industry, period. I've been around a lot, and right now it's time. I never felt like this before." Source: Mtv

CLEAR CHANNEL RADIO STATIONS NATIONWIDE PRESENT THE LARGEST CONCERT EVENT IN RADIO HISTORY.
Historic Two-day Music Festival Hosted by Ryan Seacrest to Celebrate Launch of New iHeartRadio, Which Will Combine Broadcast Radio Stations and Custom Stations In One Free Digital Service For the First Time, Clear Channel Devotes All Radio and Digital Platforms to National Promotion of Star-Studded Event Reaching Largest U.S. Radio and Online Audience Ever.

Clear Channel Radio today announced the iHeartRadio Music Festival, a two-day music event hosted by Ryan Seacrest that will mark the biggest live concert festival in radio history.

The extraordinary line-up will include: The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Alicia Keys, Nicki Minaj, Lady Gaga, Coldplay, Steven Tyler, Kenny Chesney, John Mayer, Jennifer Lopez, Sting, Carrie Underwood, Jane’s Addiction, , David Guetta, Rascal Flatts, Bruno Mars, Kelly Clarkson, Sublime with Rome, Among Other Music Superstars (more artists to be announced).

This diverse array of the greatest names in music will appear on one stage at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on two consecutive nights, September 23 and 24, to celebrate the official launch of the New iHeartRadio, Clear Channel’s free, industry-leading digital radio product that will combine its more than 750 broadcast radio and digital-only stations from 150 cities with the ability to create custom stations, delivering listeners everything they want all in one fully integrated service.

“Music is the heart of our business and we think there is no better way to celebrate the launch of the New iHeartRadio than with a groundbreaking, multi-day festival featuring the world’s biggest, most exciting artists – and reaching the largest combined U.S. radio and online audience ever. This underscores Clear Channel’s transformation to a dynamic integrated media and entertainment company with an unmatched reach in the U.S.,” said Bob Pittman, Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms for Clear Channel Radio. “The New iHeartRadio will offer users a much broader, more integrated and customized digital listening experience than any other service available – and it’s all in one product.”

“Building up to the festival, we will be presenting the biggest national promotion in radio history,” said John Hogan, President and CEO of Clear Channel Radio. “All 850 Clear Channel radio stations, spanning diverse music formats, introduced millions of listeners across the country to this historic music event. The majority of our stations will also feature exclusive radio and digital content including exclusive artist interviews and ticket giveaways. The announcement of the event alone has set new records. It’s the first announcement ever to roadblock all Clear Channel Radio platforms and the teasers and the announcement have reached an estimated 100 million people.”

Throughout the summer-long promotion hundreds of listeners will win a dream trip to Vegas to converge with thousands of fans across the country and experience this one-of-a-kind, two-day festival at the legendary MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Promotion of the event kicked off this morning with a simultaneous roadblock announcement by all 850 Clear Channel Radio stations nationwide, their websites and iHeartRadio, providing instant awareness and showcasing a new vehicle for announcing news and products to an unprecedented number of U.S. consumers.

“This is a once in a generation gathering of artists and fans from all over the country for a true,must-see music event,” said Ryan Seacrest, Host of American Idol and Clear Channel Radio Personality. “The iHeartRadio Music Festival, like the iHeartRadio digital radio service, will showcase top artists across all genres of music. Listeners from all over America will travel to Las Vegas to celebrate the next generation of iHeartRadio, while seeing the greatest musicians in the world on one stage.”

The New iHeartRadio will deliver to users the nation’s most popular broadcast radio stations as well as the ability to create custom stations with even more songs, more control than the leading custom radio station services and with no commercials through the end of the year, offering listeners everything they want digitally in one fully integrated service – free.

Tickets will be available to the general public for purchase beginning July 16.

GUCCI MANE HOME FROM JAIL, CELEBRATES WELCOME HOME PARTY - SEE THE FOOTAGE HERE
After three weeks in jail, Gucci Mane is a free man again. The rapper, whose legal name is Radric Davis, was released from Fulton County Jail at 4:30 a.m. Friday, according to Fulton County Sheriff's spokeswoman Tracy Flanagan. He was booked on June 16 for a probation violation related to a battery charge in DeKalb County dating back to January. According to a DeKalb County Police report, on Jan. 28, he picked up 36-year-old woman at South DeKalb Mall in a Hummer after asking her to go out to breakfast. The woman told officers she'd never met him before, but knew of his profession and eventually realized he wasn't interested in breakfast. "(The woman) asked what was he doing and where were they going," the report said. "Gucci Mane stated that he wanted to go to the hotel and that he would give her $150. (The woman) refused and stated just take me back to the mall, I can make my own money."

The report said Gucci Mane leaned over the woman and opened the passenger side door while the vehicle was still in motion. "Gucci Mane shoved (the woman) several times in the side and shoulder area attempting to get her out of his vehicle." The report said he then pushed her out. According to the report, the woman was taken to Atlanta Medical Center complaining of soreness and pain. DeKalb County Sheriff Deputies arrested Gucci Mane while he was meeting with his probation officer in Atlanta. He spent time in DeKalb County Jail before his three weeks in Fulton County Jail.

Gucci mane was welcomed home with a party in chattanooga TN at club Fathom. SEE THE FOOTAGE HERE

QD3 BRINGING HIP HOP INTO WORLD CONGRESS LEADERSHIP SUMMIT.
Hip Hop and Health Care collide on July 14, 2011 at The World Congress Leadership Summit on Medicaid in Washington, D.C. The Leadership Summit on Medicaid, the first conference on this topic produced by global health care conference leader World Congress, will address the Medicaid expansion, the impending loss of federal funding and the challenge to offer new solutions. In addition to state Medicaid directors, the summit will convene senior leaders from some of the nation's leading health insurers, including Wellpoint. Health plans and health systems will need to identify and meet the needs of the new demographic of eligible Medicaid recipients. Multi-Platinum Producer and Grammy Award winner Quincy Jones III a/k/a QD3, best known for his collaborations with hip-hop titans Tupac, Will Smith, LL Cool J and Ice Cube, debuts his new innovative company a multi-media company named "PhyllRich powered by QD3" to encourage strong health care habits.

QD3 and his partner Shawn Ullman, President of PhyllRich Entertainment Group, want Medicaid eligible young adults to take advantage of services that promote healthy eating habits, better fitness and overall improved health. Following the successful QD3 Entertainment format, content will be distributed with a trans-media strategy where different content will be created specifically for each outlet with each piece making their own unique contribution to the overall message. QD3 has a successful track record for creating compelling content that inspires, educates, and entertains a global audience. His team will apply the same format to this next venture. "Our goal is to make the content accessible. Some campaigns in the past have been ineffective in changing people's daily lives because they are not relatable. We are excited to be here and grateful for World Congress allowing us this platform to get our message out. Our goal is to find ways to work with health care providers to ensure our content is reaching the people who need it the most," says Ullman.

PhyllRich powered by QD3 will host a special session at the World Congress Leadership Summit on Medicaid Thursday, July 14 at 5:30 p.m.: "The Hip Hop Movement & Health Care Collide – A New Voice to Influence Healthy Living in the Medicaid Population." Quincy Jones III and Shawn Ullman will discuss their initiative to produce health and fitness content aimed at youth and the effort to connect with the tough to reach Medicaid population. A Q & A session will follow along with a content teaser.

About World Congress Leadership Summits: The World Congress Leadership Summit Series addresses the most cutting-edge issues for health care executives across a wide range of industry sectors. Designed to expand on topics discussed at invitation-only summits during the World Health Care Congress, this series offers new perspectives on established methodologies and details solutions to foster innovation and change.

LAW ENFORCEMENT ARE LOOKING FOR BRISCO
North Miami Police say they're looking for local rapper Brisco after he allegedly punched a man last week. Police say the Opa-Locka born singer, whose real name is British Alexander Mitchell, is wanted in connection with the aggravated battery of an 18-year-old man on June 30 in the 2000 block of San Souci Boulevard. Brisco allegedly punched the man, causing severe injures and knocking him unconscious, before fleeing the scene in a white Range Rover with Florida tag 863 TCA, police said.

The rapper, who has worked with Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, released his first album "Street Medicine" earlier this year. In 2009, he was getting his hair cut at a Miami barbershop when a group of armed men came in, forced Brisco to the floor and stole his jewelry, cash and Range Rover. The car was later recovered. Source: NBC

ALBUM SALES UP FOR THE 1ST TIME SINCE 2004
SoundScan, Nielsen’s report that tracks point-of-purchase music sales across real and digital sources, was released today. The midyear sales data shows that for the first time since 2004, album sales actually increased in the first half of this year. Although total album sales are only up 1 percent, they’re no longer plummeting.

According to SoundScan, 155.5 million albums were sold in the U.S. in the first six months of 2011, compared to the 153.9 million albums sold at this time last year, resulting in a slim 1 percent jump. If one includes single-track downloads (usually 10 songs are the equivalent of an album) the number of albums sold comes to 221.5 million, resulting in a 3.6 percent rise. Rock, Rap, Classical, Electronic and New Age music all saw sales increases in the first six months of the year. Classical saw the largest jump overall of 13 percent. Vinyl album sales were up 41 percent compared to a year ago, with 1.9 million records sold in the first half of the year.

Prior to 2004, album sales had decreased every year since 1999.

According to Nielsen, “digital album sales are up 19 percent through the first six months over 2010 and are on pace to set a new sales record at the end of the year”. More than 660.8 million digital units were sold in the first half of 2011, an 11 percent increase from the summer of last year.

SALES CHART: BEYONCE SCORES 4TH #1 DEBUT.
Beyonce's new album, 4, grabbed the #1 spot on the sales chart this week. The album debuted with 310,000 copies sold, according to Nielsen SoundScan, giving Beyonce her fourth solo #1 album. She is only the third act in history to see her first four albums debut atop the Billboard 200 chart, following Britney Spears and DMX. 4 also marks the third-largest sales week of the year, after the #1 bows of Lady Gaga's Born This Way (1.1 million) and Adele's 21 (351,000). The #1 debut also comes on the heels of the news that Beyonce will definitely star in Clint Eastwood's remake of A Star Is Born. The film, which is actually the third remake of the original 1937 version, will see Beyonce play "an aspiring singer who arrives in Hollywood desperate for a break." Eastwood's take on the movie is set to hit screens next year.

OTHER NOTABLES ON THE CHARTS:
Big Sean’s Finally Famous debuted @ #3 selling 87,000 copies.

Jill Scott grabbed #5 with Light Of The Sun, selling another 54,700 units after last week's #1 debut (190,000 Total).

Eminem and Nickel 9's (Bad Meets Evil) Hell: The Sequel took the #9 slot selling 42,000 units (276.000 Total).

Pitbull’s Planet Pit. grabbed #14 selling 24,400 copies (83,400 Total).

Smif-N-Wessun & Pete Rock's Monumental debuted at #102 with 5,400 copies sold.

LLOYD INKS NEW ‘GUNS & ROSES’ HEAD TATTOO - SEE THE TATTOO HERE
Lloyd, already known for his countless tattoos, had his latest one inked over the weekend while in New Orleans for 4th of July. The massive tatt features two smoking revolvers surrounded by several roses, and covers nearly the entire back and sides of his head. When asked about the meaning behind his new ink, Lloyd had this to say...

"I'm a contrast, i'm a walking contrast. I go from hard to soft. I go from the guns to roses, which is in my tatt, and I like to go from the streets to the sheets. I make street savvy R&B music but I also like to slow it down and be sensual at times."

EMINEM SETS ANOTHER RECORD.
Multi-platinum hip-hop artist Eminem has become the first artist ever to sell one million digital copies in the U.S. of an album as his 2010 release — the chart-topping, Grammy Award-winning Recovery — surges past the one million mark this week.

This record-setting career milestone comes just one week after the superstar artist landed at No. 1 with Hell: The Sequel, the release from Bad Meets Evil, Eminem's collaboration with fellow Detroit native Royce Da 5'9. This marks the first time in the last five years an artist has scored two No. 1 albums within a 12-month period.

"Recovery selling one million digital albums is an incredible achievement by an incredible artist," says Interscope Records' Vice Chairman Steve Berman. "I have had the pleasure of working with Eminem throughout the course of his career, and I'm delighted to be a part of yet another milestone on his amazing journey."

"We are thrilled to congratulate Eminem on the history-making digital sales success of Recovery," says Eminem's manager Paul Rosenberg. "Over the years we've made a concerted effort to engage Em's online fan base so this achievement is especially rewarding. Eminem made an amazing album with Recovery and the fans responded in record numbers."

Recovery debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Top 200 Albums chart (Eminem's sixth album to do so), as well on as the R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap Albums charts, marking the beginning of a triumphant comeback for the artist. The best-selling album of 2010 in the U.S. and the best-selling digital album of all-time, Recovery has now sold more than 5.7 million copies worldwide, propelled by its No. 1 singles "Not Afraid" (which earned Eminem a Grammy Award for "Best Rap Solo Performance" and two MTV Video Music Awards, and has sold more than 3.4 million downloads in the U.S.) and "Love The Way You Lie," featuring Rihanna, which spent seven consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and has sold more than five million downloads in the U.S. and 9.3 million downloads worldwide. "Love The Way You Lie" earned five Grammy Award nominations, including "Record of the Year" and "Song of the Year," and won Billboard Music, Soul Train, and People's Choice awards.

SOOPAFLY ON DECK THIS FALL.
Platinum music producer/rapper Soopafly has completed recording his new studio album, tentatively titled Best Kept Secret. The rapper, who is currently on Tour in Europe with Snoop Dogg, hasn’t pencilled in an exact release date for the follow-up to 2007's Bangin West Coast, but is expected to release the disc in the fall.

The Long Beach, Cali MC, and member of Snoop’s Dogg Pound has enlisted guest features from Tha Dogg Pound, Short Khop, Mykestro, Damani, Bad Lucc, J Black, Pilot, Terrace Martin, Toke tha Smoke, and Deacon of the Chuuch. The new album, 18 brand new songs, includes "Move Too Fast", "GFunk Martian" which features Terrace Martin on vocoder, and the title track “Best Kept Secret” LISTEN HERE featuring Goldie Loc, Maylay & Kokane, and additional production from Daz Dillinger, Tmg Music Group (fly2k prod), Tweet, JellyRoll, 1500, and Dam funk.

Soopafly, real name Priest Josef Brooks, met Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre during his teens, and proved himself with his keyboard skills. Assigned his first piece of work for Death Row Records on the soundtrack Murder Was The Case, playing keyboards for Dr. Dre and Ice Cube on the track "Natural Born Killaz", as well as his first production credit with "Who Got Some Gangsta Shit" featuring the Dogg Pound. He went on to produce on multi-platinum selling albums including; Tha Dogg Pound’s Dogg Food, Snoop Dogg's Tha Doggfather, 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me, and Death Row’s Chronic 2000. He was also featured on the movie soundtracks to A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, on the song "I Don't Hang”, and Nothing To Lose on the Billboard charting single “Put The Monkey In It” with Daz Dillinger.

To date, Soopafly has released two independent solo albums Dat Whoopty Woop which birthed the hit single “Like It or Not”, and Bangin West Coast. In 2006, a rap group called Dubb Union was formed. It featured Soopafly, Damani and Bad Lucc. After inking a deal with Koch Records and Doggystyle Records, the groups debut album Snoop Dogg Presents: Dubb Union was released in 2008.

Soopafly is also currently working on new projects by Short Khop, and Latoiya Williams.


ALMOST HALF A MILLION PEOPLE ATTENDED ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL.
The 2011 ESSENCE Music Festival hosted more than 422,000 attendees, who gathered in New Orleans over the July 4th Weekend for three days of music, empowerment and community events. The ESSENCE Music Festival is currently celebrating its 17th anniversary as the nation's largest annual African-American cultural event and continues to be a hallmark of New Orleans tourism.

The Festival, which took place on July 1st – July 3rd, celebrated "The Roots of R&B" with nighttime concerts at the newly renovated Louisiana Superdome, and delivered a "Weekend of Transformation" via the ESSENCE Empowerment Experience, which featured daily panels, keynotes and presentations at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. This year, the Festival enjoyed an expanded presence at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, utilizing over 600,000 square feet for sponsorship activations, the ESSENCE Empowerment Experience and the ESSENCE Marketplace, which attracted over 100,000 visitors each day.

"This year's attendance of more than 422,000 certainly underscores the significance of the ESSENCE Music Festival as the place where we all come together to celebrate culture and connect to our community," said Essence Communications President Michelle Ebanks, "At ESSENCE, we are committed to being present in the lives of our audience and the ESSENCE Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind platform not only for entertainment, but also for celebration, information and inspiration."

Over 40 acts performed on various stages in the Superdome, including Usher, Mary J. Blige, Kanye West, Jennifer Hudson, Chaka Khan, Jill Scott, Mint Condition, El DeBarge, Miguel, Trey Songz, New Edition, Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Boyz II Men, Stephanie Mills, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Macy Gray, Stephanie Mills, Dwele, Alexander O'Neal & Cherrelle, M.C. Lyte and New Orleans talent including Irma Thomas, Kourtney Heart, Rebirth Brass Band, Charmaine Neville Band, and TBC Brass Band.

Beyond the music performances, within the halls of the Convention Center, attendees were able to have the rare opportunity to have their voices heard by engaging with and learning from some of the most influential thinkers and leaders from the worlds of politics, health, arts and entertainment and spirituality, through the ESSENCE Empowerment Experience. Keeping within the theme of a Weekend of Transformation, participants were able to enjoy conversations with Steve Harvey, Iyanla Vanzant, Dr. Cornel West, Rev. Al Sharpton, Tavis Smiley, Terry McMillan, Soledad O'Brien and many others.

LIL PLAYY ON DECK.
Houston’s newest son, 22-year-old Lil Playy is on deck. Lil Playy has already penned the infectious hook to RIAA certified platinum single, “My Chick Bad.” He also has the honor of being the first rap artist signed by entertainment executives—the legendary Suzanne de Passe and heavyweight producer Rodney Jerkins. Impressed with Lil Playy’s talent, the pair formed a joint partnership between their companies de Passe Jones Entertainment and Darkchild Productions.

The rapper, known for his quick-witted freestyle rhymes, began writing raps when he was 15. Lil Playy found early success in rap competitions at the Royal Peacock, Atlanta’s 18 and over nightclub, under the guidance of his father, Rick Davidson of Racer Entertainment. It was at the Peacock that music, TV and film executive Madison Jones discovered him--later linking him with co-manager Larry Layfield. In 2008, he gained notoriety as a promising contestant in the BET Hot 16 Challenge with Jermaine Dupri.

After graduating from high school, Lil Playy’s years of grinding on the underground scene in Houston and Atlanta paid off. His managers, introduced him to the Legendary Traxster who worked with Lil Playy to create “My Chick Bad.” The song caught the attention of Ludacris, who made a bid to purchase the record for use on his “Battle Of The Sexes” album. Lil Playy’s decision to sell the song proved to be a genius business move. Within months, Ludacris’ version, featuring Nicki Minaj, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart. The song was also nominated for a Grammy Award in 2011.

The success of “My Chick Bad” put Lil Playy on the national map. Soon after, Madison introduced Lil Playy to his business partner Suzanne de Passe and, together, they signed Lil Playy to the de Passe Jones Entertainment roster. The duo introduced their new artist to super producer Rodney Jerkins, with whom he connected immediately, recording more than 30 songs. The works impressed Interscope Geffen A&M head Jimmy Iovine, who brought Lil Playy into the label home of superstar acts such as the Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, and Eminem.

Not wasting any time, Lil Playy is currently working on an EP which will be released later this year. Its lead single, “Birthday Dress” (featuring Koma), will serve as the perfect summer anthem. In addition, hejust dropped his “Tour Bus Muzik” mixtape, helmed by Jerkins’ Darkchild Productions.

PETE ROCK'S LAWYER MAKES OFFICIAL STATEMENT.
New York, NY
June 30th, 2011

Official Statement
On Tuesday, June 28th, Pete Rock, Tek & Steele (of Smif N Wessun) were celebrating the release of their collaborative album, 'Monumental.' It was a peaceful gathering inside of a sold-out Tammany Hall (lower-east side Manhattan, NY) to see the group perform new music from the project. Earlier in the evening some guests wanted to enter the event but were turned away by the management and bouncers employed by the club. A minor argument ensued, but eventually was diffused by the bouncers. Thirty minutes after that minor skirmish 15-20 uniformed Police Officers from the 7th precinct arrived at the venue. Shortly after even more uniformed officers arrived. The officers then hurried into the club and began macing and assaulting individuals inside the club, dragging one of them out and pummeling him directly in front of the club. Present at the event were artists, industry tastemakers, fans, photographers, and cameramen. Several people began filming and recording the unprovoked brutality, much to the dismay of the police. The officers then began to mace and assault anyone within arms length, including several women. Kenneth Montgomery, the group's attorney, who was in attendance at the event, stated that the Police "behavior was unjustified, unprovoked, and simply barbaric considering there was no provocation." Pete Rock, Tek and Steele fortunately were not harmed, however some of their friends & family were assaulted by the Police. The group's attorney, Kenneth Montgomery, is addressing the situation now with local community leaders & is available for comment with more detailed information.

Today at 12PM EST, Pete Rock & Tek & Steele of Smif N Wessun will be holding a press conference to address all questions at New York Criminal Court on 100 Centre Street, New York, NY.

ACTIVISION'S CALL OF DUTY® XP 2011 EVENT COMING TO LOS ANGELES
Total Call of Duty immersion is coming to a secure 12-acre compound in the urban confines of Los Angeles on Labor Day weekend,(SEPT. 2 AND 3, 2011) where more than 6,000 fans will be the first to witness the world premiere of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer. Attendees will be among the first to have the opportunity to get hands-on time with multiplayer and the new Spec Ops survival co-op mode. Also on display for the first time will be the full feature functionality of Call of Duty® Elite, the innovative new online service, built from the ground-up to support Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.

Supporting this epic reveal is a series of real-world Call of Duty action-experiences and gaming competitions as well as an unprecedented $1 million Call of Duty tournament by Activision and the event's lead sponsor, Xbox 360. Through Activision's network of global partners, fans will have the opportunity to qualify for the tournament prior to the event by showcasing their skills in Call of Duty®: Black Ops multiplayer through regional promotions and competitions. For those unable to qualify in advance, there will be select, on-site/at-large qualifications, further expanding the opportunity to compete for cash prizes among some of the best Call of Duty players in the world. For anyone that can't be on hand, but still wants to keep an eye on the action, fans from around the world can link up for a connected experience by watching a constant stream of high-production value videos that will be available through television and the web, as well as a constant stream of photos and status updates from the event via social media outlets, including Facebook and Twitter.

"From the high production values of our live, immersive events - all the way to the smallest details in every design and activity - we're pulling out all the stops to make Call of Duty XP the ultimate gathering for the global community of Call of Duty fans," said Eric Hirshberg, CEO of Activision Publishing. "The celebration will immerse attendees in a Call of Duty experience unlike anything they've ever seen before. Over the course of two days, gamers can trade Call of Duty war stories, experience the official unveiling of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer and the full feature functionality of Call of Duty Elite, as well as enjoy world-class entertainment and compete head-to-head for some serious cash prizes."

Tickets for Call of Duty XP will be available for $150 and go on sale July 19, giving attendees a two-day pass and the chance to be completely immersed in the action and excitement of Call of Duty. Players will be able to challenge each other in a paintball firefight on a life-sized Call of Duty multiplayer map, as well as attempt to speed-run

AMBER ROSE ADDRESSES STOLEN NUDE PHOTOS
"I was gonna wait until my radio show to address this but I want to say this now. I trusted someone that worked 4 me & allowed them to use my laptop a million times, I caught this person sending my pics to themselves and I fired this person immediately Wiz [Khalifa] & I & both of our families have known about this for 2 months now. We tried to prepare ourselves for this day. Those pictures r 2 1/2 years old just sitting in my computer. I'm really hurt & embarr#!@%*#ed because I have so many young girls that look up to me. I would never put those pics out of myself."

"The company that I was working with no longer wants to work with me because of these pics and that prevents me from getting money to take care of my family. Its a messed up situation when someone so evil comes into ur life and tries to destroy it. I know I'm not the only girl in the world that has taken pics like that but they were very private. I'm sorry for letting my young Rosebuds down. Pls understand this was a result of trusting a person that didn't deserve my trust. I have cried for the past 2 days but I know this to shall p#!@%*#. Thank u for all of ur support."

"No matter what I go thru or how embarrassed I am I have a man that Loves me & has my back thru everything. @RealWizKhalifa thank u. :-)," she tweeted June 29th.

COPS CRASH PETE ROCK AND SMIF-N-WESSUN RELEASE PARTY. (POLICE BRUTALITY)
Last night at a release party in Manhattan’s Lower East Side neighborhood for Pete Rock and Smif N Wessun’s album, “Monumental,” police got into several physical altercations with fans, family members and supporters of the artists. Six people were arrested and five NYPD officers were injured at the party last night (June 28). According to reports, NYPD arrived shortly after midnight, responding to a call from security, who reported trouble from unruly patrons during the show. Upon arrival, the officers found a large crowd outside the club, and arrested one person for disorderly conduct. Six people were arrested and charged with several offenses, including disorderly conduct, assaulting an officer and inciting a riot. The five officers suffered injuries such as a broken nose and cuts. Pete Rock posted on Twitter: “IT WAS LIKE 10 COPS BEATING ON 1 MAN, BILLIE CLUBS AND ALL THAT!” [sic] and “I THINK THEY DON’T WANT US IN THAT AREA PARTYING!! Black is not da favorable color in da t area I guess!!”[sic] referring to the location in the Lower East Side’s Tammany Hall. Tek of Smif-n-Wessun also posted on Twitter, writing “Fuk the police! They fuck my my man @LOUIESKAGGS up 4noffin 2night! Can we all say #LAWSUIT!! Newyork pricks & dicks!!”

CHECK OUT THE FOOTAGE FOR YOURSELF- WATCH HERE

TWO UNRELEASED DISS RECORDS FROM THE LATE TUPAC SHAKUR LEAKED.
Two unreleased joints ("Watch Yo Mouth" and "NY 87") have been leaked. Both songs appear to have been recorded around 1996, when 'Pac was in a feud with Diddy's Bad Boy label and other New York artists. Here are some of the lyrics from both joints..
LISTEN BELOW.


"We untouchable now that we shook Doc Dre," Pac raps. "He ain't made a beat in six years, swear he the sh*t/Don't get no record sales suckin' Nas d*ck -- I heard Nas got beef 'cause I'm dissing his clique/Cool, come bring your a** n*gga you can get dissed -- De La got a problem with this hard sh*t, ever since 'Me, Myself & I' y'all been garbage/I'ma keep this real, show y'all how it feels to ride/y'all went three feet high and stopped rising/ Wendy Williams is a fat b*tch, that's the truth/I got a job full of n*ggas nuts, that's for you/Let the West Side, East Side drama cease, I'll come alone to your own streets, Outlaw -- Cream Puff never had no heart to start, so how the h*ll Biggie Smalls get the part? Watch yo mouth!" ("Watch Yo Mouth")

"Calling all cars and phony rap stars that think they got me," Pac raps. "I'm on some Superman sh*t now, they shouldn't have shot me/'Cause I'm convinced that my squad is real/And God has blessed me with the power to be hard to kill/I got a mind that's full of murderous thoughts when unleashed/I make them n*ggas pound, fell me now or be deceased/I ain't choosing sides, h*ll nah, f*ck everybody/It's Westside when I ride so watch for dead bodies." ("NY 87")

JILL SCOTT TAKES #1
Three time Grammy-winning singer/actress Jill Scott tops the sales chart this week after a four-year musical hiatus. She has earned her first #1 album with The Light Of The Sun, moving 135,000 units this week for a #1 debut, according to Nielsen SoundScan. This marks her first album since 2007's The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol. 3 and her fourth studio album overall. Adele's "21" holds down the #3 slot with 101,000 units sold. Eminem and Nickle Nine's Bad Meets Evil took #6 with Hell: The Sequel, moving 62,500 units in its second week.

CALL OF DUTY BLACK OPS' "ANNIHILATION" IS AVAILABLE NOW.
Call of Duty®: Black Ops, the best selling game ever on the Xbox 360®, has unleashed yet another MAP PACK, a new onslaught of combat with a fresh delivery of downloadable content, Call of Duty®: Black Ops Annihilation. Available now worldwide on Xbox LIVE, Annihilation delivers four new multiplayer maps and a mind-blowing Zombies experience for the ultimate online showdown.

Annihilation is the third downloadable content pack release from Activision and Treyarch in support of the worldwide phenomenon and record-setting Call of Duty: Black Ops. Fueled by the breakthrough Call of Duty®: Black Ops First Strike and Call of Duty®: Black OpsEscalation content packs, the blockbuster title is recognized for having the highest selling add-on content in Xbox LIVE history, according to Microsoft.

"Our commitment to delivering great new content for Black Ops continues with Annihilation," said Treyarch Studio Head, Mark Lamia. "Annihilation offers four of the best Black Opsmultiplayer maps to date, and a stunning new Zombies experience laden with deadly traps and dark secrets buried deep within the shifting walls of the infested temple."

SWAY GETS SHADE 45 GIG.
Sirius XM Radio announces that Sway Calloway will host mornings on Eminem's Shade 45 channel. "Sway in the Morning" launches Monday, July 18 at 8:00 am ET on Shade 45, channel 45. The show will air Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm ET. Sway has been a constant presence in Hip-Hop culture as a co-host of the syndicated World Famous Wake Up Show with his partner DJ King Tech and as a staple correspondent on MTV. He will host his Sirius XM Radio show every weekday live from the Sirius XM studios in New York City. The new show says to offer special guest celebrities and newsmakers, for in-studio interviews, present song premieres, report on music news and more.

"I’m constantly striving to be a part of winning teams and movements, and Shade 45 on SiriusXM embodies this spirit," said Sway. "We plan to tap into hip-hop and pop culture, global and domestic news and classic and groundbreaking new music. This is truly a labor of passion for me with two of the best at what they do, Eminem and Paul Rosenberg. We plan to make more history!"

"I got my start on radio with Sway and so it only makes sense for things to come full-circle and have him join the family at Shade 45," said Eminem. "I'm looking forward to the honor of Sway making mornings better on Shade 45 for a long time to come."

"Sway’s voice brings a level of experience in and knowledge of the hip-hop culture that provides a perfect fit with our channel," said Paul Rosenberg, Eminem’s manager and Executive Producer of Shade 45. "We have had a great relationship with Sway for many years and having him join the team is an exciting opportunity for us and the Shade 45 listeners."

MARY J. BLIGE TOPS LIST OF ALL STAR HONOREES TO RECEIVE MCDONALDS 365BLACK AWARDS
Continuing its long-standing support and connection to the African-American community, McDonald's® will recognize a distinguished list of five prominent African-Americans who influence and inspire greatness through outstanding community service at the 2011 365Black® Awards. This year's 365Black Awards will be co-hosted by nationally syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner and Academy Award® nominated actress Angela Bassett and will be held Friday, July 1, 2011 at 12:30 p.m. in New Orleans, La., at the start of the Essence Music Festival weekend.

The 2011 365Black Awards honorees are multi-platinum recording artist Mary J. Blige, Oscar® nominated and Grammy Award winning actress Ruby Dee, Radio One network founder Cathy Hughes, NAACP® president and CEO Benjamin Jealous, and civil rights activist and McDonald's owner/operator Henry "Hank" Thomas.

This year's honorees join an elite group of past award recipients, including Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Marian Wright Edelman, ESSENCE Magazine president Michelle Ebanks, educator Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, CNN's Soledad O'Brien and NBA legend Alonzo Mourning. Awards show co-host Tom Joyner was one of the first recipients of the 365Black Awards, which exemplify outstanding community service.

"Our 365Black Awards honorees define true leadership in our community, from Ruby Dee's trail blazing career as an actress to the civil rights crusades led by Hank Thomas; from the media empire created by Cathy Hughes to the leadership that Benjamin Jealous brings to the NAACP, our honorees inspire all Americans to give back in some unique way," said Neil Golden, Chief Marketing Officer, McDonald's USA.

"Through her organization FFAWN, the Foundation for Advancement of Women Now, Mary J. Blige continues to invest in the future of young women and gives them the confidence they need to succeed," Golden added, noting that McDonald's is also supporting FFAWN through a charitable contribution.

The 365Black Awards were launched in 2003 and are an extension of McDonald's 365Black initiative, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year round.

"At this year's 365Black Awards, we celebrate not only our distinguished honorees but all that makes the Crescent City truly amazing -- such as the culture, the cuisine and the courage it has taken to rebuild New Orleans," said Rob Jackson, Director of U.S. Marketing, McDonald's USA. "The Fleur De Lis has become a popular, multi-cultural symbol of the rich history of New Orleans, just as McDonald's 365Black Awards symbolize our long-standing support and commitment to the African-American community."

24TH ANNUAL ASCAP RYTHYM & SOUL RECAP. ALICIA KEYS, LUDACRIS, KERRY "KRUCIAL" BROTHERS, THE SMEEZINGTONS, MATTHEW "BOI-1DA" SAMUELS, NOAH "40" SHEBIB, ERICKA WARREN AND EMI MUSIC PUBLISHING RECEIVE TOP HONORS.

Sean "Diddy" Combs, Dr. Dre, Drake, Mary Mary and Other Top Names in Music Attend ASCAP's Rhythm & Soul Music Awards

ASCAP (the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) hosted its 24th Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards tonight at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, CA. The star-studded event, which was attended by hundreds of songwriters, recording artists and music industry leaders, paid special tribute to Sean "Diddy" Combs and Mary Mary, and honored the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP songs on the 2010 R&B/Hip-Hop, Rap and Gospel charts.

The evening featured performances by R&B artist Miguel and rapper Pusha T, R&B singer/songwriter Andrea Martin and gospel music duo Mary Mary, and was attended by some of the top names in the music and entertainment industry, including Sean "Diddy" Combs, Dr. Dre, Drake, Matthew "Boi-1da" Samuels, Noah "40" Shebib, Kerry "Krucial" Brothers, Foxy Brown, Lyor Cohen, DJ Clark Kent, DJ Frank E., Drumma Boy, James Fortune, Jimmy Iovine, MC Lyte, Ne-Yo, No I.D., Kelly Rowland, Stargate, The Legendary Traxster, Terence Vaughn, Nate Walka, Deniece Williams, Mario Winans, New York Knicks’ Carmelo Anthony, La La Vasquez, Gossip Girl’s Tika Sumpter and American Idol’s Naima Adedapo and Jacob Lusk among others.

Top awards were handed out to:

Songwriters of the Year (tie): Ludacris, Matthew "Boi-1da" Samuels and Noah "40" Shebib

Publisher of the Year: EMI Music Publishing

Top R&B/Hip-Hop Song: "Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” written by Kerry "Krucial" Brothers, Alicia Keys and Noah "40" Shebib

Top Rap Song: "Nothin' On You" written by Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine and Bruno Mars

Top Gospel Song: "They That Wait" written by Ericka R. Warren

One of the evening's highlights was a special tribute to Sean "Diddy" Combs, who was honored with ASCAP's Founders Award in recognition of "his achievements as a producer, artist, entrepreneur, actor and icon whose creative genius continues to shape the course of music." To celebrate the legendary music mogul, Clark Kent performed a DJ set chronicling his career, and surprise guest Dr. Dre shared some personal remarks andco-presented the award with ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams.

The ASCAP Founders Award is among the most prestigious honors that ASCAP gives to songwriters and composers who have made pioneering contributions to music by inspiring and influencing their fellow music creators. Each recipient is a musical innovator who possesses a unique style of creative genius that will enrich generations to come. Past recipients include Garth Brooks, Dr. Dre, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Smokey Robinson, Paul McCartney, Ashford & Simpson, Rod Stewart and Berry Gordy Jr. & Motown Industries to name a few.

Siblings Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell, who together form the multiple Grammy Award-winning gospel music duo Mary Mary, were presented with ASCAP’s Golden Note Award, which is given to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Past recipients include Sean "Diddy" Combs, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Quincy Jones, LL Cool J, New Edition and Lionel Richie.

The Songwriter of the Year award resulted in a three-way tie between Ludacris, Matthew "Boi-1da" Samuels and Noah "40" Shebib who each penned four of the most performed songs of the past year.

Multi-talented rapper and actor Ludacris was honored for “How Low” (by Ludacris), “My Chick Bad” (by Ludacris featuring Nicki Minaj), “Ride” (by Ciara featuring Ludacris) and “Sex Room” (by Ludacris featuring Trey Songz).

Canadian producers Matthew "Boi-1da" Samuels and Noah "40" Shebib were honored for three songs they co-wrote with rapper Drake: "Fancy" (by Drake featuring T.I. and Swizz Beatz), "Miss Me" (by Drake featuring Lil Wayne) and "Over" (by Drake). Boi-1da was also honored for Drake's "Forever" (featuring Kanye West, Lil Wayne and Eminem) and 40 was honoredfor Alicia Keys"Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)." D rake made a surprise appearance and presented his longtime collaborators with their first-ever Songwriter of the Year awards.

ASCAP Publisher of the Year honors went to EMI Music Publishing who was honored for 21 award-winning songs. This is the 17th consecutive win for EMI and the 19 th time in the 24-year history of the awards show that they have received this honor. ASCAP CEO John A. LoFrumento and ASCAP Vice President of Membership, Rhythm & Soul Nicole George presented the award to EMI’s President of North American Creative Jon Platt and his creative team.

Top Song Awards went to Alicia Keys' "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)" written by Kerry "Krucial” Brothers, Alicia Keys and Noah “40” Shebib, which was named Top R&B/Hip-Hop Song, "Nothin' On You" by B.o.B. featuring Bruno Mars, which earned writers Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine and Bruno Mars the Top Rap Song award, and Fred Hammond's "They That Wait" featuring John P. Kee, written by Ericka R. Warren, which was named Top Gospel Song.

KANYE INKS LABEL DEAL FOR G.O.O.D MUSIC
14-time Grammy-winner (and 30-time Grammy nominee) Kanye West's independent record label G.O.O.D. Music, has been signed to an exclusive long-term worldwide label agreement with the Island Def Jam Music Group (IDJMG). The announcement was made today by Kanye West, Barry Weiss, Chairman & CEO of Universal Motown Republic Group (UMRG) and Island Def Jam Music Group (IDJMG) and Steve Bartels, President & COO, Island Def Jam Music Group.

The first release under terms of the new agreement will be FINALLY FAMOUS, the official debut by Detroit rapper Big Sean, arriving in stores June 28th. The album, executive produced by Kanye West, has already spun off G.O.O.D.'s first bonafide hit single, "My Last" featuring Chris Brown. The track is #1 on the Billboard Rap Songs chart, and #4 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

A protege of Kanye West, 22-year-old Big Sean (Sean Anderson) was signed when he was still a teenager. Big Sean is now the flagship artist on the G.O.O.D. Music roster. Kanye West will continue to serve as a core recording artist at Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam Recordings.

"G.O.O.D. Music is an exciting new chapter in the long and successful association of Kanye West and Island Def Jam," said Mr. Weiss. "As a recording artist and a producer over the past eight years, there is no one who has made a greater impression on the game than Kanye. We look forward to working closely with the new and established artists that he will be bringing to G.O.O.D. Music, which is already off to an impressive start with Big Sean."

"Kanye's genius has been proven time and time again on records and onstage," said Mr. Bartels. "He not only pours it out for himself, but he has made the difference with his presence on innumerable projects with other artists who are indebted to him. Kanye is an integral core member of the IDJ family, and G.O.O.D. Music continues his unselfish tradition of bringing along great new artists to the forefront."

Kanye West is a cornerstone artist on the Def Jam roster. His combined albums and singles have sold in excess of 20 million copies worldwide, starting with his RIAA double-platinum debut of 2004, The College Dropout, and triple-platinum follow-up of 2005, Late Registration. The two albums spun off multiple hit singles, and generated five Grammy Awards, including consecutive wins for Best Rap Album of 2004 and 2005, as well as Best Rap Song (songwriters' award) of 2004 ("Jesus Walks") and 2005 ("Diamonds From Sierra Leone"), and Best Rap Solo Performance for 2005 ("Gold Digger"). Kanye's next album, Graduation generated another three Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Song for 2007 ("Good Life"), and (in 2008) Best Rap Album and Best Rap Solo Performance ("Stronger"). 808's & Heartbreak (2008) was Kanye's fourth consecutive RIAA multi-platinum-selling album. It was followed by My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010), his fifth consecutive #1 Soundscan debut, named the best album of the year by a majority of critics in the U.S. and UK. In addition to his own records, Kanye West has been featured as a guest on countless tracks over the years, and has shared in at least six Grammy Awards for his work with other artists.

BET AWARDS 2011 RECAP.
The BET AWARDS '11 Belonged to Chris Brown With His Mind Blowing Performances, Collaborations, and Wins for Best Male Artist, Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice, Best Collaboration, and Video of the Year Awards.

The hilarious Kevin Hart kept the crowd laughing out loud as a Hollywood House Husband during the BET AWARDS '11 opening act with Bobby Brown, Jermaine Dupri, Anthony Anderson, Nelly, and Nick Cannon. Chris Brown's powerful performance medley of "She Ain't You," "Look at Me Now," and "Paper Scissor Rock" illustrated just why he was named the 2011 Best Male R&B Artist, Video of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award winner when he took to the stage in two performances collaborating with Busta Rhymes and Big Sean. Later, a precocious Justin Bieber propositioned Nicki Minaj on stage when he said, "I'm all grown up now. I turn 18 next year so...what's up?"

Legendary songstress and diva extraordinaire Patti LaBelle was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award and her tribute was a performance unlike anything ever seen before. Beginning with a special introduction from another musical icon, Gladys Knight, Cee Lo Green took to the stage in a throwback Patti LaBelle costume performing "Somebody Loves You Baby," while Marsha Ambrosius jazzed up the room with her spot on rendition of "If Only You Knew," before the great Shirley Caesar took the crowd—and Patti LaBelle—to tears singing "You Are My Friend." But it was Patti herself that brought the house down performing two of her greatest hits, "Love, Need and Want You" and "Lady Marmalade." Steve Harvey uplifted the audience in his acceptance speech for his Humanitarian Award.

The cast of the Five Heartbeats movie surprised the audience with a reunited performance with R&B crooners After 7 with the famous hit, "Nights Like This," for the 20-year anniversary of the film. The beautiful Kerry Washington graced the stage for BET's Shine A Light moment to honor individuals who make the world a better place for young people.

Celebrating the 10-year Anniversary of her first album, Songs In A Minor, Alicia Keys graced the BET AWARDS '11 stage for a medley of her hits with Bruno Mars and Rick Ross as well as for the world premiere her latest song, "Typewriter."

Additional highlights of the 14 performances include: Trey Songz sexy, shirt-ripping rendition of "Making Love Faces" and "Unusual," and was later joined by Kelly Rowland to perform her smash hit, "Motivation," Donnie McClurkin, Deitrick Haddon and Mary Mary uplifted the audience with their rendition of the gospel hit, "Thank You Lord," in tribute to the late Walter Hawkins; Mary J. Blige, Anita Baker, DJ Khaled, and Jadakiss kicked off the show with a monumental mix of hits "All Night Long," "Joy," "Happy," Dreams," "Real Love," "Rapture," and "Over Til It's Over"; Jill Scott performed a soulful rendition of "Rolling Hills" with actor and DJ Idris Elba; DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, Drake and Lil' Wayne amped the crowd performing "I'm the One"; and Beyonce closed the show singing "Best Thing I Never Had" and "End of Time" via live telecast from Britain's Glastonbury Festival.

This year's In Memoriam tribute celebrated the lives of Cali Swag District member M-Bone, Clarence Clemons, Teena Marie, Gil Scott Heron and Nate Dogg with performances and appearances by Doug E. Fresh and Cali Swag District, Queen Latifah, Ledisi, Scott Mayo, Snoop Dogg and Warren G.

In continuing the good that BET's S.O.S.: Saving Ourselves initiative has made over the years, the BET AWARDS '11 contained a special moment to show support for the victims of the tornadoes in the Southeast through a special message from Rev. Al Sharpton.

The full list of BET AWARDS '11 winners are:
Best Female R&B Artist: Rihanna
Best Male R&B Artist: Chris Brown
Best Group: Diddy-Dirty Money
Best Gospel Artist: Mary Mary
Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Nicki Minaj
Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kanye West
Best New Artist: Wiz Khalifa
Best Collaboration: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes "Look At Me Now"
Video of the Year: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes "Look At Me Now"
Video Director of the Year: Chris Robinson
Best Actress: Taraji P. Henson
Best Actor: Idris Elba
Young Stars Award: Jaden Smith and Willow Smith
Best Movie: For Colored Girls
Subway Sportswoman of the Year: Serena Williams
Subway Sportsman of the Year: Michael Vick
Centric Award: Marsha Ambrosius "Far Away"
Best International Act: 2Face Idibia (Nigeria) and D'Banj (Nigeria)
Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes - "Look at me Now"
Humanitarian Award: Steve Harvey
Lifetime Achievement Award: Patti LaBelle

KOKANE (JERRY B.) ON DECK WITH NEW PROJECTS.
Multi-platinum selling recording artist, Jerry B. Long b.k.a. Kokane, is back with a brand new single "Who Iz You”, taken from his forthcoming set, ‘In The Middle of The Road’, one of three full-length albums Kokane is gearing up to release later this year.

The Pomona, California rapper/singer will release three singles, from each of the upcoming albums. The first single from each will be; "Loving A Pimp" from an album entitled ‘Back To The Future’, "The Inspiration 4 Elevation" from an album entitled ‘The Legend Continues’, and "Who Iz You” produced by Caviar, from ‘In The Middle of The Road’, which is an all-singing album, to be released under his real name Jerry B. Long. Cee-Lo Green and Big Gipp of Goodie Mob make an appearance on the remix of “Who Iz You”.

Kokane will release a slew of music videos form ‘The Legend Continues’ WATCH HERE, an album released on his own label Bud E. Boy Entertainment in conjunction with Stan Sheppard/Tonestruck. He recently dropped the video for "The Inspiration 4 Elevation", produced by Squeeze and J.B.L. aka Kokane.

The first single from the album ‘Back to The Future’, via H.P. Entertainment, titled "Loving A Pimp" features Too Short, and is set be released in July.

The son of Motown composer Jerry Long, Sr, former Ruthless Records recording artist and long-time collaborator with Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, has a catalogue of classic material and has worked with the industry’s greatest. From singing the Pariliament Funkadelic interpolations on Dr. Dre's The Chronic, to more recent collaborations with the likes of Diddy, Young Buck and Snoop Dogg.

SNOOP TO BE HONORED AT BMI URBAN AWARDS
Snoop Dogg will be saluted as a BMI Icon at the BMI Urban Awards, slated for Friday, August 26 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. BMI President & CEO Del Bryant will share hosting duties with Catherine Brewton, Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, Atlanta, as the entertainment community gathers to celebrate the most-performed urban songs, songwriters and producers of the previous year. The evening will include an all-star musical tribute to Snoop Dogg, as well as the presentation of the Urban Songwriter, Song, Producer and Publisher of the Year crystals.

BMI Icons are selected because of their “unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers.” As a BMI Icon, Snoop Dogg will join ranks that include George Clinton, The Jacksons, James Brown, Isaac Hayes, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, The Bee Gees, Willie Nelson and Carlos Santana, to name a few.

As Snoop Dogg approaches his 20th year in the entertainment industry, he remains a visionary mc with sharp instinct and velvet delivery. Twelve BMI Awards spanning urban and pop point to his prominent role in hip-hop’s seduction of the mainstream. Songs including “Next Episode,” “Gin and Juice,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Beautiful,” “Sexual Eruption,” “Nuthin' But a "G" Thang,” and so many more created the soundtrack of a generation. He has been honored by the American Music Awards, Source Awards, BET Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and many others, and has also garnered innumerable Grammy nominations. Snoop Dogg has also appeared in films and TV series, including Training Day, Old School, Starsky & Hutch, Brüno, Futurama, Weeds, and more.

BET INKS NEW EXECUTIVE VP OF MARKETING.
BET Networks has named industry veteran Vicky Free as the company's new Executive Vice President of Marketing. Free, who has most recently led strategic marketing efforts at Turner Broadcasting Systems, will be responsible for the marketing strategy and execution for BET, BET mobile and CENTRIC. She will report directly to Debra Lee, Chairman and CEO of BET Networks and will be based in New York.

Free comes to BET Networks with nearly two decades of brand marketing and media management experience, most recently from Turner Broadcasting System. At Turner, she led the newly created 360 consumer marketing department designed to build effective consumer engagement campaigns for both Cartoon Network and Adult Swim entertainment properties. In this role she was responsible for building consumer-centric, integrated, strategic and metric-driven marketing campaigns for priority series and events.

"We are thrilled to have Vicky join BET Networks given her strong experience in the cable industry and keen understanding in creating thoughtful brands and engaging the consumer it serves," said Debra Lee, Chairman and CEO of BET Networks. "As we continue in our company's evolution, we couldn't be more thrilled to have someone as talented as Vicky lead our marketing team and elevate our multi-platform and digital marketing strategies."

"I am honored to join BET Networks and build on the iconic brand of this company," said Vicky Free, Executive Vice President of Marketing at BET Networks. "I am confident that my experience and passion, coupled with the BET's incredibly creative and thoughtful team, will take the relationship between our consumer and our content to the next level."

During Free's tenure at Turner, she led the entertainment marketing team for TNT, TBS and TCM. Among her many accomplishments, she launched Emerging Markets and Promotions Group that created breakout campaigns for Tyler Perry's House of Payne and The Closer. Free also spent over eight years at McDonald's, where she worked as Director of Women's Initiatives in the United States and headed multicultural brand management. Free received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Carolina and her MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

DIDDY SETTLES UP WITH VICTIMS FROM CLUB SHOOTING IN '99.
MTV reports Sean "Diddy" Combs has settled all civil actions against him stemming from the 1999 shooting at Club New York, the New York Post reported Thursday (June 23). Citing court records, the Post revealed that Diddy, his former protégé Jamal "Shyne" Barrow and the now-shuttered club struck a deal earlier this year with three people shot by Barrow during the incident. The exact terms of the settlements were unknown because of confidentiality agreements between the parties.

But former Club New York owner Michael Bergos, who did not sign the agreement, told the paper that the most seriously injured victim, Natania Reuben, was paid $1.8 million, while two other victims received settlements of $500,000 and $50,000. Bergos said he didn't know who paid what amount in the deal, but Barrow's and the club's shares were covered by insurance companies, while Diddy was forced to pay himself, since his insurance company has since gone out of business.

Reuben's lawyer, Debra Reiser, declined to comment on the settlement, telling the Post, "My client wanted the confidentiality agreement because she didn't want any further publicity. She's been victimized enough."

The hip-hop mogul, who was with then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez at the club, was acquitted of all charges in May 2001. Shyne was convicted on two counts of assault, as well as reckless endangerment and gun possession (he was, however, cleared of the most serious charge: attempted murder.)

The following month, Shyne was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was released in October 2009 — and subsequently deported to his native Belize — but has always maintained his innocence in the shooting, telling MTV News in 2004 that he fired his gun in the air in an act of self defense.

"I'm a regular guy, man," he said. "I'm not tougher than nobody. I'm not better than nobody. I know real killers. I know people that really snatch bodies. I'm not that. I just did what I had to do. Somebody pulled out a .40 caliber and I had to pull mine our or I was gonna die."

MISSY ELLIOTT DIAGNOSED WITH GRAVES DISEASE.
Missy Elliott has reportedly revealed to People magazine that she has been suffering from the autoimmune disorder Graves' disease since 2008. The disease, which affects the thyroid and causes mood swings and weight loss, may be part of the reason why the rapper and producer has not released a new album in six years.

According to Billboard, Elliott told People that she knew something was wrong when she had trouble controlling her body while driving. "I was [driving and] trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping," she said. "I couldn't keep the brake down and almost crashed. I couldn't write because my nervous system was so bad – I couldn't even use a pen."

Elliott is presently in good shape following the intervention of her doctors, who gave her radiation treatments and encouraged her to work out. "I'm 30 pounds lighter because I've been exercising. My thyroid is functioning, so I haven't had to take medication in about nine months," she says.

The rapper will discuss her battle with Graves' disease, as well as her lengthy absence from the spotlight, in an episode of VH1's Behind the Music that will air at 10 p.m. on June 29th.

GEFFEN RECORDS INKS NEW CHAIRMAN.
Gee Roberson, co-CEO of Hip-Hop Since 1978, the management firm that handles Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj and others has been named chairman of Geffen Record. He will report to Interscope Geffen A&M chairman Jimmy Iovine. Based in New York, Roberson will oversee the creative direction and operations of Geffen Records, with a special focus on discovering and nurturing new artists. He will also be charged with expanding the reach of the label into numerous areas, including digital direct-to-consumer, merchandising, touring and management, according to a press release. "Gee has a unique combination of talents that the music industry really needs running a record company today," Iovine said in a statement.

Roberson began his music industry career under the tutelage of Jay-Z at Roc-A-Fella Records, where he rose to senior VP of A&R. He later moved to Atlantic Records as senior VP of A&R, heading up the label's urban music division. It was unclear at press time whether Roberson will continue in his role at Hip Hop since 1978. Source: Billboard

BAD MEETS EVIL TOPS THE CHARTS.
Bad Meets Evil’s Hell: The Sequel debuts at #1 with approximately 171,135 units sold. This will be Eminem’s eighth number one and Royce’s first.

JIMMY HENCHMAN FINALLY ARRESTED BY DEA AFTER BEING ON THE RUN.
James "Jimmy Henchman" Rosemond was arrested by DEA agents and charged today with heading a cocaine trafficking ring that operated on both the West and East coasts, authorities said. Rosemond, who was a wanted fugitive, was hunted down by US Marshals and agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration after a long investigation, officials said. Rosemond, owner of Czar Entertainment, is expected to be arraigned later this afternoon in Brooklyn Federal Court.

Rosemond, 46, who manages singers Brandy and Akon, was accused this past May of being involved in a cocaine distribution ring. The hip-hop mogul spotted the agents at about noon as he walked out of the W Hotel in Union Square, sources said.

Once on the street, Rosemond walked north and tried to outrun the agents until he was finally arrested on 21st Street and Park Avenue South. The US Attorney's Office in Brooklyn charged Rosemond in a complaint today with orchestrating the delivery of multiple kilos of cocaine from Los Angeles to the New York City metropolitan area. Millions of dollars in drug proceeds went from New York back to California, the complaint charged.

Rosemond is expected to be arraigned this afternoon in Brooklyn federal court.

The DEA probe was aided by two informants who were high-ranking members of Rosemond's organization, the feds said. Hundreds of kilos of cocaine was shipped to New York -- sometimes encased in plastic that was covered with mustard in an effort to throw off drug-sniffing dogs. The gang used commercial shipping companies to send some of the coke, but later devised a more ingenious scheme, the feds charge. Rosemond began to ship cocaine inside "road cases," large containers normally used to carry music equipment. Using his Czar Entertainment business as a cover, Rosemond shipped cocaine east and money back west in these "road cases," disguising them as legitimate music equipment cargo and utilizing freight transporters, the feds said.

Federal agents found nearly $800,000 in one such case inside a New York recording studio this last winter, the feds say.

To evade law enforcement, Rosemond avoided using cell phones and used pay phones instead, officials said.

He also used encrypted e-mail programs to send messages via a BlackBerry and the gang used a car with a hidden compartment to transport contraband. Source: New York Daily

DMX PRISON RELEASE DELAYED.
DMX was originally expecting to be released from Arizona’s Maricopa County Jail on July 1, the date has now been pushed back to July 6, at which point he will be under supervised watch until Aug. 12. DMX has said he has plans to release a new album and appear in a reality show chronicling his life with fiancée Yadira Borrego. He is also attempting to reunite with his mother and 10 children. “He is an amazing father and man,” Borrego said of her future husband. “The media has never shown who he really is.”

CALL OF DUTY®: BLACK OPS ANNIHILATION ON DECK
Call of Duty®: Black Ops, the best selling game ever on the Xbox 360, is ready to blow fans away withthe worldwide release of its third content pack on June 28th,: Call of Duty®: Black Ops Annihilation. Black Ops continues to draw millions of gamers online globally, logging billions of gameplay hours since its launch in November. Fueled by the breakthrough First Strike and Escalation content packs, the blockbuster title is also already the highest selling add-on content in Xbox LIVE history, according to Microsoft. In fact, more gamers play Call of Duty on Xbox LIVE than on any other platform. The newest offering,Annihilation, will launch first on Xbox LIVE and features four new multiplayer maps and a Zombie experience that's sure to keep gamers coming back for more.

"With Annihilation, Black Ops fans will get four exciting and unique multiplayer settings with Hangar 18, Drive-In, Silo and Hazard," said Treyarch Studio Head, Mark Lamia. "Players will also enjoy an all-new Zombies experience, Shangri-La, an exotic and mysterious map filled with deadly traps, dark secrets and innovative gameplay that will challenge even the most daring Zombie hunters."

Developed by Treyarch and published by Activision Publishing, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI), Call of Duty: Black Ops is rated "M" (Mature) by the ESRB for Blood and Gore, Intense Violence and Strong Language. For additional Call of Duty® updates, visitwww.callofduty.com/blackops and also via Twitter @Treyarch.

Additionally, to celebrate the upcoming release of Call of Duty®: Black Ops Annihilation, Treyarch will host a Double XP weekend beginning Friday, July 1st.

LIL KIM JOINING G-UNIT?
Shawty Lo brought out a surprise guest at Hot 107.9’s Birthday Bash 16 in Atlanta on Saturday (June 18). “I brought the queen, Lil’ Kim,” said Shawty Lo while introducing her to the stage. Queen Bee made an announcement when she took the stage at the Philips Arena after performing “It’s All About the Benjamins.”

“If ya’ll don’t know, this my boy right here. G-Unit South, that’s where it’s at,” said Kim, saying that Shawty Lo is now part of the G-Unit roster and she may be following suit. “And I’m family too, down with the G-Unit camp. We got surprises for ya’ll.”

ODD FUTURE SAYS CHRIS BROWN IS A BITCH.
Following Friday’s Twitter feud between Odd Future and Chris Brown, the hip-hop group played the House of Blues in their hometown of Los Angeles over the weekend (Saturday night). Before performing “She” with Frank Ocean, frontman Tyler, the Creator lamented about MTV banning the song’s video while sharing his dream to one day win a VMA. The crowd started chanting, “F**k Chris Brown!” OFWGKTA members responded (“He’s a loser”) at the blond singer and Tyler responded, saying, “He beats up women, he’s a bitch.” SEE THE FOOTAGE HERE

FORMER UNIVERSAL MUSIC EXEC GETS NEW TITLE.
Former Universal Music Enterprises executive Mike Davis has been named president of Alliance Entertainment, filling a void at the company that has existed since Alan Tuchman resigned as CEO in April. Billboard mag reports Davis had previously been executive VP/GM of UME, and before that had held the same title with Universal Music Group Distribution, one of Alliance's main suppliers. Prior to working for record labels, Davis had been a music retailer and had worked at a one-stop wholesaler, which means that his position with Alliance brings his career full circle. Billboard estimates that Alliance Entertainment has annual revenues of about $750 million, mainly selling CDs and DVDs to retailers such as Barnes & Noble and Kmart, independent music retailers, and to online CD stores. Alliance was acquired last September by Platinum Equity and the Gores Group, two private equity firms. "Alliance is currently providing a valuable service to the entertainment industry, both content providers and retailers, in a very challenging marketplace," David said in a statement. said Mr. Davis. "Alliance is uniquely positioned to provide vital solutions for retailers, studios, labels, artists, and managers as the industry builds their business models of tomorrow."

SEAN KINGSTON GIVES US AN UPDATE ON HIS RECOVERY.
Sean Kingston took to Twitter to give fans an update on his recovery since his jet ski accident that left him in critical condition. “Feeling alot better! GOD IS GREAT! Thanks for all the prayers and support! Love you ALL!”

TONE LOC ARRESTED.
Tone Loc (famous for his 80s hits "Wild Thing" and "Funky Cold Medina"), was arrested around 2:45 P.M. on Saturday afternoon, June 18 at an apartment complex in Burbank, California, TMZ reported. According to Burbank Police Sgt. Tracy Sanchez, the West Coast rap star was taken into custody following an incident described as "a physical altercation with the mother of his child." He was reportedly taken in without incident and was booked into jail in a few hours. Later that evening, he was released on $50,000 bail. Back in January, the four-time Grammy nominee was arrested for driving under the influence after he was spotted driving erratically. He was later released on bail because of a medical condition. Tone Loc has in the past, collapsed on-stage in seizure.

SNOOP ON DECK TO HEADLINE OC FESTIVAL.
The 2nd Annual Summer Festival is set to be Southern California's premiere event this summer With such a strong lineup, the renowned KCRW and both LA/OC Weekly have recently jumped on board as official media sponsors for the festival. This year's event will be offering entertainment from over 50 live acts and DJs from around the world. Artists scheduled to appear include: SNOOP DOGG, CUT COPY, STEVE AOKI, CALVIN HARRIS, GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY, !!! (CHK CHK CHK), PHANTOGRAM, TORO Y MOI, BAG RAIDERS, ZEDS DEAD, THE TWELVES, CLASSIXX, FRED FALKE, AFROMAN, ZOOT WOMAN, THE GROWLERS, HANNI EL KHATIB, JACQUES RENAULT, BIRD PETERSON, SUPERHUMANOIDS, POOLSIDE, AUTOEROTIQUE, ALI LOVE, DANGEROUS DAN & GUS DA HOODRAT (BANG GANG DEEJAYS), MR. WHITE, THE C90S, JUSTIN MILLER, COSMIC KIDS, THEM JEANS, POSSO, DAN SENA, AMERICAN ROYALTY, FIFINASTY, KEDD COOK, WISHENGRAD, FRANKIE WILDE, BONES, G.L.O.V.E.S., GUNS IN THE SUN DEEJAYS, STEFFI GRAF, BRADY MILLER, MORGAN COLLETT, CASSETTE, BRAZZABELLE, ISAIAH MARTIN, TROPICOOL & MO: ROCKIN with more to be announced each week.

The event has been designed as a music festival for a wide range of genres. Both VIP and VIP Hosted Bar tickets will be available for guests looking for a first class experience. For those participating in the VIP Hosted Bar, hospitality and cabana services courtesy of Voyeur Nightclub and Chosen Hospitality Group will be available. To add to the all around experience, Pacific Festival: OC has paired with the Hyatt Regency Irvine located only minutes away from all the festival action.

Pacific Festival: OC has specifically been curated to entertain attendees from morning to night and with Red Bull on board as an official sponsor, the festival is sure to keep the energy level high. Co-hosted by STEVE AOKI and world-renowned celebrity photographer, THE COBRA SNAKE, Pacific Festival: OC will also be catering to your visual senses with art installations, which will include the legendary Shagadelica double decker bus from Burning Man. In addition, Pacific Festival: OC believes it is important to give back to the community and has paired with Surfrider to donate one dollar from every ticket sold to help protect California's coastline.

"The idea was to produce an event that connects culture with community; art with music; and entertainment with philanthropy in our backyard of Orange County," says Steve Aoki, one of the festival's founding partners. "We wanted to establish a premium music and arts festival, and have organized a large collective of seasoned event producers, artists, friends and musicians."

SNOOP ON DECK TO STAR IN/SCORE ‘FREEWAY’ RICKY ROSS BIOPIC
Legendary Los Angeles drug kingpin “Freeway” Ricky Ross has inked Snoop Dogg to portray him and score the soundtrack for his upcoming biopic. While in the studio with Freeway Ricky Ross, Snoop explained how he wants to carve the soundtrack for the drug kingpin's biopic.

Ricky Ross confirmed that Tha Doggfather will be steering the ship for the soundtrack, while Snoop echoed his sentiments. “Y’all heard what the Dogg said. The Dogg want to run that soundtrack. Y’all didn’t think it was gonna happen,” said Ross.

Snoop says that he wanted to come on board the project long before Ross was released from prison. “Man, I told my O.G. before he got home, I wanted to get down with him and I love him to death and everything he stand for and I’m part of telling his story,” said Snoop. “I said look, when it’s time to play you, it’s gotta be me and nobody one else. I’m the only who could put that thing on it.”

The film, written by Blow director Nick Cassavetes, takes place in the late ‘70s, a time that Snoop hopes to capture through the music.

“I also want to be a part of the soundtrack to make the scope of the music right, to make sure the scoring right, to represent the era and the time period where we were going through on the West,” he continued. “Because it’s central that the story’s told from his eyes, so I want to make sure the music represents what we were listening to out here and what we were going through. And when it gets to those certain time periods, I want to be the one who makes sure that the music feels good while you’re watching the movie.”

CLASSIC TUPAC ALBUMS TO GO DIGITAL IN HONOR OF HIS 40TH B-DAY.
Tupac Amaru Shakur aka 2Pac, the biggest selling rap/hip-hop artist in history with more than 75 million albums sold worldwide (more than 38 million in the U.S.), would have celebrated his 40th birthday today, June 16, 2011 . On July 5, five 2Pac albums (Interscope/UMe), including his first three solo albums, will be issued in the digital format for the first time:

--2Pacalypse Now, his 1991 debut album which will mark its 20th anniversary on November 12, 2011, includes "Brenda's Got A Baby," "Trapped" and "If My Homie Calls."

--Strictly For My N.I.G.G.A.Z., his 1993 platinum album featuring "Holler If You Hear Me," "I Get Around," "Keep Ya Head Up" and "Papa'z Song."

--Thug Life - Volume 1, originally released in 1994 from his group that also included Big Syke, Macadoshis, Mopreme and The Rated R, with "Bury Me A G," "Cradle To The Grave," "Pour Out A Little Liquor," "How Long Will They Mourn Me?" and "Str8 Ballin'."

--Me Against The World, the triple platinum 1995 smash that debuted #1 and was Grammy nominated for Best Rap Album, with "Dear Mama" (also Grammy nominated), "So Many Tears" and "Temptations."

--R U Still Down?, the posthumous, two-disc, quadruple platinum 1997 album (in its explicit version), featuring "Do For Love" and "I Wonder If Heaven Got A Ghetto."

Sal Manna, a journalist, interviewed 2Pac and wrote the press biographies for many of his albums during his lifetime. Sal penned the following tribute which until today was unpublished:

"Tupac never strayed from one message: Be somebody. No matter the obstacles, be somebody, and be proud. It was a message that 2Pac represented for everyone, no matter their race, creed or color ... In the end, too much has been made of his dying, and not enough of his living. His death was the tragedy, not his life. Today, it is in his work, in his art, that 2Pac still lives."

Since 2pac's passing on September 13, 1996, at the age of 25, his music has continued to inspire and motivate millions across the globe. 2Pac leaves a legacy of honesty and passion in his songs. Respected by many, 2Pac has become an inspiration for artists and a standard in rap music. Universal Music Enterprises proudly announces the release of these digital albums on this, the 40th anniversary of Tupac Shakur's birth celebrating the life and music of a great artist

ANY VALIDITY TO THE TUPAC/SHOOTER STORY OR JUST A STAGED STORY TO CREATE HYPE?
New York’s Daily News spoke to Rosemond’s lawyer Jeffrey Lichtman, who questioned the validity of Issac’s statements. “It’s a flat out lie,” Lichtman said. “Dexter Isaac is not claiming this 17-years later to clear his conscience. He’s doing it because he’s told anybody who will listen he doesn’t want to die in prison. He has kids and wants to work off his sentence. He can’t be trusted.” Rosemond (who famously serves as The Game’s manager among other artists) could not be reached, as he is currently on the run from the law. He was issued a federal arrest warrant back in May for his alleged role in a cocaine distribution ring and has been missing ever since. Outlawz Member, E.D.I. gave his reaction to Issac’s confession to XXL Mag, “Shit, Makaveli sold well over four, five million records,” he said. “Everybody heard how Pac felt about it. It’s on the last song – ‘Against All Odds.’ We thought it was always going to come to life. You always got to take all this kind of information with a grain of salt because you’re dealing with alleged snitches and government informants. These are the type of people that tell on their own mama, so it’s hard to say what’s real and what’s not real, but at the same time, what’s done in the dark is always going to come to the light. I was sort of amused by homeboy’s timing. I thought it was perfect timing, which also happens to be the name of our album dropping September 13 (the 15th anniversary of ’Pac’s death. I thought it was perfect timing.” New York City police have begun an investigation into the "supposed" confession from the convicted felon who claims to have shot and robbed slain rapper Tupac Shakur. Police spokesman Paul Browne said Wednesday if police determine the post is legitimate they will seek to interview the prisoner.

L.A. REID TO CALL SHOTS AT EPIC RECORDS.
Former Island Def Jam Chairman L.A. Reid is expected to join Sony Music as Chairman of a restructured Epic Records, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Mr. Reid will take over the new label, which will include Jive Records, some time in early July. Sources tell THR that Reid will start at Epic soon after the Fourth of July holiday, just after Doug Morris takes over as CEO at Sony on July 1. Reid will be the first head of Epic Records since songwriter Amanda Ghost exited after a year on the job. It's expected that Reid will push the label in more of an Urban direction, while absorbing some of the Jive roster, including Usher and P!nk, who were originally signed to Reid's LaFace Records.

RIHANNA INKS 3-YEAR TOURISM DEAL FOR HER HOMETOWN.
One of the best-selling artists of all time with more than 30 million records and 100 million singles sold, Rihanna has signed a multi-year deal with The Barbados Tourism Authority (BTA) to exclusively promote her hometown island of Barbados as a tourist destination. The three-year partnership officially kicks off in Bridgetown, Barbados on August 5, 2011 with a full-length concert of her current "Loud" tour produced by the BTA and Roc Nation.

"Barbados is a place like no other and one of the reasons for this is the spirit and national pride of our people," said Rihanna. "I want each and every visitor to this beautiful island to experience what makes this destination different from all others and that is the spirit and warmth of my fellow Barbadians."

As an ambassador for the island of Barbados, over the next three years, Rihanna will exclusively promote the destination through advertising campaigns, promotional appearances and via her social media presence. In addition to her concert in Barbados this summer, Rihanna will promote travel to the island from Brazil during her appearance on tour in September.

"In the hearts of every Barbadian, Rihanna is known as the girl down the road, but to the world she has become a musical sensation and social phenomenon," said Barbados' Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Richard L. Sealy. "She is a great source of national pride to Barbados and we are thrilled to enter into this formal partnership to promote Barbados as a leading tourist destination."

WMG CHAIRMAN SET TO MAKE $21 MILLION.
Warner Music Group Chairman Edgar Bronfman Jr. is set to make up to $21.7 million from the impending sale of the company, according to today's New York Post. The paper reports that Bronfman is due a $16.8 million "golden parachute," subject to shareholder approval, consisting of unvested stock options and restricted stock valued at $3.3 million and $13.6 million, respectively, that will vest as a result of the sale. Bronfman is also expected to receive $4.88 million in vested stock options. On July 6, shareholders will vote on Bronfman's $16.8 million parachute and a similar $10 million payout to Lyor Cohen, vice chairman and CEO of recorded music. Bronfman owes a special thanks to the Warner board for the $13 million in restricted stock, which he was only able to cash in because of the board's well-timed decision earlier this year to lower the price hurdle for the stock to vest.

Under the original deal, Bronfman's restricted stock vested at prices at $10 and higher. That was well above Warner's stock price of $4.90 on Jan. 19, when the board reduced the vesting price to as low as $7. The next day, on Jan. 20, news broke that Warner Music had put itself up for sale, sending the shares up 27 percent. In May, Blavatnik struck a deal to acquire the company for $8.25 a share. The result is that Bronfman will be able to cash in 1.65 million restricted shares worth $13.6 million.

Paul Hodgson, a compensation expert with Governance Metrics International, said the timing of the board's decision to lower the vesting price was "extremely unusual and something we look out for carefully."

In general, corporate governance experts take a dim view of companies altering pay plans in advance of market-moving events like a sale. Hodgson added that Warner's board lowered the price knowing that Bronfman would meet the lower hurdle -- not through a turnaround of the company, but through an acquisition. "It was tied to performance, and he didn't achieve the performance," he said.

In addition, Bronfman's family trusts have benefited from the recent sale of 2.1 million shares, totaling $18 million, at prices ranging from $8.17 to $8.22 a share. Bronfman owns 6.5 percent of the company directly and through family trusts.

While Bronfman is set to reap a windfall as a savvy dealmaker, the shareholders haven't been nearly as fortunate. With the music business suffering from declining CD sales and rising piracy, Warner has lost money in five of its six years as a publicly traded company. The stock, which made its debut at $17 in May 2005, hit a high of $29.08 in July 2006. Since then, it has been on pretty much a downward slide. Warner, which bottomed out at $1.68 in March 2009, barely budged last year. Bronfman and a trio of private-equity firms acquired Warner Music Group from Time Warner for $2.6 billion in 2004.

JIMMY HENCHMAN ASSOCIATE COMES CLEAN ON SHOOTING TUPAC!
According to Allhiphop, A man has admitted to shooting rap star Tupac Shakur in 1994 after allegedly being paid $2,500 dollars by James "Jimmy Henchman" Rosemond inside Manhattan's Quad Studios in November of 1994. Dexter Isaac, a former friend of Rosemond, is an inmate currently serving life in prison for murder, robbery and other offenses. He says Henchman paid him $2,500 for the hit. Initial reports stated that two men dressed in army fatigues robbed Pac at gunpoint for his jewelry. Up until his death in 1996, Pac accused B.I.G. and Bad Boy for setting him up. On the song “Against All Odds”, Pac even pointed fingers at Henchman. Due to statue of limitations, Issac will not be prosecuted for the crime. He also admits to possessing Pac’s jewelery. Henchman is currently on the lam from Federal agents. "I want to apologize to his family [Tupac Shakur] and for the mistake I did for that sucker [Jimmy Henchman]," Dexter said from prison. "I am trying to clean it up to give Tupac and Biggie's mothers some closure." Dexter Isaac said that he decided to confess to the robberies to prove Jimmy Henchman's involvement, in addition to clearing his conscious for the shooting.

FORBES RELEASES ANNUAL WELL-PAID CELEBRITIES "UNDER 30" LIST.
Forbes has released their annual list of the most well-paid celebrities under the age of 30. According to Forbes, these 20 young celebrities collectively took in over $690 million in the past year.

The entire list is as follows:
1. Lady Gaga, $90 million
2. Justin Bieber, $53 million
3. LeBron James, $48 million
4. Roger Federer, $47 million
5. Taylor Swift, $45 million
6. Katy Perry, $44 million
7. Cristiano Ronaldo, $38 million
8. Beyonce Knowles, $35 million
9. Lionel Messi, $32 million
10. Rafael Nadal, $31 million
11. Rihanna, $29 million
12. Dwight Howard, $28 million
13. Dwyane Wade, $26 million
14. Carmelo Anthony, $25 million
15. Maria Sharapova, $24 million
16 - 17. Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, $20 million
18 - 20. Carrie Underwood, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, $15 million

BILL O'REILLY CALLS LUPE FIASCO A PINHEAD.
Bill O’Reilly targets the hip-hop community again. O’Reilly called Lupe Fiasco, a “pinhead,” according to statements made on his show, The O’Reilly Factor on Tuesday, June 14 . O’Reilly responded to comments made by Lupe Fiasco last week during an interview with CBS, where Lupe called President Barack Obama “the biggest terrorist.” O’Reilly said “Mr. Fiasco has been invited on The Factor but has declined, possibly because he could not possibly defend that remark, which makes him a pinhead.”

In response, Lupe Fiasco took to Twitter saying “Whoa! I got invited to the O’reilly factor and turned it down??? Thats news to me… would NEVER turn down the opp to push billys buttons!”

A3C ANNOUNCES FIRST ROUND OF ARTISTS.
The best of hip-hop is coming to Atlanta as the 3-day A3C Hip Hop Festival announces the first round of artists for the 2011 event at The Masquerade. Random Axe (Sean Price, Black Milk and Guilty Simpson), Freeway, Aleon Craft, Laws, J-Live, Percee P, Ras Kass, Boog Brown, Ultra Beast (Senor Kaos and 4-Ize), Dillon and Paten Locke are just a few of the exemplary artists that will take the stage October 6-8, 2011. Several hundred more artists are still to be announced. Performers will be released on a continual basis until the start of the festival.

A3C is also proud to announce the return of the Perfect Attendance showcase in partnership with The Smoking Section. The 3-day Perfect Attendance stage features the best up and coming artists from all regions of the country. Each night is dedicated to artists from a different region including East, West and Midwest, performing alongside southern artists. In other words, the best of the best from the East, West and Midwest brought to you by the South.

Now in its 7th year, the A3C Hip Hop Festival is a 2-day, 3-night event held annually in Atlanta, GA and features live performances from a wide variety of approximately 200 artists. The live performance schedule is enhanced by day and evening content showcasing some of the most exciting breakdance, graphic art, fashion, film, equipment demonstrations and panels relating to Hip Hop culture.

Since 2005, the event has featured over 600 of the most elite artists in Hip Hop including: Rakim, Buckshot, Black Sheep, DJ Premier, The Juice Crew, Biz Markie, Del the Funky Homosapien, The Clipse, Souls of Mischief, Little Brother, Wale and B.o.B. In 2010, the A3C was attended by over 20,000 fans and featured partnerships and co-sponsored events with Red Bull, Fadia Kader's Perfect Attendance, 2DopeBoyz, TheSmokingSection, iStandard, Kevin Nottingham, Unique Squared, DJBooth, SESAC and more. The A3C will take place October 6 - 8, 2011 in Atlanta, GA with its hub at the Masquerade located at 695 North Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30308.

LIL WAYNE AND DRAKE ADDED TO BET AWARDS LINEUP.
Lil Wayne and Drake join Chris Brown, Jill Scott and Alicia Keys as performers for this year's BET AWARDS '11. Lil Wayne, who is set to release his ninth album "Tha Carter IV" this August, received five nominations this year in the "Best Collaboration," "Best Male Hip Hop Artist," "Video of the Year," categories as well as two nods in the "Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice" category. Also taking center stage at the BET AWARDS '11, breakout talent Drake will go head-to-head with friend and mentor Lil Wayne in the "Best Collaboration," "Best Male Hip Hop Artist and "Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice" categories.

ICE CUBE, XZIBIT, E-40 AND BUSTA RHYMES ON DECK FOR 2011 JUGGALOS EVENT.
That’s right - the small town of Cave-In-Rock, IL definitely has not had enough of the Gathering. 2011 marks the fourth year that Juggalo Gathering has been setting up its temporary, Juggalo metropolis in the open fields and dense forests on the Hog Rock campgrounds, better known as “Hatchet Landings” to the concert attendees. In fact, the community embraces the massive amount of Juggalos that come each year, which is evident when driving through the area en route to the event. One can not miss the multiple greeting messages on store fronts and gas station signs, street side stands selling Faygo, and, of course, the infamous Hatchetman logo scattered about the roads and winding dirt pathways. This welcoming drive sets the “family vacation” mood for what waits for the Juggalos at the entrance to the only music event that’s active 24 hours a day. It's goin down August 11th - 14th.

Main Performing Artists:
Busta Rhymes, Ice Cube, Insane Clown Posse, Xzibit, George Clinton, Vanilla Ice, Saliva, Dope, MC Hammer, CKY, Paris, E-40, Tech N9ne, Kittie, Mystikal, Juvenile, Lil Wyte, Kottonmouth Kings, DJ Quick, Twiztid, ABK, Dark Lotus, Blaze, Boondox, DJ Clay, The Dayton Family, and Psychopathic Rydas.

Events/Activities/Other Acts:
**JCW events such as Bloodymania 4, Flashlight Wrestling, Oddball Wrestling, JCW Tryouts, and many wrestlers including Chyna, Xpac, “Cowboy” Bob Orton, Koko B. Ware, Rob Conway, Honky Tonk Man, Terry Funk, Scott Hall, and Rowdy Roddy Piper;

**Scott Tepperman from the SyFy Channel’s “Ghost Hunter’s International”;

**Stand-up comedy from Jimmy “JJ” Walker, Brian Posehn, Harland Williams, and “Wrestler Night”; and Ladies Oil Wrestling, Psychopathic Karaoke, Ms Juggalette Contest, Helicopter Rides, Camping, Faygo Wet T Shirt Contest, Violent J’s BBQ, Late Night Parties, Carnival Rides, Midway Games, Inflatable Moon Bounces, Open Mic, Seminars, Autograph Signings, Sideshow Attractions, tons of underground bands, plus many more amazingly unusual things to be a part of.

FAT JOE DROPS MAJOR WEIGHT.
Fat Joe ain't playing. He has recently droppped a bunch of weight and insists he is on track to be fit. He recently told the daily news that he decided to drop the weight after watching seven of his friends have heart attacks in their 30s. So, he got a trainer and changed his diet in hope of living a long, healthy life, mainly for his five-year-old daughter Azaryah. “I can’t leave my daughter behind,” he said. “I want to be here for her; I don’t want to die on her.”.. "I always loved being fat, obviously. I'm Fat Joe. If I could gain 1,000 pounds and be healthy, I would love to do that," Joe explained, without a hint of humor. "The biggest killer of people is food. .. WATCH THE REST HERE

E3 RECAP
An estimated 46,800 attendees were at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo along with celebrities including Kobe Bryant, Ice-T, Snoop Dogg, The Game and more.. The Electronic Entertainment Association estimates that the 46,800 attendees to this year's E3 video game convention generated more than $25 million in revenue to the city. Kobe Bryant took the stage to play NBA 2K12during Sony's press conference. Ice-T, who provides voice work for Epic Games' Gears of War 3, played the game on stage during Microsoft's press conference. Hulk Hogan Main Event Wrestling Kinect for Xbox 360 game. Rampage Jackson attended Microsoft's Forza 4party at L.A. Live, where Travis Barker and Beastie Boys DJ Mix Master Mike performed. And Snoop Dogg visited Yoostar Entertainment's booth to check out Yoostar on MTV, a new game that allows players to put themselves into MTV TV shows.

BEHIND THE SCENES: Alicia Keys
The documentary is an up-close and behind the scenes account on the making of Alicia Keys’ first album specifically created for this release with brand new interviews with Keys and other album collaborators. Alicia Keys recently revealed a preview of her 10th Anniversary "songs in A Minor" documentary. Now only weeks away until the June 28th release of her special 10th Anniversary Deluxe and Collector’s edition of her groundbreaking debut album songs in A minor, the international superstar unveils a peek.. WATCH HERE

FLO RIDA ARRESTED FOR DUI AND MORE.
Flo Rida was arrested for DUI in Miami Beach on Thursday monring,(June 9). After the police ran a computer check on him, it was found out that his driving license was suspended last month for failing to pay a traffic fine. He was driving in his 2008 red and black Bugatti, (worth around $1.7 million), when the police pulled him over. According to police report which was acquired by TMZ, a large crowd was on the scene when Flo was pulled over. These bystanders tried to help the rapper escape an arrest. They were "trying to get officers to let [Flo Rida] go. Some individuals were offering to drive Flo home."

The arresting officer told Flo to walk a single line but the rapper told the cop,"Officer I can't do this. I don't feel I can't walk a straight line. I had a few drinks. Let's try another test." Flo also made an attempt to convince the officer that he was alert enough to drive again, saying "I can make it home". But the cops didn't let him try. Flo took a breathalyzer test and his blood alcohol level was .185, more than twice the legal limit. He was taken into custody in a nearby station shortly before 4:00 A.M. ET and charged with both DUI and driving under suspended driver's license.

BEYONCE RESPONDS TO ALBUM LEAK.
Beyonce responded to the leak of her upcoming fourth studio album ’4'. The album leaked onto the Internet yesterday (June 7), two weeks before its scheduled July 28 release date. “My music was leaked and while this is not how I wanted to present my new songs, I appreciate the positive response from my fans,” she writes.

“When I record music I always think about my fans singing every note and dancing to every beat. I make music to make people happy and I appreciate that everyone has been so anxious to hear my new songs,” B adds. Looks like Queen B is taking to the leak surprising well - unlike disgruntled musicians like David Guetta, who hired a Pentagon investigator to get to the bottom of the leak of his latest single.

KREAYSHAWN INKS WITH COLUMBIA RECORDS
East Oakland native, visual artist, swag assassin, and undercat Kreayshawn (Kray-shawn) has officially signed with Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music Entertainment. The 21 year-old will release "Gucci Gucci" via digital retailers on Tuesday, June 14th and prepare her forthcoming full-length debut album, due later this year.

Kreayshawn says of the new partnership, "I'm excited to work with my new Columbia family. They understand my vision and are going to let me continue everything I've been doing. My hope is to inspire others to be young, wild, and free."

Released in mid-May, Kreayshawn's song "Gucci Gucci" became an instant viral hit, garnering over 200,000 views within the first 48 hours and over 2 million views just two weeks later. Kreayshawn declares, "Gucci Gucci, Louis Louis, Fendi Fendi, Prada / the basic bitches wear that shit so I don't even bother."

Kreayshawn first made a name for herself directing videos for fellow Bay Area native Lil B, DB The General and Soulja Boy. While Kreayshawn hopes to lead the future generation of girl gang, she's currently prepping her forthcoming album, as "Gucci Gucci" makes its way to video and radio rotations and digital retailers worldwide.

RAPINDUSTRY.COM MODEL OF THE MONTH JUNE/JULY - NIKKI BENZ
Arguably the most famous Canadian adult film star ever, Nikki Benz has parlayed her good looks, stunning curves, natural talent, work ethic and keen business sense into a highly successful career. Rapindustry.com recently caught up with the blond bombshell who's captivated fans this 2011. "I love Hip Hop! To be honest, probably 75% or 80 % of my iPod selection is hip hop. I’d have it at 100%, but I have to have other genres of music for feature dancing. I listen to Lil Wayne, Eminem, T.I., Ludacris, Jay-Z, Tupac, Kanye, Too $hort, Nicki Minaj, Drake, Dr. Dre, Notorious BIG.. I could go on and on".... CHECK HER OUT


CHRIS BROWN AND JILL SCOTT ON DECK.
Chris Brown and Jill Scott join Alicia Keys as performers for this year's BET AWARDS '11. Brown, whose "F.A.M.E." album is #3 on the R&B Billboard charts, leads the nominations race with nods in six categories. His top nominations include "Best Male R&B Artist," "Video of the Year," and "Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice" for his collaboration with Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne on "Look at Me Now." R&B superstar, poet, and actress Jill Scott, who is set to release her fifth studio album "Light of the Sun" this month, will also take to the BET AWARDS '11 stage with what promises to be a captivating performance. Also on the roster, Alicia Keys returns to the stage to commemorate the re-release of her multi-platinum album "Songs in A Minor" and celebrate her decade-long contributions to the music industry. Keeping with the tradition of celebrating the best in entertainment, the BET AWARDS '11 will once again be a must-see, electrifying night of television.

Hosted by Kevin Hart, the BET AWARDS '11 will pay tribute to the 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient legendary musician and "Godmother of Soul" Patti LaBelle, as well as honor this year's Humanitarian Award recipient Steve Harvey.

For over a decade the BET AWARDS has reigned as the biggest family event rivaling all top awards shows. Having escalated each year in industry influence with A-list celebrity nominations, star-studded appearances and one-of-a-kind performances, the BET AWARDS has undoubtedly established itself as the gold standard in creating memorable moments year after year. The highly-anticipated event airs live, Sunday, June 26 at 8 p.m.* from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, CA.

SEAN KINGSTON UPDATE: HE'S NOW WALKING ON HIS OWN
A rep for Kingston reports, “Sean is breathing on his own and walked for the first time this morning.”.. “Sean Kingston continues to be hospitalized at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. His condition has been upgraded to serious.” Kingston was critically injured in a jet ski accident last weekend — and had been attached to a breathing tube. Kingston’s rep adds, “Sean thanks his friends, family and fans for their outpouring of prayers and well wishes.”

CALI SWAG DISTRICT TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM THE KICKBACK
Inglewood rappers Cali Swag District set a July 12th release date for their debut album The Kickback on Sphinx Music Entertainment/319 Music Group distributed by Sony RED. "Burn Out (Drive Fast),"' will be the next official single off the album and a music video will follow soon after. Cali Swag District, nominated for Best Group at the upcoming 2011 BET Music Awards, exploded onto the music scene last year with the platinum selling first single "Teach Me How To Dougie." The Dougie dance sensation has swept the nation captivating American Idol's Ryan Seacrest and Jennifer Lopez while the first lady Michelle Obama did her own version during her "Let's Move!" initiative. Altogether the Dougie movement has taken over YouTube with over 100 million video streams. Their new single "Burn Out (Drive Fast)" is an adrenaline pumping car and street anthem produced by Sanchez and Disco. "This is one of my favorite songs on the album. I hope the fans have as much fun rockin' out to it as we did making it," states Smoove. "This is the type of song that I blast in my car to get amped up for the clubs." adds JayAre. The group will be releasing their debut album in memory of fallen member M-Bone who was tragically murdered on May 15, 2011. "We're sure that M Bone is doin' the Dougie at the gates of heaven and we know he would want us to keep the movement goin' here," says Yung.

AUDI RESPONDS TO EMINEM'S PUBLISHER'S LAWSUIT.
Audi has responded to a lawsuit filed by Eminem's publishing company, Eight Mile Style LLC. According to representatives for the rapper, Audi used an unauthorized sample of Eminem's "Lose Yourself" in a commercial for its new 2012 Audi A6 Avant. Chrysler had used the same song in its "Imported from Detroit" Super Bowl campaign for the Chrysler 200, which Eminem starred in. However, a U.S. spokesperson for Audi insists that the video is not a commercial. "The video referred to is not an advertisement," he said in an email to Yahoo! Music. "Also, this does not involve Audi of America. The video was not shown here in the U.S." Source: Billboard

PRODUCER ALEX DA KID SIGNS WITH INTERSCOPE.
Grammy winner and multi platinum music producer, Alex Da Kid has created his own label via Interscope Records, it was announced today by Interscope Geffen A&M Records, a unit of Universal Music Group, the global music leader. Alex's new label, KIDinaKORNER, will debut with a solo album from singer-songwriter Skylar Grey, who has been featured on three other recent Alex Da Kid hit productions: "Coming Home" from Diddy-Dirty Money, "I Need A Doctor" from Dr. Dre featuring Eminem and "Words I Never Said" from Lupe Fiasco.

"Developing artists that influence and shape popular culture in an authentic way has always been a huge goal of mine," said Alex Da Kid. "Jimmy Iovine understands that and has been a true mentor to me over the past year. I look forward to continuing all the success we have already had together."

Commented Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M: "Interscope has always been committed to great producers, and I think in Alex we found one that will be around for a long time."

London-born Alex Da Kid won a Grammy this year for Best Rap Album for Eminem's Recovery and earned four other nominations--Album of the Year for Recovery and Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Best Rap Song for "Love The Way You Lie." In addition, he produced B.o.B.'s nominated "Airplanes and Airplanes Part II" featuring Paramore's Hayley Williams.

Earlier this month, he was nominated for an extraordinary eight Billboard Awards--Top 100 Song, Top Digital Song, Top Radio Song, Top Streaming Song (Audio), Top Streaming Song (Video) and Top Rap Song for "Love The Way You Lie" (which spent seven consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sold more than 8 million copies worldwide) plus Top Digital Song and Top Rap Song for "Airplanes" (which peaked at #2 and sold 6 million-plus copies). In one year Alex has been the musical force behind the sale of over 20 million singles and he was the first producer/songwriter to have his songs reach half a billion views on YouTube. Most recently, he was asked by Bono and The Edge to produce, "RISE ABOVE 1" the first single from the album, Music from SPIDER-MAN: TURN OFF THE DARK

RODNEY O AND JOE COOLEY ARE BACK!
Hip hop legends Rodney O and DJ Joe Cooley will reunite to release their first studio album in twelve years. Titled ‘Joe and Me,’ the upcoming album’s first single “That Supa Radio” began receiving coveted airplay in Los Angeles on 103.3 KKBT immediately after its release. PEEP THE FULL REPORT AND THEIR NEW JOINT HERE

ACTIVISION TO LAUNCH ELITE SERVICE FOR CALL OF DUTY FANS.
The world's most passionate online gaming community can now connect, compete and improve their Call of Duty® multiplayer experience through Activision's (Nasdaq: ATVI) innovative new online service, Call of Duty Elite.

Developed from the ground up by Activision's new Beachhead studio, Call of Duty Elite offers cutting-edge features that significantly enhance the franchises' multiplayer experience and deliver a new level of social engagement that will unite more than 30 million players worldwide. Additionally, the service will offer exclusive, high-production value, original entertainment programming designed exclusively for the Call of Duty community.

"The average Call of Duty player spends 58 minutes per day playing multiplayer. That is more than the average Facebook user spends per day on Facebook. And yet, right now, there are very few tools to unite and super charge that social community," said Eric Hirshberg, CEO of ActivisionPublishing. "Whether it's allowing you to connect with your friends, or people of a similar skill level, people who live in your city, people who share your favorite passions, join competitive clans or social groups, or upload, view and comment on the incredible mass of player-generated content, or watch and comment on exclusive created content, Call of Duty Elite will give people more ways to connect with fellow players than ever before. Elite will also allow players of every level to improve their game with an intuitive suite of tools, and compete in tournaments for both real and virtual prizes."

Call of Duty Elite will include several industry-first innovations, and is designed to reset the bar for what players can expect from a multiplayer experience for this year's most anticipated game, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. Elite will offer two-way communication between the service and the game, so that the choices and decisions that players make in Elite through the mobile and web interfaces will affect their in-game experience. The service will be fully integrated into Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and will launch alongside the game on November 8, 2011.

LYOR COHEN SPEAKS ON MUSIC BIZ.
Warner Music Group Chief of Recorded Music Lyor Cohen sat down with Forbes' Zack O'Malley Greenburg for a new interview about the current state of the music industry. He says the CD had incredible results for the industry, but "made us sleepy." Cohen said the CD model essentially made "the consumer buy a $19 product ... if they only wanted the hit" and that digital music "has completely rotated the power" to the consumer. Cohen also discusses 360 deals and the advantages of a "skinnier, more focused" release schedule and artist roster in the interview, WATCH IT HERE.

SEAN KINGSTON IN STABLE CONDITION AFTER JET SKI CRASH.
Sean Kingston is in stable condition at a Miami hospital after suffering a jet ski crash on Sunday. Kingston, 21, was driving the personal watercraft with a female friend on board when they crashed into the Palm Island Bridge around 6 p.m., according to the Miami Herald. Both Kingston and the passenger were thrown into the water, and a passing boater saw the accident and took the two on board his vessel. Both Kingston and the passenger were then taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital by Miami Fire Rescue crews. "Sean Kingston is now stabilized and has moved from the trauma unit to ICU," said his spokesman, Joseph Carozza, according to the Herald. "Sean's family thanks everyone for their prayers and support during this time."

BUMPY KNUCKES AND KRS-ONE OFFER ROYALTY CHECK
Bumpy Knuckles (aka Freddie Foxxx) and KRS-One announce that their anticipated project, Royalty Check will be in stores and available at digital retailers Tuesday, May 31, 2011. Royalty Check, distributed by Canada-based 682 Records, combines classic hip-hop sound with rock elements through the use of live instruments and edgy drum patterns.

The album's first single, Street Poison (Stressed Out), has already been well received. Produced entirely by Bumpy Knuckles (with the exception of Stand Up, produced by Minneapolis-native King Karnov), Royalty Check is looking to be a hip-hop favorite for hip hop heads. "My style has always been centered around how everyone one in my circle can get a fair shake," said Bumpy Knuckles. "So that's what I started writing about – how we can we all get a piece of the pie."

The project was born out of a chance opportunity for Bumpy Knuckles and KRS-One to work face to face in the studio again. In the technology age, where artists primarily collaborate via digital channels, it's not often that two MCs of this caliber have a chance to work closely together and feed off of each others creative energy. "Rarely do artists get in the studio together to do albums anymore," said Bumpy Knuckles of working on the project with KRS-One. "And the music can't be wrong if KRS [-One] is picking the songs he wants to rhyme to."

FLAVOR FLAV MAKES OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
"To all of my fams (I've taken the 'n' out of fans and replaced it with an 'm,' because a fan doesn't do anything for me but cool me off when I'm hot and a 'fam' is one that supports me), I thank you all for making me who I am today. Without y'all, I would just be an ordinary person in the street, no different and no better than anyone else - the only thing that makes me different is my job description.

My life has taught me that nothing is really easy. Everything in life you want can come to you, but you really, really have to earn it and deserve it. You only get to live physically once in this lifetime, so while we are living this one time - we need to make the best of it. When we die, we become nothing but memories to other people and we want to leave them the best memories ever.

If I could influence and mentor today's youth, based on my past experience, I would tell them that I made some very serious mistakes in my life. I would like for everyone in the world to read my book about the mistakes I've made, so hopefully they won't make the same ones.

I have always been told I have a lot of interesting things to say and stories to tell. I've often thought about doing my own talk show. If I did, I would probably use the style of Arsenio Hall, but a Jerry Springer or Maury Povich style show should be a lot of fun. I have been asked if I would ever do Donald Trump's Celebrity Apprentice Show and my reply to that is it would be a pleasure to once again see and talk to Donald Trump. If I do come out with my own show some time, all I can say is... 'Once again, Flavor Flav has reinvented himself.'

Anyway, I decided to write a book. My new book is called Flavor Flav: The Icon The Memoir (Farrah Gray Publishing). My book is edgy, compassionate and often hilarious! My book is a thrill ride from the heights of my stardom to the depths of my despair and Yo! I'm still here to tell it. I've been down some pretty dark holes - but somehow I always found the strength to climb back out of them.

I get asked about regrets but I have no regrets in my life and I would change nothing. The reason is because it took the past to bring the future, and if I was to change something in my past then today I might not be able to teach what I've learned.

I want to add that I think Ascot/Aston's In My Own Words (IMOW) is a great idea for celebrities to say in their own words how they feel about their life and what's going on in it. That's why we, Public Enemy, made a record called Don't Believe The Hype, which means... don't believe everything you read or hear. The best source for the true information is 'from the horse's mouth!'

God bless you all with your life, your future, your goals, and your families. And once again, I thank you for making me who I am today - Flavor Flav: The Icon.

God bless and peace to all. See y'all on my book tour!"

Flavor Flav

DIDDY TO BE HONORED AT ANNUAL ASCAP RYTHYM & SOUL AWARDS.
ASCAP will honor Sean “Diddy” Combs in an invite-only affair during ASCAP’s 24th Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. At the awards ceremony, Diddy will be presented with the ASCAP Founders Award. The honor, named as the “most prestigious” by the organization, is given to songwriters and composers who have made pioneering contributions to the music industry by inspiring their peers. The likes of Stevie Wonder, Dr. Dre, Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy, Jr. are a few of the past recipients to have been presented with the award. “To be recognized for my contributions to music by ASCAP, an organization that represents music creators, is a true honor,” said Diddy. “All I wanted to do was make people dance and hopefully inspire others to never settle for anything but their best.”

VH1 GREENLIGHTS NEW FALL SEASONS.
VH1 has given the greenlight for new fall seasons of three series that appeal to young adults' music, pop culture and nostalgia sensibilities, including the return of beloved series "Pop Up Video." The channel has also handed second season pick-ups to its two newest hit series "Mob Wives," which averaged 1.3 million total viewers for its premiere episodes during its first five weeks on the air, and "Love & Hip Hop," which has averaged over 1 million viewers per premiere episode.

"'Pop Up Video' has stood the test of time, ranking as one of the most iconic series in recent television history. For years, people have practically begged, 'Please bring back Pop Up Video!' It's a show and format that now evokes nostalgia for VH1's young adult audience," said Tom Calderone, President, VH1.

"Both 'Mob Wives' and 'Love & Hip Hop' are smash hits for VH1, generating strong buzz and viewership for months now. Our viewers have connected passionately with these women and their unique, authentic stories in the realms of pop culture and music. We're very happy to be able continue those storylines," said Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President of Original Programming & Production, VH1.

VH1's hit docu-series "Love & Hip Hop," which has averaged over 1 million total viewers per premiere episode, has been picked up for a second season. The premiere of the series reunion special on Monday, May 16 drew 1.3 million total viewers. The series follows four dynamic women who are connected to the world of hip hop, whether it's through the men they love or their struggle to be heard as artists. In the premiere season "Love & Hip Hop" showed the world what life is really like without the fans and the paparazzi. Through their successes and failures both professionally and personally, Chrissy, Olivia, Emily, and Somaya gave it their all for love and hip hop. Season two is set to premiere in the fall and will consist of 10 one-hour episodes.

CEE-LO, JANELLE MONAE, AND JAY ELECTRONICA ON DECK FOR AFRO PUNK.
The Afro-punk Festival is returning to Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park for the 7th Annual Afro-punk Festival on August 27-28. The 2011 festival has the most stellar line up yet with Cee-Lo Green, Santigold, Janelle Monae, Fishbone, Jay Electronica, Toro Y Moi, Toshi Reagon, Ninjasonik, Cerebral Ballzy, Gordon Voidwell, Reggie Watts, Res, Joi, Rocky Business, Straight Line Stitch and more to be added! In addition, the NikeBattle For the Streets Skate and BMX Competition, the largest street skate and BMX competition in NYC will return this year with the nation's top amateur skaters and BMX riders in a competition to be judged by top professionals in both sports including Nigel Sylvester.

Afro-punk has invited Harley-Davidson and Brooklyn Black bike scene documentarians, Denim and Chrome, to collaborate on a custom bike show featuring dozens of exotic custom bikes created by black riders in the NYC area. The custom bike show will also serve as the backdrop for the Harley-Davidson/Denim and Chrome 2012 Calendar, photographed by Darius Vick, which will featureexquisite tattooed beauties each month for bike fans across the country. In addition, the festival has commissioned an artist to paint over 300 skateboards as part of one large mural aka The Skate Artwall. The boards will be contested to Afro-punk fans at the Festival and Afro-punk will follow the life of the boards over the next year whether on the wall, the street or the half-pipe.

Described by the New York Timesas putting “rock and rebellion squarely in the category of African-American music,” the Afro-punk Festival has become a Brooklyn intuition, the focal point for the burgeoning Afro-punk movement. Over the past seven years, the festival has presented new artists before they hit it big, such as Grammy-nominated Santigold, The Noisettes and Janelle Monae. Afro-punk mainstays like Saul Williams, The Dirtbombs, and Dallas Austin have also graced Afro-punk’s stages.

Afro-Punk 2011 Band Lineup
Cee-Lo Green
Santigold
Janelle Monae
Fishbone
Jay Electronica
Toro Y Moi
Toshi Reagon
Ninjasonik
Cerebral Ballzy
Gordon Voidwell
Reggie Watts
Res
Joi
Rocky Business
Straight Line Stitch

THE 5FOOTAZ BACK FROM THE DEAD.
The all-female West Coast sextet, The 5Footaz, comprised of Jah Skillz, NebLuv, Knehi, Cobra (Red), Ka-Bar and I-AME, are back from the dead. The 5Footaz have valiantly returned with a brand new mix-tape release, Rewired, to serve as a precursor of sorts to their eagerly awaited, forthcoming third full-length collection, Ride of your Life. A still in development reality show and documentary, as well as both a domestic and world tour, are also in the planning stages to coincide with their musical comeback.

"We are very excited about how much positive feedback we have been getting about our project. We are definitely more seasoned and mature when it comes to the type of music we are making," Skillz, who is currently working towards her bachelor's degree with future plans to attend law school, announces, sounding extremely elated about their new material. Re-iterating, she further relays, "Many have grown into producing, playing instruments, singing (and) things of that nature, so you'll see more of those attributes. This album will be fun, informative and a lyrical 411 on what it is to be a 'B-Girl,' and how Hip-Hop really should be represented." In addition, all six members continue to be involved in various individual endeavors; including, solo records, literary works, outside business ventures, but all the while continuing to build and re-establish their own unique 5Footaz brand.

"We are all working on solo releases as well, and we are all collabin' with one another on those projects. Being there are so many of us, you will also get to know us individually as well as artists. All of us have our own ideas and creativity that we want to share with the world," I-AME [pronounced I AM ME], the latest edition to The 5Footaz family, emphasizes, making her point quite clear. Interjecting, Ka-Bar, who, herself, possesses a bachelor's degree in mass communications from California State University at Fullerton, summarizes their entire career run beginning with their whole inception, "We were very young when we got started, it was such a different game back then. We didn't have Myspace, Facebook , Twitter , Ustream or any other digitial social networking media tools back then. It was street teams, live release parties, stickers and billboards everywhere. The industry changed so much...Biggie and Pac got killed, 9-11 happened. We came up in an era of change before Obama...Mase became a pastor..." she pauses for a moment, and then concludes with a sigh relief, "Being a woman the stakes are so high, and when you are beautiful, young and creative it makes it a lot more difficult in this male dominated industry. The life is so fast, and you can easily get mislead by the materialism in front of you that is all just a distraction and illusion to distract from your true purpose in this buisness. I am glad (we) took time out to preserve (ourselves) and reflect on how (we) wanted (our) music to affect and influence the audience. It takes so much more than a hot sixteen, or being swagged out. Now, we have all the creative control, power, wisdom and knowledge, to run our business like Oprah -- We OWN our network!"

VH1'S BEHIND THE MUSIC RETURNS
VH1's music documentary series "Behind The Music" returns. The five-time Emmy® Award-nominated series gives viewers a front row seat to the most exclusive and intimate interviews with the artists as well as their families, friends and colleagues. Featured this season are Missy Elliott, Ice Cube, and Mary J. Blige. Beginning on Wednesday, June 29 with "Behind The Music: Missy Elliott," the series will bring viewers never-before-seen footage of these talented musicians and the people who know them best.

"Behind The Music: Missy Elliott" Premieres Wednesday, June 29 Becoming the most successful female writer-producer-artist the hip hop world has ever seen was not easy for Missy Elliott. Born in Virginia, Missy was faced with the hardships of poverty at the age of eight. Surrounded by abuse and horror, Missy used her passion for music to escape from it all, landing a record deal at the age of 19 with DeVante Swing of Jodeci. For the first time, Missy breaks her silence about why she had to walk away from DeVante and her first group "Da Bassment." Not letting her past bring her down, Missy surpassed her demons and rose to fame with her groundbreaking debut album "Supa Dupa Fly." Working with some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Diddy to Mariah Carey to Janet Jackson and with her daring lyrics, Missy Elliott was able to take over the hip hop world and become a millionaire by the age of 25. After years away from the spotlight, Missy Elliott is opening up publicly for the first time in this "Behind The Music." Viewers will watch as Missy talks about her near-fatal battle with Graves disease, address rumors about her weight and opens up about being sexually molested as a young child, a subject she rarely discusses. Catch interviews with Timbaland, Ciara and Mary J. Blige as they contribute personal stories about the gifted Missy Elliott who changed the face of hip hop music forever.

"Behind The Music: Ice Cube" Premieres Wednesday, July 6 This episode of "Behind the Music" follows the three-decade-long career of legendary rapper Ice Cube from his journey as a founding member of the notorious rap group NWA to a blockbuster movie star. The extraordinary career of Ice Cube begins with his upbringing in South Central Los Angeles where he faced gang violence and drug dealers on a daily basis. Finding refuge in music, Ice Cube and his neighborhood friends formed NWA to speak out about the harsh reality of growing up in the ghetto. Years and many hits later, the group dismantled sparking a bitter feud between Ice Cube and his former band members and manager Jerry Heller, which lead to Ice Cube's decision to embark on a solo career. In an unexpected move, Ice Cube took a movie role in John Singleton's critically-acclaimed movie "Boyz N The Hood." The role of Darrin "Doughboy" Baker would give Ice Cube not only the credibility in the movie industry but the confidence to continue to pursue acting roles as well writing and directing jobs. Since then, Ice Cube has produced and starred in a slew of blockbuster movies and TV shows such as "Friday," "Barbershop," "Three Kings" and "Are We There Yet?" At home, Ice Cube is the father of four children with long-time wife Kim and explains how he now shares the stage with two of his sons, Doughboy and OMG, who hope to follow in his rapping footsteps. Viewers will watch as friends Snoop Dogg, DJ Yella from NWA and actress Nia Long discuss how Ice Cube has become a modern day Renaissance man, transforming from a South Central street kid to a major force in music, movies and television today.

"Behind The Music: Mary J. Blige" Premieres Wednesday, July 27 This episode of "Behind The Music" will take a look inside the life and outstanding career of Mary J. Blige, the reigning Queen of R&B. Watch as VH1 captures the story of how faith, courage and a never-ending search for love and contentment helped one of the world's most talented musicians survive a tumultuous past. After her soulful remake of Anita Baker's "Caught Up In A Rapture" was heard by Uptown Records President Andre Harrell, Mary was signed instantly, changing her life forever. She then joined forces with soon-to-be music legend, Sean "Diddy" Combs and together they changed the music world with her honest and heartfelt debut album "What's The 411?" Although Mary's professional life was flourishing, at home she was dealing with a volatile relationship and hit her lowest moment. Mary needed to make a change and she did. She was ready to better herself. Mary lifted herself out of her hole by praying and keeping the faith that things would change, and they soon did. Mary's prayers were answered and she fell in love with Kendu Isaacs, who would later become her very supportive husband, friend, and manager. He helped and encouraged her on her road to greatness. With Kendu's love, help and guidance, Mary found a new happiness which was reflected in her top selling albums such as "No More Drama" and "The Breakthrough" which won three Grammy Awards. By the time Mary sang for President Obama at the Inauguration Day ceremony in 2009, her world had taken a 180 degree turn and she describes the experience as one of the most meaningful moments of her career. Now, Mary is set to release "My Life Too, The Journey Continues" on September 20 where she continues to deliver timeless hits while discussing her never ending journey. Catch candid interviews with husband Kendu Isaacs, sister LaTonya Blige Dacosta, Diddy, Nas, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis and Mary J. Blige herself.

PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSAL MOTOWN OFFICIALLY STEPS DOWN.
Sylvia Rhone has stepped down from her post as President of Universal Motown, though she is expected to remain in the Universal Music Group family in a new position. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Rhone is expected to be offered a new position and a new label within UMG. Once the details are in place, she will decided whether or not to take the offer and stay with UMG. Rhone was named President of Universal Motown in 2004. GM Pat Monaco will take over the day-to-day operations of Universal Motown while UMG looks for a new executive to run the label. Executives will report to Barry Weiss, Chairman & CEO of Island Def Jam and Universal Motown Republic Group. One source says the label is looking for someone for a "senior creative role" who may end up with a title other than President, depending on the person's qualifications. UMG said in a statement that it remains "committed to Universal Motown as a strong presence in the contemporary music scene. We will soon announce important additions to the staff and will further invest in building its artist roster so Motown can continue to bring to market the highest quality music that is best positioned to succeed artistically and commercially." The statement added, "We're thankful to Sylvia for her contributions. We continue to be in discussions with her on how and where she can best utilize her skills and relationships in the multiple rights arena in which UMG continues to expand."

EMINEM WAS THE TOP WINNER AT 2011 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS.
Eminem was one of the top winners at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards on Sunday night, as he took home six trophies. He won the awards for Top Artist, Top Male Artist, Top Billboard 200 Album, Top Rap Artist, Top Rap Song and Top Rap Album. Meanwhile, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Usher, Taylor Swift, Mumford & Sons and Taio Cruz also were multiple award winners, as they each earned three trophies. Winning two Billboard Music Awards each were Katy Perry, Shakira, Chris Tomlin and Train.

HIP HOP ON DECK AT 25TH ANNUAL UCLA JAZZREGGAE FESTIVAL.
After a quarter century of entertaining Southern California, the JazzReggae Festival announces its full lineup, which celebrates its illustrious history while providing a platform for upcoming new artists. As headliners Steel Pulse and Lupe Fiasco enthusiastically come to UCLA's Intramural field, the 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival at UCLA boasts an innovative and eclectic lineup that will guarantee this year's festival-goers a truly unique experience.

This year's festival is excitedly redefining the Jam Day experience on May 29. The festival is proud to announce the debut of The JazzReggae 25 Revue with The 12-piece Miguel Atwood-Ferguson Ensemble Featuring Special Guests Talib Kweli, Bilal, Pharoahe Monch, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Quadron, Karriem Riggins and More TBA. One of Los Angeles' most ingenious and experimental young composers, producers, and musicians, Miguel is well-known for composing the Suite for Ma Dukes, a musical tribute inspired by the work of late producer J. Dilla. He has worked with artists such as Stevie Wonder, John Legend, and Wayne Shorter. After two sold out shows in Los Angeles early this year, Swedish sensation Little Dragon is returning to bring their electric soul style to Jam Day. Funk and Soul veterans Lee Fields and the Expressions are sure to please crowds with their classic sound. Recently signed with Stones Throw Records, The Stepkids will be performing for Jam Day audiences, as well as Le J Trio Collective, a UCLA-based jazz group.

Jamaica native Gyptian will be following headliner Steel Pulse on Reggae Day, May 30. Tanya Stephens, accompanied by Detour Posse, will be bringing her socially conscious and influential dancehall music to UCLA's Intramural field. Also performing on Reggae Day, Panamanian duo Los Rakas combines bilingual lyricism with a mixture of reggae, hip hop, and dancehall sounds. Also performing on Reggae Day are The Wailing Souls, whose classic reggae roots sound is sure to add to the upbeat vibes of this beautiful Memorial Day spectacle. Southern Californian locals The Expanders and Samoan reggae crooner J-Boog will be performing as well.

TINIE TEMPAH GOES PLATINUM
London-born rapper Tinie Tempah, already a double BRIT Award-winning U.K. superstar with 2010's top-selling debut album by a British artist, goes platinum in the U.S. this week with his first stateside single, "Written In The Stars" exceeding sales of over one million. With his shiny new platinum status, Tinie is experiencing an undeniable major breakthrough in America, where his infectious, message-driven single "Written in the Stars" from his debut album, Disc-Overy was recently hailed by Entertainment Weekly as one of the "next big hits of 2011." The song is currently Top 10 on the Top 40 chart and number 15 and climbing on Billboard's Hot 100, making him the highest ranking new artist in the Top 10 at Top 40 radio with his platinum selling single. As the first British rapper to achieve platinum status with their debut U.S. single, it is clear that Tinie Tempah is well on his way to achieving major stardom in the U.S.

Disc-Overy was released yesterday to American listeners with the addition of three all-new tracks recorded in the U.S. earlier this year with producers Stargate (Wiz Khalifa, Beyonce, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Ne-Yo) and Boi 1Da (Eminem, Drake). One of the new songs, "Till I'm Gone," featuring Wiz Khalifa and produced by Stargate, will be Disc-Overy's next U.S. single. Stargate also produced "Love Suicide," featuring special guest Esther Dean. The third new track, "So Addicted," was produced by Boi 1Da and features Bei Maejor.

The charismatic 22-year-old is already a phenomenon in the U.K., where Disc-Overy debuted at number one and produced four Top Five singles, including two number ones, and is currently double platinum.

USHER ADDED TO ESSENCE LINE-UP
ESSENCE is proud to announce that multi-platinum selling, chart- topping, Grammy award-winning powerhouse USHER will headline the 2011 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL being held July 1, 2, and 3 in New Orleans. Joining an already stellar, best-in-class line-up that includes Chaka Kahn, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, Kanye West, Mary J. Blige and New Edition, Usher will headline the main stage of the Superdome on opening night, Friday, July 1.

Although Usher has a long standing relationship with ESSENCE, this year marks the first time Usher will grace the stage as a headliner at the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL, the largest African-American music and culture event in the U.S. Attracting an estimated 400,000 attendees, the 17th annual event continues to be the only music and empowerment festival in the U.S., in addition to a hallmark of New Orleans tourism.

"We are honored to bring the incredible USHER to the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL to headline opening night," says ESSENCE Communications President Michelle Ebanks. "Fans can look forward to an incredible line-up this 4th of July weekend-- with more than 40 of the world's best performers on 5 stages – as a once in a lifetime experience!"

KEVIN HART TO HOST THIS YEAR'S BET AWARDS.
BET Networks has announced that actor/comedian Kevin Hart has been tapped to host this year's BET AWARDS. The show will broadcast LIVE from the historic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 8:00 p.m.* on BET For over a decade the BET AWARDS has reigned as the biggest family event rivaling all top awards shows. Having escalated each year in industry influence with A-list celebrity nominations, star-studded appearances and one-of-a-kind performances, the BET AWARDS has undoubtedly established itself as the hottest ticket on television.

The brightest stars in music, acting and sports will appear and perform at this year's BET AWARDS which recognizes the achievements of artists, entertainers and athletes in 20 categories. Leading the pack this year is Chris Brown with an impressive 6 nominations across multiple categories: Best Male R&B Artist, Best Collaboration (for which he holds two nominations), Video of the Year, Best Actor and Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice. Closely behind him is Lil Wayne with 5 nominations: Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration (with fellow nominee Chris Brown), Video of the Year and Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice for his collaborations with Chris Brown and Cory Gunz. Rounding out the list and tied with 4 nominations each are Kanye West, Rihanna and Drake.

"When we asked folks who should host this year's BET AWARDS online, in the streets, among other celebs and throughout social media, one name came back to us loud and clear: Kevin Hart," said Stephen Hill, BET's president of music programming and specials. "He is blue flame right now and we are looking forward to working with him on the show," stated Hill. "His energy, wit and the always fantastic performances will make for yet another must see event—and the 'Chocolate Droppa' might even get a verse in the show," he added.

Kevin Hart burst onto the scene as one of the most versatile comedy actors in film and television. Hart is currently touring the nation on his "Laugh at My Pain" tour. He is the number one comedian on Ticketmaster and in February 2011, Hart sold out the Nokia Theater two nights in a row to break a record previously set by Eddie Murphy. Hart will spend the summer of 2011 filming lead roles in two new movies. In July, he will start working on Screen Gem's "Think Like A Man," the comedy is based on Steve Harvey's bestselling 2009 book Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man. Hart will then start work on the Nick Stoller comedy "Five Year Engagement" with producer Judd Apatow and Universal.

Sponsors for this year's BET AWARDS telecast include Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice Award, Subway Sportsman of the Year and Subway Sportswoman of the Year.

KANYE, NAS, & CEE LO ON DECK FOR AUSTIN CITY LIMITS.
The lineup for the 10th Anniversary of the Austin City Limits Festival has been revealed, and artists such as Kanye West, Nas & Damian Marley, Cee Lo Green, Stevie Wonder, Coldplay, among others, will top the bill of the over 130 bands. Bright Eyes, Social Distortion, Empire of the Sun, Santigold, Pretty Lights, TV On The Radio, Skrillex, Big Boi, Randy Newman, Cold War Kids, The Airbourne Toxic Event, Elbow, Fitz & The Tantrums, The Walkmen and Chiddy Bang are also on deck for the event. The Austin City Limits Festival will take place from September 16-18 in the city's Zilker Park.

"The essence of ACL has always been eclectic," says C3 partner and head Talent Buyer Charles Attal. "We're incredibly proud to offer something for every kind of music lover, and bring so many people together on stage, as well as in the park."

"What started out as a great show has turned into a truly special, quintessentially Austin experience," added Charlie Jones, Partner at C3 Presents. "The city, the people and the park, have all helped shape the festival, and in turn, we see the festival helping to shape the city. Together, we've created something to be proud of."

CASSIDY VIOLATES PROBATION - MURDER SUSPECT?
Philadelphia-based rapper Cassidy was arrested this weekend in New Jersey on a probation violation, but is also a suspect in a murder case. Cassidy, born Barry Reese, was taken into custody with incident on Saturday in Hackensack on a warrant issued for Philadelphia police, reports one source. The warrant was for violating probation, Hackensack police said. In 2006, Cassidy was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in a West Oak Lane shooting case, and he was sentenced to 11 and a half to 23 months in jail. It was unclear why police felt Cassidy violated his probation.

CALI SWAG MEMBER SHOT AND KILLED.
Cali Swag District's M-Bone (real name: Montae Talbert) was shot and killed Sunday night. The 22-year-old rapper -- whose group is famous for its song "Teach Me How to Dougie" -- was a victim of a random drive-by shooting, TMZ reports, citing law enforcement sources. Tweeted Talbert's partner Smoove: "Ma life changed drastically in the. Blink of an eye rip mbone." Police have not yet confirmed the victim's name, but have said a young man was shot and killed in front of a liquor store in Inglewood, Calif. on La Brea Avenue at 11:32 p.m. Sunday. Other reports says two shots were fired at close range. He was taken the UCLA Medical Center shortly after and pronounced dead.

BIG BOI ADDED TO CROWN ROYAL'S CROWN LIFE.
At an evening event in New York City, Crown Royal™ announced the launch of "The Crown Life," a multi-layered campaign created to mark and celebrate life's crowning moments. On the heels of the launch of new variant, Crown Royal Black™ whisky, Crown Royal has gathered influential designers, filmmakers, and the legendary producer and artist Big Boi to release exclusive, limited-edition products and content. All artists and designers will be tasked with using their craft to create something that celebrates what "The Crown Life" means to them -- finding royalty in everyday experiences.

Big Boi has partnered with Crown Royal to develop unique content and put his own spin on the iconic Crown Royal bag. Cameras went behind the scenes to document Big Boi in compelling moments of his life and career that showcase his definition of "The Crown Life." The short film will let audiences into Big Boi's life as he performed at the 2011 Grammy Awards; inside his studio, Stankonia, as he prepares for his latest projects; and an evening out on the town in his hometown of Atlanta with stops at his favorite spots to unwind.

"Crown Royal is my drink of choice, and I'm proud to be the first to put my own spin on The Crown Life," said Big Boi. "The design of the iconic pouch, the film we've created, and the products these incredible designers produced were all inspired by how we like to commemorate life. It's about celebrating the moments that make up our everyday lives, and doing so respectfully and responsibly."

Because of his long time affection for the brand he was able to put his distinctive touch on the Crown Royal Black packaging for its Artist Signature Series. Available at retail stores June 2011, this limited-edition packaging is accented with Big Boi's signature engraved on a black velvet bag with gold lining. Additional announcements and events that further highlight "The Crown Life" initiative and showcase the importance of enjoying Crown Royal responsibly will be announced soon.

"The Crown Life is a wonderful way to mark the important moments that reflect true accomplishments in life," said Roderick Blaylock, Crown Royal Senior Brand Manager. "We've partnered with incredibly talented artists who have the ability to transform a reflection of what 'The Crown Life' means to them into the craft they are most known for. They're a perfect fit for Crown Royal and we're delighted to share their contributions to 'The Crown Life' with the world."

The Crown Life is also launching limited edition custom pieces of apparel including a Crown Royal Black exclusive Varsity Jacket by UNDRCRWN; Rocksmith sunglasses; a Pocketwatch designed by Complete Technique; and the Weekend Traveler Bag designed by Brian Wood.

Inspired by the iconic purple bag, the UNDRCRWN Varsity Jacket is made from 100% satin. The jacket displays an embroidered left chest Crown Royal Black logo and felt patches. The weekend traveler bag was made in New York and designed by Brian Wood. The overnight duffle, made of a water repellant blend bonded neoprene imported from Italy with herringbone twill straps, features a flap pocket with magnetic snaps, and includes 100% purple silk lining with gold chain print, echoing the design of the Crown Royal purple bag and gold rope. The Rocksmith sunglasses are designed in a matte black acetate unisex frame for a subtle winter shades look. The arms of the sunglasses were designed in an amber brown grain to match the shade of whisky, with a gold engraved Crown Royal panel. The Rocksmith Crown Royal sunglasses case is designed as a unique accessory bag, and when flipped inside out is a standard sunglasses cleaning fabric. Designer Complete Technique has created a limited quantity of Crown Royal Black pocket watches, Swiss-made in 10 carat yellow gold, accented with 1.8 carat black diamonds. All products have been produced in limited-edition quantities, and will be distributed exclusively to select media and industry influencers.

MOBB DEEP TO REUNITE ONSTAGE IN NEW YORK.
Mobb Deep haven't performed together in over three years, but they'll reunite onstage tonight, (May 12) in New York. "It's like riding a bike, man: Get up on it, and it's still there," Prodigy told MTV News. "It's just natural for us 'cause we do this for real. We've been doing this for a long time. "We're real dedicated to our music and dedicated to Mobb Deep and to the supporters — all our fans out there. To be gone for three years and come back, we just hop right back into it like it's nothing. We know what we got to do."

Thursday night (May 12), the Queens duo will be headlining the Best Buy Theater in Times Square, sharing the bill with the Wu-Tang Clan's Ghostface Killah and Raekwon and The Roots' Black Thought. The occasion will mark Mobb Deep's first show since Prodigy was released from prison this past March. The rapper served three years on gun charges stemming from a 2006 traffic stop.

While the time apart did affect the group, Havoc insists that everything will run smoothly. "Basically the songs is like part of our DNA; we can't forget it," he said. "It's like three years haven't even passed. As soon as we get up there, it's like we just had a show yesterday." Prodigy revealed, "Being away from Hav that long, that sh-- hurt me. So, to come back home and just start going again, it just feels great, man. It feels great to just work again." Source: Mtv

BEYONCE TO RECEIVE 2011 BILLBOARD MILLENNIUM AWARD
Beyoncé will be honored with Billboard Millennium Award at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards. The iconic performer and international star will receive the honor at the May 22 show, which will air on ABC at 8-11pm ET/PT from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. According to Billboard, the Billboard Millennium Award will recognize Beyoncé's career achievements and influence in the music industry, from her role as the frontwoman of Destiny's Child to her three-chart-topping solo albums, which have collectively earned her 16 Grammy awards and ASCAP's Pop Songwriter of the Year award. Previously, Billboard named Beyoncé its Woman of the Year in October 2009, and Top Female Artist of the Decade in December 2009.

SMIRNOFF ON DECK FOR MASTERS OF THE MIX SEASON 2
SMIRNOFF®, the world's best-selling vodka, is kicking off round two of the successful reality television show, Master of the Mix. This time, deejays in six select cities will get the chance to audition for their place in music history. Returning for Season 2, Grammy awarded producer/DJ, Just Blaze, and world famous DJ, Kid Capri are turning up the competition as they search the nation for the next Master of the Mix.

"SMIRNOFF's first endeavor into reality television was extremely rewarding, so coming back for Season 2 of Master of the Mix was a no brainer," said David Tapscott, Brand Director, SMIRNOFF. "SMIRNOFF is always looking to elevate the night while drinking responsibly and working with deejays who share that same passion is a natural fit for our brand."

Smirnoff will take it to the streets in six cities across the nation, holding open casting calls for the cast for Season 2 and giving deejays who think they have what it takes the chance to prove their skills. Auditions will begin Thursday, May 19 – Saturday, May 21 in Los Angeles, CA and continue in Houston, TX on May 25 – 27; Miami, FL on May 28 – May 30; Atlanta, GA on May 30 – June 1; New York, NY on June 1 – 3; and Detroit, MI on June 4 – 6.

The top deejays will board the tour bus and while traveling through seven cities be judged on their technical ability, track selection, originality, and crowd response. The ultimate DJ will be named the Master of the Mix and receive $250,000 in cash and prizes. Kid Capri, who deejayed for Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam and has produced sessions for Heavy D, Boogie Down Productions, and Quincy Jones, will anchor the judging booth, while the hottest musicians and notable veterans will make guest appearances throughout the season.

SNOOP DOGG AND CHARLIE SHEEN LINK UP ‘WINNING’ SINGLE TO RADIO
Charlie Sheen touched on his time in the studio with Snoop Dogg for their new joint "Winning". The former "Two and a Half Men" star caught up with E! News this week and discussed the inspiration behind the song. Sheen says the track is about more than just being successful, describing the tune as "everything in life." The actor adds that Snoop did a great job of "encapsulating" the "whole vibe" of the "winning" movement. The video for "Winning" made its debut during Charlie's recent "Violent Torpedo of Truth Tour," but the track will finally be made available for purchase via iTunes. Sheen will be donating part of the proceeds to his foundation "Torpedos Against Tornados," which is helping the victims of the recent tornadoes that have hit the South.

L.A. NOIRE REMIX EP - ROCK STAR GAMES AND VERVE RECORDS
The future meets the past not only in the groundbreaking new videogame L.A. Noire developed by Rockstar Games (Grand Theft Auto IV, Red Dead Redemption) and Team Bondi, but also in the EP spin-off, that brings together the soundtrack’s classic jazz with some of today’s hottest and most acclaimed DJs, producers and remixers.

L.A. Noire Remixed will be released digitally May 17, 2011, and features six ‘30s-‘40s gems from jazz greats Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Jordan, Dinah Washington, Gene Krupa and Lionel Hampton, remixed by Dave Sitek (TV on the Radio), DJ Premier (Jay-Z, 50 Cent, Kanye West), Truth & Soul (Amy Winehouse, Aloe Blacc, Adele), Ticklah (Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings), Midnight Sun (production duo of Midnight Magic and Jessica 6) and Detroit techno/house innovator Moodymann.

The latest installment in the Verve Remixed series, the EP was inspired by the timeless songs in the game. L.A. Noire is a crime thriller that follows a young detective in 1947 Los Angeles as solves cases and rises through the ranks of the LAPD in one of the most violent and corrupt years in the city’s history. L.A. Noire will be released on May 17 for PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

ILL BILL VS VINNIE PAZ TOUR ON DECK
The Heavy Metal Kings Tour is a unique opportunity to catch ILL Bill (La Coka Nostra) and Vinnie Paz (Jedi Mind Tricks) performing live together in the UK with a set list that will feature songs spanning more than a decade's worth of indie hip hop classics from their combined catalogs, including songs from their solo albums as well as tracks from Jedi Mind Tricks, Non-Phixion, La Coka Nostra, Army of the Pharaohs, and their new Heavy Metal Kings album.

In two strikingly similar careers that seem to parallel each other at every turn, these charismatic rappers have forged bodies of work that are some of the most respected in hip hop. Bloody tracks, devastated mics and shattered perceptions have all been left in the wake of these two dynamic MCs. Bill and Paz are well known for a penchant for heavy beats and viciously rugged rhymes; both are known for their incendiary live performances, and this was an inevitable collision.

Both MCs have followed similar, unrelenting paths to their current destinations; each having garnered heavy respect throughout the '90s during a prolific period of independent Hip Hop. Bill with Uncle Howie Records and Paz with his home-grown Enemy Soil Records. From the '90s into the new millennium, Ill Bill and Paz produced a string of underground classics with Paz's memorable work as the long-time leader of Philadelphia's Jedi Mind Tricks and Bill's Brooklyn-bred powerhouse Non Phixion. Both groups were responsible for creating music that has since been described as classic: Non Phixion's The Future is Now and JMT's Violent By Design. Paz and Bill have also launched successful solo careers and have put in work with supergroups such as Paz's battle-tested outfit Army of the Pharaohs, and Ill Bill's collective of legendary MCs: La Coka Nostra.

Like their name, The Heavy Metal Kings display all the slick, rhythmical timings of Hip Hop while incorporating the adrenaline and utter desecration of Metal. Together their vision and sound are allowed the full breadth of expression and the sound result is a collection of music that lives up to its name with the kind of blood-curdling sonic bombast that is only found in genres like Heavy Metal and Hardcore.

London
Dates: Wednesday 11th May 2011 Times: 19:00 - 23:00
Venue: The Underworld, 174 Camden High Street, NW1 0NE
Support: Rhyme Asylum, Grit Grammar & Phoenix DaIcefire
Tickets: £17 in advance - SeeTickets, Ticketline, Stargreen, TicketWeb, Skiddle, & The Underworld

Manchester
Dates: Thursday 12th May 2011 Times: 19:00 - 23:00
Venue: Moho Live, Tib Street, M4 1SH
Support: Rhyme Asylum, D'Lyfa Reilly & United Blood
Tickets: £16 in advance -Ticketline, Skiddle, Picadilly Records, Eastern Bloc

BIG WILL REPPIN ASIAN HIP HOP
Will "Big Will" Zhong, born November 5, 1984 is an Asian American entrepreneur, entertainment producer and music artist. The name "Big Will" was a name given by his close friends.

In April of 2011, Big Will released his biggest single up to date, "Anything You Like," through Rude Boy (his record label), the first single from his new upcoming album. A music video was also released as a follow up to the song which is creating international buzz. For more information on Rude Boy, please visit www.rudeboyforever.com.

Big Will not a new name in the music department. With the release of his debut album Man In The Mirror in 2010, he has definitely made his mark as a pioneer and top selling Asian American entertainer. Along with the album, his first radio single, "So Hot In Here" was released prior in 2008.

In 2010, his fourth commercial hit "I Can Tell," released under WWS Music Group reached great success world wide including Asia and Europe; with a heavy radio impact in the U.S. and overseas

DRAKE FILLS IN FOR KANYE WEST - TAKES PAY CUT.
Former NBC honcho Jeff Zucker threw a lavish bar mitzvah at the Four Seasons over the weekend for his son Andrew. Sources said the Zucker family at first wanted Kanye West to perform at the party -- but West demanded $1 million for the gig. Sources said organizers balked at West's price and briefly considered offering him $800,000, but instead went with the more reasonably priced Drake. So instead, Drake filled in for alot less..

The bash, cost well over an estimated $250,000, included a performance by rapper Drake, "tremendous" food and fine wines -- and customized Converse sneakers handed out as gifts to guests.

Fifty of Andrew's friends dined on sushi, smoked salmon, macaroni and cheese and a raw bar in the restaurant's Grill Room, usually filled with titans of business during normal lunch hours. (We're assuming Andrew got one of the power banquettes along the wall reserved for the Four Seasons' top VIPs.) Grown-up guests, including Katie Couric, dined on rack of lamb, roast chicken, steak, asparagus and "every type of pasta you could think of," during the rocking event. The kids also enjoyed a photo booth, an iPad station where they could, say, update their Facebook statuses, a bracelet-making lounge and a customized-phone-cover station. Source: NY post

LUPE FIASCO PERFORMED INTIMATE SHOW.
Lupe Fiasco performed an intimate, half-hour show the other night at the P.C. Richard & Son Theater in TriBeCa as part of Clear Channel's iHeartRadio Live series. "People know me to be the backpack rapper, the skateboard dude," Fiasco said. "They know me to be, like, the weird dude, the Muslim rapper, whatever. But they also know me as the political rapper, spin that social commentary we need that at times like these." Fiasco knows about politics . . . he very publicly groused about Atlantic Records' interference in advance of his latest release, "Lasers."

WARNER MUSIC SELLS FOR 3.3 BILLION!
Warner Music has been bought by an industrial group whose holdings range from oil and aluminium firms to the UK's Top Up TV. Access Industries, run by Russian born billionaire Len Blavatnik, paid $3.3bn in cash for the world's third largest music firm. The purchase includes WMG's entire recorded music and music publishing businesses. Blavatnik beat out more than a dozen other suitors including Sony Music Group, supermarket magnate Ron Burkle, Platinum Equity, Live Nation Entertainment and investment firm Kohlberg Kravis & Roberts, whose unsolicited offer late last year kicked off the auction process. KKR's partner in the bidding was German music company Bertelsmann. The deal calls for Warner to receive $8.25 per share, a 34% premium over the company's average stock price over the last six weeks, the company said. It's also 75% higher than Warner's closing price on Jan. 20, the day before the New York Times published news of the bidding. Warner's share closed at $7.90 on Thursday.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, WMG's stockholders will receive $8.25 per share in cash at the closing of the transaction. WMG's Board of Directors approved the transaction and recommended that WMG's stockholders approve the transaction. In addition to stockholder approval, the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. It is anticipated that the transaction will be completed in the third calendar quarter of this year.

WMG Chairman/CEO Edgar Bronfman, Jr. said, "We believe this transaction is an exceptional value-maximizing opportunity that serves the best interests of stockholders as well as the best interests of music fans, our recording artists and songwriters, and the wonderful people of this company. We are delighted that Access will be the new steward of this outstanding business. They are supportive of the company's vision, growth strategy and artists, while bringing a fresh entrepreneurial perspective and expertise in technology and media. Most importantly, Access supports Warner Music's commitment to our recording artists and songwriters who are the foundation of our current and future success."

Len Blavatnik, Chairman and founder of Access Industries, said, "I am excited to extend my longstanding involvement with Warner Music. It is a great company with a strong heritage and home to many exceptional artists. I look forward to working closely with the many talented people within the company."

Jorg Mohaupt, Head of Media at Access Industries, added, "The music industry is at an inflection point where digital adoption is rapidly gaining momentum. Warner Music, as one of the most progressive forces in the music business, is well positioned to capture this opportunity for music creation and distribution."

Scott Sperling, Presiding Director of WMG, said, "It has been our great pleasure working with the extraordinary team at Warner Music over these past seven years. The company has managed to significantly increase market share and profitability during our ownership period and consistently outperformed even during a challenging period for the industry. Len Blavatnik and Access are likewise deeply committed to the music business and we know that we will be leaving the company in good hands."

Following the closing of the transaction, WMG will become a privately held company and its stock will no longer be traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The company will retain the Warner Music Group name and will continue to operate out of its current facilities. Thomas H. Lee Partners L.P. and its affiliates, Bain Capital Partners, LLC and its affiliates, and Edgar Bronfman, Jr., who together hold approximately 56 percent of the company's outstanding shares, have entered into a voting agreement with Access under which those stockholders have agreed to vote their shares in favor of the merger.

MTV CHAIRMAN STEPS DOWN.
Viacom announced that Judy McGrath is resigning from her position as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of its MTV Networks division. No successor will be named. McGrath, who began her career with the company as a copywriter at MTV in 1981, was named Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks in July 2004.

"The people of MTV Networks have always been singularly important to me. Together we have built world-class brands that connect with fans from kid to adulthood, from SpongeBob to Hot In Cleveland, from Unplugged to The Daily Show. We have attracted and nurtured the best talent in the world, and I know that will always be a hallmark of the company. Creatively, financially, all the brands and businesses are in wonderful shape today. I leave with pride, joy and gratitude for the ride of a lifetime. I especially thank my friends and colleagues on the senior team, who will continue to lead a kick-ass organization. They have my respect and affection, always," McGrath said in a statement.

With the departure of McGrath, the executives in charge of MTV Networks' operating units: Doug Herzog, President, MTVN Entertainment Group; Van Toffler, President, MTVN Music & Logo Group; and Cyma Zarghami, President, Nickelodeon & MTVN Kids & Family Group, will report directly to Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman.

KURUPT, JAYO FELONY, SIR JINX, MC EIHT, THA CHILL, GANGSTA, KING T, AND DJ BATTLECAT ALIGN FOR NEW GROUP - 1ST GENERATION - Los Angeles radio station KDAY hosted the West Coast old school reunion show, Krush Groove, last week at the Gibson Amphitheater marking the official introductory performance of the West coast powerhouse group 1st Generation. Comprised of West coast legends Kurupt, Jayo Felony, MC Eiht, Chill, Gangsta, King T, Sir Jinx and DJ Battlecat, 1st Generation is an amalgamation of some of the most critically acclaimed emcee's and producers in West coast history.

The new indie label, Uneek Music is setting the standard of excellence with 1st Generation as the lead project coming from the label. The group is the brainchild of members Tha Chill (Compton's Most Wanted) and Gangsta, (Tha Comrads) who began reaching out to their circle of friends about reuniting the West and once the word had spread the "Magnificent 7," as Chill describes them, answered the call. "We wanted to do something massive for the coast." says Chill, "So we had to figure out which attitudes and talent could mix and make the group work, and once we got off the phone with the homies, we met at Kurupt's house and made the first song, and all the professional creative ideas meshed and we knew we were on the right track."

With dynamic producer/DJ Battlecat on board bringing the sound of the West and the art of djing from the infamous KDAY Mixmasters and Uncle Jams Army days, 1st Generation is reflective of the entire culture. The first single "Killing Me Softly" delivers bar after bar of ether as each artist shows how they gained a place in West coast's multi platinum catalogue of hits.

"When you feel like something is right then it feels natural." explains Jayo Felony of his involvement in the group. "The streets have been wanting this for a long time for us all to come together and regardless of where we're all from or what our backgrounds are, we're all on a positive note and we're trying to push the line and stop some this bullsh** that's going on in these streets. I'm a little older now and a lot more mature than I was when I came in the game but I know that all of us coming together as one, helps to makes us as individuals bigger by being a part of a group like this."

Currently represented by Uneek Music, the group is fielding deal offers but until they find a permanent home they plan to keep feeding the people what they want with that good classic music. Everyone in this group is going to drop something so spectacular every time it drops that its ridiculous" says Kurupt, "Everyone on this team has perfected their craft and that's what makes us the first generation of this game.We all have made an imprint on this game and helped to make the west coast rap scene what it is today."

Uneek Music was founded by industry vet and community activist Eugene “Big U” Henley. The label houses an arsenal of new and upcoming talent from across the country and is currently looking for acts in all genres to join the fold. Notable releases coming soon from Uneek Music include R&B Singer Sydney Arcane, and rappers Spiffie, Paccman, Sandman Neguse, Short Stop and Blu Sky, Rezee The Boss of Watts, Buc Adam, and Krita-Cali Acclaimed.

B.O.M.B. FEST GOIN DOWN.
Artists on Deck: Snoop Dogg Wiz Khalifa Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Weezer, Coheed And Cambria, Neon Trees, State Radio, George Clinton & Parliament/Funkadelic, The New Pornographers, Shpongle presents The Shpongletron Experience, Against Me!, Best Coast, HEALTH, RJD2, Titus Andronicus, The Cool Kids, Wavves, EOTO, Portugal. The Man, Man Man, Dum Dum Girls, The Felice Brothers, Dam-Funk, Freelance Whales, Holy F**k, and tons more...

Taking place on May 28-29 at the Comcast Theatre in Hartford, CT, B.O.M.B. Fest will unite local bands across the East Coast in one place for festival patrons. Featuring a diverse group of bands that range from alternative hip-hop to angular post punk, B.O.M.B. Fest’s local stage will bring together bands from across the musical spectrum. With local acts performing side-by-side with likes of Weezer, Snoop Dogg, and Wiz Khalifa throughout the festival, this robust local talent will give the East Coast a musical experience unlike any other to come before it.

Returning for it’s third year to Connecticut, B.O.M.B. Fest is the brainchild of Frank Bombaci, Sr. and Frank Bombaci, Jr., who have dedicated themselves to providing the East Coast with a premiere music festival that focuses not only on the best national talent, but also on the budding stars that will eventually follow in their footsteps. Long-time supporters of local music, the Bombacis have followed this vision since the festival’s beginning in 2008. " Live local music is a very focused part of the overall non-profit mission of Bring Our Music Back Inc!” Frank Bombaci Sr. said. “There are amazing talented young musicians that need to be heard and we take pride in incorporating that mission into B.O.M.B. Fest.”

In addition to national and local talent, festival guests will also experience delicious food vendors, unique craft stations, and one-of a kind art installations, all complemented by Comcast Theatre’s professional amenities — clean bathrooms, spacious parking lots and state-of-the-art sound systems. And all proceeds from this year’s festival will got towards providing music scholarships, music enrichment and education programs, music and healing initiatives and community support and outreach. Last year’s festival raised money for The Hole in the Wall Gang Camps, Connecticut Children's Hospital, YPI Camp, and The Lyman Allyn Museum.

WAKA FLOCKA CLEARED ON DRUG CHARGES
A grand jury has reportedly cleared rapper Waka Flocka Flame of all drug charges stemming from a raid on his Georgia home late last year due to a lack of evidence. Atlanta police went to the rapper's home on Dec. 16, 2010, according to TMZ, and after confiscating a number of illegal items, issued an arrest warrant for him.

The rapper, whose real name is Juaquin Malphurs, faced charges of possessing marijuana and a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possessing a firearm during a crime. The rapper was also charged with breaking the state's anti-gang laws and violating probation for driving on a suspended license. The non-drug charges were dropped before the case went before the grand jury, according to TMZ. He was on probation for a charge of possession of a sawed-off shotgun.

HALLE BERRY AND FERGIE TO RECEIVE PRESTIGIOUS PERFUME AWARDS.
The Fragrance Foundation hosts VIP's from the fragrance industry as well as superstars from stage, screen and TV at annual FiFi® Awards Celebration. Over 800 guests mix and mingle with the outstanding talents being honored on May 25th at Lincoln Center. 38 coveted crystal statuettes will be awarded, recognizing their inspirational contributions to the fragrance industry. Attending this year's celebration and receiving FiFi® Awards are:

Halle Berry, WHO IS NAMED 2011 FiFi® Fragrance Celebrity of the Year Award

This award, presented by the Foundation's Board of Directors is to honor a celebrity who has embraced and promoted the world of fragrance over a period of time. It celebrates the ongoing success and support given by the celebrity to the industry and therefore attracting consumers to the category. Academy Award winning actress, beauty and fashion icon, Halle Berry has created a collection of fragrances that have all been infused with her unique vision and favorite ingredients. "For years I have created my own personal scents by mixing and layering fragrances, trying to come up with something unique and different. It's a wonderful form of self-expression and I am thrilled to share these fragrances with consumers worldwide," said Ms. Berry. "I am very honored to receive this FiFi® award. I truly believe that fragrance makes women feel beautiful and confident."

Fergie, WHO IS NAMED 2011 FiFi® New Fragrance Celebrity of the Year Award

Selected by the Foundation's Board of Directors, this award recognizes a celebrity whose very first fragrance has enjoyed instant success with the consumer and brought recognition to the fragrance category. Inspired by the multi-talented star's spontaneous attitude and belief in herself, "It feels unbelievable for me to have the biggest launch in Avon's history," explains Fergie. "I am extremely passionate about my projects and put a lot of energy into the development and execution-- Outspoken was no exception. I'm so excited to be receiving the FiFi® "New Fragrance Celebrity of the Year" award, and it feels amazing to be honored by the industry."

FREE BLACK EYED PEAS CONCERT ON DECK.
Chase Presents The Black Eyed Peas in a Free Ticketed Concert at Central Park to Benefit the Robin Hood Foundation on June 9. This is a ticketed event – all concertgoers must have a ticket to enter and backpacks and other carry alongs are not permitted. 54,000 free tickets will be available only through random giveaway beginning on May 11. A small number of VIP tickets will be available for sale. Tickets are limited to ensure the safety of all fans attending the event.

"We are thrilled to follow in the footsteps of icons such as Simon & Garfunkel and Diana Ross by performing a free concert for our fans in Central Park," said Fergie. "But more importantly, we are performing to benefit Robin Hood's efforts to help those living in poverty in New York City and to help disadvantaged youth in New York with the launch of our Peapod Academy."

The concert will raise funds and awareness for Robin Hood, a public charity targeting poverty in New York City by funding and partnering with the best and most effective programs. Robin Hood's grants and guidance support food pantries, homeless shelters, health clinics and provide work-force training for impoverished New Yorkers in the five boroughs. As part of the partnership with The Black Eyed Peas, Robin Hood will fund the opening of three Peapod Academies in New York City over the coming years, which will support disadvantaged youth in New York City by providing music and artistic education, such as music engineering and mixing and video editing, among other opportunities.

"Robin Hood is humbled by the commitment of The Black Eyed Peas and Chase to help the 1.8 million people in New York City that fall below the poverty line," said David Saltzman, Executive Director of Robin Hood. "As six-time Grammy Award winners and 30+ million album sellers, The Peas are superstars in the global music industry and Central Park provides the perfect stage for them to help us raise awareness and funds for our neighbors in need."

"Live music has a rich tradition in Central Park and we are pleased to add the Black Eyed Peas to a list that already includes Barbra Streisand, Elton John and Sting, among many others," said Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe. "This free concert on the historic Great Lawn celebrates the best of New York City and will help Robin Hood continue its work to fight poverty."

As the exclusive radio partner, Clear Channel will promote the concert on-air through ticket giveaways and public service announcements across five of Clear Channel's New York City Stations: Z100, 103.5 KTU, Q104.3, 106.7 Lite FM and Power 105.1. The Concert 4 NYC is being produced by Robin Hood in association with William Derella and David Sonenberg of DAS Communications, Ltd., the management company for The Black Eyed Peas.

WARNER MUSIC DEAL TO CLOSE THIS WEEK?
Final buyout bids for Warner Music Group are due today, Monday May 2 and the company could be sold by the end of this week in a deal valued at over $3 billion, according to Industry Insiders.. The third round of bids is led by two competing financial groups Len Blavatnik's Access Industry and a joint bid by Tom and Alec Gores' Platinum Equity and Gores Group, according to sources. The Warner Music sale process is taking place against a backdrop of ongoing declines in music sales as executives struggle to figure out new business models to guarantee the future of the industry. While Warner Music continues to generate reasonable levels of cash on its balance sheet -- a key metric for investors -- it will still be seen as a risky investment in a very tough market.

Two weeks ago the second-round bids came in around $3 billion according to three people who asked not to be named as the process is confidential. Ron Burkle's Yucaipa Co, dropped out of the bidding late last week, the first person said. Matching bids from two major music names fell short of what Warner's board was looking for from strategic buyers in the second round but there is still a chance that rival music companies will be involved at a later stage in picking over some of Warner Music assets.

While the final round bids are due early this week, there is no certainty a deal will get done, the first person said. All of the parties declined to comment.

Warner Music's board effectively put itself up for sale in January when it appointed Goldman Sachs and AGM Partners to assess interest from external parties. Since then its shares have risen nearly 60 percent to $7.47 at the end last week. One reason why the Warner Music board is open to moving ahead with financial bidders is because it fears an expensive delay in the process by regulators if the company is bought by another music company, the first source said.

Regulators have denied music deals in the past including at least one of several attempts to combine Warner Music and EMI over the last decade. Warner's board, led by Chief Executive Edgar Bronfman, had demanded a premium from the music companies for their second-round bids. BMG Music Rights, a joint music venture between German media giant Bertelsmann and private equity firm KKR, gave up on staying in the bidding process early last week declining to raise its bid any higher.

BMG Music could still be involved in the process said a third person, but it is now likely to wait till the end to see who wins out and then try to see what publishing assets it might be able to buy from the new owners. Sony Corp is also still on the sidelines of the process, according to another source. But it faces the same high hurdles from Warner's board. "The key issues for Warner Music's board are price and simplicity of the transaction process," said one of the people familiar with the talks.

RICK ROSS TO WALK PACMAN IN THE RING.
Rick Ross is set to walk Manny Pacquiao to the ring for his May 7 fight with Shane Mosley. "I'm walking homie to the ring..MAYBACH7TH!! PACQUIAO SELFMADE!!" Ross tweeted. Ross has engaged in feuds with both Floyd Mayweather, Pacquiao’s main rival, and Mayweather’s close friend 50 Cent in the past. This will be the first time Pacquiao has done a ring walk with a rapper. At press time, neiher Pacquiao or Ross has said what music will be used.

BONE-THUG-N-HARMONY HIT WITH A 27 MILLION DOLLAR LAWSUIT.
Bone Thugs-n-Harmony are facing a $27 million lawsuit from a former associate (Roland Brown) who alleges he is owed royalties. The suit was filed last week, Thursday (April 28), in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and in it, the group is being accused of breach of contract over unpaid songwriting royalties from the 1996 Bone spin-off Mo Thugs album, ‘Mo Thugs Family Scriptures.’ Brown claims that he was never paid for two songs on the platinum-selling album, “Take Your Time” and “Here With Me,” both of which were performed by disbanded female R&B group Tre. While it is unclear exactly what the plaintiff’s contribution was, Brown is listed in the May 31, 1997 issue of Billboard Magazine as a songwriter on an extremely varied list of tracks, including ‘In My Bed’ by Dru Hill, ‘Nothin’ but the Cavi Hit’ by Mack 10 & Tha Dogg Pound, and ‘The Ultimate’ by Artifacts.

2011 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS ON DECK WITH NICKI MINAJ, CEE LO, RIHANNA, J-LO, AND BEP.
Nicki Minaj and Cee Lo have been added to the lineup of performers scheduled to take the stage at the upcoming Billboard Music Awards. Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and the Black Eyed Peas, along with Miami rapper Pitbull were booked earlier this month to take the stage for the 2011 Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 22.

The 2011 Billboard Music Awards will air on ABC live from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, in partnership with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. The announcement was made by Richard D. Beckman, CEO of Prometheus Global Media, which owns Billboard. The show is scheduled to air on Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 and will become one of the most important music forums for artists on television. The live broadcast will be co-executive produced by Mr. Beckman and Don Mischer of Don Mischer Productions. "This show marks the first of several broadcast platforms we plan to build around the Billboard franchise," said Beckman. "We have an incredible network partner and with Don Mischer, one of the finest producers in the world. We look forward to entertaining music fans with Billboard's own rendition of a televised celebration of music."

The Billboard Music Awards will take a holistic look at artist performance based on key fan interactions with music, including album, single and digital sales, touring, streaming and social interactions on MySpace, Facebook and many of the other most popular online destinations for music. These measurements are tracked year-round by Billboard and it's data partners.

The awards will be based on the reporting period of February 28, 2010 through March 1, 2011. Top artists will be recognized in a variety of genres, for example R&B, Rap, Pop, Country, Rock, Latin and Alternative. Such recognition will be determined and authenticated by Billboard.

"We're thrilled to partner with Billboard on the Billboard Music Awards. ABC is already the destination for such prestigious music events as The American Music Awards and The CMA Awards, and we're proud the Billboard Music Awards will now be calling us their home," said Vicki Dummer, SVP, Alternative Series, Specials and Late Night, ABC Entertainment Group. "We see this marquee event as a valuable asset and perfect opportunity for us to launch in May."

"Las Vegas is a world-class destination known for hosting special events," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Millions of visitors enjoy our entertainment offerings every year and having the Billboard Music Awards return to Las Vegas gives them one more reason to visit."

GUINESS BOOK FREESTYLE RECORD GETS BROKE.
Guiness Book of World Records have opened the books for Chidera “Chiddy” Anamege of the hip-hop group Chiddy Bang. He broke the Guinness World Record for the longest freestyle. Chiddy freestyled non-stop for nine hours 18 minutes and 22 seconds. Before it all went down, He said, "I just gotta get a good night's rest, eat a healthy breakfast," he said. "The rest should just be history. We're just gonna try to make it and break it at the same time." The current record was for nine hours, 15 minutes and 15 seconds and was held by a rapper named M-Eighty out of Indianapolis. PEEP THE FREESTYLE HERE

PRODIGY GIVES JAY-Z A BEATDOWN?
Prodigy of Mobb Deep revealed to the audience during a book signing in Washington D.C. with author/professor Michael Eric Dyson, that he once almost gave Jay-Z a beat down outside of Justin’s Restaurant in New York City. “We surrounded the front door so he couldn’t get out without seeing us. So I’m standing there waiting to see him and finally he comes from back somewhere,” said Prodigy. “Him and Jermaine Dupri come walking. Jermaine sees us and he was out. Jay’s standing there with two bodyguards approaching us… SEE THE FOOTAGE HERE

ASCAP NAMES SONGWRITERS OF THE YEAR.
Lukasz "Dr. Luke" Gottwald and Max Martin were named songwriters of the year at the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers' 28th annual Pop Music Awards on Wednesday night. The duo tied for writing five of the most performed songs of 2010, including "California Gurls" (Katy Perry with Snoop Dogg), "Dynamite" (Taio Cruz) and "Teenage Dream" (Perry). Dr. Luke also won for Miley Cyrus' "Party in the USA" and "Tik Tok" by Ke$ha, who presented his award. Martin also won for "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love" by Usher with Pitbull and "Whataya Want From Me" by Adam Lambert. Lambert presented to Martin, who made a rare appearance to accept the award. Dr. Luke has had 20 No. 1 songs in the past five years and has received 17 ASCAP Awards, including songwriter of the year last year, while Martin previously won the award in 1999, 2000 and 2001. The ceremony took place at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

BEYONCE SLAPPED WITH $100 MILLION LAWSUIT
Beyonce was slapped with a $100 million lawsuit this week accusing her of being the “diva grinch” who ruined Christmas. The singer was sued in Manhattan Supreme Court by video game company Gate Five, which teamed up with her for a dance game called “Starpower: Beyoncé.” The game was due out this November, the suit says, but went belly-up when Beyonce asked for more money last December. The suit calls it “a bad faith breach of contract so callous that, she destroyed Gate Five’s business, and drove 70 people into unemployment, the week before Christmas.” Gate Five CEO told The Post’s Dareh Gregorian, “It was a very shocking and disappointing turn of events that no one saw coming, and now we’re all trying to pick up the pieces.” The suit claims that Beyoncé had “already negotiated lavish compen sation” for the game, made an “extortionate de mand for entirely new compensation” at a “crucial moment in the project’s develop ment,” causing the main financier to back out. Reps for Beyoncé did not get back to us.

EMI’S FAMILY RAISE $940,000 TO SUPPORT JAPANESE RED CROSS DISASTER RELIEF EFFORTS
An auction of exclusive personal items and memorabilia donated by EMI’s family of artists and songwriters has raised $940,000 in funds to help the Red Cross support people affected by last month’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The charity auction, which launched on eBay’s worldwide sites on April 5, attracted bids totaling $470,000 from music fans around the world. All the money from winning bidders will be doubled through a donation by EMI.

EMI Group CEO Roger Faxon commented: “What a wonderful result!! It was made possible by the extraordinary generosity of so many members of the EMI family, artists, songwriters, friends and staff alike. It has been a privilege for all of us at EMI to have participated in this effort to raise money to help the people of Japan who have suffered so much.”

An original Birkin handbag, donated by Jane Birkin and used by the actress and singer for many years, raised more than $163,000 at the auction. A 1987 Ferrari, owned by Daft Punk and used in their movie ‘Electroma’ raised almost $42,000, while a diamante costume head used by DJ and producer Deadmau5 was won with a bid of more than $19,000. Much sought-after items sold at the auction also included a Steinway grand piano used by artists including Bono and Eric Clapton ($14,878), a jacket worn by Chris Martin onstage during Coldplay’s Viva La Vida world tour ($14,060), a private dinner with Herbert Grönemeyer ($10,792), signed copies of David Bowie’s entire catalogue ($10,138), handwritten lyrics by Brian Wilson to ‘God Only Knows’ and a platinum album for the Beach Boys’ ‘Pet Sounds’ ($7,643), a day on tour with Simple Minds ($6,891), an original handmade "ZERO" shirt worn by the Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan ($6,744), an original painting from Iron Maiden ($6,466), a cupcake trampoline used onstage on Katy Perry’s current ‘California Dreams’ tour ($5,075), and a signed guitar offered by Japanese musician Miyavi ($8,992).

The auction was supported by more than 200 artists including 30 Seconds To Mars, Aaron Neville, Alice In Chains, Angela Gheorghiu, Anne Murray, Arcade Fire, B-52s, Bat For Lashes, Beastie Boys, The Beatles, Billy Idol, Bret Michaels, Celtic Woman, The Chemical Brothers, Chris Tomlin, Corinne Bailey Rae, Darius Rucker, David Crowder Band, David Gilmour, David Guetta, Dean Martin, Depeche Mode, Dierks Bentley, Duffy, Duran Duran, Eric Church, Family Force 5, A Fine Frenzy, Good Charlotte, Gorillaz, Hot Chip, Helene Fischer, Huey Lewis & The News, Immodesty Blaize, Jeff Bridges, JLS, Jonas Brothers, Juan Luis Guerra, Julien Clerc, Keith Urban, Keren Ann, The Kooks, Kylie Minogue, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan, Lykke Li, Marisa Monte, Megadeth, Melanie C, Michael Franti, Norah Jones, Pat Benatar, Pet Shop Boys, Philippe Jaroussky, Priscilla Ahn, The Prodigy, Professor Green, Raphael, Rosanne Cash, Scouting For Girls, Selena, Sick Puppies, Simply Red, Slash, Sting, Tinie Tempah, Tiziano Ferro, Vasco Rossi, VV Brown and Willie Nelson.

EMINEM ON DECK FOR LOLLAPALOOZA.
Perry Farrell has pulled out all the stops for the 20th anniversary of his Lollapalooza festival, and has booked Eminem as one of the headliners. The big event, takes place at Chicago's Grant Park from August 5 to 7, also will feature Cee Lo Green, Deadmau5, Damian Marley & Nas, Big Audio Dynamite, Deftones, and many, many more. This year will mark the first ever Lollapalooza appearance for Eminem. Speaking about Eminem, Farrell told MTV, "He's always put together great productions for his shows, and this is something that we look for at Lollapalooza — not just to go out there and perform, but to really give a show." As for the Foos, Farrell said he expects to see "blood, sweat, guts and hair."

"I'd say the biggest evolution, shall we say, in Grant Park this year is going to be the 'Perry's Area.' I kind of smile, because they have previously called it 'Perry's Lounge.' I don't know where they got this 'lounge' tag to it," he explained. "It's the dance tent, and it will house 15,000 people. So 15,000 fist-pumping people in a lounge there to see people like Steve Angello and Joachim Garraud — that's a place you're going to want to hang out throughout the weekend."

EMINEM GOES DOUBLE DIAMOND! MAKES HISTORY.
The Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem’s sophomore album, released on Aftermath/Interscope Records, has officially received the diamond certification from the RIAA. Released in May 2000, and selling 1.7 million units in the first week of sales alone, the certification means that the LP sold more than 10 million units in the U.S. alone. The Eminem Show, (Em's third album for Aftermath/Interscope), also went diamond. This recent certification makes Eminem the only artist in rap history with two diamond plaques.

ELZHI RIDES NAS’ “ILLMATIC” INTO A CLASSIC OF HIS VERY OWN WITH “ELMATIC”
To say that Elzhi’s “ELmatic” has been a labor of love would be an understatement. The idea was first broached years ago by DJ House Shoes and discussed and bandied about incessantly since. Though the concept was unrealized for what seemed like ages; years went by, life got in the way, recording and touring with Slum Village got in the way and as more time passed, desperate fans continued to wait (albeit impatiently) for news and updates on the project.

Well, at last, the long wait is over, as Elzhi has finally completed “ELmatic” and the long-wait fans endured will prove to be well-worth it, as Elzhi will release the project for free on 5-10-2011; the LP is being released for free by Elzhi as a dedication to his fans for their patience.

Nas tributes have been done before, but it’s safe to say, never in the manner in which Elzhi attacks it. “ELmatic” is a game-changing effort on a few different levels, not only is it genre-defying, but it finds Elzhi in his lyrical prime and rather then expressing himself over Nas’ original instrumentals, Elzhi enlisted the famous Detroit ensemble Will Sessions (a six-piece band who has cultivated a reputation in the Detroit area for being able to meticulously replay Nas’ instrumentals from scratch and who produced the endeavor) and recorded the entire project with only live-instrumentation, which gives the project an undeniably plush and unique sound and dare we say even adds an updated flair to the original’s hall-of-fame lineup of producers. These new flourishes can be heard as Will Sessions add even more instrumental interludes (sometimes mid-track) and over special drops from artists such as Pete Rock and DJ House Shoes. While guest features are sparse, Royce 5’9 and Mint Condition’s Stokely both grace “Life’s A Bitch” and Amp Fiddler plays keyboards on “The World is Yours”.

While immersing himself into the recording of “ELmatic,” Elzhi underwent a series of professional and personal struggles that have made this project even more gratifying for him. After a nearly decade long stint as a member of the beloved group Slum Village and numerous hit singles (including “Selfish” f/Kanye West and John Legend and “Tainted” f/Dwele ) in July of 2010 Elzhi was forced to re-start his solo career after discovering a variety of unfair business practices by Slum Village’s record label and T3. These professional and personal trails and tribulations are certainly an audible under-current on “ELmatic,” as it gives the project that much more urgency and edge; and undisputable air of rebirth.

With the support of his new management by music executive and artist manager Jae Barber of The JAE.B Group and Will Sessions “ELmatic” is finally completed. Fans can anticipate a newly reinvigorated Elzhi and one who is anxious to share his talents with the world. PEEP DETROIT STATE OF MIND HERE

EMINEM AND ROYCE 5'9" RETURN TOGETHER FOR NEW PROJECT.
The Bad Meets Evil teaming in the late '90s of underground Detroit MC's Eminem and Royce da 5'9" became a rap legend of unfulfilled promise. Now, a decade after they last recorded together, Eminem and Royce da 5'9" have revived their Bad Meets Evil project, today officially announcing that an EP on Shady/Interscope Records will be released June 14th.

"Royce and I started hanging out again and inevitably that led us back into the studio," said Eminem. "At first we were just seeing where it went without any real goal in mind, but the songs started to come together crazy, so here we are."

Added Royce, "I'm excited to see this project come to fruition considering the long lapse in time between when we worked before and now. We had a blast doing it and we just hope everyone enjoys it while we're working on the 'Monster' that will be the Slaughterhouse album. #TeamShady."

The two first met in 1997 at a concert in Detroit and soon formed Bad Meets Evil (Royce as Bad and Eminem as Evil). But they released just a few recordings, including the song "Bad Meets Evil" on Eminem's major label debut, The Slim Shady LP and a heralded independent Bad Meets Evil 12" featuring the now underground classic, "Scary Movies." The pair went their separate ways in their solo careers only to be separated by a reluctant feud, thus making it the last time they would be heard together for several years. Sadness over the tragic shooting death of mutual friend Proof in 2006 led to mended fences with Eminem's group D12, which prompted an eventual reconciliation between the two rappers. Eminem and Royce were finally once again on speaking terms after Royce was featured on D12's 2008 mixtape Return Of The Dozen and later went on tour with the group.

Since then, Royce has continued his acclaimed solo career (three of his four officially released albums, most recently 2009's Street Hop, have cracked the Top 40 R&B/Hip-hop chart). With rap stalwarts Joe Budden, Crooked I and Joell Ortiz, he has also formed Slaughterhouse, recently signed to Eminem's Shady Records. In addition, Slaughterhouse contributed a bonus track to the digital deluxe edition of Eminem's blockbuster 2010 Recovery album.

The bulk of the EP's production was helmed by longtime collaborator and D12 member, Mr. Porter (a/k/a Kon Artis) and also features contributions from Mobb Deep's Havoc, DJ Khalil and Bangladesh among others.

KID CUDI LAUNCHES HIS OWN RECORD LABEL
As Kid Cudi prepares the release of his rock-influenced third album, ‘Wizard,’ the rapper has split with his management, squashed beef with recent Maybach Music signee Wale, quit smoking weed and has now announced that he is changing the name of his new band. During his performance at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City last week, Cudi told the crowd that, while he has changed the name of his band with producer Dot da Genius from Wizard to 2 Be Continuum, the wizardry will not be affected. “I needed something more original, something different, but it’s still wizardry at its finest,” he told MTV. “It’s science. Basically it’s just me and Dot, we been really working hard on this project. I’m really f–king excited for y’all to hear it too. It’s incredible!” He then went on to say that the album will be released on his new imprint, Wicked Awesome Records, and will be “epic, epic.” “I’ve only been playing guitar for nine months but the records have been coming out f—king epic, epic, I’m really excited,” Cudi continued. “We gonna have that first single for y’all soon. This summer.” Kid Cudi’s rock record ‘Wizard’ will be in stores some time this year.

50 CENT HUNTS DOWN ANCESTORS' SLAVE OWNERS
50 Cent travels to the tiny town of Edgefield, SC, in search of his family's past and comes face to face with the brutality of slavery in the original VH1 Rock Doc "50 Cent: The Origin of Me," premiering Monday, May 23 on VH1. During an empowering and emotional voyage, 50 Cent crosses state lines to tell a story of pain, bloodshed, and survival. Like all African Americans, he is the product of a greater journey, one that began thousands of miles away and hundreds of years ago – in slavery. The birthplace of noted segregationist Strom Thurmond, "Bloody Edgefield," as the town was known, bears the scars of a violent and racist past. This is the town where 50 Cent – born Curtis Jackson III – sets out to track his roots. With help from local genealogists and census data, 50 manages to find his great-great-great grandmother Jane Jenkins, who lived and worked as a slave in the mid-1800's.

Along the way, 50 also learns that in the years following the Civil War, his ancestors faced the infamous 'REDSHIRTS', the precursors to the KKK, giving him a new perspective on the violence he encountered as a young man in Queens. As America commemorates the 150th anniversary of that war this spring, the film provides a moving testament to the lines that still divide us.

"50 Cent: The Origin of Me" is the newest film in the Emmy Award winning VH1 Rock Doc franchise. VH1 Rock Docs are feature-length documentaries that tell unique stories of artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles and musical perspectives.

"50 Cent: The Origin of Me" is a production of VH1, in association with Roadside Entertainment. Brad Abramson, Shelly Tatro and Jeff Olde were executive producers for VH1. Mark Anstendig was a supervising producer for VH1. Ron Yassen directed and executive produced for Roadside Entertainment. Sacha Jenkins executive produced for Roadside Entertainment. David Kamp is a writer and consulting producer on the documentary.

BEATS BY DRE AND CHRYSLER PARTNER UP.
The Chrysler Group and Beats By Dr. Dre have announced a new partnership that will bring Dre's studio quality sound technology into the all-new Chrysler 300S vehicle. The exclusive partnership was announced during Chrysler’s press conference at the 2011 New York Auto Show this week. Dre and Interscope chairman Jimmy Iovine worked side-by-side with an engineering team at Chrysler to create the 10-speaker audio system. “Our partnership with the Chrysler Group will set the bar for the way music should be heard in cars”, said Iovine. This alliance comes after the vehicle giant recently teamed up with Eminem’s Marshall Mathers Foundation, a few months back for the “Imported from Detroit T-Shirts” which geared towards local communities. “Beats By Dr. Dre has always been about restoring the emotional music connection between an artist and the listener, and Chrysler vehicles beginning with the Chrysler 300S will let drivers hear music the way the artists intended,” said Oliver Francois, president and CEO, Chrysler Brand The 2012 Chrysler 300S powered with the Beats By Dr. Dre audio system will arrive nationwide during the fall.

RIHANNA MAKES HISTORY.. AGAIN.
Rihanna's latest single, "S&M," has taken the #1 slot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, giving RiRi her tenth #1 hit single. She makes history as the youngest artist ever to rack up ten #1 hits at just over 23-years-old. Mariah Carey held the previous record when she was 25. Rihanna is also the ninth artist in history to have ten #1 hits, and she is the fifth solo female artist to do so, following Carey (18), Madonna (12), Whitney Houston (11) and Janet Jackson (10). The "S&M" joint also set another record also. Having first reigned atop the Hot 100 in the week of May 13, 2006 with "SOS," the singer now holds the shortest span between a solo artist's first and 10th #1 songs in the chart's 52-year history with a time-line of just four years, 11 months and two weeks. Rihanna trails only The Beatles and The Supremes for the fastest accumulation of 10 Hot 100 #1s, according to Billboard.

BLACK EYED PEAS TO OPEN MUSIC SCHOOL.
The Black Eyed Peas are opening a school which will allow New York City teens to be able to learn video and music production using professional-quality equipment. The six-time Grammy winners announced that their Peapod Foundation together with the Adobe Foundation will open a new Peapod Adobe Youth Voices music and multimedia academy in lower Manhattan. The two foundations already run three Youth Voices academies in California — in Los Angeles, Oakland and Redwood City. The New York academy will offer classes to youth ages 13 to 19 starting this July. Black Eyed Peas star will.i.am explains, "Our passion for music and media was fuelled by many generous people on our road to success. Expanding the network of Peapod Adobe Youth Voices academies enables us to pay it forward, giving more youth the skills and encouragement they need to realize their dreams."

DR. DRE WINS BATTLE AGAINST DEATHROW.
Dr. Dre took label executives to court last year (10), alleging they were improperly selling his 1992 debut online and using his hits in compilations without his authorisation. U.S. District Judge Christina Snyder ruled on Tuesday (April 19) that Death Row Records' bosses do not have the rights to sell the album online and that Dr. Dre has received far less cash than he is due from web sales. The ruling allows Dre to receive 100% of the proceeds, according to Dr. Dre's attorney Howard King. In a statement to the Associated Press, King explains, "For years, Death Row Records forgot about Dre when they continued to distribute his music digitally and combined his hits with weaker Death Row tracks in an attempt to elevate the stature of their other artists. "We are gratified that the federal court has unambiguously declared that Death Row has no right to engage in such tactics, and must hold all proceeds from these illicit distributions in trust for our client."

FRESH NEW TRACKS SPIN ONTO DJ HERO® 2
Three exclusive additions have been added to DJ Hero® 2’s award-winning mix list, Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) have announced. Available now and featuring remixes of hits from electronic music phenomenon Deadmau5, massive dance party favorite Benny Benassi and international club sensation Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP, the Ultra Mix Pack will get feet moving, have fans up out of their seats and keep the music going until the break of dawn. The Ultra Mix Pack is available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 640 Microsoft Points and on the PlayStation®Store for PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system for $7.99. All tracks are also available as downloadable singles for Wii™ for 300 Wii Points™ each.

CHRIS BROWN GOES GOLD.
Chris Brown's fourth studio album F.A.M.E. (Jive Records) has just been certified gold by the R.I.A.A. just three weeks after its release. The singer/songwriter earned his first chart-topping album debut when F.A.M.E. secured the No. 1 position on the Billboard 200 and the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts with total album sales of over 271K. F.A.M.E. spawned three consecutive No. 1 singles and is the third highest-selling debut album of the year. Brown reached his third successive No. 1 Urban Mainstream with his single "Look At Me Now" featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes. This is the single's 5th consecutive week at No. 1 on the chart and its first week at No. 1 at Rhythmic radio. The video is in rotation on MTV and MTV2 and in the Top 5 on BET's 106 and Park countdown. It was preceded by "Deuces" featuring Tyga and Kevin McCall (which spent 10 weeks at the top of the chart) and "No BS". "Yeah 3X," another track from F.A.M.E., rose to Top 5 at Rhythmic radio. Collectively, the four singles represent combined cumulative digital and mobile sales of over five million. On the heels of the gold certification, Brown just released his new mid-tempo single "She Ain't You" which is already showing early signs of success. The track was # 1 most added at Urban Mainstream and for two weeks in a row a Top 5 greatest gainer at the format. The single will impact at the Rhythmic radio format this week. Brown co-wrote the majority of F.A.M.E., the follow-up to his 2X Grammy-nominated 2009 album, Graffiti. Collaborations on the album include Justin Bieber, Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, and Ludacris, among others.

KANYE SHUTS DOWN COACHELLA.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival took over the desert in Indio, CA over the weekend, offering three days of star-studded performances with more than 100 acts. The event started on Friday with sets from The Black Keys and Cold War Kids. Cee-Lo Green and Lauryn Hill. Saturday included Erykah Badu, the band featuring Rage Against the Machine's Zach De La Rocha and former Mars Volta drummer Jon Theodore. Sunday included PJ Harvey and the duo of Nas & Damian Marley, who played songs from their collaboration album, Distant Relatives, as well as their solo catalogs. Kanye West stole the show on Sunday with a classic performances. The set began with a troop of tribal dancers who bowed down to a carved stone backdrop before West appeared on top of a crane that stretched over the crowd as he asked, "Can we get much higher?" Kanye performed a number of new joints like "Dark Fantasy" and "Hell Of A Life" from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, as well as "Power," which was lead by fireworks. West continued to roll out the classics like "Jesus Walks," "Monster," "Touch the Sky," "All Falls Down" and "Gold Digger." "All of the Lights" and "Stronger" followed as midnight rolled around, and then the screen announced that "Act 3" was still to come. When 'Ye returned for the encore, he was wearing a red suit for the epic track "Runaway," before he finally poured out his heart for "Hey Mama" as he declared, "This show is dedicated to you, Mama." At the end of it all, 'Ye and his dancers lined the stage and held hands for a triumphant bow, bringing another sweaty and sold-out Coachella festival to a close. SEE THE SHOW HERE

GAME SPEAKS ON ALBUM DELAY.
The Game speaks on delayed “R.E.D.” album and why he feels that Dr. Dre’s highly-anticipated “Detox” album is the reason he can’t get his project released. He told Mtv,“The release date is probably late July or early August, man. I’ll let producer Jimmy Iovine put that red paint on the calendar and give us a specific date,” the Game said. “All I know is that the album is almost finished. Dre is finishing up Detox and then he going to help me finish up mine. I’m like 90, 95 percent done. Just waiting on Dre to finish his project and then come on over and lend his ear and probably mix a couple of songs, especially the ones that he did, and we’re going to see it in stores.”

DJ PAULY D TO SIGN TO G-UNIT?
TMZ is reporting that Pauly D (Jersey Shore) is close to joining forces with G-Unit, that 50 Cent wants to sign him to his record label --a 3-album deal is already on the table. Sources close to negotiations say, the "Jersey Shore" DJ met with 50 and his people in NYC last week -- where they discussed the lucrative record deal ... and also tossed around the idea of a Pauly D merchandise line, specifically Pauly D-brand headphones. Nothing's signed yet -- but according to sources, 50 wants to hammer out the deal ASAP ... before Pauly jets off to Italy to shoot "Jersey Shore" Season 4.

SNOOP GOES ON TILT OVER NAME CHANGE
Snoop Dogg has been told to change the title of his bachelor party anthem dedicated to royal fan Prince William in order to get the joint played on U.S. radio stations. Snoop came up with "Wet" in honor of the British royal's upcoming nuptials to Kate Middleton, insisting he hoped the tune would help the Prince celebrate his final days as a single man. He faced some criticism from radio bosses who refused to play the song on air unless he renamed the track to make it more family-friendly, but the backlash has stunned Snoop - because another single he created with Dr. Dre is all about their love of marijuana. He told Vibe magazine, "I did a song called 'Wet', and these motherf****rs at radio made me change the title to 'Sweat'. I didn't change one line on Kush. I hear that motherf****r on the radio every day, and we're talking about straight smoking dope. I can't be sexy, but I can be drug oriented."

L.A. REID GIVES INSIGHT ON GOING BACK TO LABEL BIZ.
After leaving his post at Island Def Jam last month and inking a deal as a judge for Simon Cowell's X Factor, L.A. Reid says that his hiatus from the record business is only temporary and he'll be announcing another label gig soon. Reid was interviewed by Angie Martinez on Hot 97/New York on Tuesday night, where he confirmed the news. "Listen, I'm nobody's fool, I didn't give up my day job," he said. "I just left, I had to leave Universal Music Group and try my hat on someplace else, that we'll announce, well… we'll announce that in a little while." He said that he did not leave the label because of the job on X Factor, and it is simply "a little bit of a shift." "You're not done with me yet," Reid added. "I'm telling you the truth: I have not been shipped off to TV land. I am a record executive and I shall be right there in your face with my records."

RIHANNA, EMINEM AND GAGA TOP NOMS FOR 2011 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS.
Nominees for the 2011 Billboard Music Awards have been announced during a press conference at the Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Rihanna, Eminem, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber have scooped up the most nominatations. Rihanna was the most-nominated artist overall, with nods in 18 categories, including Top Hot 100 Artist, Top Female Artist, Top R&B Artist and Top Dance/Electronic Artist.. Her smash hit with Eminem, "Love The Way You Lie," is up for six awards. Eminem has been nominated in 16 categories (also thanks to "Love The Way You Lie"), including Top Billboard 200 Artist, Top Artist, Top Male Artist and Top Rap Artist. Lady Gaga was nominated in a dozen categories. In the Top Dance/Electronic Album category, Gaga is competing against herself three times over, with The Fame, The Fame Monster and The Remix all nominated. Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber were tied with nominations in 11 categories, including Top New Artist, where they battle against Ke$ha, Nicki Minaj and Taio Cruz.

FBI RELEASES TUPAC FILES TO PUBLIC.
A week after the FBI released a 600-page document about the investigation of Notorious BIG's murder, the FBI has now released a document about Tupac Shakur's death. This document (102 pages) mostly centers on Shakur's relationship with the Jewish Defense League, an organization that was known to shakedown hip-hop artists in the 1990s by claiming that their lives were endangered. The scheme reportedly involved an anonymous subject making death threats against well-known rap artists such as Shakur and Eazy-E by telephone, at which point the JDL would step in and offer protection services to the targeted superstars for a “fee.”
CHECK OUT THE REPORT HERE

MATT ALONZO DIRECTS WORLD'S 1ST MUSIC VIDEOS PRODUCED EXCLUSIVELY FOR A PRODUCTION MUSIC LIBRARY
EXTREME MUSIC, the production music arm of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, releases Urban Ammo 2, it was announced today by Russell Emanuel, CEO and President of Extreme Music. The release is produced, composed and performed by Westcoast Vet, Xzibit, multi-platinum heavyweight of the MTV generation. Xzibit is renowned as a frontline artist and, although this project is aimed primarily at professional music users, two of the forty tracks - "Man on the Moon" and "What It Is" - are currently available to the public via iTunes. Additionally, in an Industry first, two promotional videos will support a Production Music Library release.

The chart-worthy videos for "Man on the Moon" and "What It Is" are directed by street legend Matt Alonzo and feature Xzibit and protege Young De. Alonzo has been in the directing chair for such artists as Soulja Boy, Far East Movement, The Game, Chris Cornell, Ice Cube, Xzibit, Cypress Hill and others and has collectively racked up over 80 million views for his work. Peep out The world premiere of both "Man on the Moon" and "What It Is" -- WATCH HERE

"Working with Extreme has been a wonderful experience. The music created for Urban Ammo 2 has been collaboration with artists whom I feel are the next generation of stars in Hip Hop, R&B and Rock," said Xzibit. "Unleashing these tracks is gonna wreak some havoc!"

"For those in-the-know Xzibit always delivers. This arsenal of killa beats 'n' hooks are a tough as nails Hip Hop Hitzkrieg," said Emanuel. "My advice: You better take cover; it's a full on sonic drive by."

About Extreme Music: World-renowned as the "Bad Boys of the Industry," Extreme, the Production Music Library arm of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, have made it their duty to change the face of library music. Since exploding onto the scene in 1997 these production music zeitgeists have consistently delivered an industry-quaking catalogue that leaves their competition sleeping with the lights on and establishes them as the undisputed masters in their field. Their unrivalled A-list packed roster famously boasts names such as Quincy Jones, Hans Zimmer, Snoop Dogg, Rodney Jerkins, Robbie Nevil, Junkie XL, Paul Oakenfold, Mark Mothersbaugh and Vince Clarke to name a few.

WHO WANTS TO SEE TONI BRAXTON'S TITS N' ASS? WE DO!!
The forty-three-year-old singer and mother of two, Toni Braxton says she is still considering Playboy’s offer to pose nude for the magazine. She was offered a reported $100,000 to appear in Playboy, a proposition which she initially shot down, tweeting, “Who started this rumor that I’d do Playboy for 100,000? No way! If I considered Playboy it would be for an undisclosed amount or for charity.” However, in a recent interview on ‘The Wendy Williams Show,’ Toni explained that she’s still weighing her decision regarding the spread, which she said would just be “a little T and A.” “They asked me. I was really flattered, and they’ve asked me a few times in the past,” Braxton said. “But one of the reasons I was more excited was because it was after I’d been sick, and I just didn’t feel sexy and I thought I’d lost my mojo. And when they asked me, I’m like, ‘Oh, they think I’m sexy? My boobies hang down to here a little bit!’ I was really flattered.” Despite Wendy’s argument that she’s “come too far” to pose naked, Braxton went on to say that the deciding factor for her will be her young boys, Denim and Diezel. “I haven’t decided,” she revealed. “One of the reasons I’m hesitant is because of my boys. I don’t want their friends to come to school and say, ‘I saw your mommy’s boobies!’”

CITIGROUP WON'T PIECE OUT EMI AS A PURCHASE?
We all know that Citigroup is expected to put EMI up for sale later this year, but unlike Warner Music Group, the label most likely won't be pieced out to buyers. Industry sources tell the New York Post that Citi will likely seek a buyer for the entire company. Reportedly, EMI CEO Roger Faxon had argued that selling off EMI in pieces would hurt the company, while Citigroup thought it would be a better way to recoup its investment in the label. Looks like Citi and Faxon are on the same page now and will offer EMI as a whole.

NICKI MINAJ TO TOUR WITH BRITNEY SPEARS
UPDATE: Nicki Minaj has been confirmed as the replacement for Enrique Iglesias on Britney Spears' upcoming Femme Fatale tour. "This is the Femme Fatale tour, and I'm thrilled to have the hot Nicki Minaj join me and Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo will get everyone on the dance floor," Spears said on her website. "Can't wait to take the Femme Fatales on the road." Minaj will join Spears after she wraps up touring with Lil Wayne on his I Am Still Music tour, which finishes up May 1 in New Jersey. Nicki Minaj says that she has been approached by Britney Spears to be her opening act in "Femme Fatale" tour. Minaj says, "I am in talks of joining Britney Spears, yeah." She confirmed the news about the negotiation when attending Casio's TRYX OUT: NYC 2011 Launch Party at the Best Buy Theater. She said, "I'm in talks about a lot of things, ya know. I don't know - oops, I did it again." Nicki would fill the empty slot left when Enrique Iglesias bailed out at the last minute due to his ego-- he could not take being an opening act for Britney Spears. Minaj is currently on the road with Lil Wayne on his "I Am Still Music" tour. Spears' tour begins June 17 in Sacramento.

BIG PUN TO GET STREET NAMED AFTER HIM?
Family members of the late rapper Big Pun (Christopher Rios), are once again trying to have a street renamed after him in the Bronx, the borough that Pun grew up in. Pun’s sister, Nicole Rodriguez, is spearheading the project to have the cross streets of E. 163rd St. and Rogers Place in the Bronx’s Longwood neighborhood renamed “Big Pun Place.”.. “I feel I owe this to my brother,” Rodriguez told the NY Daily News. “He was not only my brother, he was a father figure. He stepped in when my parents couldn’t. So I want to push for this. He deserves it. It would become a visual cemetery for everyone. My brother was cremated, so there’s nowhere to visit him,” she said. “This way, his legacy will live on close to home.”

KANYE WEST SONG CROWNED GREATEST WORKOUT SONG OF ALL TIME.
Gold's Gym, the world's leading authority in health and fitness, announced today that Kanye West can officially lay claim to the strongest song in the gym. After an intense nationwide vote, his popular track, nominated by Super Bowl XLII champion Michael Strahan, survived a star-studded bracket of 64 iPod all-stars to be named the greatest workout song of all time. "Stronger," West's 2007 hit from his "Graduation" album, was voted the winner in Gold's Gym's first ever March Music Madness competition. The competition was designed to put an end to the age old debate about what song really is the best for working out. Whether it's music from "Rocky," hip hop, hair bands, pop or metal, people have always had strong opinions. Gold's Gym's March Music Madness answered the question once and for all... or at least until next year.

Hundred of song nominations from celebrities, fans of music and gym members alike were submitted from around the country. Sixty-four of the most popular nominations were chosen by Gold's Gym celebrity trainers and fitness experts to go head-to-head in the bracket-style competition. With more than 20,000 votes logged during the event, West's "Stronger"... nominated for the competition by FOX NFL Sunday Analyst and former New York Giant Michael Strahan... emerged from a "Final Four" that included Eminem's "Lose Yourself," Black Eyed Peas' "Boom Boom Pow" and Guns N Roses "Welcome to The Jungle."

As part of the competition, Gold's Gym offered to donate $5,000 to the charity of choice of the person who nominated the winning song. The charities represented by each of the 64 songs spanned the gamut and added an extra layer of passion to the competition. For nominating the winning song, Gold's Gym will make a donation on behalf of Strahan to the Health & Humanitarian Aid Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medical and humanitarian aid to those whose lives have been affected by famine, war, poverty or natural disaster.

"Music is such a huge part of the workout experience," said Lisa Zoellner, Chief Marketing Officer for Gold's Gym International. "We wanted to pay tribute to the artists and songs that play such a big role in inspiring people to exercise... and that keep them motivated every day. With this fun competition, we were able to find out what our members are listening to, motivate them and give back to a great cause, all at the same time."

"I was thrilled to hear that 'Stronger' won the March Music Madness Bracket Challenge," said Michael Strahan. "The song brings back great memories of Super Bowl XLII (The New York Giants came out to 'Stronger' before beating the New England Patriots 17-14) and is still on my iPod everyday in the gym. What's even more special is that I get to share this win with my friend Sammy Arthur, with the proceeds going to his charity, The Health & Humanitarian Aid Foundation."

Other celebrities who took part in the charity-focused initiative included Will Ferrell, who nominated "Pump Up the Jam" by Technotronic; Mario Lopez, who nominated "Gonna Fly Now (AKA theme from Rocky)" by Bill Conti; Brooke Shields, who nominated "Hot Blooded" by Foreigner; Gabrielle Reece, who nominated "B.O.B." by Outkast and Ryan Sheckler, who nominated "KickStart my Heart" by Motley Crue.

50 CENT CHIMES IN ON MISTER CEE SCANDEL.
50 Cent spoke out to defend Mister Cee after he was charged with public lewdness following an arrest in New York on Friday, April 1. Mister Cee, real name Calvin Lebrun, was caught performing a sex act with a 20-year-old male in a car in Manhattan. The scandal has turned many fans against the producer, but 50 Cent insists he's still a fan. 50 told Hot 97 radio personality Miss Info, "I'd make him my DJ any day... It's only entertaining because he (Mister Cee) means that much to hip-hop culture." .. "I recognize Mister Cee as the guy who offered us Biggie, so he means that much to the culture. And a lot of the kids that hear the radio don't see him the same way."

FBI RELEASES DOCUMENTS ON NOTORIOUS B.I.G. MURDER
New information about Notorious B.I.G.'s murder has been released from the FBI. Last week, the FBI revealed an online reading room called The Vault that allows for a search of the bureau's documents as part of the Freedom of Information Act and B.I.G. murder documents reveal new data on the case. Records of the unsolved case appear in The Vault including information about the the way Biggie was killed in Los Angeles. The documents say he was shot with a German-made Gecko 9mm gun, one that is not commonly found in the United States. The documents also provide information about some Los Angeles Police Department officers involved with the case that had gang ties. The reports also reveals details about how they were able to hinder the process of the investigation by not properly documenting or following up on witness statements related to the killing of Christopher Wallace. SEE THE DOCUMENTS HERE

MTV APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENT.
Stephen K. Friedman has been promoted to President of MTV after serving as GM of the network since fall of 2008. The announcement was made today by Van Toffler, President of MTV Networks Music & Logo Group. In his new role, Friedman will oversee MTV, MTV2, mtvU, MTV Hits and MTV Jams. Previously, Friedman also was GM of mtvU, which he helped launch in 2004, before becoming GM of MTV. "Since Stephen took over the helm at MTV two-and-a-half years ago, he has done an incredible job helping spearhead the reinvention of the MTV brand for millenials," Toffler said in a statement. "He has always placed the audience first, whether it’s creating a new pro-social campaign or leading the charge at mtvU and now MTV, his instincts and thinking have always led us to tap into exactly what the audience is looking for, resulting in great creative and business success." He'll be based at Viacom's New York City office, and report to Toffler.

WIZ KHALIFA DEBUTS HIGH ON THE CHARTS.
Wiz Khalifa’s Rolling Papers, sold 198,200 copies, debuting at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart, according to the Nielsen SoundScan report. Also debuting on the charts this week was Snoop's Doggumentary. The album sold 50,500 copies in its first week- landing at #8. Lupe Fiasco’s Lasers took the #16 slot selling 23,400 units (303,200 total). Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday sold 19,900 units grabbing #20. (1,281,300 total). E-40 debuted both of his new albums-- Revenue Retrievin’: Graveyard Shift took #40 and Revenue Retrievin’: Overtime Shift grabbed #42. Graveyard Shift sold 13,600 copies and Overtime sold just 13,400.

SNOOP TURNS DOWN X FACTOR GIG.
Snoop Dogg confirms reports he was in the running to judge Simon Cowell's new "The X Factor (US)" TV show. Snoop was approached to join the judging panel of the new series, alongside music mogul Antonio "L.A." Reid, but Snoop says he didn't want to make such a big commitment to the series. He said, "They asked me to do that, but I don't think that's for me. I wouldn't mind going on the show as a mentor, but not as far as a judge."

LIL JON STARRING AND HOSTING IN NEW PORN FLIK.
Lil Jon has partnered with adult film company Vivid Video to release a new porn film entitled ‘Club Lil Jon.’ Lil Jon is star, on-screen host and creative force behind "Club Lil Jon," a super-hot adult film from Vivid Entertainment that hit shelves across the country April 11th. The King of Crunk has never been more in the spotlight as he leads his team with Nene Leakes on NBC's fourth season of "Celebrity Apprentice." He claims it's also one of the most difficult projects he's ever taken on. "Club Lil Jon" is the performer's second movie for Vivid, the world's leading adult studio. His first, "Lil Jon's Vivid Vegas Party," was a smash hit for the studio and his new effort has all the ingredients for another best-seller. As with the first film, he was involved in every detail of production from coaching the actresses on how to achieve maximum sensuality to writing a sexy score to keep the action sizzling. "He's truly an artist in his approach to all aspects of production and his enthusiasm was contagious. We all got on board with his vision," said director C-Mizzle. The cast of "Club Lil Jon" includes Monique Alexander, Tawny Roberts, Jenaveve Jolie, Jada Fire, Olivia O'lovel, Ayana ASngel, Shy Love, Finesse Navaro, Byron Long and Tyler Knight.

FONTANA APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR OF MARKETING,
Expanding further their commitment to urban music and its thriving community, Fontana, the independent distribution arm of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company, has appointed Ray Arceneaux, Jr. to Director of Marketing, it was announced today by Bryan Mead, SVP of Marketing and Label Operations, to whom Mr. Arceneaux reports. In this new role, Mr. Arceneaux will oversee many areas of Fontana's urban music business, including urban sales planning with retail, artist product management, and acting as the label manager for such indies as Strange Music, Hoo Bangin, Mad Science, Melee and more.

"As we continue to expand the services we provide our urban music partners, there is no one better to lead the charge for us than Ray," stated Mr. Mead. "He's a savvy, well experienced executive who possesses a real track record of success. We're thrilled to welcome him to the Fontana family."

Mr. Arceneaux most recently served as the VP of Urban Sales & Marketing at the WEA Corp. Formerly, he held senior sales & marketing positions at Priority/Capitol and PolyGram Group Distribution. He began his retail career working at Handleman and The Wherehouse. Throughout his career, Mr. Arceneaux has worked closely with such critically-acclaimed artists as T.I., Trey Songz, Lupe Fiasco, Fabolous, Mike Jones, B.O.B., Jaheim, Snoop Dog, Ice Cube, Scarface, Twista, Fat Joe, Janelle Monae and Talib Kweli, among many others.

Fontana Distribution is the independent sales and marketing division of Universal Music Group. Their partners include many of the world's leading independent labels, including Eagle Rock, Downtown, Rap-A-Lot Records, Vagrant Records, WaterTower Music, American Gramophone, Kedar Entertainment, Dangerbird, Last Gang, Savoy Label Group, ESL, Music World, Delicious Vinyl, Ipecac, Six Degrees, SMC, VP Records and Notifi.

UNCLE SAM BITCH SLAPS WEEZY AND FLOYD MAYWEATHER.
Lil Wayne has reportedly been bitch slapped with another IRS bill, this time for a total of $5,610,034.00. According to the new lien, Wayne owes $3,335,077.95 for revenue earned in the year 2008, and $2,258,956.04 for 2009. The address listed on the lien is Weezy’s $12.9 million, 15,101 square foot mansion, on a private Miami island, which is supposedly for sale. Floyd "Money May" Mayweather, JR. is also allegedly facing a massive $3.4 million tax bill, according to a U.S. report. The boxer is said to owe income taxes from 2009 – the same year he came out of retirement to fight Juan Manuel Marquez in a reported $25 million deal. Officials at America’s Internal Revenue Service filed a lien against Mayweather Jr. in Clark County, Nevada on January 21, 2011 according to The Detroit News. The lien was filed just weeks after "Money May" was arrested on suspicion of beating his ex-girlfriend and stealing her cell phone during an argument in front of their children.

LIVE NATION WANTS TO SCOOP UP WARNER MUSIC.
Music powerhouse Live Nation Entertainment Inc. is bidding to buy part of Warner Music Group Corp., according to people familiar with the matter, a move that could combine under one roof the world's third-largest recorded-music company with the biggest concert promoter, artist-management firm and events-ticketing operation. Live Nation is interested in Warner's recorded-music operation, not its music publishing division, according to the people familiar with the matter. It's not clear how much Live Nation offered, or how aggressively it may participate in further rounds of bidding. Warner Music and Live Nation declined to comment.

Live Nation's Front Line Management Group represents hundreds of major acts, such as Christina Aguilera and Kings of Leon, and its performers could benefit from a direct affiliation with a major-label company. A single company that handled virtually every facet of an artist's career would be able to undertake across-the-board marketing and promotion efforts. That in turn could save money by eliminating redundant marketing and promotion departments.

The combination also could create opportunities to combine corporate sponsorships with sales of concert tickets, recorded music, and merchandise. But a Live Nation-Warner Music tie-up would likely draw regulatory scrutiny even more intense than Live Nation underwent for approval to acquire Ticketmaster last year. The Justice Department wrested some concessions from the two companies to safeguard industry competition but critics howled and warned that ticket prices might rise.

Live Nation has advanced to the second round of bidding, but the people familiar with the matter cautioned that any deal could still fall apart for any number of reasons that may arise, including financing and regulatory issues. The auction of Warner Music Group has become a wide-ranging one, with private-equity groups, media companies and others participating. A spokesman for Warner Music declined to comment.

Warner's bankers, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and AGM Partners LLC, have received bids for Warner in its entirety, as well as bids for its two major components: its record-music operation and its music publisher, known as Warner/Chappell, according to people familiar with the matter.

The company's private-equity owners, including Thomas H. Lee Partners haven't expressed a preference for the configuration of a sale. Warner's record labels include Atlantic, Warner Bros., Elektra and Nonesuch. If Live Nation were to succeed in buying Warner's record labels it's unclear what would happen to Warner/Chappell, which controls the copyrights to melodies and lyrics of songs.

Among the bidders emerging for part or all of Warner are Sony Corp.; Los Angeles billionaire Ron Burkle; Guggenheim Partners LLC; Access Industries Inc., a holding company controlled by Russian-born billionaire Len Blavatnik, a former Warner Music director who left the board in 2008; and BMG Rights, a joint venture of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. LP and Bertelsmann AG.

BMG Rights submitted a bid for the entire company, but has been told by Warner's bankers that it needs to raise it to remain in contention, according to people familiar with the matter, They added that BMG's managers and backers in recent weeks have been considering whether to do so. As recently as February, Irving Azoff, now Live Nation's chairman, publicly denied that Live Nation is interested in owning Warner Music or its competitor, EMI Group Ltd. EMI's owner, Citigroup Inc., is expected to begin shopping the company later this year. Warner Music briefly held a large stake in Mr. Azoff's Front Line Management, but sold it to Ticketmaster in 2008

Live Nation has made a handful of deals with high-profile artists, including Madonna and Jay-Z, giving the company the rights to distribute their recordings. But in the past, the company has indicated that it was not interested in delving deeper into the record business. However, conditions for Live Nation have changed in the past year, despite completing the merger with Ticketmaster.

From Live Nation's perspective, merging with Ticketmaster was supposed to provide a more-profitable backstop to concert promotion, which even in good times is a minimally profitable business, with cash-flow margins typically around 4% or less.

Last year was rough for the company, with slow ticket sales and concert-tour cancellations eating deeply into the combined company's margins. The recorded music business, of course, has deep problems of its own, thanks to CD sales that have eroded rapidly under the pressure of online piracy and other problems, and digital-download sales that appear to have levelled off too early to make up for the declines in CDs. Even with the decline in sales of recorded music, adding a major record label group could provide valuable cash flow, and would further diversify Live Nation's revenue streams. Though Warner Music generates around $300 million a year in cash from operations, it generally reports losses because of amortization costs associated with its 2004 acquisition from Time Warner Inc. Source: Wallstreet Journal

LUPE FIASCO AND SEAN PAUL ON DECK FOR 25TH ANNUAL JAZZREGGAE FEST.
The 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival at UCLA is proud to announce that the artists headlining its 2011 festival will be Lupe Fiasco on Jam Day (May 29th) and Sean Paul on Reggae Day (May 30th). With his third studio album LASERS debuted at the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200, Lupe Fiasco emits powerfully evocative hip hop charged with politics, infused with his taste for poetry. The son of a Black Panther, the Muslim MC grew up in Chicago's projects listening to rock and jazz, and began rapping in the eighth grade. Under the wing of Jay-Z, Lupe Fiasco emerged onto the rap scene in 2006, instantaneously achieving both critical and commercial acclaim. Since then, the three-time Grammy nominee has worked alongside artists such as Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and John Legend. On May 29th, the renowned rap philosopher will showcase his razor-sharp rhymes for JazzReggae Festival's Jam Day, only intensifying the fervor for its 25th year. Kingston-born Sean Paul has become an international superstar, taking dancehall music to new heights. A diverse fusion of reggae, rap and dance, the music of Sean Paul features work from the most cutting-edge producers in Jamaica. Since his rise to fame in 2002, Sean Paul's impressive track record includes four Billboard Music Award nominations, as well as a Grammy-winning album. With over ten million albums sold worldwide, Sean Paul has cemented his status as the most successful Jamaican artist of all time on the U.S. charts. Bringing the latest sounds of his native Kingston to the JazzReggae Festival at UCLA, Sean Paul is sure to captivate audiences on Reggae Day, May 30th. The 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival welcomes as sponsors Scion and S.O. Terik, an L.A. based company fusing art, fashion and entertainment. With the release of their full lineup quickly approaching and through the support of their sponsors, the 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival is an event not to be missed.

JAY Z AND BIG PAPI REACH SETTLEMENT OVER 40/40.
Red Sox star Big Papi has buried the hatchet with rapper Jay-Z in a dispute over the name of their dueling nightclubs, court papers filed Monday say. The two were set to square off Tuesday in Manhattan Federal Court over use of the name 40/40, but the conference was cancelled at the last minute, the hip-hop giant's lawyer said. "The case has been settled in principle," said attorney Peter Raymond. "We have agreed on the outlines of a settlement and need to reduce it to writing." The dispute began last April when Jay-Z, a die-hard Yankee fan, sued the Red Sox star for $5 million, claiming he stole the name of his 40/40 Club sport bar. After visiting the Flatiron District club, Ortiz allegedly started his own "Forty-Forty" club in his native Dominican Republic. Federal District Judge Richard Berman had urged a settlement and said both superstars would have to appear in court Tuesday. He seemed pleased with the settlement. "Sounds like a sensible outcome," Berman wrote in a memo filed in Manhattan District Court. The lawsuit will be dismissed within 30 days after it's put in writing. Source: New York Post

SOUNDSCAN #'S/STATS.
Chris Brown and Jennifer Hudson took the top two slots on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart according to the Nielsen SoundScan Report. Lupe’s Lasers dipped from #3 to the #10 slot on the charts. The album moved 28,900 units (279,900 Total). Rihanna's Loud ranked #17 selling 25,000 units (1,115,000 Total). Gucci Mane debuted Return of Mr. Zone 6 at #18. seling 24,500 units. Nicki Minaj scooped up the #20 slot selling 22,400 copies (1,261,400 Total). Em’s Recovery took #27 selling 18,700 copies (3,775,600 Total). Pharoahe Monch’s album W.A.R.(We Are Renegades) debuted at #55 moving 9,622 units. Raekwon's Shaolin Vs. Wu-Tang moved 6,500 units taking the #83 slot (45,000 Total).

CHRIS BROWN IS #1 WITH F.A.M.E.
Chris Brown's fourth studio album F.A.M.E. (Jive Records) debuts this week at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts with total album sales of over 271K. The album has spawned three consecutive No. 1 singles and marks the multi-platinum singer's first No. 1 album on the Top 200 chart. F.A.M.E. is the second highest-selling album of the year. The success of F.A.M.E. follows Brown reaching the No. 1 position on both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and the Urban Mainstream radio charts with current single "Look At Me Now" featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes. This is the second consecutive week at No. 1 at Urban Mainstream and the video is in rotation on MTV and MTV2 and in the Top 5 on BET's 106 and Park countdown. Look At Me Now" is Brown's third successive No. 1 Urban Mainstream single from the new album. It was preceded by "Deuces" featuring Tyga and Kevin McCall (which spent 10 weeks at the top of the chart) and "No BS". "Yeah 3X," (Click to listen) another track from F.A.M.E., rose to Top 5 at Urban Mainstream. Collectively, the four singles represent combined cumulative digital and mobile sales of five million. Brown co-wrote the majority of F.A.M.E., the follow-up to his 2X Grammy-nominated 2009 album, Graffiti. Sporting collaborations with Justin Bieber, Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, and Ludacris, among others, F.A.M.E. has drawn various critical accolades. People Magazine gave the album a 4 out of 4 stars album review and boasts, "This is the kind of R&B-pop blockbuster that Michael Jackson might have made if he were 21 in 2011." USA Today adds Brown "has delivered the strongest album of his career."

LIL B INKS WITH LIVE NATION
According to SF Weekly, Lil B recently inked a deal with tour giant Live Nation for a string of shows around the East Coast and the Midwest. He also lined up a headlining show at Mezzanine here in San Francisco, set for April 21. "It's for sure the first Bay Area show of this new era of people being aware of Lil B," his manager, Sebastian Demian, tells SF Weekly. It might also be a sign of what's in the future for Brandon McCartney, a 21-year-old member of East Bay rap collective - The Pack. The Live Nation deal is only four shows and two festival appearances, but Demian says he's hoping to expand that to a larger tour. And the fact that Live Nation made a deal with Lil B -- an independent artist who isn't signed to any label -- is surprising on its own. Demian says the people he worked with Live Nation couldn't remember making such an agreement before. -- Demian says he's heard from multiple major labels interested in signing Lil B. We're in talks with some labels," Demian says. "We're very much excited about bossing up."

BIG BOI, SLAUGHTERHOUSE, AND MORE ANNOUNCED FOR SOUNDSET 2011.
Rhymesayers Entertainment and Rose Presents bring you the fourth annual Soundset Festival: the official Midwest kick-off of the summer with nine hours of the best independent Hip Hop music in one day. It all goes down at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, MN (rain or shine). Last year's event, Rhymesayers and Rose Presents produced the third year of Soundset to an outdoor festival setting at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, MN with over 18,000 people in attendance, including: two stages with over 40 artists performing, B-Boy battles, MC battle, live DJs, live artists painting, skateboard demos and a custom car show. Soundset 2011 is expected to be even bigger this year! Confirmed artists for Soundset 2011 include: Big Boi, De La Soul, Slaughterhouse (Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden, Royce da 5'9", Crooked I), Brother Ali, Doomtree (P.O.S, Dessa, Sims, Cecil Otter, Atmosphere, Mike Mictlan, Lazerbeak, Papertiger), Evidence x Rakaa-Iriscience x DJ Babu, Mac Miller, Curren$y, Blueprint, Grieves & Budo, Zion I & The Grouch, Sab The Artist, DJ Abilities, Face Candy, Edan with special guest Paten Locke, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Looptroop Rockers, Rubberoom, Soulcrate Music, 2Mex, Mr. Gene Poole, Qwazaar, Longshot, MaLLy, Desdamona, Duenday, Midwest Konnect, Rocky Diamonds, Stage One, Shortkut, Noam The Drummer, Exile, Maseo, Skeme Richards, Kid Cut Up and Espada. Hosted by Toki Wright, Carnage and Kevin Beacham.

JADAKISS ON DECK FOR BENEFIT CONCERT IN SOUTH AFRICA
New York rapper Jadakiss will head to South Africa in April to headline a fundraising concert to benefit local, disadvantaged children. Kiss is set to perform at the Prince Lindani Foundation benefit concert, which will raise funds to aid impoverished child in the country of Swaziland. Along with Jada, several local artists will also take the stage, including Teargas, T-bo Touch, DJ Tira, Jozi, Velemseni Lando Dlamini, Zaza, Papz, Crooks, Izzy and Stitch. The benefit performance will be held at the Mavuso Trade Centre, as part of the charity’s new re-launch efforts and it will be aired live on the South African Channel O.

DJ MEGATRON SHOT AND KILLED IN NYC.
Radio and TV personality DJ Megatron was shot to death in Staten Island, New York early Sunday morning, his manager Justin Kirkland, aka J. Smoove, told the Associated Press. Police found the 32-year-old What's Good host dead with a gunshot wound to the chest, reports AP; no arrests have been made. Megatron had been heading to a store near his home around 2.a.m, said Kirkland. The Wall Street Journal reported that a person has told detectives she saw four to five men wearing hoodies fleeing toward Vanderbilt Avenue. It was unclear if the deejay was robbed since his cellphone was recovered at the scene. He probably had one of the best personalities around, super-positive, happy all the time," Kirkland said, adding he had no idea who committed the crime. Born Corey McGriff, Megatron began his radio career at New York's Kiss FM. He appeared in movies including State Property 2. He is survived by his three children. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. R.I.P.

50 AND DENIRO TEAM UP AGAIN?
50 Cent is scoopin up more great actors in his cinematic wave of destruction. We’ve seen the trailer for the trying-too-hard drama Things Fall Apart; the trailer for Setup showed the likes of Bruce Willis and Ryan Phillippe somehow drawn into its cast. Nola reports that Curtis Jackson's next movie, Freelancers, locked in Robert De Niro; Deadline adds that Forest Whitaker is in negotiations to join the cast. Jessy Terrero (who brought us the forgettable Soul Plane) will helm Freelancers, the story of the son of a murdered NYPD cop who joins the police academy, graduates, and gets recruited by a group of rogue cops led by his father’s old partner (De Niro). Freelancers is scheduled to shoot four weeks in New Orleans starting in April.

THOUSANDS TURNED UP TO LAY NATE DOGG TO REST.
Thousands of family, friends and fans turned out to pay their respect to Nate Dogg, who was laid to rest in his hometown of Long Beach, Saturday morning (March 26). Inside the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, lights shined down on the wooden coffin adorned with red and white flowers. Two jumbo screens on opposite sides of his casket flashed six different photos of the singer from a childhood boy, when he was known to family as "Buddy," to the platinum singer known to the world as Nate Dogg. West Coast rap artists including Dr. Dre, Game, DJ Quik, Mack-10 and WC, DJ Pooh, Battlecat and others were on hand to pay their respects to the singer with platinum vocal chords. "1986, Poly High School, that's where we connected for the first time," an emotionally distraught Snoop reflected on his friend. "We didn't know each other, but the music connected us. We built a brotherhood, a friendship." Snoop first met Nate along with his best friend Warren G at the school where they would go on to form the rap trio 213. Warren G spoke briefly, reminding mourners in attendance what a great man the music world has lost. "It hurts me so much to see this," Warren G said somberly while looking down at the casket. "We been through a whole lot and that was my dog. He stayed down with me from the bottom to the top. I didn't ever think I would have to sit at a funeral for one of my dogs. All I can say is that was my friend, me him and Snoop was 213 from the balls to the walls. The music industry lost an incredible artist." Several of Nate's closest friends, relatives and colleagues including Xzibit, Daz and Kurupt, Butch Cassidy, Los Angeles radio station personality Big Boy from Power 106, and producer FredWreck all shared memorable stories of their friend, who they said made an important impact on their lives. Xzibit recalled a time during the Up in Smoke Tour when Nate was arrested, but hours later somehow magically appeared at the show's next date. A teary-eyed Kurupt said Nate was the father figure who raised him. Manager Rod McGrew acted as Nate's manager throughout his professional music career and was with him up until his last days. "He fought a hard fight," McGrew said. He also thanked Dr. Dre and Eminem, in addition to Snoop, Warren G and Xzibit, for assisting the family in getting through the past several days. "The last three years were unbelievable. He didn't give up. He just had a talk with God and gave up. Two hours before that he was fine." McGrew said that with Nate's passing, the singer's three wishes will now be granted. "He wanted to go to heaven and hang with his boys," McGrew said. "He loved Tupac. He recorded with him. He wanted to hang with Biggie. But the most important thing is that he can walk around heaven with his favorite artist of all time, Michael Jackson." "He was a loving caring individual," said Snoop. "If you listen to his music, he took church melodies and flipped it with hip-hop. I'm so honored, so happy that you gave me the opportunity, God, to know Nate Dogg. I want to stand here and cry, but I have to have the strength for you Nate Dogg. It's 213, DPG for life." Source: Mtv

DETROIT'S NEXT UP: Clear Soul Forces.
Detroit, Michigan has, for at least the past decade, been one of the hottest breeding grounds for hip-hop talent. And following in the footsteps of those that came before them is Clear Soul Forces, a four-person group comprised of Ilajide, Wimpy, E-Fav, and J-Roc. Clear Soul Forces first hit the scene in early 2010 with the release of their free mixtape, Clear Soul Radio. This past fall, CSF released The Departure EP, and while the project has already amassed over 10,000 downloads, the Motor City upstarts aren't slowing down and are now prepping the release of a handful of videos from the project. The first video released is for the EP's lead single, "Gon' Get 'Em." Directed by Gerard Victor, whose previous work includes videos with Black Milk, Royce Da 5'9, eLZhi, Ro Spit, and more, the video places CSF into the world of comic books, with each scene incorporating washed and pixelated images as special effects graphics surround the guys throughout. "Before we had even talked, Gerard actually came to us with the comic book idea not knowing we had the same type of vision for the video," explains J-Roc. With the song," says E-Fav, "we just wanted to showcase everyone in the group's lyrical abilities. We want you to know for certain that we can rap." And those lyrical flourishes are on display early and often with lines from Wimpy like, "I'm the Scottie Pippen of the verb/ Put in the same amount of work, don't get the credit I deserve." And as is par for the course with Clear Soul Forces, the line, in addition to the witty wordplay, holds a deeper meaning for the group. "That's a really strong line, because we feel like that applies to us a little bit," explains E-Fav, adding, "But we're out here making a name for ourselves and it seems to be working." Indeed. PEEP THE VIDEO HERE

DRAKE TO RECEIVE SONGWRITER AWARD.
Drake is on deck to receive the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award at the 42nd Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) Induction and Awards Dinner, to be held June 16 at New York’s Marriott Marquis Hotel. "Drake shines as a talented songwriter with a unique vision," said SHOF chairman Jimmy Webb in announcing the award. “We are pleased to honor him with the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award." His platinum-selling album debut Thank Me Later topped the alblum chart with nearly 450,000 sold during its first week of release. It led to four Grammy nominations for Drake this year, for Best New Artist, Best Rap Album, Best Rap Solo Performance ("Over"), and Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group ("Fancy" featuring T.I. and Swizz Beatz). The Hal David Starlight Award, named in honor of the former SHOF chairman for his longtime support of young songwriters, goes to gifted songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs. Previous recipients include Rob Thomas, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, John Legend, John Rzeznik, Jason Mraz and Taylor Swift. The Songwriters Hall of Fame celebrates songwriters, educates the public with regard to their achievements, and produces various professional programs devoted to the development of new songwriting talent through workshops, showcases and scholarships.

SOULJA BOY'S BROTHER DIES IN FATAL CAR CRASH
Soulja Boy Tell Em recently broke the news on his Twitter account to his fans that his little brother (Deion Jenkins, 14) passed away after a fatal car crash took place in Charleston, Mississippi last night. “at home crying my eyes out I can’t believe my Lil bro is gone… today is so not my day.. RIP lil brother love you always.”

CITI BANK QUIETLY SHOPPING EMI
We know that Warner Music Group's sale has been hogging all the headlines in the recent weeks. Insider sources have suggested that Citi bank is now quietly soliciting interested parties and sitting down to discuss what parts of EMI they'd want to bid on and how rapidly they could close a deal in the hopes of not being left at the altar. "They're sorting the goats from the sheep, rather than entertaining all comers," said a source. Among those holding discussions are Universal Music Group and Sony, along with Ron Burkle's Yucaipa Co., private-equity firm Apollo and Len Blavatnik's Access Industries. Blavatnik holds a 2 percent stake in Warner Music. Add Warner Music boss Edgar Bronfman, to the list too. He's long wanted to scoop up EMI, which houses everyone from Katy Perry to The Beatles. Citi declined comment. Citi's latest move sets up more direct competition with Warner Music, which is a few weeks away from wrapping its sale process and is currently waiting to hear how bidders will finance their plans. There are many questions that are weighing on people's minds, but paramount for buyers must be who's got the better business. Both are valued at roughly the same amount, around the $3 billion mark, with the publishing divisions likely to go for $1.8 billion. Lisbeth Barron, managing director at boutique investment bank Berenson & Co., said: "The old way of thinking was that recorded music and music publishing should be separated, given their different growth prospects. Today, the thinking has changed to now believing strongly that the two divisions should stay under one roof to be most competitive with artists, advertisers, studios etc." As far as Warner's bid process is going, sources say that Burkle's bid will likely be the most aggressive. "He's very serious about it. He thinks it's a sexy asset and that's why he looked at Miramax and did the deal for Vibe with Magic Johnson." Others reportedly circling Warner include Tom Gores' Platinum Equity, Permira, Sony Corp. and Access Industries. Source New York Post

DR. DRE WINS COPS LAWSUIT.
Detroit officials who were backstage at a concert featuring Dr. Dre and Eminem had no right to privacy when they confronted organizers in a videotaped exchange that turned up in a DVD, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled in a decision released Saturday. The ruling dismisses a lawsuit against Dr. Dre (Andre Young), that was filed by City Councilman Gary Brown and other Detroit officials after the 2000 show. Brown was a high-ranking police official at the time, and warned concert organizers that power would be turned off if they showed a sexually explicit video at the Joe Louis Arena. The conversation was taped and later used in behind-the-scenes tracks on a popular DVD highlighting the "Up in Smoke" national concert tour that also featured Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube. Brown had argued that his privacy was violated by the video, but Dr. Dre's lawyer Herschel Fink said there was no privacy when police were doing their job. Fink said Saturday that the court's decision was more narrow than he expected, with the ruling dealing only with the event instead of broader privacy issues, but "as I said in an e-mail to Dre, 'We'll take it.'" Brown said Saturday that he was disappointed but respects the court's decision. He sid he understood that the case hinged on his expectation of privacy, but he said he asked for a private discussion and to have the cameras turned off. "I would think I would have my rights protected, but that's not the way the court ruled," he said. The Supreme Court's 6-1 decision overturns an appeals court ruling. Fink had successfully sued the city over its demand that the sexually explicit video not be played at the concert. Detroit's mayor at the time, Dennis Archer, wrote a letter of apology. Source: Huffington post

BARRY WEISS NAMED NEW CEO OF ISLAND DEF JAM / UNIVERSAL MOTOWN.
Barry Weiss has been named Chairman & CEO of Island Def Jam and Universal Motown Republic Group according the the LA Times. The news comes just one day after Antonio "L.A." Reid's resigned his post at the Island Def Jam Music group. As reported yesterday, Reid is reportedly headed to Simon Cowell's new Fox show, The X-Factor, where he will serve as a judge. Weiss joins the label after several years as chairman and CEO of Jive Records. Lucian Grange, chairman of the Universal Music Group, says, "Throughout his career, Barry achieved that rare and delicate balance between managing artistic needs and the realities of the business. He is a multidimensional executive and entrepreneur, who possesses a deep love of music and an incredibly successful track record in building the careers of premiere artists. He has the talent and commitment to help take these two great companies to new heights." Weiss will be based in New York and oversee labels including Island Def Jam, Universal Motown, Universal Republic, Mercury Records and Universal Motown. The Times also notes that Interscope Geffen A&M, which is based in Los Angeles, will not see its management structure affected with Jimmy Iovine remaining as Chairman of IGA.

AMBER ROSE TALKS STRIPPING AND RELATIONSHIPS.
Kanye's ex-girlfriend Amber Rose was recently on Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole Radio on Sirius Satellite and talked about her past as an underage stripper. “I was a stripper since I was 15 years old,” said Rose. “I was a South Philly hood rat my whole life.” On whether her and Kanye would get back together: "No, I don’t think so. You know in every relationship you have problems and you try to work through and then sometimes things don’t work out. But it was very real for me. I was very much in love. I was with him for two years. We lived together, we traveled the world together, we had a lot of fun together. A lot of really cool moments…I was the ill bitch to a rock star." On her relationships with women: “I had two three-year relationships with women. So, I was with women for six years before I met Kanye,” Rose told Foxx, before dispelling rumors of a sex tape. “There ain’t gonna be no sex tape. I’m not into that...I’ve been offered a lot of money but I chose not to do it. I chose to take the high road.”

UNCLE LUKE MIAMI'S NEXT MAYOR?
A recall vote has kicked Miami mayor Carlos Alvarez out of office as of yesterday, 2 Live Crew leader Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell has become a favorite to win the mayor slot in the upcoming election. Luke has a chance after Norman Braman, a billionaire businessman, pulled off the first successful recall in the history of Dade County. More than 88 percent of voters wanted Alvarez out.

“When I take Mr. Alvarez’s job, I’ll review the county budget with a fine-toothed comb,” wrote Luke in the Miami New Times, where he’s been publishing columns over the past year. “When I ran my record company, every year we would first go over what was making revenue for us and beef that side up. Then we would cut the areas where we were not generating revenue. The first place we looked was payroll. I’ll do the same with the county budget.”

When asked why he is running, he said: "I am mad frustrated. I have always been involved in politics, going back to my battles in the city of Miami Beach, dealing with the city commissioners and the mayor. I ran my own nightclub, and I believed African-Americans were treated badly during Memorial Day weekend... I've thought about running for public office before, but someone would always end up talking me out of it, saying, "We have this good person here, he will do good for the community," so I always backed out. But I'd end up frustrated because they didn't do anything. I'd give them ideas and they would just tell me what they wanted to hear... I get in my car, ride around Liberty City, and everything looks the same as when I was in the neighborhood growing up. I see the same crimes in the same areas. Officers and residents are still getting killed in the community I grew up in. I go to a city like Atlanta that has sensible affordable housing, and no one is being murdered. I go to Miami International Airport and see the same construction that has been going on for like a hundred years. All of that frustrates the hell out of me. Why aren't we getting it right in Miami-Dade? Why is our government only serving one set of people? That's what is pushing me to run."

TRU LIFE SENTENCED TO 8 YEARS IN PRISON.
Tru Life (real name Roberto Rosado, Jr.), who was once signed to Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his part in a fatal 2009 stabbing in New York. Tru Life pleaded guilty to gang assault following the death of Christopher Guerrero, who was killed in an attack at a Manhattan apartment building. A second man was left seriously injured. The rapper's brother Marcus Rosado pleaded guilty to manslaughter and got his brother off a possible murder charge after admitting it was him, and not his sibling, who had stabbed both men. During sentencing in New York on Wednesday March 16, the judge handed Tru Life eight years in jail and his brother 10. The rapper's lawyer, Alan Abramson, said following sentencing, "Robert is extremely saddened by what happened. Mr. Guerrero did not deserve what happened to him."

PETEY PABLO PLEADS GUILTY. FACING 10 YEARS IN PRISON,
Petey Pablo has pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen firearm. The rapper, whose real name is Moses Barrett III, appeared in federal court Wednesday to enter his guilty plea. Federal prosecutors agreed to drop two other charges in a plea agreement. Petey Pablo was arrested last year while attempting to clear security at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Authorities found a loaded gun in a bag that had passed through an X-ray machine. He faces up to 10 years in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced in June.

L.A. REID JOINS THE X FACTOR.
Island Def Jam chairman Antonio "L.A." Reid is on deck to become a judge on Simon Cowell's upcoming show The X Factor. Sources say it's a done deal. Reid, whose contract with Universal Music is up in December, will get an early release and join the Fox network show, which awards a Sony Music recording contract worth $5 million to the winner. Simon Cowell previously told Access Hollywood that his former American Idol colleague Paula Abdul, George Michael, former Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger and Mariah Carey also are being considered for the panel of four judges.

NATE DOGG DIES AT 41 - R.I.P.
Long Beach-born rapper Nathaniel Hale (Nate Dogg) dies at 41. Nathaniel D. Hale, known in the music industry as Nate Dogg, died Tuesday, his family has announced. The Cause of death has not yet been released. However, Hale had suffered two strokes, one in 2007 and another in 2008. Details will be available as they develop. Our prayers go out to his family and loved ones. NATE DOGG WAS A WEST COAST VET AND WILL TERRIBLY BE MISSED. CELEBRATE HIS MUSIC HERE!

"We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb," Snoop tweeted. "One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met. I love u buddy luv. U will always b wit me 4ever n a day u put the g n g funk u put the 1 n 213 n u put yo stamp on evrybdy u ever didit wit ... I miss u cuzz I am so sad but so happy I got to grow up wit u and I will c u again n heaven cuz u know d slogan. ... All doggs go to heaven yo homie n baby brotha bigg snoopdogg!!"

"R.I.P. TO MY HOMEBOY NATE DOGG DPGC DOGG POUND GANGSTA 4 LIFE," Daz tweeted.

"S/o [shout out] ta my bigg bro. Nate mothafuccin dogg," Kurupt tweeted. "There's only 1 ambassador of tha west coast. Ya hea me. I luv u cuzz."

"I lost a friend," an emotional Game wrote on his Twitter account. "Been here before. Tears. Memories. One day someone will lose 'US' as well. LIVING until that day comes is our only option. R.I.P. Nate Dogg. Why does it take Death to remind us about the importance of life ??? Cherish every moment cuz tomorrow he mite call your #."

"I just landed, nate dog is dead damn. GOD BLESS HIM R.I.P he meant a lot to west coast hiphop. I've always been a fan of it," 50 Cent tweeted. "I wrote the chorus to 21 questions I needed nate to sing it for me. He had a way of making everything feel hard."

"There is a certain void in hip hop's heart that can never be filled. Glad we got to make history together. RT @SnoopDogg: RIP NATE DOGG," Ludacris tweeted.

"RIP Nate dogg, this is f**king terrible!! my prayers go out to the Pound and his family," Jermaine Dupri stated.

"We love you Nate Dogg, it's never going to be the same..We lost a solider, a father, a legend, a homie. My condolences go out to Ms. Ruth and the entire family. Celebrate #NateDogg," Xzibit tweeted.

“Nate’s voice in music will never be replaced. He helped create the blueprint for West Coast hip-hop, and I was one of the lucky people who had the privilege to work with him and the honour to have him as a friend. Nate will be sorely missed. My condolences and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.”.. Eminem

SLAUGHTERHOUSE HYPED AND READY FOR SHADY PROJECT.
Recent Shady/Aftermath signees' Slaughterhouse is currently working on the new LP. In an interview with billboard, Royce Da 5’9” says that the group has finished “about six songs” so far, for the as-yet-untitled disc, laying down most of them while out in L.A. for the Grammy Awards. Royce said group mates, Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz and Crooked I, have been emailing song ideas ever since. But just because they have already began the recording process don’t expect the disc to drop anytime soon. “The first album [2009’s self titled disc for eOne] we were kind of behind the eight ball,” Royce said. “We had to complete the album in a matter of six days. With this album there’s no time constraints. We’ve got a good budget. I don’t think we’ve carved out a direction yet, but it’s coming along.” Royce says Eminem is playing a big role in the LP. “He’s very excited,” Royce added, “and I’m always excited when I see his level of excitement, because he doesn’t get excited about a lot. I love seeing him happy, and this project definitely makes him happy.” Crooked I also chimed in on a recent interview as well, “Right now, [Eminem’s] probably somewhere adding some crazy shit to a Slaughterhouse song. A lot of people may know it, but I don’t know if a lot of these new generation dudes in the game know, how much of a producer Em is. He’ll take a song to another level and he’s passionate about it. He might be doing that right now, because that’s how much he works.”... Crook added, “I’m just excited, man. We’ve been shooting some ideas around with each other, man. We’ve touched bases on a couple of songs and we’ve got a few songs that’s going to be conceptual and real personal. I think the fans are going to love it.“ Crooked I continued, “Now, people are giving us life music. I guess it’s what they want to hear us on or something because we’re not requesting it. But, when it comes our way, they’re pulling out stories, personal feelings and a lot of shit out of us. I’m loving it. This Slaughterhouse album is going to have a mark in the history of Rap. There’s going to be a lot of lyrics on there, man. Just having Em in the building, you’ve got to step your game up. So, it might have the most quotables ever, on one album.”

LUPE FIASCO HAS THE TOP SELLING ALBUM IN THE COUNTRY THIS WEEK.
Lupe Fiasco's Lasers was the top-selling album in the country this week as it took the #1 slot on the sales chart with 204,000 copies sold, according to Nielsen SoundScan. It marks the first #1 and best sales week yet for the rapper, after his second effort, The Cool, started at #15 with 143,000 sold in 2007.

HIP HOP ATTORNEY TO BE CHARLIE SHEEN'S INTERN?
Veteran Hip Hop attorney Bret D Lewis, whose clientele includes numerous Grammy winning artists and producers like hip hop legend Tha Dogg Pound and the Jacksons, announced today that he made it to the next round for the Charlie Sheen Intern job. In his initial application which was limited to 75 characters or less he stated to Rapindustry.com : "I’d be a good social media intern because… "I have Tigerblood, a Winning attitude and 20+ years as an entertainment attorney." Lewis continued: “Charlie Sheen is a talented artist who realizes his love and his lust is living in his crotch and who and what his creator is and that those bastards who don’t F—and suck and masturbate will never be Poets and Prophets and Kings.” Lewis told Rapindustry.com he is looking forward to the next round where he can provide more background and is dead serious about being Charlie’s Intern. In the next round he gets to provide his educational background and gpa and specify two of his most valuable job experiences. He says: It's kind of hard to remember his gpa from college and law school over 25-30 years ago but he remembers that he graduated Phi Betta Kappa from Oberlin and that he was on a law review at Northwestern University School of Law.". Lewis says: "As to his two work experiences, he says he is counting on my experience as the lawyager (lawyer/manager) of Tha Dogg Pound touring with Ice Cube and time on Snoop’s tour bus as well as his legal entertainment experience to clinch the job. “I think I will make a great intern for Charlie, and I have a lot of great ideas for him. After years of working with artists and handling their every need from child support issues to litigation, I think I will be the perfect Intern for Charlie. Plus, with me, everything will be attorney client privileged so he won’t have to worry about me going to the Tabloids. Also, I’m not worried about leaving my job for a couple of months. There were a couple of attorneys who were partners at Omelveny & Myers who left to do the Amazing Race--and won--so I know I can do it". Bret Lewis

BIRDMAN PUBLISHES BOOK ON CRIMINAL SYSTEM?
Cash Money Records‘ Baby recently sat down to talk about getting into the book publishing business and its first retail release, Raw Law. Telling the director, Baby says he wants peple to understand the criminal system. Speaking to director Derick G, Baby opened up about his motivation for launching his Cash Money Content company with a book about understanding the criminal system. “I just want to introduce y’all to CMC, our Cash Money Content, which is our book company,” Baby said in an interview. “The first book we put out, [came] out 2/15, which is called Raw Law and it really speaks to the realities of our legal system. I think this is a book you should read especially if you in and out [of jail]. One of my brother’s doing life. One of my partner’s fighting a life charge. One of my brothers just came home from doing 20 years. And that was one of my inspirations on this book. [It's about] trying to help them get in and out, finding the right legal system to help them get in and out of jail.”

DJ HERO 2 DROPS 3 NEW DOWNLOADABLE HIP HOP MIXES.
St. Patrick’s Day is on the horizon, So All you beat chemists, singing sensations who have picked up DJ Hero® 2 are in luck. Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) today announced the release of Indie Hip Hop Mix Pack. Available now, and featuring the biggest names in independent underground hip hop such as Atmosphere, Jaylib, Peanut Butter Wolf, The Perceptionists and RJD2, virtual DJs can spin, scratch and remix to the following three new mixes: Indie Hip Hop Mix Pack
· “My World Premiere” by Charizma & Peanut Butter Wolf Mixed With “The Red (Instrumental)” by Jaylib
· “Party Hard” by The Perceptionists ft. Guru & Camu Tao Mixed With “Ghostwriter” by RJD2
· “The Best Day” by Atmosphere (Remix by FSG)

The Indie Hip Hop Mix Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 640 Microsoft Points and on the PlayStation®Store for PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system for $7.99. All tracks will be released as downloadable singles for Wii™ for 300 Wii Points™ each.

EMINEM = MOST POPULAR PERSON ON FACEBOOK
First the President of the United States Barack Obama, then Michael Jackson took over for the past 20 months. Now rapper Eminem is the most popular person living or dead on Facebook. He is expected to soon be the first person to reach 30,000,000 "likes" on the site. The phenomenal success of his most recent album Recovery and the #1 hit single "Love the Way You Lie" are seen as primary contributors to his success. Lady Gaga is not far behind in popularity level. Listed below are, as of today, the 10 most popular people, or groups of people, on Facebook.

Eminem
Michael Jackson
Lady Gaga
Rihanna
Linkin Park
Shakira
Justin Bieber
Megan Fox
Vin Diesel
Cristiano Ronaldo

EMINEM WRITES AN OPEN LETTER TO THE CITY OF DETROIT
Eminem has been reppin his hometown of Detroit from day one, no matter what.. He just released a video clip that he’s calling “an open letter” that serves to honor the Motor City’s working class residents. The video features narration from Em and a lot of pictures that show Detroit citizens hard at work amongst the city’s more well-known landmarks and locales. “You took our country from its infancy into industry,” says Mathers in the clip. “Your name still carries with it the idea of a nation built on steel, muscle and sweat. You became the city to carry the country. The city, like the sport, is built on dreams, people who arrived here driven to excel who know that nothing is accomplished without hard work and sacrifice. When you hurt, we hurt.” WATCH HERE

2010 DMC US FINALS DJ BATTLE DVD IS A MUST HAVE FOR ALL YOU DJ HEADS.
The 2010 DMC US Finals includes winning sets from 2010 DMC US Champion: DJ Etronik from Pico Rivera CA, The 1st to rep the US at the DMC World Finals in all 3 DMC battle categories! A powerful set from 2010 DMC US Vice-Champ: DJ Steel from Lakewood, NJ, 3rd: Grandmaster Supreme: former DJ for Ms. Lauren Hill + NMS DJ Champion Plus Concept (FL), DJ Image (CA), Juyadek (CA) and DJ Swift (SC). Colorado DJs made up almost 1/2 of the DJs battling in the 2010 DMC US Finals! (Cysko Rokwel, Skip Ripkin, DJ Notch, Jeff C and B*Money) Kool DJ Red Alert directs the festivities with his classic voice and humor!DJ Showcases include the phenomenal Excess alongside the elusive Toadstyle. DMC World Champion Showcase by DJ Shiftee - wait til you hear what he did with Red Alert's Intro!! Actually, you know what? You don't have to wait.

CASIO & NICKI MINAJ TEAM UP.
Casio America, Inc. today announced that Nicki Minaj will help kickoff and celebrate the launch of the Casio TRYX™ by performing at TRYX OUT: NYC 2011 - Casio's official launch party for the camera. Taking place on April 7th at the Best Buy Theater in New York City, TRYX OUT: NYC 2011 will also feature a performance by the legendary Roots. "Casio is thrilled to have Nicki Minaj help us launch TRYX here in the U.S.," said Toshi Iguchi, Senior General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Casio America Inc. "Just as Nicki brings a unique, exciting and fresh perspective to the world of hip-hop, Casio looks to do the same with TRYX and the digital imaging industry. Nicki's enthusiasm adds tremendous value to TRYX OUT: NYC 2011, and the unquestionable 'wow' factor of her performance will help make this the ultimate launch event befitting such a game changing product." "Casio sure knows how to design a camera," said Nicki Minaj. "I'm excited to be part of the TRYX OUT: NYC 2011 launch party and look forward to working together with Casio to make sure this camera gets the party it deserves! With a TRYX in my hand, there's no doubt that I'll be able to take incredible images and video on tour and beyond.".. "We are excited to perform at the launch event for the Casio TRYX," said Questlove. "From what I hear, the camera has a state-of-the-art, innovative design, and I'm eager to get a chance to see it myself."

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