DMX Contemplates Name Change

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rapper and actor DMX is prepping for the release of his new album, The Year Of The Dog, Again, and he's also contemplating a name change. He told MTV.com, "It's just the whole Dark Man thing. Because if you look at it, from a spiritual point of view, the Bible teaches us that we can speak things into existence... And Dark Man, you know, it may not be the best name for me."

The rapper, who hopes to become a preacher when his rap days are over, recently released a new single, "Lord Give Me A Sign," which was produced by Scott Storch. DMX explained, "The Scott Scorch thing... he charges $80,000 a beat, very expensive. We bought two (beats), and he gave me the beat (for 'Lord Give Me a Sign') for free. So it was ironic that the potentially biggest song on the album would be given to us for free. On every album, there's a gospel song or a prayer. The song's either a conversation with the Lord or just a reference to how much I love the Lord and what I'm willing to do... We got the beat, and I heard the beat, and I was like, 'Lord, give me a sign!'The beat created the song, and I just ran from there."

While DMX is hoping to make a spiritual change, he made it clear to us that he doesn't see himself as a role model: "No, I think it's my responsibility to tell them the truth. To be... I'm not gonna set them up for a downfall. 'Oh life is perfect, and you do the right thing and nothing bad will happen'-- nah, that's bulls--t."

The rapper added: "You give them the good, you give them the bad, and let them know regardless of what happens, get up and keep moving."

Beyonce's Upcoming Solo Album Celebrates her Birthday

By: Janine Coveney

Singer and actress Beyonce will celebrate her 25th birthday by releasing her second solo album titled B'Day on September 5th, a day after her actual birthdate. The new album will feature music co-written, arranged, and produced by Beyonce.

The first single will be "Deja Vu" featuring Jay-Z with co-production by Rodney Jerkins. Other co-producers on B'Day include Rich Harrison, The Neptunes, and Swizz Beatz.

Fans of the bootylicious singer will get a second helping of Beyonce music when the soundtrack to the Dreamgirls is released as a joint venture between Sony Urban Music/Columbia Records and Music World Music. Beyonce stars in the long-awaited screen musical along with Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, Danny Glover, Anika Noni Rose, and Jennifer Hudson. The film opens December 22nd.

Beyonce completed recording B'Day just three weeks after the wrap of Dreamgirls. The new album is the follow-up to her smash 2003 solo debut Dangerously In Love, which earned the Houston native five Grammy Awards.

Diddy Reprises "Raisin" On Abc

New York, New York - May 24, 2006) – Entertainment mogul, Sean "Diddy" Combs will join Phylicia Rashad, Audra McDonald and Sanaa Lathan in a small-screen version of the classic Lorraine Hansberry tale, "A Raisin in the Sun" to air on ABC Television in 2007.

Following a successful Broadway debut starring in the lead role of Walter Lee, Combs will serve as executive producer of the remake along with Sony Pictures producers, Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. The award winning record producer will also supervise the music soundtrack.

The Combs led 2004 "Raisin in the Sun" revival was a huge hit on Broadway, widely credited with attracting a diverse audience to Broadway and earning two Tony Awards.

Ruff Ryders CEO's in Best Life Magazine

Joaquin "Waah" Dean and Darrin "Dee" Dean, CEO's of Ruff Ryder Entertainment, one of the most recognized Hip Hop labels to date and home to superstars DMX and The Lox are featured in the June issue of
Best Life Magazine, an upscale lifestyle magazine formed by the creators of Men's Health. The full page story entitled, "Empires of the Sons" discusses the Ruff Ryder mantra of family business and why it's important to involve family in your professional success.

Wahh and Dee were positioned along side other successful business
families such as legendary racing champion, Mario Andretti and his sonwho is also a professional racer and Legendary Orioles Manager Cal Ripken Sr. and his sons Bill Ripken and Cal Ripken Jr.

Below is a snippet from the article.

A sense of understanding guides the entire family. "Anyone who wants ajob gets a shot, Waah says. "We put family members where they feel comfortable going, "he adds. The formula works. Since its beginning, Ruff Ryders has generated $1 billion in gross revenue from management and production, album sales, a clothing label, and a pet-food line called Game Dog. "It's a blessing to have something that everybody's interested in and can bring a whole family together," says Waah.

Raekwon signs with Dre, Cuban Linx II on Aftermath Records?

According to Raekwons people we can officially confirm that Chef Raekwon has inked a deal with Dr. Dres Aftermath Entertainment. While details are still sketchy, we can confirm that the papers were signed last week.
It was already known that Dr. Dre and Raekwon had worked together on the highly anticipated "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx" project, an initiative of Busta Rhymes who is also an Executive Producer of the record with RZA.

"Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II" will be a co-production between Aftermath and Wu-Tang. Whether this is the Wu Music Group or Wu-Tang Productions is not known yet.

RZA has yet to confirm the rest of the details.

Vote to Recognize the Best of Hip-Hop Soul

Will it be Kanye or Ne-Yo? Mary J. or Keyshia? Hip-hop soul is the defining music of the day, but who’s defining the genre at its best? To celebrate Black Music Month in June, Rémy Martin 1738 will give America a chance to decide. Beginning May 9, anyone 21 or older can log onto www.1738.com, sample hundreds of songs, and vote to recognize the top artists and songs in hip-hop soul history. Daily updates will provide a running list of the leaders in each category, and the final results will be revealed on July 1.

The online poll is just one of many initiatives Rémy Martin 1738 is undertaking for Black Music Month. The brand will also co-host a national kick-off celebration in New York City with hot music magazine XXL, where the first Rémy Martin 1738 Award for Contributions to Black Music will be announced. And local promotions in cities around the country will take place throughout June; a calendar will be posted on 1738.com later this month.

Beanie Sigel shot during attempted robbery

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Philadelphia-based rapper Beanie Sigel was shot Thursday, May 25th during an attempted robbery on a South Philadelphia street. MTV.com reports that the rapper was shot in the arm during the incident, but he was able to flee and drive himself to the University Of Pennsylvania hospital, where he is listed in good condition. At approximately 7:10 a.m., Sigel was in his vehicle at 22nd and Sigel Street when five males in two separate cars approached the rapper. A bearded man in his thirties who was wearing jeans and Timberland boots allegedly opened fire, and one or two bullets struck Sigel in the upper right arm.

Sigel completed a federal prison term last August for illegal possession of a weapon, and in September he was acquitted of attempted murder.

The rapper's last release was 2005's The B. Coming.

Naughty By Nature Reunites

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Grammy Award-winning hip hop group Naughty By Nature is back together and working on a new album. They reunited earlier this month during a performance at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City when former member and producer Kay Gee joined Treach and Vin Rock on stage. Vin Rock said, "The party anthems that we created with Kay Gee defined Naughty By Nature sound, so we're really happy to have him back with us." Treach added, "Looking back and seeing Kay there brought so many memories. It's good to know that he's back!"

Kay Gee left the group in 1999 to launch his own Divine Mill label, whose roster included Jaheim and Koffee Brown.

Naughty By Nature burst onto the hip-hop scene in 1991 with their huge hit "O.P.P.," taken from the self-titled debut album that was certified platinum for sales of a million copies. The group scored another huge hit in 1993 with "Hip Hop Hooray," from their second set 19 Naughty III, which was also certified platinum. The group's next two album's, 1995's Poverty's Paradise and 1999's 19 Naughty Nine: Nature's Fury, went gold on sales of 500,000 copies each.

The group's last release was 2002's Iicons. Kay Gee was not involved with the project.

Chamillionaire #1 on Billboard Hot 100 Chart!

NEW YORK, May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Houston's rapper and entrepreneur Chamillionaire is 3 for 3: He received a "Best New Artist" nomination for the 2006 BET Awards, his national debut album, The Sound Of Revenge, was Certified Platinum and his second hit single from "Ridin'," featuring Krayzie Bone, is the #1 Song on Billboard's Hot 100 Chart all in one week.

Within the last year Chamillionaire has become a prominent force on the music scene, his first hit single "Turn It Up," featuring Lil' Flip was top 10 at Crossover Radio. Not one to sit on his laurels, Chamillionaire's second single "Ridin'," was #1 at Crossover Radio for 6 consecutive weeks, while the video is in elite rotation on MTV 2 and heavy rotation on BET.

As if taking over radio and video airwaves wasn't enough, with the over 3.3 million profile views on MySpace, over 500,000 Digital Sales (out selling Nelly "Grillz," and T.I. "What You Know") and with 1.4 million Ringtone Sales, Chamillionaire's incredible success in the digital arena is commanding everyone's attention, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with.

The one-time regional rapper, who used to sell his mix-tapes out of the trunk of his car, has not only proven that he has arrived, but that he is here to stay. And if your still not a believer, check out USA Today which states, "Rapper ridin' hot on Shakira's heels," or his upcoming performance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno on June 23rd.

Source: Universal Motown

MTV Rolls Out a Brand New Season of 'Pimp My Ride'

NEW YORK, May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV announced today that the hit series "Pimp My Ride" will return for an all new season beginning Thursday, June 15th at 10pm ET/PT. For its new season, rap superstar and car enthusiast Xzibit and car customization specialist Mad Mike take aim on the biggest clunkers on the road. Joining them for this new season, and giving a new spin on car customization, is GAS - Galpin Auto Sports. Together Xzibit, Mad Mike and the crew at the shop will create unheard of, pimped out masterpieces in the all new season of "Pimp My Ride."

This season Xzibit and Mad Mike, with some help from the guys at GAS, will take things to a whole new level. Accomplishing things that have never been done before, in this season of "Pimp My Ride" viewers will witness a 1988 Cadillac Limo hooked up with a 50" plasma screen movie theater, a 1995 Mitsubishi Galant with its own white fur chaise lounge, and a 1976 ice cream truck that is destined to go out of business remodeled with some 2006 technology.

In anticipation of the new season, MTV will schedule two 4-hour blocks of "Pimp My Ride" episodes, each block airing on consecutive Sundays in June, for a total of 8 hours of programming. The first block airs on June 4th from 5:00pm - 9:00pm. The second block airs on June 11th from 10:00am - 2:00pm.

MTV.com lends its support to "Pimp My Ride" by launching the Pimp My Ride/Lincoln Mark LT Sweepstakes. Each week MTV.com users will come to the "Pimp My Ride" website and vote for one item featured on that week's episode to be added to the Mark LT. The following week, Overdrive will feature a package showing the installation of the part that was voted on that week. At the end of the season the Mark LT will be given away to one lucky winner!

Overdrive will also offer viewers access to a segment of outtakes and deleted scenes. Full episodes will be available on MTV On Demand starting July 7th.

In addition, fans with mobile devices will be able to access features including the "Pimp My Ride" trailer, weekly outtakes from current season, "best of" clips from previous seasons and "Pimp My Ride" graphics available as downloadable wallpapers on mobile.mtv.com.

Rick Hurvitz and Bruce Beresford-Redman are executive producers for "Pimp My Ride." Larry Hochberg is supervising producer. Beth Greenwald is creative executive for MTV.

E-40, Hieroglyphics, and Too Short Take Control of Rap City

Set your Tivo to Stunna! The Bay continues its renaissance with a weeklong takeover of BET's Rap City. "Hyphy is the like the rebirth of hip-hop," the show's host, Madd Links exclaimed. BET captured three days of footage in the Bay Area to document this pop culture movement. Hyphy, which originated in Oakland, has hit the national scene and enticed mainstream media to document the phenomenon. Everyday next week at 5 PM EST you'll get a new installment of the show chronicling the past, present, and future of the Bay. Yee yee!
The series opens on Monday 5/29 with Too Short - a pioneering Oakland rapper who went from slanging tapes on the corner to platinum sales - and concludes on Saturday 6/3 with the Bay Area's Top 10 Countdown.
The full schedule is as follows:
Monday 5/29/06 - Too Short: A Day in the Life

Tuesday 5/30/06 - Hyphy: A subculture of Hip Hop
Wednesday 5/31/06 - E-40: His second wind
Thursday 6/01/06 - Hieroglyphics & Davey D: The Past, Present, & Future
Friday 6/02/06 - Bay Area: The Road Map
Saturday 6/03/06 - Top 10 Countdown

For more info, check out BET.com

Ben Gordon and Juelz Santana Ready to Pop First SodaShop on 125th

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 22, 2006--H3Enterprises, Inc. (OTC: "HTRE") has announced that Ben Gordon of the Chicago Bulls and HarlemHipHop sensation Juelz Santana have agreed to be principal partners in HTRE's flagship HipHopSodaShop store on 125th Street in Harlem. Further details about the new location will be announced at a Press Conference that will take place Thursday in Manhattan.

Last week Gordon officially joined TeamH3 when he launched his new White Tea based Energy Drink "BG7" before the media in Chicago. "BG7" is being produced and marketed by HTRE and is expected to hit the shelves in time for the busy summer season. Juelz signed on with HTRE in February and performed at the HipHopSodaShop booth to kick off the National Basketball Players Association party during NBA All Star Weekend. Juelz recently appeared on BET's 106th and Park to talk about his new SodaShop coming to 125th (to view video visit hiphopsodashop.com).

"It's time for every one of us to start giving back," said Gordon, who grew up in Mount Vernon, NY. "HTRE is all about investing in our own culture and in our own communities, keeping everything healthy and affordable. The store on 125th alone will create about one hundred new jobs where people can feel good about going to work each day. We're setting up scholarship programs and computer giveaways to make equal educational opportunity our top priority. I've also obtained the exclusive SodaShop rights to Chicago from H3 and look forward to working with my teammates on the Bulls to bring good health, great entertainment, and economic empowerment to all the communities across the Windy City."

The 125th partnership was made possible by HarlemHoopHero and H3's Director of Corporate Communications, Adrian Walton, who has a long time friendship with the two rising stars. "I may buy into the store myself if they let me," said Walton. "Everything is taking off in Harlem and HTRE will definitely be a big part of it. We're in the process of putting partnerships like this together all over the USA, hooking up the biggest stars in the NBA with the baddest rappers around to get our SodaShops popping everywhere. It's time to get the party started so just keep watching America. You're about to find out what H3Teamwork is all about."

H3Enterprises is the owner, creator, licensor, and franchiser of HipHopSodaShops, H3Raps, H3WhiteTea, H3CyberSports, H3'sWorldSeries of CyberSports, H3Players.com, and "BG7" White Tea Energy Blast.
Safe Harbor: Certain information included herein may contain statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations which are not reasonably predictable and which could significantly affect future results.

Three 6 Mafia Set to Perform Live at 'Friday Night Smackdown!

Oscar-Winning Hip-Hop Ensemble's Performance to Air on World Wrestling Entertainment(R)'s 'Friday Night SmackDown!' Friday, May 26 on UPN

WWE: Wreckless Intent - Featuring Three 6 Mafia's 'Some Bodies Gonna Get It' - in Stores Tuesday, May 23

NEW YORK, May 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Urban Music/Columbia Records recording artists Three 6 Mafia -- the first hip-hop ensemble to ever win an Oscar -- will perform live at the WWE(R)'s "Friday Night SmackDown!" event in Bakersfield, California, on Tuesday, May 23. Three 6 Mafia's performance will air on WWE's "Friday Night SmackDown!" on Friday, May 26 on UPN (check local listings).

"It's goin' down in Bakersfield! Three 6 Mafia performs live at 'SmackDown!,'" said Juicy J, one of the leaders of the Memphis rap collective. "We want everybody to come out and party with us! It's gonna be a blast!"

This special appearance by Three 6 Mafia will be filmed on the same day -- May 23 -- that WWE: Wreckless Intent -- the new CD compilation of WWE Superstar theme music performed by some of the biggest and hottest rock, alternative and hip-hop artists -- arrives in stores.

WWE: Wreckless Intent includes "Some Bodies Gonna Get It" (as associated with the WWE talent Mark Henry(TM)), the first new music from Three 6 Mafia since "It's Hard Out Here For A Pimp" (from Craig Brewster's "Hustle & Flow") took home the Academy Award for the Best Achievement In Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song).

WWE: Wreckless Intent is comprised of WWE Superstars' entrance themes heard during WWE's weekly television shows -- "RAW(R)," which can be seen every Monday night "live" on the USA Network at 9PM ET, and "Friday Night SmackDown," which can be seen every Friday night at 8PM ET on the UPN Network. As well, there are monthly Pay Per View programs and specials throughout the year in which these themes can be heard on a worldwide basis.

Tracks on WWE: Wreckless Intent will be integrated into all aspects of World Wrestling Entertainment programming including syndicated television, Pay-Per-View, online initiatives, consumer products and live events including "WrestleMania," "RAW," and "SmackDown!" TV in the month of April.

WWE: Wreckless Intent is being released in conjunction with the "WrestleMania(R) 22" DVD.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. is an integrated media and entertainment company, principally engaged in the development, production and marketing of television programming, pay-per-view programming and live events, and the licensing and sale of branded consumer products featuring the highly successful World Wrestling Entertainment brand. WWE is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in London, Los Angeles, New York and Toronto. WWE is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WWE.

Founded by Vincent and Linda McMahon, World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. has been involved in the sports entertainment business for more than 20 years, developing into one of the most popular forms of entertainment today.

Trademarks: The names of all World Wrestling Entertainment televised and live programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans and wrestling moves and all World Wrestling Entertainment logos are trademarks which are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

DMX involved in Child Support Battle

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rapper DMX might be taking a heavy financial hit soon as a woman in Buffalo, New York, is seeking an additional $10,000 a month in child support. Vibe.com reports that Davita Oden is already receiving $5,000 a month from the rapper per a temporary support agreement, and now she's requesting a $10,000 a month increase. Oden is the mother of four-year-old Jada, who was proven to be DMX's daughter through a paternity test. Oden's lawyer, Suzanne Kimberly Bracker, said, "DMX did the DNA test. He admitted paternity, then he tried to deny it."

DMX and his wife, Tashera Simmons, have three children. Mrs. Simmons hasn't gone on the record in regards to her husband's extra-marital activities.

The rapper is also facing another paternity claim from a Maryland woman.

DMX's new album, Year Of The Dog, Again, is due August 1st.

Ice Cube hosts controversial "Listen N Learn" Mixtape, "Niggaz with Gunz"

Mixtape Series Uses the Influence of Hip-Hop to Educate About the
Perils of Black-On-Black Crime

LOS ANGELES, CA – (May 16, 2006) – Ice Cube continues to push the envelope as the host of "Niggaz With Gunz", the fourth installment of executive producer Mike Johns’ “Listen N Learn” mixtape series. The new mixtape pays tribute to controversial Civil Rights leader, who authored the book “Negroes With Guns”, which was published in 1962. Williams (1925-1996) is best known for his militant leadership of the Civil Rights Movement in the South, where he urged Blacks to arm themselves in the name of self-defense against the Ku Klux Klan. Williams refused to be bound by the doctrine of non-violence and formed a path to end Jim Crow segregation.

“Niggaz With Gunz” is the first mixtape Ice Cube has ever hosted and features new and exclusive remixed music from his “Laugh Now Cry Later” album, set to be released on June 6, 2006. The mixtape, which was featured on MTV’s “Mixtape Mondays”, includes remixes of “Why We Thugs”, featuring new artist Black Rose from Chicago, and “Chrome & Paint”, with newcomer LA producer Tommy Gunz. In addition, the mixtape debuts exclusive, original music made available as ringtones from three unsigned emerging artists – Swing from Chicago, Illinois; Spaide R.I.P.P.E.R. from St. Louis, Missouri; Choir Boy of Newark, New Jersey, and motivational speaker Mac McGee from Chicago. “Niggaz With Gunz” also includes compelling music from Tupac, Mobb Deep, & Baby Sham’s “Ghetto Stories”, detailing the plague of guns and violence affecting Black communities around the world.

“Today’s generation does not want to be preached to -- hip-hop used correctly is a good method to educate our youth,” says Mike Johns, executive producer. Gun violence is a steady problem in the Black community, and Ice Cube urges listeners to “put the gun away and use your brain”. In a celebration of Black Music Month in June, UrbanWorld Wireless will be the first to debut the mixtape on its website www.urbanworldwireless.com, before it ultimately hits the streets on May 22, 2006. UrbanWorld sees this as an opportunity to help eradicate violence against Blacks, not only in the US, but in Jamaica and beyond. The company will donate a portion of the ringtone revenue generated from the mixtape to support the Darfur region of Sudan, in Northern Africa, which due to the extensive violence, rape and killings has been named the first genocide of the 21st century.

Big Tigger’s 5th Annual Celebrity Classic

Big Tigger, co-host of BET’s 106th & Park and BET Style and host of the internationally syndicated radio program, “Live In the Den with Big Tigger” receives an A-list of celebrity support for Big Tigger’s 5th Annual Celebrity Classic to be held Thursday, June 15th- Sunday, June 18th in Washington, DC. The annual event presented by Big Tigger’s Street Corner Foundation Inc. is designed to raise funds for and heighten public awareness of HIV/AIDS.

New York, NY (PRWEB) May 17, 2006 -- Big Tigger, co-host of BET’s 106th & Park and BET Style and host of the internationally syndicated radio program, “Live In the Den with Big Tigger” receives an A-list of celebrity support for Big Tigger’s 5th Annual Celebrity Classic to be held Thursday, June 15th- Sunday, June 18th in Washington, DC. The annual event presented by Big Tigger’s Street Corner Foundation Inc. is designed to raise funds for and heighten public awareness of HIV/AIDS.

A highlight of the celebrity weekend is the popular All Star Celebrity Basketball Game held Saturday June 17 in Washington D.C. Celebrities such as Angel Conwell (Actress), Anthony Anderson (Actor), Anthony Henry (Cowboys), Antonio Daniels (Wizards), Anwan “Big G” Glover (Actor), Avant (R&B), Big Tigger (BET), Brian McKnight (R&B), Carl Payne (Actor), Carmelo Anthony (Nuggets), Champ Bailey (Broncos), Chucky Thompson (Producer), Clifton Powell (Actor), Clinton Portis (Redskins), Cousin Jeff (BET), Darren Sharper (Vikings), Daron (112), Deon Grant (Jaguars), EJ Henderson (Vikings), Floetry (R&B), Gary Payton (Heat), Gilbert Arenas (Wizards), Hill Harper (Actor), Hydeia Broadbent (HIV/AIDS Activist), Jamie Sharper (Seahawks), Jason Campbell (Redskins), Jerry Porter (Raiders), Jurnee Smollett (Actress), Kenyon Martin (Nuggets), Kerry Rhodes (Jets), Larry Hughes (Wizards), Lil’ Mo (R&B), Lyfe (R&B), Melyssa Ford (BET Personality), Mike (112), Mike Phillips (Saxophonist), Q Quinnes Parker (112), Ray J (R&B/BET), Reggie Bush (USC/NFL), Rockmond Dunbar (Actor), Shamba Mitchell (Boxer), Shawne Merriman (Chargers), Slim (112), Steve Francis – (Knicks), Steve Harvey (Actor/Radio), Tank (R&B), Terrell Owens (Eagles), Toccara Jones (Actress/Model), Tommy Davidson (Comedienne), Victor Hobson (Jets), Vivica A. Fox (Actress), Warren Sapp (Raiders)

In its fifth season, Big Tigger’s 5th Annual Celebrity Classic will include supporting events such as Youth Sports Festival, Celebrity Panel Discussion, Cocktail Party & Silent Auction, Pre Party Testing Initiative, Sponsors VIP Luncheon, WPGC Block party and host celebrity parties.

Presented by the Street Corner Foundation, Inc. the goal of the celebrity weekend is to distribute a minimum $50,000 worth of grants and donations to deserving grassroots charitable organizations including Pediatric AIDS/HIV Care and Metro TeenAIDS. Generous sponsors of Big Tigger’s 5th Annual Celebrity Classic include AUDI/Volkswagen, American Airlines, BET Rap It Up, Brand Jordan, Head Gear, Hpnotiq, Vitamin Water, New Era Cap, Amerigroup Corporation, NABB and Downtown Locker Room.

Busta Rhymes, Jamie Foxx, Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott Top '06 BET AWARDS List With Four Nominations Each

Comedian Daman Wayans to Host His First-Ever BET AWARDS Show Televising Live From Los Angeles's Famed Shrine Auditorium on Tuesday, June 27

Featured Performers Include Mary J. Blige, T.I., Mariah Carey and Kanye West

Songstress Chaka Khan to Receive BET Lifetime Achievement Award; World-Renown Actor and Activist Harry Belafonte Set for BET Humanitarian Award

LOS ANGELES, May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- As the countdown officially begins to the most legendary night in Black entertainment, it's the legendary superstars who will be heard from loud and clear. Hip-Hop giants Busta Rhymes and Missy Elliott, R&B diva Mary J. Blige and Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx -- all legends in their own right -- earned a phenomenal four nominations each for the 2006 BET AWARDS, which televise live on Tuesday, June 27 from its new location at the Shrine Auditorium at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT (tape delayed to the Pacific and Mountain Time Zones). Nominations were announced today in Hollywood.

BET's annual salute to superlative performance in music, television, film and sports promises 15 intensely competitive categories, including a brand new category recognizing innovation and originality in R&B music. This year's crowning recognitions will go to individuals whose names are synonymous with greatness as R&B icon Chaka Khan receives the BET Lifetime Achievement Award and actor/singer/activist Harry Belafonte is honored with the BET Humanitarian Award.

Actor and comedian Damon Wayans, multi-talented member of the famed Wayans family of Hollywood achievers, steps forward to host his first-ever BET AWARDS show. Add performers like Mary J. Blige, T.I., Mariah Carey and Kanye West, and the stage is set for an explosive night under the Western sky.

"BET Awards is the best awards show on television, period. No qualifier. And here are three great reasons why: Number One, our host is Damon Wayans. He's been making people laugh for 20 years," said Reginald Hudlin, BET President of Entertainment. "Number Two is Lifetime Achievement honoree Chaka Khan. Her voice sounds like she swallowed Jimmy Hendrix's guitar. Third is Humanitarian Award recipient Harry Belafonte, an award I'm very proud to be associated with. Harry is the first music artist to receive a platinum record. Harry popularized the concept of world music before there was even the phrase. And most importantly, his efforts on behalf of human rights and civil rights are unmatched by any other artist. People forget that Dr. King's famous letter from the Birmingham jail was addressed to Harry Belafonte."

Even as a first-time host, Wayans still promises to keep the show flowing with his special brand of brash, irreverent, "Hell No, Homey Don't Play That" humor first unveiled in the ground-breaking sketch comedy series In Living Color. Now the star, creator and executive producer of the hit ABC sitcom My Wife and Kids, earned his stripes and is ready to stake his claim on the awards show circuit.

"Damon is a fierce stand-up comedian with a biting sense of humor that will keep everyone in the audience on their toes," said Stephen Hill, BET Executive Vice President for Music and Entertainment Programming. "The BET Awards is known for bringing the heat. And with the performers we have lined up and the left-of-center elements planned, the heat shall be 'broughten' again. You know how we do."

Busta Rhymes, who was one of the artists announcing the nominations along with Ne-Yo, 3-6 Mafia and Keyshia Cole, earned nods for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Best Duet and Video of the Year and is up for the Viewer's Choice Award. Jamie Foxx, whose recent solo album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's R&B charts, is up for Best Male R&B Artist, Best Duet/collaboration (with Kanye West), Best Actor and Video of the Year (with Kanye West).

And as for the ladies, Mary J. Blige's nominations include: Best Female R&B Artist, Best Duet/Collaboration (with Busta Rhymes) and two nods for Video of the Year. Missy Elliott, also received two nominations for Video of the Year to go along with her nods for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and Best Duet/Collaboration (with Busta Rhymes).

Other artists receiving multiple nominations included: Kanye West, Ne-Yo and Chris Brown each with three; Anthony Hamilton, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Ciara, Keyshia Cole, Lloyd Banks, Mariah Carey, Mary Mary, Papoose, Rah Digga, Slim Thug and T.I. each scored two apiece.

Last year's BET AWARDS was the most-watched program in the network's 26- year history with an amazing 6.6 million viewers tuning in to catch the excitement. BET has again teamed with Cossette Productions, famed producers of the GRAMMY Awards(R) and the five previous record-setting BET AWARDS shows, to handle production of the telecast.

To heat things up and cool things down, BET will be all over the pre- and post-award show happenings with a special edition of 106 & PARK: LIVE FROM THE RED CARPET, beginning at 6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT. Hosts Tigger and Julissa Bermudez will no doubt capture all the excitement from fashion to who's escorting whom at the summer's most anticipated awards show. The energy will continue post the awards when BET News brings you THE BLACK CARPET LOUNGE live and hosted by Toure' beginning at 11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT. There will be a non- stop parade of celebrity interviews and featured highlights from the show.

BET online audience will have the opportunity to really be a part of the show as virtual members of the BET AWARDS 06 voting academy by logging onto http://www.bet.com/ to vote for their favorite performer in the Viewers' Choice poll. The actual voting takes place real time during the telecast. Fans can also select the BET Ultimate Fan by casting votes for 10 previously selected video entries for the individual who best shows off their enthusiasm for the BET AWARDS 06. The lucky winner receives an all-expense trip for two to this year's show plus $2,500 in spending money and an opportunity to co-present the Viewers' Choice Award.

Encore telecasts of the 2006 BET AWARDS are set for:
Friday, June 30th @ 7:30 p.m. ET/PT
Tuesday, July 4th @ 7:30 p.m. ET/PT
Sunday, July 9th @ 7:30 p.m. ET/PT

BET will also offer up other tasty appetizers to tantalize the palette before the show including:

* Exclusive '06 BET AWARDS content available on BET.com's broadband
product BET on Blast, including artist interviews, honoree profiles and
behind-the-scenes access, plus a live video stream of the exciting BET
Awards red carpet arrivals.

* A new category called the BET J Cool Like That Award, named for BET's
newly re-launched sister network (formerly BET Jazz) which offers adult-
oriented fare for sophisticated tastes.

* BET Awards interactivity "on-the-go" for BET Mobile customers with
mobile fan clubs for cellular phone users.

The following is a complete list of the 2006 BET AWARDS nominees and categories:

Best Female Hip Hop

Missy Elliott
Lil' Kim
Remy Ma
Shawnna
Trina

Best Male Hip Hop

50 Cent
Busta Rhymes
Common
T.I.
Kanye West

Best Collaboration (Song Title)

Beyonce f/ Slim Thug (Check on It-Pink Panther)
Bow Wow f/Ciara (Like You)
Busta Rhymes f/ Mary J. Blige, Rah Digga, Missy Elliott, Lloyd Banks, Papoose & DMX (Touch It - Remix)
Jamie Foxx f/ Ludacris (Unpredicatble)
Kanye West f/Jamie Foxx (Gold Digger)

Best Female R&B

Beyonce
Mary J. Blige
Mariah Carey
Keyshia Cole
India.Arie

Best Male R&B

Chris Brown
Jamie Foxx
Anthony Hamilton
Ne-Yo
Prince

Best Group

Black Eyed Peas
Destiny's Child
Floetry
Mary Mary
Three 6 Mafia

Best New Artist

Chris Brown
Chamillionaire
Ne-Yo
Rihanna
Paul Wall

Best Gospel Artist

Yolanda Adams
Kirk Franklin
Mary Mary
Smokie Norful
CeCe Winans

Video of the Year (Song Title)

Beyonce f/ Slim Thug (Check on It)
Mary J. Blige (Be Without You)
Busta Rhymes f/ Mary J. Blige, Rah Digga, Missy Elliott, Lloyd Banks, Papoose & DMX (Touch It - Remix)
Missy Elliott f/Ciara (Lose Control)
R. Kelly (Trapped In the Closet)
Kanye West f/Jamie Foxx (Gold Digger)

Best Actress

Tichina Arnold
Taraji P. Henson
Thandie Newton
Queen Latifah
Alfre Woodard

Best Actor

Chris Bridges (Ludacris)
Don Cheadle
Jamie Foxx
Terrence Howard
Denzel Washington

Female Athlete of the Year (Sport)

Laila Ali (Boxing)
Chamique Holdsclaw (Basketball)
Lisa Leslie (Basketball)
Sheryl Swoopes (Basketball)
Venus Williams (Tennis)

Male Athlete of the Year (Sport)

Kobe Bryant (Basketball)
LeBron James (Basketball)
Shaquille O'Neal (Basketball)
Tiger Woods (Golf)
Vince Young (Football)

BET J Cool Like That

Eric Benet
Anthony Hamilton
Heather Headley
Kindred the Family Soul

BET.com Viewers' Choice (Song Title)

Chris Brown - Yo (Excuse Me Miss)
Busta Rhymes (Touch It)
Mariah Carey (Don't Forget About Us)
Keyshia Cole (Love)
Ne-Yo (So Sick)
T.I. (What You Know)

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

YO GOTTI TAKES IT BACK 2 DA BASICS

New York, NY - As one of the five epicenters of Southern hip hop,
Memphis has always had a thriving underground capable of producing major
platinum superstars such as 8Ball & MJG, 3-6 Mafia and Project Pat. All of the
above-mentioned artists at one point dominated the citys underground
rap scene before going on to become national superstars. Next up to bat is
Yo Gotti, Memphis current underground rap kingpin. On May 23, 2006, TVT
Records will release Back 2 Da Basics. His sophomore TVT release is a
return to the same hardcore street flavor that his die-hard fans have come to
know and love. Back 2 Da Basics hosts a lineup of guest appearances from Lil
Wayne, Baby, La Chat, Jazze Pha, Bun B & 8 Ball.

The albums standout single, Gangsta Party featuring 8Ball & MJG and
Bun B has garnered radio play throughout the South and video play on BET and
MTV2. He has performed on Showtime at the Apollo (aired March 18 and re-airs
July 22).

Back 2 Da Basics offers fans a gritty insiders view into the real
streets of Memphis as seen through the eyes of Yo Gotti. Nowhere is this
viewpoint more intense than on Full Time, used in the MTV Films Hustle & Flow
movie - with a thunderous bass and intoxicating beat that espouses
Gottis formula to success - hustle full time. The one thing that you have to
understand is that when you create a fan base off of street product the
last thing you wanna do is disrespect them by changing because of the record
companies and stuff like that, proclaims Gotti. Other exceptional
tracks that speak to his core fan base are, U A Gangsta Rite?, We Gonna Be
Alright and 25 to Life, where Gotti details a friends plight facing
a quarter of a century behind bars. Another highlight is the gritty I
Got Them where Yo Gotti trades street tales with Lil Wayne & Baby.
Back 2 Da Basics is one of the many upcoming releases from TVT Records.
Upcoming releases for 2006 are: CRUNK ROCK, the new album from the King
of Crunk Lil Jon, EL MARIEL the sophomore album from gold-selling emcee
Pitbull and DA MUZICIANZ self-titled debut from a trio whose quest is to keep
people dancing.

KOCH RECORDS TO RELEASE S.M.A.C.K. THE ALBUM: VOLUME 1 ON JUNE 6TH, 2006

FULL AUDIO CD AND DVD FEATURES YOUNG JEEZY, E-40, BUN B, B.G., BLEU DAVINCI, JUVENILE, DMX,
KEITH MURRAY, AND MORE

(May 15, 2006)— New York, NY — SMACK White Entertainment, the brand behind the highly successful SMACK DVD Magazine series, and KOCH Records, announce the release of S.M.A.C.K. The Album: Volume 1, a 2-disc CD/DVD on June 6th, 2006. SMACK, which stands for Streets, Music, Arts, Culture & Knowledge, was recently named ÒBest DVD Magazine at the 2005 Mixtape Awards in New York. SMACK continues to hold the street DVD magazine crown selling over 750,000 copies with no major label support.

S.M.A.C.K. The Album: Volume 1 features a full-length CD with tracks from the most respected rappers in the game and those buzzing on the underground circuit. The audio portion boasts a full roster that features tracks from DMX, B.G., PNC feat. Juvenile, Mddl Fngz feat. Bun B, a reunion track with Redman, Eric Sermon & Keith Murray, Maino, Bleu DaVinci and more. This release also includes the next, full-length DVD installment of the groundbreaking and award winning SMACK DVD Magazine. The DVD portion includes exclusive videos, performances and controversial interviews from Paul Wall, Mike Jones, E-40, Murder Inc. and Funkmaster Flex with an exclusive video for every artist featured on the audio CD.

After three years and 10 volumes, SMACK has single handedly taken the Hip-Hop DVD magazine format to what it is today. CEO and Director Troy ÒSMACKÓ Mitchell knows the streets – and has built a project by and for the streets. With exclusive interviews, performances, freestyles and THE INFAMOUS SMACK BATTLE to close out every edition, the SMACK movement has built an astounding fan base since its debut in 2002 as the first DVD magazine of its kind. SMACK has been the brand ahead of the trends, showcasing every level of the hood. A SMACK print magazine and a documentary video series is also currently in the works.

50 Cent Producing Tupac's New Album?

Word is 50 says he'd like to executive produce 2Pac's new album and make sure 2Pac is promoted correctly. 50 also says he's concerned about the direction of 2Pac's material from his last effort. "I mean look at his last album. You can say there was no single and if it was it wasn't released in time and not only that, but it was probably released quietly, where absolutely no one heard about it. How do they expect to make money by doing that if the marketing isn't on point," asked 50.

According to 50, he feels 2Pac is deserving of better production and promotion then on some of his recent efforts and feels the only way that can happen is if he can be the overseer of his music projects. "2Pac has so many potential hits and he deserves better than what he's getting. I mean his posthumous albums are okay decent albums, but they can be better if you ask me. I'm a pac fan and I still listen to 2pac until this day. In fact I can listen to 3 2Pac albums straight without skipping a track."

...

2Pac who's untitled new album, which is stated to be his last released posthumous album is scheduled to be released in the Fall of this year, which marks his 10th year anniversary of his passing and is anticipated to be the best posthumous album to date. But the G-Unit general is not so sure that they can do an exceeding job that he is so promising to put forth if it was released under his direction and denies it will be his last. It's like every pac album that comes out with is his last. "That's just a promotional tactic that the people in charge of his music use for people to pick up his albums and they shouldn't have to go through all that because we all know pac was a workaholic and that there is no way that the last of his material are anywhere near. 50 Cent also said passionately and annoyed, "I feel the people running his material are not necessarily heading his work in the proper direction". 2Pac had an album come out some years ago and they only put out one single out of about an album filled with 30 songs and that single had Nas on it. To me that was the worst thing they could've done. Like why would they put Nas on a pac single and then worse make a video for it also as the lead single. It seems like the people in charge don't even listen to his music. That right there was a turn off to plenty of people. They missed the ball on making more huge hits, gaining more profit, and having his overall legacy be more than what it is. The album had so many potential singles such as "Who Do You Believe In", which relates to me and is probably one of my favorite joints ever. His mother has a center dedicated to him where supposedly all the album proceeds are put into that center, but with the way 2pac is promoted it's like there not really trying to make money. A 2pac album should be going at least 6x platinum a record, but since he has a weak marketing team and people who sit back and choose wrong choices of singles, the center is not making as much proceeds from his album as he should be because his albums aren't doing his real potential numbers."

"If this joint deal was to happen with Amaru/G-Unit I guarantee that 2Pac will have the greatest album to date ever," says Curtis "Interscope" Jackson boldly. "We're trying to be in talks with Amaru now and his estate and hopefully a conclusion of a joint venture can happen and we can make it happen for pac again. Me and Pac rocked the house on tha realists joint and we can do it again if the opportunity is given, where pac and I can team up again and have him linked to G-Unit. I don't see why his mother wouldn't want a joint venture with me. Mark my words, I guarantee an authentic 2pac album. I'll make a better album than All Eyez On Me and Makaveli and this is a guarantee. If Pac is with me on G-Unit I guarantee diamond status on every album because I would put out some of the best music of his life. All his mom needs is a promoter like me to do all the work and she can kick back."

No word yet on Afeni or any representatives from Amaru.

DMX Arrested At Heathrow Airport

DMX was arrested upon landing at London, England's Heathrow Airport on Saturday for allegedly verbally abusing the plane's cabin crew.

According to Heathrow police, 35-year-old DMX (real name Earl Simmons) refused to fasten his seatbelt as the plane was making its final descent. He then allegedly continued to be verbally abusive to the flight crew after the plane touched down. The captain alerted police, and DMX was arrested when the plane came to a stop.

Police report that DMX was released with a caution.

This incident is the latest in a series of arrests that have plagued DMX over the last few years. He was sentenced to 70 days in prison on Rikers Island in November and was released from prison on December 30 for good behaviour and credits he had accrued while previously incarcerated.

DMX's Here We Go Again album will come out through Sony Urban this summer.

Heathrow is proving to be a place that hip-hop artists may want to avoid. Snoop Dogg was arrested there in April after he and five members of his entourage were involved in a brawl that erupted after they weren't all allowed into the VIP lounge.

—Scott Bryson

EGYPT replaces The Star & Bucwild Show as co-host of Power 105.1 FMs New Morning Show

LIVE With Tigger & Egypt?

New York, NY (May 13, 2006) Egypt, a 10-year veteran on-air personality, will join New York Citys Power 105.1 FM morning show as co-host of its new syndicated program LIVE with Tigger & Egypt?, replacing the morning show formerly known as The Star & Bucwild Show, Monday through Friday from 6am-10am ET.

Egypt, better known by her fans as the sexy and vibrant personality heard on Power 105.1 FMs airwaves on the weekends from 6-10pm, has been a notable personality on New York City radio for over 5 years. Prior to joining the Clear Channel family, Egypt was a member of the 107.5 WBLS team as their midday personality. Over her ten-year reign as one of the better known Queens of radio, she was an on-air personality with Philadelphias 100.3 The Beat and later moved on to Baltimores 92Q where she was voted by Baltimore magazine as the #1 personality in the City.? In addition, Egypt was named #2 on R&R Magazines Power Player on the Rise? Top 10 List.

Along with her extensive background in radio, Egypt is also a noted television personality. She is better known for her charismatic and warm personality on the syndicated WB daytime TV hit, Home Delivery? where she was a part of a team that helped change peoples lives for the better. The radio and television industries took notice of her versatility and star-quality and awarded her the Executive to Watch? Award from NABFEME (National Association of Black Female Executives in Music & Entertainment).

Currently you can catch Egypt on the Internet as host of AOLs Top 11 Countdown and as co-host of UPNs Talk Model, the Internet talk show where she and April (from Cycle 2 of Americas Next Top Model) talk to the recent cast offs of the show and viewers call in with thoughts and questions surrounding the recent episodes.

For more information on Egypt and her dynamic career please visit: http://www.EgyptOnAir.com/

New Podcast (Da Jumpoff Pt. 6), New Videos, 2 Promotional Mixtape Downloads

Latest HHH Podcast release: Da Jumpoff Pt. 6.......Check for that in the Podcast Section.


Also check the lastest Videos update which includes Daddy Yankee, LLoyd Banks, Young Buck (Rompe RMX), Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross, and more....

Click on the links below to download the mixtapes (Courtesy of Sizzerb Ent)

Big Mike, Nu Jerzey Devil $ Watsmen
Presents - Sizzerb Mixtape Vol. 2: Sin's City


DJ VLAD Presents -
Sizzerb Mixtape Vol. 1

Rick Ross Slated for First Performance in Washington, D.C.

Rick Ross, Hip Hop's red-hot star, is set to take over the Nation's Capital with a landmark performance on Friday, May 19, 2006.

Washington, D.C. (PRWEB) May 5, 2006 -- Def Jam artist Rick Ross is indisputably billed Hip Hop’s hottest commodity by the industry and Hip Hop fans alike. This Miami-based artist and member of Slip-n-Slide crew (Trick Daddy, Trina, etc.) has permeated radio with the people’s anthem “Hustlin.” And now, Rick Ross is slated for his first performance in Washington, D.C. on Friday, May 19, 2006 at the Avenue Entertainment Complex. The concert, staged by Mad Power Unit, is going down as Rick Ross gears up for his summer debut release "Port of Miami."
They say that hustling makes the world go round and that there is a hustler in all of us. Maybe that is why after the keyboard intro of Rick Ross’ blockbuster hit “Hustlin” unfolds, everyone is invigorated. Rick Ross paints a vivid urban picture with his tale of life as he knows it in Miami. Far from the swank enclave of South Beach, Rick Ross’ world is one that vacationers know nothing of. On Friday, May 19, D.C.’s massive will travel on a wild-ride with Hip Hop’s latest gem, as he drops “Hustlin” and other hood rich sleepers, which were years in the making.
In the essence of “Hustlin,” the mega-concert will also feature D.E.B.O. and M.P.U. of Mad Power Unit Records, some of the industry’s biggest underground Hip Hop hustlers. Serving as the ultimate appetizer to Ross’ southern cuisine, the Mad Power Unit imprint’s sure-shot lyrical blazers will set the stage with hits like “So Hood” and others from "Joint Venture," Mad Power Unit Records upcoming album dedicated to D.C. Hip Hop.
With an entertainment/event production company and record label, Mad Power Unit is at the core of D.C. nightlife. Holding down impressive entertainment events for over a decade, while unleashing killer music and nurturing underground artists (destined for mainstream), Mad Power Unit is one step beyond. Rick Ross’ block buster concert will nicely add to MPU’s already stellar repertoire.

Busta Rhymes Readies Aftermath Debut

LOS ANGELES, May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-platinum recording artist Busta Rhymes will release his Aftermath Entertainment debut, "The Big Bang," on June 13, 2006. The album, his first in three years, showcases a combination of two of the most dynamic, creative forces in hip-hop music as Busta Rhymes teams with super-producer and Aftermath chief, Dr. Dre.

"The Big Bang's" initial offering, the Swizz Beatz produced "Touch It," and its remix, which features Mary J. Blige, Lloyd Banks, DMX, Rah Digga and Papoose, are currently searing airwaves worldwide. ("Touch It (Remix)" has been atop the UK's 1Xtra Official Hip-Hop Chart for 14 consecutive weeks). The second single, the offbeat "I Love My Bitch," which features Kelis and is produced by the Black Eyed Peas' will.i.am, has had similar success in the short time since its release.

Throughout "The Big Bang," Busta Rhymes hosts an array of worthy collaborators, most notably Stevie Wonder, who graces "Been Through the Storm." He moves from one funk and soul legend to another; this time, Rick James, who appeared on the song "In the Ghetto" shortly before his death.

Dr. Dre, who signed Busta Rhymes to Aftermath, commented: "All of a sudden I'm hearing people in the streets talking about how Busta's back. In my mind, he never left, and that's why I wanted to f*ck with him in the first place. He's got that drive, and he never stops trying to top himself. Anybody who knows Busta knows that he's always gonna come with heat."

Dre's influence pervades. He provides the musical backdrop for, among others, "This Is How We Do It Over Here," which features Missy Elliott. "The Big Bang" also boasts guest appearances from Raekwon, Marsha Ambrosius of Floetry, and Q-Tip.

An impressive collection of today's finest producers complement Dr. Dre's efforts, including Timbaland, G-Unit's Sha Money XL, Jelly Roll, Green Lantern, and Jay Dilla as well as the aforementioned Swizz Beatz, and will.i.am.

"The Big Bang" is Busta Rhymes' seventh solo album. It follows the platinum-selling "It Ain't Safe No More." Fans will recall that Dr. Dre and Busta Rhymes first linked up for "Break Ya Neck" the wildly popular single from Busta Rhymes's fifth platinum album, Genesis.

Boost Mobile Partners with HOT 97 for Summer Jam '06; New York's Biggest Summer Concert Gets a Boost . . . Again!

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 12, 2006--Boost Mobile(R), a lifestyle-based telecommunications brand that develops and distributes wireless communications products for the youth market, and HOT 97 (WQHT-FM, New York), the official #1 station for hip-hop and R&B, join forces for the third year in a row this June to bring to New York City, Summer Jam '06 on June 4. Summer Jam '06 will feature performances by the industry's hottest artists including Mary J Blige, Busta Rhymes, Jamie Foxx, Sean Paul, T.I., Mobb Deep, Chris Brown, Jermaine Dupri and Dem Franchize Boyz, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Juelz Santana, Jim Jones, Young Jeezy, Three 6 Mafia, Remy Ma and include the Festival Village, an afternoon event surrounding Giants Stadium with vendors, live music and sponsor pavilions.
As a part of Boost Mobile's sponsorship, it will give Summer Jam attendees the opportunity to trial Boost(TM) Call Tones, the first Pay-As-You-Go ringback tones service for free. Showcased at the Boost Mobile tent onsite at Summer Jam, Boost Call Tones enable mobile phone users to customize the sounds callers hear before a call is answered with unique content to fit their mood including music, jokes or original sound effects that entertain waiting callers.

"HOT 97 has been a phenomenal partner to Boost and our participation at Summer Jam has gotten bigger and better every year," said Daryl Butler, director of channel, events and regional marketing, Boost Mobile. "This year Boost's latest service, Boost Call Tones, will be on display and available for concert goers to check out."

In addition to the Festival Village, Boost(TM) Call Tones will be available in the VIP section along with a Boost casino-themed party giving attendees the opportunity to try their luck at pool, slot machines and much more.
"We're thrilled to partner with Boost for the third consecutive year," said Kevin Cox, director of marketing for HOT 97. "Boost Mobile holds the premier position in the wireless category for our audience and our partnership helps us continue to keep our listeners at the cutting edge of music and communications technology."

Tune in to HOT 97 this weekend and listeners will have the chance to "Get Boosted To The Front Row at Summer Jam."

Happy Birthday Stevie Wonder!

By: Howie Edelson

Acclaimed singer/songwriter Stevie Wonder is 56 today (May 12th). His most recent album, A Time To Love, was released almost one year ago and was his first studio recording in 10 years. Wonder's most recent single from the set was "Moon Blue." The debut single, "So What the Fuss," featured the first video created with a special narrated audio track for the vision-impaired.

He was born Steveland Judkins in Saginaw, Michigan in 1950, and later on legally changed his last name to Morris. At 12 years old, "Little Stevie Wonder" had his first Number One hit with "Fingertips - Part 2," recorded live in concert. Listen closely and you'll hear the musicians struggling to keep up with Wonder as he improvises; at one point, one musician can be heard shouting, "What key? What key?"

Martha Reeves, who was still working as a receptionist at Motown when Wonder first auditioned for the label, recalled to us that he was unlike anything they had seen or heard before: "Stevie Wonder, when he came to audition, played every instrument in the studio. Then he surprised everybody by puling this harmonica out of his jacket pocket and playing the harmonica, that nobody (laughs) at Motown had ever played."

Former Temptations frontman Dennis Edwards remembers immediately being floored by Wonder's talents: "The first time I met him, man, I was at Motown -- of course Stevie was a little kid. He plays all the time. Every time you hear him he's swinging. All you've got to do is speak and Stevie knows who you are. He can't see and he's like 'Dennis!'it's like... when I first met him I'm like 'How does he know who I am?'Y'know?"

At 17, he performed with the Jimi Hendrix Experience, playing drums during a BBC jam session.

He recorded an instrumental jazz album under the name Eivets Rednow (Stevie Wonder spelled backwards).

He's set a record for the most Grammys, with 21 wins.

Wonder considered running for mayor of Detroit in 1992, but never followed through with the campaign.

Wonder, who has been writing songs since he was a child, said that he's never taken his talent for granted:"As I many times do, I'll say, 'God, let me come up with a song, let me think of a song, let me this, let me that.'It's a magical thing that happens, so I'm still - - I'm a lover of music. I'm a very fortunate person in that the thing that I love I'm able to do and support my family as well."

DMX Hooks up with Scott Storch for New Single

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rapper and actor DMX has released "Lord Give Me A Sign" as the second single from his upcoming album Year Of The Dog, Again, which will be released on August 1st. The song was produced by Scott Storch, who has produced hits for Mary J. Blige, Dr. Dre, Terror Squad, the Roots, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Chamillionaire, and others.

Year of The Dog, Again will be DMX's first release under his new deal with Sony Music. The rapper left Def Jam Records earlier this year after releasing five albums on the label.

In related news, DMX's new reality show, DMX: Soul Of A Man, will premiere this summer on BET. The reality show will follow DMX's day-to-day life at his Arizona home.

Pharrell Williams and Kanye West Hook up

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Pharrell Williams is finally set to release his solo debut, In My Mind, on July 25th. The set was initially scheduled for a November release but was pushed back while Williams recorded new material. MTV.com reports that Williams and Kanye West were in Miami over the weekend to shoot the video for Williams's next single, "Number 1." The song was produced by Williams under his Skateboard P moniker and features guest vocals from West. "Number 1" is the first time the two musical giants have worked together.

In My Mind will also feature guest appearances by Nelly, Slim Thug, Gwen Stefani, Pusha T, and Daddy Yankee.

New EP from Danger Mouse and MF DOOM Collaboration

For Release: May 9, 2006
New EP from Danger Mouse and MF DOOM Collaboration
DANGERDOOM: The Mouse and the Mask Available Free for Download on
AdultSwim.com

First Track Available May 15; New Songs Will Be Available Each Week
Through May 30

The Mouse, the Mask, and Master Shake are back and this time the music
is free!
Beginning Monday, May 15, all new music from Danger Mouse and DOOM as
DANGERDOOM will be available free for download exclusively at
AdultSwim.com. These new tracks continue the collaboration between
Danger Mouse, MF DOOM, and Adult Swim that paved the way for the
successful and critically acclaimed album DANGERDOOM: The Mouse and the
Mask.
The nine-track EP features special guest Madlib and character voices and
skits from Adult Swims popular original shows such as Aqua Teen Hunger
Force, Squidbillies and Minoriteam. The first track, titled Corn Dogs,
will be available for download at www.adultswim.com beginning Monday,
May 15. Additional tracks from the EP will be made available weekly and
the full EP will be released on the website for download on May 30th.
This free EP will only be available for a limited time.
Last year, Adult Swim teamed up with Danger Mouse and DOOM to create
DANGERDOOM. The Mouse and The Mask turned out to be an amazing
experience for them and for us, stated Jason DeMarco, head of music for
Adult Swim and executive producer of the highly acclaimed DANGERDOOM
project. As soon as the project was finished, we knew we wanted to
continue working together. This time, weve decided to make new music
available free for download from AdultSwim.com, which we thought was
fitting for two artists who are legendary for Internet leaks. Whats
better than new DANGERDOOM? FREE new DANGERDOOM. The adventure
continues.
AdultSwim.com, the online extension of the late night sister service of
Cartoon Network featuring edgy animated comedy and action/adventure
programming, features behind-the-scenes video podcasts, games, clips,
and message boards including the popular Adult Swim Fan Collective that
allows members to create personalized online profiles and social
networking functions. Adultswim.com recently launched Adult Swim Fix, a
24/7 offering of full-length episodes of favorite original comedies and
select anim series for viewing on high-speed Internet connections.
Adult Swim continues to be among the most popular cable networks with
young adult viewers. Adult Swim regularly tops broadcast network
competition among key young adults and young males. Its popular
programming includes animated favorites like Family Guy, American Dad
and Futurama; original comedy series including The Boondocks, Robot
Chicken, Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law and Aqua Teen Hunger Force; and
action-adventure series like Fullmetal Alchemist, Samurai Champloo and
InuYasha.
- more -

Danger Mouse is considered one of the most promising artists in music
today. He produced Gorillaz Demon Days album, for which he earned a
Grammy nomination for Producer of the Year. He has been honored as one
of GQs Men of the Year; named Eccentric Genius of the Year by SPIN; and
hailed as "The Hottest Hip-Hop Producer in the World" by NME. Danger
Mouse gained unprecedented notoriety after producing his infamous Grey
Album, dubbed a 'bootleg masterpiece' by GQ, awarded Entertainment
Weeklys Album of the Year and considered a watershed moment in music
history. His newest project is Gnarls Barkley, a collaboration with
musics flamboyant, one-of-a-kind force of nature, Cee-Lo Green. The
album, out May 9t in the U.S., was the #1 album in the UK last week and
the single has been #1 there for more than 5 weeks.
DOOM (www.dangerdoom.com), a rapper/producer inspired by the comic
supervillain Dr. Doom, has released the critically praised albums
Operation: Doomsday and Mm...Food. DOOM also released one of 2004s most
acclaimed albums, Madvillain, under the same name and Vaudeville Villain
under the name Victor Vaughn. In addition to the DANGERDOOM album,
Adult Swim fans may know DOOM as the voice of Sherman on the series,
Perfect Hair Forever. He is currently involved in a number of
collaborations with the industrys finest and has a project with
Ghostface Killah (Wu-Tang Clan) in the works.
Adult Swim (AdultSwim.com), launched in 2001, is Turner Broadcasting
System, Inc.s network dedicated to edgy animated comedy and action
series, both original and acquired, airing Saturday-Thursday from 11
p.m-6 a.m. (ET, PT). Adult Swim shares channel space with Cartoon
Network, home to the best in original, classic and acquired programming
for children and families, and is seen in 89 million U.S. homes.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, is a major
producer of news and entertainment product around the world and the
leading provider of programming for the basic cable industry.

Brian McKnight, Alicia Keys, Anthony Hamilton at Soul Beach Music Fest

By: Janine Coveney

R&B acts Brian McKnight, Alicia Keys, Anthony Hamilton, Nina Sky, Wayne Brady and Lenny Williams will be the performers at this year's Soul Beach Music Festival, set for May 24th through May 29th on the island of Aruba.

The Memorial Day Weekend festival also includes a welcoming reception, a comedy show, nightclub after parties, and headlining shows at the Havana Beach Club in Oranjestad.

More information on the festival is available at soulbeach.net.

Flavor of love winner (Hoopz) involved in a war of words with T.I.'s girlfriend

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Flavor Of Love winner Hoopz, whose real name is Nikki Alexander, was recently called out by T.I.'s girlfriend Tiny Cottle of R&B group Xscape. Alexander has denied rumors that she was involved in a threesome with the Atlanta rapper, but she admits to hanging out with T.I. at Nelly's birthday party at Atlanta. Alexander told SOHH.com, "Actually, the altercation between me, him, and Tiny is true. Actually, she never said anything directly to me. Tiny got on the radio talking s--t. Me and T.I. were at a club in Atlanta -- Fox Sports Club. It was Nelly's party, I believe. Anyway, so we're in the back or whatever, everybody was just kicking it, and Tiny grabbed him off me like, 'Who the f--k is this?'That's the extent I know, 'cause I turned around 'cause that s--t was so bad. I wasn't even trying to hear nothing. I moved away. I kept having fun."

The reality show winner added, "(Then) Tiny gets on the radio like... 'If I would have known her, if she would have known me, I would have whooped her a--.'Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, talking this mad s--t. Of course she didn't say nothing to me personally. She got on the radio talking s--t. I guess she felt protected more like that. Me and her never exchanged words in person and that's all it was with that."

T.I. to Resume Tour Next Week

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

T.I. will resume his national tour on Tuesday (May 9th) at the House Of Blues in New Orleans. The rapper and his entire Grand Hustle family are still dealing with the shooting death of T.I.'s personal assistant Philant Johnson, who was killed early Wednesday morning (May 3rd) following an after-party at Cincinnati's Club Ritz. Johnson, who was 26, was killed when shots rang out on Cincinnati's Interstate I-75. According to published reports, a beef began between T.I.'s entourage and members of the audience at Club Ritz when money was being thrown from the stage into the audience. The beef spilled over into the street, where T.I. attempted to diffuse the situation. Witnesses said a sports utility vehicle followed the rapper's two-van convoy from Club Ritz and opened fire on the highway. Johnson was killed, and a driver and bodyguard were treated for minor injuries and released, while a woman remains hospitalized. T.I. wasn't hurt during the incident.

Atlantic Records issued a statement in regards to Johnson's death that read, "This is a very sad day for everyone at Atlantic Records and Grand Hustle. Philant Johnson was a part of our family and a true friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Johnson family, T.I., and everyone at Grand Hustle."

No arrests have been made in the case.

Paul Wall Working on Television Show

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Houston-based rapper Paul Wall is currently working on a pilot for a television show. According to The Hollywood Reporter, VH1 has ordered a pilot for an unscripted show by the rapper. The project will be produced by Pink Sneakers Productions, the company behind the network's Hogan Knows Best.

In related news, Wall is working on a new album which will be released later this year.

The rapper's major label debut, The People's Champ, has sold over 730,000 copies since it was released last year.

Police ID Man Killed In Shootout Involving T.I.'s Crew

One person has died and three others were shot during a gun battle involving members of rapper T.I.'s crew and unidentified shooters early Wednesday morning (May 3) in Cincinnati. Police have identified the man killed as 26-year-old Philant Johnson,





T.I.'s friend, personal assistant and an employee of his Grand Hustle Records.

"This is a very sad day for everyone at Atlantic Records and Grand Hustle," read a statement released by Atlantic on Wednesday. "Philant Johnson was a part of our family and a true friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Johnson family, T.I. and everyone at Grand Hustle."

Police identified the other three victims in the shooting as members of T.I.'s crew: Janice Gillespie, 22, who was admitted to the University of Cincinnati Hospital and is in stable condition, and T.I. security guard Ronald Hausley, 40, and Elijah Edwards, 31, who were both treated and released. T.I. was not injured.

According to the Cincinnati Police Department, officers responded to a report of a shooting on southbound Interstate 75, one of two main arteries that lead to Cincinnati's downtown, around 3 a.m. "Officers found four victims at the scene suffering from gunshot wounds," according to the report. "All four victims were transported to University Hospital for treatment, where one of the victims succumbed to his injuries."

The incident occurred just hours after the end of a show by the 25-year-old rapper (born Clifford Harris) and protégé Yung Joc at Bogart's nightclub in the Clifton neighborhood near the University of Cincinnati. Following the show, T.I. and his crew went to an after-hours party at the Ritz nightclub in the Roselawn neighborhood across town, where an altercation inside the club caused the Atlanta crew to leave.

Witnesses told the