The #1 Rated Series on VH1 Is Back

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Set your clocks as VH1's smash hit "Flavor of Love" returns for its second season on Sunday, August 6 at 10:00PM E.S.T. on VH1. Can't wait until this Sunday? Beginning Wednesday, August 2, the full premiere episode will be available on VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel at http://vspot.vh1.com/.

In the extended 90 minute season two premiere viewers meet the twenty new ladies competing for Flavor Flav's heart. Even more outrageous and sexy, these girls are brassy, bold and determined to get their man -- at any cost.

Throughout the episode Flav gives all the girls his trade mark nicknames and spends quality time getting to know them to determine who gets a clock and whose "time is up." From the first five minutes to the final thirty seconds, this is a series premiere that cannot be missed!

"Flavor of Love 2" on VSPOT and VH1 Mobile

In addition to the VSPOT sneak peek of episode one, each episode will be available on VSPOT in its entirety for 48 hours every Wednesday following its Sunday night broadcast. VSPOT and VH1 Mobile will also host "extras" each week including, never-before-seen footage from the show and aftershow segments hosted by "Goldie" from season one of "Flavor of Love."

VH1 Mobile is also giving viewers a chance to participate via their mobile phones with instant episode-driven polls. Each week viewers can text their answers to a question asked at the beginning of the show. The results will be dynamically generated and displayed at the end of each show.

During its first season, "Flavor of Love" was the highest rated series in VH1 history, with three of its ten episodes making VH1's top ten rated commercial telecasts of all time. For its 90-minute season finale, "Flavor of Love" again made VH1 history by becoming the network's top rated telecast of all time (adults 18-49 rating of 3.51).

VH1's "Flavor of Love" is executive produced by Mark Cronin, Cris Abrego and Ben Samek for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce the ongoing successful series "Surreal Life" and the highly rated "My Fair Brady: The Wedding Special!" Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes and Michael Hirschorn oversee the series for VH1.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in nearly 84 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, VH Uno and VH1 Country. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

51 Minds Entertainment is a dynamic reality television production company established by Executive Producer Cris Abrego of 51 Pictures and Executive Producer Mark Cronin of Mindless Entertainment. Mark and Cris came together to create the pop culture hit The Surreal Life, which has wrapped its sixth season. Because of the success of this show and their previous track records, VH1 offered them an unprecedented output deal for creating original programming for the channel. Fueled by the success of the shows provided by 51 Minds, VH1 created "Celebreality" -- a themed night which consists of celeb-based reality programs. The "Celebreality" 51 Minds programming launched VH1 into their highest ratings ever.

The Clipse Set Halloween Release Date for New Album

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

The Clipse will release their new album, Hell Hath No Fury, on Halloween (October 31st). The group's Malice told MTV.com, "It's just fitting. Halloween -- let the demons loose. It's a fresh album. There's no way we could use the same album; we're in a totally different place. You can hear what we've been through. It's good to let people in on it. It's been sitting up, and it's good to let the cat out of the bag. The feedback has been good. It's a classic. ... It's going to be reminiscent of classic East Coast hip-hop."

The group's other half, Pusha, added, "Sitting here with everybody else, I'm seeing it as everybody else is seeing it, all the writers and everybody's eyes. Then just comparing it to everything else, it's like we getting a musical album with different sounds, and it's a good body of work."

Since the group hasn't released an album in four years, they're pulling out all the stops for the new album. Pusha explained, "We're doing Hell Hath No Fury the movie, and the soundtrack is all our crew's Re-Up Gang music. We're trying to get the soundtrack together. We already have great music. It's just a family soundtrack. You're not going to hear any other artist outside the family."

Pusha added, "I'm not sure when we're gonna start shooting, but we're about to write it up. It's basically like Jay-Z's film Streets Is Watching. It's gonna be a defining moment. It's the album, seven videos off of it, narrated, and the story line is what we've been doing the past four years on hiatus. The videos fit around the story."

Hell Hath No Fury features guest appearances by Pharrell Williams, Slim Thug, the Re-Up Gang and Roscoe P. Coldchain.

The latest single from the project is "Mr. Me Too."

Ice Cube Says Schwarzenegger Ignores Poverty in California

Rapper Ice Cube attacks actor-turned-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on his latest album. The star - real nameO'Shea Jackson - accuses Arnie of spending too much time promoting himself on a national and global level and ignoring important issues, like poverty in the rapper's native south central Los Angeles.

The rapper says, "He pisses me off just by the fact that he is the Governor of California. That's enough. You know, that man should just focus his s**t on California and what he's going to do about poverty. It's rabid in the inner city. He needs to be worried about that, not anything on a national or global level.

"You've got to realize, there's a lot of money in California, but it suffers from economic greed. Nobody wants to give up their piece of the pie, so nobody can live real good without resorting to killing each other."

T.I's Protege Young Dro to Release Debut Album

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Atlanta-based rapper Young Dro was childhood friends with Kris Kross'Daddy Mack and T.I. He was able to use those relationships to secure a deal with T.I.'s Grand Hustle label in 2004 and now the rapper is set to release his debut album, Best Thang Smokin, on August 29th.

The album will feature guest appearances by Slim Thug, T.I., and Xtaci with production by Jazze Pha, Chad West, Keith Mack, Khao, and Lil C.

The lead single from the project, "Shoulder Lean," is a bonafide hit and the rapper has also been able to cash in on the mobile side. Over 500,000 "Shoulder Lean" ringtones have been sold so far making it the Warner Music Group's best selling ringtone.

LL Cool J Inks Seven-Figure Deal With CBS

LL COOL J signs ‘one of the richest talent deals in recent years.’

CBS has joined the legions of young fans that have a crush on LL Cool J. In a rare and surprising move, the network has signed the rapper to a development deal worth just over seven figures and has structured the agreement in such a way that he’ll be allowed to work under any production studio.

Usually, talent deals limit actors to working under the network’s own in-house studios, but not in this case. Also, the pact guarantees that LL, along with Alchemy Entertainment's Jason Barrett, will serve as producer on any project the rapper-actor signs onto. LL, whose birth name is Todd Smith, is expected to focus his production slate on the development of dramas.

CBS, the home of America’s top-rated drama “CSI,” landed the rapper amidst a fierce bidding war that involved at least two other networks, reports Variety.

His critically-acclaimed guest-starring role last season on “House” reportedly peaked the interest of network execs that began flooding the rapper with pilot offers last spring. LL’s attention, however, was devoted to the promotion of his new album “Todd Smith” at the time.

Uncle L’s last dance with television occurred in the 1990s with his NBC (and later UPN) sitcom “In the House

The Game leaves Aftermath Records

The Game has left Aftermath Records for Geffen Records.
For months, rumors have been circulating that the Compton bred rapper had plans to leave the label to avoid releasing his sophomore album, The Doctor's Advocate under G-Unit Records.

According to the Interscope owned web site, www.comptongame.com, the presence of the Geffen Logo and the absence of the Aftermath Logo leads one to believe Game may have left.

Game, who released his debut album The Documentary via G-Unit/Aftermath Records, has been having an on-going feud with G-Unit honcho 50 Cent since last year.

Furthermore, a post on comptongame's forums says that in order for Game to avoid releasing The Devils Advocate under G-Unit/Aftermath, Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine advised him to sign a 5 album deal with Geffen for an undisclosed sum.

In return, Game will receive a distribution deal for his record company, Black Wall Street which is under Interscope Records.

The post also adds that Dr. Dre and Game's relationship has not been affected by the label move. Dre will still play a big part in the making, marketing and the publicity of The Devils Advocate.

The Game Leaks Street Single

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Compton-based rapper The Game has been hard at work on his sophomore album, The Doctor's Advocate, which is scheduled to hit stores on November 7th. MTV.com reports that the rapper recently leaked a street single, "It's Okay (One Blood)," from the project which features a sample from Junior Reid's reggae classic, "One Blood."

The Game has been very tight-lipped about the project but producer Dre of Cool & Dre shared that he's already produced three songs for the new album. Dre said, "We gave him some really hot records. We gave him this record with Mary J. Blige. It's another soulful record. Mary flipped it. We was in the studio -- it was Mary, me and Cool, Game. The record is so beautiful. I believe the Mary song is called 'People.'Then we did a record with him that's so phenomenal that's up for first single status. This record is called 'Stop.'"

The producer added, "'Stop'is something you never heard before. Me and Cool got this really new style. The beat is hard, but melodically, it's new. It's on some 'Twilight Zone's**t. It goes, 'Stop/ When the lights go out and the music go off.'It's crazy. The Game is spitting crazy on it. We actually did three records for his album. We did another one that Nas is on."

Cool & Dre produced The Game's Grammy-nominated hit, "Hate It Or Love It" featuring 50 Cent.

T.I., YOUNG JEEZY, LIL WAYNE & JUVENILE CONVENE ON "BEST OF THE SOUTH"

Hiphop's hottest artists from the South, including T.I., Young Jeezy, Little Wayne and Juvenile, are heard on a new CD celebrating the sound, culture and roots of the Dirty South. Appropriately entitled "Best Of The South," this 20-track collection, weaving new songs and rare tracks that are recorded by major Southern artists and sprinkled with cutting edge new artists, is attracting major attention all over the country. “There’s just so much talent out here,” says T.I., “like my VSOP boys in Alabama that are prime to be shared with hip hop fans everywhere!”

Among the delicacies found on this special release, the madly popular T.I. collaborates with Alabama’s VSOP on the street anthem “Lacs and Prices,” an ode to Cadillacs and Caprices. Double platinum artist Young Jeezy appears in a song and video collaboration with fellow Macon artist and influential rapper Sonny Spoon, who is currently incarcerated on a lengthy drug trafficking charge. This momentous track was recorded just prior to the release of his solo album and “Boyz In Tha Hood.”

Lil Wayne & Cash Money’s Baby (aka Birdman) pair up with the hot new artist TA Smallz on the club banger “Get Mannish.” Meanwhile, Juvenile teams up with hot new Georgia group, The Village. In a dramatic heat resulting from South-Meets-West, the Oscar-winning Three-6-Mafia’s throws down with original gangsta rapper Spice-1.

Texas’ grill master Paul Wall chops it up with New Orleans Katrina survivors the former No Limit soldier, Choppa and Hot Boy Ronald. 8Ball and MJG collaborating with Georgia’s Field Mob and afore mentioned regional cult hero Sonny Spoon.

Legendary Lil Flip’s collaboration with Baby S, the ex-Ruthless Records artist, best known for his smash with Kurupt “We Can Freak It,” and the urban adult DVD series, “Big Phat Apple Bottom Bootys.” Also features in this meaty set is Bun B’s collaboration with upstart rapper Bodeiga, with production by Lil Jon. More deep fried cuts include barbecued spicy cuts from B.G. and breakout new artists Southern Kaos (Macon GA), Needle In A Haystack (Mississippi), 20 East (ATL), Flix (Alabama), LA Nash (Arkansas), Low Key (Mississippi), among many others.

The CD, just released on the Activate South label, will be followed with a “Best Of The South” DVD on September 19 (featuring music videos, tour coverage, custom cars, hot models and behind-the-scenes ‘making of’ footage). Future volumes will be assembled, with Best Of The South – Volume 2 scheduled for first quarter of 2007. A “Best Of The West” CD and DVD is planned for November, with a “Best Of The Midwest” coming in February of next year.

A promotional tour, launching the CD and DVD called “Best Of The South – Da Block Party Tour” is working its way across the South & Midwest in August & September. Featuring the Mega Event Truck from Hollywood, a fifty-foot self-contained truck with live performance staging area, video projection and merchandising area, along with a Custom Car contest (where those chosen will be featured in a DVD) and a Hot Model Search, from which the winners will be flown to Hollywood to appear in television, video and photo shoots). Various artists from the “Best Of The South” CD will be performing on all dates.

Track listing:

1. T.I. & X.O. – “Lacs & Preeces”
2. LIL FLIP & BABY S – “Pimpin’”
3. YOUNG JEEZY & SONNY SPOON (Double Platinum)-“The
Game”
4. SPICE-1 & THREE-6-MAFIA (Platinum/Oscar Winner)-“Face Down”
5. VILLAGE & JUVENILE– “Do It”
6. BODEIGA feat. LIL JON & BUN B – “We Don’t Play Dat”
7. TA SMALLZ & LIL WAYNE & BABY – “Get Mannish”
8. B G & Money I’z – “If It’s Drama That U Want”
9. 8 BALL & MJG & Sonny Spoon – “Seen What It’s Like”
10. PONY BOI – “Y’All Know”
11. CHOPPA & PAUL WALL (Platinum)-“Walk Wit It”
12. LOW KEY – “Lay It Down”
13. 20 EAST feat. AKON – “Keep Up”
14. FLIXX – “Ridin’ N*ggaz”
15. SOUTHERN KAOS – “That’s How We Do It”
16. LOW KEY – “Get On The Dance Floor”
17. 14 KAY – “House Thug”
18. NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK “I Bet Yen Know”
19. LA NASH – “Take It To The Back”
20. 14 KAY – “Wash Yo Azz”

Bone Crusher Goes Indie

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Atlanta-based rapper Bone Crusher released a new independent album, Release The Beast, earlier this month and the rapper explained that he hasn't released an album in three years because he was stuck in a legal dispute with Jive Records. The rapper said, "Jive really didn't know me very well. Same problem with the Clipse. We all got caught in a f***ed-up situation. We all been trying to get off; me, J-Kwon, the Clipse, the Youngbloodz."

Bone Crusher added, "This album is a bunch of records I did right when 'Never Scared'came out and before I signed with Arista. You're gonna hear a lot of hunger like 'Never Scared.'It's that type of music."

In related news, Bone Crusher is one of the cast members of Celebrity Fit Club 4. The rapper said, "Right now it's going real well. I'm the number-one guy for weight loss at Celebrity Fit Club.'We're doing our thing, I'm getting skinny."

The rapper added that Fit Club alum Bizarre got him interested in the show. He explained, "He called me up, like 'Bone, you should do the show. Show 'em how big boys do it. Dr. Ian knew me, he was jockeying for me to get on there. Then VH1 called me and it was good. We'll be taping till August."

DMX 'Year of the Dog, Again' Sneak Peak

Who is DMX?:

"I don't make music to make songs," says the record-breaking hip-hop icon DMX, "I make music to record my life."

DMX, the legendary Ruff Ryder who's sold 20 million albums, is back in the saddle with his eagerly-awaited sixth solo outing, Year Of The Dog, Again, his first since 2003's Grand Champ, the album that made him the only artist in the history of the Billboard Top 200 to have his first five albums debut consecutively at #1. Beyond iconic, DMX has been the voice of the hood since he first burst onto the scene as a representative of the street movement and record label, Ruff Ryders.

As hip-hop is assimilated into the cultural mainstream, it's time for the long overdue and much needed return of rap's prophetic visionary, DMX.
DMX is currently working with fellow Ruff Ryder and production mastermind Swizz Beatz (who's been on-board DMX's entire career as well as producing smash tracks for a hip-hop elite including Eve, Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Mary J. Blige, Lil' Kim, and Destiny's Child).

"Working with the dog in 2006 is truly a blessing," said Swizz Beatz. "The dog is focused. And anyone who thought the dog was gone better put their head between their legs and kiss their ass goodbye. He's looking better than ever, sounding better than ever, and creating better than ever. Swizz Beatz plus Ruff Ryders plus DMX equals history."

A reunion of two old friends lies behind DMX's new deal. As Chad "Dr. Ceuss" Elliot, Vice President, A&R, Sony Urban Music, explains, "Looking backward, the dots always connect. I produced 'Born Loser,' DMX's first commercially released single. And now, years later, it's more than just an honor to be part of bringing this incredible talent back to where he started his career. It is a great pleasure to say to DMX, 'Welcome home!'"

"I think that this deal was meant to be because our first deal was at Sony," commented Joaquin Waah Dean, Co-Founder and CEO, Ruff Ryders. "We did a single deal with DMX and Ruffhouse/Columbia for 'Born Loser' and Chad Elliot, who's now at Sony, was the producer of that record. So it's a 360 degree miracle to be back at Sony 15 years later with the producer who worked on his first record, back on the first label to ever cut us a check, and DMX starting off fresh with a clean slate.

Pulling no punches and making no excuses, DMX tears into his blistering new songs with all the powers at his command on Year Of The Dog, Again, his first full-length album for Sony Urban Music. A powerful declaration of DMX's dreams and demons, Year Of The Dog, Again reconnects hip-hop with the righteous moral complexity and unflinching honesty of its roots. When asked about the current state of hip-hop, DMX is blunt about the so-called competition. "No one is saying anything," he exclaims. "It's not rap, it's crap. There is no soul. I refuse to conform to the norm."

With the skill and flow that's earned him a permanent place in the pantheons of both hip-hop and American popular music, DMX infuses Year Of The Dog, Again with equal parts hope, wrath and celebration. With his eyes on abiding core values and his feet on the pulse of the clubs and the street, DMX combines the sacred and the profane with the complex artistry and authority that led the All Music Guide to call him "…a hip-hop Johnny Cash."

DMX kicks off Year Of The Dog, Again with the thundering "I Run Shit," which lays down the law as only Earl Simmons, aka Darkman X, is capable of. Set to a driving dramatic martial beat, "I Run Shit" announces DMX's reentry into the ring with the growling imperative, "Ya'll niggas know what it took for me to get here/ I'm gonna stay here."
DMX keeps the pressure up with the rough and ready "Give Em What They Want," in which hardcore throw-downs like "Show some f***ing respect/knock before you enter" make it clear that while DMX may have been out of the game for three years, you'd be crazy to under-rate his status or his skills.

The undisputed king of the hood switches things up on the guitar-stoked "Wrong Or Right," which features his comrades-in-arms, the hard-rockin' Bizarre Royale. "Life Be My Song" shines a light on DMX's reflective side offering hard-won wisdom like "Look through my eyes the devil is a liar/the truth never lies," while "Lord Give Me A Sign" finds the commonality between the streets and the spirit with DMX continuing his quest for salvation.

# # # # #

Born Earl Simmons in Yonkers, New York, DMX cut his first 12" single ("Born Loser") in 1992 and appeared on LL Cool J's ' "4,3,2,1" (along with Method Man, Redman, Canibus and Master P) in 1997. DMX broke big in hip-hop in 1998, first with his single, "Get at Me Dog," then his debut album, the harsh and harrowing It's Dark and Hell Is Hot which debuted at #1 and went on to 4x platinum status. Mere months later, Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood, made him one of the few artists in chart history to have two albums debut at #1 within the same year.

1999's …And Then There Was X repeated DMX's familiar pattern of debuting at #1 and has gone on to achieve 6x platinum. 2001's The Great Depression, and 2003's Grand Champ likewise debuted at #1.
1998 was the year DMX made his acting debut, costarring with comrade rappers Method Man and Nas in Hype Williams' under-rated Belly.
DMX's film career paralleled his musical successes with the charismatic superstar appearing in a major support roles in 2001, first with Aaliyah and Jet Li in the cult classic Romeo Must Die and later in Steven Segal's #1 opening weekend nationwide blockbuster, Exit Wounds. His next film, Cradle 2 The Grave, again with Jet Li, opened at #1 in 2003 while its DMX-rich soundtrack debuted in the Top 10. He has appeared as "himself" on numerous television programs including "Saturday Night Live," "The Chris Rock Show," "Mad TV," "Moesha," "Chappelle's Show" and "South Park." DMX recently completed filming Last Hour, a psychological thriller starring DMX, Michael Madsen, David Carradine and Paul Sorvino. He is preparing for his role in the upcoming Marble City, directed by Bill Duke.
DMX's initial breakout came as a member of the Ruff Ryders record label/production team/hip-hop talent collective which has included The Lox, Swizz Beatz, Eve and other hip-hop legends.

Sit Back & Take Notes Pt. 4

Check out the lastest HHH podcast banger "Sit Back & Take Notes Pt. 4" .....yall know how we do!

The Pharcyde On Tour with The Roots, Talib Kweli, and Common

Hip-Hop legends The Pharcyde have embarked on a nationwide summer tour. They will be joined on select dates by fellow legends The Roots, Talib Kweli, and Common. For those who haven't seen a 'Cyde show in a minute, they may be surprised to find Bootie Brown and Imani kicking it onstage with a live band. The live instrumentation adds a new dimension to such classics as "Passin' Me By," "Pass the Pipe," and "Runnin.'" The tour kicks off in the Midwest and finishes up in mid-August with shows in New York, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia.

Dates:

Thursday, July 20
Columbus, OH
Promowest w/ The Roots, Common

Friday, July 21
Lexington, KY
The Dame

Saturday, July 22
Cincinnati, OH
Bogarts w/ The Roots

Sunday, July 23
Louisville, KY
Headliners

Monday, July 24
Indianapolis, IN
8 Seconds w/ The Roots

Thursday, July 27
St. Louis, MO
The Pageant w/ The Roots, Talib Kweli

Friday, July 28
Kansas City, MO
Record Bar

Saturday, July 29
Milwaukee, WI
The Rave w/ The Roots, Talib Kweli

Sunday, July 30
Minneapolis, MN
First Avenue

Monday, July 31
Chicago, IL
House Of Blues

Wednesday, August 2
Landing, MI
Temple Bar

Thursday, August 3
Detroit, MI
State Theater w/ The Roots, Talib Kweli

Friday, August 4
Toronto, ONT
Mod Club

Saturday, August 5
Cleveland, OH
House Of Blues w/ The Roots

Sunday, August 6
Ithaca, NY
Musefest

Monday, August 7
Boston, MA
Avalon w/ The Roots, Talib Kweli

Tuesday, August 8
Burlington, VT
Higher Ground

Wednesday, August 9
Matunuck, RI
Ocean Mist

Thursday, August 10
New Haven, CT
Toad's Place w/ The Roots

Friday, August 11
Northhampton, MA
Pearl Street

Saturday, August 12
Sayreville, NJ
Starland Ballroom w/ The Roots

Sunday, August 13
Amagansett, NY
Stephen's Talkhouse

Monday, August 14
New York, NY
Webster Hall w/ The Roots, Talib Kweli

Wednesday, August 16
Brooklyn. NY
Southpaw

Thursday, August 17
Philadelphia, PA
Electric Factory w/ The Roots, Common

Lake and Cormega Rep with My Brother's Keeper

New album from two QB Stars -- in stores August 22.

New York, NY (PRWEB) July 24, 2006 -- Cormega is a name synonymous with both independent music and the notorious neighborhood of Queensbridge, New York. Over the past several years, Cormega has released a number of acclaimed albums, and has paved his own path to success. For the first time in history, Cormega is teaming with his fellow QB emcee and longtime friend, Lake, for a full-length feature album entitled My Brother's Keeper. The project will be released on August 22, 2006 on Fast Life Music.

My Brother's Keeper contains 13 exclusive tracks, with featured guest spots from Fat Joe on "Dirty NY," Mr. Cheeks on "QU Side," Greg Nice on "Don't Start" and R&B songstresses Kira on "Miss Everything" and Uniqua Star on "30/30." Powerful production from D.I.T.C.'s Buckwild, J. Waxx Garfield, Ax Tha Bull, Ski, Jay Boy, HotDay, Now or Laterz, Get Large and Cormega himself contribute to one of the strongest QB collaborations to date.

After his recent signing to Death Row East, Lake is in a great position to be introduced at large to eager fans. His previous work with Nas on the God's Son album and his own 41st Side Compilation solidified Lake's place in New York's underground market. My Brother's Keeper marks a monumental era for QB, with two true legends in the game bringing it home. “It’s a lot of different things me and Cormega went through together over the years,” explains Lake. “We put that into music, and it came out great.”

For more information on Lake and Cormega, go to www.tygereye.net/lakeandcormega

About Lake
Lake is most known as the former business partner of rap superstar Nas during his climb of the ranks to become one of hip-hop’s greatest MCs. He and Nas were close for many years as they both came up hustling and running the streets of Queensbridge, New York in the 90s, and his most well-known appearance is on Nas’s album God’s Son in the song “Revolutionary Warfare.” However, Lake’s biggest claim to fame is his critically acclaimed LP entitled 41st Side, which has sold over 100,000 copies strictly from street buzz alone -- no radio or video support. 41st Side cemented Lake’s reputation as a major buzzworthy underground artist to watch on the East Coast scene, bringing together the likes of Nas, Cormega, Nature, Noreaga, Tragedy and more for the all-star effort. Now signed to Death Row East, Lake stands poised to take on all challengers as he begins his ascension to the top.

About Cormega
Queensbridge legend Cormega needs no introduction. A legendary hustler who has brilliantly documented his life on four critically acclaimed albums, Cormega stands as one of the strongest, most durable MC’s from the hallowed projects of Queensbridge. His albums have sold approximately 400,000 units in his career with little to no radio or video support. Formerly signed to Def Jam he has worked with heavy hitters such as Nas, Ghostface Killah, Mobb Deep, AZ, Foxy Brown and more. ‘Mega won the 2003 Source Award for Independent Album Of The Year, The True Meaning, and released The Testament in February 2005. His long-unreleased major-label debut, The Testament was shelved for 10 years by Def Jam mainly due to label politics, but Cormega eventually won back the right to release the record himself in 2005. A ton of critical praise from credible sources flowed in, including a review from All Music Guide, who dubs the release as “One of the best mid-90s gangsta albums, no doubt.”

Ron Artest to Open for Fat Joe on European Tour

In support of his upcoming debut album, My World, Sacramento Kings forward Ron Artest will be heading on a European tour with Fat Joe.

Artest, who made headlines in 2004 after sparking a brawl between NBA players and fans during a Pacers-Pistons game, has been performing at various venues across the U.S. during the summer, including opening for Young Jeezy on several dates in May and June.

The self proclaimed 'Tru Warrior' will serve as the opening act for Fat Joe during their eleven day trek, which launches next week in Portugal and wraps up in Norway in August.

Set to hit shelves on October 24th, My World features appearances from Mike Jones, Allure, Challace, Ruc, and Braska.

Following are the scheduled tour dates:

July 28: Lisbon, Portugal. Torre de Moncorvo Carvisaic Festival

July 29: Gollhofen, Germany, Diva Palace

July 30: Paris, France, Elysee Montmartre

July 31: Zurich, Switzerland, Volkshaus

August 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands, Paradiso

August 3: Munich, Germany, Crowns Club

August 4: Braunschweig, Germany, Jolly Joker

August 5: Chemnitz, Germany, Splash Festival

August 6: Lausanne, Switzerland, Cult Club

August 7: Copenhagen, Denmark, Vega

August 8: Oslo, Norway, Rockefeller Venue

T.I. Pitches New Film, Works on LP

T.I., who recently made his acting debut in the film “ATL,” is already working on another movie pitched by his company, Grand Hustle Entertainment.

The film, tentatively titled “For Sale,” is about a rundown used-car lot in Atlanta, and T.I. is set to play one of its car salesmen.

The screenplay was developed by the ATL rapper and his partner Jason Geter, and the script has already been sold to movie studio New Line Cinema.

T.I., born Clifford Harris, is also said to be working on a follow-up to his latest album, King, which topped the charts earlier this year.

BET Uncut left you wanting more... we've got what you're looking for!!!

New York, NY -- With the recent cancellation by BET of it's popular late night show Uncut, fans can look no further than the Hip-Hop Uncensored DVD series to satisfy their illicit hip-hop desires.

Started in 1996, the Hip-Hop Uncensored DVD series is the true pioneer in the industry of the direct-to-retail hip-hop DVD magazines. “Anyone and everyone you can think of currently putting out a DVD like Hip-Hop Uncensored came to us in the beginning for advice or have used HHU at some point as a research tool”, said Ray Stewart of Nutz Films, the production company responsible for the successful series.

After a decade, the Hip-Hop Uncensored DVD series has become known for its candor, quality and market timeliness. Hip-Hop Uncensored has taken fans through the exciting lives and experiences of artists such as 50 Cent, Kanye West, Cassidy, Nas, Jay-Z, Eminem, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Snoop Dogg, Lil’ Kim, as well as many others. “Hip-Hop Uncensored gives an inside look into what is really going on the world of hip-hop, on the road, backstage behind closed doors and outside in the eye of the mainstream media.”

The Hip-Hop Uncensored branded content catalogue includes:

Volume I – The New Rock Stars – Featuring: Jay-Z, the Fugees, Busta Rhymes, DMX, Fat Joe, Mya, Destiny’s Child, Russell Simmons, and more.

Volume II – The Real Hip-Hop – Featuring: Capone n’ Noreaga, Method Man and Redman, LL Cool J, P-Diddy, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Eve, The Roots, and more.

Volume III – Hustlemania (The Road Trip Project) – Featuring: Eminem & D12, Ruff Ryders, Cash Money Millionaires, Andre 3000, Dead Pres, David Mays and more.

Volume IV – Miami Vice – Featuring: Ludacris, Uncle Luke, MOP, Mr. Cheeks, Damien Marley, Three 6 Mafia, Lil Jon, Jermaine Dupri, Xzibit, and more.

Volume V – Greatest Shows on Earth – Featuring: Jay-Z, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Wu Tang Clan, Nelly, P-Diddy, Don King, Mystical, and more.

Volume VI – Ready to sign – Featuring: 50 Cent & G-Unit, Kanye West, Jadakiss, Lil’ Kim, Chamillionaire, Mike Jones, David Banner, Papoose, Cassidy, and more.

Hip-Hop Uncensored Volumes 1 through 6 are currently available at over 8000 stores around the country including HMV, Best Buy, MTV, FYE, Fat Beats, Music Factory, Beat Street, as well as internationally in France, Japan, England, Canada and Amsterdam. HHU leads independent DVD’s in online presence, available on countless web stores including amazon.com, mtv.com, vh1.com, netflix.com, nytimes.com, barnesandnoble.com, etc.

To commemorate their 10th year, Hip-Hop Uncensored will now be available as 2 Disc set featuring a bonus CD soundtrack. “Hip-Hop Uncensored Vol. VII – Hustle On” will be the first available in this new format. Hosted by DJ Green Lantern and featuring Rick Ross, Talib Kweli, Ghostface, Yung Joc, Dre from Cool & Dre, Slim Thug, Black Child, T-Waters, Paul Wall and Ice Cube, Vol. VII is dedicated to these and other artists who have consistently maintained their grind.

Other plans to celebrate the 10th year of Hip-Hop Uncensored include a website re-launch as well as the “Hip-Hop Uncensored Vol. VII – Hustle On” release party in New York City on September 24th, 2006.

VH1 Announces Freestyle 59 Contest

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

VH1 has announced the return of the Freestyle 59 competition which allows rappers from across the country to upload their best rhyme for consideration in the competition. The rhymes, which must be 59 seconds or less, will be accepted from July 19th to August 21st. Rappers can upload their rhymes at freetyle59.vh1.com.

Five finalists will be selected and, beginning September 12th, one will be voted off through online and mobile voting. The final two contestants will be flown to New York City for the taping of the third annual Hip Hop Honors. The winner will be announced during the broadcast on October 17th at 9 p.m. and awarded $10,000 and a chance to meet one of Hip Hop Honors Honorees.

This year's VH1 Hip Hop Honors will be hosted by Ice T and the honorees are Wu-Tang Clan, Afrika Bambaataa, Russell Simmons, MC Lyte, Rakim, Beastie Boys, Ice Cube, and Eazy E.

TVT Records to release 'Crunk Hits Vol 2'

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

TVT Records is set to release the second compilation in its Crunk Hits series, Crunk Hits Vol. 2, on August 22nd. The set will feature songs by Chamillionaire, Lil Jon, Three 6 Mafia, Pitbull, Ying Yang Twins, Lil Wayne, Paul Wall, Mike Jones, and others.

The king of crunk, Lil Jon, broke down the popular sound which he helped to bring to the mainstream. He said: "Crunk is the only form of music that...Like, what we do is we, like, to say our main goal is to get a party off the hook, make people just want to wild out. That's what crunk music is, and that's what it does."

The tracklisting for Crunk Hits Vol. 2 includes: Lil Jon - "Snap Yo Fingers" featuring E-40 and Sean Paul (Youngbloodz); Chamillionaire - "Turn It Up" feat. Lil Flip; Pitbull - "Bojangles (Remix)"; Ying Yang Twins - "Shake" feat. Pitbull; Lil Wayne - "Fireman"; Lil Scrappy - "No Problem"; Ice Cube - "Go To Church" feat. Snoop Dogg & Lil Jon; BG - "Move Around" feat. Mannie Fresh; Mike Jones - "Back Then"; Bubba Sparxxx - "Ms. New Booty" feat. Ying Yang Twins & Mr. Collipark; Yo Gotti - "Gangsta Party" feat. Bun B & 8Ball; E-40 - "Tell Me When To Go" feat. Keak Da Sneak; Three 6 Mafia - "Stay Fly"; Daddy Yankee - "Gasolina DJ Buddha (Remix)" feat. Lil Jon, Pitbull & Noreaga; Body Head Bangerz - "I Smoke, I Drank (Remix)" feat. Magic; Paul Wall - "Sittin Sidewayz" feat. Big Pokey; Gucci Mane - "Icy"; Dem Franchize Boyz - "White Tee"; and Trillville - "Some Cut" feat. Cutty.

Timbaland Working With Jay-Z On Tracks, New Album Rumored To Be In The Works

Super-producer Timbaland has confirmed that he’ll be collaborating with Jay-Z for the Brooklyn MC's next untitled project.
In an interview with BBC’s 1xtra, the VA producer indicated that he is currently working on tracks for the Def Jam president.

While he remained tight-lipped about the partnership, he confirmed that Brooklyn MC was the only Hip-Hop project he was producing in the near future.

After recording nine albums and selling more than 40 million albums, Jay-Z officially retired from recording as an artist.

The rapper-turned-president recently commemorated the 10th anniversary of his debut album, Reasonable Doubt, by performing the album in its entirety at New York's Radio City Music Hall.

In related news, Timabland recently launched Mosley Music Group, a joint venture label with the Interscope/Geffen/A&M. The label’s first release Loose from singer Nelly Furtado entered Billboard's Top 200 chart at #1.

"Hip-Hop is too easy for me," Timbaland told 1xtra. "I've got to do something that's challenging. The only thing I got coming out is Jay-Z. I'm not trying to do anything new. I'm trying to do pop. I'm trying to bring Top 40 into the hood."

Timbaland is currently in the studio putting the final touches on Justin Timberlake's sophomore album FutureSex/LoveSounds, which hits stores September 13.

Jay-Z himself hinted to a possible come back album in a recent interview with the Associated Press.

"I believe the industry as a whole needs certain events to happen to sustain it and keep it alive," Jay-Z said. "You need (Dr.) Dre albums, you need Eminem albums you need 50 (Cent) albums, you need big artists, you need major events that happen. So when I look at it in those terms, I believe that an album is needed."

Reports have stated that production duo The Neptunes, which is comprised of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, are also producing tracks for the new album.

Lloyd Banks Rotten Apple LP Due in September

Despite Lloyd Banks setting his album, Rotten Apple, for a Sept. 19 release date, G-Unit’s lyrical Boy Wonder keeps recording.

The Rotten Apple LP already boasts features from members of the G-Unit family - 50 Cent, Young Buck, Tony Yayo, Spider Loc and Mobb Deep, along with Scarface, Musiq, 8Ball and Rakim.

“I tried to capture mixtape verses on album songs. Like the record I have with Rakim called “You Know the Deal,” that it’s bigger than just a record,” Banks told Vibe.com last month. “Hip hop is a music tornado - it starts somewhere and who knows where its going to end up. There’s a time and place for everything, bottom line. I just hope that when it comes back to [be centered around] lyricists, I get acknowledged for that.”

As far as production, Banks called on the likes of Eminem, Havoc and Timbaland.

Banks club banging lead single “Hands Up,” which features 50 and was produced by Eminem, continues to increase its radio rotation.