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.

Rick Ross Sets Sail In August

Miami rapper Rick Ross is preparing for the August 8th release of his Slip-N-Slide/Def Jam debut, Port of Miami.

Following on the heels of his highly acclaimed single "Hustlin'" and it's remix with Jay-Z and Young Jeezy, Port of Miami features production from "Hustlin" producers The Runners, Jazze Pha, DJ Khaled, Akon (who also sings on the album) and Cool & Dre. Lil' Wayne, Lyfe Jennings, Mario Winans and Miami's Carol City Cartel also make guest appearances on the album.

Ross, who also has verses on DJ Khaled's "Holler At Me" and Dre's "Chevy Ridin' High," plans to release his second single "Blow" on July 24th. Benny Boom will be directing the video.

In related news, Rick Ross is also scheduled to perform at this year's 1stAnnual OZONE Magazine Awards. In addition to joining Lil Wayne, T.I., UGK, Slim Thug, Too $hort, and Trick Daddy onstage, Ross has also been nominated for three awards.

Port Of Miami is scheduled to hit stores on August 8th, while The 1st Annual Ozone Magazine Awards will take place on August 6th.

NY Rap Legend Kool G Rap Signs with West Coast Independent Label

Back Route Records CEO Jamez "Jamez Bomb" Rosado is proud to announce that Back Route Records has signed New York Rap legend Kool G Rap. After months of gossip and speculation about Kool G Rap signing with G-Unit and various other labels Back Route Record’s CEO locked in a partnership. The result of this deal will be the upcoming LP “Uncontrolled Substance”, due out soon.

Kool G Rap, is a world renowned lyricist known as The Godfather of the gangster rap scene. Albums like the classic release of 1988’s “Road to the Riches” and 1990’s “Wanted: Dead or Alive” are respected as standards in the genre.

While many were shocked that Kool G Rap would sign with a west coast indie label based in Stockton California, G Rap has a lot of respect for the West coast independent scene. "I first linked up with my dude Jamez thru doing a feature with one of the artist signed to his label, named Okwerdz. My man Domingo also spoke highly of how Jamez handles business. That's basically how we connected to lay down this street album. ‘Uncontrolled Substance’ is definitely gonna be a banger" says G Rap.

"We were introduced by a mutual friend and after much discussion everything kinda fell into place. Real recognize real." says Bomb.

DJ Green Lantern just finished hosting a mixtape called "Sneak Attack" for the label available now as a FREE download at: http://www.backrouterecords.com/ It spotlights Back Route’s artists and includes a few songs from upcoming albums including exclusives with Too Short, Tech N9ne, and Goldie of Federation as well as some creative remixes.

Other upcoming releases from Back Route Records include a follow up project from the internationally respected rapper Okwerdz, titled “Off Season.” It will feature some insane collaboration from Juelz Santana, Bezel, and SAS of The Diplomats, Tech N9ne, Mista F.A.B, Casual from Hieroglyphics, Kurupt, Sean Price of Helta Skeltah, Copywrite and production by Needlz, Rockwilder, Domingo etc. Okwerdz just recently returned from touring Australia with Supernatural and DJ QBert.

Also soon to be released is the powerful young rapper, Young Collage. His debut LP, entitled "Take It or Leave It" is destined to be one of the biggest independent debut releases in recent years. Blending a unique combination of west coast grit with street knowledge and an ultra smooth flow, "Take It or Leave It" features incredible solo songs like "Everythang" and "Better Way". Young Collage has major collaborations on his debut with LeToya formerly of Destiny’s Child, Too Short, Devin the Dude, Kool G Rap, The Luniz and Goldie of Federation.

“Back Route Records will only release superior artists overflowing with originality and creativity" says CEO Jamez Bomb. “To have Kool G Rap, Okwerz and Young Collage one the same label is a CEO’s dream. Everyone will know when they pick up a release with Back Route’s logo stamped on it; it’s gonna be fire from front to back".

C-Murder freed from home confinement

GRETNA, La. - The rapper who once went by the stage name of C-Murder has been released from home confinement as he awaits a retrial on a second-degree murder charge.


Corey Miller's participation in a home-monitoring program was a burden on the Gretna Police Department, which runs the program in Jefferson Parish, State District Judge Martha Sassone said Thursday.

Miller, 35, had been under house arrest since March 20 after posting a $500,000 bond. He is charged in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy on Jan. 12, 2002, during a fight at a now-closed nightclub in Harvey.

A jury convicted Miller, who faced a mandatory life prison sentence without parole, but a judge tossed the conviction after ruling that prosecutors hid the criminal backgrounds of some state witnesses from the defense.

Since his legal problems began, Miller has changed his stage name to C Miller.

Under the judge's order, Miller can move freely in Jefferson and Orleans parishes, but must be home from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. He is barred from drinking alcohol and going to bars, and visitors to his residence are restricted.

Prosecutors had asked to send Miller back to jail, saying he had violated terms of home confinement several times. Authorities said Miller moved out of range of monitoring equipment for long periods, a contention that the defense challenged.

Source: Yahoo

Eminem's Latest Hit?

By Josh Grossberg

So this is how Eminem is celebrating his semi-retirement.

Police in Detroit said Monday they are seeking the hip-hop superstar for questioning for his alleged role in a strip club beatdown last week.

Eminem and his entourage were hanging at the Cheetah club, a nudie bar located on Eight Mile Road, last Wednesday when a fight went down at approximately 1:15 a.m. The rapper, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, was using the toilet when an unidentified man in the restroom began chatting him up, per local ABC affiliate WXYZ-TV.


One of Eminem's bodyguards warned the man not to talk to his boss. At that point, another patron in the restroom, identified only as Miad J., told the guard to go easy on the fan.


"He kept on going and I said, 'The guy's not saying nothing, he's just talking to him, he's not saying anything,' " Miad J. told WXYZ.


According to an account in the Detroit Free Press, Eminem's bodyguard then shoved Miad J. The 48-year-old man says he tried leave, and that's when the rapper allegedly started "swinging."


"Eminem got done and boom," Miad J. said. "I wasn't even expecting it. I was just minding my own business, taking a leak."


The entertainer and his crew fled the club following the incident. Eyewitnesses quoted in the Free Press said that another member of the posse, described a longtime Eminem friend and protege named Trick Trick, flashed a gun outside the club, but did not aim it at anyone.


A manager at the club confirmed that a scuffle had broken out involving Emimem but declined to discuss specifics. A spokesman for the Detroit Police Department said that authorities have launched a probe and are hoping to get Eminem's side of the story. No word yet whether any charges will be filed.


The Grammy winner's publicist at Interscope Records, Dennis Dennehy, could not be reached for comment.


This isn't the first time the performer's been sought by Detroit's Finest.


In 2000, Eminem was arrested on a pair of gun-related charges. One involved a heated dispute with an associate of rap collective Insane Clown Posse. The other came when the real Slim Shady used an unloaded 9mm to threaten and pistol-whipping a man at a bar for allegedly kissing then wife Kim Mathers.


After cutting a deal with prosecutors that saw him plead guilty to a lesser charge, he escaped with a $10,000 fine and two years' probation, which he completed in 2003. Both experiences inspired the tracks "Soldier" and "The Kiss."


After remarrying his high school sweetheart last January, Eminem filed for divorce without explanation from Kim just three months later and the two are currently seeking joint custody of their 10-year-old daughter, Hailie Jade.


While he is taking time off from his own recording, Eminem has been keeping himself busy in the studio producing pal Obie Trice's sophomore album, Second Round's on Me, due out next month. He also recently agreed to star in a big-screen update of the classic TV western Have Gun Will Travel.

Ludacris says new album will put him in the number one spot

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Ludacris'last album, 2004's Red Light District, included the hit, "Number One Spot." With the release of his new album, Release Therapy, the rapper thinks he will actually find himself in that very spot. He told MTV.com, "I feel like I'm there after this one, I say it on a song too."

The first single from the new album, which hits stores on September 26th, is "Money Maker" featuring Pharrell Williams. The album also features a collaboration with R. Kelly, called "Woozy." Ludacris explained, "Working with R. Kelly is great. He's one of the hardest-working individuals, period. He's straight vampire: He leaves the studio when the sun comes up, goes in when it goes down."

Ludacris wanted to break the new album up into two sides Release and Therapy but since CDs don't have two sides he's run into a problem. He explained, "The way we're going to try to format the record is you have your Release side and your Therapy side. Everybody knows the Release side would be 'War With God,' 'Tell It Like It Is.'I have a record called 'Slap.'Just getting everything off my chest. The Therapy side would be feel-good -- a song like 'Woozy'with R. Kelly on it is therapeutic. Even 'Money Maker.'Some women's therapy is getting out, going to the club and shaking they ass. It's therapeutic to them. It's a Release end and Therapy side. Too bad it's a CD -- you can't really split up sides."

Kurtis Blow developing Hip Hop Church America for Television

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rap pioneer Kurtis Blow was the first rapper to sign a deal with a major label and now he's poised to be the first rapper with his own weekly church show. Blow is developing Hip Hop Church America in hopes of making the worship process more fun for all ages. The television show, which is based on Blow's years of hosting and emceeing at the Hood Memorial Church in Harlem, is being developed in conjunction with The Machine Productions. The show will include song and praise for 60 minutes of clap-along inspiration.

Blow said in a released statement, "There is one main reason we have for starting all of this. We want to bring kids to church! Let them know God forgives them and that there's a better way. Our goal is to present the gospel to them in a language they can understand, teaching them about Jesus and the Bible and salvation. We think the church can save hip-hop and hip-hop can save the church. Let's face it, kids are our future and the future of the church is in their hands. When we're long gone, our great grandchildren will be running it, so it's important to teach them the right way to go."

Blow, who is working on Doctorate of Divinity at Nyack College in New York, added, "But even as we get the kids excited, we want people of all ages to come in and have a great time worshipping God. When I was growing up, the kids were always separated from the parents or taken out of the sanctuary for smaller Sunday School classes. With 'Hip Hop Church America,'we want grandparents bringing kids, and kids of all ages fellowshipping with their parents. Jesus is for everyone, remember. And just as he spoke in parables, which was the medium of teaching during his time, we're communicating His message through one of today's most powerful and exciting mediums -- music and hip-hop."

Ludacris set to release debut from R&B singer Shareefa

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rapper and actor Ludacris has released several projects on his Disturbing Tha Peace label including albums by Chingy, Shawnna, I-20, Field Mob, and Bobby Valentino. Now Ludacris will try his luck with his first female R&B singer Shareefa to join the label. The singer's debut album, Point Of No Return, will be released later this year on Disturbing Tha Peace Records in conjunction with Def Jam Records.

The first single from the project is "Need A Boss" featuring Ludacris. The set will also feature a guest appearance by Bobby Valentino and the production of Chucky Thompson, Rodney Jerkins, and Salaam Remi.

Shareefa said in a released statement, "I can remember taping the tributes to Smokey Robinson and Gladys Knight that were on the Soul Train Awards. I would be rewinding them all the time, practicing those routines until I knew them by heart. In the same way Patti LaBelle could make the hair stand-up on my arms with her voice, I wanted to be able to do the same thing."

DTP CEO Ludacris discussed the challenges of being a CEO and recording artist. He said: "I have to switch up modes from being a rapper myself sometime to, you know, being the CEO of a company and then giving advice and then, you know, being business-minded."

The rapper added: "You know what I mean, I have to switch up mode. Then I need time for myself as Chris Bridges also. So at times I find it hard but then I'm up for the challenge and I love challenges like that."

Chamillionaire gets grown & sexy

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

In the coming weeks, Houston-based rapper Chamillionaire will release "Grown & Sexy" as the third single and video from his platinum album The Sound Of Revenge. The rapper told us: "The new single is 'Grown & Sexy.'I just had to do something for another audience, which is the females, because, you know, I did something for the clubs, 'Turn It Up.'I did something for the streets with 'Ridin'.'Now we fittin'to capture the females with 'Grown & Sexy'."

Chamillionaire has also been dealing with a lot of pressure to return to the studio to record a new album, but the rapper plans to take his time. He told MTV.com, "I believe in pushing my records until the wheels fall off. I might have to slow down on (recording) 'cause I might even be able to get another million out of my album. I'm about to go overseas, we have a lot of remixes to the 'Ridin'record, and we'll do some remixes for 'Grown & Sexy'too, just to keep on pushin'my album."

The rapper, who plans to begin the recording process while touring, has also had to deal with his new-found celebrity since "Ridin'Dirty" featuring Krayzie Bone hit Number One on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. Chamillionaire said: "A lot of this stuff is new to me, man, you know? I still try to stay grounded, but it's crazy when everybody is telling you, 'You the greatest,'you know what I'm sayin'?"

New Podcast Mixtape: Sit Back & Take Notes Pt. 3/ Biggie on his grind at age 17/ 720 degree dunk?

Make sure you check out the latest bangers on Sit Back & Take Notes Pt. 3.


Here's some other material that we thought we'd share with all of you if you haven't seen it yet...

Biggie freestylin at age 17...





720 Dunk?

LL Cool J hooking up with 50 Cent for next album

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Rapper and actor LL Cool J just released an album called Todd Smith earlier this year, but he plans to release another one this fall titled Todd Smith, Part 2: Back To Cool. He told MTV.com, "It's my last Def Jam record, so I wanted to make it something special and something really unique and kinda get back to my roots a little bit. 50 (Cent) reminds me a lot of the things that I used to do and the places I used to be in my life, and I think we can have a good time together."

Cool J added, "He's talented and I feel like I have something I want to say -- I think he can help me get it off my chest."

LL Cool J and 50 Cent have already begun to work together. The duo, Lloyd Banks, and newcomer Hot Rod are featured on the remix of LL Cool J's "Freeze," which is titled "You Can Bump This."

No release date has been set for Todd Smith, Part 2: Back To Cool, but don't expect too many guests on the project. Cool J explained, "I don't know if I'm gonna do as many collaborations on this record. I think that me and 50 is enough."

Eminem and Shady Records pay homage to Big Proof

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Eminem and Shady Records pay homage to Proof by launching the BigProof4Ever.com website. MTV.com reports that all the proceeds from articles sold on the site will benefit the Big Proof Forever Foundation, an organization that benefits the slain rapper's five children.

The site includes T-shirts and a poster bearing Proof's likeness and the words "Big Proof Forever 1973-2006," which was designed by graphic artist Shepard Fairey, who started the anti-authority Obey Giant campaign in the 1980s.

Proof, whose real name is DeShaun Holton, was shot and killed at a Detroit nightclub in April. According to reports, the rapper, who died with a blood-alcohol level of 0.32 percent, allegedly pistol-whipped Jonathon Bender before shooting the bouncer in the face. The rapper was in turn shot and killed by Bender's cousin Mario Etheridge, who was also working as a bouncer at the nightclub. Etheridge allegedly fired twice in the air before shooting the rapper.

Etheridge was later cleared of wrongdoing.

New Big Pun album hits a roadblock

By: Yves Erwin Salomon

Sony Records owns the rights to recordings made by late rapper Big Pun, as he was signed to their subsidiary Loud Records at the time of his death in 2000, but plans to release another posthumous album by the rapper have hit a roadblock. New York's Daily News reports that producer John "Jellybean" Benitez, who owns the publishing rights to several of the previously unreleased songs that would be included on the new album, has refused to negotiate with the label. A source told the paper, "Sony owns Big Pun as an artist, but Jellybean owns the publishing rights to many of the songs. Sony wants to do another album, but (Benitez) hasn't returned calls. He's playing the game."

Big Pun, whose real name was Christopher Rios, died from a fatal heart attack in February 2000. He was survived by a wife and three kids.

Big Pun released his debut album, Capital Punishment, in 1998, which made the rapper the first solo Latino hip-hop artist to achieve platinum status. There have been two posthumous Pun albums -- 2000's Yeeeah Baby and 2001's Endangered Species.

Rap Icon Stakes New Territory in the Wild West on BET's New Reality Series, DMX: SOUL OF A MAN

LOS ANGELES, July 6 /PRNewswire/ -- What happens when a street-wise rap star turns in his ghetto pass for the wide open desert ranges of Arizona? You'll find out when BET premieres the six-part reality series DMX: SOUL OF A MAN on Wednesday, July 12 at 9:30 p.m. (ET/PT). When a move from the tough, gritty streets of New York to peaceful Carefree, Arizona does not free rap artist Earl Simmons (DMX) of the demons he feels plague him, he realizes his life may warrant more than just a change in geography. Cameras take viewers into the heart and mind of one of today's most successful and notorious hardcore rap artists to find out what really tugs at his soul and inspires his thought-provoking lyrics.

"On SOUL OF A MAN, DMX is more than a rapper, more than a movie star -- he's a human being, with tragic flaws, amazing charisma, undeniable talent, humor, love and street toughness," said Reginald Hudlin, BET President of Entertainment. "If you don't know who DMX is, this series shows you why he's a star. If you're a DMX fan, this series shows you a side of the man you've never seen."

DMX, the legendary hip-hop artist who's sold more than 20 million albums, made his acting debut co-starring with comrade rappers Method Man and Nas in "Belly." He later went on to star in major support roles in the cult classic "Romeo Must Die," as well as Steven Segal's #1 opening weekend blockbuster "Exit Wounds."

But in DMX: SOUL OF A MAN, BET unleashes to the world what lies beneath the rough exterior of the respected, yet controversial rapper and actor. This is the authentic DMX, and viewers discover the harsh realities of his past, the conflicting dualities of his present and his aspirations for the future as he struggles with the notion of leaving his rap persona behind, and whether Carefree is a place where he can actually lead a normal life free from rap battles or legal troubles. Though he feels like a fish out of water at times, here Simmons is known by the locals as 'Earl' -- just one of the guys shooting pool and knocking back beers at the neighborhood saloon.

In this riveting half-hour series, DMX opens up about his parentless childhood, his legal issues, his experience with drugs and how he's trying to be the best father, husband and person he can be. A loving, devoted Dad, viewers watch 'X' spending time with his kids, taking them to school and getting parenting advice from Buddy, his 53-year-old redneck friend and neighbor who Simmons considers "the 'realest' person I know."

Then, we see the other side of 'X' -- he's the renegade and up to his typical high jinks: packing a pistol, reckless driving, and other questionable activities which sometimes land him in the headlines of unflattering news coverage or the courtroom.

"If I wasn't built for this, I'd be dead by now," DMX declares in the opening sequence of the series premiere. "My music is my life." That may be the case, but it doesn't stop the gravelly-voiced lyricist from missing an important recording session for his new album while his producers call incessantly to check on his ETA.

Through his inner circle made up of his wife Tashera, his business associates such as road manager Ali and manager Randy, his homeboy Peezy, and Buddy, viewers will see the man behind the 'X' in this series. In a unique setting, Simmons speaks candidly about his life. Cameras set at various angles catch his facial expressions and emotional swings as he shares what he's done, seen and been through. These unguarded moments give viewers an intimate, personal look into his current state of mind, his nature, inner struggles, and his profound faith in God.

"Many networks have wanted to do a show with 'X,' but he decided to go with us because we have been able to produce a show that exhibits who he really is," explains Tracey Edmonds, executive producer for Edmonds Entertainment. "One thing you'll notice immediately is how 'X' lets you completely into his world in a way that most artists won't. There is no vanity with him, no pretense, no self-editing; which in turn makes for a very entertaining, water cooler show that the viewers will appreciate."

Viewers can catch encore episodes of DMX: SOUL OF A MAN on Wednesdays at 1:00 a.m. ET/PT and Fridays at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Tupac, Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G. Top National Hip-Hop Soul Online Poll

Remy Martin(R) Celebrates Black Music Month, Asks Consumers to Recognize Their Favorites

NEW YORK, July 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Remy Martin(R) 1738 Accord Royal celebrated Black Music Month this June for the second consecutive year. In just over a month, nearly 6,000 consumers visited www.1738.com (http://www.1738.com/). More than 10,000 votes were cast*. So, who bears the crown in hip-hop soul? According to consumers, three artists rise above the rest -- Tupac Shakur, Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G.

The national online poll hosted at 1738.com stood at the center of Remy Martin's Black Music Month initiative. Visitors to the Web site were encouraged to vote for their favorites in hip-hop soul history. A "leaderboard" featuring the top 17 artists and 38 songs was posted and updated daily until polls officially closed on June 30th.

In addition to pulling down top-artist honors, Tupac scored the #1 song with "Hail Mary." Artist runners-up Jay-Z and "Biggie" finished #2 and #3 respectively but also left their mark on the song list; in all, 14 of the top 38 tracks can be attributed to one of the big three.

Here are some of the other trends uncovered in the 1738.com poll:

-- Fab Five: Following Tupac and Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G., NAS and Eminem
rounded out the top five artists

-- Queen Mary: Mary J. Blige was the poll's most prominent female,
finishing at #6 on the artist list and gaining recognition for three
of the top 38 tracks (#21 "Be Without You, #24 "My Life" and #26 "Real
Love")

-- Hey, Ladies: Mariah Carey joined Blige as the only other woman to
grace the top 17 artists (#17); Keyshia Cole (#16 "Love") and Lauryn
Hill (#35 "Doo Wop" and #30, with Nas, "If I Ruled the World") joined
Blige on the song list

-- New School: On a song list dominated by hip-hop legends, relative
newcomers T.I., Jadakiss and Lil' Wayne cracked the top 10 songs with
"What Ya Know" (#4), "Why" (#9) and "Hustla Muzik" (#10) respectively

-- Brooklyn Took It: Brooklyn-bred stars Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G. and NAS
took three of the top four artist spots and can lay claim to 11 of the
top 38 songs; borough native Mos Def was the #12 artist

For the final list of the top 17 artists and 38 songs, consumers can log on to http://www.1738.com/.

The poll was only one of a series of activities led by the cognac-maker aimed at raising awareness of black music, its pioneers and up-and-comers during June. Remy Martin's additional Black Music Month efforts included an exclusive New York City VIP kick-off party hosted at the Canal Room, with a live performance by Keyshia Cole, as well as sole-sponsorship of Hip-Hop Soul magazine, a special issue from the publishers of XXL.

* Represents unique visitors; voting was restricted to those 21 and over and visitors could vote for up to five artists and/or songs.

E. Remy Martin & Co., Remy Martin Fine Champagne Cognac V.S.O.P.(R) Cognac, 40% Alc./Vol., Remy Martin 1738(R) Fine Champagne Cognac, 40% Alc./Vol.

Imported by Remy Cointreau USA, Inc., New York, NY. Remy Martin(R), Centaur Design(R) Please Drink Responsibly.

Source: Remy Martin

Nelly's Black and White Ball Brings Out the Stars & Stripes

Janet Jackson, Jermaine Dupri, Evander Holyfield and Allen Iverson Among Attendees at Stylish Black-Tie Independence Day Gala

ST. LOUIS, July 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Hip-hop superstar Nelly teamed up with Budweiser Select to host The Black and White Ball, an elegant black-tie Independence Day party held at the Contemporary Art Museum in his hometown of St. Louis on Sunday night (July 2). Among the 400 VIP guests dressed in formal black and white attire were celebrities including Janet Jackson, Jermaine Dupri, Allen Iverson, Ashanti, Evander Holyfield, Don King, Jagged Edge, Murphy Lee, Ali & Gipp, Darius Miles, and Tamila Jones.

Early in the evening, guests enjoyed Budweiser Select beer and signature black and white hors d'oeuvres from Mike Shannon's steakhouse while taking in the event's stunning decor featuring contemporary black and white furnishings from Design Within Reach and an interactive video wall that featured images that reacted to guest movement. Later in the night, the crowd was entertained by a surprise stand-up comedy performance by D.L. Hughley and an energetic set by Houston favorites The Scott Gertner Band. The night was capped off by an after-party at local hotspot The Pepper Lounge where Nelly, Jermaine Dupri, and Murphy Lee treated the capacity crowd to an impromptu hour-long performance.

Nelly is currently featured on Janet Jackson's new single "Call On Me." The 3x Grammy winner has sold nearly 30 million albums worldwide and has established himself as one of the world's most successful artist/entrepreneur/actors. His self-launched imprint with Universal Records, Derrty Ent, is gearing up for the release of Ali & Gipp's Kinfolk collaboration and Murphy Lee's sophomore album.

Source: Derrty Ent

Jailed US music producer pardoned in Dubai: paper

DUBAI (Reuters) - Hip-hop producer Dallas Austin was granted a pardon on Tuesday hours after a Dubai court sentenced him to four years in jail for possession of narcotics, a local newspaper said.


The report on the Gulf News Web site did not say who issued the pardon, which is usually granted by the rulers of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates.

"Dallas Austin has been pardoned," the newspaper quoted judicial sources as saying.

It was not clear if Austin, who has worked with stars including Madonna and Michael Jackson, had left Dubai.

Local newspapers said on Mond