Lupe Fiasco Gets Down With Coca-Cola On Tour

Soft-drink giant Coca-Cola has released a statement announcing a six-city, invitation only tour featuring Grammy award-winning artist Lupe Fiasco.

The “Coca-Cola Refresh Your Flow Tour,” which is aimed at teens ages 13-17, kicked off last night (July 17) at the Avalon in Hollywood.

The other dates are: The Electric Factory (Philadelphia, August 3), The Tabernacle (Atlanta, August 8), Park West (Chicago, August 17), LOVE (Washington DC, August 21) and the Filmore at Irving Plaza (New York City, August 29).

Yolanda White, assistant VP of African American Marketing at Coca-Cola, expressed excitement about the unique concert experience Fiasco and Coca-Cola have planned for their young audiences.

“Not only will each concert offer the teens an unforgettable musical experience, it will give each of them a taste of the Coke Side of Life-a moment in time that is refreshingly optimistic and uplifting,” White expressed to in a statement. And, by engaging an artist like Lupe Fiasco, they will be encouraged to live on the positive side of life.”

Tickets to the shows are free. However, they can only be obtained through partnering radio stations, retail outlets, and Coca-Cola street teams who will be frequenting teen “hot spots” in the tour cities.

Radio stations offering free tickets include: Power 106 (Los Angeles), Power 99 (Philadelphia), Hot 107.9 (Atlanta), WGCI (Chicago), WPGC Jams (Washington DC), and Hot 97 (New York City).

Also, select Boy and Girls clubs in those areas will receive tickets that allow deserving teen members to meet Lupe and attend the concert as VIPs.

Taking his status as role model very seriously, Fiasco hopes to inspire all his young fans who attend.

“I am looking forward to the ‘Coca-Cola Refresh Your Flow Tour.’ It’s a unique opportunity for me to bring a message of positivity and what it really means to be cool,” Lupe revealed. “I hope it will be an unforgettable experience for every teen who attends.”

Lupe Fiasco’s latest album, The Cool, was released in December 2007 and has been certified gold.

50 Cent Speaks On The Hip-Hop Industry, “I Feel Like I Got Something To Prove Again”

50 Cent has become vocal about his difficulty in marketing hip-hop within today’s music industry and it’s effects on making his final Interscope solo release, Before I Self Destruct.

In a video from ThisIs50.com, the G-Unit leader weighed in his opinions on the tough times most rap albums are experiencing and his need to regain the top spot he once held. “I feel like I got something to prove again, musically,” he said. “It feels like it’s not based on the actual music. It’s just a weird climate right now.”

Admitting that in the past record sales were based on how many plays a particular song received on the radio, 50 explained the industry is even more complex today.

“It doesn’t even go based on radio spins,” he explained. “Like it’s so confusing because I wanna say it’s radio spins and then it simplifies the situation. And it makes it about that and then it’s not about that. I mean it’s confusing because these people are appreciating the music I’m making now and I don’t see the same response, like according to the G-Unit album.”

Claiming the streets needed the album despite poor sales, he added that the recent trend in record sales has made him reconsider his marketing strategy for his next album.

“It makes me re-evaluate what I’m going to present for Before I Self Destruct,” he said. “I don’t want to go through the process of pushing the album back four and five times. Look how many times they pushed [Lil’] Wayne’s album back to build anticipation. Is that what it takes? Like I gotta make you think my album’s coming out for 10 months, straight?”

Continuing to show the industry’s shifting record sales, 50 concluded by comparing recent hit singles of the year by top artists whose album sales have had disappointing sales.

“Snoop [Dogg’s] album had the best radio airplay [with] “Sensual Seduction,” that’s a big record,” he explained. “Sales didn’t reflect that. That’s a case where radio spins didn’t mean anything. You know what I mean? Usher went with the “Love in the Club.” Same deal. Number one joint all across the board. Remix with Beyonce.”

Eminem Ready To Re-Up, "He's Been Quiet Too Long”

After a four-year hiatus, Eminem is finally back in the studio, readying his new album.

The last solo album the Grammy award-winning rapper dropped was 2004’s Encore and now Em’s about to give fans another, according to Entertainment Weekly.

"Em is excited," Dr. Dre protégé Bishop Lamont, told the celeb media outlet. “He's been quiet too long, and he's got a lot to get off his chest."

Including the devastating death of partner Proof, who was shot in 2006.

"He went through what he had to go through, and now he's been able to take all the pain and stress and put it out in his music," Lamont said.

In related news, Em made news for allegedly beating down a guy in a strip club bathroom. Shady is being sued for allegedly assaulting a man nearly two years ago in the bathroom of a strip club.

As previously reported, Miad Jarbou, filed a $25,000 lawsuit almost a month ago claiming he was assaulted 2006 at Cheetah’s On the Strip Gentleman’s Club on Eight Mile Road.

As of press time there’s no release date yet and the project is yet to be titled.

Rocsi Not Suspended from 106 and Park

Kanye West, Wyclef Jean, and N.E.R.D, are slated to Perform at the Democratic National Convention

Jay-Z demands Watermelon shaped like Beyonce's Bust...

Young Jeezy supports McCain, Vibe Interview...

MARIAH, NELLY, NAS TO SING FOR SAMSUNG: Artists to perform at second annual free concert series

Mariah Carey, Nelly and Nas are among the artists tapped to perform as part of the second annual Samsung AT&T Summer Krush, a free summer concert series designed to highlight Samsung's music-centric BlackJack II mobile phone.

The concert series kicks off July 31 in Los Angeles with an approximately 35-minute performance by Carey at the Hollywood & Highland Center. Portions of the concert will broadcast later that evening on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"

Rapper Nelly is scheduled to perform Aug. 19 at the Tabernacle in Atlanta, while Nas will perform at Webster Hall in New York on Aug. 27.

Other artists on the bill include Gavin Rossdale and LeAnn Rimes. A limited number of free tickets will be available through radio promotions, artist fan clubs, street teams and online registration at www.samsungsummerkrush.com

Nas Embarks On Tour, Album in Store Today

Multi-platinum Def Jam recording artist Nas will embark on a 21-date summer tour in support of his untitled ninth studio album.

The Jones Experience summer tour will kick off July 22 in Montreal, Canada, seven days after the highly anticipated and controversial album hits stores.

Produced by Guerilla Union, the entity behind the Rock the Bells and Paid Dues Festivals, the tour will bring Nas to various small clubs across North America, in what Nas described as “a big show in an intimate venue.”

Nas will be joined on the tour by Talib Kweli, who still touring in support of last year’s Eardrum, radio personality and producer DJ Green Lantern, who contributed to the new Untitled project and newcomer Jay Electronica.

The Jones Experience runs through Labor Day weekend and coincides with Nas’ appearances on the Rock the Bells Festival’s previously announced ten-date run.

“I truly appreciate all the fans that have supported me over the years, and this is my way of giving back,” Nas told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “My album drops on July 15 and I hope to take the movement from the stores to the stage.”

The second release on Nas’ Def Jam imprint The Jones Experience, the untitled album features production and appearances from a variety of artists and musicians, including Busta Rhymes, Mark Ronson, the Dapkings, DJ Toomp, Stic.Man, Stargate and Cool & Dre.

Nas’ untitled album landed in stores today (July 15).

Tour dates are listed below:

7.19 - Rock The Bells Festival - First Midwest Bank Amphitheater - Chicago, IL
7.20 - Rock The Bells Festival - Arrow Hall - Toronto, ON
7.22 - The Jones Experience - Metropolis - Montreal, QB
7.24 - The Jones Experience - Higher Ground - Burlington, VT
7.25 - The Jones Experience - Toad's Place - New Haven, CT
7.26 - Rock The Bells Festival - Comcast Center - Boston, MA
7.27 - Rock The Bells Festival - Merriweather Post Pavillion - Washington, DC
7.29 - The Jones Experience - Amos' Southend - Charlotte, NC
7.30 - The Jones Experience - Music Farm - Charleston, SC
7.31 - The Jones Experience - Center Stage - Atlanta, GA
8.01 - The Jones Experience - House of Blues - New Orleans, LA
8.08 - The Jones Experience - House of Blues - Las Vegas, NV
8.10 - The Jones Experience - House of Blues - San Diego, CA
8.14 - The Jones Experience - New Oasis - Reno, NV
8.15 - The Jones Experience - Senator Theatre - Chico, CA
8.16 - Rock The Bells Festival - Shoreline Amphitheater - San Francisco, CA
8.22 - The Jones Experience - Harry O's - Park City, UT
8.23 - Rock The Bells Festival - Fiddler's Green Amphitheater - Denver, CO
8.24 - The Jones Experience - Emo's - Austin, TX
8.25 - The Jones Experience - Warehouse Live - Houston, TX
8.26 - The Jones Experience - House of Blues - Dallas, TX
8.28 - The Jones Experience - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH
8.29 - The Jones Experience - Chene Park - Detroit, MI
8.30 - The Jones Experience - Canopy Club - Champaign, IL
9.03 - The Jones Experience - The Pageant - St. Louis, MO
9.04 - The Jones Experience - The Rave - Milwaukee, WI
9.05 - The Jones Experience - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
9.06 - Rock The Bells Festival - The Gorge Amphitheater - Quincy, WA

50 Cent’s Lawyer In Jeopardy, Ex Pushes To Remove Him From Child Custody Case

The war between 50 Cent and mother of his preteen son Shaniqua Tompkins wages on. Now, she wants his lawyer booted from the case.

Tompkins says Fif’s attorney Bret Kimmel actually gave her some legal advice in the past, before their current custody battle began, so he’s privy to her strategy. Her lawyer plans to ask a Manhattan judge today to remove Kimmel from the case due to conflict of interest, according to TMZ.

Tompkins will also set out to keep Fif from collecting insurance money on the house she once publicly said he burned down. 50 denied the allegation and shot back with a $20 million defamation suit against Tompkins, currently pending.

Lil’ Wayne Fight W/ Local N.O. Rapper “Just A Rumor,” Lil’ Dee Clears the Air

Addressing the reports that he knuckled up with superstar Lil’ Wayne last week, up and coming Southern rapper Lil’ Dee has denied all allegations of the incident ever occurring.

Recently reported Ya Heard, inside sources claimed Weezy and Dee had a physical altercation at Club Dream in New Orleans last Thursday before Weezy was arrested for second-degree assault and possession of a firearm.

In a video released this morning, Dee set the record straight.

“It’s just a rumor, it’s false,” he said. “I never met Wayne a day in my life. If I was any of these other artists though, I woulda took that rumor and ran with it just to try and get on and get publicity.”

Rather than feeding off of the coverage he’s been receiving, Dee affirmed wanting to be known for his own achievements and paid his respect to Weezy’s leadership for other Orleans rappers.

“I don’t want no publicity off nobody else, especially if it’s negative,” he continued. “Wayne paving the road for artists like me, coming straight outta New Orleans, you know what I’m saying.”

He also mentioned selling over 15,000 copies of his mixtape and reaffirmed his own growing fan base as being reason enough not to need the negative publicity.

Mobb Deep Sues Former Manager Over Mixtapes

Decorated Queensbridge duo Mobb Deep is suing their former personal manager and several record labels for alleged violations of their copyrighted songs.

The lawsuit, filed July 9, details several unapproved Mobb albums and songs that were released by Purfek Storm Inc, Streetcore and Big Brother Music: Mobb Deep The Infamous Archives (2007), Mobb Deep The Mix Tape Before 9/11 (2004), and the Purfek Storm Mixtape series.

The group’s former manager and Purfek Storm, Inc CEO Norman Bell was named as a primary defendant in the lawsuit.

Bell managed Mobb Deep from May 2004 through November 2007.

As their former manger Mobb Deep alleges Bell has breached the fiduciary duty and loyalty of his contract.

The Mobb also claims that Bell and other parties plotted to release the copyrighted material by “forging the signatures of the plaintiffs (Mobb Deep) on a written agreement with the distributor for the record, in order to induce the distributor to commercially release, distribute, promote and advertise records of the offending recording(s), all without the knowledge of or consent of plaintiffs, and without any authority granted by plaintiffs to do so.”

Mobb Deep names ten claims against the offending parties which include: copyright infringement, trademark counterfeiting, false designation/advertising, and trademark dilution.

Some of the tracks in question include: “Backwards,” “In the Long Run,” “QB Meets Southside,” and “Getting Moved On.”

Mobb Deep has released eight albums since 1993. They have one platinum and four gold albums.

Their last album, Blood Money, was released on G-Unit Records in 2006.

Busta Rhymes Recruited To Prevent Gun Crimes In UK

Despite his recent run-ins with the law, Busta Rhymes has been recruited to help stop an increase in gun and knife crime in London.

The Independent reports the rapper will spread his nonviolent message on September 26, when he travels overseas to perform in concert at Royal Albert Hall.

The need to curb violence among youth is a universal concern, according to Rhymes.

"I want to do something productive that will help convince kids on both sides of the Atlantic to stop killing each other," the rapper said. "We are seeing a generation of children who are lost and in need of support. Their families are breaking down around them. They're turning to gangs and violence. We need to tell them that is not the right answer."

Rhymes’ international stage show will be organized by Orange RockCorps, a social enterprise.

The organization’s co-founder, Stephen Greene, praised the rapper as an inspirational performer who had "proved his commitment to volunteering over many years."

London Mayor Boris Johnson echoed Greene’s support as he applauded Orange RockCorps’ efforts to hold the concert as well as Rhymes’ willingness to help, by saying the show would be a "a great example of how music can have a profoundly positive effect on society".

Despite his good intentions, Rhymes’ appearance has raised concerns over whether or not his criminal record will prevent him from entering the country.

The rapper was fined $100,000 after beating up a fan who spat at his car two years ago. Two months later, Rhymes appeared in court amid accusations of possessing weapons and keeping a machete in his car.

He was later cleared of the charges. In March, Rhymes was fined $1,250 in addition to receiving three years’ three years' probation and 10 days' community service for assaulting his former driver.

The New York native isn’t the first entertainer who was in danger of being denied entry into Britain.

Snoop Dogg, Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, Islamic preacher Yusuf al-Qaradawi and domestic mogul Martha Stewart have all been denied entry into Britain.

Rapper David Banner Talks Jesse Jackson

Days after the Rev. Jesse Jackson apologized for making negative comments about Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama, rapper David Banner is weighing in on the controversy.

Banner, who drew headlines during the Imus scandal for his scathing comments about Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson, also rapped about Jackson on the track “So Special.”

Rev. Jesse Jackson came under fire since making what he called "crude and hurtful" remarks about Obama on Sunday (July 6) after an interview with a Fox News correspondent.

The former Democratic presidential contender, who was not aware that his microphone was still on while talking to UnitedHealth Group executive Dr. Reed V. Tuckson, whispered "See, Barack's been talking down to black people…I want to cut his nuts off" to Tuckson who was also being interviewed on Fox News.

News of the incident dominated morning talk shows and other media outlets since it became public.

"He didn’t literally mean that he wanted to cut Barack’s balls off. So we just need to quit it and move on," David Banner told. “This is one of the most important elections in history and we should focus on what’s right and what’s wrong. We’re gonna mess around and let the same thing happen with the last two elections and then we as American people are gonna be sitting up looking stupid with high ass gas prices again and our troops still at war."

On Wednesday (July 9), Jackson apologized for his remarks as well as any hurt or harm the comments caused the Obama campaign.

Although a spokesman for the campaign relayed that the Illinois senator accepted Jackson’s apology, Jackson’s son, Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., of Illinois was less forgiving as he publicly voiced his outrage and disappointment over his father’s remarks about Obama by calling them "reckless statements."

While the elder Jackson’s comments may have come as a shock, Banner was quick to point out the importance of looking at the bigger picture.

“I think the thing that we should focus on more is the disconnect between young black people and old black people. And the truth, when it comes down to it, is about what’s right and what’s wrong,” said Banner.

While criticism is regularly thrown at leaders such as Jackson and the Rev. Al Sharpton, Banner points out that representation must exist for the current generation of voters.

“We need to agree on who our leaders are gonna be. When we go through a generation without representation, who’s representing our generation that comes from our generation? Who is speaking out and pushing for policies for our generation?” Banner asked. “We complain about Jesse Jackson and people like that, but who are we gonna put in those positions? Who’s gonna step up to the forefront and take responsibility?”

Banner’s encouragement for fans to become active on issues affecting them is voiced on "So Long," a song off his forthcoming album The Greatest Story Ever Told, which hits stores Tuesday (July 15).

Pimp C Honored At Ozone Awards

50 CENT SAYS BEING AWAY FROM SON IS HARD: Rapper opens up about toll of current custody battle

Rapper 50 Cent says the most difficult part of his public feud with ex-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins is not being able to see his 11-year old son Marquis. It's "the toughest, because he's my motivation," he tells MTV.com.

Tompkins’ has a restraining order against 50 and refuses to let the rapper see his son. Tompkins also has sued the entertainer for $50 million dollars, claiming he started what authorities call a "suspicious" fire that destroyed the Long Island home where she lived with Marquis.

Fifty has denied masterminding the blaze and filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit against his ex, as well as visitation petition in June.

"I'd like to be able to just see my baby," said 50, adding that Marquis will not be able to travel with him on the road this year.

"In the summertime, for the first two years I was successful, my son has traveled with us on those tours," said the artist, who turned 33 on Sunday. "This summer, when he's free, it's, like, no communication. It's tough."

The hip hop star, born Curtis Jackson, also explained why he's been so hesitant to discuss his custody situation in depth.

"My son at some point will have the opportunity to see [what Shaniqua and I are saying about each other]," he told MTV. "She's still his mother, and I'm still his father, regardless. He's gonna love both of us."

The NY State Supreme Court will hear arguments on July 15 regarding the insurance proceeds on the destroyed home. Suffolk County Family Court commences proceedings on July 17 to hear arguments for 50’s visitation rights.

THE GAME LASHES OUT AGAINST HIS FAMILY: Rapper is interviewed about fight with cousin at recent funeral

The Game appeared on Phoenix radio station Power 98.3 to discuss – or rather vent about – the money-related fight that broke out at his cousin's funeral. [Scroll down to hear interview.]

The rapper reportedly promised to pay for half of his cousin's burial costs, but failed to do so. Another cousin, Robert "Kirky" Kirkwood, told TMZ.com that he asked Game about the money when the rapper showed up to speak at the funeral. And that's when the fight broke out.

Game told Power 98.3's "The Nutz In The Morning" that he offered to pay only for the casket and flowers, but it wasn't enough for Kirky, who, according to Game, brought gang members to the funeral to back him when he asked for more money.

It was Kirky, says Game, who threw the first punch.

Lil Wayne Arrested Again?

Nate Dogg Charged With Stalking

Nate Dogg is in some deep doo-doo.

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Los Angeles prosecutors have slapped the hip-hopster with felony stalking charges stemming from his arrest last month for threatening his estranged wife.

The 38-year-old Grammy-nominated performer, born Nathaniel Dwayne Hale, was collared on June 23 after California Highway Patrol received a 911 call from his missus, identified only as Latoya C. in court documents, claiming he threatened her life and was chasing her on Interstate 405.

Dogg is set to be arraigned on July 16 on two felony counts of making criminal threats, one felony count of stalking and one misdemeanor charge of driving with a suspended license from a previous DUI.

"[Hale made a] credible threat with the intent that she be placed in reasonable fear for her safety and the safety of her immediate family," the complaint reads.

His attorney, Mark Geragos, was not immediately available for comment.

Dogg, who's best known for his guest appearances on hit albums by the likes of 50 Cent, Eminem and his cousin Snoop Dogg, has had run-ins with the law before. He was sentenced to probation in March for attacking an ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend two years ago.

LIL WAYNE RETURNS TO BILLBOARD 200 SUMMIT: 'Carter III' scoots up despite 25% drop in sales

Sales of Lil Wayne's new platinum CD "Tha Carter III" dipped 25% this week, but it still managed to climb back onto the top of Billboard's album chart, moving 156,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

The Cash Money/Universal project has now sold 1.68 million in its four weeks on the street.

Meanwhile, G-Unit's sophomore set, "T.O.S. (Terminate on Sight)" (G-Unit/Interscope) debuts at No. 4 with 102,000, following No. 2 "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends" from Coldplay and Disney's "Camp Rock" at No. 3.

John Mayer's "Where the Light Is: John Mayer Live in Los Angeles" debuts this week at No. 5 with 75,000.

Elsewhere on the Billboard 200, rapper Tech N9ne scores his highest charting album and best sales week ever as "Killer" (Strange Music/Fontana) debuts at No. 12 with 36,000

PRODUCERS OF B.I.G. DOCUMENTARY SUED: Former rapper wants $5 million for footage used without his permission.

A man featured in the documentary "Notorious B.I.G.: Bigger Than Life" is suing its producers for $5 million alleging they included footage of him battling the rapper without permission.

William Troy McCune, a rapper during the 80s and 90s, says he is featured "throughout the video and is a dominant feature in the extras portion,” according to the complaint. “The use of the photograph, image, and likeness of the Plaintiff, in the video by the Defendants, jointly and severally, and acting in active concert was unauthorized.”

Other defendants named in the suit include director Peter Spirer, co-producer Dream Hampton, Rugged Entertainment, and Aslan Productions.

SNOOP GOES BOLLYWOOD FOR NEW VIDEO: Rapper teams with Indian star for theme song of new movie

After tackling country music in his latest single, "My Medicine," the rapper is about to get his Bollywood on by teaming with Indian superstar Akshay Kumar to film a music video for the theme song of his new movie, "Singh Is Kinng."

According to the New York Post's Page Six, the pair will get together next month to produce the clip.

Kumar, who has starred in more than 80 Indian films, is best known for his Khiladi series, in which he plays an Indian version of James Bond.

In "Singh Is Kinng," he'll play a dangerous underworld gangster.

KANYE WEST HEADED TO ANGER MANAGEMENT?: Sun-Times columnist heard rapper's camp made decision for his own good

Chicago Sun-Times columnist Bill Zwecker says the team behind Kanye West has suggested he take anger management classes to become more attractive to potential advertisers.

"A West insider tells me the entertainer’s own management team dreamed up the idea, for two reasons: to help his personal psychological well-being and relationship with friends — and to aid him in snaring lucrative endorsement deals," Zwecker wrote in Thursday's edition.

He said two major corporations (a cosmetics/fragrance firm and an automotive manufacturer) have shown interest in the rapper/producer as a spokesman, but they’re worried about “how easy he’ll be to work with.”

The source tells Zwecker: “Not only has Kanye estranged himself from some pretty important people in the music business, but his temper has driven away a number of longtime friends.”

EMINEM SUED FOR BATHROOM BEATDOWN: Rapper accused of sucker-punching man while standing at urinal

A man is suing Eminem for more than $25,000 claiming the rapper sucker-punched him at a bathroom urinal two years ago at a Detroit strip club.

According to reports, Miad Jarbou filed a lawsuit Thursday in Oakland Circuit Court accusing Em of assault and battery on July 13, 2006. Jarbou claims to have been in the restroom when the rap star walked in with a large man he took to be a bodyguard.

According to Jarbou, a friend he was with said: "Hey Eminem, what's up man?" and the bodyguard standing near the door told him to "Shut the f*** up, man! Don't say another word." Jarbou then responded: "Hey, man, my friend ain't starting trouble. It's just cool to see Eminem."

Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, allegedly stepped back from a urinal and "without warning or provocation ... drove his fist in a violent punching manner" into Jarbou's face, knocking him to the ground. Eminem and his bodyguard then left the men's room, according to the complaint.

Jarbou says he's "undergone physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, ongoing serious injuries requiring medical treatment" and "embarrassment, humiliation, medical expenses, wage loss and other economic and non-economic" damages.

Kanye West Partners With Absolut For "Be Kanye" Campaign

Superstar Kanye West teamed with Absolut Vodka to release a comical video yesterday (July 2) entitled “Be Kanye.”

The lighthearted, 1 minute commercial is an advertisement shot in retro 80’s format complete with loud colors and cheesy sound effects.

In the commercial, Kanye hawks a fictional product named “Be Kanye.”

The dissolvable tablet enables the user to receive the “famous superstar power” of West. The spot ends with a toll free number to order and pricing at the familiar figure of $19.95.

The commercial is the latest project between West and Absolut Vodka since a sponsorship deal was announced in February 2008.

The influential brand recently organized after parties for West on his Glow in the Dark tour.

Master P. Makes History With Wal-Mart

Master P and Romeo are out to prove their clothing line’s motto as “The Great American Brand,” by making P. Miller Designs accessible to more families.

The affordable clothing line aimed at teens and young adults will now be available at Wal-Mart stores nationwide, becoming the discount chain’s first African-American Hip-Hop supplier.

Hoping to provide an alternative to higher priced brands, P. Miller offers working class families the option of following Hip-Hop styles, for a fraction of the price.

In addition to the existing men’s line – with prices running from $9 dollars for a shirt to $20 dollars for a pair of jeans, the company will introduce a new women’s line as part of the new partnership with Wal-Mart.

Miller Peaches will consist of items retailing for no more than $10 apiece.

“We use the same factories and the same materials as Sean John, Rocawear, and Ed Hardy,” said Master P. “These are quality clothes you'd normally find at a department store like Macy's. Now you can pick up the same high-end fashion at an affordable price.

“This is the makings of a great partnership with the number-one retailer in the world,” continued the father/business impresario. “Wal-Mart is making a lot of opportunities available to minority-owned companies that are ready to do business with a big corporation. Together we’re making it cool to shop for clothes at Wal-Mart.”

As the P. Miller Designs brand continues to expand, with shoes, jewelry, fragrances and an eco-friendly organic line on the way, the company is also committed to continuing Master P’s longstanding history of community improvement and empowerment.

P. Miller Designs offers inner-city kids the chance to explore the world of fashion and design, creating jobs and opportunities those youngsters might not usually have access to.

LIL WAYNE HAS HIS OWN CHAMPAGNE: Rapper partners with Milestone Brands and French grower to create signature bubbly

Having the hottest record in the country right now isn't enough for Lil Wayne. The New Orleans-born rapper just stepped into the bubbly business with his newly-launched Halo Champagne.


Weezy teamed with the company Milestone Brands and French grower Voirin-Jumeh to develop the product, which is scheduled to arrive in stores later this year. Halo made its formal premiere in the video for Wayne's No. 1 single "Lollipop."

“I’m excited about this venture with Milestone Brands,” Lil Wayne told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “Champagne is for celebrating. There are so many different business opportunities…I want to take advantage of it all. I’m ready to put my foot in a new door.”

Halo Champagne is comprised of four sub-brands, each with its own flavor. Halo Brut, contains various flavors and a citrus finish, with hints of lemon cream and roasted hazelnut; Halo Brut Vintage features a classic, creamy consistency and a stronger mix of lemon blossoms and almonds; Halo Rose, a combination of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, offers an aroma of pomegranate, crushed raspberries, and mint; and Halo Pinnacle is a fruity Chardonnay blend, capped off by hints of lime-tree flower and roasted hazelnuts.

In the meantime, Wayne continues to promote his current single "A Milli," from his new album "Tha Carter III."

KANYE TO DESIGN LOUIS VUITTON SHOES: Rapper takes his 'Louis Vuitton Don' tag to another level.

Kanye West says he's about to create a line of men's footwear for the French fashion house Louis Vuitton, as well as a non-Louis-related line of womens wear headed for stores this fall.


The rapper showed up Friday at Vuitton's spring 2009 show in Paris’ Jardins de Bagatelle and told Women's Wear Daily: ”I’m here for Louis” before revealing that he is working with the fashion giant on a men’s shoe line.


He also used his appearance at the show to plug his own line of women's fashions that will debut this fall.


"I grew up with the Louis look, you know," West told the U.K.'s Guardian newspaper. "I just love the style."

JAY-Z'S 40/40 TARGETED IN CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT: Workers say club managers make them work for tips only.

Some 20 workers for Jay-Z's 40/40 club in Manhattan are part of a class action lawsuit accusing the venue of forcing them to work for tips only, cheating them out of overtime and making them pay for breaks and spills as well as "walkouts."


According to the New York Daily News, the lawsuit from past and present servers, bartenders and other workers was certified as "class action" Tuesday by Manhattan Federal Judge Loretta Preska.


Hundreds of former 40/40 employees could also be eligible to collect if the current workers' win the trial, their attorney says. Preska said the workers' lawyershave made a "minimal" showing that the owners have violated federal wage and labor laws.

"The record contains corroborating evidence of the allegations," Preska wrote.

DMX ARRESTED UPON ARRIVAL IN PHOENIX: Rapper taken into custody on two outstanding warrants

Stop us if you've heard this song before, but the arrests just keep coming for DMX. For a fourth time since early May, the rapper was put in handcuffs – this time in Phoenix due to two outstanding warrants.

The artist, born Earl Simmons, was arrested Wednesday morning at a Phoenix airport as he exited a flight from Fort Lauderdale. His lawyer, Murray Richman, told MTV that X knew he would be apprehended as soon as he touched down in his home state for a court hearing on a previous case.

He could now face several months in an Arizona jail while waiting for his next court date to be scheduled, and possibly more time after that.

Sheriff Joe Arpaio — known as "America's Toughest Sheriff" and the man who snatched two honorary badges from Shaquille O'Neal following his freestyle about Kobe Bryant — reportedly told TMZ that X "never learns his lesson" and that he hopes to keep the rapper in jail.

DMX was returning to Arizona to face charges of animal cruelty and drug possession stemming from an arrest in May. He was arrested in Miami on June 27 for allegedly trying to buy cocaine and marijuana, just four days after his arrest in Florida for driving without a valid driver's license.

Lil Wayne Heading To Jamaica

Top selling rapper Lil Wayne has been tapped to headline the Reggae Sumfest 2008 along with Keyshia Cole. The pair will hit the stage during the Reggae Sumfest's International Night 1, on Friday July 18. The performance at the festival is the first for Lil Wayne. The Reggae Sumfest 2008 takes place from July 13-19 in Jamaica and is one of the biggest Reggae show's on earth, now in its 16th year. Other acts performing include John Holt, Beres Hammond, Queen Ifrica, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and others. Chris Brown and Akon are also in negotiations to perform according to organizers.

Shady Records Issues Statement On Obie's Departure

Following the heavy circulation of Obie Trice's new single "The Giant" signaling the Detroit rapper's departure from his situation with Shady Records and it's parent company, Interscope, the brass at Shady issued a statement Monday (Jun 30) reaffirming its support of Trice's decision.



"Shady Records has agreed to allow Obie Trice to pursue his craft in a different forum free from the constraints of the current major label model," Eminem's long time partner and manager Paul Rosenberg told.



Sources on the web have erroneously reported that the new explanatory track released to the web on Sunday (Jun 29) included lyrics meant as a diss to his former label and Eminem, who added Trice to the label's roster in 2000.



At issue was the song's opening verse, on which Trice raps "Guess it was meant / for me to branch off from my Caucasian friend" and "Nope, no more 2nd place to Eminem / question if I was 2nd is the question to many men."



"Eminem will continue to support and work with Obie on many levels of his career," Rosenberg stated frankly. "He remains a close friend and member of the Shady family."



During his time as a Shady/Interscope artist, Obie Trice's two albums which were well received critically, established the artist as Eminem's heir apparent.



The first, 2003's Cheers, sold over 500,000 copies worldwide, while its follow-up Second Round's On Me found slightly less commercial support.

Obie Trice Officially Off Eminem's Shady Records

Detroit's Obie Trice has left Shady Records after eight years and two albums, has confirmed on June 30th.

He is currently working on his third album, while solidifying a new situation for his own imprint.

“Obie and Shady were moving in different directions,” the 30-year-old rapper’s manager Terry Wilson tells “But he still has a great relationship with Shady Records. He has some big plans for his World Wide Hustle label.”

Currently recording his third album while solidifying his label situation, Trice has released a track explaining his decision to leave the label with which he attained a considerable amount of respect and success.

While a source at Shady confirms the split is amicable, the new song, “The Giant,” indicates that Obie’s complaints may have been with parent company Interscope.

“I murdered e’ything when I wore the Shady logo,” he spits after announcing there’s no more Shady.

“O is a mogul/Low on the totem pole ‘cause Interscope’s loco/Now I’m gettin’ mo’ dough.”

Following a personal introduction to Eminem via D12’s Bizarre, Obie Trice joined the Shady Records family in 2000 and was introduced to listeners outside of Detroit on the supergroup's 2001 debut Devil’s Night.

His own RIAA-certified gold debut Cheers came two years later, with a follow up, Second Round’ s On Me released in 2006.

Continuing with the theme of his two previous releases, Trice’s third album is tentatively titled Bottoms Up.

Max B Signs With Amalgram

Amalgam Digital, the independent company responsible for launching hip hop’s first genre specific digital retail store, brings on Harlem hip hop heavyweight Max B to its label brand’s artist roster. The intensely confident Max Biggaveli (aka the Silver Surfer aka Wavy Crockett) describes himself as Biggie, Jigga, and Tupac Machiavelli all rolled into one.

With skills honed from over seven years of writing lyrics in prison, he joined Harlem ’s Diplomats, almost immediately upon his release. Hip hop fans took to his distinctive style and unorthodox hooks and Max B quickly evolved from a ghostwriter to the driving creative force behind a parade of hits by Jim Jones, Cam’ron, Juelz Santana, and company. To date, he is best known for “We Fly High (Ballin),” which he ghostwrote for Jones. “We Fly High” peaked at #5 on the Billboard charts, still receives heavy club play, and is the unofficial anthem of the New York Giants.

Max B joins a diverse roster of both commercially successful artists and indie hip hop classics, including Grammy-nominee Joe Budden, Peedi Crakk, Kurious, Tame One, Tash (of Tha Alkaholiks), the Juggaknots, and DJ Benzi. This venture marks Max B’s seemingly inevitable transition from an incredibly successful writer and collaborator to a bona fide superstar in his own right.

The transition was a long time coming for the rapper/MC, whose career so far has been a rollercoaster ride of controversy, success, and unfortunate legal setbacks not too mention a string of high profile feuds. Max’s relationship with the Diplomats has dissolved and he is currently involved in highly publicized feuds with Jim Jones, Juelz Santana, and Lil Wayne.

It’s difficult to hyperbolize Max B’s potential. He is a quadruple threat who can write, rap, sing, and most importantly, has the kind of overwhelming charisma that all but guarantees stardom. Max is a natural trendsetter, known for creating and popularizing several phrases that other artists have imitated such as “wavy” and “oooowwwww!” He is currently out of prison on a record setting bail for a hip hop artist at $1.5 million.

Max B had the following to say when asked about his relationship with Amalgam Digital:

“Amalgam Digital is wavy like water! We sooo wavy…. Ooooowwww!”

- Max B

Max’s street release “Public Domain III: Domain Pain (The Album)”, in stores August 5th, will serve as a prelude to a forthcoming independent debut album entitled “Vigilante Season” on the Amalgam Digital label, which will in turn lead to a third, digital only album (name TBA) which will be available exclusively at www.AmalgamDigital.com. All three albums are being produced entirely by certified hitmaker Dame Grease, famous for his progressive work with live instrumentation rather than sampling as well as for his distinct work with DMX, Nas, and Freeway.

Max B “Public Domain 3: Domain Pain” (The Album) Amalgam Digital

Track Listing:

01. Paperwork

02. Picture Me Rollin

03. Chase You Home ft. Al Pac

04. Let It Go ft. Al Pac

05. Get Low ft. Al Pac

06. Bad Whiskey

07. Chevy

08. Ready To Ride ft. Mac Mustard

09. Lip Sing

10. Blow Me A Dub (Remix)

11. White As Snow (Grand Cru Anthem) ft. Al Pac

12. I’m G’d Up ft. Henny

NAS IS THE NEW FACE OF FILA: Rapper tapped to co-create own line based on fashions of the late '80s

Fila is trying to make a comeback through the use of hip hop star Nas, who has just signed a one-year partnership with the athletic apparel company that will include his own line, reports Billboard.

The deal calls for Fila to offer reciprocal financial backing for Nas' print and TV ad campaign as well as his upcoming tour in support of his untitled album, due July 15 via Def Jam. In return, the MC will sport Fila gear and co-create an apparel line that draws from fashions of the late '80s.

"My best friend Will and I loved Fila," Nas tells Billboard. "It represented prestige and everything that was cool to us. When Will passed, we buried him in a black Fila sweat suit, so doing a deal with them has a lot of significance for me."

The brand means so much to him that he's gone against his own tradition of steering clear of endorsement deals. Fila president John Epstein recognizes the importance of having Nas on board – despite his upcoming album that will speak directly and unapologetically to America's racial struggles.

"I had some trepidation, and then I started talking to 16- to 20-year-old kids in focus groups," said Fila president John Epstein. "They looked at me like I was crazy for not understanding his message of positive change. Nas is relevant to his followers and I don't have to understand it as long as they do."

MOS DEF'S EX-WIFE PENS TELL-ALL: Former stripper says marriage to rapper was abusive; claims she had fling with Kanye

A juicy new tell-all book from the ex-wife of rapper Mos Def reveals her sexual encounters with various professional athletes and celebrities, including Kanye West, according to The Toronto Star.

Alana Wyatt-Smith, 29, spills all the dirt in her newly-released memoir "Breaking the Code of Silence," which chronicles her marriage to the rapper. Their 2005 wedding took place three days after they met, she reveals, among other things.

The former stripper and seventh grade dropout says her book is different from recent efforts written by "video vixen" Karrine Steffans and Nas's ex-girlfriend Carmen Bryan. Unlike theirs, Wyatt-Smith says her book uses initials and nicknames instead of her lovers' real names.

"I disagree with putting names of people in there, just out of respect for their wives and children," Wyatt-Smith told The Toronto Star. "If this was about making money, getting rich, I could have wrote a tell-all book, 10 times better than Karrine Steffans.

"People want to know about the biggest names in the NBA, who proposed to who, and did what, and this and that; I could have put some stuff in there that would have made it a number one seller within days. I use nicknames, initials, that myself and the gentleman would know; the ones named I got permission from."

Apparently, one of the men who gave permission was Kanye West, as he is mentioned in the book as one of her ex lovers.

Mos Def

As for Mos Def, who has six kids with four different women, Wyatt-Smith accuses him of being too demanding, overprotective, and even physically abusive during their marriage.

Wyatt-Smith writes: "I don't believe that his intent was to hurt me, I believe that he was trying to prove a point. But I had shared and cried with him many nights about my past (abusive) situation and I asked of him not to do that, because it brings back memories; so I found it to be more disrespectful, because he knew what I had been through."

The author says she didn’t press charges after the first alleged incident because she didn't "want to cause problems," believing the incident was "a first and last."

Her book also claims they tried several times to reconcile since breaking up in Oct. 2006; and that the two are technically still married.

"He won't sign the papers," she told The Toronto Star. "He told my lawyer if he can't have me, nobody else will."

DMX Arrested On Cocaine Charges

Rapper DMX was arrested in Miami for the second time this week, after attempting to buy $45 in cocaine and marijuana from an undercover police officer on Friday (Jun 26).


He is currently in custody at the Miami-Dade County jail.


According to the police, 37-year-old DMX, born Earl Simmons, approached the officer, requesting to purchase "30 powder and 15 weed."


Upon handing cash to the officer, DMX was taken into custody. His arrest is part of an ongoing undercover sting.


DMX was also arrested on Monday (Jun 22) on a warrant for driving without a valid license, and was later released after posting a $500 bond.


The embattled rapper also has a pending trial in Arizona, where he faces drug and animal cruelty charges, following a raid of his Maricopa County home.

Plies Gives Money For Students, Inmates

Slip-N-Slide Records’ latest superstar Plies has partnered with his brother/manager Big Gates to create a non-profit organization aiming to promote a “more functional, productive and just community.”

Big Gates and Plies Power of Visions will kick off its crusade against the ills faced by their South Florida community, by awarding two $5,000 college scholarships.

Named after a song on Plies’ latest album Definition of Real, the “Somebody Loves You” Scholarship Fund 2008 will be presented to one male and one female student, who is the child of an incarcerated parent and exhibit a financial need.

“We want to provide those who have been and continue to be affected by the negative impacts of the prison system with a sense of hope, and to let them know that they are not forgotten,” explains Plies. “No matter what adversities one may face in life, one thing remains true – and that is that somebody loves you.”

The scholarship will be applied to the 2008-2009 school year, and is open to entering freshmen, as well as continuing students at an accredited college or university.

The scholarship fund is just one of the ways in which Power Of Visions, Inc hopes to break the cycle of incarceration, which according to a 2000 Senate report, will land as many as 70% of children of incarcerated parents in the criminal justice system.

Big Gates and Plies will attempt to provide the type of “effective intervention strategies” the Senate report suggests can counter those odds by creating educational, and cultural experiences for minority youths in the Tampa and Ft. Myers, Florida areas.

The organization’s primary goal of community improvement will be achieved through a variety of other programs as well, including rehabilitative classes, training and workshops.

Big Gates and Plies will also provide financial support and legal representation for needy individuals, primarily those already in jail.

Plies’ latest philanthropic effort comes as the Ft. Myers-bred artist celebrates yet another career milestone.

Definition of Real debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 two weeks ago, with 215,000 units sold, the highest first week sales numbers in Slip-N-Slide’s history.

Powered by the popularity of its first single “Bust It Baby, Pt. II” featuring Ne-Yo, the album remains at number five on the charts.