Gnarls Barkley To Release Limited Edition St. Elsewhere CD+DVD

Gnarls Barkley has unveiled details of their upcoming limited edition re-release of the phenomenal debut album, St. Elsewhere. Dropping, November 7th, the special CD+DVD package compiles the original album in its entirety, along with an exciting assortment of exclusive extras and mind-blowing bonus features. Bound in a deluxe o-card adorned with a 3-D lenticular rendition of the album art, the new St. Elsewhere package will come with an all-new 92-page booklet featuring expanded artwork, and even a flip book displaying images of the groundbreaking “Crazy” video.In addition the DVD will feature music videos for “Crazy”, “Smiley Faces”, “Gone Daddy Gone”, and the never before seen video for Go Go Gadget Gospel. Also included are two unreleased live performance tracks. St. Elsewhere is certified platinum and is very close to double platinum status.

Jazze Pha Speaks on Unreleased Project With Cee-Lo, Opens Clothing Store in ATL

Almost a year after the album's scheduled release date, Happy Hour, the collaborative effort between producer Jazze Pha and Cee-Lo Green may soon be seeing the light of day.
The album, which was originally slated for a November 2005 release on Jazzy's Sho'Nuff Recordings/Capitol Records imprint, was well received by critics but was pushed back indefinitely. The pair even shot a video in support of the album's lead single, "Happy Hour," in preparation for the record's release. The duo, who has completed roughly 20 tracks for the project, is reportedly waiting until Cee-Lo finishes up touring with Gnarls Barkley to release new material.
"We were thinking about trying to do a mini-movie and making the album the soundtrack to it, but the album is pretty much done," Jazze told Billboard. "I imagine we'll probably record a couple more songs but I think the records that we did are pretty much timeless." He continues, "We like to call it 60 minutes of well-dressed drama. It's grown music [but] young soul, that's what Cee Lo likes to call it. It's refreshing and nostalgic."
The record boasts appearances by Nate Dogg, Keith Sweat and former Guy crooner Aaron Hall, among others.
In related news, in addition to crafting new beats for Sammie, Lil' Scrappy, Lloyd, Yung Joc, Cherish, Young Dro, Jody Breeze and UGK's latest single "Stop and Go", Jazzy Pha is also partnering with Tamara Knechtel and longtime friend and business partner Ryan Glover to launch the clothing store Knitch in Atlanta.
The store, which will open on November 16 in Atlantic Station will see Jazzy serving as "Head Sneaker Pimp" for the shop, which will carry couture jeans for men and women, casual wear and footwear, among other items. "That's somebody who's really on top of the whole sneaker game," Pha told Billboard.com of his title. "It's kind of like a competition with these sneakers [to see] who got the flavor. We gon' have some special designs like an after-market thing where I [redesign] Air Force Ones or Adidas."
The store will have a grand opening celebration next month co-hosted by Pha himself, who is excited about the store's potential success. "I'm really into style [and] clothing period," he says. "It's just really a big part of hip-hop and I believe that me putting my name into it is going to [shed] a whole other light onto the store."

Heavy D Sues Insurance Company for Unpaid Damages

Heavy D has filed a $1.5 million lawsuit against an insurance company he claims refuses to pay damages to people who sued him, after nine students were killed at a celebrity basketball game he helped organize.
In the suit, which was filed in Manhattan's State Supreme Court on Friday (October 27), D (born Dwight Myers) claims he bought a $1 million policy from National Union Fire Insurance Co. of Pittsburgh in 1989 that covered him for anything involving his work as an entertainer.
Heavy contends that his entertainment work included the celebrity game which him, Sean 'Diddy' Combs and others organized in the City College of New York's Nat Holman Gymnasium on December 28, 1991. During the event, a stampede occurred after some 5,000 young people showed up at the gym, which had a capacity of about 2,700. Fans crowded down a stairwell to a closed door, where nine people at the bottom were crushed fatally
According to reports the suit also alleges that the insurance company exhausted its legal appeals and has been ordered by the state Supreme Court's Appellate Division to reimburse him for payments to the victims or their families.
Paul Martin, Heavy's lawyer, said Monday (October 31) that the lawsuit seeks a determination of how much National Union will have to pay his client.
Heavy is seeking reimbursement of $791,899 - plus interest of $381,167 - for personal-injury and wrongful-death claims and is asking for $324,919 for legal fees and costs incurred in suing the insurance company.
A spokesman for the insurance company, Peter Tulupman, refused to comment on the lawsuit.

Police Clear "Chicken Noodle" Duo in Harlem Halloween Shooting

The NYPD has determined that Harlem duo DJ Webstar and Young B were not involved in the shooting early Saturday morning (October 28) that critically injured a 13-year-old girl.
As previously reported, 13-year-old Mozena "Mo-Mo" Jones was one of 100 or so teens who attended a party at the community center of Harlem's Lehman Village Houses. After the event ended around 11:30 pm, Jones stayed late to help clean up. As she prepared to leave the center to walk home several gunshots were fired, one struck Jones in the chest, hitting her lungs.
According to police, at the time of the shooting a fight had started outside over the theft of a do-rag. Although earlier reports say the shots were fired from an unidentified vehicle, it is now unclear whether the gunfire came from a passing SUV or a shooter on foot.
After several operations, Jones is now recovering at HarlemHospital. Yesterday Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly announced that the freshman honors student had been upgraded from critical to stable condition.
Police Commissioner Kelly also dismissed the possible involvement of rapper DJ Webstar, 19, whose real name is Troy Ryan or his rap partner, Bianca Dupree, who witnesses claimed were present for the Halloween party.
The East Harlem Community Watch held a prayer vigil for Mozena Jones last night.
Jones aspires to eventually become a doctor.

N*ggaspace.com!?!?!?!

With the popularity of Myspace at an all time high, it was only a matter of time before the clones surfaced. However, had I not seen this one with my own eyes, I’d think this one was a joke… and a bad one at that.

Enter niggaspace.com, call it a more ghetto fabulous version of Black Planet.

According to a FISHBOWLNY article, Nigga Space (a place fo niggas) is owned and operated by a man calling himself Tyrone (author’s note: Tyrone has not confirmed his race). To date, about 1,500 people have signed up for the site, which contains several myspace.com characteristics.

Among the occupations one can choose from are: pimp, vampire and smurf among others.

As for body type, in place of myspace’s “a little extra” or “more to love”, “bootylicious” is an option.

Tyrone also plans to expand niggaspace’s community and intends to host rap battles on the site.

VH1 Greenlights Irv Gotti, ego trip's 'White Rapper' Reality Series

VH1 has greenlighted a variety of new reality series, including ego trip's White Rapper Show and a show starring the Inc.'s CEO Irv "Gotti" Lorenzo. The Irv Gotti Project was one of six new series that the network announced today (Oct. 30). The show will focus on Irv Gotti's comeback in the entertainment industry after being acquitted of federal money laundering charges. The series will also document Gotti's life as a husband and father and is being executive-produced by Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego, the duo behind the franchises Flavor of Love, Surreal Life and others. Also greenlighted was ego trip's White Rapper Show, which will feature 10 contestants who battle and compete in various Hip-Hop-oriented challenges designed to test their knowledge of Hip-Hop culture. White Rapper is set in the South Bronx and is hosted by Michael "MC Serch" Berrin (3rd Bass) and producing veteran Prince Paul. "The breadth of this slate of music-based series illustrates, once again, that VH1 is the only place for adults to go to see the kinds of music and storytelling that speaks only to them," said Brian Graden, president of entertainment at MTV Networks Music Group. Other series approved for airing include Rags to Riches, Man Band, the Untitled Whitestarr Project and Bridging the Gap. The latter is a half-hour music series that features two established artists collaborating for the first time with a well-known producer. The first episode features Eve and Queen Latifah.

Bizzy Bone Inks Major Label Deal, New Album On The Way

Cleveland, Ohio native Bizzy Bone has landed a major label record deal with EMI's Imperial Records and is planning a new solo album titled A Song For You. The album is being produced by After Platinum Entertainment, while Imperial will market and promote the album in conjunction with EMI's Virgin imprint. "After Platinum and Bizzy Bone are both very excited to have joined with Imperial Records and Virgin Records for Bizzy's major label debut," After Platinum CEO Ernie Romero said in a statement. "A Song For You is the breath of fresh air that so many fans have been gasping for. It's official: He's back, and better than ever!" Imperial Records is headed by Neil Levine, former head of seminal label Penalty Records. "Working with a true visionary like Bizzy is a dream come true," Levine said. "Bizzy has made a truly amazing record that both Imperial and Virgin Records are ecstatic to be involved with. This record will firmly cement his place in hip hop history." As a former member of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Bizzy Bone has sold tens of millions of records. He was officially kicked out of the group in 2005, for alleged alcohol and substance abuse and his frequent absences from live performances. Bone Thug is also preparing a high profile tentatively titled Strength & Loyalty via Swizz Beats' Full Surface record label. While his split with the group was very public, Bizzy Bone wished his former group nothing but luck. "It's all love with Bone Thugs. I love and support what they're doing," Bizzy Bone said. "If they ever need anything I'm right here to deliver. I wish them much success, peace and prosperity as they are much deserving and I'm certain they reciprocate the same feelings for me." A Song For You is due in stores in 2007.

DMX Launching Signature Clothing Line

DMX is expanding his business career beyond music with the launch of his new clothing lines, the DMX and DMX Signature collections. The rapper's line will include designer apparel, footwear, head wear and outerwear. According to representatives, the clothing line will border on the "rough edge of hip-hop mixed with the practicality of the no nonsense, no frills clothing that active and rugged men want." The line, which features fabrics like denim, leather, cotton and fleece, will be available for purchase at DMX concerts, speciality stores and from various online retail sites. DMX is also launching an e-commerce site along with a major roll out of the line, which will be in stores nationwide in 2007. The rapper is also in the planning stages of launching a new apparel line for dogs.

Cool and Dre Ink Deal To Release Miami Rapper Joe Hound

After producing a string of hits for a bevy of artists including Lil Wayne, Fat Joe, Rick Ross and others, production duo Cool & Dre announced a deal with Skeleton Key Entertainment to release music from their label imprint Epidemic Music. Through the new arrangement, the Miami based producers will release their latest discovery, Joe Hound. "He [Joe Hound] has the potential to be at the forefront of a musical movement for Miami," said Andre "Dre" Lyon. "We believe that the industry is changing and that the best way to introduce Joe to the masses is through an independent company like Skeleton Key that understands our vision and supports what we are trying to achieve." While independent, Skeleton Key Entertainment is the mainstream entertainment division of the multi-media holding company, Mega Media Group, Inc. The new partnership will give Cool & Dre's imprint instant access to the media company's range of services, which include talent management, music publishing, recording, music production and distribution, video production/distribution and radio broadcasting. The production team will also work with a variety artist's in the upcoming months. As previously reported, Cool and Dre are currently working with UGK as the group prepares their seventh album, U.G.K. Underground Kingz. In addition to UGK, Cool and Dre have penned in studio time to produce new music by Young Jeezy, R&B recording artist Joe and rapper Eve. In related news, Cool and Dre now restaurateurs as co-owners of the trendy eatery 510 Ocean. "It's the only black-owned restaurant on the beach," Dre told AllHipHop.com. "It's sitting right there on Ocean Drive. It's cool. Myself, Big Boi from Outkast, Lil' Jon and T.J. Duckett from the Atlanta Falcons [are co-owners] too. We've got a really nice, sexy spot right there on the beach."

The HeadTurners Involved In Horrific Car Accident

For those that were lucky enough to catch the opening leg of Akrobatik’s Absolute Preview Tour you were treated to an opening act performance from one of Boston’s hardest working up and coming hip hop groups, The HeadTurners. This past weekend while the crew was driving out to San Diego to finish their new LP, they were involved in a terrible and tragic car accident in Utah. Involved in the accident were members Max Powers & Black El, and a business associate. Black El took the worst of the accident, suffering several broken bones and a punctured lung. He was airlifted from the scene and remains in serious condition in a Utah hospital. Max Powers broke several vertebrae and his ankle and was also ejected from the vehicle. Unfortunately, neither of the members of HeadTurners have health insurance so donations are being accepted via PayPal. If you know the HeadTurners or want to make a contribution please email your PayPal contributions to: helpHTnow@yahoo.com. Thanks in advance. For more information on the HeadTurners please visit The HeadTurners MySpace Page.

Cali Agents Return On 11/7

The Cali Agents are back! Fresh off the success of their classic debut LP How The West Was One Rasco & Planet Asia have teamed up again to bring the world their follow-up LP Fire & Ice. This album is already building a huge buzz with critics, and many have declared that it is the duo's best effort yet. The Cali Agents have enlisted a solid cast of producers to navigate the journey. Look for production From DJ Babu (Dilated Peoples) Architect, Soul Professa, The Dialekt and many others. Fire & Ice is chocked full of raw hip hop emotion as only the Agents can bring it.

Evidence Talks New Album/ Robbery

No, Evidence isn’t teaming up with Cage and company any time soon (at least that we know of), but the Dilated Peoples MC is hard at work on his latest solo offering in the form of The Weatherman. Several cuts from the album have already been completed and Evidence is preparing for the release of his new single featuring a song he claims to be one of the greatest of his career, “Mr. Slow Flow”. While the album is slated for an early 2007 release, Evidence is currently focusing some of his energy on a European tour. Unfortunately for the Cali wordsmith, his tour van was robbed of several important and sentimental items during a stop in Prague including the NBA logo jacket he was wearing for the 20/20 photo shoot and the book he was reading on the trip. The MC is offering a reward for it’s return so if you’re in Prague and see someone reading “The Lincoln Lawyer” wearing a dope jacket, go grab that sucka!

Hip-Hop Cop Says Notorious BK Gang Responsible For Telfair Robbery

Derrick Parker, the founder of NYPD's hip-hop task force, recently revealed to The New York Daily News that he knows who was behind the recent robbery of Boston Celtics player Sebastian Telfair, which authorities believed led to Fabolous' shooting.
As previously reported, Fabolous was shot and wounded in his right thigh early Tuesday morning (October 17), while exiting Sean "Diddy" Combs' Justin's Restaurant in Manhattan, NY .
When his entourage attempted to leave the scene and rush him to the hospital, Fabolous and his associates were stopped by the NYPD. The car was searched and guns were allegedly found. Fabolous and three other men, were then arrested and charged for having unregistered, loaded weapons in their vehicle.
Reports would later surface that surveillance video captured two members of Fabolous' entourage robbing Telfair for his chain outside Justin's minutes before the rapper was shot.
Sources also claim Telfair saw the men inside Justin's causing him to make a call on his cell phone.
Telfair, who has viewed several lineups, including Fabolous and his three associates, denied having any connection to Fab's shooting.
According to Parker, a Brooklyn street crew called the Commission (aka the Street Family), are responsible for Telfair's robbery.
"I already had an idea that it was the Commission that was behind the robbery," Parker stated, explaining his immediate thoughts right after he heard about the incident. "I wasn't surprised at all. I know how the Commission operates."
Parker, who has worked on some of the biggest rap cases, including the Club New York shootout which involved Shyne and the murder of pioneering Run-DMC member Jam Master Jay, mentioned the Commission in his debut book, The Notorious C.O.P.
In the book, Parker describes the Commission's transition from big-name department store heists in Brooklyn to robbing rappers like Busta Rhymes and the late Ol' Dirty Bastard; and even conducting a home invasion of Foxy Brown.
"If the Commission members didn't do it, they know who did do it," Parker emphasized.
Parker claims that members of the Commission are from the roughest Brooklyn housing projects, including Brevoort in Bed-Stuy, the same complex Fabolous was raised in.
"Fab grew up with these guys in Brevoort," said Parker. "Athletes and rappers walk around with their bling-bling and so guys in the Commission and other smaller groups prey on them. I know Sebastian was upset about the pendant they took."
"I'm sure that piece of jewelry is going to pass hands and go thousands of different places, but they already got him." added Parker.
Telfair isn't the first NBA player to become a robbery victim. In Oct. 2002, former Nets guard Chris Childs was robbed at gunpoint of $800 cash and an estimated $30,000 worth of jewelry outside of Justin's.
In 2000, Telfair's cousin, Knicks guard Stephon Marbury, was robbed of a diamond chain worth an estimated $150,000. The incident occurred as he got into a Bentley parked on W. 21st near 10th Avenue, after leaving a Manhattan nightclub.
With this year's NBA All-Star Game being held in Las Vegas, Parker sent out a warning to NBA players to make sure they have security to avoid their high-end jewelry being snatched.
"Mark my words, ball players are going to get robbed," said Parker. "That's an easy trip to make for gang members from Los Angeles, so Vegas should be preparing a security plan right now."
Fabolous, who denied having anything to do with Telfair's robbery, recently hired private investigators to obtain more details surrounding his shooting and Telfair's burglary.

City of Philadelphia Moving Towards Ban On Blunts

Council members in Philadelphia are close to outlawing the smoking of blunts in the city. Last Thursday (Oct. 26), the council's Committee on Licenses and Inspections unanimously approved a bill that would make the sale of "loosies" and other drug paraphernalia, including cigarette wrapping papers, illegal. The Philadelphia Metro reports that sales of cigars in packages of fewer than six would also be banned, except those sold in specialty tobacco shops. Available at most inner-city convenience stores and Chinese take out restaurants, "loosies" are loose cigars that are frequently emptied out and filled with marijuana. "I think it sends the wrong message when you can get a blunt or rolling papers with your Now and Laters or Lemonheads or pretzel sticks," said Stephen Clay, a medical director at the Gaudenzia drug treatment facility. Local activists believe the accessibility of blunts in stores and on the streets helps create a feeling of "lawlessness." They further point out that the items are at times laced with cocaine or PCP for a greater high. If the bill is passed, at least one major retailer has vowed to stop selling small packages of blunt cigars, according to the Metro, which added that the entire council is expected to approve the measure next month.

Baby Explains Picture Kissing Lil' Wayne

It might be the most interesting kiss ever in Hip-Hop. Bryan "Baby" Williams, Cash Money Records executive, addressed a picture circulating of him kissing label mate Lil' Wayne on the lips as he promoted a new CD by the duo. In an interview with Q93, a Clear Channel station in New Orleans, the mogul and entertainer explained the familial relationship he and Wayne have that yields such public displays of affection. "Before I had a child, Wayne and all of them were my children, you heard me? Wayne to me is my son - my first-born son - and that's what it do for me," Baby said in an interview with mid-day jock Uptown Angela. "That's my life, that's my love and that's my thing. That's my lil' son. I love him to death." Br In the image, which is clearly years old, the pair is embracing as several friends and Cash Money artists look on. Singer TQ is seen in the picture and he left the label in the summer of 2004. Baby and Wayne have never tried to hide their father/son love for each other and Wayne often refers to himself as Birdman Jr. In 2004, Lil' Wayne explained the depth of this relationship to Baby and why he looks to him as his father. Wayne told AllHipHop.com, "The day my real father died-the exact day-like the day we got the call, 'Like ok, he's in the hospital." Then we got the call back like, 'Okay, he died', Baby came and picked me up like an hour after that, and I was in the passenger seat of his car and I was crying and he looked at me and was like, "N*gga, what you cryin' for? You act like you lost your father". And from that day on I never lost my father." Gillie The Kid, a former Cash Money artist turned staunch rival, took credit for releasing the picture. Baby, in a general sense, addressed those that attempt to question the way he expresses himself. "Haters - that's just life. I don't even trip off that. I go to the bank in morning. I can go buy whatever I feel like. So, I don't even set trip off that," Baby responded. "Can't nobody live my life, but me and I don't try to live nobody else's life." His affection extends to his biological son as well. "My lil' son - Lil Bryan gets the same love from me. That's my thing. That's what I do for my child. I give him my heart, my life and I'll pump blood for him. I'll issue some blood for him too-believe that. Baby and Wayne's love for each other extends into their professional careers. The pair's first collaborative album, Like Father, Like Son, hits stores on Halloween Day (Tuesday Oct. 31).

Police Seek To Question DJ Webstar, Young B. As Witnesses To Shooting

Police are seeking to question the duo behind the hit single "Chicken Noodle Soup" after a shooting at a Halloween party in Harlem on Friday (Oct. 27) left a 13-year-old girl clinging to life.
Authorities believe DJ Webstar and Young B may have witnessed the shooting of Mozena Jones, an honor student who was shot after the Halloween party at the Lehman Village Houses.
More than 100 teens were present at the function, where the group allegedly performed the hit single "Chicken Noodle Soup." After the party, which ended around 11:45 pm, numerous teens congregated near E. 106th street.
Jones stayed behind to help organizers of the party clean up, but as she was leaving shortly after midnight, a gunman drove by in a vehicle and shot into the crowd.
The 13-year-old was struck in the torso. The shot damaged several of Jones' vital organs, including her lungs, liver, spleen and colon.
She was rushed to Harlem Hospital where surgeons operated on her several times in an attempt to save her life.
DJ Webstar and Young B's manager Kirk Burrowes denied DJ Webstar, born Troy Ryan and Young B, born Bianca Dupree even attended the party.
"Right now, we're looking for anyone who has information about the shooting," a police source told the New York Daily News. "There were a lot of people out there."

50 Cent Wins 'In Da Club' Copyright Case, Manager Thanks Luke Campbell

Rapper 50 Cent won a victory in a Miami Court yesterday (Oct. 27) when a judge threw out a copyright infringement lawsuit that accused the rapper of stealing the chorus to his hit single, "In Da Club." Attorney Richard C. Wolfe filed the 27-page lawsuit in January on behalf of attorney Joseph Weinberger and Lil' Joe Wein Music Company. The lawsuit claimed the chorus "Go Shorty, it's you're birthday..." from 50 Cent's "In Da Club" was lifted from Luther "Luke" Campbell's song "It's Your Birthday." According to the Associated Press, U.S. District Judge Paul C. Huck ruled that the chorus was a "common, unoriginal, and noncopyrightable element of the song" and therefore cannot be protected. "We are pleased by the clarity brought by U.S. District Judge Paul C. Huck by proclaiming what 50 and his team always knew was a frivolous and money grubbing attempt by the Lil' Joe Wein Music Company," 50 Cent's manager Chris Lighty told AllHipHop.com. Judge Huck also ruled that there were "almost no similarities between the works" and that the disputed lines were only eleven seconds of a more than three-minute song. "We are also pleased that we were able to defend a lesser known part of the case [the words] 'I like it, I love it' as a phrase non-copyrightable," Lighty revealed. "This was an important stance and win for 50's publishing entity so we can continue to grow and protect what is one of the most important artist held publishing entities right now." "It's Your Birthday" is taken from Campbell's 1994 album Still a Freak for Life. Weinberger is an attorney who also once represented Luke and was a Chief Financial Officer for Luke Records. He acquired Luke's catalog when the Miami-pioneer filed for bankruptcy protection in the mid-90's. The original lawsuit also named Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, Interscope Records and Universal Records. Shortly after the lawsuit was filed in January, Luke distanced himself from the legal proceedings stating: "Let the record reflect that Joe Weinberger and [Weinberger's attorney] Richard Wolfe are the individuals who are suing 50," Luke told AllHipHop.com. "They are not suing on behalf of me or any member of the 2 Live Crew." "We are thankful for the support from Luke who completely stated from day one he wasn't part of this lawsuit," Lighty said.

8 Ball & MJG Launch Labels, Produce & Star In New Movie

Bad Boy artists 8 Ball & MJG celebrated the launch of their new respective labels 8 Ways Entertainment and MJG Muzik on Wednesday (Oct. 25) in their hometown of Memphis, Tenn. A variety of industry tastemakers and DJ's attended the invite-only event, held at Memphis Botanic Garden. The first release from 8 Ways will be the Navarre distributed compilation titled Light up the Bomb, which features rappers signed to the new imprint, while MJG will release Da Volunteers' debut effort What's Yo Favorite Color via MJG, which is distributed by Select-O-Hits. "We both have our separate situations because we both have different projects we are working on," 8 Ball told AllHipHop.com. "But its all love. Some of MJG's artists are featured on my compilation and some of mine are on his project. We are businessmen." Various rappers from Memphis were present to support 8Ball & MJG's latest business venture. "Like me, their legends," said Al Kapone. "I'm always supporting the M-Town. That's what it's about. It's not about the beefin' and all that. It's all about the unity and I'm glad to be here." In related news, 8Ball & MJG are gearing up for their silver screen debut in a self-produced as-yet-untitled comedy that starts filming next year. "It's like Cheech & Chong's Up in Smoke, " MJG revealed. "It's us in a lot of ways. Life has been one big adventure. In the movie, we're always getting into something because we're high. We're definitely some 'stoners.'" The flick will be directed by Christian Strickland ( Clean Up Men ). 8 Ball's Light up the Bomb compilation and Da Volunteers' What's Yo Favorite Color will be released on Oct. 31. 8 Ball & MJG are also putting the finishing touches on their upcoming Bad Boy album, Ridin' High.

Sway Hits the Road in the Name of Hip-Hop

MTV News correspondent Sway Callaway is taking his love of Hip-Hop across seas. The Wake Up Show host recently began the first in an international series of trips with a visit to Paris. The experience proved positive for Callaway, who said he was inspired by the power of Hip-Hop while taping a segment for MTV News' You Hear It First. "After visiting Paris a few months ago, I decided to continue to travel to places like Tokyo, Japan, London, the UK, Scandinavian countries and Africa because I found out that Hip-Hop culture has created a platform for people who feel disenfranchised from the mainstream society all over the world," said Sway, who added that he felt right at home despite the culture and language barriers. The Paris segment will highlight many of France's biggest artists, including Diams, Bobba, Rohff, Kohndo, Ministere Amer, Mafia K1fry and 113. Many of them have worked alongside artists such as Guru, Diddy, Pharrell, Redman, Method Man, Beyonce, will.I.am and Mobb Deep. "When you look at it, there are a lot of similarities of common denominators that we're finding between us and them," said Sway. "It's a beautiful result of what the subculture started in the Bronx

Prodigy, The Alchemist Arrested In New York On Gun Charge

Mobb Deep's Albert "Prodigy" Johnson and super-producer Alan "The Alchemist" Maman were arrested yesterday (Oct. 26) in New York for gun possession, after police stopped their bulletproof Chevy Suburban for making an illegal U-turn.
According to the New York Post, Prodigy was driving the $120,000 customized bulletproof SUV on West 30th Street around 2:15 am, when he made a U-turn on to Ninth Avenue against the flow of traffic, in order to get a parking spot.
When police approached the Suburban, Prodigy, born Albert Jackson Jr., was allegedly seen attempting to conceal something.
A search of the Suburban found a .22 caliber handgun in the front console.
Both Prodigy and The Alchemist were charged with criminal possession of a weapon.
Prodigy was released on $7500 bail, while The Alchemist was released on his own recognizance.
The Alchemist recently dropped No Days Off on his own imprint, ALC Music, while Mobb Deep's Life of the Infamous: The Best of Mobb Deep is due in stores Oct. 31.

Judge Rejects Weapons Possession Charge In Busta Rhymes Case

A Manhattan judge rejected a prosecution's request to add a weapon possession charge to a pending assault charge against Busta Rhymes today (October 24).
As previously reported, Busta (born Trevor Smith) was arrested and charged with third degree assault on August 19th after Roberto Lebron, a Bronx native, filed a complaint accusing Busta of kicking him in the head after he spat on the rapper's car.
During his arrest, police found a machete inside an SUV in which Busta was a passenger. According to prosecutor Harrison Scheiloch, the machete was found in the rear seat pocket of the vehicle.
Busta, who appeared at the brief hearing before Criminal Court Judge Shawndya Simpson, said nothing during the proceedings, but took a minute to tell the courtroom sketch artists, "I love it when you make me look good."
He left the courthouse in a crush of photographers, camera crews and reporters, climbing into a black SUV. The Brookyn bred rapper will be due back in court on December 11th to face the assault charge.
Lebron, who spoke to The New York Daily News after his complaint was made public, admitted to spiting on Busta's car , but claimed it was unintentional.
Accodring to his lawyer, Gregory Tembeck, Lebron plans to sue Busta after his medical records have been evaluated.

The Source Sex Trial: Former Source EIC Talks After $15.5 Mil Victory

The day after winning a $15.5 million judgment in federal court yesterday (October 24), former Source editor-in-chief Kim Osorio addressed the media about the decision, the experience and the future of The Source magazine.
Osorio and her two attorneys, Ken Thompson and Doug Wigdor, addressed the room full of reporters and cameramen in a conference room on the 59th floor of the Empire State Building, where the attorneys' offices are located.
"I stood up for my rights and I was terminated because I did that," Osorio said. "That's just the bottom line."
The jury awarded Osorio $4 million each from the magazine and former Source executives Raymond "Scott" Benzino, Dave Mays, respectively. She was also awarded $3.5 million from Benzino for defamation.
"She took a tremendous risk," Thompson said of his client. "There was no guarantee that we were going to win this trial."
But Osorio took the stand and weathered a fire storm of accusations, recounting tales of goings on at The Source that made the "bible of hip-hop" sound more like a frat house.
Today, the media grilled her for juicy details, asking repeatedly for Osorio to recount specific events. She remained vague, citing the court transcript for more information. "It was really hard to get on the stand and relive all those things," she said. "It's all in the transcript."
However, Osorio did offer that she was accused of having relationships with co-workers and rappers. She laid out plenty of details in her two days on the stand, telling the jury of indecent propositions, illegal drug use, porn in the office and a litany of miscellaneous debauchery.
The defense suggested Osorio take some blame for her work environment, because it was a hip-hop publication that routinely published sexy pictures and four-letter words. A reporter at the conference asked Osorio if she should have known better.
"If you work at Playboy, does that mean it's ok to have strippers in the office?" Osorio countered. "If you watch gangster movies it doesn't mean it's ok for you to go out and shoot somebody."
The trial is over, but with both The Source and Mays in bankruptcy, it may be a long, arduous fight for Osorio to collect any of those millions the jury rewarded her, any time soon.
But Thompson is hopeful, saying The Source didn't file bankruptcy voluntarily. "They went into bankruptcy kicking and screaming. They still have 70-plus employees ... They are a viable company."
When asked how she'd feel about potentially putting The Source out of business with her hefty collection, Osorio showed a surprising soft spot for the publication-especially when several of the execs who were employed there during her ordeal remain at the magazine.
"I think that brand is stronger than any one person who worked for it, or owned it," Osorio said. "It represents hip-hop. I would be sad to see it go."
Although representatives from The Source have yet to comment on the verdict, Mays and Benzino say they aren't going anywhere.
"We are happy that the jury has cleared us of any wrongdoing on all charges of sexual harassment and gender discrimination," the duo said via a statement. "The Source was one of the most desirable places of employment for members of the hip-hop community... The Source has been an empowering platform for countless young people, women and minorities who would never have gotten the same opportunities anywhere else."
According to the statement, Mays and Benzino also plan to appeal the verdict.

LL Cool J Gets March Release Date, Recruits 50 Cent For Last Def Jam LP

Hip-Hop icon LL Cool J is readying his 13th solo album on Def Jam and will have it executive produced by G-Unit boss 50 Cent.
The new album, which is tentatively titled Todd Smith Pt.2: Back To Cool and slated for a March 6th release, is said to be the rapper's last on the historic Def Jam label, the only recording home the Queens-bred rapper has ever known. LL and fellow Q-boro emcee 50 Cent have reportedly finished up a good portion of the songs for the album, which promises to be a new look for the veteran rapper.
In true hustler fashion, the rapper is pushing books these days as well. LL and his personal trainer Dave "Scooter" Honig are currently working on a book project entitled "LL Cool J's Platinum Body." The book will outline LL's secrets to dieting, work outs and overall ideology and is set to be released in January of 2007.
As previously reported by SOHH, LL is also slated to star in a new TV drama entitled "The Man". The show, which is currently in production, is being developed by "CSI" creator Anthony Zuiker andstars LL as an undercover L.A. cop who must balance his gritty job fighting crime while also raising the three troubled kids he's adopted. According to The Hollywood Reporter, CBS has already given the project pilot commitment from CBS Paramount Network TV.

UGK Enlist Big Daddy Kane & Kool G Rap For Upcoming Double LP

Houston bred rap duo UGK are currently gearing up for the release of their highly anticipated seventh studio album titled U.G.K. Underground Kingz.
Set for release this winter, U.G.K. Underground Kingz will be a double album featuring appearances from Rick Ross, Slim Thug, Sleepy Brown, Three Six Mafia, Willy D, Kool G Rap and Big Daddy Kane, among others.
Production on the album is supplied by Pimp C, Jazze Pha, Lil Jon, Swizz Beatz and Scarface. The album's first single will be the Jazze Pha produced "Stop & Go."
U.G.K. Underground Kingz will hit stores on December 19th via Jive Records.

Marc Ecko Recruits Unique Autosports To Redesign Nissan SUVs

Marc Ecko has recruited Will Castro and Unique Autosports to help re-design Nissans' flagship SUV's -- the Nissan's Pathfinder and Nissan Armada. The announcement comes on the heels of Ecko's recent deal with Nissan North America, Inc., in which Ecko will incorporate his custom designs into the popular trucks. "As a devoted fan of Unique Whips, I immediately thought of Will and his team when the Nissan opportunity arose," Ecko said in a statement. "It is my intent to take the shared design heritage of the Pathfinder and Armada and, through the skill and craftsmanship of Unique, add my own bold twists to create something truly extraordinary." The designs will reportedly feature motifs that were inspired by Ecko's ecko unltd. and Cut & Sew clothing lines. "Growing up on the LES [Lower East Side of Manhattan], I saw a lot of graffiti artists," said Castro. "Marc had some really good ideas of what he wants in a car and we were just the right shop to make it happen." Millions will see the new partnership materialize when it debuts next year on the silver screen as part of the Speed cable network program, Unique Whips. Centering around Castro's Autosports car-customization shop, Unique Whips focuses on the world of celebrity car customizing. The third season is set to premiere in February 2007.

Diddy Hits #1

The Bad Boy hit streak continues this year as label head Sean "Diddy" Combs' solo album Press Play lands at No. 1 on Billboard's Top 200 Album Chart.
The disc moved over 176,000 units in its first week, besting releases from Evanescence (The Open Door), JoJo (The High Road), Dierks Bentley (Long Trip Alone) and Ruben Studdard (The Return ).
Press Play is Bad Boy's second chart-topping release of 2006, following Danity Kane's self-titled debut in August.
"When I decided to do an album, I definitely didn't have any preconceived notions of just coming in at number one," Combs told AllHipHop.com from Paris. "Knowing how the climate has changed, I just wanted to come out here and do my best, put my grind on and do the best that I could do. Out of all the number ones I've ever had, this one means the most."
The album is the eighth No. 1 release in the 10-year history of Bad Boy, succeeding such releases as Notorious B.I.G.'s Life After Death and Born Again, Combs' No Way Out, Mase's Harlem World, the Bad Boys II soundtrack and We Invented The Remix.
Combs explained that he recorded Press Play with a clarity he wasn't able to obtain for his first two albums, No Way Out and The Saga Continues.
Recording on No Way Out started in early 1997, shortly before B.I.G. was gunned down in Los Angeles. After a brief recording hiatus, Combs dropped a pair of No. 1 singles, "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down" and the B.I.G. tribute "I'll Be Missing You," which featured Faith Evans and 112.
The Saga Continues was released in 2001 shortly after Combs was acquitted of gun possession and bribery charges.
The trial was the result of a high-profile 1999 club shooting in New York involving Combs, who was accompanied by then girlfriend Jennifer Lopez and former Bad Boy recording artist Jamal "Shyne" Barrow.
"With my other albums, I was going through a lot of drama. But this album right here, it was just about the music," Combs said. "I finally had the chance to hit people with some good music and people are loving and diggin' the music. I feel truly blessed. If you are in the music business, it's something you can relate to more. The game changes. You aren't granted number ones. This one was made from hard work and great music. I just feel grateful."
Combs recently wrapped a 25-city tour that included visits to radio stations, local high schools, college campuses and nightclubs.
The mogul is currently in Paris gearing up for a Nov. 2 performance in Copenhagen , Denmark, during the MTV Europe Music Awards.
"I wish it was a pleasure trip, but I am out here working hard," Combs said. "One of the things I decided was that I was going to hit the road and let people know that I'm serious about being a recording artist. And this is part of it. Over here, we are hitting like seven countries.
"Hip-Hop has truly gone global," Combs continued. "I was out here with my first album and I'm out here with this album and it's being well received. I would definitely promote more artists to get out here and don't be afraid get your passport on and put that work and that grind into it."

Fabo's Shooter Caught On Tape

What is it about these Boston Celtics dudes and rap violence? Several years after Paul Pierce was stabbed in an altercation with Benzino’s camp after a Ruff Ryders/Ca$hMoney show in Boston, one of the C’s newest acquisitions Sebastian Telfair is allegedly involved and responsible for being the button-pusher in the 10/17/06 shooting of Fabolous. From video taped evidence, and eyewitness accounts outside of Justin’s, Diddy’s swanky restaurant in NY, two members of the F-A-B-O’s entourage were seen snatching the $50,000 chain off the neck of Telfair. Several minutes after the robbery, video footage showed Telfair placing a telephone call on his cell phone. It is also known that Telfair reported the robbery to restaurant staff but refused to alert authorities. Roughly 20 minutes after the call was placed footage showed a gunman unloading 10 rounds of ammunition in the direction of Fabolous and his crew as they were leaving the restaurant. The rapper was struck in the thigh.Telfair’s lawyer, speaking on behalf of his client, has denied the ballplayer had anything to do with the shooting that took place. Of course Boston’s notorious sports-talk stations have already convicted Telfair of being involved in the crime.

Judge Bans C-Murder From Doing Interviews

A Judge overseeing Corey "C-Murder" Miller's case has ruled that the rapper can be photographed, but not interviewed to promote his latest album.
Judge Martha Sassone of Louisiana's State District Court, told Miller, who is presently on house arrest, that interviews would violate a gag order enforced to make sure the case doesn't receive publicity before the trial.
"I guess the music will have to speak for itself," Sassone reportedly told Miller. "Capitol Records will have to find another way to advertise it."
Miller was ordered to stay in his residence in Kenner, LA until his trial begins in February 2007. Miller is accused of killing Steve Thomas back on January 12, 2002 at a night club in Harvey, LA. The venue is now closed. Miller was convicted of second-degree murder, but a judge overturned his murder conviction and accepted his request for a new trial earlier this year. Miller was put under house arrest as a condition of his $500,000 bail.
On Monday, Miller's lawyer, Ron Rakosky, asked Judge Sassone for permission to promote C-Murder's latest CD. The title was not mentioned. Rakosky shared that Miller relies on his music to pay for his legal fees, provide for his children and renovate his grandmother's home, which got flooded during Hurricane Katrina.
On the other hand, Assistant District Attorney Roger Jordan countered that Sassone only let Miller out on bond so he could prepare for his trial. Miller is also asking for the trial to change location due to pre-trial reports regarding the case. Jordan argued that video, photographs and interviews that come with an album's promotion would only increase the trial's light and that Thomas' family and the community would likely think it's inappropriate.
Sassone said she would grant Miller permission to take photos as long as they're taken in his home, that Rakosky is present and that she is notified of the photographer's name in advance. Though Miller is presently ordered to stay inside his house, Sassone allowed him to stay in his backyard to play with his kids. "I would like for him to spend time with his kids," Sassone said.

Russell Simmons Heading To Africa In Hopes Of Changing Diamond Business

Hip-Hop philanthropist Russell Simmons will join the Diamond Information Center in spearheading a fact-finding trip to Africa in hopes of discovering ways to empower the country's communities through his diamond business, Simmons Jewelry Company. The nine-day trek, beginning Nov. 26 and ending Dec. 4, will include stops in South Africa and Botswana. Simmons and his delegation team plan to explore how to leverage their relationships in the diamond business to improve educational and economic conditions in distressed African communities. Known for its dominant diamond trade, some half a million South Africans, including dependents and suppliers, currently rely on the industry. In January 2004, Simmons announced that he had teamed with the diamond company, M. Fabrikant & Sons, to create Simmons Jewelry Co. Simmons soon began producing two lines of fine jewelry & diamonds that were promoted as "conflict free" and benefited a large percentage of communities affected by the diamond trade. In related news, Dr. Benjamin Chavis, president/CEO of Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, will be present along with concerned members of the Hip-Hop community to address the African diamond trade issues during a fundraising celebration for Congressman Ed Towns. Towns, who recently won the Primary in the 10th Congressional District in Brooklyn, N.Y., will be joined by special guests Reverend Al Sharpton, Damon Dash, Londell McMillan, Esq. and Mona Scott of Violator Management, as he continues his bid for a 13th term. The fundraiser will be held today (Oct. 24) from 6-8 p.m. ET at the PM Lounge.

Ras Kass Responds To Crocodile Hunter's Manager

Rapper Ras Kass has responded to criticism surrounding a line on his recently released diss track to rival The Game, in which he references the death of Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" Irwin.
Irwin's manager John Stainton lashed out at the rapper yesterday (Oct. 23) in the Sydney Morning Herald, because of a line in the 6-minute battle rap titled "Gayme Over" in which Ras Kass raps: "You're the waste of LA/get blast up in LA/face down, ass up in LA/you the Crocodile Hunter, I am the stingray"
"I just find it a bit sad that people have to stoop to that," Stainton told the Sydney Morning Herald. "It is disappointing. I can't understand the point of it. There are other references they can make that will put the point across."
Irwin was fatally wounded on Sept. 4, while diving near Australia's Great Barrier Reef. A barb from a stingray pierced his chest as he was filming a segment for his eight-year-old daughter's new TV series.
Ras Kass responded to Stainton's criticism by writing an open letter to the Sydney Morning Herald to defend his choice of words.
"Every person should be treated with an equal brush stroke, or no one should, and everything must be considered in context," Ras said in the open letter. "I am a hip hop artist. Hip-hop is like any other art form; nothing is sacred, nothing is off limits. As such, I have used historical events and current events as metaphors to express a greater perspective to certain ideas and points. At other times, I myself, have been referenced- be it in a positive or negative light. That is part of the creative process and the nature of what rap music is. I in no way have, or have had any ill will towards the late Steve Irwin."
Ras Kass said the line was one of many insults directed at his rival The Game. He explained that he used Irwin's death as a metaphor-- but the usage didn't make a positive or negative statement about Irwin or his death.
The Watts-bred rapper also said the line was being blown out of proportion in comparison to some of the other jabs he takes at Game during their latest round of battling, since a physical confrontation in an L.A. nightclub in September sparked the feud.
"Mr. Stainton doesn't seem to be the least bit concerned with other references that one could misconstrue as homophobic or misogynistic, let alone is he concerned with the potential violence in hip hop or black-on-black violence," Ras Kass said. "He only seems to be bothered by one line. I am just saying that consistency would be nice. If you aren't from the hip hop culture and are not familiar with it then you are not qualified to judge it. Whether American or Australian, every human life is valuable; otherwise it makes it appear that Mr. Stainton thinks that only one man's is."

Police Consider Charges Against Snoop After Airport Incident In Sept.

Superstar rapper Snoop Dogg may be facing criminal charges, after airport officials found a 21 inch collapsible baton in one of his bags last month, as he boarded a flight headed for New York. According to reports, officials found the baton in Snoop Dogg's laptop case, as the rapper attempted to pass through a security check point John Wayne International Airport, located in Orange County, CA. Snoop, born Calvin Broadus, told police the 21 inch baton was a prop for a movie he is currently filming. In May of 2005, Snoop accepted responsibility for a brawl in London's Heathrow airport. Snoop, 34 and five men in his entourage were arrested during the airport incident, which started when people traveling with the rapper were denied entry to British Airways' first-class lounge. Seven officers were injured during the fracas, which resulted in Snoop being banned from flying British Airways.

Jim Jones Announces Dipskate Skate Team

Jim Jones is currently riding high with "We Fly," but the Dipset executive is planning to enlist others to do the real aerodynamics for him. Jones revealed to AllHipHop.com that he has started Dipskate, a Diplomat Records sponsored skate team. The team is a union between the Harlem-based label and Courtney and Chris Brown of lifestyle-brand B. Unique. B. Unique, coined the term "freestyle rolling," which refers to the combination of aggressive skating, urban fashion and music. The company approached Jones while filming a documentary titled Know Difference and the budding Dipset mogul said he was impressed at the lifestyle. "When I got the opportunity to see their tape and they told me how the skaters and skateboarders feel when it comes to the Diplomats I was honored. They feel like we're the realest thing out there and they love everything that we're doing, so it was a beautiful opportunity," Jones told AllHipHop.com in a statement. Joseph Miles, Dipskate's team manager, revealed that there are similarities with the fast rise of Hip-Hop and the rapid ascension of skating. "Where I come from, growing up, extreme sports were always looked at as a form of escape," Miles said. "I remember a quote from the intro to the first skateboarding video I ever watched, 'they try so hard...they want to learn so much and ultimately they're going to achieve their goals twice as fast as anyone else.'" Ramelle Knight and Calvin Sayles are the two chief skaters in Dipskate. B. Unique already sponsors over 10 professional in-line skaters in New York, Philly, Atlanta and parts of California. Jones said an official launch event is scheduled for the spring of 2007. Jim Jones' "We Fly High" has garnered the Warner Music executive/Diplomats CEO the biggest hit of his recording career. His album, Hustler's POME hits stores on Nov. 7.

Mobb Deep, Sam Scarfo, 40 Glocc Almost Killed In Plane Incident, Havoc Speaks

A plane carrying rappers Mobb Deep, 40 Glocc and Sam Scarfo was forced to make an emergency landing early Saturday morning (Oct. 21) after flames and smoke started to shoot out one of the transport's engines.
After missing a connecting flight to Chile, the group of rappers caught a Delta flight, which was to take them to Chile for a number of shows.
"Almost an hour into the flight, the plane began dropping and rising and dropping again, soon after which passengers noticed flames and smoke pouring out of one of the engines," a press statement read.
Afterward, a pilot revealed that one of the engines had ceased to function and that the flight would land into Tampa, Fla., amidst an emergency. According to the rappers, the pilot stressed that the occupants "buckle up and not panic."
Tampa Fire Rescue was dispatched to meet Delta Flight 147, after one of the engines exploded while the plane was mid-air, en route from Atlanta to Santiago, Chile.
The plane safely landed around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday (Oct. 21) on a Tampa airstrip with a number of fire trucks and ambulances present.
"All I can say is God was on our side," Havoc told AllHipHop.com of the incident. "It could [have] turned out the opposite way! It makes you look at many things in perspective."
If the plane had traveled 45 more minutes, the flight may have had to land in the Atlantic ocean.
40 Glocc, a rapper signed to Mobb Deep's Infamous Records, said it wasn't yet time for them to go.
"Mobb Deep, Sam Scarfo, 40 Glocc--we ain't going nowhere. We got a lot of unfinished business to handle," said Glocc, who plans to release the third installment of his Outspoken mixtape series in the near future.
The rappers all returned to New York instead of going to Chile as planned.
Dates for the group's remaining international dates have yet to released.
Their scheduled tour included stops in England, Switzerland, Scandinavia, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, Finland, Germany and France.

Xzibit No Longer A Member Of Rap Group Strong Arm Steady

The four-man collective known as Strong Arm Steady is now a trio.
Rapper Xzibit has officially left the group, which is now comprised of fellow emcees Krondon, Phil Da Agony and Mitchy Slick.
"I'm not in Strong Arm Steady anymore," Xzibit told AllHipHop.com. "They actually signed the deal without me and went over to Blacksmith. It's Krondon, Phil Da Agony and Mitchy Slick. It was a decision that they made and they felt it was in their best interests to go that route."
The group, which also includes extended family members Will Blast, Chace Infinite & DJ Khalil (Self Scientific), Planet Asia and DJ Truly OdD, is expected to put out its debut album Arms and Hammers under Talib Kweli's Blacksmith Music Corporation in 2007.
Known as a staple on the West Coast rap scene, Strong Arm Steady earned fans through the release of mixtapes like D-Bo Vol.1 & 2, True Crime: Streets Of L.A., LA Ballin' 2004, Hulk Steady, Green Up and others.
The rapper didn't reveal his reasons for departing the group and representatives for the group did not respond to requests for comment.
Xzibit, who serves as host of MTV's successful series Pimp My Ride, is continuing his recording career, having recently released a new album titled Full Circle.
The album, which hit stores last week, features guest appearances from Kurupt, DJ Quik, Too Short, The Game and others.
Xzibit also also continues to build an impressive résumé with a series of high-profile acting roles.
While he has been featured in movies like Full Clip, 8 Mile, XXX: State of the Union, Derailed and Hoodwinked, the rapper said his latest effort, Gridiron Gang, was his most challenging part to date.
The movie, which also stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, costars Xzibit as a probation officer and assistant-football coach of a Los Angeles juvenile detention center football team.
"Gridiron Gang was my first costarring role that I felt comfortable enough to go with something that was totally opposite [of] Hip-Hop," Xzibit said. "I play a probation officer and a football coach, and I do neither. "
The rapper's choice to take on a more difficult role proved to be the right decision, as the movie raked in an over $15 million in ticket sales and topped the box-office upon hitting movie theaters in mid-September.
While he enjoys starring in action-oriented movies, Xzibit said he wants to prove that he can have a long lasting career as a serious actor.
"Every n***a wants to blow some s**t up," Xzibit said of his love for action movies. "In XXX: State of the Union, I got to blow a hole in the side of the f***in' Capitol Building with a tank—come on, man! In Derailed with Jennifer Anniston and Clive Owen, I get to smack around America's sweetheart with a god**ned Desert Eagle and I got a check! I've got a lot of respect for the craft and I read a lot, so I know what to look for. I just wanted to take baby steps so I didn't jump into something that I wasn't ready for."

Lil' Wayne Banned From Morgan State For Money Tossing Incident

Lil' Wayne has been barred from performing at Morgan State University and may face criminal charges, after a homecoming concert went awry when the rapper's entourage threw money into the crowd.
The sold-out concert took place at Hill Field House during the university's homecoming concert on Thursday (Oct. 19), which also featured Busta Rhymes.
During Lil' Wayne's performance, members of his entourage tossed $20, $10, $5 and $1 bills into the crowd of mostly college students. In the rush to retrieve the cash, two women sustained leg injuries and another woman fainted.
All were treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
"We're evaluating it from a public safety standpoint and a criminal standpoint," Morgan State University Police Chief Adrian Wiggins told the Baltimore Sun.
Morgan State University Spokesman Clinton R. Coleman compared the rapper's actions to "standing in a crowded movie theater and shouting fire."
"It is something we regret that he did," Coleman said. "We regret the injuries that were caused. And we're happy that most of the people in the crowd acted responsibly."

Ras Kass Diss Towards Game Causes More Beef - With Crocodile Hunter's Manager

Ras Kass' diss record aimed at rival The Game is causing international outcry because of a line in the song where he references the death of the "Crocodile Hunter" aka Steve Irwin.
Irwin died on Sept. 4 when he was stung by a venomous stingray, while filming a scene for his eight-year-old daughter's reality show.
Ras Kass and The Game have been embroiled in a feud since a physical altercation in a Los Angeles nightclub on Sept. 14.
Since the incident, the two have been hurling insults and threats at each other via interviews, freestyles and mixtapes.
Last week, Ras Kass released "Gayme Over" a scathing 6-minute single that attacks The Game.
On "Gayme Over" Ras Kass raps: "You're the waste of LA/get blast up in LA/face down, ass up in LA/you the Crocodile Hunter, I am the stingray"
"I just find it a bit sad that people have to stoop to that," Irwin's manager John Stainton told the Sydney Morning Herald. "It is disappointing. I can't understand the point of it. There are other references they can make that will put the point across."
Irwin rose to fame as host of the popular series The Crocodile Hunter, which is broadcast in over 130 countries and boasts a viewing audience of over 500 million people.
Stainton was on Irwin's boat the Croc One when the stingray's tail pierced Irwin's chest and fatally poked a hole in his heart."
"I just think it is a pity that people do have to use Steve or anyone who has died in tragic circumstances as a form of entertainment," Stainton said.