HIP HOP NEWS

Last Night: Atmosphere At House Of Blues

2008-11-10T18:23:00.000-08:00

Last Night: Atmosphere At House Of Blues
Mon Nov 10, 2008 at 11:27:34 AM
Atmosphere's Paint the Nation Tour
House of Blues
November 9, 2008

Better Than: Getting drunk, going into a trailer park and picking a fight.

Last time I checked, Atmosphere was a hip-hop duo. And when I listen to them in my headphones, I hear introspective rap with distinctive beats that make me nod my head.

So what was up at House of Blues last night?

Letís start with a venue that just doesnít cater to hip-hop. The Pontiac Garage at House of Blues makes for a nice, intimate hip-hop show but the main stage (where Atmosphere performed) stands too tall and too far behind a barricade. The room is wide and itís a long walk to the bar in the back. Throw in an excessive amount of drunk, tacky people and youíve got yourself one disconnected show.

It wasnít for lack of trying. Slug and Ant, the MC and producer respectively that make up Atmosphere, did what they came to do. They took the stage along with a live band and put on a powerful show from start to finish.

However, the decision to trade samples for gospel-infused vocals and even bring out an acoustic guitar for one track was a risky one. While the keyboards added some jazz and the guitarist proved he could shred, especially on intense tracks like ìGuarantees,î the complexity demanded a more in-tune audience that, sadly, was not the majority at this show.

Fights broke out on every side of me; people pushed, spilled beer on each other and screamed like little girls at a Jonas Brothers concert. Some guy in his mid-twenties tried to crowd surf, inevitably kicking a bunch of people in the back of the head and getting called out by Slug for acting like a 16-year-old at a Limp Bizkit show.

In fact, our MC had to stop several times to remind the crowd that we were there as a community, verbally breaking up fights and bringing a sense of humor back into the night. Slug definitely proved he can work a crowd but if he hadnít had to, maybe we could have all enjoyed his lyricism a little more.

Even more confusing is the fact that things started out relatively chill. Abstract Rude opened the show with west coast flows about getting high and other such fun. Same with Blueprint, who was just as clever as he was loud.

The crowd was sufficiently hyped by the time Atmosphere opened its set with the older/wiser ìLike the Rest of Us,î from its latest album.

And, for those of us who could stand upright long enough to enjoy them, there moments of collective bliss during ìGod Loves Uglyî and ìTrying to Find a Balance,î where everything seemed to work itself out. --Brittan Dunham

Criticís Notebook
Personal Bias: DJ Rare Groove, who spun for opening acts Abstract Rude and Blueprint was one of the more crowd-pleasing DJs Iíve seen lately. He kept the crowd so involved between sets that it never felt like the show paused even for a second.

Random Note: Slug made a reference to ìEllumentî which, truth be told, Iím only old enough to appreciate through stories. It made me think about how much better suited Deep Ellum was to this kind of show and has me wishing that my generation could have held on to some of that rather than just catching the tale end of it as we came of age.

By The Way: I wonder what happened to dude in the green shirt? The night could not have ended well for someone who punched a security guard in the face...

Atmosphere's Paint the Nation Tour

2008-11-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

G-Unit Rookie Mazaradi Fox Talks Cam'ron, "It's All Just Competition, Not Beef"

2007-02-07T21:37:00.000-08:00

In an exclusive interview, G-Unit affiliate Mazaradi Fox discusses his recent stint in prison, his new album and his opinion on Cam'ron and The Game.
After catching a case that landed Mazaradi Fox in prison for eight years from '97 to 2005, the South Jamaica, Queens native vowed to make good upon his release. Writing rhymes while incarcerated, joining 50 Cent's crew once he was freed was a no brainer for Fox.
"Me and Fif grew up together as kids. [Tony] Yayo is my pop's man, they hung together," says Fox of his ties to the Unit. " One day, my man said 'Fif been asking about you.' He said that he'd be back for me in five days and, five days later, I was G-Unit."
Since joining the unit, Mazaradi says his work ethic has been crazy, which he credits equally to his time in prison and his friend and mentor, Fif. The MC says that his debut album, which features appearances from Prodigy, 50 Cent, M.O.P., Young Buck and Tony Yayo, is already done but that has not slowed his hunger to continue on his grind.
"I stayed around 50 for like, four months straight, just watching him record. We didn't sleep, we just recorded from like 12 noon until like 5 in the morning," he explains of the making of his as-yet untitled debut. "I was watching 50 when I was locked up. [When you're in jail] it hurts to see people you came up with on TV. I have to take full advantage of this opportunity. I can remember doing diamond push ups in my cell until 6 in the morning. To this day, I ride in my whip and tears come to my eyes. I still can't believe this shit sometimes."
The rapper also understands that being down with the ever controversial G-Unit crew means possibly inheriting beef, something that he does not shy away from, taking the opportunity to address both Cam'ron and the Game.
"The Cam'ron situation just gave us more motivation," he says. "It's all just competition to me. It's not beef." He had somewhat other sentiments regarding The Game. " In jail, it's beef with every nigga until you out the door. I don't know him [Game] and I don't want to know him. If it's beef with 50, it's beef with me too. 50, that's the boss."
Fox, who will be releasing a handful of mixtapes in the coming weeks including "Dumb Out Season" with Cutmaster C and "Mazaradi Fox, Fresh Out The Body Shop," is also planning an international mixtape tour with DJ Whoo Kid, which is aiming to make stops in both Hong Kong and Belgium. But amidst all of his impending success, Fox is also hoping that his example will inspire others.
"I want people to know that if I can do it, anybody can do it. I got something for the streets. They ain't gonna believe it."

Jermaine Dupri, Remy Ma, R Kelly Hospitalized

2007-02-07T21:35:00.000-08:00

Producer Jermaine Dupri has a new job as president over urban music at Island Records. Dupri will take the position after leaving his presidential role at Virgin Records supposedly due to low album sales of girlfriend Janet Jackson's disc 20 Y.O.
At the new position Dupri would oversee artists on the whole Island Def Jam label. He will also report to Chairman and former LaFace Records CEO Antonio "L.A." Reid.
"I'm so excited to be reunited with L.A. Reid because most of my biggest hits were when he and I worked together," Dupri said.
Dupri's history of making hit songs like Usher's "Burn," Mariah Carey's "Shake it Off" and "Don't forget About Us," also made him a shoe in for the job.
"Jermaine's career has grown from strength to strength over the years, as a producer and songwriter and recording artist in his own right, as a respected label executive and entrepreneur, and as a highly esteemed developer of new talent," Reid said.
Fans will now be able to see female rapper Remy Ma more often thanks to her own reality show set to debut at the end of the year.
"I'm just in the process of getting my build on," Remy Ma said. "I can't talk about yet but it's crazy and it's coming."
The show will go alongside her sophomore album, PunishHer, also due at the end of the year. The album will feature her female rap group made up of DTP's Shawnna and Jackie-O.
After her hits "Conceited" and "Whuteva," Rem is hitting harder with the new album which will talk about the things has went through over the years.
"The album and the title will reflect all of the struggles and hardships she's had to endure such as Big Pun dying, Loud folding, leaving Terror Squad, issues with Joe and Universal, and lack of label support on Something About Remy LP," Remy's management said.
R. Kelly's been hospitalized. The singer was admitted to a Miami hospital with appendicitis. His lawyers spoke to the press on Tuesday regarding R's recovery.
"He was admitted on the 4th of February, and he was operated on shortly after admission," Gillespie said to the Chicago Sun Times. "He's recuperating fine."
Unfortunately, this will cause legal problems as well. This will cause him to miss a status hearing at the Criminal Courthouse in Chicago.
That case has been highly publicized, The case stems from accusations that R. Kelly had sex with, taped and urinated on an under-aged girl.
In related news, The R is readying a new LP after working with Snoop Dogg on his latest single. Expect to hear more from R on various tracks, remixes, mixtapes and more.

Nas Speaks On "Where Are They Now"

2007-02-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

The man who shook the world by claiming Hip-Hop is dead, also made a point to ask a question: Where are they now? Through rhymes, the man gave love to some forgotten rhymin' heroes.
What caused Nas to do this?

"The first and second VH1 Hip-Hop Honors was mind-blowing. The last one, it could have been tighter. When it comes to awards, we never get the love. All of us new artists — new compared to them — it never gets shown in the right light," Nas told MTV. "I love the '80s, especially because I'm a '80s baby. Them dudes made the '90s n---as wanna do it. Especially Shan, he was reppin' my 'hood before I could even stay out past 8 p.m. When I heard Sha Rock, I was blown out my socks. I love Sha Rock. I saw her in 'Beat Street' and started loving her. Then I found out about the Funky 4 + 1."

Nas also noted the importance of remembering those who paved the way, but are no longer in the spotlight.

"The people we hear from, we know where they at. The KRS Ones, people like that will pop up here and there. That wasn't the point of my song," Nas added. "The point of my song was about people who have not been talked about, that some people don't even know about, but were real serious on the scene. My team contacted them. I heard the verse of Redhead Kingpin, I was blown away. Das EFX? Blown away!"
Could this be something more than just a song?

"First we wanted to get it out to people and just enjoy it...Now we're thinking about going in on a TV show to find out where them n---as was at. I wanna see. These muthaf----s ain't old to me. And if they are old, that's nothing to take away from them. Man, these muthaf---s are interesting people. They're part of the whole foundation. They are the blocks, them big boulders underneath the pretty surfaces. They need to be looked at like that. Even if it's for a second, let's be real, you can't expect all these n---as to drop new albums, but it's good to see that they still here. They ain't gotta come out and go platinum, they can do different sh--. It's just good to show love."

Will he take the show on the road?
"So far it's tentatively titled 'Nas: One Man, One Mic, One Night.' It's in every city and every country in the world."

RIP Big Pun/Son Starts Rap Career, Ebro, Nelly/JD

2007-02-07T21:32:00.001-08:00

Today marks the seven year anniversary of the death of Bronx, NY rapper Christopher "Big Punisher" Rios. Pun, born Nov. 10, 1971, died on Feb. 7, 2000 of a fatal heart attack. He is survived Liza Rios, his two daughters and his son, who now raps under the moniker "Baby Pun." Pun's son is signed to Foundation Records, the label Big Pun founded before he died, that is now headed up by his widow, Liza Rios. Tomorrow, (Feb. 8), a who's who in Hip-Hop will honor Big Pun's legacy at a tribute event taking place at club Duvet in New York. Rappers like Baby Pun, Cuban Link, Triple Seis, Remy Ma, Joell Ortiz and Capicu will give performances, while Hip-Hop royalty like Kool G Rap, the Beatnutz, Busta Rhymes and others are slated to attend. Assistant PD & Music Director Ebro Darden has been promoted to the top spot as Program Director at New York's Hot 97. Darden, 32, replaces John Dimick, who was Program Director of Hot 97 since November 2004. Dimick accepted a position as VP of Programming & Operations for Lincoln Financial. Darden, who also serves as host of MTV2's "Sucker Free" countdown, joined Hot 97 as Music Director and Assistant Program Director in 2003, after previous radio experience in Sacramento and Portland. "Ebro's involvement has been fundamental to the success of HOT 97," Emmis- New York Market Manager Dan Halyburton said. "His product knowledge, commitment and passion for winning make him the perfect person to lead HOT 97." Darden will begin his new duties in early March. Nelly and Jermaine Dupri will host the "So SoDerrty Experience" during the NBA's All Star weekend. The pair will host a series of exclusive events along with celebrities like Bow Wow, Pharrell, TI, Carmelo Anthony, Floyd Mayweather, Akon, Lil Wayne, Chingy, & Cedric The Entertainer and others. The festivities take place at the Aladdin/Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino starting on Feb. 15 with a "Tip Off Concert" that will feature Bow Wow, Akon, Chingy, Lil Wayne Ali+Gipp, St. Lunatics and The Clipse. On Friday, Feb. 16, the pair will host the "Poker with the Stars Tournament," which will feature poker pros and amatuers competing for a cash prize. The party continues later in the evening, when Nelly, Jermaine Dupri* and Pharrell host the "Rat Pack Party." On Saturday, the "Big Ticket Party" takes place and will be hosted by Nelly, Jermaine Dupri, TI, Lil Wayne, Carmelo Anthony and Floyd Mayweather. On Sunday, Cedric The Entertainer will headline the SoSo Derrty Celebrity Comedy Brunch. For ticket prices log on to www.sosoderrty.com.

N.O.R.E. Splits With Def Jam

2007-02-07T21:29:00.001-08:00

Rapper N.O.R.E. has confirmed with AllHipHop.com that he has severed his ties with Def Jam and will no longer record for the label. The tumultuous relationship was marked by a studio album that was never released and in the past, N.O.R.E. voiced his displeasure about the lack of promotional support of his previous projects, including his Reggaeton album, Nore Y La Familia. The Queens native states that his decision to move on was purely business and there are no hard feelings. "I love Def Jam and every bit of history that we have together, but it's time to move on," N.O.R.E told AllHipHop.com. "I'm fully on my own and I want to be my own boss. There will not be a Jay-Z diss or an LA Reid diss record, because this is what I asked for." N.O.R.E. said executives granted him an early release from his contract. With his new found freedom, the rapper is free to explore his entrepreneurial side. "I've been in this game quite some time and it's time I own my material, as well as, ringtones and masters," N.O.R.E. continued. "I'm just grateful to have a chance to show my executive side. So it's about time and I'm very thankful to all of the Def Jam personnel and staff. I still have great relationships in the building." While N.O.R.E was coy about whether he's planning to re-sign with a major or go the independent route, he confirmed that he has several offers on the table. "I won't speak about my eggs before they hatch, but I will tell you the meetings have been going pretty good and I'm still weighing the independent distribution, route. So hanghang too all and too all a hanghang." In addition to keeping himself busy with a new untitled solo project, N.O.R.E is recording a new studio album with CNN (Capone-N-Noreaga) member Capone.

Rated X Vixens Team Up With Bumsquad DJ's To Expand Network

2007-02-07T21:26:00.000-08:00

The Rated X Vixens, a group progressive women from across the country, have joined together to create a sisterhood for women making a name for themselves in all areas of entertainment. The group, founded in 2005 by XM radio's DJ Nina 9, represents a collective group of female managers, artists, DJ's, writers, on-air personalities, publicists, promoters, and more. "The best part of the being a Vixen is that it's a genuine network of help and support for one another," Nina 9 said. "We all have made some type of name for ourselves so we understand the struggle and are more than willing to give a fellow sister a hand up." The women are hand selected based on their accomplishments, and represent the best of the best in their fields. Named the official female squad of the Bumsquad DJ coalition, the Vixens are taking their network to another plateau. "I created the Bumsquad DJ's to create a family environment where we can grow and build together," says Universal/Motown VP Latin Prince, "Now that we have a squad of sister's whose grind is as major as the Bumsquad's the family is complete." A few notable Vixens Include. S.E.A"s 2006 #1 Female Air Personality, Cristal Bubblin, Radio One on-air personality April Watts, Infamous G-Unit's Gail Gotti, Fashion Designer/Rapper Big Chan (formerly Doggy's Angels) as well as Tour Manager/Mixshow coordinator and official Bum Squad Board member Cee Luv. Last years Bumsquad Family Reunion hosted over 150's DJ who came together to network in a family based atmosphere, building connections with artists and collaborating on projects. The combined squads are preparing for their second annual reunion to be held in Los Angeles this summer.

Nas "Carries On Tradition," Unleashes Two More Remixes

2007-02-01T21:59:00.001-08:00

Nas has unveiled two more remixes of "Where Are They Now," from his Def Jam debut Hip Hop Is Dead featuring some of the 80's and the West Coast's most notable emcees.
The 80's remix of "Where Are They Now" features MC Shan, Dana Dane, Raheem of Furious Five, Kool Moe Dee , Grandmaster Caz of The Cold Crush Brothers , Doctor Ice of UTFO, Sha Rock of Funky Four +1, Pebblee Poo , Tito of Fearless Four, Lique of X Clan and Just Ice.
Nas's West Coast remix has verses from Breeze, Kam, King Tee, Candyman, Threat, Ice-T, Sir Mix-A-Lot and the Conscious Daughters, with scratches from DJ Bobcat.
The 90's remix of "Where Are They Now," which appeared on SOHH yesterday(January 31), featured appearances from Father MC, Monie Love, Positive K, Das Efx and Rob Base, among others.
In related news, Nas will be making an appearance on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel" on Saturday at 12 a.m. ET where he will perform Hip Hop Is Dead's second single, "Cant Forget About You."

RZA Speaks on New Bobby Digital Album, Afro Samurai Soundtrack

2007-02-01T21:52:00.000-08:00

Anyone wondering whether Wu-Tang Clan rapper/producer RZA will resurrect his rhyming alter ego Bobby Digital for another musical run can rest easy.
The lyricist, recently entered the studio to lay down tracks for a new Digital album. RZA, born Robert Diggs, admits to having fun working on the project which is he said was tentatively titled DigiSnacks.
"Yeah yeah, I'm wilin' out," RZA told AllHipHop.com. "I just got serious about it for the last two months really. We buggin' out on there. We having a good time, Grizzly Adams style. It's grizzly."
While he prepares to unleash Bobby Digital, RZA can be heard on the score and soundtrack for the new film Afro-Samurai.
Composing the film's music proved to be a challenge for the versatile beatmaker as he found himself relying on other means in light of not receiving the film beforehand.
"The music was done before the animation. I had to work off of something called Animatics, it's just like storyboards, that moves," RZA explained. "It was kind of deep for my but I did it. A little harder than normal, but I did it."
Based on a graphic novel by Takashi Okazaki, Afro Samurai is an animated series starring Samuel L. Jackson as a black samurai who is out to avenge the death of his father by hunting for the gunman responsible.
The film's soundtrack, featuring Big Daddy Kane, GZA, Q-Tip, Talib Kweli and the extended Wu Tang Family, is in stores now.
The Afro Samurai show, which recently premiered on Spike TV, is scheduled to be released on DVD this spring.
The Wu-Tang Clan also recently announced a reunion album titled 8 Diagrams, the group's first album in over six years.

Man Who Shot Security Guards At Kanye Concert Gets Life

2007-02-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

A man that shot two security guards during Kanye West's performance at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Arena in the United Kingdom in Feb. of 2006 has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in the shooting.
Abidan Raphael, 27, was ejected from the NEC Arena with his girlfriend Joanne Bushell, 22, twice for attempting to enter the Kanye West concert, without a ticket.
The concert was the final date on West's five-date Touch The Sky Tour, which wrapped up at the NEC Arena. Over 12,000 people in attended the concert, which was in progress when the shooting occurred.
Prosecutors said Raphael and others had been found by security guards in an area of a bar that had been close and were promptly thrown out of the venue.
Later, security guards spotted Raphael and Bushell in the concert hall and escorted them out of the building a second time.
Raphael then produced a handgun and fired six bullets, four of which struck 46-year-old John Tough in the face, stomach and foot. Another guard was shot in the abdomen.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the two stewards who were injured last night," West said shortly after the shooting.
A jury found Raphael guilty of three charges of attempted murder and other firearms and assault violations.
Bushell was convicted of assisting Raphael and sentenced to three years in prison.

Kenneth 'Supreme' McGriff Found Guilty Of Murder Conspiracy

2007-02-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

A jury has found Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff guilty of killing two rivals in 2001.
The jury reached a verdict today (Feb. 1) after five days of deliberation and found McGriff guilty of paying $50,000 to gun down rivals Troy Singleton and Eric "E Money Bags" Smith.
McGriff was convicted of murder conspiracy and drug dealing charges for masterminding the 2001 slayings of Smith and Troy Singleton, reputed rival drug dealers.
McGriff ordered surveillance of Smith, who was gunned down in his SUV in July 2001.
The government accuses McGriff of ordering the murder to avenge the death of Colbert "Black Just" Johnson and for allegedly assaulting Murder Inc. mogul Irv Gotti.
Singleton was murdered execution style in 2001. He was shot four times, in the body and head outside a sports bar, the Club Van Wyck in Queens.
Prosecutors allege McGriff ordered Singleton's slaying as revenge for an earlier double homicide Singleton allegedly committed.
Officials have claimed that McGriff secretly controlled rap label Murder Inc, which was founded by mogul Irv "Gotti" Lorenzo and is home to superstars like rapper Ja Rule and songstress Ashanti.
Gotti and his brother Christopher Lorenzo were acquitted of laundering millions of dollars in drug proceeds for McGriff in 2005.
McGriff was the founder of The Supreme Team, a Queens, NY based drug dealing organization that was chronicled in Ethan Brown's book Queen's Reign's Supreme: Fat Cat, 50 Cent and The Hip-Hop Hustler.
McGriff's attorneys maintain that he stopped dealing drugs in the 1980's to pursue a legitimate career in the music industry.
A jury will decide if McGriff will face the death penalty for his crime, although Federal Judge Frederic Block said that it was unlikely McGriff would get the death penalty.
"There's no chance in the world there would be a death-penalty verdict in this case," Judge Block wrote in a letter. "This is an absurd prosecution, based upon what I have heard...If I'm wrong, I will have egg on my face, but I will not be incorrect."
McGriff's attorneys maintain that he stopped dealing drugs in the 1980's to pursue a legitimate career in the music industry.

Popular Hampton Roads, Virginia DJ Dies

2007-02-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

Styles P: I’m Not A Rapper Anymore, I'm an MC

2007-01-25T12:26:00.001-08:00

After lukewarm sales of his latest album, Time Is Money, D-Block’s Styles P has officially left Ruff Ryders/ Interscope, however in an interview with MTV he was quick to point out that the LOX are still signed to Ruff Ryders as group. Styles expressed disdain for the label that delayed his LP several times over a three year period only to finally drop the project without support of a video or proper single upon it’s release in late 2006. Styles explained the split was amicable and he is currently fielding offers from several major and independent labels and is ready to immediately drop another album in 2007. "I guess it's hard to market me," he said. "I may rap one way one day and make 'I'm Black,' then another way another day and make 'Favorite Drug.' I had to spread my wings and do what I do. You can look to hear from me hard in March or April. I will be right back. I haven't thought of an album title yet. I'm still smoking and pondering on it. But I'm the Phantom now; the Ghost is over with. If you're my friend, you can call me the Ghost. But as far as MCing … and don't call me a rapper no more. Call me an MC."

Kanye Aiming At Grown And Sexy On New LP

2007-01-25T12:24:00.000-08:00

Well we’re all getting older I guess. First Jay-Z drops his adult contemporary and now Kanyeezy. Truthfully, I thought I wouldn’t have to listen to anymore Coldplay after my ex-girlfriend split but guess what, wrong again. Kanye West has enlisted the help of Coldplay frontman Chris Martin for the first single off of his new LP Graduation. The LP is slated for a 2nd Quarter ’07 release on Def Jam. In other WTF news, Kanye is slated to remix a track for fellow Chi-City natives Fall Out Boy, who are also featuring Jay-Z and production from Babyface on their new LP.

Spend Valentines Day W/ DJ Neil Armstrong

2007-01-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

DJ Neil Armstrong is no stranger to getting the ladies wet with his turntable skils. Oscillate Wildly is still the ultimate 80s banger for any boombox having party host. For Valentines Day though, Neil wanted to give you a chance to up your game a little. This is the Limited Edition Warmfuzzy gift set. Only 500 of them will be made, and the boxes will be hand numbered by Mr. Armstrong himself. Once they're gone, they gone. Included in each Boxset is a copy of Warmfuzzy - AOK Part 1 and a limited edition Warmfuzzy Ladies Thong, all housed in an ill jewelry gift box, with gold foil embedded printing to bring it all together in a nice little classy package. If your significant other is a music fan, then this is everything you need for Valentine's day. We’re going to try to convince Neil to let us carry a few of these when he comes up to Boston this weekend for UGHH.com’s Fresh Produce Party. The party goes down at the Goodlife Lounge, Saturday 1/27 @ 9PM. Of course it’s free, so get there early (it’s cold outside).

Twista Links With Lil' Wayne & Just Blaze For New CD

2007-01-25T12:19:00.000-08:00

Twista is set to release his 7th studio album entitled Adrenaline Rush 2010 this summer.
The unnamed album, which is a follow-up to 2005's platinum-selling The Day After, features guest appearances from Lil' Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Pharell, Cee-Lo Green, Saigon and fellow Chicagoan R. Kelly. The disc is also rumored to include a collaboration between Twista and one-time rival act, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. The two have traded diss records in the past after both claiming to have originated the rapid-fire, staccato flow that they are known for, but have since squashed their beef.
The disc's production will be primarily handled by long time collaborator The Lengendary Traxter and will also feature production from Just Blaze and Toxic.

"Danger!" Mystikal Released From Prison

2007-01-25T12:18:00.000-08:00

New Orleans rapper Mystikal was released from a Federal Prison in Louisiana last week, after serving close to three years behind bars.
As previously reported, Mystikal (born Michael L. Tyler) was sentenced to six years in prison in 2004, for forcing his hairstylist to perform oral sex on him as repayment for allegedly stealing $80,000 worth of checks from him. Last year Tyler was sentenced to an additional year in federal prison for tax evasion charges; that time was served concurrently with his previous sentence.
We have learned that the Grammy-nominated rapper was released from prison on January 11.
Mystikal began his career on Master P's No Limit Records in the mid 90's, but gained national attention in 2000, with his hit single "Shake That Ass." His last album, Tarantula, garnered him a nomination for Best Rap Album and Best Male Rap Solo performance in 2003.

Jermaine Dupri, Air Force 25, Turf Talk, C-Rayz Walz

2007-01-25T12:06:00.000-08:00

Producer Jermaine Dupri is in negotiations with Universal Music Group (UMG) about joining the Island Def Jam label as an executive The New York Post reported today (Jan. 25). The deal would reunite Dupri with Island Def Jam's CEO/Chairman, Antonio "L.A." Reid. Reid enjoyed success distributing Dupri's So So Def label, when it was distributed by Arista from 2000-2005. Dupri stepped down as President of Urban Music at Virgin Records, after disappointing sales of various artists, including Janet Jackson's comeback album 20 Y.O.
Nike will celebrate launch of the Air Force 25 in its birth place of Baltimore, MD. tonight (Jan. 25) at the Downtown Locker Room in Mondawmin Hall at 7 p.m. The lavish event will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Air Force 1 and will unveil the new Air Force 25. The event, which is open to the public, will be hosted by Big Tigger and will feature performances by Juelz Santana and DJ Biz Markie. Cast Members for HBO's The Wire will also be in attendance.
West Coast rapper Turf Talk and Sick Wid It Records are set to release West Coast Vaccine (The Cure) April 3, an album the rapper hopes will be a revitalization for the entire west coast. The release follows Turf Talk's albums The Street Novelist and the Turf Talk Brings The Hood. Turf Talk's famed cousin and mentor, E-40, will appear on the album. E-40 plans to release Turf Talk's album and other artists under his Sick Wid It record label.
C-Rayz-Walz is releasing The Dropping featuring Rahzel, Breeze, Poison Pen, 4th Pyramid, The Blizzard and others. The album is Walz's first release on the underground indie label Urchin Studios and includes the track "Childhood" featuring Matisyahu and Kosha Dillz. Only crafting 3,000 copies of the album will be produced and distributed and there will be no reprints. Walz has gained famed as an artist on the Definitive Jux record label and has worked with notable artists like Aesop Rock, Immortal Technique and Ghostface Killah.

Jay-Z Stars In Bud Light Superbowl Commercial

2007-01-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

While former rapper Kevin Federline may miss the chance to appear in a Superbowl XLI commercial this year due to the controversial content of his advertisement, fans of rap can take solace in seeing superstar Jay-Z instead.
Over 90 million viewers will see Jay-Z square off with former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula in a new commercial for Bud Light. The two men engage in a chess-like high tech football game that uses holographic imagery.
The Bud spot is part of Jay-Z's new partnership with St. Louis-based brewer Anheuser-Busch, which was announced in Oct. 2006.
The rapper, born Shawn Carter, is co-brand director for Budweiser Select and works with the company on marketing programs and advertising development.
The NFL's Superbowl, which is the most watched media event of the year, will be broadcast on CBS on Feb. 4 at 6 p.m., live from Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL.
This year, the Indianapolis Colts will face the Chicago Bears in a landmark game, which will feature not just one, but two African-American head coaches competing for the NFL championship for the first time in history.
One of the coaches, either the Colts' Tony Dungy or the Chicago Bears' Lovie Smith, will also enter into the history books as the first African-American to win an NFL championship ring.
"Being the first black coach to lead this team, of course our players knew about it and they wanted to help us make history," Smith told NFL.com. "So I feel blessed to be in that position."
"It means a lot," Dungy said shortly after the Colts beat New England 38-34, in a classic hair raising AFC championship game. "I'm very proud of being an African-American. I'm very proud of Lovie [Smith]."
Meanwhile, Federline's hopes to appear in a Superbowl commercial may be spiked.
A new Nationwide Mutual Insurance ad which features Federline dreaming of being a rapper while working in a fast food restaurant may be boycotted by the National Restaurant Association.
Nationwide planned to unveil the ad during Super Bowl XLI, but may be forced to pull the advertisement, which the head of the National Restaurant Association labeled demeaning.
"Should an ad of this nature run during the Super Bowl, we will make sure that our membership -- many of whom are customers of Nationwide -- know the negative implications this ad portrays of the restaurant industry,” National Restaurant Association president and CEO Steven C. Anderson wrote in a letter.

Snoop Dogg Pleads Not Guilty To Weapons Charge

2007-01-25T12:04:00.000-08:00

Rap star Snoop Dogg pleaded not guilty to various weapons charges in a Santa Ana, CA court through his attorney yesterday (Jan. 24).
Snoop Dogg was arrested on suspicion of weapons charges in Sept. 2006, when security guards found a collapsible, 53 inch baton in one of Snoop Dogg's carry on bags as the rapper was enroute to San Francisco.
Snoop Dogg told officers that the baton was a prop for a movie he was filming.
If convicted, the rapper faces up to three years in prison.
In Oct., the rapper was arrested at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, CA on suspicion of drug and gun possession, after police searched his car and recovered a small amount of marijuana and a loaded handgun.
In Nov., Snoop Dogg and two associates were was arrested yesterday in Burbank, CA, after a performance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Snoop, 35, was stopped by officers as he pulled out of NBC studios after the performance and arrested when police recovered a handgun and small amounts of marijuana and cocaine in the vehicle.
While police have yet to file charges in the Oct. and Nov. incidents, the cases are under review according to a spokesman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.
If convicted, the rapper faces up to three years in prison. Snoop Dogg is currently touring Canada with rapper Ice Cube.

K-Fed Super Bowl Ad Offends National Restaurant Association

2007-01-25T12:02:00.000-08:00

Kevin Federline can add another name to his list of detractors.
The 28-year-old rapper and former husband of pop singer Britney Spears has come under fire by the National Restaurant Association for his role in a new Nationwide Mutual Insurance ad, which seemingly paints a negative image of the restaurant industry and its workers.
The ad, which Nationwide plans to unveil a week before its official debut Feb. 4 during this year’s Super Bowl, features Federline rapping in a slick music video only to appear later daydreaming while working as a french-fry maker at a rundown fast-food restaurant.
News of the clip has drawn the ire of National Restaurant Association president and CEO Steven C. Anderson, who expressed “serious concerns” about the ad in a letter to Nationwide’s CEO, Jerry Jurgensen.
“We hope that these reports are inaccurate and that Nationwide will not be airing such an ad that would give the impression that working in a restaurant is demeaning and unpleasant,” Anderson wrote in his letter, dated Monday (Jan. 22). “An ad such as this would be a strong and a direct insult to the 12.8 million Americans who work in the restaurant industry.”
The Federline ad is the latest in a string of Nationwide "Life Comes at You Fast" promotions, which have debuted during the Super Bowl.
The company showed romance novel coverboy Fabio morphing into an old man in its 2006 Super Bowl, while spotlighting rapper MC Hammer in a 2005 regional ad that showed his belongings being repossessed after his real-life bankruptcy made headlines.
Despite the humorous tone of the ads, Anderson believes the Federline spot could damage the image of the country’s 935,000 restaurants.
“Developing creative concepts that accomplish the marketing strategies for a product should not require denigrating another industry” wrote Anderson, who hoped Nationwide would portray restaurants and its employees more accurately in the future.
“Should an ad of this nature run during the Super Bowl, we will make sure that our membership -- many of whom are customers of Nationwide -- know the negative implications this ad portrays of the restaurant industry,” Anderson said.
While the Association is seeing red, Federline is enjoying the chance to make light of his much talked-about persona.
"It's perfect for Nationwide, and it really works for me. I try not to take myself too seriously," he told USA Today.

Wu-Tang Clan Reunites, Preparing '8 Diagrams'

2007-01-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

Wu-Tang Clan's reunion with Loud Records founder Steve Rifkind is official, as the group has announced a new album titled 8 Diagrams, which will hit stores this summer on Rifkind's SRC label, through Universal Records.
8 Diagrams, which is named after a Kung-Fu epic, is the the first new album from Wu-Tang Clan in six years.
The album will feature RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon the Chef, Ghostface Killah, Inspektah Deck, Masta Killa and U-God, all original members of the Wu-Tang Clan.
The new album will also contain an unreleased performance that will show fans why deceased group member Ol' Dirty Bastard "was considered one of the illest MCs ever," before dying of a heart attack in Nov. 2004.
“This is the perfect time for us to come back, the stars are aligned,” RZA said. “It’s like when we first started with Steve. We put out real hip-hop at a time when it was turning into pop or R&B. We brought the focus back to the music in its rawest form, without studio polish or radio hooks.”
RZA founded the group with GZA and the late Ol' Dirty Bastard, who is memorialized on the song “Life Changes."
The group has released several groundbreaking albums including Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (1993), Wu-Tang Forever (1997) and 2001's Iron Flag.
According to the RZA, the new album will be a "conjunction of creative and corporate thinking by the whole group.”
“People want something that gives them an adrenaline rush,” RZA continued. “We’re here to supply that fix. How could hip-hop be dead if Wu-Tang is forever? We’re here to revive the spirit and the economics and bring in a wave of energy that has lately dissipated.”
The reunion with Rifkind comes as the seasoned music industry veteran is enjoying a banter year.
Akon's SRC/Universal sophomore release Konvicted was recently certified platinum, after five weeks of being on the shelves.
“The energy is just like it was, and it’s needed in our industry same as back then,” Rifkind said. “Over the last few years, the group has developed a whole new fan base of 20-year-olds and even younger who’ve never even seen them play.”

Former President's Hometown Seeks To Ban Sagging Jeans, Shorts

2007-01-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

Sagging may be the norm in the world of rap, but the trend may see an early end if some residents of a small southwest Georgia town have their way.
The Associated Press reports that people in Plains, GA., are up at arms over seeing the underwear of young people who are wearing their pants and shorts low.
So much so that members of the Plains City Council plan on asking the town’s attorney to look into whether they have the authority to regulate sagging.
Plains is best known as the hometown of former President Jimmy Carter, the nation’s 39th Commander in Chief.
Protesters of sagging believe those who engage in the trend could ward off some of the 68,000 tourists who visit Plains each year. The town boasts a population of 600,
“To have a lot of young men walking around like that it creates a bad image of the place," said Plains City Councilman and anti-sagging campaign leader Eugene Edge. "We don't want to infringe on anyone's rights, but ... nobody wants to look at your rear end. I don't think it's too much to ask for a person to wear their pants above their butts."
Sagging pants and shorts have become popular among rappers, who have advocated the trend in videos, concerts and public appearances. Rap fans soon followed suit as youth adapted the style and made it their own.
Nevertheless, officials have tried to ban sagging. Although attempts by schools in Columbus, OH, Kittery, ME, and Red Bluff, CA have been initiated, other efforts ban sagging have met with failure, according to the AP, which cited a case in which “droopy drawers” legislation won approval in the Virginia House in 2005.
Senators later rejected the proposal, saying international news reports on the bill had embarrassed the state.
A similar bill was turned down in 2004 by Louisiana lawmakers after warnings that the bill would make the state a laughing stock. The situation has yet to be addressed in Dallas, TX, where the city attorney was asked to look into a ban by city officials.
As for Plains, the town's attorney, Jimmy Skipper, revealed that he hasn't explored the legality of the ban.

Upcoming Producer Disco D Commits Suicide, Friends React

2007-01-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

Upcoming producer David "Disco D" Shayman committed suicide today (Jan. 23) sources told AllHipHop.com.
The producer, who hailed from Ann Arbor MI, came to prominence as a DJ on the Detroit/Ann Arbor Hip-Hop/club scene.
Disco D was behind a number of Hip-Hop hits, including 50 Cent's "The Ski Mask Way" Nina Sky's "Turnin' Me On" and Kevin Federline's single "Papazao."
Additionally, he created music for commercials (Best Buy, Sprite) and awards shows (VH1's Hip Hop Honors, Nickelodeon's Kids Choice Awards).
He had recently launched a Brazilian urban label called Gringo Louco which counted rap group Braza as artists on the label.
"We were good friends," DJ Vlad told AllHipHop.com. "I lived with him in Brazil for a couple weeks. We both had a love for that place. I just talked to him a couple days ago. It tore me up when I heard he died."
DJ Vlad's sentiments were echoed by a number of DJ's, producers artists and journalists that knew the producer, who was just 27-years-old.
Houston, TX rapper Chamillionaire revealed that Disco D had just landed a track on his upcoming album Ultimate Victory as well.
"I saw that he sent a website message a couple days ago to me and I replied before I left for the studio," Chamillionaire told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "I got back late and saw that he was excited about the news that one of his tracks was making it on Ultimate Victory, considering the fact that he didn't make it on my first album. I told him that Lil Wayne was putting his verse on the song and sent him my number so that he could contact me directly if he needed to. We were in the process of negotiation with his management and lawyers but a situation as tragic as this makes me not even want to think about discussing any music or contracts. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones. I hope he rests in heavenly peace."
Journalist and Queens Reigns Supreme author Ethan Brown knew Disco D since the mid-1990's, when he was just a teen, at the beginning of his career
"He was a turntable prodigy and an up-and-coming producer in Detroit's 'ghetto-tech' scene," Brown told AllHipHop.com. "I was stunned by his talent and wrote a long piece about him--and the ghetto tech scene--for Details Magazine in 1998. I had huge hopes for Disco D and he fulfilled them in every way when he moved to New York and went on to produce tracks like 50 Cent's 'Ski Mask Way.' I'm stunned and incredibly saddened by the loss of a great friend--and an incredible producer who had such a promising future ahead of him."
West coast veteran DJ Warrior had also spoken to Disco D just prior to his death.
"I got a lot memories with that dude." DJ Warrior told AllHipHop.com. "He is the most genuine person I have met in this crazy music industry, he was going through a lot financial problems. A lot of people owed him money, and never paid him. We just talked about all these problems he was having. I was working helping him move which was planned for this spring. I guess once finances started hitting from every angle, it was really bothering him."
DJ Warrior revealed that the producer was also distraught over breaking up with his fiancee.
"I clearly remember telling him, 'Dogs, we go through things in life, just pray to God and things will get better, and you are gonna be in L.A. and we will get things going.' In New York City, he really didn't have many close friends that he trusted. God bless his soul, and condolences to his family. This is someone that I have the utmost respect for, he is one of my best friends and we had big plans we were working on, but we will miss him, I never thought I would lose another real friend I had in this business this soon. I am shocked."
Disco D. had recently been diagnosed as bi-polar and he was also suffering from depression.
According to statistics, those who suffer from the illness are 20 times more likely to commit suicide than then general population.
"I can't believe this has happened to such a high-energy forward moving person," DJ Strong added. "He had so much to look to in the future and I met him through his business and friendship with Warrior. I can remember him drinking tea all night when we all went to a white party in Hollywood. That's the kind of dude he is, just a simple and real human being. Disco D we will miss you. I hope this is a hoax."
According to family members, services for Disco D will be held later this week in Ann Arbor, MI.
To post your respects, visit http://www.myspace.com/gringolouco.

Rawkus, Naledge Team With Voxonic To Translate Single

2007-01-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

As technology continues to play an increasing role in the way that music is delivered to consumers, technology Voxonic Inc. and Rawkus Records have announced that they will release a single from rap artist, Naledge, using software which transforms voices into foreign languages.The single will be selected from Naledge’s forthcoming album Naledge is Power which features production from Just Blaze, 9th Wonder and Pete Rock.“Voxonic’s ability to customize voice for web and mobile applications has a huge appeal and is certainly a great business in 2007,” said Brian Brater, Co-founder of Rawkus Records. “We anticipate Voxonic enabling Naledge to reach a wider audience than the typical artist can.”Naledge, born Jabari Evans, has been selected to serve as the test client for this new partnership and will have his entire album translated in various languages.Through Voxonic’s technology, Naledge’s album can be converted into more than 1,400 different languages with 99% accuracy of the original speaker’s voice. The new partnership is expected to provide significant exposure to audiences abroad for Rawkus, which is known for breaking many underground Hip-Hop acts including Talib Kweli, Mos Def and Common. “It’s exciting to see various music artists break international barriers, which can ultimately reverse the decline of record sales," stated Arie Deutsch, President of Voxonic Inc. “With Voxonic’s technology, record labels, independent artists and music franchises can expect to see a steady increase in sales.” Naledge is Power is set to hit stores later this year.

'Gayngsta' Rapper Deadlee Headlines Homo Hip-Hop Tour, Disses Eminem, DMX, 50 Cent

2007-01-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

Popular Los Angeles based gay rapper Deadlee has announced that he will headline what is being billed as the first ever organized regional tour of gay, lesbian and bisexual rap & Hip-Hop artists.
Billed as the Homorevolution Tour 2007, the ten-city trek will feature a variety of popular gay and lesbian MC's, including Johnny Dangerous, Delacruz, Melange Lavonne, Salvimex, Bigg Nugg and JFP.
Covering five states, the tour is set to launch in San Diego in March.
"The HomoRevolution Tour is a direct challenge to the old status quo in Hip-Hop," Deadlee told AllHipHop.com. "Times are changing and if openly gay rappers aren't invited then we are kicking the door in - and inviting ourselves...we are taking the mic. It's our turn too."
Deadlee, born Joseph Lee, has grabbed headlines in publications like The New York Daily News, The Advocate, LA Weekly, Urb, instinct and others, with sexually charged music referred to as "Homohop"and "Gayngsta" rap.
The self-described "Queer Bastard Child of DMX & Lil Kim," has also contributed his music to a series of motion picture soundtracks including On the Down Low and Vengeance. He was also the focus of a reality show on LGBT television network Logo, called Hip-Hop Homos.
In the traditional nature of Hip-Hop, his music confronts some of the industry's biggest rappers, including Eminem, DMX, and 50 Cent.
"Eminem was called out for his juvenile, hateful approach to homosexuality, especially in his song 'Criminal,' [The Marshall Mathers LP]" Deadlee said. "He was the biggest rapper at the time and if he used the same song as a diss to Blacks or Latinos, he would probably be dead. Eminem likes to pick on the 'weak' but gay[z] aint weak and he might be a f*g himself. He knew all the subcultures in that song."
Deadlee, who was born in Denver but calls Los Angeles home, also has issues with DMX's constant use of the word fa**ot and his references to "homo thugs."
"I find it crazy when his videos are very homoerotic," Deadlee said. "All the guys kicking it with their shirts off!"
Deadlee saved his harshest criticism for rap's biggest superstar, Queens, NY rapper 50 Cent.
In April 2004, 50 Cent made international headlines when Playboy published an article with the rapper expressing his views on homosexuality.
"I ain't into fa**ots," 50 Cent told Playboy. "I don't like gay people around me, because I'm not comfortable with what their thoughts are. I'm not prejudiced. I just don't go with gay people and kick it - we don't have that much in common. I'd rather hang out with a straight dude. But women who like women, that's cool."
"F*ck him. I don't like ignorant b**ches around me, so he can suck my gun," Deadlee stated. "He is a classic man who had Homo-feelings and chooses to lash out because he is afraid he might act out on his true feelings. 50 Cent has deep rooted homosexual tendencies."
Deadlee will host Logo's NewNowNext, which airs Feb. 4.
Below are the tentative dates for the Homorevolution Tour 2007:
March 29: San Diego, CA
March 30: Los Angeles, CA
March 31: Las Vegas, NV
April 1: Phoenix, AZ
April 2: Albuquerque, NM
April 3: El Paso, TX
April 5: San Antonio, TX
April 6: Houston, TX
April 7: Austin, TX
April 8: Dallas, TX

Rap Group The Clipse Hits The Road To Support New Orleans Rebuilding Effort

2007-01-25T11:45:00.001-08:00

Virginia-based rap duo The Clipse will take center stage at this year's Seagram's Live concert tour. The critically-acclaimed group is slated to appear Wednesday (Jan. 24) at the Seagram's Live preview in New York's Webster Hall, to perform songs from their latest album Hell Hath No Fury. The tour officially kicks off April 7 in Memphis, TN. The Clipse is the latest act to headline the tour, which has featured past performers such as Mary J. Blige, Jaheim, Jagged Edge, Lil' Mo, Cee-Lo Green and Tweet. Funds raised from the event, which is noted for supporting community issues such as housing, job training and adult education, will benefit the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Other stops include New Orleans, Atlanta, Birmingham, Jackson, Detroit, Washington, DC, New York, Fort Bragg and Tampa as the tour concludes April 29 in Miami.

Mele Mel Pursues WWE Career, Expanding Businesses

2007-01-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

Although he is revered in Hip-Hop circles, Mele Mel is planning to make an impact of a different kind in the world of professional wrestling. The rapper, who was recently inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, will attempt to become the latest champion in Vince McMahon's World Wrestling Entertainment. "I'm going to try and get some of John Cena's money [current WWE champ] and get with the WWE to do my thing," Mele Mel told AllHipHop.com "I went to the wrestling school over the summer and picked up a little bit of moves. I wanted to see if it was something that I wanted to do, other than just dreaming of wanting to be a wrestler. It's a little rough, but it's something that can be done." The WWE venture is among a string of opportunities Mele Mel is capitalizing on. The rapper is currently involved in the creation of a children's book and fitness video, as well as a new album titled Muscles from his record label Big Guns Records. Mele Mel is also the co-owner of the Sedgwick & Cedar clothing line, which also counts pioneers like Afrika Bambaataa, Sha Rock, Grandmaster Caz, Busy Bee, Kool Herc and others as proprietors. "It's just another feather under the cap and putting as many companies and businesses under the umbrella because you have to forge an empire," Mele Mel said of the clothing line. "It's just another way of us expressing ourselves and getting by on a financial level. We don't do the big number as Phat Farm or Rocawear as of yet, but the impact is there." The Sedgwick and Cedar line represents one way for veteran Hip-Hop artists to remain relevant in a culture that caters to the young, according to Mele Mel. "Once people see us on the same playing field as everyone else, they don't look at us like we're a bunch of old guys," the rapper said. "It's like we're selling clothes over here, they're selling clothes over there, and they love us." Mele Mel is optimistic about the success of his ventures. Still, the rapper feels the current generation of emcees has already counted their predecessors out. "Younger cats try to put us in a has-been position. You can't turn a legend into a has-been because he has too many roots," Mele Mel said. "He might not be doing it now, but he's done it so long and so good that he is what he is. When Mele Mel walks in the room, or Kool Herc or Kurtis Blow or Doug E. Fresh, it's undeniable. It's just a certain vibe and certain respect that never goes nowhere. We need to [be more business minded] on our own so we'll have more respect from the industry as artists and businessmen instead of [people saying] them cats are from back in the day and they're bitter.' All that's corny anyway."

Florida Promoters Sue Lil' Wayne Over Missed Concert

2007-01-25T11:41:00.000-08:00

Rapper Lil' Wayne has been hit with a lawsuit by a Tampa Bay based promotions company, claiming the rapper missed a concert date and has refused to reschedule the performance. The Associated Press reports that the lawsuit was filed Friday (Jan. 19) in Miami-Dade County Circuit Court. According to the lawsuit, Lil' Wayne, 24, signed a contract with Nunoise Entertainment and Jahfari Promotions to at a Tampa nightclub last October. The rapper missed the event and returned a $15,000 deposit, but the companies claim the rapper still owes $45,000 for canceling the show and is obligated to schedule another performance. The lawsuit also alleges that promoters lost more than $200,000 due to Lil' Wayne's cancellation of the show.Representatives for Lil' Wayne were not available to comment as of press time.

Paid Dues Lineup Confirmed!

2007-01-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, we reported that Paid Dues was returning. Now, it is official. Murs and Guerrilla Union have put together the independant Hip-Hop festival once again. On Thursday, the line up was finally unveiled.

Here are the acts set to take the stage at Paid Dues 2007.

FELT (Slug and Murs)
Pigeon John
Sage Francis
Cage
Mr. Lif
Evidence (of Dilated Peoples)
Devin The Dude
Los Nativos
Mr. Len
DJ Maji
However, that is not all. There are more artists that should be confirmed in the coming months. This will all lead up to the big event on March 24th. Pre-Sale tickets will be available February 2nd.

Q-Tip To Drop 2 Albums in '07

2007-01-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

Former A Tribe Called Quest frontman Q-Tip has been quiet for too long, but 2007 should put an end to all that. Tip is gearing up for a pair of solo albums this year, leading with his Universal Motown release of The Renaissance.
You can expect another change in sound from Q-Tip, as he recorded the album with a “hip-hop band.” "I wanted a hip-hop sonic feel, something pure to the sound of hip-hop with real drums, real emotion and people taking solos," he told Billboard. "In that sense this record feels like we're moving in a new direction ... something hip-hop should do."
While it’s a safe bet that the album wasn’t complete, September saw a mysterious Tip album called Open leak on the Internet. Clearly backed by a band and featuring Andre 3000, Common and D’Angelo – the very same guests slated to appear on The Renaissance – it seems as if the cat is out of the bag.
Speaking of leaked, yet-to-be-released albums, his shelved 2001 album Kamaal The Abstract will get an official release this year, equipped with some bonus tracks. No release date for either has been given yet.

The Underground Report

2007-01-22T10:32:00.000-08:00

Def Jux fans can take a sigh f relief. El-P’s new album is done. I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead is a project he has been blogging about for some time and it is highly anticipated by his fans. With some help from Mr. Dibbs and an appearance on MTV’s I’m From Rolling Stone, the buzz has grown and it’s sure to hit fans with what they have been waiting for. Recently, El-P spoke about it and let out a release date: March 20, 2007.

Sean Price also has a new album on its way. It’s coming sooner rather than later. Expect Jesus Price Supastar to land in store shelves January 30th. As expected, the album features about half of the production handled by 9th Wonder and Khrysis. Guests include Phonte, Sadat X and Buckshot. It will be released via Duckdown Records and a tour with Jedi Mind Tricks will be done to back this LP.

The Quannum Records family is getting ready for a big 2007. Lateef is working on a solo album which may get released late in ’07. He is also recording an LP with Blackalicious’ Gift of Gab. Their label mate Pigeon John is currently touring and will work on a new album soon. Lyrics Born is also working on a new album as we speak.

Enough of the future, though. It’s time for the present. Quannum act Lifesavas is releasing Gutterfly on April 24th. That album will include guest spots from Smif-N-Wessun, deadprez and Camp-Lo among others. So, get ready.

Finally, Rhymesayers Entertainment acts have a lot in store as well. Brother Ali’s album (featuring production from the ever clever Ant) is set to be unleashed to the public on April 10th. The album, which includes tracks such as Truth Is, Faheem and Freedom Ain’t Free, is a follow up to 2004’s The Champion EP and 2003’s critically acclaimed Shadows on the Sun.

Fellow RSE MC’s Mac Lethal and P.O.S. are currently on tour. They are scheduled to hit these venues through February 3, 2007.

1/25- Mesa, AZ @ Hollywood Alley1/26- Los Angeles, CA @ Knitting Factory1/27- San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill2/01- Madison, WI @ Annex2/02- Chicago, IL @ Abbey Pub2/03- Bloomington, IN @ Rhinos

More RSE news? Yes. Atmosphere will make an appearance on the aforementioned I’m From Rolling Stone show on MTV. The airdate is said to be February 4th.

The Game Cancels Shows In Canada, Africa

2007-01-22T10:07:00.000-08:00

Superstar rapper The Game has canceled a series of concert dates in Luanda, Africa, according to local promoters.
The rapper was scheduled to land in the country today (Jan. 22) to perform at the Atlantico Cinema on Saturday (Jan. 27) and Sunday (Jan. 28), but the concerts have been postponed.
According to promoters with the Angola Show Agency, The Game, born Jayceon Taylor, but pulled out of the concerts at the last minute, allegedly due to scheduling conflicts.
Organizers said that they plans to bring the Compton, CA native back to Luanda at the end of January or in February and that refunds were available to fans who purchased tickets for the canceled show.
The cancellation comes on the heels of The Game postponing a tour of Canada, due to pending legal issues.
An arrest warrant was issued for the rapper in New York City on Jan. 16, after he failed to attend a court hearing related to an incident last November, when he was arrested and charged with impersonating a police officer.
Below are the remaining canceled Canadian shows:
Jan. 22: Corral Entertainment Complex in CalgaryJan. 23: Edmonton Events CentreJan. 25: Croatian Cultural Centre in VancouverJan. 25: Phish Night Club in Vancouver

Common To Launch Soji Hat Line In New York

2007-01-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Chicago rapper Common will officially launch his new Soji line of hats on Wednesday (Jan. 23) in New York.
Common, along with invited guests Jamie Foxx, Alicia Keys, Jeremy Piven and others, will preview the high-end hats, which will be sold exclusively at La Coppola Storta stores, a trendy retailer with locations in Palermo, Roma, Firenze, Bologna, and New York City's SOHO district.
“I love hats man, I been wearing them for so long and people always ask me where I get my hats from. So, why not just design something," Common told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. "I want to keep it high-end and quality on the hat side.”
The rapper also explained how the high-end hat line received its unique name. "[Soji] is my next door neighbor’s name and I love that name,” Common revealed.
Common, born Lonnie Rashied Lynn, is also preparing for his first major theatrical release as the character "Sir Ivy" in the Mob movie Smokin Aces, which is due out Jan. 26 and stars Ray Liotta, Alicia Keys, Andy Garcia and Jeremy Piven.
In addition to finishing his seventh album Finding Forever, Common is also starring in the upcoming film, American Gangster, which stars Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, RZA, T.I., John Ortiz and others.
In related news, Common, Everclear and Satellite Party will give a free performance during ESPN's Winter X Games, which take Jan. 25-28 on Aspen Mountain in Aspen, CO.

Prodigy Links With The Alchemist For Koch Debut, Preps "H.N.I.C. 2"

2007-01-19T08:57:00.001-08:00

Prodigy, one half of Queensbridge, NY duo Mobb Deep, is currently gearing for rthe release of his sophomore solo album Return Of The Mac.
Set for release via Koch Records this spring, the album will be produced entirely by The Alchemist. Return Of The Mac will then be followed by the release of the highly anticipated sequel to H.N.I.C. in late 2007.
"Alchemist and I put Return Of The Mac together to get people ready for H.N.I.C.2," Prodigy explained via a statement. "I'm 'bout to turn it up hot with H.N.I.C.2."
"I decided to ride with Koch Records cause I got a lot of shit to do and say, and I know Koch won't hold me back or censor my shit," he continued. "The entire company will push the CDs to the maximum because they truly love and respect my music. We're all very excited about the whole thing."
A video for Return Of The Mac's official single, "Stuck On You," will be shot soon.
Two underground videos for the singles "Mac 10 Handles" and "New York Shit," which will be on Return of The Mac, can currently be viewed at Prodigy's MySpace page.
Return Of The Mac hits shelves on March 27 while a release date for H.N.I.C.2 has yet to be determined.

Prodigy Links With The Alchemist For Koch Debut, Preps "H.N.I.C. 2"

2007-01-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Lil Wayne Weighs In On DJ Drama Raid

2007-01-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

"Smarten up," That's what Lil Wayne told MTV news about mixtape DJs. He said of the Aphilliates arrests, "It's a bad thing, but you gotta play the game fair. If you don't play fair, all kind of things can happen. You gotta watch people like DJ Clue, watch people like DJ Khaled. They do it right."The advice from Lil Wayne seems a bit out of place since the two were planning the third album in the trio of Dedication albums that created most of the supreme buzz that Wayne rode through 2006. They had planned to release the third album early in 2007. Street CD's such as Drama's Gangsta Grillz albums have been integral to Weezy's success, especially his success in the mixtape circle.
"You gotta do it right," Wayne said, "It's gonna be a message. [The authorities] ain't playing. They gonna make an example. They gonna straighten the game out. A lot of companies take a fall with those mixtapes. Niggas be caking up off them mixtapes. The artists can drop his album — and everybody knows that hip-hop [album sales are in] decline — nobody ain't gonna buy the album, and everybody gets the mixtapes off of the Internet or whatever way they get it. The artists ain't caking, but the nigga you made the mixtape with is caking up. Thank God I ain't got that problem, but I know a lot of people who do."
A DJ who wished to remain anonymous in case the RIAA was listening or reading, "I think they got a snitch among them . Somebody snitched on them. Drama is working for the down South artists. I don't think he's bootlegging. He's really helping the movement and promoting, especially the new cats. I'm almost sure that 30,000 out of the 50,000 [CDs confiscated in the raid] were new cats that's next to come up. He uses his mixtapes as a promotional marketing tool that was looked at the wrong way. Drama and Cannon were two of the coolest motherfuckas to get ran through like that. They treated them like they was fucking drug kingpins. I was watching it on Fox News, that sh-- was like, 'Get out of there."
Interestingly enough, during the raid police found nothing in terms of drugs or weapons but stated that during confiscations of this variety, they usually find that type of "trouble".
Diplomats head of A&R, DukeDaGod said of the Aphilliates' drama, "This is like D-Day in hip-hop."
"DJ Drama is like our favorite mixtape DJ," he said. "Everybody loves Drama. It's crazy. It's like it's in your own backyard when it comes to Drama. He helps a lot of artists out. It's kinda messed up. I think they're trying to make hip-hop illegal or something. They're trying to make too many regulations on it. This is one of the worst days ever I can remember in hip-hop. I remember when Biggie got shot, when Pac got shot, it was crazy, but this right here is bad because it could determine the future of our music."
DukeDaGod says the fans will be the ones feeling this most, "Why are [the RIAA and FBI] getting involved?" Leave us alone. Let us make our hip-hop. Nobody is dying, nobody is killing nobody. It's just music being made. Everybody is gonna feel it whether you're on the radio, not on the radio. Even if you're a consumer, you gonna feel it, 'cause it's gonna be hard to find certain tapes. Certain people are not going to carry the mixtapes anymore because they know what could happen. It's so many people that wanna hear our stuff. We get e-mails from all over the world. They don't care about the RIAA, they wanna hear some Dipset, they wanna hear some Drama. So it's messed up for the whole world."

Snoop Launches Season 2 Of Hip-Hop Gaming League

2007-01-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

Rapper Snoop Dogg and Global Gaming League (GGL) announced the official launch the Hip-Hop Gaming League's second season today (Jan. 18).
The online gaming tournament features 32 of the biggest names in Hip-Hop and professional sports competing for bragging rights and the chance to win the league's championship title.
Snoop Dogg, who is the commissioner of the league, hand picked season two's roster based on their video game skills.
This year newcomers like Lil' Wayne, Birdman, The Clipse, Hi Tek, Warren G., Aaron McGruder, Rick Ross, Lupe Fiasco and Yung Joc will compete against each other, as well as players from season one, which included rappers like David Banner, B-Real, Paul Wall, Murs, Krayzie Bone, producer Fredwreck and others.
Each HHGL player will receive an Xbox 360 and a copy of EA Sports' NCAA 07 Football. The players will battle each other for points to work their way up the tournament ladder.
As the commissioner, Snoop Dogg may add additional games like NBA 2K7, NFL 2K7, Madden NFL 07 or others to spice up the game play.
For the 2007 season, registered gamers with GGL can compete in a parallel league for the chance to compete against one of the rappers at the HHGL finals, which will take place Feb. 16 in Las Vegas.
"This time around, the fans are gonna get into the game, going up against superstars like my main man Eric V, B-Real, David Banner, Lupe Fiasco, Lil Wayne, Warren G, Cobi Jones and so many other brothas I can't even give 'em all shout-outs," Snoop said. "Just play the game, ya dig?"
Spike TV's Game Head television program will cover season two and will run on air specials leading up the HHGL finals in Las Vegas.
"If you want to compete against the best gamers in hip-hop and pro sports, you've got to bring your A-game or just go home," said Ted Owen, Chairman and Founder of the GGL. "Hip-hop music, celebrities, the Internet and gaming are driving and defining the alternative-to-mainstream culture for 14 to 34-year-olds today. It's tough to know which has more influence, but by bringing them all together, the GGL is at the epicenter of this cultural revolution."
The finals will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and will feature a VIP exhibition tournament, two HHGL semi-final matches and the championship match.
The finalists will party with Snoop at the season two wrap party, which will feature live performances by various rappers.
For more information log on: www.hhgl.com.

Ludacris, Mos Def, Kanye, Spoonie Gee

2007-01-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Ludacris, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Justin Timberlake and Carrie Underwood have been added to the list of the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, organizers announced today (Jan. 18). Ludacris and company join previously announced performers that includes Gnarls Barkley, Beyonce, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Dixie Chicks and others. Presenters during the evening include The Black Eyed Peas, Nelly Furtado, Ciara, Terrence Howard and Samuel L. Jackson. Ludacris was nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Unpredictable" with Jamie Foxx, Best Rap Performance By A Duo or Group for "Georgia" (with Field Mob and featuring Jamie Foxx), Best Rap Album for Release Therapy and Best Rap Song for "Moneymaker." The 49th Annual Grammy Awards will air live on Sunday, Feb. 11, from the Staples Center in Los Angeles
Actor/rapper Mos Def has been tapped to serve as a juror for the U.S. dramatic film competition at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. According to The Hollywood Reporter, MOs Def will join director Catherine Hardwicke, director Dawn Hudson, film editor Pamela Martin and actress-director Sarah Polley and others in judging entrees in the documentary competition of the festival, which kicked off yesterday (Jan. 17) in New York and runs until Jan. 28. Winning films in The Sundance Film Festival will be announced Jan. 27 at an awards ceremony at the Park City Racquet Club.
Kanye West, Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas and John Legend are among the artists who will be showcased in the NFL's Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert Series, which takes place Feb. 1-2 in South Florida. West, Legend and Fergie will open the two-day concert series on Feb. 1 at 7:00 pm. The evening will be hosted by actor Taye Diggs and taped for for airing on VH1 on Feb. 3. On Feb. 2 at 8:00 PM, latino artists Don Omar, Ivy Queen and Aventura will take to the stage for a concert that will be taped for airing on Telemundo on Feb. 3 as well. The concert series will take place at the Pepsi Smash Concert Arenta, which is next to Dolphin Stadium, where the 41st Annual Superbowl is taking place. Tickets for both concerts are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com.
Pioneering record label Tuff City recently launched a chat site, which will feature open dialog with the label's early roster of Hip-Hop artists, which includes Fearless Four, Lakim Shabazz, 45 King and others. The first chat will take place Jan. 22 at 2:00 PM with legendary rapper Spoonie Gee, who released such singles as "Spoonin' Rap" and "The Godfather." According to representatives for Tuff City, the label hopes the chat's will be a part of an ongoing program. The chat room will open 30 minutes early for participants to chat amongst themselves. To participate in the chat, log on to http://www.tuffcity.com/chat.

Asian American Rapper Jin Takes Aim At Rosie O'Donnell

2007-01-19T08:47:00.000-08:00

Asian American rapper Jin has released a diss record aimed at talk show host Rose O'Donnell, after O'Donnell host made what many felt were racist comments directed towards Asian Americans last month.
During an episode of ABC's The View, O'Donnell was describing how actor Danny DeVito's drunken appearance on the show had garnered international headlines.
O'Donnell gave an impression of what a Chinese newscaster sounded like when reading the story and claimed that the reporter spoke in nothing but "chings and chongs."
"It's news all over the world," O'Donnell said. "You can imagine in China it's like, 'ching chong, ching chong, Danny DeVito, ching chong, ching chong..."
Jin has responded to O'Donnell's comments with the recently released single, " You're Fired," which features the rapper hurling insults at O'Donnell for her off color comments about Asians.
"I recorded the song basically for the same reason she decided to do her little 'ching chong' bit: that's just how I am," Jin said of the single.
The song, which features Jin rapping over Nas' song "Ether," also interjects clips of Donald Trump commenting on the matter, who states that he would have fired the famous talk show host for her racist remarks.
Trump and O'Donnell are also involved in a bitter feud, after O'Donnell blasted the real estate and television mogul for his decision not fire current Miss USA Tara Conner for questionable behavior, after she won the Miss USA competition.
The Asian American Journalists Association also chastised O'Donnell for her impression, calling the impression "a mockery of the Chinese language."
"The use of the distorted phrases is insulting to the Chinese and Chinese Americans and gives the impression that they are a group that is substandard to English-speaking people," said Rene M. Astudillo, Executive Director of the Asian American Journalists Association. "We find it especially disturbing that this incident comes from a well-loved personality and a television program aired on a respected network."
Jin has also registered a new domain name, abcjin.com and is planning new album titled ABC, which is slated to be released Feb. 20.

Probation Officials Give Foxy Brown Good Report, New CD Hits Stores In Weeks

2007-01-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

Probation officials monitoring Foxy Brown gave a good report on the Brooklyn bred rapper in Manhattan Criminal Court yesterday (January 17).
As SOHH previously reported, Foxy (born Inga Marchand) was sentenced to probation and anger management classes this past October, after pleading guilty to assaulting two manicurists in Manhattan's Bloomie Nails in 2004.
Brown told reporters outside the courthouse that the sentence has been good for her "because probation forces you into structure."
"It is making me grow up," Brown explained. "I have matured a lot since I started the anger management."
Brown even had a good word for Judge Melissa Jackson, with whom she had several hostile exchanges before the judge sentenced her to the aforementioned probation and anger management classes.
"This is only the first time in two years that I'm pleased with Judge Jackson," Brown told reporters. "She got an excellent report from probation."
Brown also revealed that her fourth solo album, Black Roses, will hit stores in a few weeks
State Sen. John Sampson, Brown's lawyer, divulged Brown will return to court on March 15th.
At Brown's last court appearance, a lawyer for the city Department of Probation accused her of "flouting the court-ordered conditions of her probation." The lawyer, Shawnda Weinberg, said Brown was asking for "special treatment."
Weinberg suggested to Jackson that Brown might benefit from time in jail, but the judge let her go with a warning to follow probation officials' orders.

Power 105.1 Honors DJ Carl Blaze In All Day Mixathon

2007-01-18T11:30:00.001-08:00

In an effort to keep his memory alive, New York City radio station Power 105.1 is set to host an all day tribute to DJ Carl Blaze this Friday.
The tribute will take place from 6 a.m. to midnight this Friday, January 19 in honor of the former Power 105.1 DJ who, as SOHH previously reported, recently passed away after he was shot 13 times by an unknown gunman in uptown Manhattan.
Power 105.1 on-air personalities will be airing calls from artists, friends and fellow DJ's who knew the slain DJ and remember him fondly. Guest DJs including DJ Clue, DJ Red Alert, Tony Touch and Marly Marl will also participate, taking turns mixing on the airwaves in honor of their fallen comrade.
Here is a complete list of DJs who will participate in the tribute:
6-7 a.m. DJ Whuteva
7-8 a.m. DJ Red Alert
8-9 a.m. Tony Touch
9-10 a.m. DJ Kut
10-11 a.m. Marley Marl
11 a.m.-12 p.m. DJ Suss One
12-1 p.m. DJ Red Alert
1-2 p.m. Tony Touch
2-3 p.m. DJ Kut
3-4 p.m. DJ Spinbad
4-5 p.m. DJ Yonny
5-6 p.m. DJ Kut
6-7 p.m. DJ Clue
7-8 p.m. DJ Spinbad
8-9 p.m. DJ Suss One
9-10 p.m. DJ Clue
10-11 p.m. Marley Marl
11-12 a.m. One Hour Carl Blaze Mix

Mixtape Vets Trade "Raid" War Stories, Look To Organize DJ Union

2007-01-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

The RIAA-fueled charges against Aphilliates members DJ Drama and DJ Don Cannon have left the mixtape community reeling, but their arrests are just the latest and most publicized. In this SOHH exclusive Marc Ferman and DJ Chuck T talk about their legal battles over mixtapes.
Miami native and current owner of hip-hop clothing site keepitclassic.com, Marc Ferman started selling mixtapes as early as 1993 and moved his business online to mixtape.com in 1998. Business was booming, until one day in November 2000.
"My office door opens, cops comes in, the RIAA comes in, the federal post office inspector comes in, they put me in handcuffs. They froze my bank accounts, they took my money, they confiscated everything. I was watching the news about Drama and it looked very familiar," Ferman told SOHH.
Like DJ's Drama and Cannon, Ferman was only jailed for one night before posting bail, but his legal nightmare would last for six months.
"My lawyer cost a fortune, all my money was taken. I was dealing [with] the labels at the time, they were sending us music to put on the mixtapes, no one backed me on that -- the mixtape DJ's -- I didn't rat them out, but I was still brushed off afterwards. No one really supports each anyone in this business. Once you get pinched you're on your own," Ferman said. "I was the first person in Florida to be charged with what I was charged for. I pleaded no contest, I have no criminal record; it's been expunged. I got one year probation, they kept all the money they seized and I can no longer sell mixtapes."
Two years ago DJ Chuck T was fined by South Carolina police after raids on bootleg operations turned up a number of his mixtapes.
"The RIAA never got involved in my situation. The Goose Creek city police came through, ran up in the spot, seized the CDs and charged us with fraud. In 2005 I was charged with 1 count of fraud for every illegal or pirated CD they found in my possession. Failure to disclose origin of the manufacturer, that's the actual law that they used to levy the fraud charges, that's one of the ways they define pirated CDs," Chuck T revealed.
"It's been a problem since the inception of mixtapes, but a lot of DJ's didn't take it seriously because mainly stores got hit. This is the first time a big DJ who is endorsed by all the record labels has been arrested. DJ's feel like if the stores get hit they'll rather just find another store than take a stand. It's a double-edged sword - we get the music from the labels and the permission from the labels and the record reps to put their labels music on our CDs, but until we get written permission it's not legal. It's a double standard," Chuck T said.
"All it takes is one person to make a complaint. I had a very successful company and within five minutes it was gone. It was hard to see myself shut down as all these other sites popped up, just sitting there watching it, wondering why I was busted and nobody else was," Ferman added
"This thing with DJ Drama was only a matter of time. A store that he sold to could've gotten busted- they could've had his information, phone numbers... Now he just got raided, they took his computers, with all the addresses and phone numbers he might have, the RIAA would have everything they would need to go after whoever they needed to," Ferman said.
DJ Chuck T is hoping to prevent future problems for DJs by organizing a union.
"A lot of the DJ's looked to me to start it, because I was one of the few to be hurt by the law, but we were having trouble finding big name DJs to stand behind it because a lot of them feel like they were above the law. This proves that nobody is safe - one of the key points in the union was getting mixtapes legalized, we know they'd have to be regulated, but we're cool with that. We also want to go about getting mixers and radio DJs fair wages and health benefits. We are still trying to get members for the DJ coalition and anyone that wants to sign up can email DJChuckT@aol.com"

Masta Ace Forms New Group

2007-01-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

EMC is a crew you may or may not have heard of. Masta Ace, Stricklin, Wordsworth and Punchline have created this group and they are now prepping their album release. Last year, Words spoke to us about this album and the preparation for it. Now, it seems they have gotten back in the lab and have some more news to share.

Stricklin has updated the group's Myspace with some news on the LP. For starters, the crew is already mixing the LP. It should be out later this year.

Although the group's made up with four critically acclaimed MC's, they have also enlisted some featured acts to help out on the album. Expect appearances from Sean Price. According to Strik, you can also expect Little Brother to appear on a track titled Traffic.
Production for the LP will come from usual suspects such as Ayatollah and Marco Polo.

DJ Drama, DJ Don Cannon Released From Jail

2007-01-18T11:17:00.000-08:00

It has confirmed that both DJ Drama and DJ Don Cannon have been released from the Fulton County Jail, where they were held overnight on Tuesday (January 16) on racketeering charges.
The two DJ's were freed on a $100,000 signature bond this afternoon (January 17).
They are set for a second appearance at the Fulton County Court on January 24.
The raid on the Aphillates Music Group’s offices in Atlanta were apparently the result of a partnership with a nationwide joint vice task force working to stop the sale of pirated music.
DJ Drama, born Tyree Simmons and Donald “Don” Cannon, were arrested on felony charges under the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
In a May 2006 report posted on the RIAA’s website, Atlanta was named one of 12 “Piracy ‘Hot Spot’ cities last year, along with Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Providence, San Diego and San Francisco.
The report stated that in 2007, the RIAA would “step up law enforcement training and commit additional investigative resources in all of the cities.”
Meanwhile members of the Mixtape and Internet communities continue to show their support for DJ Drama and Don Cannon, who have become champion for a much debated cause.
A petition supporting the DJ's has received over 200 signatures, since it was started around 11:00 am Wednesday morning.
Fans, fellow DJs, journalists, and even record label executives have all come forth to share their opinions and voice endorsement.

Nate Dogg Claims Suge Knight Owes $10 Million In Back Royalties

2007-01-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

Superstar R&B crooner Nathaniel "Nate Dogg" Hale is seeking a legal judgment preventing bankrupt Death Row Records founder Marion "Suge" Knight from discharging an alleged $10 million dollars in back royalties.
In documents released by Court TV's website TheSmokinggun.com, Nate Dogg, born Nathaniel Hale, claims that Knight was the owner and president of Death Row Records.
The complaint claims Knight's other companies, including Suge Music and Suge Publishing are not "separate legal entities from Suge, the individual, or Death Row and are not legal entities at all, and Suge and Death Row are the true identity behind these empty shell identities."
Using these companies, Knight is fraudulently using Death Row Records to acquire and "exploit valuable intellectual property rights" of Nate Dogg through making false statements as to the rapper's contractual status with Death Row.
Additionally, the complaint claims that Nate Dogg was not listed or named on the schedule filed by Knight in bankruptcy court and that Nate Dogg had no knowledge of the deadline a judge set in September of 2006, to file a claim against Knight'.
Nate Dogg claims that his recorded association with Knight began around 1993 (his debut was on Dr. Dre's The Chronic) until the present and that Knight has never accounted to, or paid Nate Dogg the amounts he was entitled for various hit records he released during his association with Death Row Records.
When Nate Dogg inquired about his royalties, he alleges that Knight responded with threats of physical violence, claimed that no profits were generated by Death Row and falsely stated that Nate Dogg would eventually be paid.
As a result Nate Dogg, who has contributed to over 60 chart singles, is seeking no less than $10 million dollars from Knight personally.
In the complaint, attorney's for the singer stated that Nate Dogg can't remember if he ever signed a contract with Knight, but if he did, Knight would have been solely responsible to for receiving, collecting and administering royalties. .
The filing also states that Death Row continuously refuses to provide an accounting of the amount of records sold that featured Nate Dogg.

MC Serch Preps 'Lost' Album

2007-01-18T11:04:00.000-08:00

Riding high off the buzz of VH1's hit show ego trip's (White) Rapper Show, MC Serch is planning to release a new LP titled M.any Y.oung L.ives A.go: The 1994 Sessions.
The release is a “lost” album featuring songs that were recorded in 1994 for Def Jam, but were never released commercially. The vintage collection of work will be features seven never before heard MC Serch tracks and three unreleased 3rd Bass cuts recorded in 2000.In the early 1990’s, MC Serch (born Michael Berrin) was a staple in the Hip-Hop community as a member of rap trio 3rd Bass.
In addition to two gold albums and a gold single with 3rd Bass, Serch launched his solo career with the release of his album Return of the Product in 1992.Since retiring from performing Serch has run a promotions company (Serch Light Productions), and hosted Serch In The AM on Detroit Urban Radio Station WJLB from 2003 until March 2006.Serch currently serves as the host of VH1’s reality show ego trip's (White) Rapper Show.
Based in South Bronx, the show features ten white rappers that compete with each other for the chance at winning a $100,000 grand prize.

Prodigy Preps Two New Albums With Koch

2007-01-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

Mobb Deep fans will get a double helping of music from one half of the veteran duo as Prodigy gears up for the release of two solo albums.
The first release, titled Return of the Mac, will re-team the Queens lyricist with producer The Alchemist. The beatmaker, who recently worked with Eminem on The Re-Up Mixtape, crafted beats for every song on the album.
Return of the Mac will serve as prelude to Prodigy's next project H.N.I.C.2, an effort in which the rapper vows to "turn it up hot."
Both albums will be released on Koch Records, the rapper added.
"I decided to ride with Koch Records cause I got a lot of sh*t to do and say, and I know Koch won't hold me back or censor my sh*t plus the entire company will push the CDs to the maximum because they truly love and respect my music," Prodigy said. "We're all very excited about the whole thing."
H.N.I.C.2 will be the follow up to Prodigy's gold debut release H.N.I.C., which spawned the hit single "Keep It Thoro."
The albums are the latest musical offerings from Prodigy, who has released a string up albums with his partner Havoc as part of Mobb Deep.
To date, group has sold more than 4 million records.
Plans are currently underway to film a video for "Stuck On You," the first single from Return of the Mac.
Those who can't wait for the clip, can watch videos for two other tracks from the album, "Mac 10 Handles," and "New York Sh*t."
Return of the Mac is scheduled to hit stores March 27, while H.N.I.C.2 is slated to drop later this year.
The following is a tentative tracklisting for Return of the Mac:
1. Intro
2. Return of the Mac
3.Mac 10 Handles
4.Raining Guns and Shanks
5.The Rotten Apple
6.Words From Majesty
7.Take It From The Top
8. Intermission
9. 7th Heaven
10. Bang On Em
11. Nickel and a Nail
12. Legends
13. Stop Fronting
14.Stuck On You

Prodigy (of Mobb Deep) Droppin' New Solo LP This Year

2007-01-17T10:54:00.001-08:00

2007 will finally bring us another Prodigy solo LP. Entitled, Return Of The Mac the solo venture will be produced entirely by The Alchemist and is slated to drop March 27th on Koch Records. In support of the album Prodigy plans to shoot 8 videos for the project. So far 2 have been leaked to YouTube. To view the video for "Mac 10 Handle" click here & for the video for "New York Shit" click here.

Tame One Droppin' New Mix CD

2007-01-17T10:53:00.000-08:00

2/12/07 will mark the day the brand new Tame One Mix CD, The Grudge is droppin. Tame has confirmed that the Mix will feature a majority of new music, and not just him rappin' over pre-released industry instrumentals. Production on the Mix is kept to mostly Jersey heads and features Shape, Mishap, Mr.Mone, Arkitekt and also features a rare exclusive freestyle cipher with Rah Digga & Redman from the now-defunct DJ Stretch Armstrong Hot 97 show over a classic EPMD beat. Right now it looks as though the CD will only be sold @ certain skate shop locales around Jersey, but holla at the Weatherman and say, "Sell Yo Shit @ UGHH.com". Oh yeah, the link to his MySpace is right here. In case you wanna know.

Jay-Z Accused of Using Dog Fur in Rocawear Clothing Line

2007-01-17T10:52:00.000-08:00

Jay-Z's Rocawear clothing line has been accused of using dog fur on the collar of one of its coats.
According to an investigation by the Humane Society of the United States, the "Hunter" jacket in the Rocawear line contains real fur from a raccoon dog, although it is advertised as fake fur. The Humane Society claims that the dog, which is indigenous to Asia, is skinned alive to obtain the fur for the coats.
The Brooklyn-born rapper has something in common with fellow hip-hop mogul Sean "P.Diddy" Combs, whose Sean John line was also accused of using fur from the same type of dog on their hooded snorkel jackets in a similar investigation by the Humane Society. Sean John removed the jackets from all Macy's retail stores as a result of the claim.
The "Hunter" jackets, which can be found on the company's site Rocawear.com, is still a featured item on the site as of Tuesday (January 16) and sells for $265. According to the Fur Products Labeling Act, retailers who advertise or sell a product that is falsely labeled is subject to having their merchandise seized, may face criminal charges and can be forced to pay fines of up to $5,000 per violation.

50 Cent Supports Jay-Z

2007-01-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

With the slack that Jay-Z’s comeback album, Kingdom Come, has received since it’s release in November. 50 Cent decided to lend his support to President Carter.
“ In Jay-Z’s case, he just ran into Jay-Z. The critics are comparing him to the old Jay-Z saying, ‘his stuff wasn’t as good as the older stuff, he looks too relaxed.’ I saw on a TV show recently, ‘he looks like he belongs in the office’ “ 50 said when speaking with MTV.
“They say all kinda things about him. This is them weighing what his new work is to his old work,” 50 said. “The Jay-Z record is a great record, the (critics) are gonna dog it. They are just gonna say, ‘He is not as good as he was’ You see what I’m sayin’?"
With the release of Fifty’s third album on its way, he notes that he’s been under the same pressure himself.
“My second album was the toughest. You are in competition with yourself,” he said. “It’s always harder. The title of my new album, ‘Before I Self Destruct’. Is a reflection of that pressure.”
He then went on to state that after you make your record about your environment and your upbringing (which is successful), people begin to ask what you’re gonna do next.
“What are you gonna do now? You are a role model. Are you gonna change your content?” 50 says of what he hears from critics and fans alike.
His response:
“…I’m gonna do something different….nobody can be me; better than me. That’s what the general public has bought into, 50 Cent.”
50 Cent’s third album, Before I Self Destruct, in stores this spring.

The Free DJ Drama & DJ Cannon Campaign Begins

2007-01-17T10:41:00.001-08:00

"You know you're hot when you got the Hip-Hop police on your ass," said one internet poster on DJ Don Cannon's myspace page. "FREE DRAMA & DON CANNON."
The Hip-Hop community has immediately responded to the office raid and arrest of DJ Don Cannon and DJ Drama of the Aphilliates, a collective of DJs based in Atlanta.
Yesterday, 17 people were apprehended from the company's offices in a raid where all off the mixtape CDs, computer and recording equipment were confiscated by the federal government and the RIAA.
Drama and Cannon, the most recognizable faces of Aphilliates Music Group, were the only people arrested and slapped with racketeering charges.
Now, the graphical image of DJ Drama emblazoned with "Free Drama & Cannon" has begun to spread across the Internet, through message boards and artist's music pages.
The arrests have raised questions about the validity of the charges, by fans and professionals.
"These guys weren't selling official barcoded albums, like the type you buy on 125th Street in Harlem, but should be buying from a legitimate retail store," said one music industry professional under the auspices of anonymity. "The artists were apart of the creation process on most - if not all of the Gangsta Grillz."
DJ Drama, who serves as T.I.'s DJ, has received a number of accolades for his ability to turn his mixtape CDs into wholly new works of art with the aid of rappers like Lil' Wayne, Bun B, Young Jeezy, 8Ball & MJG and a host of others.
The RIAA raids aren't a new phenomenon.
Days after mixtape staple Justo Faison died, the RIAA announced a series of raids that were executed in New York City.
"Retailers who are making money on the backs of musicians and record companies by selling pirated CD's should know that this is absolutely no way to conduct a business," said Brad Buckles of the RIAA to the New York Times in 2005.
Of the RIAA, one protester inquired as to the apparent conflict in raids like the Aphilliates and others that create Hip-Hop mix CDs.
"[DJ Drama and Cannon are] putting out mixtapes , creating a buzz for an artist and then the artist sells records and the major [label] makes the bucks, so what's wrong?"
A high ranking executive that is familiar with both DJ Drama and Don Cannon said the arrests of DJ's of their stature would have a chilling effect on the entire mixtape culture.
"Record labels have always utilized the important DJ's to help promote the records," the unnamed executive told AllHipHop.com. "The DJ's help promote the records. For the most part the records they put out are given to them by the labels. It's something that has to be taken into consideration. The mixtapes are done cooperatively, where the labels and the mixtape DJ's work together to break artists. It's a tough position. The RIAA and the corporate people feel a certain way."
Until the question is answered, supporters of DJ Drama and Don Cannon will continue to protest their incarceration.
Matthew Kilgo, who oversaw the RIAA's role in yesterday's raids of The Aphilliates office in Atlanta, was unable to comment due to a recently imposed gag order.

Diddy "Makes The Band" Again, Stars in TV's "Raisin"

2007-01-17T10:40:00.001-08:00

Sean “Diddy” Combs and MTV announced open call auditions for the mogul’s fourth season of Making the Band yesterday (Jan. 16), which will search for the newest superstar boy band.
Starting today (Jan 17.), music industry hopefuls will be able to audition in Los Angeles for the first round of cuts.
Open call auditions will also be held in Atlanta, Orlando, Chicago, Detroit, Houston and New York.
For the first-time since the show’s creation, fans who are not able to attend one of the open calls in select cities will be able to upload performance videos on makingtheband.mtv.com until January 27th.
Viewers will be given the opportunity to vote for their favorite online candidates, and the top three will be selected to perform live in front of Diddy on February 6.
The last season of Making The Band 3 ranked #1 in its time period among P12-34 versus cable competition and reached over 63 million total viewers in premieres and repeats.
During season 3, Diddy created the successful girl group Danity Kane, whose album debuted at number one on the Billboard charts.
Danity Kane is scheduled to go on tour with Christina Aguilera.
In related news, Diddy and fellow Broadway cast members of Lorainne Hansberry’s 1959 play A Raisin in the Sun will appear in the made-for-TV movie version airing on ABC next spring.
Combs and his Broadway cast members will perform in the TV-movie adaptation opposite original Broadway cast member Bill Nunn, as well as alongside stage veterans Ron Cephas Jones, Sean Patrick Thomas and John Stamos.
The 2004 Broadway revival was nominated for four Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Play.
Both Phylicia Rashad and Audra McDonald took home honors for their work. Notable actors such as Sanaa Lathan also appeared alongside Diddy in the play.
The televised play was originally scheduled to air in spring 2007.

Ruthless Records Co-Founder Jerry Heller Launches Label With Producer Johnny J

2007-01-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

Ruthless Records co-founder Jerry Heller is set to return to the music industry with the formation of his new record label, Streetlife/Klock Work Records.
The former NWA manager signed an agreement Tuesday (Jan. 16) with veteran producer Johnny "J" and Pablito Vasquez, who will act as a liason between the label's artistic and business endeavors, in addition to dealing with contracts for Heller and managing Streetlife Records.
"This is the label where corporate meets street," Heller told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "Our goal is to bring back economic integrity to the music business. The record industry was supposed to be a win-win situation between the artists and the labels. The way the business is structured now, however, many artists on major labels have to sell close to a million and a half units to recoup and break even. That is not what our label will be about. The music industry is supposed to be about everyone involved making money."
Heller's impact on West Coast Hip-Hop was cited by Johnny "J" as the reason behind his involvement.
"Every day I am heard on the radio throughout the country, and that has been consistent throughout the years," said Johnny J, who owns the production company Klock Work Entertainment and is best known for his groundbreaking work with Tupac Shakur. "I decided to partner with Jerry Heller, who is a major figure, responsible for the success of West Coast rap music," Johnny J continued. "The fire would not have been set off without Jerry providing the business acumen."
While observers may assume that Streetlife/Klock Work will specialize in rap, Vasquez points out that the label "will not be tied down to or limited to certain musical styles or genres.
"This is going to be way past the hoods," Vasquez added. "It is going to be about the streets, but we will release music and artists that will transcend both cultures and transcend neighborhoods," he explained. "We are going to be about where we came from, but we are not just limited to a hood mentality. Our minds and our music go way beyond that."
Streetlife/Klock Work is the latest venture for Heller, who recently released the book Ruthless: A Memoir.
The new company, though different, does share similarities to Ruthless, which Heller founded with Eric "Eazy E" Wright.
"Part of the Ruthless model was having great production, a strong business vision, and a deep connection with the streets," said Heller."The new label will focus on working with one album at a time, with more upcoming artists waiting in the wings. Most independent labels over-extend themselves, leading to failure."

Jacob The Jeweler Calls On Hip-Hop Friends For Defense

2007-01-17T10:37:00.000-08:00

Celebrity jeweler Jacob "The Jeweler" Arabov is lining up a star-studded list of defense witnesses who may testify during his upcoming trial for federal money laundering.
Documents submitted to a judge in Detroit revealed that rappers like Jay-Z, Sean "Diddy" Combs and singer Mariah Carey are some of the witnesses Arabov will call to the stand to testify about his good character and his business scruples.
Arabov was arrested in June of 2006 and charged with helping the Black Mafia Family (BMF) crew of drug dealers launder over $270 million in drug proceeds.
Authorities claim Arabov also failed to file the proper tax forms in a scheme to hide the source of BMF's drug money.
He was released on $100,000 bail and has pleaded not guilty to all of the charges.
Arabov's attorney Benjamin Brafman said that he hopes the money-laundering charge will be dismissed before his client ever takes the stand.
If the charge stands, he will seek to move the trial from Detroit to Arabov's home of New York.
"Trying to coordinate flying them into Detroit is a logistical nightmare that is beyond comprehension," Brafman told The New York Post.
Brafman denied that Arabov was in on the money laundering scheme in court papers.
"As far as he knew, BMF Entertainment, as well as its owners and its artists, were up-and-coming in hip-hop," Brafman wrote to the judge.
BMF was founded by brothers Terry and Demetrius "Meech" Flenory in the mid 1980's.
In October 2005, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested over 30 members BMF and seized over $3 million in money, assets, 2 ½ kilograms of cocaine and weapons.
Prior to the October raids, DEA officers had seized almost 650 kilograms of cocaine and $11 million in money and assets.

DJ Drama & DJ Don Cannon Arrested For "Bootlegging"

2007-01-17T06:40:00.000-08:00

DJ Drama and DJ Don Cannon were arrested on Tuesday night (January 16) after police raided their office.
Both 28 year-old DJ Drama (born Tyree Simmons) and 27 year-old DJ Cannon (born Donald Cannon) were arrested in a raid on the Gangsta Grillz office in downtown Atlanta last night and charged with the making and selling of illegal CD's. According to Fox 5 Atlanta, the arrests follow an investigation by the RIAA of Drama's "Gangsta Grillz" operation, which include the distribution of his signature mixtape series of the same name.
The Fulton County Sheriff's Department S.W.A.T. team along with metro law enforcement raided the office and recording studio on 147 Walker Street in Atlanta and arrested 17 people including both Drama and Cannon. Authorities reportedly seized at least 50,000 CD's from the location, which will first be put into evidence before being destroyed. Authorities also confiscated recording equipment, bank statements, cash and even vehicles.
The self-proclaimed "iPod King" recently cleaned up at Justo's 10th Annual Mixtape Awards, taking home four trophies including "Mixtape DJ of the Year." Drama, who is also known as the official DJ for T.I's Grand Hustle imprint, is currently working on an official "Gangsta Grillz" album due out on Grand Hustle/Atlantic. Last year Drama also signed a partnership deal with Asylum records for his Aphilliates Music Group.

Sean Price / Guilty Simpson + Sean Price / Agallah Full Lengths Confirmed

2007-01-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Sean Price's epic new LP, Jesus Price Superstar hasn't even hit store shelves yet, and people are already heralding it as a contender for album of the year. And while the buzz for the LP is huge right now, people have already begun to talk about P Body's future endeavors, namely a full-length collabo LP with Detroit up-and-comer Guilty Simpson. For those that ain't up on the man known as Guilty, refer to J Dilla's The Shining and Stones Throw's Chrome Children LPs. As if that wasn't exciting enough the bulk of the album is slated to be handled by Fat Beat's recording artist Black Milk and the unsigned heavyweight MoSS (most notably known for producing Ghostface's "Kilo" track offa Fishscale). Sean Price recently confirmed these rumors in an interview with thaFormula.com. Also on tap for Sean Price is a full length collaborative effort with Purple City producer/MC Agallah. Sean Price and Agallah have both confirmed that the LP is in the works. Some of you may remember the results of previous Agallah/Price combinations (Grand Theft Auto Soundtrack, "Telemundo", etc.), and if those were any indication of what's to come let's not be surprised if we see this, if not both, of these releases ending up on a major label sometime soon.

Timbs Do Dirt??

2007-01-16T09:56:00.001-08:00

Timbaland, as we all know, is pretty much as big as a producer can get. Many regard him as a musical genius and he very well may be, but is he also a thief? There is rampant internet speculation that Timbo stole the beat for Nelly Furtado's "Do It" from a Finnish musician/programming nerd named Janne Sunni. Sunni composed the music in 2000 at a Demoscene competition (chances are if you’re not a computer geek then you don't know what Demoscene is, but I learned about it here). There's a YouTube video that you can watch here that pretty much explains the whole situation. Decide for yourself whether Magoo's best bud is a thief.

Kweli Not Free

2007-01-16T09:54:00.000-08:00

Well, it was too good to be true. The Madlib / Talib LP is no longer available for a free download (at least legally). One can only assume that the Lib's realized they stand to make a decent dollar off the deal and have pulled it from all the official download sites. Hopefully you scooped up a copy while you could.

Stones Throw's Latest Podcast a Gem Amongst Gems

2007-01-16T09:53:00.002-08:00

The Stones Throw Podcast is synonymous with quality. With fifteen of them in the bag all seemingly better than the last, it's fitting that #16 has Egon, Wolf, and J Rocc paying tribute to the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. Piecing together songs by JB, songs sampled from JB and songs paying tribute to him, the trio concocted a masterful portrayal of Brown's unmatched legacy. J Rocc is no stranger to honoring the legend. His previous J.B. Mix CD sold out faster than we could stock it on the shelf. So if you're not up on the Stones Throw Podcasts, quickly educate yourself by heading over to StonesThrow.com. They're always free and always choice.

J Dilla's Rare Masterpiece

2007-01-16T09:53:00.001-08:00

"Before we get this started, let me explain it. It's Ruff Draft. For my real n*ggaz only. DJs that play that real live shit. You wanna bounce in your whip with that real live shit. Sound like it's straight from the ma'fuckin' cassette! Ruff Draft... Let's do it." These are the words echoed by the late producer on the beginning of J Dilla's very rare, vinyl only import solo EP, Ruff Draft. The EP, comprised of self-produced tracks make up one of the late J Dilla's least known works. Released on vinyl only in February 2003 by Dilla's own newly-formed Mummy Records and distributed by the German label Groove Attack, this sought-after release remains elusive and virtually unknown to the casual Dilla fan, until now. On March 20th Stones Throw Records plans on re-releasing Ruff Draft as a double-disc deluxe edition. The release will now feature several unreleased tracks, interludes, and instrumentals and will be re-mastered from the original audio tapes. The final tracklisting has just been released. Take a look:Track List:DISC 101 Intro02 Let's Take It Back03 Reckless Driving04 Nothing Like This05 The $06 Interlude07 Make'em NV08 Interlude09 Crushin' (Yeeeeaah!)10 Shouts11 Intro (Alt) * 12 Wild * 13 Take Notice feat. Guilty Simpson * 14 Shouts (Alt) * DISC 201-10 Ruff Draft Instrumentals **previously unreleased

Mos Def Marketing Genius?

2007-01-16T09:50:00.002-08:00

What's a good way to get people talking about your album? How about releasing it with no press, advertising, insert, or interviews. Then less than 2 weeks after it's initial release, state that the album wasn't ready to come out and have the record pulled from shelves instantly deeming it a 'collector's item'. Now the same CD no one wanted to pick up last week is instantly flying off store shelves. And everyone is talking about it. Shit you’re reading about it right now. Genius.Here's the "unofficial-official" story: Mos Def's album True Magic leaked to the internet late December. The album was slated to drop 1/9/07 but the folks at Geffen and the Mighty Mos agreed to drop the album in advance to try to ease the piracy. The album dropped very hasty and the label did not have time to properly promote it. At the last second, the label changed their mind and wanted the CDs back in their hands to re-package it and give the work its proper shine. Oops, all the copies had already shipped to the retail stores and they began selling them, including UGHH.UGHH's Geffen contacts hinted that Mos wanted to drop an album and have the focus be entirely on the music, which is why the album came in nothing but a clear plastic case. Some websites have reported that Mos Def wanted to save the trees. At the end of the day the reality is the label was probably horrified that their "It's All About The Music" marketing campaign failed miserably. With just over 11K units scanned the first week, K-Fed was giving Mos a run for his money. So now "True Magic" will be re-released this spring, with new songs and apparently full artwork and advertising.

Brick Records Reaches The 10 Year Mark

2007-01-16T09:50:00.001-08:00

Surviving a decade in this fickle independent hip hop climate is next to impossible these days. Brick did it pre-internet, pre-international distribution and pre-pro tools. Sounds crazy, yet true. The imprint would lead a resurgence in the Boston hip hop scene and would establish artists to carry on the torch initially lit by legendary acts like Gangstarr Posse, Edo G., The Almighty R.S.O, Top Choice Clique and TDS Mob. Brick Records launched the careers of every notable "new school" act to come out of the commonwealth in the last ten years, most importantly The Rebel Alliance, 7L & Esoteric, Mr. Lif, Insight, Skitzofreniks, Beyonder, D-Tension and currently Raydar Ellis and Termanology.Not limited to 'Murda' Mass, Brick expanded it's operation and it's wings releasing projects worldwide with a pre-mask wearing MF DOOM, Ras Kass, Scratch (The Roots), 9th Wonder (Little Brother), brooklyn rhyme legend and Wu Tang affiliate Shabazz The Disciple, Mood frontman Main Flow, Louis Logic and super producer Chops (Mountain Brothers). The label would pair up it's stable producers and artists with some of the best in the industry leading to collaborations with Slug (Atmosphere), Cormega, Talib Kweli, Black Thought, Z-Trip, Boot Camp Click, A.G., Jedi Mind Tricks and more right up to the current hit single from Termanology "Watch How It Go Down (Remix),", produced by legendary producer DJ Premier and featuring Lil Fame from M.O.P. and recent Jive signee/Kay Slay protegé Papoose.X: A Decade Of Independence is a celebration of an accomplishment; of a respected history and brand. Seamlessly mixed and blended by the newest and very talented additions to the Brick family Raydar Ellis and Will C. and with precise cuts and scratches by DJ Rugged One, "X" takes the listener on an interesting journey over two discs and 27 of the best Brick has to boast, starting with the first future retro sonics of God Complex's "Strontium 90" right up to the Term and Premo current classic "Watch How It Goes Down." Thorough and historic stuff. (Credit: Brick Records Press Release).

Label Owner Files $900 Million Lawsuit Against Condoleeza Rice For "Rap Profiling"

2007-01-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Jerome Almon, CEO of Detroit-based Murdercap Records, has filed a $900 million lawsuit in federal court against the government of Canada, the State Department, and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice for "wholesale profiling" of rappers and African-Americans.
For well over a decade, Almon and numerous rappers including 50 Cent, Eminem and DMX, have either been turned away or faced lengthy interrogations at Canadian borders. Almon's suit, which was prepared by the chief of Detroit's American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), alleges that Canada launched its attack on African Americans and rappers "in an effort to both blame them for the increased gang violence and gun murders in the cities of Toronto and Vancouver, as well as in retaliation for the alleged profiling of Canadian Muslims by the Bush administration."
The suit names 50, X, Secretary Rice, Olivia, Jay-Z, P. Diddy, Oprah Winfrey, Colin Powell, Toronto Mayor David Miller, Eminem and Spike Lee, among others, as witnesses.
Almon also alleges that "the State Department has in its possession secret internal Canadian investigative reports admitting that the country is worse at racial profiling than the US, yet, Secretary Rice has sided with the Canadian government against African Americans in what is destined to become 'The State Department's Katrina.'"
According to Almon, "the State Department hypocritically touts rap as the great American ambassador on its official web site, while selling out its top artists to a foreign government."
Last year, Canadian authorities sought to ban 50 Cent and other 'gangster' rappers from performing in the country . Almon claims those same authorities also drew up Bills C-254 and C-95, which would ban all U.S. rappers and their CDs out of Canada by categorizing hip-hop as hate speech.
Almon, who seeks to challenge the aforementioned bills, asserts that "confidential documents from the Canadian Human Rights Commission, the State Department, and members of the Canadian Parliament show a huge cover up and a blatant bribery attempt by the State Department and Canadian government during the 50 Cent Canadian tour debacle." Almon also alleges that Canada profiles U.S. rappers while protecting known terrorist such as the Khadr family, who are responsible for the killing and the planned killing of U.S. soldiers and civilians. He also claims Canada has a Rap Intelligence Unit that regularly trades information with the FBI.
"Hip-hop is a multi-billion dollar industry that has created millions of jobs in America, Canada, and worldwide. Not only does hip-hop drive the music business, but has moved fashion, movies, auto industry, and video games to an unprecedented level in sales," Almon explained to SOHH via a statement. "Canada rolls out the red carpet for artist like 50 Cent, Jay-Z, P.Diddy, DMX, Emimem, and The Blakkattakk when we are putting major cash into their economy,but then stabs us in the back when we come to make some bread doing shows.
"They let terrorist in,but seek to completely ban hip-hop [with Bill C-254] -- you tell me how this makes sense?" continued Almon. " It won't stand. We ain't goin' back to the back of the bus, never. The Canadian government offered me a resident's permit to live in Canada and a bag of money if I would just lay down for them and put on a snitch jacket and say somethin' against the other rappers with records. The day I put on a snitch jacket for them motherfuckers is the day they put me in a hole."
Almon has called out House Judiciary head John Conyers to hold hearings on the issue and has also requested for an official Canadian inquiry. He plans to make several surprise announcements concerning a boycott, his legal representation, and a travel advisory , via a press conference at the National Press Club and through the Web site www.kkkanada.com

Kanye Associate Consequence is G.O.O.D., Readies Debut

2007-01-16T09:47:00.000-08:00

After years of making a name for himself, Queens, NY rapper Consequence is finally set to drop his freshman effort, Don't Quit Your Day Job.
Cons, whose been featured on several tracks by A Tribe Called Quest and Kanye West, will release his debut on March 6 on West's G.O.O.D. Music imprint. The album is fueled by Cons' newest single, "Callin' Me" produced by Young Lord. The CD also includes old favorites like the Kanye-produced "Good, Bad & Ugly" and "Grammy Family." West will also be providing a majority of the beats on the CD.
"What I rhyme about is what I see around me," Consequence said in a statement. "I'm a result of the hood, my rhymes are a reflection of what I see."
In related news, Consequence recently worked with Talib Kweli and Madlib's on their joint project, Liberation. The album is currently available for download online for free.
Don't Quit Your Day Job hits shelves on March 6.

Mike Jones Preps Sophomore Set, Leaks First Single

2007-01-16T09:46:00.000-08:00

Mike Jones is currently gearing up for the release of his sophomore album titled The American Dream.
Set to hit stores this spring, the album's first single, "Mr. Jones," can be heard on the rapper's MySpace page. The track will appear in Jones' feature film debut of the same title, which is scheduled to come out shortly after the album.
As previously reported, the film will recount Jones' true life climb from relative obscurity to worldwide fame in the music business.
The American Dream hits shelves in April via Swishahouse/Asylum/Warner Bros. Records. At press time, no release dates for both aforementioned projects were issued.

Underground Emcees At 2007 Paid Dues

2007-01-16T09:44:00.000-08:00

Murs and Guerrilla Union put together one of underground Hip-Hop's most buzzed about festivals last year with Paid Dues. The fest, which showcased acts such as Felt, Living Legends, Aesop Rock, Blueprint and others, is returning this year.
According to Paid Dues' official MySpace page, the show will go on. Although only one act has been confirmed, it is expected that other acts will confirm their slots as the show date approaches.
Currently, only Felt has been announced as a confirmed act on the bill. The group, which consists of Murs (of Living Legends) and Slug (of Atmosphere) was the closing act at last year's event.
Unlike last year's show, which was held in Los Angeles, this year will see Paid Dues hitting The Orange Pavilion at the NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, CA. The event will be held March 24, but pre-sale tickets will be sold starting February 2.

Game Beefs With Everyone!

2007-01-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

Last week, one of the world's most well known soccer players signed a contract to play for Major League Soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy. This was said to be a move that would further appreciation for soccer in the US.
According to various reports, The Game recently reacted to this by claiming he would "kick his ass." Although he did admit Beckham was a "pretty good" player, he also claimed he would end the match quickly.
"I'd kick David Beckham's ass on any given day. I'd just pick the ball up and kick the s*** out of the stadium, game over," he reportedly said.
Never mind that picking the ball up is against Soccer rules...
The Game is also facing heat from the WWE. According to ProWrestling.com, the rapper recently claimed he would be willing to fight wrestler Triple H over the rights to the name The Game.
"The Game claims he has used the name longer; however Triple H has been associated with the name since the summer of 1999," the site recently noted.

Lil Jon, Chamillionaire, Rhymefest On Board for New Season of Crank Yankers

2007-01-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

The new season of MTV2’s Crank Yankers will offer the usual line up of characters, as well as a star-studded guest list featuring rappers Lil Jon and Chamillionaire.
The critically-acclaimed puppet prank call show premiered in 2002 on Comedy Central.
The show will make its debut on MTV2 with eight new episodes that include previous regulars like Jimmy Kimmel, Adam Carolla, Jim Florentine, Dave Chappelle, Dane Cook, Robert Smigel and Sarah Silverman.
In addition to Lil Jon and Chamillionaire, Good Charlotte, Andy Milonakis, Steve-O, Ryan Dunn and Nick Cannon will lend their voices to the puppets featured on the series.
“It was fun fu**ing with people on the phone,” Lil Jon told AllHipHop.com. "I'm always joking anyway and I have been a fan since day one. So I am glad they put me on the show.”
Crank Yankers will also get a new theme song, courtesy of rapper Rhymefest. The show premieres at 10 p.m. Feb. 9.
MTV2 will follow Crank Yankers with the new season of Celebrity Deathmatch.
The series --- which highlights battles between clay versions of musicians, actors, sports figures and movie stars --- will offer a new line up of fights for viewers.
Hip-Hop skirmishes include 50 Cent vs. The Game, Paul Wall vs. Mike Jones, Bow Wow vs. Lil Romeo and Lil Flip vs. Lil Wayne, as well as bouts featuring Owen Wilson vs. Evince Vaughn, Mischa Barton vs. Kristin Cavallari, Tobey Maguire vs. Jake Gyllenhaal, Hilary Duff vs. Lindsay Lohan, Jessica Simpson vs. Nick Lachey.
The new season of Celebrity Deathmatch kicks off at 10:30 p.m. Feb. 9.

Bay Area Rappers Team For Single To Help Struggling Schools

2007-01-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

A group of Bay Area rappers have banded together to create a single to generate revenue to donate to local schools, for educational materials and canceled programs.
"Stay in School" is presented by Beats By the Bay and a collective of rappers known as the Bay Area Rappers Care (B.A.R.C.) coalition.
The single features well known Bay Area rappers Keak Da Sneak, Mistah Fab, Federation and Jacka, while Erase E, Mugzi, Hoodstarz and Mac N AK also appear on the song, which was produced by Cholly J and Suga Kane.
B.A.R.C. was organized by Hip-Hop artist Kontac, who is also an East Palo Alto charter school teacher.
Kontac, born Stephen Ashford, said the project's mission was also to keep children from dropping out of school.
“I now have kids myself and even as a teacher, I see the problem first hand," Kontac said. "With the help of these concerned rappers and this music, we can set new goals and once again be optimistic about our educational goals.”
The profits from the single will be donated to eight schools in the region for books, physical education items and training tools.
For more information visit: www.myspace/beatsbythebay

Jim Jones Helps NYC Students, Tops The Charts

2007-01-16T09:36:00.000-08:00

Rapper Jim Jones is supporting youth advocacy by teaming up with Entertainers 4 Education Alliance (E4EA) to present the "Achieve Your Dreams Poetry Contest" encouraging at risk New York City youth to stay in school.
Six student finalists will read their poems to Jones about why its important for them to achieve their dreams, as Jones is achieving his.
The grand prize winner will be awarded a book stipend to pay for all of their books during their first year of college and a summer internship with Jim Jones.
"I am very excited about this event; we received hundreds of poem submissions from students from around the city and narrowed it down to the finalists," Jones said. "I just want students to know that they can be anything they want to be if they believe they can. I am happy that I can make a difference."
The event will also be a forum for students, parents, teachers, and community leaders to discuss ways to combat the extremely high drop out rate in New York City, where the graduation rate for students is a discouraging 38.9%, according to USA Today.
The "Achieve Your Dream" contest will take place January 24th at the Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem.
Invited guest include Busta Rhymes, Dr. Benjamins Chavis, Russell Simmons, Fredo Starr, Remy Ma, Charles Rangel, Ebro Darden and others.
In related news, Jones' single "We Fly High" from his latest album Hustler's P.O.M.E. (Product of My Environment) topped the R&R/Billboard Rap Chart, after a 19 week run.
The No. 1 success of "We Fly High" comes as the song is also the No. 1 Master Ringtone on the Billboard Hot RingMasters Chart for the third consecutive week.
"We Fly High" has also sold over 1.1 million Mastertones and has been certified platinum.

Daymond John/Fubu, Rappers Help Darfur, Skull, Three 6 Mafia

2007-01-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Daymond John, founder and CEO of pioneering urban clothing line FUBU is releasing a new book titled Display of Power: How FUBU Changed a World of Fashion, Branding and Lifestyle. The book details John's personal rise to the top of the fashion world behind the FUBU brand and what it takes to make it in the corporate world. O.J. Simpson, who is currently grabbing headlines as excerpts from his fictional confession If I Did It hit the press, is also chronicled in John's book. In an excerpt published in the New York Post, John recounts a bizarre incident in which Simpson crashed a video shoot. "Karrine Steffans was on the set dancing up a storm, and Ludacris had a chain with handcuffs on them, and O.J. started really getting into it, rubbing up against Karrine, putting the handcuff necklace on, really mugging it up for our cameras. He started talking about how he knew handcuffs really well. Wow! O.J. in our video with Karrine shaking her booty on him! What a sight!" Display of Power: How FUBU Changed a World of Fashion, Branding and Lifestyle hits stores March .
A group of rappers are joining together to launch the 20-city Save Darfur Tour to raise money and awareness to help the victims of an ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Sudan. The Save Darfur Tour launches on Jan. 21 in Chicago and ends in Feb. in Las Vegas. The tour will feature rappers C Rayz Walz, Abadawn, Blitz, Braille, Carnage, CasOne, Copywrite, Freestyle, Grayskul, Hasan Salaam, Improv Logic, JC and DLake, Ohmega Watts, PegLeg, Ricky Pharoe, Sleep and Rocket One, Vakill, Visionaries and Alexipharmic, the founder of the tour. "The tour will educate an incredibly receptive audience about the devastating state of Darfur through perhaps the most universally understood and empowering language of music," Alexipharmic said. All of the proceeds of the tour will be donated directly to The Save Darfur Coalition. For more information and tour dates visit: http://www.savedarfurtour.com/
In an effort to penetrate the United States market and attract new fans, Korean Reggae artist Skull, is set to release the first animated reggae ringtone titled "Boom, Di, Boom DI" Under the direction of Mariah Carey's brother Morgan Carey, YG Entertainment will launch Skull’s animated ringtone, which will be available for purchase January 17, 2007 on a variety of mobile phone carriers. The new animated ringtone will support the artist's first release entitled, "Boom DI, Boom DI" which was written and produced by Skull and Mystic. In related news, Skull has recently been approached to perform at the World Peace One concert, a charitable event on August 11, 2007, which will be broadcast from 12 countries to a projected 2.7 billion people worldwide.
Rap group Three 6 Mafia will debut their comedic reality series Adventures in HollyHood March 14 on MTV. The series features the rap group leaving their hometown of Memphis TN for Hollywood, CA, where they finish their new album Last 2 Walk and pursue various opportunities. The show also stars Big Treice, the group's personal assistant, Computer, the groups internet consultant and rapper Project Pat. Adventures in Hollyhood is executive produced by Three 6 Mafia, Ashton Kutcher, Rod Aissa and others.

G-Unit's Sha Money XL Launches One Stop Shop Producers Conference

2007-01-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

Sha Money XL's Money Management Group and G-Unit Records will present the first annual One Stop Shop producers conference, which will take place Feb. 10-11 in Phoenix, AZ.
The One Stop Shop, which takes place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Phoenix, is a two-day conference dedicated to producers.
The conference has confirmed a number of heavyweight Hip-Hop producers as panelists, including DJ Premier, Swizz Beats, The Alchemist, Fred Wreck, Hi-Tek, 9th Wonder, Havoc, Dangerous LLC, Sha Money XL and others.
"The conference is a dream come true," Sha Money XL told AllHip-Hop.com. "I've been to [conferences like] 'How Can I Be Down' and 'Jack the Rapper,' but never to a conference specialized for us producers. So I pulled out the check book, bought out a hotel, called all my Hip-Hop friends, from top notch producers to all the new ones that always ask me to help, because I knew I would be talking to all the guys who just don't know how to get themselves out there."
The event will feature workshops on A&R, publishing, the latest studio equipment, production tips and techniques and other educational panels aimed at pushing aspiring producers careers along.
Hopefuls will also be able to participate in the One Stop Shop Beat Battle for a contract with Money Management and play their production for the entire roster of G-Unit artists, which includes 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, Tony Yayo and others.
"Producers can ask questions to producers that made it, shop their tracks to A&R's from every label from G-Unit on down and meet all the top publishers in the game," Sha Money explained. "This is where if your game is tight and your music is right, you can come out this conference a winner and come up in the game."
The two-day business and networking event will also feature a Hip-Hop expo with local Phoenix vendors that specialize in tattoos, rims, clothing, custom haircuts and other specialty items."
The event is sponsored by Vitamin Water, iStandard Producers, XPOZ Magazine, AllHipHop.com, G-Unit Records, G-Unit Clothing and others.
According to Sha Money XL, he chose Phoenix because of the city's growing technology industry, as well as the areas stable weather.
"People can expect two hours about publishing, production, the art of sound with top engineers, meet every A&R and relax in the warm Arizona climate. I also bought out the whole kitchen and bar so they will be eating good and feeling good. The Hip-Hop game needs this!"
For more information or to register log on: http://www.moneymanagementxl.com/

Luke, Celebrity Rappers Double As Coaches During Youth Football Tournament

2007-01-11T10:19:00.001-08:00

Luther "Uncle Luke" Campbell continues to support local Miami youth via the National Youth Football League (NYFL), which the 2 Live Crew founder created to help guide troubled youths across the United States.
Campbell will present the 2nd Annual Battle of the Stars Football Tournament in Miami from Jan. 25-28 at Curtis Park Football Stadium in Miami, Florida.
Like last year's inaugural event, the 2nd Annual Battle of the Stars Football Tournament will featured teams coached by various celebrity rappers and athletes, including newcomers T.I., Rick Ross, Warren Sapp, Chad Johnson and Edgerrin James.
Coaches like Trick Daddy and Campbell himself will return to coach during the tournament for a second year.
The NYFL has partnered with The Orange Bowl Committee to help improve computers, playing fields and facilities of participating members schools.
A portion of the proceeds of the NYFL's Battle of the Stars will go to the NYFL, which disburse the funds to various school programs.

School District Bans Mac Dre Imagery On Clothing

2007-01-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

Clothing featuring the late Bay Area rapper Mac Dre has been banned in Riverbank, Calif. due to the slain rappers “glorification of drug use,” educational officials told the San Jose Mercury News.
Riverbank Unified School District board members voted unanimously yesterday (Jan. 9) to ban clothing bearing Mac Dre’s image or brand name at the district’s only high school, Riverbank High.
Mac Dre’s clothing was added to a long list of banned names and labels that the school district prohibits from the dress code.
School officials said Mac Dre's popularization of the word "thizz, " which is street slang for the drug ecstasy, was the reason the rapper's image was banned from the school.
According to Riverbank High’s principal Ken Geisick, none of the high school’s students have been disciplined for having possession of or using ecstasy in the last four years.
Geisick also told the Mercury News that images of other popular Bay-Area rappers are still permitted on clothing.
Administrators review the school’s dress code policy every year.
Other phrases and brands on the banned include "eight ball," "Joe Camel," "Nor Cal," "Rolling Hard," "Sol Beer," "south pole" "vato loco" and others.
Officials noted that many of these phrases and images are prohibited because they are affiliated with gangs.
Mac Dre was gunned down in Kansas City, Mo., in 2004 while returning to his hotel after a concert performance.

Benzino and Dave Mays Are Back Nationwide!

2007-01-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hip Hop Weekly has hit newsstands nationwide. The new publication, which was founded by Raymond “Benzino” Scott and Dave Mays, is being billed as the first glossy weekly publication for the Hip-Hop generation.
It’s currently being published bi-weekly and is available at supermarkets and other convenience stores. The Hip-Hop-centered tabloid covers celebrity news, music, film, TV, fashion and sports.
Hip Hop Weekly will being publishing on a weekly basis in June and has garnered celebrity supporters including Lil’ Kim, Wendy Williams, Foxy Brown, Cormega, Nick Cannon and Bone Crusher.
“The Hip-Hop generation has grown to almost 40 million strong in the US alone, yet our point of view is rarely represented by mainstream media,” Benzino said. “There’s a need for a magazine that can keep up with the faster pace of news and information flow in the multimedia, internet-driven society that we are living in today.”

Jay-Z's Cleats Land In Football Hall of Fame

2007-01-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

Jay-Z’s Reebok S. Carter cleats for men have reached monumental status, as a pair will be displayed in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
After winning 35-30 against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Dec. 31, Kansas City Chiefs Running Back Larry Johnson set a new NFL record for the most carries in a single season and rushed for 1,750 yards in consecutive seasons while wearing S.Carter cleats.
As a result, the athletic shoes will be placed in the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
The S. Carter Cleat, also worn by Pro Bowl safety Roy Williams of the Dallas Cowboys, was part of the line developed by Jay-Z’s deal with Reebok, which began in 2001.
The collection offers men’s, women’s and children’s athletic footwear, and was the first sports apparel partnership Reebok created with a non-athlete.
In related new, Hov and longtime girlfriend Beyonce are rumored to have been looking to purchase a home in the Dominican Republic together during the New Year’s holiday.
According to reports, they visited dress designer Oscar de la Renta’s a private estate called “Casa de Campo” in a private community.
The exclusive and upscale living community has its own police force and fire departments, along with 20 swimming pools and a number of secluded beaches.

Jim Jones Affiliate Max B Held On Bail For Murder & Robbery

2007-01-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

Dipset affiliate Max B was ordered held on $2 million bail yesterday (January 9) in his first court appearance in connection with a 2006 murder in Fort Lee, NJ.
As SOHH previously reported, Max (born Charly Wingate) was arrested in September under suspicion of masterminding the murder of a Florida man, 29-year-old David Taylor, during a botched robbery at a Fort Lee, NJ Holiday Inn.
According to The Star-Ledger, Prosecutor Catherine Fantuzzi told Judge Harry G. Carroll that Max B's girlfriend, erotic dancer Gina Marie Conway, told him of meeting two men that drove expensive cars and flashed large amounts of money, leading him to set up the robbery.
Fantuzzi also claimed yesterday at Bergen County Superior Court, that Max B recruited Kelvin Leerdam, a friend from New York, to rob Taylor and Allan "Jay" Plowden, who were staying in two separate rooms at the Holiday Inn.
Authorities claim Conway knocked on Plowden's door about 4 a.m. while Leerdam waited out of sight with a handgun. Plowden was then forced to telephone Taylor, who was shot in the head almost as soon as he entered the room.
The suspects purproieteley made off with cash and bound Plowden with duct tape. But they apparently missed about $30,000 in cash, which was found on Plowden after he broke free and tried to leave the hotel, authorities said.
Fantuzzi said cell phone calls immediately before and after the murder link the Dipset affiliate to Leerdam.
Gerald Saluti, Max B's attorney, who claims his client was not even in New Jersey at the time of the fatal shooting, called the evidence third-hand or "hearsay" and argued for a lower bail.
Conway is being held on murder, robbery and conspiracy charges in Bergen County.
Leerandam is also being held on the same charges but in New York, where an extradition hearing is pending. He is also charged with weapons possession.
Max B remains in custody at the Bergen County Jail. The Harlem bred rapper is presently signed to Jim Jones' Byrd Gang Records and has appeared on numerous Dipset songs.

Kanye Links With "Borat" Director For HBO Series

2007-01-10T11:18:00.000-08:00

Kanye West is headed to the small screen to star in his own HBO reality series.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, HBO is current developing a series with director Larry Charles, the man responsible for "Entourage," "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "Borat." The currently untitled show will center on the Chicago rapper/producer.

The reality show is just the tip of the iceberg for Kanyeezy, who has also signed on to star in a New Line Cinema feature film. The movie is said to reveal a portrait of America through the multiple perspectives of Kanye and an assortment of filmmakers, and will be driven by the producer's music.

In related news, West is currently facing a trademark infringement suit filed by motorcycle daredevil Evil Knievel in response to the rapper's "Touch the Sky" video.

Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff On Trial For Murder, Faces Death Penalty

2007-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

Notorious druglord Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff went to trial yesterday (January 9) for allegedly ordering the death of two of his rivals, Queens rapper E Money Bags and Troy Singleton.
According to the Associated Press, the federal case claims that 46-year-old McGriff paid $50,000 to have two men gunned down back in 2001. He is charged with ordering a hit on E Money Bags (born Eric Smith) and Singleton, his associate, two years after E Money Bags shot and killed one of McGriff's friends in a dispute in 1999.
As previously reported by SOHH, Emanuel "Dog" Mosley was arraigned on charges early last year that he recruited the men who carried out the hit, allegedly at McGriff's orders. If convicted of the charges, McGriff could possibly face the death penalty.
"The case against Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff is about a man with the power and the will to get people murdered," prosecutor Jason Jones told jurors during opening statements in a Brooklyn courtroom. "He wanted those men erased to settle an old score and to show that Supreme is not to be crossed."
Defense attorney David Ruhnke rebutted by claiming that after McGriff had served several years for a prior drug offense, he took the legitimate approach and fulfilled his dream of producing movies and films with childhood friend and Murder Inc. CEO Irv "Gotti" Lorenzo.
"This was an effort to make money legitimately, to change the direction of his life," Ruhnke stated.
But authorities claim that McGriff did no such thing and continued his drug operations in both New York and Baltimore, all while allegedly laundering more than $1 million dollars through Gotti's Murder Inc imprint. McGriff was originally indicted along with both Irv and his brother Chris "Gotti" Lorenzo on money laundering charges in 2005. The Lorenzo brothers were granted a separate trial from McGriff, and were later acquitted of the charges.
McGriff is believed by authorities to have started the notorious "Supreme Team," a powerful drug dealing crew that operated in NYC during the 1980's crack epidemic. Allegedly, the crew took in an estimated $200,000 per day during the height of its operations.

Apple Bites Into Cell Phone Biz, Introduces iPhone

2007-01-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

Apple Computers has recently unveiled their latest addition to the wildly popular iPod device, the iPhone.
The technology giant unveiled the highly anticipated new phone yesterday (January 9). According to the company's website, the device allows users to make calls, listen to music and surf the web.
The new phone will come along with a host of new features including an advanced web browser, support for maps, searching capabilities and email use not previously available from cellular phones. The phone will also be compatible with both MAC's and PC's.
The iPhone, which is available in a 4 GB model for $499 or an 8 GB for $599, won't be available in the United States until June 2007. It comes to Europe in late 2007 and Asia in 2008.

Grandmaster Flash Inducted Into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame

2007-01-08T10:46:00.000-08:00

Grandmaster Flash &The Furious Five are slated to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at New York's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel on March 12.
The pioneer rap group was nominated back in 2004, the first rap act to make it on the ballot, and made it as semi-finalists that year. This year's class, which also includes rock outfits like R.E.M., Van Halen, Patti Smith and the Ronettes, had to have released their first single by 1981 to be eligible for induction.
The ceremony will also honor Ahmet Ertegun, Atlantic Records' co-founder who also served as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's chairman. In related news, Flash was recently honored with the "I Am An Icon" Award at the BET Hip-Hop Awards.
"To get an award for my technological ability means a whole lot more than anything else I've accomplished in my life," Flash shared during his acceptance speech.

"Lip Service" For Shade 45 & Gza, Angela Yee

2007-01-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

After serving as sassy co-hostess to Cipha Sounds' Sirius Satellite morning program, Brooklyn-born chatterbox Angela Yee is getting her own show on Shade 45, making her a Player to Watch in 2007.
Despite harboring longtime aspirations to write, when Angela Yee graduated from Wesleyan University she opted for the music industry, quickly becoming an assistant to the CEO of the Wu-Tang Corporation. That experience afforded Yee the opportunity to travel across the country and learn the ins and outs of the music business, while also forging valuable business connections.
"It was fun going on the road, but really exhausting. I'm glad I got to do it while I was younger, but now I want to be a little more stable. Plus I love doing interviews, letting my personality come through, [and] my days end at 12," Angela told SOHH.
After leaving her position at Wu-Tang, Yee continued working with GZA, managing his solo career, while also taking on roles in marketing and consulting. While she lacked radio experience, when the opportunity arose to audition for a role with Shade 45, Angela knew she could get the job done.
"I just had to try it," Yee said. "I've always been a talkative person, ever since I was young. I know a lot of people. Everybody calls me up about advice. I'm a big gossip, but not in a malicious way. I think it's a combination of having connections and knowing people and having a lot of different kinds of knowledge."
Still, Yee admits that as a woman without any previous radio airtime, winning over some proved to initially be a challenge.
"When I first started at work, they definitely were like 'How did she get this job?' My bosses even told me that's what they were thinking. When you're a woman, it's like 'Who did she have to sleep with to get this?'" Yee said. "But I have a lot of experience in the entertainment industry, I work really hard, I'm never late. I come to work early every day. If I wasn't taking my job seriously I could understand it. I've proven myself though, I worked hard and I'm definitely a whole lot better than I was when I first started."
While her 8 a.m.-12 p.m. work hours might seem enviable, Yee's responsibilities often begin hours before show time and extend long after she and Cipha are off the air. Each morning Yee rises at 6 to make sure she's prepared with the day's news and rumor report. She's also diligent when researching show guests, in order to make visitors feel comfortable while enduring her and Cipha's rigorous teasing.
"I find that if you know stuff about people they will be more comfortable answering anything that you want to talk about. They'll feel like, 'This person respects what I'm here for and knows what I've done and I'm about so they can ask me what they want to because they're not disrespecting me.'"
Even with all the preparation, there's always an occasional guest that can't take being the butt of Angie and Cipha's jokes.
"There's definitely been some people that have been mad at us afterward. We joke around a lot on our show. That's the whole theme, but we've had people just stop talking and walk out," Yee admits.

Busta Rhymes' Back Door Action Leaves NYPD Sergeant In Trouble

2007-01-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

An unidentified New York City police sergeant is being investigated by the department's Internal Affairs Bureau after recently helping Busta Rhymes leave a Manhattan courtroom via a rear exit.
As SOHH previously reported, Rhymes (whose real name is Trevor Smith) was arraigned at a Manhattan Criminal Court Thursday (January 4) on an assault charge after being arrested following a complaint claiming the rapper attacked one of his driver's over a financial dispute.
According to New York's Daily News, Steven Morello, a spokesman for the Corrections Department, has confirmed that a female sergeant escorted Rhymes to a back exit, presumably to escape notice from the press. After letting Rhymes leave through the rear door, which is also a driveway for Manhattan's infamous Tombs holding cell, the sergeant put Rhymes on a bus that left him blocks away from the courthouse.
Deputy Police Commissioner Paul Browne told the Daily News that Internal Affairs is now looking into whether the sergeant gave Rhymes preferential treatment.
WhileRhymes was probably seeking to avoid media attention leaving the courtroom, all defendants, regardless of their celebrity, must leave the courthouse from public exits after posting bail. Sean "Diddy" Combs, Foxy Brown, Jay-Z and Russell Crowe have all been unable to escape public scrutiny after exiting the court.

Sony BMG Sued, Accused Of Racial Discrimination

2007-01-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

A federal agency has revealed that Sony BMG Music Entertainment, home to Columbia and Jive Records, intentionally laid off its black employees from a New York City sales office while keeping its white employees.
According to the New York Post, an October 2006 ruling by the New York office of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) asserts that Sony "overwhelmingly" targeted black employees after a merger and restructuring in the summer of 2004.
The EEOC found that six black employees of the aforementioned Manhattan office received pink slips, including three who accepted a severance package and three who were axed "involuntarily." The only black worker to survive was a mail clerk. None of the company's eight white employees were released.
The EEOC's ruling has given Tamieka Blair, a former field marketing rep, the right to sue Sony BMG claiming she "was the victim of race discrimination."
Blair told The Post she initially accepted her layoff after a boss told her "it was just a numbers game," but when the ousted workers called each other, "we realized it was all the black people," she explained.
Sony BMG insists it based its layoff decisions on job performance but the EEOC claims the company had "no documented procedure for determining who the best players were," and "lacked performance standards."
Mitchell Carlinsky, Blair's lawyer, divulged that his client's suit, which aims to hold Sony accountable, will be filed this week in Brooklyn federal court.

50 Cent Slings Rubbers, Disses Ludacris

2007-01-08T10:40:00.001-08:00

50 Cent recently revealed to the New York Post that he has plans to release his own brand of condoms.
The Queens, NY rapper, who launched his G-Unit Book imprint via a book signing yesterday (January 4), hopes his condom venture will promote safe sex effectively and plans to donate a part of the proceeds to HIV awareness.
During Thursday's signing, 50 introduced a series of books which included The Ski Mask Way, Death Before Dishonor and Baby Brother.
The G-Unit honcho also has plans to make all the books into films. A screenplay for The Ski Mask Way has already been written and the movie will be shot in the summer.
"The novels are the harsh realities in certain situations," 50 explained toThe Post. "And the actual honest content in the music and the books are a spin-off of that reality. That's what hip-hop about them is. In The Ski Mask Way particularly, there's a character named Seven that's based on me. And there's a portion where he's incarcerated and has to make decisions about his life and how things spin out of control. I've been in a similar space, but I was able to hold on and not spin out of control."
50 also divulged that he is writing a book titled 50 Laws of Power with author Robert Greene. The book will be an urban take of Greene's 48 Laws of Power.
In related news, 50 recently appeared on Howard Stern's Sirius Satellite Radio Show and blasted Ludacris for not defending himself when he appeared on Oprah Winfrey's talk show.
"What's her name? Ludacris, he spent his time on the show in a fetal position," 50 scoffed.
50 has been taking shots at Winfrey for criticizing hip-hop artists and not inviting them to her show. In a recent interview with Elle Magazine, he accused Winfrey of "being black on the outside, but white on the inside," because she only deals with issues affecting middle aged white American women.

Dr. Dre's New Protege'

2007-01-08T10:38:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that Aftermath Entertainment's most anticipated album will come from Dr. Dre. However, the buzz has been building for a different artist on the Aftermath roster, as well. Bishop Lamont has been hitting the lab, along with Dre, in preparation for his album The Reformation.

According to statements from Aftermath representatives via Lamont's official MySpace page, the album will be released before Detox.

Reports also indicate that Bishop will soon be joined in the lab by none other than Chris Martin. The Coldplay lead singer also appeared on Jay-Z's most recent effort Kingdome Come. Few guest stars have been confirmed as of press time, but the statement also indicates that 50 Cent and Eminem also have studio sessions planned.

Production from the album is slated to be provided by a slew of well known beatsmiths. Names of possible producers include Dr. Dre, RZA, DJ Premier, Pete Rock and Scott Storch among others.

The Reformation is slated to drop this Summer and Detox is expected to follow it up in the Fall

Pharoahe Monch Addresses Violence in Internet-Only Video

2007-01-08T10:36:00.000-08:00

Rapper Pharoahe Monch is attempting to shed light on the topic of gun violence with the video for his new single "Gun Draws."
The complete version of the clip, which has been deemed too graphic for regular video outlets, debuted today (Jan. 3) on AllHipHop.com.
Monch, who uses the song to examine what he feels is "the desensitization we currently have towards senseless violence," expresses his views from the perspective of a bullet.
"As a creative writer, I like to ask questions. What would a bullet say if it had a voice to speak its mind?," said the Queens lyricist, who refused to edit his video down for the mainstream. "It's challenging to write from different perspectives, especially if it's an object that has the power to kill. This is my effort to provoke and awaken discussion about violence, whether perpetrated by or committed against us."
"Gun Draws" is in the same vein as "Stray Bullet," a classic single Monch recorded as a member of Hip-Hop group Organized Konfusion.
The track is taken from the rapper's forthcoming SRC/Universal Motown album Desire, which is due in stores this spring.
Fans who can't wait for the release can listen to Monch's latest mixtape Awakening, which is available now.

Snoop Dogg, Snoop Youth Football League Accused Of Breaching Contract

2007-01-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

Rapper Snoop Dogg has been hit with a $250,00 lawsuit, claiming the rapper's Snoop Youth Football League Foundation (SYFL) made a deal with Natural Resources Media & Technology Group to shoot a reality series, despite having a similar, preexisting deal with 20th Century Fox.
The lawsuit, which was filed in New York Supreme Court last week, claims that Natural Resources inked a deal with the SYFL, granting them exclusive rights over footage of the team for pay-per-view, cable and DVD/home video distribution, in exchange for a $100,000 production budget and a share of revenue.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, 20th Century Fox became aware of the second deal and sent a letter to Natural Resources Media and other companies involved in the deal, which included TV One, Strange Fruit Film and TV and Axcess Sports & Entertainment.
20th Century Fox is developing a similar film with Snoop Dogg, titled Coach Snoop with screenwriters Mark Gibson and Philip Halprin (Snow Dogs, The Wild).
Representatives for Fox warned the companies involved that a large investment had been made into Coach Snoop and that any other television project would violate Fox's previously granted rights.
The lawsuit claims Natural Resources was going to film footage of SYFL players leading up the the "Snooperbowl," the SYFL's annual championship for its 9-12 year-old players.
Representatives for Snoop Dogg of the SYFL were not available for comment as of press time.

Paul Wall Creates Custom Vehicle Grills and Wheels

2007-01-08T10:34:00.000-08:00

Rapper Paul Wall is taking his penchant for making grills to the next level.
The Houston rapper has teamed with Zenetti, a global trendsetter in designer automotive accessories, to create a signature line of vehicle grills and wheels encrusted with cubic zirconium stones.
The items will be available for coupes, SUVs, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnums, Chargers and Cadillac Escalades.
"The front end grills will be iced out with crystals, and they will be compatible with Chargers, 300M's, Magnums, and Escalades," Paul Wall told AllHipHop.com. "The wheels are called the Masquerade. They will have crystallized iced out plates that cover the chrome base. One of the best things about the wheels is that the face plates will be removable so that you can ride on chrome or skate on 'ice'!"
Noted for its sophisticated styling and cutting edge concepts, Zenetti specializes in custom wheels for luxury sedans, sports cars and SUVs as well as body styling kits and vehicle grills
Like the grills, the rims will be available for coupes, SUVs, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnums, Chargers and Cadillac Escalades. Size will range from 19 to 26 inches.
The Zennetti alliance comes on the heels of Wall's recent Grammy nomination for Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Grillz," with Nelly, Ali and Gipp.
The rapper, who joined filmmaker Raquel Cepeda this past summer on a trip to Freetown, Sierra Leone with a contingency from the United Nations and VH1 to raise awareness of conflict diamonds, will donate a portion of the profits from the sales of the grills to humanitarian efforts in Sierra Leone and other war impoverished countries affected by the diamond trade.
Paul Wall hopes the effort will help the damage caused in part by the illicit smuggling and mining of diamonds.
The rapper's experience will be captured in the documentary, Bling: A Planet Rock, which will hit theaters in early 2007.
The grills and wheels as well as the documentary are slated to be released the first quarter of this year.

Remy, Shawnna, Jacki-O Form New Female Rap Group

2007-01-08T10:33:00.001-08:00

A new female super-group is emerging, as Bronx, New York rapper Remy Martin, Chicago, Illinois rapper Shawnna and Miami, Florida rapper Jacki-O have teamed to create an all-female rap collective, that will release an album this Spring.
Rumors about the group's existence has surfaced for weeks and sources have confirmed with AllHipHop.com that the three women are recording an untitled album together.
"They have been recording tracks over the past month, Jacki-O has been in New York, Shawnna and Remy have been in Miami," a source told AllHipHop.com. "The album is going to define all three of them and the material is going to speak for itself."
While rumors reported the trio's name to be Head B**ches In Charge, sources stated that the females have not decided on a name for the new group.
The unnamed rap group will have a pro-female attitude, while their album will feature cameo appearances by women only.
While the females have not found a recording home for their project, an official announcement is expected once contractual issues for each group member are resolved.
Remy Ma is an artist signed with SRC/Universal. Her 2006 album There's Something About Remy produced the hit singles "Whuteva" and "Conceited."
Shawnna is a member of Ludacris' Disturbing Tha Peace. She was featured on Ludacris' 2003 hit single "Stand Up." In 2006, Shawnna released her sophomore album Block Music, which produced her biggest hit to date, "Gettin' Some."
Jacki-O was signed to Miami-based label Poe Boy Entertainment and her best known single is "Nookie," taken from her 2004 album, Poe Little Rich Girl.

Jay-Z, GM Team For 'Jay-Z Blue' Custom Color

2007-01-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

Rap superstar Jay-Z is branching into the automotive world, as the Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam CEO/President has forged an alliance with automobile manufacturing giant, General Motors (GM).
The announcement came during media previews for the North American International Auto Show yesterday (Jan. 6), when Jay-Z emerged from a GMC Yukon Denali SUV on stage and announced a new color for the SUV called "Jay-Z Blue."
Fans of the rapper recognize the name of the new color from his remix collaboration with Young Jeezy titled "Go Crazy" where the rapper quips "Attract money my worst color is light green/my favorite hue is Jay-Z blue...'"
Jay-Z forged an alliance with GM two years ago and started working with the company's global color studio to create the new reflective hue for the Denali.
GM hopes the alliance with Jay-Z will boost the company's sluggish sales and increase competition with Toyota.
The Japanese auto manufacturer is expected to top GM as the world's No. 1 car maker this year.
The North American International Auto Show Saturday opens to the public from Jan. 13 - Jan. 21, 2007

Arrest Made In Connection to Murder Outside Sean Price Show

2007-01-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember the UGHH.com sponsored Sean Price // Special Teamz Canadian tour that took place this past November. Well, what many of you did not know was that there was a murder that took place after one of the shows. Sean Price and the members of Special Teamz, as well as UGHH Staff were interviewed for hours in Hamilton, Ontario Canada regarding the homicide. Well, I honestly thought the police would never catch their suspect, but look what I recently discovered on the Reuters news wire; “A video posted on the ultra-popular Web site YouTube has helped Canadian police find a man they believe responsible for a murder. Police in the Southern Ontario city of Hamilton said on Thursday that they uploaded a one-minute, 12-second clip from a surveillance tape onto the video-sharing YouTube site. The video, which showed suspects arriving at a local nightclub for a Sean Price hip-hop concert, garnered media attention and was viewed more than 30,000 times."This is the first time Hamilton police have utilized video web posting in an investigation, and to the best of its knowledge, the first time that law enforcement has ever used it as a direct investigative tool," Staff Sgt. Jorge Lasso told a news conference. George Gallow, 24, of Hamilton, who is seen in the clip wearing a baseball cap with the word "JOKER" on the front, turned himself into police on Tuesday and has been charged with second degree murder and attempted murder. Gallow is accused of stabbing Ryan Milner, 22, and his friend, whom police did not name, in a parking lot after the November concert. Police said Milner died shortly after being stabbed in the chest. His friend is still recovering."(There is) little doubt that the extra media generated by the use of YouTube contributed to the fact that this man turned himself in," Lasso said.Police said they turned to YouTube due to its popularity with young people. Most of the concert-goers were in their late teens or early 20s.”

DJ JayCeeOh and On & On putting the finishing touches on UGHHxclusive Volume 2!

2007-01-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

2006 brought about JayCeeOh’s first edition of the UGHHxclusive Mix CD series. The Mix CD featured 28 tracks of exclusives, pre-releases, freestyles, all signed off on with JayCeeOh’s award winning cuts and blends. With over 10K copies officially pressed of volume one we never imagined that less than two months after it’s release we would have completely exhausted our supply. Well we’re bootlegging our own shit right now, so you can still get a copy when you place an order on UGHH. Right now you need to gas yourself for UGHHxclusive vol. 2 dropping early 2007. This time JayCeeOh isn’t going at it alone, he’s brought along the other half of the duo known as The Masters, namely- the super rockin’ DJ On & On. While the tracklisting is tentative the dopeness is not. Take a look at some of the artists that have already submitted exclusive tracks to the mix.
Exposition & Last Emperor
Rock (of Heltah Skeltah) & Rugged Intellect
Sean Price
Ruste Juxx
Large Pro & Marco Polo
Roc C & MED
Special Teamz
Earatik Statik feat Sean Price
6th SenseBuckshot & Sadat X
Krumbsnatcha
Golden Brown Likwit Junkies
Virtuoso & RA the Ruggedman
Jake The SnakeInsight
Theory Hazit Sabac
Brooklyn Academy Shylow & Rock Marciano

Talib Kweli & Madlib Get "Liberated," Release Free Internet Album

2007-01-02T10:45:00.000-08:00

Liberation, a collaborative album between Brooklyn emcee Talib Kweli and California beatmaker Madlib is currently available for free online.
The album, which features guest appearances from Consequence, Strong Arm Steady and Candice Anderson, can be downloaded in its entirety at Rappcats.com.
As SOHH previously reported, Talib is also currently gearing up for the release of his fourth solo album titled Ear Drum. The album reportedly features guest spots by Jean Grae, Norah Jones, Strong Arm Steady, UGK, Kanye West and production by DJ Hi-Tek, Kwame and Rick Rubin, among others.
Ear Drum is slated to hit stores this year. A release date for the album has yet to be determined.

SOHH Exclusive: Royce Da 5' 9" Addresses Nas Signing, "For Him To Say I Was Nice Meant A Lot"

2007-01-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

Royce Da 5'9" recently caught up with SOHH to discuss working with DJ Premier, writing for Diddy and possibly signing with Nas.
After nearly a two-year break, Royce has enlisted DJ Premier to executive produce his next LP. Nottz and Carlos "Six July" Broady are also expected to produce on the CD.
"I'm working with Preme, but he's not doing the whole album," Royce told SOHH. "He's doing like six songs, but he's executive producing the album. He's like hands on with every song that I do. He likes to be there when I cut the vocals and everything. I actually got like about five [records] done with Preme. We'll probably do 10 to 15 records before we pick the best 6."
Besides working his own project, Royce took time to do a little ghost writing last year. While many were reported to have written for Diddy's Press Play album, Royce was quietly credited for penning "Tell Me," Puff's second single featuring Christina Aguilera.
"I didn't go around doing a lot of bragging about it," Royce explained. "It was in the early stages of me working with Puff and I was still building a relationship. The last thing I wanna do is run out and say, 'Oh, I wrote this for Diddy.' I just didn't wanna say too much. I was proud of myself for being in that position, for working with a dude of that caliber, but I also wanted to keep it real respectful. I just ran a real tight ship with working with him just to give him my respect. So I didn't do a lot of publicizing."
Diddy not only recognized Royce's pen, the mogul also expressed interest in signing the lyricist to Bad Boy. Recently, reports also began spreading that Nas was interested in inking Royce to his Jones Experience imprint. Royce's camp is hopeful that the two parties could meet soon and possibly involve God's Son in the ongoing project.
"I'm an emcee and I'm a fan first before anything," Royce offered. "When I heard that there was an interest and he [Nas] thought I was nice ...you know that affected me moreso than him saying he wanna sign me. People say they wanna sign me all the time. But for him to say I was nice. That shit meant a lot to me."
Royce was sentenced to one year in prison for reportedly violating back in September. Though rumors say he's been released from the Oakland County Jail in Detroit, sources from Royce's camp denied the rumors.

Busta Rhymes' Former Driver: 'I Don't Know What Set Him Off'

2007-01-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

More details have emerged in an alleged incident involving Busta Rhymes and the assault of one of his drivers, who was beaten when he approached the rapper about collecting back pay.
Rhymes' former driver Eddie Hatchett, 39, filed a complaint against Busta Rhymes, born Trevor Smith, on Dec. 26.
Hatchett claims that he went to Rhymes' office near City hall to collect 19-days worth of unpaid invoices for driving the rapper. Hatchett told The New York Post that his discussion with Busta Rhymes grew into a heated argument.
"I don't know what set him off," Hatchett said. "I told him, 'I ain't scared of you. That's when his bodyguards grabbed me, and he punched and kicked me."
Hatchett, who drove Rhymes' Rolls Royce, Bentley and bulletproof GMC SUV, claimed that he was seeking the back pay because he couldn't afford a Christmas gift for his daughter.
"I didn't speak to my daughter for Christmas. I was embarrassed," he said.
He also accused Rhymes of owing several other bodyguards who have since been fired.
"For me to come out of my community like that and work for him days in a row, nights, not seeing my family, and not getting paid, and for him to act like that - I'll never put myself in that position again."
Hatchett said he had driven rappers N.O.R.E. and Foxy Brown without incident.
At press time, Busta Rhymes was out of the country, but he is expected to surrender to authorities for questioning today (Jan. 2).
Busta Rhymes is also facing assault charges for an August 2005 incident, in which his bodyguards allegedly beat a man for spitting on his Maybach as the luxury vehicle was passing by in Mid-town Manhattan.
Police still seek to question the rapper about his knowledge of a shooting in Brooklyn last February, that took the life of his bodyguard, 29-year-old Israel Ramirez.

Busta Rhymes Accused Of Assault, Police Plan Charges Against Rapper

2007-01-02T10:30:00.000-08:00

Police are planning to charge Hip-Hop star Busta Rhymes with assault charges, after the rapper allegedly assaulted a driver who was seeking back pay, the day after Christmas (Dec. 26).
Busta Rhymes, born Trevor Smith, allegedly assaulted Eddie Hatchett, 39, in Rhymes' office on W. Broadway in Manhattan, when Hatchett attempted to collect money Rhymes allegedly owed him.
The rapper, 34, allegedly struck Hatchett multiple times, causing a laceration on the man's face.
The following day (Dec. 27), Hatchett reported the incident to police.
According to The New York Post, police will charge Busta with a misdemeanor charge of third-degree assault, when he reenters the United States tomorrow (Jan. 2).
Rhymes' lawyer Robert Kalina has agreed that Rhymes will surrender to authorities for questioning about the assault, when he returns from his travels abroad.
"I'm just an average Joe trying to support my family," Hatchett said.
The charges are the latest for Busta Rhymes, who is already facing assault charges and harassment for allegedly punching and kicking a man who spit on his Maybach as the rapper's entourage drove by in midtown Manhattan in August of 2006.
The rapper declined a plea bargain that would have allowed him to serve six months for the assault.
In Feb. 2005, Rhymes' bodyguard was shot and killed on the video set for his "Touch It (Remix)" single, taken from his critically acclaimed album The Big Bang.
Police are still seeking to question Rhymes about his knowledge of the shooting and murder, but police say the rapper refuses to cooperate.