THE DAILY URBAN NEWS PAGE!

GRAND THEFT AUTO IV SMASHES ALL RECORDS! (15th/May/08)

Grand Theft Auto IV has sold 3.6 million copies and raked in US$310 million in its first day of release! GTA IV claimed both the Guinness World Records for highest grossing video game in 24 hours and the highest revenue generated by an entertainment product in 24 hours! This has established GTA IV as the biggest entertainment release of all time. The record breaking does not stop there, the success of the game so far has sent Hip-Hop DJ Green Lantern into the history books as well, because the DJ has his own programmed station in the game, which is accessible anytime a user steals a car and turns the radio on, which technically could make him the most listened to hip-hop DJ! (LOL!) Rockstar Entertainment (the makers of the game) is now one of the biggest players in the gaming industry ever! RnBandHIPHOPworld.com will go on record to say "GTA IV is greatest game ever!"

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CIARA WILL RELEASE A 3 DISC ALBUM IN SEPTEMBER! (14th/May/08)

Singer Ciara will release her third album, "Fantasy Ride" in September via Jive Records. The new set will be spread across three separately packaged discs, bundled together, each with five to six songs with a different theme! The first disc will be called "Groove City" and will contain sensual songs, while the second disc is called "Crunktown" which will have that crunk feel and finally the third disc "Kingdom of Dance" will have an up-tempo house feel. An official single from "Fantasy Ride" will drop in June, according to Jive.

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REMY MA SENTENCED TO 8 YEARS IN PRISON! (13th/May/08)

Remy Ma appeared in Court today and received a sentence of 8 years in prison! The rapper burst into tears upon hearing the sentence, which was delivered by Judge Rena Uviller in the Manhattan Supreme Court . Before delivering the sentence the judge addressed the court and Remy Ma saying "She’s overcome a difficult childhood. Her music has inspired people in need. She’s loved and has support from her family. This is somewhat of a pattern," Judge Uviller told the court. “This is not the first time she has been engaged in a violent act. She has never taken responsibility for her actions. This has nothing to do with rap, it’s about the actions of one person. Remy is an extremely angry young woman, who feels the rules do not apply to her." Remy Ma was sentenced to prison after being convicted of shooting Makeda Barnes-Joseph in July of 2007, after $3,000 dollars went missing from Remy Ma’s purse after the pair and an entourage were leaving a New York night club. The rapper addressed Barnes-Joseph with what appears to be an apology. "I apologize for not saving you from your physical and mental scars," Remy Ma told Barnes-Joseph. Remy Ma’s boyfriend Papoose had to be restrained upon hearing the verdict, which came just one day after he attempted to marry Remy Ma, unsuccessfully. "All you want is money!" he said shouting at Barnes Joseph. Papoose was escorted to an elevator and put out of the courthouse by court officers. Remy Ma, who will serve her prison sentence at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women.

JURY SELECTION BEGINS IN R. KELLY SEX TRIAL! (13th/May/08)

From a pool of 150 potential jurors, the judge and the lawyers in the R. Kelly sex trial began fielding questions to determine who would sit in the jury box. According to the Chicago Tribune, "R. Kelly remained pokerfaced, appearing at times to scan their faces and occasionally leaning over to speak with his lawyers," sitting across from several potential jurors during the selection proceedings. "Whatever answer you give is a good one, you just have to be candid," Cook County Circuit Judge Vincent Gaughan advised the would-be jurors as they waited to be questioned by the lawyers. When the judge asked them if any of them had read or heard anything about the case since the trials beginning on Friday, one woman raised her hand and said she'd walked by a TV and heard a report on Kelly. "That's going to happen, we don't live in a cave," Gaughan said. He went on to acknowledge the publicity the case has received. "As you know, this is a high-profile case. And if you don't know, God love you, you're probably the only person on earth that doesn't." Exactly who makes it into that jury box will be key for both prosecutors and defense (defence) attorneys, said Steve Cron, a defense (defence) lawyer from Santa Monica, Calif., who has practiced for 35 years. "In a case where a celebrity has good and bad public images, it's critical," said Cron, who has no link to the Kelly case. He said the defense (defence) probably won't get many R. Kelly fans past the prosecution, and the prosecution may also be seeking out well educated jurors which may help if they call technical experts. "If someone's not that sophisticated, they may not accept evidence coming from guys with Ph.D.s, thinking, 'Why should I listen to them telling me what I should think," Cron said. Though the defense (defence) said it's impossible to find an untainted jury, citing a front-page story in Friday's Sun Times about a witness who will testify to having a threesome with Kells and the mystery girl from the video tape, Cron said an impartial jury can be assembled "They got a jury for the Michael Jackson and O.J. Simpson trials," Cron said. "They'll find one for this trial, too." Selecting a jury should take about a week, and the trial itself could take several weeks. If convicted, Kells could face up to 15 years in prison. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Kelly was indicted on child pornography charges in June 2002 for allegations he had videotaped himself having sex with an underage girl. Both R. Kelly and the girl still insist it's not them on the tape. IN OTHER R. KELLY NEWS: The singer's new album is due July 2008.

MICHAEL JACKSON'S NEVERLAND RANCH SAVED? (13th/May/08)

According to latest reports, the public auction of Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch was stopped five days before it was set to go to the highest bidder! According to Fox411 columnist Roger Friedman: "No word yet on what's happened, although the likelihood is that Jackson has reached a refinancing agreement with Fortress Investments, the loan holder," wrote the columnist over the weekend. "They currently hold a $23.5 million note on the property." Friedman says Jackson's camp has been "working with a number of friends including financier Ron Burkle, who's lent his support but not his money in trying to help Jackson out of this predicament." The auction was previously scheduled to take place on May 14 on the steps of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

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MORE DETAILS EMERGE IN SUGE KNIGHT ASSAULT! (12th/May/08)

More details have surfaced surrounding the fight in which a man was beaten by the entourage of Marion "Suge" Knight, who was also knocked unconscious during the altercation. Witnesses have said that Knight became angry when he noticed another man filming the altercation with a cell phone. Knight then allegedly put the man who was taping the incident in a headlock. The man broke free and few minutes later he pulled in front of the club, opened his trunk and pulled out a pole-like object and struck Knight on the back of the head.

SUGE KNIGHT ASSAULTED & KNOCKED OUT! (12th/May/08)

Marion "Suge" Knight got in a fight and was subsequently assaulted by an unknown man in front of a Hollywood nightclub on Saturday (May 10). Knight was at Shag nightclub when he began arguing with the man over money. According to reports, Knight and his entourage assaulted the man, who managed to land a blow which knocked Knight unconscious for almost three minutes! An unknown woman who attempted to commandeer an SUV and transport Knight to hospital struck vehicles in the front and back of her, before security removed her from the driver’s seat. Knight was taken to a local hospital and treated for minor wounds. In true no snitching style, Knight did not file a police report and allegedly refused to cooperate with Los Angeles Police Department officers.

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DMX ARRESTED... YET AGAIN! (10th/May/08)

DMX was arrested in Arizona for the second time in 24 hours after authorities raided his home in Cave Creek on felony drug charges and misdemeanor (misdemeanour) animal abuse charges. According to reports, agents arrested DMX around 3:00 am yesterday after a seven month investigation into animal abuse charges, stemming from an August, 2007 raid of the rapper’s home. Police found 12 malnourished dogs on the X’s property, as well as three other carcasses of dogs that had been burned and buried. While details were not revealed, police said they seized a number of weapons and drugs, as well as five more pitbull mixed puppies during the raid. According to police, DMX barricaded himself in his bedroom during the search, but eventually came out on orders from the tactical unit. Police have also revealed that they are serving a search warrant on the Mayo Clinic, regarding an alleged fraud scheme involving DMX. The Mayo Clinic specializes in surgical care for humans. "A guy like this DMX character with all his money and fame has no excuse for not providing proper care for his animals," Sheriff Joe Arpaio said. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, DMX was also arrested on May 6, after Arizona police photographed the rapper driving in excess of 100 MPH.

R. KELLY'S BID TO POSTPONE SEX TRIAL IS DENIED! (10th/May/08)

Earlier this week, Kelly's lawyers submitted a new motion appealing to have the case temporarily delayed due to a recent "torrent of publicity" surrounding the case, which they feel could have a negative effect on the trial's outcome. But a Chicago, Illinois judge dismissed Kelly's attorneys' request on Friday, May 9, when jury selection was due to start, and ruled trial proceedings will continue as planned, six years after he was charged with having sex with a minor. Both Kelly and his now-23-year-old alleged sexual partner both insist it isn't them on the videotape! If he's convicted, Kelly faces anything up to 15 years in prison.

HORROR AS TRAINER IS ATTACKED BY TIGER ON RICK ROSS VIDEO SHOOT! (10th/May/08)

An animal trainer was attacked by a white tiger on the set for Rick Ross’ new video "Here I Am". The trainer was bitten on the leg by the tiger, which will be portrayed as Rick Ross’ pet in the new video. According to reports, the tiger became aggravated after being entangled in chains and attacked the trainer as he attempted to coax the animal out of its cage. "The trainer went and tried to help him, but he grabbed him by the tail and the tiger didn’t like it so, he turned around and bit the trainers leg," said cast member Cesar Chacon. There was some action right there. We’ve never seen stuff like that before." The trainer managed to get the tiger back into its cage, before he was treated on the set by paramedics. 

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FOXY BROWN PLEADS GUILTY! (9th/May/08)

Foxy Brown pleaded guilty in court yesterday to a misdemeanor (misdemeanour) charge of menacing, in a case where she attacked a woman with a Blackberry mobile device. The star was sentenced to time served and offered a letter of apology. The victim, Arlene Raymond, may attempt to sue Brown in a civil suit, but no legal action has been confirmed.

CHRIS BROWN & RIHANNA SNAPPED KISSING! (9th/May/08)

Photos of Rihanna and Chris Brown kissing in a Miami, Florida KFC diner have ended reports that the pair are "just good friends." The couple went public with their rumored (rumoured) romance when the two young stars realised they had been spotted by the paparazzi on Wednesday night. Rihanna immediately put her arms around Brown's neck and planted a lingering kiss on his lips. The "Umbrella" singer, who was recently romantically linked to actor Josh Hartnett, recently confessed she and Brown were "very close" in a magazine article, but she stopped short on announcing they were lovers. 

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DMX ARRESTED... AGAIN! (8th/May/08)

DMX was arrested on Tuesday evening (May 6) by Arizona police for driving in excess of 100 MPH on a local highway with a suspended license! Getting busted for speeding is nothing new for the star as he has previously been photographed (Jan 21) driving his 1966 Chevy Nova II on the Loop 101 at a speed of 100 miles per hour in a 65 mile per hour zone. A minute later he was photographed by another camera moving at a speed of over 114 miles per hour and if that was not enough, three minutes later he was caught on camera driving at a speed of 101 miler per hour. Police arrested DMX at his home in Cave Creek and charged the rapper with racing on a highway, reckless driving, two counts of endangerment, three counts of criminal speed and driving with a suspended license. DMX was booked into the Scottsdale County Jail and released yesterday (May 7).

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LIL WAYNE PLEADS "NOT GUILTY" TO DRUG CHARGES! (7th/May/08)

Lil Wayne appeared in Court to face numerous drug charges yesterday (May 6), and pled innocent to charges of possession of dangerous drugs, possession of a narcotic drug for sale, misconduct involving weapons and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Lil Wayne was arrested on January 22, after DEA Agents stopped the rapper's tour bus near a border checkpoint in southwestern Arizona. A Border Patrol dog alerted officials to the presence of drugs and a subsequent search of the bus uncovered 41 grams of ecstasy, four ounces of marijuana, a little over an ounce of cocaine and a .40 calibre pistol, which is registered to the star in Florida. Police also confiscated $22,000 dollars in cash and two other firearms. Two other men were arrested in the incident with Lil Wayne, although those men only face possession of marijuana charges. Lil Wayne was released on $10,000 cash bond and his next court date is May 19.

MARIAH HEADS TO DUBAI WITH FERGIE! (7th/May/08)

Mariah Carey and Fergie will team up for a concert in the Middle East! The R'n'B stars will perform in Dubai next week (May 15-16) at The Festival. Carey's show, her second in Dubai, will be her first since she wed Nick Cannon last week. The shows will also mark Fergie's second Dubai show as she last performed there as a member of the Black Eyed Peas in 2006.

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COMMON TO CO-STAR IN NEW TERMINATOR MOVIE! (6th/May/08)

Rapper Common has landed a role in the new upcoming instalment of "The Terminator" movies! The rapper, born Lonnie Rashid Lynn, will star in "Terminator Salvation: The Future Begins" which is the fourth instalment of The Terminator franchise and focuses on John Connor, who leads the human race in an epic battle against the machines. Common will star in the movie as a freedom fighter alongside the central character, John Connor, who is being played by actor Christian Bale. The original Terminator movie was released in 1984 and starred current California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day was released in 1991. Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, was released in 2003. "Terminator Salvation: The Future Begins" is slated to hit theaters in May 2009. Keep an eye on RnBandHIPHOPworld.com for the trailer!

FOXY BROWN NOT WANTED!.. COURT ADMITS ERROR! (6th/May/08)

As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, a judge issued a bench warrant for Brown (yesterday) after she allegedly failed to appear in court. However, the bench warrant for the arrest was scrapped after the court admitted an error! According to latest reports, the court date was rescheduled with all parties but the change was not updated on the official court calendar!

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NOT OUT 2 MINUTES & ALREADY FOXY BROWN IS A WANTED WOMAN? (5th/May/08)

Only two weeks after walking free from Rikers Island prison, Foxy Brown is on the wrong side of the law again! A judge issued a bench warrant for her, after she failed to appear in Brooklyn Criminal Court earlier today (May 5). As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Brown, who was released from prison on April 18, was due in court today, to face assault and weapons charges , stemming from an altercation with her Brooklyn neighbor (neighbour). The two women fought over the volume of Brown’s car stereo, as well as the racket her entourage was allegedly making in the Prospect Height’s neighborhood (neighbourhood). The NYPD accused Brown of striking her 25-year-old neighbor in the face with her Blackberry, causing the woman to have a swollen lip, loose teeth and swelling in her right eye. Brown is also due in court on May 8, where she is expected to reach a plea with the State Attorney in Florida.

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NEW ATTEMPT TO BAN SNOOP DESPITE RECENT VISA VICTORY (3rd/May/08)

Despite winning two appeals in the UK recently, the country’s Border Agency is attempting to ban Snoop Dogg from entering the country yet again! The Border Agency confirmed that they have put in a new application to the Court of Appeals to reconsider the case against Snoop Dogg, who’s entourage was involved in a brawl with security/police in London’s Heathrow Airport. A previous ruling found that Snoop had complied with officers requests and that airport security escalated the situation into a full blown altercation between the two sides. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, two senior immigration officials lifted the ban on Snoop Dogg last month, after video evidence surfaced showing that Snoop Dogg had not been responsible for any public disorder, nor did he initiate it. Two senior immigration officials lifted the ban on Snoop Dogg last month, after video evidence surfaced showing that Snoop Dogg had not been responsible for any public disorder, nor did he initiate it. "We maintain that the Immigration Judge in the initial hearing made a material error in law,” a rep said in a statement. “There has been no change in the facts that led to Mr Broadus (Snoop Dogg) being denied a visa. We stand by that initial decision. We will continue to oppose the entry to the UK of individuals where we believe there may be a risk to the public."

A REVIEW OF KANYE WEST'S CONCERT TOUR HAS ANGERED HIM BIG TIME! (3rd/May/08)

A review of Kanye West’s “Glow In The Dark” tour has angered the "Good Life" star to the extent that he demanded the reviewer to kill himself! In the review, which is in Entertainment Weekly’s current issue, gave the rapper a B+ for his performance in Seattle and deemed him "a nut." In a response on his blog, West responded by saying, "What's a B+ mean? I'm an extremist. It's either pass or fail! A+ or F-! You know what, f**k you and the whole f**king staff!!! I know I shouldn't dignify this with a comment, but the reviewer threw a jab at all the artists." The "Glow In The Dark" tour comprises of West, Rihanna, Pharrell Williams and N*E*R*D*, and Lupe Fiasco. Generally, Kanye's portion of the tour has been applauded for its creative ingenuity. Although the review wasn’t completely negative, the reviewer Chris Willman had this to say about some of the acts, "Pharrell Williams is no great singer” and Rihanna "needs to ramp up the charisma." Below is the full outburst from Kanye. "Yo, anybody that's not a fan; don't come to my show. For what?! To try to throw yall two cents in? Yall rated my album sh*tty and now yall come to the show and give it a B+. What's a B+ mean? I'm an extremist. It's either pass or fail! A+ or F-! You know what, f*ck you and the whole f*cking staff!!! I know I shouldn't dignify this with a comment, but the reviewer threw a jab at all the artists. I just wanna know when was the last time you enjoyed yourself. If you can't have fun and loose yourself at this tour it's a good chance you're a very miserable person. I actually feel sorry for you guys. Your job forces you to not have fun anymore. Grab a drink, holla at some nice girls, and party b*tch!!! You don't know sh*t about passion and art. You'll never gain credibility at this rate. You're f*cking trash! I make art. You can't rate this. I'm a real person. I'm not a pop star. I don't care about anything but making great art. Never come 2 one of my shows ever again, you're not invited and if you see me.. BOW!!! This is not pop, it's pop art! Chris Willman, kill yourself!"

ACCORDING TO A RELATIVE, MARIAH CAREY AND NICK CANNON ARE MARRIED? (3rd/May/08)

Although RnBandHIPHOPworld.com still has it's doubts, a relative of Nick Cannon has confirmed the star did marry superstar singer Mariah Carey this week! "He called us and told us all about it," the relative said. "We are happy for him. If that is what he wants then we are happy for him. I'm not going to give you any details but we are happy for him." Latina magazine reported last Thursday that the pair had wed in a small ceremony the day before (Wednesday). Subsequent media reports said the nuptials took place at Carey's new home in the Bahamas. A representative for jeweler (jeweller) Jacob & Co. told E! Online Cannon paid $2.5 million for a 17-carat ring Carey recently was seen wearing on her left hand. Usmagazine.com said Carey, 38, and Cannon, 27, started dating when he directed the music video for her song "Bye Bye" in late March.

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FORMER FRESH PRINCE STAR TATYANA ALI'S CAMPAIGN FOR OBAMA! (2nd/May/08)

Singer Tatyana Ali, best known for her role in TV's "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" was recently interviewed by TheSportsInterview to talk about her role in the Barack Obama presidential campaign. "It’s my first time volunteering in a campaign. I got a chance to speak to him (Obama), and to hear him speak in person, and to hear his wife speak in person. You get the vibe that they really actually want to help, that they’re not just career politicians. They’re not just in it to win. They’re in it to make things better," said Ali. "My parents are immigrants. I am the first generation born here and it’s an amazing blessing. It’s an amazing freedom we have here to be able to vote and be part of the process. I think a lot of times we do get apathetic and feel like we can’t change anything. It’s so important for us to be involved in the system otherwise you can’t complain when things go wrong you know?" 

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CHAOS ERUPTS AT RZA CONCERT! (1st/May/08)

A show featuring The RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan turned a little ugly over the weekend in the UK after the rapper invited female fans to strip on stage! RZA was performing at the Triptych Music and Film Festival in Glasgow when police were called after he lit a cigarette on stage and invited female fans to take off their tops, both illegal acts in Scotland. Additionally, a drunken man spat on a security guard and another man was arrested for assault and breach of the peace.

USHER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT CHRIS BROWN IS JUST LIKE HIM! (1st/May/08)

Usher has hailed fellow singer Chris Brown as a younger version of himself insisting the young star will "follow the same path." Usher, now 29, was just 15 when he released his self-titled debut album in 1994 and has gone on to have a great music career. The "Love In This Club" star said "All of this young energy is great for the industry. Chris is the guy who dances and sings, which is a lot like I do and did as a young artist as well. If time serves us correctly, and artists are continuing to better themselves, then hopefully he'll follow the same path that I did."

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POOR PERFORMANCE FROM WHITNEY HOUSTON ACCORDING TO EBONYJET! (30th/Apr/08)

The following is an excerpt from the review at EbonyJet.com regarding Whitney Houston's recent live performance in Trinidad: Houston, 44, banned photographers and the media from getting within 200 yards of her on Sunday night at the Plymouth Jazz Festival stage. Nervous, no doubt about the quality of her voice, the ex-Mrs. Brown kept telling the Tobago audience how happy she was to be in Trinidad. Unfortunately, she had good reason to be nervous. After such a long time away from the stage, Houston’s flat, horse and listless voice was a big disappointment to those who knew the power she commanded at the height of her career. All that said, Houston looked great, decked out in a form-fitting white gown. And given the fact that this is her first real concert date since her December 2006 appearance in Malaysia, you gotta give the sister credit for at least showing up on time for her 30-minute, seven-song set. Houston started out with “It’s Not Right, But It’s OK,” a song that few folks in the audience appeared to know, and followed it up with “Step by Step.” As peppy as that tune is, Houston failed to get much of a rise out of the audience, many of whom had come extra early to make sure they got a good spot on the lawn. After her second song, Houston paid tribute to Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and En Vogue who had performed on Friday and Saturday nights. On “Saving All My Love For You,” another song that should have brought the capacity crowd to their feet, Houston’s voice cracked. “I don’t think the voice is still there,” said one patron on his way out. He probably felt the same way about her delivery on “I’ll Always Love You” since she missed all the notes that once made that ballad one of her signature tunes. The folks who had paid $120 admission were already a little unhappy but after that song they stopped applauding.  

MARIAH CAREY HITS THE BIG SCREEN AGAIN IN NEW MOVIE! (30th/Apr/08)

Mariah Carey has landed a part in an upcoming movie titled "Tennessee". Carey plays a waitress named Krystal who meets two brothers on a journey to find their estranged father. The role marks the first major part for Carey since her flop 2001 movie "Glitter". The star is hoping that her portrayal in the movie will redeem her status as an actress. "The whole Glitter experience was very, very hard to go through, but I learned from it," Carey said in a statement recently. Yet after seeing Carey in WiseGirls, a comedy/drama that premiered at the Sundance film festival in 2002, Tennessee producer Lee Daniels decided to give her the platform to re-establish herself. "She's not a diva and she came to work, and work hard she did," said Daniels.

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GWYNETH PALTROW DEFENDS JAY-Z! / JAY-Z DISSES NBA STAR! (29th/Apr/08)

With growing concern that Jigga may be the cause of not so good ticket sales at the Glastonbury music festival which is traditionally a rock festival, Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow has stepped into the fray to defend the rapper against the haters! "He's the best rapper of all-time and I think he'll knock it out of the park," Paltrow told the BBC. In other Jay-Z news.. Jay-Z has bypassed rappers who have recently dissed him, and has decided to take a shot at NBA player DeShawn Stevenson instead! The basketball beef started when Stevenson called LeBron "overrated" and James said in response, "With DeShawn Stevenson, it's kind of funny. It's almost like Jay-Z responding to a negative comment made by Soulja Boy. It doesn't make sense." Stevenson then invited Soulja Boy to game 3 of the teams' current playoff series to heckle James. Now, Jigga has thrown his hat in the ring, releasing "Blow The Whistle." On the short track, Jay dismisses the legitimacy of Stevenson's antics rhyming, "Ask my n*gga LeBron / we so big we ain't gotta respond / When you talking to a don / Please have respect like you talking to your mom." According to the Washington Post, the track was played in a local club several times and was accompanied by Cavaliers player Damon Jones getting on the mic to direct a few choice words to Stevenson as well. Although Stevenson is now caught between Jay-Z's lyrical punchline, the NBA star had a more diplomatic response to Mr. Carter. "Jay-Z is a legend. He'll go down in history. No disrespect to Jay-Z," Stevenson said. "I take it as a compliment. I like his music. I like everything he does. I would never go at a legend." 

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VICTORY FOR SNOOP DOGG AS JUDGE OVERRULES VISA BAN IN THE UK! (26th/Apr/08)

Snoop Dogg's visa ban in the U.K. has been overruled by an immigration judge who saw video footage of the incident at London's Heathrow Airport and found no evidence that the star was responsible. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Snoop and his entourage were arrested in 2006 for inciting a brawl that resulted in broken glass and injuries to several police officers. As a result, the UK's Home Office banned him from the country. However, senior immigration judge George Warr supported a January ruling from another immigration judge, Nehar Bird, who said Snoop did not start the fracas. Both judges based their decisions on video footage of the incident seen on a DVD. "The appellant's behavior (behaviour) on the DVD did show him interacting with the public. The children were laughing and generally enjoying either dancing or singing or playing music," said Bird at the time. In fact, Bird was quoted by the Guardian as saying that the disorder at the airport was "precipitated by decisions made by British Airways staff and the police." The Home Office appealed but senior immigration judge George Warr ruled on Wednesday that Bird had been right. The Home Office now has until Wednesday to appeal again. Snoop's lawyer, Phillip Trott, told the UK's Guardian newspaper: "It has been an appalling waste of public money to pursue this man. It is outrageous that the government is trying to exclude someone who is an innocent figure and has frequently spoken against gang culture and youths carrying guns.

HOT 97 ANNOUNCES SUMMER JAM LINE-UP INCLUDING KANYE & LIL WAYNE! (26th/Apr/08)

The popular star-studded concert for the New York radio station will be held at the Giants Stadium in New Jersey and is set to take place on June 1. The event headliner will be Kanye West, who will be joined by T-Pain, Ray J, Yung Berg, The-Dream, Styles P, Sheek Louch, Public Enemy, Gym Class Heroes and the biggest rapper on the planet at the moment.. Lil' Wayne! Tickets for the event are on sale now.

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TREACH FROM NAUGHTY BY NATURE QUESTIONED ABOUT SHOOTING! (24th/Apr/08)

Treach, real name Anthony Criss, was taken in for police questioning on Tuesday after he was spotted driving erratically. When cops pulled him over, they found him wearing a bullet-proof vest although no weapon was found in his Hummer. A gun was later retrieved near the spot where Treach had been stopped, although it is unclear whether it belongs to the star. The 37-year-old star was detained for several hours by Newark authorities who are investigating a double murder, after two men got into an altercation and shot and killed each other. Five other people have also been wounded in separate incidents across the city in a violent 24-hour period between Monday and Tuesday. It is currently unknown whether Treach is under official police investigation in relation to the shootings.

SWIZZ BEATS & MASHONDA GO THEIR SEPARATE WAYS! (24th/Apr/08)

Producer Swizz Beatz, real name Kasseem Dean, and his R'n'B singer wife, Mashonda, have split up. They got married in 2004 and have a one-year-old son. A spokesperson for the star is adamant the separation was "on amicable terms". "Their union was one shared in love and deep admiration for one another," according to a rep. "For the last seven months, the two have been working on establishing a formidable friendship, being great parents to their son, and remaining great supporters of each other's careers. The couple has asked that their privacy be respected at this time." Both parties will be focusing on their respective careers, with Swizz working on a follow-up album to his 2007 disc, One Man Band Man, and Mashonda reportedly launching a high-end swimwear line.

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BOBBY VALENTINO LEAVES DTP/DEF JAM! (23rd/Apr/08)

Bobby Valentino has left Disturbing Tha Peace/Def Jam. The R'n'B singer says it's been a "great stepping stone and learning experience," but he's moving on to release two projects independently. "I look at this as my going off to college," he said in an interview recently. "It was time for me to step out on my own and show the world who Bobby Valentino the artist really is." The singer will independently release a digital-only, six-track EP "Come With Me" on April 29, followed by a full-length studio album in late summer. Tune into RUDEBOY FM to hear some of these tracks now! "Come With Me" was recorded earlier this year with producer Bill Jabr. "Bill and I are on a vibe to do something different beyond the R'n'B norm," says Valentino. "I call it R'n'B alternative: we use live instrumentation like electric guitars but the drums remain very urban/rhythmic." The set's first single, currently spinning at RUDEBOY FM, is "When I See You Smile" featuring Lil' Wayne.

50 CENT HAS NO LOVE FOR ALICIA KEYS? (23rd/Apr/08)

Rapper 50 Cent is still angry with Alicia Keys and her comments published in Blender magazine regarding gangsta rap. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Keys explained that her statements suggesting the genre was a government conspiracy "to convince black people to kill each other" was "misrepresented." But 50 (being 50) isn't buying it! "I don't like Alicia Keys no more. If she thinks what they consider to be gangsta music is made to bring black people down, then I think my sh*t falls into that category," he said, according to E! Online. "I don't like people who don't like me." The self-described "gangsta rapper" also went after Keys' talent on the piano. "I don't think that her classical sh*t is cool. I don't give a f**k if you can classically play the piano," he said. "I haven't been classically trained, because of my upbringing, nobody put me in front of a piano at that time. I couldn’t f**king care less about the sh*t. So she don't like the music that embodies the harsh realities because they're not her realities. She hasn't been subjected to the same things."

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REMY MA HAS TO WAIT EVEN LONGER TO LEARN HER FATE! (22nd/Apr/08)

Remy Ma has to wait another two weeks before she learns her fate, as the date for her sentencing has been pushed back until May! The original sentencing date was due tomorrow (April 23) but now, the star has to wait until May 13. The rapper could get 25 years in prison but the likelihood will be anything from three to five years. Lawyers for Remy Ma have stated that they would appeal the verdict.

KANYE WEST AND FIANCÉE ARE NO MORE? (22nd/Apr/08)

Kanye West and his fiancée of a year and a half have split up, according to recent reports! "It's always sad when things like this end, and we remain friends," Kanye's ex Alexis Phifer told People magazine. "I wish him the best in his future and all of his endeavors (endeavours). He's one of the most talented people I've ever met." West and Phifer had been dating since 2002, and got engaged in 2006. "They'd been having problems," one of West's friends told the magazine. "Kanye is really focused on his show; he's putting everything into the show right now. Alexis is a nice girl, but Kanye has been going through a rough time. They hit a rough patch and for now they've split."

JORDIN SPARKS FORCED TO PULL OUT OF ALICIA KEYS TOUR DUE TO VOCAL INJURY! (22nd/Apr/08)

A doctor has ordered "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks to take a break from singing if she wants to protect her voice after she suffered an acute vocal cord haemorrhage! A vocal cord haemorrhage is when a blood vessel on the vocal cord ruptures. It can result in permanent vocal cord damage, so it is important that people suffering from this condition have absolute voice rest! "All of her April activities have been postponed or cancelled so she can take care of her voice properly," 19/Jive Records spokeswoman Wendy Washington was quoted by The Associated Press as saying. The singer is expected to make a full recovery and join Alicia Keys sometime in May. "Sparks has been going non-stop over the past two years and now she's going through the normal course of learning how to manage and care for her voice," according to a spokesperson for the 18-year-old star. Sparks was only 17 when she won the sixth edition of American Idol and to date has released two hit singles, "Tattoo" and "No Air," while her self-titled album which debuted last year also made it in the top ten on the charts. 

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R.KELLY'S PAST RELATIONSHIP WITH AALIYAH MAY BE USED AGAINST HIM IN COURT! (19th/Apr/08)

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, prosecutors in R. Kelly's upcoming child pornography trail want to introduce evidence of other crimes the star allegedly committed. According to the paper, court documents show that earlier this month prosecutors filed a motion to allow evidence of Kelly's 1995 marriage to the late singer Aaliyah, when she was only 15. Initially both camps denied the union, but Vibe magazine later published a copy of their marriage license, which showed Aaliyah's age had been falsely listed at 18. The marriage was annulled a few months after the report. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, the 41 year-old Grammy award-winning singer is accused of videotaping himself having sex with an underage female. In February 2002 a sex-tape was sent to the Chicago paper by an unknown source. The troubled star is facing 14 counts of child pornography charges, to which he has pled not guilty. Jury selection for the trial begins May 9. In other R. Kelly news, Kells is planning to release his thirteenth studio album "12 Play Fourth Quarter" this summer. The first single will be "Hair Braider."

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MARIAH CAREY vs. LEONA LEWIS IN THE ALBUM CHARTS! (18th/Apr/08)

Brit newcomer Leona Lewis will have a fight on her hand to remain in the top spot on the American Billboard charts as R'n'B sensation Mariah Carey's album (which has just been released) is selling like fire! After making television appearances on Oprah and American Idol, Carey is definitely poised to make another #1 debut with her latest release E=MC². Just a day after the project's release, trade publication HitsDailyDouble is already projecting that over 500,000 copies of the album will be sold in its first week! Experts are speculating that Carey may even reach 600,000 copies sold, making her the favorite (favourite) for the #1 spot on the album sales charts by a wide margin. Mariah's success is expected to push Leona Lewis' "Spirit" into second place. While Lewis registered big in her debut, Carey is out to prove she's not nearly finished with her reign over the charts!

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FOXY BROWN RELEASED FROM PRISON THIS FRIDAY! (17th/Apr/08)

Foxy Brown's representative have confirmed reports that the rapper will be released from prison this week! Brown, who has spent the last eight months behind bars for probation violations, is to be released tomorrow (Friday 18) according to her publicist. Brown, real name Inga Marchand, is expected to start work on her VH1 reality series as soon as she is released and her latest CD "Brooklyn's Don Diva" is set for a May 13 release.

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DIPSET MEMBER FREEKEY ZEKEY ESCAPES DEATH IN HORROR CAR CRASH! (16th/Apr/08)

Dipset member Freekey Zekey was nearly killed last night (April 15) in Harlem, when he was involved in a near fatal, three car pile-up in New York! The rapper was at a stop light on 115th and 1st Avenue, when a 300 Chrysler hit his 2007 White S550 Mercedes Benz from behind. The Chrysler hit the merc so hard, the impact sent the rapper’s car up in the air! The merc ended up landing on a parked Hummer, where a passenger was still inside! Freekey Zekey spent the night at St. Luke’s Hospital for evaluation and has since been released with minor scrapes and bruises!

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ALICIA KEYS CLEARS UP SOME COMMENTS SHE MADE ABOUT "GANGSTER RAP" (15th/Apr/08)

Alicia Keys has cleared up comments she made about the U.S. government being responsible for the creation of gangster rap and the deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. Keys exposed her political views in an interview for music magazine Blender, however, the star felt as though some of her comments were misconstrued. In a radio interview earlier today (Tuesday 15) she cleared up some of the statements she made to the magazine. In the magazine interview, she claimed Tupac Shakur and Christopher Notorious B.I.G.'s slayings were fuelled by "the government and the media, to stop another great black leader from existing." But this morning, she clarified those comments, saying, "I feel information led to some negative consequences. Had more communication been done between the two men I feel that more likely than not that result would not have happened." Keys also claimed in the Blender interview that the gangster rap movement never existed, but was created "as a ploy to encourage black people to kill each other." This morning, she explained, "What I was saying was the term 'gangster rap' was so over-sloganized during that time and that in so many ways everyday people as well as the government could have really done so much more to really obliterate and eradicate the things that were going on in the communities at that time that forced the artists to talk about so strongly what they saw, what they lived with every day. "I wasn't saying that I was a conspiracy theorist or that I am anti-anyone. I am a very positive person and my only aim is to uplift people." In the magazine article, Keys also revealed her interest in the Black Panther movement and her desire to write more political songs. She told Blender that if black leaders like late Black Panther Huey Newton "had the outlets our musicians have today, it'd be global. I have to figure out a way to do it myself." "Over all it was a great article," she said this morning, adding that she only regretted that a negative spin had been put on some of her comments.

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MAN KILLED AT "ROLLIN' WITH DRE" AFTER PARTY! (DR DRE NOT INVOLVED) (14th/Apr/08)

A man was fatally shot and another man was critically wounded when people spilled out of a Tukwila restaurant following an after-party for two authors who penned a biography of rapper and hip hop producer Dr. Dre. Shots rang out in the parking lot outside Gordon's on the Green at 2:07 a.m., said Tukwila police spokesman Officer Mike Murphy. Officers arrived to find a chaotic scene, with up to 300 people in the parking lot, he said. Dozens of officers from neighboring (neighbouring) police departments responded to help calm the panic-stricken crowd. "When we first got there, there was panic, people were trying to care for the wounded, people were trying to get out of there, people were scared. It wasn't a healthy scene," Murphy said. "It took about 20 minutes to get everything calmed down." Officers discovered two victims: a 24-year-old Renton man, who died from gunshot wounds soon after arriving at Seattle's Harborview Medical Center and a 25-year-old Skyway man, who is in critical condition. A large crowd of maybe 100 people apparently got into their own vehicles and followed the ambulances to Harborview. They created a scene and Seattle police were called to control the crowd. There was also a report of a car crash on Interstate 5, but Murphy could not confirm that those involved in the accident were among the people en route to the hospital. According to a Web site that tracks book readings and other literary events, authors Bruce Williams and Donnell Alexander made an appearance Saturday afternoon at the Southcenter Barnes & Noble bookstore. The authors, who wrote "Rollin' with Dre," were in Tukwila for a reading and book signing event. The after-party at Gordon's on the Green, located on the city-owned Foster Golf Links golf course on Interurban Avenue South, attracted a large crowd including several celebrities. Detectives do not know if the authors or any of the celebrity guests were still on site when the shooting happened. "We don't know if the victims were involved in a fight or if they were ambushed or what. We just don't know yet," Murphy said. Many in the crowd refused to answer officers' questions and detectives have not released any information about a suspect or suspects. "We have some leads, just nothing we can talk about yet," Murphy said. He encouraged anyone who was at the after-party to "quietly call" police with any information.

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CHERISH ARE BACK! (13th/Apr/08)

Sho'Nuff Records/Capitol Music Group Cherish are back in 2008 with a new album titled "The Truth" and they are ready to put their name back on the map! "The Truth" is the second Sho'Nuff /Capitol album by Cherish, and will be released on April 29th, 2008. "Killa" is the first single, featuring Atlanta rapper Yung Joc, and is already making its mark on the Urban and Rhythmic/Crossover radio formats nationally. The single is also getting a helping hand by being used in the Touchstone Pictures film "Step Up 2 The Streets" which is sitting at No.2 on the box office chart.

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JAMIE FOXX SUED BY STYLIST! (11th/Apr/08)

Freelance fashion stylist Stacy Young is suing singer/actor Jamie Foxx for allegedly failing to pay her after she dressed the star for several high-profile celebrity events. Young filed her lawsuit against Foxx and his Foxxhole Records label in Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday, April 9. She claims Foxx never paid up after she picked his wardrobe for the BET Awards in June 2006 and then again in July of the same year for a series of publicity events for his film Miami Vice. According to the lawsuit, Foxx had agreed to pay her $2,850-a-day for her services for the awards show and then a further $3,000-a-day for what the court documents refer to as the "Miami Vice agreement". Young is seeking an unspecified payment for services rendered and also for the work she turned down while she was employed by the star.

VANILLA ICE BUSTED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE! (11th/Apr/08)

Former rap star Vanilla Ice (best remembered for his 1990 track "Ice Ice Baby" was charged with domestic battery after allegedly assaulting his wife last night (April 10). Ice, born Robert Van Winkle was originally accused of striking and kicking his wife, Laura Van Winkle, during an argument. Ice told police that he and his wife had been arguing since Wednesday, and that he left the house to avoid an altercation. He later returned and the couple fought yet again. However, by the time the police arrived, the rapper’s wife told police she did not want any media attention and that he only pushed her. Despite this, Ice was charged with domestic battery. This is not the first time Ice has got himself in trouble with domestic violence. He has previously served one year’s probation, after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge in 2001, after he allegedly pulled hair from his wife’s head during an argument on Interstate 595. Ice denies the latest allegations. 

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ALICIA KEYS WANTS THE MEDIA TO FOCUS MORE ON AIDS & LESS ON CELEBS! (10th/Apr/08)

Alicia Keys has slammed journalists for choosing to focus on the antics of troubled celebrities rather than on more serious world issues like AIDS. The singer joined other stars including Bono, Brad Pitt and Mariah Carey last night (Wednesday) as part of the charity telethon special "Idol Gives Back." The two-hour program aimed to raise $100 million for charities including Children's Defense Fund, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Make It Right and Save the Children. In a clip filmed during a recent trip to Africa, Keys said "If AIDS got half of the attention that the media gives to celebrity dramas, this issue would be well on its way to being solved." Serving as a Global Ambassador for AIDS charity Keep the Child Alive, Keys met with families riddled by the growing pandemic during her visit, encouraging viewers to make a donation as she noted, "It's crazy how you can change the lives of people forever for the price of a pair of shoes."

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PLIES NAMED IN TEN MILLION DOLLAR LAWSUIT! (9th/Apr/08)

Rapper Plies, born Algernod Washington, is one of many being sued by five Gainesville, FL residents! The five plaintiffs were all injured during a 2006 shooting at a Plies show and they are now seeking $10 million dollars in damages. The rapper's lawyer said "If they're suing Mr. Washington, they're suing the wrong person. He does not have legal liability. It is not an entertainer's job to provide security for a club where the entertainer is performing." Also named in the lawsuit are Plies' label, Slip-N-Slide Records, and 283 West, the downtown Gainesville nightclub where Plies was performing at the time of the alleged incident, as well as others tied to the event. The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of all those involved. According to reports, members of Plies' entourage allegedly fired into a sold-out crowd of close to 1,000 attendees after the rapper's microphone was shut off to allow the next performer, Lil' Boosie, to take the stage. Two members of Plies' entourage, including his brother, were accused of firing at least three rounds and charged with attempted murder. Upon completing a search of their vehicle, police allegedly found five loaded firearms and additional rounds of ammunition. Plies and another member of his entourage were then charged with illegal possession of a concealed weapon.

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G-UNIT SAYS BYE BYE TO YOUNG BUCK! (7th/Apr/08)

50 Cent revealed today (April 7) that Young Buck was no longer in the group G-Unit, but would still record for the label! "You can look at it and see that’s Game all the way. I was giving him a chance, giving him the benefit of the doubt to remain with the group. You can take this as an official notice right here, pretty much you can say: Young Buck is no longer in the group G-Unit, but signed to G-Unit Records as a solo artist," 50 Cent told DJ Envy, at Hot 97 with Miss Jones.

THE UK REALLY IS AMERICA'S 51st STATE! (WHEN IT COMES TO BLACK ENTERTAINMENT!) (7th/Apr/08)

America's biggest black TV station BET launched in London recently via SKY TV and will have a potential audience of about 8.8 million viewers. The network will initially program current BET favorites (favourites) like "106 & Park" "Sunday Best" "BET Honors" and "American Gangster" but will add more and more regional content in the near future. BET launched in the U.K. last February 28. As the leading network for African-Americans, BET already reaches over 87 million households in the U.S., Canada and the Carribean. "We’re thrilled to be able to bring high quality, Black cultural content to communities around the world and deliver on our commitment to expand the BET brand internationally,” said Debra L. Lee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BET Networks. "For more than 27 years, BET Networks has been the leader in providing premium entertainment to African American audiences, and we’re so excited to establish BET as the premier destination for UK audiences to enjoy content that reflects the many viewpoints of the Black experience." The U.K. can also look forward to BET News specials, including "Life and Death in Darfur: Jeff Johnson Reports" and "Hip-Hop Vs. America." The ten-years running Emmy-winning Rap-It-Up campaign, which encourages young people to practice safe sex through informational PSA's, documentaries and special programming, will also be a large part of the U.K.'s initial programming lineup. "BET has been building a presence among our core target audience in the United Kingdom for more than two years," said Michael D. Armstrong, Senior Vice President and General Manager, BET International. "For the UK version of BET, we will be giving BET’s U.S. content a regionalised look and feel that reflects the UK marketplace, and as we grow and develop the channel, we look forward to partnering with the UK creative industry to give BET an even stronger British accent." IN RELATED HEADLINE NEWS.. The UK is also seeing more and more black American owned labels setting up shop in London! The latest edition being Akon's Konvict Muzik Company which launched its new London office last month. Konvict Muzik boasts artists such as T-Pain and Kardinal Offishall. The label's move is down to its effort to expand its roster of international artists!

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JAY-Z & BEYONCÉ.. MARRIED OR NOT? (5th/Apr/08)

Well, to be honest, RnBandHIPHOPworld.com really doesn’t care! As long as the pair keep doing their thing by giving us the music we love.. it's all good! Anywho, just so you readers know, Jay-Z and Beyoncé hosted a party for their closest friends and family on April 4, and according to published reports, are now a married couple! Attendees to the exclusive party included Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams, Solange Knowles, Gwyneth Paltrow, Chris Martin of Coldplay, Beyoncé's parents and Jay-Z’s mother. Most of the guests were wearing white! On Tuesday April 1, which was April Fools Day, Jigga and Beyoncé applied for a marriage license in Scarsdale, New York. The license is valid for 60 days!?

ASHANTI IS SET TO PUT HER NAME BACK IN THE LIMELIGHT! (5th/Apr/08)

Ashanti is working on a teenage lifestyle book called "Ashanti Style" and she has a new album on the horizon titled "The Declaration." The first single, "The Way That I Love You," is already getting heavy rotation over at RudeboyFM and is climbing the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart! "It’s been a long time coming for change, and the timing was just right," the star said recently. "The Declaration touches on those low points in life that determine whether you’re strong enough to go on. It reminds women that they can’t let things get the best of them."

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BOBBY BROWN ADMITS ADULTERY? (4th/Apr/08)

Bobby Brown has confirmed he was unfaithful to his former wife Whitney Houston by admitting to having a number of affairs throughout their 15-year marriage! As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, the couple's marriage was officially dissolved last year, but Brown fought to overturn the ruling in a bid to gain custody of their 15-year-old daughter, Bobbi Christina, and win spousal support. A judge dismissed his claims earlier this year after he failed to show up to a court hearing. Brown writes in his forthcoming autobiography, "I am guilty of sleeping with other women, Women are always throwing themselves at you. I'm only human, so I would make the mistake and bite the hook sometimes. I let the testosterone take over."

BIG MONEY FOR JAY-Z IN NEW LIVE NATION / ROC NATION DEAL! (4th/Apr/08)

Jay-Z is set to sign a 10-year-deal worth $150 million dollars with Live Nation that will include Roc Nation, a new entertainment venture for the star. Live Nation envisions handling all aspects of Jay-Z’s entertainment, recording, tours and endorsement deals. Under this new deal, Jay-Z will receive an upfront payment of $25 million dollars, an advance of $25 million dollars and an advance payment of $10 million dollars per album, for at least three albums! He will also receive a series of payments totalling about $20 million dollars for publishing, licensing and the rights to other ventures produced by Roc Nation, as well as another $25 million dollars to target investments or acquisitions. And if that wasn’t enough, Live Nation will provide $5 million dollars a year to Roc Nation to support the new company’s overhead for the next five years.

MARIAH CAREY BEATS ELVIS PRESLEY'S RECORD! (3rd/Apr/08)

Mariah Carey has stepped into the history books by becoming only the second artist to ever claim 18 number one singles in the U.S.A. Thanks to her hit single "Touch My Body" she has surged up the Billboard Hot 100 countdown after being made available as a digital download earlier last week. Carey has now claimed her 18th number one, leaving her just two chart-toppers shy of the Beatles' record. Carey passed Elvis Presley who topped the U.S. pop charts 17 times. The humble star said recently "I really can never put myself in the category of people who have not only revolutionized music but also changed the world. That's a completely different era and time. I'm just feeling really happy and grateful."

KANYE WEST GETS INTO THE TRAVEL BUSINESS! (3rd/Apr/08)

Kanye West is broadening his business portfolio with the launch of Kanye Travel Ventures (KTV). KTV, which is owned by the rapper’s West Brands LLC, has assembled travel experts and consultants who created a travel program that will "reflect Kanye’s style and approach to living." Customers will be able to customize trips, purchase concert tickets and buy various merchandise on the www.kaynetravel.com website!

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50 CENT DOES A U TURN & NOW SUPPORTS BARACK OBAMA!.. OR DOES HE? (1st/Apr/08)

50 Cent has had a change of heart in his support for a presidential candidate. After initially saying in a Fox News video that he supported Hillary Clinton, Fiddy, born Curtis James Jackson, said a recent speech by Barack Obama made him change his mind! "I heard Obama speak. He hit me with that he-just-got-done-watch-‘Malcolm X’ and I swear to God, I’m like ‘Yo, Obama! I’m Obama to the end now, baby!" The star told MTV recently. However, since then, 50 has said he does not know which candidate he is supporting now. "To be honest, I haven’t been following that anymore. I lost my interest," 50 Cent said!"

REMY MA WANTS FANS TO WRITE LETTERS TO THE JUDGE! (1st/Apr/08)

According to New York's Daily News, Remy Ma has turned to her fans in hope that their support will help shorten the 25 year sentence she may face next month. Over the weekend the Grammy nominated rapper's MySpace page posted a message of endorsement aimed directly at her core fan base, pleading for admirers to send nice letters about her in hopes of receiving a reduced sentence. "Please write letters about how Remy and her music has positively affected you, influenced you, inspired you, in hopes that the judge will be lenient in Remy's upcoming sentencing," the note read. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, a Manhattan jury convicted Remy of first-degree assault and weapons charges for shooting her former friend in the abdomen last July over missing money. The MySpace message concluded "Thank you for all your support." Letters are asked to be sent to lettersforremy@gmail.com. Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Rena Uviller is set to hand Remy her sentence on April 23. The judge denied requests for Remy to spend the remaining days, until the sentencing, at home with her son. Fisher and his team plan to appeal the assault charges. 

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IS THE BRITISH MUSIC INDUSTRY RACIST AGAINST BLACK ARTISTS? (31st/Mar/08)

British rapper/singer Estelle (who is currently enjoying success in America) has hit out at what she sees as blindness in the British media and music industry to black talent. The 28-year-old, originally from west London, questions the promotion of an overwhelmingly white generation of young British singers, even those performing "black" soul music. Singling out Adele and Duffy, who she knocked off the number one spot at the weekend, she says: "I'm not mad at them, but I'm wondering, how the hell is there not a single black person in the press singing soul? Adele ain't soul. She sounds like she heard some Aretha records once, and she's got a deeper voice, that don't mean she's soul. That don't mean nothing to me in the grand scheme of my life as a black person. As a songwriter, I get what they do. As a black person, I'm like: you're telling me this is my music? F*ck that!" Paul McKenzie, editor of Touch Magazine also got in on the debate recently by adding "There is a fashion for young white females. They are the ones who are given the money and the time, and most importantly, people are patient with them. Duffy, if she hadn't had this hit, would have been given a second chance, and a third. Estelle wasn't. The people who hold the purse strings are looking at trends rather than talent. If you're not a young white female, in other words if you're black I can imagine that is incredibly depressing."

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BEANIE SIGEL GETS THREE MONTHS! (29th/Mar/08)

Beanie Sigel got sentenced to three months in prison, after he was accused of violating his probation for a third time! Probation officials revealed that Sigel provided a false urine sample and tested positive for Xanax and Percocet five times over the past month. The rap star was originally sentenced to six months house arrest in January, after a second probation violation. According to Sigel, the house arrest he was under, left him unable to earn the living he used to enjoy prior to getting into trouble with the law. He also revealed he was about to lose his house, because he can’t travel to earn money through performances. "I'm losing everything because of this situation," Sigel said. RnBandHIPHOPworld.com says "Well here is a perfect lesson and reason to STAY OUT OF TROUBLE!"

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T.I. SENTENCED TO ONE YEAR (28th/Mar/08)

Rapper T.I. pleaded guilty to two counts of illegally possessing machine guns and silencers, and one count of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm during an Atlanta court appearance. The star, born Clifford Harris, Jr. will receive a sentence of one year and one day, so long as he meets all of the conditions of his plea agreement, ordered U.S. District Court Judge Charles Pannell, Jr. He will also serve a total of 1500 hours of community service, divided in increments of 1000 hours before his sentencing, and 500 hours after he completes his prison sentence. This will include an opportunity for the star to speak to "at-risk youth," encouraging them to obey the law and avoid situations similar to those he reportedly faced since 1997. T.I. remains on house arrest, where he has been since posting a $3 million bond in October 2007. 

REMY MA CONVICTED! (28th/Mar/08)

Female rap star Remy Ma was convicted on four charges of assault by a Manhattan Supreme Court grand jury. The rapper faces 5 to 25 years in jail! The star was convicted of two counts of first-degree assault, attempted coercion, and criminal possession of a weapon. She was found not guilty of gang assault and witness tampering. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHPOPworld.com, Remy’s attorney Ivan Fisher maintained that the shooting was accidental, an argument he says was supported by Barnes-Joseph’s March 14 testimony. Assistant Manhattan District Attorney Michael McIntosh, on the other hand, argued that the shooting was the direct result of Smith’s deliberate decision to take "an illegal .45-caliber automatic and load it with hollow-point bullets and go into Ms. Joseph’s car." He added that her decision to flee the scene of the crime was further proof of the rapper’s guilt.

MARY J BLIGE BUYS PLUSH NEW CRIB! (28th/Mar/08)

Mary J. Blige has paid $12.3 million dollars in cash for a new house in Saddle River, N.J! The R'n'B star got the mansion for a lot less than the original asking price of $17 million dollars. The newly constructed home is 18,250 square feet and boasts eight bedrooms, a 14-seat movie theater, a fitness center, a hardwood basketball court, an elevator, a gourmet kitchen, eight bathrooms, a spiral staircase and a wine tasting room.. Phew! Her new neighbors (neighbours) will include Ja Rule, Wyclef Jean and the Rev. Run of Run-DMC! Mary and her husband, record-industry exec. Kendu Isaacs, are not expected to move in anytime soon, but according to sources, the two do plan to change the landscaping, add more security and possibly remodel a few garages to make room for Mary's tour bus.

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NATE DOGG GETS THREE YEARS PROBATION! (27th/Mar/08)

Snoop Dogg's cousin Nate Dogg was sentenced to three years informal probation after pleaded guilty to aggravated trespassing and battery. The charges stem from a domestic violence complaint back in 2006, when Nate Dogg allegedly broke into his ex-girlfriend's Huntington Beach, California home and beat up a love rival. Nate's ex and her boyfriend both filed restraining orders against the star after the incident. As well as the probation, the rapper was ordered to complete a domestic violence treatment program and was forbidden from owning a weapon for 10 years.

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ODB'S MOM TO TAKE ON THE LATE RAPPERS WIDOW IN COURT! (26th/Mar/08)

The mother of Ol' Dirty Bastard is set to battle his widow in a New York court over discrepancies in the handling of the late star's estate. Cherry Jones will appear in Brooklyn's Surrogate Court on April 1, 2008 to challenge the role of ODB's widow Icelene Jones as administrator of the rapper's estate, because she believes her son's funds are being misappropriated. A source close to the Jones family tells the New York Post's gossip column PageSix, "Cherry claims Icelene is misusing the funds. It's become mum vs. daughter-in-law and it's up to the judge to decide." Earlier this year, Icelene Jones called for a boycott of all unofficial clothing adorning the late MC's name and image stating she wanted to launch her own official clothing line which she believed to have been blessed by the hip-hop star.

DIDDY SETTLES CIVIL LAWSUIT OVER ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS! (26th/Mar/08)

Sean "Diddy" Combs has settled a civil lawsuit with Gerard Rechnitzer (the man that claimed the star assaulted him.) Rechnitzer claimed that Combs punched him, pushed his girlfriend and spat on another woman outside of Teddy’s Nightclub at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Lawyers for Combs had called the allegations as "completely baseless" and stated that Combs was "in no way legally responsible for what happened to Rechnitzer." Combs stated in the lawsuit that Rechnitzer "continued moving toward me and, without warning, lunged at me. Instinctively, I outstretched one of my hands, (hand was not closed-fisted) to shield myself from any contact between Mr. Rechnitzer and myself. Rechnitzer was awarded unspecified damages in his lawsuit.

LIL WAYNE'S THA CARTER III GETS A STREET DATE! (26th/Mar/08)

Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III" album will be released on May 13th via Young Money/Cash Money/Universal Motown! "Tha Carter III," the final set in the "Carter" trilogy, is the New Orleans rapper's first solo album since the release of 2005's "Tha Carter II," which has sold 1.3 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Hurricane Chris, Corey Gunz, Tyga, Jibbs, Shanell, Kidd Kidd, Mack Maine, Lil Mama and Kanye West have recorded features for the album. "It's one of those albums people are really waiting on, so I made it so that whatever is on it will stick with you forever," he told Billboard recently.

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KELLY ROWLAND WANTS TO HIT BROADWAY! (25th/Mar/08)

Kelly Rowland is keen to try her hand at acting on Broadway, and has instructed her manager, former bandmate Beyoncé Knowles' father Matthew Knowles, and his team to help her land a role in a hit show. According to reports, Knowles has already contacted the producers of Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and The Color Purple, with the producers of both stageshows expressing interest in having Rowland join their casts. Former bandmate Michelle Williams has previously starred in the Broadway productions of Aida and The Color Purple. Rowland has already proved her acting skills with roles in movies such as Freddy vs. Jason (2002), and The Seat Filler in 2004.

LLOYD IS SET TO RELEASE ANOTHER ALBUM IN JULY! (25th/Mar/08)

Only a year after the release of his successful album "Street Love," R'n'B singer Lloyd will return July 15 with his new album, "Lesson in Love." The first single from the Inc./Universal album, "How We Do It," features Ludacris and was produced by Baby Boy and Superkidd. Tricky Stewart, The-Dream, Polow Da Don, J-Lack, Jasper and Big Reese and Eric Hudson also contributed production on the set. Rap star Nelly will also guest star on the album!

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BOY ARRESTED FOR THROWING A ROCK AT SOULJA BOYS TOUR BUS! (24th/Mar/08)

A 12-year-old boy was arrested last Thursday (March 20) for allegedly throwing a rock through the windshield of Soulja Boy Tell Em’s tour bus in Bloomington, Illinois. According to police reports, the tour bus was parked outside of the Hampton Inn West when the boy threw the rock through the windshield. The little boy allegedly told officers he committed the crime because he hated Soulja Boy!

 

MISSY WANTS YOU FOR HER LATEST ADIDAS AD! (24th/Mar/08)

Missy Elliott and adidas Originals are launching the Respect M.E. talent competition, "Stand Up Be Seen." The competition will search for 10 female ambassadors for Missy and her clothing line Respect M.E. The 10 winners will be featured in the Fall/Winter 2008 Respect M.E. campaign, while five will continue on to be the faces of the Respect M.E. line, starting with Spring and Summer 2009. The contest will launch in the United States, the UK, the Asian Pacific Region, China, Japan, Korea, Europe, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Switzerland! The five ambassadors will also travel to those locations for photo shoots by international photographers. Head over to the website www.adidas.com/Missy for more info!

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GET READY FOR THE A-TEAM MOVIE! / DIRECTED BY JOHN SINGLETON! (21st/Mar/08)

They did it to the Incredible Hulk, Starsky & Hutch, Bat Man and many other old skool hit TV shows, and now the A-Team will get the big movie screen treatment! The hugely popular TV series, which ran from 1983 to 1987, revolved around four former Special Forces soldiers who were running from a "crime they didn’t commit." While evading capture, the four characters, Face, Hannibal, B.A. Baracus and Murdock, made a living for themselves by working as soldiers of fortune. Paramount has set a June 12, 2009 release date for the show’s adaptation and will be directed by John Singleton! Casting has not yet been confirmed but we will let you know here first at RnBandHIPHOPworld.com!

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SOULJA BOY ON TOUR! (20th/Mar/08)

Teen rapper Soulja Boy has announced the "21 & Under tour" of the United States! The star will be joined by Lil Mama, V.I.C. and Tiffany Evans! Check the tour details below..

April 11: Myrtle Beach, S.C. (House of Blues)

April 12: Charlotte, N.C. (Neighborhood Theatre)

April 14: New York (Nokia Theatre)

April 16: Baltimore (Rams Head Live)

April 17: Philadelphia (Electric Factory)

April 18: Niagara Falls, N.Y. (The Conference Center for Niagra Falls)

April 19: Agawam, Mass. (Six Flags New England)

April 20: Toronto (Kool Haus)

April 22: Chicago (House of Blues)

April 24: Cleveland (House of Blues)

April 25: Indianapolis (Egyptian Room)

April 29: Denver (Ogden Theater)

April 30: Anaheim, Calif. (The Grove in Anaheim)

May 1: Los Angeles (House of Blues)

May 2: Alpine, Calif. (Viejas - Concert in the Park)

May 4: Las Vegas (House of Blues)

May 7: Dallas (House of Blues)

May 9: Houston (Verizon Wireless Theater)

May 11: Atlanta (Tabernacle)

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VICTIM OF REMY MA SHOOTING WITHDRAWS 20 MILLION DOLLAR LAWSUIT! (19th/Mar/08)

According to reports, Makeda Barnes-Joseph, the woman that filed the whopping lawsuit suit in December against Remy Ma, has withdrawn her civil lawsuit! She is allegedly waiting to see the outcome of the criminal trial against Remy and has the option of refilling the lawsuit at a later date. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Remy Ma is accused of shooting Makeda Barnes-Joseph twice in the abdomen during a dispute.

BUSTA RHYMES GETS THREE YEARS PROBATION! (19th/Mar/08)

A judge sentenced Busta Rhymes to three years probation yesterday (Tuesday 18) for assaulting his former driver and a fan. The star, real name Trevor Smith, was also ordered to perform 10 days of community service; pay a $1,250 fine, plus court costs; and take part in a drunken driving program. Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Larry Stephen put Rhymes on notice that he must abide by the conditions of his probation and stay out of trouble. "If you mess up, you're going to jail," the judge said. Rhymes said the terms of the plea deal won't be a problem. "I have no trouble being a good dude because that's what I am," he said. Rhymes also said (after the sentencing) "I couldn't feel better, and this couldn't have happened at a better time. I thank the judge for giving me a chance and I thank everybody for being supportive." The rapper said he wanted to get back to "having fun, making music, running around and showing love."

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LIL WAYNE'S SHOW IN LONDON STOPPED DUE TO VIOLENCE! (18th/Mar/08)

A Lil Wayne concert in London, England was cut short (March 16) following fights breaking out in the crowd. According to eye witnesses, Lil Wayne had to end his set early at London's Stratford Rex because of fighting near the stage. According to reports, an area near the stage was originally reserved for VIP's but this area became overcrowded which caused disagreements between certain people that led to actual fights. It is also reported that a glasses were thrown on the stage! On a positive note, the star was on top form during the few songs he managed to perform before the violence started.

MARIAH CAREY IS NOT HAPPY WITH PEREZ HILTON! (18th/Mar/08)

Mariah Carey hit back at celebrity blogger Perez Hilton on the radio (Monday) after he rubbished her performance on Saturday Night Live. Perez called her collaboration with rapper T-Pain, "disappointing".

Hilton upset Carey by also claiming the song "sucks." Not happy with his comments, Carey, on a radio chat show with Los Angeles DJ Ryan Seacrest, hit back saying "I'm kinda tired of it." She then added sarcastically, "I think I've had this job for a long time." Seacrest then invited Hilton to join the chat by phone, prompting Carey to tell him, "I love you, no matter what you do but you can't hate on that song with T-Pain; you need to listen to it again." Carey insisted the song she performed on live TV on Saturday night is not her new single. She added, "I'm definitely not even releasing "Migrate" as a second single. It was just fun to do on Saturday Night Live. My next single is going to be a ballad, darling. I ain't stupid. I ain't trying to mess with what we already know. And when Hilton attempted to speculate about Carey's love life, the sassy pop star cut him off, stating, "Y'know Perez, that's for you and me to have a personal, private moment and discuss what we want the world to know."

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NEW LAWSUIT THROWN AT THE GAME! (16th/Mar/08)

Shannon Rodrick, the man who was allegedly assaulted by The Game after an argument during a pick-up game of basketball last year, has brought a new civil lawsuit against the rapper. According to court documents, Rodrick stated that he fell backward after the rap star (born Jayceon Taylor) told him his "team is garbage" and "'sucker-punched" him. In addition, Rodrick claims that Game went to his vehicle to get a gun and approached him saying, "I'm going to blast this fool." Rodrick alleges assault, battery, a civil rights violation and negligence in the civil suit. The exact amount Rodrick is suing for is unspecified.

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REMY MA TRIAL UPDATE! (14th/Mar/08)

According to latest reports, another witness (Krystal Bolton) testified yesterday (March 13) that she was sitting in a parked car, when she heard gunshots. Although Bolton did not witness the actual shooting, she claimed Makeda Barnes-Joseph cried out "don't let me die," as Remy Ma fled the scene of the crime. Bolton admitted that she was too drunk the night of the shooting to accurately recollect the events. "I just remember a light flashing and me running to the victim on the ground," Bolton testified. The trial continues.

50 CENT IS HEADING DOWN UNDER! (14th/Mar/08)

50 Cent is heading to Australia and will be a presenter on the MTV Australian Music Awards on April 26! The star will not be alone as his G-Unit crew will hit Sydney on April 23, followed by a stop in Auckland on the 25th. The tour will conclude with a concert in Melbourne on April 27.

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THE GAME IS OUT OF PRISON & CLEARS UP CONFUSION! (13th/Mar/08)

The Game has confirmed that he was released from prison on March 10. The rapper issued a statement apologizing for the conflicting information about his release. "I apologize, but due to the sensitive negotiations on this matter I felt it appropriate not to give an exact date on my release. I am truly grateful to my attorney, family and management for doing a great job in this respect." The Game still has to serve 150 hours of community service and three years probation.

R.KELLY'S COURT CASE HEATS UP! (13th/Mar/08)

According to The Chicago Tribune newspaper, two new state witnesses are expected to back the prosecution's case by corroborating claims about the identity of the girl who was allegedly videotaped having sex with R'n'B R.Kelly. At a court hearing yesterday (March 12) Kelly's lawyer, Edward Genson expressed some frustration at new witnesses being added so close to the trial date, however he did not object to the new witnesses. Prosecutors in the case have been facing denials from the young woman, allegedly videotaped having sex with Kelly, who says she does not appear in the video. In January Gaughan turned down prosecutors request to allow expert testimony about the alleged victims denial. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, R. Kelly was indicted on child pornography charges in June 2002 for allegations he had videotaped himself having sex with an underage girl. Prosecutors have said the girl may have been as young as 13 when the tape was made. According to Tribune sources, both witnesses knew Kelly and the girl around the time the video was made. One witness worked for Kelly and met the girl, while the other was a friend of the girl who'd met Kelly. By judge's order, all witnesses' identities are being kept secret. Both are also under a gag order. Both prosecution and defense (defence) are due back in court April 1 to discuss jury instructions. The star could face 15 years in prison if convicted.

SNOOP DOGG BECOMES A CARTOON CHARACTER! (13th/Mar/08)

That's it really, we don't have any other info regarding this story other than it is based on his childhood. We will keep you updated as to when this cartoon might see the light of day!

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JUELZ SANTANA FOUND WITH DRUGS & HOLLOW POINT BULLETS? (12th/Mar/08)

Juelz Santana was arrested near his New Jersey home, after police found hollow point bullets and marijuana in his Bentley car. The star, born LaRon James, was arrested last week as he approached his home in the gated community of Glenpointe. According to reports, cops claim they smelt marijuana from Santana’s Bentley and noticed several marijuana roaches, Dutch Masters and White Owl cigars. Officers searched the vehicle and found 29 hollow point bullets wrapped in a sock, as well as $19.500 dollars in cash in a hidden plastic bag filled with “hundreds of Jolly Rancher candies.” Police also found a rolled marijuana blunt in Santana’s sock.

REMY MA'S COURTROOM UPDATE! (12th/Mar/08)

Remy Ma’s assault trial continued in court today with the prosecution producing two witnesses who testified against her. According to reports a friend of shooting victim Makeda Barnes-Joseph testified that he saw Remy get out of a Cadillac Escalade, cock a .45 handgun and later heard a gunshot. The man then claimed he saw Remy Ma leave Joseph’s car as did another witness, who testified she saw a flash and witnessed the rapper exit Joseph’s car moments after Joseph was shot twice in the abdomen. Prosecutors claim Remy Ma then fled the scene after pillaging through Barnes-Joseph's bag. The star then allegedly crashed the car a few blocks away. More from the courtroom when we get it.

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BARACK OBAMA TO LAY VOCALS ON NEW RAP SINGLE! (11th/Mar/08)

Rapper Q-Tip has hooked up with U.S. presidential hopeful Barack Obama to lay down vocals on a politically motivated track for his latest LP. The star tells the New York Post's Page Six, "I've got Norah Jones on there, but Barack is the big one. You'll see what happens, I can't reveal too much." The hip-hop hit maker joins former Batman Michael Keaton, Oscar winner Halle Berry, actress Jessica Alba, Will.I.Am, Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith, all of whom have spoken openly about their support for Obama.

REMY MA'S LAWYER SAYS SHOOTING WAS ACCIDENTAL! (11th/Mar/08)

Remy Ma's trial started started yesterday (March 10) in a Manhattan court room. As previously reported by RnBandHIPHOPworld.com, Remy was charged with assault and witness intimidation, after she allegedly shot her childhood friend in a dispute over $3,000 that was missing from her purse. According to latest reports, her lawyer Ivan Fisher portrayed the shooting as an accident, after a pistol the rapper was carrying went off and struck Makeda Barnes-Joseph twice in the abdomen. Prosecuting lawyer and Assistant District Attorney Jason Berland discounted Fisher's account of the assault. He claims Remy Ma climbed into Barnes-Joseph's vehicle, argued with her over the purse and then shot the rapper twice, intentionally. Berland also called the rapper irresponsible for fleeing the scene and crashing into a parked car.

THE GAME HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED! (11th/Mar/08)

Despite other news outlets claiming the rap star was a free man, we have learnt that The Game is still on lockdown and may be there until sometime in April!

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THE PEOPLE THAT REALLY DISCOVERED EMINEM WANTS TO GET PAID! (8th/Mar/08)

Detroit brothers Mark Bass and Jeff Bass have filed a lawsuit against Aftermath, Interscope and Dr. Dre’s Ary Inc., claiming the companies have failed to pay millions of dollars in royalties. The Bass brothers’ Michigan-based F.B.T. Productions, along with Em2M LLC, claim that the labels have failed to pay at least $1 million dollars in back royalties, from master recordings of the musical performances by Eminem. F.B.T. signed Eminem to an exclusive artist’s recording agreement back in 1995. Three years later, F.B.T. signed an agreement with Aftermath Entertainment, agreeing to furnish Aftermath the exclusive services of Eminem. The lawsuit claims that all parties agreed that F.B.T. would remain an income participant in all future releases by Eminem and that royalties earned from Eminem’s releases would be paid to F.B.T., Martin’s Em2M and Eminem. The Bass Brothers, who are being represented by Los Angeles based attorneys Paul H. Duvall and Mark Block, seek an undisclosed amount in damages that could be determined by a jury, if the case goes to trial.

SNOOP DOGG MUST REACH A SETTLEMENT WITH OLD LABEL! (8th/Mar/08)

Snoop Dogg must reach a settlement with his former label Priority Records within the next three weeks according to reports or the unpaid royalties lawsuit he filed will go to trial, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge has ruled. Snoop, real name Cordozar Calvin Broadus, filed suit against Priority in 2006, accusing them of failing to pay up $2 million in outstanding royalties. He also claims he has yet to receive a $950,000 advance for his album Tha Last Meal. Priority also allegedly failed to consult the star over the greatest hits LP The Best of Snoop Dogg, which they released without his consent in October 2005. Both Priority and Snoop have revealed that they are close to reaching an agreement over the alleged overdue payments, but needed more time to resolve all issues. Despite this, a court hearing on Thursday has set a deadline of March 26 for any settlement to be reached.

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BEYONCÉ TO STAR IN NEW MOVIE WITH IDRIS ELBA! (7th/Mar/08)

Beyoncé Knowles will play the wife of a successful asset manager, played by Idris Elba. Elba’s character is a man that has everything, wealth, success and a beautiful wife. However, things take a bitter turn when a temp begins to stalk him. NBC "Heroes" star Ali Larter will play the fatal attraction style woman who stalks Elba’s character! Beyoncé and her father, Matthew Knowles are executive producing the project, which is set to go into production this summer!

NEW TRIBUTE SONG FOR BIGGIE IMPACTS RADIO THIS WEEK! (7th/Mar/08)

50 Cent, Bizzy Bone, Bobby Valentino, Chingy, Maino, Chris Notez and New York rapper/producer "Hav Boy" Monte are releasing a song paying homage to the late New York rapper Biggie Smalls. The track is the first of its kind not to have anything to do with Diddy's Bad Boy label. "Everyone that I reached out to was happy to do it. Nobody even wanted any money for doing this." Monte said. Bizzy Bone said "I didn't even have to think about it. How could I not want to pay tribute to such an amazing spirit and talent as Biggie? It is an honor (honour) to be a part of this." Monte plans to release behind-the-scenes video footage from the recording of "Can I Speak to Biggie," and will also continue to make Biggie tribute songs each year with different artists.

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JAMAL "GRAVY" WOOLARD TO PLAY BIGGIE SMALLS IN NEW MOVIE! (6th/Mar/08)

A rapper from Brooklyn that goes by the name of Jamal "Gravy" Woolard, has been chosen to play The Notorious B.I.G. in the upcoming movie "Notorious." The movie will start shooting March 24 in New York. "Notorious" will also star Angela Bassett as Voletta Wallace, Derek Luke as Sean "Diddy" Combs and Anthony Mackie will play Tupac Shakur. The movie will be directed by George Tillman Jr, executive produced by Sean "Diddy" Combs and is based on a screenplay by Cheo Hodari Coker and Reggie Rock Bythewood. "Notorious" is due for a release January 16, 2009. 

JANET JACKSON IS BACK AT NUMBER ONE WITH NEW ALBUM! (6th/Mar/08)

Janet Jackson is back on top of the charts for the first time in almost seven years with her new album "Feedback." According to Nielsen SoundScan, it sold 181,000 copies in the U.S. this week, which is less than her last two albums "Damita Jo" in 2004 (381,000), and "20 Y.O. in 2006 (296,000). However, neither of those CDs was able to rise past No.2 on the charts.

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IS JERMAINE DUPRI GOING BLIND? (5th/Mar/08)

According to recent reports, Janet Jackson's boyfriend, Jermaine Dupri, is suffering from serious eye complications after his laser eye surgery procedure. The 35-year-old rapper and record producer is said to have undergone elective eye surgery about two weeks ago. But instead of getting better eyesight, sources say he is having major difficulty with his sight. However, a rep for super producer has come out denying these reports. The rumors (rumours) were started by a report on MediaTakeOut.com, which cited sources close to the producer who said he had the corrective procedure done two weeks ago and continues to have major problems with his vision. One source described Dupri as "virtually blind." "Not true," his publicist Patti Webster said recently.

LAURYN HILL MAY PLAY RITA MARLEY IN NEW BOB MARLEY BIO PIC! (5th/Mar/08)

Rita Marley is hoping Lauryn Hill will agree to portray her in the first-ever biopic of her late husband Bob Marley. "Lauryn would be ideal. She sees my life as her life." Rita Marley is executive producing the as-yet-untitled adaptation of her 2004 autobiography "No Woman No Cry: My Life With Bob Marley," a chronicle of the musician's childhood and their tumultuous 15-year marriage. Producer Rudy Langlais ("The Hurricane") says the film will be an "epic romance," including the Marleys' life and the assassination attempt on the couple. "It's miraculous that Rita is still here after being shot in the head," he says. Rita says her grandson Stefan is "the spitting image" of the singer and would be perfect for the starring role. However, no casting decisions will be made until later this year, says Langlais. Filming should begin early next year with a possible release date of late 2009, possibly before Martin Scorsese's authorized feature documentary on the late singer, set for release Feb.6, 2010.

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DANCEHALL STAR ELEPHANT MAN IS BACK WITH A NEW ALBUM! (4th/Mar/08)

As many Dancehall fans know, Elephant Man has been on the Dancehall Reggae music scene for many years. However, since joining Diddy's label (but not leaving his reggae label VP Records,) the star has made moves on a different level and is rubbing shoulders with some big names! Swizz Beatz, Busta Rhymes, Wyclef, Yung Joc, Chris Brown, Shaggy, Kat Deluna and Mario Winans are among some of the artists that will feature on Elephant Man's new CD titled "Let's Get Physical." The album is the first project from a new joint venture between Bad Boy Entertainment and VP Records, Jamaica's biggest independant record label. Let's Get Physical hits stores April 8.

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THE GAME HANDS HIMSELF IN! (3rd/Mar/08)

Rap star The Game turned himself in yesterday (Sunday) to begin serving a 60 day prison sentence. A judge sentenced The Game to 60 days in a Los Angeles County Jail on February 11, after he pleaded no contest to a felony charge of gun possession in a school zone. Two other criminal counts were dropped as a result of the plea agreement the rapper struck with prosecutors, who accused him of pointing a gun at another man during a pickup game of basketball at the Rita Walters Educational Learning Complex. In addition to jail time, Game was sentenced to 150 hours of community service and three years probation.

JANET JACKSON TRIES TO TEACH TV VETERAN LARRY KING A DANCE MOVE! (3rd/Mar/08)

CNN's Larry King asked superstar Janet Jackson to teach him some dance moves on CNN! "Okay Janet, show me a trick, I don't know what I am doing," King said. As her video for "Feedback" played on a giant screen behind them, Jackson attempted to show the world famous CNN frontman a piece of choreography from the clip. She showed tremendous patience with the 74-year-old as he struggled hard to copy simple arm and leg gestures! Click Janet's picture to see a video clip of this story!

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JUVENILES 4 YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER KILLED, HER SISTER & MOTHER ALSO DEAD (1st/Mar/08)

According to the asscociated press, a teenage boy is accused of fatally shooting his mother and her two little girls, one of whom was the 4-year-old daughter of rap star Juvenile. The teenager was charged Friday with murder in the deaths at the family home near Lawrenceville, where the bodies were found the night before, according to police spokeswoman Illana Spellman. The victims were identified by police as Gwinnett County Sheriff's Deputy Joy Deleston, 39, and her two daughters, Micaiah, 11, and Jelani, 4. The motive was still unclear. The suspect was taken to jail in DeKalb County to avoid any potential conflict because Deleston worked for Gwinnett County, Spellman said. He is being held without bail. Because of his age, prosecutors cannot seek the death penalty against Terrell. A preliminary hearing will be set next week in Gwinnett County Superior Court, said prosecutor Danny Porter. Authorities on Friday found the gun used, going by information provided by the suspect. Spellman said she could not confirm whether Deleston's service weapon was used. Deleston, a seven-year member of the department, had been assigned to the sex offender unit, officials said. Police had gone to the subdivision because a caller reported shots fired, Officer David Schiralli said earlier. They found a bullet hole in a house, then checked next door because they knew a deputy lived there. "There was no answer, but lights were on," Schiralli said. "They opened the door a little bit to announce themselves," then discovered the bodies, he said. The 17-year-old son arrived at the house about 35 minutes later, he said. Spellman said he was arrested after talking to investigators but didn't elaborate.

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PROSECUTORS SEEK JA RULE'S DNA? (29th/Feb/08)

Prosecutors in New York are seeking a DNA sample from hip-hop artist Ja Rule in connection with a gun possession case. The New York Post said prosecutors want to swab the recording artist's cheeks and have the sample tested to see if his DNA matches what investigators found on a loaded, unlicensed handgun seized from Ja Rule's car in Manhattan last year.

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