Good lawd!!! Rihanna does it again! GQ releases 2012′s Men of the Year but who cares when Rihanna poses like this! Check out her pics in this month’s mag and she talks about the Chris Brown vs Drake bottle throwing incident, her latest tattoos and more – enjoy!
10:55 AM PT – Drake’s rep just issued a statement about the incident, insisting Drizzywasn’t involved in the brawl at all … the beef was between CB and another rapper named Meek Mill.
10:15 AM PT –
A witness who was inside the club tells TMZ … Chris Brown did NOT send any bottles over to Drake’s table, despite several reports to the contrary.
We’re told both Brown and Drake had been hanging out in the VIP section … when Drake began pointing and yelling at Brown.
Brown began yelling back … and that’s when members of both entourages rushed in and began shoving each other.
With tensions running high, someone threw a bottle — which set the whole thing off … and the shoving turned to punches.
We’re told club security rushed in to break up the fight … and called police for backup. Brown and Drake left the scene by the time cops showed up … but several members of their entourages remained at the club. Multiple members of both crews required medical assistance.
We’re told the club suffered some serious damage in the fight — including busted up tables, broken mirrors, shattered lighting and glass scratches all over the floors.
Chris Brown sustained a nasty gash on his chin — apparently a wound from a bottle attack — after his entourage allegedly clashed with Drake‘s crew in a NYC nightclub brawl.
TMZ has confirmed with the NYPD that the two singers’ crews got into a fight at WIP nightclub — 5 people were injured in the melee.
NYPD arrived on the scene after receiving a call between 4 and 5am. Chris and Drake were not present when cops arrived.
We’re told there were no critical injuries … just bumps, bruises and lacerations. No arrests were made.
After the fight, Brown tweeted a photo of his injury … along with the message, “How u party wit rich n**** that hate? Lol… Throwing bottles like girls? #shameonya!.”
BURY DA BEEF! Chris Brown and Drake Fight In New York (PHOTOS)
Posted 7 hours 48 sec ago by BlogXilla for Global Grind Staff
**UPDATE** 2PM EST
An inside source and eyewitness to the brawl has exclusively told GlobalGrind that Drake and Chris Brown did not physically touch each other. Developing…
–
Chaos ensued in New York City last night as Drake and Chris Brown got into a bloody brawl at the new, hot nightclub WIP in downtown Manhattan aka Manny-Hanny.
Last night, glass was everywhere when Drake threw a bottle at Chris Brown leaving the Look At Me Now star with a gash on his chin.
Allegedly the fight started when Chris Brown sent a bottle over to Drake. That’s when the Toronto rapper went face to face in the club with Chris and began arguing about Rihanna. Some believe Meek Mill may have instigated the fight, who was also in the club hanging out with Drake. However after words were exchanged, Drake punched Chris Brown in the face, and hit him in the mouth with a bottle before he could retalitate from the punch.
Additional eyewitness reports are saying that a member of Drake’s crew picked up a bottle and hit Chris directly in the face with the bottle. This caused bottles, glass cups, and metal containers to fly.
Chris Brown jumped on twitter and went in.
“Niggas throwing bottles! Y’all niggaz weak! Ok! Niggas stand behind security!!!! Ok! U don’t pay them enough! Niggas hiding in the bathroom bitch ass niggas! And I’m the singer?
Bottles? It’s nothing!
Lol How u party wit a rich nigga that hate? Lol…. Throwing bottles like girls? #shameonya!”
The two have had a war of words since both being romantically attached to Rihanna. After the fight, Meek Mill found it funny uploading a tweetgram referring to Rihanna’s goodies and even throwing a Shaggy quote.
“It wasn’t me…. (shaggy voice) lol”
There are reports the two started throwing blows (and bottles!) over Chris’ ex girlfriend,Rihanna, who Drake is rumored to have hooked up with.
Chris Brown’s longtime bodygard, Big Pat after last night’s incident.
*We are still waiting on confirmation from Chris Brown, Meek Mill and Drake’s camp on last night’s incident*
We recently reported Chris Brown’s fashion sense has landed him on the U-K’s GQ magazine the worst dressed list. After hearing the news, Brown tweeted, “The clothes don’t wear you, you wear the clothes.” He added, “A lot of my fashion icons today are like Pharrell [Williams], he has a lot of incredible style and him being from Virginia, that’s always one of those things that get the kids going excited.” In related news, his next album, Fortune, will arrive in March.
DRAKE BREAKS DIDDY’S RECORD
According to his official fansite, Drake is no longer tied with Diddy for the most number one singles on the Billboard Rap Songs chart. Since the rapper’s “Make Me Proud” with Nicki Minaj landed at number one last week, Aubrey has surpassed Puff with 11 number ones under his belt – here they are:
Drake – Best I Ever Had
Forever (Eminem, Kanye West, Lil Wayne & Drake)
Say Something (Timbaland Feat. Drake)
Drake – Over
Drake – Fancy (Feat. T.I. & Swizz Beatz)
Right Above It (Lil Wayne Feat. Drake)
Aston Martin Music (Rick Ross Feat. Chrisette Michele & Drake)
Moment 4 Life (Nicki Minaj Feat. Drake)
I’m On One (DJ Khaled Feat. Drake, Rick Ross and Lil Wayne)
Drake – Headlines
Drake – Make Me Proud (Feat. Nicki Minaj)
AND…
DRAKE SHOOTS VIDEO FOR “PRACTICE”
Even though he’s only seen for 20 seconds in the video, Drake has issued a visual for his new single, “Practice.” In the clip, a video vixen named Kyra Chaos dances in her bedroom mirror for most of the song until Drizzy opens the door and surprises her at the end. If you think you can dance better, he’s asking fans to submit videos via OctobersVeryOwn.Blogspot.com. In related news, Drake will begin his Club Paradise tour on Valentine’s Day.
WIZ KAHALIFA BREAKS DOWN TITLE FOR NEXT LP
MTV News caught up with Wiz Khalifa to find out more about his upcoming album, O.N.I.F.C. Since many fans are wondering what the title means, the “Black & Yellow” rapper explained, “It’s the Only N-Word in First Class. It’s inspired by Prodigy’s H.N.I.C. When he dropped that, I felt like that sounded so strong.” Wiz shared, “I was just talking about me being a young rich dude and being black.” The release date for the project is yet to be announced.
Wiz confirmed a song will be produced by Pharrell.
JA RULE FINISHES HIS GED IN PRISON
According to the New York Daily News, Ja Rule is making good use of his two-year prison sentence stemming from weapons and tax evasion charges. The 36-year-old rapper has reportedly earned his GED during his stint. In addition, Ja plans to begin college-level courses later this month, most likely after his seventh studio album, Pain Is Love 2, arrives on February 28th.
DAY26 RETURNS WITH “MADE LOVE LATELY”
Day26 is back like they never let. The former Bad Boy band have issues a new song called “Made Love Lately,” which serves as the first single from the group’s upcoming album, A New Day. One of the members, Brian, told Rap-Up.com, “It’s real R&B. It’s taking it back to that ’90s R&B. It’s heartfelt, it’s passion.” The disc, which include contributions from Bryan-Michael Cox and Rico Love, will arrive via Atlantic Records later this year. Head over to Day26Online.com to watch the video for their lead offering.
MACHINE GUN KELLY’S “INVINCIBLE” USED FOR WRESTLEMANIA
According to AllHipHop.com, Machine Gun Kelly’s new single, “Invincible,” will be used during the upcoming Wrestlemania XXVIII event in Miami. The Ester Dean-featured song will serve as WWE star John Cena’s music during his wrestling match against The Rock. In related news, the Bad Boy artist said in a statement, “John Cena and myself are both underdogs and the song is about struggle, I think it’s so cool they chose it.”
VH1 TO NAME 100 GREATEST WOMEN IN MUSIC
Vh1’s celebration of the greatest women in music history is back by popular demand. However, fans can expect a huge make-over. In order to feature a larger spectrum of talent, this year’s fan-generated list will include six different categories – “All Time,” “90s,” “80s,” “Pop,” “Rock” and “Hip/Hop R&B.” The list will also include more contemporary performers. Will stars Beyonce and Nicki Minaj hold their own against music legends Janet Jackson and Madonna? Be sure to cast your vote soon and expect the weeklong series to begin on February 13th.
- Artists in the top ten of the 2009 list included Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Joni Mitchell and Janis Joplin.
MADONNA DROPS NEW VIDEO!
Madonna has released her “Give Me All Your Luvin’” video. The clip features Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., masked cheerleaders, football players and a lot of old-school Madonna references. The clip opens with Nicki and M.I.A. done up in cheerleader costumes chanting Madge’s name. It then cuts to Madonna kicking down the door of her suburban home, pushing along a baby stroller. From there, the video takes some unusual turns: football players tackling street signs, Madonna abandoning her baby carriage to hang out with her cheerleader crew, shots of her done up in black lingerie and a giant cross dancing in front of a brick wall. The video ends with Madonna tossing her baby doll to the side as one final message flashes across the screen: “Touchdown!,” a tip of the hat to her Super Bowl appearance over the weekend. “Give Me Your Luvin’” is the first single off her new album, MDNA, which will arrive on March 26th.
AND…
NFL APOLOGIZES FOR MIA’s MIDDLE FINGER DURING MADONNA’S HALF TIME PERFORMANCE
At Sunday’s Super Bowl, it wasn’t a “wardrobe malfunction” that got tongues wagging, but an appendage malfunction.
M.I.A.’s hand signal during her Super Bowl performance of the new Madonna single was a switch from the handgun motion she uses in the video for the song.
Madonna’s halftime show — which featured hip-hoppers Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. clad in cheerleader attire and pompoms, singing along to the pop star’s new single, Give Me All Your Luvin’— was upstaged when M.I.A. (aka Maya Arulpragasam) extended her middle finger to the cameras. A record 111.3 million viewers saw the British rapper’s brief obscene gesture during the telecast, the most-watched TV program in U.S. history, according to Nielsen figures.
Oops.
NBC had a five-second video delay on the show but managed to blur M.I.A’s raised finger only after it appeared on air.
Tweeted Perez Hilton: “Think she’ll ever be on live TV again?”
People “flipping the bird” during football games is not rare, even on camera: In October, Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk was fined $10,000 for flashing his middle finger during a televised Fox game against the St. Louis Rams.
It just doesn’t usually come from the halftime entertainment.
“If you’re going to go all-in on the spectacle of performing on a halftime show in the Super Bowl, you should probably keep your middle finger down,” says Craig Marks, editor in chief of PopDust.com. “Who are you actually flipping off? It just seems out of place, and it’s not a good platform to try to be particularly rebellious.”
The Super Bowl is such a mainstream event, “things that at a typical performance would not make anybody bat an eye become the subject of a very intense focus,” says Rolling Stone contributing editor Anthony DeCurtis.
The rapper — who was one of Google’s most-searched subjects Monday — isn’t commenting on the incident, but such rude moments aren’t out of the norm for the music industry.
A shot of Johnny Cash giving the middle finger to photographer Jim Marshall during a 1969 performance at San Quentin Prison added to the Man in Black’s mystique. But when Kanye West interrupted Taylor Swift as she accepted a trophy during the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, his image wasn’t helped at all. “That made him look like a twit,” DeCurtis says.
Usually in the world of hip-hop, foul language and gestures can be a boon for artists (see: 2 Live Crew).
“She’s supposed to be controversial,” DeCurtis says. “M.I.A. is certainly not on the scale of Madonna or Nicki Minaj, and it might help (her career) now that people know who she is.”
Marks isn’t sure whether the Paper Planes singer’s errant appendage — a switch from the handgun motion she uses in the video for the new Madonna single — will help or hinder sales for her upcoming new album. (The first single was released Friday. The title? Bad Girls.)
But Chris Willman of Yahoo Music definitely sees it as a plus for M.I.A. “I don’t think she’s ever gotten this much attention before,” he says. “That’s the kind of publicity you can’t buy when you have an album coming out.
“Who would have guessed that Madonna would be an afterthought in what people are talking about after the show? Madonna might be more mad than any conservative groups.”
NBC and the NFL later issued apologies for the incident.
“The NFL hired the talent and produced the halftime show,” NBC spokesman Christopher McCloskey said. “Our system was late to obscure the inappropriate gesture and we apologize to our viewers.”
Said NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy: “The obscene gesture in the performance was completely inappropriate, very disappointing, and we apologize to our fans.”
In the long run, the incident won’t be as infamous as Janet Jackson’s, when the singer’s breast was exposed for about a second while performing with Justin Timberlake during the 2004 Super Bowl. The FCC fined CBS $550,000, but that was fine overturned by a federal appeals court.
“Nothing freaks out America more than nudity while the children are watching,” Marks says.
That led to a run of more “non-controversial” Super Bowl performers such as Bruce Springsteen, The Who and the Rolling Stones.
“Madonna to this day courts controversy,” DeCurtis says. “In a certain sense, if you’re asking Madonna, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. to get up on stage, you’re getting what you asked for.”
Still, there were the next-day mea culpas. The NFL issued an apology for “the completely inappropriate gesture,” while NBC said in a statement that its delay system failed to catch the “spontaneous” middle finger in time. The Parents Television Council was not amused either, calling the gesture “a slap in the face.”
Marks suspects the gesture was more premeditated than spontaneous, seeing how M.I.A. looked directly at the camera when she did it.
“The only mystery is whether or not Madonna approved of her message, whether she knew she was going to do it, or whether she tried to stop her or not. Maybe she put her up to it, who knows?” he says.
“My instinct is that (M.I.A.) recognized the overblown ridiculousness that is the Super Bowl halftime show. (Maybe) she felt a little silly for being up there in a mock cheerleader costume cheering for Madonna and she just wanted to make her mark somehow.”
The action and the reaction, however, both seem equally juvenile to Marks. “It’s amazing that people care so much about such a small little thing, but that’s the Super Bowl for you.”
Says Willman: “Everybody’s seen a middle finger before.”
By Christopher Polk
Contributing: Michael Hiestand and Elysa Gardner
AND speaking of the Super Bowl…
CONGRATS TO THE NY GIANTS AND ALL THEI FANS ON YOUR SUPERBOWL 46 VICTORY!
Kelly Rowland is not done promoting her latest album, Here I Am. The singer has just unleashed the visual for her newest single, “Keep It Between Us.” The clip was shot in Paris and includes actor Lance Gross as the former Destiny Child singer’s love interest. If you haven’t done so already, do yourself a favor and pick up Here I Am, today.
CHRIS BROWN’S GUEST FEATURES CONTINUES TO GROW
Since Chris Brown is refusing to do interviews, fans have to rely on his Twitter page to find out news surrounding his upcoming album, Fortune. So far, Breezy has announced that the follow-up to F.A.M.E. will include contributions from will.i.am, David Guetta, Asher Roth, Wiz Khalifa, Nas and Kid Sister. If that’s not enough, there’s whispers that Brown is looking to invite even more acts. Be sure to look out for Fortune when the disc arrives in March.
- Are you excited for the album?
ETTA JAMES FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS ANNOUNCED
After passing away on January 20th, the memorial and funeral arrangements for Etta James have been announced. CNN reports there will be a public viewing on Friday at the Inglewood Cemetery in Inglewood, California. In addition, there will be a private funeral service the following day where Rev. Al Sharpton will preside over the service. The “At Last” singer died on Friday at the age of 73 after battling leukemia, dementia and hepatitis C.
- The funeral will take place at Greater Bethany Community Church City of Refuge in Gardena, California.
NE-YO FINDS NEW LABEL HOME AT MOTOWN
After parting ways with Def Jam, Ne-Yo has reportedly has signed to Motown Records and has been appointed Senior Vice President of A&R. Billboard.biz reports the singer will also bring his Compound Entertainment imprint to his new label home. Ne-Yo in a statement, “I’m honored that I’ve been given such a prestigious title and trusted with such responsibility; terrified because I know that playing this role in the fashion of one of my career role models, Mr. Smokey Robinson—these are big shoes to fill. But trust, I can handle it.” Ne-Yo’s fifth album, The Cracks in Mr. Perfect, is due this summer.
- The crooner released four albums on Def Jam.
NICKI MINAJ BREAKS RECORD WITH “STUPID HOE” VIDEO
Is there anything Nicki Minaj can’t do? The Young Money fem-cee has reportedly broken a record on Vevo for having the highest single video views within the first 24 hours of release. After releasing her Hype Williams-directed visual to “Stupid Hoe,” the Queens native racked up 4.8-million views. In related news, her sophomore album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, is set for an April 3rd release.
COMMON DOESN’T KNOW WHEN DRAKE BEEF WILL END
We’re still scratching our heads over the beef brewing between Common and Drake. During an interview with Bossip.com, the Chicago native touched on when he plans to patch things up with Drizzy. He explained, “I really honestly don’t know how things will end. I just want to put out there that it’s not a thing where I don’t like him as a human being or like I got something against him personally. That’s not what it is.” Common feels that since Drake took the first jab, “If you come at me, I’ma fight until the end. I’m not talking about physical. I’m talking about emceeing.” Be sure to pick up his latest album, The Dreamer, The Believer, which is out now.
TYGA TO COLLABORATE WITH NICKI, NAS ON CARELESS WORLD
XXLMag.com reports that Tyga is cooking up some great music for his upcoming album, Careless World: Rise of the Last King. The Young Money rapper revealed that his label mate, Nicki Minaj, will appear on the project on a track called “Muthf**cka Up.” He stated, “That one is one of them going in type songs. Like how Lil Wayne had ‘A Milli.’ One of those Young Money records that people love. We got a crazy visual for that one, too.” In addition, the “Rack City” rapper says Nas contributed guest verses on a record called “King And Queens,” which he says is “a real classic song. People are gonna like it.” Be sure to look out for Careless World: Rise of the Last King on February 21st.
NEW JOHN LEGEND SINGLE LEAKS!
The newly engaged John Legend is readying another album and he recently released a new song called “Tonight (Best You Ever Had).” The track includes guest verses from Ludacris and will also appear on the upcoming soundtrack for the film Think Like a Man. Check it out now at SoundCloud.com.
JENNIFER HUDSON’S FAMILY MURDERS TRIAL WILL BE ON TV?
We previously told you that a trial date has been set for the murder case of Jennifer Hudson’s three family members. According to CBS Chicago, the forthcoming trial might allow cameras and microphones in courtrooms. This means the entire case against William Balfour could be televised due to new provisions decided by the Illinois Supreme Court. We will keep you updated.
- Balfour pled not guilty to the murders of Hudson’s mother, brother and nephew back in October of 2008.
JUSTIN BIEBER CAUSES SPIKE IN CANADIAN ORGAN DONORS
Justin Bieber caused a spike in Canadian donor registrations. According to The Hollywood Reporter, it all started when 20-year-old Helene Campbell made a personal plea via Twitter to raise the number of organ donors as she awaits a lung transplant in Toronto. Bieber responded to Campbell’s request by retweeting her plea to his 16-million followers. By Sunday, the Trillium Gift of Life Network’s BeADonor.ca website reported 565 new donors. A post then appeared on the life-saving organization’s Facebook page that reads, “Thanks to Helene, her team, and all the Bielibers out there!” Now there are over one-thousand new donors listed on the site.
According to Nielsen Soundscan, Rihanna’s Talk That Talk has officially gone gold. The singer’s disc, which sits at number nine on the Billboard 200 chart, has amassed sales of over 500-thousand since being released on November 21st via Def Jam Recordings.
To date, Rihanna has sold more than 20-million albums and 60-million singles.
AND…
RIHANNA WANTS TO PERFORM WITH COLDPLAY
Rihanna is hoping to soon perform her duet, “Princess of China,” with Coldplay. Ri Ri told England’s The Sun, “I think Chris Martin is a special guy. His songwriting is just beautiful and I am a huge fan. If they want me to sing with Coldplay, I will be waiting for the call. I’d love to perform with them.” There are now rumors of them performing together at the 2012 Brit Awards. As previously reported, Martin recently said of Rihanna that she is the “greatest singer in the world.”
DRAKE’S TAKE CARE SITS HIGH ON BILLBOARD 200 CHART
This week, Drake’s Take Care claimed the number two spot on the Billboard 200 chart. Unable to out-do Adele’s 21, the Toronto emcee’s studio sophomore effort reportedly earned an additional 72-thousand copies, bringing its total sales to just over 1.2-million units moved since late last year. The disc, which includes guest contributions from Rick Ross, Kendrick Lamar and Nicki Minaj, is out now. Elsewhere on the chart, Young Jeezy’s latest project, TM 103: Hustler’s Ambition, sits at the number three spot and has amassed sales of over 300k to date.
AMBER ROSE CONFIRMS KANYE AND KIM KARDASHIAN RUMORS
Amber Rose has a secret to tell. Kanye West’s ex-girlfriend recently revealed to Star magazine that the rumors of the rap star hooking up with Kim Kardashian were actually true. Back in 2009, the reality star was accused of cheating on her former beau, Reggie Bush, with Yeezy and Rose feels she’s a “homewrecker.” Amber stated, “Kim is one of the main reasons why me and Kanye are not together. They were both cheating on me and Reggie with each other.” Apparently, Kim never explained or defended her actions, even after Amber emailed her. Rose stated, “I want to thank her because if she was never a homewrecker, then I never would have met Wiz [Khalifa], and I wouldn’t be as happy as I am now.” There you have it.
Are you surprised by the news?
CHRIS BROWN TURNS DOWN ALL INTERVIEWS FOR 2012
According to an interview with Billboard, Chris Brown’s manager, Tina Davis, announced that the singer has decided to not do any interviews or media in 2012. The crooner will instead “concentrate on performing and recording.” In addition, she stated, “We’re not trying to be rude, selfish or disrespectful to anyone in anyway. If people are going to judge anything, judge him for his talent.” The news comes after Breezy vented his frustrations in 2011 for constantly being asked about his incident with ex-girlfriend, Rihanna.
Do you think this is a smart move? How will he promote his next album, Fortune, which will arrive in March?
LUDACRIS TO OPEN CHICKEN AND BEER RESTAURANT
According to his Twitter page, Ludacris has announced plans to open a new restaurant called Chicken & Beer inside an airport in his hometown of Atlanta. The rapper wrote, “I’m taking my restaurateur footprint into the busiest airport in the WORLD!” The new business venture, which will be opened in Hartsfield-Jackson ATL International, is actually named after his 2003 album, Chicken-n-Beer. In related news, he is also working on his eighth album, Ludaversal. Check the throwback cover!
MARY J BLIGE TALKS RECORDING MY LIFE II
When you think of Mary J Blige, there’s one word that should come to mind: original. The living legend has put out timeless music without compromising who she is, which she told us has been the key to her success. MJB’s latest album, My Life II: The Journey Continues, currently sits at the number 20 spot on the Billboard 200 chart.
This week, her album sold an additional 22-thousand copies, bringing its total sales to over 400k.
NICK CANNON HOSPITALIZED
Nick Cannon had a health scare while celebrating the holidays in Aspen, Colorado. Mariah Carey’s husband was hospitalized for “mild” kidney failure but fortunately he’s doing better. Mi Mi wrote on her official website, “We’re trying to be as festive as possible under the circumstances but please keep Nick in your thoughts because this is very painful. They tried to kick me out of the hospital but here I am pon de bed with Mr. C.”
JENNIFER HUDSON SETS SECRET WEDDING DATE
During a recent interview on NBC’s Dateline, Jennifer Hudson revealed she is making progress with her on-going wedding plans. In fact, the singer has set a date! While she’s going to keep mum on the day she’ll exchange vows with David Otunga, she spilled on what her wedding dress looks like. Hudson explained, “It’s a show. It has three pieces to it. I designed it myself. It has a coat for the entrance and then when I get ready to walk, you take that part off. And then it’s another dress. And then by the time I get to the altar, it’s a whole new dress.” The pair has been together since 2008 and share one child, David Otunga, Jr.
In Drake’s song “Free Spirit” with Rick Ross, he says on the hook: “Tat my name on you so I know it’s real.” According to MTV.com, a fan has done just that and showed her devotion to Drizzy by getting a tattoo of the rapper’s name on her forehead. Kevin Campbell, the tattoo artist responsible for the ink, told Vibe magazine that the young lady wasn’t drunk and “really psyched and was pretty adamant about putting it on her forehead.” He adds, “She acted as if she had planned it out for a while; though I’m not really sure how much extended coherent thought could actually go into getting such a stupid tattoo on your forehead.”
AND…
DRAKE ANNOUNCES CLUB PARADISE TOUR
According to his official website, Drake has released the dates for his upcoming Club Paradise tour, which will travel to cities in the U-S and Europe. The highly anticipated trek will begin next year on February 14th in Miami and wraps on March 11th in San Diego only to begin in Dublin, Ireland on March 24th. Be sure to pick up his latest Take Care LP – here’s the full U-S stops:
The tickets for the European dates will be available December 16th onwards on Live Nation.
2012 The Club Paradise Tour North American Dates:
2/14/2012 – Miami, FL Bank United Center
2/15/2012 – Gainesville, FL Stephen C. O’Connell Center
2/17/2012 – Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena
2/18/2012 – Columbus, OH Schottenstein Center
2/21/2012 – Columbia, SC Colonial Life Arena
2/22/2012 – Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
2/24/2012 – Tallahassee, FL Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center
2/25/2012 – New Orleans, LA UNO Lakefront Arena
2/27/2012 – Austin, TX Frank Erwin Center
2/28/2012 – Oklahoma City, OK Chesapeake Energy Arena
3/01/2012 – Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
3/02/2012 – Arlington, TX College Park Center
3/04/2012 – Tuscon, AZ Tucson Arena
3/05/2012 – Los Angeles, CA Galen Center
3/08/2012 – Fresno, CA Save Mart Center
3/10/2012 – San Jose, CA Event Center
3/11/2012 – San Diego, CA Viejas Arena
T.I. TO DROP NEW MIXTAPE
In case you missed it, T.I. has announced that he will release a mixtape on New Year’s Day. The rapper wrote on Twitter, “Breaking News! Its official…I’m puttin out a mixtape midnight Jan.1 2012 called #F**kdacityup. Wanna be the 1st thing yall hear next year,” he wrote. “When da ball drop…We drop!!!! Out with da old, in with da TRUE!!!! A-town….Weeee Baaaaaack!!!!!” In related Tip news, the rap star’s upcoming eighth album Troubleman is due next year.
NEW ACTS ADDED TO VH1 DIVAS
We’ve just learned Anita Baker, Mavis Staples, Wanda Jackson and Ledisi have just been added to the list of performers for this year’s VH1 Divas. In addition, Dolly Parton, Queen Latifah, Terrence Howard, Nas, Common and La La Anthony are all expected to present at the ceremony, which is paying tribute to great cities of soul including Chicago, Detroit, London, Memphis and Philadelphia. Taking place inside New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom, be sure to tune in when VH1 Divas airs Monday, December 19th at 9 PM/8c on VH1.
The headlining “divas” were announced earlier and includes Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, Florence + The Machine, Jennifer Hudson, Jessie J. and Jill Scott. Previously announced performers include: Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Boyz II Men, Estelle, Marsha Ambrosius and Travie McCoy.
ALICIA KEYS SAYS HER ALBUM IS ALMOST DONE
If you’ve followed Alicia Keys on Twitter recently you’d know that she’s currently recording her fifth studio album. Wanna know how many tracks she’s competed so far? During a recent interview on GMA, the singer said of the upcoming disc, “I think we got a couple more months and we’re ready to fly,” she said. “You deserve the best and I want to give you the best, so when you hear this music you’re blown away, like you’re filled.” The follow-up to 2009’s Element Of Freedom is slated to arrive early next year.
SNOOP DOGG SHARES BLUNT IN CONCERT?
According to TMZ, Snoop Dogg gave one fan the experience of a lifetime during a concert in Atlanta this past weekend. The rapper lit a massive “blunt-type object” and passed in to an unidentified concert-goer who joined in on the fun. In related news, the soundtrack to Snoop’s stoner-comedy with Wiz Khalifa, Mac and Devin Go to High School, is out in stores now!
According to BET.com, Mariah Carey’s contribution to music is scheduled to be celebrated during the fourth annual BET Honors Award Ceremony. The diva is being recognized with the Entertainer award for her tremendous impact to black music and the culture. She reportedly joined previous recipients Alicia Keys and Jamie Foxx. We’ll keep you posted with more details for the BET Honors 2012.
MYSTIKAL REACTS TO SINGING TO YOUNG MONEY
In a press release, Mystikal issued a statement about his recently deal with Cash Money Records. Similar to Busta Rhymes, the rapper is excited about the new partnership. He stated, “It has been a truly long time since I have felt like a rapper and with this signing, and partnership, Birdman and Slim have given me my life as a rapper back. I am ready to go. I am going to put my red Superman drawers, cape and boots on and go! This is a huge moment for me and I am truly excited to be with Cash Money Records.” Lead by his first single, “Original” featuring Lil Wayne, Mystikal’s next album is expected for a spring 2012 release.
FANTASIA WELCOMES BABY BOY!
According Vibe, Fantasia has reportedly delivery a healthy baby boy at a North Carolina hospital on Tuesday morning. The bundle of joy marks her first child together with her and partner Antwaun Cook, who was allegedly married when they first started dating. The singer has told People.com, “I feel so blessed that my son Dallas Xavier was born healthy, and is a wonderful new addition to our family,” she said. “I thank all my fans for their well wishes and continued support.” The bundle of joy weighed at 7 lbs., 9 oz. and 21 inches long. Dallas marks her first child together with her and partner Antwaun Cook, who was allegedly married when they first started dating.
The baby join big sister Zion Quari Barrino, 10.
MICHAEL JACKSON AUCTION
According to JuliensAuctions.com, personal items from the L-A home where Michael Jackson died in are being auctioned off. The items up for auction include messages from his children, a carved dining table and a Victorian grand piano and more. Other items include an ornate bedroom mirror, on which the late singer wrote: “Train perfection March, April full out May,” in the build up to his planned London comeback gigs, and a shower bench on which Jackson drew a series of stick figures. Contrary to rumors, the bed in which the singer died in will not be included in the sale.
According to SingersRoom.com, Janelle Monae has big plans for the New Year. Fans can expect the singer to release two new albums which she revealed has “84.799 percent of the writing is done.” As for when the “Tightrope” entertainer will drop the projects, Monae stated, “I will release them according to my soul clock; so I reserve the right to change that. But I will try to stick to the scheduled release dates, which I know but can’t say.” We’ll keep you posted.
FLO RIDA IS BACK ON TRACK AFTER DUI
TMZ is reporting that Flo Rida got off lightly from prosecutors for his DUI case. The rapper was busted in Miami Beach back in June on suspicion of DUI, according to Police his blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit. Flo Rida’s attorney got the judge to send Flo to a first-time offenders program instead of jail. The program, called Back on Track, requires for Flo Rida to complete substance abuse classes, counseling, community service and drug testing. If Flo completes all of the requirements, prosecutors will know the DUI charge down to the lesser charge of reckless driving.
ODD FUTURE, WU-TANG READY PAID DUES FEST
According to HipHopDX.com, Wu-Tang Clan and Odd Future have just been announced as performers for the 7th annual Paid Dues Festival. Taking place on April 7, 2012, concert-goers can expect to see over 20 acts for the event which will be held at the NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, California. If you want to attend, passed for the show go on sale to the general public on Saturday, December 17th at 10 AM.
JAY-Z REACTS TO J COLE GRAMMY NOMINATION
Following the news that J.Cole was nominated for Best New Artist for the 2012 GRAMMY Awards, his boss, Jay-Z, told MTV News how he feels about it. Hova said of his Roc Nation artist, “I think it’s great for him, because I’m sure it’s a dream of his. We grew up seeing Michael Jackson, and I’m sure he grew up seeing whatever moment stuck in his mind, so I know it’s great for him to do that,” he said. “I think he’s already won Best New Artist, to me. His journey is what I’m really excited about.” Be sure to pick up the rap rookie’s debut today.
CELEBRATE NEW YEARS WITH CHRIS BROWN!
2011 has been a big year for Chris Brown. So it makes sense that the crooner is looking to have one last bash before the year is completed. He is scheduled to host New Year’s Eve celebration at PURE Nightclub at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. If you’d like to attend, tickets are priced at $150 each – visit his official website to learn more.
LIL WAYNE’S TOUR GROSSES 47-MILLION
According to his official website, Lil Wayne’s I Am Still Music tour has reportedly become one of the most successful tours of 2011. The trek, which stretch along North America, Africa and Australia, has grossed 47-million dollars. His manager, Cortez Bryant, said in a statement, “The tour exceeded our own expectations. The amount of tickets he sold in both primary and secondary markets across the country was phenomenal and we are now focusing on the expansion of his global success.” The outing was designed to further support his latest album, Tha Carter IV, which is out now.
WALE TEAMS UP WITH THE WIZARDS FOR NBA EVENT
Wale will perform a free show in Washington D.C. on Saturday. The Maryland native is helping the Washington Wizards kick off their 2012 season with Fan Fest, on Saturday night. The event will feature face painters, balloon artists, magicians and much more. Free popcorn and soda will be provided to all courtesy of the Washington Wizards and the event will include autographed items for fans. The first five-thousand fans in attendance will receive a souvenir credential. Fan Fest takes place on Saturday night at 6 PM Eastern and is free and open to the public.
Wale attended Quince Orchard High School in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Wale released the following statement: “I am an avid sports fan who is very passionate about our DC teams and to be officially involved with the Wizards is a blessing. I am overjoyed that our team is returning to the court and can’t wait to see them compete this season. Fan Fest will be a great opportunity to get our fans excited about this team and this season. I am confident that Ted Leonsis, myself and the entire Wizards organization can create something special for this event that will set that tone for more great things to come this year.” #TeamAmbition
Just a few weeks after we reported rumors about a fourth installment of the Friday franchise, Ice Cube recently confirmed to TMZ that the film is a go. In addition, the upcoming flick will include the original cast…and yes, Chris Tucker has agreed to reprise his role as “Smokey.” A rep for Cube Vision Productions said in a statement, “[Ice Cube] is very excited about this and has every intention to make it happen.” No word on when the comedy will hit the big screen, we’ll keep you posted.
RICK ROSS PREPS JAY-Z COLLABORATION
During an interview with MTV Sucker Free’s DJ Envy, Rick Ross shed new light on his upcoming album, God Forgives, I Don’t. Rozay says the project will definitely include guest verses from Jay-Z and stated, “You know, whenever me and the homie come together to collaborate, we gotta make it something special for Hip Hop,” he said. “We always make sure we have fun with it, but this record right here, this is our biggest collaboration ever.” The disc is slated to drop early 2012.
· Ross also addressed his recent health scare and explained, “I’m a grinder, I’m a hustler. That’s the next order of business. You’re so used to moving at 80 miles per hour. I gotta get rest now. Well, I’m supposed to. I try to. That’s what it was. I’m blessed, man. I went in and had my MRI and everything came back straight. It was just a case of me being overly exhausted.”
JAGGED EDGE FACING LAWSUIT FOR MISSING WEDDING
According to TMZ, Jagged Edge was recently accused of failing to show up for a scheduled performance. But not just any showcase, the R&B group missed someone’s wedding! After allegedly being paid 10-thousand dollars for the gig, a man named Victor Diaz tells the site he’s looking to file a lawsuit even though the band says they knew nothing about the ceremony. He claims, “They humiliated me and cost my wife her dream.” A rep for the band stated, “They are very heartbroken and sad that [Victor's] wedding got destroyed due someone using our name without permission.”
WATCH THE THRONE LYRICS TURNED INTO IFC FILM
Jay-Z and Kanye West are expected to appear in an upcoming movie from IFC Films…well, kinda. The lyrics from their GRAMMY-nominated album, Watch the Throne, have been turned into a three-minute mini-movie. According to PopDust.com, the clip is described as a skit “structured to resemble a conversation between three female twenty-something roommates about partying and general lifestyle discrepancies.” You have to view the short film to fully understand:
MARY J BLIGE WILL WAIT TO SHOOT VIDEO FOR BEYONCE DUET
From the moment we first heard Mary J. Blige’s “Love A Woman” featuring Beyonce, we though this will make an amazing video! While promoting latest album, My Life II: The Journey Continues, the “Mr Wrong” singer said she’d love to shoot the visual but will wait until Jay-Z’s pregnant wife finds time in her busy schedule. The track marks the first time the singers have collaborated together. In related news, fans can now purchase My Life II: The Journey Continues online and in stores now.
· MJB recently performed “Need Someone” on X Factor USA.
PITBULL, CHRIS BROWN ISSUES NEW VIDEO
Before Pitbull released his video for “International Love” he spoke to Rap-Up.com about that the visual represents. The rapper stated, “It’s all about the music being global, the music being the universal language and it goes to show you no matter what language you may speak and or not speak, you speak music.” The Chris Brown-assisted club anthem is lifted from his latest album Planet Pit. You can check out the David Rousseau-directed clip via Pitbull’s official website now.
LL COOL J REACTS TO NOT BEING INDUCTED… YET
After coming on the scene back in 1984, LL Cool J’s contributions to hip hop changed and gave new life to the genre. Put simply, the rapper, who has released thirteen studio albums and two greatest hits compilations, is a living legend. However, he is still waiting to be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame. On April 14th, the Beastie Boys will join Guns N Roses and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers in the music museum in Cleveland.
· Do you think LL will eventually make it?
JAY-Z HINTS AT MORE JOINT ALBUMS WITH KANYE WEST
If you can’t stop playing Watch The Throne, we’re happy to report that Jay-Z told MTV News that there might be another joint project with Kanye West. Hova explained, “We — I say ‘we’ because I’m in Throne mode — we’re in a great place creatively. You might see a Jay, then Kanye and a Throne album next year. You know, we’re really in a great place creatively. We really found our zone.” We’ll keep you posted with further updates. In related news, here are the rap moguls remaining stops for their Watch The Throne tour:
12-12 Los Angeles, CA – Staples Center
12-18 Vancouver, British Columbia – Rogers Arena
PLIES FACING 10 MILLION DOLLAR LAWSUIT!
According to AllHipHop.com, Plies is currently wrapped up in a 10-million dollar lawsuit stemming from a 2006 shooting inside a nightclub in Gainesville, Florida. In the suit, five victims were injured following a shooting that occurred before Pies was scheduled to perform at the venue. After learning about the hefty lawsuit, his lawyer Robert A. Rush said in a statement, “The plaintiffs’ claims against my client continue to be without merit, we look forward to having this resolved in a court of justice.” We’ll keep you posted.
THE NEXT SINGLE OFF DRAKE’S TAKE CARE WILL BE…
According to HipHop-N-More.com, Drake has announced that his next single off his Take Care LP will be “The Motto.” In addition to shooing a visual for the Lil Wayne-assisted track, the record will officially impact radio on January 10th. Up next, the title track with Rihanna is expected to run as the promo single for the album.
NAS REMEMBERS AMY WINEHOUSE
We all know Nas had a great friendship with the late Amy Winehouse, but the rapper has spilled new details about what he misses most about the soul singer. In a interview posted on Vimeo.com, the rapper said of Amy, “It’s a bittersweet feeling to do something with her now that she’s not here. I’m happy. The sweet part is that fans have new music from her, new because they’ve never heard it. The bitter part is that she’s no longer her to really give it to us and deliver her music and for us to see her smile and hear her voice.” Nas is featured on Winehouse’s latest disc, Lioness: Hidden Treasures, which is available now.
PHARRELL TO HELP SCORE 2012 ACADEMY AWARDS
According to Deadline.com, Pharrell Williams has reportedly agreed to serve as a musical consultant for the 2012 Academy Awards. The Neptunes producer will work alongside Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer for the highly anticipated ceremony. This marks their first time being the musical supervisors for the event which is scheduled to take place on February 26th, 2012 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California.
