Ludacris Engages in “Parking Lot Pimpin’” For New Movie

(AllHipHop News) Atlanta, Georgia, rap star Ludacris is gearing up to bring a bit of “what happens after leaving the club” to the big screen with his upcoming film, Parking Lot Pimpin’.

The Coke Daniels-directed feature is a co-production between Ludacris’ Disturbing Tha Peace company and Hoody Allan Productions, reports Moviehole.net. Ludacris stars in the movie as Walt, a young man who, following a nasty break-up, teams up with his slick buddy, Dez, for a night on the town after a nasty break-up.

Although Dez promises to teach Walt the art of “parking lot pimping” – a phrase derived from clubgoers waiting in the parking lot outside the club to approach women as they come out of the venue after a night of dancing and socializing – Walt learns that everyone in town sees through his friend and his cheap scams.

In addition being in front of the camera for Parking Lot Pimpin, Ludacris will work behind the scenes as a producer for the film, which is set to begin shooting in April. Musically, Ludacris is currently working with the Neptunes on Ludaversal, his follow-up to his 2010 album, Battle of the Sexes.

Wiz Khalifa, Yelawolf and Big K.R.I.T Set To Perform At 2012 Buku Music & Art Project

(AllHipHop News) The full lineup has been revealed for the 2012 Buku Music & Art Project taking place in New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 17-18 in a Mardi Grad World.

Hip-Hop artists like Wiz Khalifa, Yelawolf, Big K.R.I.T., Rockie Fresh, and G-Eazy have been scheduled to perform at the two-day concert event that will also feature some heavy-hitters from the world of Electronic Dance Music like Avicii, Skrillex, Diplo, Porter Robinson, SBTRKT, Gramatik, and many more.

Tickets for the Buku Misc & Art Project are available now and range from $64.50 to $299.50. The V.I.P. tickets which cost between $119.50 and $199.50 grant you a V.I.P. entrance and viewing area, access to the Grand Oaks Mansion Grotto, V.I.P. only bathrooms and bar, and a Buku Music & Art Project poster.

If you’re willing to spend between $169.50 and $299.50 on Super V.I.P. tickets, you will receive everything mentioned with the V.I.P. ticket, a Super V.I.P. viewing area, excessive parking, a laminate, and a meet & greet with a number of Buku artists.

Rihanna, Chris Brown: Reunion on 'Birthday Cake' in question

REUNION?: Um, Rihanna must not be following the U.Va. lacrosse murder trial, per MissInfo.tv, “(She) has recorded a remix to her song “Birthday Cake” featuring Chris Brown, her Grammy-winning ex-boyfriend who was also convicted of assaulting her 3 years ago this month. Recently, the song’s co-producers, Da Internz, hinted to MTV News, that “the feature on [the remix] is gonna shock the world.” They didn’t exaggerate. Ttwo independent sources (say) Rihanna has Chris Brown featured on the song. He recorded both a singing verse, and a rap verse.” http://bit.ly/zgOOTo

BUT WAIT: There’s subterfuge afoot, per PerezHilton, “Thankfully, Da Internz didn't let things get too out of hand before he took to his Twitter again to confirm that Chris will NOT be featured in the song.” http://bit.ly/zVE9EE

HE’S BACK: And Charlie Sheen’s not pretending, as he calls TMZ Live and blasts ‘Two and a Half Men,’ per the Los Angeles Times, “"I'm tired of lying," Sheen said. "I'm tired of pretending the show doesn't suck. I'm tired of pretending Ashton [Kutcher] doesn't suck. I'm tired of pretending that they're not completely adrift. Because when you take away the anchor of your show, which they stupidly did, you go adrift. And these guys are approaching salvage vessel." http://lat.ms/Aiqj7c

THE JANET FACTOR: Never underestimate the power of a Jackson, per the Hollywood Reporter, “Any talks are currently in the preliminary stages, as (X Factor) creator Simon Cowell holds meetings this week with potential candidates to fill the shoes of ousted judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones. Another source tells THR that pop bad girl Pink is high on Cowell’s wish list.” http://bit.ly/xa1jbq

CRAZY TRAIN: It’s temporarily derailed, per Rolling Stone, “In a major blow to Black Sabbath's reunion plans, the band has announced it will now play just one European show, at the U.K.'s Download Festival in June. Due to guitarist Tony Iommi's ongoing treatment for lymphoma, the remaining European shows will be billed as "Ozzy & Friends." http://bit.ly/z5bZB0

GLAD THAT’S CLEARED UP: Uh, yeah, per TMZ, “Whitney Houston made three visits to the doctor in the week prior to her death, but the trips had NO illicit purpose -- she had a sore throat and got her teeth whitened. Both family and law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... Whitney was recording the title track to "Sparkle" and got a sore throat ... so she went to a doctor to get it checked out. We're told the doctor gave Whitney an Rx for Amoxicillin.” http://bit.ly/z6cqFN

MEANWHILE: Aretha Franklin weighs in on national TV this morning, saying she truly thought Houston had harnessed her demons, per the AP, "I was sitting on the side of the bed," she said in an interview on NBC's "Today" show Friday. "I just jumped up off the side of the bed: `What?! This could not be!' " http://apne.ws/xU9uAL

GROUNDED?: Not yet, but dwindling ratings tell the tale, per the Los Angeles Times, "Pan Am" hasn't officially been grounded by ABC, but the skies don't seem so bright for the 1960s drama. . . Its season finale, which could also be its series finale, airs Sunday to make room for midseason replacement "GCB." Official word on "Pan Am's" future on the network is expected to come in May.” http://lat.ms/wm4nop

FIGHTING BACK: Apparently bogus report doesn’t prompt a mere roll of the eyes, per E!, “Adele has enlisted a team of power lawyers to launch legal action against a French tabloid that published photos allegedly from a leaked sex tape featuring the British Grammy magnet with the ex-boyfriend who inspired her greatest hits.” http://eonli.ne/wTAuh7

TAKING A BREAK: Mariah’s man makes the call, per People, “Health issues have caused Nick Cannon to step down from his New York City radio show Rollin' with Nick Cannon on 92.3 NOW, he has announced.” http://bit.ly/yswevA

AND FINALLY: Today’s mystery music video. http://bit.ly/xqJIa

Webbie Addresses Murder and Violence at Shows in Chicago and Alabama

J. Cole Announces "The Campus Consciousness Tour" With Big K.R.I.T.

J. Cole has announced the dates for his upcoming "The Campus Consciousness Tour" featuring opening act Big K.R.I.T.

The Roc Nation rapper will hit the road on April 11th, setting off the tour at University of Rhode Island in Kingston, Rhode Island. Stops include University of Illinois, University of Northern Iowa, Colby College, Babson College and West Virginia University. The trek concludes on May 3rd at University of New Hampshire's Whittemore Center Arena.

Check the tour dates below (via RR).

April 11 University of Rhode Island @ Ryan Center Kingston, RI Doors 7pm
April 13 Babson College @ Pepsi Co Pavilion Babson Park, MA Doors 7:30pm
April 14 Colby College @ Wadsworth Arena Waterville, ME Doors 8:30pm
April 17 University of Illinois @ Assembly Hall Theater Champaign, IL Doors 6:30pm
April 18 Northern Illinois University @ Convocation Center DeKalb, IL Doors 6:30pm
April 19 University of Kentucky @ Memorial Coliseum Lexington, KY TBD
April 20 U Pittsburgh @ Johnstown Sports Center Johnstown, PA Doors 7pm
April 21 UNC Greensboro and A&T State U @ White Oak Ampitheater Greensboro, NC Doors 6:30
April 23 Drury University @ O’Reilly Center Springfield, MO Doors 7pm
April 24 University of Northern Iowa @ McLeod Center Cedar Falls, IA Doors 6:30pm
April 26 Bloomsburg College @ Nelson Fieldhouse Bloomsburg, PA Doors 7pm
April 27 West Virginia University @ WVU Coliseum Morgantown, WV Doors 6:30pm
May 3 University of New Hampshire @ Whittemore Center Arena Durham, NH Doors 7pm

JAYMALL feat Erin Dashae -Thinkin of you

Check out Jaymall featuring Erin Dashae "Thinking of You" Ooff these last mixtape from Jaymall "Truth Be Told". You can follow both artist @Jaymall & @edashae

AD Feat. Big K.R.I.T. & Che Blaq – “Patience”

Lil Boosie Facing Life; Murder Trial Set For April

(AllHipHop News) Incarcerated rapper Lil Boosie will stand trial for murder this April, the rapper has revealed.

Lil Boosie released a new letter to fans to thank them for his support as he faces various legal challenges.

In addition to a possible death sentence, Lil Boosie is also serving an eight-year prison sentence for attempting to sneak drugs into two State prisons in Louisiana.

Lil Boosie, born Torrence Hatch, was already in jail serving a four year bid for possession of marijuana.

“I go to trial for this murder charge in April so please keep me in your prayers,” Lil Boosie said. To all my fans who write me through J-Pay make sure you put your address so I can respond. Its hard to write every body back but I will try my best to do so.”

The rapper remains busy while incarcerated.

According to Boosie, his label Bad Azz Entertainment will be releasing a compilation album before the end of 2012.

“I want to thank GOD for everything and now I know the real from the fake and I can say that not too many are not real,” Lil Boosie said. “I also want to send love to the realest woman in the world my MAMA Mrs. Connie who’s my best friend, mama, spiritual adviser and #1 Fan.”

Check out the full letter below:

A letter to all my fans,

First, I want to thank you, all of you for supporting me through these hard times. Last month I was sentence to 8 years with credit for time served so i will have to do 19 months on that sentence. I go to trial for this murder charge in April so please keep me in your prayers.

To all my fans who write me through J-Pay make sure you put your address so I can respond. Its hard to write every body back but I will try my best to do so. I would also like all my fans to support Young Jeezy new album TM 103 he’s a real nigga with a big heart. I want to thank Plies, Yo Gotti, Marcus Spears, Jout Dallas, Earl Wayne and Jamarcus Russell for keeping it real with me and Pacman also. My daughter Iviona album will be coming soon so be on the lookout for it. Its HOTT!!!

I really appreciate everybody who’s supporting www.boosiejustice.comand everyone who has sign the petition and bought Boosie Gear. I want all my fans to know that y’all are so special to me because without you there would be no me. Congrats to Webbie on his new album Savage Life 3. New Boosie DVD “The Come Up” will be in stores soon. Life Story Book “The Truth” in stores end of 2012. My label, Bad Azz Ent, will be dropping a compilation this year and you already know how we do it. I want to thank GOD for everything and now I know the real from the fake and I can say that not too many are not real.

I also want to send love to the realest woman in the world my MAMA Mrs. Connie who’s my best friend, mama, spiritual adviser and #1 Fan.

Wiz Khalifa Tapped To Headline SUNY’s Spring Fling This April

(AllHipHop News) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania rap star Wiz Khalifa has been tapped as the headlining act for SUNY Cortland’s campuses Spring Fling this April.

Over 3000 tickets will go on sale for the Spring Fling concert, with students receiving first priority.

A limited number will be sold to the public.

The rapper, who is known for his love of marijuana and other drugs, was picked based on his popularity with students at SUNY.

“Last year’s student surveys came back and said that students wanted to see him,” said Delvin “D.J.” Johnson, one of the co-chairs in charge of lining up music acts for the College’s Student Activities Board. “So this year, we took a chance on trying to get him and he accepted.”

Tickets to see Wiz Khalifa go on sale Saturday, March 24, starting at noon.

They will be sold until all tickets are gone.

SUNY Cortland students are allowed to purchase one ticket with their college ID, and will not be allowed to purchase tickets for friends.

This is due to the fact that the tickets to see Wiz are in high demand.

“He has some huge fans here and we knew it would go over pretty well with students,” Johnson said. “People are excited about it.”

SUNY Cortland’s Spring Fling takes place on Saturday, April 28 at Cortland’s Park Center.

Killer Mike - Big Beast (Feat. Bun B, T.I., and Trouble)

Big K.R.I.T. – Boobie Miles (Trailer)

Check out the new Boobie Miles trailer. Look like this will be another classic video.

Phan The Konnect Man - We Gon Make It Baby feat. Jasmine Love

Phan The Konnect Man Offical Video "We Gon Make it Baby" featuring Jasmine Love. You can contact Phan The Konnect Man here http://www.KonnectMan.com Follow Phan The Konnect Man @PhansMusik.

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel Out Together for First Time Since Rumored to Be Engaged

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have finally been spotted going out together after they were rumored to be engaged. The on-again Hollywood couple were caught together on camera as they were leaving UCLA Medical Center in Westwood, California on Friday, February 10.

First Photos of Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z's Baby Daughter Released

Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z have finally given the world a look at Blue Ivy Carter. A little over a month after welcoming their first child together, the "Best Thing I Never Had" singer and her rapper husband set up a brand new Tumblr account dedicated to the newborn and released the first photos of their baby girl.

Scolla - Take What’s Mine ft. Rapper Big Pooh & Big Sant

Checkout the new Hit Single "Take What’s Mine" from Scolla Ft. Rapper Big Pooh and Big Sant. Big Sant is a Mississippi native. You can follow him @bigsant

Big Meech Defends T.I., Says He Never Snitched!

Ever since T.I. got off with a very light sentence for getting caught with an army of weapons and ammunition, people have accused him of being a snitch. BMF boss Big Meech doesn’t like that very much, and he’s speaking out about it.

In a letter to Straight from the A.com Big Meech writes:

“There is no person in the Federal or State system that can say or saying that “T.I. Clifford Harris” snitched on them. I’m tired of people spraying his name when his plea deal and sentencing transcripts is “ONLINE.” You pay $40 to get on “Pacer” and you have access to all court documents on any person in the “UNITED STATES.”

Well, that clears that right up, doesn’t it?

Freeway Rick, Rick Ross Come Face to Face In Court

Juicy J, 2 Chainz & Tha Joker - Zip & A Double Cup

Check out Juicy J, 2 Chainz and Tha Joker video. The video has over 1 million hits on youtube. Follow Tha Joker @JokerTooCold

LO GUTTA & MILK MAN ft. SAINT and BINX B - HUSTLER'S STATE OF MIND

Checkout another Mississippi Artist that is making headlines out the south. You can follow him @LO_GUTTA55

Lil Mal - Tupac Homies & Thugs Freestyle Video

New video from Lil Mal - Tupac Homies & Thugs Freestyle. You can follow his @Lil_Mal.

MC Lyte, African-American Celebs Support National Black HIV/AIDS Day

(AllHipHop News) Rap legend MC Lyte is one of 60 African-American stars who are banding together to bring awareness to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the black community.

MC Lyte joins actors and actresses like Nia Long, Affion Crockett, Samuel L. Jackson, Naturi Naughton, Jill Marie Jones and Tatyana Ali have teamed with organization Greater Than AIDS,

The celebs will use their star power to help shed light on the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which is impacting Black Americans in record numbers.

New data released shows that Black Americans account for half of the approximately 1.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS in United States.

To compound the problem, blacks represent 44 percent of new infections, although they make up just 12 percent of the population.

MC Lyte and the celebrities partnered with Greater Than AIDS and The Black AIDS Institute, to release a special PSA to mark National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, which is today (February 7).

“This is an unprecedented response from the Black Hollywood community to an issue that has touched so many of our lives,” said Phill Wilson, President and CEO, Black AIDS Institute.

Each celebrity in the campaign are all members of the Black AIDS Institute’s Black Hollywood Task Force on AIDS.

They works to engage the Hollywood community in an effort to fight HIV/AIDS.

“The artists and executives who have joined us in this campaign realize that no matter the celebrity, they are also members of the Black community, and they are trying to do their part,” Phill Wilson said.

Kelly Rowland Honored at ESSENCE Black Women in Music Event

Kelly Rowland glowed in an orange gown while catching up with her fellow Destiny’s Child diva Michelle Williams at the 3rd annual ESSENCE Black Women in Music event held during Grammy Week. The “Motivation” singer and music industry veteran Sylvia Rhone were honored as movers and shakers.

MC Lyte played DJ and Kelly hit the stage, performing her smash single “Motivation” and reuniting with Eve for their 2007 collaboration “Like This.” Kelly, who is nominated at this weekend’s Grammys, was presented with a platinum plaque by “Motivation” hitmaker Rico Love.

Other attendees included LeToya Luckett, Ne-Yo, Dawn Richard, Melody Thornton, and Melanie Amaro.

Birdman buys a Benley for Lil Wayne

BIRDMAN BLOOD LOVE feat WEEZY & MACK MAINE from DERICK G on Vimeo.

Birdman knows how to take care of his family. The Cash Money CEO presented his star Lil Wayne with a Bentley Mulsanne, which costs around $285,000. “Everytime I do something for myself, I like to do it for my son too,” said Baby.

Mack Maine was also on the receiving end of his generosity, getting his own Rolls-Royce with a big red bow on top. “I think I deserve to be excited,” said the Young Money president. “I used to drive a Cavalier when I was 15. Who’d have ever imagined?”

But one thing Birdman’s money can’t buy is loyalty. “It’s priceless,” he said. “Being loyal, being down, hard work, and grinding, that’s what YMCMB about.”

Chris Brown, Rihanna Party Together For Super Bowl

Chris Brown and Rihanna sure know how to keep tongues wagging about a possible reconciliation. The former lovers were spotted at the same Super Bowl party in Hollywood last night (not together of course, because that would be too easy). Paparazzi snapped pics of a very blonde Rihanna in a barely-there body suit, Chanel hat and ripped jeans leaving the soiree at Greystone Manor, while Brown was reportedly escorted out the back door later.

Did Rihanna Get A Tupac-Inspired 'Thug Life' Tattoo?

The two have been notoriously mum and were never spotted inside the venue together but Rih Rih did tweet last night, "What a crazy night?!!" and Brown added, "Can't stop lookin.” We can only presume that the pair were throwing some subliminals at each other. Oh to be a fly on that wall...

Earlier this year, Chris Brown denied the relationship rumors saying that he only has eyes for his new girl Karrueche Tran. "He and Rihanna are just friends," his rep told ABC News. "He is with his girlfriend, Karrueche, and is not cheating." This contradicted what other sources were saying. "Rihanna loves to live dangerously," the source said during that time. "And talking to and hooking up with Chris is all part of that."

First Ever Authorized Documentary On Bob Marley To Premiere This Month

(AllHipHop News) The family of Bob Marley has announced the first ever authorized documentary on the singer will be in theaters this April.

Magnolia Pictures has teamed with VH1 to obtain the United States rights to Academy award-winning director Kevin McDonald’s documentary “Marley.”

“Marley” is being executive produced by Island Records’ founder Chris Blackwell, as well as Bob Marley’s son Ziggy Marley.

The documentary will make its world premiere at the 62nd Berlin International Film Festival in February, and will premiere in North America, at SXSW this March.

“This documentary is the ultimate revelation of my father’s life,” Executive Producer Ziggy Marley told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (February 6), on what would have been his father’s 67th birthday.

“The family is proud to be able to have the world finally experience this emotional journey,” Ziggy Marley said.

“Marley” is the first official autobiography to tell the definitive life of Bob Marley, who was a musician, political activist and father.

The documentary is comprised of rare footage, archival photos and interviews with family, friends and bandmates.

Marley, who was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, is a best selling artist around the world.

His compilation album Legend has sold over 10 million copies around the world by itself, while his Facebook page has over 35 million fans.

Bob Marley was born Robert Nesta Marley on February 6, 1945.

He’s the son of white quartermaster Captain Norval Marley of the British West Indian Regiment and an eighteen-year old black Jamaican woman, Cedella Malcolm.

He died on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36, from melanoma cancer.

“Marley” is slated to open in theaters and all VOD and digital platforms on Friday, April 20th.

“Bob Marley is a fascinating, towering figure in musical history, and ‘Marley’ is the biography that he deserves,” said Magnolia President Eamonn Bowles. “Kevin Macdonald has once again shown himself to be a master documentarian with this eye-opening, entertaining, beautifully crafted film.”

VH1 has licensed the documentary through their Emmy-Award winning VH1 Rock Doc franchise.

@MalWalker Freestyle 2012

Feature artist from Mississippi Mal Walker. Check out the video. You can follow him @MalWalker

Snoop Dogg Set To Release New ‘Reincarnated’ Album Alongside Documentary

Snoop Dogg announced in a post on twitter that his upcoming 12th studio album will be called ‘Reincarnation.’ The rapper added that the record would be released alongside a documentary which will presumably cover the 19 years of his career and carry the same title as his new album.

Snoop Dogg made the announcement on Saturday,February 4th before turning his attention to the Super Bowl. “Reincarnated! Comn soon!! My 12th solo album n documentary,” Snoop wrote on Facebook and twitter.

The rapper had a busy 2011 with the release of ‘Doggumentary’ last March and his collaboration with Wiz Khalifa on ‘Mac + Devin Go to High School,’ which dropped in December, 2011, and will be followed by the straight-to-video release of the pot smoking duo’s high school adventures sometime in 2012.

Shortly after announcing his upcoming album’s title, the rapper revealed on twitter that he had been named MVP at the Direct TV Sixth Annual Celebrity Beach Bowl, but the honor came with a surprise that left Snoop searching for a pair of dry socks. The rapper proved his prowess on the pitch and a bucket of ice water was poured over his head in celebration, but the soaking irritated Snoop who retreated to the locker room until a pair of socks was found for him. He returned in good cheer reportedly as surprised by his football skills as everyone else. “People are telling me they didn’t know I was that athletic. I didn’t know I was athletic either,” said Snoop.

Bow Wow Ordered To Be Arrested On Sight By Georgia Judge

A Georgia judge has ordered the arrest of Young Money Cash Money rapper Bow Wow for avoiding a civil lawsuit for a lengthy period of time.

With Bow Wow’s upcoming ‘Underrated’ album set to release in just a few short weeks, the young rapper finds himself making media headlines for all the wrong reasons again. This time around, Bow Wow has been ordered by a Georgia judge to be arrested on sight for a civil suit dating back a few years ago.

According to TMZ, a Tennessee court ordered Bow Wow back in 2009 to pay a fee of around $100,000 to a tour bus company that claimed Bow Wow did not pay his bill. The bill eventually escalated to a legal level as the case was taken to court to enforce the judgment against Bow Wow.

The court ordered Bow to produce specific documents in his home state in regards to the lawsuit. Apparently Bow Wow never produced the requested documents, and now the tour company Bow owes money to has filed a motion to have the YMCMB rapper held in contempt.

TMZ reports that Bow Wow’s reps have returned their phone calls in regards to the incident.

Ludacris performs at Maxim party at Super Bowl XLVI

Rick Ross Talks Signing Emilio Rojas & Dom Kennedy To Maybach Music

Get More: Music News

Bobby V ‘V Day’ EP Cover Artwork, Release Date

The Bobby V V Day EP/mixtape cover artwork and release date has been revealed. After dropping his Vitamin V project late last year, the “Hammer Time” singer will drop his holiday treat on February 13 at 2:13PM EST. Stay tuned for the official tracklist and download link.

More Artists Join Dr. Cornel West, Jesse Jackson In Fight Against Grammys Over Eliminated Categories

(AllHipHop News) Educators/activists/rapper Dr. Cornel West and the Rev. Jesse Jackson are leading a group of artists and executives who are demanding cultural diversity from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS).

NARAS is the organization that produces the annual Grammy Awards, which honors the top performing music artists, producers and engineers, in a variety of categories.

But The Grammys has been under fire for sweeping changes the organization has made to the categories.

Dr. West and Rev. Jesse Jackson are working with artists/organizations like Carlos Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Grammywatch.org and now, Presente.org, in the battle to restore diversity to The Grammys.

Presente.org, which is the largest online Latino advocacy organization in the U.S., has joined in the growing criticism of The Grammys.

The artists and activists are upset that NARAS eliminated a number of categories, comprised mostly of ethnic music.

Categories like Gospel, R&B, Traditional and Contemporary Jazz, Latin Jazz, Traditional and Contemporary Blues, Cajun/Zydeco, Polka, Mexican Norteña, Native American and Hawaiian music have been eliminated.

To make matters worse, the activists say the changes were done without the knowledge of the organizations 21,000 members.

“Neal Portnow and the big bosses at the Grammys have committed a deplorable act of greed and racial discrimination by deleting music categories that are so central to the lives of so many,” Presente.org Executive Director, Arturo Carmona, said. “Portnow and the Grammys have nothing to celebrate and deserve an lifetime achievement award for putting profit over people. We are honored and highly motivated to join the fight to re-institute the deleted categories on behalf of the millions who love Latin jazz, Gospel, R&B and other musical genres.”

Over the past year, the Grammys have come under fire for their alleged lack of diversity in honoring all forms of music.

Last year, music industry/advertising executive Steve Stoute wrote an open letter to The Grammy’s in a full-page ad in The New York Times .

He most recently sat down with the Associated Press, where he further discussed The Grammys’ lack of ethnic diversity, along with their alleged exploitation of Hip-Hop music.

Check out the article, which contains commentary from 50 Cent, Jay-Z, Quest Love and Steve Stoute.

DAVID BANNER feat. CHRIS BROWN AND A$AP ROCKY - YAO MING "LOOK AT MY DADDY"

Check out David Banner new song with Chris Brown and A$AP Rocky- "Yao Ming Look at my Daddy". you can follow him @THEREALBANNER

Lil_Mal from Jackson, Mississippi brand new video off his mixtape "What Up Wit It"

Brand new video from Lil Mal out of Jackson, Mississipi. Lil Mal have been on many major mixtapes from major artists from big name record companies. You can find Lil Mal on Tha Joker new album "The Phenom". Also, you can follow his @Lil_Mal

Rick Ross Names Dr. Dre His Biggest Influence In Hip Hop

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Bow Wow Announces Official ‘Underrated’ Album Tracklist x Release Date

Young Money artist Bow Wow finally drops a release date and an official tracklist to his upcoming ‘Underrated’ album.

Bow Wow has been in the rap game a long time, and come next month the rapper will be dropping his seventh studio album. It’s incredible to think that the Columbus, Ohio native has achieved so much at only 24 years old.

The ‘Underrated’ album will serve as Bow Wow’s Young Money debut album. Originally set to release during 2011, the album has been pushed back a number of times, but Bow Wow has now confidently set a March 13th, 2012 release date for ‘Underrated.’

As we already expected, the project will feature a slew of guest features from the likes Busta Rhymes, Ace Hood, Miguel, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, Musiq Soulchild, Talibe Kweli, Meek Mill, Jadakiss, Wiz Khalifa, and Juicy J. The production lineup is just as impressive with tracks from Cardiak, Araab Muzik, Jahlil Beats, No ID and several more.

Check out the complete tracklist along with production credits for Bow Wow’s ‘Underrated’ album seen after the jump.

1. Intro
2. ‘Where My Dogs At,’ produced by Cardiak
3. ‘Must Be Stupid’ feat. Busta Rhymes, produced by Araab Muzik
4. ‘Why Y’all,’ produced by Jahlil Beats
5. ‘We Going Hard’ feat. Ace Hood, produced by Cardiak
6. ‘Right Now’ feat. Miguel
7. ‘Heart Stop,’ produced by Drumma Boy
8. ‘Sweat’ feat. Lil Wayne, produced by Detail & Bei Maejor
9. ‘Ain’t Thinking About You’ feat. Chris Brown, produced by K-Mac
10. ‘Wrong Time’ feat. Musiq Soulchild, produced by Musiq Soulchild
11. ‘I Try,’ produced by Beat Bully
12. ‘Boy or Girl,’ produced by Soundsmith & Neenyo
13. ‘If You Were Down’ feat. Talib Kweli, produced by No I.D.
14. ‘The Cypher’ feat. Meek Mill, produced by Jahlil Beats
15. ‘Lifestyle Ain’t for Me,’ produced by Lody
16. ‘Ohio to Yonkers’ feat. Jadakiss, produced by Jahlil Beats
17. 17. ‘All That I Know’ feat. Wiz Khalifa & Juicy J, produced by Sledge

Kendrick Lamar: The "Mantras" Interview

With his debut album looming, the artist formerly known as K. Dot shares his tips for getting respect from OGs and creating masterpieces.

This feature appears in Complex's February/March 2012 Issue.

GET A GOOD TEAM.
To be successful in the game, you gotta have the mind-set that you can’t do it alone. You can’t go anywhere without a team. Top Dawg Entertainment allows me to be in a creative space. When you’re focusing on business and music, you’re gonna give less attention to one or the other. You have to be 100% focused on the music.


When I was born, I came home from the hospital in an ’87 Buick Regal while my pops was bumping Big Daddy Kane.


EARN RESPECT.
You’re gonna get respect from veterans when you’re respected. I was mad at artists in L.A. because they were mad at the O.G.’s for not screaming their names. When they were so concerned with that, they weren’t making the best music. You know what I was doing? I was in the lab creating motherfucking masterpieces.

KEEP YOUR CIRCLE SMALL.
I don’t roll with a lot of people. This industry has a lot of motherfuckers who try to put a sore thumb in your congregation. You can’t trust half of the cats you’re rolling with. I watch artists roll with 15 cats for no reason. You’re just wasting money and causing problems. People I roll with, they been here since day one.

STUDY YOUR HISTORY.
My pops put me on to rap. When I was born, I came home from the hospital in an ’87 Buick Regal while my pops was bumping Big Daddy Kane. He would say, “This is Rakim. You get your whole style from Rakim!” Or, “Go listen to Biz Markie!” Sometimes I sit back and listen to hip-hop with him to see where my hip-hop roots come from

Big K.R.I.T. - BOOBIE MILES

The first release off the 4evaNaDay mixtape from Big K.R.I.T.

Yasiin Bey (aka Mos Def) Talks On "Top 40 Underdogs" & Black Star

Yasiin Bey, previously known as Mos Def, sat down to speak to Hypebeast and gave an update on what's coming up for him, including his new series Top 40 Underdogs. Read some excerpts below.

What can we expect from your new series Top 40 Underdogs and what inspired it?
I am doing this for the culture. The tradition, taking someone’s song and making your version out of it, is not new to hip-hop. It is similar to dancehall music, where there is one rhythm and many artists offer their interpretation of it. Covering songs is certainly in the DNA of the culture. 50 Cent, as a matter of fact, built his name in New York for awhile doing just that. I also like the community mind aspect of it that it belongs to all of us. It basically gives and extends the life of our culture, our rhythm. Thus, this series is something that comes quite natural for me to do. I’ve done it before. Just look at “Children’s Story,” or even my version of Jay-Z’s “Takeover” in 2004. It is something that is really fun to do, you know, giving different perspectives on a familiar piece. There are a lot of songs on Top 40 Radio, not just in current day charts, that I have been a fan of and obviously my content is a lot different from what people would hear on Top 40 Radio to say the least. That being said, I am a fan of music and I seek for just another opportunity to express myself and give my point of view on certain things.

You have been linking back up with Talib Kweli lately and have started to put out songs as Black Star once again. How did you get back together with him?
Talib and I have always worked on a project or song here and there ever since we started as Black Star. We always did shows together and whatnot. We have been close friends for at least 15 years now. There is no pressure whatsoever. We didn’t form our identities as solo artists to start the group. Kweli was a solo artist, I was a solo artist and we came together and produced Black Star much in the same tradition that you have seen with jazz collaborations. John Coltrane and Don Cherry teamed up with a group of artists to do one specific project. And that was the real intention behind Black Star. I like what this guy is doing. I have always liked his approach – his skill – and I like what he’s doing and what he has to say. But now it feels like the right time for Black Star to come back. My sentiment was always like Black Star has always been a special time and space for both of us as men and artists. If we want to do it, then we have to do it for the right reasons. We don’t want to come back solely on the basis that people wanted it or a big check. In our professional and personal space we are very open and clear. Kweli is completely independent, no label, no obligation and it is good to have this full circle, having even more control to do what we actually want to do. I am excited.

What is the status of the album?
We are in the studio all the time and we will continue putting out songs on a regular basis. I appreciate the anticipation. Making an album is very time-consuming and requires lots of energy. Even recording one single song demands inner vision and takes up two or three sessions for one cut. Then comes the mixing and sound engineering process on top of that. Just keep in mind that both of us, we have a perfectionist streak. So yea, we are on the road and in the studio and we hope to get it out as soon as possible. It is also great to witness all the people with us in the studio being enthusiastic about it. I think it is one of the great things about Black Star because we never did Black Star because we wanted to as opposed as we needed to. Me and Kweli have one of the best working relationships I ever had with another artist. Kweli has such a tremendous amount of energy and we are getting better with what we do.

Nicki Minaj's Video "Stupid Hoe" banned for BET

BET is not feeling Nicki Minaj’s latest visual effort.

Black Entertainment Television has banned Nicki’s “Stupid Hoe” video and is refusing to air it because it is too explicit, sources at the company told TMZ. The entertainment site reached out to a rep for BET, but he/she wouldn’t specify why the network has decided not to broadcast the clip, although the rep did confirm “Stupid Hoe” won’t air.

The video for “Stupid Hoe,” directed by Hype Williams, is indeed lewd, as it features several naked female figures. Not to mention the repetition of the phrase “Stupid Hoe” in the chorus. Check out the clip below:

2 Chainz Sign with Def Jams

Today, 2 Chainz confirms with XXL that he has departed from DTP and signed a solo deal with Def Jam. Tomorrow, he will also make the announcement on MTV’s RapFix Live at 4pm.

“It’s the Real University, Two Gun Gang, Street Executives. It’s not DTP no more. I’m actually behind [Ludacris], he’s still my homie. I just took another route as far as running my own company and bossing up. But on the other hand, I’m still working with him. He has an album coming out this year, as well. Matter of fact, we are label mates, now, which is crazy. So, yeah, that’ll be cool. I’m looking forward to that.”

Lil Wayne – “That’s What They Call Me” Video

Tickets For Jay-Z’s Benefit Concert At Carnegie Hall Go On Sale

by JP DelaCuesta

(AllHipHop News) Tickets for Jay-Z’s two Carnegie Hall concerts to be held on February 6-7 are now officially on sale.

Tickets for the concerts will benefit both the United Way of New York City and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation.

According to Carnegie Hall’s website, “Concert goers will get a once in a lifetime experience as Jay-Z takes the stage at the New York landmark to raise dollars that will help fight poverty, boost on-time graduation rates in underserved New York City schools, and put college within reach for low-income students across the five boroughs.”

The tickets, which range from $150 to $15,000, can be purchased two ways. For high-end boxes starting at $15,000 and tickets priced from $2,500 to $5,000, contact www.jayzconcerts@uwnyc.org. For all tickets under $1,500, visit the Carnegie Hall website.

Future 'Magic' Video: T.I., Magic City and Body-Painted Women Included

Chalie Boy - G 'Til I'm Dead (Part 2) (Official Music Video)

One of Texas UGK...
This is the official music video for "G 'Til I'm Dead (Part 2)", featured on Chalie Boy's 2nd street album "The Grind Pays Off". This video was shot on April 6, 2011, in Houston, TX. by Compound Films.

Miz Smurff - Get Away feat. Big KRIT & LC

Miz Smurff feature. Big K.R.I.T. you can follw her @MizSmurffSIDT

Drake Headlines the NHL All-Star Game Performance.

Korleon feat Boo Rossini "Whole Thang"

Mississippi artist Korleon and Boo Rossini hold it down on this new street banger! you can follow them @KorleonKOJ and @CTEBOOROSSINI

Big K.R.I.T. track list off his upcoming mixtape dropping Feb 20.

Here’s the pre-mature track list that the rapper/producer revealed on Twitter.
Krit first single is droppin on 2-1-2012 called " I Got This"
1. Wake Up (Morning)
2. Yesterday
3. 4eva Na Day Theme
4. Ride Clean
5. I Got This
6. Country Rap Tunes
7. Red Eye
8. Down N Out
9. Package Store
10. Temptation Ruff
11. Handwriting Bet
12. Insomnia
13. The Alarm
14. Sky Club Mix

Alley Boy Denies Beef with T.I. and Jeezy

(AllHipHop News) Atlanta rapper Alley Boy of Duct Tape Entertainment denied any beef with fellow Atlanta rappers Young Jeezy and T.I. at a listening session for his most recent project “Nigganati.”

Late last week, Alley Boy set the internet on fire with his song “I Want In.”

Many Hip-Hop fans thought Alley Boy was taking shots on the track, which showcases Alley letting Jeezy and T.I. know that he “wants in” on all the hit making thats going on between Jeezy and T.I..

“All that street sh*t? It’s over, game over/I’m the new king of the streets, no motivation, game over,” he spits. “F**k that snow sh*t/This hot sh*t/ In the A-town/This my sh*t,” Alley Boy says.

While the previous two lines suggest Alley Boy is not happy with Jeezy and T.I., Alley Boy told AllHipHop.com that there was no beef or rift between him and his famous counterparts.

“I did the ‘We Want In’ record,’ a lot of folks say its a shot at a ni**a man, but I don’t take shots man, when I take shots at a ni**a they gon’ be bleedin,’” Alley Boy told AllHipHop.com. “But at the end of the day, I say respect the way I feel about sh*t. I feel like f**k a ni**a, it’s my city, know what I’m saying?”

Many listeners questioned the beef, since Alley Boy was a guest feature on Young Jeezy’s ‘The Real is Back’ mixtape hosted by DJ Drama.

But Alley Boy didn’t mince his words and was clear that if the shoe fit, either rapper could wear it.

“Ain’t no bullsh*t in it, once I peep a ni**a character and I feel the ni**a aint real, I just go in on a ni**a, I dont give a f**k, its whatever, ni**as know what it is around the A,” Alley Boy explained to AllHipHop.com in an exclusive interview during a listening session for “Nigganatti.”



Alley Boy made it clear that some of the more established acts refuse to work with artists like himself, who are garnering a street based following.

“You know man, it wasn’t no disrespect to none of the independent ni**as, you know what I’m saying, when I say what I say, its just for these bitch ass ni**as that be coming out here that don’t f**k with no street ni**as, they don’t f**k with no real ni**as, that was just my thing like, ni**a you needa f**k with a real nigga, or it is what it is, you get caught with the wrong person, you might get caught with the green light on you, so that was just me saying that,” Alley Boy concluded.

Young Jeezy and T.I. were not available for comment at press time.

Chris Brown New Music "Turn up the Music "

Chris dropped his second single off the album due this year.