August 2008 - Celebrity Bug

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8/31/08

Celebrity Bug's Top 10 Hip-Hop Artists

8/31/2008 1

  1. Kanye West
  2. Lil' Wayne
  3. Jay-Z
  4. T.I.
  5. Young Jeezy
  6. Rick Ross
  7. Andre 3000
  8. Snoop Dogg
  9. Nas
  10. 50 Cent

Debatable, I know, especially Kanye triumphing Lil' Wayne, but with his accomplishments in the past year, as well as, 'The Graduation' in comparsion to 'Tha Carter III', Kanye did more than enough to secure his spot at the top.

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CB's Fall TV Preview Complete List

8/31/2008 0
Here's a list of every show I plan to keep an eye on this TV Season:
  • Gossip Girl (CW)
  • America's Next Top Model (CW)
  • One Tree Hill (CW)
  • 90210 ( CW)
  • Priviledged (CW)
  • Stylista (CW)
  • The Game (CW)
  • New York Goes to Hollywood (VH1)
  • Glam God with Vivica A. Fox (VH1)
  • Making the Band 4 (MTV)
  • The Hills (MTV)
  • Raising the Bar (TNT)
  • Desperate Housewives (ABC)
  • Brothers & Sisters (ABC)
  • Samantha Who? (ABC)
  • Private Practice (ABC)
  • Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
  • Prison Break (FOX)
  • Do Not Disturb (FOX)
  • Lipstick Jungle (NBC)
  • Friday Night Lights (NBC)
  • The Ex List (CBS)
  • The Mentalist (CBS)

I had originally planned on doing a break down of all the shows, complete with spoilers, but this has been an extremely busy month so I just wasn't able. Anyway, the shows highlighted in purple are the ones that I just don't plan on missing. I will watch the others too, but probably online.

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Past Attack: Chris Brown & Rihanna - 'Wall to Wall / Umbrella' Live at the 2007 VMAs

8/31/2008 0
Keeping in stride with recapping some of the best and worst moments of the Video Music Awards, which are schedule to take place on September 7th. This week's past attack clip comes from teen heartthrob Chris Brown and his gal pal Rihanna. This enthralling performance pointed out a number of things, first Chris is not good at lip syncing, but secondly nobody really cares when you put on a show like this. From his energetic dance moves, the surprising Rihanna appearance, and the Michael Jackson tribute, this performance was a winner from beginning to end and other than Britney at the opening it was the only part of the show worth watching (for different reasons from Britney's of course). Good stuff, check it out:

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8/30/08

Halle Berry's Baby Girl Unveiled

8/30/2008 0

Halle Berry, 42, shows off her gorgeous baby daughter Nahla Aubrey, 5 1/2 months, during a visit to the Los Angeles Zoo on Saturday afternoon. Halle’s mother, Judith, accompanies her daughter and granddaughter.




G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S! Just like her mommy baby Nahla doesn't disappoint in the looks department, but that was a given considering Halle's beau Gabriel Aubry is a knockout also.
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Robin Thicke: “Vibe Wouldn’t Put Me On the Cover Because I’m White”

8/30/2008 0
Robin Thicke speaks on color in the new Billboard magazine:

When I did a recent interview with Vibe magazine I asked, “Why can’t I get the cover? This is a magazine I love. If there’s one magazine that I’d want to be on the cover of, it’s Vibe.” Their response was they don’t have white artists on the cover; that the only white artist they’ve had on the cover was Eminem. I guess if that’s what it is, it is what it is. And I respect that because I live in a house with a black woman.

I won’t use the word “racism.” I will say it’s a tough — but rewarding — fight. I look at Mary J. Blige, somebody who has had only a few pop hits and yet has changed culture, generated new sounds and inspired leagues of artists. She’s now a worldwide phenomenon. And it’s because of what she stood for; she never gave up. She kept making great music, pouring her heart out to people.

You can’t always expect people to be as color-blind or open-minded as you want. What you can do is keep giving your heart and soul, like Bob Marley did. His music became so overwhelmingly loving; it was a relentless love in a sense. Keep beating them down with love and they can’t stop you. Source

Although Eminem isn't the only white artist to cover Vibe, Justin Timberlake covered the magazine back in 2002, but I have to ask if the situation was placed on a black artist, wouldn't the response be very different. Rev. Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, and the NAACP would be knocking on the magazine's door before the news spread good, but when the situation is placed on a white artist the response is pretty much non-existent. Plus considering some of the crappy artists that Vibe have put on the cover recently, Robin would definitely be a step up.
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Album Cover: Robin Thicke - 'Something Else'

8/30/2008 0
Check out the official album cover for Robin Thicke's album, 'Something Else', due in stores September 30th, below:

Same ole, Same ole. Similar to his last cover.
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Kelly Rowland & The Script Perform 'Part Time Lover'

8/30/2008 0
Destiny's Child member Kelly Rowland along with Irish band The Script performed Stevie Wonder's 'Part Time Lover' on T-Mobile Transmission this week. Check it out:



A mess, both parties were pitchy out of this world.
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8/29/08

Keri Hilson’s ‘In A Perfect World’ Delayed Again

8/29/2008 0
The debut album from Keri Hilson, 'In a Perfect World…', has been pushed back by one week to October 14th. It had originally been scheduled for September 23rd and then moved to October 7th. If the new date sticks, Keri will be going up against Ludacris’ 'Theater of the Mind'.
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T.I. 'Paper Trail' Tracklisting

8/29/2008 0
T.I. will release his sixth album 'Paper Trail' on September 30th. Check out the official tracklisting below:

1. 56 Bars (Intro)
2. I'm Illy
3. Ready For Whatever
4. On Top Of The World (feat. Ludacris and B.o.B)
5. Live Your Life (feat. Rihanna)
6. Whatever You Like
7. No Matter What
8. My Life Your Entertainment (feat. Usher)
9. Porn Star
10. Swing Ya Rag (feat. Swizz Beatz)
11. What Up, What's Haapnin'
12. Every Chance I Get
13. Swagga Like Us T.I. and Jay-Z (feat. Kanye West and Lil Wayne)
14. Slide Show (feat. John Legend)
15. You Ain't Missin' Nothing
16. Dead And Gone (feat. Justin Timberlake)
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Pussycat Dolls Perform on ‘Today’

8/29/2008 0
The Pussycat Dolls hit up NYC’s Rockefeller Plaza on Friday to perform 'When I Grow Up' live on the 'Today' show. Check it out:



Great Performance. Vocally (EH!) at times, but Nicole's stage presence is just phenomenal.
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New Music: Pussycat Dolls featuring Missy Elliott - 'Whatcha Think About That'

8/29/2008 0
The Pussycat Dolls have finally selected a second single from their new album 'Doll Domination', due September 23rd. 'Whatcha Think About That' featuring Missy Elliott will be the follow-up to the group’s hit 'When I Grow Up'. The Missy Elliott assisted track marks the first time we hear another one of the cats singing besides Nicole and I actually like the track. Its a fun and flirty breakup track, which is often expected of the Dolls, and the Missy feature only adds fare.

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The King of Pop Turns 50

8/29/2008 0
For over forty years The King of Pop Michael Jackson has stunned audiences with his unique nature of hits and his tremendously unmatched stage presence. Known to most as the greatest performer of all time, Michael presence and influence on the industry stands just as monumental today and will probably continue to do so in the future.

Mr. Jackson talked to Good Morning America from his home in California, about the big day, his legendary career, and his future plans.

How He Plans to Celebrate His 50th Birthday:
"Just have a little cake with my children and we'll probably watch some cartoons -- before getting right back to work.

His Greatest Efforts / Future Plans
Oh boy, that's a hard one," he said, before singling out "We Are the World," "Billie Jean" and "Thriller."

But Jackson was not content to rest on his laurels, saying, "I am still looking forward to doing a lot of great things."

He hopes to release new music and tour, though he doesn't have dates set.

"I am writing all the time," he said. "I love composing and the whole thing. But I am also raising my children and enjoying it and teaching them to ride bicycles and how to read. I love it."

On His Kids
Asked if he'd like his two sons and daughter to have the same sort of upbringing as him, he said he'd prefer to let them "enjoy their childhood as much as possible."

"I let them go to the arcade and go to the movies and do things," he said. "I want them to get to do the kind of things I didn't get to do. So, I fill them with a lot of enjoyment that way -- a lot of amusement. You know?

"I get pretty emotional when I see them having a wonderful time," he added, "when they are on a ride and they are screaming and they are happy. ... It makes me emotional, 'cause I see they are having a real good time."

Jackson said his kids "love music ... they are very much into the arts," but that, "I don't push them."

Happy Birthday!
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Jennifer Hudson Performs The Star Spangled Banner At DMC

8/29/2008 0
Jennifer Hudson performed 'The Star-Spangled Banner' at the 2008 Democratic National Convention at Invesco Field in Denver, CO, on Thursday. Check it out:



The Oscar winner was handpicked by Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama to sing at the event. Jennifer gave a very churchy rendition, but the performance was all over the place vocally, at times it felt like she was screaming rather than singing and the arrangement wasn't very good either.
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8/28/08

Beyoncé & Solange on ‘Early Show’

8/28/2008 0
Beyoncé, Solange, and Tina Knowles were on CBS’ 'The Early Show' this morning. B spoke about her admiration for her younger sister and how she has to beg Solange to do a song with her. Watch the clip followed by Solange’s performance below:





Glad to see Beyonce offer support to her little sis and Solange's performance was good too.
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Kelly Rowland's 'Nike' Commercial

8/28/2008 0
It seems that Europe is loving Kelly Rowland lately, check out her new commercial for Nike's Human Race, the world’s biggest one-day running event, set to take place on August 31st.



FIERCE! This is closest I actually seen Kelly to looking like she actually belongs on the stage. Good Stuff
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Ne-Yo ‘Year of the Gentleman’ Tracklisting

8/28/2008 0
Ne-Yo will release his third album 'Year of the Gentleman' on September 16th. Check out the official tracklisting below:

1. Closer
2. Nobody
3. Single
4. Mad
5. Miss Independent
6. Why Does She Stay
7. Fade Into the Background
8. So You Can Cry
9. Part of the List
10. Back to What You Know
11. Lie to Me
12. Stop This World
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Solange Responds to 'Fox News' Interview

8/28/2008 0
After a appearance that left a sour taste in many people's mouth following her interview with Fox News yesterday, Solange has responded to the situation in her latest video blog. Check it out:



Hopefully she resumes to acting in a professional manner in the future.
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T.I.'s 'Whatever You Like' Makes Billboard History

8/28/2008 0
T.I. establishes the mark for biggest jump to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, as "Whatever You Like" soars 71-1 in its third week on the list.

A No. 1 opening on Hot Digital Songs with debut-week sales of 205,000 downloads is the impetus for the record-setting Hot 100 move, which surpasses the 64-1 hike taken by Maroon 5's "Makes Me Wonder" in the May 12, 2007, issue.

"Like" is the rapper's first No. 1 as a lead artist (he was featured on Justin Timberlake's 2006 chart-topper, "My Love") and his opening-week digital sum is the best by a rap track since Nielsen SoundScan began compiling download data in 2003.

Congrats, 'Whatever You Like' isn't T.I.'s best record lyrically, but IMO it is his most radio friendly record.
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8/27/08

Solange Pops Off At Interviewer

8/27/2008 0
Still on trail promoting her newly released album 'Sol-Angel & The Hadley Street Dreams', Solange popped off and went head to head with an interviewer on Fox News 5. Check out the clip below:



Well Solange I have to say that wasn't a very PROFESSIONAL way to react, reminds me of when Tina acted like fool a while back, anyways this could have been done OFF CAMERA or not at all because the comparisons and Beyonce/Jay-Z questions are always going to be there, so just get over it.
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Michael & Janet To Appear Together At VMAs?

8/27/2008 0
Word has that Superstar siblings Michael and Janet Jackson are set to appear together for the first time in 13 years at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards on September 7th:

Although Britney shot promos for the VMAs, we're told the real gold is Michael Jackson. Sources close to the awards tell us MTV honchos have been working OT to get Jacko to reappear at the awards.

We're told a deal is as good as sealed to have MJ present an award with sister Janet. {Source}

Here's to hoping this actually sees the light of day.
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8/26/08

2008 J&R MusicFest with Ashanti (Part 2)

8/26/2008 0
I reported earlier in the week about Ashanti headlining the third day of the 2008 J&R MusicFest in NYC’s City Hall Park on Saturday. Check out some of the performances below:

'Body On Me'


'Good Good'


'The Way That I Love You'


Okay I have a few bones to pick, I've held this in for a long time, but it just has to be said. Ashanti just needs to get it together, she needs to do a complete overhaul starting with the team around her. I've never really understood why people gave her such a hard time, because there have always been singers out their with far less talent than the Glen Cove native and I still stand by that, but Ashanti just comes off very amateurish in the majority of her performances. From the dj (IMO all R&B artists need a band), to the horrendous choreography, and stage presence,or lack there of, nothing about these performances show an artist who's been in the game since 2002. 'The Declaration' was a great album, one of the best R&B albums this year, but her label and manager did an absolute embarrassing job of promoting it, honestly with no tour, no major performances, and very little buzz, the album was basically dead on arrival. Then people wonder why she has a hard time keeping up with Beyonce and even Rihanna, who's singing talent is just a nasally mess, and like I said previously neither Beyonce or Rihanna release music that's any better than hers. Ashanti just needs to fire everyone of her team and start fresh with people that are willing to take risks and take her to the next level, because she's been stuck in cruise control since 2003 and she's losing speed everyday. Back to the performances, they were all horrible, in fact, the most enjoying thing about them was the cutesy Nelly shout out during 'Body on Me'. I'm not a hater, I really want Ashanti to succeed, but I'm just not going to sugarcoat it anymore.
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New Music: Brandy

8/26/2008 0
R&B star Brandy is finally set to release her fifth album on November 11th and like many artists she's experiencing a high number of leaks. 'First N' Love', 'Porcelain Doll', and 'Throw it All Away' all surfaced this week. Listen to the tracks below:

'First N' Love'
The Underdogs produced cut, sees Brandy talking about meeting a guy on First Street and Love Avenue, and interesting concept to say the least, but the song is far less impressing. It is the best out of the three, but honestly I don't see myself listening to any of the tracks on a regular basis. Listen Here

'Porcelain Doll'
The song is not engaging at all, its just a complete blah and I found my mind creeping to other places. Listen Here

'Throw it All Away'
Has a old school feel to it and the beat entices you immediately. The song is pretty solid too and the back down even has a MJ feel to it. Listen Here
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LL Cool J VMA Promo

8/26/2008 0
LL Cool J has filmed a TV spot to promote the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards with host Russell Brand. Check it out below:

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Jesse McCartney Covers T-Pain

8/26/2008 1
Pop singer Jesse McCartney covers T-Pain’s 'Buy U A Drank (Shawty Snappin’)' for Pepsi Smash, check it out:



Good Stuff.
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Solange Performs 'Sandcastle Disco' On Letterman

8/26/2008 0



With Solange's new LP 'Sol-Angel & The Hadley Street Dreams' out in stores today, she stopped by The Late Show with David Letterman last night to perform the album's second single 'Sandcastle Disco'. The performance definitely had its moments good and bad, and Solange seems to be taken a note from Beyonce, because their was definitely some Tina Turner moves in there. Solange's album review should be up tomorrow, so stay tune.

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Nelly Defends 'Tip Drill' Video

8/26/2008 0
As Nelly continues to make round in support of his upcoming effort 'Brass Knuckles', due September 16th, he recently mad a stop by Sirius 40 Radio with Renada Romain. Romain, like most female interviewers, made an effort to bring the whole 'Tip Drill' controversy back to light, which get the St. Louis rapper a little frustrated. Check it out:

Wow. I have to side with Nelly here, and the reason why is because it was just a video that happened years ago so why is the subject even relevant now. Secondly, if your going to spend so much time on all the negative things the rapper does that's fine, but just give the same amount of shine to all the positive effects he's trying to make with his blood drives and helping the community. Lastly, we all as people have the choice of free will, so if we don't like something then we simply don't have to watch it, like for instance after seeing the 'Tip Drill' video back then I wasn't a fan of it, and since that day I have never even made an attempt to watch it again and won't do so in the future. Still I don't hold that against Nelly because it was an ADULT video, so it served its purpose and he definitely didn't hold a gun to any of the ladies head that choose to participate in the act.
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Kanye West - 'Good Morning' Video

8/26/2008 0
Kanye West continues to release videos off of his Grammy winning album 'Graduation', the latest is 'Good Morning' and its pretty cool. Check it out:

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Dr. Dre's 20-Year-Old Son Found Dead

8/26/2008 0
The son of hip-hop producer Dr. Dre died over the weekend, the music star's rep confirmed to PEOPLE.

Andre Young Jr., 20, was discovered "unresponsive" by his mother at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif., on Saturday morning, according to the L.A. County Coroner's office.

"Dr. Dre is mourning the loss of his son," his rep Lori Earl says in a statement. "Please respect his family's grief and privacy at this time."

Young's mother told police that she attempted to rouse her son at 10:24 a.m. on Saturday, and when she couldn't, she called paramedics. They pronounced him dead at the scene.

Young "had been out with friends" the previous night and returned home around 5:30 a.m., according to L.A. County Coroner's assistant chief Ed Winter. An autopsy was performed Monday. No foul play is expected.

Dr. Dre, whose given name is Andre Young, is one of hip-hop's most prolific musicians. After achieving national spotlight with the rap group N.W.A., Dr. Dre in 1992 released the influential CD, The Chronic, which included the Grammy-winning single "Let Me Ride."

Dr. Dre has four other children: sons Curtis, 26, Marcel, 17, and Truth, 11, and daughter Truly, 7.

Condolences to Dr Dre and his family.
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T-Pain featuring Lil' Wayne - 'I Can't Believe It' Video

8/26/2008 0
'Can’t Believe It' is the first single off T-Pain’s third studio album 'Thr33 Ringz' (Oct. 28). The video was directed by Syndrome (Black Eyed Peas, Lupe Fiasco) and features Lil Wayne. Check it out:

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8/25/08

New Music: T.I. featuring Rihanna - 'Live Your Life'

8/25/2008 0
With T.I. new album 'Paper Trail' on the roaster for a September 30th release, it seems music from the set is leaking left and right. 'Live Your Live' features the current girl of the moment Rihanna, and I really like this one. The duo are supposedly set to perform the single at this year's VMAs, but I guess only time will tell if that materializes.


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Kerry Washington Graces Giant

8/25/2008 1
Check out Kerry Washington's spread for the current issue of 'Giant' Magazine.




She sure has come a long way since 'Save the Last Dance'.
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K-Ci & JoJo Are Crackalicious

8/25/2008 0

On Saturday, hasbeen R&B jammers K-Ci and JoJo gave fans in Australia an utterly horridous performance. Watch the clip above and check out the fan report via Perez Hilton below:

So last night some friends and I went to see a Jodeci "reunion tour" at the Enmore theater in Sydney. Mate, the whole thing was a disaster. First, one of the guys (Devante I think) didn't even show up, so it became a K-ci and JoJo concert. JoJo came on stage and right away you could tell he was messed right up- he kept forgetting the words to songs and just was a general weirdo. But then, after about 40 minutes into the "show" he decided to sit right down on the floor. His brother, the other crackhead K-ci was trying his best to carry the show on his own. By far, the best part of the evening was when JoJo walked off stage for about 5 minutes, then came back out to sing "All My Life"- and PASSED OUT mid song. His brother told the audience that they were tired after their 24-hour flight and that JoJo had gotten dizzy.

Shaking my head. I thought it could get any worse than Amy, but I guess I was wrong.

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Dancing with the Stars Lineup Officially Announced

8/25/2008 0
The season seven Dancing with the Stars cast was officially announced Monday on ABC’s Good Morning America, and after much Internet speculation on who would be joining the show, there are plenty of surprises. Here’s the rundown of celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners ready to mambo for the mirror-ball trophy:

• Toni Braxton, singer, 40, and season one DWTS champ Alec Mazo
• Lance Bass, singer, 29, and Lacey Schwimmer
• Ted McGinley, actor, 50, and Inna Brayer
• Cloris Leachman, actress, 82, and Corky Ballas
• Warren Sapp, former NFL star, 35, and Kym Johnson
• Rocco DiSpirito, chef, 41, and Karina Smirnoff
• Kim Kardashian, TV personality, 27, and reigning DWTS champ Mark Ballas
• Maurice Green, Olympic gold medalist track and field star, 34, and two-time DWTS champ Cheryl Burke
• Misty May-Treanor, Olympic gold medalist beach volleyball player, 31, and Maksim Chmerkovskiy
• Susan Lucci, Emmy-award winning soap opera actress, 61, and Tony Dovolani
• Jeffrey Ross, 42, comedian, and Edyta Sliwinska
• Cody Linley, 18, actor, and two-time DWTS champ Julianne Hough
• Brooke Burke, 36, TV personality, and Derek Hough
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Jennifer Hudson to Deliver National Anthem at Convention

8/25/2008 0
Barack Obama has asked Jennifer Hudson to sing the national anthem on Thursday – the day of the presumptive Presidential candidate's much-anticipated address to the Democratic convention in Denver, her rep tells PEOPLE.

"His reps called and said we'd love for you to sing the anthem on Thursday," Hudson's rep tells PEOPLE. "She's thrilled and excited. It's a tremendous honor."

The DNC will not comment about Hudson's performance until the official schedule is announced.

The Dreamgirls Oscar winner and Sex and the City movie costar, whose self-titled album will be out Sept. 30, has previously expressed a desire to help the Obama campaign.

"I'm so proud and excited for him," Hudson, 26, told E! Online about Obama in June. "I haven't gotten a call from them yet, but he does have my support."

Hudson will not be the only vocalist Thursday. Bruce Springsteen is scheduled to close the convention that night.
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Ludacris Shoots Two New Videos

8/25/2008 0
Ludacris shot the video for 'What Them Girls Like' on Sunday at Zune House in Los Angeles with director Chris Robinson (Alicia Keys, Ne-Yo). The first single from Ludacris’ sixth album 'Theater of the Mind' (Oct. 14) features Chris Brown and Sean Garrett.

Earlier in the week, Ludacris joined T-Pain on the Miami set of 'Chopped N Skrewed', a new track off T-Pain’s 'Thr33 Ringz'. The video was directed by Syndrome (Estelle, Swizz Beatz), who did T-Pain’s 'Can’t Believe It' featuring Lil Wayne. Both videos will premiere around the same time.
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TIME Magazine’s ‘10 Best Songs of Summer’

8/25/2008 0
TIME magazine has named their “10 Best Songs of Summer.” Check out the list below:

1. Kid Rock - 'All Summer Long'
2. Rihanna - 'Disturbia'
3. Usher - 'Love in This Club'
4. Estelle - 'American Boy'
5. T.I. - 'No Matter What'
6. Leona Lewis - 'Bleeding Love'
7. Lil Wayne - 'A Milli'
8. Pussycat Dolls - 'When I Grow Up'
9. Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'
10. Katy Perry - 'I Kissed a Girl'

Can't say I agree.
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8/24/08

New Music: T.I., Jay-Z, Kanye West, & Lil' Wayne - 'Swagger Like Us'

8/24/2008 0

Hip-hop heavyweights Kanye West, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, and T.I. go for the gold on 'Swagger Like Us', a new track off T.I.’s Paper Trail (September 30th). The song, which samples M.I.A.’s 'Paper Planes', is nothing special especially considering the artists that grace the track, in fact, its really disappointing.

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2008 J&R MusicFest with Ashanti

8/24/2008 0
Ashanti performed on the third day of the 2008 J&R MusicFest in NYC’s City Hall Park on Saturday. Ashanti met with fans and signed autographs after her performance, check it out below:

Good Stuff.
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CB's Fall TV Preview: 'Desperate Housewives'

8/24/2008 1
What to Expect on the Season Premiere?
  • As revealed in the 4th season finale, next season picks up five years after the events of last season. Expect some flashbacks to show us how the women's lives changed.
  • Bree's a guest on a Fairview cooking show. She introduces her staff, which includes Katherine. After Katherine informs the host that she's never known a better cook than Bree, Katherine purposely pretends to have injured her hand so Bree's forced to finish preparing a difficult French dessert on camera. Disaster ensues. Also, Bree clashes with a photographer.
  • Gabrielle's daughter Juanita (who's 4 and a half) unsuccessfully tries to wear a dress that's too small for her. She's in denial about her daughter's weight issues. Gabrielle overhears two mothers blaming her for Juanita's weight; she confronts the women.
  • Thanks to teenage Porter and Preston (now played by Charles and Max Carver), the Scavo's restaurant is turned into an illegal casino for their teen friends. When Lynette learns about this, she grounds the boys, who want their punishment postponed til after Homecoming. As the good son who's not been grounded, Parker (now played by Joshua Moore) has to take sister Penny (now played by Kendall Applegate) to soccer practice. He wants to be home in time to get back to his computer game, as he's grown up to become a technogeek.
  • Susan and Mike are divorced, but he's not out of her life altogether, thanks to the existence of their son, M.J., who's played by Mason Gale Cotton. We'll learn why they got a divorce. Susan's new man Jackson (Gale Harold) has a scene where he's not wearing all of his clothes. Susan's closed off to love and doesn't want to be in a relationship. When Susan and Jackson first met, she initially wasn't into him; he was just the guy she'd hired to paint her house. Susan's first scene of the season after the teaser was based on something Teri Hatcher suggested.
  • A woman we've never met before takes a call from her husband. He claims to be snowed in at the airport, unable to leave til morning. His wife is frustrated as he's gone half the time now. They have a young daughter.
  • Dave, a newly married man (played by new series regular Neal McDonough) wants to get a house for Edie, his wife. Specifically, he wants to get her old house on Wisteria Lane. Dave tells the elderly man living there that he's going to buy him out his lease -- right now! He's not going to take no for an answer, and he's going to count to five to give the man a chance to agree. Dave happens to be a motivational speaker, so expect him to be quite effective with his tactics.
  • Dave takes a call from a doctor who reminds him he's supposed to check in once a week. He tells his doctor he's living close to Boston. The doctor tells another doctor he's worried about Dave, who once had an intense fixation on one person. He has revenge on his mind but who is the object of his obsession?

What to Expect this season?

  • Bob and Lee will be back; they now have a 4 year old daughter.
  • Gabrielle will get her looks back after seven or eight episodes, for a hilarious reason.
  • Neal McDonough joins the show as a series regular. He's playing Dave, a motivational speaker who's married to Edie. Like Mike, Betty, Orson, and Katherine before him, Dave's at the center of the season's mystery. He's out for revenge. Mrs. McCluskey can see there's something off about Dave. Toby the cat goes missing.
  • Season 5 will have 24 episodes.
  • In the first episodes back, expect to learn why Bree took Orson back.
'Desperate Housewives' premieres September 28 at 8/7pm Central on ABC.

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Past Attack: Beyonce - 'Ring the Alarm' Live at the 2006 VMAs

8/24/2008 0
Keeping in stride with recapping some of the best and worst moments of the Video Music Awards, which are schedule to take place on September 7th. This week's past attack clip comes from superstar Beyonce's spectular performance at the 2006 ceremony. When I first heard 'Ring the Alarm', like the majority of 'B'Day', I thought it was just average and nothing more. The Rihanna and Jay-Z controversy helped a lot of fans embrace the song, but for me personally, this performance right here sold the song.

What makes Beyonce standout amongst the crowded music industry? Ashanti, Alicia, and even Rihanna, are all just as gorgeous and lets be honest B definitely doesn't make music that's much better than any of them, so why does she stand out? The answer is Beyonce is a born performer and she has the ability to make you like a song by the visual she gives you when she performs it, 'Deja Vu', 'Ring the Alarm', and a lot of other B numbers were all ordinary, but the singer's performances made up for that.

Back to the subject, this performance was a clear knock off of an earlier Britney performance and the breakdown was definitely something Janet has done before, but Beyonce's fiery energy and drive sells this as a original. They always say if you're going to do something that's been done before, at least do it as good or better, and Beyonce definitely matched that statement.

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8/23/08

Obama Selects Joe Biden as VP Nominee

8/23/2008 0
After much speculation on who it might be, Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has chosen Delaware Sen. Joe Biden as his running mate.

A text message, sent around 3 a.m. Saturday announced, "Barack has chosen Senator Joe Biden to be our VP nominee".

In an introductory post on his official website, Obama’s campaign said:

Joe Biden brings extensive foreign policy experience, an impressive record of collaborating across party lines and a direct approach to getting the job done.

We have our team, but we also have our work cut out for us.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden are the leaders who will bring the change our country needs. But they can’t do it alone.

Smart move. Older white audiences will appreciate that this makes his effort for the White House look a lot less risky. Obama not only picked someone who is a seasoned politician with a strong background in international affairs, but also someone that will challenge his decisions and offer a strong sense of opinions and solutions.
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Ne-Yo Performs on ‘FNMTV’

8/23/2008 0

Ne-Yo hit the stage at Friday’s season finale of “FNMTV” to perform “Closer” (above) and his latest single “Miss Independent” (below).

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T.I. & Rihanna to Perform Together at VMAs?

8/23/2008 0
MTV has already announced T.I. and Rihanna as performers for this year’s MTV Video Music Awards. However, we hear that in addition to her own solo performance of 'Disturbia', Rihanna will join T.I. for the first-ever performance of their collaboration 'Live Your Life', the new single off T.I.’s 'Paper Trail'.

The 2008 MTV VMAs will air live on September 7th at 9 p.m. from Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood.

I'm really anxious to see this, because one of my blogger friends attended T.I.'s listening party and said that the Rihanna assisted track was definitely the stand out 100% and having taken a huge liking to 'Whatever You Like', only makes me anticipate hearing the song even more.
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Cassie featuring Lil' Wayne - 'Official Girl' Video

8/23/2008 0

The video for Cassie's new single 'Official Girl', which features Lil' Wayne, premiered on FN'MTV yesterday. Directed by Chris Robinson, the video clip is really entertaining and I really like it, but the video is more like a photo shoot than an actual treatment. Of course they added a little depth at the beginning and ending of the clip, but still not enough to make up for what the song lacks. As the case is often with Cassie, you get the feel of an Aaliyah vibe, which I don't think is done purposely, she just happens to resemble the late singer. Overall, I like the video, but the song is just to bland to be a lead single, even the Lil' Wayne feature can't save it.

Random: This video's budget is like the combination of Danity Kane's entire videography.

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Pink - 'So What' Video

8/23/2008 0

With Pink set to release her fifth album 'Funhouse' soon, the video for the album's first single 'So What' premiered yesterday on MTV and featured a cameo from her soon to be ex-husband Carey Hart. The song is in the pits IMO and Pink is definitely capable of better, but the video is better, although it still falls flat when compared to her previous video treatments.

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John Legend featuring Andre 3000 - 'Green Light ' Video

8/23/2008 0

The video for John Legend's lead single from his upcoming third album 'Evolver', the Andre 3000 assisted 'Green Light', premiered on MTV yesterday. The video and song are both a step in a different direction for John, who can often visually come off boring, while this still isn't anything spectular it still manages to become John's best visual offering, although that doesn't really say much.

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8/22/08

Da Brat Sentenced to Three Years in Jail

8/22/2008 0

Da Brat was sentenced to three years in prison Friday for striking a woman with a rum bottle at an Atlanta nightclub in 2007.

A DeKalb County judge also sentenced the Funkdafied rapper, whose real name is Shawntae Harris, to seven years probation and 200 hours of community service.

The incident happened last year at a Halloween party. The victim, a waitress at Studio 72 nightclub, had to be hospitalized after being struck by Harris.

“I love y’all,” Harris told members of her weeping family as she left the courtroom.

Finally a celebrity gets served justice, but come to think about it Da Brat isn't really a celebrity anymore, so I take that back, but IMO she definitely got what she deserved.
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Ashanti To Headline Lifetime’s ‘Every Woman Counts’ Event

8/22/2008 0
Lifetime Networks and Rock the Vote Friday announced that Ashanti will perform at the “Every Woman Counts” celebration at the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, Aug. 26 at 10 p.m. Other special guests include Fran Drescher and Brigid Brannagh and Sally Pressman from the network’s hit series Army Wives.

Network officials said the red carpet will begin at 10 p.m. at the Cowboy Lounge in Denver. The party is also sponsored by White House Black Market, the retailer of the dress Michelle Obama wore during her appearance on The View.

“I use my voice to empower women,” Ashanti said in a statement. “Thirty-five million eligible women didn’t vote in the 2004 presidential election, and it is my hope that this event will help shine a spotlight on this statistic and inspire women to get involved.”

The event, part of the nonpartisan “Every Woman Counts” campaign, will bring together delegates, elected officials, political leaders, campaign staff, advocates and “Every Woman Counts” coalition partners to celebrate women’s leadership and encourage more women to be involved in the political process, as voters and future candidates. Throughout the evening, women will be able to register to vote at the “Every Woman Counts” bus, which will be parked out front. “Every Woman Counts” public service announcements and vignettes from celebrities such as Reba McIntyre, Queen Latifah, Jewel and many more will play throughout the night.
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Nelly Interviewed On Hot 97

8/22/2008 0
Nelly was recently interviewed by the Angie Martinez Show on New York's Hot 97 radio station. Although the rapper was there to promote and talk about his new album, 'Brass Knuckles' (September 16th), all Angie wanted to talk about was his relationship with Ashanti. Check out the hilarious interview below:



Cute interview, especially the part about how he and Ashanti decided to do the 'Body on Me' track together.
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Ne-Yo - 'Miss Independent' Video

8/22/2008 0
The video for Ne-Yo's second single 'Miss Independent', which features cameos from Gabrielle Union, Keri Hilson, Lauren London and Trey Songz, premiered yesterday on BET's Access Granted. Check it out below:



With 'Boomerang', starring Eddie Murphy, Halle Berry, and Robin Givens, still being one of my all time favorite movies by its stars, I really love how the video played off the movie. I'm not crazy about the song, but like 'Closer' it will probably grow on me. Good Stuff.
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Terrence Howard - 'Sanctuary' Video

8/22/2008 0
Check out the video for Terrence Howard's first single, 'Sanctuary', from his debut album, 'Shine Through It', which hits stores on September 2nd, below:



The video is pretty bland, but the song is okay.
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8/21/08

Brandy Becomes ‘I Am Legend’ in New Video

8/21/2008 0
Brandy gets the 'I Am Legend' treatment from director Lil’ X in her high-concept video for 'Right Here (Departed)', which features appearances from her brother Ray J and producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. Check out footage of Brandy shooting below:

Good Stuff.
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Rihanna, T.I., Pink On Lineup Of MTV Video Music Awards Performers

8/21/2008 0
After Rihanna, Paramore and Pink were announced early Thursday afternoon (August 21) as performers at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, you might have thought that was enough star power for one day. You might have thought wrong!

T.I. — one of the most successful rappers in the business and a top-10 finalist in MTV News' "Hottest MCs in the Game" competition earlier this year — has also been announced as a performer on the show. He'll be performing a track from his forthcoming LP, Paper Trail.

Earlier Thursday, MTV revealed that Paramore (nominated in the Best Art Direction in a Video and Best Rock Video categories) will rock the crowd with a performance of their hit "Misery Business," while Pink is set to perform her new single, "So What," and Rihanna (who could walk away with the Moonman for Best Female Video) will deliver her latest smash, "Disturbia."

Over the past few weeks, Lil Wayne, the Jonas Brothers and Kid Rock were all confirmed to take the 2008 Video Music Awards stage.

A list of presenters and additional acts gracing the VMA stage will be announced in the coming weeks. This year's awards show, which airs live September 7 at 9 p.m. from the legendary Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood, will be hosted by British comic and "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" co-star Russell Brand.
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Gwen Stefani & Gavin Rossdale Have a Boy!

8/21/2008 0
It's a rock band in the making: Gwen Stefani and her rocker husband Gavin Rossdale welcomed their second child, a son, on Thursday in Los Angeles, PEOPLE has learned.

Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale was born at 12:46 p.m. and weighed 8 1/2 lbs. He joins the couple's other son Kingston, who turned 2 in May.

"Kingston, Gwen and Gavin Rossdale welcomed the newest member of their family," they say in a statement. "Mother, baby and family are all happy and healthy.

Stefani, 38, who is one of four children herself, has spoken openly about her hope for more children. "I'm in a race to have another," she told InStyle last year before announcing her pregnancy.

The No Doubt singer, also the designer behind the L.A.M.B and Harajuku Lovers fashion lines, told the magazine that Rossdale is "super into being a dad."

Rossdale, 42, also told PEOPLE that the couple planned to follow friends' advice and get a gift for Kingston so he didn't feel left out when his new sibling arrived. "Apparently when the baby comes home, you've got to bring a really good present for Kingston," he said.

As for parenthood, Rossdale told PEOPLE, "It's terrifying and exciting and brilliant."

Congrats.
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New Music: Various Artists - 'Just Stand Up'

8/21/2008 0
As reported earlier this week, divas Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Rihanna, Mary J. Blige, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Natasha Bedingfield, Miley Cyrus, Leona Lewis, Carrie Underwood, Keyshia Cole, Leanne Rimes, Ashanti, and Ciara have all united to sing on one song called 'Just Stand Up'," benefiting the Stand Up to Cancer campaign.

After listening to the track, which is much better than I thought it would be, I still can't help but feel the lines were unevenly given and just like I thought one singer definitely had trouble sharing the spotlight, because her vocals are all over the track. Another thing that I didn't understand was how Rihanna manage to get more shine time than a lot of other singers who can actually sing. Ashanti, Ciara, Keyshia Cole, Natasha and Leanne could have all stayed at home, because their all basically non-exist on the track, but I guess they just did it for the cause, which is what its really about anyway. Kudos to L.A. and Babyface.

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Is Rihanna Broke?

8/21/2008 0
UPDATE: As many of you know, I was the very first blog to put this up, but took it down because as real as it seemed it just didn't have a source. The original source still isn't present, but reputable news agencies from MTV to NME are now reporting this, as well, so I decided to add it back. Still unknown if its true or not, but it definitely is very insightful and I think it holds some weight.

Patricia Williams, who was recently released from her duties as Rihanna's accountant, tell all to New York's Page Six revealing that the singer is broke, check it out the report:

Rihanna's now ex-business manager Patricia Willliams has been recently fired as she recalls "for no good reason, all in ignorance" and is "livid" with Rihanna & her management company Rebel One's decision to axe her.

Rihanna recently met with Willliams to check on her accounting affairs and was shocked to see that almost all her money was missing. She instantly accused Willliams of "stealing her money."
"I'm a professional Business Manager, I have a staff of more than a dozen, I have worked for many high profile actors, musicians and multi-million dollar corporations. Why would I steal from Rihanna?" She continues, "I showed her all the paperwork and tried to explain to her the circumstances but she wouldn't listen. She called me all sorts of horrible names and stormed off. I now feel compelled to share with the world the background story as I will not allow my name to be slandered"

The Barbados born singer has had four back-to-back albums, including a re-release since her debut of "Pon De Replay" in 2005.

According to Willliams, Marc Jordan, manager and owner of Rebel One Management has been taking care of Rihanna's financial situation with her. "Def Jam doesn't fund Rihanna properly, so Marc uses the money Rihanna makes from third-party endorsements and from tours to fund her album and music videos." Since 2005, Rihanna has been sponsored by the likes of JC Penny, Samsung, Covergirl, Secret, Venus Breeze etc,. and has gone on two major tours, most recently label-mate Kanye West's "Glow in the Dark" Tour and with PussyCat Dolls across Europe.
"I don't want to disrespect Marc's name. He is a fantastic manager and genuinely believes in Rihanna. But he uses her money to fund her future projects because he believes he can break her in the world-market. Her album sales are not nearly as close to her single sales and he knows that if she is only known as a 'singles artist' she will only be as good as her last hit. Unfortunately, he didn't inform his client and I'm receiving the brunt of it.

"Why is Def Jam lacking in funding support for there act? Why was so much money spent? How much exactly? Williams continues.

"Her record label Def Jam has put out 3 albums in a time span of 2 years. Alot of that was orchestrated through her management Rebel One. It was never Def Jam's intention to release so many albums back-to-back but Marc Jordan found loop holes and ways to make it happen.A lot of the money Rihanna made through her endorsements between CoverGirl Cosmetics, Samsung.. Notice that majority of Rihanna's videos have a cell phone in it?"

"After the release of Rihanna and Teairra Mari, Def Jam had intention to drop both acts because their album sales were not successful. Her manager fought to get [S.O.S (Rescue Me)] and quickly tried to negotiate with as many companies as possible. Nike picked up the song and funded a video. This brought the hype back for Rihanna in the company's New York office. Majority of the official 'S.O.S' video was funded by Samsung because the record label was only willing to put up a small amount. Once 'S.O.S' picked up digitally and at radio, Def Jam agreed to fund the rest of her album. Jordan instantly got a video shot to 'Unfaithful' (he negotiated with video director Anthony Mandler to drop his price and would be given more videos from Rihanna in return). Then they shot 'We Ride' which was an extremely cheap video to create. 'Break It Off' was released as a third album, but again, Def Jam was unhappy with the sales of her album "A Girl Like Me" and refused to shoot a video. At this point Rihanna was opening up for the PussyCat Doll's in Europe. She was making 30,000 a show but she didn't see any of that money because it was needed to fund her next album." Which is now known to the greater public as a 'Good Girl Gone Bad'."

The song "Umbrella" was found & Jordan fought again for Rihanna to have it. They shot the video, which CoverGirl funded half of, and the song became a success. When the record label had there meeting with Music Stores across the U.S to order her album for shipment, the number's weren't coming in the way that they expected. When the album's first week numbers came in at less than 150,000, the label was shocked. Def Jam's President LA Reid was livid! Umbrella was #1 for 11 weeks! Any other artist would have sold way more first week. T-Pain even did better in sales than her that week. Def Jam told Jordan they were no longer funding the album, so Jordan needed money again to pay for music videos 'Shut Up & Drive' and 'Dont Stop The Music'. Almost 250,000 was spent to have those videos created. Plus, an additional 120,000 to shoot 'Hate That I Love You'. Jordan was noticing that 'Dont Stop The Music' was picking up, so her persuaded the label to support it at radio in the U.S and the remaining singles, and they did."
"Then came for the repackaging of her album 'Good Girl Gone Bad', which is called 'Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded', that entire project was funded through Rihanna's money. 'Take A Bow' was bought through her money, the video was created with her money and so is her most recent video and single 'Disturbia'. The label didn't even want to pay a dime for anything! Close to 750,000 was spent on those two songs alone. And now she expects to see money in her account?"

Williams states that Jordan, her publicist from well-respected public relations firm 42-West, Alicia Silverman has built alot of hype around Rihanna's name but the singer has only made "a little bit above a million" and "all of it was spent on making her as big as she is now. It's not my fault that she only has 20,000 to her name."

If this is indeed true, I can't help but feel sorry for the girl after all she's has been hard at work for the last three to four years really trying to take her career to the next level. This does explain a lot though, because I often wonder why Teairra Mari was dropped and Rihanna wasn't considering neither one of the act's album sales were stellar. Just like I have been wondering how Rihanna's 'Good Girl Gone Bad' got so many video and single releases in the early stages despite albums sales not warranting it, so this really help me understand the situation a lot better. Rihanna has become a hot ticket here lately and album sales are picking up, so maybe she won't have to continue to fund her project out of here own pocket, best of luck to her and I will keep you updated when something more concrete comes along.
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Lil' Wayne Covers 'XXL'

8/21/2008 0
Lil' Wayne graces the cover of the latest issue of 'XXL' magazine, check it out below:

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Cassie Interviewed On Hot 97

8/21/2008 0
Cassie was recently interviewed by the Angie Martinez Show on New York's Hot 97 radio station. The singer talked about everything from the rumored relationship with Diddy, Bad Boy label-mates, Rihanna and her new project. Check it out below:



She seems to be talking all of the negative things relatively well, so good for her.
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8/20/08

Britney Spears to Perform At VMAs

8/20/2008 0
After mounting speculation that Britney Spears will take to the stage at this year's MTV Video Music Awards to redeem herself after last-year's train wreck performance, it seems that the rumors are indeed true. Check out the report via The Insider below:

MTV gives Britney another chance at the Video Music Awards this year. Britney will have a public performance singing a new track from her new album.

We won’t forget last year disastrous performance Britney gave at the MTV VMAs. This time I think it will be different. Britney is working hard not to disappoint her fans again.

In the photo below she was leaving a studio in Los Feliz after rehearsal her future performance.

Everyone deserves a second or third chance, right?I’m not sure how we top Britney opening the show but we are working on it every minute of every day. It is the perfect platform for her to announce to her fans and the world that the dark days are behind her and she’s back on track with her life and her career.

I think this a great move on Britney's part, but only if she plans to really bring like everyone knows she can.
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Janet Launches Pleasure Principle Lingerie Line

8/20/2008 0
Music Icon Janet Jackson is set to release a new lingerie line, Pleasure Principle, this November. Check out the report via USA Today below:

Janet Jackson has always been a trendsetter. So it's no surprise the singer, songwriter and actress is adding designer to her résumé.

Jackson's Pleasure Principle line of lingerie will hit mass retailers in November. After making its debut in the USA, the label will arrive in Australia, Japan and Europe. Jackson teamed up with Australian designer Bruno Schiavi for the project.

"People have come to me with other ideas, but lingerie is a passion for me, and just like music and acting, I can't do it unless I put 100% into it," Jackson, clad in a Roland Mouret dress and Christian Dior shoes, said at a press event to announce the collaboration.

Named after Jackson's 1987 hit, the collection, all priced under $40, includes a variety of bra styles (demi cups to full coverage), with sizes from 32A to 44G. The first collection features Chantilly lace, satin and feminine details such as bows. Rich color combinations include burgundy and beige, silver and peach, and classic black and white.

"There's something for every woman, and that's very important to us," Jackson says. "I've always hated when lingerie is uncomfortable, so the fit and comfort was key."

The singer says she was hands-on during designing and sometimes worked on the line at 4 a.m. "I really enjoyed the entire process," she says.

In addition to designing, Jackson has spent the summer rehearsing for her Rock Witchu tour, which kicks off Sept. 10 in Vancouver, B.C. She's also at work on a book chronicling her struggles with weight and food, to be released next year. "What is downtime?" Jackson asked with a laugh. "Any time I have to myself will be spent sleeping."

The Pleasure Principle collection is available for pre-order at jupicorp.com.
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