UNCUT Magazine.net

Jim Jones Not Alone In Cam'ron Beef, Survey Says Fans Disagree With Stop Snitching Movement

A new poll conducted by SOHH reveals that over 86% of those surveyed say that unlike Dipset honcho Cam'ron they would tell the police if they lived next door to a killer.

The survey, which was conducted shortly after the rapper's controversial comments on CBS' "60 Minutes" last month, included feedback from hip-hop consumers between the ages of 12 and 36.

As previously reported, during an interview for a "60 Minutes" segment focusing on how the "stop snitching" movement in hip-hop has hurt murder investigations across the country, Cam said there is no situation that would warrant a person aiding police, even if he knowingly lived next door to a serial killer.

According to the survey, 77% of those polled say rappers like Cam'ron do not represent their views on snitching, while nearly 80% feel that reporting a crime doesn't make you a snitch.
Of respondents, 60% say that poor police-community relations are behind the police's inability to solve crimes in urban/black neighborhoods.

Days after his interview aired, Cam'ron issued an apology for his comments claiming "he was expressing his own personal frustration at his own personal circumstances and didn't intend to be malicious or harmful."


Jermaine Dupri Explains Incident In Los Angeles With Police

Jermaine Dupri has come forward to address a recent run-in with police in West Hollywood.

Footage of Dupri being detained in the back of an LA County Sheriff's police cruiser was posted on Tmz.com yesterday (May 9).

The rapper was allowed to leave in his Lamborghini a short time later.


The footage sparked a number of theories as to why Dupri was detained, all of which the mogul has put to rest. "Just to set the record straight, I was pulled over because the police said my exhaust pipes were too loud," Dupri told AHH.com. "I had tinted windows and platinum motor plates. Nothing more, nothing less."

In related news, Dupri recently inked a deal that will allow Def Jam to release the soundtrack to Rush Hour 3.


He's also over seeing upcoming releases from Hot Dollar, Mariah Carey and Jagged Edge.

First Annual Rapathon To Be Held In Harlem

On Saturday, May 12 the Global Artists Association in partnership with New York radio station HOT 97, Turner Network, and Converse will attempt to break a Guinness World Record when they present the first annual Rapathon.

The Rapathon will consist of approximately 100 old-school and new-school artists and DJ's who will take turns performing over a span of 24 hours to create the world's longest, on going rhyme session.

Organizers are hoping that the combination of old-school and new-school artists at the event will be a show of solidarity.

"Hip-Hop is at a crossroads," said Terry Nelson, founder of The Global Artists Coalition in a statement. "It is the biggest selling music amongst 13 to 24 year olds worldwide. Together, with HOT 97, we hope to leverage the tremendous influence that this music has on our youth by offering the most positive elements of this art form and giving those who care a chance to encourage a collective movement in the right direction."


No cursing and abusive or foul language will be allowed in the lengthy rhyme session.

"The Rapathon will be a call-to-action for influential Hip-Hop artists, local legislators, community leaders and brands to stand behind a movement for change," added Curtis Sherrod, co-founder of The Global Artists Coalition in a statement. "This will be an historical moment in Hip Hop, the beginning of a new and serious dialogue...while giving the public a chance to witness their favorite performers kick a freestyle for charity."

Preceding the actual Rapathon will be the 'Plan B Dinner' hosted by HOT 97's Raqiyah Mays.

As part of the 'Plan B Dinner' NBA players and rappers will discuss the importance of having a Plan B if their careers in basketball or music had not succeeded.

In attendance for the Rapathon will be pioneering Hip-Hop DJ Kool Herc and Russell Simmons protégé Jinx Da Juvy.


Tickets are priced at $100 a piece and can be purchased through the HOT 97 Website; the Rapathon will take place at The Hip-Hop Culture Center in Harlem.


Bobby Brown Suing Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston is being sued by ex-husband Bobby Brown, who is seeking to change his terms of custody with their 14-year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina.


In court papers obtained by "The Insider," he lists several reasons why he was not able to file a response to Whitney's pettion for divorce, stating he was "strapped for cash during this time and could not afford to hire a lawyer."

Kurupt aka Young Gotti

Read more here

"Fully Loaded Clip" (Official Montage Video)
50 Cent
Read more here

What up ya'll its time for Throwback friday. Once again todays Throwbacks are sponsored by the letter "L" (lol, I love that 1)


I dont call this a Throwback, but its an old video.

damn this was my ish.

I had to go Back to the Bay on this 1.


Looks like I'm on my West Coast ish again. lol



if you have any old vids you wanna see shoot me an email at imhiphopnews@gmail.com make sure you put throwback in the subject. The best ones I'll post. Read more here

Styles P ft. AZ - The Hardest























T-Pain f/ Kanye West - “Buy U A Drank (Shawty Snappin’) Remix”










Chrisette Michele - “Good Girl”










USDA - "Corporate Thuggin"























Chris Brown - “Wall to Wall”








\








Common f/ Dwele - “The People”





Rihanna - “Shut Up and Drive”
















Stat Quo - Here We Go


















Crooked I - Get It Shawty / Amusement Park (Freestyle) Read more here

Dipset Deny Drama

Duke Da God, Freekey Zeeky and 40 Cal showed up on Green Lantern's "The Invasion Show" Monday night to promote thei newest release - More than Music Vol. 2 - and to dispel any rumors of tension within their camp.

One listener posted to the crew: "I been reading shit that Cam'ron has been fuckin' havin' some shit with Dipset, and he ain't really down with the Dips no more."

In response, the crew said "don't believe the hype, don't believe everything you hear," and "nah believe none of what you hear, half of what you see."

The Dips also dismissed entertaining thoughts about the supposed Cam'Ron/Tru Life incident.

These responses are contrary to recent reports that Miss Info of Hot 97 gave that Jim Jones is no longer rolling with Cam'Ron, though Jones failed to make a scheduled appearence on Funkmaster Felx's show Monday to make a confirmation.


Akon Apologizes

For weeks video footage of singer Akon getting freaky with an underage girl on stage during a concert in Trinidad has circulated heavily, but until now, he has yet to respond to the negative attention it has drawn.

In a statement released to TMZ.com, Akon issued an apology and claims he was unaware that the women he simulated sex with on stage was 15-years-old.

"First, and most important to me, I want to sincerely apologize for the embarrassment and any pain I've caused to the young woman who joined me on-stage, her family and the Trinidad community for the events at my concert in Port of Spain on April 12th," the singer said to TMZ.com."It was never my intention to embarrass or take advantage of my fans in any way, especially those under the age of 18," he continued. "That is why we tried to make sure that the club did not admit anyone under 18 in the audience. Somehow, that standard was not met."

Although he blames the club partly for allowing an underage girl to enter the venue, Akon said he will make sure an incident like this doesn't happen again."Again, I apologize to those concerned and to all my fans and I pledge to all that we will strive to make sure this type of incident does not happen again," he said.

Patrick Manning, the Prime Minister of Trinidad, has demanded a formal investigation of the raunchy dance between Akon and the young girl.The girl's father, Pastor Dave Alleyne, said he wants to hold Club Zen responsible for allowing his daughter in the venue.

"This whole hip-hop thing is a guise and I don't want any part of it, I don't want to be any part of it. I thought it was going to be normal," Alleyne told the Trinidad Express. "I got carried away, I started to dance as well, but I never thought it was going to be like that. I was shocked; my head was hitting the floor."The girl now says she is done with hip-hop and now dances for God. "Look at what I have to go through with one mistake that I made. My dad warned me every time and I didn't listen. I am sorry," she said.

(L note: Everybody's talking about what Akon did but, my question is how does a 14 year old get into a club? While people are so quick to say that Akon was wrong, no one is blaming the club. All this does is add to the argument that hip hop is out of control, and Akon is not even a Hip hop artist, but you know the media will paint it that way. Atleast the Father had enough sense to say he's not going ot blame hip hop)

Bow Wow, Omarion Reveal Collabo Album

Bow Wow has revealed that he and R&B singer Omarion are gearing up to start recording a collaborative album that they plan to release by the end of the year.

According to Billboard.com, the album will be a two-disc set. The pair says they will begin recording by the end of May.

"Me and O have been trying to put this together for so many years, and now we've got the opportunity to do it," Bow Wow told Billboard.com. "We're in the creative process right now, still trying to come up with a title and everything. Me and him are coming up with ideas daily, so the process is gonna go real smooth. We're anxious to get in the studio together and make this whole thing happen."

The rapper and singer are so excited about the new project, they aren't even calling it an album. No, they say it will be a "special event" that "people have been waiting on" for years.

Bow Wow and O have been working together for quite some time. In addition to going on past Scream Tours together, they've also collab'd on Bow Wow's 2004 single "Let Me Hold You."The pair is so tight outside their professional careers, they consider each other best friends. "He's one of my best friends," Bow Wow said to Billboard. "So any time you get a chance to work with somebody you're best friends with, it's not even gonna be like work. It's gonna be like working with family."

There currently untitled project has no specific date for release, aside from late this year.

Bow Wow is currently on tour in support of his fifth album, The Price of Fame.

JAY-Z’S MOTHER HONORED BY NYC COUNCIL

Gloria Carter, the mother of rap mogul Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, received an early Mother’s Day present Wednesday in the form of a proclamation from New York’s City Council for her "outstanding contributions to the community."

Mama Carter oversees the Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund, launched in 2003 to help disadvantaged youth get to college. The charity also offers mentoring programs and other services.

In 2005, she and others from the fund traveled to Houston to help distribute clothing, food and toiletries to displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Jay-Z looked on Wednesday as his mother was presented with the framed proclamation by Queens Councilman Thomas White Jr. at the start of a meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Afterward, Jigga gave his mom a big hug out in the City Hall rotunda, reports AP.

"Very proud of her," said Jay-Z, 37, as they left the building.

Fabolous' 'All-Stars' Jay-Z, Jeezy, Rihanna Make LP Somethin' To Be Reckoned With


For the second night in a row, Jay-Z and L.A. Reid ventured out to Sony Studios in Manhattan, New York, on Tuesday, as another one of Def Jam's summer albums was presented to VIPs. While Monday was all about Young Jeezy and the USDA's Cold Summer, Fabolous took the spotlight on Tuesday as he gave a sneak peek of his June 12 release, From Nothin' to Somethin'.

Jay and Uncle Murda are slated to appear on a record called "Brooklyn," while T-Pain sings the hook on the Jermaine Dupri-produced "Baby Don't Go." Pusha T of the Clipse gives a guest verse on "All Jokes on You," dropping several comedic references, and Murder Inc's Lloyd croons on "Real Playa Like." Rihanna give a female's perspective on "First Time" and Junior Reid's check-in on "Gangsta" will have the squarest nerd feeling like a rude boy. Jeezy appears on "Diamonds," R. Kelly assists on "Foggin' Up the Windows" and Swizz Beatz guests on "Return of the Hustle."

"We got an all-star album," Fabolous said last week in L.A. on the set of his latest video, "Make Me Better." "We got to work with a lot of people we felt would make the album better. Production-wise, the lineup is like the Yankees: Timbaland, Akon, Jermaine Dupri, Just Blaze, Polow Da Don, Neo 'The Matrix.' ... We got great features, too. Each person, I could hear them making the song better. Lil' Mo, Cassidy ... we got a very deep, well-rounded album."

From Nothin' to Somethin' is Fab's fourth album and first since 2004's Real Talk. The MC says he hopes people hear how he's evolved as a person over the past two and a half years

"I been through situations I never been in before in my life," he said. "I got shot, been arrested, been in a relationship. I'm past really rapping for my block or my projects. I'm trying to grow. We been working really hard. I took two months and worked in Miami, then I came back to New York and worked another three months."

The highest-impact cameo on the effort — at least for now — comes courtesy of Ne-Yo, who sings the hook on "Make Me Better" You can call it fate that Fab is putting the single out — it passed through a few hands before the Brooklyn MC got to make it his own.

"Timbaland produced the track," said Ne-Yo, sitting in a dressing room in an all-white outfit at the video shoot. "The way the song came together, it's actually a track that Jay-Z brought to my attention. He said, 'Tim gave me this track, but it sounds more like an R&B track than a hip-hop track. I really think you should do something to it.' So I wrote the hook, did some verses, and Fab heard it. He said, 'You should let me get on that with you.' Then Fab did some verses and I liked some of his stuff more than my stuff, so I was like, 'You should just take the damn song.' The rest is history. The chemistry is so right, it sounds like we were there [in the studio] together."

What time they didn't spend together recording the song, they made up for by performing it on the video set. During the afternoon, the two were surrounded by cuties as they got across the point of the song.

" 'Make Me Better' is a great swagger feeling, ultra-magnetic," Fab said of the song. "It's a great record, I'm trying to make big words to make it sound bigger than it is, but it's a great record. We get a lot of love across the country everywhere we play it. It leans towards the ladies, but it's a swagger record. The fellas could dig it too. The fellas are picking up lines from it. They telling ladies, 'I'm cool, but you make me a better person.' I'm happy everybody is receiving it well.

"When you make a relationship song, it's relatable," continued Fab, who has had the most success with records geared toward dealing with women. "A lot of people have been in the position when you've been the main person or the mistress. Or maybe you had somebody on the side ... at least once in their life. It's just relatable music. Same thing with 'Make Me Better.' You find that person in your life, then the haters, their antennas go up."

Besides Ne-Yo, you can look for cameos from DJ Clue and Mr. Pose for the Camera himself, Ray J, in the clip. Ray was mum on his rumored romance with Whitney Houston or a much-talked-about alleged sex tape but did say he was elated to come and support one of his favorite rappers.
"It feels good for me to be in the building," he said.

Look for Clue and possibly Fab to appear on Ray J's next project.

Ghostface Keeps it Real, "I'm Still Struggling, I'm Not Rich"

In a recent interview with a Denmark radio station Ghostface Killah opened up to fans about his financial status, referred to himself as a "lonely old man" and detailed a shootout he had while with legendary soul group The Delfonics.

"I'm still struggling dont get me wrong, I'm not rich," the outspoken rapper revealed. "Just because you see me with jewelry on and whatever, don't pay the jewelry no mind."

"There's a song by a group called Blue Magic called 'Three Ring Circus' and it reminds me of me because I got my friends and everything, Wu- Tang Clan, but I like to be by myself," Ghost continued. "Don't get me wrong I love my friends and everything but I feel a lot more comfortable by myself so I can think.

"So in the song, he says he performs in front of the people and he makes them laugh, he was like a clown and he performed at the circus and made all the people laugh, but when he goes home he was just a lonely baker. And that's what [fans] dont understand. When I go home, when I leave the tour, that's how I am, I just feel lonely inside. I'm just a lonely old man and people don't know that."

Ghost, who has worked alongside The Delfonics and sampled their songs on his albums, revealed how him and the group got involved in a shootout in the past while going to record together.

"I had trouble with these guys from around the way. So I'm going to the studio with The Delfonics and they are behind me in a van while I'm in another car in front of them. So these guys are on the express way following us and when we got to the light they got in front of me," he explained. "So I'm thinking 'its about to be on.' I had a gun on me and they were just looking at me on the rearview mirror."

"So my back is against the wall, cause these are shooters, I'm thinking if they get out the car they might just shoot me. I'm in the passenger seat, just sitting there and they are there for five minutes. The Delfoncis are behind me they don't know what's going on," he continued. "So as soon as they made the turn, I was so heated and mad I just started shooting at them. That's when I was coming out the bad stage but I was still bad. So we left, the guys turned back around and started chasing us and started shooting at our car and the van."

"I felt bad that it had to be like that because I love The Delfonics and I told them I was sorry and one of them was like 'don't even worry about it, I should have brought my knife," he said.

Wild incidents like those may be one of the reasons the Wu-Tang lyricist is choosing a new approach on his next opus. According to him, his next project will contain no explicit lyrics.

"On my next album, which might be a double album, I'mma stop cursing cause I don't think God wants me to curse too much on my records," he explained. " So I'mma start singing for God, not singing but rapping, singing good stuff for the women, the children and for us. I dont care what people think no more because I've sung a lot of that 'my gun this and my gun that' cause I been there. I'mma do something totally different on the next album."

[Listen to the entire interview here]

2006 Justo Mixtape Awards Winners Finally Receive Awards

The 2006 Justo Mixtape Awards honored not only the scores of hip-hop DJ’s who mean so much to the culture, but also the events founder—Justo Faison—who died in a car accident in May of 2005.

Unfortunately, last years ceremony at Harlem’s Apollo Theater was marred by various scuffles and arguments and was eventually shut down early by the NYPD due to overcrowding.

Last Night (May 8) the 2006 winners finally got a chance to collect their awards at a special fundraising event on the Harlem Bowling Lanes. The gathering, intended to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, doubled as a second awards ceremony.

The honorees expected to attend included Steve Rifkind, who received the Mixtape Top Executive and Lifetime Achievement Award, and DJ Whoo Kid, who won for Best Mixtape Radio Show.

NAPPY HEADED HO’S’ – THE DVD

Porn company Kick Ass Pictures is attempting to capitalize on the Don Imus ordeal with the release of its new DVD “Nappy Headed Ho’s,” which borrows its name from the infamous Imus description of the Rutgers women’s basketball team.

The content, according to a company press release, will feature "girls with closely twisted or curled hair (the dictionary definition of 'nappy'), who have sex for cash (the dictionary definition of 'ho')."

"We see this as a free speech issue; as an adult media speech issue,” says Kick Ass president Mark Kulkis. “As an adult media company, we're especially defensive of free speech. Don Imus is a loudmouth and perhaps a bigot. However, CBS Radio was hypocritical in hiring Imus to be blunt and outspoken, then firing him for the same reason. Fellow broadcast personalities Ann Coulter and Pat Robertson spew anti-gay slurs, yet they are not fired by their networks."

Kulkis says $1 from each DVD sold will be donated to a retirement fund for Imus.

Master P. Drops Explicit Lyrics, Launches Profanity Free Label

No Limit Records CEO and founder Percy "Master P" Miller is making an effort to transform his image and label, by vowing to turn away from using negative lyrics in the music he makes.

"Personally, I have profited millions of dollars through explicit rap lyrics," Miller told AHH.com in a statement. "I can honestly say that I was once part of the problem and now it's time to be part of the solution. I am ready to take a stand by cleaning up my music and follow my son's footsteps and make a clean rap album."

Miller's declaration comes amid recent criticism of rap music for negative and degrading images.
The Revs. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson as well as talk show host Oprah Winfrey have made headlines for their roles in confronting the issue.

As a result, Miller is determined to make a change.

"Al Sharpton and Oprah Winfrey are absolutely right! It's time for us to take a stand and be responsible for our own actions," the mogul said. "I am willing to accept my responsibility. Hip-Hop is about our neighborhoods, the reality of what is going on within them, and dreaming big."
Miller is putting his new outlook into focus with the creation of his new record label, Take A Stand Records.

The company, which is co-founded by the rapper's son Romeo, is currently looking for "Hip-Hop artists with street music without offensive lyrics," according to Miller, who added that a nationwide talent search will be held through his new reality television show, America's Next Hip-Hop Stars.com.

Contestants will be required to take a two-day Hip-Hop business and image course that will be taught by the rap mogul and Curtis Oakes of the MillerOakes Financial Institute.

Proceeds from album sales will go to scholarship funds for underprivileged youth.

To quality for the scholarship, kids must submit a one-page essay that addresses the question "Why is it so important for Hip-Hop artists to clean up their lyrics?"

"Take A Stand Records is about arming our communities with knowledge and putting money and real estate back into our communities. I am collaborating with the NAACP to do my part," said Miller, who commended fellow rap tycoon Russell Simmons on his efforts to clean up rap.

"I am setting up clean Hip-Hop concerts for the kids," Master P said. "We are no longer making typical record distribution deals. We're planning to team up with companies such as Wal-Mart, Target, and other companies that have direct contact with our communities."

Although he acknowledges Hip-Hop's influence, Miller is aware of the challenge that lies ahead.
"The Hip-Hop industry has come a long way. Today, it continues to generate billions of dollars in which corporate America is the main beneficiary. Hip-Hop artists have been able to use their talents in this industry and make a better life for themselves and their families," Miller said. "I believe that it is possible to make a street album without explicit lyrics. I am not expecting the entire industry to change over night but this is one positive step towards the growth of Hip-Hop."

Musically, fans can look forward to Miller's first father and son rap album with Romeo, an effort whose content will be, as Miller described, "all clean" The release, titled Hip-Hop History, is slated to hit stores this fall.

For details on the Take A Stand Records scholarship, visit TakeAStandRecords.com.


Ne-Yo Takes Over, Akon Exits The Top 10, Timbaland Plunges

In this week's Hip Hop & R&B charts, Ne-Yo scores another No. 1 album Akon slips out of the Top 10 and Amy Winehouse trails close behind.

Debuting at No. 1 on the charts this week is R&B crooner Ne-Yo with his sophomore album Because Of You. Thanks in part to his hit single of the same name, the disc scanned 250,000 copies in its first week, according to Nielsen's SoundScan. The set features appearances from Jay-Z and Jennifer Hudson.

Despite falling out of the Top 10 to number 11, Akon continues to rake in the profits. Konvicted pushed 43,490 CDs this week, bringing the album's total sales numbers to 2,270,360.

Tripping two spots down to No. 13 is Amy Winehouse. Back To Black shelves off 33,700 discs this week, bringing the album's tally to 330,800.

Joe, who entered the charts at No. 1, last week, slides twelve spots to No. 14. Ain't Nothing Like Me hustles 33,100 copies in its second week. Thus far, the album has sold a total of 131,600 copies.

Taking the No. 17 spot is Robin Thicke. Evolution Of Robin Thicke still has fiends itching as 30,300 discs get shelled out this week. The album's all around tally stands at 1,045,600.
Sinking eight levels to No. 18 is Fergie. Dutchess reels in 27,900 copies this week, bringing the album's total sales to 1,840,780.

Four places away is Justin Timberlake at No. 22. Future Sex/Love Sounds rings in 25,800 discs this week. The total for the album reads off at 3,200,800.

Joss Stone is posted at No. 24. Introducing Joss Stone shifts 24,580 copies in its seventh week. The album's tally stands at 329,800.

A sharp decrease in sales drops Timbaland twelve floors to No. 26. Shock Value nets 23,500 units this week, bringing the album's total sales to 291,490.

Not far behind at No. 27 is Corrine Bailey Rae. Her self titled CD moves 22,400 copies in its 41st week on the charts. To date, the British singer has sold a total of 1,473,000 copies.

Murder Inc's Lloyd steps up to the No. 31 spot. Street Love reins in 21,100 copies this week. After 8 weeks the album's tally stands at 354,500.

Musiq Soulchild holds on tight to his No. 35 spot. With his second single, "Teach Me" starting to catch steam, 18,300 more folks picked up Luvandmusiq this week. To date, the album has sold 341,900 copies.

The going has begun to get tough for Young Buck as sales for Buck The World continue to decline. The rapper's sophomore moves only 17,700 units this week. After 6 spins on the charts, the album's tally stands at 288,000.

Last week's release of The Dreamgirls DVD helps the soundtrack make an amazing leap from No. 125 to No. 44. The Dreamgirls soundtrack shifts 15,460 discs this week, pushing the set's total to 974,100.

Paul Wall continues to stall on the charts as he putters twelve spots to No. 44. Get Money, Stay True hustles 15,400 copies this week. After 5 weeks, the album's tally reads off at 190,430.

Further down the rope, MIMS continues to struggle to stay afloat as he surges twenty two spots to No. 68. Music Is My Savior , which has moved 187,800 copies thus far, sold 11,000 more discs this week. Also slumping hard is Rich Boy, who tumbled twelve spots to No. 62. His self titled debut shifts 10,900 discs this week, bringing the album's total sales to 280,500. Young Jeezy slides three spots to No. 72. The Inspiration deals out 9,800 units this week, and after 21 weeks has sold 1,044,000 copies. Ciara dips down one spot to No. 79. The Evolution, which has been on the steady decline the past few weeks, lugs in 9,000 copies this week. It's tally stands at 1,143,200. Wrapping things up at No. 100 is Pretty Ricky. Late Night Special shelves off 7,500 discs this week, bringing the album's tally to 439,700.

Next week look for Bobby Valentino, Bone Thugs-N- Harmony and Dipset's new compilation to shake things up on the Hip-Hop and R&B charts. Read more here

"Lockdown, USA"
Jim Jones Feat. Rell


On the 34th anniversary of the harshest drug laws in the world being passed in NY -- the Rockefeller Drug Laws -- Jim Jones' releases a new song calling for the laws to come to an end. Dipset Capo releases Lockdown, USA" which is featured in the upcoming documentary "Lockdown, USA", directed by Rebecca Chaiklin and Michael Skolnik about Russell Simmons' campaign to end the Rockefeller Drug Laws. To take action, go to: www.drugpolicy.org
(props to wshh) Read more here

Young Buck Urges Game and 50 to Settle Differences

Young Buck, who has for the most part stayed out of 50 Cent's recent beefs, is calling on 50 and Game to settle their feud. The beef, which has gone on for about two years now, needs to stop, according to Buck.

"You know, niggas have differences. But if you ain't no bitch nigga then you shouldn't feel lesser (sic) than a man for stretching out your problems you had with somebody else and trying to get to them. You not less a man for trying to handle your business in a way to get to the end of the problem. You more of a man, in my eyes, straight up and down," said Buck, according to Starpulse.com.

The rapper also regerest the fact that this beef has caused Dr. Dre and Eminem to choose sides. Dre was the executive producer of Game's first album, but was nowhere to be found on the second (other than in name). Eminem produced and was featured on a track on Game's first album, but like Dre was not on Game's second.

"I honestly wish it didn't happen, because what that did was make Dr. Dre and Eminem, muthafuckas I look up to, have to analyze a situation and choose sides... That's bullshit."

Jay-Z Throws Up More Red Tape for Sparks

In what is yet another chapter in the ugly crumbling of Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam President Jay-Z is reportedly throwing up more road blacks for former friend and labelmate Omillio Sparks.

Sparks album Payback, slated for release in May, has reportedly been halted in its release because it features appearences by Peedi Peedi and Freeway. The Philly rappers are featured in two songs on Payback, one of which reminisces on the times before Jay became "90210 Hov," according to Sparks.

Sparks makes it clear that he doesn't want to go the route of Jim Jones or Cam'Ron, but explains that “Jay has left me no choice but to tell the truth about what’s going on. I hear him boast about going to Africa and helping people out in crisis over there, and he has no idea what he’s doing to artists’ careers and their livelihoods here in fuckin' America, he’s deliberately doing things that make the streets question his credibility and his worthiness. I hate to say it but the boy has become the king of false hope. He has niggas on his label now, running around being soldiers for him. Look at that nigga Tru Life, he’s making diss records and defending Hov’s honor as a true friend would do, Hov won’t do the same for that man though…he’ll see.”

Rumors also state the Jay has halted numerous other projects due to his supposed jump to Warner Brothers Music Group later in the year.

R. Kelly, Still no Trial

R. Kelly has had six best-selling albums, three nationwide tours, and received a multitude of awards since being charged with child pornography five years ago, for allegedly videotaping sex acts with a young teenager -- but there still hasn't been a trial.

A series of sometimes strange events, according to AM New York, including a judge's tumble from a ladder and a case of appendicitis has delayed the 40-year old singer/songwriter/producer's trial longer than the norm. Kelly is due in court Friday for another status hearing but there is still no trial date in sight as he prepares to release a new album on May 29. Michael Jackson's trial has long begun and ended since Kelly's indictment and according to legal observers, Kelly's trial should have been finished years ago.

"Five years is a long time," said Michael Helfand, a Chicago attorney with no connection to Kelly's case. "Most child pornography cases find themselves in a courtroom within a year or two."

Suspects have a right to demand a swift trial, however they're not obliged to ask for one -- especially if they calculate that speed isn't in their best interests. Kelly's lawyer's may figure that the delays have worked in their client's favor, and not only because they've given him the chance to keep working and make millions, according to sources.

"You may have a jury that's going to come in and say, 'So this happened in the 1990s and this is 2007? I'm just not buying it,'" Helfand said.

Messages left for Kelly's attorney's were not returned, and prosecutors declined to comment.
Kelly spokesman Allan Mayer says he was told the trial could get under way early this summer. "But," he added, "I've been told 'early in the summer' for the past three years now."

R. Kelly, born Robert Sylvester Kelly was charged in 2002 after the tape was leaked to the media and bootlegged copies hit the streets nationwide. Authorities said the girl on the tape was as young as 13 when it was made. The superstar pleaded not guilty, and has said he intends to survive his legal tribulations.

"I'm going through my own struggle ... and you're either gonna fold or you're going to stand," he told The Associated Press in 2005, "and I believe in standing."
A conviction could send Kelly to prison for up to 15 years.


50 Cent Uses Same Beat As Jim Jones For New Single "Amusement Park"

The ongoing saga between 50 Cent and Cam'Ron has taken an interesting turn. It appears 50 Cent has utilized the same beat for his new single "Amusement Park" that Jim Jones used for a song called "Your Majesty" off of the mixtape "The 7 Day Theory" by DJ Drama which was released in 2006.

"Amusement Park" and "Your Majesty" are both produced by Dangerous LLC and the tracks are identical on both songs.

Listen here:

"Your Majesty"http://www.zshare.net/audio/13-your-majesty-feat-stack-bundles-max-b-mp3.html

"Amusement Park"http://www.hhnlive.com/media/more/audio/1060"

Amusement Park" is the first single off 50 Cent's new album "Curtis" which hits stores this June.

(Lnote: Kinda like what Pac did with "hit em up" and "toss it up" kinda reminds me of what 50 said on "in the Club"
"They like me, I want them to Love me Like they Love Pac." )

Three 6 Disc Tied To "Hollyhood," Crunchy Black Goes For Self

In light of the recent success of their MTV reality show "Adventures In Hollyhood," Three 6 Mafia are now pushing back the release date of their latest album. Meanwhile, former member Crunchy Black prepares for a solo disc of his own.

The group's forthcoming studio album Last 2 Walk was originally slated for an April release before being delayed until May. Now, the duo's latest set is scheduled to hit stores on July 3 in an effort to better work around the group's reality show, which premiered last month on MTV.
Last 2 Walk will be the follow-up disc to 2005's Most Known Unknowns, which featured the hits "Stay Fly" and "Poppin' My Collar." The new record boasts a healthy list of guest appearances including Lyfe Jennings, Paul Wall, 8Ball & MJG, Akon, The Game, Lil' Jon and Lil' Wayne. The disc also features Houston's Chamillionaire, who makes an appearance on the album's lead single "Doe Boy Fresh," which is currently receiving both national radio and video airplay.

In related news, former member Crunchy Black is also set to release a solo album entitled From Me To You on June 12. The album will be released through the Hypnotize Minds/Asylum imprint and will feature new songs as well as "chopped and screwed" cuts from the Memphis rapper.


JADAKISS EVENT NIXED AFTER CHURCH FOLK PROTEST

The folks behind a celebrity basketball fundraiser went on the offensive after hearing that rapper Jadakiss was scheduled to appear at the May 19 event.

Believing the hip hop star’s presence would provoke violence at the gathering in Stamford, CT, black church leaders and community activists joined forces to protest his appearance on the bill. The effort eventually led to the entire event being cancelled.

The protest was sparked by Jere Eaton, a former board member for the Yerwood Center and potential presidential candidate for the NAACP's Stamford Branch. According to the Stamford Advocate, she found out about Jadakiss’ involvement and immediately fired off e-mails to local church and community leaders that contained Web site links, lyrics and articles related to the rapper – fearing his performance at the function would attract violence.

"Under the leadership of Dr. Robert Perry (pastor of Union Baptist Church) and other clergy in Stamford, we are demanding that the Celebrity Basketball Fundraiser is canceled or 'clean' entertainment is provided by artists with 'clean' reputations," Eaton wrote in the email.

The Yerwood Center's president and CEO, Deborah Sewell, was suddenly flooded with over 60 phone calls about Jadakiss' appearance, she said, and decided to cancel the event.

"I'm disappointed, because I really felt this would have been a great opportunity for the community to band together and show up in force," Sewell told the Advocate. "It doesn't matter who you bring in. There's a potential for an issue of violence."

Sewell had the rapper’s back, saying she has worked with him previously at other events without incident. She said that rappers had even attended a Stamford rally that resulted in a gang truce.

"They've always been supportive of the community and they love to play basketball," Sewell said.

However, Eaton has zero patience for any rapper, no matter the circumstances.

"All of these artists are the worst of the worst. They're criminals, their favorite word is the N-word, and they demean women by calling them b***hes and hoes," Eaton said.

KOCH To Re-Release 2Pac "The Early Years"

KOCH Records is set to release a new album by 2Pac entitled "The Early Years". The album will showcase ten songs recorded by 'Pac in 1989 during his time with Shock G and Humpty Hump of Digital Underground.

The collection is produced by Digital Underground member Chopmaster J. "The Early Years" was originally released in 2000 but has been out of print due to legal issues surrounding the recordings.

"I thought that Tupac's fans would like to hear what his first recordings sounded like back when turntables, TR-808, and SP-12 drum machines and socially conscious themes ruled hip-hop," said Chopmaster J in a statement.

Songs to look for include "The Case of The Misplaced Mic", "Minnie The Moocher" and "Never Be Beat".

Bruce Willis & Queen Latifah's "Hip Hop Project" Hits Theatres Nationwide


The critically-acclaimed documentary The Hip Hop Project is scheduled to hit theatres across the country this weekend.

The film, which is co-executive produced by Bruce Willis, Queen Latifah and Q-Tip, tells the story of Chris "Karma Kazi" Rolle, a former homeless teenager who inspires a group of New York City teens to transform their life stories into art, using hip-hop.

Rolle started the project in 1999 as a way to give youth a positive outlet for expression and to help teens develop skills for their futures.

After learning of the main character's story, hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons partnered with Willis in donating a recording studio to the project, enabling the youth in the film to complete a collaborative CD over the course of four years.

All of the film's proceeds are being donated to various organizations that focus on working to improve the quality of life for youth. Profits from the sale of the CD as well as T-shirts, posters and all other marketing material will also be placed into a special scholarship fund set up for students of the program.

SOHH recently caught up with Bruce Willis to ask him why he decided to associate himself with the project. "Hip-Hop is ingrained in the culture,' he said. "It's not just in the city anymore, it's global. It's modern, it's hip and everybody has it in their head."

For more information on the film, log on to www.hiphopproject.com.
The Hip Hop Projectopens in theatres nationwide on May 11.

ANANDA LEWIS FINDS ANOTHER HOSTING JOB

Ananda Lewis, first known to television viewers as the host of BET’s “Teen Summit” during the early 90s, has been tapped by the TV Guide Network to host its upcoming reality series that seeks to find the next big TV mogul.

Titled "America's Next Producer," the 10-episode run features contestants competing for a cash prize, a production office in Hollywood and first-look deal with TV Guide Network.

Judges will include David Hill, chairman and CEO of the Fox Sports Television Group, and TV Guide magazine's Matt Roush. They will be joined each week by a celebrity guest judge.

Lewis, a San Diego native, will next appear in Donald Welch's stage play "The Divorce" from May 17 through June 10 at the Cast Theater in Los Angeles.

The Howard University grad has been the host of her own talk show, "The Ananda Lewis Show," and served as an on-air personality on MTV.

Fergie Goes Mobile With Launch Of First Solo Tour

The Black Eyed Peas' first lady Fergie launched her highly anticipated first solo tour in Seattle on Tuesday (May 8), joining forces with Verizon Wireless for the first time ever wireless technology is incorporated into every aspect of the tour -- before, during and after every performance.

The 20-city tour is very exclusive. No paper tickets will be sold for any of the tour stops. Instead, when fans strut through the entrance gates to this Thank You concert, they will flash picture message tickets sent over-the-air directly to their Verizon Wireless handsets. Picture message tickets to the Fergie Verizon VIP Tour are available to any fan and can be obtained by downloading V CAST Fergie TV content, downloading a Fergie song on V CAST Music, attending select Verizon Wireless Communications Store events/or casting calls, through the purchase of a Motorola handset (including handset upgrades), through radio promotions; or attending select Candie's "Try 2 Win" fit events at Kohl's department stores.

"It is such a thrill to kick off my first solo tour, but to be able to do it my way and incorporate the technology used by my fans is what is really exciting," said Fergie of her unique tour. "Everyone uses their mobile phone to stay in touch, so why shouldn't artists stay connected to fans the same way?"When we planned our tour, we planned the wireless interactivity. The technology even gives me a chance to say thank you to my fans and make every one of them a VIP," the singer/rapper added.

The Fergie Verizon VIP Tour is a thank you to her fans. Each show will have a red carpet entrance for these special VIPs, including step and repeat banners and paparazzi to greet them as they arrive.

There will also be green screens at every stop on the tour to give fans a chance to be in a music video with her. Fans can dance and sing to Fergie tunes and create personal video messages that will be sent directly to their mobile phones. One green screen winner, selected at each show, will have the opportunity to join the finale on stage. At the end of each show, Fergie will send thank you text messages to all her guests to remind them of the city in which they spent their VIP evening.

The tour is in support of her platinum selling debut, The Dutchess, which had three consecutive no. 1 singles in "London Bridge," "Fergalicious," and "Glamorous."

Mayweather's Next Challenge: The UFC?

With the dust settling on the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Floyd Mayweather fight, a new challenge awaits the Pretty Boy.

During the promotions for the historic fight, Mayweather had some choice words about mixed martial arts fighters, particularly those in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

"UFC's champions can't handle boxing. That's why they are in UFC. Put one of our guys in UFC and he'd be the champion. Any good fighter, he'd straight knock them out," Mayweather said during pre-fight promotions.

Never one to run from a challenge, UFC President Dana White also had words for Mayweather.
White is prepared to make Mayweather a good offer to get him into the octagon to fight current UFC light heavyweight champion, Sean Sherk. "I promise you, I will make it worth his while. I will make it very worth his while," White said, while refusing to cite a specific dollar amount.
The Pretty Boy later retracted his comments about UFC saying it was all “hype”, but White and Sherk, who attended Saturday’s bout are not convinced.

“I think [Sherk] left here believing he'd beat the living (expletive) out of the guy if he ever got the chance," White said of the potential fight.

Sherk also feels confident that he’d defeat Mayweather in an MMA bout.

“I don’t think that fight would last longer than a minute, to be honest with you,” Sherk told NBC. “And I don’t think should be talking about something that he can't back up, because I'll fight him tomorrow. I literally would, if they called and asked me to fight Floyd Mayweather, Jr. tomorrow, it's done. He's not going to fight me though, and he's just running his mouth. I don't really respect that a whole lot."

"Party Like A Rockstar "
Shop Boyz
Read more here

"Jumpoff"
Kurupt ft. Roscoe

(L note: Kurupt Has always been one of my favorites, so u know i gotta post this.) Read more here

So what ya'll think????
The comment section is open.. Read more here

Jim Jones Dips Out On Cam'ron Talk, Speaks Out Against Drug Law

Jim Jones was a no-show on Funkmaster Flex's radio show last night to discuss a possible split between he and his DipSet brethren Cam'ron. But with the release of his newest video, "Lockdown, USA" Jones speaks out loud and clear against the Rockefeller Drug Laws in New York.

Dipset Capo Jim Jones recently released a video for his new single "Lockdown, USA" which calls for the reform of New York's Rockefeller Drug Laws and an end to the war on drugs. The song also features former Roc-A-Fella R&B singer Rell, and samples the popular Marvin Gaye song "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)."

Jones' "Lockdown, USA" video features powerful images from America's War on Drugs, illustrating the widespread imprisonment that has resulted from the laws in New York and their influence nationwide. Footage from a "Coalition for Fairness" rally, led by Hip-Hop Summit Action Network leaders Russell Simmons and Dr. Benjamin Chavis is also included in the clip. With "Lockdown, USA," Jim Jones has joined a the HSAN and a number of other celebrities (including 50 Cent, Mariah Carey, Reverend Run, The Beastie Boys, Jay-Z, Nas, Diddy, Madonna, Susan Sarandon) in speaking out against the Drug Laws. The song will be featured in the forthcoming documentary, Lockdown, USA, which premiered at last year's Tribeca Film Festival and is scheduled for theatrical release this year.

In related news, Jones did not appear for a pre-scheduled interview on Funkmaster Flex's Hot 97 radio show last night, to possibly discuss details about his shakey relationship with Killa Cam and the alleged violence between Tru Life and Cam outside Club Stereo last week.

Jim Jones recently admitted to a strained relationship with fellow Diplomat rapper Cam'ron. Hot 97 radio personality Miss Info recently reported on Jones' differences with Cam via her blog.

Busta Rejects Plea Deal on Assault, DUI Charges

Busta Rhymes rejected a plea offer this morning that would have landed him in jail for a year.

According to website TMZ.com, Manhattan District Attorney spokesman Edison Alban announced that the rapper had rejected the judges offer of one year in jail, an alcohol treatment program and a $1500 fine.

Busta stands accused of attacking his former driver Eddie Hatchet during an argument about money, and assaulting a fan that allegedly spit on his car.

Prosecutors previously offered him a deal on both charges, but it was later withdrawn when he was picked up for driving with a suspended license. Busta is due back in court on July 10.

USHER FIRES MOM AS MANAGER

After a week of rumors that had Usher on the verge of firing his own mother as his manager, the singer made it official on Monday, confirming that Jonnetta Patton is no longer calling the shots – at least not with his career.

"She and I are on great terms and support each other in our life's endeavors. We are both very happy but are now working in different areas of the business," he said in a statement announcing his mom’s official pink slip. "This is great for me because it means I now get to have my mother strictly as my mother with no added pressure.

"At this time in my life, I am simply more interested in building the strength of my family. And in order to do that, I feel it's best to separate my business life from my personal life."

Early last week, Internet chatter suggested that Usher’s fiancée, stylist Tameka Foster was pulling the strings of Patton’s dismissal, and would take over as her boyfriend’s manager once Mama was officially out. But Ursh’s statement to the Associated Press put those rumors to rest as well.

"She has no aspirations of becoming my manager or any other artist's manager," he said of Foster, who became engaged to Usher last March.

NAS CANCELS TOUR DATE

Nas cancelled a recent ‘Hip-Hop Is Dead’ tour date in San Diego, California amidst claims that he and wife Kelis were treated like "terrorists."

In an interview on San Diego's Z-90.3, described his encounter at the House of Blues on Wednesday night (May 2).

"We came to the club, all excited. Couldn't wait to get here. [The tour venues] have been sold out every night. The energy from everybody has been crazy. Every time I come to San Diego, the energy's crazy. [We] go to the the venue and they ain't let me in. I was outside with my wife and they treated us like terrorists," Nas said. "It was a little racist and we just don't tolerate that. I just want everybody to know, don't tolerate any form of racism."

At press time, the San Diego House of Blues wasn't available for comment. However, Nas admits that his last encounter at the House of Blues was outside of the norm.

"That's a good club. I've played that club twice. I love that club. It must be new management or something," he said. "I said, 'Do you treat Bon Jovi like this?' They said, 'No.'"

Nas promised to return to San Diego, but at a different, larger venue.

San Diego was the last tour date listed on Nas' ‘Hip-Hop Is Dead’ tour.

MC Shan Prepares To Re-Release "Down By Law" Album

This Tuesday May 8, 2007, Cold Chillin Records and Traffic Entertainment are giving hip-hop lovers an old school treat, in a new school kind of way, by releasing a re-mastered double disc CD of hip hop icon, MC Shan’s original Down by Law album.

This is the first time the album is released as a double disc CD. Containing 30 digitally re-mastered songs and bonus material ranging from artwork to audio, hip-hop lovers won’t be disappointed.

Known for his confidence and “I dare you to battle me” attitude, MC Shan Shan got a record deal with Cold Chillin' Records in 1983 and joined Marley Marl’s Juice Crew All-Stars. After a few singles were released MC Shan's debut album Down By Law came out in 1987. Shan also found himself to be a key player in the classic hip-hop battle, “The Bridge Wars”, between the Juice Crew and Boogie Down Productions (BDP). Shan and Marley Marl released a song called "The Bridge" which started the feud. KRS-One and BDP came back with “South Bronx”, later to be responded by the Juice Crew's "Kill That Noise”. KRS-One and BDP then released “The Bridge is Over”. After The Bridge Wars, MC Shan went on to produce 2 more solo albums and had more notable career highlights, including his production of rapper Snow’s first LP with the title track, “Informer”. Shan also recorded "Da Bridge 2001" for Nas' 2000 compilation called "QB's Finest".

Just recently in 2006, MC Shan and another former Juice Crew member Roxanne Shante’, announced their plans to form a “New Juice Crew”, looking for rappers, singers, and producers. MC Shan is considered by many hip-hop fans as a hip-hop icon for his free-styling and story-telling lyrics.

DONNELL ‘ASHY’ RAWLINGS FIRED

Comedian Donnell “Ashy” Rawlings says he was fired from his morning show gig on New York’s Power 105.1 following a suspension that lasted nearly two weeks.

While details surrounding the root cause of his firing have not been disclosed, his publicist says Rawlings made a controversial comment during the week of the Don Imus controversy, “which prompted Power to make a public statement of ensuring more responsible programming,” said his rep.

According to reports, some listeners may have complained to owners Clear Channel about a joke he made on the air regarding Asians.

Soon after the “controversial comment,” Donnell was the victim of a racially-charged attack outside of a Jersey City Club where he had just performed, his rep added.

“On Thursday around 10 p.m., as Donnell and his girlfriend were leaving the club, a Caucasian man in an SUV started brandishing a gun and screaming racist remarks,” his publicist explains. “He then fired three shots in the air, before cops stepped in and wrestled the man down and arrested him.”

Rawlings, who co-hosted the Ed Lover Show with Egypt and Ashy Morning Show, is not yet able to comment on the Power 105.1 issue, his publicist said.

Nick Cannon Gets Engaged To Selita Ebanks

Nick Cannon may be a jokester, but the multi-faceted entertainer wasn't kidding when he popped the big question to Selita Ebanks last night (May 7).

After getting on one knee, he proposed to Ebanks last night in New York City's famed Times Square, after departing a gala at the Metropololitan Museum of Art.

She accepted the offer and the offer and he presented her with a 12-carat diamond ring.
"Selita will you marry me?" was projected on the giant MTV jumbotron located in Times Square.

The pair were chauffeured in a Rolls Royce Phantom to an after party with their friends and family.

Attendees included his mother, Ebanks' parents, Marc Ecko, Tommy Hilfiger, Jacob the Jeweler, Zach Braff and rapper Young Jeezy.

The doting couple and their guests ate red velvet cake and drank a variety of beverages.
According to reps, a plane whisked Cannon and his fiancee back to L.A. around 3 am , for a 9:00 am call time for a new film called American Son.

Through out his career, Cannon has endeavored in a multitude of Hip-Hop related ventures.
He recorded an album, Nick Cannon, which is a platinum-selling LP.

He's also had a number of Hip-Hop TV shows like Nick Cannon Presents: Wild 'N Out and Short Circuitz, a sketch comedy sitcom.

Cannon is also an accomplished actor, having appeared in movies like Men in Black II, Drumline and 2007's Day of the Dead.

KIM FIELDS GIVES BIRTH TO BABY BOY

After a labor that lasted less than two hours, actress/filmmaker Kim Fields, 37, gave birth to son Sebastian Alexander Morgan, a.k.a. “Sam,” on Friday, May 4 at 11:30 a.m., her rep confirms to People magazine.

"Oh, my God. He's gorgeous," said Fields of her newborn, according to her rep. At 6 lbs., 4 oz. and 19" long, he’s the first child for both Fields and her fiancé, Broadway actor Christopher Morgan. As previously reported, the couple decided to become parents during a conversation last summer.

"We were on the subway one day and Chris said, 'I'm ready to start our family,' " Fields told People in December. "It was beautiful and I started to weep."

Morgan was in the delivery room, speechless and crying when his son arrived, said the publicist, who described Fields’ pregnancy and delivery as "trouble free, sickness free, very smooth, perfect."

Common Set To Star Opposite Angelina Jolie, Keanu Reeves In New Film Roles

Common is diving head first into the film industry, signing on to star in one major film and in talks for another.

According to Reuters, the Chicago rapper has signed on to play opposite Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie in a fantasy film called "Wanted," and is in negotiations for a drama called "The Night Watchman" where he'd join actors Keanu Reeves and Forest Whitaker.The film "Wanted" -- being produced by Universal and to be directed by Timur Bekmambetov -- will center around a white-collar worker (played by James McAvoy) who finds out he is the son of the most evil supervillain on Earth. When his father is murdered, he gains his father's powers and begins living among other supervillains (Freeman, Jolie and Common) who secretly control the planet.Reuters reports that Common will play the Gunsmith, an assassin with an unparalleled knowledge of firearms who is enlisted to help train and transform McAvoy's character into the world's most feared and powerful hit man.If Common gets the part in "Night Watchman," he will play the part of Coats, a Belize heroin dealer who poses as an undercover police officer.

It is based on an original idea by James Ellroy and centers on a disgraced cop who discovers corruption inside the police department and sets out on a mission to redeem himself.The rapper made his big screen debut in the shoot em up action film, "Smokin' Aces" alongside Alicia Keys who also made her acting debut as well.

Common will also appear in the upcoming film, "American Gangster," starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. And is in the process of preparing the release of his next album, Finding Forever, which is slated for release in July.

George Foreman's Sons Enter Into Distribution Biz, Launch R&B, Hip-Hop Labels

George Foreman Jr., the eldest son of legendary heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, has invested in Brilliant Entertainment Inc., which provides major distribution and promotion for independent artists.

Under the new deal, George Jr. and George Foreman III will launch their own labels, with George Jr. focusing on classic R&B, while George III will concentrate on Hip-Hop releases.

"I believe that there is a solid opportunity in the record industry for both independent labels and emerging acts. Our investment and participation in Brilliant will allow us to exploit this opportunity and bring further value to our investment portfolio," George Jr. said.

In addition to the their foray into the music business via Brilliant Entertainment, George Jr. and George III are also vice president's of George Foreman Enterprises, which was founded by George Sr. The pair also own an investment company, JR3, which invests in real estate, apparel, exercise equipment, sporting goods, financial services, open-wheel Racing and music.