You Haven’t Heard This: Jadakiss & Neyo September 17, 2008

Ahhhhh shucks, Jadakiss & Neyo talk to the ladies!

If you’re an avid Jadakiss follower like myself, then you should be just as excited for this song as much as I am. Since signing with Def Jam a couple years back, we’ve all been wondering how Def Jam was going to market the raspy voiced rapper. And though this is obviously a commercial attempt, it’s a GREAT one, to say the least. E.Hudson, co producer of Kanye’s, “Flashing Lights” takes to the boards for this dope tune and delivers as usual (check his credits, here).

Hopefully, if Def Jam has their heads on straight, they’ll deem, “Right By My Side” the official first offering from his Def Jam debut, Kiss My Ass (such a dope title). It also doesn’t hurt to have Neyo on the hook straight killing it!

Jadakiss ft. Neyo- Right By My Side (Prod. By Eric Hudson)

Clash of the Titans: Round 2??? September 17, 2008

Here we go agaaaaainnnn! It seems like the SoundScan Showdown between 5O Cent and Kanye West may see a round 2 this winter. Though the dates are seven days apart (50’s, Before I Self Destruct hits Dec.9 and Kanye’s 808’s & Heartbreak’s, hits Dec. 16) I can almost guarantee Mr. Cent will eventually shift his album to Dec. 16. In a clip released through 50’s popular website, ThisIs50.Com, 50 playfully mocks Kanye’s newest offering, “Love Lockdown” at a recent show in Albany, NY.

Introducing the tune as if it were his own, 50 explains to the crowd, “If you got a cellphone or a camcorder I want you to record this, because tonight, this is an exclusive, this a real moment out here in Albany. I wanna perform for you my very first single from my new album, Before I Self Destrcut, scheduled to be out December 9. I hope ya’ll enjoy this because I really would like to get back in position with ya’ll, are you ready for the show?”.

As the beat drops, the crowd recognizes that the track is actually, “Love Lockdown”, Kanye’s first single. 50 begins to lip sing “Love Lockdown”, mimicking Kanye’s moves from the VMA’s last Sunday. At the tracks conclusion, 50 quips, “See what happens….you stop fu*king with me and look what will happen. Siding with 50’s antics, audience members blurt out, “Fu*k Kanye West” every 20 seconds. 50 later adds, “See that, that’s what you’re stuck with. See how you guys treat me? And you know what, I’m not even mad at you…I’m going to accept your apology for that last one, now let’s go back to work”. “I Like The Way She Do It” comes on, and 50 continues with the show.

Is this the start of Clash of the Titans: Round 2? Will 50 jump on the December 16th bandwagon to faceoff with the Louis Vuittion Don again? Will Kanye acknowledge 50’s antics?? Does Hip hop even need another Clash of the Titans???

Obama Picky About His Celeb Supporters September 17, 2008

Barack Obama must love seeing his mug on T-shirts stretched across the chests of beauties like Halle Berry and Beyonce. But just because you’re a big-time celebrity doesn’t mean the presidential hopeful wants you stumping for him. Who did his camp tell thanks, but no thanks?

 

Bill Zwecker of the Chicago Sun-Times reports that the Obama turned down Lindsay Lohan, who I normally wouldn’t write about on this blog were it not for this news.

Apparently, LiLo was interested in becoming very involved in the Democratic ticket’s bid for the White House — even offering to host a series of events appealing to younger voters.

However, a top source in the Barack Obama team tells me the actress ”is not exactly the kind of high-profile star who would be a positive for us.”

Given Lohan’s past problems, plus ongoing brushes with controversy, I’ve learned the campaign quietly told the actress ”thanks, but no thanks,” but in far more diplomatic terms.

Lohan has been invited to attend several of the big Hollywood bashes this week — and also pay big bucks for the privilege of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Barbra Streisand, Steven Spielberg, David Geffen and other high-profile Hollywood boosters of the Obama campaign.

Hollywood turned out in droves and raised $9 million for the senator at two Beverly Hills fundraisers last night. Chris Rock was one of the stars at the $28,500-per-plate dinner at the landmark Greystone Mansion. But don’t look for any footage of Barack mingling with celebrities. Television cameras were banned from the events since opponent John McCain never misses an opportunity to play up Barack’s celebrity status. Hater!

IMDB Starts Streaming Free Movies And TV Shows September 17, 2008

Content will include over 500 indie films

The Internet Movie Database will no longer be the pit stop for finding an actor’s filmography: you’ll now be able to watch it.

According to Wired, IMDB, which is owned by Amazon.com, announced early this week that it has started streaming over 6,000 full length movies and TV shows…for free.

“Our goal is to show our users every movie and TV show on the Internet for free on IMDb.com,” said Col Needham, founder and managing director of IMDb.com, Inc. Some of the content providers include CBS, Sony Pictures Television, and 500 independent filmmakers. Viewers will be able to now watch shows like, “Big Brother,” “CSI,” “Family Guy,” and classic films like “Hoop Dreams” on IMDB.com.

HUMANITARIAN WORK OF QUINCY JONES HONORED September 17, 2008

The concert and benefit “THANK Q — A World Music Tribute To the Humanitarian Works Of Quincy Jones” will take place in Southern California at the Wilshire Theatre Beverly Hills on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m.       

       The legendary “Q” will be presented with the “Unity Through Music Award,” and the evening will close with a multicultural performance — featuring Pilgrim with special surprise guest artists — of “We Are The World,” the Grammy-winning, Jones-produced 1985 anthem.      

       In keeping with the spirit of “We Are The World” and its assemblage of superstar performers who banded together as USA For Africa, net proceeds from “THANK Q” will benefit two non-profit organizations making a difference of the lives of people in Africa: Malaria No More, dedicated to ending deaths caused by the disease, and Millennium Promise, whose flagship program, Millennium Villages comprehensively addresses extreme poverty throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

 

       The event will also feature the U.S. premiere of the multimedia work “The Return Of Nuwa” and other pieces by world music group Pilgrim.  General admission tickets are $25 through Ticketmaster (http://www.ticketmaster.com).  A limited number of $1,000 VIP tickets are also available, and include a post-event reception hosted by Pilgrim and Gema Productions at the new Hollywood club 24K Lounge. Contact 310.392.7327 or events@dreamscapestudiosla.com for reservations and information.

Mama Gotti’s b-day; Raiders’ Kelly arrested; Russell Simmons ex encounters nieces; Webb encounters her replacement; Annie McKnight in Hollywood September 17, 2008

On Friday night, record mogul Irv Gotti threw a 75th birthday party at the Tribeca Grand for his mother Mary “Nee Nee” Lorenzo.  According to the New York Post’s Page Six, Jay-Z, Diddy, Ja Rule, L.A. Reid and Lyor Cohen were among the guests. “All my mom wanted for her 75th was a party,” Gotti tells the column. “She considers all those huge superstars and executives her family, and she was delighted to see all her family there.”

 

       *Oakland Raiders payer Tommy Kelly was arrested Sunday night on suspicion of driving under the influence.  The 300-pound defensive tackle was pulled over by cops after his team beat rival Kansas City earlier in the day. Kelly reportedly posted bail and was released from police custody.      

       *Page Six is reporting of an awkward moment between Russell Simmons’ ex-girlfriend Porshcla Coleman, and his nieces Vanessa and Angela Simmons. According to the column, the sisters were walking the red carpet of an event for the LeBron James Foundation when they came face to face with Coleman – on the arm of Dallas Maverick Jason Kidd. “They said hello, but once inside, the girls avoided Porschla all night,” the column quoted of a witness.

 

       *Another awkward moment on the red carpet took place at Friday’s Us Weekly 25 Most Stylish New Yorkers when former model Veronica Webb ran into Gretta Monahan, who replaced her as co-host on Bravo’s “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style.” A source at the Hudson Terrace told Page Six: “They sat right next to each other but Veronica wouldn’t even look at her. She’s furious she was replaced on the show.”

 

       *BET Comic View comedienne Annie McKnight is set to appear at the World Famous Comedy Store in West Hollywood, Calif. (8433 Sunset Blvd./ 323.656.6225) on Friday, Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. Tickets  are $15. McKnight has recently appeared on “Everybody Hates Chris,” “Heroes” and will be featured on the big screen with Jamie Foxx in “The Soloist” due in November.

T.I. COMMENTS ON CHILD SUPPORT LAWSUIT September 17, 2008

T.I. has posted a comment on his Web site in response to a lawsuit from an ex-girlfriend that requests more child support for the two children she has with the rapper.

 

      In her lawsuit filed last week, Lashon Dixon, 29, claimed she was unable to provide for their two sons with the $2,000 a month he gives her in child support. She is seeking a stipend that reflects the money T.I. makes as a successful entertainer.

       T.I. posted the following lengthy statement in response to Dixon’s lawsuit:       

        “A lot of deceiving information has been reported regarding my recent child support proceeding. It is unfortunate that the media has been used to manipulate the circumstances and distort the facts. Those that know me, all know that there is nothing more important to me than my children. I have always supported all of my children financially, emotionally, and spiritually. This has always been the case and I will continue to do so in the future as this is my responsibility as a parent.       

        To clarify the recent reports, in addition to the $2000 per month I pay in cash to Lashon Dixon, the mother of my sons Domani and Messiah, I also pay for their private schooling, medical insurance, clothing, food, gifts, birthdays and extracurricular activities. Their extra-curricular activities have included football, basketball, baseball, acting lessons, summer camp, and any other activities that they express a desire to be involved in that will contribute to them leading balanced lives and developing into well rounded individuals. I have also made an attempt to help Lashon with additional payments that have included a down payment to purchase her home, purchase of an automobile for her transportation and other financial obligations. These expenses are documented and are far in excess of the $2000 cash payment that is being paid direct to Lashon. She has chosen not to work and to live 100% from her child support receipts. This is the reason for her difficulties in making ends meet for herself.        

        Not only do I support my boys 100% financially, I am also committed to their emotional and spiritual growth. While I would enjoy the luxury of being present for all of my children’s activities, unfortunately the demands of my career and the need to secure my family’s financial security as well as insuring my kid’s personal growth dictates that I travel constantly and work tirelessly. Despite my hectic schedule, I make it a priority to be present for important occasions in their lives. This includes being home for their birthdays, school functions and being present at as many of their extra-curricular activities as I am able. I also am available to them at all times to provide guidance and support as a father regardless of my schedule or location. They are my first priority.       

        Again, there is nothing more important to me than my children. This is demonstrated by my effort to support them in every way that I can. Any reasonable person knowing the facts would conclude that all of my children’s needs are being far exceeded. My support of them in every way is documented and cannot be legitimately challenged.      

        I believe that it is every parent’s responsibility to provide unconditional love and support for their kids. I have made every attempt to do so for my boys. Again, I provide 100% of their financial support. I should only be judged for my actions and not Lashon’s conscience decision not to work and not to contribute to the financial support of our boys.”

WEBBIE’S HIGH SPEED CHASE ENDS IN ARREST September 17, 2008

Rapper Webbie was being held in a Hattiesburg, Mississippi jail as of press time Tuesday after leading police on a high-speed chase down Interstate 59 and crashing into another vehicle.

 

       According to the Associated Press, the artist, born Webster Gradney Jr., was charged with one count of felony eluding, one count of DUI and one misdemeanor count of possession of marijuana.       

       Authorities said an officer attempted to pull over a 2009 Dodge Challenger for a traffic violation on Sunday (Sept. 14). After ignored police lights, he continued on I-59 until colliding with another vehicle.      

       Police later found the damaged 2009 Dodge Challenger he was driving and eventually arrested Webbie after finding him behind the wheel of a grey sedan. The Baton Rouge native was being detained at the Forrest County Jail pending an initial court appearance.      

       His album “Savage Life 2″ made the rap charts this year fueled by the singles “Independent” and “I Miss You.”

KEITH SWEAT TO STAY ON THE ROAD September 17, 2008

Keith Sweat has extended his ongoing tour in support of his latest album “Just Me,” with shows across the country scheduled into early 2009, reports Live Daily.

 

       The crooner’s next stop is scheduled for Sept. 20 in Atlanta, after which he’ll skip into October for a handful of gigs around the eastern half of the country. The R&B vet’s current itinerary has him traveling to a half-dozen cities from the West Coast to the South between November and January.      

       “Just Me,” released in May, is Sweat’s first new studio recording since 2002’s “Rebirth.” The latest set debuted at No. 10 on The Billboard 200 and claimed the top spot on the R&B/hip-hop albums chart.       

       Keith Sweat’s revised itinerary is listed below:

September 2008
20 – Atlanta, GA – Georgia Music Hall of Fame

October 2008
2 – New York, NY – WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden/”Retro Jam 2008″
3 – St. Louis, MO – venue to be announced
4 – Lakeland, FL – Lakeland Center
5 – Montgomery, AL – Alabama State Fair
8 – Jackson, MS – Mississippi State Fair
10 – Buffalo, NY – Shea’s Performing Arts Center
11 – Pittsburgh, PA – Peterson Events Center

November 2008
7 – Dallas, TX – Nokia Theater
8 – Tacoma, WA – Emerald Queen Casino
14 – Wichita, KS – Cotillion Ballroom

December 2008
19 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues

January 2009
30 – Biloxi, MS – Hard Rock Live
31 – Greenville, MS – Jubilee Casino

NICOLE RICHIE PULLS A KANYE?: September 17, 2008

The New York Post is reporting that Nicole Richie went ballistic outside a New York nightclub when a tourist attempted to take her picture.

 

      According to Page Six, the socialite grew irritated with the young fan who was standing outside of an afterparty held at Country Club, hosted by Mark Ronson’s fashion designer sister Charlotte as part of New York Fashion Week.

 

       A source tells the publication: “A young, Swedish tourist was trying to take her photo. Richie shouted, ‘I’m not an animal’ then jumped over the velvet rope, ripped the camera out of the girl’s hand, and smashed it to the ground.”

 

      In other Nicole Richie news, the charity organization she runs with her boyfriend, Joel Madden, has just launched a new text messaging campaign to help build a playground for Beyond Shelter – a non-profit organization that provides permanent housing and support services for homeless families with children.

 

       The Richie Madden Children’s Foundation’s Web site says: “We’re pleased to announce the launch of TEXT CHILD to 90999, a new campaign to raise funds to help kids through a new kind of fundraising – with a simple text message. Each text message donates $5, billed to your phone bill. This is the first time that a text campaign has been done by mass media like this, so we’re excited to see how much we can raise!”