Monica's 'Still Standing' Album Leaked?

Hello everyone! Allegedly(at the time of this post which may differ from the actual post date) Monica's newest album, 'Still Standing' has leaked or some type of advance. The leak in question features 20 songs and features many of the songs on the finalized tracklisting. So who knows if its real or not. Only time will tell. By the way Monica's album is due in stores March 23.

You like your celebs dirty and raunchy? Well Rihanna gives an interview that is sexually charged and no holds barred. Click here to check it out!

Rihanna's labelmate Amerie is said to be getting engaged to her longtime boyfriend. I can't remember his name but the two have been together for awhile. If I'm not mistaken he works closely with her in her career. If this is indeed true; congratulations Amerie!

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Now playing: Alicia Keys - Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready) (featuring Drake)
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Queen Pen - I Got Cha

Do you all remember this video or more importantly this song? The song caused a bit of controversy because rumors suggested that Queen Pen was dissing Lil' Kim; which she denied. I'm liking the hair style that Queen Pen is rocking in the video and the song was okay to me. Where is Queen Pen by the way? Anyone know? Check out the video!

Maxwell, Jill Scott Plan Joint Tour!

Maxwell has a had an incredible year last year and he is making sure 2010 is no different. Along for the ride is Jill Scott who is not only joining Maxwell on a tour; she is releasing a new album and will be star in the 'Why Did I Get Married 2' in theaters April 2. Read below for more info on the tour as well as stories on Ester Dean's starstruck behavior and Beyonce's alter ego change.

Grammy-winning singers Maxwell and Jill Scott will embark on an arena tour starting in Cleveland on May 21. Announced today (Feb. 26), the tour will bring the neo-soul artists to 20 cities including New York, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Washington DC, with more dates to be announced through June.

Maxwell, fresh from the Grammys with the trophies for Best R&B Album and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance (for his album "BLACKsummers'night" and single "Pretty Wings," respectively) is hitting the road for the first time since his fall 2008 tour with rapper Common. Jill Scott, meanwhile, had been busy with her acting career; She played the lead role of detective Precious Ramotswe in the first season of the BBC/HBO miniseries "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency." Her new album "The Light Of The Sun" is expected to be released this summer.

Date and venue information for the LiveNation / Haymon Events tour will be released shortly. Currently, the tour is scheduled to stop in Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Chicago, St. Louis, Seattle, Oakland, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York.

Ester Dean Starstruck By Mary J. Blige!

The colorful Oklahoma-native, who's penned hits for everyone from the Pussycat Dolls (“Whatcha Think About That”) and Ciara (“Never Ever”) to Keyshia Cole (“Make me Over”) and Chris Brown (“I Love You”), is currently finishing up her own debut release with platinum producer Polow Da Don.

“If I’m not working... I feel like I’m a bum [laughs],” Dean muses of her hectic time in the studio. “Right now everyone’s talking about a song I wrote for Rihanna called 'Rude Boy,' which was a fun experience to be involved in. I love the fact that artists respect my hard work and talent.” Still, that doesn’t mean Dean doesn’t get starstruck from time to time. “I’m not intimidated [by anyone], but when I get next to Mary J. Blige she makes me emotional,” says Dean, who wrote several songs for the veteran vocalist’s latest album Stronger With Each Tear, including the single “I Am." “I remember going to a party and Akon took me over to her to say hi to Mary. And she’s like, 'Dean!' I’m at this party with all of these celebrities and Mary has her arms open for me? I’m like, 'Wow, shut the fuck up'! Mary is telling me to sit at the table with her and I’m like 'I’m good' because something about her just seems so big. It’s scary.”
Dean’s untitled debut release is tentatively set to drop this summer.

Beyonce Kills Sasha Fierce Alias!

Beyoncé is killing the game again, but this time it's herself — or at least her alter ego.

"Sasha Fierce is done. I killed her," B said in a recent interview with Allure magazine.

What Beyoncé Might Be Like At Home
Of course, the singer created her alter ego Sasha Fierce in an effort to separate her own shy personality from her stage persona and give herself the courage to be free and sexy while performing. Beyoncé even went so far as to name-check the alter ego on her last album, I Am ... Sasha Fierce. The LP was split into two physical CDs and two genres. The I Am ... side held pop songs like "If I Were a Boy" while Sasha Fierce boasted urban chic like "Video Phone," B's first duet with Lady Gaga.

Now the singer says that she's comfortable enough with herself to be all of those things without an alias.

"I don't need Sasha Fierce anymore, because I've grown and now I'm able to merge the two," she explained.

In fact, the singer/songwriter/actress admitted that she's currently taking a career break after the conclusion of her world tour in Trinidad this month, adding she'd like "to paint and cook and to do Broadway shows and museums. And learn just to be at home and just watch television."

Though Mrs. Carter is eyeing a vacation, she's still got two new videos on the way — one with pop powerhouse Lady Gaga for "Video Phone" and one for Alicia Keys' "Put It in a Love Song," so we won't miss her for long.

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Now playing: Brandy - I'm Yours
via FoxyTunes

Album Spotlight: Lil' Kim - La Bella Mafia

One of my old friends is a huge Lil' Kim fan and often times he would ridicule her arch nemesis; Foxy Brown; who I am a fan of. Of course he liked some Foxy songs but he favored Kim over her.

In 2003; Lil' Kim had a lot to prove and 'La Bella Mafia' did the trick. The album contained two hit singles; 'Magic Stick' featuring 50 Cent and 'The Jump Off'.

That summer of 2003; my friend and I drove around in his car and this was pretty much all he played so the album would eventually grow on me.

I remember on the eve of the release of this album; XXL magazine ridiculed Kim for this album cover and having Notorious B.I.G. executive produce the album(even though at the time he had been dead for a couple of years). Personally I like this cover and I like Kim's style on this album and I would prefer this gangstress style for her on her next album(whenever she decides to release it).

A few weeks ago I was playing this album like I had just bought it but I was clearly on a Lil' Kim kick and this is why I decided to spotlight Lil' Kim's 'La Bella Mafia' for tonight's album spotlight showcase!

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Now playing: Alicia Keys - Doesn't Mean Anything
via FoxyTunes

Foxy Brown To Shoot Video For New Single!

Hello everyone! Foxy Brown is making quite a lot of noise based on her appearance on the recently leaked track, 'Ride Ya Bike' aka 'She's A Biker'. The song features Ron Browz of 'Pop Champagne' fame and the track goes pretty hard in my opinion. I'm not saying that cause I'm a huge fan but it is a really nice song. Foxy is reportedly shooting a video for the song and she is also working with reggae artist Barrington Levy[who was featured on Shyne's 'Bad Boys' song] and MIMS. Remember him? You think Foxy will make a true comeback this year?

Speaking of comebacks Ciara is ready to release new music with a new single arriving as early as April according to twitter. The singer released her ill-fated 'Fantasy Ride' last year and only 'Love Sex Magic' featuring Justin Timberlake charted. The album was a flop. Hopefully Ciara can redeem herself this year. What do you think?

One comeback that has been on the tip of everyone's tongue is Whitney Houston. Whitney had been earning rave reviews for her Australian leg of her 'Nothing But Love' tour but now the singer has come under fire. Apparently Whitney's voice wasn't in top shape and she struggled to sing through a medley of songs. Isn't that always the case with Whitney? But if she has no voice; then there is no show!

Teairra Mari Films Video For New 'Sponsor' Single!

Teairra Mari has had a few false starts getting her album; 'At That Point' off the ground. Now with new single, 'Sponsor' taking off on the R&B charts, hopefully this is the single that will launch Teairra's new album. Read below for info on the video shoot for 'Sponsor' as well as stories on T.I.'s return home and Anita Baker's possible jail sentence.

Playing a couple, the two young artists are seen sharing a kiss on the lips when shooting a music video for one of her 'At That Point' singles.

Teairra Mari and Soulja Boy get cozy with each other in Los Angeles for the video shoot of their joint track called "Sponsor". The video was filmed in an L.A. mansion Tuesday, February 23 and Rev Run's daughter Vanessa Simmons is also set to make a cameo. Gucci Mane who is featured on the hook along with Soulja doesn't have a part in the video because he is currently staying behind the bars.

"Sponsor" is a track taken from Teairra Mari's upcoming second studio album "At That Point" and released to follow up Flo Rida-assisted single "Cause a Scene". The song has been dropped earlier this month, while the album is plotted for spring release.

Anita Baker Facing Jail Time!

Detroit --Singer-songwriter Anita Baker faces the threat of jail in a contempt hearing today in Wayne Circuit Court after refusing to sign documents that could turn some of her music royalties over to her ex-husband.

The emotionally drained eight-time Grammy Award winner never read the documents she objected to because she had been crying for two days, her lawyers explained. She was unable to "digest" the documents even when given a chance to read them in court Wednesday.

"I've been in the music business more than 20 years. We are talking about a multimillion-dollar business," said the 52-year-old Grosse Pointe mother of two teen sons.

Wayne County Chief Family Court Judge Lita M. Popke had ordered Baker to explain why she hadn't followed orders to sign letters giving a court-appointed expert on music industry contracts authorization to seek information from record companies about payments for the music she has written and performed.

By the end of a long hearing Wednesday that included frequent interruptions from Baker fretting about going to jail and asking for a chance to testify under oath, the judge ordered her to return Friday morning and sign the letters or face jail.

"Frankly, I haven't heard anything that amounts to an appropriate legal objection to signing these letters," the exasperated judge declared Wednesday. "I'm very upset that we have been here all day saying she isn't going to sign something she hasn't read."

Baker complained that "experts" have dominated court proceedings since her divorce from Walter Bridgforth Jr. in 2007, and she wanted to speak directly to the judge. Detroit entertainment attorney Howard Hertz, who represents Eminem, among other clients, was appointed by the judge as a music contract expert in an effort to settle the dispute.

T.I. Eying Summer Release!

Grammy Award winning rapper T.I. is gearing up for a busy summer.

Making his first appearance with fiancée Tameka "Tiny" Cottle in support of her Alzheimer's research fundraiser "For the Love of Our Fathers" at Atlanta's Opera venue, T.I. told press "I am very well, very happy to be seen".

Currently serving the remainder of his sentence on gun-possession charges in a Georgia halfway house, the rapper's manager confirms T.I. has been recording tracks for his forthcoming album in a private studio.

"We did a deal with the film studio Screen Gems for the movie 'Takers' with T.I. Both the album and the film are coming out at the end of the summer," his manager, Jason Geter told MTV Monday. "So, yeah, we have a release date."

"At this point, you don't really chase names. It's about the quality of the material. As for features, we did a track with The-Dream, and Trey Songz is on another hook."

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Now playing: Chaka Khan - Caught In The Act
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Toni Braxton - You're Making Me High

I can still remember when this song first came on and I remember my friend had the single. At that time I hadn't heard the song but I knew that Toni Braxton had a new song out. Well my friend let me borrow his single and I played it in our stereo at home. Much to my delight; the song was good. I had no idea though it was about masturbation.



Toni Braxton is currently gearing up to release her new album; 'Pulse' on May 4. Are you all excited about the new Toni Braxton album?

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Now playing: Brandy__Sober
via FoxyTunes

Estelle Lets Out Her Inner Freak In New Video Preview Clip!

You all know Estelle right? She burst on the scene with the single, 'American Boy'. I never really got into her myself. She currently appears on Robin Thicke's 'Rollacoasta' song from his 'Sex Therapy' album.

Here Estelle takes us behind the scenes of her new music video, 'Freak' where she goes for a Grace Jones-esque look. Check it out!



Are you feeling Estelle's look?
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Now playing: Chaka Khan - La Flamme
via FoxyTunes

Music Feed: Home Is Where The Heart Is

All the songs listed below are about home; well for the most part. Some allude to the comfort of being home while others use home as a innuendo for something else. Check out the list and if you haven't heard of these songs; YouTube them!

It's My House, Diana Ross
This song is not Diana's most well known song but the song is from Diana's 1979 album, 'The Boss'. There is a movie that I can't think of off the top of my head where someone is singing this. Hmm...

My Place, Tweet
This is the opening song on Tweet's debut album; 'Southern Hummingbird'. It is very smooth and relaxing. Make sure you check it out if you haven't already.

Come Over To My Place, Davina
You may or may not remember this song but it was included on the 'Love Jones' soundtrack I believe or I could be wrong. It was a very nice chill song.

In My House, The Mary Jane Girls
The Mary Jane Girls gained notoriety for singing songs that may appear to be about one thing but was about something totally different. 'In My House' is no different and if you don't know who The Mary Jane Girls are; they were a female group discovered by singer Rick James.

A House Is Not A Home, Luther Vandross
This would become one of Luther's signature songs but he's not the only one who has sang this song. This song has been covered by so many artists; its not even funny. But Luther's version remains a classic in its own right.

No Place Like Home, Blu Cantrell
I miss Blu Cantrell and it shocked me to learn that she had been in rehab. Now the singer is back and working on new music. 'No Place Like Home' is from her 2003 album; 'Bittersweet' and it is the closing song on the album and its the perfect song to close an album out too.

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Now playing: Amerie - The Flowers
via FoxyTunes

Album Spotlight: Brandy - Full Moon

Ask most people and they will say that 'Full Moon' is their favorite Brandy album. It is not her most successful album but 'Full Moon' has definitely made its mark over the years. Many celebrities have even personally noted this album as a favorite of theirs. Some celebrities have taken it one step further by saying Brandy is one of their favorite singers and all that good stuff.

Now for 'Full Moon'; it brings back a lot of memories for me. I can even remember buying the album at Circuit City(which is not even around anymore). I played this album straight for two years and one of my good friends was just as crazy about this album as I was. Even more recently I found out that a co-worker of mine is a big Brandy fan and we gushed about this album and other Brandy albums and songs.

'Full Moon' is one of my favorite songs on the album as well as 'All In Me'. A lot of people felt like this album was electronic mainly because of Rodney Jerkin's somewhat overproduced sound. But this is Rodney and Brandy expanding on their working relationship after 'Never Say Never'.

'Full Moon' didn't reach its full potential since people became more interested in Brandy's personal life which played out in the tabloids. If you have deprived yourself of listening to this album; I think you should definitely check it out especially if your really into R&B.

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Now playing: Amerie - The Flowers
via FoxyTunes

Faith Evans, Biggie Sued For Breach Of Contract!

Faith Evans is poised to release new music this year and while we wait on that; Faith must answer to a judge due to a lawsuit stemming from her ex-husband; Biggie's estate. Read more below as well as stories on Patti LaBelle's 'American Idol' rant and Vivian Green's return to music.

As of Tuesday February 24, 2010, the law offices of Lowe Law, P.C., in Los Angeles, have moved forward with a lawsuit against Faith Evans, RocDarling, and the Estate of Christopher “Notorious B.I.G” Wallace, with claims of “Breach of Contract” by their clients Kaushi Entertainment LLC and Dro-Entertainment Inc.

The lawsuit seeks over a million dollars and punitive damages.

Rest assure, this isn't an East-West thing, it's a Money thing.

In the complaint filed yesterday by Lowe Law, Kaushi and Dro-Entertainment claim that en-route to producing a documentary on the late great Notorious B.I.G, defendant RocDarling failed to comply with a written agreement made with the companies, in which, RocDarling was to provide footage of the late MC for their respective projects.

The footage was approved by written statements provided by Damion Butler, The Director of Biggies Estate, and Faith Evans, The Executor of The Estate. After money was exchanged between the parties, it seems RocDarling has skipped out on the deal, as they have yet to provide footage for the plaintiffs.

Vivian Green Returns With 'Beautiful' Album!

R&B singer and songwriter Vivian Green is set to release her long-awaited new album, “Beautiful” on Tuesday, April 6th, 2010 on E1 Music.

The title track, “Beautiful” was #1 most added at Urban AC radio last week with over 32 stations adding the record (beating out Mariah Carey and Chrisette Michelle). The track is just outside the Urban AC top 20 and climbing fast.

In contrast to her first two albums, which were recorded in a variety of studios with multiple producers, Vivian approached the recording of “Beautiful” in a more intimate, organic manner. With the exception of “Save Me,” which she cut with Jason Farmer (Keyshia Cole, Rihanna, Wyclef Jean) in the producer’s seat, Vivian recorded the entire album with Grammy-nominated producer Anthony Bell, a longtime friend and collaborator who made key production contributions to her first two albums, and whose extensive resume also includes work with Jazmine Sullivan, Jewel, Musiq, Raheem DeVaughn and Jill Scott.

“It’s the most fun I’ve ever had making a record,” Vivian says of “Beautiful”’s birth cycle. “We worked in Anthony’s studio, which is in his home, and it was a very relaxed, creative environment. If I wanted to sit down at the piano and start writing a song from scratch, like I did with ‘Somewhere,’ I could. The whole experience was very natural and comfortable, and I hope that you can hear that in the music.”

Co-writing with Vivian on four of “Beautiful”’s songs was her younger brother Solomon Green, a budding rapper whom she’d been urging to branch out into songwriting. “I always felt he should diversify,” she explains. “One day I brought him to the studio to write with me, and it was like, wow. It was awesome and rewarding to watch my baby brother blossom that way, and I’m really proud of him.”

I like Vivian Green; so its nice to know that she is returning to the music scene. Last year I was starting to worry that she truly faded into oblivion. Like I said many times before; 2010 will definitely be the year that a lot of artists(who have been gone for awhile) will release new album.

Patti LaBelle Speaks On American Idol Judges!

NEW YORK (AP) — Patti LaBelle thinks some people shouldn't be on "American Idol" — and she's not talking about the contestants.

Says Labelle: "Some of the judges, I don't think they're qualified to even judge."

The 65-year-old singer wouldn't say which judge she thought was lacking on the hit Fox show, which has Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres picking America's top singers. Tuesday's "Idol" episode saw 12 female semifinalists competitng during "Hollywood Week."

Labelle — who said she was asked to be a judge on the series before Paula Abdul — feels like the judges' comments to the contestants are too mean.

I was watching 'Idol' tonight and I realized why I stopped watching many years ago. I was really trying to get into the show this year but I don't think that will be happening.
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Now playing: Amerie - The Flowers
via FoxyTunes

Usher Reveals 'Raymond v. Raymond' Album Tracklisting!

I had just made a post about this earlier and I'm not surprised that the tracklisting leaked out right after wards. Set for a release on March 30, Usher will release his sixth album; 'Raymond v. Raymond' and you can check out the tracklisting below. You can also check out two stories about Nicki Minaj's upcoming debut album!

1. Monstar (Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis)
2. Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home) feat. Plies (The Runners)
3. There Goes My Baby (Jim Jonsin)
4. Love ‘Em All (Alexander "Prettyboifresh" Parhm Jr.)
5. She Don’t Know feat. Ludacris (Bangladesh)
6. Lil Freak Usher feat. Nicki Minaj (Polow Da Don)
7. Mars vs. Venus (Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis)
8. Prolover
9. Foolin’ Around (Brian Michael Cox & Jermaine Dupri)
10. Papers (Zaytoven)
11. So Many Girls (Danja)
12. Guilty feat. T.I.
13. OMG featuring will.i.am (Will.i.am)
14. Making Love (Into The Night)

So how do you think this album will do for Usher? Do you think he will top 'Here I Stand' or better yet; 'Confessions'?

Sean Garrett Speaks On Nicki Minaj's First Single!

Love her or hate her there’s no denying that femcee Nicki Minaj has become one of the hottest new artists in the game right now without even having released an album yet. Well now Nicki’s going to have to prove whether or not the hype is justified, because according to songwriter-producer Sean Garrett the first single from her debut album is due in about a weeks time.

“I just did Nicki’s first single. It’s coming in a week or so. Explosive record, I can’t wait for y’all to hear it, man. It’s just given me a lot of time to create some real special music that’s a lot different from what people expected,” Garrett said.

“I’m really, really excited about Nicki because I think that what Nicki has understood is that she can do whatever she wants to do. She’s a dreamer just like myself. I feel like when you’re creative … it’s basically like her whole image thing. She’s taken her image to a whole other level with the whole Barbie thing. And I think she’s very imaginative and her music’s great and she’s not scared of nothing. She’s fearless. As long as you’re fearless in life you can do anything.”

This is interesting cause Nicki talks about just starting her debut album in the article below. But Sean Garrett says we are getting a single. I remember hearing about a single called 'Married In The Club' being a first single but I'm not sure. I just feel like Nicki needs to strike while the iron is hot. I feel if she waits too long; her buzz will wear off like other female rappers before her(Shawnna, Remy Ma). So what do you all think? Do you think Nicki should come out now or she will be okay in the long run?

Nicki Minaj Talks Upcoming Album!

"I'm in the very beginning stage of the recording process of my album," she explained. "I have songs that where I am now, they aren't a great representation of me to where I'm at musically. I wanna start from scratch but I do have my single and it'll be out. It's gonna be 'Massive Attack.'

"With the album, just like with my mixtape, I never like to rush it," she added. "With the album, I think it's more important that people get accustomed to seeing a female rapper again. Before I drop an album, people need to come out and see. People don't even know what a female rapper does. We're so not used to seeing it. It's nonexistent in categories. We don't get nominated. I need to work [the people] up to accepting a female rapper again and accepting my style and all of that — then the album will come. Honestly, I'd love to put an album out this year, but I don't believe in rushing things either. We'll see."

The Billboard Hot 100 Charts For This Week!

LW-TW-Title-Artist
03-01 Imma Be - Black Eyed Peas (1st week at #1)
01-02 TiK ToK - Kesha
04-03 BedRock - Young Money
05-04 Bad Romance - Lady Gaga
06-05 Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
02-06 We Are The World 25: For Haiti - Artists For Haiti
07-07 Hey, Soul Sister - Train
08-08 How Low - Ludacris
09-09 In My Head - Jason Derulo
12-10 Say Aah - Trey Songz
11-11 Blah Blah Blah - Kesha
10-12 Sexy Chick - David Guetta
19-13 Baby - Justin Bieber
15-14 Telephone - Lady Gaga
13-15 Carry Out - Timbaland
14-16 Replay - Iyaz
20-17 According To You - Orianthi
17-18 Empire State Of Mind - Jay-Z + Alicia Keys
21-19 Live Like We're Dying - Kris Allen
16-20 I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
38-21 Nothin' On You - B.o.B.
28-22 Breakeven - Script
64-23 Rude Boy - Rihanna
30-24 Today Was A Fairytale - Taylor Swift
22-25 Do You Remember - Jay Sean
26-26 Tie Me Down - New Boyz
18-27 Hard - Rihanna
31-28 Whataya Want From Me - Adam Lambert
23-29 Two Is Better Than One - Boys Like Girls
24-30 Fireflies - Owl City
27-31 Down - Jay Sean
33-32 Say Something - Timbaland
25-33 Haven't Met You Yet - Michael Buble
41-34 All The Right Moves - OneRepublic
29-35 You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift
32-36 Whatcha Say - Jason Derulo
36-37 Naturally - Selena Gomez
34-38 Forever - Drake
35-39 Why Don't We Just Dance - Josh Turner
37-40 Paparazzi - Lady Gaga
51-41 On To The Next One - Jay-Z + Swizz Beatz
40-42 Already Gone - Kelly Clarkson
39-43 Meet Me Halfway - Black Eyed Peas
42-44 Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon
44-45 Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart - Alicia Keys
48-46 Life After You - Daughtry
56-47 Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home) - Usher
50-48 Heartbreak Warfare - John Mayer
49-49 Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
47-50 It Kills Me - Melanie Fiona
45-51 The Truth - Jason Aldean
92-52 Unstoppable - Rascal Flatts
57-53 Halfway Gone - Lifehouse
54-54 Temporary Home - Carrie Underwood
55-55 I Am - Mary J. Blige
62-56 Hillbilly Bone - Blake Shelton
**-57 Hero - Christopher Wilde
53-58 If You Only Knew - Shinedown
65-59 Sex Therapy - Robin Thicke
46-60 Pants On The Ground - General Larry Platt
**-61 Hallelujah (Vancouver Winter 2010) - k.d. lang
61-62 History In The Making - Darius Rucker
52-63 Soldier Of Love - Sade
**-64 All I Do Is Win - DJ Khaled
75-65 American Honey - Lady Antebellum
71-66 Highway 20 Ride - Zac Brown Band
69-67 That's How Country Boys Roll - Billy Currington
60-68 I Wanna Rock - Snoop Dogg
68-69 American Saturday Night - Brad Paisley
43-70 Solo - Iyaz
**-71 There Goes My Baby - Usher
63-72 3 - Britney Spears
67-73 Money To Blow - Birdman
81-74 Lemonade - Gucci Mane
73-75 Cryin' For Me - Toby Keith
58-76 Shut It Down - Pitbull
**-77 StarStruck - Christopher Wilde
66-78 White Liar - Miranda Lambert
59-79 Knockout - Lil Wayne
85-80 All The Way Turnt Up - Roscoe Dash
**-81 Something About The Sunshine - C. Wilde & A. Margaret
79-82 'Til Summer Comes Around - Keith Urban
70-83 Drop The World - Lil Wayne
72-84 I Made It - Kevin Rudolf
78-85 Someday - Rob Thomas
74-86 Gangsta Luv - Snoop Dogg
77-87 I Invented Sex - Trey Songz
86-88 Steady Mobbin' - Young Money
**-89 Follow Me Down - 3OH!3 Feat. Neon Hitch
82-90 Everything To Me - Monica
76-91 Beamer, Benz, Or Bentley - Lloyd Banks
83-92 A Little More Country Than That - Easton Corbin
88-93 Shots - LMFAO
91-94 Just Breathe - Pearl Jam
95-95 O Let's Do It - Waka Flocka Flame
**-96 When I Look At You - Miley Cyrus
**-97 Young Forever - Jay-Z + Mr. Hudson
90-98 Southern Voice - Tim McGraw
80-99 Never Gonna Be Alone - Nickelback
**-100 Up Out My Face - Mariah Carey Feat. Nicki Minaj

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Now playing: TLC - Case Of The Fake People
via FoxyTunes

Usher's Album Tracklisting In Question!

Usually when you see posts like these; they are usually done a few days in advance. So sometimes some of the info may be a little off but it's me speaking on different stories surfacing the net. I didn't really know what to post this but in the next paragraph or so I'm just talking about Usher's tracklisting; so read on!

Hello everyone! Most of us have heard all the numerous Usher leaks that have hit within the last year or so. I have done a pretty good job of not listening to the leaks for obvious reasons. Now on the eve of his new album, 'Raymond v. Raymond'; many are wondering what songs will make the album. I read that Usher revealed that the album will have 13 tracks. So it is anyone's guess as to what songs will make the album. Currently Usher is working about three singles('Lil' Freak', 'There Goes My Baby', and 'Hey Daddy') right now so its safe to say those will be included on the album. But any day now a track listing should become available. You all looking forward to the new Usher album?

Another album to look forward to this year is Kelis' 'Fleshtones' album. The eight song album features tracks such as '4th Of July' and 'Scream & Shout'. Quite a few songs from this album has leaked already and with only eight tracks; listeners will be pretty spoiled once they actually buy or download the album. Kelis' first single, 'Acapella' leaked out awhile ago and recently she wrapped up the video. Look out for the video and the album really soon.

Another artist reportedly releasing an album this year will be Foxy Brown who's long awaited album, 'Black Roses' has been in the works for years. Foxy Brown recently hooked up with Ron Browz of 'Pop Champagne' fame for a new track titled, 'She's A Biker'. Click here to check out the footage of the two in the studio!

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Now playing: Million Dollar Bill - Whitney Houston, lyrics
via FoxyTunes

Trina Speaks On 'Amazin' New Album!

Trina is promoting new album, 'Amazin' in stores May 4. She talks to radio personality Angela Yee about the new album, Kobe Bryant, Soulja Boi and more. Check it out!



Trina's new album, 'Amazin' features collabos with Lady GaGa, Lyfe, Nicki Minaj, Lady Saw, and Monica. Are you looking forward to the new Trina album?

Music Biz:
Fantasia Target Of Hate Mail!

Fantasia is having an ugly reality thrown her way. According to TMZ, the singer, starring in “The Color Purple,” playing at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, is the victim of a threatening letter.

The celebrity police themed website says Fannie is under a self-imposed lockdown because of the letter:

It all started last night at the Pantages Theater in L.A. – Fantasia was reading her fan mail after a performance of “The Color Purple.”

Fantasia’s manager tells us Barrino became alarmed over a disturbing letter loaded with racial slurs – including the n-word – and a line that read, “go back where you came from and die.”

We’re told the person who wrote the letter claims he used to work as a security guard for Fox while Fantasia was on “A.I.”

Fantasia’s manager tells us the singer immediately contacted theater security – which then contacted the LAPD.

In the meantime, we’re told the theater has “beefed up” security around Fantasia – and all over the venue – and will be screening anything sent to Barrino’s dressing room before it gets to her.

Fantasia tells TMZ, “I will not be defeated by one isolated person’s hatred.”

Wow this is pretty crazy and very ignorant. Leave Fantasia alone!

Monica 'Everything To Me' Music Video Clip!

Monica finally releases the video to her new hit single. Monica spoke about the video and said its more like a movie than a music video. The video is pretty cool. What do you think about it? Make sure you check it out!



Music Biz:
Nicki Minaj To Host BET's 'Rip The Runway'!

Young Money princess Nicki Minaj has been tapped to host this year’s annual Rip the Runway television special on BET.

Minaj will be joined onstages by Pooch Hall from the TV show The Game. The show, set to be taped this Saturday, February 27 at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, will also feature live musical performances by Ludacris, B.O.B., Soulja Boy, “All the Way Turnt Up” rapper Roscoe Dash, Janelle Monae and Estelle.

The event, now in its sixth year, celebrates the connection between music and fashion.

Rip the Runway is set to air on March 15 on BET.

Album Spotlight: Sade - Love Deluxe

I was just in the car last night when Sade's newest song 'Soldier Of Love' came on and my friend mispronounced the name; something many people do and have done over the years. Pronounced Shar-day; Sade burst back into the limelight late last year with her first album in 10 years. Often confused as a solo act; Sade is actually a group.

One Sade album I really like is 1992's 'Love Deluxe'. The album featured singles like 'No Ordinary Love' and 'Kiss Of Life'. My mother owned this album many years ago and I came to like it as a result. I would later purchase my own copy of the album many years later.

'Love Deluxe' has a relaxing feel and like many Sade songs; the songs here carry on for well over five minutes in most cases. That's mainly because the album only contains eight tracks total. One of my favorite songs is 'Like A Tattoo'. I like the storytelling in this song and the breakdown that leads to a stunning climax. You will have to hear it to know exactly what I mean.

Many of the songs hear seem to tell some type of struggle either by Sade or someone else she knows. This is definitely an album worth checking out if you are into Sade.

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Now playing: Sade - Soldier Of Love
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: 1990 #1 Songs

20 years ago. Where were you? Were you all even born? I was six years old. I was in kindergarten. I do remember most of the songs covered here in this montage dedicated to the #1 songs of 1990. You will notice a lot of familiar faces here such as Madonna, Mariah Carey, Paula Abdul and more. Check it out!



Seeing and hearing these songs brings back a lot of memories for myself personally. I remember those weekends spent at Grandma's house. Me and my sister would watch videos on VH1 and MTV.

Jennifer Lopez Dropped From Sony Records?

Certainly you can't believe everything you read. So certain stories that I reproduce here that I'm not so sure about will feature a question mark in the title post.

Jennifer Lopez has had a tough time reemerging after taking some years off due to having twins. It's never easy staging a comeback especially nowadays. Personally I think Jennifer should just stick to movies but whatever.

The news is that Jennifer Lopez has been dropped from Sony. Read below to find out more as well as stories on Ashanti's latest record deal and Rihanna's next album!

Jennifer Lopez has been dropped by her record label, Sony’s Epic Records, according to a report from Deadline.com’s Nikki Finke. The once-hot singer-actress had begun to stage her musical comeback late last year when she released a new single, “Louboutins,” and then fell while singing it at November’s American Music Awards. (See: the photo at left.) Now, if this latest report is to be trusted (and EW has calls/emails in to her management, label, and personal reps to confirm), Lopez’s seventh studio album, LOVE?, will not hit stores in April as was previously the plan.
Finke cites insiders who said that Lopez’s last two singles (“Louboutins” and “Fresh Out the Oven”) fulfilled the contract she had with Epic Records and LOVE?—which was said to feature productions by everyone from The Neptunes to Darkchild—was never even finished. Lopez’s manager Benny Medina confirmed the split via statement to Finke: “Jennifer had a wonderful relationship with the Sony Music group, and they have shared many successes together, but the time was right to make a change that best serves the direction her career as an actress and recording artist. She is grateful and appreciative to everyone Sony for all that they accomplished together.”
Apparently, Lopez is in talks with music industry heavyweight L.A. Reid to join his Island Def Jam label. Plus, she’s still set to host Saturday Night Live this coming weekend. Although, now it seems she doesn’t even have an album-in-the-works to pimp during the monologue. Should she possibly just pursue a talk-show gig instead? Weigh in below, Music Mixers.

Ashanti's Signed To Aftermath?

Ashanti is alleged to be signing with Aftermath Entertainment after spending time working in the studio with Dr Dre on her fifth studio album. The legendary rapper is believed to be producing a heavy bulk of the project and the 29-year-old is currently in negotiations to link her publishing company Written Entertainment with his Aftermath record label.

Rihanna Talks Next Album!

Rihanna has had a difficult past 12 months in the aftermath of her assault by Chris Brown. But the “Hard” superstar has endured, by being both outspoken about her experience in hopes of helping others and by channeling her experience into Rated R, her most rounded effort to date. She told MTV News last year that she “vented” on the project.

Don’t expect her next album to be as dark as Rated R, though.

Rihanna said the follow-up, which has no timetable set yet, will be less intense. “Rated R, I love the sound of it, in terms of the bass,” Rihanna explained. “I really like the bottom, the grime of it. But if I were to combine that with more energetic, up-tempo pop records, then I think that will be a happy marriage. And that’s where we’ll probably go next.”

Rated R was inspired mostly by Rihanna’s ordeal in the wake of her and Brown’s breakup. The singer was the subject of media headlines worldwide. She kept away from the spotlight after a brief reunion with Brown following their altercation. But when Rihanna returned, she had an album that chronicled her months away from the glare.

“This album is an expression of all those feelings that I went through in the last eight months, just different emotions,” she said shortly after Rated R’s release. “All of it isn’t angry, all of it isn’t dark and sad, ’cause I didn’t go through that the whole time. That was part of it. It was really a roller coaster, and you get that when you’re listening to the album.”

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Now playing: Brandy - I'm Yours
via FoxyTunes

Rihanna Set To Re Release 'Rated R' Album!

Hello everyone! Have you all heard Rihanna's 'Rated R' album? I can't say I have. I really didn't have an interest in it though I did kinda like 'Russian Roulette'. After that I was turned off by her Gothic style but I can understand the direction she was going in. Anyway like Rihanna's last release, 'Good Girl Gone Bad'; her current album 'Rated R' will be re released in the near future and it will feature production from The-Dream. The-Dream was said to have mentioned this on Hot97 radio station out of New York. Will you be buying?

Foxy Brown has just completed a song with Ron Browz of 'Jumping Out The Window' fame. Pictures of the duo surfaced on twitter and the song was played on a New York radio station by Mr. Cee. The song will hopefully leak out soon and I'm not sure who's album its supposed to be on or what will happen with it. So with that said are you looking forward to new music from Foxy? Or do you feel like(a lot of other people feel) she's done?

Speaking of female rappers; Nicki Minaj has been all over the place for good reason. She has popped up on songs from Usher to Mariah Carey etc. Usually when a rap artist sets to release an album; they jump on as many songs they can but its different for Nicki Minaj. Huge artists are requesting her to be apart of their albums and more so their singles. With all this exposure I'm just hoping she doesn't become overexposed especially since her debut album has yet to surface. In my opinion Nicki Minaj is the new Lil' Kim! What do you think?

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Now playing: Sunshine Anderson - Saved The Day
via FoxyTunes

Monica Performs New Singles Live!

Monica is back and she is making sure this album does what her last album failed to do; be successful. Monica performs live to a crowd her singles; 'Everything To Me' and the title track; 'Still Standing'. Check it out! How do you feel about Monica's new hairstyle? I can't say I'm really feeling it to be honest. I am looking forward to the album but most of it I've heard but not to the point to where I should tire of it quick.



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Now playing: Sunshine Anderson - Last Night
via FoxyTunes

Sade Appears In Skit On 'The Wanda Sykes Show'!

Sade has been surprising not only me but everyone else with a slew of appearances to support her #1 album; 'Soldier Of Love'. Wanda Sykes has been going on and on about having Sade appear on her show and it looks like her prayers came true. Check out the video! And what do you think of the skit?

sade on twss
by yardie4lifever2

Music Biz:
Chris Brown Probation Hearing Goes Good!

A judge is praising Chris Brown's progress on his probation for the beating of ex-girlfriend Rihanna.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Schnegg says Brown hasn't missed a session of domestic-violence counseling and has done 32 days of hard labor in his home state of Virginia.

She also cleared the 20-year-old R&B star to travel out of the United States in May and June for concerts. The exact locations weren't disclosed.

The judge's comments came during a Thursday hearing during which she reviewed Brown's progress with the terms of his probation. Brown was sentenced last year to five years of probation and six months of community labor for the February 2008 attack on Rihanna.

Brown spoke only once during the hearing - he thanked Schnegg for her remarks.

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Now playing: Sunshine Anderson - Your Woman
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Aaliyah - Try Again

I'm taking you all back 10 years ago when Aaliyah released 'Try Again'. The single was from her debut movie role in 'Romeo Must Die'. The single went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and it was the first song to accomplish that feature with solely airplay. The song; out of nowhere just popped in my head so I said why not make it a 'throwback video' for tonight. Enjoy!



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Now playing: Cheri dennis feat. yung joc - portrait
via FoxyTunes

Mariah Carey '100%' Music Video Clip!

If I am not mistaken I believe '100%' was supposed to appear on the 'Precious' soundtrack but it was replaced by Mary J. Blige's 'I Can See In Color'. I remember reading so many people gush over this song but this is truly my first time hearing it and it is a nice song. People feel like this is what Mariah should go back to; singing ballads similar to this. Do you agree? Has Mariah strayed too far from her winning formula over the years? Then again if Mariah has chased all the given trends over the years; would she still be around? Check out the video!



Watching this video makes me want to pop out my 'Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel' album. It's been awhile since I listened to it in full anyway.

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Now playing: Ciara - My Love
via FoxyTunes

Album Spotlight: Kanye West - 808s & Heartbreak

I wasn't that big of a fan of Kanye Wests' prior to the release of '808s & Heartbreak'. To this day I still don't know exactly what drew me to this album instead of his others. I know I wasn't very particular about 'Love Lockdown' or 'Heartless'; the single choices but everything else really spoke to me.

The opening song 'Say You Will' is complete with heart monitor sound effects and a very emotional entry on the album; one of my favorites. My favorite song on the album is 'Welcome To Heartbreak' featuring Kid Cudi and to this day I'm still miffed at the Kid Cudi feature cause it doesn't sound like him. I recently revealed to my friend Kid Cudi was on the track and she was just surprised as I was.

Other songs like 'Street Lights' are high on my list among favorites and one song I would play constantly. I have a lot of memories with this album. I remember playing it back on a road trip to Wisconsin during the Thanksgiving holiday. It was snowy out and I was hoping I wouldn't get caught in some blizzard.

It has recently been revealed that Kanye is working on his new album; 'Good Ass Job' which I'm sure will be a big departure from '808s' but I will check it out!

Artist Spotlight: Monica

Monica has been delivering music to us all for over 15 years! Can you believe it? Time sure does fly. This year Monica let us into her life via the BET reality show, 'Still Standing'. The title also serves as the name of her fifth album in stores March 23.

According to Monica's manager; Monica worked on 'Still Standing' for nearly two years. There were many setbacks and questions regarding Monica's single choices. Well it looks like Monica found herself a hit with first single, 'Everything To Me' which is currently in the R&B top 20 and the Hot 100 at #82. The song was produced by Missy Elliott and shows a sensitive side of Monica we haven't heard in awhile.

With a new outlook on life and her career; Monica is poised to do very big things this year. This is why the spotlight is on Monica!

Ludacris, Nicki Minaj 'My Chick Bad' Music Video Clip!

Ludacris has been making a lot of noise with this video which features Nicki Minaj as well as a few cameos from some other female rappers. You will have to watch at the end to see who. Pictures on the set leaked out awhile back and in the video Nicki Minaj pays homage to a famous horror movie character. Can you guess who it is? Check out the video to see if you are right!



Ludacris' 'Battle Of The Sexes' album will be in stores March 9 which means it will be leaking within the next week or so.

Music Biz:
Jermaine Dupri Talks New Janet Single!

Janet Jackson’s former boyfriend, Jermaine Dupri, has opened up to MTV about the superstar’s forthcoming single ‘Nothing’, which is lifted from the ‘Why Did I Get Married Too’ soundtrack – the movie of which Jackson stars in. Check out what he had to say about the cut – which he produced:

Jermaine Dupri recently told MTV News he had produced a new Janet Jackson song for the upcoming Tyler Perry film in which the singer also stars, “Why Did I Get Married Too?”

According to the So So Def boss, the track is slated to be the first single from the movie’s soundtrack — the film is scheduled to arrive in theaters April 2.

“I watched the movie with [Jackson and Perry] and it’s incredible,” Dupri said. “I’m not married but married people go through what I seen in this movie. I think Tyler hit it on the head again. But the song is perfect for the movie and it’s a good record.”

The producer was tight-lipped about the track, only revealing that the title was “Nothing.” He promised, however, that the song will showcase a Jackson that fans haven’t seen in a while.

“I can say this — y’all haven’t heard her sound like this in a long time,” he teased.

Jermaine Dupri has always been one of Janet's biggest supporters and even though they are not together any longer; nothing has changed. I'm eager to hear the new Janet song. I know 'Make Me' didn't do what it should of done but that's okay. Are you all looking forward to hearing the new Janet Jackson song?

Nivea Debuts New Buzz Single!

And don't be misled by the title. You can't hear the audio here but you can find the audio on YouTube. I mean I really didn't think we'd hear a lick of music from Nivea again except for her past hits. Having children by both The-Dream and Lil' Wayne; I'm sure Nivea doesn't have to work at all if she chose not to. I am glad though that her love for music has brought her back to the game. Nivea just leaked a buzz single called, 'Love Hurts' and its from her upcoming album; 'Purple Heart'. I don't have any more info on the album nor its release date. I just say come here everyday and one day you'll have your news!

In other Nivea news she did a remake of Timbaland and Drake's 'Say Somethin' along with rapper Rasheeda. There is a video floating around of it but everytime I try to get it; the video is taken off the perspective websites.

Another artist to look forward to with new music is Kanye West. 2009 wasn't the best year for Kanye but I'm sure in 2010 he will make us forget about all those past troubles. The new album in his series is 'Good Ass Job' which is a continuation of 'Graduation'. Kanye had pretty much put out all his album titles years ago so this was expected. Be on the lookout for that!

Another album to look forward to is the duet album between Nas and Damien Marley called, 'Distant Relatives'. The album has been in works for awhile and the proposed release date for the album is April. And as always be on the lookout for that!

Toni Braxton Reaches Out To Mo'Nique For New Album!

A lot of people have been waiting on Toni Braxton to drop this 'Pulse' album. With all the song leaks though; it has just made for even more pushbacks. Set for a May 4 release date; Toni Braxton hooks up with Mo'Nique among others on her new album. Read below for more on that story as well as stories on Ludacris' new album tracklisting and Ashanti's mothers' thoughts on Susan Boyle. Check it out!

Comedian-turned-actress Mo’Nique, who is up for an Academy Award for her role in Precious, makes a cameo on Braxton’s sixth studio album. “She does a monologue on one of my songs,” the R&B diva exclusively tells Rap-Up.com. The track was inspired by Oran “Juice” Jones’ 1986 hit “The Rain.”

“It’s about this relationship where this guy finds out his girl is cheating on him. We do a song, it doesn’t sound anything like that, but it’s the reverse of a guy who gets busted cheating. [Mo'Nique] does this whole monologue and it’s really funny and comedic.”

The Grammy winner reached out to the Golden Globe winner, who happily obliged. “She said, ‘Oh my God, I’d love to do it.’ I’ve always been a fan of hers and we’re both from Maryland. I love her.”

The winning combination can be heard on Pulse, due May 4. Until then, the “Un-Break My Heart” singer is rooting for her friend at next month’s Oscar ceremony. “We’re great friends, she’s really cool. I’m really excited for her about her Oscar.”

Ashanti's Mom Talks Ashanti & Susan Boyle's Success!

Ashanti’s mom recently expressed that she’s just a bit bitter that Susan Boyle has broken Ashanti’s record for biggest debut sales week for a female. “Britain’s Got Talent” winner Susan Boyle sold 701k in the US her first week and went on to sell 3 million in 5 weeks.

Speaking to WENN, Tina that she was happy that Scot star Susan has done so well – but felt a bit bitter about the whole episode, because of how hard Ashanti has worked to get to where she is now.She said: It’s a double-edge sword… We were happy for her (Boyle) but Ashanti held onto that record for eight years and that was a big feat to accomplish with the music industry the way it is.

“This is my personal opinion: people wanna be successful and they’re gonna take whatever route that they can. At the end of the day, before Ashanti blew up in 2002, it took me nine years of struggling with three record deals that failed. It was a struggle, it was hard, but it built character.”

She continued: “I’m not gonna knock anyone who has their hustle, and that’s what I’m calling it… It’s a little bit different, but we’re blessed to be where we are. Ashanti’s talent speaks for itself. In the next year or two we’ll be looking to break other records

Ludacris 'Battle Of The Sexes' Album Tracklisting!
Due March 9 Ludacris will release long awaited album which was originally a duet album with Shawnna.

1. Intro
2. How Low
3. My Chick Bad feat. Nicki Minaj
4. Everybody Drunk feat. Lil Scrappy
5. I Do It All Night
6. Sex Room feat. Trey Songz
7. I Know You Got A Man feat. Flo Rida
8. Hey Ho feat. Lil’ Kim and Lil Fate
9. Party No Mo’ feat. Gucci Mane
10. B.O.T.S. Radio feat. I-20
11. Can’t Live With You feat. Monica
12. Feelin’ So Sexy
13. Tell Me A Secret feat. Ne-Yo
14. My Chick Bad Remix feat. Diamond, Trina and Eve

Throwback Video: Groove Theory - Tell Me

I'm taking you all back 15 years ago! A lot of people may not remember Groove Theory as they were really like an one hit wonder. 'Tell Me' is their most successful song and the only one I knew really. I saw though on YouTube another video of another song but not even I remember that. Groove Theory consisted of singer Amel Larrieux and producer Bryce Wilson. Check out the video!

Birdman Speaks On R. Kelly Mistake!

It is somewhat odd for Birdman to be speaking on this now since it was many years ago when R. Kelly and Birdman planned a collaboration album. Of course it fell through due to R. Kelly hooking up with Jay-Z; no pun intended. Anyway though some stars don't reveal things like this to years down the road. And it always makes for an interesting story. Read below for more info on that as well as Mariah Carey's latest deal with Target(the store) and Shyne's new label deal.

Producer and part-time rapper Brian "Birdman" Williams is known for making hits for Lil Wayne and other members of his Cash Money arsenal but the New Orleans native sites working with singer R. Kelly as his biggest musical mistake.

In an interview with Ozone Magazine, Birdman didn't mince words when it came to a failed collaborative effort with the R&B crooner "Probably the worst investment I did was f----- with R. Kelly," he said. "That was a waste of my time. I could've made money if I wasn't f----- with that clown a-- n----."

Although plans for the album fell through Kelly went on to work with Jay-Z on the 'Best of Both Worlds' album, a move that also did not end well. Despite releasing the album, Jay and Kelly ran into trouble while on tour in 2004. During a performance at New York's Madison Square Garden, the Chicago native pulled out of the performance alleging that his life was in danger, claiming that members of Jay's entourage were waving guns at him during his set. If that wasn't bizarre enough Kelly said he was later pepper-sprayed by a member of Jay's crew backstage, which sent him to a nearby hospital.

"Ridiculous," Jay said of Kelly's claims in a later interview. "That's Madison Square Garden. You cannot get a gun in Madison Square Garden. Does he know where he's at?" Needless to say, the tour was nixed and re-named Jay-Z and Friends and included appearances by Ja Rule and Mary J. Blige.

Kelly has since stopped doing joint albums and recently announced plans to add a whopping 15 more chapters to his 'Trapped in the Closet' songs and mini-movie series.

Mariah Carey Targets New Remix Album!

If the red and white video for Mariah Carey’s “Up Out My Face” reminded you of a Target commercial, it may not have been a coincidence. Mariah’s remix album is coming to Target stores next month.

Angels Advocate, featuring the Nicki Minaj-assisted single and “Angels Cry” with Ne-Yo, will arrive exclusively at Target stores and iTunes on March 30, according to the MariahCarey.com newsletter.

“Mariah has completed her 13th studio album, Angels Advocate, a collection of newly remixed duets with some of her favorite artists performing Mariah’s favorite songs from her #1 R&B album Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel,” read the newsletter. “Angels Advocate, on Island Records, will be available March 30 exclusively at Target stores nationwide, iTunes.com/target, and Target.com.”

Featured guests include Mary J. Blige, Fabolous, R. Kelly, The-Dream, Ludacris, T-Pain, Snoop Dogg, Akon, Trey Songz, K-Ci & JoJo, OJ Da Juiceman, and OutKast’s Big Boi.

The Nick Cannon-directed video for “Up Out My Face” is currently available to download for free on iTunes.

Shyne Signs To Def Jam!

Recently freed rapper Shyne has inked a seven-figure deal with Def Jam, according to reports. According to Miss Info, Def Jam won a bidding war between Dr. Dre, Jimmy Iovine and other labels, for the rights to release Shyne's highly anticipated album, his first since 2004. Shyne is also reportedly being managed by HipHopSince1978, the same company that manages the careers of Drake, Young Jeezy and Lil Wayne. It’s being reported that Shyne is planning to record his album in London, although he was not allowed entry into the country last week, because of his immigration papers. This is the second time that Shyne has inked a deal with Def Jam. He signed a seven-figure deal with the label in 2004, although he clashed with CEO LA Reid over the promotion of his album, Godfather: Buried Alive.

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Now playing: Now i'm gone-Monica
via FoxyTunes

The Billboard Hot 100 Charts For This Week!

LW-TW-Title-Artist
01-01 TiK ToK - Kesha (9th week at #1)
**-02 We Are The World 25: For Haiti - Artists For Haiti
02-03 Imma Be - Black Eyed Peas
04-04 BedRock - Young Money
05-05 Bad Romance - Lady Gaga
03-06 Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
07-07 Hey, Soul Sister - Train
08-08 How Low - Ludacris
11-09 In My Head - Jason Derulo
06-10 Sexy Chick - David Guetta
22-11 Blah Blah Blah - Kesha
15-12 Say Aah - Trey Songz
12-13 Carry Out - Timbaland
10-14 Replay - Iyaz
16-15 Telephone - Lady Gaga
09-16 I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
14-17 Empire State Of Mind - Jay-Z + Alicia Keys
13-18 Hard - Rihanna
25-19 Baby - Justin Bieber
20-20 According To You - Orianthi
24-21 Live Like We're Dying - Kris Allen
19-22 Do You Remember - Jay Sean
21-23 Two Is Better Than One - Boys Like Girls
17-24 Fireflies - Owl City
30-25 Haven't Met You Yet - Michael Buble
29-26 Tie Me Down - New Boyz
23-27 Down - Jay Sean
40-28 Breakeven - Script
27-29 You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift
39-30 Today Was A Fairytale - Taylor Swift
35-31 Whataya Want From Me - Adam Lambert
31-32 Whatcha Say - Jason Derulo
36-33 Say Something - Timbaland
26-34 Forever - Drake
42-35 Why Don't We Just Dance - Josh Turner
37-36 Naturally - Selena Gomez
33-37 Paparazzi - Lady Gaga
65-38 Nothin' On You - B.o.B.
32-39 Meet Me Halfway - Black Eyed Peas
34-40 Already Gone - Kelly Clarkson
47-41 All The Right Moves - OneRepublic
28-42 Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon
**-43 Solo - Iyaz
49-44 Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart - Alicia Keys
41-45 The Truth - Jason Aldean
**-46 Pants On The Ground - General Larry Platt
43-47 It Kills Me - Melanie Fiona
52-48 Life After You - Daughtry
38-49 Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
55-50 Heartbreak Warfare - John Mayer
54-51 On To The Next One - Jay-Z + Swizz Beatz
80-52 Soldier Of Love - Sade
51-53 If You Only Knew - Shinedown
61-54 Temporary Home - Carrie Underwood
58-55 I Am - Mary J. Blige
72-56 Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home) - Usher
66-57 Halfway Gone - Lifehouse
48-58 Shut It Down - Pitbull
44-59 Knockout - Lil Wayne
45-60 I Wanna Rock - Snoop Dogg
63-61 History In The Making - Darius Rucker
69-62 Hillbilly Bone - Blake Shelton
53-63 3 - Britney Spears
**-64 Rude Boy - Rihanna
68-65 Sex Therapy - Robin Thicke
60-66 White Liar - Miranda Lambert
62-67 Money To Blow - Birdman
70-68 American Saturday Night - Brad Paisley
73-69 That's How Country Boys Roll - Billy Currington
56-70 Drop The World - Lil Wayne
74-71 Highway 20 Ride - Zac Brown Band
59-72 I Made It (Cash Money Heroes) - Kevin Rudolf
78-73 Cryin' For Me - Toby Keith
67-74 Gangsta Luv - Snoop Dogg
84-75 American Honey - Lady Antebellum
**-76 Beamer, Benz, Or Bentley - Lloyd Banks Feat. Juelz Santana
77-77 I Invented Sex - Trey Songz
82-78 Somebody - Rob Thomas
85-79 'Til Summer Comes Around - Keith Urban
71-80 Never Gonna Be Alone - Nickelback
93-81 Lemonade - Gucci Mane
**-82 Everything To Me - Monica
79-83 A Little More Country Than That - Easton Corbin
18-84 Glitter In The Air - Pink
92-85 All The Way Turnt Up - Roscoe Dash
98-86 Steady Mobbin' - Young Money
81-87 I Wanna Make You Close Your Eyes - Dierks Bentley
87-88 Shots - LMFAO
90-89 I Can Transform Ya - Chris Brown
83-90 Southern Voice - Tim McGraw
89-91 Just Breathe - Pearl Jam
**-92 Unstoppable - Rascal Flatts
100-93 Ain't Leavin Without You - Jaheim
**-94 Your Love Is My Drug - Kesha
**-95 O Let's Do It - Waka Flocka Flame
95-96 Spotlight - Gucci Mane
99-97 Fearless - Taylor Swift
57-98 You And Me - Dave Matthews Band
**-99 Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You - Kellie Pickler
64-100 Set The Fire To The Third Bar - Snow Patrol

The-Dream Reveals New Album Cover!

I think Dream is going to keep on until he gets some Grammy's for Best R&B album or something. I remember the upset about him not getting any Grammy's for his last album. So 'Love King' is the name of the new Dream album and I think the first single as well. So how do you like the album cover? It makes me think of Kanye West's '808s & Heartbreak' a little just because of the heart. I'm not sure when the album is being released but the first single just leaked out. I haven't heard it though.

Ashanti Creates New Reality Show!

Ashanti is coming back strong in 2010; at least I hope so. I am an Ashanti fan and I'm not ashamed to say so. She is creating a new reality show in the vein of 'American Idol' as well as recording a new album. Read below for more info on the show as well as stories on Usher's album tracklisting and Mary J. Blige's album re-release.

R&B star Ashanti has reportedly signed a deal to create a music reality series based on American Idol.
According to Contact Music, the singer-actress has teamed with Reveille Productions for the reality contest.
Ashanti's manager Tina Douglas confirmed: "It's an unscripted television show that is definitely music related. We'll be revealing more in the coming weeks.
"She has her own record label, called Written Entertainment, and the show is going to revolve around her label... It's going to be really big."
The 'Foolish' singer reportedly split from Nelly last year and has since been linked to rapper The Game.

Ashanti takes a picture with The Game and Dr. Dre and suddenly she is linked the The Game. This my first time hearing that one.

Usher 'Raymond v. Raymond' Tracklisting Revealed!
I swear these album release dates change so fast I can't keep up with them. Last I read Usher's 'Raymond v. Raymond' album will be released on March 30. Most of these songs have leaked prior but I won't have to worry about being too spoiled. I did good by not listening to a lot of the leaked songs. So hopefully I can enjoy the album and not get tired of it so fast unless its just plain bad.

01 Monstar (Prod. By Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis)

02 Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home) (feat. Plies) (Prod By The Runners)

03 There Goes My Baby (Prod By Jim jonsin)

04 She Don’t Know (feat. Ludacris) (Prod. By Bangladesh)

05 Mars vs Venus (Prod. By Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis)

06 Get In My Car (feat. Bun B) (Prod By Polow Da Don)

07 Foolin’ Around (Prod By B. Cox & J. Dupri)

08 Love All Y’All

09 So Many Girls (Prod By Danjahandz)

10 Lay You Down (Prod By Cornaboyz)

11 OMG (feat. will.i.am) (Prod By Will I Am)

12 Lil’ Freak (feat. Nicki Minaj) (Prod By Polow Da Don)

13 Papers (Prod By Zaytoven)

Mary J. Blige Plans Album Re-Release!

R&B music icon Mary J. Blige crosses over to rock n' roll to cover a classic tune.
ET is in the studio as Mary records her version of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven."

"I was thinking, 'What is the most important rock and roll song in America?' … and it's this one," she explains her reasoning for picking this track. "The record is just crazy. I think everybody would appreciate it if I can nail it."

The cover song will be on the international version of Mary's upcoming album Stronger with Each Tear, out March 15.

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Mariah Carey Struggling With Concert Tickets?

They love to see you fail or not do well. Of course Mariah is used to selling a lot of records but she has never been a big concert performer. Her last big tour was 'The Adventures Of Mimi' from her 'The Emancipation Of Mimi' album but now reports say Mariah is not doing so well on her 'Angels Advocate' tour. Read below to find out as well as stories on Drake's new single and Monica's foray back into reality TV.

When Mariah Carey set out on her ‘Angel’s Advocate Tour’ in support of her poorly received, and even worse charting, ‘Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel’ LP, we highlighted that it made little sense considering her dismal record sales and public disinterest. It appears such observations have been validated, as it has been revealed that the 39 year old diva is struggling to sell-out 3000 seat venues.
Box office tally’s, as per Billboard (via Mariah Daily), for Carey’s January 27th 2010 show at the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C, show that of a possible 3166 seats, the songbird only managed to fill 2430… leaving 736 seats empty. Ouch.
Oh Mimi! It’s actually kinda sad to see how things are turning out for her after such an amazing comeback with ‘The Emancipation of Mimi’. I mean even playing such small venues when she’s a star of such a magnitude must have been a blow to her ego; so not being able put bottoms in seats, must be even worse. Looking at the situation objectively, it was evident a mile off that a tour was a no-no, hence why it ever materialised is beyond me. Embarrassing.
Tidbit: In other Mariah news, ‘Angel’s Cry (ft. Ne-Yo)’ is on heavy rotation on UK music TV channels.

Monica Considers Second Season Of Reality Show!

The finale' of 'Monica: Still Standing' may not be the end for Monica and reality based programming at BET.

Thankful for the opportunity to present un-scripted reality, Monica is reportedly considering a second season of the popular series.

"I've gone through so many different things that my testimony should be shared," said Monica in a recent interview. "Even if you can't relate all the way, maybe some things that I've experienced will make the load feel lighter for the next person."

While BET has not confirmed whether the ink is dry on a second season, Monica is moving full speed ahead with "Monica: Still Standing" -- the album.

Set for release March 23, "Still Standing" is led by the Missy Elliott produced single "Everything to Me" and features production from Polow Da Don, Ne-Yo and Bryan Michael Cox.

There has been a big deal about Monica only have 10 tracks on her new album but I just read there is a possibility that there may be 3 bonus tracks. So be on the lookout for that.

Drake Chooses First Single!

The wait is almost over. Drake has selected the first single from his highly-anticipated debut album.

The first offering from Thank Me Later will be called “Over.” Drizzy exclusively tells Rap-Up.com that the track was produced by fellow Canadian Boi-1da, who is responsible for two of his biggest hits, “Best I Ever Had” and “Forever.”

The Young Money signee went through a painstaking process before choosing the right single. “Before I start working a single, I need to get about 10, 15, 20 songs done so I can pick from a batch of music as opposed to just committing to something right now,” he told Rap-Up.com in November. “It takes a lot for me to put a song onto that list. It’s gotta be a real great song. It’s gotta be something that I feel is timeless and is better than anything that I’ve ever done.”

The album, due this spring, is expected to feature collaborations with Jay-Z (“Light Up”), Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, and The-Dream (“Shut It Down”), as well as production from Kanye West, Noah “40” Shebib, and Tone Mason.

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