Nicki Minaj, Sean Garrett Massive Attack Music Video Clip!

A few days ago Nicki Minaj's first single; "Massive Attack" leaked online and now the video quickly follows. The video is pretty cool and I like the different looks that Nicki presents us with. I think I like the song more and more I hear it. Check it out!



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Now playing: Camron feat mase - horse and carriage
via FoxyTunes

Rasheeda, Cherish Don't Let Him Get Away Music Video Clip!

Rasheeda has been bubbling under the radar for many years now but I think she is comfortable being under the radar. A few years ago she had a song called "My Bubblegum" that you may be familiar with. If you are not well check out this video featuring the group Cherish but it only looks like two of them instead of four.



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Now playing: Public Announcement - John Doe
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Trina To Star In Her Own Reality Show!

I kept seeing the hints that Trina was doing big things in 2010 and a planned reality show is in the works. There is not much information revealed at this time but you can read a little excerpt about it below. After that you can check out the tracklisting for Trina's new album; "Amazin'" in stores May 4. After that find out what The-Dream is planning for his new album.

“It's a personal reflection of myself and my life. You get to see a side of Trina that has never been exposed to the world.

People only get to see the Trina that's on television, the Trina that's on the videos and the records and the interviews, but this Trina is more intimate and more personal and more private…”

Trina is continuing her reign as Slip N' Slide Records' Diamond Princess and preparing to release her fifth studio album Amazin'.

Trina's "Amazin'" Album Tracklisting!

1. "Amazin'"
2. "That's My Attitude"
3. "Million Dollar Girl" (feat. Diddy & Keri Hilson)
4. "My Bitches"
5. "Always" (feat. Monica)
6. "I Go So Hard"
7. "Dang-A-Lang" (feat. Nicki Minaj & Lady Saw)
8. "On Da Hush" (feat. Shonie)
9. "Make Way" (feat. Lyfe Jennings)
10. "Hoes Fight" (feat. Lady Gaga & Kalenna of Dirty Money)
11. "Gucci Shoe Shoppin'" (feat. P-Dub)
12. "I Want It All" (feat. Monica)
13. "White Girls" (feat. Flo Rida)
14. "Showin' Out" (feat. Trey Songz)
15. "Capricorn"
16. "By Myself"

The-Dream Shoots New Videos For New Album!

R&B singer/producer The-Dream announced via his Twitter that he has already shot music videos for four singles off his upcoming third studio album, "Love King." He also is planning to shoot another four videos making it a grand total of eight music videos. The video for the first single, also called "Love King," is set to drop April 1st.

The-Dream also announced the possibility of a fourth studio album, via Twitter, after confirming that his third album will be his last studio album. No real surprise here. This "Love King" album must really be the bomb for Dream to be inspired to cook up another studio album. Well, more music is welcomed from The-Dream, so bring it on.

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Now playing: Nicki Minaj - MassiveAttack [Dirty]
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Monica - Street Symphony

It is the opening cut on Monica's "The Boy Is Mine" album and it definitely starts the album out in an interesting way. I was surprised when this song got the video and single treatment. I mean the song does tell a story that is easy to put a video too but still. Check it out!



Congratulations Monica! Her new album; "Still Standing" debuted at #2 on the Pop charts with an estimated 183K copies. The official numbers should be out later today or by the time you read this; they may already be up!

Usher OMG Music Video Clip!

There is certainly no shortage of songs on the radio from Usher. He has about five different songs in rotation right now and though "OMG" is an international single; I'm counting this one too. The song features will.i.am who wrote and produced the song.



This song isn't that bad but its one of more weaker songs on the "Raymond vs. Raymond" album. I been listening to the album and its not that bad. Like any other though I could do without a few songs or two.

Music Biz:
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Member Arrested!

A rap artist from the group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony has been arrested during an Ohio concert on 12-year-old charges that he roughed up his mother with a gun.

Thirty-six-year-old Stanley Howse — whose stage name is Flesh-N-Bone — was in jail Monday, a day after he was taken into custody during a show in the group's hometown of Cleveland.

Sheriff's spokesman John O'Brien says deputies didn't wait until after the show because Howse seemed to notice them, invited audience members to the stage and tried to slip out. He was arrested backstage.

O'Brien says Howse was wanted on domestic violence and felonious assault charges. The rapper is accused of striking his mother with a gun in 1998, leaving a 1-inch (2.5-centimeter) gash on her head.

Ciara Grabs Ludacris For New First Single!

Ciara fans have reason to celebrate. After keeping a tight lid on her new music, the singer has revealed the first offering from her next album.

The lead single from the R&B star’s fourth effort is called “Ride” and features Ludacris, Jive Records confirms to Rap-Up.com. The Atlanta natives previously collaborated on “High Price” from last year’s Fantasy Ride and most recently on the remix to Luda’s “How Low.” The Tricky Stewart and Dream production will impact radio in the next few weeks.

Ciara’s as-yet-untitled LP, due this summer, was executive produced by the hitmaking duo. “I did the whole album; it’s amazing. If you like Tricky and Dream, you’ll definitely like this,” Tricky told Rap-Up.com earlier this year.

The disc marks a return to form for the “Goodies” singer, who has been recording in Los Angeles since last summer. “This record obviously is gonna have tempo to it, but I think it’s gonna have even more substance than the last record,” Tricky added. “She dances and we always want to bring out what she does that other people don’t.”

Among the tracks that may make the cut are “Gifted” and “Speechless” featuring The-Dream.

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Now playing: Mario - Don't Do It
via FoxyTunes

Kelis Acapella Music Video Clip!

For a few days Kelis had a countdown to the official launch of the video for her new single; "Acapella". Now the video is here and the video is definitely one of my favorite videos this year. The video even makes me like the song even more.



Kelis' new album; "Flesh Tone" will be in stores this summer. Kelis recently signed to will.i.am/Interscope Records. Some of the new song titles to look out for are "4th Of July", "22nd Century", and "Scream & Shout". The song is said to have only eight songs. That should be interesting!

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Now playing: Trina Ft Kelly Rowland- Here We Go lyrics
via FoxyTunes

Trina Rolls With Monica On Second Single!

And some of you may already have heard it because it leaked out a few weeks ago. It's called "Always" but someone was saying how it wouldn't appear on Trina's new album but they were wrong. Monica is pretty hot right now so why not choose the single that features Monica. The "Million Dollar Girl" single had some potential but I don't think they used it to their advantage and I'm blaming all collaborative parties as well i.e. Diddy & Keri Hilson. Anyway I heard the song before and I do like it. Hopefully it is a hit for her. And by the way the song goes for adds on April 6.

One of Trina's arch nemesis; Khia has a new album coming called; "Motor Mouf/Khia Simone"(though that spelling may be off a little). She calls into a radio stations and talks about her new album; Trina; and Nicki Minaj. As always you can expect to Khia to not bite her tongue and for some; keep it real. Click here to listen.

Marques Houston is now signed to Capitol Records and hopefully he will produce another album as good as "Naked" or "Veteran". His last album; "Mr. Houston" was a major disappointment to me. I know Marques recently released a song called; "Kickin' & Screamin'" and my first thoughts on it weren't good. I hope its not his first single.

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Now playing: Master P - Master P - How You Do Dat There
via FoxyTunes

Fabolous Body Ya Music Video Clip!

This is from Fabolous' recently released mixtape "Funeral Service". Check it out!



Music Biz:
Drake Readies Debut Album!

Canadian born rapper Drake will finally drop his long awaited debut album “Thank Me Later” on May 25th according to Universal/Young Money!

Drake’s first single “Over” is already heating up the airwaves, with the music video to officially premiere very shortly! Drake has several hits already under his belt without ever having a full length album released. Some of those singles include “Best I Ever Had” and “Successful” and he’s been featured on a host of other hit singles by Jay-Z, Kanye West, Young Jeezy, Mary J. Blige to name a few!

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Now playing: Foxy Brown Feat Sizzla-Come Fly With Me
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Music Feed: Monica featuring...

So let's get this straight; I am a Monica fan. I wouldn't be paying a special tribute to her if I wasn't. I'm not bound to like every Monica song or collaboration. I though I'd just put a little disclaimer up so people wouldn't get it twisted. Usually I wouldn't explain myself but I just felt like it today. I say this too because out of all the collaborations Monica has done; there are truly only a few I really like and you will notice that below.

1. So Gone; Monica featuring Missy Elliott - Missy is not exactly rapping on this song but she is talking and boasting throughout; something that became synonymous with Missy productions.
   
2. Everytime The Beat Drops; Monica featuring Dem Franchise Boyz - A lot of people cried foul at Monica when this was released. Many people felt like this song was better suited for Ciara.
   
3. Don't Gotta Go Home; Monica featuring DMX - This collaboration appeared on Monica's "After The Storm" album and it was one of my least favorite songs on that album.
   
4. Go To Bed Mad; Monica featuring Tyrese - This collaboration also came from "After The Storm" and it was no better than the DMX collaboration.
   
5. Hell No; Monica featuring Twista - Now this collaboration works for me and many of my friends. Two of my really good friends love this song and many times we have sung it; seriously and playfully.
   
6. Still Standing; Monica featuring Ludacris - This is the title track of Monica's new album and to me Ludacris is really not needed on this song. It could do without him. This is another Monica collaboration I didn't really care for.
   

Throwback Video: Monica - Don't Take It Personal (Just One Of Dem Days)

This is where it all started. Monica's debut single and video! Check it out!

Janet Behind The Scenes Of New Video!

Janet takes us behind the scenes of her new single; "Nothing" which appears on the "Why Did I Get Married Too?" soundtrack. Check it out!



I'm not really sure how I feel about the song. It seems like Janet is always told what to do and never what she wants to do herself. It just seems like whatever Jermaine Dupri tells her what to do; she does.

Music Biz:
Ne-Yo Working On New Album; Other Albums!

The wait for Ne-Yo's follow up to "Year of the Gentleman" may be slightly extended thanks to a host of forthcoming albums from Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland and Rihanna.

"I’m still writing for a bunch of people," Ne-Yo told VIBE of his busy schedule over the next few weeks recently. "I have Jennifer Hudson on the way; I’m doing quite a few songs with her. I’m doing some more stuff for Rihanna real soon. Then there’s Nicole Scherzinger and there’s this group out of the UK called the Noisettes who are really good. I also did some stuff for Justin Bieber and Kelly Rowland."

In addition to those efforts and his own, Ne-Yo is readying releases from his roster of talent, including Jadyn Maria.

"I have my own artists who slowly but surely I’m putting their projects together," Ne-Yo went on to say. "Then there’s my album. I’m really on my grind."

As previously reported, Ne-Yo's next album is slated for release this August with two films nearing release, including 'Red Tails' with Cuba Gooding Jr and Terrence Howard.

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Now playing: DMX - Slippin (Dirty Version)
via FoxyTunes

Nas, Damien Marley Talk Distant Relatives Album!

Nas and Damien Marley sit and discuss their collaborative album; "Distant Relatives" which the duo have been working on for awhile now. I'm not sure on the release date of the album just yet but expect it very soon.



Music Biz:
Rah Digga Speaks On Female Rap!

"I think she's just one facet of it," Digga said about Nicki taking hip-hop to the next level. "It's unfortunate that with the females, it only gets to be one at a time. This year, it's Nicki Minaj. At one point it was Remy [Ma]. At one point, it was [Lil] Kim. To me, everybody just takes turns. I don't look at one person and say this is it for hip-hop. I think everybody brings all kind of different things to hip-hop. As soon as I come, everybody's like 'this is the real hip-hop!' Whoever is poppin' is where it's poppin'. [Laughs] I think it's important for females to do as much together as we can. We always say we wanna do stuff. And we might do some songs here and there. But we're not really coming together. And it doesn't help that soon as one of us puts a song out the public turns it into a diss song towards the next chick. I think there are all sorts of lanes for everybody. As long as chicks continue to do their thing and stand their ground, they'll be alright. With me, it just about rhyming."

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Now playing: Erykah Badu - Gone Baby, Don't Be Long
via FoxyTunes

Artist Spotlight: Erykah Badu

It was 13 years ago when a young Erykah Badu entered the music world with her "Baduizm" album and it was unlike anything we had heard at the time. Here was a young woman who didn't dress like the average R&B singer and got comparisons to legends such as Billie Holiday. Over the years Erykah Badu has continued to expand her own legacy always going left when everyone else goes right. Though she has lost me a bit over the years; I have since been digging her new single; "Window Seat".

One of my co-workers was singing the song at work and it had been in my head ever since. The video the single; "Window Seat" was just released and it has everyone talking. What we come to expect for a video treatment to a song titled; "Window Seat" is the complete opposite. Instead Erykah vows to display a message in the video and song. Stripping down to the bare minimum Erykah Badu flaunts her stuff through her hometown of Dallas, Texas. Onlookers watch in shock as Erykah removes little by little until she is revealed in her birthday suit. There's more to the video but if you've yet to see it; I won't spoil the surprise.

Erykah's new album; 'New Amerykah 2: Return Of The Ankh" picks up where her last album; "New Amerykah: 4th World War" left off. The album will be in stores March 30. To support the album; Erykah has made a slew of appearances on "The Jimmy Fallon Show" and "The Wendy Williams Show". Make sure you check out the new album!

It is the sheer originality and creatively that keeps Erykah Badu light years ahead of the competition. This is why the spotlight is on Erykah Badu!

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Now playing: Erykah Badu - Turn Me Away (Get Munny)
via FoxyTunes

Album Spotlight: Monica - After The Storm

I will admit when Monica's unreleased album; "All Eyez On Me" leaked out; I wasn't interested. I thought it was her worst album and I see why it was never released. There were a handful of songs though that were saved in favor for "After The Storm" and those songs fit perfectly.

Monica just revamped "All Eyez On Me" with the help of Missy Elliott who produced song of the strongest songs here including first single; "So Gone" and my personal favorite; "Knock Knock". By the time this album was released Monica was definitely back on her A game and it was as if she hadn't missed a beat.

The great opening track; "Set It Off" is another Missy Elliott produced song and it is quite irresistible. It will definitely get the party started. There are the ballads that are excellent and any of them could of been singles at any given point. One song that is not to be missed and is another favorite of mine is the Jermaine Dupri produced; "U Should've Known Better". There was even a video featuring Monica's then boyfriend Young Buck.

This is definitely one of my favorite Monica albums and to be honest Monica has been pretty consistent over the years. I know she had been dogged over "The Makings Of Me" but the album wasn't as bad as people made it out to be. That album had some jams on it!

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Now playing: Erykah Badu - Turn Me Away (Get Munny)
via FoxyTunes

Music Feed: Five Songs Featuring Monica

Monica rarely does collaborative efforts for other artists but if she does its usually a personal friend or an already established act. Can you blame her? I wouldn't just jump on a record with someone just because there's money involved. I have to be feeling the track or the song idea you have in mind.

The five songs below represent those collaborative efforts Monica have made throughout the years.

1. Trust; Keyshia Cole & Monica - Keyshia Cole was spitting out hits left and right from two back to back albums; 2007's "Just Like Me" and 2008's "A Different Me". By the time "Trust" was released in 2009; the Keyshia Cole train was still in full steam and featuring Monica on supporting vocals made this song a top 10 R&B hit!
   
2. The Boy Is Mine; Brandy & Monica - This song was huge when it was released back in 1998. It set the stage for Brandy and Monica's second albums respectively. Interestingly enough their second albums are their most successful to date.
   
3. Always; Trina featuring Monica - Monica hooked up with Trina for the single; "Always" which is Trina's second single from her upcoming album; "Amazin'". There have been a lot of positive reviews on the song thus far. If you haven't heard it yet; you can YouTube it!
   
4. Can't Live With You; Ludacris featuring Monica - This is one of the better songs on Ludacris' newest album; "Battle Of The Sexes". You must check it out!
   
5. I've Got To Have It; Jermaine Dupri featuring Nas & Monica - You all remember this song? Well if not it is from the "Big Momma's House" soundtrack which was executive produced by Jermaine Dupri. Jermaine has a history of working with Monica so it was only right he featured her on a track where he is the lead artist.
   

Throwback Video: Monica - So Gone

Monica scored a hit single right out of the box with "So Gone". It was one of the hottest songs of summer 2003. It was the first single from her platinum album; "After The Storm". Monica displayed her more mature side(catch her in lingerie) and her rap skills were pretty good for a singer. Check it out!



Monica's new album; "Still Standing" is set to debut at #2 next week with sales estimated around the 195K mark so we will see. Monica's new album is really good and you should check it out if you haven't already.

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Now playing: Amy Winehouse - Amy Winehouse- Just Friends
via FoxyTunes

Erykah Badu Window Seat Music Video Clip!

We all know Erykah Badu goes to the left when everyone else goes right. You will certainly see that in this video. The concept may be a bit awkward for some but the video is definitely worth watching for more reasons than one. Make sure you check it out!



Erykah Badu's new album; "New Amerykah 2: Return Of The Ankh" will be in stores March 30.

Music Biz:
Ludacris Wanted Lauryn Hill For New Album!

NEW YORK – Ludacris' latest album features a number of female rappers — but the Grammy-winner acknowledges there's one lady he really wanted to work with.
"I think Lauryn Hill is like extremely talented and I can say I did try to do that, it just didn't work itself out," he says of the multiple Grammy-winning singer-rapper, whose only studio album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," has sold more than eight million units in the United States since its release in 1998.
While the reclusive former Fugees performer didn't make it on "Battle of the Sexes," Ludacris' seventh studio release, he successfully recruited Lil Kim, Eve, Trina and newcomer Nicki Minaj.
Though he's managed to surround himself with female rappers on the new album, Ludacris knows that women haven't had the greatest success in hip-hop, especially in the last few years. He says that's because female rappers misjudge their audience.
"They want to rap for the guys when they should be rapping and being themselves and talking about what's going on with them," said Ludacris. "We want to hear women talk more about what women do as opposed to trying to be like men or talk about what men do."
"Battle of the Sexes" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album charts this month.

Rihanna, Monica Top Billboard Charts This Week!

Rihanna and Monica have something in common -- the top spot on this week's Billboard charts !

First up, Rihanna earns a second week atop the Billboard Hot 100 with "Rude Boy".

A follow up to the top 10 charting "Hard," "Rude Boy" fended off advancing singles from B.o.B and Lady Gaga to retain the summit, while gaining airplay over the last week.

While news of Rihanna's second week is big, Monica is this week's success story on the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart.

Earning her first no.1 since 2003's "So Gone," Monica moved past Timbaland, Drake and Usher to claim the top spot with "Everything To Me".

The lead single from "Still Standing," "Everything To Me" has spent nine weeks on the chart, rising each week.

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Now playing: Mary J. Blige - Steal Away featuring Pharrell
via FoxyTunes

Ludacris My Chick Bad Remix Music Video Clip!

I showed you the behind the scenes footage of "My Chick Bad Remix" and now you can see the video which features Diamond, Trina, and Eve. Nicki Minaj is in the video but not on the remix. The video is pretty good and all the ladies are looking really nice. Check it out!



Music Biz:
Keyshia Cole Dragged Into Court!

Keyshia Cole was ripped apart by a judge in New Jersey yesterday -- a judge who called the singer's testimony "nonsensical" and then questioned her literacy. Cole -- a platinum-selling artist -- was being sued by an event promoter who claims she blew off an appearance in 2006 after he paid her $15,000 up front. The judge not only ruled against Cole, but she blasted the singer in her written opinion, saying Cole's testimony was "confused and at times nonsensical." But the judge's biggest shot: Cole appeared so reluctant to read certain documents while testifying, "that it appears at times that she was not literate." Eventually, the judge realized Cole was literate -- when Cole managed to read documents that she thought helped her case. Ultimately, Cole was ordered to fork over nearly $160k in damages.

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Now playing: LAURYN HILL (LOVE JONES SOUNDTRACK) - THE SWEETEST THING
via FoxyTunes

Ne-Yo Is Working On A New Album!

And according to his twitter he has been writing quite a bit. Ne-Yo recently wrote and co-produced "Stay Or Go" from Monica's new album; "Still Standing". Speaking of Monica's new album; I'm hearing the album was under shipped. A lot of the stores have been sold out because J Records figured the demand wouldn't be as high. Boy were they wrong! Monica's album is getting a lot of positive feedback and it may have a shot at debuting at #1 next week.

One of my favorite singers; Kelis is coming back with her new album; "Flesh Tone" this summer. Earlier this year we were treated with the leak of her first single; "Acapella". The singer recently wrapped up the video to the single and you can click here to get a preview of the video before it premieres.

And speaking of videos R. Kelly has released a video for his song; "Echo" which appears on his "Untitled" album which is in stores now. Click here to check it out!

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Now playing: Monica - Love All Over Me (Produced By Jermaine Dupri)
via FoxyTunes

Music Feed: Six Degrees Of Monica

• Dallas Austin - He had worked pretty closely with Monica at the beginning of her career and it was his imprint; Rowdy Records that Monica was signed too. Austin also wrote many songs on Monica's debut album; "Ms. Thang" as well as her second album; "The Boy Is Mine". Recently Austin made an appearance on Monica's BET reality show; "Still Standing".
  
• Missy Elliott - Missy is partly responsible for revitalizing Monica's career. Monica's career took a slight slump between the releases of "The Boy Is Mine" and her unreleased album; "All Eyez On Me". Monica re-worked "All Eyez On Me" into "After The Storm" and there magic was created. The #1 hits "So Gone" and "Everything To Me" are proof of that.
  
• Clive Davis - He is the head honcho of Arista Records and he masterminded Monica's most successful album to date; "The Boy Is Mine".
  
• Young Buck - Monica and Young Buck were pretty hot and heavy for a moment's time. Buck appeared in Monica's video for "U Should've Known Better"
  
• Rocko - He is Monica's baby daddy and former boyfriend. The couple recently broke up and before all that drama; he too appeared on Monica's BET reality show; "Still Standing".
  
• Brandy- Monica will always be compared to Brandy. It's just the way things go. Unfortunately they are still pitted against each other but they remain loyal friends and that's a good thing!
  

Album Spotlight: Monica - The Boy Is Mine

I don't know what people were surprised more by; Monica's decision to name her second album; "The Boy Is Mine" or her duet of the same name with Brandy. Monica would later explain that Clive David was responsible for the album title thus throwing a little shade Brandy's way. There were the rumors that the singers didn't get along. There was the debate as to who the best singer was and so forth. Luckily for both women; they both succeeded. "The Boy Is Mine" is probably Monica's most mainstream and commercial album thus far.

The album was responsible for numerous number one hits including "Angel Of Mine", "The First Night", and the title track. By this time Monica was no stranger to hitting number one since she hit quite a few times prior to this album and after this album.

The album opens with the unforgettable "Street Symphony" produced by Dallas Austin who handles a lot of the production here. One of my personal favorites though is "Ring Da Bell" which deals with infidelity and the way the song unfolds is what I truly like about it. There is also the slow jam "I Keep It To Myself" and the grooving "'Cross The Room". It truly is something for everyone on this album and Monica does a great job with the material she is presented with.

If you haven't checked out this album; you definitely should!

Throwback Video: Monica - Angel Of Mine

Monica hit #1 with this hit single from her second album; "The Boy Is Mine". Check out the video which features singer Tyrese.



I was looking at this video and thinking how Tyrese has played the love interest in many videos including Keyshia Cole's "Love" and most recently Lady GaGa and Beyonce's "Telephone" video. I also noticed how early on Monica would cover up her tattoo so younger people wouldn't feel so obligated to get one because they would see a star with one. Monica is truly a good role model.

Amerie Performs Heard Em All Live!

Amerie is overseas in Korea promoting her latest album; "In Love & War" and here she is joined by the group 4 Minutes. Check it out!

Trina Unveils Amazin' Album Cover!

I don't know what to say. At first I saw this album cover but the person who posted it was unsure if it were real. So I went to Amazon.com and they didn't have the album cover. So I ended up going to one of my message boards and saw the cover. Just to make sure it was legit; I went to Trina's fansite and the cover was there.

Someone said Trina is giving Beyonce "Dangerously In Love" shoot meets Ashanti's "The Declaration" shoot meets Mya's "Liberation" shoot and I agree.

Trina's album will be in stores May 4. The album is led by the singles "That's My Attitude" and "Million Dollar Girl" featuring Keri Hilson and Diddy! The album features collaborations from Lyfe, Lil' Wayne, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, and Monica. Make sure you check it out!

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Now playing: Usher - She Dont Know (Ft. Ludacris)
via FoxyTunes

Erykah Badu Reveals New Amerykah Part 2 Album Cover!

I just got word that the new Erykah Badu album has officially leaked a mere five days before its March 30th release. I guess that's not too bad huh? I haven't been feeling Erykah since "Mama's Gun" but maybe I will give this album a chance. Erykah recently appeared on "The Wendy Williams Show" and has also made a slew of appearances on various talk shows to promote the album!

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Now playing: Monica - Stay Or Go (Produced By Bei Maejor)
via FoxyTunes

Usher, Nicki Minaj Lil Freak Music Video Clip!

The first time I posted this video; it was taken down so I'm trying this again. Check out the video and you will see some familiar faces.



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Now playing: Monica - Stay Or Go (Produced By Bei Maejor)
via FoxyTunes

Beyonce Pregnant?

Take this with a grain of salt as the following information is from Mediatakeout.com but Beyonce is allegedly pregnant! We all know how many times we have heard this! After your reading about Beyonce's alleged pregnancy; read more stories concerning Toni Braxton's album push back and Janet Jackson halting her new album!

It's been a long time waiting . . . but now it's finally happened. MediaTakeOut.com just learned from a ROCK SOLID source that legendary singer Beyonce and her hip hop mogul husband Jay Z are expecting their first child together.

According to our source Beyonce is doing fine and resting (for now), but she's expected to continue working throughout her pregnancy. And we're also told that Jay Z is EXTREMELY happy to be having his first child with Bey.

Toni Braxton Speaks On Album Push Back!

Diva Toni Braxton has been hard at work in the lab, working on her upcoming studio release, ‘Pulse’. However, the husky-voiced singer took a break from recording to divulge details about the new LP to Digital Spy and explained why it was delayed several times since 2008. Read what she had to say about the record and the possibility of an Alicia Keys collaboration below:

How long have you been working on the album?
“It’s like a bottomless cup of coffee! I signed my deal with Atlantic Records when I did Dancing With The Stars in September 2008 and I’ve been working on it since then. I must have recorded more than 30 tracks for it by now!”

Have you decided on the final tracklisting?
“We’re doing that as we speak – I think we have about seven songs confirmed, but we haven’t got the ten yet. The album was supposed to come out in February, but we held it back because seven of the ten songs we picked were leaked. We decided to go back to the studio, record four or five more songs and then pick. Now we send everything via Federal Express – nothing’s going through the internet – and that’s why none of the new songs have leaked so far.”

It feels like time for you to record a big female-female duet. Is there anything being lined up?
“Me and Alicia Keys are talking about it – well, my people are talking to Alicia’s people because I play piano and obviously she plays too. I’ve been playing since I was about nine years old so I really can play. Maybe we could do something at an award show and people will see us collaborate that way? We’ll see.”

Janet Jackson Not Rushing New Album!

Janet Jackson fans holding out for a new album from the pop icon will have to wait. The youngest Jackson is putting music on hold to focus on other priorities.

The Grammy winner tells Rolling Stone that she’s no longer working on her 11th studio album. “There was a time where I was actually in the studio and I was recording, but I’m not working on an album,” she says.

Although reports suggested she was signing with former home A&M Records, Janet reveals she has not settled on a label after leaving Island Def Jam in 2008. “There have been a lot of record labels that have asked me to sit down and talk with them, but I don’t know if I want to do something completely independent, or go with a major.”

Bryan-Michael Cox told Rap-Up.com that he had been working on material for the stalled project with Jermaine Dupri. “I’m producing Janet’s album with Jermaine and it’s going to be hot,” the producer-songwriter said in January.

The 43-year-old superstar has not decided what direction she will go in with her next effort. “I haven’t decided on exactly where I want to go or what I want to do,” she adds.

In the meantime, Janet has satisfied hungry fans with “Nothing,” the first single from the soundtrack to Why Did I Get Married Too?, available March 30 on iTunes. The Tim Palen-directed video is expected to debut next week.

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Now playing: Monica - If You Were My Man (Produced By Missy Elliott)
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Zhane - Vibe

Before Floetry there was Zhane! Their debut album; "Pronounced Jah Nay" was released in 1994 and their single; "Vibe" was released in 1994 as well. It is not their most well known single but it is definitely one of their smoothest and one of my favorites.



If you remember Zhane was responsible for the hits such as "Hey Mr. DJ", "Groove Thang" and many more. I'm not too sure what caused the two women to disband but they were definitely unique in their own way. I definitely get really nostalgic listening to this song cause it makes me miss how music was in the 90s.

Janet Jackson Appears On The Jimmy Fallon Show!

Janet has been making all the press rounds for her new movie; "Why Did I Get Married Too?". Check it out!

Beyonce Has A New Baby Brother!

There have always been rumors regarding Beyonce's father; Mathew Knowles having an extramarital affair throughout the years. I guess it turns out the rumors were true. Mathew Knowles and his mistress or girlfriend just welcomed a new baby boy into the world. Read more below as well as Amerie taking over Korea and Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey starring in a new film together!

Beyonce Knowles is officially a big sister again -- a DNA test has confirmed that Mathew Knowles is the father of Alexsandra Wright's brand new baby boy ... sources tell TMZ.

With the DNA test a match, we're told lawyers for Knowles and Wright are in the final stages of negotiating settlement for baby Nixon's support

Wright filed a paternity suit last October against Knowles -- who was temporarily ordered to pay $8,200 in monthly child support.

Wright claims she had an 18 month affair with Knowles.

As far as we know, nothing's tricky about Nixon .... so far.

Amerie Takes Her Show To Korea!

Regarding her visit to Korea she revealed, “I’m very excited and nervous to be in Korea again with my mother. I recently collaborated with 4minute and tonight I’ll be going through rehearsal with them.” This will be her second time touching base with her Korean motherland since her first visit in 2007.

Amerie will be demonstrating Heard ‘Em All with 4minute at an event on the 23rd. On the 25th, she’ll be holding a fan meeting at the Mnet studio in Seoul. She’ll wrap it all up on the 26th with one big performance on KBS Music Bank.

Amerie arrived right after a 12 hour flight but she didn’t fail to impress. She added her own choreography, altered it for 4minute and really worked together. She made sure the practice wasn’t going on too late and tiring for the girls. 4minute’s dance instructor said,

“She is a true professional.”

Amerie and 4minute will perform together in Korea at the W Hotel for the KIA Motors car launch event. Amerie will also visit Bae Chul Soo’s radio show, hold a fanmeeting at the Mnet studios and perform with 4minute again on Music Bank while she is in Korea.

Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey Star In New Tyler Perry Film!

Black Voices has learned that writer/director/producer Tyler Perry has selected the cast for next film, ''For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf.'

At last night's premiere for his latest film, ''Why Did I Get Married Too?,' the black box-office maverick revealed that the cast will include Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Whoopi Goldberg, Phylicia Rashad, Jurnee Smollett, Kimberly Elise, Kerry Washington, and Macy Gray.

Based on Ntozake Shange's award-winning 1975 play, the film is scheduled to shoot in June in New York with a possible winter 2010/ 2011 release date

The riveting play, consisting of a series of poems performed through a cast of nameless women, known only by a color -- deal with such subjects as love, abandonment, rape, and abortion, garnered much acclaim, becoming the toast of Broadway when it opened at The Booth Theater in 1976.

CD Prices To Go Down......Well Some Anyway!

Happy? Does that mean you might buy more albums or continue not to? Well Universal who is over such labels as Def Jam and Cash Money will slash prices on upcoming releases starting within the next month or so. You can expect prices like to be between $6 and $7. Not bad huh? Generally they want physical albums to run about the same someone would pay for an album on iTunes. Nothing wrong with that right? Maybe this will help album sales. Now if they can get all the labels to do this.

India Arie has spoken out against Lady GaGa and her "Telephone" video! India feels that Lady GaGa is just going too far but she does respect her talent and creativity. India's rant comes from twitter. I don't follow her on twitter but I did read an excerpt. Here is a bit of it for you!

Don't be offended this is all MY opinion... Am I the only one who thinks the "telephone" video is going a bit too far?
I'm not referring to the abstract nature of the video ... I'm talking about the IMAGERY - the unspoken back story, the language the message

I agree gaga is being her image .. I dig her creative mind But still ... Thers a such thing as socially irresponsible... I'm just sayin.

Its not long before somebody does a straight NAKED video. Not like Alanis morrisette "thank you india" like NAKED dancing around. LOLhahaha

Kelly Rowland is returning with a new album this year and her first single is titled; "Commander". I'm not sure when her album will be out but I'm assuming some time this summer. Now I always let you guys know if I'm not quite sure about something. I don't go around purposely spreading false information. The majority of news I report comes from other blogs and message boards and maybe they have their information. So sometimes you have to take some news with a grain of salt.

Ludacris On Set Of My Chick Bad Remix Video!

Check out this behind the scenes footage of Ludacris along with Eve, Trina, and Diamond filming the "My Chick Bad" remix video.



I do like the remix but its nothing I care to listen to like that. I do hope that the females come back strong this year including Foxy. I really have been missing her.

Music Biz:
Mary J. Blige Talks Album Re Release!

Mary J. Blige says she only makes music people want to hear when she’s out of her “comfort zone”.

The singer covered two Led Zeppelin tracks, Whole Lotta Love and Stairway to Heaven, on her new album Stronger with Each Tear. Her decision to re-record the rock tracks stunned some of her fans, but she is eager to keep her sound as fresh as possible.

“I just leave myself open to listen to other people and what advice they might have, and I’m open to understanding what the new generation might be listening to,” she explained. “At the same time I try not be scared to do something that might be a bit uncomfortable for me. I argue against it if people tell me not to do something because when I am out of the comfort zone I will always be where everybody wants me to be.”

Mary admits she isn’t a “Led fanatic”, but was keen to challenge herself. She decided to mix the rocky tracks with her usual R&B vibe, and is delighted with the results. “When you touch anything of greatness like this, you do whatever it is you do, whatever you’re feeling has to come out on the record to pay respect,” she explained.

There have been rumours Mary is going to portray legendary singer Nina Simone in a movie for several months. She has confirmed the film is going ahead, and she is delighted to have won the part.

Mary has spent a lot of time researching Nina’s life, and hopes she will do her justice in the biopic. “It’s something that went away and came back, went away and came back, went away and now it’s back for real,” she told radio host Steve Wright. “She was someone you didn’t want to mess with. She was very sure, I won’t say cocky, not sure. That’s the side I’ll have to act out, she had more of a male view on life.”

Robin Thicke Films New Video!

Rap-Up.com was on the set as an exhausted Robin Thicke, who flew in from touring with Alicia Keys the night before, settled in at a sprawling Malibu beachfront property, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, to shoot the Gil Green-directed video for “It’s in the Mornin’,” the second U.S. single from his Sex Therapy album.

Not even chilly weather could cool off Colombian hottie Manuela Arbeláez of “The Price Is Right” fame, who played Thicke’s leading lady. The on-screen couple sexed up the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, but the lovemaking ceased as soon as the cameras were off. His real life partner, pregnant actress Paula Patton, was not far from her husband’s side.

Snoop Dogg, who is featured on the Teddy Riley production, rolled to the set later in the evening to film his scenes in his own custom Cadillac, dubbed the Snoop DeVille, with Playboy Playmate Nicole Narain riding shotgun. For the final setup, the dapperly-dressed collaborators met up in front of a green screen while the waves crashed in the background.

And I'm not sure what happened to "Shakin' It For Daddy"; one of the obvious single choices. I mean Robin along with Nicki Minaj appeared on more than a couple of shows performing this song. Then all of a sudden there was news about a video for "Rollacoaster" which I like but not as a single. Now we have "It's In The Morning". Get it right Robin or you will flop again!

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Now playing: Chris Brown - Back Out
via FoxyTunes

Music Feed: 10 Songs Featuring Lil' Wayne

1. Neva Get Enuf; 3LW featuring Lil' Wayne - This is one of my favorite songs from 3LW and Wayne's verses here are pretty memorable and somewhat funny.
   
2. I'm A G; Rick Ross featuring Lil' Wayne & Brisco - This is one of my favorite songs from Rick Ross and Lil' Wayne totally murders the chorus.
   
3. See You In My Knightmares; Kanye West featuring Lil' Wayne - This appeared on Kanye Wests' "808 & Heartbreak" album but it was a pretty forgettable song in my opinion.
   
4. You; Lloyd featuring Lil' Wayne - We all remember this right? I don't know anyone who didn't like this song.
   
5. Girls Around The World; Lloyd featuring Lil' Wayne - "You" was responsible for the second collaboration between Lloyd and Lil' Wayne.
   
6. Love In This Club Part 2; Usher featuring Beyonce & Lil' Wayne - I can remember several times hearing this in the club and people basically loosing their minds when it came on. I hate to say I never understood why. I was never a big fan of this remix though.
   
7. Don't Trip; Trina featuring Lil' Wayne - After this collaboration; Trina and Lil' Wayne started dating.
   
8. Always Strapped; Birdman featuring Lil' Wayne - Lil' Wayne gets on many songs with Birdman and before you know it seems simply like a solo Lil' Wayne song.
   
9. I Get Crazy; Nicki Minaj featuring Lil' Wayne - Nicki Minaj's "Beam Me Up Scotty" mixtape became one of her most popular mixtapes and "I Get Crazy" started getting radio play and before you know it the song peaked in the top 40 on the R&B/Hip-Hop charts! I wonder with all the appearances on other songs; how many chart appearances have Nicki Minaj made thus far?
   
10. Turnin' Me On; Keri Hilson featuring Lil' Wayne - Keri Hilson finally got the hit she wanted and laid the groundwork for her debut album; "In A Perfect World".
    

Album Spotlight: Marques Houston - Veteran

Marques Houston won me over as a fan with his "Naked" album(which I will likely do an album spotlight feature on in the future). So I was really looking forward to his "Veteran" album though I never truly cared for the singles "Favorite Girl" and "Circle" but everything else I liked.

Marques Houston makes music for the grown and sexy in my opinion. His music particularly on this album is really smooth and I think its perfect for someone of my age group(26 and up). The album starts off with an intro with Marques talking about his past and his status as a "Veteran". Once you hear what he has to say; then it all makes since from there.

With music presented on the disc as it is; you do get a sense of a veteran making this album. It is definitely someone who has experience making music and capturing a certain mood. Some of my favorite songs are "Kimberly"(who many people thought was about Kim Kardashian), "How You Just Gonna"(which is real cool and breezy and it gives me a Spring type feel), "Always & Forever"(an absolute favorite), and many more.

You definitely should check this album out if you haven't. Now that I think about it a lot of these album spotlights are more like album reviews. I just felt like pointing that out. Well until next time everyone.

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Now playing: Kiley Dean - No
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Monica - U Should've Known Better

In honor of Monica releasing her new album; "Still Standing" today; I decided to dedicated today's throwback video to Monica and her legion of fans including myself. "U Should've Known Better" was the third single from Monica's "After The Storm" album and it went peaked at #19 on the Pop charts. Check out the video which features Monica's then boyfriend; Young Buck.



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Now playing: Chy - U Make Me Feel
via FoxyTunes

Melanie Fiona Performs It Kills Me On Ellen!

See Melanie perform her #1 R&B hit!

Dondria You're The One Music Video Clip!

Chances are you probably heard this song on the radio and thought it was Rihanna or at least I thought it was. Well I thought she sounded similar to Rihanna. Dondria is signed to So So Def and you will see that in the video. The song and video is short and simple. Check it out!


Dondria - You're The One

Ludacris, Nicki Minaj, Drake MTV Spring Break Performances!

Ludacris and Nicki Minaj perform their hit single; "My Chick Bad". Below you can check out Drake performing his new single; "Over" for the first time. I'm not sure when this will air on TV or if it has already. Check out the videos!

Janet Jackson Talks About Why Did I Get Married Too!

Janet Jackson and Tyler Perry sit down and talk about their new movie "Why Did I Get Married Too?" and more. Check it out!

Usher Lil' Freak Music Video Clip Preview!

Check out this 36 second clip of Usher's new video featuring Nicki Minaj.

Mariah Carey Remix Album Shelved!

It happens to the best of them but not Mariah Carey right? Well even the diva of divas can have a shelved album! Mariah Carey's "Angels Advocate" album has been shelved indefinitely but don't worry it won't exactly go to waste. Read below for more on this story as well as Jennifer Lopez's revamping her album and the battle between Usher and Monica.

After a few false starts, Mariah Carey’s Angels Advocate has been permanently grounded. Instead of releasing the star-studded remix album, the pop diva has turned her focus toward a new studio project.

The ill-fated collection of remixes from last year’s Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel had most recently been set for a March 30 release exclusively at Target stores and iTunes. It was to feature contributions from Snoop Dogg, R. Kelly, Jodeci, Mary J. Blige, and Ludacris, among others.

According to Mariah Daily, select singles may be released from the shelved album. “It won’t go to waste,” assures Carey’s management. Two singles, “Up Out My Face” featuring Nicki Minaj and the Ne-Yo-assisted “Angels Cry” have already been sent to iTunes, while several other tracks have leaked.

But have no fear, lambs. The songbird is already planning her next move. “We are looking to go possibly to another studio album or Christmas album,” says the source. “The decision hasn’t been totally made yet. It’s a creative process that cannot be rushed.”

So there is a possibility of a new album or a Christmas album. Hmm I'm not sure about another Christmas album from Mariah. She did one many years ago and I think if she were to do one now; it would be overproduced and all over the place. I am in favor of a new studio album but I think she should wait a little while though.

Monica, Usher Battle It Out For #1 Spot!

Just days before their respective album releases, singles from Monica and Usher are battling it out for the top spot on Billboard's R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart.

While the duo failed to reach the top spot this week, which went to Timbaland's "Say Something" (feat. Drake), both managed to unseat previous top 5 acts Melanie Fiona ("It Kills Me") and Trey Songz ("Say Aah").

Leading the charge, Monica's "Everything To Me" jumped six spots to reach no.3 on Thursday's chart (9-3).

The lead single from "Still Standing," which is due in stores March 23, "Everything To Me" was penned by Grammy nominated talent Jazmine Sullivan with production from Missy Elliott.

Following close behind, Usher moved four spots with his rising single "Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)".

A follow up to the chart-topping single "Papers," "Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)" leads Usher's forthcoming album "Raymond Vs. Raymond".

Due in stores March 30, "Raymond Vs. Raymond" includes collaborations with Nicki Minaj and Will.I.Am.

Jennifer Lopez Revamps New Album!

It was officially confirmed by Billboard yesterday that singer Jennifer Lopez has signed to Island Def Jam. Many of us had speculated her move after she was snapped having a public lunch with Island Def Jam chief LA Reid and new label mate Rihanna last month. The move also puts her in the same boat as bitter nemesis Mariah Carey.
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Thaddis ‘Kuk’ Harrell and the rest of Tricky Stewart’s RedZone team are also confirmed to be heading back into the studio shortly to work with the 40-year-old on her new album. This will be to retweak the project which is believed to have a new album title now as opposed to ‘Love?’. If you’re not familiar with Harrell, he is the vocal producer and co-writer of Rihanna’s Grammy-winning single ‘Umbrella’, and a composer and engineer on Beyonce’s Grammy-winning single ‘Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)’. Both songs were produced and written by popular production duo Tricky Stewart and The Dream.
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Lastly, superproducer Danja also hinted on his Twitter Thursday (March 18th) that he has catered new music to the project. However, there was no immediete elaboration on whether he was referring to new tracks or the ones he’d done for her previously. Is J.Lo beating a dead horse with this project or is there still hope for the mum of two?

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Now playing: Monica - Love All Over Me (Produced By Jermaine Dupri)
via FoxyTunes

Throwback Video: Koffee Brown - After Party

Do you remember the duo Koffee Brown? They were signed to Arista Records and their single; "After Party" was released in 2000. The duo had a couple of other singles but disbanded some time after that.



Hearing this song brings back a lot of memories for myself. I was 16 years old; still in high school. Napster was the hot thing and I had met a friend online who I'm still very good friends with today.

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Now playing: Ciara - My Love
via FoxyTunes

Music Feed: 10 Songs About Booty

1. Booty; Erykah Badu - This is a funky little number from Erykah Badu's "Mama Gun" album.
   
2. Ass Like That; Eminem - For awhile I had been confusing this song with Akon's "Smack That" which features Eminem.
   
3. Bootylicious; Destiny's Child - The term "bootylicious" eventually would end up in Webster's dictionary.
   
4. MoneyMaker; Ludacris featuring Pharrell - This is one of my favorite songs from Ludacris and it doesn't hurt that my favorite producers; The Neptunes produced this.
   
5. Doin' The Butt; EU - Do you all remember this song? I believe it was from the movie "School Daze".
   
6. Ur Behind; Trey Songz - This is one of my favorite songs from Trey Songz debut album; "I Gotta Make It".
   
7. Look Back At Me; Trina featuring Killer Mike - This song was made strictly for the clubs and whenever this song would come on; everyone would go wild especially the ladies!
   
8. Dip It Low; Christina Milian - Christina Milian was dipping it low like it was nobody's business in the video for this song and she looked so fine doing it.
   
9. Back That Ass Up; Juvenile - I remember the summer this song came out. I swear it was all I heard. I remember my cousin playing it all the way to the top in her car. Those were good times then.
   
10. Shake Ya Ass; Mystikal - The Neptunes produced this song and that is one of the reasons why I like it so much. The lyrics here too are quite laughable but that is Mystikal for you.
    

Patti LaBelle Gives The Scoop On Her Fellow Divas!

Patti LaBelle is not one to bite her tongue and at first when she was asked to play "Diva Word Association"; I was nervous. I thought she was going to be dissing a lot of the divas but she actually had pretty nice things to say. Check the video out below to learn what Patti had to say about Madonna, Janet Jackson, Diana Ross, Cher, and many other divas!



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Now playing: Monica - One In A Lifetime (Produced By Los DaMystro)
via FoxyTunes

Rocko Numbers Music Video Clip!

You all remember Rocko right? He had a hit single a few years ago with "Umma Do Me". Most recently he appeared alongside his ex-girlfriend Monica's BET reality show; "Still Standing". Check out the video for his newest song!



Music Biz:
Amerie Talks New Album!

During a new interview with British DJ Julie Ann, singer-songwriter Amerie announced that she’s already thinking about what direction she will go in for her next album, and that she hopes to revisit the sound she explored on her poppier, 80’s and new wave-inspired 2007 album Because I Love It.

“The next album, because I’m always already thinking about sounds, I definitely want to incorporate that sound [from In Love & War] as well as mixing some of the vibe I had on Because I Love It. Those sounds, arrangements, harmonies and song structure. It’ll be pretty interesting.” {Via Toyaz-World}

Amerie’s latest album ‘In Love & War’ is expected to hit UK shores this coming summer and she is looking to release ‘Higher’ as a potential single.

Amerie also went on to say that she’s interested in working with producer Rich Harrison again (“1 Thing”), and that the pair “might” reunite when she decides to start recording her next album.

Brandy Singing At Last In Her Bathroom!

Brandy takes on the Etta James classic; "At Last" while in the bathroom. Reportedly the video was filmed around Christmas but Brandy is just now releasing it. She didn't want people thinking she was copying off of Beyonce's most recent rendition. But Brandy did kill it! Check it out!

Throwback Video: Keyshia Cole - Love

Music Feed: 10 Songs About Flowers

1. A Rose By Any Other Name; Teena Marie featuring Gerald Levert - Teena Marie made a big comeback with her "La Dona" album and "A Rose By Any Other Name" was the perfect song from Urban AC radio to eat up and that they did. I have always liked the song personally and this would be one of Gerald Levert's last collaborations before his death.
   
2. Flower; Jody Watley - Many people may have never heard this song because it was from Jody Watley's unreleased album of the same name. The album would be Jody's Atlantic Records debut but for some reason the album never saw the light of day. However there was a video for the single; "Off The Hook". Thinking about Jody Watley's situation and how her album never came out; I'm a little nervous for Toni Braxton and her Atlantic Records debut; "Pulse".
   
3. Flower; Jaguar Wright - Jaguar Wright is very underrated and many people may know her solely for her involvement in Jay-Z's tour(I can't even remember the name of it right now). Anyway "Flower" appeared on Jaguar's album; "Divorcing Neo 2 Marry Soul" and the song was a dedication to her child.
   
4. A Rose Is Still A Rose; Aretha Franklin - Aretha Franklin scored a comeback of sorts with this song written by Lauryn Hill(who was hot at the time). The song was also the title track of Aretha's album in which this song came from. I couldn't help but like this song too. I found out was that my best friend at the time had secretly bought the single but didn't want to tell anyone.
   
5. Black Roses; Trey Songz - There is nothing beautiful about black roses. Black roses are used to signify death and in this song Trey is singing about a dying love. This may be one of the most out of place songs on Trey's "Ready" album but it is actually one of my favorites. Strangely enough some of my favorite songs on albums are just that; album cuts.
   
6. The Flowers; Amerie - There was something about this song that I couldn't get enough of at one point. I still like it of course but I really like the feeling conveyed here and I really feel Amerie here.
   
7. A Dozen Roses; Monica - Some of the lyrics here are pretty laughable if you ask me. Still Monica gets her point across as her lover makes her feel like a dozen roses.
   
8. Forever Like A Rose; Shanice - If you blinked you might of missed Shanice's return to the music world a few years ago and though this song wasn't a single(like a lot of other songs on this tally); it deals with flowers. The song is about her father I believe and her missing him. It is a very nice song and one of my favorites from her!
   
9. Roses; Mary J. Blige - Mary J. Blige ain't gushing about no roses here. She is simply saying that everything ain't "Roses"; translation: everything is not perfect especially because she is a celebrity. I like this song and I like the attitude. Mary also does a little speaking here as well. She gets her point across pretty well.
   
10. Roses; Outkast - Andre3000 was right when he said "Roses really smell like boo boo". Because they do!
    

Rihanna Hits #1 With Rude Boy Single!

Rihanna continues to dish out hit after hit with her latest single; "Rude Boy" which takes her back to her Caribbean roots. The video for the single is definitely something you should see if you haven't already. Read more below about Rihanna's latest hit and her string of hit singles over the years. Also check out stories below about T-Pain wanting to work with Brandy and Estelle's new album!

Rihanna's "Rude Boy" earns the singer her sixth #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The single is the first from her "Rated R" album to hit the top spot ("Hard" peaked at #8, "Russian Roulette" at #9) and her first appearance in the top spot since she guested on T.I.'s "Live Your Life" in 2008.

"Rude Boy" joins her other solo number ones including "Disturbia," "Take a Bow," "Umbrella," and "SOS." Rihanna also becomes the artist with the most appearances at #1 in the past five years since she debuted on the scene with her #2 "Pon De Replay."

Estelle Readies New Album!

Now that she has unleashed her inner “Freak” in the out-of-this-world video for her new single, Estelle plans to keep the surprises coming on her forthcoming album.

The dance-floor-ready record featuring Kardinal Offishall is just a taste of what the “American Boy” chart-topper has in store on her third effort All of Me. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” she tells Rap-Up.com.

Among those she worked with on the follow-up to 2008’s Shine are Swizz Beatz (“He produced a bunch of stuff with me”) and Travis McCoy (“I also did a song with Travis from Gym Class Heroes”).

In addition, Estelle reteamed with John Legend, whose HomeSchool imprint she is signed to. “I did a bunch of songs with John,” she reveals. “He helped me write about four or five songs.”

Although she has nabbed some of music’s most talented artists for her project, the British songstress doesn’t want to overload it with features. “The album’s called All of Me, so I didn’t want to put too many people on it.”

Estelle’s third studio album is due this September on HomeSchool/Atlantic Records.

T-Pain Wants To Work With Brandy!

In the up and coming years, I would hope to improve the quality of music that’s being played on air. I see myself touring more internationally, collaborating with more artists and creating a bigger fan base as a singer/songwriter. I would really like to work with Brandy. This will be a great opportunity for me to expand and grow musically. I loved her song "Full Moon". Her vocals are the best in the industry.

Album Spotlight: SWV - New Beginning

I remember when my friend bought SWV's "New Beginning" album which was released in 1996. At the time cassettes were still popular. I was on my way home from school and my friend at the time met up with me. He gushed to me about the album and I wish I had it. I knew as soon as I got some money I was going to get it myself. I don't even remember ever buying the album though. I think because my sister eventually got it so I felt no need. Since basically her albums were mine too or at least that's how I acted.

It had been four long years since SWV had released their debut album; "It's About Time". So SWV had a lot to prove with this new album and they did just that. The album was led by the first hit single; "Your The One". It was followed by The Neptunes produced; "Use Your Heart"(which is one of my favorites).

"New Beginning" didn't quite live up to the success of their debut "It's About Time" so in 1997 SWV released another album; "Release Some Tension" which featured a lot of rappers. I think the quick follow up was a bid to make up for lost time and keep the momentum going within the group.

Still "New Beginning" is a very fine album from SWV. It features a lot uptempo tracks and a lot of slow tracks. It's definitely a wide mix of different songs and would be greatly appreciated by anyone who particularly likes girl groups. Lead singer; Coko doesn't even do all the leads here. The other members Taj and LeLee also sing a lot of the parts in the songs so that is a plus. If you haven't checked this album out yet; what are you waiting for?

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Now playing: Sole - 4 The Love Of You (Featuring Tamar)
via FoxyTunes