the chal banz blog

I believe this was Lil' Mo's proper debut single from her debut album; "Based On A True Story". I remember this song and my sister liking it as well. Lil' Mo has a new album; "P.S. I Love Me" in stores and online November 1. The album features the first single; "I Love Me" featuring Tweet. The album also features Dawn Richard of Danity Kane and Dirty Money fame; PJ Morton; and Fatman Scoop.

Janet Jackson is about to embark on another leg of her successful "Up Close & Personal" tour. The singer takes time to discuss her brother Michael; her upcoming film project; new album; and much more. I think its interesting how people are always so eager for Janet to make another album and how she can barely sell any records these days. No lie the last few albums haven't been that stellar musically to most but people still crave music from Janet and that's a good thing.

Even though Mary J. Blige just recently released her current single; "25/8"; her next single has already been revealed. Produced by Rico Love(who produced for Pleasure P); the song "Mr. Wrong" will be the next single lifted off the upcoming album; "My Life II: The Journey Continues" in stores and online November 21. I'm still on the fence about the new Mary J. album. I haven't liked any of the new songs that's leaked out. Lil' Wayne appears on the October/November issue of VIBE magazine. The rapper candidly speaks about his "beef" with Jay-Z and the monster sales for his current album; "The Carter IV". Click here to check out the image.

J. Cole is poised to debut at #1 next week with his debut album; "Cole World: The Sideline Story". The album is estimated to sell between 240-250 thousand units in the first week. The album features the hit single; "Work Out" and "Can't Get Enough" featuring Trey Songz. I am pretty surprised with the sales forecast. I wasn't expecting him to flop necessarily but not do so well but he has had a big buzz so there you go. Jennifer Hudson will release; "I Got This" as the third single from her current album; "I Remember Me". I can't remember how the song sounds but I will go listen. I liked the first two singles from the album. Jennifer is really keeping that weight off and still doing those Weight Watcher commercials. Good for her!

I almost forgot about Lil' Cease and just when I did he pops up with a new video. I'm not sure where this is from. I don't know anything about an album or any other further details. Of course Lil' Cease is best known for his affiliation with Junior Mafia. The all star group that launched the careers of Lil' Kim and Biggie.

Docu-Series is by no means a new thing as MTV used to air a host of them throughout the years. I can't say I've seen many in existence lately but I feel they are coming back. With LeToya working on a new album; this upcoming docu-series proves to be the perfect formula to thrust her back into the spotlight. When will it air? Will it ever air? I don't have the answers to those questions but keep a look out!

For the next Nicki Minaj album; Nicki says her alter ego; Roman Zolanski will be more prevalent than on her debut; "Pink Friday". Roman was present on the Lil' Kim dis; "Roman's Revenge" which was one of the highlights on "Pink Friday". The song wasn't an official single but was a Trending Topic on twitter upon its release and made a slight dent in the R&B/Hip Hop and Pop charts. There is no official release date on the new Nicki Minaj album. I bet we can expect a follow up a lot sooner than the time it takes for an average female rapper to release a new album. If Nicki plans to channel her alter ego; Roman for the follow up to "Pink Friday"; I may be interested in that album. It looks like November is the month of the "Open Invitation". I say that because not one singer but two singers are claiming that album title. Both albums are being released just a week apart. First up is Tyrese with his "Open Invitation"...

Brandy released the title track off her third album as the second single and it went to #18 on the Pop charts and is one of my favorite songs off the album. Brandy was pregnant in this video and they did a somewhat decent job of distracting you but you could still notice in certain shots. "Full Moon" is regarded as one of Brandy's signature albums and one many wishes for her to duplicate.

I can't say I heard much from Petey Pablo in who knows how long or maybe I was just living under a rock. I mean to be be honest the only song I know of his is; "Freek A Leek". Was that his only hit? Read below about why Petey Pablo is being sent to prison! Petey Pablo has been sentenced to almost three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a stolen firearm. According to The Sacremento Bee, the rapper, whose real name is Moses Barrett, will spend 35 months behind bars following a hearing in the U.S. District Court in New Bern, North Carolina earlier today. He was arrested last year after attempting to smuggle a firearm past security at Raleigh-Durham International Airport for a flight to Los Angeles, California. The gun had been stolen back in 2005.

Kelly Rowland performs her new single; "Lay It On Me" featuring Big Sean. The song is currently climbing up the R&B charts and a video for the song should be released soon. There have been pictures and videos of the video and from the looks of it; it will live up to its name.

"Countdown" is now the new single from Beyonce's recent album; "4". The single choices have been changing from week to week and at this point; it may change altogether next week. "Countdown" has been on the R&B charts since the "4" album was released. Whether or not the song was intended to be a single is anyone's guess. Due to the increased airplay; whatever they release; it needs to be a surefire hit. The sales for "4" have been a little underwhelming and going with this song may be a good choice. I say that because its already on the charts and maybe with a video will kick it into high gear.

J. Cole has revealed that "Nobody's Perfect" featuring Missy Elliott will serve as his third single. Cole's debut album; "Cole World: The Sideline Story" will be in stores and online tomorrow; September 27. The album's current single; "Work Out" is climbing up the charts and a current favorite song of mine. I was thinking that J. Cole's album would of been pushed back but obviously they feel he has enough power to push through. I'm not saying I disagree with his label's decision but I thought they would of waited until one of his singles or his current one would chart a little higher before his album was released. I think with all the buzz he's had and the Jay-Z assisted song; he might be okay. We will find out later in the week. Mariah Carey is back in the studio with Jermaine Dupri. Jermaine Dupri is responsible for many of Mariah hits including "Shake It Off" and "We Belong Together". The singer took to he...

Drake is set to appear on an October 15 episode of "Saturday Night Live". The rapper/singer will perform tracks from his upcoming album; "Take Care" in stores and online October 24. Drake's current single; "Headlines" is my current ring tone and one of my favorite songs out right now. My sister is a big fan of Drake's and she can't wait until the new album is released. I think I'm actually looking forward to it myself. I read that Dr. Dre's long awaited album; "Detox" is currently undergoing the mixing stages. Does that mean the album is closer to getting a physical release? I guess so but with no solid release date; you never know. The album has already delivered a few hit singles such as "Kush" and "I Need A Doctor". I'm just wondering when the album finally does release; will anyone care or will it under perform just because of the long wait? Who knows. We will have to wait, listen, and see!

All I can say is let's hope T.I. doesn't go back to jail at all! It seems like its always something. T.I. will celebrate his homecoming with a party fit for a king. An extravagant affair is being planned for the hip-hop superstar upon his release from a halfway house later this week. Instead of the typical club bash, Tip’s family and friends will toast his return with a brunch in Atlanta. According to TMZ, the swanky event is costing a reported $100,000 , with $20,000 being spent on food and an additional $8,000 on dessert. Diddy is said to be providing 150 bottles of Ciroc, one for each person in attendance. VIP guests will also be measured for custom-made clothing from Tip’s apparel line AKOO. The festivities are set to take place on October 2 , two days after T.I. is released from a halfway house. Upon his return, he will resume taping his reality TV series “T.I.’s Family Hustle” and gear up for the release of his first novel Power & Beauty on October 18.

Eve is poised to release her long awaited album; "Lip Lock" sometime next year. It's been nine years since Eve's last album; 2002's "Eve-o-lution". Remember that? Time sure does fly by. Eve describes this album as a return to form primarily to her earlier beginnings as far as lyrics. The beats are more universal and otherworldly which describes where she is currently in her life. A few songs have leaked over the last few months so we will see if any of those songs make the final cut. Most notably the song; "Make Up Sex" featured will.i.am was a song that leaked out and one that I really liked. Plies has just released his new single; "Just(The Tip)" featuring Jeremih & Ludacris. I'm assuming its the first single from his upcoming album; "Purple Heart" to be released this Fall. I said assume because if this doesn't do well; it will be labeled a buzz single. The early responses I read regarding the new single have b...

Brandy is hard at work on a new album; her first for the RCA label. It was revealed a little while back that the singer had a new record deal. The singer is tapping back into her early R&B roots. Along for the ride with Brandy are Rodney Jerkins; Timbaland; Bangladesh(worked with Ciara); Rico Love; and Jim Jonsin(produced "Lollipop" for Lil' Wayne). The album is slated to be released early next year. Meanwhile its been noted that Brandy is taping an episode of BET's "The Game" which is rumored to air in January. She currently stars as a mentor in the show; "Majors & Minors" on the HUB network. She also has a recurring role on Lifetime's "Drop Dead Diva". Go Brandy! I'm hoping the new album is good and Brandy seems focused more than ever this time. A singer that Brandy has collaborated with a few years ago; Carl Thomas is returning to the music scene. He will release his fourth album; "Conquer" on November 15. The...

I'm totally confused at this point what Beyonce and her team are doing with her choice of singles at this point. I think some songs are just being released for promotion sakes and I know radio jumped on songs like "Countdown" and "Party" when the album was first released back in June. I did read somewhere that "Party" is the next single and not "Love On Top". "Love On Top" just took off after Beyonce performed it on the MTV VMAs. I don't think it was intended for single release. After it took off though; I thought maybe there was going to be an actual release for it. Guess not!

This song randomly popped in my head a little bit ago. Don't ask me why. I mean that happens to me every once in awhile anyway. No matter who its from or what type of song it is. I don't have Lil' Kim's "The Jump Off" on any of my media players so I went to the next best thing for me; YouTube. Since I hadn't made any updates to the blog today; I'd figure making this a Throwback Video for the day would be fit. This is the Lil' Kim I like and the one I wish to return when she does with her new album. I remember at the time of the initial release of this song; back in 2003; I wasn't exactly on the Lil' Kim train. I was #teamfoxybrown but I realized how good this song was and the album; "La Bella Mafia" in which it was derived from.

I was surprised to learn about Vesta and her untimely death. The singer was said to be 48 or 53. Reports have varied. The singer is known primarily for a slew of R&B singles including the one featured; "Sweet Sweet Love", "Congratulations" and "Special". Her voice was eerily reminiscent of Chaka Khan's. I read awhile back though she was a former background singer to Chaka. R.I.P. to Vesta. The video above is one of my favorite songs from Vesta and you hear the Chaka Khan resemblance loud and clear.

While Beyonce is making news for her pregnancy; which was revealed today that she is expecting a girl; Beyonce is continuing to build on her brand. Next up for the singer is a foray into directing and spreading her own musical knowledge to those upcoming singers and bands. Read more below: Whilst on a promo run for her new fragrance ‘Pulse’, Bey spoke to Associated Press and revealed some of the business ventures she hopes to explore in the future. Balance. I am still working on balance and still growing. I am starting my company, my label. I want to create a boy band. I want to continue to produce and do documentaries and music videos. I eventually want to start directing for other artists. Once I know that I have my stuff together and I trust that, I can do it for other artists. I see so many male artists building these empires and passing their knowledge on to other artists and development. I see myself doing the same thing and hopefully other younger artists when they g...

According to Deadline.com, NBC has closed a deal for "Mixed Blessings," a comedy project executive produced by singer-songwriter John Legend. Mixed Blessings centers on a prominent, black, street-bred hip-hop artist enjoying his single life who discovers that he has a teenage son and decides to connect with him and his white suburban family. The show explores the culture clash and the complicated journey of a father and son beginning their relationship as the dad soon discovers that fame, talent, and wealth get you nowhere when it comes to parenting. This marks the first major foray into television for Legend.

Fat Joe has revealed that he is releasing a new mixtape; "The Darkside Vol. 2" and an upcoming untitled album to follow. The first single titled; "Another Round" will feature Chris Brown. The album will also feature a collaboration from producer Rico Love. A lot of rappers are featuring Chris Brown on their songs and its kind of hit and miss; depending on the song. Game's song with Chris Brown; "Pot Of Gold" hasn't done so well but I don't think its the type of song people want to hear from Game. People think featuring Chris Brown on their song is an automatic hit but it just guarantees some radio spins. I do hope Joe is successful though. He's cool in my book! Lil' Wayne has chosen "Mirror" featuring Bruno Mars as the next single from his "The Carter IV" album which is now certified Platinum. The song has already garnered some popularity thanks in part to it debuting on the Pop charts last week(I believe). The song ...

I'm trying this again. The last cover I uploaded didn't go through so here it is again; the new single cover art from the new Rihanna single which leaked out today. I haven't heard it yet but based one review I read; the song was less than flattering. Surprised?

50 Cent promises that his new album will be released this November. Dr. Dre is also said to be producing a few beats. No word on the actual first single. In other 50 Cent news; he simply states "desperation" towards nemesis Game who insinuated a week or so ago that 50 Cent was gay. 50 then took another jab at Game poking fun at him basically not having any songs playing on radio right now. In fact he does; "Pot Of Gold" which features Chris Brown but it isn't exactly setting the charts on fire. This 50 Cent and Game feud continues to live on and I don't expect it to die down anytime soon. Wale will release his sophomore album; "Ambition" in stores and online November 14. The album contains collaborations with Miguel, Lloyd, Ne-Yo, Rick Ross, Meek Mill, and Kid Cudi. Rick Ross and Meek Mill are said to appear on the title track. No word on the album's first single. I liked Wale's first album and after its release and subsequent mixtapes; he ...

The first single and video from Timbaland's upcoming album; "Shock Value II".

Tyrese releases the first video of his upcoming album; "Open Invitation" in stores and online November 1. The album also features the single; "Too Easy" featuring Ludacris. I just heard the song for the first time last night. I also hear Brandy is featured on the new album among others. Tyrese had been so into making movies; I figured he was pretty much done with music but I should of known better.

I been reading for a minute that Keyshia Cole has been working on a new album. Below is a little information on her upcoming album. Check it out! Less than a year after releasing her latest album, Keyshia Cole is back in the lab cooking up new material. The soulstress is eyeing an early 2012 release for the as-yet-untitled project. The follow-up to last December’s Calling All Hearts is due in February, Keyshia revealed on Twitter. She has been writing with hitmaker Ester Dean and says the new material is unlike her previous four albums. “I’m in love with these songs I’ve recorded. REAL TALK,” wrote the mother of one, who is also scheduled to hit the studio with Boi-1da (Drake, Eminem). Earlier this year, the 29-year-old singer split from her longtime manager Manny Halley and is now being represented by music executive Kevin Liles, who manages Trey Songz. In between music, she is taping her new 6-episode reality series “Family First” and will celebrate her marriage to Daniel...

Jennifer Lopez releases her latest video from her current album; "LOVE?" in stores and online now. The video is funny and it looks more like an extended commercial than a music video but whatever!

The wait is over! R&B vocalist Tamia is gearing up to release her new studio LP tentatively entitled, Beautiful Surprise in February 2012. The album's lead single is slated to be released by the end of the year. Also, producers such as Darkchild, The Runners, Chuck Harmony, Claude Kelly, and Carvin & Ivan. Roll on 2012! http://www.singersroom.com/news/7521/Tamias-Beautiful-Surprise-Coming-in-February#7521

I don't catch every single video release and obviously I thought there was already a video in existence to this; apparently not! It was just added to YouTube yesterday.

Rihanna has decided to release her sixth album instead of re-releasing her "Loud" album. It's been revealed that Rihanna's new single; "We Found Love" will be released on October 11. The single is said to be produced by dance music singer; Calvin Harris. I can't say I'm surprised. At this point Rihanna is virtually unstoppable so I don't blame her for releasing a new album and getting them Holiday sales as well. Ashanti is getting it in apparently. The star recently hooked up with Akon possibly for her new album coming soon. Ashanti has already collaborated with Lil' Wayne, Busta Rhymes, Rico Love, and LT Hutton(who produced her hit; "The Way That I Love You"). Ashanti recently released the song; "Never Too Far Away" the lead single from the upcoming movie; "Dream House" and that was a little underwhelming unfortunately.

Twitter went crazy over the weekend when several Tweeters reported that Fab and Ray had got into a scuffle with each other at Fabolous' concert. Some concert-goers tweeted the first sighting of fists flying, including: "Just saw Ray J and Fabolous throw blows backstage at the concert in Vegas," and "So @RayJ just punched @myfabolouslife about some dumb stuff but Fab whooped his a** backstage." However, anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the alleged fight may be disappointed because concert-goers were forced to delete any footage by a security guard. The beef between Ray and Fab started a few days ago when Fab took shots at Ray on his Twitter, writing: "N**ga Ray J doin a concert in his living room," and "Nah but Floyd [Mayweather] saying we havin a concert in my living room & the camera cuts to Ray J singing "One Wish" on the piano had me in tears." It then escalated when Ray's friend retaliated, saying: "Ch...

Robin Thicke will release his new album; "Love After War" on November 15. There is no word on the album's actual first single. The song; "I'm An Animal" leaked out a little while ago and was rumored to be the album's title but obviously not anymore. Reportedly Robin has been in the studio with Faith Evans and Pharrell but I'm not sure if those collaborations will be apart of his album or not. R. Kelly is turning back up the sleaziness with his upcoming album; "Black Panties". The Chicago native recently appeared on the Chicago radio station and gushed about the upcoming project. No release date is available but the album's first single is titled; "10 Minutes". The album is said to be a sequel of sorts to his classic album; "12 Play". All I can say is that the album's title's is pretty interesting.

Mary J. Blige's upcoming album; "My Life II: The Journey Continues" has had many pushbacks. Now the album is being released November 21. The album's current single; "25/8" recently debuted on the R&B/Hip Hop Songs charts. Let's see if this date actually sticks. Melanie Fiona will "finally" release her new album; "The MF Life" on November 15; a week earlier than Blige's. The album contains the singles; "Gone & Never Coming Back" and the newest single; "4 AM" which is climbing up the charts. I noticed an interesting observation. If everything goes according to schedule; three albums that share the title; "Life" will all be released in November. Two being Mary J. Blige and Melanie Fiona but also Monica with her "New Life" album in stores and online November 29.

Monica's official first single; "Until It's Gone" leaked out Friday and its a nice song. I do remember Monica said she was singing a lot of ballads on this album in the vein of some of her more classic ones like "Why I Love You So Much". I'm not sure who produced the song but the new album; "New Life" will be in stores and online November 29(I believe). I swear the release date of this album keeps changing.

I'm not sure where this is from but I came across it. Enjoy!

Ashanti landed herself the lead song from the upcoming movie; "Dream House" which I seen the preview of a bit ago. The movie looks like a horror suspense type movie. I can't remember it that vividly but its from that soundtrack. Ashanti hinted at something leaking out this week and this must be it. The reaction I've read so far has been mixed but most reactions towards Ashanti are mixed.

J. Cole insists that he and Rihanna did not make a sextape. He never said they didn't have sex though! Ha! He also denies being dropped from Roc Nation. This of course is all on the heels of him releasing his debut album; "Cole World: The Sideline Story" in two weeks; September 27. Like I said I think the album will get pushed back. I think to put a rest to the Roc Nation rumors; J. Cole leaked out the Jay-Z assisted single; "Mr. Nice Watch" which I just heard and its okay. I'm just not instantly moved by most songs but I will have to give this another listen before giving my final verdict. Kreayshawn; responsible for the single; "Gucci Gucci" has been speaking out on her alleged beef with Rick Ross. The rapstress claims the beef is dead and that it was clearly a misunderstanding. Rick Ross got upset when Kreayshawn issued a freestyle calling Rick Ross "fake". I mean I know it wasn't the first time Rick Ross had heard something like t...

Tyrese reconnects with his "Baby Boy" co-star Tariji P. Henson for his new video and single; "Stay". Check out the preview!

J. Cole is leaking out his new single with Jay-Z; "Mr Nice Watch" which will appear on his upcoming album; "Cole World: The Sideline Story" which will be online and in stores September 27. I see that date being pushed back though. I'm surprised no announcement has been made or maybe their has. Anyway collaborations on the album include Missy Elliott, Trey Songz, and Drake. Game revealed that his fifth album will be titled; "Soundtrack To Chaos" and get this; it will have no features! That's the big thing about it so far. No word on when to expect the album but I also read that it is his last album under the Interscope label. We'll see. Game says one thing and always does another anyway.

Some things never change. Authorities in suburban Atlanta say rapper Gucci Mane will serve six months in jail after pleading guilty to battery and other charges. DeKalb County Solicitor-General Sherry Boston said Tuesday that Mane, whose real name is Radric Delantic Davis, pleaded guilty to two counts of battery, two counts of reckless conduct and one count of disorderly conduct. A police report said Davis pushed 36-year-old Diana Graham out of his Hummer as it rolled down a suburban Atlanta street on Jan. 28. State Court Judge Eleanor Ross sentenced the rapper to serve six months in custody followed by several months on probation. The judge also ordered him to complete 12 weeks of anger management classes; pay $5,091 in restitution to the woman for her medical bills; and pay a $3,000 fine.

All I can say is this is clearly an effort to keep his name out and it is certainly working to his advantage. Game outed 50 Cent on twitter as "gay". The comments stem from comments Game made on VLAD TV. I posted that video on here awhile ago but I don't remember anything he said that should of been taken out of context. While trying to prove a point to TMZ; who sent me a tweet; he threw arch rival 50 Cent under the bus saying he was "gay". Ha! Ne-Yo; Clive Davis; and other Sony Record executives are the subject of a psychotic fan who wants "800,000" thousand dollars. Click here to find out why! Mary J. Blige appears on the newest issue of Ebony magazine. Click here to see the cover!

Whitney Houston and Jordin Sparks are set to star in the remake of the 1976 film; "Sparkle". The film is loosely based on the story of The Supremes about three sisters in 1950s Harlem who rise to fame. Jordin will play the title character while Houston will star as her mother(and executive produce) the movie. Mike Epps will also star as one of the boyfriends of the sisters. Casting is still underway and this remake has been in the works for quite awhile so hopefully soon it will all come together. Nas is the latest artist who is penning his memoir; "It Ain't Hard To Tell" will be released late next year. Meanwhile Nas will release his new album; "Life Is Good" soon. The current single; "Nasty" was released few months back.

This was Monica's second single and video from her debut album; "Ms. Thang" released in 1995. This is one of my favorite songs from that album.

Lloyd releases the video to his new single and the third off his latest album; "King Of Hearts" which vanished from the charts pretty fast. In my opinion the album was very underwhelming and they waited way too long to release it. I think "Cupid" and "Lay It Down" are the best songs on the album.

Monica may of just released the video for her song; "Anything(To Find You)" but her official first single will debut this Friday. That's according to her appearance on "106 & Park" today. So the Missy Elliott produced; "Anything" is just a buzz single with a video. Monica's new album; "New Life" will now be released on November 29. This album release date just keeps being pushed back further and further. After tying to knot(I forgot they were married or are they?) and having a baby; Swizz Beats is rumored to be cheating on Alicia Keys. So soon? Apparently the rapper/producer sent pics and text messages to a woman he is trying to hook up with. Say what! I was seeing some people make comments like "what goes around comes around". Rightfully so. If its true. We know how Swizz did Mashonda so you can't be surprised if it happens to you.

Monica finally unleashes the video to the first single off her new album; "New Life" in stores and online November 8. The song produced by Missy Elliott is steady climbing up the R&B charts.

The duo comprised of Koffee Brown was short lived. Once their real life relationship fizzled so did the group. The single; "After Party" was released back in 2000. I didn't realize it had been that long. At one point they were referring to Koffee Brown as the new Ashford & Simpson but that was definitely a far cry.

Christina Milian has scrapped her forthcoming album; "Elope". I probably shouldn't even go as far as to say it was forthcoming but the word immediately came to mind. Anyway all the songs and production by The-Dream are now a distant memory. Instead Milian is working with local L.A. based producers including Young Yonny(worked with Trina). There is no word on when to expect the new album but definitely no time soon. Lil' Mo is releasing a new album this October titled; "I Love Me". The title track also serves as the album's first single and features Tweet and recently leaked out. YouTube it! Beyonce is apparently releasing "Love On Top" as her next single as the single debuted last week on the Billboard Hot 100 at #20. It has been the highest debut of hers so far from her "4" album. After she performed the song on the MTV VMAs two weeks ago; the song has skyrocketed in success and acclaim. I am glad the single is being released. It is ...

Young Jeezy has pushed his album; "TM 103: Hustlerz Ambition" back once again. This time the album has no impending release date. The album's most recent release date was September 20. If an album gets pushed back like this; its usually not a good sign. Bow Wow has pushed back his new album; "Underrated" as well to December 6. The album was originally slated for a November 1 release. The album is said to feature Game, Lil' Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Meek Mill, and many more. Wiz Khalifa is working on a new album. It will be the follow up to "Rolling Papers". Meanwhile Wiz is pushing his latest single; "No Sleep". No word on when to expect his new album.

I remember when Pharrell released his debut solo album; "In My Mind" and it was a little underwhelming to me. The album was part Hip Hop and the other was R&B. It just wasn't what I expected. I was a big fan of "Frontin" and really expected a lot from his solo album but like I said; "underwhelming".

I stumbled upon this video and while I never been the biggest fan of the song; Left Eye completely nailed her part and its one of the highlights of this song.

Monica is to appear on BET's "106 & Park" this Monday; September 12 to premiere the video for her debut single; "Anything(To Find You)" featuring Rick Ross. The single is the lead for her upcoming album; "New Life" in stores and online November 8. Expect production from Missy Elliott and Bryan Michael Cox just to name a few. There are rumors circulating that Monica is with child. Based on the pictures I've seen; I can't really tell. Baby "Birdman" is releasing a new album; "Larger Than Life" on November 23. The album features the first single; "Y U Mad" featuring Nicki Minaj and Lil' Wayne. I heard the song and it didn't exactly blow me away but I can see it being a hit. Besides with Nicki and Wayne being on it; it has all the makings of being a top 20 R&B/Hip Hop hit.

A new Mario single; "The Walls" featuring Fabolous has leaked out. I believe its the first single from his upcoming untitled album. The album is said to be due in either November or January. The song was written and produced by Rico Love(worked with Pleasure P). A few other Mario songs have leaked out in recent weeks. That seems to always be the case when Mario gets ready to release a new album. His songs just don't seem to not be leaked out. Dawn Richard of Dirty Money and Danity Kane fame will release her debut solo album; "GoldenHeart" this Fall. The album will be apart of a trilogy. No word yet on the official first single but songs over the year have leaked out. Who knows if any of those will surface onto her debut album.

Los Angeles-based entertainment/production company The Collective has signed Grammy Award-winning singer Toni Braxton and up-and-coming singer/songwriter BC Jean for worldwide career management. The announcement follows the company's recent signing of singer/actress and Destiny's Child founding member Kelly Rowland. A six-time Grammy winner, including best new artist, Braxton stars with her sisters on the WEtv reality series "Braxton Family Values," which has been renewed for a second season. The R&B singer's most recent album was 2010's Pulse. The project, Braxton's fifth top 10 on the Billboard 200 (debuted/peaked at No. 9) and fourth No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, has sold 149,000 according to Nielsen SoundScan. Craig Baumgarten of Santa Monica, Calif.-based Baumgarten Management & Productions, continues to represent Braxton for film and television.

This was one of the singles from Mariah Carey's 1999 album; "Rainbow" which would be her last album for the Sony label.

Kelly Rowland is gearing up to shoot two new videos from her current album; "Here I Am". Read more below: Kelly Rowland is giving her fans not one, but two new music videos. The “Motivation” singer is set to go in front of the lens this week to shoot back-to-back videos. Big Sean will join Kelly on the Los Angeles set of the Hit-Boy-produced “Lay It on Me,” the second single off her latest album Here I Am. Rap-Up.com has learned that the treatment calls for a number of sexy outfits including a latex getup and a gold catsuit, with Kelly performing one scene on an elephant. In addition, she is scheduled to film a video for the dance floor-ready “Down for Whatever,” produced by RedOne. Sarah Chatfield (“Motivation”) will direct both clips. The Destiny’s Child diva has been rehearsing for her slot on Chris Brown’s “F.A.M.E.” tour, which kicks off September 12 in Toronto. She can also be seen as a judge on Britain’s “X Factor.”

New video and new single from Big Sean from his debut album; "Finally Famous" in stores and online now. Roscoe Dash also appears in the video directed by Hype Williams.

Trey Songz has already revealed the title of his upcoming fifth album; "Chapter 5". On this upcoming album; Trey is reportedly tapping into storytelling and rapping. Should be interesting! No word yet on when the new album will be released. Meanwhile as I announced awhile back; Trey will star in a remake of "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" which will be released to theaters this time next year; 2012. Drake says he's "80% done" with his new album; "Take Care" in stores and online October 24. The upcoming album features the singles; "Headlines" and "Marvin's Room". Bow Wow will release his new album; "Underrated" on November 1. The album marks his debut for the Cash Money/Young Money label. I'm not sure what the new single is.

Like A Tattoo Kiss Of Life Feel No Pain Cherish The Day In 1992 Sade released the album; "Love Deluxe". It featured the singles; "No Ordinary Love" and "Kiss Of Life". I remember my Mother had this cassette and she was always playing it. Eventually the album grew on me and what do you know; years down the road; I got my own copy.

Michael Jackson released "Bad" in 1987 as well as the album of the same name. The album "Bad" holds the distinction of being one of the rare albums that produced five #1 hits. The most recent album to do this is Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream".

Game is one person who doesn't bite his tongue and I've seen and read more interviews with Game than I have ever before. He is definitely making sure his new album; "The R.E.D. Album" stays afloat on the charts. The album recently debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and R&B/Hip Hop charts.

U Only U Take Me Tonight Love Again So Hot Focus Every Lil' Thing In 2004; Ashanti released "Concrete Rose" which featured the singles; "Only U" and "Don't Let Them". The album's shelf life was short lived thanks in part to the impending lawsuit against The Inc. This would also be the second to last full length album Ashanti did under The Inc. label.

Obviously there are a lot of albums in the works as I blogged about two other artists releasing albums in the near future! Rihanna is working on a new album instead of re-releasing her "Loud" album. No word on when to expect the new album but I wouldn't be surprised if it surfaces around the Holidays. Jennifer Hudson; I read is also working on a new album as well. Her most recent album; "I Remember Me" has sold close to 400K copies to date. I mean if she pushes one more single; I'm sure her going Gold would be no problem.

Christina Milian is still working on her new album which is due sometime soon on Interscope Records. The album she began recording in 2008; "Elope" with former husband; The-Dream has been scrapped in favor or some new music. The album is said to be a reflection of Milian's own life over the past few years. Meanwhile she is set to star in an ABC family comedy; "Maid In Miami" about a housekeeper who is an aspiring singer. Mary J. Blige's new album; "My Life II: The Journey Continues" is now supposed to be released in November. The single; "25/8" recently leaked out and the response has been mixed like most of the singles Mary has leaked out.

Can Lil Wayne do it again? The hip-hop crusader is narrowing in on the million mark with his long-awaited album Tha Carter IV, according to the latest sales estimates. HITS Daily Double reports that the Young Money rapper shows no signs of slowing down as the Labor Day weekend approaches. Initially expected to do 850,000-900,000, the follow-up to Tha Carter III is now on track to move 925,000-975,000 copies in its first week and could top a million by the time final figures are announced next Wednesday. As it currently stands, Weezy is poised to have the second biggest sales week of the year. Lady Gaga holds top honors with 1.1 million units of Born This Way, released in May. Many questioned whether C4 could replicate the success of its predecessor, which opened with 1,005,545 when it debuted in June 2008 with the chart-topping singles “Lollipop” and “A Milli.”

"It's A Fact" was the first single from Sparkle's second album; "Told Ya So" which to me was a swipe at R. Kelly. I remember R. Kelly speaking briefly on Sparkle or vice versa and R. Kelly stated that Sparkle wouldn't be anything without him; guess he was right. "It's A Fact" didn't do anything on the charts but the song and video are still very memorable. Sparkle pays homage to the 1992 film; "Basic Instinct" which stars Sharon Stone. I read awhile back that Sparkle was recording an album called; "Split Decision" but I'm not sure what has become of it.

We've been seeing quite a bit of Kelly via VH1's "LaLa's Full Court Life" and hearing a lot of Kelly on her own hits and other collaborative efforts including; "Favor" with Lonny Bereal and "Boo Thang" with Verse Simmonds. Now Kelly is set to power up her next hit single in the making. Read more below: Following the impressive No. 3 debut of her third solo album Here I Am [Universal Motown Republic Records], on the Billboard Top 200, the single received platinum certification this week for digital sales surpassing one million. It's another triumph for the superstar as her sizzling summer rolls on. "Motivation" (featuring Lil Wayne) was a staple at Urban Radio, remaining at #1 for 7 weeks and moving a total radio audience of 92 million on Rhythmic, Top 40, Urban, and Urban AC formats. A phenomenon online, the track's sexy music video has also been viewed over 33 million times on YouTube/VEVO. Certified platinum no...

| Good Life Time To Move On What About I'm Gone Vegas Straight Up Sparkle released her self-titled debut album in May of 1998. The album contained the first single; "Be Careful" featuring R. Kelly. The album featured other singles; "Time To Move On" and "What About" but "Be Careful" remains her most popular and notable single to date. The album; "Sparkle" was certified Platinum. This is one of the few albums that I still play to this day and sometimes all the way through. It is that good and R. Kelly produced and wrote the entire album. This would be Sparkle's only successful album to date. R. Kelly and Sparkle had a falling out a year later over creative differences. She signed to Motown in 2000 and released the album; "Told Ya So".

Hearing this song and seeing the video brings back a lot of personal memories to me. I can remember exactly where I was in my life at this time. It was summer 2005 and I had my first car and this was a song I would hear quite a bit on the radio. I'm not sure whatever happened to Natalie but I think she would be considered an one hit wonder.

I just read that Monica has pushed her new album; "New Life" back to November 8. I read that she is still recording songs. Current single; "Anything(To Find You)" which is finally growing on me is climbing up the R&B charts. A video was shot and is said to debut soon. Pusha T; one half of duo Clipse has signed a solo deal to Def Jam/G.O.O.D Music. There is no word yet on when we can expect a full length release album. Meanwhile you all can expect a new mixtape; "Fear Of God 2" which will be released on September 27. Apparently news spread that T.I. was being released from prison and relocating to a halfway house. Well apparently the news is not true and T.I. remains in prison for the time being. There is word of a new reality TV series to air on VH1 in December following T.I.'s prison stint; I believe. Don't quote me on that!

With nine chart entries on the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop charts; Rick Ross is certainly in demand. Check out all the song titles that he is featured on this week. Rick Ross is starting to edge out Lil' Wayne as the most collaborative and in demand rapper. I'm On One, DJ Khaled Featuring Drake, Rick Ross, & Lil' Wayne This is currently the number one song on the R&B/Hip Hop chart tally. Enough said! That Way, Wale Featuring Jeremih & Rick Ross Interestingly enough the video for this just debuted a day ago and the song is currently number eighteen on the charts. John, Lil' Wayne Featuring Rick Ross It's the second single lifted from Lil' Wayne's just released; "The Carter IV" album in stores and online now. Anything(To Find You), Monica Featuring Rick Ross Monica reached out to Rick Ross & Lil' Kim(who was later kicked off the song) for her album's first single. The song is currently racing up the charts. ...