the chal banz blog

It's no secret that Mariah has been cranking up a new album with the assistance of long time collaborator Jermaine Dupri. This video above displays both singer and producer joking around in the studio.

I think sometimes people are too quick to say who the next so and so is. Anyway production team The Underdogs talks about working with Chris Brown among other things. Check it out! 'Turn Up the Music' producers the Underdogs say Breezy is 'the ultimate artist' on upcoming Fortune album. The Underdogs are no strangers to hitmaking. For the production/songwriting duo of Harvey Mason Jr. and Damon Thomas — who have crafted songs for Britney Spears, Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige — their latest, Chris Brown's "Turn Up the Music," could be their biggest hit yet. It isn't their first song with Breezy — the duo worked on his 2007 ballad "Take You Down" and his Jordin Sparks duet "No Air" — but on "Turn Up the Music," the first single from his fifth solo album, Fortune, they take things to new sonic heights. "He's so well-rounded, so versatile, he can really cover anything. He kills the uptempos, he can do the urban ...

Ashanti is in full promotional mode as she stops by "Access Hollywood" to talk about her new label deal, the Super Bowl, Jay-Z, and more. Check it out! Ashanti just shot the video to her new single; "The Woman You Love" featuring Busta Rhymes. Look out for that soon! ---------------- Now playing: Ashanti interview on Access Hollywood- 31/01/12 - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Jay-Z linked up with then label mate Ja Rule and upcoming female rapper; Amil for this cut that appeared on the "Rush Hour" soundtrack(I believe). Amil was in the short lived group; The Dynasty along with Jay-Z, Beanie Sigel, and Memphis Bleek. I'm not sure what's become of her as of late but one of the funniest rumors I did hear was that she was an associate at K-Mart's. As we know Ja Rule is currently in jail and the last I heard of him was through Ashanti who said she spoke to him for three hours and hashed out some of their differences over the years.

She sung this song produced by Rico Love on her hit VH1 show; "Love & Hip Hop" and now here is the video. Check it out!

I'm presuming this is the first single from Busta Rhymes' upcoming album. I'm not sure when its scheduled to be released but in the meantime you can enjoy his new video. I don't think the video(from what I've seen) is exactly groundbreaking or nothing that we haven't seen from Busta in the past. It's actually the type of video we've come to (love and) expect from someone with an imagination like Busta's.

In just over a week, Trey Songz will hit the road for the Anticipation 2our, an 18-date trek throughout North America. When he kicks off that tour, Feb. 9, Songz hopes to be done with his next album, 'Chapter V.' Speaking of the effort recently, Songz says "The tour's been very prevalent in my mind, but the record and making sure the album's complete have been on my mind as well." Long awaited, considering he announced the album last Summer, Songz has been taking his time to make sure it is right. Not only moving forward but, staying in touch with his successful roots. "I'm definitely trying to leap forward with every album, and with this album, I think it's a leap forward and a leap into the past," he tells Billboard. "I want to embody in this album -- this fifth album, which is very monumental for me -- what I am, where I came from and where I'm going. I… just think it's going to be very fluent, very diverse yet ve...

"The details are still sketchy, but I can confirm that he was arrested with a firearm yesterday in the Bronx," Gunz told MTV News. "They caught him around 2 p.m. in the afternoon with a loaded gun in his knapsack. "It was definitely an illegal search," Peter added. Gunz was unable to disclose full details on the incident just yet, but he explained the events leading up to his son's arrest. "I spoke to the arresting officer, and so far, what I'm hearing from him is that they got a phone call at the station saying they should 'look out,' " Gunz said. "According to [the officer], they didn't know he was Cory Gunz. They just saw a bunch of kids following him around. "What I will say is that the officer that arrested Cory actually happened to be a cool dude," Gunz continued. "After arresting Cory, sitting down with him and talking, he felt bad about the situation." The 24-year-old rapper was brought...

Sean Paul is a name you probably haven't heard in awhile but he is back with new music featuring Kelly Rowland. Read more below: Sean Paul teams up with velvety-voiced Kelly Rowland on his latest single, ‘How Deep Is Your Love.’ (No, it’s not a Bee Gees cover!) Paul has described the midtempo come-on song as “definitely a dance hall track,” and he’s right on the money. The track opens with synths and an “oh whoa-oh-oh” hook that kicks in just before the beat drops. Paul’s signature lightning-speed rhymes are in full force here, rapping so fast it’s hard to make out a lot of his verses — he’s so quick that it’s almost exhausting to keep up with him. It’s safe to say he’s trying to woo Rowland, as one of the clearest enunciated lines is “Girl, you are the hottest thing around here.” Rowland’s smooth vocals put the listener at ease when she takes over for the hook. “How deep is your love / How deep does it go” she implores the lucky gent. ”How deep is your love / Let’s exp...

Chris Brown is going to the Grammys. And he's doing more than just making an appearance... I'm told the singer will probably be performing. This will be Brown's first appearance at the Grammys since he assaulted Rihanna the night before the show three years ago. He's up for three awards this year. Plans for a performance are still being worked out, so details are being kept very hush-hush. It's already been announced that Rihanna will perform with Coldplay. But no need to worry. Brown and Rihanna were recently partying separately but at the same time at Greystone Manor in West Hollywood. Not only did they keep their distance, but Brown was also there with his girlfriend Karrueche Tran. The Grammys will be hosted by LL Cool J and telecast live on CBS from L.A.'s Staples Center on Feb. 12. Also set to perform are Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson, Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars, Paul McCartney, the Band Perry, Nicki Minaj and Taylor Swift, among others. http:...

Bow Wow appeared on a morning radio show and was very vocal about the famous women he has bedded over the years including Kim Kardashian and a host of others. Watch the rest of the video to get the scoop! ---------------- Now playing: Bow Wow Admits To Smashing Ciara, Superhead, Kim Kardashian, Dollicia Bryan, Angele Simmons!. - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Kelly Rowland releases her latest video and I don't think the video and single release is intended for release her in the States but overseas where Kelly is huge.

I wonder how Olivia(rumored to be his current girlfriend) feels about this. Ha! Maybe its an old song or then again maybe its new. Anyway a song leaked out from rapper Maino which many are speculating to be about his past relationship and affiliation with Lil' Kim. Read more for info and some choice lyrics: This morning, a track popped up by Lil Kim’s old flame Maino, the rapper famous for his street banger “Hi Hater,” called “I Still Love You,” and it’s raising a few eyebrows. The subject of the new song is a chick he used to hold down whom he misses. She’s a veteran in the industry and he even got into some rapper beef over her. Although he doesn’t use Kim’s name, he drops enough clues in the first verse for you to guess the “queen’s” identity. But it’s nice that someone out there is sending subliminal shots infused with a little positivity these days, especially when they’re aimed at Lil’ Kim who’s experienced her fair share of scrutiny over recent years. “Everybody kne...

Since the beginning of his career; 50 Cent has always ruled with an outspoken candor and a bag full of gimmicks. His latest gimmick is one that will interest a lot of ladies and probably some men too. Read more below: Rapper 50 Cent is a betting man and he's about to make this year's Super Bowl a little more interesting. The 36-year-old rapper whose real name is Curtis Jackson, reportedly won a $500,000 bet on the New York Giants in the NFC Championship game, but he's wagering even more on the Giants ability to take down the New England Patriots on Feb. 5. The Hollywood Gossip first pointed out that Fiddy recently accepted a bet from Twitter follower @MyBestAssets that will cost him more than cash if the Giants lose: The rapper quickly responded to the bet agreeing that he'll post a nude photo of himself and @MyBestAssets said she'd post photo of both her "boobs and face" if the Giants win. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/25/50-cent-superbow...

Aretha Franklin was gushing about her upcoming nuptials awhile back but now she has called off her wedding. Read more below: Aretha Franklin won't be getting fitted for a wedding gown after all: She's called off her engagement. In a statement released Monday, her representative said her wedding to Willie Wilkerson wasn't going to happen. Franklin said things were moving too fast and "a number of things" had not been thought through. She says she won't be commenting about it because of "the very personal and sensitive nature of it." It's not clear if they are still a couple. Franklin announced shortly after New Year's Day that she was getting married, and said she planned a wedding in either the Hamptons or Miami.

It's been in the works for some years now but finally famed group SWV is set to return with a new album release this Spring. Read more below: SWV (Sisters With Voices), one of the most successful R&B groups of the ‘90s, announces the release of its new album, “I Missed Us,” on April 10, 2012 on eOne Music / Mass Appeal Entertainment. The breathtaking first single, “Co-Sign” produced by Lamb (Beyonce, Jasmin Sullivan, Missy Elliott, Monica, etc.), was #1 most added at Urban AC Radio last week and continues to grow. The ladies have also been working with super producers Bryan M. Cox and Jazze Pha on tracks for the album. SWV – Coko, Lelee and Taj – released its debut album “It’s About Time” in 1992. The album went multi-platinum and spawned a string of top ten R&B hits including “I’m So Into You, “Right Here,” “Downtown,” “Weak” and “You’re Always On My Mind.” The group’s sophomore effort, “New Beginning,” went double platinum, while the trio’s third album, “Relea...

Remember the group Soul For Real? Not only are the responsible their hit video and single; "Every Little Thing I Do" but also their debut single; "Candy Rain". The group was heavily promoted by the late Heavy D and they were signed to MCA Records back in the day. I found some interesting little tidbits about the famed group and what they were up to nowadays. Well it turns out that boys are in big trouble with the law due to their bouts with identity fraud. Looks like their sour record deal left them with the short end of the stick. Its something that happens to a lot of artists and that's why a lot of them fade into oblivion.

2012 is about to be legendary. John Legend is readying his return to the spotlight with a new single and album. The Grammy-winning crooner will release “Tonight (Best You Ever Had)” featuring Ludacris on Monday, January 23. The Phatboi production will appear on Legend’s fourth solo album and the soundtrack to the romantic comedy Think Like a Man, which also features the title track by Jennifer Hudson, Ne-Yo, and Rick Ross. “We’ll be putting out a new single this week. ‘Tonight (Best You Ever Had)’ – Me feat. @Ludacris. Look for it on Monday!” Legend announced via Twitter. “The single will be on my upcoming album (unless y’all hate it!), but it’s coming out on the ‘Act Like a Lady…’ soundtrack also…” The follow-up to 2008’s Evolver (He also collaborated with The Roots on 2010’s covers album Wake Up!) will be executive produced by Kanye West. In addition, the two have been in the studio working on the G.O.O.D. Music album.

Da Brat released her single; "That's What I'm Looking For" in 2000 and it appears on the soundtrack to the Martin Lawrence movie; "Big Momma's House" but also her third album; "Unrestricted". Will Brat make a comeback in 2012? We will have to hear and see. ---------------- Now playing: Da Brat - That's What I'm Looking For - YouTube via FoxyTunes

I came across this video and I decided to make it a Throwback Video for today. "I Can't" was the second single from Foxy Brown's second album; "Chyna Doll" which was released in early 1999. I can't say I know what's going on with Foxy Brown these days. She's been pretty quiet lately which is good and bad. It's good that she is not getting in any type of trouble and its bad because I and a lot of others have been waiting on new music for some years. Foxy is pretty reclusive these days. She does manage to make an appearance every once in awhile at an event or outside just minding her business. Every now and then she may even do a show somewhere near her hometown in New York or New Jersey or Philly. Depends. Miss you Fox! ---------------- Now playing: Foxy Brown - I Can't ft. Total - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Nicki Minaj unveils the Hype Williams directed video for her buzz single; "Stupid Hoe" which is an alleged diss to Lil' Kim. As expected; the video is very colorful and full of Nicki Minaj's antics that are all her. Nicki Minaj's upcoming album; "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" which is a nod to her alter ego; Roman Zolanski has been pushed back to April 3. The album was originally to be released on February 14. I was just telling my friend that her album would be pushed back. None of the buzz singles including "Stupid Hoe" and "Roman In Moscow" has yet to make a dent in the charts like her crossover hit; "Super Bass". "Stupid Hoe" may have a slight chance though. The song is catch and very funny. I laugh every time I hear it.

Though it was a really good album; for all intents and purposes; Toni Braxton's "More Than A Woman" album which was released in late 2002 is an album she likes to forget. It is due primarily to the fact that the album underperformed commercially but it did go Gold. It's actually her last successful album. Anyway "Hit The Freeway" was the first single from "More" and it was produced by The Neptunes. The song didn't do well but its still a really good song. Whatever happened to Loon you ask? Last I read and heard; he was a Muslim now. I believe there are some videos in existence of him in his Muslim getup. You'd have to check it out!

I just happened to come across this video of Brandy doing a rendition of the gospel hymn. Check it out! ---------------- Now playing: Brandy - His Eye Is On The Sparrow - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Estelle finally releases the video to her newest single; "Thank You" which is rapidly climbing the charts. There was a viral video of the song floating around which actually made for a good video. I would say if they didn't give this song a proper video; the viral video would of served as a great video for the song. Estelle's new album; "All Of Me" will be in stores and online February 28. The album features the hit single; "Break My Heart" featuring Rick Ross. The album also features guests Janelle Monae, Common, and The Neptunes.

"Let's Wait Awhile" is one of the many singles from Janet Jackson's wildly successful 1986 album; "Control". ---------------- Now playing: Janet Jackson Let's Wait A While - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Teyana Taylor is spreading her wings and forging ahead with her career. The Harlem-born singer has officially been released from her contract with Star Trak/Intercope Records and is already working on a free EP. “I officially got my release from Star Trak/Interscope. I’ve been signed with them for six years,” Teyana announced to DJ Skee. During her time on Pharrell’s label, the “Super Sweet 16” star was plagued by label politics, preventing her from releasing music or videos. “I was signed for six years and there’s a lot of stuff that comes with the industry,” she said. The 21-year-old, who appeared on Kanye West’s album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and toured with Game, addressed critics who questioned what she was famous for. “They see the glory, but don’t know the story. When there’s not music being put out or you’re not moving, they automatically blame it on you, like, you’re not doing anything. What do you do, not knowing the politics of the music industry.” Howev...

BET recognized the achievements of legends in the fields of music, literature, entertainment, media, service, and education at its 5th Annual BET Honors. Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Maya Angelou, and Spike Lee were among the honorees at Saturday’s taping at Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. The star-studded evening featured musical performances and touching tributes. L.A. Reid bestowed praise on Mariah Carey before Patti LaBelle left the diva in tears while performing her classic ballad “Hero.” Nick Cannon honored his wife with an emotional speech as he held their son Moroccan (his sister Monroe was backstage feeling camera shy). A grateful Mariah thanked everyone for their love and support as she accepted her award. With her idol in the front row, Kelly Rowland joined Raekwon for a cover of MC’s ODB-assisted hit “Fantasy.” “I love and respect her so much,” said Kelly. “I have to look at her forehead when I’m singing and not her eyes ’cause I know I’m gonna break out in tears.” Commo...

There are a lot of surprises in this video. One being that we barely see Lil' Kim dance and secondly she is dancing to a song by Drake. We all know the two had a little rift awhile back. Not one to be outdone; Kim keeps things going by issuing a slight Drake diss after she caught her breath. Make sure you check out the video to hear it! I wonder when this EP Kim is supposed to release coming out? Word was she pushed it back to focus on friend; Floyd Mayweather's trial. The move upset fans. ---------------- Now playing: Wale - Lotus Flower Bomb (feat. Miguel) via FoxyTunes

Someone is doing something right in Brandy's camp. She seems to be getting the most attention out of anyone else in the cast of BET's "The Game". Wouldn't you agree? Brandy speaks briefly about her role on the famed series while backstage on BET's other show; "106 & Park". She also lets us in on the high profile list of collaborators that will grace her upcoming album due in May.

"Trippin' was the first single from Total's second album aptly titled; "Kima Keisha & Pam". The song was produced by Missy Elliott who had a hand in producing nearly every or all of the tracks on their second album. Unfortunately this would be the last Total album and I never knew what happened to them. No! They weren't the best singers but they had a lot of good songs. Their first album which is self titled is really good.

Beyoncé and hip-hop hubby Jay-Z are reportedly hoping to become the first artists to make a music video in space. The couple - who welcomed their first child Blue Ivy last weekend - apparently want to go where no popstar has been before, with record execs already making inquires about shooting scenes on one of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic craft. According to The Sun, flights on the six-seater spaceships are to due to launch this year and will cost £780,000 per person to be blasted 70,000ft into the Earth's atmosphere. It is thought that Queen B and Jay will film their promo when passengers experience six minutes of weightlessness, with a source telling the tabloid: "The label people have been talking about making a music video in space. "Beyonce and Jay-Z seemed the obvious option. Everything is being done to make it happen." ---------------- Now playing: Shawn Kane - Mistreated via FoxyTunes

Toni Braxton is on the mend after experiencing some painful “flare ups” resulting from her Lupus condition. The 43-year-old singer checked into a Los Angeles hospital on Monday. “I wanted to say thanks to all my fans for their support, as I have been experiencing some flare ups with my Lupus which has me in the hospital for a few days,” she told TMZ. Despite the initial scare, she is doing fine. “I wanted to clear the record before rumors started, and will totally be fine as I’m blessed to having an amazing family for support.” Braxton, who revealed her battle with the disease last year, took to Twitter to assure her fans that she is OK. “Hey guys! I’m sure you’ve heard rumors about me being in the hospital, they are in fact, true. I’ve been here since Monday but I am fine!” she tweeted. “Just a lupus flare up, but I promise you all I am ok! Love you all! Thanks so much for all of your support!” TMZ explains that Lupus is a condition where the body’s immune system mistaken...

There's no stopping the machine that is Rihanna. Her first single; "We Found Love" continues its domination over Billboard's main chart; Billboard Hot 100. Read more below about Rihanna's hot chart streak: After a two-week respite, Rihanna’s “We Found Love,” featuring Calvin Harris, returns to the Billboard Hot 100 summit (2-1) for a ninth total week in charge. The song, which already represents Rihanna’s longest residence at No. 1 on the Hot 100, matches Ke$ha’s “TiK ToK” in early 2010 for the longest time tallied atop the Hot 100 for any song since the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling” racked 14 weeks on top in summer 2009. On Radio Songs, “We Found Love” rules for an eighth week (152 million audience impressions, according to Nielsen BDS), granting Rihanna her longest reign on the list as a lead act, besting the seven-week domination of her “What’s My Name?,” featuring Drake, early last year. She also ties her longest stranglehold atop the chart overall, havin...

Fresh off his Vegas arrest; Tyga finally releases the video to his hit single; "Rack City" from his long awaited album; "Careless World" in stores and online this Summer. ---------------- Now playing: Tyga - Rack City - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Yesterday was Mary J. Blige's birthday! Happy Belated Birthday! The video release of "Mr. Wrong" has been re released with an appearance from Drake who is featured on the radio and album version. The original video didn't feature Drake for whatever reason. It was probably just schedule constraints since Drake is a very busy guy collaborating with damn near every artist imaginable.

Estelle; who has been ruling the R&B airwaves since this past summer with her hit; "Break My Heart" featuring Rick Ross will finally release her new album; "All Of Me" on February 28. The album also includes the new R&B hit; "Thank You". The song was produced by Jerry Wonda and written by Akon. Elsewhere on the new album; Estelle has collaborated with Common and Janelle Monae. There's a lot of names attached to this project and its actually an album I'm looking forward to. With that said I'm hoping its good. Oh how I hate to be let down musically! There's been a lot of talk about Ciara and her recording of her new album and finally a little info is available. According to "internet" rumors; Ciara's upcoming first single is said to feature good friend; Ludacris. As we know the two have a history of collaborating and their collaborations are usually hits; which is exactly what Ciara needs. We all know her career has kind...

The names have just been released for the artists that are said to take part in the annual Essence Music Festival. Read below to find out who will be performing: Fantasia, Aretha Franklin, SWV, Keyshia Cole, and more are set to take over this year's Essence Music Festival. Deets inside on who else will be taking the stage at one of the biggest indoor music festivals of the summer.... ESSENCE just announced their lineup for the 2012 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans. And it looks like Fantasia is about to make her big post-baby return. While Essence hasn't made public who's on mainstage at the Superdome and who is in the superlounges, we've already learned a few of the designations. Fanny's set to take the mainstage, as well as Aretha Franklin, Mary J Blige, Charlie Wilson, Ledisi, and Keyshia Cole. And in the superlounges: Bridget Kelly, Stephanie Mills, SWV, Dru Hill, Vivian Green, Goapele, The Stylistics, Raheem Devaughn, and more. Estelle is also ...

Frankie J reunites with collaborator Baby Bash for the song; "That's Wussup". The pair formerly collaborated on the song; "Suga Suga" which is a favorite of mine. The song is taken from Frankie J's album; "Courage" which is available through iTunes and Amazon. ---------------- Now playing: Frankie J feat Baby Bash That's Wussup - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Kelly Rowland continues to gain kudos for having a remarkable 2011 thanks in part to her hit single; "Motivation" which has done a lot of her career worldwide. Now Black magazine Essence is honoring the singer at a music event. Read more below: Kelly Rowland is going to be saluted at the upcoming 3rd annual Essence Black Women in Music Event, which will be held during 2012 Grammy week. She's going to be honored at an invitation-only ceremony which will take place on February 8, 2012 in Los Angeles. "We've watched Kelly Rowland for over a decade grow from a teenage sensation into an international superstar," said Essence editor-in-chief Constance C.R. White. "Her talent, drive and remarkable creative force show what it truly means to be a young powerhouse in an ever-changing industry." Constance continued praising the former member of Destiny's Child. "Kelly embodies the 'soul' of young Black women through her music and we are proud...

Though the ladies are technically the stars of the show; the men have their own place in the show as well. These men are famous rappers who the ladies are affiliated with in some type of capacity either by way of marriage or past relationships. The list below is the men who get constant mentions or make sporadic appearances on the show! Check it out! Fabolous Personally I think the show should be called; "Love & Fabolous" but maybe that sounds more like a spin-off. I say this because Emily is always gushing about her desire to reignite her relationship with Fabolous. Absolutely charming! Jim Jones Jimmy clearly gets more camera time than the other guys affiliated with the show; rightfully so though. His fiance; Chrissy is one of the primary ladies on the show. Often times we are invited into their home and their arguments. Juelz Santana Juelz Santana's baby mama; Kimbella is one of the other ladies linked to the show and new to the show this season. Juelz's name i...

We see Teairra Mari each week on VH1's hit reality show; "Love & Hip Hop". Now the singer is relaunching her music career with the help of famed producer; Rico Love who also appears in this clip above. Teairra and Rico are crafting songs for her upcoming untitled album to be released possibly later this year. We also see Teairra as she talks about her chemistry with Rico and the making of her newest single; "U Did That". I think the new single is nice but nothing I would personally get into. I have seen people say that the song reminds them of Kelly Rowland's "Motivation" song. Did Rico Love produce that too? I can't remember. Good luck to Teairra though. I know she has been trying to get her career off the ground for quite some time. I remember when she was signed to the Roc along with Rihanna and to see Rihanna's star shine has always left a bitter taste in Teairra's mouth. I remember her speaking out publicly regarding her snub b...

It's funny because me and my co-worker were talking about this beef between Common and Drake. While I had read things about the beef; I hadn't heard any of the music. Read below for more info and an exclusive link to the song: The war of words is heating up. Common fires back at Drake after his subliminal shot on Rick Ross’ “Stay Schemin’.” “It bothers me when the gods get to acting like the broads/ Guess every team doesn’t come complete with ni**as like ours,” raps Drake over the Rich Forever single. Common tacks on a fiery verse to the song, which features Ross, French Montana, and “That Hoe Ass Ni**a.” Listen and check out the lyrics below. “Everybody know you sweet, what the problem is/ Dom’t play dumb, I’m the one that acknowledged it/ Son of a bitch, I imagine what your father is/ She said, How you make your opponent/ Rapper of the moment, his style he don’t own it/ Acting all hard when he hardly like that/ Mess around and make me catch a body like that/ Don’t d...

Lil' Kim fans are mad at her because she has put her upcoming EP and as well as her upcoming album on hold. Why do you ask? Because the rapper wants to be close to friend; boxer Floyd Mayweather while he stands trail. The famed boxer is on trial for alleged domestic violence act against the mother of his children. During her visit to court; I believe the announcement had been made by Kim that her music was currently being withheld by choice. In other Lil' Kim news; her new album is reportedly titled; "2012" which coincides with the current year and her "supposed" return to music. If Kim keeps pushing her music back; chances are there will be no 2012 release. Period! Personally I think Lil' Kim doesn't want to release any new music right now since her adversary Nicki Minaj currently has new music out as well. Yes! I think Kim is scared of the competition and possibly being humiliated. Nicki Minaj recently released her newest single; "Stupid Hoe...

Tyga; part of rap conglomerate Young Money was arrested in Vegas over the weekend. Read below to get the full details: Rapper Tyga was locked up in Las Vegas this weekend ... after cops discovered the 22-year-old had an active warrant out for his arrest ... TMZ has learned. Law enforcement sources tell us ... Tyga -- real name Michael Stevenson -- was initially flagged on a routine traffic violation ... but during the stop, cops discovered the warrant stemming from 4 other traffic incidents. According to KSNV in Nevada ... Tyga's prior issues include driving without a license, registration violations and unlawful acts of financial responsibility. The "Rack City" and "Coconut Juice" rapper was hauled to the Clark County Detention Center where he was booked and tossed behind bars. He was released the next day on his own recognizance. http://www.tmz.com/2012/01/09/tyga-arrested-las-vegas/#.Twuo9IH4J7d

No! Jason Derulo doesn't get much news coverage at my blog per say but I guess times are changing. Read more below regarding the singer's neck injury and how it will affect his upcoming tour. Jason Derulo suffered a neck injury that forced him to cancel his tour. Derulo suffered a broken neck during tour rehearsals. He was attempting an acrobatic move and landed on his head suffering a reported acute fracture to his vertebra. The 22-year-old was rushed to Memorial West Hospital in Pembroke Pines, Florida this past week after sustaining the injury that reports say could have paralyzed him. “My injury is called a “Hang Man’s Break” because it is the same bone that is broken when someone is hung! I am so blessed to still be here! 95% of ppl with the same injury end up paralyzed or gone,” the singer posted to his Facebook. ”Everything happens for a reason. Traumatic experiences can change you for the better. My outlook on life is so much clearer! Don’t forget what’...

We all know that Rihanna is a force to be reckoned with. With each album; the singer's rep grows bigger and so does the singles. Rihanna took time out to speak about who she sees as her competitor and what artist inspires her. Read more below: It's good to see that she knows she's a berluddy good popstar, telling Look magazine; "There's nobody really in my league," when asked who she sees herself in competition with. "But there's competition everywhere. The whole music industry is competition. There are people who like other artists, those who like me and others who like both." "Beyonce is a great artist and I feel honoured to be mentioned in the same sentence, but we're different performers with different styles." So who does someone as huge as Rihanna look to for inspiration? "Madonna," she reveals. "She reinvented her style and music with success every single time, and at the same time remained a real force...

If you don't know Brandy is joining the cast of BET's "The Game" this season and the singer talks about her new role, upcoming music, and other TV ventures. In other Brandy news; it has been revealed through pictures and tweets that her and Monica have reunited to record a duet. The duet in question is produced by Rico Love and there is no word on which singer's album the song will be released on. More than likely though it will probably be released on both singer's upcoming albums. Brandy and Monica are label mates now so it makes things such as duets easier to come by now. I wonder what the ladies will come up with this.

In keeping the momentum that was "Motivation"; singer Kelly Rowland is back in the studio this time with dance floor King; Calvin Harris(who's featured on Rihanna's latest hit; "We Found Love"). Read more below: Kelly Rowland set the charts ablaze last year with ‘Motivation’, going on to earn critical acclaim with its accompanying album ‘Here I Am’. And in looking to keep her momentum afloat, the 30 year old has hit the recording booth with the brainchild behind Rihanna‘s monster hit ‘We Found Love’ - Calvin Harris. Confirmation of the collaboration comes via Rowland’s recent feature in This Is London magazine, which saw the her recount her storied career, as well as her future plans. Although, it’s unknown if the pairing is for the singer’s new album (reportedly due this year) or for Harris’ project, it’s certainly a mutually good look. An established force here in the UK, Harris’ profile shot up considerably after the mammoth success of ‘We Found Love’; su...

I just happen to come across this video and over the years I have pretty much forgotten about the song. I believe the song and video were released in 1997 and appears on Mia X's album; "Unlady Like".

We all know Dawn Richard from her association with Dirty Money. "Save Me From U" is one of her many solo offerings set to appear on her upcoming solo album; "GoldenHeart". I'm not sure of the release date of her album but once I find out; you all will know.

Legendary singer Elton John wants pop star and movie star; Justin Timberlake to play him in an upcoming biopic. Justin previously starred as Elton in the video; "The Train Don't Stop Here". Word is that Justin is carefully considering the opportunity as his plate is filled with upcoming movies. What about music? Well Justin Timberlake retired from making music years ago. What? You didn't know. Luckily for Justin if he does decide to reenter the music world; he shouldn't have a hard time. There is really no one staking claim to the throne that he once held. In other news; Justin Timberlake is reportedly or allegedly engaged to longtime/on again and off again girlfriend actress; Jessica Biel. One of my favorite music producers; The Neptunes recently revealed some of the upcoming projects they have in the works from music's elite. The list includes songs to appear on upcoming albums from Busta Rhymes, Lil' Kim, Ciara, Estelle, Nelly Furtado, and many more. Ju...

LeToya and her on again and off again boo; rapper; Slim Thug plays the love interest in this video. LeToya is said to be working on new music and a possible album to be released later this year as well as some film work.

The-Dream recently did an interview overseas and dished on some of the ladies he's worked with and R. Kelly's influence on R&B. Read more below: On why he can’t work with Ciara: “I have a contract under Def Jam so it’s only certain people I work with. [The executives] were real smart by putting that in there, I made them pay for it.” On R. Kelly’s influence: “He held it down. I don’t think this generation of R&B would be at this particular stage without that. R. Kelly was doing it in a hip-hop-dominated culture,” he says, adding, “But we all gotta go down.” On his success as a recording artist: “I don’t really care about the million album sales. I don’t really care about the number ones because I do those things writing for everybody else, so I can just stay in this spot and I’m comfortable selling 500k and under. Everybody wants to go pop, I don’t.” On why Rated R is one of Rihanna’s best albums: “That was right after Good Girl Gone Bad. She could of went u...

If you don't know who Ester Dean is; chances are you will by the end of 2012. The singer/songwriter has wrote many hit songs and had her own solo hit; "Drop It Low" featuring Chris Brown. Now Ester Dean is poised to take over in 2012; read more below: Ester Dean is responsible for penning some of pop’s biggest hits in the last year, and now she’s forging ahead with her career as a recording artist. The hitmaker has inked a management deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. Dean, whose writing credits include Rihanna’s “Rude Boy,” Katy Perry’s “Firework,” and Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass,” kicked off the new year by announcing her addition to the Roc roster, which includes Rihanna, J. Cole, and Willow Smith. “I’m so Grateful 4 my Team Past and Present! Bringing in the New Year with my new Team @RocNation 2012,” tweeted the Oklahoma native. In 2009, the singer-songwriter scored a hit of her own with her Chris Brown-assisted single “Drop It Low.” Her debut album is due later this year on...

When you've written a blog for six years; you do forget some of the topics you cover especially when their ones that you've made up yourself. Something tells me I may of done a blog about this before but I didn't really feel like researching to find out. I'm blogging today about songs that contain the title; "Mr." in it. Mary J. Blige's new single; "Mr. Wrong" is the inspiration behind this blog and it just happens to be one of my favorite songs out right now. Check out the list of songs that I compiled that feature the word "Mr.". Happy reading! Mr. Cool - Tamia Featuring Mario Winans For Tamia's third album; "More"; Tamia hooked up with producer/singer Mario Winans who crafted this cool breezy cut which is a favorite of mine. Mr. Wendal - Arrested Development Remember Arrested Development? Their other hits include "Everyday People" and "Tennessee" and the aforementioned; "Mr. Wendal". Whil...

"Cater 2 U" was one of the many hits from the Destiny's Child's last full length studio album; "Destiny Fulfilled". I remember the album being a big deal upon the time of its release. People were going into a frenzy since it marked the return of one or what some report as thee best selling girl group in the world. I remember when Destiny's Child performed the song on the BET Awards and pulled Nelly, Magic Johnson, and Terrance Howard from the audience. My friend and I often joke about Michelle's vocals on the song since her tone can be kind of mouse sounding.