the chal banz blog

Trey Songz previews new video for single; "Heart Attack" which features alleged boo; Kelly Rowland. Check it out!

The dance diva and "American Idol" judge is taking her show on the road this Summer. Read more below: Jennifer Lopez is heating up the summer. The Puerto Rican diva has teamed up with fellow Latin superstar Enrique Iglesias for a North American tour. The 13-date arena trek kicks off July 14 in Montreal, traveling to cities across the country including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, wrapping August 31 in Miami. Tickets go on sale May 4. J.Lo will perform her new Pitbull-assisted single “Dance Again” on “American Idol” on May 10. She is planning to release a new album this year on Epic Records. Jennifer Lopez and Enrique Iglesias Summer Tour Dates July 14 – Montreal, Canada – Bell Centre July 17 – Toronto, Canada – Air Canada Centre July 20 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center July 25 – Boston, MA – TD Garden July 28 – Washington, DC – Verizon Center August 3 – Chicago, IL – United Center August 8 – San Jose, CA – HP Pavilion August 11 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Cent...

Rihanna releases the video to her latest single from her latest album; "Talk That Talk". Rihanna usually puts out single releases pretty fast but the singles from "Talk That Talk" have been delivered at a rapid pace. Word is Rihanna is working on new music. Talk about not being outdone.

Nelly is poised to make a return to the music scene this Summer with a new untitled album. The upcoming album is said to feature appearances and production by Rico Love, Jim Jonsin, Taylor Swift, Chris Brown(who may appear on the album's first single), Polow Da Don, and Jermaine Dupri. Nell's got some heavy hitters here and hopefully they bring the heat. Nelly is in desperate need of a hit album since falling short a few years ago. His last major hit single; "Like A Dream" was released a few years ago. Nelly had been upset when his last album underperformed. With that being said; step yo cookies up! Looking at the production and guest list; there may be hope. I've never been a big Nelly fan but good luck to him! It's been revealed that Ms. Kelly Rowland will star as the love interest in Trey Songzs' upcoming video for his hit single; "Heart Attack". I think that sounds pretty good. Kelly has definitely been doing her thing and rumor has it; t...

But even PEOPLE’s 2012 Most Beautiful Woman was caught off guard when, while pregnant with her first child, whispers started swirling that she and husband Jay-Z had settled on a surrogate to carry their daughter. “That was crazy. It wasn’t hurtful, it was just crazy,” the songstress, 30, tells PEOPLE. “[I thought] ‘Where did they come up with this?’” But perhaps the person most affected by the surrogacy speculation was not the expectant mom herself, but rather her own mother, Tina Knowles. “I thought it was very unfair and very cruel that someone would think that someone would be that diabolical to keep up a charade like that for nine months,” she says. ”As a mother it was painful for me to hear the crazy rumors. And I even had people ask me, which was so ridiculous.” Alluding to an Australian interview in which it was later suggested that Beyoncé had been sporting a prosthetic bump, Knowles says, “It was a fabric that folded — does fabric not fold? Oh my gosh, so stupid.”  ...

Nas' upcoming album; "Life Is Good" will be in stores and online July 17.

Last night saw the premiere of the video for Nicki Minaj's hit single; "Starships" which has been certified Platinum.

"You Gets No Love" was the first single from Faith Evans' 2001 album; "Faithfully". Faith Evans is currently working on new music and starring in an upcoming reality TV show through TVOne.

The new Jordin Sparks and Whitney Houston movie; "Sparkle" has had quite the buzz ever since the movie went into production nearly a year ago. Now the official movie poster has been revealed.

There are rumors that suggest that Mase is returning to the music front with a deal through Maybach Music/Warner Bros. Records. Personally I think Mase needs to #sitdown. Enough is enough! Nicki Minaj is reportedly shooting the video for her single; "Right By My Side" featuring Chris Brown. What are the chances of us seeing the video though? Slim to none. In other Chris Brown news; Chris Brown is shooting the video to his newest single; "Sweet Love".

Apparently Ashanti has not given up on her single; "The Woman You Love" featuring Busta Rhymes. At this point I'm not sure where the song stands on the R&B charts but recent performances of the song have been mixed in my opinion. I noticed how thick Ashanti is looking in this video. What's up with that? Ashanti's new album; "Braveheart" is due in stores June 19.

JS also known as the Johnson Sisters were masterminded by R. Kelly and did backing vocals for not only R. Kelly but the Isley Brothers among others. They are famous for their hit single; "Ice Cream" as well as both sisters having relationships with R. Kelly and Ronald Isley. Both sisters famously appeared in The Isley Bros. hit song and video; "Busted". Where the sisters are nowadays? I'm not sure. I think one is still dating Ronald Isley.

Word is the remaining members of TLC are planning a reunion tour complete with the late member; Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes appearing through Hologram a la 2Pac at this year's Coachcella festivities. There is also said to be a VH1 movie biopic in the works. Should be interesting. Speaking of TLC; T-Boz recently had been in the news for her massive weight loss or gain; I can't remember but besides that her financial woes have come to friction. Meanwhile Chili is still looking for love or has found it. I was just thinking and I know it has been questioned before but all those qualities Chili was looking for in a guy in her show; "What Chili Wants"; I wonder did Usher exhibit all those qualities? Cause Chili had quite a hefty list of things she wanted in a potential mate. Even radio show host Steve Harvey told Chili she wants too much. Usher is releasing a new single tomorrow titled; "Scream". I just heard the snippet. You can listen here below: T...

Toni Braxton recently put an end to rumors that her new album was titled; "Heartstrings & Synagogue Vibes". In an recent interview; the singer revealed that she was unsure how the title came about. Her most recent single; "I Heart You" recently debuted at #41 on the Dance charts. Toni did go on to describe her new album as a mixture of dance songs and sad songs; Toni's stock in trade. I think "I Heart You" is a cute little song for Toni but nothing I'm taking serious. I think Toni needs a nice slow ballad or something a little more hard hitting. I'm just saying. Monica revealed in a recent interview that her single; "It All Belongs To Me" was originally for R. Kelly. Monica revealed that she asked R. Kelly for the song and he obliged. She mentioned that it was the label's idea to have Brandy featured on "It All Belongs to me" and make it an empowering anthem. Wow! Who would of thought? I like when artists revea...

Beyonce graces the People's coveted "Most Beautiful People" cover as the most beautiful woman in the world. It's a title that's befitting for Beyonce since not only her beauty and style are always being talked about among other things. The singer is currently gearing up to take the stage in a series of special performances in Atlantic City and is rumored to be working on new music. Beyonce also started tweeting on twitter and recently started a Tumblr page where she has shared intimate photos of herself and family.

According to experts, Jennifer Hudson being called as the first witness during William Balfour's trial Monday created a buzz. But, a lot more must be said and done to convince the jury that Balfour was responsible for the deaths of her mother, brother and nephew in 2008. Hudson took the stand Monday, giving an emotional testimony detailing her relationships with her family, the victims. Claiming she warned her sister not to marry Balfour repeatedly, Hudson also claimed the entire family disliked Balfour because of "how he treated her (Julia Hudson)." Hudson broke down several times, especially when discussing her mother who she claimed communicated, via text, with her everyday. She claimed to know something was wrong the morning of the murders because no text message was sent. Hudson's fiance' David Otunga sat with her in the courtroom as her sister, Julia, took the stand later in the day. While she acknowledged the fact that Balfour had threatened he...

Brian McKnight got an idea to release an "adult mixtape" as he calls it and he gives viewers and listeners a sample of what to expect. Check it out!

Melanie Fiona releases a viral video for the song; "Watch Me Work" complete with scenes from various movies including "What's Love Got To Do With It", "Kill Bill", "Foxy Brown", and "Thelma & Louise". The video is interesting but it is a little too much going on.

The war of words between Azealia Banks and T.I. is heating up. It all started when Azealia Banks felt slighted for not being featured on XXL's coveted Freshman cover where they list the up and coming emcees of the year. T.I. retorted on the radio along with Iggy Azalea(who made the cut) speaking on Azealia and her disdain for being slighted. All that did was open the floodgates and now Azealia Banks has went on twitter to address T.I. in a series of tweets labeling him a "snitch", a "clown" and more. Things are truly heating up. This is exactly why I like Azealia Banks. She's tough. She's smart. She's fun. She doesn't give a fuck. I love it! I can't wait for to finally drop that EP and her debut album; "Broke With Expensive Taste" due this September. Azealia recently switched management and is now being managed by the guy responsible for Lady GaGa's career who I thought was Vince Hubert(Tamar Braxton's) husband but I rea...

Iggy Azalea is planning to release a new EP, "Glory" this May. The EP is the follow up to Iggy's "Ignorant Art" mixtape which housed the viral singles; "My World" and "Pussy". Iggy plans to release her Interscope debut album; "The New Classic" this summer with assistance from T.I. Lil' Kim is embarking on her "Return Of The Queen" Tour which will start on May 11. There will be 11 stops including in Philadelphia, Cincinnati, and West Hollywood. This is the first time Kim has toured since 2010. I'm thinking a new album is on the horizon but then again maybe not. Who knows? Kim has released two buzz singles; "If You Love Me" and "Keys To The City" featuring Young Jeezy and neither failed to really make any type of impact. Kim will have to try a little harder and switch up her flow if she plans to relive her glory days. I'm just being real! Since her album is not selling that well and coll...

SWV will release; "All About You" as their newest single from her recently released album; "I Missed Us". The single was produced by Lamb(who has worked with Monica & Trina). Your memory serves you correctly if you can remember 16 years ago; SWV released a single called; "It's All About You" from their "New Beginning" album. Sure their two totally different songs musically but the only difference in the titles is the omission of "Its". Coincidence? I'm sure. Good news for Usher! He collects his 12th #1 hit on the R&B/Hip Hop Tracks song chart with "Climax". The single didn't take long to reach the summit. The song dethrones Beyonce's "Love On Top" which ruled for seven straight weeks. "Climax" is the first single from Usher's "Looking For Myself" album in stores and online June 12. It has recently been announced that "Let Me See" featuring Rick Ross will be ...

The new album from Chris Brown has suffered yet another pushback this time to July 3 which Chris Brown himself revealed as the official release date for upcoming album; "Fortune". The album features the singles; "Sweet Love", "Till I Die", and "Turn Up The Music". I'm not sure of the pushback but many believe its being set up so Chris can properly promote the album. Correct me if I'm wrong I remember Chris stating that he wasn't doing any promo this go round for the new album after all the bad press he received with the last album. Guess times are a changing! Just the other night I saw a preview of the 2012 BET Awards. It announced that the award telecast will air July 1 a few days later than its typical late June premiere. Expect nominations and performers to be announced in the coming weeks.

It was just revealed a week or so ago that Monica is moving ahead with a new single; "Without You" and the single cover is available as well. The song which is dedicated to her husband was produced by Polow Da Don who also executive produced the "New Life" album. Maybe this song will be the single that will take off since all the other singles have somewhat stalled on the R&B charts. None of the singles from "New Life" have done horrible but compared to the two singles released on "Still Standing"; it makes her more recent songs look like flops.

There has been whispers and rumors online that Chris Brown's new album; "Fortune" would be pushed back and now the rumors have been confirmed. Originally scheduled to be released on May 8; the album will now be released on June 26. I'm not sure of the pushback but its not like the album release really needed it since Chris has multiple hit singles out at once. Then again this has become standard in R&B/Hip-Hop releases anyway. We get at least three or more single releases before the album is actually released. Suge Knight has found another way to conjure up some controversy for whatever reason. The famed former record label exec believes that Tupac is still alive; like many other people. He claims stem from Tupac's recent Hologram performance at Coachella which featured performances from Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Azealia Banks, and Frank Ocean to name a few. I mean I can understand why Suge and even other people make notions like this and as long as things like...

Its been 11 years since Janet released her smash hit; "All For You" from her album of the same name. The single went to #1 as the did the album. Its also Janet's last huge album and many have been waiting for her top this album commercially. Maybe one day we will get our wish.

Fantasia has apologized to R. Kelly for previously bashing the singer for not doing his set on a joint tour. Turns out that Kellz wasn't properly compensated and that's why. Fantasia took to twitter and publicly apologized. In other Fantasia news I read that she has reopened her twitter page then again I never knew it was down. Like I have said in the past; I don't follow many celebs at all on twitter. I did read that Fantasia is in the studio working on new music and is trying to sell her mansion. John Legend recently spoke out against comments made by President Obama when he referred to Kanye West as a "jackass". The singer was making the rounds to promote his new single; "Tonight" featuring Ludacris when he was asked about it and simply stated "that [Kanye] has never treated him like a jackass". Hey maybe he hasn't treated you like a "jackass" but I can definitely see him being one to certain people.

Nicki Minaj is currently overseas promoting her new album; "Roman Reloaded" which was #1 last week on both the US and UK charts. She recently came under fire for deleting her twitter page which she hopes to revamp possibly. She expressed that she misses her "barbz". So there you go! Maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel! Travis Porter will release their debut album; "From Day 1" on May 29 through RCA Records. The album features Tyga, Mike Posner, and Jeremih. The album features production from Diplo(produced Usher's "Climax") and J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League(worked with Trina).

"Share My Love" is the first single and video from R. Kelly's upcoming album; "Write Me Back" in stores and online soon.

Rihanna has just been named by TIME magazine as one of the world's most influential people. She is in good company along with luminaries and political figures such as President Obama and Hilary Clinton! Punch Rihanna! Rihanna recently released; "Where Have You Been" as the newest single from her "Talk That Talk" album. The singer is reportedly working on new music and gearing for the release of her big screen debut in "Battleship". While we await the next 50 Cent album release the rapper/actor is busy filming the new movie; "The Tomb" which stars a pair of action stars; Sylvester Stallone & Arnold Schwarzenegger. The movie is set to be released next year.  ---------------- Now playing: Monica - Let Me Know (Feat. Missy Elliott) via FoxyTunes

Big Sean is working on a new album after the release of his 2011 album; "Finally Famous". The untitled album is slated for release later this Summer or early Fall. One collaboration to look forward is a song with Tyga. Big Sean also revealed the song title; "One Man Can Change The World" as a song that he obviously wants everyone to pay special attention to when we hear it. Big Sean currently appears on Chris Brown's "Till I Die" song which is actually one of my favorite songs right now. Iggy Azalea has titled her debut album; "The New Classic" which is to be released very soon. The first single; "Murda Bizness" features T.I. The singer will appear on MTV's "Hip Hop POV" on Thursday at midnight. Make sure you tune in! On the Billboard Album Charts this week legendary singer Lionel Richie scores his first #1 album in 26 years with "Tuskegee". Elsewhere Monica debuts at #4 with "New Life" with 69,000 ...

One thing we all know Mariah Carey likes to do is show off her curves in little to no clothing at all. I'm not complaining! Mariah Carey appears on the latest issue of SHAPE magazine and shows off more of her post baby weight. As if we haven't seen enough of it in numerous commercials. What I wanna know is when are we getting a new album? I know she has been working with Jermaine Dupri but that's about all I know about her upcoming project which has been shrouded in mystery. ---------------- Now playing: Mariah Carey - It's Like That via FoxyTunes

Ashanti is obviously very passionate about this single; "The Woman You Love" which was released back in December to still be pushing it today. The song only managed to peak at #59 on the R&B charts last month. Personally I think its time to move on to single #2 even though I am a big fan of the song. I can't say I was thoroughly impressed with this performance. Like her "Good Morning America" performance of the song; the band kind of drowned out her vocals which sounded robotic. As always though Ashanti looked good but I think a song like this deserves to be performed better especially when you are giving strong and aggressive vocals on the single version of the song. Ashanti's new album; "Braveheart" is said to be released on June 19 but don't hold your breath people!

Tank is back with a new album that will be in stores and online May 8. The album features the single; "Next Breath" as well as the previously leaked "Lonely" featuring Chris Brown and "Compliments" featuring T.I. and Kris Stephens. Tracklisting: 1. How I Feel (Interlude) 2. Lonely (featuring Chris Brown) 3. Your One 4. Compliments (Interlude) 5. Compliments (featuring T.I. and Kris Stephens) 6. Don't Give Up 7. Nowhere (featuring Busta Rhymes) 8. Off Your Hands 9. This Is How I Feel (Interlude) 10. This Is How I Feel 11. Next Breath 12. Better Than Me 13. Lost It All

Rita Ora has been labeled as one of the many new artists to watch in 2012 even though I don't see what the fuss is all about. A little of the fuss has to do with her being signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label. The singer who eerily resembles Rihanna releases her debut video which samples Biggie's "Party & Bullshit".

Up and coming rapper Iggy Azalea will appear on MTV's "Hip Hop POV" Wednesday night at midnight. The rapper recently collaborated with Trey Songz on a song that she plans to release shortly before her album; "The New Classic" is released. Iggy is a part of T.I.'s Hustle Gang crew. The rapper is signed to Interscope Records. Her debut album is expected in the coming months. Eve recently spoke out saying that she wasn't a fan of Iggy's. Another up and coming rapper; Azealia Banks is not a fan either. With T.I. in her corner; I feel like Iggy has some shot at success. She has had a little buzz and if they promote her right; she might just be okay! Her song; "Murda Bizness" featuring T.I. is pretty good if you haven't checked it out! Nicki Minaj disappeared for a few days only to appear in London where the famed rapper is doing a promo tour for her new album; "Roman Reloaded" which is #1 on both the US and UK charts. The singer re...

Beyonce's 2007 hit; "Irreplaceable" was inescapable upon its release and goes down as one of Beyonce's biggest hits and finest moments. The song was written by Ne-Yo.

After a series of questionable tweets and criticism from fans; Nicki Minaj has deleted her twitter page. She is not the first act to do so so but the close interaction with fans and non-fans can be jarring for anyone particularly someone of a celebrity status. Maybe in a few weeks Nicki may change her mind and make a new twitter page. Nicki had 11 million followers on twitter. I know she didn't think those 11 million people were all gonna rush out and buy her album in the first week. Sales of her new album; "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" debuted at #1 with 253K units. It's a 125K difference from her debut; "Pink Friday" released in November of 2010. Monica will release; "Without You" as the next single from her "New Life" album. Overall this will be Monica's 4th single released from this album more than she received on her last album; 2010's "Still Standing". The song is already topping the iTunes charts and that's a ...

Rihanna not only delivers hit after hit but her love life is also the talk of many. I have drummed up a list of some of the famous guys she's been linked to over the years. Check it out! Ashton Kutcher For a brief period Rihanna and Ashton Kutcher were said to be an item. Rihanna was just one of Ashton's rebounds after his split from actress; Demi Moore. Meek Mill According to mediatakeout.com Meek Mill has an ongoing fling with Rihanna. J. Cole When J. Cole toured alongside Rihanna last year; rumors surfaced that the two hooked up and even had a sex tape. Drake Rihanna briefly dated Drake and their courtship led to numerous collaborations including; "Take Care" and "What's My Name?". Chris Brown We all are aware of Rihanna's tumultuous relationship with Chris Brown that ended with Rihanna being severely beaten. The two have since put their ugly past behind them and recently collaborated on the hit single; "Birthday Cake Remix". Jay-Z After...

So word leaked out through Brandy that she first single; "Put It Down" will feature a rap from Chris Brown. Thank goodness. I don't think I can stand to hear his vocals next so a great like Brandy. ha! Chris Brown's voice is very squeaky and at times he sounds like a little boy when he is singing. Personally I don't think Brandy needs a feature but Chris is pretty hot right now so you can't go wrong with a Chris Brown feature. "Put It Down" is the intended first single from Brandy's upcoming album; "Two Eleven" in stores this July. Usher will release; "Let Me See" as his new single which features Rick Ross. The song is produced by Jim Jonsin(worked with Lil' Wayne). The song is the second single from Usher's new album; "Looking For Myself" in stores and online June 12. Usher is pretty consistent album wise so I can see myself possibly liking this album like I do the majority of his music catalog. News Tidbits...

Kanye West feels that Kim Kardashian is "his Beyonce". Kanye West and Kim Kardashian have been flirting on and over for years according to tabloids and now the couple is officially together. Personally I feel like their relationship is just based on sex. I don't see anything serious coming from it. That will be the day. You never know though. Marc Anthony has filed for divorce against Jennifer Lopez. For some reason I thought they were already in divorce proceedings but apparently not just separation. The pair still work closely together on various TV shows and concerts. Both artists have new partners and J-LO has been flaunting her dancer boyfriend around quite a bit. At least their estrangement has not been nasty and hopefully it won't get that way.

Brianna strikes again with another viral video. Check it out! Brianna has a guest appearance on SWV's new album; "I Missed Us" in stores and online April 17.

First of all I never heard of FKi but I have heard of Iggy Azeala who is affiliated with T.I. and is releasing her own single; "Murda Bizness" featuring T.I. Eve recently revealed that she is not a fan of Iggy's nor is fellow rapper; Azealia Banks. Ouch! Iggy has had it pretty tough but she's also got this buzz and hopefully she will continue to capitalize off of it before its too late.

I've always been an avid Foxy Brown fan and I will keep her name alive even if she doesn't. Foxy has been pretty quiet on the music scene and as far as I know she's probably retired. "Hot Spot" was the first single from Foxy Brown's album; "Chyna Doll" released in 1999. ---------------- Now playing: Monica - Without You via FoxyTunes

As her new album; "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" is set to debut at the top of the US Pop charts this week; the album is also making noise overseas. She is also breaking records overseas. Read more below to get the full scoop: This week is a double celebration for Nicki Minaj – not only has she scored her first UK Number 1 album, in doing so, she has become the highest charting solo female rapper in Official Albums Chart history. Minaj’s second album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded knocked her mentor Madonna’s twelfth studio album MDNA off the top of the Official Albums Chart on Sunday. The Official Charts Company can now reveal that …Roman Reloaded has beaten previous chart performances by Neneh Cherry (who got to Number 2 on the Official Albums Chart in 1989), Lauryn Hill (who got to Number 2 in 1998), Betty Boo (Number 4 in 1990), Missy Elliott (who got to Number 7 in 2006), Ms Dynamite (Number 10 in 2002), Alesha Dixon (Number 11 in 2008), MIA (Number 21 in 2010), Ev...

Naturi Naughton formerly of 3LW is definitely making a name for herself as a serious actress. Read more below: Following her short-lived role as Playboy Bunny Brenda on NBC's drama series "The Playboy Club," Naturi Naughton has scored another television role on Lifetime's "The Client List." Based on the network's 2010 original film of the same name, the new series follows Jennifer Love Hewitt's character, Riley Parks, as she pursues a job at day spa in Texas. During a recent interview with The Huffington Post, the former 3LW singer and "Notorious" actress discussed starring opposite Love Hewitt, her thoughts on the abrupt cancellation of "The Playboy Club" and her aspiration for a music career similar to Whitney Houston's. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/06/naturi-naughton-the-client-list-the-playboy-club_n_1408845.html

Nelly Furtado is back with her new single; "Big Hoops(Bigger The Better)" produced by Rodney Jerkins. It is the first single from her upcoming June 19 release; "The Spirit Indestructible". Like on her 2006 album; "Loose"; Nelly opts for a more urban pop sound bringing Nas, Salaam Remi(worked with Amy Winehouse), The Neptunes, and the aforementioned Rodney Jerkins. I heard a little snippet of the new single earlier but the snippet was pretty short. I like Nelly Furtado so hopefully once I hear the song in full; I will like it.

Today Monica releases her seventh studio album; "New Life". The album has been in the works for awhile and suffered a few pushbacks but that's typical among R&B releases. Like many of us I was privy to hear Monica's new album a few days before its physical release. To be honest I wasn't anticipating the album all that much particularly after its long delay and its newest single; the dreadful Brandy duet; "It All Belongs To Me". No matter how much I hear the song; it has yet to grow on me and I don't see it happening. As you would expect I generally skip "It All Belongs To Me" as well as the brainless "New Life(Intro)" featuring Mary J. Blige. Skip to track #3; "Daddy's Good Girl" is when things start to sound more interesting and listenable. I admit when I first saw the song title; I scratched my head at what the song could possibly be about. I will say its one of the many highlights of the album and a possible c...

2 Chainz will release his debut album; "Based On A T.R.U. Story" this August. ---------------- Now playing: Monica - Breathe via FoxyTunes

It's been awhile since we've heard new music from Eve and her oft-delayed album; "Lip Lock" is finally nearing completion and release according to the famed rapper. The rapper plans to release a "viral" or buzz single at the end of the month followed by some other singles before releasing her official single. She promises many diverse sounds and more as far as the upcoming music is concerned. She also spoke out on several female rappers including new rappers Iggy Azalea; who Eve is obviously not that fond of and didn't think twice about it. She did praise; Azealia Banks; who is also a favorite of mine. She praised Nicki[Minaj], Missy Elliott, and of course Lil' Kim(who she wants to record with). I'm interested in seeing what Eve is going to offer us this time and can you believe its been 10 years since her last studio album?

R&B singer Fantasia is downsizing in 2012 as she's put her North Carolina mansion on the market for $800K. Which means she's in for a half a million dollar loss. Remember the home that Fantasia nearly lost to foreclosure? She's decided to sell it for $500K less than what she paid for it! According to TMZ, The Charlotte, NC mansion she bought for $1.3M, could now be yours for $800K. But why is she selling the 5-bedroom, 38,768 sq. ft. mansion? Fanny is likely trying to get those finances together now that she has another mouth to feed. And probably wants to say good riddance to all the bad memories that house holds. Sigh....

Nicki Minaj releases her newest video which is a winner in my eyes. The song recently debuted on the R&B/Hip Hop charts at #81. It's one of a handful of singles and videos that Nicki Minaj has released for her newest album; "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" in stores and online now. The album is set to debut at #1 next week with sales of over 225K units at presstime. The number may change due to Nicki making several high profile and surprise appearances throughout the US. ---------------- Now playing: Sade - Your Love Is King - YouTube via FoxyTunes

Jennifer Lopez reunites with Pitbull in the song and video for "Dance Again". The video also features Jennifer's new lover; Casper. The two have been making quite a scene since they've began dating. J-LO is obviously looking to rekindle the hit she had last year with Pitbull; "On The Floor". You know what the say. If it ain't broke; don't fix it! I see this song being another hit for J-LO. The video is nice and J-LO is always nice to look at it but that's where it stops.

A few days ago I posted the clip of Mary J. Blige starring in the latest Burger King commercial. The commercial has since been pulled over a bevy of controversy. Read more below to get the full sccop: Burger King is apologizing to Mary J. Blige and her fans for releasing an ad that garnered the singer serious fan backlash. The clip featured Blige soulfully singing about the fast-food chain's new chicken snack wraps. It immediately went viral when it was released Monday, and some in the black community said it was stereotypical. Burger King pulled the ad Tuesday over what the company said was a music licensing issue. The company explained Wednesday the spot was unfinished. In a statement, Blige said she understood why fans were upset. She said the ad didn't come across the way it was planned and she would never put out an unfinished spot. Burger King said it was released prematurely and they hope to have the final ad on the air soon.

Tank will release his new album "This Is How I Feel" on May 8. The album features the single; "Next Breath".

With a week until its physical release; Monica reminds fans and thanks supporters and collaborators for their work on "New Life". "New Life" leaked in full tonight online. That's not too bad considering she only has a week until its release.

It doesn't come as a surprise to me that Nicki Minaj wanted the ever reclusive; Lauryn Hill on her new album; "Roman Reloaded" in stores and online now! I mean Lauryn is many people's dream collaborator so like I said its not surprising. Find out what Nicki Minaj had to say about her female counterparts past and present as well as landing Nas on her album! Nicki Minaj collaborated with everyone from Nas to Beenie Man on her star-studded album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, but there was one elusive artist she was unable to land. The “Starships” hitmaker revealed that she wanted Lauryn Hill on “Champion,” the hip-hop-heavy cut off her sophomore set featuring Nas, Drake, and Young Jeezy. “I wanted to get her on ‘Champion’,” she told Funkmaster Flex. “That would have been crazy, right? She was my fave.” While the two have yet to meet, Nicki has nothing but respect for the Fugees frontwoman. “Lauryn to me was the goddess,” she continued. “I’d love to meet her. I’m ...

Beyoncé is readying her big come back. The music icon has announced the reissue of 4, which is the star's fourth post-Destiny's Child project. The re-issue will include The Original Deluxe edition with an extra 4 bonus tracks and a special DVD featuring the entire "Beyoncé: Year of 4" documentary. Beyoncé found musical inspiration at every turn, crediting everything from Afrobeat and DeBarge to Rage Against the Machine and the Jackson 5, ensuring there’s something for everyone on “4.” She “recorded more than 60 songs” and struggled to find the right tracks. The album is expected May 1st, a couple weeks before her shows at the new Revel resort in Atlantic City. Beyonce is definitely not one to be outdone so a reissue of "4" is not totally surprising. "4" is currently sitting right outside of the Top 50 of the Billboard 200 Album Chart. Several of her singles are still on the charts as well so why not? I wonder are we gonna get a video fo...

Toni Braxton stepped out with her son Diezel to a taping of “The Wendy Williams Show” on Monday. The Grammy-winning singer chatted with the self-proclaimed “Queen of All Media” about returning for a third season of WE tv’s “Braxton Family Values,” her rumored romance with Eddie Murphy (“We’re just friends”), new dance single “I Heart You,” and taking Prince’s advice and releasing her next album Heartstrings & Synagogue Vibes independently. “I’m listening to Prince,” she told Wendy. “He said, ‘Toni, you should do it yourself. Record companies are great, but the new movement is Internet and put it out all digital and you don’t really need them for that,’ so wish me luck. I’m going out on a limb.” Toni, who has been named the United Nations ambassador for autism, was also on hand to illuminate the Empire State Building in blue in recognition of World Autism Awareness Month (Toni’s son is autistic). http://www.rap-up.com/2012/04/02/toni-braxton-follows-princes-advice-goes-...

The trailer preview to the remake of the 70s film; "Sparkle" has been released and it looks to be pretty good. Whitney Houston looks good as does the rest of the film. The film opens August 17. There have been whispers that the film release may be moved up but who knows. The movie centers on three sisters who make it big and strike it rich. With their newfound fame; the sisters experience the downside to fame. That's the plot in a nutshell but its more to the story as you would guess. I'm not sure if I will be checking this movie out in the theaters as I rarely go to the theaters anyway. I'm not too big on musicals but this does look worth checking out!

Khia "Thug Misses" has leaked a naked picture of herself after claiming someone threatened to leak it out. Click here to see the picture. Clearly this may also be a ploy for Khia to get some more attention. Most recently the Tampa rapstress released the song; "Pay Yo Pussy Bill" and had a beef on twitter with another fellow rapstress; Diamond. The rumor is that Khia was reportedly upset that Diamond refused to do a song with her. Sounds pretty believable to me. Usher will release his new album; "Looking For Myself" on June 12. The album will contain the hit single; "Climax". The album features production from Diplo(who produced the first single), Salaam Remi(worked with Amy Winehouse), Max Martin(who worked with Britney Spears); and more. Usher recently held a listening party overseas and the previewed tracks were giving positive marks by fellow journalists. Usher is pretty consistent album wise so I will be looking forward to this album.

This is my first blog of the month after taking a few days off from blogging. It wasn't by choice I might add. I'm starting this month off with the Artist Spotlight feature; something I haven't done in awhile. If I take the time to make an Artist Spotlight on an artist that most people still don't know about; I must really be a fan and I am. Azealia Banks is an up and coming rapper who hails from Harlem, New York. The 20 year old is slowly taking the world by storm with her single; "212". Though she hasn't quite made an impact here in the States; her name and brand overseas is making a lot noise. Her single; "212" is the UK Top 20 Charts. She is signed to Interscope Records here in the States home of such artists as 50 Cent and Mary J. Blige. She will release an EP; "1991"(the year she was born) on April 17. The EP will likely feature some songs that have been floating around from the MC including "Fuck Up The Fun", "Liqu...