Nas, Damian Marley Reveal 'Distant Relatives' Cover; Announce Tour!

Rapper Nas and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley have unveiled the official tour dates for their “Distant Relatives Tour” in support of their upcoming collaborative album Distant Relatives.

The tour kicks off on May 21st in Arcata, California, just days after the Distant Relatives album lands in stores (May 18th).

The tour will feature Nigerian-born singer/songwriter Nneka, who will be featured singing songs from her U.S. release, Concrete Jungle.

The tour will include stops at the Bonnaroo Festival, as well as Gathering of The Vibes.

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Rhyno changes name, releases new video!

Last Month the Portmore Empire was rocked by the news of Portmore Empire lieutenant Blak Ryno real name Romaine Anderson leaving the group. Ryno had been a member of the empire since its inception in 2007.

Since his departure from the outfit, Blak Ryno who is now known as 'Ryno D Stinger' and former Ex empire siren Kym formerly Gaza Kym have teamed up for their first collaborative effort titled 'Last Night'.
Ryno is also said to be leading a new syndicate called 'Garrison’.

Meanwhile Ryno has also released a video for his controversial single 'Mi Lef' that sees him taking a series of subliminal swipes at his former boss, Vybz Kartel. The video was shot and edited by Fabrikated ProjeX.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Drake Announces Upcoming Tour & Album Release Date!

After blazing his way up the Billboard charts, and performing at the Grammy's with the likes of Lil Wayne and Eminem, Young Money signee Drake has officially announced the release date for his debut album, Thank Me Later.

The highly anticipated release will hit stores on May 25. Despite being his first album, the Canadian rapper has developed a lot of buzz since he dropped the So Far Gone mixtape what seems so long ago. The former actor has been hard at work for the past few months to finish the upcoming album and the first single titled Over is already in heavy rotation.

In a recent interview, Drake talked about the collaborations, explaining that there is a method behind his selection.

"I really don't bank on collaborations unless it makes sense," Drake said.

"If I get people's verses back and they don't coincide with the vision I have, I'll do the whole album by myself. I'm not really worried about the special guests. It's about linking to me and my story. There's people that just add to my story."

The project will include noteworthy features from Kanye West, The-Dream, Jay-Z, and Sean Garrett.

Drake is also getting ready for his Away From Home Tour which kicks off on April 6.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Popcaan breaks out the pack with CLARKS !

Portmore Empire first lieutenant Popcaan is widely regarded as the next big artiste to emerge out of the hit-making Portmore Empire camp. He already has a rabid following in the second city of Montego Bay, and the pitched-up intensity of his rhymes has already secured a full-blooded underground following in his native Greater Portmore. It is only a matter of time before that support tips and translates into mainstream success.

And that moment may already be here as his combination song, Clarks, alongside Vybz Kartel and Gaza Slim, hit #10 on the ER top ten charts this week.

"Mi love how the single ah shot dawdie, and yu fi see the video, it sickkkkk, dawdie," Popcaan told ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM.

Word in the streets is that Popcaan has been voted the artiste most likely to carry the banner for the next generation of young artistes emerging out of the Vybz Kartel-led Gaza camp.

"The people dem a say it, mi just de ya ready fi put in the work," he said.

Boisterous and fun-loving, Papi, as he is called by friends, found a commercially viable hit, Nuh Ordinary Girl in late 2009, and since that time, the single has been blowing up all over FM radio. The song, which appears on the popular England Town riddim, is still a big fave among females. He also has a controversial single called Sell We Out which labels departing ex-Empire member Blak Ryno a traitor. The barked threats and searing hook of that song shows the urgency of Popcaan as he sharpens the force of his anger against a former friend.

"The fans dem can look out for great things from Popcaan this year, the Empire goes on and on and on."

COURTESY OF ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Luda Lands Major Role With 2010 Census!

Hip-Hop star Ludacris has become involved in the largest advertising campaign in U.S. government history as part of the government’s $300 million dollar effort to reach African-Americans for the 2010 census.

Ludacris is being featured on the “Luda On The Block Tour” in cities with high concentrations of African-Americans.

The rapper visited Dallas and New Orleans and will hit New York (4/5), Washington D.C. (4/6) and Atlanta (4/9) next month.

The Grammy Award winning rapper will explain the importance of taking 10 minutes to fill out the 10 questions during the 2010 census.

Ludacris believes being accurately counted will ensure various communities receive portions of a $400 billion annual allotment of federal support.

"I look at our communities now and I see many empty lots, closed clinics, dilapidated schools and an overall breakdown of social services for the poor and elderly," Ludacris said in a statement. "Today is a day for change. I plan to knock on doors in various neighborhoods around this country to try and dispel any myths about the Census. It’s important that we all stand up and be counted so we can help create potential financial opportunities for our dying communities."

Ludacris is also being featured in the radio/broadcast media advertisement in addition to a viral video campaign.

COURTESY OF ALLHIHOP.COM

Pon Di Gaza 2.0 selling well internationally!

Vybz Kartel's defining double CD Pon Di Gaza 2.0 has been selling well across a variety of markets worldwide, prompting Tads International to declare it "one of its best sellers ever".

Released jointly between Adidjaheim Records and the Tads Records International label, Pon Di Gaza 2.0 is a complete portrayal of the life and times of Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer. WIth slamming singles such as the Billboard-charting single "Ramping Shop" featuring Spice, "Virginity" featuring Indu, and "Like a Movie", audiences can tune into the flashy wordsmith, Vybz Kartel, while new singles like "Teardrops," "What You Won't Do for Love," "Can't Frame Me," and "Yea Though I Walk" gives personal testament of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of the man known as Adidja Palmer.

With this CD, dancehall fans can behold the man as he becomes legend.

He has taken painstaking steps to ensure that a good portion of the songs have not been leaked on the Internet or to Jamaica's rabid sound system music machinery.

"The exclusive tracks were done late last summer, and reflects the mood of what I was going through at that point in time," Kartel stated during a newspaper interview last year. "Detained in jail without just cause, relationships between my baby mothers and myself--each with a different outcome, the death of a good friend...real life situations. I think my fans will love to get personal with Kartel, so this is their chance."

In 2009, Kartel had eight number one singles in Jamaica, some of which were "Last Man Standing", "Million By A Morning;" "Ramping Shop" featuring Spice; "Mama", "Life We Living", "Dollar Sign;" and "Completely" featuring Indu. In addition, he scored two international hits with "Ramping Shop" debuting on the Billboard Top 100 Singles charts, and "Dollar Sign" being in regular rotation on popular urban stations in the U.S. This year he was also recognized by the EME (Excellence in Music and Entertainment) Awards for Lyricist/Songwriter of the Year, Recording Artiste of the Year and Male Deejay of the Year.

Vybz Kartel has been able to transform himself into a successful businessman who has started successful ventures like Vybz Rum, the ultra-popular Street Vybz as well as establishing his own line of condoms, Daggering. He has also donated computers to high schools in Kingston rural Jamaica and to the Waterford Primary school in his hometown in Portmore. The deejay has proven that he is more than just a clever wordsmith and talented performer but that he is an insightful businessman. Known just as much for his lyrical genius as he is for his much publicized scandals, he remains a powerful, controversial figure who is moving dancehall into the 21st century through the mere force of his talent and his will to be the best deejay of his generation.

Buy the album!

COURTESY OF 0NE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Usher Says "Papers" Was Recorded Pre-Divorce!

When Usher's single, Papers was first released everyone assumed that the track was inspired by the end of his relationship with then-wife Tameka Foster and if you listen to the lyrics it would be hard not to draw that conclusion, but according to the singer, the song was recorded before he got divorced.

"When the song was recorded, I wasn't divorced," revealed Usher while talking to MTV News.

"It was some reality in the contrast of trying to make it all work, having to balance a career and having a normal life. Coming in at 6 in the morning and arguing was a reality when you have those types of relationships. I felt that in a way, the story did touch on certain things at the time. I didn't know how realistic it would become. I didn't know I would become divorced. I did know it spoke on the contrast between trying to balance this world of being married and having this responsibility that's like a marriage at the same time. The song spoke to that place. Unfortunately, it did become a reality."

After suffering several delays, Usher's sixth solo album, Raymond v. Raymond, will be released tomorrow (March 30).

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Elephant Man's tax woes!

According to sources, the Tax Administration Department has implemented 'stop orders' on delinquent taxpayers to prevent them from leaving the country and a list of 50 high-profile individuals, including members of the entertainment industry has been compiled.

One victim so far is Deejay Elephant Man, who learned of his tax status Wednesday night when he turned up at the Donald Sangster International airport in Montego Bay with his entourage, but was the only one prevented from boarding a plane to England.

Elephant Man later worked out some arrangements with the Tax Department and is now in Europe.

A report states that stop orders at the island's ports are being used as a strategy by the tax authorities as they intensify their drive to force delinquent tax payers to settle their arrears.

A statement from Elephant Man's Management reads:


"This Statement serves to notify the public that Dancehall Recording Artist O'Neil Bryant more popularly known as Elephant Man has resolved his outstanding Tax Obligations following discussions with the Tax Authorities which has subsequently lifted the travel band placed on him by Immigration Officials at the Island Airports.

Elephant Man who is scheduled to depart Jamaica on Friday afternoon (March 26) for a two weeks Tour of Europe stated "I want to assure my European fans that I am looking forward to performing for them and this incident was merely a minor setback".

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Alexis Jordan Signs To Jay-Z's Roc Nation!

After appearing on America's Got Talent in 2007 and not taking home the victory, South Carolina's Alexis Jordan kept striving and since then has made numerous YouTube videos singing over B.o.B.'s Nothing On You, Omarion's Speeding, and Jay-Z's Run This Town. Her singing abilities captured the attention of production team Stargate and since then has inked a deal with Jay-Z's Roc Nation.

"I thought if they didn't love me then they wouldn't fly me all the way out to New York. I knew I had a good chance. Once I got out there we recorded a few songs and Jay-Z came to the studio. I was so excited! And the next thing I knew I was signed to StarRoc/Roc Nation."

Speaking on her debut album, 17 year old Alexis Jordan wants to sing positive music and be a role model for her young listeners. Her first single Happiness is an up tempo ballad and her album will follow the same format.

"I want to be really positive, no cussing, none of that. I'm a young artist and I want to be a role model. A lot of songs are upbeat and some are ballads. There's a little bit of that country vibe in it, and a little bit of that reggae vibe. My album has everything."

Alexis Jordan offered a preview of her new single Happiness on YouTube.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

T.I. Probation Ends; Rapper To Begin Performing!

Atlanta rapper T.I. has almost completed a one-year prison sentence for attempting to purchase machine guns and silencers in 2007.

March 26, the rapper will be released from house arrest and will begin three years of federal probation, his attorney’s revealed.

Now that he is off of house arrest, T.I. must observe a strict curfew for the next 23 days.

The rapper must be in the house by 11.PM, unless he has a show, in which case he will be allowed to stay out until 1:00 AM.

“He’s been working,” T.I.‘s lawyer Steve Sadow told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “He intends to continue working, which includes being in the [recording] studio and performing concerts."

T.I. was also fined $100,000 and he already completed 1,000 hours of community service prior to spending his time in prison.

In related news, T.I. has reportedly contributed a new verse to a track titled “Winner” featuring Jamie Foxx and Justin Timberlake.

The song is taken from Foxx’s new untitled album which is due in stores in June.

T.I. also premiered his own comeback track earlier in the month titled “I’m Back.”

The song is taken from an album T.I. is reportedly scheduled to release this August.

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Ludacris Reveals Next Album & Upcoming DTP Projects!

This year rapper Ludacris is excited to be celebrating his ten year anniversary with his DTP family and admits that he is hungrier than ever. In addition to working on his eighth studio album titled Ludaversal, he also is preparing to release several projects from his Disturbing Tha Peace label. Artists such as I-20, Lil Fate, and Playaz Circle will drop material this year. Also former BME signee Lil Scrappy is set to release his second solo album in four years titled The Grustle.

"To me, marking 10 years in the game, it feels like we're starting all over again, I'm just as hungry as the first day. We got Lil Scrappy about to drop something soon, we got Playaz Circle, of course, we got Lil Fate, I-20, and we're working on a lot of new artists that we're gonna unleash on the industry very soon. So we got some things in the works. Look for some stuff."

In other news, Ludacris recently released his collaboration album titled Battle Of The Sexes and has already released two singles from the album titled How Low and My Chick Bad featuring Young Money's Nicki Minaj. The remix video for My Chick Bad features rappers Trina, Eve, and Diamond.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Vodka Makers Declare War On Diddy Over 'Pee Pee' Comments!

A war has been declared against Sean “Diddy” Combs after the mogul labeled other vodka brands as “pee pee.”

Liquor Tycoon M.J. Silver has announced a press conference will be held tomorrow (March 25) in Times Square to protest Combs’ statement that “if you’re not drinking Ciroc vodka, then you’re drinking pee pee.”

Combs made the statement during a party he was hosting earlier this month at New York hot spot, Greenhouse.

Silver who owns Georgi Argent, one of the best selling vodkas in New York, took offense to the statement and is demanding an apology from Combs.

Now, Silver and the owners of Alexi vodka and other American spirits will protest Combs’ French made Ciroc Vodka, the brand Combs’ has a 50% stake of, with the other half belonging to Diageo.

“They will be putting a liters of Ciroc into a large toilet bowl and having it delivered to Diddys offices near Times Square,” a representative of the vodka wars coalition said in a statement.

The protesters will express their dismay with Combs at 2:00 PM, in front of the mogul’s oversized Sean John advertisement.

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Jay-Z Explains "The Blueprint" Trilogy!

During a recent interview with Billboard, New York rapper Jay-Z revealed the thought process behind The Blueprint trilogy and explained why there was a gap between Blueprint II and Blueprint III.

"I wanted the Blueprint series to be a trilogy because of what it represented," Hova said.

"The first Blueprint was the soul samples I grew up on, my blueprint. Then The Blueprint 2 was me searching for all the different types of music I like. But I ain't have a reason to do the third one, so I didn't do it for a while. But it was just fitting right now where I am in my career for me to set the Blueprint for my next journey."

Blueprint 3, Hova's eleventh studio album, was released on September 8 of last year, and sold 476,000 copies in its first week. Empire State Of Mind, the third single released from the album, was Jay-Z's first single to hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where he was listed as the lead artist.

View the footage from the interview below. The clip also appears in his Absolut Vodka concert series documentary, NY-Z, which made its premiere on Monday (March 22) via Absolut's Facebook page.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Bounty Killer returns to court!

Alliance leader Bounty Killer is expected to return to court on March 24th to face charges of illegal possession of firearm, assault at common law and unlawful wounding.

The deejay, whose real name is Rodney Basil Price, is accused of using a firearm to assault a cop during an altercation in New Kingston in September 2007.

It is alleged that on September 27, 2007, Bounty Killer and a group of men reportedly assaulted the complainant along St Lucia Avenue. It is further alleged that an off-duty policeman left a club and saw a number of vehicles blocking a section of the roadway. Several men, including Bounty Killer, and the late dancer David 'Ice' Smith, were allegedly at the scene. Another man, Callis Bowen, who is believed to be an ex-policeman, is also jointly charged with the deejay.

The policeman tried to get the men to move the vehicles but was reportedly assaulted and fired at. A report was made to the New Kingston Police and a file later sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who ruled that Price should be charged.

Killer, who has been at the forefront of dancehall for almost two decades, has had a checkered record with the law. He was recently freed of assault charges in a matter where he was accused of assaulting a female when the complainant decided she did not want to pursue the matter.

The deejay was charged with possession of ganja by police in the business and clubbing district of New Kingston last month, just days after he pleaded not guilty to drug charges in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court.


COURTESY OF ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

T.I.'s Girlfriend Tiny Speaks On Wedding Plans For 2010!

After returning home, T.I. will be finishing out his sentence in a halfway house in his hometown of Atlanta. Now that the rapper is back, his fiancee of three years Tameka "Tiny" Cottle is going through with the wedding plans.

Tiny expressed to Vibe that it doesn't matter to her how long it takes before the two tie the knot, as long as they're happy.

"I don't really worry about what people say about what's taking so long. Like, it ain't none of your business what's taking so long. If we happy, why are you so concerned? We living, we're happy, we're in love. I mean, it's no doubt in my mind that he doesn't love every piece of me and vice versa so we're just doing what's comfortable and what works for us. Tiny and T.I.: Not for the world. When we get ready to make a move, we will make it. We just can't do it for everybody."

The Tiny & Toya star says that they plan to have the wedding some time in 2010, and will strive to keep the ceremony's privacy.

"There are wedding plans coming soon, sometime this year,"she said.

"Not too big, cause I want it to be as private as possible. There've been a million rumors about us getting married. It's taking away from the day that we really do get married, so I just want to kind of have that moment for myself."

Tip will have completed his full sentence on March 26, when he will be released and free to come home to his soon-to-be wife.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Vybz Kartel is saying 'Big Ship' is responsible for closing his studio!

Vybz Kartel has upped the ante in the mushrooming battle over the closure of the Havendale, St. Andrew studio -- which was shuttered by the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation for zoning violations last week -- by alleging that the McGregors, owners of the Big Ship recording studio, had somehow played a role in the studio's closure.

"I heard from accurate sources that it was the "s--- p---" Stephen McGregor and "bad mind" Freddie McGregor call dem police friend and dem friend in high places fi fight me studio but me want see if KSAC nah lock dung Freddie McGregor studio which is the same Havendale. Dem a gwaan like a dem alone have links inna high places," Vybz Kartel said.

The Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) closed the recording studio frequented by dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel in Havendale, St. Andrew last week. The studio was closed after a notice was served on Father Romie, the owner of the property. The police said no permit had been granted for the studio to be constructed in a residential area. The police and the KSAC have made periodic checks to see whether the owner had complied with the notice.

Freddie McGregor is a respected veteran of the music business whose career began at the age of seven. Known for hits such as "Big Ship", "Push Comes to Shove", and "Just Don't Want to Be Lonely", he started the Big Ship label in 1984.

He later established the Big Ship Recording Studio, and he has produced many artists including Luciano and Mikey Spice. His son, Stephen, has won the producer of the year title two consecutive years running. It is highly unlikely that a shrewd businessman like Freddie McGregor would not have applied for a permit.

COURTESY OF ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Sean Paul feat. on "Now That's What I Call Music"!

“Do You Remember” - a collaborative effort by international recording artist Sean Paul and British pop sensation Jay Sean, will be featured on the 75th edition of the compilation series, Now That’s What I Call Music.

“Do You Remember” has reaped Billboard success as it debuted in the top ten of its Hot 100 chart and was a favourite of iTunes users all over the world, staying in the top ten of those charts as well.

Born at the MTV Video Music Awards, the collaboration also features rap/hip-hop crunk king Lil’ Jon.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Drake Will Lead Young Money, While Lil Wayne Completes His Verdict!

As Lil Wayne completes his one-year sentence in jail for gun possession, Drake promised Weezy that he would lead the way for the Young Money team.

Drizzy insists that his camp stay number one. "I'm going to do everything I told him I would do." Drake says. "You won't even notice he's gone."

Drake is confident that Wayne will be fine, and Young Money will be as strong as they have been. The Canadian rapper admires Wayne's grind, and he knows just what to do to keep the players afloat while their coach carry's out his bid.

"Lil Wayne is a legend, I could never classify Wayne as victim. He's too strong to me, Wayne is who he wants to be. People don't understand, it's really not an act. Lil Wayne is a character you'll rarely run across, probably for the existence of human beings, he's that guy. He is Lil Wayne for a reason. He's a rock star, a visionary, a workaholic, he doesn't function like anybody I know. He's a rare breed," Drake tells MTV while speaking about Wayne's incarceration.

Lil Wayne has been sentenced to one year in jail after pleading guilty on gun charges in New York City. Weezy is currently being denied any special treatment or privileges on account of his star status. He may be eligible for early release for good behavior. Until then, Drake will call all of the shots.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Ludacris Reflects On Past, Encourages People To Do Smart Business!

Rapper Ludacris has been in the game since 1998 and has been successful since a young age after starting his own record label Disturbing Tha Peace (DTP) with his manager. 12 years later Ludacris reflects on how he became his own boss and encourages other young upcoming artists to do the same.

"I actually wrote a song called Tell It Like It Is, And one of the things that I said was 'The first thing I did was signed myself to myself, which was Disturbing Tha Peace Records and I incorporated it at a young age therefore if somebody wanted to sign me, they had to sign my company. I have a very unique deal, I came out with an independent album and I was selling records on my own."

Ludacris recalls being able to make his own decisions about his career and ensuring that signing to Def Jam will benefit him in the long run.

"This gave me leverage when Def Jam came to me and said, 'We wanna sign you to a contract.' So I'm sitting there saying well this is what I'm doing on my own, I'm already making this amount of money. What can you do for me that's going to make me interested in signing to your company, so I definitely encourage everyone to get as much leverage as you can. The only way you can do that is by putting your bills on the table. All the way on it. Because man, it's crazy, a lot of people want success and aren't willing to do what it takes to get success or earn success."

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Diddy To Purchase Soccer Team In The UK !

Music Mogul Sean "Puffy" Combs is nothing less than a business man, in fact he is in talks of a new business venture in the United Kingdom.

Diddy is allegedly leaning toward London's Crystal Palace Football Club, which recently went into bankruptcy. According to a source of The Sun Newspaper in London, he considered a few choices before settling on the Crystal Palace Football Club; but he made his final decision because he could cover their debt, and gain a profit of 360 million Pounds Sterling, not to mention he likes the name. It is said that Diddy has already put the finances up, and he is now trying to decide which team he will make a bid for.

Puffy has yet to release a statement confirming that he has invested money into the Crystal Palace Football Club, however a spokesperson for Combs says he is looking to invest in a soccer team, but wouldn't give any further details.

The 40-year-old superstar, though to be worth approximately $550 million, recently showed his excitement on a night out in London. He showed up at the Runway club, drinking Ciroc, smelling like Sean Jean Cologne, and causing the crowd to feel the presence of a "king". A source says, "His songs were played back-to-back for 30 minutes for his grand entrance. Girls were throwing themselves at him -- it was wild."

COURTESY OF YO RAPS.COM

Tarrus Riley shines in Europe and US Tour!

Reggae Singer and songwriter Tarrus Riley ended his 2009-2010 Europe and North America 'Contagious' tour on a high note closing with a sensational set at the 17th annual Bob Marley Movements Caribbean Festival in Miami, Florida.

After a successful leg in the US and Canada late last year, the artiste resumed his album tour in January through March, making waves in some 30 cities across France, Belgium, London, Sweden, Spain, Holland, Italy, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Germany as well as completing stints in California and Florida.

His first extended set in Europe, while the cold whistled and howled outside, Riley warmed patrons up with some sweet music on the inside.

uplifts the spirit

"With Tarrus Riley you can always expect to hear 'feel good music'... music with a meaning as well as music that uplifts the spirit and soul and I delivered just that. The set list had a great mix of material - hits from the previous albums including She's Royal, Lion Paw as well as current material from the Contagious album including Start Anew, Love's Contagious, Human Nature, Living The Life of A Gun among others," said Riley.

"The crowd was highly responsive at each venue and one could see that they were visibly tuned in, singing along with us word for word and really enjoying themselves."

Performing to sold-out stops each night across Europe including Ghent in Belgium, the Sapphire Club and the Brixton Academy in London, Stockholm in Sweden and the U-Club in Wuppertal, Germany, Riley, who was joined by rising reggae stars I-Octane, Duane Stephenson and the Blak Soil band led by saxophonist extraordinaire Dean Fraser, then travelled to the US where they were well received at the Fox Theater in Oakland, California, The Catalysts in Santa Cruz, the Arcata Theater in California among multiple additional venues before Riley capped things off as a headline act at the Bob Marley Movements Carib-bean Festival.

"The North America stops were also really great this time around... Still a bit chilly but definitely not as cold as Europe," said Riley. "We were concentrating this leg towards the west in California then headed south to Florida whereas the last time we touched a bit of everywhere including Canada, Rhode Island, New York, Virginia, etc. We again brought the best of our positive vibes, spreading the message of positivity, unity and love through good, clean music."

And while Riley was covering significant ground on his international 'Contagious' tour, he was also making a clean sweep at local award presentations as well as receiving international nods and securing top spots on international music charts.

number-one spot

At the Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) he copped the Cultural Artiste of the Year as well as the Best Cultural Artiste category at the local Youth View Awards. Following this, Riley's laurels continued with recent nomination for Top International Reggae Artist at RMAA (Reggae Music Achievement Awards) which will be held in Toronto, Canada, on June 12, 2010.

He also celebrates the number-one spot for his album Contagious in Canada on Galaxie TV Satellite Channel (Bell TV, Rogers TV, Videotron TV, MTS TV, Sasktel TV, Shaw TV, Telus TV).

A stellar first yearly quarter sealed by sold-out tours and significant wins and nominations, Riley, who is now back on the 'Rock' says he will resume writing and recording new material as well as continue to push his Contagious album which has been doing very well internationally.

"I enjoy writing and making music. That process never stops... I love what I put out and the people love what we put out so we always have to keep it fresh and keep it going."


COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Daseca releases 'Genesis' rhythm!

Hit-making trio DASECA will be releasing their latest rhythm, 'the Genesis' on March 23 and will be available for Digital release on Itunes.

Instead of flooding the marketplace with CDs and free download links as soon as the project had been mixed, they decided to structure its release by keeping it exclusive to select radio DJs.

David Harrisingh from DASECA commented: "What has become the norm for Jamaican producers is to literally give away the music as soon as it is finished. Email blasts, social networking sites and blogs ensure the music ends up in the hands of any and everyone who wants it, and they don't have to pay for it. So while it creates a hype and give artistes hit songs and generates shows and dub plate, income for them, the producer, has to pretty much wait on the few remaining labels who deal with reggae to license a song here or there for a compilation."

He added: "Whereas in the past labels would take the entire rhythm from a producer, that has stopped because of poor sales and because the music has never been marketed properly, causing it to end up in a mire. Producers are needed in the business just as much as artistes so we have to find a way to survive."

The Genesis rhythm was premiered on New York's coveted HOT 97, by Bobby Konders and the buzz has already given DASECA much encouragement for their approach. A UK commercial radio premiere followed and of course Jamaica.

With similar premieres taking place in Canada, Miami, Washington DC, Boston and other territories, the trio are gearing up for the final marketing push this week before its imminent digital release.


COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Kartel says the music will go on - Studio shut down by KSAC !

With the official closing of the Havendale studio operated by deejay Vybz Kartel this week, the deejay says where he will be based is not an issue to the release of his music.

Last week THE STAR reported that the police said that the studio which is operated by Kartel on Kirk Avenue in Havendale, St Andrew, is operating without a permit and is a public disturbance. Superintendent Newton Amos, head of operations for the Area Five police, last week said they are seeking to have the studio shut down. He said police have written to the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC) requesting its closure.

Amos said representatives of the KSAC had since reported that a permit was not granted for the studio. "It is a residential area and noise and obstruction is something which has caught our attention," he said. The request for closure has since come through and the residence will no longer be operating as a studio.

Speaking with the deejay after the studio's closure he said, "the music will continue to be created. Cause dem a go tired fi see mi face."

The deejay recently released his latest collaboration with Portmore Empire artistes Popcaan and Gaza Slim called Clarks, and he is also being featured on Russian's 'Remedy' rhythm.


COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Juelz Santana Creates New York Anthem With Jadakiss, Fabolous & Lloyd Banks!

Harlem rapper Juelz Santana is focusing on drawing more attention to himself as he plans to work with artists who he feels are the best current rappers from New York for his upcoming New York anthem track which will be released on his Reagan Era mixtape.

Juelz looked to rappers Lloyd Banks, Fabolous, and Jadakiss to represent for their city while using a sample from Estelle's American Boy.

"We got another record for the mixtape that record's actually got me, Fabolous, Jadakiss and Banks on it. We took the Estelle sample from American Boy that goes 'Take me to New York' and kept repeating that. I sent it to everybody that I felt could kill it, which was me, Fab, Banks and Jada."

Juelz is confident that his mixtape will be worth the wait and hopes to do another collabo with only him and Lloyd Banks since their first track Beamer, Benz, or Bentley has received successful commentary.

"The beat is so unique, and then you got two artists that have never done a record before. And it's a record that people would like to hear. It's a hood record and we was both spitting on there, me and Banks gonna have to do another one together with just me and him. That record is crazy. That Reagan Era is gonna be a problem -- that's why I been taking my time strategically building up. I think now is a better time. Every day I'm drawing more attention to myself."


COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Lloyd Banks Weighs In On G-Unit Going Indie!

G-Unit Records recently parted ways with the Interscope label, and according to rapper Lloyd Banks, it's for the better.

Banks is still working on his untitled upcoming album, and admitted to AllHipHop.com during a recent interview that there isn't a set date yet.

"We're aiming for a summer release, late summer," Banks said.

"It's not a stamp date, but that's [what] I'm headed for. This is my year. That's the other thing. When you are working independent, you can decide when...sometimes when you are working for a label, they put you on that time clock. Sometimes, things can get forced."

The New York rapper is still riding high off of the success of his street single Beamer, Benz, or Bentley featuring Juelz Santana from his latest mixtape V5.

"Based on the response that I've gotten from Beamer, Benz, or Bentley, the artist is more powerful than you think...When I did the Officer Down -- the response to Rick Ross -- it was already 700 - 800 thousand free download before we even made the deal with iTunes. Before they approached me and I still sold 60 or 70 thousand."

Fellow NY rapper Fabolous will reportedly join Banks and Santana on the remix to Beamer, Benz, or Bentley, which is expected to land online soon.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

T.I. Accused Of Illegally Using AKOO Name For Clothing Line!

Rapper T.I. could end up in court again to defend himself against trademark allegations levied against his Akoo Clothing line.

Akoo International bills itself as the world’s largest social music television network. The company filed a complaint against T.I. and Akoo in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, claiming trademark infringement.

According to the lawsuit, Akoo International has held the trademark for “Akoo” for years.

The federally registered trademark is sued by Akoo International, which delivers video programming to over 86 million monthly customers, via the Internet, shopping malls and universities in over 30 states.

Akoo International’s technology allows viewers to interact with programming on large screen, networked HDTV’s, using their mobile phones.

"Akoo has been recognized as a leading social TV platform for connecting brand advertisers with millions of our engaged viewers," said Akoo CEO Niko Drakoulis. "Our primary obligation and goal is to prevent confusion among our consumers, which is among the most basic objectives of trademark law. At the same time, Akoo has invested nearly a decade of effort and substantial capital to deploy its network and will do everything in its power to protect its brand."

Akoo International claims T.I.’s use of the name Akoo has mislead, deceived and confused consumers and potential clients.

The company also took action to defend their Akoo trademark when T.I.’s clothing line ran a controversial billboard advertisement in Newark, NJ, which was condemned by residents, as well as Mayor Cory Booker.


COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Gucci Mane Preps 'Burrprint 2'; New Album 'The Appeal' Due In Summer!

Incarcerated rapper Gucci Mane continues to release music despite being locked up in the Fulton County Jail for a year.

Gucci and DJ Holiday will release all-new material titled The Burrprint 2, a 24-track mixtape that features appearances by Ludacris, Nicki Minaj, DJ Khaled Jim Jones, Yo Gotti, Lil’ Kim Trey Songz, Waka Flocka Flames, OJ Da Juice Man and others.

"Many of my fans know me from the massive amounts of mixtapes I’ve released over the years," Gucci Mane told AllHipHop.com in a statement released today (March 17). “The Burrprint 2 mixtape is just something I wanted to put out there as a thank you for all those who have stuck by me through my incarceration, all those who have written letters, this is for you… I will be home soon," Gucci Mane promised.

The Burrprint 2 was recorded prior to Gucci’s year-long bid for violating his probation, while the opening song on the album “Live From Fulton County Jail,” was recorded over the phone during his incarceration.

“Gucci called me from Fulton County and told me to start recording,” DJ Holiday told AllHipHop.com. “He busted a hot verse right there on the phone and that’s what you hear on the record, with the 1-minute automated warning and all, ‘you have one minute remaining’, it’s so real.”

Gucci Mane is already planning the follow-up to his hit album The State Vs. Radric Davis, with a new album titled The Appeal, which is slated to land in stores this Summer.


COURTESY OF ALL HIP HOP.COM

Serani back with more party songs!

Singjay Serani is back with more party songs for the season, including a brand new collaboration with Ding Dong called Drive Out.

Can Serani and Ding Dong create musical magic once again? After tearing up the end of last year with Skip to Ma Luu featuring Ding Dong, Serani is back with his own brand of 'party songs' with Drive Out and Searching.

He told THE STAR recently, "When you do a song people can dance to, I don't like it where you telling people to move left and then right, that's played out. I love a song like Holiday where you just have fun and you have a dance to go to that song."

The formula also worked for Skip to ma Luu, which had a dance of the same name to accompany it.

calypso meets reggae

For Drive Out, a calypso-meets-reggae song with selector Biggy doing the intro once again, there is an accompanying dance of the same name which was created by Pencil Man from Ravers Clavers.

The song was officially released on Monday and is produced by DASECA.

Serani said, "Ding Dong is somebody mi rate and know from long time, so when di music good and the link good, a vibe happen like Skip to Ma Luu and now Drive Out."

Prior to the release of Drive Out, the singjay released Searching saying, "I wanted to do another party song again and a dance for it. I was writing a girls song and picturing the dance follow through and it worked." The 'follow through' dance was created by Mundo Ravers from the Ravers Clavers squad.

Coming soon, Serani and his DASECA counterparts are looking out for the release of their 'Genesis' rhythm online on March 23 as well as their other upcoming rhythm called 'Dancehall Again' with Bounty Killer, Mr Vegas, Elephant Man, Bugle and others.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Portmore Empire rules MoBay !

Despite the dark cloud of controversy that surrounds the Vybz Kartel-led Portmore Empire, he and his crew managed to illuminate Montego Bay with an entertaining performance at the recently concluded BritJam Spring Break event.

Looking laid-back and relaxed in his blue T-shirt, white shorts and matching blue sneakers, dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel made an effort to stay clear of the recent negative incidents in his camp during his more than one hour stint onstage.

With hits such as Bicycle, Go Go Club and Mr Officer, the controversial deejay enjoyed himself as he entertained his fans that waited dutifully to see his performance in a jam-packed Aqua Sol Theme Park in Montego Bay.

The week-long partying courtesy of BritJam saw Kartel bringing the events to a close during this BritJam Fantasy Island (Grand Escape) party.

Dancehall fans had the opportunity to see the entire Portmore Empire which came to perform onstage with Kartel, but at one point it seemed too small a stage to fit all.

Jah Vinci's vocals could not be missed nor could the three young men - Merital Family who made money 'laugh' through their hit song My Money (Ha Ha). Deejay Popcorn along with other upcoming acts in the Gaza camp performed well.

Bugle made sure Montego Bay never forgot where he was coming from and connected with the audience with each line of his songs. He showed that for him Anything Goes but asked What Have I Done To You as he brought his set to a close.

However, it was Ding Dong and his Ravers Clavers crew who reminded everyone that is was a Holiday and they partied the night away to Party Cup. As if that was not enough, he had the crowd skipping all the way with the popular hit, Skip to Ma Lou song and dance.

Several Montego Bay-based artistes entertained the audience well through their performances in the early segment, among them, White Knight, Major Lloyd, E-Silk and duo Tally and Dappa.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Floyd Mayweather Speaks On His Run-In With Rick Ross!

During a recent interview, boxer Floyd Mayweather reflected on the New Year's Eve event where he and former enemy Rick Ross ran into each other. According to Mayweather, the rapper started the beef, but when they ran into each other in Vegas, Ross didn't want any problems.

"All I'll say is this, I never had anything disrespectful to say to Rick Ross," stated the boxer while talking to DJ Envy about the beginning of his beef with the Miami rapper.

"I guess he went on record talking about 'The Mayweather money look funny when it comes to the light.' I'm looking at it like I got a two-fight deal right now, 115 million, it's nothing, that's 60 minutes of work. I don't front, what I'm doing is really what I say I'm doing, everything I got is paid for. I never disrespected him, so he came off real disrespectful."

When the two met up at the Vanity nightclub, Floyd said that he went up to Ross and asked him what was up, and the rapper reacted by leaning back.

"I guess he really didn't want any problems. A lot of times you hear rappers rapping about certain things, so I guess it really just is on wax," Mayweather said.

"So, Puffy said 'Ah, he's just talking Floyd, don't worry about that.' But, then I told Puffy, no disrespect, but if you would have took the Biggie and Tupac beef serious, then both of those rappers would still be here. That's why I don't take no beef light. But like I said, I'm not going out looking for problems."

Floyd's full interview with DJ Envy will premiere on MTV2 on March 28 at 12p EST.


COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

KSAC closes Kartel's Studio!

The Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) has shutdown a studio frequently used by dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel and the members of the Portmore Empire.

A close and reliable source revealed that the studio in Havendale, Kingston is owned by “Father Romie.”

The KSAC started an investigation after the police sent a letter lobbying for the studio to be shutdown.

Last week, Town Clark at the KSAC Errol Green said they began investigating after they found out that no approval was granted for a change of use from residential to commercial.

All this is subsequent to a whirlwind of violent attacks within the Portmore Empire.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Nicki Minaj Shoots "Massive Attack" Video, Wants Beyonce Collabo!

Young Money's own Nicki Minaj recently finished shooting the video for her debut single Massive Attack which was shot at a desert in California, directed by Hype Williams. The video features cameo appearances by model Amber Rose, producer Sean Garrett, and Young Money label mate Drake. The visual is composed of action packed scenes of Nicki in a jungle and also a helicopter chase.

Sean Garrett shared some words about the track which he produced and guarantees it to become a hit.

"It's gonna be a fucking bomb, It's very, very explosive! The record puts her in the game in a way that says she should've been here a long time ago."

In other news, Nicki Minaj is embracing her road to stardom by working with the best of the best. After collaborating with many notable artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher, and Fabolous just to name a few, she is now hoping to do a track with R&B queen Beyonce.

"I think I could come up with some crazy stuff for Beyonce," she said in an interview. "I have things that I write for girls, like R&B singers. Beyonce, she's fearless, and I think that she could embody my crazy swag in a female R&B world."

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Andrew and Wada Blood shook up by LA earthquake!

Dancehall artistes Andrew and Wada Blood were among the thousands who experienced the 4.4 magnitude earthquake in Los Angeles, California, shortly after 4 a.m. yesterday.

"We are here and safe. I was asleep when the earthquake happened, but it woke me up. We jus' grateful and give thanks that it wasn't bigger or worse than that," said Andrew Blood yesterday. So far there have been no reports of damage, injuries and power outages associated with the earthquake.

Andrew and Wada Blood left the island last week for a one-month promotional tour of California to promote their new singles Find A Way and Irie and their still untitled upcoming album.

"So far the shows have been going well. We did a show at a club in Hollywood the other night and in Santa Barbara and some more and we are getting ready to do some more and mad up di place," said Wada Blood, the other half of the recording duo known for hits including Hustle Till The Day That I Die, Money Print, Hustla For Life, (La La La) and more.

The duo returns to the island the first week in April.


COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Tiger announces his return!

Disgraced sportsman Tiger Woods is returning to golf at the Masters tournament in Georgia in April. The star took a hiatus from the game at the end of last year, after his extra-marital affairs were exposed in the tabloids.

Woods has since apologized for his behavior and undergone sex therapy treatment at a clinic in Mississippi.
He has also been working on repairing his marriage to Elin Nordegren and now he insists he's ready to return to golf.
A statement from Woods reads, "The Masters is where I won my first major and I view this tournament with great respect. After a long and necessary time away from golf, I feel I am ready to start my season at Augusta."

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Nas, Damian Marley's Distant Relatives Set For May; Tracklisting Revealed!

Nas and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s highly anticipated album Distant Relatives will land in stores on Tuesday, May 18th, label representatives confirmed today (March 16th).

The concept album traces Hip-Hop’s roots in Africa and how it was transported to the American colonies and the Caribbean during slavery, until it was finally exported to the parks and recreational centers in New York city.

"Damian and Nas have made a groundbreaking album that combines the depth and vision of these two artists with a seminal musical and cultural thread of multiple generations," stated Monte Lipman, President and CEO of Universal Republic Records. "We're thrilled to play a role on what's certain to be another pivotal album for both artists and one of the more unique collaborative efforts in recent years."

The 14-track-effort was produced by Damian Marley and features guest appearances by Lil Wayne, K’Naan, Joss Stone, Stephen Marley and Dennis Brown.

Fans will also receive a documentary film with the purchase of Distant Relatives, which also contains performances and public discussions, including portions of an event held with National Geographic Live in Washington, D.C. last December.

Distant Relatives is in stores May 18th. The track listing is below:

1. As We Enter
2. Tribal War (featuring K'NAAN)
3. Strong Will Continue
4. Leaders (featuring Stephen Marley)
5. Wisdom
6. Count Your Blessings
7. Dispear
8. The Promised Land (featuring Dennis Brown)
9. In His Own Words (featuring Stephen Marley)
10. Nah Mean
11. Friends
12. My Generation (featuring Lil Wayne and Joss Stone)
13. Africa Must Wake Up (featuring K'NAAN)


COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Popcaan is NOT dead!

Portmore Empire deejay Popcaan wants to reassure Gaza fans that he has not been shot, and that rumours of his demise are false.

"From Saturday, it ah get stink say mi get shot and mi ah wonder who is trying to perpetrate this rumour that mi dead, but I just want the fans to know that I am alive and kicking. I am not dead," he told one876entertainment.com

Popcaan is widely regarded as the artiste most likely to carry the banner for the next generation of young artistes emerging out of the Vybz Kartel-led Gaza camp.

Boisterous and fun-loving, Papi, as he is called by friends, has found a commercially viable hit, Nuh Ordinary Girl, which has been blowing up all over FM radio over the last couple of weeks. The song, which appears on the popular England Town riddim, is a big fave among females. He also has a controversial single called Sell We Out which labels departing ex-Empire member Blak Ryno a traitor. One of his most popular song is a Clarks song alongside Vybz Kartel himself.

"The fans dem can look out for great things from Popcaan this year, the Empire goes on and on and on."

He was detained last week Thursday in a raid on Father Romie's Exodus studio in Havendale, but was released later that night.

COURTESY OF DATMAD.COM

Liquid to return to radio this week?

There are unconfirmed claims that popular radio disc jock ZJ Liquid will be returning to radio this week, after a recent suspension.

While sources close to the radio station have hinted that he will be returning later this week, a management representative, when contacted, did not confirm this claim.

On February 15, ZJ Liquid, who's real name is Michael Brissett, was suspended for playing an unedited version of Aidonia's Love It on his 'Fresh to Death' segment. While fans have been calling for his return and have even created a web page on Facebook called 'Put ZJ Liquid Back On Air', his suspension was rumoured to be 'indefinite' - with no date set for his return.

However, sources close to ZIP FM told THE STAR that ZJ Liquid will be back on air this week.

decisions to make

The DJ has been with the station for seven-and-a-half-years. When contacted a few weeks ago about the Zip jock's date of return, ZIP FM's station manager D'Adra Williams explained that there were many decisions to be made first.

She said, "this is a matter that deals with the station's licence, all decisions will have to be made dependent on our broadcasting licence."

When contacted yesterday about whether the DJ would be returning this week Williams responded, "I don't know."

When contacted, ZJ Liquid did not want to comment on the matter either.

While off air, Liquid has been busy pursuing a career as a deejay with the release of his debut song Dweet Girl on the 'Shaolin Temple' rhythm. More recently, he released Party Hard on Don Corleon's 'Gala' rhythm.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Ele and Manager part ways

Did Elephant Man drink the soup?

Well, reports are that the deejay and his long time manager Q45 have severed ties after 10 years.

According to Q45, he wishes Elephant Man all the best but stresses that it was time to move on, as nothing last forever. He however, remained tight-lipped about the details as to what prompted the split.

Nonetheless, Q45 revealed that he will continue to be a part of the music. He has also recently launched Hennessey Fridays at 36 Burlington Avenue from 9pm to 2am.

Q45 has been managing Elephant Man’s career since the deejay left the Scare Dem Crew in 1999.

Sources have stated that Elephant Man is now back with Sharon Burke’s Solid Agency.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Jim Jones: Dipset Reunion Is Pointing In The Right Direction!

Just when it seems as if former Harlem group Dipset is finished for good, members are sharing their personal insights about the possible reunion promising that when the time permits that they will make a comeback and will come harder than ever before.

Dipset CEO Jim Jones feels that Dipset was the only group that represented the hustlers but due to his fall out with co-founder Cam'ron, Dipset suffered because of their discrepancies.



"This is hustling music. I just remember the days when n*ggas used to love to hustle. We bring a lot to the table as far as the fame and the history as of recent and in the last decade. I don't think me and Cam'ron actually turned on each other, as opposed to just...we just grew apart from each other. We would see a lot more discrepancies going on between the two of us. For the most part you don't see anything going on between the two of us. He's doing what he does; I'm doing what I do."



Jim Jones ensures to fans that when Dipset does finally reunite, everyone will know.



"Hopefully we can get this Diplomat thing back together, put another album out and shit like that and keep it moving. I don't know man, when me and him do get up, trust me, y'all gonna know about it. For the most part everything is pointing in the right direction; I'm open for it. I like big checks, ya heard me?"

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Diddy's "Last Train To Paris" Gets Arrival Date!

It's been a long-time coming, but Diddy's fifth studio album, Last Train To Paris, has finally received an arrival date. The electro-inspired album is scheduled to hit stores on June 22nd according to the music mogul, and will feature collaborations with his group Dirty Money and rappers Lil Wayne, Drake, and Kanye West.



The project was initially expected to be released in September 2009, but Diddy, who was either unsure of the public's response to the experimental album or busy with his other business ventures, kept delaying the album. Since the fall, he has switched record labels, leaving Warner Music Group's Atlantic Records for Interscope, and forming Dirty Money, a group made up of himself, Dawn Richard of Danity Kane, and singer/songwriter Kaleena.



During a recent interview with MTV, Diddy said that he is also hoping to get Jay-Z, and singer Janelle Monae featured on the album, and that fans should expect the unexpected.



"We're trying to get Hov on the album, trying to get Janelle Monae on the album. Everybody that's on the album, it's not done in a regular appearance way. It's done in a unique way that's authentic...Wayne is on a record that's called Strobe Lights. It's one of the first records where I hear him talking about love and how love has affected him. That's the type of things I wanted to get out of people if they were on the album. I wanted people to get out of their comfort zone and do something that was special."

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Lil Wayne's 'Rebirth' Strikes Gold!

Lil Wayne’s seventh studio album Rebirth has officially been certified Gold (500,000 copies) by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Despite numerous delays, the album managed to debut at #1 on Billboard’s Rap Album chart upon its release in February.

“I have evolved both lyrically and musically as an artist and I want everyone to hear my growing pains," Lil Wayne said of the album, which he labeled his “best work yet."

The latest singles from Rebirth are “Drop the World” featuring Universal label mate Eminem and “Knock Out” featuring his Young Money artist, Nicki Minaj.

Lil Wayne is currently serving a year-long prison sentence on Rikers Island, for attempted possession of a weapon in New York.

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

The Lionart Brand was unveil in Carby's Discount Centre, Wednesday March 10,2010.."The first chapter". Lionart Wear for Kings and Queens bringing to the market creative, unique designs in an international style that truly represents the art of a lion...for kings and queens..

They are asking you all to go out and give them your support join their group keep up to date with the latest happenings... "we are proudly Jamaican and we believe in a global market as such we employ both local and international talents and skill individuals to be apart of the Lionart team."

Send them your pictures rocking lionart wear. to lionartwear@gmail.com for a chance to be place on their VIP customers mailing list be the first to receive info on exclusive products... and more....

Lloyd Turns Down Young Money Offer, Signs With Interscope; New Song With Mystikal

After numerous rumors that R&B singer Lloyd would be signing to Lil Wayne's Young Money after his departure from Irv Gotti's Murder Inc., Lloyd explained his reasons for turning the offer down.

"Baby and Wayne were definitely the first people to reach out to me. I talked to them about a deal. That's who I thought I'd end up with in my heart. The problem is that Young Money/Cash Money is exclusive to Universal Motown. As you and I know, that's where I did my last two albums. I wasn't excited about going back."

After reassuring that there was no bad blood between him and any Young Money members, Lloyd went on to recognize Interscope for their previous successes and is satisfied with his decision.



"I love the way Interscope gets down. I love the way Jimmy Iovine, label head gets down. I've always had a good working relationship with Polow Da Don, producer. Having that creative partner is something I wanted to have, since the very beginning, to have that one creative partner."



In other news, Lloyd recently linked with former incarcerated New Orleans rapper Mystikal for their new track called Set Me Free. This is the rapper's first official single since being behind bars for six years for sexual battery and extortion charges.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Nas to Pursue High School Diploma, Encourages Youth to Stay in School

Nas was on hand at the Boys and Girls Club’s 43rd annual National Keystone Conference in Pittsburgh to drive home the importance of education and leadership.

The elite lyricist spoke candidly about his personal life, admitting that he never finished high school and regrets the decision despite his years of a success as a musician.

He now plans to obtain the diploma, and urged those present not to make the same mistake.

“The reality of it is, you need to keep educating yourself, and I wish I had stayed in school,” Nas explained. “Be your own leader.”

Nas, along with Ne-Yo and former NBA player Bob Lanier, were brought in by the Keystone Club, a subgroup within the Boys and Girls Club that emphasizes leadership through community service.


The organization’s Vice President of Corporate and Partner Relationships, Frank Sanchez, applauded Nas’ message for highlighting a desire for education in spite of his financial success and popularity.

To date, the 19-year veteran has a resume that boasts 9 solo LPs; four which are #1 albums, and all certified gold or platinum.

“This is an incredible message, to have someone who succeeded so much in their life, but there is still a void,” he told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Last week, a confirmed tracklisting was revealed for Nas and Damian Marley’s highly anticipated album Distant Relatives.

The project will be released on May 25 with appearances from Lil Wayne, K’Naan, Junior Reid, Dennis Brown, and Joss Stone.


COURTESY ALLHIPHOP.COM

Jay-Z Announces European Tour Expansion

Fan in Europe will get a glimpse of world famous rapper Jay-Z this summer, as the chart-topping artist has expanded his UK tour.

As previously announced, Jay-Z will play a series of high profile festivals in the UK in June. He has added more dates to the tour and will now make stops in Germany, France, Scotland, Switzerland and Ireland.

On June 4th, Jay-Z will start the trek in Germany at the Rock am Ring Festival with Rage Against The Machine, Muse and others.

The tour ends in July, at the T in the Park Festival in Scotland, where almost 100,000 fans are expected. Jay-Z is currently in the middle of his “BP3” tour of North America.

He is slated to perform at the Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh tomorrow (March 16th).

Jay-Z’s European tour dates are listed below:

6/4/10: Rock am Ring, Germany
6/5/10: Rock im Park, Germany
6/6/10: Paris Bercy, France
6/7/10: Manchester Arena, UK
6/9/10: Birmingham LG Arena, UK
6/11/10: Isle of Wight, UK
7/2/10: Eurockéennes Belfort, France
7/4/10: Wireless, UK
7/9/10: Oxygen, Ireland
7/10/10: Frauenfeld, Switzerland
7/11/10: T in the Park, Scotland

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Lisa Hyper and 21 Bad Gal

Only months after being booted from the Vybz Kartel-led Portmore Empire, Lisa Hyper has formed her own group, 21 Bad Gal.

"Yuh going to have Lisa Hyper and 21 Bad Gal. Seven young females, a mi artistes dem," she told THE STAR.

The group members include Mercedes, Stylish, Tu Cute, Ski, Platinum, Princess Natisha and Lisa Hyper. The leader says there is a mix of cultural singers, R&B crooners and hard-core dancehall artistes.

She said she decided to start the group in mid-February in order to help other upcoming female artistes.

ability to help them

"I have a lot of young female artistes who look up to me and I have the ability to help them. I am going to use my resources to put them out there," Lisa Hyper said, noting that she has a publicist and access to a studio.

"A whole heap a young female artistes have ability and mi waan help dem. Same reason Addi buss mi, mi waan buss dem 'cause mi nuh all fi miself," Lisa Hyper told THE STAR.

Although relatively new to the entertainment game, she is confident that the job will be done and it does not depend on the number of years she has been in the business.

simple mathematics

"Once the person have good talent, it nuh matta if mi big enough. Yuh just haffi have the talent and somebody fi push and guide you," she told THE STAR.

Lisa Hyper's current manager, MC Nuffy, said he believes she can make the group work.

"With Nuffy with her, she can do anything. A simple mathematics how yuh deal with things. Mi prefer deal with the ladies. Dem easier fi deal wid and dem listen to yuh. Lisa Hyper a good artiste, she just need somebody fi guide her. I can mek she reach Lady Saw (level)," he said.

Despite the fickle nature of other groups, Lisa Hyper says 21 Bad Gal will be around for a long time.

"We nah go have any issues 'cause we done build a relationship. It ago come in like the whole a wi a sisters and me a di mumma. Once there is respect, love and unity inna di thing, nutten caan mash up dat," she said, noting that there are plans to do songs and videos with all the group members when she returns from Canada in May.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

50 Cent Ready For Fifth Album "Black Magic"

Not even a year since his last release Before I Self Destruct, 50 Cent has already began promoting new material for his upcoming fifth studio album titled Black Magic. 50 says that the new sound for the music on his Black Magic album was inspired after a night at the club while touring in Europe.

"I actually recorded three songs, I had this idea, I went to a nightclub, after party, and it was a different kind of music going on there a little while before I actually got there. You know they play your music when you come, but the music they played before, they started playing material I created, which was more up-tempo, more dance. I wanted to make a song like that so I went to the studio because I'm traveling with my live band, I took the band with me and we sequenced it and recorded the actual record while I was out there."

50 Cent announced that Black Magic will be his venture in a new direction from anything he's ever done and will surpass the norm of Hip-Hop music.

"Black Magic project, I'm excited about it. It has a different vibe, I won't allow myself to be placed in a box where I can only do one style or do one kind of music...If they can understand how I enjoy different genres of music, for the people who have various tastes, they'll really like it."

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

T-Pain & Lil Wayne Collabo Album Put On Hold!!!

During a recent interview, singer T-Pain revealed that he and rapper Lil Wayne still plan to release their collaboration album, T-Wayne, but it won't be anytime soon.

Pain told MTV News that several songs for the album have already been recorded, but they plan to wait until Wayne is released from jail before they finalize the project.

"The T-Wayne album, we're actually gonna wait until he gets out," said Pain. "He has so much going on. He has Rebirth out right now. I don't wanna interrupt that. We just gonna wait until he gets out to really get in on that. We recorded a bunch of songs. But, right now, it's time for him and his personal sh*t."

Pain also said that the extra time will make sure that they give the fans a really good product instead of just something that was just thrown together.

"We can put out whatever we feel like and say, 'Hey, this is T-Wayne's album,' or we can actually try to make it good. Like we're actually trying to make an album and say, 'This is the good T-Wayne album.' Rather than just record 12 songs and say, 'Here you go, motherf*ckas! I know you want it. You gonna buy it anyway, just because you think it's good.'"

Aside from preparing to release his fourth solo album later this year, T-Pain also recently premiered his show Freaknik: The Musical on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM