Massive crowd turns out for Jah Cure in St Maarten!

After overcoming the initial fears of whether Jah Cure would have been able to perform at Reggae Explosion II in St Maarten on Wednesday night, an estimated 9000 persons turned out to see the entertainer on the show that the promoter described as the biggest show of this Carnival season.

"The show was beautiful," said a very pleased promoter, Clarence Darby. "It went very well."

sparked fears

Jah Cure had been billed to appear on the show as well as other Jamaican acts Beenie Man and Busy Signal. However, the arrest last week of the 32-year-old entertainer on drug possession charges, sparked fears in the tiny Dutch colony that he would not have been able to fulfil his obligations. When he heard of Jah Cure's arrest, Darby told THE STAR that if Jah Cure failed to show, he (Darby) would have been destroyed.

Jah Cure had a court date set for last Monday, 24 hours before he was set to depart for St Maarten. An entertainment talk show host in St Maarten was even telling listeners that Jah Cure was in jail and that he would not be able to perform.

In the meantime, Jah Cure, who pleaded not guilty to marijuana possession in court, flew to St Maarten on Tuesday as expected, making the promoter a very happy man.

"Once he got into St Maarten, the Herald (newspaper) brought out a big spread clearing up the matter," Darby explained. He said had Jah Cure not been able to perform, patrons would have been disappointed, but he was banking on the other big acts in Busy Signal and Beenie Man to save the day.

Reports out of St Maarten said the entertainer performed well. There were continuous screams of delight from the near full house at the Festival Village in Philipsburg as the thousands in attendance eagerly lapped up the performances. Jah Cure performed many of his crowd favourites but he was unable to complete his set as police shut the show down.

According to Darby, the show should have finished at 3a.m. as stipulated by the permit. When it didn't, the police arrived to shut it down. The police did allow an extra half hour but even then Jah Cure was unable to complete his set, but the crowd got enough to sate their desires.

In the end, everybody went away satisfied. "It was the show that everyone wanted to see," Darby said.

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Rick Ross Explains Why He Chose Diddy For Manager!

Reports of Miami-based rapper Rick Ross putting his career in the hands of Diddy appeared on the internet earlier this year, and recently while talking to MTV News, Ross defended the business move. Under the hip-hop mogul's direction, he hopes that he will be able to branch out into different areas like clothing.

"The experience and the knowledge that Diddy possesses is priceless," explained Ross.

"The relationships that he's accumulated over the last 20 years is priceless for a young artist such as myself. We developed a mutual friendship. We just stayed in contact. I was calling him for advice anyway. He was doing it for free: 'What you think about that, homey? Help me get this, homey. I need to meet for that Waka Flocka video, homey.' He was doing so many different things for me on that level."

A few things are already in works said Ross, who added: "I expressed my interest in developing and designing my own clothing label. I expressed interest in branching off into liquor endorsements, book deals...But most definitely, these are the new things we're bringing to the table, and these are things I haven't expressed a lot of interest into in the past. It's looking very, very positive."

Ross will release his fourth studio album, Teflon Don, on June 29. The LP features collaborations with Kanye West, Jay-Z, and John Legend, amongst others. The lead single Super High, featuring Ne-Yo and produced by Clark Kent & The Remedy, was released earlier this month.

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Chino says hectic weekend of shows worth it!

Dancehall artiste Chino has quite a busy weekend ahead as he prepares to shatter the stage at three shows across the island.

His first stop will be at the JN-sponsored Jamaica International Invitational at the National Stadium featuring Usain Bolt and more, followed by a performance at the Glenmuir High School, Clarendon. After that, he returns to Kingston for what promises to be a stellar performance at the much-talked-about, Life Fest concert.

Life Fest, organized by the Carlyle Foundation in memory of artiste, Spragga Benz's late son, Carlton Grant, will also feature musical giants: Stephen and Damian 'Junior Gong' Marley, Jazmin Sullivan, Alison Hinds, Capleton, Queen Ifrica, I-Octane, Konshens, Laden, Spragga Benz and more and will be hosted by Zip 103's Bambino and former BET 106 and Park host, Free.

Chino, whose correct name is Daniel McGregor, says, "This weekend is going to be crazy not only because of the schedule, but those three events are must-go-sees. I'm also happy to be a part of Life Fest because it's for a worthy cause, and just look at the line-up, it mad."

Last year, proceeds from Life Fest were in aid of needy students attending the Camperdown High School.

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G-Whizz steals show in Atlanta, debuts 'Tomorrow'!

Dancehall singjay, G-Whizz was the talk of the town after his performance in Atlanta last weekend.

"The show was great! We shell it dung man. I love performing and entertaining my fans, so having them enjoy what I have to offer is a good feeling," said G-Whizz.

After returning to the island on Sunday, G-Whizz immediately made his way to the Curry Festival in St. Ann, where he performed at the concert staged later that evening.

This weekend, G-Whizz, whose correct name is Garland Rowe, will be unveiling the video for one of his latest singles, Tomorrow. Tomorrow, an inspirational track which was the brainchild of Whizz, who thought a follow-up of sorts to his hit single, Life, was necessary.

"People encounter problems every day and feel down sometimes, and sometimes you just want someone to encourage you. Sometimes that's not even a friend, it can come from music. That's what I want to offer through my songs. I'm hoping the video and the song will touch and encourage people," he said.

The video for Tomorrow should be premiered on TVJ's Entertainment Report tonight.

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Nicki Minaj Addresses "Butt Pad" Rumors!

From her bi-sexual lyrics, to her Barbie persona, Young Money princess Nicki Minaj is the name coming out of everyone's mouth.

Regarded for having a voluptuous figure, the rap queen has faced rumors that she wears a "butt pad" to accentuate her backside. Minaj has finally addressed the scepticism saying, "Absolutely not!"

Nicki tells the New York Post, "People will pick anything to talk about, and that happens to be the thing at the moment." But it's not like she doesn't enjoy the extra attention. "I love being a conversation piece," she adds.

This is not the first time she addresses the critics. However, the Young Money femcee doesn't take it personally.

"Everyone is not going to like Nicki Minaj," she said. "Everyone's not going to like the way I look or what I do but I think if you're smart you'd take from me and figure out why everyone is talking about me. That'd be the 'smart' thing to do. I don't think they know how to express that so they express it with anger, jealousy and hatred and that consumes them and I'm still here."

In the meantime, fans anticipate the release of her debut album which is set to drop this fall.

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VYBZ KARTEL RECORDS CLARKS 3!

Dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel, with his Clarks dancehall anthem dominating the airwaves locally and abroad, has released the third, and final installment in his series of songs that pays homage to the popular British shoe brand.

Clarks 3, Wear Weh Yuh Have, a Mateos Music / Adidjahiem / Notnice Records production, follows the original Clarks tune, which featured Vanessa Bling and Popcaan, and Clarks Again, both of which were released last month.

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CHECK OUT THE SONG BELOW

T.I. To Return To Miami This May For Performance!

T.I. will give one of his first major performances this May when the rapper and artists on his Grand Hustle record label hit Miami during Memorial Day weekend.

Atlanta promoter Jacob York and Miami’s 99 Jamz are promoting “The Return of the King” Memorial Day Weekend Extravaganza.

T.I. and crew are lasted to the stage on Sunday, May 30th at Klutch Nightclub, formerly known as Opium/Prive.

The performances marks T.I.’s first major performance since he was released from a halfway house in March, after serving a year in prison for attempting to purchase machine guns and silencers in October of 2007.

Earlier this week, T.I. debuted the video for his single “I’m Back,” the first official off of his “comeback” album King Uncaged, which is due in stores August 17th.

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Yahdie Conscious Fashions ready to take off!

Established in 2004 out of the creative and commercial impulses of co-directors Jami Spence and Jaye-Ann O'Connor, the Yahdie Conscous brand has been steadily making a name for itself, one avant garde design after another, among true fashion aficionados.

Fashion has produced genuine artists, designers with deeply iconoclastic visions, but it is rare when you find designers with that special kind of fashion vocabulary, the singular ability to make your clothes and presentations display a true art streak. But these two young ladies have that flair.
Maybe that's why they have chosen to take risks and associate their brand with a pop-dancehall artiste on the verge of a major international breakthrough.

"We design clothes from t-shirts to dresses, we want our fashion to be edgy and Jamaican, yet accessible, and that is one of the reasons we chose Denyque as one of the faces of our December collection. We saw similarities between her and the edgy, raw, young feel we are bringing to our fashion," Ms. Spence said.

You can purchase the brand at Stanley and Empress' boutique which is located in the same compound as Starapple on Hope Road, St. Andrew.

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TRINIDAD FAILS TO KEEP BLACK RYNO OUT!

Police officials in soca-loving island, Trinidad have attempted to block Jamaican deejay Blak Ryno, also known as Ryno Di Stinga, from entering the country, but their plan failed.

Ryno performed at a concert there on Saturday, and reports are that the event was well attended and went very well.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Gilbert Reyes said he had written a letter to National Security Minister Martin Joseph, requesting that Ryno, whose real name is Romaine Anderson, be barred from entering the country.

Reyes says he is moving to block from entering the island, any regional or international artiste whose music contributes and appears to influence gang-related activity and behaviour.

And, while he did not name any of Blak Ryno’s songs, the Trinidad cop declared that Ryno’s music has gang lyrical content that is unwanted in Trinidad.

He also said that anyone who has that type of lyrical content in their music, the government will be asked to block them from entering the country.

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Flippa still in US lock-up!

The 'Flossing King', deejay Flippa Mafia, is still in custody in the United States.

The deejay, real name Andrew Davis, has been charged with violating the United States Immigration law and is facing possible deportation.

When contacted yesterday, Nicole Navas public affairs specialist/spokesperson U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said that the deejay is now in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement department. Navas was tight-lipped about the matter, however, and would not disclose further information.

In a previous interview published in THE STAR on April 9, Navas had said that; "Andrew Davis is still in federal custody with U.S. Bureau of Prisons. He has been charged with being in violation of U.S. Immigration law and faces immigration removal proceedings."

Flippa is alleged to have attempted to enter the United States on a boat from the Bahamas with the assistance of two men in March. The deejay was arrested on March 16 and was being held as a prosecution witness against the men, Julio Santiesteban and Armando Amat, who are charged with encouraging and inducing an alien to enter or reside in the United States.

a material witness

Flippa Mafia, who is known for songs such as Dem Yah and Unfinished House, appeared before the United States District Court of the Southern District of Florida on April 2. Shortly after appearing in court he was dismissed as a material witness.

THE WEEKEND STAR last week published a summary of the case against Davis and two other men which was compiled from an affidavit sworn by Matthew Parker, a special agent with the Department of Homeland Security, United States ICE.

According to Special Agent Parker in the affidavit, Davis knew he had no current legal immigration status in the U.S., knowing he would not be able to lawfully re-enter the United States. The affidavit further stated that in March, Davis flew from Jamaica to The Bahamas in order to see some friends and find a way to be smuggled into the United States.

While in The Bahamas, Davis allegedly met with a friend who agreed to smuggle him into the U.S. The friend then introduced Davis to two Cubans, Santiesteban and Amat, who had arrived to pick up a load of Chinese people that never arrived. Davis reportedly paid US$3,000 (J$270,000) for passage to the United States.

The money was reportedly accepted and on March 15 an attempt was allegedly being made to transport Davis to United States on the boat. The United States Coast Guard intercepted the vessel, however, and conducted a search. Upon boarding the vessel, Parker said that the Coast Guard found Santiesteban and Amat, and during a search later found one unaccounted person (Davis) laying down in the cabin of the vessel. The men were taken in for questioning.

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TANYA STEPHENS' NEW ALBUM IS FREE!

Dancehall/Reggae Singjay Vivienne Stephenson, more popularly known as Tanya Stephens, has released her latest album, “Infallible”, and has made it completely free to download by anyone who wants it.

Stephens announced the release yesterday with a simple statement, “Infallible by Tanya Stephens! Feel free to forward the link to as many people as you wish. The album is completely free of cost. Enjoy!!“

According to Andrew Henton of Tarantula Records, Stephens’ own record label, Tanya wanted to do something special for her fans, the major reason being that there’s a recession going on, and things are already hard on everyone.

He added also, that Tanya believes that when she gives an album to a major label, technically she’s giving it away anyway, so she would much rather give it directly to the fans.

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Vybz Kartel hits #2 on the Reggae Specialty charts with Clarks!

Portmore Empire leader Vybz Kartel is the biggest gainer on the Reggae Specialty charts as the runaway hit, Clarks, featuring Popcaan and Gaza Slim blasted its way to #2, bested only by Gyptian's breakthrough hit, Hold Yu, which has held the pole position for the past four weeks. He had 23 plays this week, a jump of 11 over the previous week.



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Mr. Lexx Acquitted of all rape charges!

Deejay Mr. Lexx, who was arrested last October on a rape charge in New York, has been acquitted of all charges, one876entertainment understands.

"The case is over and done with. Mr. Lexx was able to get a good sleep for the first time in months and in the next couple of weeks, he will return to Jamaica to kiss his mother, and spend times with his children and his ex-wife. His record has also been expunged," a grinning Earlton Clarke told one876.

The deejay, whose real name is Christopher Palmer, had been arrested after a woman reported to the police that he sexually molested her. He reportedly has one more hearing to attend before he can return home.

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Protoje releases video for Dread and JA !

Since his emergence on the local music scene last summer budding Reggae artist Oje Olliverre aka Protoje has made quite an impression on music lovers as well as industry insiders. The artist who hails from the ‘Bread Basket’ parish of St. Elizabeth, is now getting ready to put his career in a higher gear with the upcoming release of two music videos for recently released singles Dread and JA. Both songs were produced by ace music producer Donovan ‘Don Corleon’ Bennett.

The first of the two music videos to be released will be for Dread; this video was directed by Protoje’s sister LeAnn ‘Dreamseeker’ Olliverre, who also directed the music video for his first single Arguments. This music video will be released before the end of the week.

While the music video for JA which was directed by Gareth Cobran who is known for his work with artists such as Gramps Morgan, Konshens and Demarco will be released a few weeks later. Both music videos were shot at various locations across the parish of St. Elizabeth such as Protoje’s home town of Santa Cruz and Goshen. There are also some scenes that were shot in Kingston at Don Corleon’s studio.

Protoje and his management team are very excited about the videos. “I feel very good about the music videos we put a lot of work in them and I am sure the public is going to love them. I can’t wait for them to be released”, said a very happy Protoje who is currently taking well deserved rest at his home in Santa Cruz.

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JAH CURE PLEADS NOT GUILTY!

Reggae singer Jah Cure pleaded not guilty to drug possession charges, when he appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s yesterday.

Jah Cure was arrested last week Thursday, after he was stopped and searched by the police along Dunrobin Avenue in Kingston, and a small quantity of ganja was allegedly found.

The maximum fine for this minor offense is J$100, however the entertainer is reportedly concerned that a conviction for this matter, may blight his otherwise clean record since his July 2007 release after serving a nine year prison term for rape.

He is scheduled to return to court on May 6.

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D'Angel Heads to Dominica on May 1st !

They call her the hardest working woman in showbiz, and D'Angel is living up to that billing and then some.She has been on a tear in the last few weeks and during the Easter weekend, she had no less than 6 shows in three days.

On Saturday April 3, she performed at both Hype 2K10 in St. Elizabeth and during the Portmore Carnival at the Portmore Pines Plaza. On Sunday April 4, she performed at Carnival Time: Trini Invation at the Richmond Estate, before blitzing Easter Monday with three shows, Palz Family Funday at Jamworld, Easter Bonanza at the Cecil Charlton Estate in Mandeville, and the Jamaica International Kite Festival in St. Ann.

"My birthday party was a sold out affair, the whole of St. Ann came out to see the show,"

Thousands of people turned out to see Charly Black, Nesbeth, I Octane, D'Angel and Beenie Man rip up the venue with several hits.

"Other great performaces came from Kantana, Versitile, and Mr Phang. DJ Sunshine, Munga Honorable, Amber from Irie FM, Kshema Francis of Irie FM were also there," D'Angel said.

Part Proceeds from this event will be handed over to two charities, the Spanish Town Infirmary and Jerusalem Children's Home.D'Angel will be performing on May 1st at Krazy Koconuts in Dominica, and on May 2nd at the Coast in Antigua.

She has been balancing all that with performances on the Irie FM Road Show, and the RE TV High School tour which concluded at the Manchester High School last week.

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Lloyd Banks Talks Signing With Def Jam & New Book!

Following the success of his hit song Beamer, Benz ,or Bentley, Lloyd Banks is in high demand. The G-Unit rapper was reportedly receiving phone calls from his former label, Interscope Records, and now Def Jam has allegedly entered into the bidding war.

While talking to PosseTV, Banks broke the news on his current prospects and said that he will weigh all of his options before he makes a decision.

"I mean yeah, they been reaching out, Interscope and a few other labels [like] Def Jam. At this point man, like I said, I've been completely independent, we've sold over 200,000 units already through iTunes -- at this point, whatever makes sense, is the deal I'll go with," said Banks.

"If it makes more sense to stay where I'm at, then I'll stay and be independent. If they drop that big bag, then we can talk. I don't ever want to shut no doors out so we'll see what happens in the near future."

Aside from working on his forthcoming album, Banks is also looking to release a book later this year. While he didn't get into the specifics on whether or not the book would be fiction or nonfiction, Banks did say that he is already considering releasing more books in the future.

"I've already started [writing my own book] and hopefully I'll be done with that by the end of the year," he revealed. "It's definitely something I want to look into and not just a one time thing. It's something I want to do in the future, a lot."

Banks' upcoming album, The Hunger For More 2, is expected to have a summer release date.

Police To Protest At Concert Featuring Nas & Damian Marley!

Over 50 police officers are in West Palm Beach are expected to picket a festival featuring a variety of top Rock and Hip-Hop acts, including ZZ Top, Weezer, Sean Kingston and Nas and Damian Marley.

Fortunately, it is not the music the officers are targeting this time, but the actual city of West Palm Beach itself.

Earlier this month, police officers announced they would protest West Palm Beach’s decision to eliminate officer’s pay raises and reduce benefits.

The SunFest, which takes place from April 28th to May 2nd, is one the biggest events hosted in West Palm Beach.

"The public thinks all we're doing is asking for raises," Lou Penque, a West Palm sergeant and union treasurer, told the Palm Beach Post. "We are more than willing to work with the city and they refuse to work with us.”

Today, West Palm Beach Police Chief Delsa Buch ordered an undetermined amount of police to work the event, despite their objections.

"I don't think the public will appreciate it, and I hope (the police) rethink it," West Palm Beach Mayor Lois Frankel said. "We'll have plenty of security. It's always been a very safe event with very few incidents."

To compensate for the lack of police officers, SunFest organizers have hired a number of private security guards to secure the event.

"I'm a little sad that the union never even called us," SunFest organizer Paul Jamieson said. "I don't understand what put us in the middle of this. It doesn't make sense."

Nas and Damian Marley are scheduled to hit the stage on Sunday (May 2nd) at 3:30 PM.

Other acts performing during the SunFest include Frankie Beverley and Maze, Patti LaBelle, REO Speedwagon, Ben Harper and The Relentless 7 and others.

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JAH CURE ARRESTED FOR MARIJUANA!

Jah Cure was yesterday taken into custody, by the constant spring police for suspicion of having marijuana in his possession.

The singer, born Sycatore Alcock, was arrested and charged with possession of and smoking marijuana.

He was granted bail in the sum of $ 5,000, and is scheduled to appear in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate Court on April 26.

Alcock is set to kick of his first official African tour this summer after which he will have several performances in Mexico, before returning to Jamaica, in July, for International Night at Reggae Sumfest 2010.

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50 Cent Announces "The Invitation Tour"; Explains New Album!

50 Cent will embark on a stateside tour later this year on May 28. The month-long trek, which is being billed as The Invitation Tour, will start at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio, and hit up some 18 cities before it comes to a close on June 25 in Atlantic City, NJ at the House Of Blues.

The New York rapper has been touring extensively across Europe in promotion of his 2009 album Before I Self Destruct, but while talking to radio host Tim Westwood, he took the time to clarify the concept of his forthcoming album, Black Magic. Initial reports suggested that the album would reflect the up-tempo dance music he was inspired by in Europe, however 50 wants his fans to know that his new sound will still be hip-hop; the only thing he is changing is the delivery.

"I just want to create something that's outta the box," said Fif. "It ain't the same style, same kinda music. I'm using different song formats. I'll write a rap song in a sequence of a different kind of record...To write it in a different format, instead of writing it the way the traditional rap record is written, it's to experiment with different things. It's still hip-hop music, still 50 Cent content, it's just written in a different way."

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GOVERNMENT SIDES WITH VYBZ KARTEL!

The Government of Jamaica has come to the aid of deejay Vybz Kartel following his ban from performing in the sister Caribbean island of St Lucia.

Head of communications at the trade ministry, Wilton Dyer, said the ministry has contacted its high commission in Trinidad & Tobago which has responsibility for St Lucia and also intends to speak with Vybz Kartel as they probe the decision to ban the artiste.

There is concern as to whether the ban imposed by the government of St Lucia on the deejay has breached the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Free Movement of Skills Initiative which relates to artistes, sports persons, musicians and media workers.

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New artist on the rise 'Snypa King'

CHECK OUT THE HIT SINGLE MOVING ON BELOW;

Jim Jonsin Suing Lil Wayne Over ‘Lollipop’ Single!

Incarcerated star Lil Wayne has been hit with a $500,000 lawsuit over unpaid royalties from his hit 2008 single “Lollipop.”

According to the NY Post, producer Jim Jonsin filed the suit on Tuesday (April 20), claiming that he’s yet to receive any royalties despite holding a co-writing credit for the track.

“Lollipop” was the lead single from the smash LP Tha Carter III, which was the best-selling album of 2008 with 2.88 million copies sold.The single reached #1 on Billboard, and has been certified 3X platinum.

The pair had previously collaborated on the 2006 song “Leather So Soft,” off the Lil Wayne and Birdman album Like Father, Like Son.

Jonsin has penned Top 10 hits for other artists, including T.I. (“Whatever You Like”), Jamie Foxx (“Unpredictable”), and Soulja Boy (“Kiss Me Thru the Phone”).

Wayne has been in jail since March after receiving a 1 year sentence on gun possession charges.

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50 Cent Exploring His "Roots" In New Documentary!

New York rapper 50 Cent is partnering with VH1 and their Rock Doc series to debut a documentary about his ancestors. The show, which will be titled 50's Roots, will follow the rap star on his journey into the Deep South to learn more about his family's history and slave roots. In the documentary, he will also talk to his living family members and discuss their memories.

VH1 is hoping that the new programming will help them steer away from the celebrity dating reality TV shows they have become synonymous with, but keep them in good graces with the fans. Taking a step in the right direction, the channel, which is owned by Viacom, recently surveyed its viewers and asked them to help set the tone of the channel in terms of new shows.

" [Viewers] told us that they want to connect even more with our characters, our artists, and our celebrities -- but in a more genuine way," said Tom Valderone, president of VH1, in regards to the new line of shows coming up.

"They still enjoy VH1's signature sense of fun and irreverence, but they also want more storylines that reflect the issues and challenges they are experiencing in their own lives."

An airdate for the show is currently not available.

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SEAN PAUL FOR THREE-CONTINENT TOUR!

Jamaican dancehall superstar Sean Paul, who returned from performances in Africa recently, has two new tracks and a three-continent tour slated for April.

Sean Paul is also toasting the success of his single with British-born pop sensation Jay Sean, Do You Remember, which is featured on the iconic pop music compilation Now That's What I Call Music.

Sean Paul's two newest singles, Down The Line is produced by Jeremy Harding, while Fire Brigade, is produced by Don Corleon.

These two producers also did tracks for his fourth album Imperial Blaze, which went on to make chart history as the first dancehall album to top the Billboard Rap/Hip Hop charts.

The Grammy-winning artiste has performed in more than 80 countries in North, Central, and South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe.

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Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon Tie The Knot For The Third Time!

Power couple Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey will tie the knot for the third time at the end of this month on April 30 to celebrate their second year anniversary. Back in May of 2008, the couple originally married on a private island in the Bahamas where they served their guests Maine lobster and Dom Perignon champagne.

Nick Cannon mentioned that they would marry every year as a tradition to celebrate each anniversary and although he's buying Mariah a new ring, their tattoos of each other names is most symbolic of their love for one another.

"We get married every year! That's our thing, so it's going to be our third wedding this year. That's what we'll be doing on the actual anniversary...We'll do something..A party or event, just to celebrate. This is the third ring I have to buy. It'll be something different. Something good. To me rings are special and exciting, but tattoos mean more than anything. They're forever and ever. They professed our love. We like being married every year."

In other news, Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey previously considered the option of having children but would rather wait until the time is right in both of their careers.

"It's part of the whole purpose of getting married, I'd just want our children to have the best childhood and upbringing they possibly could."

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Diddy "Apologies" To Rival Vodka Makers In Bubble Bath Statement!

Sean “Diddy” Combs has issued an apology for making disparaging statements about rival vodka’s that set off the “vodka wars” earlier this month between Combs’ Ciroc brand and a number of other spirit makers.

Combs released the statement via YouTube, which features the entertainment mogul soaking in a bubble bath surrounded by Ciroc bottles, while taunting his competition with the “apology.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, I come to you today as a man. I feel like only a true man steps up to the plate and people may not agree with his position. And that man says ‘I’m sorry,’ I’m sorry to all I may have offended. We’re sorry for being the best. I am sorry that just that just this weekend, we got awarded the prestigious Double Gold Medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Award for the best ultra premium vodka. This is a fact, you can Google it. I am sorry I came out with these flavors that taste so good.”

The words will surely aggravate liquor tycoon M.J. Silver, who declared a “vodka war” on Combs’ Ciroc, after Combs was quoted as saying “if you’re not drinking Ciroc vodka, then you’re drinking pee pee.”

Last month Silver, who owns Georgi Argent and members of his staff attempted to deliver a toilet full of Ciroc vodka to Combs’ Manhattan offices, but was rejected by the mogul’s burley security guards.

“I am sorry that the competitions sales are down and we are up,” said Combs as he held a champagne glass of Ciroc in the tub. “There’s nothing I can do about that. I am sorry that I am coming to you live from my bubble bath. I’m not really sorry. It tastes good.”

Combs is putting the finishing touches on his upcoming album Last Train to Paris, which is due in stores June 22nd.

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Gyptian hits Billboard Heatseekers chart at #15!

Gyptian made his debut on the Billboard Heatseekers chart at a robust #15 this week with his attention-grabbing gem of song, Hold Yuh. The chart reflects the titles with the greatest airplay and sales this week.

In the meantime, the radio-friendly single continues to vault up the Billboard charts. Produced by Ricky Blaze, the single's popularity has been mushrooming in the urban radio market of the US. The single which is now number 51 on the Billboard Hot R&B and Hip Hop Chart, was recently remixed by hot new female rapper Nicki Minaj.

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Sizzla's publicist dispels rumours!

❒ Artiste said to have fled to Zimbabwe

Sizzla's publicist Olimatta Taal has pushed aside reports published in an overseas newspaper which claims that the artiste has fled from Jamaica to live in Zimbabwe because of gun and murder related charges.

The article, 'Mugabe offers Jamaican artiste farm for ZANU-PF public relations', which was published in The Zimdiaspora on Monday, claimed that Sizzla "is on the run from Jamaican authorities for gun related and robbery cases in Kingston and is preparing to set up base in Zimbabwe after he was offered a farm. Indications are that he will not be returning to his native Jamaica where he is under investigation for several violent crimes which include armed robbery and murder."

It continued, "Zanu PF is allocating a farm to Sizzla so that the Jamaican star would do international public relations for the former ruling party whose fortunes are fast waning following its drubbing at the March 2008 harmonised elections by the Movement for Democratic Change."

There were also claims that Sizzla 'was not paid for the performances he has done in Zimbabwe and allocation of a farm to him is part of Zanu PF's way of settling what it owes the reggae star'.

However, Taal has dismissed the claims and labelled the article as irresponsible journalism.

"The article is not factual and it is misrepresenting Sizzla. Sizzla is not under investigation for any of that. It is apparent that the website is a racist journalist group which is trying to discredit Sizzla and misinform the public," she told THE STAR. "I don't know The Zimdiaspora but they need to be careful 'cause they can be sued for defamation of character. It is not responsible journalism."

(might return)

Taal said Sizzla has been on tour in Africa since late February. In addition to Zimbabwe, he has performed in other countries on the continent, including South Africa and Ghana. She said he might return to Jamaica in May before a performance in Trinidad.

Taal did admit that Sizzla was given land for his two performances in Zimbabwe for the country's 30th independence celebration. But the land, she said, was in no way related to politics.

"The allocation of the farm land does not have any relation to any political party. Instead of giving him cash (for the performances) they gave him land. Although they want to discredit and criminalise him, it is very honourable that he would take land instead of cash," she said, noting that the land received is for the Rastafarian community.

Meanwhile, she said Sizzla has heard about the article but is not moved by it.

"He has heard about it and he laughed when he heard. He doesn't take it to heart. He knows that this is what they do. We don't plan to sue them, we just laugh at them," she told THE STAR.

"He (Sizzla) is in Zimbabwe because he loves Africa. He isn't pro-Mugabe or anti-Mugabe but he respects Mugabe as a leader."

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Pamputtae Flattens Reggae on the Beach in Barbados!

The Fluffy Queen Pamputtae sounded a loud warning that she is a powerhouse in the world of dancehall with a delightfully profane and energetic performance during a Reggae on the Beach concert in Barbados over the weekend.

"Mi mash up the place wid mi sample talk dem. Mi have a new cash for gold talk where mi say'ladies, our gold bring pickney pon di earth, so when the man dem come, we say cash for
gold, and mi pat mi front and the girls dem scream 'yea!'. All the Bajans dem come to me afterwards and say (fake Barbadian accent) 'Pamputtae, yu get the biggest forward for the night'. Mi tell yu mi feel like Vybz Kartel or Mavado, even when the rain a fall, the people dem stand up and ah watch me. It was a really good chance to show how much I have improved as a performer," she said .

She did her crowd favourites such as Goody Good, Ride It and Fluffy and Slimmy, her combination with Spice.

The Reggae on the Beach show also featured top tier acts such as Mr. Vegas, Ding Dong and Konshens.

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CHRISTOPHER MARTIN SIGNS JAPAN DEAL!

Dancehall/reggae singer, Christopher (Chris) Martin, has reportedly signed a deal with Japan-based Rockers Island, for the distribution of his upcoming, still-unnamed, 18 track album.

The album is aimed at the Japanese market, and will feature a mix of previously released and unreleased tracks, including collaborations with Busy Signal, Ce’Cile, Shaggy and others.

Chris sees this deal as a start to a very productive year, and will be embarking on a promotional tour this summer to Japan, as well as hoping to confirm pending invitations from several north and South American states, the Caribbean and Africa, where his music has begun to take on a life of its own in countries such as Nairobi and Kenya.

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Kym has full control of catalogue!

Singer Kym Hamilton, formerly known as Gaza Kim, recently announced that she now has full control over her musical publishing rights.

According to a release sent to THE STAR, Kym and her legal team, effective April 15, has full control of her publishing rights.

It was reported previously in THE STAR that the young singer may have parted ways with the Portmore Empire, but she is still locked into Vybz Kartel's record label Adidjaheim Records for another five years.

The release explained that Kym and her legal team provided her former record label with a 60-day cancellation notice in February and has been waiting patiently for it to take effect. Kym also cancelled her management contract with the record label in February and is currently being managed by Sandra Hamilton.

"This is exciting," said Kym. "This will allow me more creative freedom."

Since leaving the record label, Kym has released This Is Love, which was written by Kym and produced by Stone Age Productions. She has also released a collaboration with former Portmore Empire member Ryno Da Stinger called Last Night.

Kym is currently booked for several shows throughout the Caribbean and is putting the final touches to negotiations for her European tour.

Earlier this year, it was reported that the artiste was allegedly assaulted by members of Portmore Empire in the community known as 'Big Yard', off Mannings Hill Road, St Andrew. Shortly after, she ended her affiliation with the Portmore Empire and changed her name.

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Nicki Minaj Speaks Of A Gay-Friendly Hip-Hop World! :S

Young Money rapper Nicki Minaj believes that though the Hip-Hop community may not be ready to embrace a gay rapper just yet, those days aren't too far off in the future.

"I think the world is getting more gay-friendly, so Hip-Hop is too," she said while talking to Detail Magazine.

"But it's harder to imagine an openly gay male rapper being embraced. People view gay men as having no street credibility. But I think we'll see one in my lifetime."

Nicki came to that conclusion after explaining how being a female rapper allows her to have more freedom than the average male rapper has.

"I have a lot of freedom to be crazy. I can rap in a London accent, make weird faces, wear spandex, wigs, and black lipstick," she said. "I can be more creative than the average male rapper. And I can show my boobs. Guys can't do that."

The femcee also admitted that her newfound fame has led to her making some changes in her music, so that she can appeal to a broader audience.

"I'm a role model now," said Minaj. "I didn't know I was gonna have 13-year-old fans, so I've tried to change a few things here and there. But I also know that the girls don't want me to be Miley Cyrus, either."

Nicki Minaj has been no stranger to the headlines this past month with the most recent news being in regards to the firing of her manager Debra Antney, and her decision to drop out of Rihanna's Last Girl On Earth tour. She is scheduled to release her debut album later this year via Young Money/Universal Motown. Her lead single, Massive Attack featuring R&B singer/songwriter Sean Garrett is currently making its way up the Billboard charts.

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Kartel denied work permit!

Vybz Kartel's travelling options have again been limited, as he was recently denied a work permit to perform in St Lucia.

A statement from the St Lucian government yesterday stated that Vybz Kartel will not be given a permit to perform in that country next weekend.

It said: "Having looked carefully at the significant amount of information presented, and considering the views and opinions of the many individuals and institutions as well as available options, the Government of St Lucia, through the Ministry of Labour, Information and Broadcasting, has decided not to grant a work permit to Mr Adidja Azim Palmer, otherwise known as Vybz Kartel, for performances at the Hot FM-promoted Supreme Weekend show. This show is scheduled for April 30 and May 1, 2010."

(government option)

It continued: "Government has written to the show promoters and has offered them the option of reapplying for the granting of work permits to the other artistes included on the show with the exclusion of Mr Adidja Azim Palmer, aka Vybz Kartel."

When contacted by THE STAR, Vybz Kartel gave no comment on the matter but noted that the decision is being appealed by the show's promoter, Patrick Smith.

Prior to the decision, a committee was set up to decided the pros and cons of the request to have Vybz Kartel there. Some of the things done included a comprehensive research of the artiste's musical repertoire; soliciting the views and opinions of key institutions and organisations in the country; reviewing the rationale given for the denial of work permits for the artiste in neighbouring countries; and determining the general impact of the artiste's performance on the population, particularly the youth, amidst consistent calls for higher ethical standards and morals from a wide range of persons and institutions in society.

"The Government is cognisant that St Lucia is part of the CARICOM grouping and we will, as we have been doing, encourage and facilitate the free movement of artistes. However, the administration holds the firm view that artistes, promoters and Government have a shared responsibility as much as possible to ensure that standards prevail to the benefit of the country, particularly to the vulnerable youth in our midst," the statement said, noting that the government hopes to facilitate public forums to inform its approach in the future.

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ACTRESS MO'NIQUE WAS MOLESTED AS A CHILD!

Oscar winning actress Mo'Nique's brother has confessed to molesting the actress when he was 13 and she was eight.

Gerald Imes appeared on Oprah Winfrey's TV show to address allegations made by his famous sister.

Mo'Nique didn't reveal all until she was 15, and her parents immediately asked her brother to leave the house and he has been largely estranged from his sister ever since, but she let him back into her life when her twins were born in 2005.

Imes has since apologized to his sister. He also revealed in the interview that he had personally apologised to another girl he sexually assaulted - and served time behind bars for his actions.

MO'NIQUE won an Oscar for best supporting actress for her role in the emotional 2009 film, Precious.

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Jay-Z Sues Baseball Player Over 40/40 Club!

Hip-Hop mogul Jay-Z is taking Boston Red Sox player David Ortiz to court over his use of the 40/40 name for a club in the Dominican Republic.

In the lawsuit, which was filed in Manhattan federal court yesterday (April 15), Jay-Z claimed that Ortiz opened a venue on the island and named it the Forty-Forty club, and then registered a website under the domain, www.fortyforty.net.

The New York rapper and his business partner Juan Perez are arguing that Ortiz is trading on the fame, value, and goodwill of their name through his club and its website, and that the mix-up has led to "marketplace confusion and damage." The two own 40/40 clubs in New York City, Atlantic City, and Las Vegas and reportedly have plans to open venues in Tokyo and Macau. Ortiz opened his club in October of last year.

The suit also points out how Ortiz was familiar with the club that Jay-Z and Perez opened in New York City as he had visited the place numerous times.

"David Ortiz is fully aware of plaintiff's Manhattan 40/40 club, since he had been a patron there on several occasions long before he opened his infringing Forty/Forty Club," read the legal document.

So far Ortiz has not commented on the lawsuit.

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Vybz Kartel to create West Bank shoe line!

Vybz Kartel a.k.a Addi Di Teacha is making yet another power move in the Dancehall Game. On the heels of the success of the Clarks hit song, he has once again joined forces with business manager Corey Todd to create a West Bank shoe company, that will design, create and produce shoes which fit Vybz Kartel’s unique sense of style.

“We have the "West Bank" shoe coming soon courtesy of the Unlimited Daggering company which is owned by Corey Todd and I,” Vybz Kartel told one876.
The awesome ability of Vybz Kartel to market products has been proven with the outstanding success of the Street Vybz brand which has moved major units since coming out last year, and in the words of one marketing insider, “made rum sexy for young people again”.

“Retailers have always expressed their gratitude to me for "hyping" their products from jersey days, remember ah me sell off jerseys in Jamaica back in the day -- until now. So this is a natural progression for me…to do my own products and my own shoe.”

He did not reveal if the shoe line would be exclusively sneakers, formal dress shoes or casual shoes.

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Drake shoots video in Jamaica - Mavado to make cameo appearance!

Singjay Mavado is set to make a cameo appearance in rapper Drake's latest music video which is currently being shot in Jamaica.

The video is being shot for the yet-to-be-released song, Find Your Love and is being directed by one of the top commercial and music video directors in the United States, Anthony Mandler.

Mandler has shot mainstream videos including Rihanna's Russian Roulette, John Mayer's Who Says, Jay-Z's Run This Town, and for the likes of Mary J. Blige, John Legend, T.I. and Beyoncé.

The video and its production is being kept tightly under wraps from foreign and local media. However, a source close to the production revealed that the video was a three-day shoot being filmed throughout Kingston, starting yesterday and ending on Wednesday.

(bikini-clad females)

Mavado will be doing his filming today and tomorrow. Drake arrived in the island yesterday and started filming by Sandy Beach in Port Royal.

When THE STAR visited the set yesterday, Drake and crew had taken over the beach and was filming on the hillside, alongside bikini-clad females, overlooking the sea.

According to persons working on the shoot, a bonfire was to be set up on the beach in the night for further filming and later the crew was set to move to Cassava Piece for more scenes.

The source said, "Mavado has a major role in the video. He and Drake are good friends and when Drake came here the last time he saw some scenes he wanted to have in his next video and thought that Mavado fit the role well." According to the source, on Drake's last visit here, he had also recorded some material and he and Mavado are expected to do work together in the future.

(first studio album)

Drake is a popular Canadian actor and recording artist, who burst unto the scene in 2009 and having already worked with acts such as Lil' Wayne, Birdman, Kanye West, Eminem and Jay-Z. The rapper is known for songs Best I Ever Had and Say Something with Timbaland. He is expected to release his first studio album Thank Me Later sometime this year.

When contacted, Mavado's manager Julian Jones-Griffith was tight-lipped about the video. Jones-Griffith told THE STAR however, that the singjay had debuted his latest single 9 Life on New York's Hot 97 on Sunday night. The song is produced by Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor and will be officially released on iTunes shortly.

According to Jones-Griffith, the song was recorded the day after Mavado was involved in a bike accident last week. The artiste suffered cuts and bruises after colliding into a car in the Manor Park area.

Jones-Griffith said, "He (Mavado) has a lot of music working on. We're doing some work with a big European producer, Alliance is changing up the game and setting the trends, taking it to a new dimension. We also have another big song coming out soon with Stephen, a cross-over love song called For You."

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Chedda Releases 'Curse Of The Gifted' - Makes Canadian debut!

Dancehall recording artiste Chedda, one of Jamaica's fastest rising young talent, continues to make major strides in his musical endeavours.

After months of waiting, it's now official. The Cassia Park resident has released his highly anticipated mix CD titled Curse Of The Gifted.

The 19-track compilation features some scorching singles produced by UIM Records, Supa Hype of UPT 007 Records, Coppershot Music, Top Notch Production and ZJ Chrome of CR2O3. The project's executive producer is Anju Blaxx (UIM Records)

Curse Of The Gifted showcases Chedda's versatility as he addresses a wide cross-section of topics ranging from crime, violent, love, envy, greed and a number of other current topical issues. The CD features collaborations with prominent entertainers such as Konshens, Chino, Laden, Nicky B, labelmate Blak Diamon and others.

The deejay, whose real name is Tyrello Johnson, is currently in the studio working with producers such as Tarik 'Russian' Johnston, Tifa and Equinoxx Music on several new singles for the upcoming summer holidays. Meanwhile, with the release of the new compilation, Chedda and his management team are now making preparations for an intense promotional campaign.

The lead single, Fresh To Death featuring Konshens, Chino, Laden and Nicky B is doing well. Aside from enjoying premium airplay locally, it debuted on the Canadian Reggae Charts last week, while his follow up Hill And Gully produced by Coppershot Music is now available on iTunes as part of the 'Jafrican' rhyhm featuring others local acts such as Busy Signal, Tony Matterhorn, Charly Black and Ding Dong.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

Soulja Boy Searching For Talented Unknown Producers; Preps New Album!

As entrepreneur and rapper Soulja Boy is preparing to release his third studio album titled Dre, he will continue to think outside of the box as he is looking to the streets for raw talented producers instead of established producers to work on his album. Although Soulja Boy got his break by producing his own material, he feels that it may be another talented unknown producer out there that can contribute to his project.

"I usually produce all of my own records. My most successful record was 100-percent me -- I wrote and produced it. I've been producing for myself and I'm starting to get more respect; having parties reach out and ask me for beats. I want to change up my thing a bit and I know even with the talent I got, there are some things that I can't do that other producers can bring to the table...I keep my ear to the street. I like to play it by ear and I don't rate another producer because of his stats. If I hear a hot beat in the street that I can get versus a wack beat from a hot named producer; which one I'ma do?"

Dre will be the follow up to Soulja Boy's 2008 album iSouljaBoyTellem and will take a different route than his previous albums as this is said to be his most personal album. It will be released this upcoming summer and features collaborations with teen sensation Justin Bieber, Trey Songz, and Nicki Minaj just to name a few.

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New videos, collabs for Serani!

Singjay Serani has been busy working on new collaborations and videos to hit local and international stations soon.

Three weeks ago, the singjay shot the Tipsy in the Club video alongside Universal/SRC recording artist Webstar and rapper Jadakiss.

The trio shot the video at the Mansion nightclub in New York, and according to Serani, the video will hopefully be premiered on BET's '106 and Park'.

When THE STAR spoke to the singjay about the shoot he commented, "it was a lot of fun, very exciting, a lot of beautiful girls."

latest singles

On Friday, the artiste also shot a video for his collaboration with Spanish artiste Fuego for the song Que Buena Tu Ta, alongside Deevani.

According to www.corrientelatina.com, Serani is being hailed as the first reggae artiste to appear on a Mambo song. On Monday, Serani also shot a video for one of his latest singles called Searching, which was shot around Brooklyn, New York, and featured the dancer Mundo from Ravers Clavers who created the 'Follow Through' dance which is mentioned in the song.

According to the artiste, who has been busy touring in Europe, the UK and the United States, there is more music to come, including a song with American R&B singer Olivia. He said, "me and Olivia just completed a sexy song together called Rub Me Up where she calls me and wants to come over. It was really, really fun working with her."

The artiste is currently in Jamaica promoting his recently released mixtape as well as songs such as Drive Out featuring Ding Dong and will be releasing the 'Dancehall Again' rhythm from DASECA soon.

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Rick Ross' "Teflon Don” To Feature Jay-Z, Talks Album!

Recording artist, Rick Ross would only reveal Jay-Z as a rapper featured on his anticipated album in an interview session by DJs and journalists.

"With collaborations, I just want to thank the big homey, Jay-Z; the God MC. He is on Teflon Don," Ross said, "And I will just leave it right there. Know that it’s magic.” The Miami rapper was more liberal about the R&B offerings on his fourth solo album.

Def Jam Records hosted the global conference call on April 12 so the self-proclaimed "Boss" could talk about the world premiere of his new single "Super High" featuring Ne-Yo and produced by DJ Clark Kent and the Remedy. Chrisette Michele is also on the album.

Rick Ross addressed his listeners as “his team.” He thanked the DJ’s for supporting his music, and for what is becoming his legacy as an artist. The Miami representative then spoke on the foundation of his new album.

“I wanted to buckle down, musically, and take it to where I know I could take it without any distractions,” said Ross. “For the last six months, I’ve been perfecting my craft to create that lightening that the game needs."

Over the past year, Rick Ross has only grown in stature and likened past beefs to playing old video games.

Similarly, Ross seemed humbled in addressing his growing fanfare.

“I appreciate the love from the fans,” he said. “That’s what generates my creativity. And outside of the fans, I just listen to the music. I let the music tell me the titles. Records like ‘Super High’, I came up with that title from the feeling I get. I want people to feel like they’re in the Penthouse suite, opening up the glass and looking at the world from that approach; they can go get it!”

DJ Clark Kent got on the line and talked about the importance of Rick Ross receiving the track for "Super High".

“This beat was for you (Ross),” Clark said to Ross. “I told him, don’t put any of your friends on it, no artists on it. This is your beat, it was made for you. When the beat was done, I told my manager that this was for Ross. I just want to thank you (Ross) for f**king with it. I know that I haven’t been around for a minute, because I hated the music game. But the one thing that I loved was the music. So I just wanted to thank you for what you did on this record.”

Before Teflon Don is released on June 29, Rick Ross will put out another mixtape.

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Nicki Minaj remixes Gyptian's Billboard-topping song!

American rapper Nicki Minaj has remixed Gyptian's Billboard topping song, Hold Yuh.

The remix was premiered by Funkmaster Flex on New York's Hot 97 on Monday and later uploaded on www.youtube.com, and in one day got over 1,600 views. Minaj is an American rapper and singer who was signed last year to American label Young Money Entertainment, which was founded by Lil Wayne. The rapper, who is quickly building a name for herself in the overseas market, has made a number of high-profile collaborations including the Billboard chart-topping songs Bedrock with Young Money and Lloyd, My Chick Bad with Ludacris.

When contacted yesterday, Gyptian admitted to hearing the song and while it was not authorised by his team, he is pleased with the result. He said, "from is promo, it a work. The song sexy, I like what she has done wid it, it nice. Di song is on the Billboard charts and maybe wid dis it go up deh to di highest."

The singer said that depending on how the remix does his team will consider having it as part of his upcoming album. The album Hold Yuh, he says, should be ready for summer of this year.

Hold Yuh was released two years ago and is produced by Ricky Blaze. It has just started getting heavy rotation in the United States.

In the remix, Minaj makes an attempt at a Jamaican accent as she bigs up local areas such as Rema, Jungle, Waterhouse and declares, "Barbie mi have nuff gal inna bungle." When THE STAR spoke to a source close to Minaj's camp about the song they disclosed, "her new song ain't hitting the way her team wanted so they researched to see what is the hottest track in New York for her to jump on as an authorised feature, and they came back with Gyptian's track."

On March 27, Hold Yuh debuted on the Billboard's Hot R&B charts at number 78 and has since peaked at the number 69 position. It is Gyptian's debut on that chart. According to a 'Singles Review' written on www.billboard.biz, "Not since Wayne Wonder's No Letting Go, which hit No. 14 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart in 2003, has an underground reggae artist garnered as much attention in the United States as Jamaica's own Gyptian."

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Tami, Lubica debut new sexy fashion line!

Singer Tami Chynn and Slovakian-born fashion designer Lubica debuted their new ultra-sexy fashion line on Wednesday night at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston.

Dubbed 'Anúna', Chynn makes her splash into the world of fashion from a fashionista to a designer.

A host of persons including entertainers Alaine, STAR of the Month Tifa, Tessanne Chin and Wayne Marshall were out to see the display of the 15-piece collection, which included jewellery designed by Chynn and Lubica.

When THE WEEKEND STAR spoke with the singer, who also plays model for the line in their promo photos, she said fashion is something she had been talking about doing for a long time. She said, "It's something I've always wanted to do. I've been talking about it and one day I just showed up at her house with some designs and we did it."

The female line consists of sexy, colourful dresses, tops and pants, in earth tones, aqua, gold and white. Chynn said, "It's for the very assured woman who knows her sense of style. It's soft, edgy, it's what's happening now, it's things I would wear but it's not a Tami line."

She added, "Fashion designing, it feels like it fits, wonder if this is what I'm meant to be doing."

The Anúna line will be sold online at www.lubica.com and exclusively in Jamaica at Kerry Man Woman store. According to Chynn, the two are hoping to release a swimsuit line as well.

COURTESY OF THE JAMAICA STAR

50 Cent Looking To Sign New Artists To G-Unit; Releasing "Black Magic" This Summer?

Still touring throughout the UK in promotion of his last album Before I Self Destruct, 50 Cent recently revealed that he would like to release his next album tentatively titled Black Magic by this summer.

"I'm not in a hurry," insisted 50 during a recent interview. "I kind of planned on releasing Black Magic...I gave myself a goal to try and put it out by the end of the summer, so I'll work that hard on the actual project. If I don't feel it's ready by the end of the summer, I'll just keep it."

Fif also plans to go back out on tour this summer, and although G-Unit members Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo won't be taking the trip with him, he doesn't plan to be alone.

"It's interesting because [Banks and Yayo] probably won't be coming with me," Fif explained. "In the US, Banks has momentum with the first single off his new album, Beamer, Benz, or Bentley. So he'll be out [on his own tour] with H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger For More 2). While he's doing that, it probably wouldn't make sense for Yayo to come with me because his record is almost done now -- he should use that time to complete his record and release it shortly after. But I'll be around."

50 also revealed that he is currently searching for a new artist to join his G-Unit crew.

"You'll see new faces because I'm looking for new artists now," he added. "I'll sign new artists and take them with me and kinda groom them. I don't specifically say, 'I want this kind of artist' -- I look for talent that inspires me, that complements what I do with their own thing. Some of the stuff you can't teach a person; they
gotta have it."

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Clarks set to cross over in US market!

Digital production and distribution channel 21st Hapilos, is pleased to announce that Dancehall smash hit single "Clarks" is now available on iTunes. "Clarks," the latest street anthem from international Dancehall star Vybz Kartel featuring Popcaan and Vanessa Bling (Gaza Slim), is one of the fastest rising Dancehall songs, debuting on local charts in Jamaica within a week of hitting the airwaves, and debuting on mainstream American radio two weeks later.

Produced by independent labels CR203 and Adidjahiem/Notnice Records, "Clarks," now in its 3rd week of rotation, has already hit mainstream American radio, making its debut on NY's #1 station for urban music, HOT97 97.1FM earlier this week.

The song, which pays homage to popular British shoe brand, Clarks, has caught on like wildfire throughout the mainstream. American R&B sensation Omarion recently quoted Vybz Kartel on Twitter, tweeting "Clarks" song lyrics "waah gwan Popcaan," while legendary Hip Hop dj and radio personality Mr. Cee heavily endorsed "Clarks" on Hot97, encouraging listeners to purchase the single on iTunes.

"Clarks" is one of the fastest rising singles in Dancehall right now," states 21st Hapilos executive vice president and Dancehall industry veteran Johnny Wonder. "It's important that Dancehall be accessible worldwide, particularly on iTunes and other digital music outlets. 21st Hapilos is running an extensive marketing campaign, to prove to naysayers that Dancehall can and does sell."

"Clarks" is the fastest hitting song I've seen hit the dancehall in quite a while," states producer/radio personality Shaun 'Chrome' Chabal, creator of the Mad Collab riddim (rhythm) that "Clarks" was voiced on. "From the first play on the radio to the online sales; the impact it has had on the Dancehall and mainstream audience, this song will no doubt prove to be a Dancehall classic," he says, ending with "Clarks" lyrics "weh yuh get da new Clarks deh pawdie?"

"I anticipated it would be a hit, because to Jamaicans, Clarks is not just a brand of shoes, it's part of our culture," explains Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer, CEO of Adidjaheim Records. "I was paying tribute to my large collection of Clarks, and it just took off."

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Gyptian Hits #69 on Billboard R & B charts!

Reggae singer Gyptian burst onto the local music scene some five years ago with the hit song Serious Times. Since then he has made quite name for himself on the reggae music scene both locally and abroad having scored several other hits such as Mama Don’t Cry, Beautiful Lady and I Can Feel your Pain.



Gyptian is currently enjoying much success abroad with his single titled Hold Yuh. The two years old Hold Yuh is currently blowing up crossover radio stations in the US such as HOT 97 in New York. The song which was produced by Ricky Blaze is now sitting in the number sixty nine position on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop chart. It is also number one on Billboard’s recently launched Digital Genre charts, reggae chart.

A music video was recently shot in support of Hold Yuh in Kingston, under the direction of Rick Elgood. The video is already in rotation locally and has been getting a very positive response.

Although he has not been very visible on the local scene in recent times Gyptian has been very busy performing abroad; he recently earned rave reviews for his performance at an event dubbed “I Am Legend III”, which was held last Saturday in the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This coming weekend he will be doing three shows in the Bahamian islands of Nassau, Freeport and Exuma.

Gyptian is currently working on what will be his third album for VP Records; the album is tentatively titled Hold Yuh and is expected to be released later this summer. It will feature production work from producers such as Kemar “Flava” McGregor, Ricky Blaze and FX. Gyptian will also be handling some of the production duties for the album.

COURTESY OF ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

8Ball & MJG Speak On Leaving Bad Boy Records & The Group's New Album!

Rap veterans 8Ball & MJG will release their album Ten Toes Down later this year on May 4. The project will be their first since leaving Bad Boy Records and will serve as their Grand Hustle Records debut.

During a recent interview with XXL, the Memphis duo discussed what fans can expect from the forthcoming release and why they decided to leave Diddy's label.

"I think, for both of us, our love of music and for southern hip-hop music -- just that love for it," said 8Ball in regards to their motivation for putting out the album.

"We had our ups and downs in doing this so it was about assuring our fans who love us and what we do that we gonna move forward and still be us."

"Basically, [with the title] we're saying stay true to what you do," added MJG. "If you just a hardworking person then take care of your family and live a regular life don't get deterred and turned around from what you trying to do."

As for their departure from Bad Boy both agreed that their relationship with the label had ran its course and that it was simply time to move on.

"We really just moved on because it was time to do something different. It was never really a long-term thing," revealed MJG. "It was a mutual agreement to move on and we went on to the next business venture."

The first single from the album, Bring It Back, was released in February and features Young Dro. T.I., Snoop Dogg, and Bun B will reportedly make appearances on the album as well.

COURTESY OF YORAPS.COM

Beenie says US accused him!

Beenie Man has declared that he was wrongfully accused by US authorities who claim he’s involved in drugs and gangs hence his visa being revoked.

In an interview, the king of the dancehall also expressed that not being able to travel to the United States will have a negative impact on dancehall music:

Players in the entertainment industry, fans and music lovers were baffled after news surfaced that the US embassy has revoked Bounty Killa, Beenie Man, Mavado, Aidonia and Ricky Trooper’s visa.

These top dancehall entertainers among many others rely heavily on the international market for a large percentage of their income.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET

Rapper Nicki Minaj Drops Off Of Rihanna's Tour!

Nicki Minaj will not be heading out on the road with R&B singer Rihanna’s “Last Girl On Earth Tour,” the rapper revealed today (April 7th).

On Monday, organizers of Rihanna’s “Last Girl On Earth Tour” announced that Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha were opening acts on the 25-date tour, which kicks off on July 2nd in Seattle, Washington.

According to Nicki, she is going to use the time to finish completing her upcoming debut full-length album.

Barbz I'm sorry 2 say I will not be going out on RiRi's tour. I've decided 2 use that time 4 the completion of my album. Hope u understand,” Nicki Minaj Tweeted today. “Barbz, Thx 4 understanding. And Thanks to Rihanna 4 being a sweetheart and extending this great opportunity 2 me. Support the show! Luv, HB.”

Nicki Minaj recently debuted “Massive Attack,” the first single from her album

COURTESY OF ALLHIPHOP.COM

Bounty denied bail!

According to a report, dancehall deejay Bounty Killer was refused bail when he appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court this morning (Wednesday, April 7).

The report stated that Killer was refused bail on the grounds that it he committed the new offenses while out on bail.

Bounty Killer, whose real name is Rodney Basil Pryce, was charged with assault occasioning bodily harm and threatening his girlfriend of three years.

Police say the 38-year-old DJ was arrested at his East Avenue home early Monday morning after a woman complained that he physically attacked her after she informed him that their three-year relationship was over.

While being processed at the Constant Spring Police Station, Pryce reportedly called the complainant and threatened her life in the presence of the police.

A police investigator told the court that associates of the DJ had been pressuring the woman to drop the charges against him.

Bounty Killer is expected back in court on April 14.

Pryce is one of several artists whose visas were revoked by the United States embassy last week.

He is also facing charges of illegal possession of a firearm and unlawful wounding after an altercation with an off-duty cop in New Kingston in 2007.

COURTESY OF ZIPFM.NET