Shyheim Talks "Disrespectfully Speaking," Bottom Up Records
12.31.09 | by Sean Ryon
From Kriss Kross to Lil Romeo, child rappers have long been perceived more as marketing schemes than bona fide artists. Yet even the harshest of critics can’t deny the level of artistry displayed by Hip Hop child prodigy and former Wu-Tang Clan affiliate Shyheim. Now, 16 years since debut on 1993's “On and On” at the age of 14, Shyheim is still hard at work rocking the mic. He released his fifth solo album, Disrespectfully Speaking, this past October on his label Bottom Up Records and is planning for two more releases in 2010. Shyheim spoke to HipHopDX about how he has grown as an artist and what it means for his career.
“I just grow with my music,” explained Shyheim. “Everyday is life with my shit and I think that’s what my music different from that of every other artist out there. I grew up in Hip Hop. Everything that was recorded from when I was a child until now, it was my life. It wasn’t a marketing scheme. It wasn’t something created like someone going over and saying, ‘Yo, let’s make these type of records’ when I don’t make those types of records. If I had a marketing scheme and did that and sat down and made records, then I’d probably be triple platinum. But then again, I’d be sacrificing what’s real to me.”
Shyheim touched on one of the most personal tracks featured on Disrespectfully Speaking called “Pain.” The song finds the Staten Island emcee tackling the subject of his late mother’s drug addiction. Shyheim explained the therapeutic elements of writing such a highly personal song and how his music acts as a sobering reality to the glitz and glam of most modern Hip-Hop.
“[Songs like 'Pain' are] my therapy,” he said. “I’ll be honest, I lost my mom on July 7…from an overdose. It’s like I just take the cards that were dealt to me and by me saying lines like, ‘I’m looking in my mother’s face/Seeing drugs eat her away,’ I felt that way. I watched drugs eat her away. I watched it…she was sitting like ‘Yo, I want a sandwich,’ but I know what she was going to buy. But I still had to give it to here because I couldn’t ever see my mother working for nothing.”
He later added, “I think a lot of artists nowadays get caught up, and I think what I see as an artist and [how] I keep it so real…reminds [people] of what’s really going on. So a lot of people get in the smoke and the clouds of illusion of, ‘Yeah, yeah, I got this, I got that,’ and you may want that and get caught up in that illusion, but when you wake up, it’s what it is. That’s why people drink and smoke weed and dust and shit, that’s how they escape. My music is not the escape drug. My music is rehab, we’re going to talk about this shit.”
The Rugged Manchild also discussed his transition from strictly being an artist to becoming the head of his own independent label Bottom Up Records. He says that his experience in the industry with the Wu-Tang Clan primed him for taking on such a role and has shown him the best way to handle a roster of up-and-coming artists.
“I’ve seen the bullshit and I’ve seen many labels like Bottom Up before me come and fall apart and I asked myself a question: why is that?” said Shyheim. “Why is it that I’ve seen Wu-Tang, I’ve seen Roc-a-Fella beefing, I’ve seen Dipset [break up], I’ve seen many crews [fall apart] after getting money? Why is that? And ultimately, I always hear that ‘Oh, I wasn’t getting me money, this person wasn’t doing this for me, he wasn’t doing that for me’…[what] I have to…basically have is independent contract[s], so any artist on Bottom Up is an independent contractor. As they come to Bottom Up and they do music and do music videos, I may put out their album. But if they don’t continue walk and pursue their own career, and watch my steps and learn from me and take the knowledge to go on, it’s not my fault. It’s their fault. I’m not locking them into [a place] where they can’t do what they need to do.”
With two albums slated for release in 2010, Shyheim doesn’t appear to be letting the industry or the economy keep him down. He spoke on the as-of-yet untitled projects and how he hopes to build a legacy through them not just for himself, but also for his Staten Island brethren.
“This album is going to be more transitionary,” he explained. “I think it’s time that I give people 100% of me…just making quality music. You might hear some shit that may be club-going. You may hear some deep shit, but I’m going to give it 100% Shy. And then the next quarter [in] June, there will be another Bottom Up album where I feature…all the talent that is coming from Staten Island…[they] are all independent artists from Staten Island that I’m trying to teach ownership…so [they] can have longevity and a legacy because if I don’t pass the torch, who’s going to keep it alive?”
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10354/title.shyheim-talks-disrespectfully-speaking-bottom-up-records
DX News Bits: Kid Sister, Alicia Keys
12.31.09 | by Edwin Ortiz
Chicago artist Kid Sister has followed in the same footsteps as Murs and Mark Ronson in joining peta2, the youth division for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
“I don't wear fur, I don't want fur. It is absolutely possible to be fashionable without fur,” she told peta2.com. “Beyond being cruel I think it's just kind of gross. Just the thought of like, it used to be on a cuddly little...ugh! So, it was kind of a no brainer.”
An owner of dogs since she was younger, Kid Sister explained, “The best dogs are mixed breed dogs, let me tell you. And that's just not just 'cause I'm mixed!"
Kid Sister’s debut album Ultraviolet is in stores now.
In other news, Billboardlive.com will be streaming Alicia Key’s concert at New York’s famed Apollo Theatre on Thursday, January 7.
Viewers will be able to access the live footage by downloading Microsoft Silverlight and OWL HD Player free of charge the night of the concert. The show begins at 9:00 p.m. EST.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10356/title.dx-news-bits-kid-sister-alicia-keys
News: Benzino Clears Up Royce Da 5'9 & Raekwon Conflict, "Rae Ain't Have Nothing To Do W/ It"
Thursday, Dec 31, 2009 9:05AM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Former Source Magazine owner Benzino has cleared up initial confusion with his "Break To Build" Royce Da 5'9 diss track intentionally including a verse from Raekwon as a sign of support.
While Zino says there is no beef, the rapper did, however, use a video to flash a gun as a warning to what could happen if a conflict occurs against Slaughterhouse.
"I just wanna clarify a few things, you know what I'm saying about this whole Royce Da 5'9 situation and the 'Break To Build' song with Raekwon," Zino says in a video recording. "I had a verse on the song, it's produced by myself -- I had a verse on the song, Rae said he liked the joint and did the second verse and the third verse I held over and he had nothing to do with it. It wasn't really a diss song in the first place because all I did was say a couple of things about Royce in the third verse, in the last two bars or so. But Rae ain't have nothing to do with it, I just wanted to clarify that. Shout-out to everybody over there at IceWater. And also, the whole thing with Slaughterhouse, I felt like the whole thing with Royce's manager, they didn't want to give [my publication] Hip Hop Weekly, the number one urban hip-hop magazine out there, [an interview] but it really wasn't no beef. He said a few things, I said a response. If it was beef now, you know how we doing it." (57th Ave)
Zino's track was released earlier this week.
"Stash y'all the treasure, switching up the strategy," Zino raps, "Move outta character, flip him like a pancake/Seven figure salary, deals on the handshake/Armed full of angels, fresh with a low cut/Add it to your blazer, n*gga what you know about it/Over time hustlin', money and motivation/Spittin' over concussions, standing ovation/Outta pocket n*ggas get dealt with/Serial killers be at your crib then we turning to Celtic..." ("Break To Build")
Following the song's release, Raekwon said his vocals were never meant for a diss track.
"For the record i wanna say i take no part in nobodys diss song," he wrote Monday (December 28), "I just sent them a verse thts it! THATS BTW THEM BROTHERS KEEP ME OUTTA IT!" (Raekwon's Twitter)
Earlier this month, Royce dropped his "No Coming Back From That" record going at Zino and Canibus.
"Now b*tches want my attention like the Canibus diss," Royce raps. "You ain't got no mechanical handle, quit handling d*ck/We liked you before the army, now we ain't a fan of your sh*t/You know my Mac pop, Detroit is my backdrop/Shut your a** up and go have some sex with your laptop...Benzino, the hardest n*gga, you don't know him for hammers/You know him for talking sh*t with N.O.R.E. behind the cameras/I blam at ya and damage ya." ("Back From That")
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/benzino_clears_up_royce_da_59_raekwon_co.html
News: Diddy Co-Signs Jay Electronica, "He Will Be The Break Out MC Of 2010!!!!"
Thursday, Dec 31, 2009 8:30AM
Written by Biz Jones
Bad Boy Records CEO Diddy has become the latest artist to co-sign the sounds of rapper Jay Electronica and said the emcee will get his shine in 2010.
Writing via his Twitter page, Diddy detailed the authenticity behind Jay's music.
"Attention all djs attention all djs. I'm about to post 1 of the hottest most authentic hip hop records of 2010!!! Just for real hip hop djs," he wrote Wednesday (December 30). "This is a record i will be promotin in 2010. My brother @jayelectronica - Exhibit C It deserves to be play on the radio! http://fblz.in/K3h4 @jayelectronica will be the breakout MC one of 2010!!!! Real hip hop!!! Artistic hip hop that's saying something!!! SAY SOMETHING!!! Rt pls! Retweet this pls!!!. My brother @jayelectronica - Exhibit C It deserves to be play on the radio! Click here http://fblz.in/K3h4 let's go!" (Diddy's Twitter)
Earlier this week, Electronica expressed his reaction to hearing his music on New York radio.
"Uh, yes [I feel good], I don't know, it's a lot. It's a lot at once," Jay told radio personality Angela Yee about the record getting spun in New York City. "I'm still just taking it all in. I'm just learning as I go man, I'm just learning as I go. Trying to figure it out as I go." (Angela Yee Rumors)
New York's Hot 97 radio station's DJ Enuff premiered the track this week.
"People have been commenting like crazy I must of struck some cord," he wrote Monday (December 28). "I know my role and position. But at times it isn't wrong to ask for a lil help or advice. You must at all times respect your power. I rarely would ask you the people for help because the answers can be so different from one another...I understand that I am one of the Gatekeepers. I am truly honored and Blessed to be here for Hip Hop. Quiz Knows If your out there you wanted to write I'm writing. I would love to have a one on one with J Electronica....To Be Continued." (Thats Enuff)
Electronica is known for having connections in multiple cities.
In the years that followed, he lived a nomadic lifestyle, moving back and forth between Atlanta, New York, Detroit, and Baltimore, among other cities. He adopted the Jay Electronica alias while living in Baltimore circa 2000. While in Detroit, he befriended associates of J Dilla, working closely with engineer Mike "Chav" Chavarria and collaborating with producer Denaun Porter (aka Mr. Porter). As a rapper, he distributed his recordings via the Internet, primarily his MySpace page. (All Music)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/diddy_co-signs_jay_electronica_he_will_b.html
News: Diddy Files $2.5 Million Lawsuit Against Landlord
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 8:30PM
Written by Biz Jones
Rap mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has reportedly filed a $2.5 million lawsuit against a New York City landlord over damages relating to his popular Sean John clothing retail store.
According to reports, the claims go as far back as 2006.
According to a lawsuit filed in New York, Diddy's company -- Christian Casey LLC -- leased a portion of a ground floor building on Fifth Avenue in NYC for its flagship clothing store. Diddy lawyers claim sometime in 2006 the building owners put up sidewalk scaffolding and just left it there -- sending Sean John sales down the toilet -- down nearly 50%. They claim the scaffolding "substantially obstructed the view of the clothing and furnishings displayed in the ground floor windows." Team Diddy is suing for $2.5 mil in damages. (TMZ)
Soulja Boy Tell Em found himself having landlord issues and owing nearly $10,000 in unpaid bills earlier this year, which he later responded to via a flashy video.
"Got d*mn breaking news shawty," Soulja Boy said with a camera focused on his jewelery. "Man they said Bugs Bunny died today shawty, they said I stole all the carrots from that n*gga shawty. He couldn't eat bruh, look at all this sh*t. N*gga talking about 200 on a Soulja Boy chain, 150 on The World Is Yours [chain], 20 stacks on every ring, 50 stacks on every watch, 250 on the Lambo [pendant], 150 on the S.O.D. [chain], I don't even know how much the Louis cost, I don't know how much the Gucci cost, I don't know how much that Louis cost, n*ggas wanna put my plaques on the wall, man. Gang, gang gang, S.O.D. n*gga. So much jewelery n*gga, show 'em the S.O.D. chain. Then I f*ck around and open the, wow, wow, wow, wow, wow, wow. They took me to jail, I told my n*gga, 'Yo, just go to my crib and just get one of these out, bruh and come get me outta jail bruh.'" (YouTube)
Besides legal woes, Diddy is helping people celebrate New Year's Eve with free public transportation in New York City and Las Vegas.
After a successful run last year, the music mogul has teamed up with Ciroc Vodka for another Safe Rides program, which provides transportation in New York for those hammered after celebrating New Years Eve. For the first time, the program is being offered in Las Vegas. (VIBE)
The Bad Boy Records executive also spoke on the importance of featuring Vegas and the Big Apple this year.
"New York stands as the world's icon for a New Year's Eve celebration and Las Vegas is the biggest party destination in the country," Combs said in a statement. "By bringing this program to both of these great cities we will continue to show the rest of the country that a sophisticated holiday celebration doesn't end when the ball drops, but when everyone gets home safely." (NBC New York)
No further details have been offered regarding Diddy's lawsuit.
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/diddy_files_25_million_lawsuit_against_l.html
News: Fabolous Analyzes R&B Rappers, "People Used To Get Mad At Ja Rule For Singing"
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 8:00PM
Written by Rosario Harper
New York rapper Fabolous recently shared his opinion on emcees taking the role of R&B singers by crooning on tracks and questioned why Ja Rule received so much heat in the past.
For Fab, various hit records over the past year have included melodies and singing.
"I don't got no problems with that," Fab explained in an interview. "Some rappers sing, some rappers rap. It's about melody I think. Certain people used to get mad at Ja Rule for singing -- everybody was mad, you may say he's not singing on key or whatever, but all these guys are singing and using auto-tune -- I've never had a problem with it. It's melody, melodic, a lot of the joints that are hit records have that form to them. 50 [Cent] used to say he was singing, it was different than Ja because of what he was singing about, but it's still him singing his own hooks. Just because it's not an R&B guy singing, it's still singing. It's the same thing." (Real Talk NY)
Ja Rule associate Cadillac Tah previously spoke on 50 using the rapper's singing style on his "Candy Shop" hit back in 2005.
"I guess [his plan] was for him to try to Tupac it, Tupac and Biggie," Tah explained in an interview. "Find a target, go after the target to make people look at him. That's kinda always been his little strategy even when he made the song 'How to Rob.' He did that so everybody would switch the attention to him, it wasn't like that was a bad plan. It worked, so if it worked it means it was a good plan. I was just not advising him to do that -- He played a ill strategic game. He threw Ja off of his grind and jumped on Ja's sh*t. He always wanted what Ja had, I mean that kinda fame, how Ja was killing 'em on the radio songs every five minutes...He came in the game with 'What up blood, what up cuz,' and then it's 'I wanna take you to the candy shop,' and he would start singing a whole lot. It's the same sh*t you had my n*gga on the Summer Jam screen about, making fun of that -- and you d*mn near made a whole singing album like that." (Ms Drama TV)
Earlier this year, Rule shared his reaction to 50's "Behind The Music" VH1 special and said he deserved credit for the rapper's success.
"It's not new, he's always talking about me," Rule said in an interview about 50. "N*ggas love me man. Ol' Boo Boo was talking about me again? Let's get back to this b*tch a** n*gga Boo Boo. I should [get a check from 50]. That n*gga, man, he owes me a lot of checks man when you really want to think about it." (World Star Hip Hop)
Kid Cudi previously spoke with SOHH about being compared to rap newcomers like Drake who can sing and rap.
"I'm not really comfortable with the word 'trend' and you throwing me in that group [laughs]," Cudi said about being compared to Drake and T-Pain. "But of course, it's inevitable when the media kinda takes something, a collection of things, and throw it all in the same box. But uhm, that's why I'm really excited about this album because once it drops and people hear it, they're gonna understand that like, that category you just mentioned, you'll never want to include me in it again. [laughs] I'm not like, part of that, I'm not a trend. You know what I mean? I'm kinda like, I've worked so hard to separate myself from anything that's trendy. You know what I mean?" (SOHH)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/fabolous_analyzes_rb_rappers_people_used.html
News: Floyd Mayweather On Rick Ross Beef, "If You Start Trouble, I Gotta Finish It"
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 5:55PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Boxing champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. recently spoke on moving beyond his past differences with Rick Ross despite publicly inviting the rapper's son and ex-girlfriend to his home last month.
According to Floyd, he no longer has any issues with the Boss.
"Like I said before, we had a little problem, what he do is what he do and what I do is what I do," Mayweather explained to DJ Whoo Kid. "You know how it is. With anybody, if you start trouble, you know, I gotta finish it. Like I said before, he did what he had to do and I did what I had to do. And that's in the past and I'll leave it where it's at...Well, I'm the biggest boss that you've seen thus far." [laughs] " (Radio Planet TV)
Floyd made headlines last month when he was seen on camera with Ross' family and rap rival 50 Cent.
"It's Floyd's spot," Fif said during a segment of the video. "We in Vegas, doing it real big. I got the boys with me. Say hi man, say hi. What's up, that's all we gonna tell you. ThisIs50.com, it ain't nothin'!" The footage also shows 50 Cent and Floyd Mayweather taking multiple photos with Ross' former girlfriend, Tia Kemp, their children and other invited guests including Diddy and movie director Gary Gray. (YouTube)
Ross took a few verbal jabs at the boxer in an interview last October.
"Well, she did some things," Ross jokingly said about why he is involved in a beef with Mayweather. "Just to get some attention, said some things and I punished her. She got my attention so I lashed out. I punished her and now she just released another statement retracting what she was saying before. That's all I wanted, stay in your place young lady. We know you're sweet. Straight sugar. I'ma be honest, I am a fan. He said it, I did go to the fights. The $5,500 seats, yeah, I was right there, I coulda threw a red soda on you. She lives an alternative lifestyle and we gonna leave it at that. Much success to your boxing but just respect the G's." (UStream)
Describing their different careers, Mayweather recently promised Ross was not on his radar earlier this year.
"I just think that when you are one a certain level, you just let things go by," Mayweather said about his situation with the "Boss." "I'm a fighter. That's what I do. I'm into contact. He's a rapper. That's what he do. The thing I'm gonna do is stay in my lane and let him stay in his lane. But it seems Rick Ross is a fan of Floyd Mayweather -- in fact, Rick Ross was at the Ricky Hatton fight. He paid money to see me... I appreciate the donation from Rick Ross." (MTV)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/floyd_mayweather_on_rick_ross_beef_if_yo.html
Exclusive: Lil Scrappy, Warren G, Playaz Circle, Juvenile Name Barack Obama Person Of The Decade
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 4:45PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
As we move forward into a new decade, SOHH spoke with Lil Scrappy, Warren G, Playaz Circle and Juvenile to find out who had the biggest impact in society over the past ten years.
Without doubt, the top choice amongst all of the rappers the SOHH polled was President Barack Obama.
"Oh, Obama," Scrappy said without hesistation. "Obama, yeah, ain't nobody more impactful than Obama. F*ck all the other sh*t, f*ck your day dreams, you feel me? Like, that's a dream come true. That's an impact, I lost my breath when that sh*t happened." (SOHH)
Warren G also highlighted Barack's emphasis on making universal change for Americans.
"I gotta give it to Barack Obama because he's the president and is the first black president," Warren G explained, "so far he's made an impact as far as this health insurance and he's making an impact as we speak on the economy, I know it's not right away but it will happen. And people gotta understand that it's not just gonna happen overnight." (SOHH)
Playaz Circle also felt Obama was a top candidate for person of the decade.
"Probably Obama," Tity Boi reflected for a minute. "Well, but that's recent. "Osama Bin Laden," Dolla Boy added. "He went and f*cked everything up." (SOHH)
Juvenile saw the president's election as instrumental motivation for minorities.
"I gotta say Barack Obama definitely because I don't think we ever had not just a black president, but a black vice president," Juvenile explained. "I never heard of that either so just to have him in office, it kinda gives the minority the chance, we all feel now we have the opportunity to do anything. So it's kinda like a big thing not just for blacks, but all the minorities around the world so Barack is definitely the biggest impact." (SOHH)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/lil_scrappy_warren_g_playaz_circle_juven.html
News: Scott Storch On Timbaland Quitting Hip-Hop, "It's Not As Strong As It Was At One Point"
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 3:35PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Producer Scott Storch has shared his views on Timbaland's move away from the rap game and said he could understand the beatmaker's decision.
Storch also revealed that he is no longer being a part of a rumored reality show.
"I love hip-hop," Storch responded when asked about Tim's decision. "I love all music. In terms of its place in the market. Its not, you know, technically as strong and other [forms] of music. I shouldn't even say that. It's not as strong as it was at one point, dominating like everything. I still there there's gems and plenty of ill hip-hop records to make. Living proof is Jay-Z...I'm not doing that [reality show]. It was something that was talked about, but no...You know what? It was interfering with my life. Its not me. I've had enough people talking and sh*t like that. I don't want to have one more thing for people poking fun at. What I originally was thinking about doing a show for was...that message got lost. What the producers wanted out of the show...I wanted something that would inspire people, in terms of recovery and something inspirational. That's not what it turned into." (All Hip Hop)
Timbaland recently explained why he moved on from rap.
"I was done with hip-hop a long time ago," he said in an interview. "Once my generation left, I left. I do it, but there's nobody from my generation besides Jay-Z who's doing it. I look at Lil Wayne as being from my generation. Some people are still acceptable. Kanye [West] is acceptable from my generation. It's just not the same. By it not being the same, I kind of fade to black. I did music that fits where I was going to in my age bracket. 'What does Tim listen to in his car all the time?' I love '80s music. So how do I infuse '80s with modern-day music? You Timbo the King, you gotta figure it out. I figured it out a couple of years ago with Nelly [Furtado] and Justin [Timberlake] and myself. We had a tremendous run. I think it was good for me to do it that, because some people would say 'Tim is cold.' The same people who smile in my face would be the same ones to talk behind my back. But I got this run, I'm not gonna stop until I wanna stop." (MTV)
Details surrounding Storch's now-defunct reality show landed online last spring.
The show will give an introspective look into the life of this dynamic and incredible talent. The show will also document him making hit records with all of the hottest acts in the industry while opening the door to the hot and trendy Miami music scene. Also, it will capture Mr. Storch's ups and downs in the volatile music business. (California Chronicle)
Executive producer David Weintraub had also confirmed the deal and spoke on what fans could have expected.
"This is a monumental moment to see a producer of his caliber let the cameras into his world and see how hit records are made," he explained. "A lot of people have tried to get Scott to open up the curtain to this process but have never been successful." (Hip Hop Pop Crunch)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/scott_storch_on_timbaland_quitting_hip-h.html
Exclusive: Rick Ross, Rakim, Juvenile & DJ Webstar Reveal Their Favorite Albums Of The Decade
Wednesday, Dec 30, 2009 11:30AM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
As we move forward into a new decade, SOHH spoke with Rick Ross, Rakim, Juvenile and DJ Webstar to find out what their favorite album of the past ten years is.
The "Boss," could not answer the question without looking at the past two decades.
"Other than my projects that we released, in the last ten years, it would be hard for me to answer," Ross told SOHH. "But most definitely, a little longer than that, I think those were the last albums that really influenced me and just leaked into my soul. The Life After Death's, The All Eyez On Me, The UGK Riding Dirty, I could even go further to Amerikkka's Most Wanted. Don't get it wrong, I listen to the music these days, but I won't necessarily ride to it." (SOHH)
Rakim had a bit more difficulty and came down to a few R&B album selections.
"For the past ten, that's a good question, that's a good question -- I don't know if I can give that to one person," Rakim admitted. "Well with rap, I kinda like different artists from different things and I don't know if it's a whole album with me. I think as far as music man, I like ground-breaking and it might not even be rap. If it's Chrisette Michelle's new album, if it's Jill Scott's album, I think albums should get a couple of years because it was incredible. It could be anything with me." (SOHH)
Juvenile, however, was quick to crown Nelly's Country Grammar as his top album.
"You gotta say Nelly when you go down to record sales," Juvie told SOHH. "Nelly did Country Grammar and that sold 9 million and I don't think anybody surpassed that because everybody else had double CD's. [50 Cent] also impacted his sales by having a double CD well not all the way through but he had a way where he packaged it to a double CD. So some of his record sales counted for two and that's kinda like tricking the system. He did have a great album but I gotta give it to Nelly because he got the Grammy's and all that in one sweep." (SOHH)
DJ Webstar stayed loyal to his hometown by choosing New York's 50 Cent and his debut, Get Rich or Die Tryin'.
"The biggest album, hmmm," Webstar thought. "The biggest album would have to be Lil Wayne's last album, no, Get Rich or Die Tryin'. I think Get Rich or Die Tryin' because he was so anticipated and if he would have had one wrong song on that album, it would have messed the whole album up. I think every song on that album was hot and he just did a great job at putting that album together. So I think, Get Rich or Die Tryin', 50 Cent had the most because he delivered when people was like, waiting for you." (SOHH)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/rick_ross_rakim_juvenile_dj_webstar_reve.html
Rappers Homes and Creations Help Market Expensive Hotel
Published Tuesday, December 29, 2009 10:31 AM
By Chris Richburg
They may have engaged in friendly competition to promote their respective albums in 2007, but an established hotel is utilizing nonmusic-related possessions from Kanye West and 50 Cent to help market itself to wealthy clientele.
According to Bloomberg.com the Hollywood home of the G-Unit leader has been used to train staff members at the Cheval Blanc hotel in the French ski town of Courcheve.
The rooms cost $67,466.00 per-night.
The hotel, co-owned by LVMH Moet Hennessy and Belgian billionaire Albert Frere, is noted for its grand style and pricey array of services that include a Michelin three-star chef, bedtime chocolates delivered to your room aboard a gondola and “Hair Room Service" by famed barber John Nollet.
Rooms range from a basic single room with a maxibar full of Krug Champagne to a 650-square-meter duplex sky ranch to a master bedroom on a fifth-floor super suite that features a gym, private elevator, massage room, sauna, steam room, grand piano, Jacuzzi and a dressing room with eight closets and 84 drawers and shelves.
The home of 50 Cent is used by Cheval Blanc chief protocol officer Marie-Claude Metrot to prepare the hotel’s 115 staff members (or “players” as they’re called) to help bring the venue and its assets to life, while catering to their guests every need.
In her eyes, the ability for workers to fulfill the fantasies of guests is important in making a stay at the Cheval Blanc more of an experience than anything else.
“We deliver dreams,” Metrot said. “We don’t let guests think. We anticipate their desires.”
In addition to 50 Cent, Cheval Blanc has drawn support from Kanye West. The Chicago hitmaker created bronze teddy bears to display at the 34-room venue.
West and 50 Cent's contributions to Cheval Blanc serve as a contrast to the competitive nature displayed by the rappers in 2007.
That year, 50 Cent's Curtis album went head-to-head with West's Graduation to see who could sell the most copies of their respective projects on September 11.
West ultimately won the battle, selling 957,000 copies of Graduation on its first week of release. The Curtis album, which included the hit "I Get Money," came up short during the competition, with 691,000 copies sold in its first week.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/29/22078466.aspx
Teddy Riley Speaks on Spoiled Daughter’s Assault Allegation
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2009 3:17 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
New Jack Swing pioneer and Blackstreet founder Teddy Riley is denying reports that he assaulted one of his daughters, claiming the allegation is the result of a financial dispute.
Riley's 18-year-old daughter Taja filed a temporary restraining order against her father, claiming that she and her older sister were stomped and punched.
The Los Angeles court filing also states that Teddy Riley allegedly threatened to kill them while swinging a Rock Band video game guitar.
In a prepared statement, Riley explained that he spoiled his children over the years, and his daughter’s legal case is a response to him being a stronger disciplinarian.
“I love my daughters, but I will not allow my children to disrespect me in my home. Contrary to what I have been accused of, I would never beat my children,” Riley stated to TMZ.com. “Perhaps, I should have been a stronger disciplinarian as they were growing up. I worked very hard so that my children would want for nothing. In hindsight, I see that it was a mistake to give them everything they wanted so that they could have the childhood I never had. Unfortunately, they have taken me, and the privileged life I have given them, completely for granted.”
While not directly addressing specifics from the incident, Riley further alluded to the confrontation happening over some form of disrespect.
“Instead of being appreciative and realizing how fortunate they are, my children have an inflated sense of entitlement and expectation without having to work or earn their way,” Riley continued. “However, my 'children' are no longer children, they are adults and I am trying to instill in them values and a work ethic of their own. I am not an uptight Dad, I am as hip as they come but I will not tolerate being taken advantage of or disrespected, especially in my home… I'm asking everyone to let this one go... I'm only being a good parent. I'm a great father and everyone who knows me, knows this is true.”
At press time, Teddy Riley has to remain at least 100 yards from his daughter Taja until their January 2010 hearing.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/30/22080074.aspx
Drake Talks Collabo With Jay-Z
12.31.09 | by Slava Kuperstein
For those who have waited, Drake has finished a collaboration with Jay-Z titled "Light Up."
"When I heard that beat, the drums that they had come up with, it was like, 'Man, this is a moment,' " said the Toronto rapper to MTV News. " 'This sounds like where I'm at in my life.' So, we took it and 40 did what he does to pieces of music that I see potential in — he took it to the next spot. Jay-Z's on it. The song is phenomenal. It's done now."
"40" refers to Noah "40" Shebib, the producer of the track.
Jay and Drake hooked up on The Blueprint 3 track "Off That," but the song only featured Drake on the verse. He says that this time around, both emcees will have proper verses.
The young rapper also indicated that he expects to have Lil Wayne and Kanye West contribute as well.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10355/title.drake-talks-collabo-with-jay-z
Kid Cudi: I Don't Give a Fuck About This Business
12.30.09 | by Andres Tardio
Kid Cudi has had an interesting year. After dropping one of the most highly acclaimed albums of the year, he has recently been in the headlines for a few reasons not related to music. First, he punched a fan for throwing something at the stage and then he was arrested for what has been reported as a case of mistaken identity. Now, a video has surfaced of Cudi speaking to fans about his frustration with the industry.
"They trying to make me look like the poster boy for violence and ignorance," he says in the video. "I tell motherfuckers I'm the poster boy for honesty, realness, anarchy, I don't give a fuck about this business."
He also added that he is fed up with others who take shots at him.
"I never talk shit, right? You never hear me talking shit on skits, never hear me talking shit before on my songs. I just rap, right? Because of my silence, niggas trying to take jabs at me. Well, guess what, nigga? I'm jabbing back."
He continued with angst towards the business by adding that some of his favorite emcees have let him down.
"I'm the truest motherfucker in this business and people trying to destroy me. All these other niggas that y'all probably fans of is sucka ass niggas, I met them. Niggas I was a fan of when I was buying their CDs, I'm not a fan of they music no more. This business is WWF, fam and if you don't comply, they try to destroy you. I say it's cool, cause I got y'all, right?"
After a crowd of fans led "Cudi" chants, he continued.
"I never talk shit. I came to this game and I just wanted to smoke my weed and motherfuckers just trying to destroy me, man. But, I don't give a fuck. I'm unstoppable."
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10353/title.kid-cudi-i-dont-give-a-fuck-about-this-business
House of Pain Launches Mini-Tour For St. Patrick's Day
Published Tuesday, December 29, 2009 6:00 PM
By Roman Wolfe
Hip-Hop group House of Pain will celebrate their Irish heritage with a series of performances in March 2010.
The group will perform five dates starting March 16 in Buffalo, New York and ending March 20 in Worcester, Pennsylvania.
The highlight of the tour will be the group's performance in Atlantic City on March 17 St. Patrick’s Day.
House of Pain rose to success based on their 1992 hit single "Jump Around," which was produced by Cypress Hills' DJ Muggs.
The group released three albums and featured Everlast, Danny Boy and DJ Lethal.
Everlast also had a successful solo career with his debut album Whitey Ford Sings The Blues and DJ Lethal became a member of Limp Bizkit, while Danny Boy founded La Coka Nostra.
Tour dates are listed below:
March 16 – Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom
March 17 - Atlantic City, NJ @ House of Blues
March 18 - New York, NY @ Nokia Theater
March 19 - Hartford, CT @ Webster Theater
March 20 - Worcester, PA @ The Palladium
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/29/22078697.aspx
Teddy Riley Accused Of Beating 18-Year-Old Daughter
Published Tuesday, December 29, 2009 3:37 PM
By Roman Wolfe
TMZ.com reports that R&B/Hip-Hop producer Teddy Riley is accused of violently attacking one of his daughters during an altercation on December 23rd.
Riley, who has worked with artists like Kool Moe Dee, Heavy D. & The Boyz, Bobby Brown, Keith Sweat, Michael Jackson and Madonna, is also credited with creating the “New Jack Swing” style of music in the 1990’s.
He is accused of striking his 18-year-old daughter Taja Riley and her older sister in their Los Angeles home on December 23.
According to TMZ, a restraining order was filed and granted in Los Angeles Superior Court. Taja claims that the 43-year-old Blackstreet member abused her and her sister by “stomping, punching and bashing” them causing “contusions” and other injuries.
She claims that at one point during the altercation Teddy Riley lifted a Rock Band guitar and threatened to kill “someone” with it.
Teddy Riley has been ordered to stay 100 yards or away from Taja and he is due in court next in January in relation to the incident.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/29/22078920.aspx
Diddy & Ciroc Offer Cabfare and Metrocards For New Years Eve
12.30.09 | by Jake Paine
With sponsorship from Ciroc, E! Entertainment and NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission, Sean "Diddy" Combs is trying to keep drinkers safe during tomorrow's New Years Eve celebration. What is now becoming a tradition, the founder of Bad Boy Records, Sean John Clothing and partner with the famed vodka is making Yellow Cab rides and MTA fares in New York City free to the public.
For the first time ever, Diddy and Ciroc are extending the measure to Sin City - Las Vegas, Nevada.
"As the 'Official Vodka of New Year's Eve,' we made a huge impact last year helping New York get home safely, so I'm proud to announce that we're bringing Safe Rides back in an even bigger way," Diddy said in a statement. "New York stands as the world's icon for a New Year's Eve celebration and Las Vegas is the biggest party destination in the country. By bringing this program to both of these great cities we will continue to show the rest of the country that a sophisticated holiday celebration doesn't end when the ball drops, but when everyone gets home safely."
Ciroc teams will distribute thousands of debit and MTA cards to adult consumers (while supplies last) in New York City between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Each debit card will provide up to $15.00 in cab fare - the approximate cost of a single taxicab fare within New York City. All MTA cards are redeemable for a one-way subway or bus fare valued at $2.25.
In Las Vegas, CIROC brand ambassadors will distribute pre-paid taxi cards (valued up to $15) at key venues and high traffic locations in an effort to promote responsible decision-making this holiday season.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10351/title.diddy-ciroc-offer-cabfare-and-metrocards-for-new-years-eve
Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 12/27/2009
12.30.09 | by Allen Jacobs
A week after Alicia Keys' impressive debut, the Queen of R&B, Mary J Blige, struck with a #2 debut in Stronger (With Every Tear). The Geffen release features both Drake and T.I., as well as production from Polow Da Don, The-Dream and Ryan Leslie.
R&B has stolen the show this fourth quarter; Alicia Keys fell two small spots with Element Of Freedom. The J Records release did achieve her gold plaque. Keys is likely to achieve platinum by early January. Geffen (Blige), Sony (Beyonce), and J (Alicia Keys) have dominated Def Jam's performance in 2009, with lackluster sales performances from Rihanna and Mariah Carey, despite two conceptual albums.
Lil Wayne gave rebirth to the compilation. We Are Young Money earned a Top 10 holiday week debut. On the backs of Wayne, Drake and Nicki Minaj, the Universal Motown-distributed release nearly sold 150,000 units. This performance comes are questionable debut sales week performances from Jay Sean and Birdman earlier this quarter. The Rap industry will see whether Drake or Nicki is the first to release a solo album in 2010.
Just as they did with Lady Gaga, Interscope Records re-packaged Eminem's Relapse (as Relapse: Refill) with a handful of new songs, including the massive radio hit "Forever" with Drake, Kanye West and Lil Wayne. To Nielsen, the releases are one in same, pushing Relapse to nearly 1.7 million in sales. Unless Em can outsell Black Eyed Peas' The E.N.D. by a margin of over 46,000 units, that brings Em to #2 in Rap releases for 2009.
Michael Jackson's This Is It continued as the go-to release for consumers who mourn the King of Pop. The effort remains a top-earner for Epic Records, an imprint defined by Jackson's sales throughout the last 30 years.
* Please note: figures below approximated to nearest thousandeth.
Top 200 Album Sales (Top 5 Hip Hop/R&B)
Rank Artist Album This Week Est. Total
2
Mary J Blige
Stronger (With Every Tear)
330,000
332,000
4 Alicia Keys
Element of Freedom
280,000
699,000
9
Young Money
We Are Young Money
142,000
143,000
11
Eminem
Relapse 128,000
1,694,000
13
Michael Jackson's
This Is It
109,000
1,262,000
The aforementioned Peas shot past the 1.7 million mark this last week with The E.N.D. The Los Angeles-based quartet made an alternative album to their Rap roots, but has still been positioned by record sellers and media as a Rap act. Despite their Pop sensibilities, the group has roots leading back to N.W.A. founder Eazy E and Ruthless Records.
(Editor's Note: Last Week HipHopDX published a sales error in Jay's Blueprint 3. We apologize, as the album was wrongfully published at over 1.7 million in sales)
Jay-Z's Blueprint 3 is just units under 1.5 million. The Atlantic Records-distributed debut release from Roc Nation is the third and final platinum Rap release of 2009. With mixed critical reception, the work has shown a new trend in the Brooklyn superstar's career, both challenging Auto-Tune, as well as asserting his youth in spite of being an elder statesman in Hip Hop.
Gucci Mane's The State Vs. Radric Davis remained in the Top 40 for a third week. The Warner Asylum release heads towards 200,000 units, as the Atlanta rapper has been one of the comeback players of 2009, between his appearances, critical acclaim and ending a very serious feud with Young Jeezy.
50 Cent climbed three spots with Before I Self Destruct. Time will tell if the release will be the Queens superstar's last with Interscope. It boasts production from Dr. Dre as well as two bonus DVDs on the retail release.
Lastly, Virginia-based duo The Clipse passed the 50,000 mark. The group's Columbia/Sony Records debut Til The Casket Drops has been their lowest performance to date, with mixed reviews. The album features Kanye West, Cam'ron and production from DJ Khalil and The Neptunes.
Rank Artist Album This Week Est. Total
15
Black Eyed Peas
The E.N.D.
104,000
1,740,000
32
Jay-Z
Blueprint 3
59,000
1,490,000
39
Gucci Mane
The State Vs. Radric Davis
42,000
173,000
57
50 Cent
Before I Self Destruct
29,000
334,000
171
Clipse
Til The Casket Drops
8,400
51,000
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10350/title.hip-hop-album-sales-the-week-ending-12-27-2009
Drag-On Talks Rejoining Ruff Ryders And Dedication To DMX
12.29.09 | by Paul W Arnold
Along with DMX, Eve and The L.O.X., the self-proclaimed “Fireman” of the Ruff Ryders camp helped turn the “Double R” into one of Hip Hop’s most powerful brands at the dawn of the 21st century, and now Drag-On is rejoining his once powerhouse recording family for the forthcoming release of the Bronx-born fire-breather’s third full-length, My Life, My Legacy, My Melody.
“I had started my own label called Hood Environment, and Ruff Ryders started really seeing me do that…and really started taking me serious with the respect that I needed,” Drag-On replied when asked recently by HipHopDX why he decided to re-up with the Double R after a few years of recording on his own. “[Ruff Ryders co-founders] Dee and Waah, they both just came back to the table with me. We all sat down and made it make sense. So this next album is gon’ be a Ruff Ryders/Hood Environment [release].”
That Hood Environment release will be notably distributed by the newly formed Ruff Ryders Indy branch of the Double R label (along with Fontana/Universal Records) as Drag further explained, “It’s not like Ruff Ryders is putting out a Drag-On album, no. Me and Ruff Ryders is putting out this album [together]. It’s a 50/50 deal split down the middle. I’m definitely trying to step my status up, as far as I’m definitely trying to wear that CEO cap. I got other artists that’s signed to my record label that I do have [an] obligation to, so I’m definitely trying to make sure [this deal] makes sense for the overall picture.”
Drag revealed to DX that the decision to launch his own label in 2007 was motivated by the exodus of most of the Ruff Ryders’ original lineup by the mid-‘00s.
“Ya know, I got lonely over there,” said Drag. “I was like the only one over there. So, I had to start a whole new movement, with whole new soldiers. But my soldiers at Hood Environment is real militant right now, so I mean, we good.”
Drag elaborated on the lonely environment at Ruff Ryders that spawned his Hood Environment endeavor and explained that, “Eve left [to do television], and then…X was going through his little [personal] situation, L.O.X. was going through they whole situation [with Interscope]… But at the end of the day, it never was no beef [between me and Ruff Ryders] or nothing like that, it was just business. Like a lot of things came up on the plate, and everybody just – We all had to take care of our situations. So, I started my own movement, got it poppin’ in the streets...[and] we just been rockin’. [After that] everybody came back to the table, with Swizz [Beatz] and everybody, and we sat down and we made it make sense [to join forces for another album]. But we all still family at the end of the day. I was just on the radio with Sheek Louch the other day…I was with X last month.”
The success of the handful of Hood Environment mixtapes released, beginning with the DJ L-helmed Say Hello To The Bad Guys in the spring of ’07, led to an offer first from Swizz Beatz to sign Drag to his Full Surface label.
“Me and Swizz, we was going over the paperwork [to sign me to his label],” explained Drag, “but then I had got this other deal situation [with Ruff Ryders put] on the table too that I wanna hurry up and finish and drop this last album with the Ruff Ryders. So I went back just to do that, but then after that [me and Swizz can] definitely get it poppin’.”
Drag-On’s renewed career momentum comes after five years of setbacks initiated by some legal drama that began shortly after the release of his sophomore full-length in 2004, the what proved to be prematurely-titled Hell And Back.
“I had caught a lawsuit,” he revealed, “and I had got sued for like a million dollars. And I ain’t Jay-Z or nothing like that, I ain’t never went platinum, so I ain’t have no million dollars. But, I had to get a whole bunch of lawyers and get that stuff squared away. Like I’m still dealing with that now, but everything is looking [good with that] right now.”
That million-dollar legal entanglement was initiated by the usually uneventful street scrap as Drag explained, “It was some dude, he was a little taller than me [and] he probably felt as though he [had] a little advantage [over me], which he really didn’t. And I showed him that he didn’t have the advantage, and then he sued me.”
Ready to finally put the past behind him, the man who started off the ‘00s by going gold with his debut, Opposite Of H2O, is ready to kick off a new decade with what he hopes will be an equally well-received effort in My Life, My Legacy, My Melody.
“The ‘My Life’ part in my album, I’m definitely breaking down a few things, just what I been doing since I – I haven’t really left the game, I just been kickin’ out music [on] a smaller scale,” began Drag, breaking down the meaning behind the unique title of his new offering. “And also too [the album addresses] what was going on with my personal life, as far as with me having a daughter…I know a lot of people wanna know that [stuff]. I’m also aware that it’s a whole new audience that’s out there too right now, so a lot of people might not fully know my legacy until I really come back with this new movement… And then ‘My Melody’ is just my music, my new sound that I’m bringing. When I first came in the game I was like 18, 17 [years old], now I’m 29 [and] I got a business frame of mind more now, and also my music is just a lot more bigger. I [got] a lot of beats that’s gon’ make me feel good on stage. I did a lot of stadium music on this joint… And then also too I dedicate this album to my daughter, which is my first and only child, and her name is Melody. And the reason why I named her Melody is because my real name is Mel and I deal with music… So that’s the whole breakdown of the album [title].”
Tentatively set for a March/April release date, led by the buzz cut, “Money” , Drag’s new album’s stadium sound is provided courtesy of longtime Ruff Ryders trackmaster Neo Da Matrix, Full Surface in-house producer Avenue (who recently crafted Maino’s “Million Bucks” and the aforementioned “Money” for Drag), Buckwild, Heatmakerz, and maybe, or maybe not, Swizz Beatz, as Drag revealed, “So far he got one joint [on the album]. I don’t know if it’s gonna make it though… But the album is so crazy, man, [and] we all putting our input into it.”
Follwing a new mixtape titled simply 2010 tentatively due in mid-January (sporting all new non-album cuts save for “Money”) and his new album’s release trailing that sometime in the spring, it’s been recently announced that Drag and the entire Ruff Ryders camp will be reuniting for the release of the label’s fifth compilation, Ruff Ryders Evolution: Generation I.
“We haven’t really discussed that part yet,” Drag replied when asked how much of the compilation fans should expect to hear him on. “I just been focusing on my album right now. I think the Ruff Ryders definitely started putting it together… I haven’t did my part on there yet [though], but I definitely heard that it’s definitely in the making.”
One collaboration that appears to unfortunately not be in the making currently is a union of Drag-On and the Ruff Ryders seminal star, DMX. But having, as he revealed, just recently been with the perennially troubled talent, Drag was asked by DX for an update on how the dog is doing in the wake of his seemingly ceaseless legal drama and certainly senseless announcement of his subsequently rescinded plans to participate in a professional MMA match.
“A UFC fight?!,” Drag exclaimed when the above bout was mentioned. “[Laughs] I ain’t even hear about that. Aww man, that’s crazy though. [Laughs] But he good though; he chillin’. He in Arizona right now… He in the studio; he working. So I mean everything is good as far as with the dog. He gon’ always go through his trials and tribulations, that’s just X. People gotta realize, that’s just him. That’s just his life. It’s been like that before he was on too. That’s not changed. He actually did more time before he was a rapper. [But] he good.”
While DMX won’t be appearing on Drag’s new album, he did still manage to get the dog included on his latest collection.
“For my album I did a mean dedication [to him],” Drag revealed. “We might be working on something [together in the future], but I did…a whole song where I’m just talking about DMX. And it’s real crazy. When he first heard it he started crying and all that. He really felt that joint. I did that just for him. That song right there is just for him to listen to, but I [also] put it on my album for the world to listen to. But I only had him in mind [when I was making the song], because he definitely looked out for me... [The song] is more the story of what X did for me. I had to do that.”
And even though this will mark Drag’s final release under the Ruff Ryders banner, he insisted during his discussion with DX that the love for DMX described above, as well as his loyalty to all of the Double R camp, remains in tact.
“We still family,” Drag reiterated. “I’m still gonna be reppin’ it and all that. You still gonna hear me say that R and all that, it’s just gon’ be lesser [and] that just is what it is.”
My Life, My Legacy, My Melody is due online and in stores spring 2010 from Hood Environment/Ruff Ryders Indy Records.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10346/title.drag-on-talks-rejoining-ruff-ryders-and-dedication-to-dmx
DJ Premier To Release Nike Air Force 1 Sneaker
12.30.09 | by Slava Kuperstein
Acclaimed Hip Hop producer DJ Premier is diversifying his portfolio to include his very own shoe.
The DJ Premier Nike Air Force 1 Low comes in a black, dark green, dark blue colorway. The words "DJ Premier" will be inscribed on across the back heel of the shoes, in addition to being written on the laces and lacelocks. The shoe also features a graphic of a Technique 1200 turntable.
The shoe comes as part of the same series as the DJ AM Dunk Hi, a shoe that the late turntablist had been working on with Nike before his untimely death. The shoe is red, black and light grey, and says "DJ AM" on the tongue of the sneaker.
According to reports, the DJ Premier's shoe hits stores in limited runs on January 9th.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10348/title.dj-premier-to-release-nike-air-force-1-sneaker
News: Lupe Fiasco Fires Back At Former XXL Magazine Editor-In-Chief, "N*ggas Do Fake Sh*t All The Time"
Monday, Dec 28, 2009 12:45PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Grammy-winning rapper Lupe Fiasco has fired shots at Elliot Wilson the former XXL Magazine Editor-In-Chief who questioned his relevance in a recent column.
Writing on his blog, Lupe dished out his issues with Wilson's RapRadar.com posting.
"Hmmm...I mean he has all the pertinent and professional information i.e. Ego v.s. Catalouge argument, not as good as Kanye, Joe Budden-esque derived fanbase, lack of classics etc, as well as all the right in the world not to post me up on his site," Lupe wrote Sunday (December 27). "So why take the hypocritical stance of continuing to promote something that you thoroughly and strongly disagree with both personally and professionally? Greed maybe? I mean my name brings traffic to sites...Or what about just plain old honest phoniness, fakery & falsehood?...I mean thats what RUNS our industry...a lil money here and a lot of phoniness over there...and how many times have I been in XXL under your reign? or how many posts have I had on RAPRADAR.COM since then?...hmmm...somebody somewhere is faking the funk...but hey thats how its is from the STREETS to the BOARDROOM...n*ggaz do fake sh*t all the time to get things done but n*ggaz dont ever NEVER wanna be called out as fakes or when they are on their phoney behavior especially when KEEPING IT REAL or REALNESS is the status quo..." (Lupe Fiasco Blog)
In Wilson's "YN Blackout" column, the renowned writer shared his feelings on Lupe's rap presence.
"I don't know," he writes. "Never liked this guy. Not a fan. Ego doesn't match the catalogue. At least Kanye made classics in the '00s. Behind the boards and on the mic. This Chi-town fellow's Joe Budden-like Internets hype irks me. I just don't get it. I rather listen to an old Tribe CD. Ha. Anyways, dude will stay present on the RR site next year because that's what you young bucks want. As for me, the OG, I'll pass. Kiss my a**, if you don't like it. Happy Holidays!" (Rap Radar)
Wilson is known for voicing his opinion in the column, most notably when LL Cool J did not receive a chance to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next spring.
"F*ck the stats. I can't believe the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame chose to not induct him," he wrote on his website. "Last year, you put [Run-DMC] in and now you front on LL? The man who designed the blueprint of what a solo hip-hop star could be. This is beyond my comprehension. Disrespectful. So so so disrespectful. This is his first year of eligibility so I'm sure this will be rectified soon but still the moment's ruined. If I was Todd, I'd tell 'em to kiss my black a**. You only get a first time to do the right thing." (Rap Radar)
Lupe is most known for entering the rap game around 2006 with close ties to Jay-Z and Kanye West.
Thanks in part to the vocal support of Jay-Z, L.A. Reid signed Fiasco as a solo artist to Arista, but before anything of significance was able to happen (only a promo single and a couple guest appearances were set up), Reid was fired, leaving the MC without a label. Fiasco eventually landed at Atlantic. Preceded by the single "Kick, Push," as well as several mixtapes and an appearance on Kanye West's "Touch the Sky," the album Food & Liquor was set to surface during early 2006, though an unfinished version leaked during the spring, pushing its official release back to September instead. The album earned Fiasco three Grammy nominations. A highly conceptualized follow-up, The Cool, was released in December 2007. (All Music)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/lupe_fiasco_fires_back_at_former_xxl_mag.html
News: UPDATE: Nelly Puts Up $10,000 Reward In Mansion Burglary, Joins CrimeStoppers
Monday, Dec 28, 2009 11:15AM
Written by Biz Jones
Grammy-winning rapper Nelly has offered $10,000 to anyone with information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for robbing his Missouri home earlier this month.
According to reports, the rapper has teamed with CrimeStoppers.
National recording artist Nelly is assisting Law Enforcement with the investigation of the recent Burglary to his St. Louis County home. Nelly is offering a $10,000 reward in addition to the CrimeStoppers reward for information that leads to the felony arrest (not arrest and conviction) of the subject(s) responsible for the Burglary to his home in Wildwood. St. Louis Regional CrimeStoppers Tip Hotline # 866-371-TIPS (8477) (KMOX News)
The offer was made official on Monday (December 28).
The rapper Nelly is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the man who broke into his suburban St. Louis home earlier this month. CrimeStoppers announced the reward on Monday. Someone forced his way through a locked window at Nelly's Wildwood home in the early hours of Dec. 11 and got away with a duffel bag full of items that included electronics and other goods. (ABC News)
Details on the burglary landed online in early December.
St. Louis County police are on the scene at St. Louis rapper Nelly's home in Wildwood, Missouri. According to St. Louis County police, people inside the residence called and said that someone was breaking into the rap star's home. The suspect is described as a black male in his 20s or 30 with a mustache and glasses. He was wearing a black coat. Police searched a nearby wooded area for any clues or suspects. A search dog and the St. Louis County helicopter was also used. Police believe the suspect may have gotten into a car and left the scene before they arrived. (Fox News)
Aside from his home robbery, the St. Lunatics head master recently talked about his new album.
"The thing is, I work best with two strikes, two outs," Nelly revealed in an interview. "I really think I do. As an artist, you want to wake up every day and feel like you're doing something people don't think you can do. Now I feel like I've been put in that position again, where it's more doubt than expectancy. The doubt is what fuels me, so to speak. I've been real fortunate where I have great people around me. Everybody wants to freakin' work with me -- not that everybody didn't [before], but it's different because I didn't work with a lot of people. Coming into this situation, it's beautiful...In the booth right now, it's kind of different. I got Sean Paul, Akon...as far as the rappers go, Plies. Me and [Young] Jeezy talking about some things now. I'm not finished, but I'm a good portion on the way." (MTV)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/update_nelly_puts_up_10000_reward_in_man.html
News: Diddy Resorts To Therapy For Love Conflicts, "I Just Have Very Dramatic Mood Swings"
Monday, Dec 28, 2009 10:30AM
Written by Rosario Harper
Rap mogul Diddy recently opened up about how he deals with his relationship disputes and revealed how he resorted to therapy after Biggie Smalls' death over a decade ago.
Speaking in a Playboy Magazine interview, Diddy also cleared up rumors about him being bi-polar.
"I've gone to therapy for relationships I've been in, for tragedies I've been through," he revealed in an interview. "I think therapy is good. I've been called bipolar - I'm not; I just have very drastic mood swings. I went to therapy when Big died, but a lot of my therapy has been with love and relationships. I've had therapy about my relationship with Kim [Porter], about my relationship with Jennifer [Lopez]. Therapy helped me through a lot of those situations." (Ace Showbiz)
Earlier this year, Diddy explained how his "fear" pushed him to cheat on the women he dates.
"A couple years ago, my psychologist came to the conclusion that this is one of the big problems I have as far as maturing in a relationship," Diddy explained in an interview. "After my father got killed, my mother said, 'I'm never getting married again. I don't want men around my children.' So I've never actually been able to witness a husband and wife's love. Sometimes when I see it with my friends, I just find myself staring like a child, because I've never actually seen it before. It's one of the sad parts of my life. When a relationship gets to a certain point, I probably get scared and become a little self-destructive. [If caught cheating,] cry. It might not work, but it at least shows that you care. Godd*mn, this is a deep interview. You didn't ask Will Smith none of this sh*t! Yeah, it hurts me. One of my weaknesses is that I actually have a conscience." (ELLE Magazine)
Reports earlier this month suggested the rap mogul was preparing to tie the knot with long-time girlfriend Kim Porter.
In 2010 it looks like some of us are really trying to grow up and leave certain habits behind. And Sean Puff Combs isn't an exception. The world renowned playboy is said to be cleaning house in a big way! Apparently after three kids, numerous child support issues and a child spawned from outside their union, Diddy is ready to propose to Kim Porter. From what I hear Diddy has purchased a 12 carat diamond engagement ring and has already handed Cassie her walking papers...And I hear there's in even bigger bombshell developing as Puff has [or is} filing for joint custody of his current illegitimate child with Sarah Chapman. My source promises me this information is air tight and won't be denied by the Puffster should be questioned with it. (Gyant Unplugged)
However, Diddy later denied these claims by writing on Twitter.
"About to go to the unveiling of my wax figure at Madame Tussaud's on W 42nd street in NYC! Let's Go!!!," he wrote Tuesday (December 15) evening. "Attention all blogs. Not getting married. Not engaged. Sorry. Where do yall get this stuff from. Have a blessed night...RT @ralphmarston: Success is achieved not at random.Success happens when there is a decision & an effort & a commitment 2 make it happen." (Diddy's Twitter)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/diddy_resorts_to_therapy_for_love_confli.html
News: Omarion Discusses Life After Young Money, "It Feels Amazing"
Monday, Dec 28, 2009 10:15AM
Written by Rosario Harper
Former Young Money artist Omarion recently discussed parting ways with Lil Wayne's camp to pursue his solo career.
According to the former B2K frontman, he felt privileged to be in his current position as an artist and executive.
"It feels amazing," Omarion expressed. "Amazing, and the reason why it feels amazing is because I would have never thought at 25 I would have the opportunity to be in this position. A lot of artists, and I'm guilty of this too, it's like when you get into a habit of a regiment, like going on tour, hitting the stage, getting off, going to the hotel, next city, hit the stage, getting off, it can really put you in a box of not thinking about your future. So at different times, I was at that time in my career where I was cool with everything and when you look at movies like [Michael Jackson's] This Is It, your peers, they never wanna stop, they want to keep going, what's the next thing? So with me, I'm happy to be the captain of my ship and to be able to keep going." (The Cost Mag)
Last month, O explained why Timbaland did not land a production spot on his new album, Ollusion.
"Timbaland had so much on his plate," Omarion recalled in an interview. "And when I saw I couldn't have the relationship I wanted to have with him, I knew it wasn't the home for me. With Young Money, it was getting close to the end of the year, and I wanted to build momentum for the first quarter. Wayne had other plans, though...he's the captain of his ship. Everyone was speculating that I was out for the count, but I never sweat. Stepping out as an entrepreneur was the smartest thing I could do." (Billboard)
O previously addressed rumors that former collaborator/Cash Money newcomer Bow Wow forced him to leave Young Money.
"Business-wise, Young Money and Cash Money are two totally separate entities," O explained in an interview. "Wayne has his group of artists and Cash Money has its group of artists. It is one big family but Bow Wow, he's under Birdman. That didn't have anything to do with me wanting to be released...The whole Young Money situation was a really, really great idea in the beginning. But when I really started to think about the history of superstars, you know, they stand alone..." (Vibe)
Lil Wayne also weighed in on the singer's departure citing their creative differences as a determining factor.
"Uhm, we made different decisions," Weezy explained in an interview with radio personality Tim Westwood. "And time is nothing when you, there's no deadline or nothing like that when you're making decisions on your future, on your career. For a person like me, I don't put no deadline on it because today you can say 'I wanna do this' and tomorrow [or] that night you can say, 'I wanna think it over and do something different.' It is your career, it is your future and it is your life and I respect that and that's all it was. Different decisions was made and I let him make his decision and his decision was to go another route. Yeah. Nah, leaking the records? They leaked the records after that, after the decision. The records leaked after the decision, yeah, so it was nothing to do with the leaking of the records. Dude just made different decisions and went on the road somewhere else." (Tim Westwood TV)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/omarion_discusses_life_after_young_money.html
AHH Stray News: 50 Cent, Nelly, DJ Premier
Published Monday, December 28, 2009 9:35 PM
By Ace Cannon
Rapper 50 Cent is planning a video for his diss track “So Disrespectful,” which is taken from his latest album Before I Self Destruct. The song features 50 Cent addressing his long-standing beef with The Game as well as former G-Unit member Young Buck and his former girlfriend Shaniqua Thompson. MTV reports that 50 Cent confirmed the video to Dutch outlet BigFM.
St. Louis rapper Nelly has offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that leads to the arrest of a man who broke into his St. Louis home earlier this month. Crime Stoppers announced the award today (December 28.) Police seek an African-American male wearing glasses, who entered through a locked window at Nelly's suburban home in Wildwood, Missouri on December 11. There were three people inside of the home who confronted the suspect when he attempted to enter. Police believe the man escaped in a dark Tahoe that was seen in the area.
Legendary producer DJ Premier will release his own mind of Nike Air Force 1’s next month. The DJ Premier X. Nike Air Force 1 Low features graphics of a Technique 1200 turntable, in addition to the words DJ Premier across the back heel. According to reports DJ Premier's sneaker is slated to land in stores in limited runs on January 9th.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/28/22078193.aspx
Daz, FrattHouse Target 2010 for New Movie/Soundtrack
Published Monday, December 28, 2009 1:00 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
Just one month after releasing the joint LP Get That Paper, Daz Dillinger and the new group FrattHouse have confirmed a new album and soundtrack named FrattHouse University for 2010.
FrattHouse is comprised of the duo E-Money (cousin to Snoop and Daz) and GB (son of RBX).
The movie follows the pair as they enter college and attempt to promote their music while juggling parties and academics.
“The movie just kind of wrote itself, sitting around watching FrattHouse interact with their folks is true entertainment,” explained executive producer Relic Entertainment CEO Damion Smith.
The soundtrack will feature guest spots from Tha Dogg Pound, Mac Shawn 100, G. Malone, and Big Steele.
Production work was handled by Soopafly, DJ AK, and G-Flow.
Even with a strong influence from their Long Beach predecessors, FrattHouse believes their sound is accessible to fans nationwide.
“People of all ages are going to like our music. It's tight and the hooks are catchy. We've got mass appeal,” E Money stated. "We're picking up the torch and taking it to another level."
"We're the reincarnation of Daz and Kurupt, maybe a little worse,” quipped GB.
At press time, the Fratthouse University movie and soundtrack will be released in Summer 2010.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/28/22077647.aspx
T.I. Back In The Recording Studio?
12.29.09 | by Slava Kuperstein
Former Atlantic Records music executive Kevin Liles appears to have hinted that T.I., fresh from prison, has made his way to the recording studio.
According to GlobalGrind.com, Liles wrote on his Twitter page, "My right hand went home to visit family & found his way to the studio. He said 'why wait for 2010, get it in now' Love the attitude!" The message has since been deleted.
As previously reported, the Atlanta rapper was released to a halfway house one week ago. He will be confined to the house for about two to three months.
T.I.'s camp has yet to release a statement on the matter.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10343/title.ti-back-in-the-recording-studio
Scott Storch Working On Shyne's New Album
Published Monday, December 28, 2009 6:20 PM
By Chuck "Jigsaw" Creekmur and Houston Williams
Producer Scott Storch is expected to be a major player in the musical comeback of rapper Shyne, who was deported to his native Belize after over nine years of incarceration.
Storch exclusively told AllHipHop.com of his plans to craft a new album for the former Bad Boy.
"Yeah, Shyne's my man. I've been talking to him and I was talking to him all through his prison sentence. He's always remained a loyal person to me," he told AllHipHop.com.
He said that he and Shyne actually befriended each other while Shyne was in jail for a December 1999 shooting that left several people wounded.
"We became friends after he was already in [jail] and I found out he was a fan and he's just a hell of a cool guy," Storch continued. "I'm looking forward to doing, not just one record, but doing a chunk on his album."
DJ Khaled's new album, Victory, features a new song by Shyne, Akon, Mavado called "All My Life." That opus is slated for a 2010 release. Presently, artists and producers are being flown in to Belize to work with Shyne.
To read more on Scott Storch and his current work, including more details on Shyne's album, read the two-part feature on Tuesday December 29 and Wednesday December 30. Storch also discusses his recovery from a cocaine addiction, his relationship to Timbaland, Lil Kim
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/28/22078080.aspx
Organized Konfusion's DJ Omega Supreme Dies Of Cancer
Published Monday, December 28, 2009 4:37 PM
By Gentle Jones
Omega Supreme, the original DJ of legendary rap group Organized Konfusion, passed away Wednesday (December 23rd), after a long battle with cancer.
Besides performing onstage with O.K., Omega Supreme, born Andre Kyles worked closely with Warner Brothers, Sony, and other record labels while managing aspiring talents, such as the Bush Babees.
Organized Konfusion emcee and founding member Prince Po remembered his friend.
"He was the best supporter I ever had," Prince Po told AllHipHop.com. "He was never the type to try and be out front of the show, but ever since I've known him, from high school on, he would come to all my basketball games, my shows, always happy to be there for me. He was a true friend."
Prince Po considers Omega Supreme to be one of Hip-Hop's unsung heroes, as his constant efforts helped numerous unknown artists early in their careers.
"He tried to bring taleneted and thirsty horses to water," recalled Prince Po. "Dre was always trying to help every one of us."
Omega Supreme's death came as a surprise to those closest to him. Though he battled cancer for years, he was believed to be in remission.
"It was a total shock to me, the last time I saw him he looked like he had beat the cancer," said Prince Po.
Organized Konfusion was formed in Queens by Prince Po and Pharoahe Monch and released three critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1990's.
Both emcees went on to successful solo careers.
Pharoahe Monch, best known for his Hot 100 hit single "Simon Says", is releasing his 3rd solo album W.A.R. We Are Renegades in 2010, and Prince Po is currently finishing work on a new solo album produced by Madlib's brother Oh no.
Organized Konfusion is nearing the end of a decade long fight to regain their album master's from Disney and Priority records.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/12/28/22077918.aspx
Benzino Disses Royce Da 5'9"
12.28.09 | by Andres Tardio
Benzino is no stranger to beef. Years ago, he made headlines by having a war of words with various artists including Eminem and 50 Cent.
On a track that features Raekwon, the former owner of The Source throws a few shots at longtime Eminem comrade Royce Da 5'9". The video, released on YouTube is below.
"I got a percentage of the team, you're a bench warmer," Benzino says on the cut. "How you in the hood without showing your face/ These motherfuckers run the town, I'm controlling the state."
After Rae's verse, Benzino actually makes it more personal.
After claiming he'd "Slaughter the innocent," he goes on to mention Royce by name.
"Run 'em down, hit 'em up in some traffic/ Slap his bitch in the mouth, break up his glasses/ Stupid looking nigga, really nobody's heard of you/ Better watch your moth, Royce. Niggas will murder you."
This may be a response to "No Coming Back from That, " a track released by Royce as a taste of what can be expected on his next project, Bar Exam 3.
As mentioned, the track "Break to Build" features Raekwon on the second verse. However, it is unclear if Raekwon is actually a participant in the disses. Though some speculation has been brought up due to the fact that Raekwon had his own feud with Slaughterhouse's Joe Budden earlier in the year.
After hearing the diss, Royce replied by saying Bar Exam 3 will be full of "drama" via Twitter. Additionally, Raekwon also took to Twitter stating, "For the record, I wanna say I take no part in nobodys diss song, I just sent them a verse that's it! That's between them brothers keep me outta it!"
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10342/title.benzino-disses-royce-da-59
DX News Bits: 50 Cent, LL Cool J, DJ A-Trak
12.28.09 | by Danielle Harling
Rapper 50 Cent will be joining actor Val Kilmer for yet another movie. The film, which is entitled Gun, delves into the world of drug trading and also shows the effect the drug trade has on the friendship between the characters played by 50 Cent and Kilmer.
The project, which is based on a screenplay created by 50 Cent, is currently being filmed in Grand Rapids, Michigan and is produced by Emmett/Furla Films, Cheetah Vision Films, and Action Jackson Films.
Another rapper-turned-actor who is reaping the benefits of Hollywood is LL Cool J. "NCIS: Los Angeles," the television crime series LL stars in, is in the running for the television show to have the most viewers during its premiere.
On the show LL stars as Sam Hanna, a special agent and former U.S. Navy SEAL. In the past few years, LL Cool J has starred in a number of movies and television shows including Any Given Sunday, S.W.A.T., and Deep Blue Sea.
In other Hip Hop news, DJ/producer A-Trak is just one of few artists to possibly lend their producing skills for Madonna’s 12th studio album.
According to the New York Post, A-Trak joins the likes of Brendan O’Brien and David Gueta as possible producers on Madonna's album.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10341/title.dx-news-bits-50-cent-ll-cool-j-dj-a-trak
Block Starz Music Releases Second Album In Coastal Series
12.28.09 | by Quinton Hatfield
Block Starz Music will continue their underground-respected compilation series. One year later after releasing the West Coast Block Starz album, now Block Starz will be unveiling East Coast Block Starz tomorrow (December 29, 2009)
The album will spotlight rising underground talents from New York, Philadelphia, Boston and other major northeast markets. Production from The Alchemist, Clinton Sparks is included, as well as appearances from Fabolous, Red Cafe, Wiz Khalifa and Raheem DeVaughn. Artists on the rise Tone Trump, Superstar LT, and Shonie are also prominently featured.
"East Coast Block Starz was designed as a soundtrack for people on the go and reflects the ebbs and flows of everyday life on the grind -- legitimate or otherwise," said label CEO Bayer Mack. :We wanted to produce a compilation that captured the diversity, energy, and attitude of the mid-Atlantic/northeast urban experience and we're very pleased with the results."
East Coast Block Starz releases tomorrow.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10340/title.block-starz-music-releases-second-album-in-coastal-series
News: 50 Cent Questions Media Giving Game A Pass, "He's There Because Of His Assocation With Me"
Sunday, Dec 27, 2009 10:30AM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
50 Cent recently questioned why the media tends to not grill his former G-Unit member Game about going against one of the main rappers who helped him reach success, himself.
According to Fif, Game is often never given questions about attacking him despite the fame he helped provide him.
"Let me ask you a question, when you see Game, do you say, 'Yo, why you talking about 50, you wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him," Fif asked DJ Semtex. "You don't say that. Right. But you said that about [Beanie Sigel]. When he picks and comes, he's really there because of his association with 50 Cent initially. I introduced him. The same way you felt Jay-Z put Beans into a space that we recognize Beans and I don't really hear people say that to Game. I don't hear people say 'You're really here because of your association with 50 Cent. We know you because of 50 Cent. So why are you so comfortable for disrespecting 50 Cent?' It's not your fault though, you're in the record company. There's people that when I tell you there's certain people that don't have a responsibility to be cool with you because they are just doing business, that's the way I view Interscope as a record company." (DJ Semtex TV)
Earlier this month, Game wrote on Twitter about why he will not yet let up against Fif.
"#oneofmyfollowers ah whoop 10 of @50cent followers a** !!!!," Game wrote Thursday (December 17) night. "#oneofmyfollowers might have a couple kids wit #ghettobabynames like "IMUNIQUE" or "PRECIOUS" with her big ole a**or "SHA-QUA-ZHA-NAY" LOL jb_32 @ihategame @50cent has over 2 million followers, you're not even in the hundred thousands n*gga. Step yo game up @jb_32 yea, he got 2 million followers but they didn't follow that CD 2 the record store n*gga. ha #oneofmyfollowers is dumb ! this means u Quemical @ihategame Start Singing some R&B p*ssy a** songs like 50, so you can get 2million p*ssy a** followers. lol I'll squash da beef wit dat n*gga when he bows down & becomes #oneofmyfollowers & gives his kids #ghettobabynames like "THE GAME" or "PLIES"" (Game's Twitter)
Despite his disses, Game said he copped 50's new album, Before I Self Destruct.
D*mn, I should have bought three more," Game said about Fif's album. "I tried to get him over that 160 mark, man. We bought 17 albums man, real talk. I just wanted to help him out man. I tried to get him into, I don't know, [if] my 17 was gonna get him to a million, I didn't know what I was doing. But eh, I support it, I support hip-hop, man. It's sad and tragic that he didn't do what he thought he would do. But he's 50, man, he'll find out a way to sell somebody some G-Unit Maxipads, or G-Unit tampons or G-Unit douches, he's a business man...I think if Dre would have came out on the same day, he would have did a million or something or he would have did his mark. I just think people aren't buying or are buying what has a buzz and what's hot. I think it's a thin line and I fall somewhere in the middle and that's what keeps me afloat and my longevity is sustained." (Rap-Up TV)
However, he also said the rapper's sales indicate a decline in popularity.
I mean at this point, he is shooting himself. I mean for a guy to sell 10 million records his first time out and then to come back out and do 160,000 in the first week three albums later is a catastrophe. I really feel for him at this point. If he needs my help, then I will help him out and say his name a couple more times to help him float. I really feel bad about his first week, and I just want him to feel better about himself. Tell 50, there's always the next album." (All Hip Hop)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2009/12/50_cent_questions_media_giving_game_a_pa.html
