Hammer Ordered to Pay for Breaking Marketing Contract
Friday, February 12, 2010 1:30 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) MC Hammer has been ordered by pay on a 7-year old default judgment after failing to convince a judge of a court error.
Hammer, real name Stanley Burrell, was sued by the owners of PacketSwitch.com for defaulting on a contract to market the company.
The Oakland rapper fought the claim on the grounds that his role was never more than a shareholder. He testified to U.S. District Judge Jeremy Fogel that his one appearance at a shareholder meeting resulted in one of the plaintiffs, Robert Icho, allegedly flashing a gun.
Although the plaintiffs originally won a judgment in June 2003, Hammer was never made aware of the court decree because of a typo in his name.
Instead of being listed as “MC Hammer aka Stanley Burrell,” the legal documents recorded him as “MC Hammer aka Stanley Berrell.”
On these grounds, Hammer requested a dismissal since he was never served notice, which would have allowed the opportunity to contest the lawsuit.
Judge Fogel denied the request, stating the defendant “obviously had the ability to consult with counsel if he had any questions as to his legal situation.”
PacketSwith.com was also dogged by suspicion of unethical business practices. Before going out of business, the company was subjected to an investigative audit by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The amount of the default judgment against the rapper was not disclosed.
At press time, MC Hammer could not be reached for comment.
B.G. Pleads Innocent To November Gun Charges
February 12, 2010 03:10:00 PM CST | by Allen Jacobs
Onetime Hot Boy member B.G. entered an innocent plea in a New Orleans court yesterday. The plea was related to November gun charges that stemmed from a traffic violation, search and seizure. B.G., a previously convicted felon, was not allowed possession of a firearm.
Four days after the arrest, B.G. explained his innocence to HipHopDX, saying, "I don’t know how the guns got in the vehicle. For all I know the police coulda put ‘em in the vehicle. But when I got in the vehicle, the guns wasn’t in there.”
The rapper was ordered to take a drug test next week. Earlier this week, B.G. was in Miami with former group-mate Lil Wayne for a pre-jail going away part.
Late last year, B.G. released Too Hood 2 Be Hollywood with E1 Entertainment/Atlantic Records, which was executive produced by T.I..
News: Dr. Dre Says Death Row Not Paying "Chronic" Royalties, Files $75K Lawsuit
Friday, Feb 12, 2010 12:13AM
Written by Biz Jones
Former Death Row Records artist Dr. Dre has filed a lawsuit against his ex-label for reportedly not receiving royalty payments from his 1992 album, The Chronic.
According to reports, the Doc stopped receiving payments over a decade ago.
Dr. Dre claims it's been 14 years since he's seen a penny from his game changing record, "The Chronic" -- and he's belatedly waging a war against the new Death Row Records. Why you ask would the good Dr. wait so long? We're guessing there's a fear factor that has evaporated since Suge Knight is out of the picture. Dre filed the federal lawsuit against WIDEawake Death Row -- which was created after Death Row filed for bankruptcy last year. In the lawsuit, Dre claims he stopped getting checks from the label after he cut and ran in '96. Dre says the new Death Row has been making lots of money by selling digital copies of "Chronic," "Chronic Re-Lit" and his greatest hits album without permission. Dre is suing for $75,000 minimum. (TMZ)
Dre's album set standards in hip-hop around the early 1990's.
Dre released his first solo single, "Deep Cover," in the spring of 1992. Not only was the record the debut of his elastic G-funk sound, it also was the beginning of his collaboration with rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg. Dre discovered Snoop through his stepbrother Warren G, and he immediately began working with the rapper -- Snoop was on Dre's 1992 debut, The Chronic, as much as Dre himself. Thanks to the singles "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang," "Dre Day," and "Let Me Ride," The Chronic was a multi-platinum, Top Ten smash, and the entire world of hip-hop changed with it. (All Music)
Speaking via a self-made recording, former Death Row artist Daz Dillinger said he respected the company's current CEO, Lara Lavi, last year.
"We looked around all the bullsh*t and come to find out it was John Payne," Daz explained. "And we wanna tell John Payne -- so y'all e-mail WIDEAwake and get rid of that motherf*cker man. That's who we'll go f*ck with, Lara Lavi. We won't be f*cking with them other suckers over there you know what I mean 'cause they got the game screwed. They just over there getting the motherf*cking check. You know what I mean? They ain't produce one thing, they trying to tell you something and them motherf*ckers over there in the high rise somewhere paying a h*ll of a rent to get kicked out." (Daz Dilly TV)
Lavi is reportedly aiming to release the upcoming film Sons 2 the Grave under Death Row Films.
"This film embodies what we're trying to do with Death Row, to tell human stories that don't always have happy endings, and that allow us to learn from violence and disenfranchised lives, but not glorify it," she said in an interview. "We're looking at film properties that relate to Boyz n the Hood-type stories, and to power the films with Death Row music." (The Hollywood Reporter)
Hip Hop Reacts To Sade's Return, Soldier Of Love
February 12, 2010 08:53:00 AM CST | by Slava Kuperstein
With Sade's return coming in the form of Soldier of Love, her first album in a decade, nearly everyone had a reaction of some sort.
As such, a number of rappers recently shared their thoughts on the singer's momentous return with NYMag.com.
Legendary rapper Rakim spoke on Sade's influence on him. "I grew up on soul music, but when my pops introduced me to Sade just before Diamond Life hit, it was a revelation. That voice and her style just took out even the hardest hood at the knees. 'Smooth Operator' may have been a smash for everyone worldwide, but that was my track, and you can catch me referencing what she was trying to get across from Paid in Full up to my new album."
Both members of the Clipse also spoke in the matter. Pusha T chose to look back on his introduction to Sade's music. "I remember being turned on to Sade by an older cousin I used to break dance with ... me still being young, [I] couldn't understand why in the hell he was listening to 'old people music.' He used to cook me steak-ums and play Sade on repeat!!!!!! After a summer of that, I was hooked ... Thanks, Why!!" Malice spoke of his "favorite Sade moment," which "was when Julie Knapp brought me into her office and showed me the album cover, and I was like, "She looks better than ever, her face, complexion, the body, the hair ... " Then Julie played the single and the voice was just as melodic, soothing, and hypnotizing as I had remembered. I guess God-given talent never misses a step. Guess who's back?"
Joell Ortiz intimated his emotional reaction to Sade's music, revealing that it reminded him of difficult times. "I always think of the song 'Ordinary Love' whenever someone brings up Sade, because that song came out around the time my dad bounced. After he left, my mom used to sit in her room, getting high while listening to 'Ordinary Love' over and over again for weeks. That was saddest time of my young life. Whenever I hear that song, I well up with tears."
Others who spoke on the singer's return included Missy Elliott, Talib Kweli, Keri Hilson, and Freeway.
Malice Talks Internet Blogging, Upcoming Book
February 11, 2010 11:02:00 PM CST | by Salima Koroma
The Clipse recently released their third commercial album 'Til the Casket Drops,' which was somewhat of a departure from the music the duo is recognized for recording. The album pushed 62,000 units, and group member Malice explains that a lack of New Media application may have contributed to low numbers on the group’s previous effort, Hell Hath No Fury.
"It’s all about utilizing the Internet, and we really weren’t into that the first time around," he admitted. "There’s really no better way to expose yourself and get that publicity. We like to be one with the fans because they stay on the Internet. We see the bloggers—they always have something to say about the music…"
He also said that the use of his own blog is helpful in distinguishing his own life from the one he lives through his music. "Well, I’ve got a blog, MaliceOfTheClipse.com. It’s showing a lot of the intellect and food for thought behind the things we’ve seen dealing with this music game. We like to show both sides of the game. We don’t just paint the glorious picture of the game with us making a lot of money saying, ‘Everything is just great.’ You should let your fans, the younger generation and anyone aspiring to be in this game, know the full spectrum."
To better explain the relationship between his personal life and the music industry, Malice will be releasing an autobiographical book highlighting the dynamic. "So the book is definitely a very detailed look inside my life and the effects the industry has had on me. Hopefully people take something away from what I’ve learned, and it’s something to look out for."
DX News Bits: Kid Cudi
February 11, 2010 12:02:00 PM CST | by Danielle Harling
Even though “How To Make It In America,” the new HBO show starring rapper Kid Cudi, hasn’t even aired yet Cudi is already talking about eventually ending his rap career to focus on acting.
The rapper recently told New York Magazine that he plans on calling it a wrap after about four or five albums.
"I’m trying to evenly balance them out right now, but eventually I want to leave behind music and just do acting," Kid Cudi revealed. "I only got into the music business to tell my story and inspire some people. I think four albums will do it, and when I’m done with my four, five albums, I’ll switch it up. Once the story is told [musically], there’s nothing else to say."
“How To Make It In America” will air on HBO on Sunday, February 14 at 10 p.m.
In other Kid Cudi news, Cudi is claiming that alcohol may have played a major role in an attack on a fan that happened back in December.
According to TMZ.com Cudi called Michael Sharpe, the man he punched at his show, to apologize. He also told Sharpe that his actions that night were brought on by alcohol.
TMZ attempted to reach out to Cudi in regards to his phone call to Sharpe, but they did not receive a response.
DX News Bits: The Wu-Tang Clan Edition
February 11, 2010 12:02:00 PM CST | by Jake Paine
February 25th will see the release of the DVD Wu-Tang Saga. Directed by Jeremy Mack, the documentary explores the recent years of the Wu-Tang Clan, including the 8 Diagrams Tour, as well as the 2008 inner-conflicts of the group involving Raekwon and RZA. Unlike previous documentaries, the film features the eight living members of the group, both narrating and on camera, as well as appearnces from major influence Slick Rick, and Wu disciples Cappadonna, Mathematics, Prodigical Sunn, Papa Wu and True Master.
The documentary also features a guided Staten Island tour, freestyles and behind-the-scenes footage.
In related news, Raekwon, Method Man and Ghostface Killah will join Shade 45's Angela Yee in hosting a concert event on February 18 at New York's Club Imperial at 17 West 19th Street. With music by DJ Envy, the public can enjoy performances and appearances from invited guests such as Jadakiss, Beanie Sigel, Ice-T and Coco, and Red Cafe.
Ladies are free before midnight.
The event is set to promote both the Wu trio's first group effort, Three, The Hard Way, coming March 9 on Def Jam Records, as well as Capone-N-Noreaga's signing to H20 Water Records, Raekwon's label. Raekwon will be executive producing their forthcoming War Report 2 album.
Lil Wayne Records Four Videos In One Weekend
February 11, 2010 09:02:00 AM CST | by Slava Kuperstein
Although Lil Wayne will spend a year in prison, fans will get to see plenty of the rapper, as he recorded four music videos this past weekend.
According to MTV News, Cash Money heads Ronald "Slim" Williams and Brian "Baby" Williams entlisted the servies of video director David Rousseau to shoot nine videos. Production reportedly began at 9:00 AM on Friday (Feb 5), and finished around 8:00 AM on Sunday (Feb 7). [Editor's Note: HipHopDX learned Thursday morning that Wayne in fact shot four weekend videos, to add to five already finished shoots.]
"We shot some shit from the [We Are Young Money compilation] album, we shot something from [Wayne's forthcoming] Tha Carter IV. Some stuff from [Wayne's recent LP] Rebirth," said the director. "We knew what our deadline was. We're trying to get maximum coverage for Wayne. Most of the time we only shot Wayne's verses — we'll finish the rest of the videos off in the next couple of weeks."
Rousseau elaborated, explaining the magnitude of the task at hand. "Cash Money said, 'This is our deadline. This is a hard deadline.' It was basically a Mission: Impossible [scenario]: This is your mission if you choose to accept it. Everybody is onboard because everybody knows what's at stake. Unlike T.I. and some of these other guys that's disappeared while they were in, the point is to keep Wayne [visible] on TV and everything for whatever time he's in. There was a plan in action. Slim and Baby really could foresee that. He's at the height of his career, you can't let that momentum slip."
Among the videos that were recorded were "Da Da Da," "Knockout" and "Get a Life" from Rebirth, and an unnamed "complete secret" track from Carter IV.
UPDATE: HipHopDX learned that Houston veteran and ABN (Asshole By Nature) alum Trae Tha Truth was involved in Wayne's shoots. While in Miami for the Wayne-related festivities, Trae shot three videos of his own. One of those videos was "Inkredible," which features Wayne and Rick Ross.
The song is said to be the single from Tha Truth, do on Universal/Fontana later this year. Other videos included Young Buck and Trae's brother Jay'Ton.
The former Rap-A-Lot artist also attended Wayne's going away party, alongside Drake, Nicki Minaj and Juelz Santana.
Little Brother Unveils Offical Artwork And Track Listing For LeftBack 02.11.2010
Wide Array Of Producers And Emcees Invited To Little Brother's Farewell Album
(February 11, 2010 – Brooklyn, NY) Little Brother is back for the very last time with a new album to satisfy the yearning masses. The North Carolina duo, made up of hip-hop heavyweights Phonte and Rapper Big Pooh recently announced the upcoming release of their fourth and final album, LeftBack, available April 20th via Hall of Justus. With production from the likes of Khyrsis, Denaun Porter, Zo!, Symbolyc One, J. Bizness and King Karnov, LeftBack is poised to take listeners on an epic auditory adventure. Phonte and Rapper Big Pooh will also be extending invites for the farewell party to fellow emcees Torae, Truck North, Jozeemo, Chaundon and Median, while crooner Darien Brockington and chanteuse Yahzarah are on hand to add a touch of the melodious to the album.
As the momentum behind LeftBack continues to swell, Little Brother is proud to unveil the official artwork and the track listing for the album. Fans will be excited to learn that LeftBack features 13 tracks of unadulterated hip-hop, while the album artwork finds Phonte and Rapper Big Pooh standing tall amidst the ghosts of albums past, press coverage and other memories accumulated throughout Little Brother's celebrated career. "We wanted the fans to have that moment of nostalgia when looking at this artwork" says Rapper Big Pooh. "You are able to take a quick journey from the beginning of our careers to the end as Little Brother by glancing at the artwork."
Little Brother - LeftBack Offical Track Listing:
1. Curtain Call (Prod. By Khrysis)
2. Table For Two Feat. Jozeemo & Yahzarah (Prod. By Khrysis)
3. Tigallo For Dolo (Prod. By Khrysis)
4. Revenge Feat. Truck North & Median (Prod. By Khrysis)
5. So Cold Feat. Chaundon (Prod. By King Karnov)
6. Second Chances Feat. Bilal & Darien Brockington (Prod. By Denaun Porter)
7. Go Off Go On (Prod. By Khrysis)
8. What We Are Feat. Quiana (Prod. By Young R.J.)
9. After The Party Feat. Carlitta Durand (S1 and Caleb’s Who Shot JR Ewing Remix) (Prod. By S1 and Caleb)
10. Two Step Blues Feat. Darien Brockington (Zo’s Purple Suit With The Matching Gators Remix) (Prod. By Zo!)
11. Get Enough Pt. 2 Feat. Khrysis (Prod. By Khrysis)
12. Before The Night Is Over (Prod. By J.Bizness)
13. 24 Feat. Torae (Prod. By Khrysis)
Fans can expect further announcements from Little Brother, including tour info and other interesting developments on LeftBack's road to the release.
Fresh off performing select dates with Timbaland on the Shock Value 2 Tour, Hayes is enjoying the buzz he is receiving from his most recent release, First 48 a compilation of 48 mostly original songs.
“Yea, that’s why it’s called First 48. n***as think I’m trying to bite off the show or I’m gonna kill them in 48 hours or something. No n***a its 48 songs. I don’t know why n***as are diggin into it so deep,” Hayes told AllHipHop.com. “Right now I just want to promote that First 48 and getting that to as many people as possible. I think that it’s worth it.”
While many fans enjoy First 48, which features production by JR Rotem, Hit Boi, Akon, The BreakFast Club and Midi Mafia, Hayes is confident that his official release will be a great success with the production assistance from Dre and Timbaland, along with his own lyrical content.
“The situation is 100% fresh. Listen to the First 48, listen to the music. It came out I think like January 14th we started putting it out on the streets and internet,” Hayes told AllHipHop.com. “I want them to feel that there.”
Although his actual album does not have a set release date, Hayes said he is currently working on several songs with Dr. Dre and recorded on Timbaland’s “studio bus” while performing on the Shock Value 2 Tour.
“Timbaland would do a thing where he brought out everybody in each state that we would go to, or people who he worked with, or had a good relationship with, or who was in town,” Hayes told AllHipHop.com. “So the tour had a lot of surprises and it was a lot of fun. We was coming from the concert straight to the studio bus and making music. “
Hayes has been bouncing around the industry for several years now, resting his head in Detroit, New York, Atlanta, Oakland and Las Vegas.
He traveled on the Hard Knock Life Tour with Def Jam in his younger years and was previously signed with Jimmy Iovine at the height of Interscope’s recent success with 50 Cent and Eminem.
“Just being involved with Dr. Dre and Timbaland makes my album highly anticipated off top. And that’s the best thing about the situation, I just signed and the album is already highly anticipated” Hayes told AllHipHop.com. “Just because it’s Dre and Timbaland, people are gravitating towards all my music and whatever type of presence that I have on the internet”
Listeners can check out the First 48 street album for free on www.IAmHayes.com
Busta Rhymes Aims To Give Fans 'Chemo' On July 4th
Tuesday, February 09, 2010 2:16 PM
By Roman Wolfe
Rapper Busta Rhymes has revealed the tentative release date for his upcoming 9th solo album, titled The Chemo.
According to Busta, the album will hit stores as The United States celebrates Independence Day on July 4th.
“When it’s sizzling in these streets, I think that is the most appropriate time to let go of this heat that I’m sitting on,” Busta Rhymes told HipHollywood.com. “I been cooking in the kitchen and it’s been feeling good. We about at the point were we about to take it out of the oven from baking add a couple of the final additive and preservatives and seasonings and feed people the full course meal.”
According to reports, Busta Rhymes has tapped artists like Dirty Money, Trey Songz, Wyclef and others on his upcoming release.
“I called the album The Chemo because it seems like the industry and music overall is dying slowly," Busta told Billboard in late 2009.
"The cancer that's stricken the business is killing the music, not only from a business standpoint, but also the value of the content and the creativity behind it. I just want to start the first stage of chemotherapy treatment that needs to take place and hopefully inspire others to do their part and contribute to different stages of the cure."
The Chemo is the follow-up to Busta Rhyme’s May 2009 album Back on My B.S. which debuted at #6 on Billboard’s Top 200 Chart.
E40 Announces Two New Albums; EMI Secures Release Against Leaks
Wednesday, February 10, 2010 10:14 AM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Vallejo, California rapper E-40 has announced he will release his 13th and 14th album on the same date this March.
The veteran rapper has assembled an all-star lineup for the two releases, titled Revenue Retrievin’ The Day Shift and Revenue Retrievin’ The Night Shift.
Snoop Dogg, Too $hort, Mistah Fab, Gucci Mane, B-Legit, Messy Marv, Clyde Carson, TurfTalk, E-40’s son Droop-E and a host of others are featured on the 38 brand new tracks from E-40.
Producers on both discs include Jazze Pha, YV, J. Valentine and Bobby V.
The album is a family affair as well, as E-40 also inked a deal with Heavy On The Grind Entertainment, the record label owned by his son Droop-E, which is distributed by EMI.
"I'm excited about this album, it’s been a year since I dropped The Ball Street Journal,” E40 told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “It marks an important independent business venture for me. This way, I am able to go back to the basics and run my own campaign."
Due to the fact that nine songs from E40’s last commercial release The Ball Street Journal leaked prior to that album’s release, EMI is taking serious measures to ensure the security of the rapper’s latest effort.
"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide commercial services for E-40. He has had a massive impact on Hip-Hop in the Bay area and beyond and we're extremely excited to partner with him on the next phase of his career," added Dominic Pandiscia, Senior Vice President & General Manager - EMI Label Services.
Revenue Retrievin’ The Day Shift and Revenue Retrievin’ The Night Shift are due in stores on March 30th.
Lil Wayne Jail Term Delayed For Oral Surgery
Tuesday, February 09, 2010 3:45 PM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Rapper Lil Wayne appeared before a New York judge this afternoon (February 9) where his sentencing date was officially postponed, so he could receive oral surgery on his teeth.
The rapper, who was supposed to begin serving the one-year sentence today, appeared in court flanked by his lawyer and members of the Cash Money/Young Money Records entourage.
Supreme Court Judge Charles Solomon gave the rapper almost another month of freedom to receive dental surgery and postponed his sentencing date, which is now slated for March 2.
In October, Lil Wayne pleaded guilty to attempted criminal possession of a weapon, over a July 2007 incident.
NYPD officers stopped and searched Lil Wayne’s tour bus in July of 2007 after a performance in New York and found marijuana and a loaded .40-caliber semiautomatic gun.
Sources told AllHipHop.com that if he avoids any major incidents, Lil Wayne could be free in as many as eight months.
Lil Wayne is also facing gun and drug charges in Arizona over a January 2008 arrest by border agents.
In that incident, his tour bus was stopped by border patrol agents, who searched the bus and found three firearms, including the .40 caliber pistol registered to Lil Wayne in Florida.
Two of the other weapons were legally registered various individuals on the bus.
But police also found over an ounce of cocaine, four ounces of marijuana, 42 grams of ecstasy and drug paraphernalia.
In that case, Lil Wayne is charged with one count of felony possession of a narcotic drug for sale, possession of dangerous drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and misconduct involving weapons.
He has pleaded not guilty in that case, which is scheduled to start on March 30th. Lil Wayne immediately became a trending topic on Twitter.
Young Money artists Mack Maine and Nicki Minaj, rapper Talib Kweli and singer Erykah Badu weighed in on his sentencing.
"Extension till march 2nd!" an excited Mack Maine Tweeted. "Thanx for da prayers LOVE y'all...and Wayne said thanx for da prayers too..ym!"
“God Bless Dwayne and those who support him,” Nicki Minaj Tweeted.
“Hold ur head,” Talib Kweli Tweeted. “We hate seeing our brothers in the prison industrial complex. We need them in the world.”
“I hear anybody on here sayin one Ill word toward my brother Wayne,” Erykah Badu Tweeted. “That's a great brother. Growing just like us. Salute. I WANT YALL TO BLOW Twitter UP tellin Dwayne Carter how much we love him! That's our brother !! May his time away bring lessons & peace. Wayne is a great human being.”
Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 2/7/2010
February 10, 2010 09:02:00 AM CST | by Allen Jacobs
Lil Wayne's Rebirth sold an impressive 175,000 debut week units. The Cash Money/Universal Motown project benefited from Wayne being in headlines for both his (now postponed) jail sentence, but also being one of the celebrity faces to the New Orleans Saints Super Bowl victory in Miami. Weezy F.'s Auto-Tune heavy Rock experiment with Cool & Dre could not budge Country/Pop act Lady Antebellum's Need You Now, who assumed #1 for a second straight week. Numerous radio stations yesterday were doing special Young Money dedications to honor Wayne's reporting to Riker's Island. Next week will show if that gave Rebirth any chance of a second run at #1.
With The 2010 Grammy Awards on Sunday, the charts reflected a who's who of nominees. For starters, Capitol Records' compilation of nominees, which included The Black Eyed Peas, bounced back to #5. Those same Peas are within a thousand units sold to take The E.N.D. to double-platinum. The release likely crossed that mark Monday or Tuesday, though Interscope Records has yet to confirm.
Michael Jackson's This Is It fell six spots on the charts. The Epic Records soundtrack companion to the summer film surged 11 spots. Alicia Keys' Element Of Freedom and Beyonce's I Am...Sasha Fierce battled it out on the charts. The two were less than 600 units apart, as a rounded figure shows that Keys will see her latest platinum plaque as of next week's review. J Records has yet to confirm.
* 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
Lil Wayne
Rebirth
176,000
176,000
5 Various Artists
2010 Grammy Nominees
71,000
165,000
6
Black Eyed Peas
The E.N.D.
70,000
1,999,000
11
Michael Jackson's
This Is It
35,000
1,439,000
13
Alicia Keys
Element of Freedom
34,000
1,000,000
Lil Wayne and teammates' We Are Young Money still are short of 300,000. As predicted, the charts boasted numerous Young Money/Cash Money acts, including Rebirth, We Are Young Money, Jay Sean's debut, Birdman's latest, Drake's EP, and even former Hot Boy Juvenile.
Although numbers were tallied prior to his Super Bowl pre-game performance Jay-Z's Blueprint 3 saw an excellent week in sales growth. The Atlantic Records-distributed break from Def Jam climbed 10 spaces. Eminem's Relapse climbed seven spots, as the release aims to go double platinum by mid-March.
Drake's So Far Gone EP was just barely out of Top 50. The fall debut release approaches 400,000, and remains Drake's starting point, with a gold plaque likely in sight. 50 Cent's Before I Self Destruct gained 17 spots last week. This could be another album, that with radio support of a new single, could reach gold status by early spring.
Rank Artist Album This Week Est. Total
28
Young Money
We Are Young Money
21,000
291,000
30
Jay-Z Blueprint 3
19,000
1,597,000
34
Eminem
Relapse
18,000
1,824,000
53
Drake
So Far Gone
12,000
369,000
69
50 Cent
Before I Self Destruct
8,500
387,000
Despite hope from some, neither powerful east coast deejay, Statik Selektah, nor DJ Green Lantern cracked the charts with debut albums last week.
West Coast/Midwest trio Chosen Few (comprised of MC's Cold Showda, Charles “Chop” Cooper, and producer Unjust) are preparing to drop their highly anticipated Hiero Imperium Records debut New World Symphony on April 6th. The first official single, "Elevation," hits the streets (and iTunes) today, and the crew have been hard at work finishing their chilled-out, yet heavy-hitting new video to go along with it. Shot up close and personal with the emcees spitting to the camera, the video takes place in a small and shadowy room - representing feelings of isolation, confusion, and loneliness that so many can relate to feeling at some point or another. But on the flipside, despite the track's dark and almost bleak feel, listen closely, because the message is one of motivation rather than misery.
"Elevation" features a guest appearance from lyrical maestro Opio of the Bay Area's Souls Of Mischief, who true to form, delivers a tight package of carefully crafted lyrics that get straight into your head. "The idea of always elevating, getting better, wiser and stronger is something I always try to do in all aspects of life, music, art, business, spirituality" says Opio. The song is about taking a stance, being aware of your surroundings, and elevating past limitations. Clocking in at just under three minutes, expect to be watching and re-watching this rousing video for some time to come.
Please contact Dan if interested in talking with Chosen Few.
The Background:
Chosen Few is Cold Showda, Unjust, Charles Cooper... and You. The mission of the group is to empower listeners and make them realize that they alone have the power to decide what music they listen to, instead of just picking up everything the powers that be are putting down. Originally from Ohio, the crew hooked up with regional talent like Hi-Tek, DJ Kweli, and Slum Village before moving westward to fulfill their musical manifest destiny. Cold Showda and Charles Cooper began their Bay Area careers by performing under the name Greans, collaborating with the likes of Mos Def, Common, Hieroglyphics, Pharcyde, Grandmaster Flash and more, while Unjust used his skills as a graphic artist to work with Dilated Peoples, Little Brother, Strong Arm Steady, Planet Asia, J. Dilla, Nappy Roots, and Dizzee Rascal to name a few. After achieving their respective separate successes, Chosen Few regrouped in 2008 and began building energy towards reviving the emotional range that seemed to missing from lady hip-hop at the time, and thus the idea that was New World Symphony was born. The sound of today's social consciousness is Unjust's soul and psychedelic rock laden beats, Cold Showda's relentlessly aggressive lyrics, and Charles Cooper's masterful saxophone playing and wordplay. Rounding out the album are guest appearances by Del The Funky Homosapien, Pep Love, Rakaa Iriscience, Phat Kat, DJ Babu, Tajai, Opio, Piakahn, Word4Word, and more. As Cooper says, "we are trying to encourage people to stand up, be your own individual and BE one of the chosen few." Become part of the movement at http://wearechosenfew.com and prepare to tune into New World Symphony on April 6th, 2010 via Hiero Imperium Records.
Lil Wayne To Begin Year-Long Sentence
February 09, 2010 12:02:00 PM CST | by Danielle Harling
Rapper Lil Wayne will soon begin sentencing following an incident that involved the rapper being caught with a loaded gun in 2007. He will appear in front of a judge for his formal sentencing and he is then expected to turn himself in some time today.
Wayne is expected to serve a year in prison as a result of criminal possession of a weapon charges, but he may be able to serve only eight months if he can maintain good behavior while in prison.
In a video that was posted earlier today Lil Wayne said his farewell and also gave thanks to his closest fans.
“I’m out this bitch,” said Lil Wayne in his video. “To all my fans, my real fans, I really, really, really truly love you. I love you with all of me, for real. I’ll probably be loving everything else because I love you so much. Thank you from the bottom [of my heart]. Do not forget about me ’cause I will forever think about you, and I cannot wait for you to see me again. I’m out.”
In the video, the 27-year-old rapper also briefly touched on Sunday night’s Super Bowl and his lack of computer know-how.
Lil Wayne’s year-long sentence will be served at New York’s Riker’s Island.
Rap Release Dates: Busta Rhymes, Tech N9ne, Game
February 09, 2010 08:02:00 AM CST | by Mitchell Hanna
After extensive hiatuses, today marks the release of Sade, Britain’s most successful solo female artist, and Gil Scott-Heron's, a Rap pioneer, first albums in 10 and 16 years, respectively. The following is a listing of what to expect from the rest of February:
February 9
Bekay The Hunger Pains Remix EP
Canibus Melatonin Magik
Donnis Gone EP
DJ KaySlay More Than Just A DJ
Galactic Ya-Ka-May
Georgia Anne Muldrow Kings Ballad
Gil Scott-Heron I’m New Here
Jaheim Another Round
Kurupt Down And Dirty
Sade Soldier Of Love
February 16
Big Rich & Ya Boy Guns & Roses: The EP
Freeway & Jake One The Stimulus Package
LMNO Push That Work
Mathematics Return Of The Wu And Friends
The Jacka (of Mob Figaz) Dre Area Vol. 2
February 23`
DJ Babu The Beat Tape Vol. 2
General Steele Amerikkka’s Nightmare Part 2: Children Of War
Georgia Anne Muldrow & Declaime (a.k.a. Dudley Perkins) SomeOthaShip
k-os Yes!
Madlib Madlib Medicine Show No. 2: Flight To Brazil
Madlib (as The Last Electro-Acoustic Space Jazz & Percussion Ensemble) Miles Away
Planet Asia & Gold Chain Military Chain Of Command
Rob Swift The Architect
Sadat X Wild Cowboys II EP
Snoop Dogg The West Coast Blueprint
This week, March picked up new projects from several hip-hop collectives including Army Of The Pharaohs, D-Block, as well as half of the living Wu-Tang Clan members. In addition, Amazon.com is reporting that Fashawn will be dropping a CD and DVD deluxe edition of Boy Meets World on March 23. The following week, Tech N9ne is slated to put out a five-track EP entitled The Lost Scripts Of K.O.D. The EP announcement comes along with the news of several other upcoming Strange Music releases including a collaboration album by Tech on July 27 and Krizz Kaliko’s Shock Treatment on September 14. The following is a comprehensive look at March has to offer:
March 2
B. Dolan Fallen House, Sunken City
DJ Khaled Victory
Jason Derulo Jason Derulo
K. Sparks A Day In The Life
Main Flow (of Mood) Return Of The Castle
Raheem DeVaughn The Love & War Masterpeace
T-Rock (Formerly of Hypnotize Minds) Life Lessons: The Burning Book: Chapter II
March 9
Ayatollah Jaxx (of Good Company) Hello, Hip Hop
Blacastan The Master Of Reality
Broken Bells (Danger Mouse & James Mercer) Broken Bells
Ghostface Killah, Method Man & Raekwon Three, The Hard Way
Gorillaz Plastic Beach
Kidz In The Hall Land Of Make Believe
Ludacris Battle Of The Sexes
U-N-I & Ro Blvd. A Love Supreme 2.0
March 16
Andre Nickatina Khan! The Me Generation
Flobots Survival Story
LMNO fOnk garden
Swollen Members Greatest Hits: Ten Years Of Turmoil
March 23
Bertell Goin’ Hard
Big Boi Sir Luscious Left Foot: Son Of Chico Dusty
Brotha Lynch Hung Dinner And A Movie
Chief Kamachi The Clock Of Destiny
Donwill (of Tanya Morgan) Don Cusack In High Fidelity
Fashawn Boys Meets World (Deluxe Edition)
Game The R.E.D. Album
Inspectah Deck Manifesto
J-Kwon J-Kwon
Madlib Madlib Medicine Show No. 3: Beat Konducta In Africa And India
Marco Polo & Ruste Juxx The eXXecution
Monica Still Standing
Plies Goon Affiliated
Redman Reggie Noble 9½
Sadat X Wild Cowboys II
Snoop Dogg Malice N Wonderland: More Malice
TQ Kind Of Blue
Yo Gotti Live From The Kitchen
March 30
Army Of The Pharaohs The Unholy Terror
D-Block D-Block
E-40 Revenue Retrievin’: Day Shift
E-40 Revenue Retrievin’: Night Shift
Erykah Badu New Amerykah Pt. 2 (Return Of The Ankh)
Mariah Carey Angels Advocate
Murs & 9th Wonder ForNever
Spice 1 Home Street Home
Tech N9ne The Lost Scripts Of K.O.D.
Three 6 Mafia Laws Of Power
Usher Raymond V. Raymond
Wordsmith Vintage Experience
yU (of Diamond District) Before Taxes
Looking further out, One Be Lo of Binary Star’s B.A.B.Y. (Being A Black Youth), Bizarre of D-12’s Live At St. Andrews, and Busta Rhymes’ The Chemo are penciled in for April 27, May 11, and July 6, in that order. Meanwhile, Bun B’s Trill O.G., Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s Uni5: The World’s Enemy, Cam’ron’s new crew The U.N.’s Gunz N’ Butta, and Lil Jon’s Crunk Rock have been deferred to April 6, April 20, May 18, and June 29, respectively.
Drake Prepares First Headlining Tour
February 09, 2010 07:02:00 AM CST | by Edwin Ortiz
In preparation for his debut album Thank Me Later, Young Money rapper Drake will be embarking on his first North American headlining tour this April.
“The Away From Home Tour” currently has 23 destinations (one TBA), with Drake visiting 13 different university campuses, including Penn State (4/9), Michigan State (4/14), and Kentucky (4/27). He will also perform at two music festivals along the way; the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage (4/24) and Bamboozle (5/1).
Veteran Canadian rapper k-os will join Drake on the road trip, who recently told DX that the two have done past work together. New York synth-pop band Francis & The Lights, who performed last year at South by Southwest, will round out the line-up.
To raise eco-friendly awareness, Drake has teamed up with non-profit organization Reverb, which will be setting up “Eco Village” tents on campuses in hopes of educating college students about green technology and uses. Drake’s management will also do their part by using biodiesel fuel, as well as biodegradable and recyclable products on the tour bus and backstage at performances.
Several performance dates are listed as private locations, which will likely be revealed at a later time.
4/6 Charleston, IL @ Eastern Illinois University
4/7 Columbus, OH @ Private Location
4/9 State College, PA @ Penn State University
4/10 Boston, MA @ Private Location
4/11 Lock Haven, PA @ Private Location
4/14 East Lansing, MI @ Michigan State University
4/15 Rochester Hills, MI @ Oakland University
4/16 Morgantown, WV @ West Virginia University
4/21 Orlando, FL @ University Central Florida
4/22 Greenville, SC @ Furman University
4/23 TBA
4/24 New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
4/26 Kansas City, MO @ University of Missouri - Kansas City
4/27 Lexington, KY @ University of Kentucky
4/29 Lowell, MA @ University Mass Lowell
4/30 Syracuse, NY @ Private Location
5/1 Boston, MA @ Private Location
5/1 East Rutherford, NJ @ Bamboozle Festival
5/4 Worcester, MA @ Holy Cross
5/5 Towson, MD @ Towson University
5/6 Cheyney, PA @ Cheyney University
5/7 Ithaca, NY @ Private Location
5/8 Plymouth, NH @ Private Location
Gucci Mane Denies Claims Of Drug Use From Behind Bars, "I Have Never Used Cocaine"
Monday, Feb 8, 2010 10:15AM
Written by Biz Jones
Incarcerated rapper Gucci Mane recently debunked claims that he violated his probation by using cocaine.
According to Gucci, who is currently serving a one-year jail sentence, he has no past history using cocaine.
"My urinalysis was from, like, six months ago," he said in an interview. "I think it was for marijuana. But it definitely wasn't from cocaine. I have never used cocaine. That's just not true. Then I stopped smoking and stopped drinking. For the last six months, I haven't used any drugs, and I will continue to claim sobriety. That's why I said that at the BET Awards and made that PSA. Because that's something I took to and made a part of my life. So even when I do get out of here, I plan on continuing that, and I'm proud of myself for that. That gave me peace, even in the situation I'm in now. I know you have to be optimistic. Even if you're going through something that you expect to be good and it turns out bad, you know it will get well." (XXL Mag)
His attorney Dwight L. Thomas suggested that drugs were part of the reason Gucci was sent to jail for a year.
Gucci's probation for a 2005 aggravated-assault case was revoked because the flamboyant rapper has not completed a court-ordered 600 hours of community service, he's tested positive for marijuana and cocaine during visits to his probation officer and he has not been getting the proper permission to travel as mandated previously by the judge. "[Gucci] told the court yesterday he was on a road to recovery in terms of being clean and sober," explained Thomas, who also represented T.I. in his recent gun case. "[He is] alcohol free and weed free. ... He's also dealing with the emotional issue of killing somebody. He's been in counseling and therapy." (MTV)
The rapper's one-year bid was speculated online last November.
Mane has been sent back to Fulton County Jail in Atlanta for probation violation. Sources close to the Atlanta rapper say Gucci attended a court hearing earlier today to determine whether or not he'd have to serve time for an unspecified infraction that violated the conditions of his probation. He was sentenced to 12 months, but could end up serving only six with good behavior. This doesn't mark the first time Gucci violates his probation. The rapper was sent to the same jail for only completing 25 out of a required 600 hours of community service in relation to a prior assault charge. (BET)
Rapper Shawty Lo recently spoke on staying in contact with Gucci since his incarceration.
"I talk to him on a regular basis," Shawty said in an interview. "We keep him posted [on things going on in the industry]. He probably on the phone right now. I ain't got to give him advice, though. Gucci know what he gotta do -- he's a grown man. You know, he got his head up. He's ready to come back home...His spirits is up, and he get a lot of mail and get a lot of support from the fans in the streets and, you know, he's just waiting to come home to reclaim his career." (VIBE)
New Orleans Saints Win Super Bowl, Fabolous, Diddy, Raekwon & More React
Sunday, Feb 7, 2010 9:37PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
The New Orleans Saints have won Super Bowl XLIV after defeating the Indianapolis Colts and sparked a group of Twitter reactions from Fabolous, Diddy, Raekwon and more.
Displaying his loyalty to the Colts, Fab stood by his team throughout the entire game.
"Take ur punk a** 3, Saints! Sean Peyton must not b following me on twitter.. I told him 2 take the punk a** 3 Sean Peyton jus DM'd me.. He said he'll take the punk a** 3 Mark my word, this is the set up 4 Peyton 2 close this game... 5 mins, 4 qt. Touchdown needed.. #MVP If ure not tweetin about the super bowl.. #f*ckouttahere nobody care what the f*ck u doin!! U jus got unfollowed! #unfollowsundays. Good game Saints.. I congrad yall on da win.. But what's wack is alotta yall was neva Saints fans, yall jus picked them cuz every1 else was." (Fabolous' Twitter)
Diddy celebrated the win by announcing a Saints after party in Miami.
"The official saints victory party at liv tonight!!! Hosted by me!!!!! DIDDY!!!!! The we gonna finish up strong at king of diamonds!!! Rt pls" (Diddy's Twitter)
The Wu-Tang Clan's "Chef" suggested Colts head coach Jim Caldwell consider new employment.
"Gongratulations Saints, I trusted ya hand tell the colts coach start looking for a new job! rt this crack." (Raekwon's Twitter)
Slaugterhouse's Joe Budden also paid homage to the efforts of the Saints.
"this will be a LONG 2 minutes. Congrats N.O..... upset Peyton didn't do it, but if any1 deserved a ring, its drew Brees." (Joe Budden's Twitter)
Prior to the game finishing, NBA star/rapper Shaquille O'Neal predicted the Saints would pull out the victory.
"I'm sayin it now new orleans saints superbowl champs What I say huh, huh, the 99 year curse is over, congrats to da saints Shaqstradamus does it again, congatulations new orleans, if any city deserves it, its you guys, now we gotta get lsu b ball bak on track." (Shaq's Twitter)
The Saints' win marked the end of its renowned losing streak seasons.
The New Orleans Saints, the N.F.L. franchise long associated with losing and disappointing its fans, defeated the Indianapolis Colts, 31-17, to win the franchise's first Super Bowl and give New Orleans fans cause for much celebration. (New York Times)
Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith Claim No Blame Over Unsuccessful Movie
Monday, February 08, 2010 9:45 AM
By Chris Richburg
(AllHipHop News) A dispute over a failed movie involving rapper/actor Will Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith, is at the heart of a new legal situation between the power couple and a financier for the feature.
Legal papers filed Friday (Feb. 5) in L.A. County Superior Court, note claims by the Smiths that David Grasso is threatening to sue them over what he believes to be allegations the pair "guaranteed" a return on his investment in the film, titled The Human Contract.
Written in 2007 and directed by Pinkett-Smith, the feature centers on a relationship between a successful but unhappy businessman (Jason Clarke) and a mysterious, free-spirited stranger (Paz Vega) who tempts him into exploring reckless love.
In addition to Pinkett-Smith, Idris Elba and Ted Danson are featured in the movie, which was executive produced by Will Smith and marked his spouse’s directorial debut. The Smiths disputed the Grasso’s claims, saying they are not to blame for the failure of The Human Contract and "made no such representations" regarding the film.
In light of the drama making no money and going straight to DVD last year, the couple confessed, “it is unlikely that it will ever make a profit."
Although the Smiths are not interested in suing the Grasso for money, TMZ.com reports the pair wants a judge to declare that they are not liable for the money lost by the investor.
A representative for the couple addressed the issue while telling the site that "although we normally shun this type of controversy, we felt compelled to respond to the baseless threats and absurd allegations put forth by Mr. Grasso's counsel."
National Museum of Hip-Hop Confirms 2010 Awards Ceremony
Thursday, February 04, 2010 5:46 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) The National Museum of Hip-Hop (NMoH) has announced their 2010 Hall of Hip-Hop Awards, which annually inducts legends and icons into the organization’s Hall of Fame.
This year’s event will be televised, and seeks to recognize icons in all of the universally recognized elements of Hip-Hop culture: emceeing, DJing, graffiti art, and b-boying.
Other contributors in the realms of production, filmmakers, and fashion will be recognized as well.
While shows such as the just-aired Grammys include several Hip-Hop themed categories, NMoH President Craig Wilson points out that many of the pioneers who laid the groundwork for the culture’s commercial boom have not received their just due.
“The Hall of Hip-Hop will exist as the first true beacon of homage for those who created and pioneered this great culture we call Hip-Hop,” Wilson explained to AllHipHop.com. “[It’s] a testament to the prominence of the many who helped spawn this phenomenon but have been long since forgotten via contemporary commercial/corporate interests. We have developed an Induction Committee with enough experience to develop a system that will be world class.”
That board includes such figures as mogul and former Hip-Hop artist Andre Harrell, Grammy Museum President Bob Santelli, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame President Terry Stewart.
On April 6, KRS-One and Chuck D will host the NMoH’s “Hip-Hop Immortal,” an invitation only event from New York’s M2 Ultra Lounge on 530 West 28th Street.
The show will feature a special DJ set from Grandmaster Flash, and offer a silent auction, VIP gift bags, raffle, and live performances.
Witnesses Explain Tuesday's Freddie Foxxx Altercation At S.O.B.'s
February 07, 2010 11:02:00 PM CST | by Jake Paine
Contrary to rumors circulating about last Tuesday's Statik Selektah 100 Proof release party at New York's S.O.B.'s lounge, eye witnesses contacted HipHopDX clarified the publicized altercation between Freddie Foxxx a/k/a Bumpy Knuckles and a guest seen with Smif n' Wessun. Although many sites had labeled the veteran Long Island emcee as an instigator in the incident, two eye-witnesses claimed that the unidentified man was acting in misconduct both behind stage and on the microphone.
"He was jumping into artist interviews, and criticizing the state of New York Hip Hop among some of the emcees that had single-handedly represented the city," a witness told DX, who asked to remain nameless. Performing acts included Styles P, Freeway, Sean Price, Termanology, REKS, and Smif n' Wessun. The culprit interrupted one performance by taking a microphone, though the witness was unaware of which act. "I don't know if he was drunk, but he was talking recklessly about New York Rap, and also claiming that everybody needed to tuck in their jewels or he and his boys would take them."
Among the rappers he was disrespecting, per the accounts, was Freddie Foxxx. After a calm verbal exchange between the two, the man grew belligerent to the emcee known for his hand-skills. Foxxx asked the man to refrain from putting his hands in the rapper's face. After the argument elevated, Freddie struck the man, who began bleeding, fell, and promptly attempted retaliation. The reports also allege that in the retaliation, the man attempted to use a sharpened screw-driver to stab Freddie Foxxx. The rapper averted the stabbing and confiscated the weapon from the man, after further restraining him. The parties then separated.
A photograph, courtesy of VillageSlum.com, surfaced through Rap blogs and online magazines last week.
No one has spoken of the incident since in a public forum. The only mention came from Freddie Foxxx. "That Was An Unfortunate Incident That Happened At SOB's Last Night. I didn't want it to go there. I hope he is ok," he posted on Wednesday on his Twitter (@BumpyKnuckles).
Although the rapper did not wish to speak to HipHopDX in detail about the incident, he confirmed the witness reports, and added that he did not appreciate some of the media's blame. The other party has yet to speak publicly.
Game Officially Returns To Aftermath Records
February 07, 2010 01:02:00 PM CST | by Jake Paine
Saturday afternoon, rapper Game officially announced his return to Aftermath Records. The announcement, made via the Compton star rapper's Twitter page (@IHateGame), comes after pictures and statements already confirming Game's musical reunion with one of his early mentors, Dr. Dre.
Claiming, "It's funny how things come full circle. R.E.D." Game linked to a photograph of him wearing four Aftermath medallions on chain necklaces. R.E.D. is the title of Game's spring album, which may now carry the Aftermath logo.
Having released his multi-platinum debut, The Documentary on G-Unit/Aftermath/Interscope in 2005, the Black Wall Street founder would later release his two subsequent releases 2006's The Doctor's Advocate and 2008's L.A.X. on Geffen Records. Geffen, a sister-label to Interscope in the IGA (Interscope-Geffen-A&M) family. Many believed these actions were due to tension between Game and 50 Cent, Dr. Dre and even Interscope head Jimmy Iovine.
By returning to Aftermath, Game joins Eminem, 50 Cent, as well as two newer artists Slim Da Mobster and this week's DXnext artist, Hayes. Throughout his career, Game has worked with Aftermath producers including DJ Khalil, Hi-Tek and of course, Dre.
Earlier this week, Game released the Sam Cooke-sampling "Shake" , produced by Cool & Dre, which will be likely included on R.E.D.
Shyne Denied Entrance To The United Kingdom
February 07, 2010 01:02:00 PM CST | by Allen Jacobs
Rapper Shyne is still running into immigration trouble. After reportedly trying to record some music in the United Kingdom, the rapper was denied access into London. Per reports, the denied entry was due to incorrect travel documents. There has yet to be any word on the specifics. At the time, the rapper was traveling from Cancun, Mexico to London, England with an entourage that reportedly includes a Rap protege.
Since his release from prison in October, Shyne has been living in Belize. The rapper is presently not allowed in the United States due to immigration laws that conflict with his felony gun possession conviction. However, it was announced that Shyne's first post-prison appearance will come courtesy of DJ Khaled's Victory album, due on March 2. The former Bad Boy and Def Jam recording artist appears alongside Akon and Mavado on "All My Life" .
In addition to Khaled, Swizz Beatz has reportedly been in touch with the onetime star about recording together.
