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Young Cash Ft. Brisco, Ace Hood, Iceberg, Piccalo, JT Money, Bllgreezy, Billy Blue, And Chaos
“Where They Do That At (Remix)
Cashis Produced by Rikanatti
“High Azz Fucc”
Ludacris Shoots Video With Nicki, Trina, Eve and Rick Ross
Over the Super Bowl weekend, the music industry heavies got in more work than normal, since everybody was conveniently convened in one spot. Ludacris was one of those that took advantage of the high wattage that electrified the city. For the My Chick Bad video, he pulled together Nicki Minaj. Diamond, Trina, Eve, DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, and and others for the shoot. Here are some pictures for you viewing pleasure.
Nicki Minaj as Freddy Krueger ? [source]
Sade: Soldier of Love (Album Review)
You only grow as an artist as long as you allow yourself to grow as a person. Were all parents, our lives have all moved on. I couldnt have made Solider of Love any time before now .
-Sade Adu
Coming into the fourth decade of her career, Sade Adu has become an esoteric figure in the music industry. Since the early 90s shes shrouded her life from popular culture, leaving her one album per decade average as the main tool for press and fans to speculate on her private dealings and thoughts. Those sparse offerings have delivered some of the best musings on love ever recorded, ranging from unbridled ecstasy (Couldnt Love You More) to wallowing anguish (King of Sorrow). With a new decade upon us, Sade returns with another offering from the depths of her soul in Soldier of Love.
The Moon and the Sky opens the LP on the theme of unconditional love abused by selfishness. The string arrangements and trudging bass allow Sades voice to dominate, and she stretches several notes to accentuate the forlorn disbelief at how her lover abuses her loyalty (“So why did he make me cry?/Why didnt you come get me one last time?/You let me down .You left me there dying ).
That damage transitions well to the lead single Soldier of Love. The stabbing, aggressive guitar chords and marching drums are a clear break from Sades previous work, and give a modern feel sure to catch younger fans not familiar with her work. In the context of the album, it builds on the numbing pain of the opening song, but displays the songstress still determined to persevere (Ive lost the use of my heart/But Im still alive ).
The only other uptempo track, Bring Me Home, ironically contains the strongest lyrics of hopelessness. The despair is punctuated by backing vocals which titter on low mourning wails, and Sade invokes spiritual loss and regret (Ive cried for the lives Ive lost/Like a child in need of love/Ive been so close but far away from God .Ive cried the tears so let the tide take me/I wont fight/Ive cried the tears.)
The Sade band, composed of Stuart Colin Matthewman (guitar,sax), Paul Spencer Denman (bass), and Andrew Hale (keyboards), have retained their innate ability to not only seamlessly glide through different music genres, but merge them as needed to support their lead singers ethereal voice. Babyfather brings street reggae rhythms to support Sades celebration of parenthood and first ever collaboration with 13 year old daughter Ila. On Be That Easy, the band embraces the blues while Adu ruminates on her life being in freefall, her love remaining as the only tangible, pure facet (Falling down, flying as slow as I can/Im not trying to reach the land/Just falling somewhere/It couldnt be that easy/It had to be much harder/Meanwhile boy, I love you).
Sade Adus lasting appeal has been tied to the uniqueness of her soothing, rich alto vocals. Like previous legends Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan, her voice has gotten deeper with age. In her early years, Sade had underrated range (see Pearls, Frankies First Affair). The voice is now slightly weaker, but not alarmingly so. The change is only noticeable when the bands arrangements call for her to hit higher notes, as heard on Morning Bird. Perhaps by design, Adu for the majority of Soldier of Love isnt required to extend or test her vocal limits.
As with all Sade LPs, the ballads are empathetic and overflow with introspection. In Another Time features engaging sax and string instrumentation (violin, cello) that will remind longtime fans of the jazz fusion pieces heard on Diamond Life and Promise. The track is another testament to Sades exceptional skill as a songwriter, as the lyrics can be interpreted as an ode to her daughter, or words of inspiration to downtrodden women.
Skin invokes the albums strongest imagery as a meditative piece on when self-identity and preservation supersedes love for another. The song is classic Sade, with the singer describing the process of peeling and washing away the elements of an ex-lover on her psyche. Her phrasing is flawless, working in perfect harmony with her bands subdued melodies.
The album has an unmistakable feeling of sadness, but ends with optimism on The Safest Place. Although the guitar and violin chords maintain a pensive color, Sades words show she remains unbroken, alluding to the spiritual warfare detailed in the albums journey (My hearts been a lonely warrior/Whos been to war so you can be sure/Your loves in a sacred place/The safest hiding place.)
For Sade, Soldier of Love is a work that continues the excellence shes displayed since her debut 26 years ago. While the greatness that is Love Deluxe is likely untouchable ever again, Sade builds on and exceeds her fine work from 2000s Lovers Rock. When it comes to Sade, her extended albums breaks are an example of her dedication to her craft, and the importance she sees in letting life and spirit dictate when its time to drop over industry protocols.
Welcome back, Sade.
Will.I.Am Debuts New Track During Superbowl
(AllHipHop News) A new track by Black Eyed Peas rapper will.I.am will debut during Super Bowl XLIV tonight (February 7) during an advertisement for FLO TV titled Moments.
The track is a remix of The Whos classic Rock & Roll song My Generation, which calls people to take action on pressing humanitarian concerns.
All proceeds from the digital sales of the remix will be donated to Oxfams Haiti Earthquake Response Fund.
The track will air just before The Whos half-time performance during the Super Bowl, which sees The Colts facing off against The New Orleans Saints in Miami.
We were in the middle of a remix for a Super Bowl ad of one of the great songs of our time My Generation when this tragic earthquake hit Haiti, will.i.am told AllHipHop.com in a statement. I was moved to do something, and I immediately reached out to Pete Townshend and FLO TV. We decided to come together to create a full-length version of the track. This version will contain additional lyrics not included in the commercial, and all proceeds from the song will go directly to benefit the people of Haiti.
The song will be available for purchase for $1.29 on Amazon.com, DipDive.com and TheWho.com.
“I am relieved to be able to do something visible to reach out to our friends in Haiti and I am honored to have such a hot and credible artist like will.i.am working with My Generation, a song I wrote back when times were changing, but maybe didn’t change enough, The Whos legendary guitarist Pete Townshend stated. Will wants to bring hope to the music rather that just the angst and frustration it once carried, and he has enough life and vigor in him to pull this off. Let’s hope that it generates some cash down the year to help rebuild Haiti.
Fans Celebrate J Dilla 36th B-Day Today
Influential producer James Dewitt Yancey, AKA J Dilla, was born today (February 7, 1974).
The Detroit producer, who began collecting records at the age of two, made a name for himself in Detroits Hip-Hop scene with groups with Phat Kat (1st Down) and the late Proof (5 Elementz).
J. Dilla eventually settled with classmates T3 and Baatin in Slum Village. His work with Dilla’ attracted the attention of A Tribe Called Quest, who recruited the talented producer to be a member of their Ummah (Q-Tip, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Dilla) production team.
He helped craft several songs on Tribe’s platinum fourth album Beats, Rhymes, and Life including “Get a Hold,” “1nce Again,” “Keep It Movin’,” “Word Play,” and “Stressed Out.” J.
Dilla also produced classic singles for other artists, such as De La Soul (“Stakes Is High”), The Pharcyde (“Drop,” “Runnin'”), Q-Tip (“Vivrant Thing,” “Breathe and Stop”), Janet Jackson (“Got ‘Til It’s Gone”), Common (“The Light”), and Erykah Badu (“Didn’t Cha Know,” “Cleva”).
In 2004, Dilla was officially diagnosed with lupus and TTP, a rare and incurable blood disorder. The disease greatly restricted Dilla’s ability to tour and also resulted in a marked weight loss.
Dilla immersed himself in his work, and successfully completed his celebrated final project in 2006, the sonic masterpiece Donuts. The album was released on his birthday, February 7, just three days before Dilla’s death at the age of 32 from cardiac arrest.
Twitter was flooded with messages about J. Dilla today. . Happy bday to the greatest hiphop producer ever your spirit is 4eva my dude, Q-Tip stated. We wont let ANY HATE take us away from spreading the legacy of J. Dilla.
J. Dilla leaves behind two daughters, and younger brother Illa J.
Happy Birthday Dilla Dawg, Illa J Tweeted. We miss you bro. And the Legacy continues to live on. The celebration of J. Dillas life is also an international affair.
Tonight, promoters The Doctor’s Orders will host DJs Spin Doctor, Rusty Ryan and Harry Love in the UK at Scala, for the J-Dilla Changed My Life party.
All proceeds from the event will benefit The J. Dilla Foundation.
Superbowl Predictions and Revitalizing Miami
First things first, here is my Superbowl prediction:
New Orleans Saints 31
Indianapolis Colts 28
Now, what’s your prediction?
But, aside from the parties and shows in Miami, there is much more going on.When you think of Superbowl week, A-list celebrities, NFL
player media days, over-the-top events like Rihanna rocking South Beach and
bringing any city to its knees with traffic congestion are a part of the usual
mix. However, if you believe that either one of these examples given is what
makes Superbowl week something that every football fan should experience, you
are sadly mistaken.
On February 4th, Kickoff to Rebuild an extraordinary
event in its 15th year, led by Comfort Inn by Choice Hotels and The
Steve Harvey Morning Show joined forces with Rebuilding Together, NFL players
and over 300 volunteers to renovate six homes in the Coconut Grove area of
Miami.
Renovations included interior and exterior painting, pulling
up weeds, laying down grass and mulch, upgrading electrical wiring, replacing
appliances and so much more. Local volunteers got their hands dirty with NFL
players like Brandon Jones and the President/CEO of Choice Hotels
International, Stephen P. Joyce. Were in the hospitality business, so were
used to taking care of people, said the CEO in between laying down grass. So
when we witness the needs in our country today; people that are having
difficulties in holding onto their homes, we wanted to make a difference. While
other companies are pulling back, we (Choice Hotels) are lucky to be doing well
enough to give back.
Across the country, there are thousands of families in dire
need of assistance. The Truesdells are one of them. Wesley Truedell is a 92
year old, disabled Army veteran of World War 2. He is the father of 13 children
and has lived in Miami since 1920. His family has lived in their current
residence for 40 years. Wesley decided to hire a contractor to increase the
size of his home. The contractor took Wesleys $92,000 and ran off, leaving his
home incomplete and all hope, lost. I stood out front of the Truesdell home
with Wesleys daughter Michelle and granddaughter Charmaine and watched on as
volunteers changed their lives forever.
This is just tremendous, said Michelle as she marveled at
the renovations. I love it. We dont know how to take care of a yard. Someone
is going to have to teach us how to keep it up because this is something weve never
had. All we had was dirt and rocks. We had a two bedroom home, with one
bedroom. Now we have a five bedroom home with three bedrooms. Rebuilding
Together is the best!Words cant even describe it, Charmaine added. We lived
here for two years without this. And to see this happen with my own eyes, its
breathtaking. We shared a bedroom, four of us because the house wasnt
finished. For two years, we didnt know where we were going to go. But now, to
see all of these amazing people out here helping us, it makes me emotional. It
finally looks like a home again.
Gary Officer, President/CEO of Rebuilding Together, walked
by during my conversation with the Truesdells, so I grabbed his attention and
asked him about the turnout. Today is an example of an extraordinary
outpouring of volunteerism, he replied. Everyone out here wants to see this
community stabilized; they want to be a part of the rebirth. And to see over
300 volunteers out here, five major national corporate sponsors, and
contractors working together on these homes, transforming these homes back into
assets again, shows the goodness in all people and the true power of giving
back.
Steve Harvey and his morning show crew broadcasted live from
Coconut Grove. And while traveling to see the six homes that were renovated,
local residents gave him the Rock Star treatment. Lets be honest, Steve wasnt
about to pick up a brush and risk getting pink paint on his classic suit. His
purpose and presence was best suited as a motivator. He brought smiles to faces
before saying a word and laughter afterwards. During the Pep Rally, he managed
to do it all.What you all are doing today is amazing, he said. You
have volunteered your time, your services and expertise and placed it into a
community that is often forgotten. I just met the Truesdell family. I just
adopted Wesleys granddaughters both 12 and 14 years old. One wants to be a
pediatrician and one wants to be a doctor. So I made them make a promise to me.
If they stay in school, get good grades and dont have any kids (waiting to
have children until after theyre married), my wife and I agreed that wed put
them both through college. I also told them that if any boys try to speak to
them, spit on them and keep walking.
Overall, Kickoff to Rebuild was an overwhelming success
this year, as it was the 14 years that preceded it. You could say that its on
to the next one; the next year that is. And if the next Superbowl city is near
you, reach out to Rebuilding Together and Choice Hotels for information on
how you could be a part of something special.
Steve Harvey with a member of the Truesdell family whose home was chosen for renovations during “Kickoff to Rebuild”
Wesley Truesdell and family sit as volunteers finish the final touches on his home of 47 Years
Mrs. Elester Anderson home of 59 years received new siding, flooring and foundation repair
Choice Hotels President and CEO Steve Joyce (second from left) and Rebuild Together CEO Gary Officer (left) discuss their partnership for “Kickoff to Rebuild” on the Steve Harvey Morning Show who broadcasted live from the event:
Superbowl Week at its best Revitalizing Miami
First things first, here is my Superbowl prediction:
New Orleans Saints 31
Indianapolis Colts 28
Who is bold enough to make their prediction?But, aside from the parties and shows in Miami, there is much more going on.When you think of Superbowl week, A-list celebrities, NFL
player media days, over-the-top events like Rihanna rocking South Beach and
bringing any city to its knees with traffic congestion are a part of the usual
mix. However, if you believe that either one of these examples given is what
makes Superbowl week something that every football fan should experience, you
are sadly mistaken.
On February 4th, Kickoff to Rebuild an extraordinary
event in its 15th year, led by Comfort Inn by Choice Hotels and The
Steve Harvey Morning Show joined forces with Rebuilding Together, NFL players
and over 300 volunteers to renovate six homes in the Coconut Grove area of
Miami.
Renovations included interior and exterior painting, pulling
up weeds, laying down grass and mulch, upgrading electrical wiring, replacing
appliances and so much more. Local volunteers got their hands dirty with NFL
players like Brandon Jones and the President/CEO of Choice Hotels
International, Stephen P. Joyce. Were in the hospitality business, so were
used to taking care of people, said the CEO in between laying down grass. So
when we witness the needs in our country today; people that are having
difficulties in holding onto their homes, we wanted to make a difference. While
other companies are pulling back, we (Choice Hotels) are lucky to be doing well
enough to give back.
Across the country, there are thousands of families in dire
need of assistance. The Truesdells are one of them. Wesley Truedell is a 92
year old, disabled Army veteran of World War 2. He is the father of 13 children
and has lived in Miami since 1920. His family has lived in their current
residence for 40 years. Wesley decided to hire a contractor to increase the
size of his home. The contractor took Wesleys $92,000 and ran off, leaving his
home incomplete and all hope, lost. I stood out front of the Truesdell home
with Wesleys daughter Michelle and granddaughter Charmaine and watched on as
volunteers changed their lives forever.
This is just tremendous, said Michelle as she marveled at
the renovations. I love it. We dont know how to take care of a yard. Someone
is going to have to teach us how to keep it up because this is something weve never
had. All we had was dirt and rocks. We had a two bedroom home, with one
bedroom. Now we have a five bedroom home with three bedrooms. Rebuilding
Together is the best!Words cant even describe it, Charmaine added. We lived
here for two years without this. And to see this happen with my own eyes, its
breathtaking. We shared a bedroom, four of us because the house wasnt
finished. For two years, we didnt know where we were going to go. But now, to
see all of these amazing people out here helping us, it makes me emotional. It
finally looks like a home again.
Gary Officer, President/CEO of Rebuilding Together, walked
by during my conversation with the Truesdells, so I grabbed his attention and
asked him about the turnout. Today is an example of an extraordinary
outpouring of volunteerism, he replied. Everyone out here wants to see this
community stabilized; they want to be a part of the rebirth. And to see over
300 volunteers out here, five major national corporate sponsors, and
contractors working together on these homes, transforming these homes back into
assets again, shows the goodness in all people and the true power of giving
back.
Steve Harvey and his morning show crew broadcasted live from
Coconut Grove. And while traveling to see the six homes that were renovated,
local residents gave him the Rock Star treatment. Lets be honest, Steve wasnt
about to pick up a brush and risk getting pink paint on his classic suit. His
purpose and presence was best suited as a motivator. He brought smiles to faces
before saying a word and laughter afterwards. During the Pep Rally, he managed
to do it all.What you all are doing today is amazing, he said. You
have volunteered your time, your services and expertise and placed it into a
community that is often forgotten. I just met the Truesdell family. I just
adopted Wesleys granddaughters both 12 and 14 years old. One wants to be a
pediatrician and one wants to be a doctor. So I made them make a promise to me.
If they stay in school, get good grades and dont have any kids (waiting to
have children until after theyre married), my wife and I agreed that wed put
them both through college. I also told them that if any boys try to speak to
them, spit on them and keep walking.
Overall, Kickoff to Rebuild was an overwhelming success
this year, as it was the 14 years that preceded it. You could say that its on
to the next one; the next year that is. And if the next Superbowl city is near
you, reach out to Rebuilding Together and Choice Hotels for information on
how you could be a part of something special.
Big Pun Resurrection – (Produced by Sean C & LV)
The Hip-Hop nation still misses the late Christopher Rio p/k/a Big Pun. Resurrection is composed of previously released Pun verses that are freshly dipped by a new beat from production duo Sean C & LV . The song hails from a Big Pun tribute mixtape which will feature rarities, classic tracks and new remixes produced by Buckwild, Green Lantern, and others. Mixed by DJ Soul & G-Bo The Pro, the mix will be available online on Valentines Day. One Love, Pun. We miss you!
For a story on Big Puns son, click here!
Baby Pun Celebrates Big Pun’s Passing With New Track
(AllHipHop News) The legacy of rapper Big Pun is being honored today (February 7) as his son releases a tribute record titled Glamour Life 2010. Big Pun died of a massive heart attack on February 7, 2000. He is survived by his wife his ex-wife, Lisa Rios and three children, including his son, rapper Baby Pun. Baby Pun has teamed with rappers Terminology, AC and Realm Reality to release Glamour Life 2010, which is a tribute to his fathers original 1998 track, which featured Terror Squad members Fat Joe, Cuban Link, Triple Seis and Armaggedon. Glamour Life 2010 features a voice intro from Big Pun himself, while Baby Pun raps about his deceased father, delivering a verse that sounds strikingly similar to his dad’s flow. Baby Pun loves his father and wanted to follow his footsteps, Baby Puns mom Lisa Rios said of her son on BigPunForever.com. Its just really crazy seeing Baby Pun because he looks just like his dad. He doesnt try to be his pops, he just naturally is. Big Pun grew up in the South Bronx. He made his debut as a solo rapper in 1993, on The Beatnuts track Off The Books. By 1995, he had linked with Fat Joe and appeared on Joe’s second album, Jealous Ones Envy. Three years later, in 1998, Pun released his classic album Capital Punishment, which contained the classic Hip-Hop single "Still Not A Player." The album was also LP by a solo Latino artist to strike platinum. Big Pun, 28, died just months before his second album, Yeeeah Baby was released. He could not gain control over his weight issues, even after ballooning to over 500 pounds and several attempted interventions from family and friends. Yeeeah Baby hit #3 on Billboards Top 200 upon its release and has since sold over a million copies. In addition to Yeeeah Baby, a posthumous album, Endangered Species and two controversial documentaries, Still Not a Player and Big Pun: The Legacy have been released.On February 14th, DJ Soul will drop a Big Pun tribute mixtape, which will feature rarities, classic tracks and new remixes produced by Buckwild, Green Lantern, Sean C & LV (Grind Music).
Nelly Debuts Customized 2011 Ford Mustang
Hip-Hop star Nelly has joined with DUB Edition magazine and Ford to create his very own limited edition 2011 Ford Mustang GT.
The vehicle was modified to adhere to Nellys personal style. It features a black gloss exterior paint job, 22-24 inch rims, Pirelli tires, and black racing stripes.
Inside, the DUB edition car offers leather trim and a JL Audio system equipped with two 12-inch subwoofers, rear headrests, a message center, integrated blind spot mirrors, and a programmable vehicle key.
The idea came to the St. Louis native last year while visiting the Fords design studio as part of a collaboration for the launch of Funkmaster Flexs Ford Flex. His goal was to create a vehicle that was an amalgamation of muscle car tradition and modern style.
I dont care where you grew up, everyone knows the Mustang, Nelly explained. At some point, youve had a conversation about a Mustang, and it was probably one about you wanting to get behind the wheel of one. Ive always loved the Mustang; the vehicle has power to the point where you cant help but want to hit the pedal. And the newest one? More power, more style.
Nellys Ford Mustang GT has a new 5.0 liter V-8 engine, which gives 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lbs of torque.
The car is scheduled to be displayed prominently on the cover of the rappers next album.
Im itching to get behind the wheel of my Mustang and really take it out on the streets, Nelly said. This vehicle being a part of my album artwork is just a reflection of the direction and feel the album has. To be able to partner with Ford again on another vehicle that is going to change the automotive game is exciting.
At press time, Nellys DUB Edition Mustang GT is scheduled to debut this Spring.
Knockout Nation: Mayweather-Mosley Promise Victory, Johnson Wins, DeMarco-Valero Shootout Tonight, Adamek-Estrada, Tszyu vs. Pryor Fantasy Clash!
Mayweather-Mosley Release First Statements Since Fight Signing
Now that both men have officially signed on for their May 1 superfight, Floyd Mayweather and Shane Mosley have begun the inevitable subtle trash talk against each other.
In the wake of his sensational knockout of Antonio Margarito last January, Mosley had launched a campaign to get Mayweather in the ring, even going as far to call out Floyd face to face in the ring following Mayweathers decision win over Juan Manuel Marquez. Contrary to experts, Mosley thinks hell secure an easy victory since he sees no advantages in this fight for his opponent.
I have always wanted to fight Floyd and now it is finally coming true, Mosley said a prepared statement. I am already in great shape and ready to show everyone on May 1 that I am stronger, faster and better than he is. I will have no problem beating him.”
Mosleys lack of activity as a 38 year old fighter has been noted as a knock against him going into the Mayweather bout. By fight night, hell have been out of the ring for 15 months facing an opponent who relies heavily on movement, especially against larger opponents.
“I’ve been in training camp, sparring, staying in the gym working,” Mosley told the LA Times. “I’m ready. I’ll go back to training, and believe me, people will see the good Sugar Shane. There’s no rust on me. I never stay away from the gym too long. I’m a fighter, I love boxing, its what I do.”
On Mayweathers end, the undefeated multi-division has done a 180 in his assessment of Mosley. Last year, Floyd on ESPN TV and in this very column derided Mosley as a steroid abusing, washed up athlete.
Reluctantly, Mayweather acknowledged Mosleys formidable skills, but maintained hes still a level below him.
“This one is definitely for the fans as I wasn’t going to waste anyone’s time with a meaningless tune-up bout and asked to fight Shane immediately, he explained. I have said ever since I came back to the sport that I only wanted to fight the best. I think Shane is one of the best, but come May 1, he still won’t be great enough to beat me.
At 32 years old, Mayweather faces his own inactivity issues, having fought just one bout since December, 2007.
Look for an official press conference within the week, rumored to take place in New York City. Both men are also said to be in Miami for Super Bowl weekend to beat the promotional drums.
Glen Johnson Scores Impressive KO on ESPN
41 year old Glen Johnson (50-13-2, 34 Kos) proved last night that he still is a force in the light-heavyweight division with a 6th round KO of #7 RING ranked contender Yusef Mack (28-3-2, 17 Kos) on Friday Night Fights.
Johnson pressured Mack all night and forced the younger man to go straight by jabbing his way in and working hooks. Mack would counter sparingly on the inside, and attempt to roll with the hook Johnson rained on him.
Early in round 4, Mack unwisely traded on the inside and got the worst of it, being forced to retreat. Mack rebounded in the second half, scoring well on the inside with hooks on a slower Johnson.
In the 6th Johnson trapped Mack in a corner, and caught him with a hard overhand right counter to score a knockdown.
Johnson was patient, and methodically wore Mack down further with hooks to the body before pinning dropping him again, this time with a left jab-straight right.
Mack hit the canvas shortly thereafter on a short left, prompting the referee stoppage.
The win earns Glen Johnson an IBF title shot against undefeated Tavoris Cloud (20-0, 18 KOs).
Tavoris Cloud is a tough fighter, an all-action guy. The type of guys I like to fight, Johnson said in his post-fight interview. They come in there no-nonsense and go about their business and that works well with me cause I do the same thing. I think thats going to be an explosive fight and a fan-favorite fight. Im looking forward to fighting him.
DeMarco-Valero Go To War Tonight
One man will be left standing and the other viciously KOd when WBC lightweight titlist and knockout specialist Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs) makes his second defense against Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) tonight (February 6) on Showtime.
Because of 2001 motorcycle accident, Valero failed MRI in New York and has struggled to get sanctioned to fight in the US. To date, Texas is the only seat that has cleared him to fight.
Because of this, Valero has built a strong internet following as nearly all of his fights have been confined to Youtube. Of his 26 KOs, 19 have been in the first round.
De Marco is a tall lightweight at 510, and has rose to prominence after a strong 2009 that saw him post 3 stoppages over solid competition in Almazbek Raiymkulov, Anges Adjaho, and Jose Alfaro.
This is a crossroads fight and huge test for each fighter. Both are the best pugilists of each others resume. DeMarco has never seen power like Valeros but hes also been tested and excelled in several firefights. Valero has steamrolled most of his competition easily and itll be interesting to see how he handles DeMarcos height.
As far as Im concerned this fight is 50-50, and itll be surprising to see this go more than 6 rounds. Because of DeMarcos has had better tests in his career, Ill go out on a limb and say he pulls off the upset.
Adamek Continues Heavyweight Experiment
Cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek (39-1, 27 KOs) also fights tonight in Newark, New Jerseys Prudential Center against Jason Estrada (15-2, 3 KOs).
This will be Adameks second fight in heavyweight, following his easy 5th round KO of faded Andrew Golota last October.
The Polish champ has upped his weight to a ripped 220 pounds. But it remains to be seen if his frame can support the weight without sacrificing speed and stamina.
“Cruiserweight was more difficult for me. I always had a problem getting to the weight, Adamek told ESPN. I feel very good at this weight. I feel faster. The difference in training is the sparring partners are heavier, 240, 250 pounds, but I feel stronger because my weight is natural.”
If he wins, HBO has confirmed they are looking to have Adamek face Chris Arreola on April 24.
“Estrada is a good boxer, but I am serious about this fight. I need to win. It is very important in order to move up for a heavyweight title, Adamek explained. We have this fight. Right now I concentrate on that. Maybe in April, Arreola. We’ll see. Maybe one more fight after that and then I will be ready for a championship fight. Right now I must win against Estrada.”
As you can tell from Estradas KO record, Adameks promoter Main Events selected an opponent with a low likelihood of testing their fighters ability to take a heavyweight punch. This fight will serve as a tune-up for an Arreola fight, and a gauge of how well Adamek carries the extra weight. If he looks bad, there will be an evaluation of whether hes better suited for cruiserweight.
The fight can be seen online for $9.99 at gofightlive.com. The expected live turnout is 10,000.
News and Notes
– Rafael Marquez has promised the mother of all wars in his fourth bout with Israel Vazquez on May 22. If he wins, he wants Juan Manuel Lopez next. My punch is much more powerful. If I beat Irsael, Im going to look for a fight with Juan Manuel Lopez. I can beat him. I am looking to get the big fights in the 2 or 3 years I have left in the game.
– The management of junior middleweight contender James Kirkland is hopeful that he can be back in the ring by August. Last year, Kirkland received a 24 month jail sentence for illegally purchasing a firearm as a convicted felon. Hes had six months shaved off for time served, and is looking to get another 100 days off due to good behavior. His last bout was a 6th round TKO of Joel Julio in March 2009.
– The German press are buzzing that WBC champ Vitali Klitschko may face former WBA champ Nicolai Valuev on May 29. Since WBA champ David Haye is tied up with a mandatory defense against John Ruiz in April, Vitali may be trying to post a better win over a common opponent to build to a showdown later this year.
Mythical Matchup of the Week: Aaron Pryor vs. Kostya Tszyu
The junior welterweight division may not have the glamour or history as the weight classes its sandwiched between (lightweight and welterweight), but the 140 pound class has produced some legendary fighters since its modern creation in 1959.
Two of those elite fighters are Aaron Pryor (39-1, 35 KOs), who ruled the division in the early 80s, and Kostya Tszyu (31-2, 25 KOs), who cleaned out his weight class in the late 90s and early 2000s.
Pryor was a whirlwind of a fighter, throwing dozens of punches at a time and drowning opposition in never-ending pressure.
Unlike many fighters of that mold, Pryor had power and secured many early and mid round KOs
He first hit the national scene with a dominant destruction of legendary champ Antonio Cervantes to win the WBA title. The aged Cervantes was wily enough to get a flash knockdown in the 1st, but got an unmerciful pounding in the subsequent 3 rounds before a needed ref stoppage.
Pryor was an active champ making 10 defenses (8 by knockout) from 1980-1985. Two of those defenses were epic battles with fellow Hall of Famer Alexis Arguello, who was attempting to be the first man to win titles in 4 different weight classes.
Pryors downfall was not an opponent, but drug abuse. When he tried a comeback in 1987 after 2 years out, he suffered an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Bobby Joe Young, and only fought 3 insignificant bouts over the next 3 years before retiring due to eye problems.
Kostya Tszyu was started quickly in the early 90s due to his amateur background (which includes a win over the late Vernon Forrest), facing former world champion Juan La Porte in just his 4th bout. By his 14th, Tszyu had won the IBF title by knocking Jake Rodriguez in 6 rounds.
A stalking, extremely heavy-handed puncher, Tszyu seemed primed for a long reign beating vets like Roger Mayweather before being upset by Vince Phillips in 1997, losing an exciting 10th round TKO to Vince Phillips.
Tszyu credited the fight as a learning experience in pacing and won the WBC title the in 1999 by KOing slick boxer Miguel Angel Gonzalez.
He strung off eight defenses with several notable KO victims in Julio Cesar Chavez, Shamba Mitchell (2X), Jesse James Leija, and Zab Judah.
Like Pryor, inactivity hurt Tszyu in the end. Plagued by injuries, he only fought 2 bouts over 2 years (2003, 2004) before being faced with a hungry Ricky Hatton in 2005.
In his UK backyard, Hatton grinded down the normally durable Tszyu over 11 hard rounds with mauling and low blows. Making no excuses, Tszyu never fought again.
As seen above, both men have unquestionable credentials, facing the best top opposition throughout their careers.
Pitted against each other, Pryor and Tszyu offer contrasting skill sets that will force adjustments and memorable exchanges.
Pryors punch activity and intelligent pressure will pose huge problems for Tszyu, who would be forced into fighting backwards and defensively for much of the fight. The issue is not the pressure alone, but the fact that Pryor uses many angles to turn opponents, and when focused was great at slipping punches and countering on the inside.
Tszyus possessed great accuracy, and his challenge would be creating the space to drive him his outstanding right hand which would do damage. Pryor had a great chin, but he could be stunned and dropped early (Cervantes, Arguello) when he got too wild with his pressure attacks. Case in point, see the shot below that dropped Pryor against Akio Kameda in the first round.
Tszyu and Pryor are both good hookers, but Tszyu usually throws much straighter punches. More often than not, Tszyus punches would land first if given the space. Its unclear if Kostya is strong enough to push Pryor off like he did Sharmba Mitchell in their first bout, but hell want to do whatever possible to get Pryor to mid and outside range. There, Tszyu can seek to put him on the end of his best punch, like he did to Zab Judah in his most famous KO.
Itll be a taxing battle for both men, but I feel Aaron Pryor has a style thats been proven a nightmare to Tszyu with lesser skilled opponents. Even in his prime, Tszyu struggled and was KOd when Vince Phillips crowded him and made him fight going backwards. Hatton added more fouls, but did the same thing years later. Tszyu was still able to land bombs on Ricky, but in most instances he was leaning backward and not getting full extension and power.
With Pryor, Tszyu wont get the punching space he needs to be most effective. In addition, Pryor would maintain angles and keep turning Tszyu to prevent the powerful Russian from getting set. However, Tszyus too good to get completely shut out, and Im certain Pryor would get dropped at some point by Tszyus right, which was many times set up beautifully by Kostyas hooking jab.
My prediction is Aaron Pryor by TKO10 in a war that sees him dropped early.
Your thoughts?
Aaron Pryor Highlights
Kostya Tszyu Highlights
Pryor’s Opinion of Tszyu
Hip-Hop Rumors: Diddy’s Baby Moms Spar? Foxy Leaker Revealed? Buck Upsets Fan
DISCLAIMER:
All content within this section is pure rumor and generally have no factual info outside of what the streets have whispered in our ear. Read on.
BABY HURTING OVER WAYNE GOING TO JAIL
I remember Baby did an interview with AHH Radio and he talked about how uncomfortable he was with Lil Wayne going to jail. Even though I heard that certain people are going to make sure nothing happens to Wayne in jail, Baby is having a hard time with this reality, rumor says.
Im not sure where this quote came from but its floating on the internet.
“I’ve been with him forever. It will be the first time in my life I’ll not be reachable to him. We work together, we’re on the road together. We’re always together. I try not to even think about it… I’m losing something in my soul.”
Baby is going to move Cash Money to NYC until Wayne is out.
YOUNG BUCK DISSING G-UNIT
I can’t lie. I didn’t read all this, but it deals with Young Buck dissing G-Unit and some some other stuff.
What’s up Illseed? I just wanted to let you know about the Young Buck show last night, Thursday February 4th in Downers Grove, IL. Now I am a diehard Buck fan but left the venue extremely disappointed. I had a feeling something funny would happen cuz 1) why was he performing in a upper class suburb of Illinois and not the city of Chicago itself? and 2) the tickets were only $15 lol. I give Buck credit, he can def carry himself well live on stage w/ minimal help (dj did some ad libs). But here’s why I was p#####. About 20 minutes into the show the power at the venue “went out” for about 2 minutes. Then the lights came back on but Young Buck had already gone back stage and never reappeared. There was no announcement by the venue saying what was going on or letting us know if he was gonna finish his set or what, they just acted like it never happened lol. So in the 20 minutes he did perform, all i got 2 hear was his 1st verse from “I’m Back” his 1st verse from “Stomp” (“my click of gorillas aint got their g-units on”) lol, “Shorty WAnna Ride” and “Get Buck”. That’s it. I was hoping for better song selection, especially after him opening w/ some mixtape s### like “I’m back” but then he went into all his singles etc. In addition to that he spent 5 of that 20 minutes asking the crowd if we like to get high and how drunk we were etc and playing snippets of “I got 5 on it” and “Mary Jane” while just talking over the beat, WTF?!. As an avid listener of his and someone who rearranged his work schedule and took an additional 45 minute commute from downtown to catch this show, I’ll tell you it was extremely frustrating to have it turn out this way. Buck even said “without you guys there’d be no Young Buck”. Too bad that didn’t factor into the way the show went down.
THE LEAKER IS….
So, everybody has been pointing the finger at EZ Moe Bee, the producer of that Foxy Brown record, but I’m getting that it’s another person. There is a rapper named BAM on the song and I am getting that he leaked the record, not Moe Bee. It’s been on his MySpace page for a while…
DIDDYS BABY MOMS GO AT IT
Kim Porter says Shes not on my level.
ILLSEED’S QUICKIES
Drug dealers still put money to back rappers? I’m hearing some interesting stuff no fit to print.
Rihanna gets about 100k for an appearances. At least thats what shes being getting at these fashion shows.
Ex-Dallas Cowboy Michael Irvin has been accused of RAPE. The chick says it happened in Las Vegas about three years ago. She’s out for the paper, but nothing criminal is on deck.
Apparently, Chopper City from Da Band was drunk on the internet and he said that he smashed Lil Waynes baby mom and punked Slim Thug in Houston. Drunk people whew!
Most people dont think Wayne fell off by the way he just needs to leave rock alone.
Nas any Mary J. B. had a thing back in the day? I never heard that one until today.
I got this from Moveon.org: AIGthe bailed-out insurance giantwill give out another $100 million in bonuses. Seriously?
Lady Gaga is doing her own charity for Haiti. But shes not doing it with anybody like Quincy Jones.
Ewwwwwww! There is a John Edwards sex tape. The tape is in the hand of a judge now.
Howard Stern may be the next Simon as American Idol fishes for a suitable replacement.
In case you didnt know Tila Tequila came back to twitter after three days.
EPIC WIN OF THE DAY
This has nothing to do with Hip-Hop. It’s just some women contorting their body’s crazy!
EPIC FAIL OF THE DAY
This crazy Irish rapper-slash-fools named Jedward went and remade Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby.”
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JAIL, WE LOVE YOU!!!
They keep us talking, but if we stop talking about them then they should worry!
-illseed
WHO: illseed.com
WHAT: Rumors
WHERE: AllHipHop.com, MySpace.com/TheIllseed
HOW: Send your rumors and ill pics to illseed at [email protected].
Shyne Turned Away By UK Immigration Officials
(AllHipHop News) Recently freed rapper Shyne was denied entry into the United Kingdom early yesterday morning (February 4).
The rapper attempted to enter London via Cancun, Mexico, because he cannot enter the United States.
He was deported from the United States and sent to Belize upon his release from prison, after serving eight years in prison for a high profile shooting involving Sean Diddy Combs and then girlfriend Jennifer Lopez.
According to reports, Shyne was turned away when he arrived at the airport in the United Kingdom because of problems with his travel documents.
He was heading to the UK to record songs for his upcoming album, the majority of which is reportedly being recorded in Belize.
A number of artists have already been to the island nation to record with Shyne, who was released from the Woodbourne Correctional Facility in October of 2009.
Shyne is featured on the new single All My Life, which features Mavado and Akon and is taken from DJ Khaleds upcoming album Victory.
Ludacris Ft. Nicki Minaj
“My Chick Is Bad”
Fat Joe Ft. Young Jeezy P###. by Scoop Deville
“Ha Ha (Slow Down)”
Webbz Ft. Rick Ross P###. by Just Blaze [Heater Of The Day]
“Presidential”
Tila Tequila Launches Label; Signs Raz B.
(AllHipHop News) Just days after deleting her Twitter account, Internet celebrity Tila Tequila revealed she is launching a record label and management company.
According to Tequila, she recently launched Little Miss Trendsetter Management LLC in addition to launching Tila Tequila Records.
The first artist on the record label is former B2K member Raz B.
The reason why I am doing all this is to prepare for when my baby comes I did this ALL FOR MY CHILDREN AND NOT FOR MYSELF, Tequila wrote on her GlobalGrind blog. I wanted to make SURE, that when I have a baby, that It would be a time where I wouldn’t have to work so much or worry about income and raise my children. yes it will be hard to be a single mother raising all of these kids by myself, but it’s so worth it.
Last weekend, Tila Tequilas name was splashed all over the headlines, after she implied that gangster rapper The Game could be the father of her unborn child.
The Game appeared on TMZ and denied the reports.
I was actually in the studio thinking about the song Tupac made about his unborn child. My sons mother is pregnant, so Im in that lane, Game explained to TMZ. I guess she took it and ran with it Recently she was in the studio to mess with my boy Avante Rose. I didnt see her, I was there with Dre. I wouldnt use 50s stick [to sleep with her] I never seen her. But you know [the wrestler] Hunter Hearst Helmsley also goes by the Game, maybe shes talking about him
Before deleting her Twitter account, Tila Tequila vowed to prove that The Game was indeed the father of her child.
Just wait. 9 months from now I’m gonna take the paternity test to PROVE IT! Tila Tequila Tweeted. Game just f*cked himself. SMH… Yea im upset that he didn’t tell me about the other baby he had on the way, thats why he asked me to go 2 studio 2 tell me about it!!! So once I found out I was f*cking p#####!
No release date was available for Raz B.s debut on Tila Tequilas record label.
Nefew
“Because I Can”