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Knockout Nation: Ward Upsets Kessler! Mayweather-Pacquiao-Mosley, Duran vs. Mosley, Who Wins?

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Lifestyle
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Ward Takes WBA Title in Dominant Win Over Kessler

2004 Olympic medalist Andre Ward (21-0, 13 KOs) got the U.S. on board on Saturday (November 21) with a near shutout performance over Super Six tournament favorite Mikkel Kessler (42-2, 32 KOs).

 

Ward took control from round one, peppering Kessler with hard, long jabs and hooks from both orthodox and southpaw stances. The switch hitting kept Kessler confused, and whenever they exchanged it was Ward landing first with cleaner, harder punches due to his superior handspeed.

 

As the rounds mounted, Ward continued to outclass Kessler with sharp counter hooks, and also outgunned the Danish champion on the inside with roughhouse mauling. In round 3, Ward knocked Kessler back with several counter hooks off the champion’s slow, leaning jab.

 

 

By the 5th, Andre Ward had knockout on the brain and became more brazen with his attacks. The young Oakland native rushed forward with leaping hooks and left his chin periously high to get clipped by the powerful Kessler. However, Mikkel had been shellshocked from the previous rounds of stinging counters, and most times failed to time Ward with his vaunted right hand. Still, the skilled champion was able to briefly stop Ward’s attacks with 2 hard straight rights to the body.

 

 

Kessler built some brief momentum in the 6th, when he caught Ward rushing in with a thudding left hook. The challenger simply adjusted, and took the fight inside where the normally slick boxer Ward again roughed up Kessler with uppercuts in the clinches. By the 7th, Ward had completely regained control and was hitting Kessler at will with triple jabs, straight rights/lefts, and uppercuts from both orthodox and southpaw stances.

 

The situation became dire for Kessler following the 8th, when Ward’s aggressiveness caused a damaging headbutt that opened a jagged, gushing cut above the WBA champion’s left eye. Kessler said point blank in the corner he couldn’t see, but refused to give up as some members of his corner suggested.

 

For the remainder of the fight, Kessler was comprehensively outclassed and failed to build any significant offense: partly from Ward’s speed and physicality, and also from the fact he could no longer see the punches due to the cuts. Another accidental clash of heads in the 10th ripped open Kessler’s face, causing the disheartened Dane to focus on the ref for help.

 

Into the 11th, a hard Ward right hand prompted the referee to have the ringside physician view Kessler’s cuts, which resulted in a stoppage for the cut caused on the accidental headbutt.

 

 

The rules dictate if an accidental headbutt stops a fight after four completed rounds, the bout is decided on the scorecards, where Andre Ward took a unanimous decision by the tallies of 98-92 (twice), and 97-93.

 

The impressive win was the first for an American in the Super Six super-middleweight tournament, and gave Ward his first major title since turning pro 5 years ago.

 

“I felt like it was my time. I wasn’t intimidated by Kessler’s record,” Ward explained in the post-fight interview. “If God is with you, who can be against you? I was surprised he didn’t make [any] adjustments. He kept doing the same thing over and over. But he’s a super champion and I know why he’s been champion for so long.”

 

Kessler, his face cut to pieces from punches and butts, was still in shock after the loss and was reticent in giving praise to Ward.

 

“I’m not used to the referee not stopping the fight when there’s holding. Every time he got in he headbutted me,” Kessler stated. “He hit me some times because it got me out of rhythm. It was unfair with the headbutts, the holding, and the hometown referee. He was coming in with his head all the time. I could not see in my eyes.”

 

This bout completes the first round of the tournament. Next, Andre Ward will defend his newly won title against Jermain Taylor, who is seeking to get back to winning after back to back 12th round knockout losses. Mikkel Kessler faces Carl Froch, and Andre Dirrell takes on Arthur Abraham.

 

Andre Ward looked great last night and basically beat Kessler in every possible facet: outside, inside, workrate, power, aggression, and yes even the occasional dirty tactics (Ward’s 8th round charging headbutt was brutal). But considering the treatment Andre Dirrell received in Nottingham against Carl Froch, fighters must expect things like this when they fight in another’s hometown. And in the case of Ward-Kessler, the fight was not close whatsoever. Kessler would have lost regardless, the headbutts just added insult to injury.

 

It’ll be interesting to see how Kessler rebounds against Carl Froch early next year. Previously, I felt he would KO Froch but after seeing how uncomfortable he was in being manhandled by Ward, my confidence has fallen in that prediction.

 

In the meantime, Andre Ward’s chances to win this tournament will remain high if he can keep his form from Saturday night. Jermain Taylor has a difficult task in front of him.

 

 

 

Mayweather Keeping Mosley as Backup in Pacquiao Talks

For months, Floyd Mayweather has remained dismissive whenever asked of a possible showdown with Shane Mosley, despite the two alternating between calling each other out for the last 5 years.

 

Now that preliminary talks between the camps of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao have begun, Floyd’s side has been more vocal with their intentions if the negotiations stall or completely fall through.

 

“If the fight can’t be made, we’ll fight Shane Mosley if he can get past Berto,” said Mayweather adviser Leonard Ellerbe to the Los Angeles Times.

 

The main sticking point will be the purse split and which fighter is the “bigger draw” who deserves the lion’s share. After much posturing early on, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum and Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach have conceded to 50-50, while Mayweather’s camp is insisting their man is entitled to a bigger slice of the pie.

 

“Floyd is clearly the biggest star in boxing, based on the numbers against the same three common opponents. And all six of those fights were in a three year span,” Ellerbe told the Grand Rapids Press. “It wasn’t any long period of time. This isn’t difficult to figure out at all. Pacquiao’s side has a distorted perception of facts. But numbers don’t lie. People do. Pacquiao had good numbers, God bless him, but he had a dance partner [Cotto] this time.”

 

The numbers Ellerbe alludes to are Mayweather’s PPV figures against Oscar De La Hoya (2.4 million), Ricky Hatton (940,000), and his most recent comeback bout against Juan Manual Marquez (1 million). In comparison, Manny Pacquiao did respective PPV figures of 1.25 million, 825,000, and 400,000.

 

Pacquiao’s side can point out that the Filipino’s bout with Miguel Cotto beat Mayweather’s last fight by grossing 1.25 million. However Floyd’s explaination is that Pacquiao only did marginally higher despite Cotto’s fanbase, and that he would have easily done more if he was the one that fought the Puerto Rican star.

 

The fight will happen, no matter what is said. HBO won’t accept any other opponent, despite Mayweather throwing Mosley’s name out there, and Pacquiao’s team mentioning a third Marquez fight.

 

Bob Arum himself said it best earlier this week.

 

“It’s not so much that I give a damn whether this fight happens, I don’t, and for me it’s not the greatest experience doing a promotion with Floyd Mayweather,” Arum told the Associated Press. “But not doing this fight would slow down the momentum of boxing.”

 

 

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Mythical Matchup of the Week: “Sugar” Shane Mosley vs. “Hands of Stone” Roberto Duran

Before they leapt to welterweight to secure the signature wins of their careers, Roberto Duran and Shane Mosley made their names among hardcore fight fans by terrorizing the lightweight division.

 

Duran was a nightmare opponent no matter your style. Boxers were systemically broken down with unrelenting, educated pressure. And sluggers were routinely outclassed on the inside courtesy of Roberto’s innate countering ability, rough fouls, and his skills in slipping/blocking punches.

 

 

 

On the other hand, Shane Mosley had simply too much speed and power for his opponents. After taking the IBF title via unanimous decision from Phillip Holiday in 1997, Mosley would make 8 defenses, all by knockout.

 

A big fan of Duran, Mosley spoke exclusively with Knockout Nation regarding how he’d handle Duran’s legendary inside fighting and dogfight mentality.

 

“I think that I’d fight exactly how Sugar Ray Leonard did. I’d be on my toes and use my boxing skills. I know he’d come right at me. What would offset Roberto Duran would be my strength and my power,” Shane Mosley explained in his Knockout Nation interview. “He wouldn’t be able to wrestle me because I’m pretty good on the inside. It’s funny you say him because I study his clips and we’re alike in a lot of ways. He can box as well as fight. The other day I watched his fight with Edwin Viruet. I picked up some different things in that fight. But the best fight probably wouldn’t have been at welterweight. The best fight would’ve been at lightweight because we would’ve really rumbled [laughs].”

 

You can see in the above quote Mosley’s demeanor; even when he knows it’s more beneficial to box a particular opponent, the fighter in him can’t pass up a brawl, hence his admission that he and Duran would have “rumbled” at lightweight. As soon as Duran caught him with a good counter, Mosley would be drawn into a hellacious battle on the inside much like his predecessor Sugar Ray Leonard was in 1980.

 

(Sound removed)

 

 

 

Sugar is correct, his physical strength will prevent him from being bullied and overwhelmed like some Duran opponents. However, Hands of Stone holds the skill advantage in the trenches, and will repeatedly catch Mosley from different angles with counter hooks. Mosley would flurry hard, blazing shots in retaliation, but more often than not Duran would be the one slipping those punches and landing the cleaner work inside.

 

Mosley would be in the fight the full 15 because of his toughness and iron chin, and would undoubtedly be Duran’s toughest test at lightweight, even more so than his classic trilogy with Esteban DeJesus.

 

My prediction is Roberto Duran wins a close decision in a classic war with scorecards in the 144-141 range over 15 rounds, and both men getting stunned/hurt several times.

 

What’s your prediction?

 

QuestionsView Results

 

 

 

REVIEW: Rakim – The Seventh Seal

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Reviews / Music
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“Rappers cross-over. They dead.” Rakim returns to testify that he is a man alive with work to do on The Seventh Seal, his new album released on his own Ra Records label. Always a man of uncompromising vision, non-believers are presented with Ra’s modern Hip-Hop gospel soaked in Godspeak. Sometimes obscure but never unobtainable, this new disc was easy to find at the Church of Best Buy for a ten dollar tithe.

Forty seconds into the first track “How to Emcee” Rakim’s delivery and presence emerge as that of brand new emcee freshly delighted with word play and tightly crafted rhyme schemes. What should be surprising coming from a pioneer decades deep in this music is no surprise from Rakim, who is undoubtedly among the finest emcees ever to grace the booth and a master of original re-invention. He is hella people’s favorite for a reason.

Production is provided by a current cast including Needlz, Jake One, and Nick Wiz. It is well known that Rakim is selective when it comes to records, a pivotal point that scuttled an Aftermath project with Dr. Dre. Perhaps lesser known is Rakim’s fearlessness on the boards, having programed drums and even done scratching on some of his earliest classics. His taste and savvy are apparent here, as the beats are all bangers any emcee would give his left t#### to rhyme on.

Rakim attacks each track with a variety of lyrical approaches which build upon his time tested methods, yet continue to be forward thinking. Flashback: Some of Rakim’s seminal recordings were done in a studio where MC Shan of the legendary Juice Crew has said he was present and actually clowning on the young upstart’s unheard of delivery. As a teenager, Rakim saw the path of the music clearly and brought Hip-Hop into a new future made in his own image. This new album will be debated and much of it is probably impenetrable to many music critics who will encounter it. The legacy remains intact.

The overall effect of this varied effort delivers a mixed result. “Man Above” could sit comfortably within a contemporary Christian Gospel play list. Here it contrasts against a heaping helping of hustle rap, juxtaposed on the record with “Documentary of a Gangsta” where Rakim flexes secular street rap skills with a sinister tone.

For an album with no curse words, it is perhaps blasphemous to shout out loud that the seventh track is effing incredible. Good Lord, it is that. When “Holy are You” first makes the speakers sparkle, Rakim’s decade of near silence melts away completely as he shines his brightest. This song smokes anything else out so far this year, it is classic Ra not afraid to step in the booth, be the best ever, and speak to forever for four minutes. That it seems over too soon simply underscores the strong replay value of much of Rakim’s formidable catalog. Rewind and repeat as necessary, until your mind is blown. Sequencing this song as track seven is an elegant touch of class from this visionary pioneer who manifests greatness. He knows exactly what he is doing with this record.

Vocally, Rakim stands on his own for the majority of the album. Of the few features the most magic is found on “Message in the Song” where his daughter Destiny Griffin sings while Rakim weaves words over a beat that oozes NYC ambiance. “Y’all know what my purpose is. I spit verses to lift curses off my dead president worshipers. Back where the surface is, gangsters and murderers. Making money made us merciless.”

Hooks have never been a crucial part of the God Emcee’s formula which continues to rely on intricate layers of meaning stretched artfully across bars upon bars of masterful wordplay. Golden Age purists looking for Rakim rhyming over straight knocking beats with scratching on the hooks will find little of that here. However, when it does happen on this album it is fantastic. Nestled toward the album’s close is the magnificent “Still in Love” which belongs among Rakim’s finest love letters to Hip-Hop, the microphone is clearly still calling its favorite fiend.

There are few American artists who defy definition as Rakim does. He is a man of many mysteries, like, “Who is God?” or “How does Gwen Stephani keep showing up on Hip-Hop records?”

The Seventh Seal moves above and beyond where Rakim’s last album The Master left off. Though at times it falls short of the high bar set by Paid in Full, its got some scorchers which will be Hip-Hop high points for 2009 and suggests that next year’s album, already in the works, will be promising. The God Emcee Rakim Allah remains in fine form with soul food for thought as Earth takes its next trip around the Sun.

“I see though the eyes of the prophets, King Tutankhamens, and Martins and Malcolms, Elijah Muhammads, wise and with knowledge. Paid in Full ain’t just the size of the pockets, this rise to the top is Ra’s economics. I show you that time is more valuable then them diamonds in your watches. You grind for the block, you die for them dollars. What’s worth more to you, your life or your gwop is?”

Beanie Drops New Diss ‘How I Could Kill Jigga Man’

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Philadelphia DJ Cosmic Kev debuted two brand new tracks by rapper Beanie Sigel tonight (November 21st) during his radio show on Power 99 FM.

 

“Back down Jigga/put my nuts on that n**as neck,” Sigel raps on the first, unnamed track.

 

While the first rap only contains one line about Jay-Z, the second track is sure to raise eye brows.

 

On the second track, Sigel issued another harsh freestyle aimed at Jay-Z, this time dropping a verse over Cypress Hill’s#### “How I Could Just Kill a Man” renaming the song “How I Could Kill Jigga Man.”

 

Sigel’s opening lines make use of Jay-Z’s signature battle song “Takeover,” which was originally a diss record to Jay-Z’s old nemesis, Nas and Mobb Deep.

 

“Take over/n#### the breaks over/fraud emcee/he Jay Hova/,” Sigel starts his verse. “Hey little soldier you aint ready for the rude boy/quick to pull the tool boy.”

 

“You aint gonna say nothing boy?” Sigel says at the end of the song taunting Jay-Z. “Damn, I thought you was the boy, boy. You aint nothing but a boy, boy boy. I aint gonna stop boy.”

 

The debut of the freestyle marks the end of a busy week for Sigel, who has been dissing his former ally, Jay Z, in various internet clips and interviews.

 

Next week Sigel will grace the cover of Hip-Hop Weekly. In the interview Sigel continues to air out Jay-Z, as well as his former business dealings with the former Roc-A-Fella CEO.

 

In the Hip-Hop Weekly interview Sigel continues to hurl insults at Jay-Z, stating that the rapper is not “a camel but he is a snake.”

 

Sigel also claims in the interview that Jay-Z blocked collaborations with other superstar rappers, further hindering his career.

 

“When I listened to Blueprint 3 it really hurt me to hear the subliminal shot on the album that Jay was taking at me, Peedi, and everyone at State Property,” Sigel said in the interview with Hip-Hop Weekly.

 

Beanie Sigel is currently working on an untitled album, which he says will delve into his issues with Jay Z.

 

Sigel is currently in negotiations to sign a deal with Jay-Z’s rival 50 Cent, who appeared on Sigel’s last single “I Go Off.”

 

At present time it is still unclear if Sigel’s album will be released on 50 Cent G-Unit imprint.

 

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Cash Money CEO’s To School Pace U Students

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Cash Money Records’ CEO Ronald “Slim” Williams and Bryan “Birdman” Williams will make a high profile appearance at Pace University with their new hit artist Jay Sean on Monday (November 23).

 

The brothers will take part in Pace University School of Law professor Vernon J. Brown’s entertainment law class on November 23rd.

 

Professor Vernon Brown’s class will spotlight the relationship between entertainment lawyers and their clients.

 

The Williams brothers, who recently marked their 10th Anniversary of a historic deal between their record label Cash Money Records and Universal, will discuss how legal issues have impacted their careers, in addition to taking part in a Q and A session.

 

“The goal is to give my entertainment law students practical knowledge in working with their clients and interacting with label executives,” Brown explained. “What artists expect from their attorneys and what they should expect from their clients. The class is like Inside the Actor’s Studio for lawyers, offering practical advice for the way things actually work in the real world.”

 

Professor Brown has been Cash Money’s business manager and attorney for 14 years and is one of the industry’s leading business managers.

 

Brown also serves as the CEO of the V. Brown & Company, which represents a variety of entertainment clients, including Hype William, the Notorious B.I.G., Erykah Badu, Ne-Yo and others.

 

“My long-range goal is to give a similar class to junior high school and high school students, to make them aware of other careers that exist in the entertainment world other than as performers,” Brown added.

 

Jay Sean is Cash Money’s latest hit artist.

 

His debut album in the United States, All Or Nothing, is due in stores on Monday (November 23) and contains the #1 single “Down.”

DMX Sued For $1 Mil For Backing Out Of Fight

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Rapper DMX is the subject of a new $1 million dollar lawsuit for backing out of a celebrity boxing match scheduled to take place in December in Birmingham, Alabama.

 

DMX was originally scheduled to fight boxer/actor Eric Martinez during an event titled “Alabama Pride,” promoted by Thunder Promotions.

 

The rapper was scheduled to box Martinez for three rounds but backed out of the fight when Thunder Promotions allegedly refused to fix the fight or guarantee DMX’s safety.

 

DMX’s abrupt cancellation left promoters scurrying to find a replacement.

 

Shortly after it was announced that DMX would be pulling out of the fight, Thunder Promotions signed up rapper Coolio to face off against Martinez in the ring on December 12th.

 

According to Coolio, he has no plans to fix the fight or to even lose the contest.

 

“I’ve been doing martial arts for 18 years…somebody [is] gonna get knocked the f**k out,” Coolio exclaimed to radio host Angela Yee during an interview last week. “Coolio don’t take a** whoopin’s well. I’ll tell you what, if I get into trouble, you gonna know because it’s gonna go from boxing to f**king wrestling and choking because I hate to lose.”

 

Thunder Promotions filed the $1 million dollar lawsuit against DMX in Birmingham County Court on Friday (November 20th).

 

Thunder Promotions claims DMX’s cancellation has caused them hundreds and thousands of dollars and damages.

 

The lawsuit is the latest financial set back for DMX, who also owes $1.5 million in back taxes to the IRS.

50 Cent On Rick Ross’ Family: ‘Nothing Is Off Limits”

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Rapper 50 Cent has commented on the latest chapter of his feud with Rick Ross.

 

Pictures of 50 Cent, Floyd Mayweather and Rick Ross’ ex girlfriend Tia Kemp hit the internet last week, featuring 50, Tia and her two children at Mayweather’s mansion in Las Vegas.

 

The photos featured 50 Cent and Floyd holding and posing with Rick Ross’ son, as well Tia’s older son DeAndre from a previous relationship.

 

Originally both men left family members out of their long standing feud, after 50 Cent removed a video of G-Unit members filming DJ Khaled’s mother as she dozed off at work in a Florida retail store.

 

In response, Rick Ross posted images of 50 Cent’s son Marquis with a monkey head on the Internet.

 

According to 50, this is where the battle crossed the line and justified the video featuring 50 and Mayweather with Rick Ross’ children.

 

“When you’re competing as an artist, there’s boundaries that I wouldn’t cross myself personally, until the other artist crosses those boundaries,” 50 Cent told Vibe. “It was a point where Rick had took my sons picture, he cut a picture of my son out and put him on top of a monkey. At that point, the parameters changed. Nothings off limits at the point.”

 

50 Cent, Floyd Mayweather and Rick Ross has been feuding ever since Ross name checked both man on his single “Mafia Music,” taken from his #1 album Deeper Than Rap.

 

According to 50 Cent, he was simply trying to show Rick Ross’ children a good time in Las Vegas and blamed the rapper for not having better communication with Tia and his family.

 

“That wasn’t mean to be a vicious event,” 50 Cent explained. “It was more like me wanting to actually get a chance to meet the kid. Tia told me she wanted to bring the boys out so we could actually talk in Florida. I was in Miami. Because my touring tour was so hectic, I wasn’t able to meet the baby at that point, so I had them bring him out to Las Vegas, [because] I felt like they would enjoy themselves and they did enjoy themselves. If Rick had more communications with his son’s mom and he helped out a little more, than he would be aware of those situations prior to them actually happening.”

 

At press time Rick Ross has yet to respond to the pictures and videos of 50 Cent holding his child at Floyd Mayweather’s mansion in Las Vegas.

 

50 Cent’s latest album Before I Self Destruct is in stores now.

 

Maino To Debut New Video On Cinemax

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Brooklyn rapper Maino will debut the video for his latest single “Let’s Make a Movie” this weekend on Cinemax.

 

“Let’s Make A Movie” will premiere prior to the debut of the Notorious B.I.G. bio pic Notorious, which is slated to air at 10:00pm EST, on Saturday November 1st.

 

The video was directed by Adam Donald and Shamikah Martinez and will also be featured on the release of Maino’s DVD, If Tomorrow Comes, which is later to be released in early 2010.

 

Maino’s album If Tomorrow Comes was released in June of 2008 and features a number of singles, including ‘Hi Hater,” “Million Bucks” featuring Swizz Beatz and the certified platinum single “All the Above,” featuring T-Pain.

AHH Stray News: TI Bomb Threat, Black Sheep, 50 Cent

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Grand Hustle CEO Jason Geter addressed an incident yesterday (November 19) at the label’s offices, where two Molotov cocktails were found. Geter told MTV News that someone had town a 40-ounce bottle at the office, causing an alarm to go off around 2:30-3:00 am yesterday morning. According to Geter, they believe an aspiring artist was responsible for tossing the firebombs at the building. “A kid came over there a couple of days ago that acted kind of crazy,” Geter told MTV News. “I wasn’t there, but some kid that was a little off was pretty much asking for somebody to come to his party. He got a little irate when he was in the office. We’re kind of assuming it was him. He made a couple of threats when he was in the office. Two days later, this happens. You can’t help but say, ‘It must have been this idiot.’ ” Grand Hustle is preparing to release Young Dro’s new album P.O.L.O. (Players Only Live Once).

 

Black Sheep member Dres has announced two brand new projects that will be released over the next several months. Group member Dres is preparing to release the album From the Black Pool of Genius, his first whole length since 2006. Before the album hits stores, the rapper will release From the Black Pool of Genius: The Prelude, which is a five-song EP that will be released on December 1st. “I once heard a poet say that ‘hip hop backward is ‘pih poh (people)’- the way I see it, many artists are a lot more Hip-Hop than they ever realized. I would dare to say that any artist over time, regardless of genre, that makes music for the ‘pih poh’… is Hip-Hop.” The full length album From the Black Pool of Genius is due in stores in the spring of 2010.

 

Rapper 50 Cent will make an appearance at two Best Buy locations today (November 20), were lucky fans will be able to snap a photo with the superstar rapper. 50 Cent is making the appearance to promote his new album Before I Self Destruct, which was released digitally on November 9th and in physical stores November 16th. 50 will appear at the Best Buy in Jersey City (6:00 PM) as well as the Best Buy in Union Square in Manhattan (9:00 PM). The appearance wraps up a busy week for 50 Cent, who is promoting his 4th major label album BISD. The rapper will also appear on The Tavis Smiley Show on November 20th, at the America Music Awards on November 22nd and additional appearances on BET’s 106 & Park on November 23rd and November 24th.

KRS-One to Feed Thousands in New York

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Hip-Hop legend KRS-One will give back to New York this holiday, when he will help feed thousands of homeless people.

 

KRS-One, who was once homeless himself, will return to the Bowery Mission this Thanksgiving (November 26), to feed meals to over three thousands of the city’s homeless.

 

The rapper, who once stayed at the very mission where he will serve meals, will appear at the Bowery Mission on Thanksgiving, from 8:00am until 7:00pm.

 

“I am participating in the Bowery Mission Thanksgiving Food Drive and Event because I myself was once homeless, walking these very streets, spending time with these wonderful people at the Bowery Mission,” KRS One told AllHipHop.com in a statement.” I depended on them to survive. I am showing up for Thanksgiving this year to not only lend a hand, but hope that I may inspire others in the Hip-Hop community to consider their roles towards helping the homeless and join me by helping those in your community that need help during this holiday season.”

 

KRS-One recently released his second book, Gospel of Hip-Hop: First Instrument.

 

The 800-page book combines philosophy and faith along with knowledge and spirituality for people who participate in Hip-Hop culture.

 

The Bowery Mission serves New York’s homeless 365 days a year, 7 days a week, since 1879.

 

In addition to shelter, the organization offers doctors appointments and recovery and job assistance programs.

The Last Word: Terrence Howard, Jennifer Hudson as Winnie Mandela, Tyler Perry Gets Paid and more!

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Alternatives
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What’s up everybody? The end of another week is here and it’s been pretty slow with Thanksgiving around the corner. Among the highlights: Obama travels to China for international business, murder and rape charges on the way for the guy police say killed 5-year-old Shaniya Davis as well as other charges for the girl’s mother, Oprah talking about ending her talk show in 2011 and Twilight fans packing movie theaters to see the newest chapter of the saga, New Moon. Shout out to the sounding boards for never ceasing to be the talk of the town. So it all boils down to this…the Last Word for the week ending Nov. 20, 2009. 1. Terrence Howard Gets Reminded of the Value of Women It’s always funny how certain things in life bring you down to earth and put everything in focus. For Terrence Howard, that thing involves his daughters, whom he credits for changing his playalistic mind state. For those who enjoy the company of many admirers, the Oscar nominee has a message for the playas and an apology for his former flames. “Young men tend to come into relationships feeling very strong and powerful, and they make a lot of mistakes. But they soften when they have daughters,” Howard told Redbook as he detailed what happens when you have two daughters to care for. “You see women through a whole different light because now you know that they were once someone’s little girl. I wish I’d had this knowledge when I was 20 — I wish I could call all the women I’ve ever dated and apologize. I didn’t know how precious they were. I know better now.” I guess it truly is hard out there for a pimp. Or maybe in this case a retired pimp. But it’s all good considering Terrence’s motivation for turning over a new leaf. Good for and much respect to him for making a change for the better. 2. American Idol’s Syesha Prepares to Walk in Beyonce’s Dreamgirl Shoes Syesha Mercado is looking to occupy a different stage than the one she graced on American Idol. According to USA Today, the songbird will have some big shoes to fill as she gears up to play Deena Jones in the national tour of Dreamgirls. The last person to play the character was Beyoncé, who brought Deena to life in the 2006 film adaptation of hit play. Although she will “definitely pay homage to Beyoncé,” Mercado has her own plans for putting her own spin on Deena. “I try to focus on what the character is to me,” said the songbird, who pointed out similarities with her character. “We both grew up in a very poor background. I lived in the projects when I was younger, so I know what it’s like to come from nothing.” The Dreamgirls tour is among a few things on Mercado’s plate. The outing kicks off Sunday (Nov. 22) at New York’s Apollo Theater and concludes July 25 in Kansas City. Once it’s done, Mercado will get back to work on her pop/R&B debut album as well as other pursuits. According to the singer, the road is open to maximize her talents to achieve success. “There’s a line Deena has,” she shared. “She says, ‘I want to be more. I want to be an artist, I want to act.’ I want to be so much more than just one thing.” Sounds like a good plan. It’s good to see Syesha aiming high. From the looks of it, her stint in Dreamsgirls is a nice gig. It’s seems like playing Deena is safer than playing Etta James. No commentary from singing veterans included. 3. The Mandelas Get the Morgan Freeman and Jennifer Hudson Treatment While Morgan Freeman is making his movie rounds as Nelson Mandela, he’ll be happy to know that he’ll have Jennifer Hudson as his former better half. But not in the same film. Variety reports the singer/actress will play Winnie Mandela in the new drama, Winnie. For Hudson, the chance to play a woman who has seen her share of ups and downs in the political spotlight was too good to pass up. “I was compelled and moved when I read the script,” Hudson revealed to Variety. “Winnie Mandela is a complex and extraordinary woman and I’m honored to be the actress asked to portray her. This is a powerful part of history that should be told.” Best known for her support of Nelson Mandela as well as her efforts to free her husband, who was jailed as he led the fight against apartheid in South Africa, Winnie Mandela has been at the center of controversy over the years. Among the lowlights was a reported association with a bodyguard who murdered a 14-year old alleged informer for the government, addition to a 2003 conviction for fraud and theft. Despite being in good standing in the eyes of some, the good and bad of Winnie Mandela’s story will be told in Winnie. In addition to starring in the film, Hudson is expected to sing the film’s theme song. Winnie is set to begin production May 30 in various locations in South Africa, including Johannesburg, Capt Town, Transkei and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison. Those wondering about Freeman’s portrayal of the former South African president can catch that next month in the Clint Eastwood-directed feature Invictus. The film, which also stars Matt Damon as South African rugby team captain Francois Pienaar, centers on Mandela’s release from prison as well as his attempt to use the 1995 Rugby World Cup to help bring his country together after the fall of apartheid. Invictus his theaters Dec. 11. In Other Words… Most people know Fergie for her hip-shaking dance moves and ability to elevate many of Black Eyed Peas’ biggest hits. But if you ask Slash, he’ll tell you about a different Fergie that folks aren’t familiar with. One that’s contributing to his remake of Guns N’ Roses classic hit “Paradise City” with Cypress Hill. “Until now, not too many people have heard Fergie sing rock & roll but she sings it better than most dudes I know,” the Velvet Revolver guitarist voiced on his Twitter page. “She’s a screamer at heart.” Despite criticism from Spike Lee, Tyler Perry continues to get paid. According to Variety, the entertainment mogul’s#### TBS show, Meet the Browns, has been green lighted to start running in syndication beginning next fall. Plans call for the series to air Monday – Friday in September on stations that cover 70 percent of U.S. TV households. Usher has joined the many artists whose latest album will be in stores during the Christmas season. The R&B crooner’s forthcoming release, Raymond V. Raymond, is scheduled to hit stores Dec. 21. If you’re a soap opera fan, this could come as good or rather bad news. Entertainment Weekly reports that Darius McCrary (aka Family Matters’ Eddie Winslow) is returning to the small screen to walk in shoes formerly filled by Shemar Moore. Thanks to a multi-year deal, the former sitcom star will maintain job security playing the role of Malcolm Winters on The Young and the Restless. The reason for Malcolm’s return, according to the soap’s co-executive producer/head writer, lies in seeing his brother and reuniting with his biological daughter, Lily Winters, as she fights for her life.” Look for McCrary’s official debut as Malcolm when it airs on Dec. 29. I’m not in to soaps so take this for what it’s worth. As for the original Malcolm, EW says that Moore considered coming back to the role but as an insider mentioned, his commitment to the show Criminal Minds prevented that from happening. Last week it was Rachel Ray. This week, it’s Steve Harvey, who’s spreading love over the Thanksgiving holiday with plans to give away more than 6,000 turkeys to needy families across the country on Monday (Nov. 23). The giveaways are the result of Harvey and his wife Marjorie working with Steve Harvey Morning Show affiliate stations in 53 markets to distribute thousands of turkeys, with live on-air gives taking place in 10 of those markets. In addition to that, the comedian/author/actor will host Steve Harvey’s Big Turkey Give Day in Chicago the same day. During that event, the Harveys will give away 1,000 turkeys and 1,000 ropes of turkey sausage courtesy of Hillshire Farm to Chicago-area residents.

KRS-One On Jay-Z & 50 Cent: “That Would Be The Greatest Battle In Hip-Hop History”

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Features
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“The two people that should be battling are Jay-Z and 50 Cent…I think it would be great for Hip-Hop.”

-KRS-One

You love to hear the story again and again about how KRS-One burst on the scene in the 80’s after being initially scorched by the Juice Crew’s leaders the late Mr. Magic and DJ Marley Marl. After that, he set it off on the crew with Boogie Down Productions in what would be one of the most storied battled ever.

But fast forward to the present day. 50 Cent has been calling out Jay-Z in a number of songs and interviews in an attempted to lure his fellow Hip-Hop mogul into a lyrical championship bout. On Beanie Sigel’s “I Go Off,” 50 Cent says, “Yeah, you changed, man. You let the money change you, Jay. You used to be from Marcy, [Brooklyn] n***a. Now you a pass the Grey Poupon a** n***a. You don’t want the shooter? I’ll take him. [laughs] N*gga, feed the wolves or else the wolves feed off you. Eat your a** alive! I live by a combat’s creed. Strategy. Your move, n***a.”

Jay-Z has yet to respond, but AllHipHop.com had to solicit the opinion of KRS-One, a man whose insights seem to know no bounds. So, the Blast Master comments on the beef, but also how it should go down, should Jay-Z and 50 lock in. Furthermore, KRS theorizes how it all could make dollars and sense for the two moguls.

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Friday Fashion Feature – Jeggings: Cop or Drop?

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Are they jeans? Leggings?

 

QuestionsView Results

 

Nope, they’re jeggings!

 

To the pleasure of many, fierce ladies like Amber Rose and Meagan Good brought a whole new level of sexiness to all sorts of leggings – leather, shiny spandex, snake print, etc. – and one of the latest trends in this category is the “jegging”.

 

With the look of denim but the feel of leggings, jeggings are super versatile and comfortable pieces.

 

Top them off with a long tee or sweater and get that casual denim look, but with all the comfort stretchy leggings provide.

 

All hail the legging queen – Amber Rose

 

Beyoncé

 

As with most denim these days, you can also dress them up like Beyoncé does above, with a blazer and sexy high heels.

 

Check out Mel B. rocking a retro acid wash pair with a laid back look below, and cop your very own jeggings on DrJays.com:

 

Mel B.

 

Denim Leggings by Cheryl Creations

 

Love Kills Slowly Leggings by Ed Hardy

Hip-Hop Rumors: Gucci Man’s Fraud Case Explodes! 50 Cent & Rocsi On BET! Swizz & Alicia May Have A Prob!

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Rumors
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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.

THE DAILY TWO SENSE

 

I appreciate all the love and respect that I have gotten in the last few days and week.  I want you all to hit me with whatever you see!

 

SEE SOMETHING?

 

SAY SOMETHING!

 

It really makes my live easier and also far more interesting. I like reading and hearing about other people’s accounts of what happened. Shout out to all of my regulars and alla that!

 

Email me rumors and sightings at Al*************@***il.com.

 

A MAJOR HIP-HOP LABEL TO COLLAPSE

 

 I cannot say the label, but I can say that one of Hip-Hop’s most trusted and respected brand in Hip-Hop is quite possibly going to be going under soon. I am sure this will garner me death threats and everything I deserve, but I can’t say the name of the label. All I can admit is the brand has been around for years and years and keeps serving up dope rap. The only thing is, the sales don’t seem to match with the quality of the artist’s work. So, you can expect more people out there on the open market and this includes big wig execs!

 

 

 

THE GAME GOES IN!

 

The Game doesn’t stop does he? Oh, and neither does 50 Cent. Well, Game and 50 are at it again. The Compton rapper said the following:

 

“It’s just Hip-Hop and I think that he’s more bitter towards me then anyone else he’s had drama with because look what I did to his brand. I killed G Unit. I killed the clothes, I killed the brand, I killed Tony Yayo, Banks, and Buck at that time. Like I really f**ked up a lot of money for that dude. Not only for him but my label, Jimmy Iovine, who at this point, I’m apologetic to.” Click here for full story.

 

Now, from his R.E.D. Album, Game supposedly has a song called “Ricky.” Honestly, we don’t know what that song is, but I thought It may have something to do with MC Rick Ross. If you have any ideas on this, let me know.

 

 

50 CENT WAS WITH ROCSI – ALL IS WELL!

 

So, yesterday BET’s ROCSI and 50 CENT mended their lives formally! Yesterday, the rapper appeared on BET for the first  of about three dates on the net work. But we all rmember the beef that Rocsi and Fif had. She said some things and 50 responded with some things…..no need to delve back into the details of the mess there. According to my Twitter fam, they were on there and everything was real cool…”they got along” as one person put it. Another person said Yayo and Banks were “cold” but 50 was “civil.” Viewers can catch 50 Cent co-hosting 106 & PARK again on, Monday, November 23Tuesday, November 24 at 6:00 p.m.* and

 

 

50 CENT EXPLAINS CHILLIN’ WITH RICK ROSS’ SON

 

Here is some more 50 Cent for the stanleys of the world. But this is interesting content for anybody, since 50 Cent is explaining why he did that “Family Day” thing he did. 50 is just ruthless like Eazy E.

 

 

SWIZZ…ALICIA…WATCH YOUR BACK!

 

I looked on Mashonda’s Twitter and couldn’t find the specific tweet so maybe she deleted it, but Swizz and A. Keys may have actually done Mashonda a favor. Her career may get a jolt of energy now. According to the message from her, Mashonda says she is now getting hit up from A&Rs at labels that know she’s been hurt and know she has a story to tell. They want her to express that pain in her song…and you know what happens then…SCANDAL!!!!! We’ll see!

 

FILTER OFF: BEYONCE RUMORS!

 

I have this filter thing going on. I basically filter out what I think are stupid rumors. I think I need to turn that filter off a bit! Because, when I heard that Beyonce and her bodyguard Julius were a rumored couple, I just said, “these internets have lost their minds.” But, there are some that charge they are a bit too close and have been seen in compromised positions. Pics that don’t look right. On the flip side, they are saying Jay-Z has already called for my dude Julius to be fired. But dude sometimes works for Jay too. Remember them fighting  off the papz in Africa? A recent trip to Berlin seemed to get the rumors jumping crazy again….hmmmmmmm…..

 

I don’t believe it.

 

 

GUCCI’S PEOPLE ADDRESS FRAUD ALLEGATIONS!

 

Check this out. There  is about two damn minutes of pure instrumental, but after that, you get the interview with Gucci’s management.

 

 

AND THE GUCCI MANE ACCUSERS STRIKE BACK

 

So this is regarding a Gucci Mane Show Pittsburgh that has caused a tremendous amount of beef. Peep this…these are not my words, but the words of others that have a complaint. Like I said, they are talking about taking this to a new level of the game.

 

 

 

Good Morning,

 

 

 

Please be advised that i spoke to Johnnie Cabbell regarding the Gucci Show in Pittsburgh and Gucci’s non-appearance and breach of contract on our two previous dates… Johnnie believes So Icey Ent. (Gucci or Ms. Debbie) WILL NOT reimburse us for lost promote expenses nor defer the back payment of this show to compensate for non-appearance and breach of contract …

 

 

 

My attorney advise that Gucci, Debbie & Johnnies conspiracy to defraud clients by booking shows while Gucci is on house-arrest or in rehab, failing to advise their clients of his confinement or status and knowing that Gucci would be unable to make any shows is a federal and state crime… The attorneys will contact the Pa. Attorney General and/or FBI for investigation against Gucci Mane, Debbie & Johnnie and then move  for TRO’s & Preliminary Injunctions to stop any Gucci Shows until he compensates prior clients (we will get the other clients involved with help from JB at Ozone Mag.)…

 

 

 

Johnnies Cabbell request that we wait until Friday, Nov. 13th before we make a decision (Gucci has yet another Court hearing)…I sending this email to advise everyone of this matter and get input.

 

 

 

CASE HISTORY:

 

 

 

1). On or about, June 24th, 2009, b. Marshall productions and associates contracted with Hitt Afta Hitt ent.  (Johnnie Cabbell) & So Icey ent. (R. Davis (Gucci Mane) & Debra Antney) to book a concert with rap artist Gucci Mane in Pittsburgh, Pa., show scheduled for August 22nd, 2009…. b. marshall productions & associates were required to send Cabbell & Antney $27,500.00 intial deposit split between Davis, Antney & Cabbell;

 

 

 

2). For promotion, production and preparation for the 8-22-09 show b. marshall productions and associates placed a $2,000 non-refundable deposit on their show venue, place a $2,500 sound equipment deposit, spent $4,500 in radio ads, paid $1,000 in fliers/posters, $2,000 street team, and $1500 non-refundable security deposit for a total production expense of $13,500.00;

 

 

 

3). On or about, July 15th, 2009, b. marshall productions and associates received word that artist Gucci Mane had committed a parole violation and had been returned to jail;

 

 

 

4). B. Marshall productions and associates then contacted Cabbell and Antney to learn the status of artist Gucci Mane and to insure that the 8-22-09 show date would proceed;

 

 

 

5). On or about, August 5th, 2009, Cabbell/Antney informed the parties that the Pittsburgh Show was in good standing and would proceed;

 

 

 

6). On or about, August 5th, 2009, Cabbell/Antney informed associate G.. Rowell that his show would proceed in Washington, DC and was in good standing;

 

 

 

7). B. Marshall productions and associates then purchased more TV ads promoting their 8-22-09 event based on Antney/Cabbell’s assurance letter;

 

 

 

8). On or about, August 20th, Antney told b. marshall productions that Gucci Mane would not show in Pittsburgh and they would reschedule the show….but that they would not return any lost promotion deposits or advertisement money;

 

 

 

9). On or about, Sept. 14th, 2009, Cabbell/Antney reissued b. marshall productions and associates a new contract and new show date for November 7th, 2009, Antney/Cabbell advised b. marshall productions and associates that artist Gucci Mane would make the new show date and that they would provide a video drop from Gucci Mane to promotion the event 30 days before the Nov. 7th show;

 

 

 

10). At no time would Cabbell/Antney explain Gucci Mane’s confinement or restriction or the length thereof and both were aware that Gucci Mane could not make the Pittsburgh or DC show dates when they issued the 8-05-09 letters;

 

 

 

11). On Sept. 18th, b. marshall productions contacted, via email, Davis/Cabbell/Antney requesting a video drop….they informed b. marshall productions that they had the script and would complete the video drop  before Oct 7th, 2009;

 

 

 

12). Between Oct. 1st and Oct. 22th, b. marshall productions contacted Cabbell/Antney for video drop to no avail;

 

 

 

13). On Oct. 22nd, Gucci Mane’s show with FAMU was cancelled because of non-appearance;

 

 

 

14). On. Oct. 31st, Gucci Mane’s show with NC A&T was cancelled do to non-appearance;

 

 

 

15). B. Marshall Productions and associates have learned that Gucci Mane is not permitted to leave the state of GA and was never able to make the 8-22-09  or 11-07-09 shows

 

 

 

 

 

16). B. Marshall Productions and associates have learned that Davis/Cabbell/Antney have continued to book shows, take money from other associates & clients, refuse to return deposits or lost promotion expenses, and reschedule show dates, although they are/were aware that Gucci Mane is not allowed to leave Georgia..thereby committing a  state and federal fraud..

 THIS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM FOR HIP-HOP!

 

I have said this over and over and I am going to say it again. It is getting harder and harder to FIND and LOCATE some major Hip-Hop releases. Read what a reader friend of mine said:

 

I’ve seen Wale’s numbers for his new CD and heard about 50’s low expectations.  I live in Oklahoma City and here it’s near impossible to find either CD.  I still haven’t seen a Wale CD after visiting 5 different stores.  Plus, the Best Buy’s here still aren’t carrying 50’s new one.  I found a Target with about 8 of them.  I’m thinking that if Interscope wants these artists to do some numbers, they need to ship CD’s to some stores so we don’t have to get them digitally.

 

 

Thanks Adam!

 

 

ILLSEED’S QUICKIES!

 

Looks like Eminem is going to come out in December a few days before the Chrismas holiday. My bad..that’s something called “Refill,” a re-release with new tracks and old tracks from Relapse.

 

Waka Flocka Flame is all good and out of jail I guess. He is going to be giving away Turkeys for Thankgsiving to people along with Nicki Minaj.

 

Speaking of Nicki, it has been brought to my attention that some people may have taken something I said the wrong way. I wasn’t suggesting SHE leaked that Rihanna she wrote, I was just saying it leaked. Not that Nicki leaked it on purpose.

 

I was wrong too. Marlon Wayans gave C tha God the BIZNESS on Twitter! Oh, it was ugly!

 

Shout out to Toccara Jones.  She has a new boyfriend in Rasual Butler of the L.A. Clippers. But here is the thing, I thought she was still with that music industry dude. T has a reality show on the way…stay tuned for that. Is she on BET still?

 

Shout out to Gabrielle Union, who is on “Flash Forward” on ABC. I had no idea!

 

Fantasia is reportedly dating a married man and got his name tatted on her. Like, my filter is on again.

 

KRS-ONE TALKS THE POTENTIAL JAY-Z / 50 CENT BEEF

 

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SIGNS THE WORLD IS COMING TO AN END

 

 

 

 

This dumb a$$ kid and his father must have a real messed up relationship, dude. His daddy killed him execution style…read up on it.

 

A Highland Park teenager was shot to death execution style after he confessed to inappropriately touching his 3-year-old half sister. Detroit police say Jamar Pinkney Sr. barged into Jamar Pinkney Jr.’s home, where he lived with his mother, and beat the boy before ordering him to strip naked. He then led the frightened 15-year-old out into a field where he shot him to death.

 

Lazette Cherry, Jamar’s mother said she was only trying to teach her son discipline when she called his father and told him what the boy had done. “I called and told his father this isn’t something you sweep under the rug,” Cherry said Wednesday.

 

Pinkney Sr., who was separated from Cherry and lived with the 3-year-old and her mother, rushed to the home with a gun.

 

“He started beating him right here,” Cherry said from her living room. “I said, ‘No, please stop!’ “ She said Pinkney Sr. marched the boy naked out of the house — in full view of neighbors — and ordered him on his knees.

 

“He got on his knees and begged, ‘No, Daddy! No!’ and he pulled the trigger,” Cherry said from her home on North Street in Highland Park. “There wasn’t nothing that my son wouldn’t do for his father. He loved his father so much.”

 

Jamar was shot once in the back of the head. Pinkney then calmly drove away. He was arrested 3 hours later and charged with one count of first-degree murder, three counts of felonious assault and one count of felony firearm.

 

Cherry said the 3-year-old’s mother took the girl to a hospital to be examined Sunday. She said Jamar told her he never raped the child and kept his clothes on.

 

A physical exam showed no evidence of sexual trauma.

 

Pinkney is being held without bond.

 

 

SOME HIP-HOP HAPPENINGS

 

If you are into the grimey, ill Hip-Hop, read below!

 

What up ILLSEED! Thanks for doing what it is you do! I just wanted to throw some bay area love out there,,,Kool Herc was in Frisco on Sun @ The Green Festival. He showed up while Davey D, Dead Prez and Speech were speaking! Later that night @ 1015 Folsom was The Green Fest after party w/ DP and Speech performing, Davey D was djing and Ras Term’s was doing live art! It was a nice lil event! This might not be great gossip! But fools need to get behind being green or get left behind! Peace, J Riggs

 

SOME PICS

 

I know I am late on these so sue me!

 

 

Drake and Nicki Minaj attended the GQ “Men Of The Year” – earlier this week.

 

THIS SONG MAKES ME WISH I WAS FROM NEW YORK….ALMOST!

 

FAB’S BIRTHDAY!

JULUIS, 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 al*************@***il.com.

Police Claim Fabolous’ Crew Stole Rare 2008 Lamborghini

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Police are investigating rapper Fabolous and his connection to a luxury car stolen from an upscale hotel in Atlanta.

 

According to Channel 2 Action News, Atlanta police claim men in Fabolous’ entourage stole a rare 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder.

 

The vehicle, which was one of only two brought into the United States, was taken on January 31 and was recently located by the Atlanta Police Department..

 

Surveillance video shows two men in Fabolous’ entourage approach a bellman at the Intercontinental, received the keys to the Lamborghini and left as if it was their property.

 

Fabolous and the rest of the group allegedly followed behind the Lamborghini in a minivan.

 

Police investigated the theft and have confirmed that Fabolous knew the men, but no charges will be filed, since the vehicle was located.

 “We were informed by the Atlanta Police Department that detectives gained information regarding the location of this vehicle by promising counsel for Fabolous that if he told them where the vehicle could be found, the State would not pursue charges,” Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard said in a statement. “The District Attorney was not a party to this agreement. We have never spoken with this individual [Fabolous] or anyone connected with him, including his counsel. We were only made aware of this agreement by APD after they located the vehicle.”

 

Howard cited investigators attempts to violate the agreement they reached with the party who provided information that led to the recovery of the Lamborghini, by pursuing criminal charges in regards to the theft.

 “After discovering the vehicle, the police, in direct contradiction to the promise that was made, asked our office to assist them with this criminal investigation by obtaining certain Grand Jury testimony,” Howard said. “To ask my office to participate after the promise was made, in my opinion, directly violates the agreement made to the party who provided the information. I believe the integrity of the promise was more important than pursuing suspects, particularly since the vehicle was located. Integrity demonstrated by prosecutors and law enforcement, is not only of utmost importance— and what the community demands— to our office it is everything.”

 

Meanwhile the vehicle’s owner, Eric Vargosko, is suing the Intercontinental over the loss of the Lamborghini.

 

“The InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta has accepted responsibility for this unfortunate incident from its inception and has always been willing to provide fair and reasonable compensation for the damages caused to the vehicle by the incident,” said Caroline Counihan in a statement to Channel 2 Action News. “We hold the safety, comfort and well-being of our guests and employees as our top priority and concern. We have taken several measures, including heightening security, so that a repeat of this incident does not happen.”

Death Row CEO Wins Injunction Against Finance Co.

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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The new CEO of Death Row Records has been granted a temporary restraining order against a Canadian financial company that helped fund the $18 million dollar purchase of Death Row Records out of bankruptcy court.

 

Wideawake Awake-Death Row CEO Lara Lavi was granted the restraining order against New Solutions Financial Corporation and its CEO Ron Ovenden today (November 19) by the New York Supreme Court.

 

Lavi was awarded the TRO based on claims that Ovenden and the company’s managing director were illegally diverting assets from the legendary record label.

 

“I’ve been very consistent in my message. I am determined to make Death Row about the artists, their music and their fans while staying grounded to ensure the company’s future. Thus, I am taking the necessary legal steps to ensure this outcome,” explained Death Row CEO and President Lara Lavi in a statement to AllHipHop.com.

 

On November 13, Lavi CEO of Death Row, filed a lawsuit against New Solutions, accusing the company of engage in fraudulent activities.

 

The temporary injunction will prevent New Solutions Financial from doing business on behalf of Death Row Records.

 

Death Row’s North American distribution partner E1 offered a strong showing of support in relation to the company’s dispute with New Solutions.

 

“E-1 signed its deal with Lara Lavi, the CEO, President and managing member of Wideawake Death Row Entertainment LLC on the strength of her vision, business sense and goodwill in the entertainment industry. I look forward to our continued working relationship,” said Rob Scarcello E-1’s SVP of Sales and Marketing.