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Arrest Warrant Issued For Beanie Sigel Over Rental Car

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Rap star Beanie Sigel will surrender to police on Monday (October 8) on charges of theft and unauthorized use of an automobile, because he allegedly failed to return a rental car for over a month.

 

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Sigel – who’s license is suspended – rented a 2007 Nissan Altima from a Payless Rental Car service in Philadelphia on July 23.

 

The car was due back to Payless on August 13, but police claim Sigel never returned the car.

 

While Payless continued to charge Sigel’s credit card for holding on to the car, the company reported the vehicle stolen on September 6.

 

“Apparently there was some misunderstanding over when it was to be returned or whether or not payment was continuing to be made,” Sigel’s attorney Fortunato Perri, Sigel told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “We’re now working out a time for him to surrender on Monday.”

 

The Altima was returned to the dealership yesterday, just as police went to arrest Sigel’s at his home outside of Philadelphia.

 

Sigel, born Dwight Grant, was in New York on business when the police went to his home, which neighbors said has been unoccupied for months.

Breast Cancer: You’re Not Too Young

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Uncategorized

 

 

After accidentally feeling a lump in my left breast back in December 2002, it took almost five months to be diagnosed with breast cancer because everyone, including me, thought that I was too young. I’d just turned 28-years-old and my life was in high gear! I was being a super-single mother to my six-year-old daughter, I was running my own boutique Public Relations company and I was the lead vocalist for a Soul-Funk band.  I was truly a sister who was doing her thing and was invincible! Yet, something inside my body was growing that would change the course of my life forever.

 

On April 2, 2003, my doctor in the classic textbook fashion gave my diagnosis to me: “I’m sorry but I have bad news, you have breast cancer.”  No! I screamed internally as the tears began to seep down my face. Perhaps he was just being inappropriate and would retract such a cruel post-April Fool’s Day joke. I waited for him to deliver the punch line and crack a smile. To no avail, his solemn demeanor remained in tack. This was real. I had breast cancer. 

 

I was shocked, because it didn’t run in my family to my knowledge and I ate fairly well and worked out. Why did I come to this appointment alone? The doctor began rambling about treatment options, and other incomprehensible stuff.  When he mentioned chemotherapy, I defiantly proclaimed to myself: “I am not doing chemotherapy, I do not want to be bald!”

 

My resistance to chemotherapy would hold no weight. After that day my world-wind affair with cancer began. First I had a mastectomy to remove the entire breast because the tumor was about five centimeters. Luckily I was able to have reconstructive surgery, so I retained somewhat of my figure – although I went down from a 34D to a 34C. I then had to endure four months of chemotherapy which, in addition to common side-effects like fatigue, it made me become bald and beautiful. I got the beautiful part from my daughter who told me that, “Mommy, you look beautiful bald, but you have to wear a wig to my school!”

 

I obliged because it was already a lot for a six-year-old to bear seeing her mother change so much physically. I tried my best to maintain emotionally intact for her sake and simply told her that my breasts were sick because I didn’t want to scare her. Overall, I remained prayerful and optimistic that all would be well. I was empowered by my loved-ones, and I drew on my internal strength in order to make it through. Today, I am healed.

 

Since then, I have resumed my stride.   I now work as the Diversity and Programs Manager for the Young Survival Coalition (YSC) – the only international, non-profit network of breast cancer survivors and supporters dedicated to the concerns and issues that are unique to young women and breast cancer. I am dedicated to using my face and story to help change the perception that breast cancer is the disease of older women. 

 

Indeed, women over 40 should get mammograms, but generally this is not an effective tool to detect breast cancer in young women because it’s hard to detect abnormalities this way because our breasts are denser. However, I am encouraging all women to take control of their lives and bodies. If you feel that something is wrong, do not ignore it; follow up with your doctor. Do not take the answer that “you’re too young.” I didn’t, and I am alive today in great part because I decided to be my own best advocate. You can too. 

 

The Facts: 

 

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in young women ages 15-54.

 

More than 11,500 women age 40 and under will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and close to 1,400 will die.

 

There are more than 250,000 women in the United States age 40 and under currently living with breast cancer.

 

One in every 227 women between the ages of 30 and 40 will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the next ten years.

 

Young women’s cancers are generally more aggressive and result in lower survival rates.

 

The five-year survival rate for young women with breast cancer is 83 percent, which is lower than their post-menopausal counterparts.

 

There is no effective breast cancer screening tool for women ages 40 and under.

 

Young women with breast cancer struggle with many issues that their post-menopausal counterparts don’t face, including: the possibility of early menopause, pregnancy after diagnosis, more advanced cancers at diagnosis and higher mortality rates.

 

Younger women are an underrepresented population in many breast cancer research studies.

 

Source: Young Survival Coalition, www.youngsurvival.org or 877-ysc-1011

 

Khadijah “Vibes” Carter is a professional singer and an inspirational speaker whose new CD This Day – a compilation of Inspirational songs and poems – was written while she was undergoing breast cancer treatment.  To read more about her story, hear the music and support the cause, please visit: www.thisdaythemovement.com or email her at [email protected].

 

 

Game Review: Transformers: The Game

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Uncategorized

 

 

Game: Transformers: The Game

Publisher: Activision

Released: 2007

Platform: Available on all systems, tested on the Nintendo Wii for this review

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

 

Activision’s Transformers: The Game transcends the common movie tie-in with a robot bust up which ranks among the best videogame titles for the Cybertron natives, and in many ways surpasses the outstanding Atari Transformers offering of 2004. The graphics are excellent and the controls responsive, while the game play is engaging and challenging.

 

The Transformers is one of the most innovative and endearing toy lines ever. However, most of the videogames licensed for the franchise have been sub par at best. Some of them were straight up horrible. This “Next-Gen” offering is sure to excite and entertain the diehard fan of the toys and the casual gamer alike.

 

The first Transformer I ever saw was Soundwave. This was in back elementary school when my friend brought this bizarre boom box / robot toy into assembly.  Me and the boys had never seen anything like it before and went apesh*t over it. Before that school year was out Transformers took the rest of the world by storm, with wave after wave of “robots in disguise” – Autobots, Decepticons, Dinobots, Insecticons, Unicron, Beast Wars, Triple Changers… they just kept coming.

  

Cybertron is shown as a war-torn husk in the opening sequence of the game, which pretty much follows the movie and sets the mood off spectacularly. I was amped to begin kicking some robot ass. The game layout is similar to another popular invasion title, “Destroy All Humans,” where you move throughout a somewhat open-ended environment to different missions which are highlighted on a map. The missions range from button-mashing robot battles and timed car chases, to all out environmental destruction. 

 

There are two story arcs here. The campaign closest to the movie plot is the Autobots storyline, which rotates the player through different characters as the chapters progress. You begin playing as Bumblebee, then to Jazz, Ironhide and by mid-story you are controlling Optimus Prime, driving in automobile mode through the city and suburbs – then transforming into a robot to battle the various challengers on a quest for the Allspark. For long-time fans of the cartoon, you will be transported back to the first generation of Transformers by the outstanding voice work of Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, who were the original voices of Optimus Prime and Megatron in the cartoon.

 

The Decepticons story arc starts you out in the desert and has a military feel to the navigation and combat. One thing that sets this title apart from other military style shooters is the ability to transform instantly from a robotic foot soldier to an attack helicopter at the push of a button. As the bad guy, your goals are primarily to destroy various structures and facilities. This desert campaign was a fun concept, and I feel would have translated nicely to the live multiplayer format. I have already heard that a sequel to the flick is in talks, so perhaps we will get another Transformers game with cooperative options in the near future.

 

Anyone who plays this game will be thrilled just to move around in the Transformers universe as a deadly giant robot – it’s dope! I would recommend at least renting it for all Wii owners, as it among the best looking games currently out for the Nintendo system.

 

The environments are nicely scaled with the robots looking properly huge, plus the explosions and destruction are rendered grandly. It should be noted that the backgrounds are somewhat more detailed on the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions. The controls are responsive on all platforms. The major drawback on the Nintendo version is that the camera is mapped to the targeting system of the Wii Remote, and you really have to really concentrate to point it correctly in order to follow the action. Because it is so difficult to control the view during game play, this took me about 45 minutes or so of practice to actually be competent enough to go on the missions.

 

Some missions I blew right through. Some were hard as f**k! I’ve read where some reviewers accused this game of being too easy, specifically for the Xbox version. The Wii version is not easy! It takes a great deal of effort to control the camera perfectly.  I spent a few frustrated hours on one particular chase sequence in the Autobots campaign. Even though there are challenging moments, you are not likely to have to Google a walkthrough to complete any of the objectives. Most of the enemies can be easily battered to bolts by punching a few times, and the tough guys can be swatted with anything handy around you.  In fact, you can pick up most any object and chuck it right at them, breaking through any defense.

 

The cut scenes are right from the movie, and simply serve to move the story forward. Where this game really shines is the mechanics. The action is immersive and the movement is expertly crafted. You can zoom right in on the Transformers models and see that every detail is right out of the movie, and they look fantastic.

 

The graphics and game play are robust and make this title a must-have for the hardcore gamers. However, casual players may not find much replay value in this title. Activision’s Transformers: The Game is a tight rental, and there is enough content to justify a fan’s purchase.

Snoop, Talib, Others Honor Jam Master Jay At J.A.M. Awards

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Rappers Snoop Dogg, Talib Kweli, De La Soul and numerous others will be among those hitting the stage to perform at the first ever social Justice, Arts and Music (J.A.M.) awards in New York City.

 

The event, which is scheduled to take place Nov. 29 at the Hammerstein Ballroom, is a joint venture between the Jam Master Jay (JMJ) Foundation, EPOPInternational, adidas and New York radio station Hot 97.

 

“These unique awards are built on our efforts to promote social justice, arts and music (J.A.M.),” said Jam Master Jay’s wife, foundation creator and J.A.M. Awards co-host Terri Corley-Mizell. “Every year, one honoree from the Hip-Hop community will be selected and honored in the field of social Justice, one in the Arts and another in music. The winners will be selected based upon the impact they have made in their respective category and their record of helping others in their local community and around the world.”

 

The J.A.M. Awards is the latest in a series of events put on by the Jam Master Jay Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting music and arts education, as well as promoting the legacy of the late Run-DMC member, Jam Master Jay.

 

Although it is designed to showcase the positive aspects of rap music and let the world know that Hip-Hop is alive and well and as relevant today, DMC believes the J.A.M. Awards represents a deeper cause.

 

“This unprecedented event is not designed merely for music fans, but also for people who want to see Hip-Hop answer its critics with a resounding voice of hope and inspiration,” the rap veteran said. “I can’t yet mention everyone who will be there; I will go on record to say that it will be historic. I know Jay will be with us in spirit.”

 

In addition to event CO-host DMC, Mobb Deep and Papoose, confirmed J.A.M. Awards performers include Marley Marl, Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Raekwon, Q-Tip, Everlast featuring DJ Muggs, De La Soul and Snoop Dogg, who expressed his enthusiasm for being a part of the event.

 

“The J.A.M. Awards will be over the top. Jam Master Jay and Run-DMC paved the way for me and everyone I know,” the rapper said. “As pioneers of Hip-Hop, their positive message will live on through this J.A.M. concert and future J.A.M. Awards.”

 

Since news of the J.A.M. Awards broke, the event has been met with support from numerous sources.

 

“This is Hip-Hop at its best,” said JMJ board member and U.S. Recorded Music for Warner Music Group chairman and CEO Lyor Cohen. “The message we’re promoting with the J.A.M. Awards is simple and unassailable. Many relevant artists I know, including all the members of Run DMC, were inspired by social justice, arts or music–those are the necessary elements to build a dream.”

 

Foundation Board Members include: Terri Corley-Mizell, DMC, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Erik Blamoville, Jesse Itzler, Stephen Nitkin, Rob Principe, Constance Schwartz, Cathy Symeonidis, Ivan Taback and David Weisswasser.

 

Tickets for the inaugural J.A.M. Awards are available now through Ticketmaster.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Big Daddy Kane Cries? Krs-One Disses Kanye? Paul Wall Visits Soldiers!

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

BIG DADDY KANE CRIES?

Lookie here, y’all. Big Daddy Kane IS the blueprint of so many rappers, I don’t even need to start the list. Being a legend is a full-time job and BDK clocks in with the Hip-Hop Honors tour, along with Skillz, The Roots and MC Lyte. Now, I didn’t know this, but the concept of the tour is The Roots and company perform old school Hip-Hop songs to the glee of the crowd. Anyway, the crew had a date in Philly last night and I heard after the Big Daddy Kane set – it was so dope – the crowd started screaming, “We’re not worthy.” I heard that they said it so much that Kane got emotional and dropped a tear or two from all the love the crowd gave him. From what I heard, after the crowd said, “We’re not worthy” for three minutes straight, Kane spoke.

He said to them (something like this), “All I ever wanted to be was considered one of the best and be respected by my peers in the 80’s. Never in my life, did I think that 22 years later y’all would show me that same love. There are kids here that weren’t even born then and know my lyrics word for word.” I heard Kane apologized for getting emotional and said “This is all an MC can really ask for and this means a lot.”

DAMN! I wish I was there!!!! Anyway, heard Malik B, Beanie Sigel and Peedi Crakk were on hand at this Philly spot. Sounds like a classic, legendary night.

J. LO IS SO PREGNANT, IT’S NOT FUNNY!

Ok, Jennifer Lopez has been telling people that she’s NOT pregnant, but it is so clear that she is, Stevie Wonder could see it. I could be wrong, but I don’t think she confirmed this news yet. She performed Wednesday night and fell or had near fall and everybody was scared for the baby! She never stopped singing at the Mohegun Sun in Conn. Anyway, she was showing off her tummy so there is no doubt that she’s got a belly full of baby – or two. They have been saying its twins in there, to come out in the spring.

MORE HONORS

Here is some more backstage chatter we heard went on at the VH1 Hip-Hop Honors, which airs on Monday!

Hip-Hop royalty, and a gang of their groupies/entourages were in effect and getting their schmooze on. My spies managed to sneak in and they saw cats like Skillz, Ice T and his CoCo, Grandmaster Caz, Grandmaster Melle Mel and his muscles, The read of the Furious Five, Caz, KRS-One, Tony Touch, Jazzy Joyce was on the wheels of steel. Kool Keith, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Crazy Legs, Keenan and his red sunglasses, Johnny Nunez, Serius Jones, Duo Live, Busta Rhymes, Spliff Starr, Atlantic Records’ Craig Kallman, Swizz Beatz, Chuck D and Questlove of the Roots.

One star – who shall remain nameless said, “Kenan Thompson IS Biggie Smalls” at the comic and his look.

I heard KRS-One dissed Kanye West and said that the Chi-Town rapper IS NOT Hip-Hop! I also heard he totally bigged up 50 Cent. Whoa…more on this later.

Lupe Fiasco flubbed up his lyrics in the Tribe Called Quest Dedication. I don’t know, but maybe it will be fixed in the edit room like when that check spit on New York.

During the Snoop dedication, Ice-T did well, but got off beat from time to time. Coco more than made up for it.

I said this earlier in the day, but I cannot believe they made Kool Moe Dee change his line.

Word was Kanye was in the building and it was rumored that he would do an impromptu performance during the Tribe set. He didn’t.

TWEET! She was there! Looking good.

No Guy reunion? I heard the whole VIP crowd was looking forward to that, but got T-Pain and Ne-Yo instead.

PAUL WALL VISITS THE SOLDIERS!

Wussup, illseed?

Paul Wall came to the Fort Lewis Post Exchange and was signing autographs for the Soldiers and families. I was able to see him in the manager’s office and he posed for a picture with me.

I’m from Jacksonville, Florida!!! I’ve been in the Army for 2 1/2 years and I am currently stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington.

‘Preciate it,

PFC McMillan, Amie, J.

Here is the pic:

SIGNS HIS WORLD IS COMING TO AN END!

I’m not going to lie, I used to think that AIDS/HIV was a sign of the end of the world for humankind. I still have my opinions, but Mr. Magic Johnson has changed a lot of views. Redirect your attention to South Beach nightclub promoter Elidor Kersaint, a mere 22 years old. He has been jailed for having sex with women and knowingly spreading the HIV virus. This dude has been spreading his own little seeds even though he had the monster. Now, he has been in jail since June and faces no less than five years in jail if convicted. Shouldn’t he get life? I mean, he’s basically ruined the lives of all these women. He’s had the AIDS virus his entire life after getting it from his mother. This dude really got around. See some of the pictures listed on his myspace page.

Jadakiss and the alleged HIV-giver-on-purpose.

What is on Wayne’s mind?

Mean mugging with Timbo!

YUCK! Get some Proactiv!

Looks like somebody is going to have some major problems for the rest of his young life. This chick below seems to have some ideas.

DEDICATION TO GUY!

Lets end the week off with some nice videos! The show with Teddy Riley was dope at Hip-Hop Honors – NO DOUBT! But, there was a longing to see Guy live and in color. This is what BET of TV ONE needs to make happen! They were so dope and still are!

Guy – “Groove Me”

Guy – “Lets Chill”

R.KELLY…COME ON.

Everybody knows I am not a big fan of R. Kelly, but this is really weird and crazy. Real talk. Is this dude crazy? Real talk. This song is totally unnecessary. Real talk. (Warning: explicit R&B thug talk.)

“HEY YA” REVISITED

This is an oldie, but definitely a goodie. (Shout out to George!)

CRANK DAT GRANDPA?

SMH at this video. “Crank dat wheelchair?” The kids of today…I don’t know what to make of ‘em…kinda funny though…albeit disrespectful.

TOMORROW, WE LOVE YOU!

They keep us talking, but if we stop talking about them then they should worry!

-illseed

WHO: illseed

WHAT: Rumors

WHERE: AllHipHop.com, MySpace.com/TheIllseed

HOW: Send your rumors and ill pics to illseed at [email protected].

– allhiphop rumors

Rapper Prodigy Starts Gun Trial; Faces 15 Years In Prison

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Mobb Deep’s Prodigy’s trial for handgun possession started yesterday in New York.

 

Police stopped the G-Unit member’s Chevy Suburban last October, after they witnessed Prodigy driving the opposite direction on a one way street, in an attempt to secure a parking spot in the Chelsea district of Manhattan.

 

According to the New York Post, two plainclothes officers testified yesterday (October 4) that they pulled over the armored SUV around 2:00 am on October 26, 2006, after witnessing Prodigy and passenger/producer The Alchemist make the illegal turn.

 

Both officers testified they witnessed Prodigy place has hand near or on the open console, where police allegedly found a loaded, unlicensed .22 caliber handgun.

 

Police said they had the right to search the car due to the hand motions of Prodigy and because of the SUV’s heavily armored doors and reinforced windows.

 

Prodigy, born Albert Johnson, claims he had no idea the gun was in the compartment.

 

The rapper already has two convictions.

 

A third conviction could land him in prison for up to 15-years.

 

Gun charges against The Alchemist were dismissed, while Prodigy will start his defense on Tuesday (October 9).

To Deejay or Not: Tutorial Part IV

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Features

Last week we discussed the emergence of MP3s and making the

transition from DJ to producer. This week we’ll discuss the natural

progression of going from a DJ to a remixer.

8. From Deejaying to Remixing – For most DJs remixing is a

natural progression because when you are blending two records, you are

in essence, remixing those songs. You may not be aware of it, but what

you are doing is creating your own personal version. When you take an

instrumental from one song and blend it with the vocals of another,

this is even more evident. Remixes are a great way to bridge the gap

between playing records and making records. If you can establish a name

on the club scene by producing hot mixes for DJs, you will begin to

garner attention. This activity can be used as a platform not only to

land official remixes, but to create interest amongst label personnel

for production opportunities. If you possess the ability and talent to

produce and create original tracks, this will give you a major

advantage. This remix tactic has been used by several DJs as a way to

get their “foot in the door” into the production arena.

Surfing the net, you’ll come across all types of DJ remixes, some

hot – some not. Most are unofficial because the tracks that are being

used would cost a fortune to have cleared. However, if you’re able to

create enough excitement around that particular mix, the artists’

record label might attempt to clear the music and purchase it. These days, most hip-hop remixes usually consist of a performance by another well-known artist incorporated onto the original track. This tactic is

used by the artist or the record company to give the record a “new

life.” When the song has peaked and begins to decline, after being a

hit for a few months, this maneuver can resurrect the song or at least

sustain the club and air-play.

Other remixes merge the original vocals from a song with a different

instrumental. These remixes are generally used to attract the attention

of a different audience. A variety of mixes are used to cater to a

particular region or musical genre. (ex. Reggae-Mix, House /

Techno-Mix, Down- South Mix, West-Coast-Mix, Pop-Mix, Bass Mix etc.)

Other remixes, on a much larger scale, are used by the record company

to assist in attaining overseas club and air-play. A lot of the

countries overseas prefer the up-tempo dance tracks so the vocals are

usually pitch-shifted up to a faster tempo. Pitch-shifting enables you

to speed-up or slow-down the tempo of the vocals while maintaining the

original key or pitch.

Most remixes come into play when the original version of the record

isn’t getting the desired play or isn’t creating a significant initial

buzz. Sometimes the new track adds an element of excitement and aids in

giving it that appropriate launch. Another style of remixing is

incorporating elements or entire sections from other records and simply

doing your own arrangement. These mixes are generally released on

underground DJ compilations and are designed strictly for the clubs and

for promotional use only. Another style of remixing, in a more extreme

case, is when the vocals and the music are totally revamped. (New

chorus, new verses and a new track) This remix style is rare because it

takes time and money for the artist to go back into the studio and

recreate all of the vocals, whereas conventional remixes contain, most

or all of, the original vocal performance. Our company, K.O.

Productionz, produced several remixes including one for R & B

artist Monica where we kept her original vocals, produced an entirely

new track and we recorded and incorporated a few rhymes from the

legendary Biz Markie. Her label liked our mix so much that they

pressed-up vinyl and CDs and it received many spins in the clubs and on

radio stations nationwide. As a DJ, use your network of radio DJs, club

DJs and artists to your advantage.

Another advantage to the DJ / Remixer is the mass access to

instrumentals and acapellas. These versions are at your disposal for

experimenting and sampling. My partner Brian O. frequently blended

acapellas from 12 inch records with one of our original beats just to

envision how the track would sound with a particular artist. Sometimes

a track might sound empty and feel like it needs more instruments, but

occasionally the vocals are that essential and final element required.

Sometimes a line or two from an acapella can be sampled and processed

to become a chorus-line or hook for an original track. The options are

limitless depending on your creativity. Another advantage to DJs is

their familiarity of what tracks are currently working in the clubs.

These advantages, along with having a good ear for mixing and blending,

are the motivation behind DJs being requested for remixes.

Stay tuned for more DJ tutorials and interviews in weeks to come.

Also, for info on my forthcoming book, classic clips from our radio

show “Live In The Den With Big Tigger” as well as updates check out:

http://www.myspace.com/TheKofKOCheck out this remix of Jay-Z’s  “99 Problems”

RZA Talks ‘8 Diagrams,’ Wu Launching Nationwide Tour

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Coming back for the release of their highly-anticipated album 8 Diagrams isn’t the only milestone achieved by revered Hip-Hop collective Wu-Tang Clan.

 

The group, which re-surfaced last year for a live performance in California, is also returning to its beginnings by reuniting with Loud Records founder Steve Rifkind for the album’s release.

 

Although it has been nearly 15 years, since he last worked with Wu-Tang, Rifkind has kept track of the impact the group and its members have had on the rap community.

 

“What a thrill to be able to work with Wu-Tang again,” said Rifkind, who was instrumental in launching the group’s classic debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). “Over the last few years, the group has developed a whole new following of people in their 20s who never saw them perform.”

 

Founded by the RZA, GZA and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard (O.D.B.), Wu-Tang Clan is noted for creating one of the most distinctive music catalogs in rap history.

 

Since the release of Enter the Wu-Tang, the group’s nine members have gone on to find success through various ventures that include music, acting, scoring films, video games and clothing lines.

 

8 Diagrams marks the Wu-Tang’s return to the rap scene after a six year absence. The first single from the release, titled “My Heart Gently Weeps,” is described as “an interpolation” of George Harrison’s classic Beatles song, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”

 

It features Harrison’s son Dhani Harrison, singer Erykah Badu and Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante.

 

Fans can now hear the single, which is available exclusively on www.Loud.com.

 

According to RZA, the timing couldn’t be better for him and fellow Wu-Tang affiliates GZA, Method Man, Raekwon the Chef, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa and U-God to stand united again.

 

“This is the perfect time for us to get back together, the stars are aligned,” said RZA, who added that fans can expect to hear a performance of O.D.B. “in his rawest form” from the vault “which will show you why he was considered one of the illest MCs ever.”

 

O.D.B.’s presence will also be felt on a tribute song titled “Life Changes.”

 

“Hopefully, it will provide some closure for the fans,” RZA said about the completed track.

 

To promote 8 Diagrams, Wu-Tang Clan will embark on a month-long U.S. tour that kicks off Oct. 20 in Miami, which runs through the group’s final tour stop in Hawaii on Nov. 23.

 

Wu-Tang Clan’s 8 Diagrams, which will be released on Loud Records through Universal Records, is slated to hit stores on Dec. 4.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Where’s Cam Part 331! Jim Jones Gets A New Deal! Mistah Fab vs Budden!

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

JIM JONES SIGNS MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR DEAL!So, Ms. Info talked to Jim Jones again and there is good news. Here is the quote:“I just left the lawyer’s office. I signed a multimillion

dollar joint venture with Sony. My boss is Rick Rubin and Hip Hop

(Kyambo Joshua) is doing my albums with me. What you think Jay-Z is

gonna think about that?”

LOL @ Jim still thinking about Jay-Z. Anyway, this is good news. Everybody is wondering if Jim can do it again after the success of “We Fly,” but with Rick Rubin…anything can happen. This is good news, but I have to wonder how this shift with affect Dipset. Also, Koch wasn’t too pleased to lose their marquee act, but they got paid off proper. (The Cam’ron rumors are down the page a bit).More of what Jim told Miss Information:“What’s crazy is that they gave me the same deal that Un and them

f##### up back in the day when they got the Sony/Untertainment deal….I

got that joint venture, that 50/50 split, they don’t give those out

anymore. That’s a Dame Dash, Ruff Ryders deal. And I’m bout to go crazy

with it. I’m gonna be a problem.”Of course we couldn’t leave Jay out of this:“Hip Hop is the guy who did all of Jay’s albums, and Rick Rubin is the

man who gave him that monster hit. So I dont know if he was aware of

the deal, but its when everyone else finds out….that’s what I imagine

will put him in a different kind of state.”Could this stop Jay-Z from leaving Def Jam? The plot thickens! Shout out to Miss Info for the info.KAY SLAY HAS NO BEEF WITH DR. DRE

Kay Slay talked about the rumors that I got from Foundation Magazine and some other sources as well. See, I don’t create rumors, but I do relay and deliver them to the people! Shout out to Kay Slay for clearing that up, but please believe that Foundation Mag has an interview with the Drama Lord. That interview, as I was told, basically is saying that there is a “situation” with Dr. Dre that has resulted in tension! Now, Foundation drops next month so I am going to be sure to get a copy to clear this up. Anyway, here is Slay refuting that there is beef with Dre…Click here to listen!

Also Ray-J shot down the rumor that he was coming out with a book called “Sex Machine” and that it was a male version of Superhead. I guess, he is writing a book about his life, but he ain’t writing a tell-all sex book. I guess I we can’t call him Supermouth or whatever name I published the other day. I don’t think anybody really wants to read a regular book on Ray though. Could be me.

WHERE’S CAM’RON: PART 331

Well, I heard previously that Cam’ron was up at the EMI building and possibly looking for a deal over there with Capitol or Virgin. Well, I heard that was partially right, but actually wrong. From what I understand, Cam was actually up there to see the good folks at Imperial Records (who are in the same building). Imperial is a company that was started in 1947, but recently got “reactivated.” The legacy of Imperial started with people like Cher. T-Bone and Fats Domino and ended up with Fat Joe, Bizzy Bone, Jin, and Evidence in 2006. From what I understand, Cam was up there chopping it up with Imperial seeking the possibilities (hint, hint: looking for a deal!). Cam isn’t the only one coming through there, because they are on the rise as a record label.

HELP HAS ARRIVED!

These damn rumors aren’t easy and I need help! I have a life and I am sick and tired of writing rumors all day! So, Dove – one of AHH’s finest – had aided in my job! Check out her report, live from the VH1 Hip-Hop Honors! They taped the award show last night, but it airs on Monday October 8. Oh yea, Vote for AllHipHop for Best Website!

Here is her report!

Hey all, it’s your most charming Dove with a few words!

Tonight was the VH-1 Hip Hop Honors taping, and AllHipHop.com was in the mix. While a lot of the night was dressed with smiles and politically correct speeches in the media room, we did come out with a little scoop for you. The show airs on October 8th on VH-1, and there’s some pretty classic performances on there. Honorees include Missy Elliiott, A Tribe Called Quest and Wild Style. My personal highlight of the night wasthe Whodini tribute… it’s about time we showed them the love they deserve! Celebs performing or making appearances include Snoop Dogg, Ciara, Fatman Scoop, Ne-Yo, Keyshia Cole, Kool Moe Dee, The Rock Steady Crew, Grandmaster Caz, Fab Five Freddy, Busy B, Common, Chris Rock, Nick Cannon, KRS-One, Tweet, Timbaland, Eve… and the list goes on.

Back in the press room… after making a few jokes about the situation, Salt n’ Pepa confirmed that they have indeed not dumped Spinderella, nor was there beef with her surrounding their new reality show. They clarified that Spin is simply not in a lot of the show because the two rap vets had a lot of their own issues to work through. Both ladies looked absolutely beautiful, and I’m looking forward to seeing thes how, which appears to be taking us through two decades of pent up emotions between the two.

There is a big New Jack Swing tribute on the show, which in taping was a bit of a hot mess. Maybe the editing will make it better, but damn… I had such high hopes. T-Pain should have sang up an octave for his Keith Sweat seranade (only because we could barely hear him since he was singing so low), and the Ne-Yo/Keyshia Cole duet hit a couple of surprising sour notes (probably due to some technical difficulties, because both are great live performers).

In an awkward moment in the press room, someone asked where Aaron and Damien Hall were. Teddy Riley toldus that “VH-1 wanted the biggest hits, and ‘No Diggety’ was my biggest hit,” and further explained that “Ne-Yo wanted to do a Guy song” therefore Aaron and Damien were not flown in. Well, since we’re being hella retro here, I’m giving Teddy the gas face for that one.

First off, ‘No Diggety’ was in the aftermath of New Jack Swing. No Jack. No Swing. Secondly, Aaron Hall is the G.O.A.T. of New Jack and golden era R&B for that matter. R.Kelly’s whole initial sound was a pleasant knock off of Aaron Hall’s vocal delivery. We love Ne-Yo, but it’s no excuse for leaving the Hall brothers out. Hell, I’d have rather heard some Bobby Brown or Redhead Kingpen than “No Diggety,” but I guess that might have been keeping it too real.

There just has to be more to the story…

Ice T was on hand to answer various questions, and once again he openly explained to the media how much CoCo and he were meant to be. Granted, some longtime fans could never get past Darlene being out of the picture (this totally includes illseed the Darlene fiend), but after seven years of marriage, Ice T and CoCo T have more than proven that they know how to make a relationship work in both business and love. Someone also asked about how Ice felt about his son being exposed to his lifestyle. Ice explained that his son is his own person. He is 15 now, and asked for golf clubs for his birthday. He had told his son to always see what a job paid before he pursued it, and Tiger Woods doesn’t do so bad. Please let those happy people be and congratulate Ice T for his very inspiring career in music and acting. The Hip Hop nation should be more than proud of him.

Speaking of great relationships, Fatman Scoop and his lovely wife Shanda were probably the most popular people of the night with the other celebs. Scoop tore it up durning the Missy Set!

That’s what I can tell you… and yeah, maybe I’m just too nice sometimes. Tune in on October 8th and let us know your thoughts on the show.

THE AFTERPARTY

I hear that one of the many Hip-Hop Honors afterparties was crazy! Plumm – a club owned by Dame Dash – had one of the illest parties. It was too ill! I heard several people couldn’t get in, including Nas! What? I heard that they gave DJ Red Alert a hard time at the VIP. I did hear that Saigon, Joe Budden, Dougie Fresh (Happy Birthday, Mr. Fresh!), Andre Harrell, Q-Tip and others were there.

PHIFE – WHAT’S UP?

From what I was told, Phife Dog of A Tribe looked pretty small and actually sick during the event. Well, this is bad news, but I heard that Phife is, in fact, very sick. I’m gatherinig intel that he’s a diabetic in need of a kidney transplant. I can honestly say that I hope he can find a doner, but I’m gathering it has been difficult thus far. Nevertheless, Tribe is the bomb and Phife is in our prayers.

KOOL MOE DEE CHANGED THE LINE!!!

Most of you guys know about Nas and Jay-Z, Canibus and LL, or some other battle, but there was one that was above them all…or at least right up there. On his song, “How You Like Me Now,” he says to LL, “I’m bigger and better, forget about DEFFER.” If you can’t tell, he was crapping on LL’s album at the time, Bigger and Deffer. Last night at the Hip-Hop Honors, Moe Dee had a sudden change of heart and said, “I’m bigger and better, could never be lesser.” I heard the people that knew were stunned at the change! Well, later in the show LL Cool J presents one of the awards and it all makes sense. I don’t know, but I assume that there was an “arrangement” made where Moe Dee couldn’t diss LL.

HIP-HOP HISTORY!

I think that LL is widely regarded as the winner of the battle with Kool Moe Dee, but upon examination, its very arguable. Take a listen to all the songs…Moe got bizzzzzzy!

Kool Moe Dee vs. LL Cool J – Part 1!

Kool Moe Dee vs. LL Cool J – Part 2 !

ILLSEED’S QUICKY

I know we are going through a semi-Superhead boycott, but I have to say that the chick has announced her fiancée as Darius “Eddie Winslow” McCrary from “Family Matters.”

BUSTA BREAKS IT DOWN!

Busta is really dropping some knowledge in this video.

MISTAH F.A.B. VS JOE BUDDEN

Well, this all started at the AllHipHop Battle and it will continue with AHH. This is how it is going down with Mistah Fab these days. He did this recent interview and really called out Joe Budden. See below.

Part 2 of the rumors are coming down later this afternoon. TOMORROW, WE LOVE YOU!

They keep us talking, but if we stop talking about them then they should worry!

-illseed

WHO: illseed

WHAT: Rumors

WHERE: AllHipHop.com, MySpace.com/TheIllseed

HOW: Send your rumors and ill pics to illseed at [email protected].

– allhiphop rumors

Fam-Lay: Ties That Bind

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Features

The Star Trak camp is all about sci-fi and Fam-Lay might as well be Back To the Future. We revisit Norfolk, Virginia’s “Rock N’ Roll” champ three years after his Traintogo debut floated into outerspace aboard the Def Jam ship and wasn’t released. Naturally frustrated like his Clipse label-mates, Fam-Lay had to re-work his game plan. Fortunately, the setback was just an intermission that sharpened 30-year-old Nathaniel Johnson’s skills. After cameos on The Clipse’s Lord Willin’ and Neptunes Present… Clones, the Huntersville aficionado is creating a buzz for fans that have been impatiently waiting on the release of Dat Missle (Star Trak/Interscope). From the perspective of an “everyday dude,” Fam is ready to play Virginia’s musical tour-guide. The lyrical hopscotch on his single, “Da Beeper Record,” complemented by a Hype Williams video, is only a forecast of what to expect on Dat Missle.  AllHipHop.com talks to Fam-Lay about going boldly where no rapper has ever gone before.AllHipHop.com: Is it true that you heard about getting dropped from Def Jam from Allhiphop? What was your reaction?Fam-Lay: I had actually heard about the article from a friend right before I found out but I knew it was coming. I could tell by the way they weren’t pushing it.  But I ain’t got no ill feelings for L.A. Reid. He could have been an a###### about it. He could have been a d####### like, Yo we’re not going to let him release it and put the album on hold, so let him go. I was kinda salty because I knew [the process] would take more time.AllHipHop.com: Since Traintogo was never released did you transfer any of the songs to the new album, Dat Missle?Fam-Lay: I run into a lot of people on the streets like yo whatever happened to “Ambulance?” There were certain records like that that I just couldn’t get rid of. And if I felt like that about them then I kept them for this album to really make it complete.AllHipHop.com: So who did you work with on the new album?Fam-Lay: There’s a lot of people on this album that I’m a fan of myself. For production I got The Neptunes of course.  DJ Toomp. We got Shorty Red. One of the features I’m most excited about is the one with Jadakiss, “Mr. Treat Your Nose.” I got B.G. on a song and David Banner on a song called “Ten Toes Down” and Three Six Mafia.AllHipHop.com: How have you grown lyrically on this album? Fam-Lay: I think I got sharper you know what I mean? I think I’ve always been sharp but now it’s more creative. Since the last album I’ve seen more things and been through more. Usually I rap about things I’m going through right then and there. Now I’ve got three extra years of stuff to talk about. AllHipHop.com: The 757 area is like a mixture of NY transplants and southern artists. How do you identify your sound?Fam-Lay: I think I’m blessed because in VA we’ve got the best of both worlds. I can go both ways. When people think of the South they think of the beat. And when they think of the North they think of the lyrics. I can get it on any beat I want; a South beat and still feel at home or I can get an up North beat, an East Coast beat and do my thing too. I’ve learned how to adapt and use that to my advantage. AllHipHop.com: On your website you talk about how hard it is trying to get put on in VA. With so much talent coming from the area why is that?Fam-Lay: There’s not that many avenues we can take if you trying to do this. It’s not like we can knock on a door or walk down the street into a building like Bad Boy. We don’t got none of that. And it ain’t like a lot of people come down here. We just gotta run into them. It’s like hitting the lottery. We don’t really got that many opportunities or avenues to be heard or seen. So at the end of the day if you do it and you got that chance I got, then you’re lucky. AllHipHop.com: How did you link up with Pharrell and the Star Trak camp?Fam-Lay: His brother and I used to stay in the same neighborhood. So it wasn’t like someone introduced me to him. Pharrell used to come out there to see his family, me and him used to hang out. He was talking about music back then. Star Trak back then and space ships and all that s###. He was the only one who really talked about music. Like I said if you told people you want to rap they’d be like ‘Are you crazy man?’ You can spend the money on the keyboard; I’m going to get the Jordans. But now trying to rap makes a lot more sense. AllHipHop.com: You got on the Clipse’s first album and then your joint “Rock N’ Roll” made it to Clones. What kind of feedback did you get after that?Fam-Lay: When you’re thinking of a record or trying to think of a concept for a song you’re not really sure how people will take it you know? In some cases you don’t even think about that.  Like take for instance when I did the joint on the Clipse album a lot of people didn’t know I rapped. I ain’t let nobody hear none of that and when it came out people was like ‘oh s###.’ A lot of people liked it and came up to me and said they wanted to hear more.  With the “Rock N’ Roll” joint I did for the Clones, I got a lot more positive feedback.AllHipHop.com: The Clipse have the VA hustler theme locked down with their music. Are you on the same wavelength or do you veer off in your own direction?Fam-Lay: Man. I’m more of an everyday dude you know what I’m saying? I’m just that dude hanging out. I got records for hustlers, I do that. But that ain’t all it’s about. I’m trying to give you all of the scenes of Virginia. The hustler part, the party part, the bad part, the murders and drive bys, all of that.  But from the point of view of the average, everyday dude. I got a record called “Ambulance” talking about here comes the ambulance—about putting somebody in the back of the ambulance. On the same album I got “Da Beeper Record,” which is all about getting money. There’s another record called “Strung Out” and that’s about women. I want it to be like a brochure. As soon as you get to a city and get off the plane where’s the hotspot? That’s how I want my album to be.  AllHipHop.com: You didn’t want “Da Beeper Record” to be your single but you kind of got outvoted. Now that it’s doing well do you feel differently about your decision?Fam-Lay: I was flying to L.A. to record with Three Six Mafia and my album was done. That was the last record we recorded. And nobody heard the finished version but me. Pharrell hadn’t heard it. So Pharrell’s assistant played it in the studio while I was gone and everybody went crazy. And you gotta go with what the bosses want. But I like the record I didn’t think of it as the first single but I like the record. AllHipHop.com: You re-shot the video for your first single “Da Beeper Record.” How do you feel about the final product?Fam-Lay: Yeah, Hype Williams did it. It came out great. The first one we shot in Virginia and it didn’t really come out right. It just didn’t feel right. It’s wild how things work out because [we] worked with Hype on the second joint in Miami. Three full days of shooting and the last day Hype was like let’s get some shots in Virginia so we came back home and got the last ones. So I got Hype Williams to do the video and we got to film back home in Virginia. [Story continues below]AllHipHop.com: Your debut album is coming out in a tough time in terms of album sales. Is that pressure to go platinum a real concern of yours?Fam-Lay: Yeah the game has changed a little bit. But I don’t think that’s a big issue. Of course I want it to go platinum or whatever but I ain’t really stressed out about that. I just want to make sure get it out to the people that I’ve been running into in the streets like ‘what’s up with the album?’ You know? Get it to the people that have been waiting through the setbacks.  

The Last Word: Beyonce’s Banned, America’s Woman Of the Year, R. Kelly’s Touring, and Vin Diesel’s Fast and Furious…again

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Alternatives

What it look like, everyone? Once again it’s that time to shake off the drama from the week and commence with the fun and rest of the weekend. From North Korea vowing to dismantle its nuclear weapons by the end of the year to Marion Jones finally admitting to using steroids two years before the 2000 Olympic games to Britney Spears losing her kids to K-Fed, things were talkative.Shout out to Oprah Winfrey for topping the Forbes list of the 20 richest celebrities on television and America’s Next Top Model winner Jaslene Gonzalez, who became the new spokeswoman for Liz Claiborne’s “Love is Not Abuse” campaign. And oh yeah, the sounding boards for the much-appreciated feedback.And now…the Last Word for the week ending Oct. 5, 2007 1. Jackie Chan Not Impressed By Rush Hour Films The Rush Hour films may provide a bunch of laughs for moviegoers, but they don’t do much for one half of the film’s successful pair.  According to the Associated Press, Jackie Chan had less than high hopes for the first Rush Hour, which he made in 1988 to test the U.S. market. “When we finished filming, I felt very disappointed because it was a movie I didn’t appreciate, and I did not like the action scenes involved,” the action star revealed in a blog entry on his Web site seen Sunday (Sept. 30). “I felt the style of action was too Americanized and I didn’t understand the American humor.” As for Rush Hour 2, Chan said he made the sequel because he was offered an “irresistible” amount of money to do it. Rush Hour 3, according to the actor, was done to appease fans of the first two movies. I guess Jackie can afford to criticize the Rush Hour films AFTER he’s made so much money from them. Must be nice to not have to worry about a lack of funds once you bite the hand that feeds you. So I guess that Rush Hour 4 won’t be coming after all.  2. Malaysian Muslims Shut Down Beyonce Concert Aside from being a multi-platinum vocalist and sporting a blond mane, Beyonce may not share much in common with Gwen Stefani. However, the former Destiny’s Child singer is sharing the same response Stefani got months ago, as protests from Muslim groups have resulted in a cancelled  Beyonce concert in Kuala Lumpar.  Billboard.com reports that industry sources cite Beyonce’s refusal to follow the country’s strict dress code for performers as the reason behind the cancellation. A statement issued by the concert’s promoter, Pineapple Concerts, announced the cancellation without giving a reason.  According to the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage’s rules, performers must not hug or kiss audience members or fellow artists, jump or shout, throw objects onstage or at the audience and no foul language. In addition, clothes cannot have obscene or drug-related images or messages, and female performers must show no skin from the tops of their chests to their knees.  The Kuala Lumpar show, which was scheduled for Nov. 1, would have been Beyonce’s debut Malaysian performance. The uproar mirrors similar opposition experienced by Stefani, who bowed to pressure from the National Union of Malaysian Muslim Students and ended up performing while wearing jackets over her tops and leotards underneath her skirts and dresses. I’m all for following the law, but just this once I’d have to bend the rules. Can you imagine going to a Beyonce show and seeing her fully covered up and not being able to bring her sexy live and direct? So if you’re in Malaysia and you’re reading this, please start a movement to get them to reconsider. You just can’t get the full Beyonce experience without taking in the sexiness.  3. Jamie Foxx: “President Bush Lacks Charisma” Whether he’s expressing his opinions about Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick or reminiscing over his late grandmother’s influence, Jamie Foxx lets you know what’s on his mind.  And he continued that trend, as he weighed in on the U.S. involvement in Iraq while promoting his latest film The Kingdom. In an interview with MSNBC, Foxx revealed that he doesn’t see a quick end for the Iraq war.  “It’s not the way America has handled the war, it’s the way George Bush has handled it,” said the Oscar winner, who noted that President Bush’s big problem is that he lacks charisma. “I think George Bush and the guys that are there just don’t have the charisma to pull off the things that they’re trying to do. I can understand if you want to go to war, but how do you go to war? They go to war in a high-risk, high-return or high-risk, no-return situation. You’ll be in Iraq for another 30 years. You can’t get out.”  Charisma is one thing, knowing when to say when is another. Put them together and W. could slightly improve his image among people. Still it would be a long way to go. A very long way.  4. Shakira Makes $45 Million Charity Donation Life is more than truthful hips and a successful music career for Shakira. TMZ.com reports that the Colombian songbird recently announced that she was donating $45 million to charity.  $40 million will go to Nicaragua and Peru to address recent natural disasters there, while an additional $5 million will go to educational projects benefitting children across Latin America. The donation is the latest act of goodwill for Shakira, who also serves as the co-founder of the Latin America for Solidarity Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping impoverished children across Latin America. Underneath her clothes…there’s a woman with a good heart. 5. Vin Diesel Returns to the Fast Lane Years after making a name for himself in 2001’s The Fast and the Furious, Vin Diesel is gearing up to take another ride.  The Hollywood Reporter is stating that the actor is reuniting with his original co-star Paul Walker in the newest chapter of the Universal Pictures film series. As it stands now, the plot for the feature is being kept top secret.  Diesel’s return should come as welcomed news for Fast and Furious fans, who helped the first film gross more than $144 million. Since then, two Fast and Furious films have been released. Although he has refused to do any sequels to the series, Diesel did make a cameo at the end of the third film, 2005’s Tokyo Drift.  So begs the question – after three films, has The Fast and the Furious run out of gas or will Diesel give it a much needed refueling? 6. R. Kelly Hits the Road Instead of the Courthouse As he waits for a date to come down to officially start his child pornography trial, R. Kelly has decided to make good use of his time by, what else, going out on tour.  MTV.com reports that the singer is hitting the road with Keyshia Cole, J. Holiday, and Ne-Yo for a 37-date national tour. The outing, which kicks off Nov. 17 in Columbus, GA, will make stops in numerous cities before wrapping up Jan. 12 in Hampton, VA. According to Kelly’s representative, the singer had to make other plans after it was determined that the trial would not happen “anytime soon.” The only thing standing in Kelly’s way is the court, which he has to notify concerning his plans to tour. As of Wednesday (Oct. 3), the crooner has not yet sought permission to go on tour from November through January, the Illinois attorney’s office told MTV News.  Despite this, Kelly’s representative said that if permission had not yet been sought, it soon will be: “He knows what the rules are.”  I’m glad Kells knows what the rules are. Now can the court follow the rules and put this man on trial? Otherwise we might as well contribute to his defense fund while getting our bump and grind on and stepping in the name of “love.”  7. America Ferrera is the Hispanic Woman of the Year Ugly Betty is definitely doing beautiful things for America Ferrera, who follows her Emmy, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild wins with honors from the Hollywood Reporter and Billboard. The Associated Press reports that the publications announced Thursday (Oct. 4) that the 23-year-old actress was named Hispanic Woman of the Year and will be recognized with the 25 most powerful Hispanic women in film, television and music at their inaugural Hispanic Women in Entertainment breakfast at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on Tuesday (Oct. 9). In a statement issued by publisher John Kilcullen, Ferrera is labeled as “a leader for all women, but especially those in the Hispanic community,” who is “dedicated to advancing the position of Hispanics in television and film.” 8. Quincy Jones Becomes NEA Jazz Master Congratulations are in order for music icon Quincy Jones, who was one of six musicians named as National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters for 2008.  Jones was officially recognized Tuesday (Oct. 2) as the 2008 Jazz Masters were announced during a ceremony hosted by NEA Chairman Dana Gioia at the Jazz at Lincoln Center. The organization described Jones as being “a renaissance man of music,” as it honored him in the bandleader category. Although he was unable to attend the ceremony, Gioia told the Associated Press that Jones will accept his plaque at a special awards concert during the annual International Association for Jazz Education conference in January in Toronto. 9. Tyrese in the Running for Green Lantern Role As Warner Bros. searches for a worthy group of actors for its highly-anticipated Justice League of America film, there are rumblings that the studio may be considering Tyrese Gibson for the role of Green Lantern.  Mania Movies reports that the singer/actor/rapper is in the running to play the hero, who also goes by the name of John Stewart. For the non-fanboys, Green Lantern is a superhero who possesses a “power ring” that gives the user great control over the physical world as long as the wielder has sufficient willpower and strength to wield it. The Green Lantern consideration isn’t the first time Gibson’s name has been mentioned in reference to playing a comic book character on the big screen. His name has been attached to play the lead in John Singleton’s film version of Marvel Comic’s Luke Cage character.  As it stands now, Warner Bros. is not confirming any individual casting choices. Instead, the studio is waiting until a full cast has signed on the dotted line before saying anything. One person who won’t be involved in the film is Jessica Biel, who recently turned down the chance to play Wonder Woman. The other big name reported for the film is Ryan Reynolds, who is considered a favorite to play the Flash.  And with that in mind, who do you think will make a good Green Lantern? Although I think Tyrese would be a good fit, I think Jamie Foxx and Derek Luke from Antoine Fisher could also bring it as well. Feel free to offer any suggestions.

Football Player/Rapper/Wrestler Pacman Jones Giving Away 1500 Tickets To TNA

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Football player-turned-rapper-turned professional wrestler Adam “Pac Man” Jones has bought 1,500 tickets to the TNA Tag Team Championship for Atlanta area high school students who are earning good grades.Jones, who grew up in the famed College Park section of Atlanta, will defend his Tag Team Championship belt with partner Ron “The Truth” Killings.The pair won the belt from wrestling legends “The Icon” Sting and Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle upon Jones’ arrival in TNA in July.”I grew up a huge wrestling fan, and the chance for me to have seen my favorite wrestler Sting when I was a kid would have been a big motivator for me,” said Jones. “I know what it’s like to need someone to believe in you. Giving a kid a ticket to a wrestling show like this is a small way for these schools and teachers to say, ‘Hey, here is a reward for all the things you are doing right, now keep it up.'”Jones purchased 1,500 tickets to give to students in the Fulton County School District to attend “Bound For Glory” at the Gwinnett Center Arena in Duluth.The tickets will be distributed at the discretion of school administrators for academic achievements, grades and punctuality.Jones attended Westlake High School and set a number of records and helped the school win two state titles. Jones attended the University of West Virginia before joining the Tennessee Titans.”I think (the wrestling) is an exciting event, and we look forward to supporting him in this venture,” said Sandra Ervin, Westlake High School principal. “I think it’s a generous and genuine support of his alma mater, Westlake High School.”The football player is currently suspended for the 2007 NFL season due to a number of high profile incidents off the football field in 2006.Jones, who runs the rap label National Street League Records, will speak to seniors at Westlake High School on Oct. 12.Bound for Glory airs on Pay Per View on October 14.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Rumors on Lil Wayne’s Baby Moms…And Amil.

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

RAY-J’S NEW NAME!

I want to thank everybody that offered their suggestions on the rename / nickname Ray-J contest. I got all sorts of funny ones, but I settled on the one that I felt would work for us all.

I want to congratulate Cedric Jones for giving US the new name for Ray-J (DRUM ROLL PLEASE…)

SUPERFACE!!!

The runner-up was Q-Zoo, who suggested “Super Tongue.” For some reason, Superface just sounded better…more appropriate.

Here are just a sample of the other names that were suggested:

Super F*g

Super Desperate

Brandy’s Box Eating Brother

Head Monster

Brandy’s brother

Rico Suave

Man-W####**Note: Those were reader submissions. Not meeeeeeeeee!

HERE IS THE RUMOR I HEARD ABOUT WAYNE’S BAY BAY MOMS…

You heard from Lil’ Wayne’s baby’s moms Toya and now, here is the rumor I got.

Now, there are two sides to every story and I have the other side to the Lil’ Wayne / Yoya stuff. At one point, Lil’ Wayne rapped about how Toya cheated on him. Well the story goes like this: He and Toya went to Marion Abramson High School together and hooked up and they had a baby along the line. With Wayne already being a famous rapper and being on the road so much, temptation set in and Toya allegedly cheated on him. From what I heard, all of New Orleans knew about this infidelity. Wayne found out about the dastardly, devastating deed. Then he started dissing her in all his songs and mixtapes. While engaged to Nivea, Wayne and Toya allegedly reconnected and hooked back up. I heard they tied the knot on August 8, 2004 at the Champagne Palace. I heard the wedding was nice and hood, meaning he had it in a nice place with hood individuals.

G-UNIT HATES OLIVIA?

You know, I thought when 50 Cent dropped Olivia it was mostly a business decision, right? You know, she had several videos and song and just never picked up. Well, I have never been in the G-Unit offices or anything, but I heard there is a diss in there. Allegedly, there is a group picture of them in there – with the whole crew – and Olivia is defaced. Somebody took a pen or something and put the hangman noose drawn over her. This seems like Amil part 2!

SPEAKING OF AMIL

I never thought Amil was wack, but she still got dropped. Not too long ago, she was rumored to be working in retail and I guess I did something on it. Well, to make amends for that rumor, I will now publish her reply, even if it is made late.

To clear up the rumor of the week posted by ALLHIPHOP.com that many people are asking. Does Amil work at MACY”S in New York City? The answer is NO..She does not. Amil has not even been to NYC in over three years. We do not understand why these rumors about where she works are always around. At first it was Amil working the registers at K-Mart, well atleast they stepped it up to Macy’s LOL…Another person had said she worked at Walmart?….There is another one about her being a stripper…. Also false my friendzz…. And so what if she was working those jobs? She would be getting paid right? If that is what she had to do to feed her kidsz then so be it!……Some people need to step their game up with the factzz… ..AND WITH ALL HONESTY AMIL COULD CARE LESS ABOUT RUMORS BECAUSE THEY ARE NEVER TRUE ANYWAY!

Well, never? Sometimes they are true.

THE NEXT WAVE – BOBBY BROWN JR and AL. B SURE JR.

Rumor has is, Al B. Sure’s son and Bobby Brown’s son are really tight. Well, they are so cool that I heard they have formed a new singing group. I don’t know the name of the group, but I heard they are performing heavy in New York City, in particularly the Mount Vernon. I don’t know if this is the same son that Al has with Kim Porter, but I heard he can sing a lil’ better than his daddy.

MEN : DO NOT TRY TO HUMP DANNY BONADUCE

Check this video out! You know Danny Bonaduce is crazy, deranged, right? So don’t try to hump him if you are a man. At the Reality TV Awards, this dude named Jonny Fairplay tried to be funny and d####### Danny for laughs. He was getting booed and was desperate. Well, Danny picks the dude up and tosses him – on his face! Jonny lost mad front teeth and even broke a toe. The aftermath…Dude should have known better and now the coppers are looking to charge Danny for battery. Here is a lil’ bit more…

TOMORROW, WE LOVE YOU!

They keep us talking, but if we stop talking about them then they should worry!

-illseed

WHO: illseed

WHAT: Rumors

WHERE: AllHipHop.com, MySpace.com/TheIllseed

HOW: Send your rumors and ill pics to illseed at [email protected].

– allhiphop rumors

C-Murder To Tour Mississippi To Promote Book

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Multi-platinum New Orleans rapper Cory “C-Murder” Miller will tour Mississippi to promote his book Death Around the Corner October 11 and 12.

The rapper will travel through Hinds and Rankin counties with Conversations Book Club, discussing the book Death Around the Corner and meeting fans.

Death Around the Corner is a fictional work that chronicles the life of a man trying to survive on the streets in pre-Katrina New Orleans.

Conversations Book Club announced a partnership to promote the book with Miller in February. The book will also launch the “The C.U.T. Society,” an urban teen reading group.

“It’s not what you think,” Conversations Book Club founder Cyrus A. Webb said. “I told C that even I was hesitant when I first found out that he had written a book, but it is a powerful read and everyone from age 15 up should give it a chance.”

Below is the schedule for C-Murder’s tour of Mississippi:Thursday, October 11, 20079:30a.m. —“Breakfast with Books” Club discussion at Wal-Mart in Brandon12:00p.m. — Book discussion at Hinds in Utica3:00p.m. — “Meet & Greet” at Margaret Walker Alexander Library 6:00p.m. — Guest speaker at Lee Elementary in Jackson, MS7:00p.m. — Waldenbooks Metrocenter in Jackson8:30p.m. — Private meet and greet with select fans and book loversFriday, October 12, 20079:30a.m. — “Meet & Greet” at Medgar Evers Library in Jackson12:00p.m.— “Meet & Greet” at Wal-Mart on MS 184:00p.m. — “Meet & Greet” at Richard Wright Library in Jackson 7p.m.. — Book discussion at Barnes & Noble in Jackson

Foxy Brown Launches New Website, Confirms Album Release Date

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Fans of incarcerated rapper Foxy Brown will now be able to communicate directly with her via a newly launched website.Www.freefoxybrown.com will feature up-to-the-minute updates on the rapper, who was personally involved in creating the content contained on the site.Additionally, fans can send messages to Brown through the website as well as hear new tracks off her forthcoming album Brooklyn’s Don Diva.”I devoted my career to building an affinity with my fans who have supported me unflinchingly and no barbed wire fence or prison wall will stop that,”  Brown said in a statement. “I am in great spirits and very focused, and needed a forum to communicate to the people.”The new website is the latest achievement for the rapper, who has released three solo albums and been featured on songs by LL Cool J, Nas, Case and Toni Braxton.Despite her success, Brown has recently had her share of run-ins with the law.She is currently serving a one-year prison sentence for violating her probation for assaulting two employees of a Manhattan nail salon in 2004.According to reports, a judge cited several high profile incidents involving the rapper that led to the ruling.Foxy Brown’s Brooklyn’s Don Diva, which is the follow up to the Brooklyn rapper’s 2001 album Broken Silence, is slated to hit stores on Nov. 20.

Layzie Bone Proposes To Girlfriend At Red Carpet Event

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony member Layzie Bone is officially off the market as a single man, as the chart-topping rapper recently proposed to his girlfriend at the debut of his feature film, I Tried. The rapper arrived to the screening of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s new movie I Tried hand and hand with Felicia, who is the mother of his children and his girlfriend of 13-years.After casually taking some pictures with Bone Thug’s group member Wish Bone, Layzie asked Felicia to join him, got down on one knee on the red carpet and proposed with camera’s flashing. Layzie Bone, born Steven Howse, gave Felicia a 5 karat cushion diamond ring and she accepted his proposal of marriage.I Tried is a fictional film about Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s lives, had they not boarded a bus for Los Angeles in hopes of landing a record deal with Eazy E’s Ruthless Records.

C-Bo Fans Play A&R for New Greatest Hits Album

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

G-Unit South rapper C-Bo’s forthcoming greatest hits album will truly reflect the taste of rap fans, as supporters of the West Coast Mafia Records CEO assumed the role of A&R for the release. Songs for the album, titled West Coast Classics, were selected by fans through web polls on C-Bo’s and West Coast Mafia’s Myspace pages. “I wanted the fans to feel a part of something again, so I decided to let them pick the track listing for the album.” C-Bo said. West Coast Classics features various songs that span C-Bo’s more than 12-year music career such as “Gas Chamber”, “Autopsy” and “Birds in the Kitchen.” Since emerging on the rap scene, the rapper has sold over a combined 3.5 million records.In addition to popular material, West Coast Classics will include several new freestyles and tracks from the C-Bo’s latest compilation, West Side Ryders III – The Southeast Connection, which is currently available in stores. The release is the precursor to the rapper’s G-Unit South debut, Ready 4 the World.