AllHipHop

homepage

Assaulted Woman Claims Suge & Associate Hid Masters

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

The small record label which acquired Death Row Records’ assets back in July has learned that Suge Knight and a long-time associate may have hidden a portion of the label’s catalog, to avoid having the items included in the sale.

 

According to Global Music Group’s attorney, Michael J. Collesano, a woman approached him last weekend, claiming to be the ex-girl of Knight’s associate, Carl “Butch” Small.

 

Collesano said Small helped run Death Row studios and was once listed as one of the label’s principals.

 

The woman, whose name was only revealed in court documents, said that during the course of their 18-month relationship, Small revealed to her that between 2001 and 2005, he removed a series of master recordings, videos and other property from the Pacific Coast Title Archives in California.

 

As a result of the move, those items were not inventoried with the assets purchased by Global Music Group.

 

The woman revealed many of these items to officials in Detroit, Michigan earlier this month, after she was allegedly attacked by Small on October 1.

 

The following day, having obtained an order of protection against Small, who she claimed tried to kill her, she was accompanied by Livingston County Sheriff’s Deputy Christopher Schmidt to a storage unity in Burlington, Michigan under her name.

 

Schmidt proceeded to confiscate several black boxes containing what appear to be certain master recordings and videos.

 

The woman claims that she may also have additional items in her possession, which she would like to return to their rightful owners.

 

“Global Music Group of Delaware has arranged financing to acquire the assets and stands ready to acquire the record label once the Trustee identifies the inventory to a certainty,” Collesano said. “We cannot see how anyone can bid on the assets with such a cloud surrounding the property being sold. In fact, on September 19, 2008, we submitted a bid that we hope the trustee will consider at this time, but our purchase will require proper due diligence.”

 

Collesano filed a Declaration with the Los Angeles Bankruptcy Court to investigate these new developments.

Lil Wayne Cancels More Shows ?

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

North Carolina and New Jersey fans expecting to see Lil Wayne this weekend will again be forced to wait, as the New Orleans emcee has canceled two big arena shows in Raleigh and Atlantic City.

 

According to Ticketmaster, this Friday (October 31), the rap star was scheduled for a headlining performance at the RBC Arena in Raleigh, NC.

 

The following day, Wayne was set to helm the closing set for a high-profile showcase at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.

 

Both shows were canceled for unknown reasons.

 

The cancellations is the latest chapter in a string of concert no-shows, reportedly fueled by Wayne’s dissatisfaction with concert venue accommodations.

 

Last Sunday (October 26), Wayne disappointed over 8,000 fans who had gathered in Rochester, NY, refusing to perform because of a “poor sound system.”

 

This forced Ludacris to step in at the last minute and attempt to salvage the show for disenchanted fans that refused refunds.

 

On Monday (October 27), Wayne deserted the star studded JAMN 94.5 Monster Jam, after his entourage refused a security check, forcing co-headliner Jay-Z to extend his set in hopes to quell angry chants for Wayne.

 

On October 28, the rapper made New York’s Power 105.1’s annual “Powerhouse” concert, which the station had promoted around Wayne and Jay sharing the stage for their track “Mr. Carter.”

 

While Wayne did show up this time and enthrall the crowd with signature tracks like “A Milli,” the joint performance did not happen.

 

Despite Wayne alluding to the billed collaboration performance and repeatedly flashing the Roc sign, Jay-Z instead opted to grace the stage with fellow superstar and beau Beyonce as his special guest.

 

At press time, the rapper has yet to issue a statement surrounding the cancellations.

R&B Rewind: Jason Weaver – “Love Ambition (Call on Me)”

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Alternatives
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

Song: “Love Ambition (Call on Me)”Year: 1995Album: Love AmbitionComposer: Keith CrouchWell it’s Thursday y’all and it’s time for an R&B Rewind. And this week, I seriously dug in the crates! Who did I elect to fill the slot? None other than…Jason Weaver! Some of you younger folks might recognize him from the hit flicks ATL and Drumline, and even the Chingy single “One Call Away,” but Jason’s days in the industry extend way beyond that.He was singed to Motown Records back in the day. The same label that picked up The Jackson 5, and back in the ’90s the label was looking for a young singer with a similar sound to Michael Jackson and they stumbled upon Young Jason. The year was 1995, and he did his thing on the single “Love Ambition.” Not sure what it was about giving teenage boys adult songs to sing back then and even today, but this song was very “grown up” for Jason. If you listen to the lyrics, he talks about giving love from front to back, and feeling a girl up and down whose name he didn’t even know! I believe nowadays Jason resides down in Atlanta and focuses on his acting career. Be that as it may, I think Jason actually would have had a decent career as an R&B singer today. He’s got the voice and the look! Not sure what made him put his singing career on the back burner, after all he held his own in Chingy’s “One Call Away.” And if you ask me, he made the song. Hey Jason! The R&B game is damn near wide open. The ladies ain’t really feeling Usher as much as they used to and who else is left? Ne-Yo? I dare you to take a chance. I’m sure Koch Records wouldn’t mind having you on their roster! I’d cop the album.Anyway, recently in a separate editorial I talked about the increased crime level in Chicago and some of you blogged that I focused on the negatives going on in the city and not the positives that people know and love about the city. Well, take a look at the locations this video was filmed in; it displays a lot things people love about Chicago: Wrigley Field, walking along Lake Michigan, the old Michael Jordan Restaurant, and riding the Metra. Take that!Until next week y’all enjoy this week’s R&B Rewind – “Love Ambition”

Mom of Hudson Suspect Blames Drugs; Police Deny Severed Hand Reports

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

The mother of Hudson family murder suspect William Balfour has made an explosive allegation that last week’s grisly South Side home invasion was the result of drug dealing.

 

Michele Davis-Balfour made the comments on CNN’s Nancy Grace show while defending her son from what she feels is a smear campaign against his character.

 

“My son was not arrested, he turned himself in,” Davis-Balfour clarified. “It’s also a lie that he was caught with a weapon. The truth is Jason [Hudson] was selling drugs out of the house.”

 

Jason Hudson, brother of Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson, was murdered along with his mother Darnell Donerson in her South Side, Chicago home.

 

Several days later, the body of Hudson’s 7 year old nephew Julian King was discovered on the West Side in an abandoned SUV.

 

A post mortem indicated he had been shot 5 times at close range.

 

An even more horrifying detail was initially reported by the National Enquirer, who disclosed that one of Julian King’s hands was also cut off, suggesting that he may have been being held for ransom.

 

Yesterday evening, police corrected the story by stating the hand severing antidote was “absolutely untrue.”

 

Inquiries into William Balfour’s past revealed a parole release for attempted murder in 1999, and an arrest for cocaine possession in June.

 

According to Davis-Balfour, the drug arrest was a set-up by her son’s estranged wife Julia Hudson, who she alleges became jealous after the relationship ended.

 

“He was not living with Julia at the time. He went by to see her. When he came out there was a shooting in the area,” she explained. “The police automatically pulled him over. They searched the car and found drugs. There was no probable cause so the charges were dropped. He thought the police planted the drugs but it was Julia. She was upset because he was dating another girl.”

 

Chicago police also released evidence yesterday (October 29), suggesting that more than one person was involved in the triple murder involving singer Jennifer Hudson’s family.

 

The investigation has revolved around primary suspect William Balfour, estranged husband of Jennifer’s sister Julia Hudson, who was apprehended on Friday (October 24).

 

Although not charged with the South Side slayings, Balfour is being held on parole violations.

 

Witnesses placed Balfour in his teal Chrysler on the block of the murder scene last Friday at 7 AM. Later, the car was discovered parked a mile away at Robeson High School.

 

His girlfriend later verified he was at the home where Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson’s mother, Darnell Donerson, and brother Jason were shot to death.

 

On Monday (October 27), the body of 7-year old nephew Julian King was discovered several miles away in Jason Hudson’s Chevy Suburban.

 

The child was also the victim of multiple gunshot wounds.

 

Security video from Robeson High School shows someone parking Balfour’s Chrysler on Friday, but a positive ID could not be made of the individual.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Killers Wanted Jennifer Hudson!?! Jay, Busta, Wayne, Eminem: 09! Bobby And Whitney Back 2gether?

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Rumors
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

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.

TODAY’S RUMORS!RUMOR: JENNIFER HUDSON MAY HAVE BEEN KILLERS TARGET

I just got this from MissDallasTx214, one member of the Ill Community. Rumor has it, Jennifer Hudson was the real target of these sick killers. All of this is alleged and obviously not fact.:

According to the National Enquirer, Jennifer Hudson may have been the real target of William Balfour – the man who brutally murdered Jennifer’s mother, brother and nephew.

Here’s how they describe what set William off:

Julia [Hudson’s] mother kicked [William] out of the family home last May because of his drug dealing, and he was furious. He vowed to Julia that her family would regret it and said he’d kill Jennifer … He knew Jennifer was the most important person in their lives and that her death would devastate them…

He also said he was going to kidnap [7 year old] Julian and she’d never see him again. And he said, ‘Then when your famous sister gets back into town, I’ll do her too!’ said the source.

On why no one had him arrested for making threats:

“Jennifer and Julia thought he wouldn’t do anything that would send him back to jail,” said one source.

LIL WAYNE’S CARTER 4 IN 09?!?

First of all, Lil Wayne did manage to make it to the Izod Center in New Jersey. Jay-Z was there too and a lot of people were hopeful that the two would rock the stage together. No dice. In fact, Lil Wayne left the whole venue before Jay finished his set. Wayne is ‘bout his business.

Speaking of business, somebody told me that Lil Wayne is NOT high all the time and is very much about his business in this music game. One of his friends hit me up and wanted that to be made very clear. Well, its good to know…and that takes me to my next Wayne rumor.

The Carter 4 is supposedly coming out in Feb of 2009. Wayne is attempting to put the the game in a strangle hold and wont let up. Whew. Scary! Anyway, it would be cool to see him and Jay perform or tour together.

JAY-Z PUSHED BACK TIL 09!

Jay-Z has come out in the 4h quarter for so long, I cannot remember the last time he didn’t drop then. Well, the next time is now. The rapper’s Blueprint 3 album is looking like it’s going to come out in March of 2009. There you go – The Carter Tour! We do know a few good things about this album. Part of that is Jay and Kanye have recorded a number of songs. I am hoping there is a lack of vocoder in them. Speaking of the vocoder…why is Diddy doing a whole CD of that mess? I like Diddy, but this is nuts!

KANYE LEAVING THE US FOR INTERNATIONAL WATERS?

I don’t know why Kanye hasn’t come to New York to do a listening party for his new album. I don’t know if that’s a good or bad sign. Maybe its no sign. Anyway, the point is, I heard he is going to be doing a listening session in some international places in a couple of weeks. My sources say that this will be no ordinary party, because he’ll be playing his album on a boat. I wonder if that is some odd security measure or just “hot?”

I hear Kanye has also found a new artist in the UK by the name of Mr. Hudson. Not to be funny, but I somehow thought that was somehow related to Jennifer Hudson. Hudson is down with Kanye via his GOOD Music imprint. More on that soon.

AMY WINEHOUSE WILL NEVER SING AGAIN?

We may never hear Amy Winehouse sing again, accoding to rumors and reports. She was just hospitalized for a chest infection. But the rumor is, her voice has been irreparably damaged through the consumption of drugs. She might never get to crank out another album. On top of that, she is supposedly working on a new CD, but the material isn’t there. She’s way behind schedule and there is concern at the label. It seems odd that an addict of this stature is allowed to work on new material in such a state of sickness. Oh, I forgot..thats the music game…they don’t give a f**k about you like that.

JOE THE PLUMBER GETS A RECORD DEAL?

WOW. Just when you thought the election couldn’t get any stranger, somebody went and offered Joe The Damn Plumber a record deal. Don’t get too crazy though. They want Joe to record a country and Western album to capitalize off his new fame. I got this from Jigsaw’s twitter:

“Joe” — aka Samuel Wurzelbacher, a Holland, Ohio, pipe-and-toilet man — just signed with a Nashville public relations and management firm to handle interview requests and media appearances, as well as create new career opportunities, including a shift out of the plumbing trade into stage and studio performances.

On Tuesday, Wurzelbacher joined country music artist and producer Aaron Tippin to form a new partnership that includes booking-management firm Bobby Roberts and publicity-management concern The Press Office to field the multiple media offers he’s received over the past few weeks.

Among the requests: a possible record deal with a major label, personal appearances and corporate sponsorships. A longtime country music fan, Wurzelbacher can sing and “knocks around on guitar” but is not an accomplished musician or songwriter, according to The Press Office’s Jim Della Croce.”

CRAZY, RIGHT?

WHITNEY AND BOBBY ARE BACK TOGETHER!?!?!

Whitney and Bobby are back together? Kinda sorta! There are rumors that the pair will both appear on the UK version of “Celebrity Big Brother.” Whitney Houston, I believe, has already been confirmed for the show and Bobby was brought to the table later down the line. Now, this has plenty of time to fall through, because the show isn’t set until January of 09. Whitney is 45 and Bobby is now 39. I can see this is going to be craaaaaazy!

HIP-HOP IN NYC!

Illseed,

Last NY was poppin. While I was a little worried that the crowd might be a little light because of the Jay Z and Wayne concert, NYC (read that here) did not dissapoint. At Roseland Ballroom Estelle Gym Class Hero’s and The Legendary Roots Crew put in work to a packed house and it was banannas!!!!!!! First Estelle did her thing, and she souded “suprisingly” good, although her band was more of a fascade than actual musicians. They actually played their instruments about 20 percent fo the time. Next up was Gym Class Hero’s they were hype and to be honest I aint even a big fan of theirs like that but they did their thing to the delight of everyone in the audience. Then came The Roots.. The Roots are legendary and just when you think that they might be running out of tricks, they bring out Q-Tip and he performs his single “Getting Up” . The Crowd goes nuts.. Then you hear BROOOOOOOOOOKLLLLLYYYYN, and MOS DEF comes out and performs with Black Thought.. I thought the roof was gonna pop off the place. Also there were other celebrities in the building, Jimmy Fallon was there bouncing around like a ping-pong ball all night, up and coming punk rock singer PATTY CRASH was seen floating around and the beautifully delicous looking Zoe Kravitz was seen in the VIP kicking it. Overall it was a great night in NY..

Hector G.

Don’t forget to tell me what’s going on in your neck of the city or woods.

IMPROPER CREDIT GOING ON LUDACRIS’ ALBUM?

I don’t have too many people that I am cool with in the music game. Everybody is shady, but one person that has been real cool. Wyldfyer. Good guy, great producer. Anyway, the point? Ludacris’ album is about to come out it features a lot of great songs and great producers. He did a couple songs on the album, “Last of a Dying Breed Feat. Lil Wayne” and “I Do It for Hip Hop,” which is going to feature Nas. On the rumor tip Jay-Z may be added to that song. Wouldn’t that be a nice end-of-the-year treat? Anyway, Wyldfyer did the songs. Also, the improper credit is coming from the internet.

ILLSEED’S QUICKIES

Somebody is lying in this J-Hud “murder case,” because you don’t cut hands off a child unless you are trying to send a real message. Sick.

Here is some more BS. Obama wants to pay for his 30 min slot on ABC and they won’t let him. SMH at Disney. I wonder if people know his real history anyway. I can’t believe Obama is pushing the World Series’ wig back on TV!

Want to see a rapper dude diss everybody? Click here!

Murphy Lee reportedly has a new project called “Murph or Die.” After hearing that, why did I just envision all types of dead people all over in my head? No good.

Want to hear 50 Cent’s ver FIRST record? Click right here.

Dr. Dre has sued the mess out of a former friend. According to tmz, Bruce Williams allegedly owes the good Doc $101,377.85 and now it seems that he cannot pay it back. I think Dre might be upset that his bud “Rollin’ With Dre: The Unauthorized Account – An Insider’s Tale of the Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of West Coast Hip Hop.” Epic fail.

Kwame Kilpatrick was sentenced to 120 days in jail. Another Epic fail that I hope becomes a win one day.

I heard Busta Rhymes has also been pushed back to February 2009.

We thought we would see any Eminem album, but nope. I am hearing that that lil’ buddy isn’t going to see the light of day until 2009 too.

Click here to listen to the new Jamie Foxx song in the Media Zone.

Will people please give Joe Budden created for creating the saying “Hi Hater”…? Please act like you know. There is a group down South saying Maino took it from them. A few years ago, Budden was saying this phrase on just about every other song and even his first album. Peep this song (2:15):

GLASSES MALONE EXPLAINS JOE BUDDEN “DISS”

I don’t know what Joe Budden said in the first place, but he has confirmed with AHH Staff that there is no beef at all. Oh yeah, I am sure I am late, but The Game and joe Budden have a song called “The Future,” but we probably won’t hear it until next year. This is a lot of Joe Budden today, sorry.

ILLSEED BRINGS JASIRI X: THE BREAKDOWN OF SARAH PALIN

Jasiri really got it in this week!

CHECK OUT MY GIRL: KANDI COLE

Kandi Cole has been my online homey for years. Check her out with her new video. The West Coast reppin so check her out.

CHARLAMAGNE THA GOD DISSES EVERYBODY…WHEW!

GAYFREESTYLE

Whoa! This is crazy. I think this is the same dude that did that alternate version of Kanye’s “can’t tell me nothing.”

I’m not sure if that was funny, but…uhhhh…it was something.

SIGNS THE WORLD IS COMING TO AN END

This is certainly a sign the world is coming to an end! Rupert Murdoch is the founder of Fox News and oddly, a “fan” of Barack Obama. His own paper, the NY Post endorsed Obama and he didn’t like that at all.

FOX’S FOUNDER PREDICTS OBAMA WILL WIN! THE APOCALYPSE IS UPON US!

If that wasn’t a good enough sign for you, check this out from Yahoo News:

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – A Florida teenager has been sentenced to 18 months in juvenile detention for coaxing his senile grandmother into holding a gun and threatening to shoot “all the pigs” in a homemade “gangster rap” video.

Eighteen-year-old Michael Alfinez pleaded guilty Tuesday to elder abuse charges. His family has said the case was a misunderstanding.

The 85-year-old grandmother can be seen in the video holding a handgun, wearing a black mask and threatening to shoot “all the pigs.”

Alfinez was arrested in April after authorities seized the tape during a routine traffic stop. Alfinez and others also could be seen in the video shooting a pistol around town.

Alfinez also pleaded guilty to charges of firing out of a moving vehicle and into a building.

(Am I wrong for wanting to see the video?)

WHAASSSSSSUPPPP 2008!

If you are grown, you remember the “Whassup” beer commercials from the 90s or early 2000s. Well, here is the updated version.

Just for fun, here is the original that spawned zillions of copy cats before the youtube era.

EPIC FAIL OF THE DAY

I know they are only kids, but I have to say, they took all this time to memorize this? Kids, don’t sing this ever again as long as you are alive on this earth.

EPIC WIN OF THE YEAR!

SHOUT OUT TO THE PHILLIES! All you haters, sit down and shut it up! Now, I have to say that there are rumors! I heard that there was total chaos from the Philly fans after the win. I don’t know if you people know but Philly fans are the craziest in the Unitied States. Fans outside Citizens Bank Parking lot were buggin! I heard they were breaking bottles on cars and tried to light fire to a damn SUV! Then I heard they started to fight with the police. Obviously, the cops won, but that SUV took a loss. When it was all said and done, that sucker was turned over and jacked up. the police. By then, the crowd had also completely overturned a green Ford Explorer. Congrats to the Phils!

THE ILLEST SUPER GROUP SINCE THE 1990’S

I know a certain label that saw this youtube and is looking to lock down the illest super group since the 1990’s. The super group is: Crooked I, Royce Da 5’9, Joe Budden and Joell Ortiz. The group name will allegedly be called Slaughterhouse. Crooked isn’t here, but he reportedly got NYC today to meet with the rest of the dudes. Check out the youtube link below of all the guys politikin.

This is going to be INSANITY. Please make this HAPPEN!

GET OUT AND DON’T VOTE!?!

They asked me to send this to five friends so I am sending to five million friends!

T.I. IS A FELON AND HE VOTED!

Know the laws where you are! You can vote and realize that the establishment wants you and me to be ignorant to the facts surrounding voting. Here are some pics of Tip.

“I am a Georgia Voter”

Here is a good starting point so you felonious fellows can look into your rights. Seriously, “man” and “woman” up and vote!

DO REMEMBER! NEW EMAIL!If you see something…say something!

LADY DRAMA BRING RUMORS LIKE TUMORS! Since it is nearly the week’s end, I have decided to make the rumors a little light! Not to mention your celebrity friends are pretty much staying in line so the gossip circuit is filled with fluff anyway! Ciara Clears the air via Angie Martinez… Ciara was on the Angie Marinez show and addressed some questions that everyone has been curious about, such as 50 Cent and how she really feels about Beyonces new song If I Were a Boy… Check it out:  Now thats how you dodge questions McCain take notes! Jay Z Brings his Wife out…..  Jay Z performed at Powerhouse and in a surprise twist brought out Beyonce who performed Single Ladies… Kind of cute if I must say so myself 😉  Brand New… TI feat. Rihanna ‘Live Your Life’ Video!   While Im on TI he recently did an interview on Chelsea Lately and encountered some funny moments! Watch This:   Blast from the Past… Lauryn Hill  Lauryn Hill and her kids was recently spotted at a New Jersey Williams and Sonoma during a Martha Stewart book signing. I don’t know if she popped in by accident or on purpose but from the looks of her attire it wasn’t a planned event! Last but not least…6 Days and Counting… I voted early today and I must say it was a very moving experience! More moving than I even expected! I encourage each and every one of you who are eligible to go out and vote and help to be the change you wish to see in this world! Yes we can people!

ILL PROMO

I’M OUT LIKE THIS VAN!

This van is the coldest, Jack! Peep the cold chillin’ steez!

Special shout out to Desira Indira and Necolby, my good friends that sent it to me. For more, go to illseed.com. And yes, that is an Air Conditioning Unit in the side of that van!

OBAMA, 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.

– allhiphop rumors

T.I. Still Eligible To Vote In Historic Election

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

After spending months encouraging potential young voters to become active in the electoral process, multi-platinum artist T.I. carried out his civic duty today, joining the thousands who have voted early in his home state of Georgia.

 

Believing that he would be unable to participate in this year’s historical election, the 27-year-old budding actor made it his objective to motivate others to get involved.

 

Over the summer, T.I. became the national spokesperson for Respect My Vote!, a non-partisan Get Out The Vote initiative launched earlier this year by Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Jr. and the Hip Hop Caucus.

 

It was not until recently that T.I. learned, through research of his own, that he was still eligible to vote, despite his previous run-ins with the law.

 

“Feels like I’ve taken advantage of my right to become a part of the democracy,” declared the rapper Clifford Harris of the life-changing experience. “It was definitely worth standing in line and doing all the things people complain about voting. I think it’s more than worth it.”

 

“T.I. is an inspiration to us all, showing that you can overcome anything,” reflected Reverend Yearwood of the Hip Hop Caucus. “He has become our Harry Belafonte of the 21st Century.”

 

Expecting a record-breaking voter turnout this year, officials have urged those individuals who can, to vote before Election Day, which is of course, Tuesday, November. 4.

 

Their efforts have resulted in millions across the country standing in line for as long as five hours to vote.

 

The Hip Hop Caucus has joined forces with the Hip Hop Summit Action Network and AllHipHop.com to continue to inspire young voters with a national Respect My Vote! GOTV Bus Tour.

 

The tour will visit 18 cities through Election Day.

 

“The significance of T.I.’s leadership should not be underestimated,” emphasized Dr. Benjamin Chavis, President/CEO of HSAN.

 

“T.I. has emerged as an effective national leader, inspiring millions of young people to vote in the 2008 elections. ”

 

T.I. has remained in the spotlight over the last few weeks, thanks to the success of his latest album Paper Trail.

 

In addition to being the rappers fifth consecutive #1 debut, he historically held the #1 and #2 position on Billboard’s Hot 100 this week with his singles “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life” featuring Rihanna.

 

“Whatever You Like” also made headlines this week when a group of Georgia students remade the song, reminding adults that they can “Vote However They Like.”

 

The video for “Live Your Life” debuted on BET’s 106 & Park on Tuesday (October 28).

Jay-Z, Lil Wayne & Ne-Yo Rock Power 105.1 Powerhouse Concert

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Reviews / Music
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

Not rain, not wind,  not post rush hour traffic could keep AllHipHop from the hottest show of the year,  Power 105.1’s

Powerhouse show at the Izod Center in dirty Jersey. The bill boasted underground heroes D-Block, R&B showman Ne-Yo, and two of the biggest names in the game co-headlining in Lil Wayne and Jay-z. With all the recent talk of Weezy no-shows, it would be interesting to see what the evening would bring.

First up was D-Block. Performing to a less-than-packed house at the time, due to the weather, they stormed the stage to their “D-Block Anthem.” They went through a few of their classics including a half hearted attempt at “All About the Benjamins.” It ain’t the same without Puff or Kim, so that’s a wrap on that one. The issue with a team like D-Block is that they are really not built for a stadium.  Their performance was haphazard and visibly unrehearsed and as veterans of 10 years in the game and former pupils of Diddy, they should know better than that. Too many people on stage with nothing to do went out with WuTang. They never really had control of the mic situation as two of their lil homies had low mics and they never passed off the working ones. In what would be a recurring theme for the night, they shouted out Barack ObamaThey did drop a new joint that sampled “Nautilus” (Daytona 500, Brothers on My Jock), and the highlights included Styles’ “Blow Your Mind,” and Jada’s “Knock Yourself Out.” Cool if you love the 90s but meh overall.Next up to bat was everyone’s favorite Michael Jackson impersonator, Ne-yo.  I say that in jest, because Ne-yo is not shy about homage and he’s a superior showman in this landscape so if he wants to be MJ lite then more power to him.  Mike borrowed from Jackie Wilson and the Godfather so lineage is apparent.He bills himself as the new “King of R&B” and there’s really nothing right now to dispute that.  He’s got 4 dancers that seriously earned their paychecks (hot, lithe and synchopated) and a band that was on point all night.  His voice was strong and near album quality, you really couldn’t spot a weakness in his show.He opened with “All Because Of You” and continued  the vibe with “Sexy Love.” Then you realize that slowly, he’s building a solid catalogue. He performs a song “Nothing,” which is a tribute to Mike so you have to give him the thumbs up. As the only R&B cat on the bill you would think that he was there simply for the ladies, but he brought out a few of surprises for the fellas. First up he brought Jada back to perform their new joint “By My Side.” This is a certified banger. Next up to bat was Plies for the smash chicken head anthem “Bus It Baby.”  All the high-pitched  singing let you know it was on and poppin. Last but not least, F-A-B-O fresh from demolishing the Cypher, came out to body “You Make Me Better.” In all, a crisp performance that was well-rehearsed, well-executed and full of hits, surprises, and routines.After a prolonged stall, Wayne actually showed up for this one. No hoax, no joke, live and in living color. Wayne’s status as heavyweight is clear as he gets a standing ovation when he takes the stage, with rock band in tow, looking to cement that status further.

With no dancers and no posse, he opens up

with Mr Carter. The girls know it word for word. We wait for the Jigga verse that never came, and the crowd was poised to explode but that moment  never came. Blown moment, but a solid opening. 

His performance is very subdued to this point, at points rhyming with his own vocals in the background, which was a bit awkward. 

 “Fireman” sends everyone into go mode but once the song goes on it feels like the crowd is still trying to figure him out.  The

young cats get it totally, the girls are all in, but the older cats are trying to figure out what

they should be doing. It’s like when your team is winning but you

waiting for that three pointer to break the other teams back but it keeps r######

out.

 “Lollipop” was another highlight which took the show up another notch.  The rock guitars gully up

lollipop and it was a dope rendition.

 

Next Wayne himself dons the guitar for “Leather So Soft.” He’s not really playing  but

it looks good on stage. He’s in full rock star mode but he’s losing the

crowd. Those that know it jam people are starting to sit down. Gets most of the crowd back with “Ms. Officer” with Bobby V on the hookup.

Baby comes out to “Pop Bottles” and that got a rise, but the true highlight, of course, was “A Milli.” Telling the crowd to “spazz if you want,” the band got back on with those guitars and brought the house down.  A fitting climax to an off balanced but good show.  Weezy bows left, Weezy bows center, Weezy bows right…and leaves the stage to Whitney’s “I Will Always Love You.” Bizarre but entertaining.

 Last but not least it’s show closer Hova. His live band, the Roc Boys opens with “Say Hello” with Bleek at his side like Dame still barking orders.  Brings the energy up with “U Don’t Know.” This song

has that heat. If anything, Bleek can be Spliff Star 2.0. Roc signs

still go up in unison for this.

From there you hear the horns, and you know “Roc Boys” is in the building tonight. If you’ve seen his post American Gangster shows, you know the photo montages and light show is in full effect, and everyone knows the words.  Nobody crowd checks like Jay-Z, and this show is no exception.  he doesn’t allow the audience to chill too much.

He keeps the energy on a nice ebb and flow through AG songs, as images of the Vietnam War, the Watergate Hotel,Jackie O, the American flag, Ronald Reagan, and Richard Nixon flash in the background.  Another

voter registration shout out. Another Barack shout out. It’s very strange to hear crack rap songs and then Political endorsements but what is Hip-Hop without hypocrisy.

 More crowd pleasers like “PSA,” “Swagger Like Us,” and “D Originators” keep the crowd hyped. Its a dope show but I gotta say, he looks naked without the Roc especially after seeing State Prop’s recent reunion.

 After a run of Jigga standards (he has ALOT of songs) he seemingly closed the show with “Dope Boy Fresh.” As is his custom he rarely does a NY area show without hovatime (overtime) and as the uninitiated were filing out, he returned to the stage with miracle DJ AM. Rather than pretty it up, I’ll just list the medley he went through for the next 15 minutes:”Feeling It”“Ain’t No N####””Who U Wit?”

“What We Do”-Borderline blasphemy w/o Beans & Free

“Hello Brooklyn”-No Weezy

“Where I’m From”

“Best of Me (Rmx)”

“Fiesta (Rmx)”

“Money Ain’t A Thing”

“Money Cash Hoes”

“’03 Bonnie & Clyde”Whew.  Then he brought her out. Yes. Beyonce in all her bootylicious glory, bookended by the hotties from the video to  “Single Ladies.” It’s now safe to go. It can’t get any higher than that. However we had a few more joints and he closed with one more vote plus and with encore. Illness.All in all, Ne-Yo shined, Weezy Rocked and the Jiggaman delivered.  D Block could use some stage polish but they didn’t suck. The event was smooth throughout, there were no abnormally long delays, no violence in the crowd, and the people got their money’s worth.For more coverage of Power 105.1’s

Powerhouse” click here http://powerhouse.power1051fm.com.Photos courtesy of David Atlas

M.O.P. Done With ‘Artist Deals’; Address WWE Lawsuit

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

M.O.P.’s Billy Danze has confirmed the eminent release of the group’s first concrete post G-Unit album, while longtime manager Laze Elliott addressed the group’s lawsuit with the WWE.

 

Although they have yet to set a concrete release date for Foundation – which would be their first studio album since 2006’s Ghetto Warfare – Danze revealed that they are busy laying the groundwork for the new project’s success, due out sometime next year.

 

“We’re trying to get that momentum that we need to put another record out,” Danze told AllHipHop.com. “This is one thing I learned about the game: you just can’t throw something out there, especially in today’s climate anyway. It’s dudes out there that have incredible albums that just threw them out there, and nobody knows it’s there because they’re just not getting the proper marketing, the proper promotion for it.”

 

As part of the preparation, both Danze and partner Lil’ Fame have maintained their relevance in different ways.

 

The group is fresh off a stint as the latest artists on Scion’s Live Metro tour.

 

Individually, Fame has been building up his portfolio as a producer, working not only on Foundation, but on projects with several other artists as well.

 

And Danze has released a slew of solo records, including God Bless and Goodnight, Return of the Marxman and Savages.

 

The songs have served as a primer for their upcoming individual solo projects, Fame’s Fame and Glory and Danze’s Behind Gatez.

 

As for the group’s label status, they are being very cautious of the direction in which they take their new projects, reluctant to revisit their last two high profile situations.

 

“I don’t want nobody, I don’t give a f**k who it is, I don’t want anybody to ever, ever in life making more money off of me than I do,” Danze proclaimed in his capacity as the group’s unofficial spokesperson. “I been here long enough [to know] better than to give somebody else the credit or the props for the work that I do…I won’t do another artist deal. That’ll never happen at all.”

 

In related news, M.O.P.’s manager, Laze Elliot, issued an exclusive statement to the AllHipHop.com explaining the recent legal action he has sought out against wrestler John Cena and the WWE.

 

According to Elliot, it was never his intention for the matter to be judged in the court of public opinion, as the matter was being settled discreetly by the attorneys for the involved parties.

 

But the issue at hand remains a simple dispute, as the experienced manager in concerned.

 

“Everyone who knows the song knows its an M.O.P. song,” Elliot stated. “It’s Fame’s voice in the front and a total rip. The WWE is a big company and John Cena is their biggest star. So I would expect them to deal with this properly. I have gladly given the rights to songs that we have sampled over the years to the original authors. This process shouldn’t be exclusive to rappers. Fact is, it’s a simple sync issue that accountants solve in the backroom.”

Roccett Joins Young Jeezy’s USDA Rap Group

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

West Coast rapper Roccett has officially joined Young Jeezy’s group USDA it was announced today (October 29).

 

Roccett’s manager Rick Edwards of Get Your Green Up Ent. and CTE’s Kinky B. have confirmed that the 22-year-old rapper from Carson, California will be featured on the group’s untitled follow up to 2007’s USDA album Cold Summer.

 

The rapper is already signed to Young Jeezy’s CTE West imprint, which will release his debut that is expected to drop in 2009.

 

The United Streets Dopeboyz of America now consists of Young Jeezy, Slick Pulla, Blood Raw and Roccett.

 

The group’s debut effort Cold Summer shot to #1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and #4 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart.

ALBUM REVIEW: John Legend – Evolver

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Alternatives
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

John Legend introduced himself to us by fusing old-school R&B with subtle Hip-Hop sounds and giving it an updated look and feel. He then dabbled in merging Pop-R&B with elements of Jazz and Light Rock for his sophomore release. For his third album, Evolver, John focuses on a radio-friendly Pop format, bringing us tracks like “Green Light” (guest-starring Andre 3000) a futuristic single that trades the grand piano for keyboard synths.On Evolver, John further employs his skill with poetic lyrics. “Everybody Knows” sounds like a softer version of Alicia’s “No One,” while “Quickly” has the most potential as a single. The duet with Brandy has an undeniable catchiness and finds John keeping focused on the mission of Evolver. A few old-school elements come when John uses Jazz lyrical arrangements and minimalist piano and string tracks, like on “This Time,” Evolver’s “Ordinary People.”The album flows neatly from memorable melody to memorable melody until he slows up and brings a monotone vocal. On “Good Morning,” he bores like he did on Once Again with “Maxine” and his attempt to freak it up a little and get his Reggae on with Estelle on “No Other Love” are the slowest points on the album. Still, with each of those tracks, John’s signature build from chorus to bridge makes it worth a listen and not completely unsatisfying. In a matter of four years, John has delivered three solid albums. Even if Evolver is less cohesive due to the integration of the Pop sound to the alternative styles he played around with in Once Again, it still is light years ahead of any artist mimicking his suave persona. Either way, credit should be given where it’s due; John Legend has definitely been doing things his way.

Fashion Forward: Factory Girl Runs The Love Session

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

 

Tatou, one of Los Angeles’ hottest nightclubs was all decked out for this event, which married fashion and politics.

 

There were models running back and forth to the dressing room, personal assistants buzzing away on their crackberries, and huge posters of Abraham Lincoln morphed with the image of Barack Obama.

 

This evening was created for the voice of the democratic party and helping young people register to vote for November 4th.

 

The centerpiece of attraction was the highly anticipated fashion show for LA Fashion Week, entitled The Love Session. ?uestlove took turns on the wheels of steel with DJ Irie, and Travis McCoy, and the scene was sexy and stylish.

 

The one of the featured designers was up and coming Annabelle Sky Lee who is making a huge impact on the LA fashion scene with her Factory Girl clothing line.

 

Lee, it seems,  is determined to change the fashion scene of Los Angeles.

Her line marries intricate design with simple lines and a very feminine look. Despite it’s retro base it does have a highly inventive quality to it, which is rare. Everything was feminine and unfussy not to mention refined. It walked the line quite well between edgy and vampish.

The animal inspired prints tops with vibrant bright colors and skin-tight leggings give the line a hot vixen look.

 

These are not  the wannabe mod redux we’ve been seeing a lot of lately. These are strong, bold, eye-catching designs that are easy and fun to wear.

 

 

We have all seen the wallpaper floral prints or the done to death bandana paisley patterns.

Lee’s line is devoid of the horrible prints that are wrong for anyone to wear, and she creates a sexy print that can be proudly worn by a fashionista who is bored with both convention and the  Forever 21 “uniform” that you can spot a block away on any wannabe diva.

In Los Angeles it’s all about attitude, owning every room or sidewalk like it’s your personal runway, however, Factory Girl has an aura that allows for confident relaxation as  others are running around trying to be center of attention.

 

At this rate, Annabelle Lee is a designer to look out for in 2009. She is a powerhouse for intricate designs for simple patterns can be deemed for an high end retro- inspired collection.

 

Horrifying Detail Emerges In Hudson Case; Julian’s Hand Cut Off

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

Chicago police have released evidence today (October 29), suggesting more than one person was involved in the triple murder involving singer Jennifer Hudson’s family.

 

An even more horrifying fact has emerged in the case, as AllHipHop.com has learned that one of Julian King’s hands was also cut off, suggesting that he may have been being held for ransom.

 

 

The boy was also shot in the head, although it is not known if his hand was severed prior to, or after his death.

 

The investigation has revolved around primary suspect William Balfour, estranged husband of Jennifer’s sister Julia Hudson, who was apprehended on Friday (October 24).

 

Although not charged with the South Side slayings, Balfour is being held on parole violations.

 

Witnesses placed Balfour in his teal Chrysler on the block of the murder scene last Friday at 7 AM. Later, the car was discovered parked a mile away at Robeson High School.

 

His girlfriend later verified he was at the home where Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson’s mother, Darnell Donerson, and brother Jason were shot to death.

 

On Monday (October 27), the body of 7-year old nephew Julian King was discovered several miles away in Jason Hudson’s Chevy Suburban.

 

The child was also the victim of multiple gunshot wounds. Security video from Robeson High School shows someone parking Balfour’s Chrysler on Friday, but a positive ID could not be made of the individual.

 

The video stamp also shows the car was left at 12:30 pm.

 

However, cell phone records place Balfour on the West Side of Chicago at that time, which indicates another suspect drove the vehicle from the South Side Hudson murder scene to the high school.

 

The possible origin of the crime is alleged to be over a car dispute between Balfour and his estranged wife Julia Hudson.

 

At the time of his apprehension, Balfour was on parole for a 1999 attempted murder conviction, and had been arrested in June for possession of cocaine.

 

At press time, police report that William Balfour is still not cooperating with any questioning.

Chicago: The Coldest Winter

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
Preferred Source Publisher Button>

I

moved to Chicago from the suburbs in December of 2005. I picked up my

stuff and moved to the big city to follow my dreams. I even remember

the small panic attack I had after I signed my lease to live in Hyde

Park; an upscale neighborhood on Chicago’s Southside. This was a big

deal for me. I’d changed jobs, left my suburban lifestyle and even my

family and friends to try my luck in the city. True enough I was only

40 minutes away from the life I once knew and I figured if I fell on my

face I could always go back home. Through it all I would give my all,

and win or lose at least I’d tried.

 

So here I am, almost three years later living in Chi-town. A SBF, no kids no husband.  Everyday

I get up, I go to work, I come home and it’s just me. The time has

flown by so fast sometimes I wonder where it all went. How have I

survived? It’s been a struggle, but I’ve manage to make ends meet. To

having paid highest gas prices in the country to the highest sales tax

in the country, I’ve made it through.

 

As

I sat in my office on last Friday (October 24) doing routine tasks my

phone rang. It was one of my staff members. She told me that Jennifer

Hudson’s mother and brother had been killed and her nephew was missing.

I was devastated, heart broken. I’d had the privilege of meeting

Jennifer this past summer, she had a wonderful spirit and seemed like a

real cool gal, and I could only imagine what she was going through.

 

As

further details emerged in the case it made me think about all the

other murders that had occurred in the city since I decided to move

here. It seems like every year that passes by, the total number of

homicides gets larger and larger, and kids are getting killed daily and monthly in increasingly random situations.

 

I

drove on the expressway that evening and I saw the Amber Alerts where

the traffic times are usually posted. It made me sick to my stomach.

Where could Jennifer’s nephew be? Some crazy person had him and I

prayed that he would be found a little shaken up by but alive. All

weekend long the city was in shock, the country was in shock. And here

it is Wednesday and now that Darnell Donerson, Jason Hudson, and Julian King are gone it’s hard to digest. Jennifer

is back home in Chicago trying to be as strong as she can in the

city that helped shape and mold her into the star she’s come to be.

 

My

question now is: how safe is it in the “big city” I left my safety net

for? According to recent statistics Chicago is currently “Murder

Capital U.S.A”. The crime here is out of control, it’s up 13 percent.

Chicago is expected to exceed 500 murders by the end of the year, but

ironically that number falls short of approaching a record. In every

year between 1991 and 1994, there were more than 900 homicides in the

city, peaking in 1992 with 943 murders. The standing record for

homicides in Chicago dates back to 1974, when there were 970 murders.

 

In

2008, Chicago has had more murders than New York and Los Angeles, two

bigger cities that have larger populations. And I just want the

senseless violence to stop. I want to feel safe in the city that I

moved to in hopes of following my dreams. Yeah I’m from the suburbs, but

where I’m from it ain’t all roses. Crime is up there too, but it

doesn’t touch what city life is like.

 

 

I

am fortunate to live a few blocks down from where Senator Barack Obama

resides and the Chicago Police and Secret Service sit at the top and

bottom of his block 24 hours a day 7 days a week. But do I feel safe? I

guess… I just try not to think about being a victim of a violent

crime. I know living in the city is risky. But it was always a risk I

was willing to take. And after this weekend, reality has truly sunk in

and I no longer feel as safe as I once did. I’ve got to be way more

careful and watch my back. And pray that things calm down here in

Chicago.

 

This

is really an interesting time in U.S. history. And I can only imagine

what’s going to go down in Chicago and in this country between now and

November 4 and 5, the day of and the day after we know who are next

president is going to be. And when you think about it, isn’t it

crazy…our next potential president will be hailing from…“Chi-town,

Murder Capital U.S.A”.

 

Wow.

 

Let’s

just pray y’all. People lose their lives every single day all over the

world to senseless acts of violence. I pray for Jennifer, I pray for

Senator Obama, and I pray for Kanye who is approaching the anniversary

of the death of his mother Dr. Donda West in a couple of weeks. I pray

for everyone everywhere.

 

I

love my city and I just want to feel safe again. I want Chicago to

uphold its outstanding reputation for the positive attributes it’s

produced over the years and not the negative banner that’s been

bestowed upon us, “Murder Capital U.S.A”.

 

 

For all of you who took the time out to read this, I just want to say thank you.

 

 

Live in Chicago,

 

Nia B