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Shaq Drops Diss on Kobe at Club                             6/24/08

Shaq was at a club Improv in NYC when he decided to air out a few things. First he came off rappin about how dope he was saying “You know how I be/Last week, Kobe couldn’t do without me.” And then said Kobe snitched on him about his alleged affairs saying “I’m a horse/Kobe ratted me out, that’s why I’m gettin’ divorced”; referring to Bryant’s statements to Colorado police about O’Neal’s alleged affairs during Kobe’s Rape Incident. Then Shaq took shots at Kobe personally chanting and later had the crowd repeating the verse “Kobe, tell me how my ass taste!”

Shaq has dropped a total of _ _ _ ? albums and was featured on a song with B-Real, Ice Cube, Peter Gunz and KRS-One called “Men of Steel”.

It is not know if Shaq plans to drop any music anytime soon but he still got skills on the mic.

Shaq told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith. “It was all done in fun, nothing serious whatsoever. …I’m totally cool with Kobe. …Please tell everybody don’t make something out of nothing.

Watch Video!

 

ASCAP'S 21st Annual Music Awards                           6/24/08

600+ songwriters, recording artists, producers and other music industry leaders came together for the 21st Annual ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards, held last night June 23 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, CA.

The awards were set to recognize and honor the top songwriters, producers and publishers of the most popular music of the year.

Grammy Award-winning songwriter Johntá Austin hosted the all-star gathering, which included special guest presenters MC Lyte, Ne-Yo and T-Boz, plus live performances by some of today's hottest stars and emerging artists, including Marsha Ambrosius (Aftermath), Brutha (Def Jam), Raheem DeVaughn (Jive), The Dream (Def Jam), Flo-Rida (Poe Boy/Atlantic), J. Holiday (Capitol), Krave (Upfront/Interscope), Jacob Latimore (Crown World Entertainment), Karina Pasian (Def Jam), Shawty Lo (D4L/Asylum) and Tank (Blackground).

Top awards:

Songwriter of the Year: Timbaland

Publisher of the Year: EMI Music Publishing

Ringtone of the Year: "This is Why I'm Hot" by MIMS

R&B/Hip-Hop Song of the Year: "Lost Without U"

Rap Song of the Year: "Make Me Better" by Fabolous feat. Ne-Yo

ASCAP's Songwriter of the Year award went to Timbaland in recognition of the songs "Ice Box" (Omarion), "Make Me Better" (Fabolous featuring Ne-Yo), "My Love" (Justin Timberlake featuring T.I.) and "Until the End of Time" (Justin Timberlake with Beyoncé). This makes it the third time Timbaland has taken home this award.

"This is Why I'm Hot" claimed the award for Ringtone of the Year, and was also recognized in both the R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap categories. The song was co-written by Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, Havoc, Danny "Styles" Schofield, Thomas "Tommy Gunz" Simons, Winston "Blackout" Thomas and Charles "Keak Da Sneak" Williams. Performed by Mims, the single debuted at number one on Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart, reached #2 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, and took the #1 spot on the Hot Rap Tracks chart.

The Top R&B/Hip-Hop Song was "Lost Without U" Co-written by Sean Hurley and Robin Thicke, and performed by Thicke, the song topped both Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts all at the same time.

"Make Me Better" co-written by Timbaland and Fabolous, was named Top Rap Song and also earned an award in the R&B/Hip-Hop category. The song reached #1 on Billboard's Hot Rap Tracks chart and Timbaland was awarded a Grammy nomination for Producer of the Year.

Other songwriters with multi-award winning song: Timbaland - 4 songs; Keri Hilson - 3; and Johntá Austin, Ivan Barias, Beyoncé, Jermaine "JD" Dupri, Mikkel Eriksen, Carvin Haggins, Tor Hermansen, Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Jackson, The Dream and Justin Timberlake all with 2 a piece.

EMI Music Publishing was named the victor of Publisher of the Year for their 17 award-winning songs. This is the 14th consecutive win for EMI and the 16th time in the 21-year history of the awards.

Honorees and notables in attendance included: New Edition( all of em), Maurice Starr, Johntá Austin, MC Lyte, Ne-Yo, T-Boz, Akon, Kerry "Krucial" Brothers, Karen Clark-Sheard, Drumma Boy, Verdine White, Marsha Ambrosius, Brutha, Raheem DeVaughn, Flo-Rida, J. Holiday, Torence "Lil Boosie" Hatch, Keri Hilson, Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Jackson, Ludacris, Midi Mafia, Musiq Soulchild, Kelly Price, Stargate, Polow Da Don , Tricky Stewart, Tank, Rhymefest, Rick Rock, Jordin Sparks, Shakir Stewart, Clarence Avant, Timothy "Attitude" Clayton, Crime Mob, Ron Fair, Fantasia, Webbie, Krave, Jacob Latimore, Karina Pasian, Shawty Lo, The Dream, The Pussycat Dolls' Melody Thornton, Yolanda "Yo-Yo" Whitaker and Chaka Zulu, Kenny Lattimore, Lil' Kim, Kevin Liles, Chante Moore, Eddie Murphy, Sylvia Rhone, Al B. Sure, among others.

New Edition (w/ all members in attendance) Received the ASCAP Golden Note Award.

Complete list of winners @ www.ascap.com

 

Uncle Ralph to host BK Hip Hop Festival 2008      6/23/0825 years in the game, a living legend returns to hold down the Festival.

For the third straight year legendary VJ and Hip-Hop pioneer Ralph McDaniels will serve as host of the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival.

Uncle Ralph, as he is also affectionately known, has been hosting the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival since it moved to Empire Fulton Ferry State Park in 2006. More than just a host Ralph has been an ambassador for the Festival. "A student of Hip-Hop will know that you cannot underestimate the importance of Ralph McDaniels and Video Music Box. He saw the need to archive and document our culture before MTV, and before YouTube. Without him I am not sure Hip-Hop as an art form or as a business would be the multi- billion dollar industry that it is. We are his children and the Festival is a continuation of the trailblazing spirit manifested by Ralph and all of our other elders," Wes Jackson, Festival Chair and Executive Director.

Uncle Ralph is also celebrating 25 years of Video Music Box, his groundbreaking music video show. In the 80's, Video Music Box was the only place to see music videos for much of New York City. Before Yo MTV Raps!, or 106th and Park there was one game in town, Video Music Box. Video Music Box gave Ralph the platform to help launch the careers of Jay Z, Black Moon, A Tribe Called Quest, KRS ONE, De La Soul, Leaders Of The New School and more.

In addition to continuing to host and produce Video Music Box, Ralph also hosts "The Bridge" on WNYC. "The Bridge" focuses on classic videos and interviews from legendary groups and artists. The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival takes place July 10th - 12th Ralph McDaniels will be hosting the Main Day at Empire Fulton Ferry State Park on July 12th

Tickets are available at Fat Beats NYC, Halcyon in DUMBO, Brooklyn and via www.brooklyn bodega.com, the Festival's home site.

Brooklyn Bodega

John Davis

john@brooklynbodega.com

Craig Hackey

craig@brooklynbodega.com 
 


50 Cent Touched in More Ways than 1, by Fans in Africa    6/17/08

50 Cent (born Curtis Jackson) was touched by his tour in Africa with his G-Unit because it has made him aware of how much African fans had to spend in order to come out and watch the show.

50 Cent, Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks, among others, have hit South Africa and Tanzania, and the G-Unit Don has given the love back.

He told Mtv News, "It's a bigger sacrifice for them to actually attend these shows... Something is not happening in their lives for a month because they decided to spend money to buy tickets. It's, like, 'OK, we're not driving this month because we're going to see that show.' It's a big deal to them. It means something more to them than it means to attend a concert in the U.S".

Fiddy also took time to hook up with Nelson Mandela and was brought up to par on the history of anti-Apartheid.

50 was robbed during a show in Luanda Angola (Paris of Africa), Africa in which a fan snatched a chain off 50’s neck during his performance. 50 later filed charges after the kids parents turned the boy in.

Watch the Chain-Snatching incident on YouTube. The kid jumps on stage about 3/4 through the video around 1:40

Watch it in full screen mode on YouTube.


Bone Thugs-N-Harmony are Back in Full Effect        6/16/08

Cleveland Hip-Hop Super group founded by the late and great Eazy-E, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have returned, well not exactly yet but they will soon. That is as soon as Flesh-n-Bone (born Stanley Howse) is released from Prison. Flesh was sentenced to 11 years after he threatened another man with a loaded AK-47 rifle. A Police raid on his California residence in July of 1997 revealed numerous explosives, including dynamite sticks.

Flesh, who is not only a member of the group but also Layzie Bone’s brother, was also wanted for of seven assault charges that dated back to 1993.

The arrest and conviction put a stop to Flesh’s career, even though he can be heard on classic Bone albums like Creepin On Ah Come Up, E 1999 Eternal and The Art of War. Bizzy Bone was tossed out the group in 2002 because of excess drug and alcohol abuse and other personal issues.

Bizzy Bone (born Bryon Anthony McCane) just dropped an independent album A Song For You in April 2008. The title track from the album features DMX and hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart.

Bizzy squashed differences with the group recently while out in Cali. Krayzie said “Flesh will be home July 10th, he’s supposed to be getting out. Bizzy was at one of last shows in Riverside [California]. We had a good conversation there," Krayzie Bone revealed. We told people what it was. When everything got right, we was gonna come back together and what we had to do.”

So with the release of Flesh their will be all five original group members. The group originally featured Krayzie Bone, Layzie Bone, Wish Bone, Bizzy Bone and Flesh-n-Bone,

Krayzie Bone also said the only thing that would stop the Grammy Award winning group’s signature singing/rapping from return to radio airwaves is record label politics.

“We all just been hibernating, trying to come up with the concept for the album,” Krayzie Bone continued. “It’s definitely going down. I ain't gonna say its 100 percent just because of the label situation and the technical stuff, like if the label wants to pay what we deserver. As far as bone as group and us, we together. It aint just a rumor... We are trying to put it all back together for real.”

The group is prepping to get in the studio with Swizz Beatz, who is a confirmed producer on the group’s untitled reunion project.

“We ain't started yet, because we are trying to get paperwork together. We done talked to Swizz, Swizz is on deck and we are ready to roll and make it do what it do baby.”


Multi-Platinum Producer Launches Video Sharing Site To Help Beat Makers get Exposure
6/12/08

Music producer Darrell "Digga" Branch, a well known and respected producer in the music industry. He has made hits for Jay-Z "Dopeman", 50 Cent "Many Men", Jennifer Lopez, Busta Rhymes, Ghostface, Big L, "Can't Stop Won't Stop" by the Young Gunz and more. Digga now launches a new website, OnlineBeatTutor.com.

OnlineBeatTutor.com is the very first site of its kind. It's a video sharing website for music producers to network and learn. Beat makers and producers can learn, teach and discover everything known about beat production. This site will teach aspiring music producers/ beat makers to sharpen their skills on sampling, sequencing, programming, song structure and more.

OnlineBeatTutor.com is similar to YouTube but exclusive just for music producers. OnlineBeatTutor.com is expected to become the most effective tool available for beat makers today. When help is needed, instant solutions and answers are just a few clicks away. Users can log on and search a wide variety of topics including sampling, software, equipment and or music production. Also included are tutorials to help fix your problem instantly.

This site is for people who are interested in sharing and gaining knowledge about making beats. OnlineBeatTutor.com is for basic, intermediate and advanced producers. "I wanted to create a central place where beatmakers and producers could get useful tips immediately on their problems instead of searching through a gigantic database of videos, waiting for an email response from me or technical support, said Digga."

Not only does the site provide video tutorials, music producers and beat makers will have access to channels specifically related to sampling, sequencing, programming and other area’s. They’ll be able to upload their own instructional videos or view other step by step videos from other members.

Users create personal profiles, peer groups and save their favorite videos and communicate with other users online.

He has make records that have sold over 30 million records together. 2008 Digga formed Producers Skill Inc. the parent company of OnlineBeatTutor.com

For more info about OnlineBeatTutor.com or its parent company, Producers Skill, Inc, contact: Sidney Roman-Chase at BeatTutor@gmail.com or visit http://www.OnlineBeatTutor.com

Numskull of Luniz is Facing Life In Prison        6/09/08

Bay Area rapper deriving from OakTown Numskull, one half of group The Luniz (consisting of Numskull and Yukmouth), is currently in police custody at the Santa Rita Jail located in Dublin, CA, just south of Oakland.

Numskull who has been in jail awaiting trial since January 24, is facing 15 felony charges.

The list of charges includes two counts of sodomy, one count of rape of a victim incapable of consent, one count of oral copulation against the victim’s will and three counts of corporal injury to a cohabitant.

Numskull, who was previously convicted on drug charges back in 93’ is also being charged with three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts of dissuading a victim from reporting a crime, one count of making criminal threats and two counts of vandalism over $400 in damages.

If found guilty of his multiple charges, Numskull (born Garrick Demond Husbands) could face a minimum of 25 years to a maximum life sentence. Also if convicted of sex crimes and if released from prison he would have to register with the State of California as a sex offender.

The victim is identified only as Jane Doe in a complaint filed by the Alameda County Deputy District Attorney on May 22.

The alleged crimes took place between March 15 and April 9, 2007, when Numskull was originally arrested. The documents indicate the victim, identified as Numskull’s “cohabitant” reported the other previous domestic violence cases around that time.

Numskull is next scheduled in court on June 18, for a pre-trial hearing.

His bail has been set at $245,000.

 

 

DJ Vlad Directing Mac Dre American Gangster Episode  6/06/08

Mixtape DJ Vlad the Butcher will bring the story of Mac Dre and his infamous Romper Room Gang to a BET’s episode of American Gangster.

DJ Vlad, who reps the Bay area, was named director of that episode, which is expected to air sometime in November as apart of BET’s new programming.

DJ Vlad said he was interested in The Romper Room Gang’s legendary story while shooting his debut documentary, Ghost Ride the Whip, which tells the story of The Bay Area, the Hyphy movement and of legendary rapper Mac Dre.

“Mac Dre went on one of the robberies cause he wanted to see a girl in Fresno and he stayed in a hotel there. He ended up getting hit with a conspiracy charge because he refused to rat on his friends and ends up doing years,” DJ Vlad told AllHipHop.com. “Thizz Entertainment provided a lot of the footage. With American Gangster, the main thing is access and getting people to talk about what had happened. It’s pretty serious subject matter.”

Mac Dre (born Andre Hicks) was a Bay Area rapper who is considered the originator of the Hyphy and Thizz style’s of music.

The rapper put out a controversial compilation titled The Rompilation, which featured a number of Bay Area rappers.

A song on the album was said to been the reason behind Mac Dre’s arrest, after the Vallejo Police Department took lyrics in one of the tracks and which described a series of credit union robberies.

According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, The Romper Room Gang was also responsible for a series of pizza parlor robberies, vehicle theft, drug sales, drive-by shootings and other acts of violence.

They were credited to a total of 8 different credit unions robberies and were suspected in over 25 more. The total estimated dollar amount from the 30+ robberies was $1.4 million.

Mac Dre and 53 other members of the gang were arrested in connection to the string of hold-ups. Mac Dre was convicted and spent six years in prison on a charge of conspiracy to commit bank robbery.

Mac Dre was fatally shot November of 2004 on a Kansas, City, Missouri highway.

Mac Dre’s murder set off a war in the underworld, which resulted in murder charges for fellow Bay Area rapper Mac Minister, who allegedly murdered two others in retaliation for the Mac Dre’s murder.

"This [episode] is like ‘yeah I ran into banks with guns and ski masks and had shootout with cops.‘ Because of my experience of directing a movie in the similar vein really helped and the fact that I’ve been immersed in the Bay Area scene for years.”

Stay tuned in November 2008 for Mac Dre and the Romper Room Gang on American Gangster.

 

 

Def Jam to Release New Albums from LL Cool J and NAS  6/04/08

Yesterday (Tuesday) L.A. Reid announced in a public statement that Shakir Stewart has taken the executive vice president position at Def Jam Records.

As Kulture News previously reported, Stewart was the former Def Jam A&R. He is best known for signing Rick Ross and Young Jeezy to the Def Jam label.

#1 priority is to release albums from Nas and LL Cool J.

"This is the most anticipated and probably most controversial album of [Nas'] career and I've worked side by side with him in making this album since day one, " he stated. "I'm also extremely involved in LL Cool J's album which is coming out at the end of July. To be able to come in and work with two artists of that caliber is me stepping outside of my comfort zone. I'm so honored and excited about the opportunity."

Stewart is also planning to release albums from Ne-Yo, re-launching Rihanna's most recent album and signing new R&B and pop talent.

"My focus, as I step into this position is to put out great music, all genres of music," he said.

 

 

Demonstrators Protest Viacom, Saying ENOUGH IS ENOUGH   6/03/08

Demonstration Planned During Annual Stockholders Meeting Calling For Viacom to Stop Airing Music Videos that Market Adult-themed Content on Music Programs that Target Children and Youth

NEW YORK, June 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Thursday, June 5, 2008, Enough is Enough campaign supporters will be marching outside Viacom's Annual Stockholders Meeting at the Hudson Theatre, Millennium Broadway Hotel, 145 West 44th Street (between Broadway and 6th Avenue), New York, New York. The rally begins at 10:00 a.m. EDT culminating in a Press Conference @ 12:30 p.m. on the corner of 44th Street and 6th Avenue.

Demonstrators supporting the Enough Is Enough Campaign for Corporate Responsibility in Entertainment want Viacom shareholders to know that their investments are being used to market music video programs on BET and MTV that glorify violence and criminal behavior, promote drug use and drug dealing, sexually objectify women, and portray Black and Latino men as pimps, gangsters, and thugs.

Protesters are irate that these music programs on BET and MTV market adult-themed content on programs that target youth.

On April 10, 2008, the organization in conjunction with the Parents Television Council released a study called "The Rap on Rap" that analyzes the images and messages on MTV and BET's top music video programs. The study revealed the highest degree of explicit adult content on programs with a large 18 years old and under viewership in the history of the Parents Television Council. New data about BET and MTV daytime music video programming revealed that as recently as March 2008, children who watched BET's 'Rap City' and '106 & Park,' and MTV's 'Sucker Free on MTV' were bombarded with adult content - sexual, violent, profane or obscene - once every 38 seconds.

According to Rev. Delman Coates, organizer of the campaign, parents are deeply concerned about the amount of adult, sexually explicit and suggestive content aired on music video programs that target children and youth. Since September 2007, the Enough is Enough campaign has been protesting the corporate sponsorship of lyrics and images that contain themes inappropriate for children and youth. The campaign is appealing to Viacom to exercise greater corporate social responsibility in its music video programming. As a result of the campaign several major advertisers have agreed to remove their commercials from these specific music video programs. To schedule an interview regarding this campaign, Visit Enough Is Enough

Source: Enough Is Enough

CONTACT: Julia Pollard of Enough Is Enough, +1-301-238-4826

 
Nas changes album to Nigger to Nigga back to Nigger..now its gonna be a Mixtape
6/02/08

We are more Lost than that show on T.V. about this one. We will try to make sense about this all. So he was first going to name the album "NIGGER" and he then decided to name it "NIGGA" with the "A" but then switched back to the "ER". The album was pushed back several times and then we heard it was going to be blank. Now reports say that he will drop the controversial title via a mixtape without the permission of his label. He then will name the official album simply "NAS".

 


Busta Rhymes' Body Guard Found Dead                     6/01/08

Busta Rhymes (born Trevor Smith) bodyguard has been found dead in New York.

Jermaine Williams, 35, was found on Wednesday (May 28) with multiple gunshot wounds in Ozone Park, Queens.

Police found Williams body wrapped in a blanket in the backseat of his SUV.

Busta Rhymes was not available for statement. Bus-A-Bus is currently touring in Europe and was there at the time of the incident.

Williams is the second bodyguard employed by Busta to be shot and killed. The other bodyguard Israel Ramirez was shot and killed in 2006 on the set of Busta's music video "Touch it Remix" off of The Big Bang album. DMX, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige and others were on location but and still to date no witnesses have stepped forward regarding the shooting.

In related news Busta is to be featured in an upcoming film Order of Redemption starring Tom Berenger and Armand Assante. Busta's plays Al Bowen, a drug dealer, killer and gang leader who is in cohorts with crooked cops. Busta is also set to tour with Linkin Park in a 24 U.S. city tour, beginning July 16th. Busta will be performing songs from his upcoming album Blessed.

Blessed drops July 1st via Aftermath/Interscope.

May 2008

 


LA Times Mistakenly Identifies Dilated People's Evidence for Notorious Tagger
5/29/08

Police arrest notorious graffiti tag artist Cyrus "Buket" Yazdani on felony vandalism charges this week in Los Angeles but inaccurate photos of the man in custody continue to circulate, appearing at the top of the hour newscasts on CBS 9, ABC 7, KTLA 5, NBC 4 and Los Angeles Times cover story due to newspaper mistakenly identifying Yazdani with an image of respected MC and Producer Evidence of Dilated Peoples

(Los Angeles, California – May 29, 2008) Los Angeles Detectives took Cyrus "Buket" Yazdani into custody this week on felony vandalism charges. The man who police describe as "one of Los Angeles' most prolific taggers" was habitual for videotaping his handiwork and uploading footage to the web. The well known local tagger became recognized globally when videos of him spray painting on a Hollywood Fwy overpass, with cars zooming by 20 feet below began circulating over the internet.

Dilated People's member Michael "Evidence" Perretta has been making noise on the underground hip-hop scene since the trio appeared in the late 1990's. In reference to the photo of the MC plastered across the front page of the Los Angeles Times and displayed hourly on various television newscasts depicting him as the arrested tagger Evidence says, "I only met Buket once when I was asked to do a promo for an internet show, however I'm obviously not him and find it humorous how the media didn't take the time to figure this out before running such an extensive story."

Evidence explains how he was approached by Yazdani over a year ago and asked to say a few promotional words on film. Unbeknownst to the celeb endorser his words would be edited and used as an introductory segment running prior to footage of Yazdani making his tag mark on the 101 Hollywood Fwy. The segment entitled "War 4" circulated on Youtube.com and was watched by over 500,000 viewers. Video images of Evidence were accidentally pulled by the Los Angeles Times when Yazdani was taken into custody, thus mistakenly identifying the MC for the notorious tagger. The rapper explains, "In my line of work anytime someone asks me for a recorded or live video promo I'm always glad to do it. I have co-signed thousands of Internet, Radio and TV shows as well as various other forms of media. This could have happened to any entertainer, not just me."

Evidence has been a torchbearer and champion of underground hip-hop culture. He remains a positive identity within this often misrepresented and marginalized community. Raised in Venice Beach, California the former breakdancer has released four critically acclaimed and socially conscious albums alongside Dilated Peoples and last year had tremendous success with his solo debut The Weatherman. The songs tackled issues of politics and revolution as well as containing powerful tribute tracks to his mother. The celebrated MC has created his own unique blend of beats and rhymes making him a staple and respected figure on the current musical landscape. Evidence and Dilated Peoples have graced covers and appeared within the pages of Vibe, The Source, King, XXL, YRB, Vapors, Alternative Press, URB and XLR8R while his production work has included tracks for the Beastie Boys, Linkin Park, Swollen Members, Defari, Planet Asia and co- production on Kanye West's Grammy award winning album College Dropout.

Evidence says he wants this huge mistake cleared up and retractions made by the media. Meanwhile he is busy preparing for upcoming nationwide show dates during the "Fresh Rhymes & Videotape Tour" featuring Dilated Peoples, The Alchemist, Aceyalone and 88 Keys. The tour runs from June 2nd – June 29th and will hit all major cities.

For additional information visit: Dilated Peoples Myspace

 

 

Camu Tao succumbs to illness but leaves behind a Legacy
5/26/08

Definitive Jux artist Camu Tao (born Tero Smith) died yesterday afternoon (May 25) at the age of 30 after a 2 year bout with lung cancer.

Label mates, friends (Aesop Rock, El-P, Yak Ballz, Dusted Dons and many others) all grieved and expressed their condolences by posting his picture as their default and blessing his page as well as many fans around the world.

Camu Tao was a member of the MHZ crew from Columbus, Ohio alongside members RJD2, Copywrite (which him and Camu got in a fight at one time) Jakki Tha Motamouth, Meta4ce and others. Camu eventually parted ways from them and went on to have a successful career including the works of the Weathermen. Camu also did a concept album with Cage called the Night Hawks. The plot is about Two NYC cops (Deke DaSilva and Matt Foxar) as they fight terrorist in the streets during their field of work. He was apart of the duo S.A. Smash with fellow rapper Metro and was also a member of the Central Services production team with El-P.

Kulture News would like to say he was definitely Definitive Jux, a huge force and will be deeply missed by the Hip Hop community.

R.I.P Camu Tao (June 6, 1977 – May 25, 2008)

Camu Tao's Myspace

 

MC Lyte, what's she up to?                              5/26/08

Lil' Kim probably wouldn't agree but we at Kulture News believe MC Lyte is "Ms. G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time)" highly considered the greatest female rapper to ever hold a mic and still be doing it. With 10 albums, two Grammy's, VH1 Hip Hop Honors and numerous other accolades.

She also formed a group as of recently called, ALMOST SEPTEMBER. The group is Composed of MC Lyte, producer/writer/vocalist Whitey and producer/writer Jared Lee. ALMOST SEPTEMBER is also apart of Family Tree Entertainment which also manages OutKast, Nick Cannon, Macy Gray, P!nk, and Trina among others.

MC Lyte has a slew of shows coming up including a June 7th concert in Los Angeles and if you miss her there she will be back June 20th to rock in Santa Monica at the Apple Store. Full Tour Dates & more info @ MC Lyte's official Myspace

MC Lyte's Myspace

ALMOST SEPTEMBER's Myspace

 


Kanye West, Common, Method Man & Redman Sued due to Copyright Infringement
5/24/08

Kanye West, Common, Method Man and Redman, and their record companies were named in a lawsuit Thursday by the late Jazz musician Joe Farrell's daughter, who accuses the rappers of using her father's music without written consent.

According to Billboard, Kathleen Firrantello filed an infringement lawsuit against the rappers and their various labels owned by Universal Music Group at U.S. District Court in New York, for the unlawful use of Farrell's 1974 musical composition "Upon This Rock." The lawsuit stated all four rappers used portions of Farrell's material in three separate songs - Kanye West's "Gone", Common's "Chi-City" and Method Man and RedMan's "Run 4 Cover."

Firrantello is seeking punitive damages of at least $1 million. She also asked that no further copies of the songs be made, sold or performed. None of the record companies or representatives for the rappers were available for comment at press time.

 

Saigon as well as other artist's Leave Atlantic Records
5/22/08

Saigon (born Brian Daniel Carenard) aka Saigiddy, S to Da A, Sai, Tha Yardfather is just one of a few artist, including Lil' Kim who has left Atlantic since the beginning of the year.

The departure arrives after a disagreement the Brooklyn rapper had with his former label from releasing his Debut album "The Greatest Story Never Told". The question remains will the story ever be told?

"I'm not that excited about going to a major label," Saigon said. "They would have to make it so I'm set for the rest of my life. [Labels] want too much for the little that they're giving." The rapper posted a blog on his myspace voicing his concern after Atlantic pushed the drop date back several occasions.

He said Atlantic is "a home of ringtone making artists,". He also let fans know it wasn't his fault that the album has yet to hit the streets by saying "Please don't believe that the hold up of my album has anything to do with me or my work ethic or my rate of producing great music,"

After releasing the single, "Pain in My Life," the track failed to take off on radio and was nowhere to be seen on the charts.

Saigon's main claims were that the label tried to make him a ringtone rapper.

"It's not like I didn't want to put out music," he told Billboard. "But Atlantic wanted me to do ringtone songs but they didn't sign me as a ringtone artist."

Sai also blamed Atlantic's former A&R executive who signed him, Kyambo "Hip-Hop" Joshua, who left to get on Columbia Records.

His latest single, "Believe It," was released to yesterday (May 21) via Just Blaze's blog, TheMegatrondon2.com and the MC has 7 music video's on the way.

More info @ Saigon's official Myspace

Hits from the Blog, Aesop Rock's Blog                5/19/08

 hey all just updating you on the release date of this project. the None Shall Pass Instrumentals, Accapellas, and Lyrics (as accompanied by the photography of Chrissy Piper) will be available on JUNE 1st from...

www.definitivejux.net

JUNE 1st

JUNE 1st

JUNE 1st

best

a.r.

In related news, Aesop plays the Soundset Festival!

Featuring: Aesop Rock, Rob Sonic, Atmosphere, Dilated Peoples,DJ Big Wiz, Little Brother, among others.

Presented by:Rhymesayers Entertainment

05/25/08 Minneapolis, MN Metrodome Parking Lot

For more Aesop shows click Events

 

 
Kool Keith set to release Dr. Dooom 2                   5/17/08  

Dr. Dooom finally returns with the new single R.I.P. Dr. Octagon b/w Surgery featuring Motion Man.

1. R.I.P. Dr. Octagon (Vocal)

2. R.I.P. Dr. Octagon (Instrumental)

3. Surgery (Featuring Motion Man)

4. Surgery (Instrumental)

Buy here

Kool Keith and Kutmasta Kurt recorded the album. No release date is known at press time.

 

 


Marley Marl Relaunches Future Flava Radio And New Non-Profit Org              5/16/08

Hip Hop Pioneer, DJ Marley Marl has made an announcement that the re-launch of Future Flavas Radio on the Internet.

The Radio Show debuted in 1994 on New York's Hot 97. It was developed by Marley Marl and Pete Rock and the initial host was KRS-One.

After Marley departed Hot 97, he went onto establish Future Flavas Radio via digital radio on the internet. The newly added staff and DJ roster features a number of the world greatest and most renowned DJ's, including DJ Premiere, Pete Rock, Rok City and Evil Dee.

“Future Flavas Radio is an international brand," Marley Marl told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “This time around we will much more interactive with a section to show the latest and hottest sneakers called 'I Know You Got Sole.' Our regular rotation will feature unreleased music, underground hits, and unsigned artists. We will take the hottest demos that we can get and showcase the hottest DJs possible. We will give unsigned and up-and-coming artists international exposure by having their music played on internet radio."

In related news, Marley Marl announced the formation of It's Cool To Care, a non-profit organization designed to develop media educational centers for children.

The non-profit was launched in partnership with Marley's business partners Karl & Phyllis Weydig.

“It’s Cool to Care is a way for our youth to learn about the media and establish relationships with industry professionals worldwide,” Marley Marl explained.

Marley Marl is currently featured on New York’s Power 105.1 FM at Noon, as well as Future Flavas, which currently airs Friday nights from 2am – 4am.

Future Flavas Radio re-launches May 30th.

 

 

 Game Offers To Sign Man Who Knocked Out Suge Knight         5/16/08

The Game hopes to sign the guy who knocked out Suge Knight in a Hollywood street fight last weekend.

The Story goes that Suge and his entourage were jumping dude when he leaped up and landed a right hook that left Suge unconscious for estimates up to three minutes.

The Compton rapper made the announcement during Funkmaster Flex Hot 97 radio show last night.

"He's the Knockout Kid. We was looking for him, we found him, and trying to sign him," The Game said during the interview.

The Game and Suge were to of had some disagreements but were said to of ended two days prior to the K.O. incident.

"I just think you win some, you lose some," The Game stated. "[Suge's] not a boxer. It's not like he's Muhammad Ali, and he's been in the game and somebody finally beats you."

Suge Knight and his company Death Row Records owned during the 90's but Game said he feels that the guys of yesterday are going to have to respect the up-and-comers who are here today.

"Suge, back in the day, he had it locked in LA. But now, your time comes and goes, and you have to respect the new breed, and now that's me. I got L.A. locked, and 10 years from now there will be a new dude," he explained. "Ten years from now, when I'm 40, there's gonna be a new kid and I gotta respect that dude. Hopefully, the Knockout Kid's little brother don't hit me or something ... or step to me. I don't want no problems with the Knockout Kid."

Game also went on to say "I just know everybody gots a chin, and when hit in the right place, you go down," he said.

The Game is set to release his third album L.A.X. (Los Angeles Times) July 8.

 


 
Foxy Brown Hits the street, Fires Manager and plans to re-release album
5/16/08

Its Official, Foxy Brown (born Inga Marchand) has fired her manager Chaz Williams, just a few days after being released from her 8 month sentence on Riker’s Island .

Foxy was furious about the track selections on her new album, Brooklyn’s Don Diva.

 "I heard this CD in its entirety for the first time just days ago and was devastated," Brown told AllHipHop.com in a statement "Riddled with grief over an album that was seemingly so carelessly orchestrated, I sat down with the president of Koch to come to a decision on how to make the best of this situation. In another phase of my life and career, I would have dealt with this situation with litigation, but for the benefit of my fans and in the wake of the profound spiritual cleansing I recently underwent in prison, I made the decision to settle our creative differences amicably. My fans have waited seven years for an in-store release and deserve my very best."

Foxy is moving forward with plans to re-release the album along with "five new records, videos, publicity, mass marketing and promotion," she said.

The album will be a "mixtape street album" that will come before her long-awaited fourth studio album Black Roses.

"I am of a certain pedigree, and, I have an obligation to my fans to deliver the level of product my brand is accustomed to," Foxy Brown told AllHipHop.com. "In order to preserve my artistic integrity, the new release will have my stamp of approval and fingerprints all over it. Going independent was a great business decision and I believe Koch and I will deliver the biggest street album in female rap history."

Foxy Brown’s Brooklyn’s Don Diva is set to be re-drop next month via Koch Records.

 

 


 DMX late for Court, Pleads Not Guilty              5/15/08

DMX born Earl Simmons)showed up to court over an hour late today, thursday (May 15), where he entered a plea of Not Guilty to a array of felony charges including drug possession.

DMX was scheduled to appear in front of Judge Lisa VandenBerg of the Maricopa County Superior Court at 8:30 am, but didn’t arrive in court until 9:30 am, for reasons unknown at this time.

The rappers Arizona estate was raided on May 9 after Law Enforcement provided a search warrant ending a seven month investigation into animal cruelty.

The charges stem from an August 2007 raid of the rapper’s property, where authorities seized twelve malnourished dogs as well as drugs and weapons.

November 2005, DMX was sentenced to do 10 days over his sentence in prison because he was almost two hours late to court during a sentencing for Violating his probation.

DMX is scheduled to be back in court on July 2.

 

 

 

 

Remy Ma to do 8 Year bid                                  5/13/08

 Bronx Bred rapper, Remy Ma was sentenced to serve eight years in the clink today(May 13).

Remy Ma, who was in attendance at the Manhattan Supreme Court, broke down and started balling after her sentence was handed down by Judge Rena Uviller.

Before the Judge told Remy what she was set to serve she had a few other things to say to Remy and to the Court.

“She’s overcome a difficult childhood. Her music has inspired people in need. She’s loved and has support from her family. This is somewhat of a pattern,” Judge Uviller said, “This is not the first time she has been engaged in a violent act. She has never taken responsibility for her actions. This has nothing to do with rap, it’s about the actions of one person. Remy is an extremely angry young woman, who feels the rules do not apply to her."

Remy Ma was sentenced to prison after being convicted of shooting one-time friend, Makeda Barnes-Joseph, July 2007, after $3,000 dollars was stolen from Remy’s purse. The pair and an entourage were leaving a New York night club and was in the back on transportation when the incident went down.

The rapper addressed her one-time friend, Barnes-Joseph with what sounded to be somewhat of an apology.

“I apologize for not saving you from your physical and mental scars,” Remy Ma told Barnes-Joseph.

Remy Ma’s boyfriend Papoose was swooped up by court cops upon hearing the verdict. Papoose and Remy Ma tried to marry but were unsuccessful in doing so the day before.

"All you want is money!" Papoose said shouting at Barnes Joseph.

Papoose was restrained and then escorted to an elevator and taken out of the courthouse by officers.

Remy Ma will serve her prison sentence at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women.

She plans to appeal the verdict. 
 

Hiphopping in New Zealand                                 5/12/08

For eight Auckland intermediate students they’re the words used to describe how they battle on the dance floor – and win.

De Ja Vu were formed through the Dziah Dance Academy only eight weeks before they won the national junior title at the 2008 New Zealand Dance Championships at the Telstra Pacific Events Centre last month.

It was the first time a junior category had been part of the annual hip hop dance competition.

Their victory qualifies the 10 to 12-year-olds entry into the World Hip Hop Dance Championships being held in Las Vegas at the end of July.

"They are training really hard right now and building strength to hold moves that older kids would normally do," says De Ja Vu manager Natasha Kauika-Stevens, who also has the task of finding the $40,000 needed to fund the trip.

"They strive to be future role models for youth," Natasha says. "Any assistance from the community to support our fundraising would be much appreciated."

The young dancers come from throughout Auckland, and include Kowhai Intermediate School pupils Shakaiah Perez and Riley Bourne, both 11, and St Mary’s College student Jazz Pickett.

Shakaiah and Jazz were also chosen by international dance judges for scholarships to attend workshops in Los Angeles, which they plan to use while in the United States for the world champs.

Team co-captain Kyra Aoake, 10, says she enjoys dancing with her peers because they’re "fun and encouraging".

But she says the training is intensive.

"We had a sleepover and danced for 11 hours straight," she says.

Choreographer Ashleigh MacKinven is just 17 and has been with the Dziah Dance Academy for six years.

Natasha says De Ja Vu are looking forward to the experience of heading to the world champs, particularly performing in front of what will be their largest audience ever.

"The bigger and more hyped the crowd are the better," she says.

originally written by CARLY TAWHIAO - Auckland City Harbour News 
 

Suge Knight Knocked Out at an LA Club               5/11/08

Hip-Hop mogul Marion “Suge” Knight was involved in an assault with an unidentified man in front of hot spot called Shag in Hollywood last night (May 10).

Knight reportedly began arguing with the other man over money owed to Knight.

According to reports, Knight and his entourage assaulted the man, who managed to break free and land a right hook to Suge's jaw knocking him out for over 3 minutes.

An unknown woman attempted to take Knight to the hospital. She was said to have been drunk and struck several vehicles in front and in back of her, before security removed her from the vehicle.

Knight was eventually taken to a local hospital and treated for minor wounds, which looked to be a busted nose.

He did not file a police report and refused to cooperate with LAPD. 

 

 

DMX Update: DMX Arrested Again, Charged With Drug Possession & Animal Cruelty
5/09/08

Not even two days after being arrested for speeding and reckless driving, DMX was reportedly arrested on animal cruelty and drug charges in Arizona early Friday morning (May 9) following a seven month investigation.

As Kulture News previously reported, DMX's estate was raided by Law Enforcement last August finding dead dogs among other items linked to animal cruelty. The rapper's house also revealed drugs and firearms. DMX wasn't at home during the raid and was not formally charged at that time.

According to The Associated Press, Arizona authorities raided DMX's house at around 3 a.m. Friday and he was arrested on seven misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty and four counts of felony drug possession.

Authorities claimed that DMX tried to hide in his bedroom but eventually gave up without further incident.

5 pit bull puppies, weapons and drugs were found during this raid.

Authorities also revealed that they also delivered a search warrant Friday at a local clinic which they believe is involved in a possible fraud scheme with DMX. No further information was given regarding that case.

DMX made a court appearance Friday and his bail was set at $7,500 and he was released. He nor his representation has yet to make a comment.

 


DMX arrested for Speeding and no it wasn't Crack Possession this time
5/08/08

DMX ( born Earl Simmons) was arrested yesterday (May 7) by Arizona Law Enforcement for driving over 100 MPH.

According to The Associated Press, DMX was captured on stationary cameras while he was driving his 1966 Chevy Nova II at triple-digit speeds.

The Yonkers rapper was taken into custody from after police took him from his Arizona home without incident. He was charged with racing on a highway, reckless driving, two counts of endangerment and three counts of criminal speed and driving on a suspended license.

DMX was released after posting bond, His lawyer, Murray Richman, refused to comment at the time of the incident.  

Breakin' Convention goes down in UK                    3/06/08

 The fifth Breakin’ Convention was hosted at the internationally acclaimed Hip Hop dance theatre festival in London from May 3-5 2008.

If there’s one thing that can both divide and reconcile dance purists and experimentalists it has got to be breakdancing. Now internationally recognized as an art form. It is also one of the many dance styles that have formed from hip-hop but is still the original. The massive Breakin’ Convention returned to Sadler’s Wells for its fifth year this weekend in May.

Over the last few years, the festival has pushed breakdancing in the UK. In using Sadler’s Wells, a venue often associated with what could commonly be regarded as ‘high brow’ dance, the organizers bring something vital to hip-hop dance by acknowledging that it too can hold its own amongst the more purist dance forms. This is very important to keep dance fresh, to allow for dialogues between varying styles and most importantly, to get people into the theatres seeing live performance as it should be done.

This year’s line-up for one of the Worlds largest events of this kinds has brought out Headliners Membros (Brazil) who fuse hip hop and theatre to tell the story of social apartheid and inner-city corruption in Brazil. Korea’s Project Soul who present one of the forefront B-Boy crews on the international scene, MyoSung is also participating on the contest.

There’s plenty for every Hiphoppa offering lectures, workshops over the course of the event. Experienced Breakdancers and musicians will be teaching elements of Hip Hop from breakdancing, Poppin & lockin’, nu style, DJ-ing and BeatBoxing.

A rare opportunity to hear Popin' Pete, founder members of the legendary Electric Boogaloos, in conversation with Jonzi D. Hear him discuss the history and lineage of popping and will be taking questions from the floor.

For a full program and details go to the official website

www.BreakinConvention.com

 
2008 BROOKLYN HIP HOP FESTIVAL PROGRAMMING CALENDAR   5/04/08

BROOKLYN HIP HOP FESTIVAL FILM SERIES AT FT. GREENE PARK

Sit out in the park and watch the finest in Hip-Hop cinema. The films the Academy snuffed. We're talking Juice, Krush Groove, Beat Street and New Jack City. As well as the finest offerings from Brooklyn's own indie filmmakers. Full schedule will be announced soon.

If you are a filmmaker and would like to submit a piece, email us at info@brooklynbodega.com.

More info @ Fort Greene Park

JUNE 28th - ALL-DAY PERFORMANCES IN ASSOCIATION WITH LYRICIST LOUNGE

The Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival teams up with the legendary Lyricist Lounge for a full day of performances. Expect performances from Brooklyn home-town heroes and a reunion that will make the borough proud. Artist announcements soon! More Lyricist Lounge Info Here

JULY 10th - FILM SERIES AFTER-PARTY AT BROOKLYN MASONIC TEMPLE In conjunction with Boom Boom & More Celebrate the conclusion of the BHF Film Series at the historic Brooklyn Masonic Temple in the heart of the Fort Greene neighborhood. Produced in conjunction with Boom Boom productions & other SCR members. Full programming announced soon!

Boom Boom NYC

Brooklyn Masonic Temple

JULY 12th - BROOKLYN HIP HOP FESTIVAL MAIN PERFORMANCE DAY + BROOKLYN FAMILY DAY

The Kings and Queens of Brooklyn return home supported by the next wave from Brooklyn and beyond. In addition, the early portion of the day will be dedicated to community enrichment and health issues affecting our community including childhood obesity + going green!

Full schedule of events and lineup to be announced soon!

JULY 12th - OFFICIALY BROOKLYN HIP HOP FESTIVAL AFTER-PARTY

Celebrate a month's worth of programming at this official party - produced in conjunction with our several SCR alliance members.

Venue and lineup to be announced shortly.

 

Jay-Z Finalizes $150 Million Deal With Live Nation  5/02/08

Jay-Z's deal which made History with concert promoter Live Nation was reportedly closed yesterday (May 1).

As Kulture News reported earlier, Hova and Live Nation were in negotiations. Jigga was going after a ten year $150 million deal which will finance Sean Carter Group, Jay-Z's Record Label.

In part with the contract Jay-Z is signed to drop three albums during the 10 year deal. Advance's for projects will be $10 million sums. The rapper’s current tour with R&B singer Mary J Blige is also part of the closed deal.

 Jay-Z will be sharing all profits with Live Nation.

According to Billboard, Live Nation filed a Form-8k with the SEC Thursday which states that Jay-Z will be getting 750,000 Live Nation shares, plus an option on an additional 500,000 with the exercise price of $13.73 per holding.

 


Jay-Z is reppin-N-rappin for LeBron                     4/29/08

Jay-Z responded to NBA's Washington Wizards guard DeShawn Stevenson.

This track is just a the latest upon many jabs between LeBron and DeShawn. The b-ball beef started after DeShawn called LeBron "overrated" and James replied, "With DeShawn Stevenson, it's kind of funny. It's almost like Jay-Z responding to a negative comment made by Soulja Boy. It doesn't make sense." Meaning it ain't nothing and either is DeShawn.

Stevenson brought out Soulja Boy to game 3 of the teams' current playoff series to heckle James which could of worked cause even though LeBron put up 22 pts for 3 asst, and 7 defensive rebounds the Cavs still lost 72-108. James was booed every time he touched the ball and serenaded with chants of "overrated" by Washington Fan's.

Jigga Man now tosses his 2 cents (worth 1/2 a billion) releasing "Blow The Whistle." During the diss track, Hov agrees with LeBrons statement and takes it a step further rappin, "Ask my n*gga LeBron / we so big we ain't gotta respond / When you talking to a don / Please have respect like you talking to your mom."

According to local sources, the song was played in a local D.C. club multiple times and sometime during that Cavaliers player Damon Jones got on the mic to shoot a few "money ball" words to Stevenson.

Stevenson was unhappy that the local club would do that(play the song).

He also stated he no problem with Jay stating "I would never go at a Legend".

The Cavs lead the series 1-3 and Game 5 and will go back to Cleveland to host and possibly finish off the Wizards.

Wed 4/30 @ 6:00pm EST on TNT

Listen to "Blow The Whistle" Here

 

Nas, A Tribe Called Quest, Ghostface & More Set To "Rock The Bells"
4/26/08

The Rock The Bells festival, which premiered in 2004 and has hosted some of the nicest Hip Hop shows in Cali as of the last few years with reunions like Wu-Tang Clan and Rage Against The Machine has just released this years line-up. Rock The Bells is now hittin the road and overseas to Europe. This year The Pharcyde has united to come out and Rock The Bells along with Rakim, NAS, A Tribe Called Quest, Mos Def, De La Soul, Immortal Technique, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Method Man & Redman, dead prez, Murs and Kidz In The Hall.

The Side Stage will feature up and coming acts including Spank Rock, Santogold, Kid Sister, Jay Electronica, The Cool Kids, Wale and Flosstradamus. Cypress Hill's B-Real and Supernatural will host the multi-city/country event.

"This year's line-up represents, respects and recognizes the diversity and inspirational possibilities often promised, but rarely delivered in a live hip-hop experience," said Chang Weisberg of Guerilla Union, the event's organizer. "We really feel that this year's group of artists define our platform and further galvanize the legacy that Rock The Bells has earned through the years."

The festival, which is set to hop off July 19 in Chicago, will then hit the road for 10 more cities across North America including New York, Miami, Philadelphia and San Francisco before finally wrapping up on August 30 in Vancouver, B.C.

The tour will also have four shows in Europe and also a date in Japan.

Pre-sale tickets will be available May 14th - 16th via www.guerillaunion.com, and then to the general public on May 17th. Exclusive LA pre-sale starts on May 7th-9th with on-sale to follow May 10th.

Here is a complete list of the North American tour dates:

Jul 19 Chicago, IL

Jul 20 Toronto, ON

Jul 26 Boston, MA

Jul 27 New York, NY

Aug 2 Miami, FL

Aug 3 Philadelphia, PA

Aug 9 Los Angeles, CA

Aug 16 San Francisco, CA

Aug 23 Denver, CO

Aug 30 Vancouver, BC

Rock The Bells Official Website

 

Will Nas's Nigger Album ever drop?                         4/24/08

Numerous occasions this album has been put on hold. Sources say that he put it on hold because of a recent leak of material, "Be a N*gger Too" as well as possible album covers.

Continuing to raise social awareness, the leaked song makes references to the NAACP, Islam, Eminem's N-word incident and the recent murder of South African reggae artist Lucky Dube. The chorus lyrics for "Be A N*gger Too" goes:

"I'm a n*gga/ he's a n*gga / she's a n*gga / we some n*ggas / wouldn't you like to be a n*gga too?" (Listen Here)

The album N*gger has now been pushed back to release in stores July 1st via Def Jam Recordings.


 

Former B.G. Associate VL Mike Shot and Killed   4/21/08

Ex-B.G. homie and Chopper City Boyz member, VL Mike, was fatally shot in New Orleans over the weekend in an apparent assassination.

According to the Times-Picayune, VL (born Michael Allen) was gunned down while exiting a vehicle shortly after 1 p.m. on Sunday (April 20) in the 4700 block of Miles Drive in Gentilly. The gunman escaped on foot after the shooting and police have no suspects as of yet.

VL Mike was rushed to University Hospital where he died not to long after arriving.

VL Mike was a member of former Cash Money rapper B.G.'s group the Chopper City Boyz and appeared on the crew's 2007 release We Got This. Shortly after he had a falling out with B.G. and left the group. Many thought that him and his former group had beef but it was denied via a statement "We are not beefing with Mike or anyone else," said Chopper City Records co-CEO Carol Dorsey and B.G., via a statement. "We have done our best to put our stamp of approval and endorsement on The Chopper City Boyz in effort to blossom their careers and create opportunity for the vast array of talent that New Orleans has to offer..."

Kulture News send's our condolences to VL's Friends, fans and fam. R.I.P VL Mike

 

Blastmaster blasted by Beer Bottle at Show    4/19/08

Legendary rapper/MC KRS-One was injured during a performance in a New Haven, CT nightclub after an angry fan threw a bottle at the stage hitting the rapper.

The incident happened at Toad's Place on 4/14/08 according to reports. The beer bottle chucker was being escorted out of the nightclub by security when he tossed the brew hitting KRS causing injury to KRS's face and hand.

After being hit, KRS remained calm and asked the crowd not to retaliate. He was stated to saying "Let it go. When negativity comes your way, let it go," he was then rushed to Yale-New Haven hospital in an ambulance where he was treated for a fractured hand, and dehydration.

The person was arrested after being advised by the Club and KRS's management.

KRS-One was promoting for the Stop the Violence Movement Tour.

KRS has canceled the following dates to recover.

April 19. Panel Discussion and Performance at Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY

April 21. Performance at Harper's Ferry, Allston, MA

April 22. Performance at Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel, Providence, RI

April 28-30. Community Meetings and Planning, Chicago, IL.

 


Foxy Brown Out Of Prison                                    4/18/08

Foxy Brown (born Inga Marchand) has finally been freed after serving 8 months behind bars.

Foxy was released from prison looking healthy and was greeted by fans and media. She embraced loved ones with hugs and kisses on the cheeks.

Foxy was sentenced to serve a year after violating her probation terms in connection to an assault and battery charge dating back to 2004.

Her 4th studio album, Brooklyn's Don Diva, is set to drop on May 13th and she is also to star in an upcoming reality show.

"I'm back baby!" Foxy shouted before getting into a white Rolls Royce Phantom and rolling away a free woman.

 

Akon's False Tales                                                 4/17/08

Akon (born Aliuane Badara Thiam), named his company Konvict. The artist has been playing the role of Kingpin and as of recently his whole criminal past has been brought forth showing the opposite of his claims.

TheSmokingGun.com (TSG) has released many court documents and corrections records that show that Akon's rap sheet does, in fact, include a half-dozen arrests, but none of which come close to the stories he's described. In reality he only has one felony convict, resulting from a gun possession, in which he pleaded guilty and received just three years probation, not Prison.

The arrest in 1998, which has been widely exaggerated many times by Akon.

As reported by TSG, the singer told VH1 in February 2008, that he carjacked people, and "used to literally snatch cars from people. And they would be traumatized for months," and these crimes "landed him three years in prison for carjacking."

TSG, however, reports the real story behind his allegedly crimes and prison story. In September 1998, Akon was charged with handgun possession and receiving stolen property. He posted $3,500 bond and was released from Jail.

While awaiting Trial for that he was arrested two months later, when an undercover officer observed Akon in a stolen white BMW. According to a TSG interview with Detective R.L. Brewer, he followed Akon until two uniformed backup officers arrived and pulled over the BMW 740, and then he was taken into custody "without incident." The singer was booked into the DeKalb County Jail, where bond was set at $20,000, which he could not raise.

Akon spent a total of five months in jail before the charges were dropped and he was released. That's the real story about the arrest and time spent in jail.

He lied in a DVD interview, saying he was "going up 78 headed toward DeKalb" when he was surrounded by police cars. When he was finally stopped after a high-speed chase, officers with their weapons drawn ordered him out of the car, and "locked me up."

In a different account of the arrest in a November 2006 Rolling Stone interview, he said he was "driving a BMW 325, on my way to the chop shop" when arrested. "That's the slowest car in the whole fleet, I'd been in high-speed pursuits before and always got away, but this time I didn't because the car was too slow. I didn't even want that car, it was a favor to someone else. And I wound up getting locked up for three years."

FBI Agent Peter McFarlane, who was involved in the case due to forged documents found in the BMW, laughed when TSG asked about Akon's claims of running a "notorious" auto theft ring and being involved in other criminal activity.

"Ah, this is bullshit," he told TSG. "This guy is so phony. He's an arrogant SOB. I don't think he had any role besides wanting to drive a high-dollar vehicle. And I say this because we didn't link him to any other cars."

Not to mention his assault on a child at one of his concerts that left one concert goer (a unidentified girl) hospitalized after throwing the kid onto the girl. That case is still pending in the Courts.

The full story, complete with court documents and video clips, as well as more about his fabricated past can be viewed at TheSmokingGun.com
 


Busta Rhymes & Linkin Park Music Video For New Single 4/16/08

Busta Rhymes (born Trevor Smith) included a guest spot for rap/rock band Linkin Park on his soon to be released New Album Blessed. The Music Video for the new single "We Made It" is now being shot in Los Angeles. Chris Robinson directed the video. Busta said about the track (produced by Cool & Dre)saying "It 'We Made It' ain't just about the 'hood, it ain't just about the suburbs, it's about everybody,” adding on saying “This is one of those songs that can't be described better than touching the souls of the common people."

 

Busta has already dropped the club single “Don’t Touch Me (Throw Da Water on ‘Em)" and it's getting some radio spins across the United States.

 Linkin Park has been touring and promoting their release and double platinum album Minutes To Midnight, which features the group’s latest hit single "Given Up."

Busta Rhymes’ new album Blessed is due to drop on June 17.

Oasis Prejudice against Hip Hop?                        4/15/08

The organizers of the Glastonbury Festival have defended their decision to bring Jay-Z to headline the event. This being said after Noel Gallagher of the rock group Oasis blamed the Hova for super-low ticket sales.

The Glastonbury Festival is one of Britain's most popular outdoor music events and biggest in the world.

February the festival’s organizers announced that Jay-Z would headline during the summer event, they announced this hoping to draw in a younger crowd.

In past years the event's tickets have sold out very quickly but this year sales for the summer festival have been slow.

In a recent interview with the BBC on Monday (April 14), Gallagher blamed Jay-Z for the festival’s low ticket sales saying

“If it ain't broke, don't fix it,” Gallagher said. “If you break it, people ain't gonna go. I'm sorry, but Jay-Z? No chance.”

“Glastonbury has a tradition of guitar music and even when they throw the odd curve ball in on a Sunday night you go 'Kylie Minogue?” he continued. “I don’t know about it. I'm not having hip-hop at Glastonbury. No way. No. It's wrong.”

Emily Eav is, a co-organizer for the Glastonbury Festival, responded today (April 15) to Gallagher’s comments saying that the festival has showcased various rap acts in the past including The Roots and Cypress Hill. She also said they would not be changing their line up over “innate conservatism”.

“Jay-Z has not only become one of the world's greatest hip-hop stars, he is also an artist who has an amazing live act,” Eavis said. “In truth, we felt honored to have him on board, and believe that he is absolutely the right act for our festival.”

“There is also an interesting undercurrent in the suggestion that a black, U.S. hip-hop artist shouldn't be playing in front of what many perceive to be a white, middle-class audience,” she continued. “I'm not sure what to call it, at least not in public, but this is something that causes me some disquiet.”

Ninth annual Circles, break-dance competition        4/13/08

Tension was high outside Godwin Hall’s gym Saturday (april 5), as performers from all reaches of the nation prepared for Circles 9 charity competition, the break-dance event of the year.

It is one of the largest hip-hop charity events on the East coast, and this year the group was raising money for multiple sclerosis.

“It’s a celebration of different cultures coming together and creating something beautiful,” said senior Breakdance Club member and performer Sarah “Peaches” Thomas.

Last year, Circles 8 raised more than $14,000, which was donated to groups like the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mercy House, Camp Kaleidoscope, the Boys and Girls Club and the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

The thunderous vibrations emanating from six-foot-tall speakers shook the floor as performers tested their skills.

Once everyone had the opportunity to warm up and meet people from other crews, the main event began with the “Bonnie and Clyde” battles. In this segment, a guy and a girl from each crew faced off in a dance battle. The object was to make the opponent appear to be the lesser dancer.

The event also consisted of a graffiti expo, MC battles and four-vs-four crew battles.

There were very few women in the performing groups. “Not as many girls can do the breaking because of the arm strength involved,” said sophomore spectator Maggie Park.

John Telfeyan, alumnus of the Breakdance Club, explained that Circles is much more than just break-dancing. It shows the four elements of hip-hop culture: ‘breaking,’ or ‘b-boying,’ MC-ing, DJing and what is known as ciphering — when dancers gather in a circle and take turns dancing in the center. The name “Circles” derives from the word “ciphering.”

One of the event’s judges, Rudi Goblen, flew in from Miami to be there.

“The whole point of a battle is to make your opponent look like a lesser performer than you…I judge on character, style, agility, finesse, everything you can think of,” he said.

Goblen has been dancing since August 2004 and has certain expectations when judging.

Full Story @ The Breeze

 

 

Paid Dues Tour Schedule and Performers                4/10/08

Underground rapper Murs and marketing company Guerilla Union joined alliances for the 3rd annual Paid Dues festival.

The show in Southern California was sold out so they are looking to repeat that across the country in Major Cities including New York, Ft. Lauderdale, Denver and San Francisco among others.

Paid Dues was founded to give indy artist in the industry more shine with a line-up of the most respected. Current artist such as Sage Francis, Buckshot of the Boot Camp Clik, 9th Wonder, Braille, Little Brother, Hieroglyphics, Yak Ballz and others. Murs and 9th will be the host's.

Guest Star performances ..ive show dates include Rakim, De La Soul, Gza, Blackalicious, Supernatural & Scratch and Kidz in the Hall.

Wed June 4 Nokia Theatre New York, NY

Sat June 7 Club Cinema Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Fri June 13 Fillmore Auditorium Denver, CO

Sat June 14 Berkeley Community Theatre Berkeley, CA

Full Schedule and Updates @ Paid Dues Website or Paid Dues MySpace

Tickets Go On Sale April 19th

50 Cent Vs Floyd Mayweather, Who Won?                 4/07/08

It was gossip for boxing and rap fans alike and it was confirmed today on Hot 97 "Miss Jones In The Morning" radio show when 50 called in to voice some concerns and reveal other issues.

Saying he thing he down with Game saying "You could look at that and see its 'Game' all the way". Then went on to say he said Buck is no longer down with G-unit saying "You can take this as official notice right here," 50 told Miss Jones. "Pretty much you can say Young Buck is no longer in the group G-unit but signed to G-unit as a solo artist."

When asked about the situation going on with his Baby Mama he said "That aint my shorty on the side." and later went on to say "I was giving her a half a million dollars a year." and when asked about the man his ex has livin in his house he replied "They got til the 30th."

Then last but not least when asked about the brawl with Pretty Boy Floyd aka Money Mayweather 50 replied "I put my hand in his face, ya feel me man?"

50 was not answering directly and to why the fight started and when asked simple or plain who won he stated "Floyd is no longer undefeated"

Listen Here

 

Legendary B-Boy dies                                        4/04/08

Frosty Freeze (born Wayne Frost) was a pioneer and legendary RSC (Rock Steady Crew) member and was also featured in many Hip Hop Classic films including "Wild Style", "Beat Street", "Style Wars" and the 1983 movie "Flashdance". Its been noted that "Flashdance" helped set off a worldwide breakdancing phenomenon.

Frost died Thursday at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York after a long illness, said Jorge "Fabel" Pabon, a senior vice president of the RSC.

"He was one of most charismatic b-boys that ever lived," said Benson Lee, director of the new documentary film "Planet B-Boy."

Frost first got down in 1978 with the Bronx-based Rock City Crew. In 1981, he joined the Rock Steady Crew.

Graffiti artist and close friend Zulu King Slone said he was "like a walking hip-hop culture encyclopedia."

Funeral arrangements were incomplete.

He was 44.

 


Johnny Blaze still Blazing...Question is HOW HIGH? 4/01/08

Method Man (born Clifford Smith) today (April 1) in 1971. So for all yall who can't count that makes Tical 37 years of knowledge. We wish him a Happy Birthday and hope the best for him and his.

In related news Mef is on European Tour hitting the heart of Europe (Prague) and many other places Finland, London and many others before coming back to the States in late April.

For Tour Dates please check the Events page on KultureNews.com
 

Afrika Bambaataa to Launch Radio Show Zulu Beatz  3/31/08

UZN (Universal Zulu Nation) founder Afrika Bambaataa aka The Godfather of Hip Hop, will take rap fans on musical journey through Hip Hop history with his new XM Satellite radio show Zulu Beatz.

 

The Radio show, which is scheduled to premiere at 10 p.m. EST April 5 on XM Radio’s The Rhyme-XL Channel 65, will feature Bambaataa as the host, along with co-hosts The Cutman LG and Mickey Bentson aka Mick Benzo.

The three will play a variety of Hip Hop classics that cover the spectrum of the Kulture.

“Zulu Beatz is true school for the people,” Afrika Bambaataa told AllHipHop.com. “If you are tired of hearing the same 10 songs over and over again, then this is the show you don't want to miss."

An encore of the first Zulu Beatz broadcast will air at 12 o'clock (noon) EST on April 9.

Bentson has handled the careers of rap veterans Ice-T and Melle Mel as a manager in addition to working with numerous other entertainers.

The Cutman LG is known as a DJ and one of the producers featured on Positive K’s classic 1992 album The Skills Dat Pay Da Bills.

 

Mos Def to be Chuck Berry and Talib Kweli to play Scott La Rock 3/30/08

The movie 'Cadillac Man' is based in 1950's Chicago and stars Mos Def, Beyonce Knowles. Its based on the life and career of Chess Records owner Leonard Chess and the artist involved during that era.

It has been confirmed that Talib Kweli will play Scott La Rock in upcoming movie about the Juice Crew called The Vapors.

Bun B set to Release Pimp C Tribute    3/29/08

Bun B is gearing up with a new album entitled, II Trill.

In a interview with SOHH he said "I named the album II Trill because it's a sequel and it's the second one," he explained. "That's the more obvious [reason] but really it's not just the number two it's also t-o-o. I was already trill. But now it's up to me to show how I separate myself from everybody else."

Bun B will bring up many issued such as political and social concerns on his new album as well as the death of his friend and member of UGK, Pimp C.

Pimp C died to complications in December from sleep apnea in conjunction with an accidental overdose of codeine (the main ingredient in the illegal beverage "sizzurp."). "There's a tribute song on II Trill called, 'Angel in the Sky,'" Bun said. He also noted, "Angel in the Sky" will feature lyrics UGK's early history and the struggles that the duo went through to make it where they came to. "I had to make the record that I felt I needed to make and get the things off of my chest that I needed to speak on," Bun said. "For anybody that's lost someone, they'll definitely be able to relate to it." II Trill features appearances by the late Pimp C, Rick Ross, Lil' Wayne, Lupe Fiasco, 8Ball & MJG, David Banner, Z-Ro, Mya, Mike Jones, Junior Reid, Webbie, and Chamillionaire. Producers include Scott Storch, Jazze Pha, Clinton Sparks and JR Rotem and others. Bun B's II Trill to hit stores on April 29 via Rap-A-Lot/Asylum Records.
 


Jimmy Henchman and Afeni Shakur reply to LA times article  3/29/08

March 17 an article was written by a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist by the name of Chuck Phillips. He named the title of his article "Blood Feud" in which he named Jimmy "Henchman" Rosemond and Sean "Diddy" Combs as co-conspirators to the death of Tupac Shakur.

Henchman's and Diddy's attorney's plan to bring forward a lawsuit in regards to The FBI said that documents were falsified. The LA Times has since apologized and admitted not correctly checking their sources. Afeni Shakur released a statement to AHH saying "We will continue to work to save the lives of our young people and to offer peaceful alternatives to violence and conflict resolution, That is what we have done since the murder of my son, and that is exactly what we will consciously continue to do."

Hencheman's attorney said that the article has endangered the life of his client, due to his association with the most infamous unsolved murders in the history of the music business.

 


T.I.'s Sentence is Handed Down    3/27/08

T.I. (born Clifford Harris, Jr.) pleaded guilty to two counts of illegally possessing machine guns and silencers without a permit, and one count of being a convicted violent felon in possession of a firearm.

The rapper should only serve 1 year and 1 day as long as he meets all of the conditions of his plea agreement, ordered by the U.S. District Court Judge Charles Pannell, Jr.

Under the plea, T.I. will also be sentenced to serve a total of 1500 hours of community service, divided in increments of 1000 hours before his sentencing, and 500 hours after he completes his prison sentence.

He will as a part use the sentence as an opportunity to speak to "at-risk youth," encouraging them to obey the law and avoid situations similar to those he has reportedly faced in his career.

The Grand Hustle CEO was also hit with a $100,000 fine. Once he begins his prison sentence next year, T.I. could have his sentence reduced around two months, or 15 percent of the total sentence, for good behavior.

T.I. still is on house arrest, which has been in effect since October 2007 after posting a $3 million bond.

If he fails to meet any of the terms of the agreement he could face a maximum sentence up to 97 months in prison.

 


R.I.P Eazy-E                  3/26/08

Its been 14 years since the death of Rapper/Producer and former N.W.A member, Eazy-E (born Eric Lynn Wright) died from the Aids virus. He wasn't even aware of the illness when he was first checked into Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He believed he was suffering from "acute bronchitis" and when test came back he tested positive for the virus he addressed to the world he was not homosexual and that the disease affects everybody either straight or gay. Towards the end he made amends with his former group members Dr. Dre and Ice Cube.

Eazy helped launch the career of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and without his help we would probably not of ever heard of them today.

Please remember to "wrap it before you tap it" and "better safe than sorry" when it comes to using protection when having sex.

 


Ballet meets Breakdance      3/21/08

Back in 1994, when they founded the Complexions contemporary ballet, New York Magazine hailed artistic directors Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson as "two of the most gorgeous virtuosos ever to emerge from Ailey Land."

Complexions' contemporary ballet. Photo: Courtesy Now the much admired New York-based dance company will make its Israeli debut on Monday and Tuesday at the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center with a program of works by Rhoden and featuring Richardson solo in Lament, his only appearance for the evening.

There are seven dances in the show: the four-piece middle section book-ended by Dear Frederic, a tribute to F. Chopin and his music, and by a salute to the multi-faceted vocal magic of jazz-singer Nina Simone in Pretty Gritty Suite. The other four pieces in the middle are Gone, set to music sung by '60s priestess of gospel Odetta, Gravity, Moody Booty Blues, and Lux, all danced by various members of the company.

Rhoden and Richardson have been together since the mid-1980s, when both were principal dancers with the late, great Alvin Ailey's American Dance Theater.

"We have the same vision for dance, but bring our own unique qualities to the table," says Rhoden of their long professional partnership. "We approach things from a different angle, but all angled to arrive at the same result. Desmond is more detail oriented and is an excellent coach. I am more of a big picture-image maker, and try to make the dancers go inside themselves to find the truth in a dance."

From the beginning Rhoden and Richardson wanted "to bring people from different worlds of dance into one room, thus creating even more diversity in dance," Rhoden said in an interview for The Australian when the company toured the sub-continent in 2006. "We were looking for a unique original composition of people, and what they had to offer as dancers... We needed a fresh take."

His choreography embraces that take in a dance language that melds the classical with pop, modern with break-dance and hip-hop, and all of it embraces the eclectic, electric mix that is New York

Rhoden, 45, grew up in Dayton Ohio, a gifted boy who played several instruments and loved to dance, making up his own routines for the social dance contests he entered. At 17, he was persuaded to take formal dance training, and was promptly absorbed into the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company where, six months after he'd started dancing, "Geraldine Blunden [DCDC's then director] let me choreograph." Full story @ http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1205420742233&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

 

Diddy Denies all ties to 2pac Murder     3/19/08

After a story dropped by the Los Angeles Times stating that Sean "Diddy" Combs and Christopher "The Notorious B.I.G" Wallace had advance knowledge of a plan developed by music executive Jimmy "Henchmen" Rosemond and an 18-year-old associate named James Sabatino to assault Shakur for a number of reasons.

Diddy said in a statement to AHH "This story is beyond ridiculous and completely false, Neither Biggie nor I had any knowledge of any attack before, during or after it happened. It is a complete lie to suggest that there was any involvement by Biggie or myself."

Sabatino is currently serving a prison sentence for fraud and racketeering. He was sentenced for charging up around a quarter million dollars worth of funds using fake credit cards. The funds went towards helicopters, limos and hotel suites for Bad Boy’s entourage during 1997's "No Way Out" tour featuring Combs and others.

Combs ended the interview saying "I am shocked that the Los Angeles Times would be so irresponsible as to publish such a baseless and completely untrue story,".

 

 
 
Flavor Flav's B-day today, yeaaaa boyeeeee   3/16/08

Flavor Flav (born William Jonathan Drayton, Jr.) celebrates his 49th B-day today (March 16). Flavor was born in Queens, NY and is the legendary Hype man for Public Enemy. We wish Flavor a happy birthday and hope he has another 49 years of happiness.

 

 

The Game is set FREE        3/13/08

Friends and fans came to show support by wearing "Free The Game" T-shirts to his court hearing and after of just 8 days in the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles. It was stated that he served his time away from the general population.

Contrary to popular belief and other reports, The Game is FREE!

In a statement released by the rapper he said "I apologize, but due to the sensitive negotiations on this matter I felt it appropriate not to give an exact date on my release, I am truly grateful to my attorney, family and management for doing a great job in this respect".

 


New MMA show on BET         3/10/08

The show is called Iron Ring and its creators are Campbell McLaren and David Issacs, the original producers of the popular Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) franchise.

Rappers Nelly, Ludacris T.I., Lil’ Jon, Juelz Santana, Jim Jones and boxer Floyd Mayweather's Teams will Battle it out on BET’s new original series.

Owner: Ludacris’ Team Coach: Abdul Mutakabbir Fighters: Joe Camacho, John Fields, Frank Mendez, Joe McCall

Owner: Nelly’s Team Coach: Jermaine Andre Fighters: Eric Marriott, Darryl Cobb, Mike Cook

Owner: T.I.’s Team Coach: Charles “Krazy Horse” Bennett Fighters: Josh Gaskins, Primus Moore, Jamie Yager, Joe Thomas

Owner: Dipset’s Team Coach: Novell Bell Fighters: Josh Key, Daniel Akinyemi, Carlos Moreno

Owner: Lil Jon’s Team Coach: Shonie Carter Fighters: Marcus Brimage, Brian Rogers, Abongo Humphrey

Owner: Floyd Mayweather’s Team Coach: Roberto Traven Fighters: Andy Roberts, Dymond Jones, Abdelaziz Essafoui

"When I heard BET was bringing Iron Ring to the air, I wanted to be involved in any way I could," Ludacris said. "What people will get out of Iron Ring is that it's less about the man in the fight and more about the fight in the man."

Iron Ring is produced by Zilo Live Inc. along with the is produced by Zilo Live, Inc. in association with the Warrington Hudlin Organization. Iron ring debuts on BET March 18.

 


Fat Joe allegedly stomps Papoose?    3/07/08

The Fight Night in question took place in North Carolina on Friday (Feb. 29) at a hotel that the Promoter had all the artist staying at. Many stories have surfaced and Pap said he got Joe and vice-versa.

Papoose stated on San Fran's KMEL 106 radio to Big Von when asked "Did you tap him?", Pap replied, "Hell yeah. I'm from Brooklyn. That's what we do. I put my work in on the middle of that chin". Papoose also said the fight took place in Cassidy's room but he had no idea how Fat Joe knew where he was. He also sounded like he might of got the beat down by wording "You supposed to be a veteran in the game. If a dude ask you for a fair one, and you weigh such and such hundred pounds more than the individual and you can't even grant a man a fair one, come on man, that speaks for itself".

Fat Joe called into the same radio station to address the Pap claims and Joe said "We pounded his DJ out. His DJ went to the hospital. His right hand man, his lip looked like a 18 wheeler tire. He ain't even swing back. He's balled up in the corner. I'm thinkin' he learned his lesson but I'm noticing now, you gotta really comatose these dudes for them to really learn."

Joe went on later to say that the picture was fake and that they doctored it up from a picture taken at a New York Knicks game. He ended the interview saying "Sooner or later the truth is gonna come to light, Gucci Mane, Cassidy and Yo Gotti were all there."

Elephant in the Room featuring Lil' Wayne, Rick Ross and others is due to drop March 11.

 

Game Turned himself into Police and starts Sentence 3/04/08

As Kulture News previously reported The Game (born Jayceon Taylor) was being charged with possession of a firearm within a school zone after a altercation during a game of basketball in South Los Angeles. He was initially facing a maximum sentence of 5 years but plead No Contest to a felony gun charge for possession of a firearm within a school zone. The sentence was given for two months but may be shortened considering he turned himself in and how his behavior while incarcerated.

 

What the Industry has to say about Nas's NIGGER album 3/01/08

Premo aka DJ Premier told SOHH that he don't think its a big deal but he also was quoted to saying "As long as its banging I'm gonna applaud him. If it sounds wack, I'm going to be disappointed and diss him like anything else because I have that right as a fan. I'm a fan of Nas so let's hope he bangs it out." Melle Mel said "The fact that he named it “Nigger” lets me know that Nas has something serious to say and Im'a hear it as soon as it drops".

L.A. Reid had this to say "Expect Nas to educate us without preaching to us, Expect him to give a point of view that maybe the world hasn't thought about. Expect him to really enlighten us."
 

Nas NIGGER Update: The Album is confirmed          2/29/08

Many have tried to say the album was to controversial. Others have questioned if it would even happen at all. After switching from "Nigga" to "Nigger" and back and forth and finally choosing Nas assured us (his fans), that it would happen and even showed up at the Grammy's reppin the shirt.

The date as of today for the Album is scheduled for a April 20th release.

Check out Def Jam Recordings for more info

Breaking News: Juvenile's Child and Ex Found Murdered  2/29/08

Former Cash Money rapper Juvenile's Child and Ex were found murdered in their home. Georgia Law Enforcement have arrested and charged a teenage suspect in the killings. No motive has yet been released.

Kulture News sends our condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.


Rapper Shyne scheduled for Early Release                2/27/08

According to the New York Post, Shyne (born Jamal Barrow), who has been incarcerated since 2001, will be released a year earlier than his expected 2009 release date. He is currently serving a 10 year sentence at Woodbourne Correctional Facility from a 1999 New York club shooting in which left a woman shot in the face and two others injured.

The Brooklyn rapper was a part of the entourage of Sean "Diddy" Combs and his then girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez. Allegedly Diddy got into a scuffle with another club patron, Mathew "Scar" Allen. Three people were struck by bullets when shots were fired. Diddy, Shyne and J. Lo were all arrested after leading police on a short car chase. The weapon was supposedly thrown out by J. Lo and later a search of the Navigator revealed hidden compartments. Only person who was convicted was Shyne. For Combs and Lopez all charges dropped.

Shyne inked a $3 million dollar deal with Def Jam from the confines of a prison cell in 2004 and released the album Godfather Buried Alive. The label flopped and nothing has been said since then.

It is not known wether Shyne will continue with his career rapping or what but it can be assumed that he will make some noise.

In related news, Shyne's pops Dean Barrow was elected prime minister of Belize. Making him the first black person to hold that office, according to USA Today.

 
Jay-Z & Associates hit with $5 BILLION lawsuit         2/26/08

Jay-Z's personal real estate developer Bruce Ratner, and Barclays bank, were just notified of $5 Billion Lawsuit.

According to the New York Observer, Brooklyn activist Clive Campbell, no relation to the Father of Hip Hop Kool DJ Herc. Even though it was reported falsely for a case of mistaken identity that it was Herc. So anyways this other guy Campbell has just recently filed a "claim of lien" in regards to property records asking that the money go toward slavery reparations.

Jay-Z, Barclays Bank and Ratner are in cohorts in the development of a $4 billion Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn. Ratner drew up architectural plans to build over 6,000 apartments and on top of that a brand spanking new arena for his NBA franchise the New Jersey Nets. As a part owner of the Nets, Jay-Z has been supporting the project of the Atlantic Yards and has made several public appearances.

Barclay's has denied all accusations of their role in the African slave trade, in his claim Campbell states that Jay-Z and Ratner worked "in concert" with Barclays and "profited from the African Slave Trade and continue to profit from these gains, through a conspiracy dating back hundreds of years and continue to date to oppress black people, enslave them and unlawfully deport them to all corners of the Earth."

Updates will be provided as they come in.


Jay-Z and Nas "Kings of Hip Hop"?..                       2/24/08

We at Kulture News are not for rumors but this one had the heads boggled for a minute. Its been said that the title of the album is just that, "Kings of Hip Hop". Its has also been speculated that Jay-Z will release the album under his own record label Carter Music Group.

Again none of this has been confirmed but we thought for Hiphoppa's worldwide it might be something to think about.


Snoop Dogg Hits Weed then gets Hit by Po               2/21/08

In the most recent of the many run ins with the law, West Coast rapper Snoop Dogg (born Calvin Broadus Jr.) was busted then given a ticket for simple marijuana possession on Wednesday night (Feb. 20) in New York City.

The New York Post quoted Snoops attorney, Donald Etra to saying "He did not get arrested. He received a ticket for possession of marijuana," He later stated, "We are contesting the ticket."

Etra would not state the name of the establishment that Snoop was cited.
Most recently, Snoop was sentenced to community service and three years probation for being arrested for carrying a collapsible baton in his carry-on luggage. The arrest came Sept 27th, 2006 at the John Wayne International Airport in Santa, Ana California.

Currently Snoop is on 5 years probation after a no-contest plea in April 2007. The plea was to marijuana and gun possession charges after being arrested at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank in October 2006.

On Nov 28th, 2006 Snoop was arrested as he departed from the Los Angeles studios for NBC's Tonight Show With Jay Leno. The Police confirmed the arrest saying they found a gun and drugs after searching his vehicle and residence.

Snoop's most recent album Ego Trippin', is due out on March 11.


50 Cent found liable in Pap Attack                         2/19/08

50 Cent (born Curtis Jackson) has been ordered by the courts to pay for damages after losing a lawsuit filed against him by a paparazzi (photographer). The settlement was ordered this week, after 5 long years. The amount awarded to the plaintiff was undisclosed.

Jim Alcorn, at that time was employed by the New York Post. The suit was filed in 2003 after Mr. Alcorn was reportedly knocked to the ground by 50's security detail as he was coming out of a jewelry shop. According to the New York Post, Fifty had just purchased a $18,000 watch.

Mr. Alcorn was taken to the hospital where he was diagnosed with multiple injuries including the jaw and neck. "A settlement was reached and all parties are satisfied," Mr. Alcorn's lawyer, Sanford Rubenstein said after the trial. A rep for 50 Cent said, "It's a legal issue that's been settled."


Will the powers at be stop Nas's album, NIGGER?       2/18/08

As Kulture News previously reported, Nas plans to release his most recent album he promised to be entitled "Nigger". He showed up with Wifey Kelis at the Grammy's reppin a shirt with the word promoting the expected release. In a recent SOHH interview with Island Def Jam chairman Antonio "L.A." Reid when asked if the title was still valid he answered " we will have to see".

He went on to speak of other artist that are on the roster such as Mariah, Janet's projects coming at the end of February. He was also quoted to saying "We have a Ludacris album coming up. Lionel Richie, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, We have a lot!"

Updates posted as they come in.
 

T.I. update from House Arrest                               2/15/08

T.I., who is currently on house arrest gave some insight about his upcoming album, Paper Trail.

While a drop date has yet to be set, T.I. assured fans that he was going to make some noise. "It's a lot of bullshit out right now. I'm not gonna front. I feel it's definitely about time for somebody to come back out and kick this thing back in gear. The rotation is suffering right now. I intend to do something about it. It's just a matter of when."

Last December he sent a video message to his fans saying he was 30% complete on the album.

T.I. said one of the songs is titled "Let My Beat Pound" and he went on the talk further saying "That's gonna be a big record, It's a different record. It's a record I approached differently, and it don't sound like a typical T.I. record. It's basically about when you got your first car, one of the first things was to make sure your system was right. The love for the boomin' system. It has the sentiments of LL Cool J's 'Boomin' System,' but it kind of sounds like a Sir Mix-A-Lot. It's kinda got the mood and tempo of 'Posse on Broadway,' but it's outta here." T.I. further mentioned that "Let My Beat Pound" would more than likely "serve the same purpose as 'Top Back' did on King."

T.I. again assured fans not to worry and that they would get all their dollars worth with Paper Trail. "Yeah, I'm definitely gonna make sure you have enough, man," the rapper said. "Nowadays, with the age of the computers, you gotta make sure people have more than one song, so they won't download your single then look away to somewhere else."


Nas shows up to Grammy's rockin a NIGGER T-Shirt    2/11/08

As Kulture News previously reported, Nas will release his next album called NIGGER. So with that Nas shook things up again. This time for showing up on the red carpet to the Grammy's wearing a t-shirt boldly spelling the word 'Nigger'. The Queensbridge MC, received two nominations. One for the collaboration with KRS-One and Kanye West "Better Than I’ve Ever Been" and the other for his last album Hip-Hop Is Dead.

Nas was quoted by CNN to saying. “We’ve all felt discriminated against whether it’s in the Dominican Republic, whether its in China, whether it’s in Iraq, with soldiers getting their heads blown off for reasons we don’t know why,” he explained to the CNN reporter. “The meaning of the word is supposed to be “ignorant,” he continued, “but there’s money being made off us so called ‘ignorant’ people, so no longer are just Black people niggers today, it’s also me and you.”

Nas said the album was going to drop in December but later told MTV news that the first single off the album would be sometime January. To date no single has been aired. Although an exact date is not been set its been speculated mid-April.


 50's Response to Bill O'Reilly                               2/10/08


50 Cent was asked his opinion by FOX news on the presidential candidates and 50 said that he leans more towards democrat Hillary Clinton. He also said "I’m not sure if America is ready to have a black president. They might kill him.”

O’Reilly aired footage from the FOX interview on his own show O’Reilly Factor. After 50’s last comment, O’Reilly says “Pinhead” with a smurk on his grill.

50 responded to O’Reilly’s comments via ThisIs50.com

“I might be blunt by saying they might actually kill him, but that would be the worst case scenario,” he says. “…If you’re African American, you understand that racism isn’t gone. So you’ve got to take that into account.”

50 downplayed the diss saying,


“I didn’t know whether to be angry, because I had never been called a pinhead before,” 50 cracked. “That ain’t the worst thing I’ve been called. At least call [noted 50 Cent rival] Fat Joe, he can figure out other things to say. This is hip-hop, this is what we do."

50 continues on and recovers a lil by pretty much calling O'Reilly a racist.

“Actually, the kind of person that I would fear that Obama would be at risk to is a person like Bill O’Reilly,” 50 continued. “Bill O’Reilly probably has a confederate flag on the top of his Lexus 450 right now, riding down the highway, listening to the ‘Good Ol Boys.’ This guy dislikes Hip Hop, period.”

 

Game found Guilty                                                2/07/08

As Kulture News previously reported, The rapper known as Game (born Jayceon Taylor) was being accused of possessing a firearm in a school zone, making criminal threats and exhibiting a firearm in the presence of an officer after allegedly getting into a fight during a game of basketball.

 The incident in question occurred at South L.A.'s Rita Walters Educational Learning Complex on February 24th of 2007. The Game pled not guilty to all charges in September 2007 and was facing up five years max if convicted.

Now The Game has had a change change of heart. He has decided to save money on lawyer fees, court cost and so on. In the debut issue of the new hip-hop magazine MONSTA, Game says that he's copping to guilt in court, even though he's really innocent.

"The crazy part about this is that I've had guns before in my life," he explained. "But this time I didn't have a gun. And because one person said I had a gun and coaxed his homies into saying that I had a gun, I'm in a predicament where I'm asking, Do I want to spend another million dollars to fight this trial so who knows what jury's gonna come in and say I'm guilty? Or do I want to save my money, go sit down for four months and accept this felony they're trying to give me for no reason?"

MONSTA magazine, a new hip-hop magazine from the former Source magazine owners Dave Mays and Raymond "Benzino" Scott.

 

Pimp C death ruled Accidental Overdose                 2/04/08

The L.A. County Coroner has ruled the death of Pimp C as an accidental overdose due taking to much of a doctor prescibed codeine and also complications stemming from sleep apnea. As Kulture News previously reported numerous reports that Pimp C's death was confirmed were all false.

According to TMZ, the Port Arthur rapper had a pre-existing sleeping disorder that made it hard for him to breathe. Combined with his codeine consumption, it proved to be deadly.

La County's Chief Assistant Coroner, Ed Winter explained Pimp C's death to The Houston Chronicle; "[With] sleep apnea, you stop breathing. Coupled with a medication that suppresses your respiratory abilities, you end up with an accidental death."


Jay-Z to Headline at Glastonbury                           2/01/08

 It has been confirmed that Hova will headline at the legendary Glastonbury Festival in the U.K this June.

According to reports, organizers of the world famous festival confirmed the news today (February 1). They said that they wanted to try something radically different for this year's 3 day festival, in order to attract a younger audience.

In order to purchase a ticket to the festival, which takes place from June 27th-29th, fans must register first.

Tickets go on sale April 6.


 
Fat Joe in Big Trouble with IRS                             1/29/08

Fat Joe is scheduled to drop his 8th solo album later this year.

According to reports, the Elephant in the Room owes close to $150,000 to the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). Fat Joe stated earlier this month when he made an appearance on BET's "Rap City" that his beef with 50 has made him millions.

"Since I've been beefing with 50 Cent I've become so much richer in my life, so much more millions and keep dropping hit records."

According to official state documents the bronx born rapper (born Joseph Cartagena) owes the IRS $70,000 and his company Terror Squad Productions owes an addittional $70,494.52 in back taxes. The Elephant in the Room will feature guest appearances from Rick Ross, Fabolous and production from Scott Storch, DJ Khaled, Cool & Dre, Diddy, Nate "Danja" Hills and The Runners. The album is expected to hit shelves on March 11th. 8.

 

Lil' Wayne Update: Charged with multiple Felony Counts  1/26/08

As Kulture News previously reported, Lil' Wayne (born Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr.) was arrested following a search of his Tour Bus revealed guns and drugs.

He was released on bail and formally charged days later (January 25). He was charged with possession of dangerous drugs, possession of a narcotic drug for sale, misconduct involving weapons and a count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

He hired local attorney James Tilson to represent him in the case.

In other Weezy arrest's include the summer of 2006, where he was arrested for drug possession in Atlanta. Not even a year later he was arrested on gun charges in New York. His most recent until now was this past October where he was arrested also on drug charges following a concert in Boise, Idaho.

Lil' Wayne arrested for Drugs and Weapons, again         1/23/07

Lil' Wayne (born Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr.) was arrested Tuesday, Jan. 22 around the hours of 11:30 p.m. in Yuma County, Az.

Reportedly Weezy's Tour Bus was going through a check point when an Border Patrol K-9 found illegal drugs on the bus. A search of the vehicle revealed 105 grams of marijuana, 29 grams of cocaine, 41 grams of ecstasy and $22,000.

According to TMZ, officials also found a .40-caliber pistol registered to Lil' Wayne, who has a concealed weapons permit in Florida.

 
50 Cent adds Movie Production Company to list of Ventures   1/19/08

50 Cent (born Curtis Jackson) held a press conference at the House of Hype today(January 19) in Park City, Utah.

Fitty will be working with long-time friend/ manager and Violator Entertainment honcho Chris Lighty and movie producer Randall Emmett. Randall produced Home of the Brave and Righteous Kill.

50 will co-star alongside legendary actors Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino. The film is set to be released April 18.

The new production company has not been given a name as of yet or if it has it has not been released.

The news comes during the start of the Sundance Film Festival which goes from January 17-27.

Check out FreshFlixx.com for exclusive video clips of the film

 Rock Update:  soon to be Out on Bail 
As Kulture News previously reported, "Rock (born Jamal Bush)of the Hip Hop group Heltah Skeltah has been formally charged with Attempted murder, assault in the first degree as well as other charges."

Rock's attorney, Kenneth J. Montgomery, said that friends, family and label mates were making arrangements to post Rock's $125,000 bail.

Rock hit up on Attempted Murder charges                 1/15/08

Rock (born Jamal Bush)of the Hip Hop duo Heltah Skeltah and the super group Boot Camp Clik has been formally charged with Attempted murder, assault in the first degree as well as other charges.

"The Brooklyn District attorney's office alleges that Mr. Bush shot a known pimp and bloods gang member in the neck paralyzing him," Rock's lawyer Kenneth J. Montgomery stated. "They also allege that Mr. Bush is a pimp and this was a dispute over an alleged lady of the night. Mr. Bush categorically and unequivocally denies all charges. We eagerly look forward to trial and proving his innocence."

Heltah Skeltah is expected to released their 3rd L.P entitled D.I.R.T.(Da Incredible Rap Team,) summer 2k8.

 


 
is U-God workin for FREE?                                     1/15/07

According to TMZ U-God (born Lamont Hawkins) filed the civil suit against his current label SRC who is in cohorts with Universal Music Group. The rapper claims he wasn't paid for a variety of work since March 2007, including albums, a European record contract and touring. U-god is featured on Wu's last record 8 Diagrams, which was just released last month and many of the clan was unhappy about the release. U-God is currently touring with the Wu. It is not reported whether or not he is getting paid currently.

This is not the first time members of the Wu-Tang have had money disputes. Raekwon accused RZA of taking money from the group and RZA replied LIVE on radio and stated he owes nobody nothing, saying "I ain't never, ever take no money from nobody and I don't owe nobody no money,".

As of press time nobody, U-God, Wu's PR or Wu-Tangs attorney has released a statement in regards to this issue.



 


 Prodigy's prison sentence prolonged 1 month           1/11/07

As Kulture News previously reported, Rapper Prodigy (born Albert Jackson), one-half of the Hip Hop duo Mobb Deep was scheduled to turn himself in on January 9th, 2008 from being convicted of weapons possession.

Supreme Court Justice Edward McLaughl gave his legal representation 30 Days to gather their clients medical records.

Though it has not been determined where he will sent to his lawyers are trying to make sure that the prison's medical faculties will be effecient enough for Prodigy's condition.

It is known that Prodigy has suffered with Sickle-Cell anemia a life-long, incurable blood disease that can cause Stroke's, Organ damage as well as many other problems. 2pac made it known in his famously released diss track "Hit 'Em Up".

Prodigy's attorney Irving Cohen said his client has been in and out of hospitals his whole life.

Prodigy told SOHH that he has shot music video's for each of the songs on his soon to be dropped third solo album H.N.I.C. 2. In addition to prepping for the album release Prodigy set up a social networking site called hnic2.com where his fans can interact with him and each other. He also will be posting his Mailing Address for fans to write him while he is serving his three year sentence as soon as he finds out where he will be sent to. 
 

Jay-Z leaves Def Jam for Apple?                            1/10/07

Its no secret that Hov has stepped down from his position as President of Def Jam last month and removed his future drops from the label.

Its been reported that he striked a deal with Apple and the news could be announced as early as this month.

Apple is supposed to become the new Digital Giant in regards to music sales and the hope with signing Jay-Z it will help further along that venture.

 
Brandy in the Clear of Criminal Charges                       1/05/08

As Kulture News previously reported, Brandy was involved in a fatal car crash on December 30, 2006 that caused the death of Awatef Aboudihaj. Aboudihaj's legal reps were trying to push for Brandy to be charged with vehicular manslaughter.

Legal Statutes give one year from the date of the incident to file criminal charges, giving the L.A. City Attorney until the last week on Friday (Dec. 28) to file charges.

The civil suit is still in process.

 

 NYE All the Stars in Hip Hop were out Shining              1/01/08

Nas rocked LA's H.O.B (House of Blues), Jay-Z along with friends did the palms, MF Doom sends imposter?, and Da Brat didn't bust nobody in the face with a bottle.

Nas threw down classics such as "Got Yourself a Gun", "The World Is Yours" "Ether", "Streets Dreams" and his beloved track Debut "Live at the BBQ".

When the ticker hit midnight, Nas blessed his fans a happy 2k8. He also was reported as to saying as he was takin steady swigs of Champagne straight out the bottle "May God break into your home and may thieves rob you of your pain," then took a rip off a fan's blizzy and dipped out.

Nas along with wifey Kelis were spotted later in the night at Tao's in Las Vegas at an event Mariah Carey hosted. At that same event Da Brat, Mario, Vanessa Simmons were also in attendance. Da Brat was in good spirits.

Dre (of Cool & Dre),Cee-Lo, Christina Milian, and Jazze Pha brought in the new year in Miami at the Delano.

Underground Hip Hop heads in Los Angeles were downtown at the Safe House to see MF Doom. What they got instead was a bunch of lies and bullshit. What was promoted as a SMOKE FRIENDLY and FREE DRINKS turned out to be lies and bullshit as alcohol was very slim and people were being tackled and tossed out of the venue. It has also been WIDELY reported MF DOOM sent an impostor. One of the hilights was the KRS-One countdown and the Drum and Bass performances. Many So Cal Hiphoppas are super pissed at the promoters and have been flooding blog boards and comments on sites boycotting Project Sweatshop future events.

 

Pimp C Autopsy Report Update:                                12/29/07

As Kulture News previously reported "Two types of Prescription medications were found".

Other News Companies have reported false information in regards to the investigation of the death of Chad Butler better known as Pimp C.

Their were no visable injuries and no illegal substances were present but LA County coroner's office have not officially released the cause of death at this time.

Contrary to popular belief Pimp C has not been listed as an Drug Overdose.

Prodigy sentenced to Prison                                   12/25/07

Rapper Prodigy (born Albert Jackson), one-half of the Hip Hop duo Mobb Deep is to turn himself in January 9th, 2008 to begin serving his three and half year prison sentence.

The prison term stems from a loaded gun charge he recieved October 2006 after he made an illegal U-Turn in New York. The Alchemist (born Alan Maman) was in the passenger seat at the time of the incident and was also arrested.

The charges against The Alchemist were later dropped.

Prodigy announced today (December 25) that his second solo album H.N.I.C. 2 will be released worldwide via a distribution deal with Voxonic Music and AAO Music/Reality.

The album will be released in multiple languages, including French, German, Spanish and others using Voxonic Music’s patented voice technology.

 

 

 Jay-Z resigns from Def Jam                                 12/24/07

 The announcement was made today by Hov himself to Def Jam's parent company, Universal Music Group.

Earlier in the month reports stated that Def Jam refused to continue his
contract as president of the company because his demands were "excessive" and they could not afford to give him what he wanted in a record sales industry that has been suffe