Irie Jamboree really rocked New York
Fight bruk out as Mavado wooed Irie Jamboree massive
Irie Jamboree was a blast on August 31 in New York, with headliners like: Elephant Man and Coco Tea blowing up the place in their usual style. Beenie Man rocked, but Mavado tore it up; getting such tumultuous crowd response, that some in the audience got overheated.
Yardflex was surprised at reports of fights breaking out during Mavado’s time on stage, and injuries to some patrons reportedly included a stabbing and broken limb following a stampede of sorts.
Still Mavado did not disappoint and worked at giving fans what they wanted, after questioning them on the same. Did they come to fight or enjoy…did they want to hear him, he wondered aloud.
By yardFlex on Yard NewsWith a backdrop of over 36,000 fun seeking reggae fans; big screen re-runs of the Beijing Olympics’ top Caribbean runs and a stellar line-up that included, Sizzla, Tarrus Riley, Beenie Man, Elephant Man, Coco Tea, Mavado and Admiral Bailey, Irie Jamboree doubled as a celebration of the Caribbean Olympic experience. Roy Wilkins Park was jammed on August 31, with patrons hailing from all corners like: Japan, Dominica and England, just to attend.
A tent allotted for media was officially opened in Honor of Usain ‘Lightening’ Bolt and Veronica Campbell-Brown; with Aleen Bailey, Chelsea Hammond and Bert Cameron on hand to represent the athletes.
While all headliners had their fans in a state of uproar, it was Coco Tea who acquired the label of top performer of the day. His ‘sweet sweet’ sound reeked havoc as he gave hit after hit from a catalogue brimming with number one tracks. “Rocking Dolly,” “Riker’s Island,” “I lost My Sonia,” “Good Life” and other songs such as the new tune dedicated to Presidential Candidate, Barack Obama captivated the crowd, earning him tumultuous applause from young and old alike.
There was complete frenzy amongst audience members when the Doctor energized the stage; and they became completely immersed in every word he said. Decked out in USA an Jamaican flag colors, Elephant Man demonstrated why he is called the ‘Energy God” as he showed off his agility with an impressive charm. Gliding through, tracks like "Gully Greppa" and "Signal The Plane," Ele stirred everyone up with the popular "Nuh Linga" that was dedicated to Olympic Superstar Usain 'Lighting" Bolt.
THE manager of an Edinburgh reggae singer dropped by a top record label after she was found with a fake gun says she can still be a star.
Natalie Hendry, 20, of Gilmerton, was signed by Sony Records earlier this year after impressing in a series of auditions.
But she was dropped after police found her with the imitation handgun and a metal pole last month.
Hendry, who sings in Scottish-Jamaican reggae band Project Bona Fide, admitted possession of an offensive weapon and was kept on remand while social workers looked into her background.
Yesterday, at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, she was released on bail so she could be assessed for a drug testing and treatment order before she is sentenced over the replica firearm.
Graham McInnes, the band's manager and producer, said he was still confident the singer could have a glittering career.
He said: "Natalie is an incredibly gifted artist. However, her lifestyle and drug addictions have repeatedly inhibited her career.
"If she is willing to address her problems and concentrate on her profession then I am more than confident that she can achieve the success her talent deserves."
Yesterday, the court heard how police found Hendry hiding in a common stairwell of a block of flats. They searched her and found the gun, a metal pole and a dart, but she claimed she had been given the weapons to hold by a man called Paul who had been involved in a disturbance over a drug deal.
It was that incident that police were investigating when they stumbled on Hendry, who is also known as "Lil' Natt".
Her solicitor, Steven Donald, said Paul had been a "very dominating" figure in Hendry's life and had dictated what drugs she took and how she dressed and lived her life. He said: "She was also engaged in activities to support her own and his drug taking."
Mr Donald said this "destructive" relationship had kept her addicted to drugs and had all but ended her singing aspirations after Sony dropped her.
He said: "She has been described as having a prodigious singing talent, but due to her chaotic lifestyle has been unable to take advantage of that and she was eventually dropped by Sony."
Mr Donald said she had now left Paul, adding: "She hopes that she can pick up this career but will only be able to drug free."
Sheriff Isobel Poole released Hendry on bail and ordered her to be assessed for drug treatment and also placed her on a night-time curfew.
She warned the singer she may yet be jailed, adding: "It's becoming increasingly difficult to find a non-custodial sentence."
Hendry, who said she will be living with her father – and band mate – "Daddy Scotty", will be sentenced next month.
Bounty Killer and Upliftment Jamaica Present "Saddle to the East 2008"
Bounty Killer and Gary Foster present “Saddle to The East 2k8” An Annual Charity Concert held in St. Thomas, Jamaica, at Goodyear Oval.
This concert benefits Upliftment Jamaica, a non-profit 501-C3 organization. Saddle to the East was originally scheduled to occur on August 30th, 2008, but due to the addition of more reggae artists and sounds it will be rescheduled for October 18, 2008.
Rodney Price stage name Bounty Killer, is one of the original kings of Dance Hall. He is a Grammy award winning artist who has a strong voice in the Caribbean community. He initiated Saddle to the East in 1999 as an effort to rally the entertainment sector to give back to their community.
Originally held during Christmas season, the moderately priced show gives less fortunate populations the opportunity to see the biggest and best names in Jamaican music, proceeds are donated to schools and charities in the country’s inner-city communities.
When asked what drives Bounty Killer to support his community he stated “I have been through a lot in my life. I carry the pain of poor people with me where ever I go! This show represents a genuine and sincere effort to do what I can do with my friends to impact poor people lives. We in the entertainment community have to stand up for our youths."
Upliftment Jamaica Chairman, Gary Foster has taken Upliftment Jamaica from strength to strength. He has not only managed to make a huge personal contribution of time and money, but also inspire others to do the same, to support a worthy cause. Gary Foster, a Political Science major, is a successful philanthropist and entrepreneur.
He has worked closely with Russell Simmons, he credits his mentor, Dr. Benjamin Chavis for his avid philanthropy and faith. Aside from being colleagues, Gary explains the partnership between Bounty Killer and himself, he stated “I am very pleased to stage this show again this year with Bounty! Bounty has been a voice for the voiceless. We are always thankful for the support from the entertainment community! We need a greater cried for the youth of Jamaica". Saddle to the East marks the revival of Jamaica’s signature charity event-an evening where the biggest and best names in Reggae, Dancehall and Hip Hop come together to raise awareness and funds to support health, education, and wellness programs.
Upliftment Jamaica serves Jamaica’s most disadvantaged and disconnected communities. Upliftment Jamaica aims to build optimism where it does not exist. For the first time ever Saddle to East will initiate a drive to collect school supplies for children in Jamaica, all patrons who enter the stage grounds with school supplies will be able to purchase a ticket at a discount. Jamaica has been plagues with a severe shortage of school supplies for their youth. Support this event because, Upliftment Jamaica successfully supports and provides opportunities to the under served populous, to establish ongoing transformation.
Performing live Grammy- nominated artist Bounty Killer, alongside Sizzla Kalonji, Mavado, Busy Signal, Serani, Bling Dawg, Wayne Marshall, Bugle, Voice Mail, Assassin, Kiprich, Cristopher Martin with Sound Systems to include; Tony Matterhorn, Stone Love, and Boom Boom.
This announcement serves to educate and provide a philanthropic opportunity to individuals, socially responsible corporations and community based organizations to participate in a movement which unlike any other serves to provide individuals the opportunity to make better decisions and to control their destiny by surmounting the obstacles that plague our community. For more information please visit our website at http://upliftmentjamaica.org or call 561-633-7006. Tickets will go on sale on October 10, 2008.
Shaggy: 'Barack Obama is like Rocky'
Shaggy has claimed that presidential candidate Barack Obama is similar to the movie character Rocky.
The reggae musician said he is supporting Obama because he views the Democrat as a "symbol of hope".
"The thing about Obama is that even if he doesn't deliver, he'll at least make the rest of us want to f***ing deliver," he told DS.
"It's like watching Rocky. You don't give a f**k if he wins the fight or not, you're just so motivated that he's going for it. You watch Barack Obama speak and he puts a fire under your ass.
"He gets you charged up to do something and he's a symbol of hope. I doubt he'll change the world, but he may just provide us with the motivation."
Expressing his disdain for George Bush, the 'Boombastic' singer added: "He's probably one of the worst presidents ever!
"It shows the ignorance of people in America that he was voted in for a second term. I just couldn't fathom it."
Source: digitalspy.co.uk
| BSI probes killing of Spragga Benz's 17-y-o son | |
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Placard-wielding residents of downtown Kingston mounted a demonstration in front of the Central Police station on Monday seeking answers to the controversial shooting death of 17-year-old Carlton Grant Jr. over the weekend. Carlton was the son of popular dancehall DJ Spragga Benz. Residents have challenged the police version of events regarding the shooting death of Carlton Grant who had just passed at least six subjects in his CXC examinations. Eyewitnesses claimed that he had both hands in the air while being approached by the police and was killed in cold blood. Disgruntled after the police refused to speak to them on Monday, they are left mulling the question: what exactly happened that night at the corner of Church Street and East Queen Street? The Bureau of Special  Investigation has been called in to probe the case and provide a few of those answers. Reports from CCN are that about 11:50 p.m. on Saturday, members of a police party were on patrol along Church Street, Downtown Kingston, when two men were seen on a bicycle. They were signalled to stop and complied. On approach of the lawmen one of the men reportedly pulled a gun and fired at the police. The fire was returned and the men ran. The area was searched and Grant was found suffering from gunshot wounds. The report said a .45 semi automatic pistol serial number N338142 was taken from him. The injured Grant was taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Spragga Benz is reportedly overseas and could not be reached for comment up until press time. He is expected to arrive in the island this week. The DJ, whose real name is Carlton Grant, combined with Soca star Kevin Lyttle to rise to the top of the Billboard Single Chart with the dancehall remix of Lyttle’s ‘Turn Me On’. The song climbed the charts for 12 weeks until August 12, 2004 where it reached #1. He is also known for the songs ‘Hand Inna The Air’, ‘Peace’, ‘War’, ‘Backshot’ featuring Lady Saw and ‘A1 Lover’. | |
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Beenie Man Ignites Europe with sensational tour
Ultimate Reggae entertainer Moses 'Beenie Man' Davies continues to prove to the world why he is dubbed the 'doctor' and 'king of the dancehall' during his recent tour of Europe. 
European fans have described Beenie Man's performances as "fantastic and energizing."
Despite a few personal problems on the tour that were straightened out, Beenie Man did not let anything get in the way of him giving the best of himself to his many fans who turned out in numbers at all venues that he was slated to perform.
His first stint of the tour got underway on Friday, August 8 in Lisbon Portugal where the 'doctor' gave fans there a very stimulating performance. He took them through a variety of his old and new hit songs backed up with some very entertaining dance moves.
Fans in Sweden, Germany Italy, Holland and France also got their fair share of the 'doctor's versatility.
Despite the different languages and culture, it was quite evident that there is definitely a place in the world for dancehall.
When Beenie Man tour pulled up in England, dancehall was well represented. There was nothing wrong he could do for fans of Bradford, Birmingham and London, much of whom were Jamaicans celebrating Jamaica's successful medal haul at the Beijing Olympics.
And of course, while he was not in Beijing to celebrate with Team Jamaica, Beenie Man used the occasion to give euphoric performances that will be long remembered by 'Yardies' and 'Cockney' dancehall fans.
Beenie Man is surely one of dancehall's greatest and most admired entertainer who continues to represent Jamaica on the world stage entertainment.
Macka Diamond hosts party for dad's birthday
Deejay Macka Diamond showed that she has a heart of gold to go along with all her shiny materialistic, 'Money-O' ambitions when she hosted a birthday party on Monday for her 64 year-old dad, Phillip Nathaniel Munroe.
"It was nice of her to keep this party and I am going to enjoy celebrating my birthday with my daughter, it's a real nice get-together with friends," the music producer who was born in West Kingston, told one876entertainment.com.
Munroe is the father of 15 children, the youngest of which is 7 years old.
"Mi father bad," Macka Diamond joked. She will be heading to New York this weekend for a series of meetings with top level music execs from an independent record company after which she will head to Canada to spend time with her son who also celebrates a birthday in September.
"It's always important to take time out of whatever we do as entertainers to spend time with family; it's our families that are the bedrock of our lives, the first bond of society and that's why these moments mean a lot to me," she said.
Macka Diamond can be contacted through her Diamond District offices at 508-4774.
Zebra to roam free on Saturday, Sept. 6Dancehall deejay Zebra will be a free man this weekend as he will be released after a seven-and-a-half year incarceration. He became eligible for parole on March 5, 2005, however, his earliest possible date of release is September 6. There will be a big concert and party in Tawes Pen, St. Catherine to mark his return to freedom.
Zebra, whose real name is Garfield Vassell, rose to popularity in the early 1990s and was immediately noticed because of his similarity to veteran DJ Tiger. His hits include ‘Picture Frame’, ‘Hype Type Of Love’, ‘Redder Than Red’, ‘Rupert’ and ‘Dem Unfair Eh-No’.
However, his life began to unravel when his deejay career began to flounder a bit. First, he was arrested for an assault at common-law and charged stemming from an incident involving his then girlfriend, Sherilla Williams. The two reportedly had an argument at their Oakland apartment and Williams was allegedly beaten.
Zebra was later charged with indecent assault following an incident which occurred on October 17, 2000. He reportedly fondled a 15-year-old girl, pushed her onto a bed and tried to have sex with her.
The DJ was charged with the rape of an 18-year-old university student, who was assaulted in bushes near Barry, St. Catherine, in January 2001. According to reports, at about 5:00 a.m., Zebra, while using his car as a route taxi, picked up the student in Half-Way-Tree and proceeded to Spanish Town. Police said he dropped off the other passengers and then took the girl to Barry where he raped her.
Zebra was convicted of one count of rape and admitted on November 19, 2001. He was eventually sentenced to a total of 10 years in prison for rape, assault at common-law, indecent assault and breaching a probation order.
Two years ago, he created a minor stir with the release of the single Stocky on the Key One Records label.
WAYNE LONESOME PLANS TO ATTACK ZEBRA
A.K.A tell me say deejay Wayne Lonesome, remember him? The one who sound like Tiger) plans to lyrically attack DJ Zebra, and him ah lick out pon the plans to endorse Zebra during the Canal Splash event which will be held this Sunday in Ellerslie Pen (Capture Land).
Him reason say that Zebra’s many victims – he named out quite a few of them – will always feel the pain and when the media decides to treat his release as a major event and when communities host parties to mark said event, then it is a major disservice to the victims. I am inclined to agree with him, but then A.K.A tell me say the man plan fi do a song and how the lyrics dem write from long time fi dun Zebra and mi just say, hmmmmmmm, is a commercial ting. Mi ah gwaan wait and watch da one ya.
CARLYE AUTOPSY FOR OCTOBER
Bwoy, the way dem a kill people ah Jamaica, the autopsy on Spragga’s son Carlye’s body is currently scheduled for October 2. The teen died in controversial circumstances on August 23rd when police shot him in an alleged shootout but the residents and at least one eyewitness account dispute this claim. Mi just have to big up the artistes dem like Twins of Twins and Sean Paul who showed up to give Spragga the support at this terrible time.
ANDREW AND WADDA BLOOD HUSTLE BLOWS UP
Andrew and Wadda Blood sell right off with the song Hustle which peaked at #7 on the charts. Mi hear say dem print up over 2000 CDs fi distribute all across Jamaica and the Caribbean, dem a come fi change the business inna the 2008. The man dem have a new song on Benzly Hype riddim the Amazon that ah go dun the place, and dem plan fi touch the road wid dem father Junior Reid and campaign hard fi best new duo award inna the rest of the season.
PEOPLE WAAN FI KNOW…
How Barbee just drop offa the radar so? Just boops so? Is like she don’t even exist in New York and even though she shoot a video the other day, it come in like Beenie was her hype.Ah true say Dawn Lexxus catch her man with Platinum Man? The whole ah New York stink wid the argument. That’s why mi ah go back ah mi yard, too much mixup and crasses de inna the NYC.
Who was that browning that walk up and hug and kiss up Coco Tea while he was doing his interview back stage? They left the camera crew speechless and they want to know who she was, me too.
Miss Lou to be celebrated in South Florida
On September 6 the life and legacy of the late Louise Bennett-Coverley will be celebrated in South Florida once more. In commemorating Miss Lou’s 88th birthday, Jamaican’s in South Florida will host an evening of song, dance and drama performances at the Sierra Norwood Calvary Baptist Church in North Miami. It will be the third annual community cultural tribute and scholarship fund-raiser.
As has been the custom, the proceeds will continue to support the Louise Bennett-Coverley Scholarship Fund tenable at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston.
Encouraging parents in the Diaspora to have their children participate in the event, Norma Darby, Director of the Florida based Jamaica Folk Revue sees this as an important step in familiarizing children with Jamaica’s culture. Following the passing of Miss Lou in July 2006, Darby initiated the scholarship programme that got underway in September that same year and it affords one student the opportunity to pursue the three-year diploma course in the performing arts annually. Since its inception the scholarship has been awarded to three students, two at the School of Drama and Dance and one at the School of Music.
ICM Fest returns with a vengeance! NOV 17 - Miami Fl
The International Caribbean Music Festival returns with a vengeance, back to its original Pre-Thanksgiving weekend on Sunday, November 16 at the historic Virginia Key Beach Park, Key Biscayne, Miami.
Voting is now in progress to determine which artiste will make it in the final lineup for the show.
This popular event has experienced many first and a lot of positive changes since its inception in 1997 as a Pre-Thanksgiving Family Fun Day, Reggae Bash held at AT&T Amphitheatre, with a lineup that is still being talked about today. Among the artistes that graced the stage were Beenie Man, Capleton, Sanchez, Spragga
Benz, Richie Stephens, General Degree and a host of other tough acts, including Sean Paul doing his first major show in the US.The fifth annual staging of the Caribbean Reggae Festival saw a new venue at the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park and Beach was added to the title. The Caribbean Reggae Beach Festival show turned out to be the biggest in Miami for 2002. A touch of soca was added to the event which included Machel Montana & Denise Belfon.
The Historic Virginia Key Park was closed for renovations in 2003. The Caribbean Reggae Festival then moved to its biggest venue, the Bi-centennial Park.
In 2006, the name was changed to the International Caribbean Music Festival and the line-up was expanded to include international musicians other than reggae/dancehall. It was also the first time reggae/dancehall, reggaeton and soca artistes combined on one stage. 2006 was the year that the International Caribbean Music Festival was invited to be a part of the Miami Carnival which took place in October. Morgan Heritage, Wayne Wonder, Bunji Garlin, Alison Hines and others performed on the same line-up.
The promoters are urging everyone to log on to www.icmfest.com and keep the votes coming, as they will be going all out to ensure that ‘patrons wish will be their command’.
GOD is the answer … Thank GOD for life … GOD bless us all …
Introducing ‘Daggering Condoms’ by Vybz Kartel
As an fundamental element in his campaign to promote Safe Sex, Vybz Kartel has gone into the business of churning out condoms.
The brand name of the dancehall genius’ condoms is “Daggering” and they will surely live up to their name, as the three pack condom sets will be manufactured and tested to US FDA standards.
The release of this new venture comes on the heels of “Vybz Rum” that was also recently launched.
Kartel, who spearheads the Portmore Music Empire will have “Daggering Condoms” packaged in Jamaica and marketed there as well, through a private company.
and while we're on the subject of "Daggering" - Here's the hot new video from Mr Vegas.
Chris Blackwell now in the rum producing business
The manufacture and launching of Black Gold, Blackwell’s Fine Jamaican Rum is the latest in a long list of entrepreneurial endeavors embarked on by hotel and music business tycoon, Chris Blackwell.
The 70 year old is breathing new life into an age old family run trade of producing, bottling and distributing alcohol in Jamaica, as his own ancestors once owned and managed Jamaica’s leading rum producing firm, J Wray & Nephew.
Black Gold has been concocted using the Blackwell family recipes from the past and while it will surely be well established in the Jamaican marketplace, Blackwell has his sites set on exporting what is indeed a brand of Jamaica’s finest rum, overseas - particularly to the US and UK. In these regions, Blackwell’s reputation for impeccable business abilities are already highly recognized and respected.
Teaming up with partner Richard Kirshenbaum of New York’s Kirshenbaum Bond & Partners advertising agency, Blackwell has positioned Black Gold to become a much sought after and even coveted brand. With a track record that includes assisting in the reinvigoration of brands like: Target, Jergens and Moet & Chandon, Kirshenbaum is bound to put an extra magical touch to the business of establishing Black Gold on the global market scene.
VP Records refuse to divulge information on ‘shut down’ rumor
VP Records’ top guns have been remaining tight lipped about word on the street claiming the newly amalgamated major reggae music administrators will be shutting down their offices in Kingston soon.
Marketing Manager, Yolan Zanders, who has for around 4 years been the main mover and shaker of VP’s Jamaican arm reportedly said she has heard the word, as many people have contacted her for more information on a possible closing.
However she has been unable to give any confirmation, saying that no official statement of that sort has been passed down to her from VP’s head offices and she continued to say that she would not be able to comment further.
Soulja Boy Tell Em Signs White Rapper, Hackers Take Over His MySpace & YouTube Pages
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| Published: Saturday - August 30, 2008 Words by Miles Bennett |
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Soulja Boy made the official announcement while in Las Vegas for the Magic fashion tradeshow this week, where he was promoting his new line of sneakers with Yums Shoes.
"I want to introduce you to the newest artist of S.O.D. Money Gang Entertainment," the rapper said from the Yums booth. "He goes by the name of White Tee, if you ain't heard of him, you've been under a rock. His album is coming. 2009. First single droppin' at the end of 2008 on iTunes. Get the ring tone."
Soulja Boy founded his S.O.D. label in 2004, under Interscope/Collipark Music labels. His roster currently includes rappers Arab, Jbar, and now White Tee.
In other Soulja Boy news, the rapper's official pages on MySpace and YouTube -- both of which boast hundreds of thousands of views and friends -- were hacked. The hacker messaged the rapper in hopes of extorting money, but Soulja Boy didn't give to the threats.
"My sh** got hacked," Soulja Boy said in a video blog posted on Monsay (August 24). "N****s send me a message on MySpace saying 'I got your sh**, send me $2,500 is you want it back.' I texted him back 'F*** you bitch, do what you do.' After that, he deleted all my sh**. I was like, 'Well damn, the n**** wasn't bluffing.'"
After losing control of his MySpace page, the rapper's label contacted the social networking site, who reset the passwords and returned control back to Soulja Boy.
However, as far as his YouTube page, Soulja Boy was able to get his page back, thanks to a fan. Once the rapper told the hackers he wasn't paying, they send messages to all the rapper's friends, giving away his passwords for free.
One fan, a 12-year-old, got a hold of the passwords and locked the rapper's YouTube page, so no one would do any further damage.
"He locked it for me. He was like 'Soulja Boy, I'm your fan. I didn't wanna f*** up your YouTube page,' the rapper said.
Needless to say, Soujla Boy's social networking pages have been recovered, and he's back to posting blogs and videos.
Ne-Yo Awarded $700,000 In Lawsuit Over R. Kelly Tour
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| Published: Wednesday - September 3, 2008 Words by Allen Starbury |
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In the lawsuit, the singer (real name: Shaffer Smith) claimed he was dropped because the reaction he received from both the crowds and the press were "more favorable" than Kelly was receiving, an allegation the singer vehemently denied.
Kelly was not named in the suit, instead Ne-Yo sued the tour's promoter, Georgia-based Rowe Entertainment Inc.
Following the singer's departure from the tour, the company issued a statement saying, "It was decided that in the best interest of all involved, since I was unable to receive the fully executed contract, I had no other alternative but to release Ne-Yo from the tour. From a business perspective, it would have been extremely difficult for me to continue under this cloud of uncertainty."
Rowe Entertainment never answered the lawsuit, according to the Associated Press, and last week Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Malcolm Mackey ordered the company to pay Ne-Yo and his touring company $700,320.
Ne-Yo claimed in the suit that the lack of signatures shouldn't have been an issue because all the material terms were agreed upon orally.
"The parties understood that the oral agreement was binding and would be binding even if a formal written agreement was never executed," the lawsuit read.
He claims he hired musicians, dancers, security and other personnel, conducted rehearsals and did promotions, while Lowe used his name, voice and likeness for print, radio and television ads to promote the tour.
In other Ne-Yo news, the singer is gearing up for the release of his upcoming album, Year Of The Gentleman. The album is slated for release September 16.
Tupac Shakur Lands Atop Blender's Overrated Music List
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| Published: Thursday - September 4, 2008 Words by Allen Starbury |
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The late Tupac Shakur, who is considered legendary by most, tops the mag's tongue-in-cheek list that also includes "places, trends and other junk in rock," according to Reuters, which can be read in their upcoming October issue.
Tupac was killed more than 10 years ago in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas, and has released more than a dozen albums since his tragic death. Those albums helped him sell more records than he ever did while alive, and has put him into a category among music greats.
While Blender says the rapper had "insane rock-star charisma," he also "larded records with self-mythologizing, mediocre filler."
In its June issue, the magazine interviewed Lil Wayne, who listed Pac among his top five rappers, but then admitted: "I can't front: I was never into Pac."
Other finalists of Blender's overrated list includes the Grammys at no. 7, encores at no. 12, Pink Floyd at no. 14 and "the music you loved as a teenager" at no. 23.
The Grammys, the mag said that sitting of watching the awards ceremony was "like watching paint dry on Celine Dion's forehead."
The October issue hits newsstands next week.
Akon To Stand Trial For Fan-Tossing Incident In New York
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| Published: Thursday - September 4, 2008 Words by Allen Starbury |
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Akon is set to head to trial on charges stemming from an incident at the 2007 KFEST con
After tossing the kid off the stage, another fan is said to have suffered a concussion when the boy landed on her.
Akon was officially charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and harassment in November 2007, and has pleaded not guilty.
His attorneys called the incident "a spontaneous reaction" last year, and said it was one that "Akon deeply regrets."
Now, as he awaits trial, which is slated to begin in December, his legal team told the Poughkeepsie Journal, he is anxious to put the ordeal behind him.
"We are pleased that Judge Epstein adjourned the case to a date certain for either a trial or a negotiated resolution," said Andrea Zellan, Akon's lawyer. "Akon looks forward to putting this incident behind him, and in the meantime he will continue to meet every requirement set forth by the court."
He attended the hearing Wednesday (September 3), not commenting to reporters. Akon gave a simple thumbs-up sign.
If convicted of both charges, he could face 15 days in jail.
Ciara Takes It All Off, Woman Gets Slapped By A Man On Live TV, Kanye West Spends 50K On Sunglasses?
Written By SOHH Streetz
Ok SOHH I wanted to cover this earlier this morning, but I thought since Ciara falls more under SOHH Rebels thing I’d fall back. But it’s looking like they’re staying clear of this one so let me put you all on to it.
Atlanta’s musical Princess, Ciara is clearly trying to shed her good girl image somewhat with this new nude spread. Word broke late yesterday, that my sista had taken it off for the fledging publication.
Have a look. There’s not much gossip to go with it SOHH let’s move on.
Ladies, we should be glad that we live in the USA. Check out this Indian reality show where a woman got slapped by some dude on live television. Wow. I’m a little disturbed right now.
OK, so why am I hearing that Kanye West might be getting caught up in negrodian expenditures in life?
Word on the street is that the Louis Vuitton Don is so in love with Carrera sunglasses that he’s shelled out a staggering 50k for fifty pairs. Apparently West thinks they make him look suave.
Why my people won’t put that cash away for a rainy day and sport some knock offs is beyond me.
What Does Robin Thicke Know about Bob Marley - NOTHING OBVIOUSLY.
~RE
Robin Thicke speaks on color in the new Billboard magazine:
When I did a recent interview with Vibe magazine I asked, “Why can’t I get the cover? This is a magazine I love. If there’s one magazine that I’d want to be on the cover of, it’s Vibe.” Their response was they don’t have white artists on the cover; that the only white artist they’ve had on the cover was Eminem. I guess if that’s what it is, it is what it is. And I respect that because I live in a house with a black woman.
I won’t use the word “racism.” I will say it’s a tough — but rewarding — fight. I look at Mary J. Blige, somebody who has had only a few pop hits and yet has changed culture, generated new sounds and inspired leagues of artists. She’s now a worldwide phenomenon. And it’s because of what she stood for; she never gave up. She kept making great music, pouring her heart out to people.
You can’t always expect people to be as color-blind or open-minded as you want. What you can do is keep giving your heart and soul, like Bob Marley did. His music became so overwhelmingly loving; it was a relentless love in a sense. Keep beating them down with love and they can’t stop you.
Floyd Mayweather's Las Vegas Home Robbed, $7 Million Necklace Stolen
Published: Wednesday - September 3, 2008
Words by Ronnie Gamble
Retired and undefeated boxing champ Floyd Mayweather Jr. was robbed of nearly $7 million in jewelry in August from his Las Vegas mansion.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. (Photo: via MySpace)
According to a spokesman for Las Vegas Metro Police Department, the boxer's home was empty when intruders broke in, by smashing a window separating the master bedroom from the pool area, sometime between August 17th and August 18th.
There was security camera footage capture, but reports indicate that it was largely unusable aside from a grainy shot of one suspect was transformed into a still image by investigators.
Las Vegas detectives sent out a press release last week, seeking assistance from the public in solving the case, in which "four people forcefully entered a home in a gated community in the northwest part of the Las Vegas Valley, taking unique items."
The items stolen included a necklace and accompanying ruby-and-diamond encrusted boxing glove pendants, valued at $7 million.
Mayweather's camp has confirmed the burglary this week, announcing a $100,000 reward for information leading to recovery of the items. Only jewelry was taken, according to the announcement.
No one was hurt during the incident.
Anyone with info on the crime can call Sherbrook, Jelan and Associates at 678-457-5858 or 404-786-1321.
Quincy Jones Lands Two-Book Deal, First Release Coming In October
Published: Wednesday - September 3, 2008
Words by Miles Bennett
Legendary producer and songwriter, Quincy Jones, recently inked a two-book publishing deal with Insight Editions, where he will release two books about his life and journey through music.
Quincy Jones (Photo: Getty Images)
The first book to be release via the new deal will be The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey & Passions, which the publisher says will celebrate his contribution to American art and culture, via photos, letters, memories and more.
The book celebrates his 75th birthday, which took place earlier this year.
"The length, breadth, and diversity of Quincy Jones' career may only be known for the first time through this comprehensive and visually stimulating volume," explains Raoul Goff, publisher of Insight Editions. "His creative genius crosses not only all genres of music, but also TV, film, broadcasting, magazine publishing, philanthropy, activism, and style. We are honored to bring light to the diverse talents and achievements of someone in our day and time who is truly a living legend."
The Complete Quincy Jones will include a foreword by Clint Eastwood, preface from Bono, an introduction by Maya Angelou and an afterword by Sidney Poitier. Comprised of personal interviews and recollections from Quincy, this collection is said to give extraordinary access to his creative inspirations and achievements, through private notebooks, correspondence, and more than 400 photographs -- all from his private collection.
In late 2009, the second book, titled Quincy Jones: 60 Years of American Music, will follow. However, no further information on the second book has been released.
The Complete Quincy Jones will hit shelves October 28.
In addition to the book, Jones is set to open a Las Vegas restaurant and club called Q's Jook Joint in 2009, and is currently working on albums for Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, Clark Terry and Snoop Dogg, and Joe Pesci, among others.An Unauthorized Biography Of James Brown, Rolling Stone Celebrates Lauryn Hill’s “Miseducation”
Ever wish you knew more about some of music’s icons? Well Toronto rapper Shaun Boothe (aka SEAZON) has picked up where Nas’ Unauthorized Biography of Rakim left off with an Unauthorized Biography series of his own. Shaun has announced plans to drop 12 bios in all, each focusing on a different icon. I’m posting the first one here on the Godfather of Soul – James Brown. Check it out below.Written By SOHH Soul Rebel
“Unauthorized Biography of James Brown”
Wow. I can’t wait for the Bob Marley chapter. Visit www.myspace.com/shaunboothe for more on Shaun Boothe.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of The Mis-Education of Lauryn Hill and Rolling Stone Magazine did a banging write up of the making of the album. Check out the full interview here. A previously unreleased Lauryn Track “World Is a Hustle” also hit the net this week. Listen below:
NEWS: Luke Offers 2 Live Crew His 2 Cents “[They] Can’t Blame Me for Where They Are At In Their Lives”
Written By Cyrus Langhorne
2 Live Crew front man Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell recently explained his efforts to put Miami on the map, and why Rick Ross' corrections officer record doesn’t necessarily make him “no clean-squeaky motherf*cker.”
VH1’s newest reality star, Luke, spoke to Miami's New Times about his role in 2 Live Crew and why it was his contributions that led to the Crew's mainstream success.
“I was not just their hype man; I was the hook man,” he told New Times. “I gave them hits. The brain of that operation was me. They would write their verses, but it was all based on my hooks.”
Luke also described the $5 million deal he did with Atlantic Records for his label, of which 2 Live Crew was signed to.
“Hell yeah, I got $5 million from Atlantic Records,” he said. “They did a deal with Luke Records, and I owned Luke Records. They were doing a record deal with me and my company. 2 Live Crew can’t blame me for where they are at in their lives. They can only blame themselves.”
Taking full responsibility for helping all acts in 315 as well, Luke described his relationship with the city’s most popular record labels.
“You look at any record company in this town, somebody there worked for me,” he said. “The main people that work at companies like Slip-N-Slide or Poe Boy have worked for me. I trained them. The biggest promotion companies in Miami, they have either worked or interned for me.”
Staying on the subject of Miami reps, Luke addressed the recent discoveries of rapper Rick Ross’ track record as a corrections officer.
“I really don’t know what the big deal is,” he offered. “I’m speaking from being a 47 year-old man. I was a cook before I was a rapping. People feel the passion of Rick Ross’ music and that’s what makes him a credible artist. People in Carol City know Rick Ross, and they know that police go to jail every day. They know that it don’t make you no clean-squeaky motherf*cker just because you got a uniform on.”
Luke's Parental Advisory currently airs on VH1 on Mondays at 10:30 p.m. EST.
Lil Wayne Misses Court Because Of Dentist
Lil Wayne missed a court date in Yuma County, Arizona, on Tuesday (August 26) because he was recovering from root-canal operations.
The ‘Lollipop’ rapper was scheduled to appear to face drug and weapons charges following his arrest on January 22 (2008), when his tour bus was stopped at a border patrol checkpoint.
Authorities found 105 grams (3.7 ounces) of marijuana, 29 grams (1 ounce) of cocaine, 41 grams (1.45 ounces) of ecstasy, a .40 calibre pistol, and more than $22,000 in cash on board the bus.
Attorney James Tilson told the Yuma Sun (via MTV) that the rapper, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., was recovering from oral surgery from several root canal operations and was instructed not to fly by his dentist.
“As a result,” Tilson explains. “The court waived his appearance for that hearing. He still must appear at future hearings.”
Carter has pleaded not guilty to all charges with the next court date set for October 9.
Source: thecelebritytruth.com
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