Monday, February 28, 2011
Monday Memo
"Gnomeo & Juliet" topped the weekend box office earning over $14 million dollars. "Hall Pass", "Unknown", "Just Go With It" and "I Am Number Four" round out the top five films of the week. The Academy Awards aired last night, with James Franco and Anne Hathaway co-hosting the show. "The King's Speech" won Best Picture. Colin Firth won Best Actor for "The King's Speech" and Natalie Portman won Best Actress for "Black Swan". All in all, the show was a mixed bag of stellar and not so stellar moments. The co-hosts spoofed an old Billy Crystal routine and some other moments occurred that could have been left on the cutting room floor. Singers Rihanna and Ciera reportedly got into a spat on Twitter over what Ciera assumed was a snub at an event the two attended. Hopefully, the two will meet to patch things up soon. Rapper Lil Wayne was detained and searched after arriving in Miami. DEA agents searched the New Orleans rapper, and after discovering he was clean, let him go. Rapper Juvenile was not so lucky. The rapper was arrested Saturday for possession of marijuana and driving with suspended license. He paid a $750 fine and was released. Be sure to catch the cliffhanger episode of "Castle" tonight. It is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. Terrance Howard and Jennifer Hudson are set to play Nelson and Winnie Mandela in a biopic about Mandela's prison term, Winnies's legal trouble and the couples relationship before and after the imprisonment. No word on when the film will hit theaters. On the tube: "House" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "The Bachelor" on ABC and "Chuck" on NBC. Happy Monday!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Friday Facts
The video for Kanye West's new single "All The Lights" was removed from You Tube after a epilepsy group claimed that the bright, flashy clip will cause seizers. Reportedly, a research organization has confirmed this finding.The clip has been put back up, but with a disclaimer. In other Kanye West news, the rapper posted a picture of himself and teen sensation Justin Bieber on social networking site Twitter. No word on whether they were working on something for Kanye or Justin, but at any rate whatever the two come up with is sure to be a hot item on Twitter. Rapper Foxy Brown has weighed in on the Lil Kim/Nicki Minaj beef by saying that Kim should just stick to making music. Several days after the restraining order against Chris Brown was lifted, photos of Rihanna's bloody and battered face have surfaced on mediatakeout.com. No word on if any legal action will be taken. Producer Jermaine Dupri weighed in on the recent letter in the New York Times by record executive Steve Stoute slamming the Grammy nominating process. He once served on Atlanta's NARAS board and says he knows what it's like to deal with a process that neglects hip hop culture and essentially pop culture. CBS has cancelled the hit show "Two And A Half Men" after its star Charlie Sheen made disparaging remarks during a recent interview. No word on what show the network will replace the sitcom with. The top 24 contestants have been chosen on Fox's "American Idol" and it's now time for America to do it's voting. Be sure to tune in next week as the competition continues. James Franco will co-host this Sunday's Academy Awards with actress Anne Hathaway and Hollywood's biggest night is bound to be an exciting one. The show airs Sunday on ABC at 9:00 p.m. In theaters this weekend: "Drive Angry 3D", "Hall Pass" and "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never: The Director's Fan Cut". On the tube: "Kitchen Nightmares" on Fox, "The Defenders" on CBS, "Supernanny" on ABC and "Who DoYou Think You Are?" on NBC. Make it a weekend!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Thursday Dish
XXL magazine has selected 11 up and coming hip hop artists to become what it calls its Freshmen Class. For nearly four years now, the magazine has chosen new artists it believes will be a future force in hip hop. Traditionally, the magazine chooses 10 rappers for its annual freshman cover, but this year it has chosen 11. None of the artists chosen have released a album on a major label. The artists chosen for the cover this year are: Big K.I.R.T., Yelawolf, Meek Mill, Diggy Simmons, CyHi The Prince, Lil Twist, Mac Miller, Kendrick Lamar, YG, Fred the Godson and Lil B. Kanye West has taken to Twitter to taunt Wiz Khalifia regarding Wiz's relationship with his ex Amber Rose. Some disparaging remarks have been made and at present, there's been no response from Wiz. What do you do next if you're a rapper with multi-platinum albums and chart topping singles? If you're Soulja Boy, you try acting. During a interview with bet.com, the rapper stated he'd like to break into films. He'd like his first film to be a romantic comedy. Fabolous made a guest appearance on the hit BET show "The Game". The show has become the go to show for urban music artist to make appearances. The show airs on BET Tuesdays at 10:00 pm. 1980's pop group Inxs has returned to the charts with a collection of songs that feature lead vocal duties by various pop stars. Former lead singer Michael Hutchence died some time ago, and the band has revisited material it recorded previously. The release is refreshing and should be a hit with old fans and win the band new ones. The mother of NBA star Chris Bosh's child is slated to join the cast of "Basketball Wives". No word on when she will make her first appearance on the show. It was an emotional evening for Jennifer Lopez on last night's "American Idol" as she didn't want to give any of the contestants the boot. Tune in again tonight to see who goes home. Reality star Kim Kardashian is set to star opposite John Travolta in the up coming John Gotti biopic. No word on when the film will hit theaters. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Wednesday Roundup
Buju Banton was sentenced to 15 years to life in his cocain conspiracy trial yesterday. He was not charged with possession of a firearm, but was detained by court and his bail was revoked. Several years after assaulting then girlfriend Rihanna, the restraining order against Chris Brown has been lifted. The order orginally asked that he stay at least 50 yards away from her. He can now speak with her as long as he doesn't annoy, harass or molest her. Aretha Franklin recently released a statement regarding Fantasia being left out of the Grammy tribute to the legendary singer. Franklin stated that Fantasia is a young artist and as such will not always get an opportunity to do everything she would like. In other Aretha Franklin news, she will reportedly give talk show host Wendy Williams an exclusive interview. No word on when the show will air. Rapper Rick Ross took to Twitter to announce that his Maybach Music Group has inked a distribution deal with Warner Bros. Although Ross will remain signed to Def Jam, his Maybach Music Group artists Wale, Meek Mill and Triple C will all be released through Warner Bros. No word on when a first project will be released. Singer Rihanna took the stage at the NBA All-Star game with Drake and Kanye West. She went through a medley of her hits before being joined by Drake for the pair's "What's My Name" Kanye West then took the stage for his set, then Rihanna later joined him to perform their duet "All Of The Lights". The video for the single aired on television for the first time earlier that day. While tuning in to Sunday's Academy Awards, fans will notice that some of the nominations will be films that they may have actually seen. Only time will tell who will walk away with the statue, however. Fox's "American Idol" continues and the competition begins this week, as the top 40 contestants have been chosen. The show should be an exciting one for viewers. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "Survivor: Redemption Island" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Minute To Win It" on NBC. Happy hump day!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tuesday Tales
After five years of legal rangling, rapper Jay Z has finally settled his suit against a British chef and resturant owner. The chef opened a resturant called "Rock-a-Fella", after Jigga's label some time ago and suit for copyright infringement was filed. Terms of the settlement have not been disclosed. Mogul Donald Trump isn't too happy with singer Rihanna these days. He invited the singer to perform at a event he was hosting and she was a no show. The singer did appear at the NBA All-Star Game, however. Rock legend Jeff Beck is looking ahead to future projects after winning three Grammys. First, he releases "Rock-N-Roll Party Honoring Les Paul" today, and next could be a reunion with former bandmate Rod Stewart. The guitarist stated in an interview with USA Today that he's recorded some tracks and sent them to the raspy voiced singer and is waiting for a response. Stewart was lead singer of the Jeff Beck Group for its seminal albums "Truth" and "Beck-Ola". Buju Banton will find out the verdict in his cocaine conspiracy trial today. As mentioned previously, the singer was arrested after purchasing cocaine from an undercover officer. No verdict was reached during the last hearing. No deliberations took place Monday, due to the holiday. If convicted, he could face life in prison. Former talk show host Larry King will hit the road in a one man show titled "Larry King: Stand Up". The show kicks off on April 14 in Torrington Conn. During the show fans will be given an inside look at his life and also be able to ask questions. The show will also make stops in Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, New Jersey and Nevada. TV One's "Way Black When" continues it's month long salute to stars of the 70's, 80's and 90's. This week's episode will feature Christopher "Kid" Reid of legendary hip hop group Kid-N-Play. On DVD: "Unstoppable" and "Waiting For Superman". On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "No Ordinary Family" on ABC and "Biggest Loser: Couples" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Monday Memo
"Just Go With It" topped the weekend box office, earning over $30 million dollars. "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never", "Gnomeo & Juliet", "The Eagle" and "The Roomate" round out the top five films of the week. Six people have been arrested in connection with the shooting of rapper Waka Flaka Flame's tour bus. Reportedly, the motive behind the shooting was robbery. No word on a trail date for the suspects. After creating quite a buzz on the internet, the group Odd Future made their television debut on "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon". The group went through their single "Sandwiches" with backing from the Jimmy Fallon house band the Roots. All the group's music is available free. A who's who of the entertainment industry appeared at NBA All-Star weekend. Actress Gabrielle Union was seen chatting with the fiance of Labron James, and Beyonce appeared as well. Rapper Rick Ross reportedly went shopping for marijuana, and then blogged about the experience. Be sure to tune into TV One's "Way Black When". The talk show features interviews with stars from the 70's, 80's and 90's. It's an entertaining trip back in time to the best music, movies and television shows of the era. According to critics, the CBS show "The Talk" could use three or four new hosts and a more serious approach to topics discussed. The show has snagged 2.2 million viewers since it's debut on October 18. Only time will tell if and when things start to look up for the show. The Amanda Knox story will air on Lifetime. "Amanda Knox: Murder On Trial In Italy" will air at 9 p.m and stars Hayden Panettiere and Marcia Gay Harden. The film chronicles the story of the American student convicted in Italy of killing her British roomate. On the tube: "House" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "The Bachelor" on ABC and "Chuck" on NBC. Happy Monday!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Friday Facts
As mentioned previously, 50 Cent went on a tirade about how Dr Dre was upset he released his own line of headphones to compete with Dre's. When asked about 50's headphones during an interview, Dre replied that he hadn't heard of them and that he knew nothing about a Twitter tirade. Lil Kim recently claimed that her mixtape "Black Friday" sold over 113, 000 copies, but there's no way to verify the numbers. Her arch nemesis, Nicki Minaj, has the top selling hip hop album in the country with "Pink Friday". There's trouble brewing with "The Real Housewives Of Atlanta". Reportedly, Sheree Whitfield loaned 5000 to co-star NeNe Leaks for a down payment on a home. Whitefield later asked that the money be paid back and Leaks has yet to make a payment. Stay tuned as this story develops. Rapper Waka Flaka Flame took to Twitter to assure fans that he's doing well after the MC's tour bus was fired on in Charlotte N.C. As mentioned, the bus pulled into the parking lot of a Charlotte N.C. car stereo store when two cars pulled up and open fired. Police have no suspects at this time. Though it may come as a surprise to some, rapper Lloyd Banks, of G-Unit, is officially hip hop's ladies man. His latest CD, "Hunger For More 2" has female friendly tracks included along with material the rapper is better known for. The album is in stores now. The competition continues on Fox's "American Idol" and it will be interesting to see how things play out as the season continues. The final 40 contestants have been picked and the pressure's on. The show airs on Fox Wednesdays and Thursdays. In theaters this weekend: "Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son", "I am Number Four" and "Unknown". On the tube: "Kitchen Nightmares" on Fox, "The Defenders" on CBS, "Supernanny" on ABC and "Who Do You Think You Are?" on NBC. Make it a weekend!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Thursday Dish
Rapper Waka Flacka Flame's tour bus was fired upon after it pulled into the parking lot of a Charlotte N.C. car stereo store. The rapper was not hurt and his security team returned fire. The police did apprehend one suspect, who was hit in the shoulder. No word on the capture of any other suspects in the case. Stay tuned as this story develops. Rapper 50 Cent has now gone into spin control after tweeting that Dr Dre and Interscope Records CEO Jimmy Ivoine are upset that he released his own line of headphones to compete with Dr Dre's. He also went on the say maybe Dre will allow the rapper to appear on his "Detox" album. Singer Fantasia was reportedly so unhappy about being left out of the Grammy tribute to Aretha Frankliin that she boycotted the ceremony. Rapper Wiz Khalifia appears on the cover of the new Vibe magazine along with Bruno Mars and B.o.B. The rapper discusses the reason you never hear about any of his shows being marred by violence. The crowds are usually too high. The "Black And Yellow" star is currently putting the finishing touches on his debut Atlantic Records release "Rolling Papers", which is due out on March 29. His new single "Roll Up" is heating up the hip hop charts. According to Talib Kweli, underground hip hop is alive and well these days. He told bet.com that underground hip hop is now completely internet and blog based. He also mentioned that young, upcoming artists are CEOs as much as artists. Tonight will be the night the final 40 contestants will be picked on Fox's "American Idol". It should make for an interesting and entertaining show. Tonight's "Bones" episode will find the group investigating the murder of a wedding planner. It appears that the networks are already looking to the fall with a slew of projects. Although they're stocking up on cops, lawyers and doctors, they'll also try a few remakes, some period pieces and musicals, among others. Only time will tell what will keep viewers tuned in. The fall lineups will be revealed in May. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Wednesday Roundup
How do you celebrate your Grammy win if you're Buju Banton? You go to court. The reggae artist will stand trial after purchasing cocaine from an undercover police officer. If convicted, he could face life in prison. No word on a trial date as of yet. Although they have not been confirmed or denied, rumors are swirling that Jay Z and Beyonce have separated. Pictures have surfaced of Beyonce hanging out with her sister Solange and Kelly Rowland without her wedding band. Stay tuned as this story develops. Rapper 50 Cent claims rapper/producer Dr Dre is upset that he's put his own line of headphones on the market to compete with Dre's. The good doctor is reportedly so upset, he hasn't invited 50 to be a part of his "Detox" album. In other 50 news, the rapper is reportedly picking up the tab for singer El DeBarge's rehab stay. As mentioned, the singer cancelled all appearances and checked himself into a rehab center. Lil Kim has released her "Black Friday" mixtape. The tape will cost $10 each and has some interesting art work on the front as well. Reportedly, the Queen Bee is pictured slaining Nicki Minaj and is sitting in a pool of blood with a pink wig and the Barbie's depcapited body laying near by. Tonight's "American Idol" will show auditions in Hollywood. The contestant pool will be broken down to 40. Only time will tell who will be the next "American Idol". In other "Idol" news, the show's ratings have improved since the season began and the judges are a hit with fans. It's good news for a show that's been on the air for ten seasons. "Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior" makes it's debut tonight. It's the spin-off to the hit "Criminal Minds". The show stars Oscar winner Forest Whitaker. The Academy Awards will air soon and it's anyone's guest who will take home the golden statue. As mentioned previously, there have been some surprises and snubs as far as the nominees go. The show will air on ABC. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "Survivor: Redemption Island" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Minute To Win It" on NBC. Happy hump day!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Tuesday Tales
Rihanna's "S&M" video has not only been banned, but is also missing apparently. Photographer David LaChapelle is suing the singer for unspecified damages claiming that footage he took was stolen by the singer. There has been no comment from the singer and no word on a court date. Stay tuned as this story develops. El DeBarge has had to put his comeback on hold. The singer has returned to rehab. He was set to tour with Ledisi. He has been replaced by Music Soul Child. Tupac Shakur fans will be happy to know that a biopic of the late rapper/actor will begin filming this spring. Director Antoine Fuqua, who directed "Training Day" and "Brooklyn's Finest", will direct the film. Afeni Shakur, the rapper's mother, will executive produce the project. Singer Ciera took to Facebook to address rumors that her label, Jive Records, has dropped her. She wrote that she prays they release her because they aren't backing her financially. She also stated that she has put up $100,000 of her own money for videos. Stay tuned as this story develops. Drake's publicist stated to XXLMag.com that the rapper has no plans to leave Young Money Entertainment after rumors began swirling about the YM MC leaving to join Jay Z's Rock Nation. The rumors began after Jiggaman and Cash Money CEO Birdman traded subliminal jabs. Fans can breath a sigh of relief. Actress Rebecca Mader will guest star on tonight's episode of "No Ordinary Family" as a shape-shifter sent by Dr King to kill a member of the Powell family. No fewer than 27 sequels will hit theaters this year, this according to a study by Box Office Mojo. The figure is the highest on record, beating out 2003's mark of 24 part-somethings. It remains to be seen whether fans will eventually tire of the sequels or make other films hitting cineplexs a hit. On DVD: "Unstoppable" and "Waiting For Superman". On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "No Ordinary Family" on ABC and "Biggest Loser: Couples" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Monday Memo
The Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler comedy "Just Go With It" topped the weekend box office, earning over $31 million dollars. "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never", "Gnomeo & Juliet", "The Eagle" and "The Roomate" round out the top five films of the week. The 53rd annual Grammy Awards aired last night and the evening was a mixed bag for viewers. The show opened with a tribute to Aretha Franklin by Christina Aguilera, Yolanda Adams, Jennifer Hudson, Florence Welch and Martina McBride, who performed a medley of her hits. Usher and teen sensation Justin Bieber performed together as well. Lady Gaga performed her new single "Born This Way". Jay Z, Eminem, Lady Gaga and Lady Antebellum were among the winners at last night's ceremony. Grammy nominee Faith Evans recently revealed in an interview with bet.com how her new single "Gone Already" came to be. The song was co-written by Calvin Haggins, Ivan Barias, Corey Williams, Jonathan Smith and Ryan Toby of City High fame. Evans stated the song was 85% of what it is, it was demoed by a male. She changed the key and a few words here and there and rearranged the hook to appear like she wrote the song. She says she's not opposed to working with other writers. The song is available now. "Grey's Anatomy" fans will be happy to know that James Tupper will return to the show as Dr. Andrew Perkins. He will appear in three episodes this season. And if he's a hit with fans, who knows?. The show airs Thursday night at 9 p.m. "Mad Love" returns as well. The show airs tonight at 8:30. On the tube: "House" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "The Bachelor" on ABC and "Chuck" on NBC. Happy Monday!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Friday Facts
A restraining order against Chris Brown has been modified by Rihanna. The modification will still have to be approved by the court, however. In other Rihanna news, reportedly, she's broken up with LA Dodgers slugger Matt Kemp and is now seeing rock drummer/producer Travis Barker. She will also appear in his video for his single "Can The Drummer Get Some". Fans will also be happy to know that the singer will have her own line of perfume on the market soon. No word on when the fragrance will hit store shelves. Cash Money Records CEO Bryan "Birdman" Williams earned a cool $1 million dollars after betting on the Green Bay Packers in this year's Super Bowl. He reportedly used the money to purchase a Maybach for a whopping $1.35 million dollars. Gucci Mane is back. The rapper has been in the studio and is set to release his next CD, "The Return Of Mr Zone 6". via Warner Bros. Records. He says the album will be a return to the street music that got him buzzing. The album will be available in stores and online. Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has done it again. The rapper/producer was listed at #3 on Crain's list of top minority owned firms. Since starting Bad Boy Worldwide Entertainment Group, he has expanded his business ventures to include clothing, film, marketing, advertising, restaurants and fragrances. Together, his annual sales exceed $300 million. He recently released his sixth studio album "Last Train To Paris" as part of Diddy Dirty Money. The Grammy Awards will air this Sunday and although a who's who of the music industry will perform, the most anticipated performance of the evening will be the live performance of Dr Dre and Eminem. It will be Dr Dre's first live television performance in ten years. Fans will be pleased with the new Adam Sandler comedy "Just Go With It". The chemistry between he and co-star Jennifer Aniston is genuine and the two seem free to clown. The film is in theaters now. Chris Brown will be the musical guest on "Saturday Night Live" and the Grammy Awards will air on Sunday. In theaters this weekend: "The Eagel", "Gnomeo & Juliet", "Just Go With It" and "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never". On the tube: "Kitchen Nightmares" on Fox, "The Defenders" on CBS, "Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Valentine" on ABC and "Who Do You Think You Are?" on NBC, Make it a weekend!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Thursday Dish
Actress Tisha Campbell-Martin wants to assure fans that she is not dying despite her aliment. She says some who have it live with it for years without knowing they have it. Jennifer Hudson will perform her new single on the "Oprah Winfrey Show" today. Her new CD will hit stores in March. She is also slated to hit the big screen as Aretha Franklin in a biopic about the legendary singer's life. Meanwhile, fellow "American Idol" winner Fantasia will star in a musical as legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. Fox's "American Idol" was in San Francisco last night and the auditions were hit and miss at best. You can tune in tonight to see who will be sent packing. As if she hasn't already received enough media exposure, actress Lindsey Lohan is receiving more due to the figure hugging white minidress she worn to court in Los Angeles. The problem is the style may not have been the most professional-looking option for the occasion. She appeared in court on theft charges stemming from the the disappearance of a expensive necklace. Stay tuned as this story develops. Paula Abdul's "Live To Dance" has crowned it's first winner. The winners are D'Angelo Castro and Amanda Carbajales won the title best dance act in America and a $500,000 prize last night. The youngsters celebrated by going to a friend's pool. Actress January Jones will star along with Liam Neeson in the film "Unknown". She will play the mysterious wife of lauded botantist Martin Harris (played by Liam Neeson), who emerges from a traumatic accident as a hunted man stripped of his identity and left anonymous. The film hits theaters on February 18. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Wednesday Roundup
Actress Tisha Campbell-Martin has announced that she has a genetic lung disease. It's the same disease that took the life of actor/comedian Bernie Mac. She says she's in stage 2 of the decease and is receiving treatment and eating healthy. Mary Harvey, the ex-wife of actor/comedian Steve Harvey, has posted several videos on You Tube accusing Harvey of being a deadbeat father and leaving her high and dry after their divorce. She also claims Harvey had an affair with his current wife, Marjorie. Now, Harvey is firing back. In a statement Harvey says Mary Harvey received a home, $4,000 a month and a one time payment of $1.5 million dollars. He also stated that she sent the couple's son, whom he now has custody of, to him without his knowledge. Stay tuned as this story develops. Bieber fever is still spreading, with no end in sight. Justin Bieber is tapping into every demographic, including the BET audience. Bieber told BET New's correspondent Tony Anderson, he thinks his appeal is about being himself and not limiting himself to one style of music. He will appear on the Grammy Awards this Sunday. It appears that reality star Kim Kardashian can get a little love from everyone, but Prince. At a recent concert, Prince invited Kardashian on stage, only to have her freeze up in front of the crowd. Prince then kicked her off the stage. Fox's "American Idol" will have more auditions tonight and it remains to be seen who will make the grade. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "Live To Dance" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Minute To Win It" on NBC. Happy hump day!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Tuesday Tales
According to mediatakeout.com, singer Fantasia Barrino is carrying the child of her married boyfriend Antoine Cook. Fans will recall that the wife of Mr Cook sued the singer claiming she was aware that he was married when their relationship began. Stay tuned as this story develops. Dr Conrad Murray will be hitting the small screen soon. His manslaughter trial in the death of Michael Jackson will be televised. No word on a air date, however. Rapper Rick Ross announced that he has signed rapper Wale to his Maybach Music Group. It's been rumored that Ross' label has been in a bidding war with major label distribution partners Sony, Warner Music Group and Universal. No word on when Wale's first release for the label will hit stores. Eminem will be going toe to toe with Jay Z for a Grammy this Sunday and it remains to be seen which MC will be the victor. Rapper B.o.B. is nominated in the rap category as well and is looking to take home a statue as well. The 53rd annual Grammy Awards will air Sunday at 8pm. Sade will have John Legend join her on her spring tour. No tour dates have been announced. Rapper Maino shot the video for his single "We Keep It Rockin" at New York's Club Amnesia. The video was directed by Ron Adkins and is a throw back to the days of champagne poppin and New York posse cuts. When picking a video director, Maino and his team decided to pick a New York native to add that authentic NYC flavor. The director's resume includes videos for not only Maino, but Gorilla Zoe and Tony Yayo. Not only has Elton John recorded an album with his longtime idol Leon Russell, he'll do the honors when he inducts Russell into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next month. John won't be the only Hall of Famer honoring the class of 2011 on March 14. Paul Simon will induct Neil Diamond, Neil Young will induct Tom Waits, Rob Zombie will induct Alice Cooper, while John Legend will induct Dr. John. Bette Midler will pay tribute to Darlene Love. The induction ceremony will take place in New York City and will air on March 20 on the Fuse network. Joan Rivers has been given a new lease on life thanks to a new reality show "Joan and Melissa: Joan Knows Best". The show centers around Joan moving in with Melissa in Los Angeles while Joan does a play there. Two of eight episodes have aired with another airing tonight at 9 p.m. It will Joan being her outrageous self. On DVD: "Paranormal Activity 2", "Life As We Know It" and "For Colored Girls". On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "No Ordinary Family" on ABC and "Biggest Loser: Couples" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Monday Memo
"The Roomate" topped the weekend box office earning over $15 million dollars. "Sanctum", "No Strings Attached", "The King's Speech" and "The Green Hornet" round out the top five films of the week. The Blackeyed Peas rocked Dallas Stadium at last night's Super Bowl half time show. Usher joined the group, showing off some fancy foot work to the delight of the crowd. DJ Funkmaster Flex was arrested after a dispute with his wife. The radio personality was arrested for domestic violence and public menace and was released on $500 bail. No word on what sparked the dispute. Teen sensation Justin Bieber has taken some by surprise by contributing a guest rap on Vado's "Speaking In Tongues". The teen heartthrob stated to bet.com that Vado played the track for him in the studio and he liked it and decided to do it. Catch the singer on "106 & Park" tonight at 6PM. Rapper Tyga, who appeared on Chris Brown's single "Deuces", stated to bet.com that the single, which topped the charts, wasn't the first choice for a first single from a mixtape the two worked on. According to Tyga, the song belonged to producer Kevin "K-Mac" McCall, the two heard the track and convinced the producer to give the song to Brown. After a slow start the song peaked at No. 14 on Billboard's Hot 100 and reached No. 1 on the R&B/Hip Hop chart. See if the two win a Grammy for their collaboration when the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards air on February 13 at 8 pm. Fox will debut a new series "The Chicago Code" tonight. The series centers around two detectives who worked the streets together. One is played by Jennifer Beals. The other is played by Jason Clarke. Beals's character likes to climb the latter while Clarke's character enjoys being on the street. It should be an exciting series worth watching. On the tube: "House" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "The Bachelor" on ABC and "Chuck" on NBC. Happy Monday!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Friday Facts
Rapper Julez Santana was released on $125,000 bond after his arrest on guns and drug charges. As mentioned previously, the rapper's New Jersey recording studio was raided by police where marijuana several guns and other paraphernalia were found. People magazine is reporting that the reason Halle Berry is concerned about her daughter's safety when she's with her father is because she wants to protect her from the glare of the paparazzi spotlight. Not helping matters much is the rumor that Ms Berry's ex is currently dating Kim Kardashian. Young Money recruit Tyga is set to release his first single, "Really Raw" soon. The single includes verses from the rest of the clique, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Drake. The single was slated to drop next week, but it was leaked over the internet yesterday. No word on when the rapper's album will be released. The Roots frontman Black Thought has released a mixtape titled "The Money Making Jam Boys". It features Dice Raw, P.O.R.N., Truck North and STS (Sugar Tongue Slim). It includes production from DJ Jazzy Jeff, ?uestlove, Khari Ferrari and Frank Knuckles and more. Just in time for the Super Bowl, Lil Wayne has released a track called "Green Yellow" , which is a play on the runaway smash Pittsburgh/Pittsburgh Steelers anthem "Black & Yellow" by Wiz Khalifa. Wayne shows his support for the Green Bay Packers with a little competitive trash talk. The two teams square off this weekend. The video for Rihanna's new single has been banned in several countries. A representative for the singer stated that the clip was meant to be controversial. Fox's "American Idol" was in Los Angeles last night for more auditions, and it was far more interesting that most would expect. The show airs Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox. Actor/writer/director Tyler Perry is slated to star in a remake of the Morgan Freeman/Ashley Judd film "Kiss The Girls" no word on when shooting will begin. In theaters this weekend: "The Roomate" and "Sanctum". On the tube: "Kitchen Nightmares" on Fox, "The Defenders" on CBS, "Supernanny" on ABC and "Who Do You Think You Are?" on NBC. Make it a weekend!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Thursday Dish
As mentioned previously, rapper Juelz Santana's recording studio was raided by police in which they found 17 pounds of drugs, a 9mm handgun and other paraphernalia. Now, it's been reported that the rapper has turned himself in on weapons and other charges. No word on a court date yet. A Atlanta bus boy has filed suit against rapper Fabolous claiming he hit him with a bottle and then punched him. No word on damages being seeked or a court date. R&B singer Monica will start a line of nail polish and reportedly the bottles will have an inspirational message on the front. The messages are intended to uplift and encourage women. No word on when the nail polish will hit store shelves. Producer Swizz Beats has inked a deal to start his own line of tennis shoes. No word on when the shoes will hit stores. Rumor has it that Slash of the band Guns N Roses and Usher will join the Black Eyed Peas during their half time performance at the Superbowl. this Sunday. It should be an exciting performance. Singer Chris Brown has been tapped to be a musical guest on "Saturday Night Live" on February 12. Ironically, it will be two days before Valentine's Day and Brown has just completed a domestic violence counseling program. He's going on the show to promote his next release "F.A.M.E.", which will hit stores on March 22. This move could help get the singer's career back on track. Last night was another night of auditions for Fox's "American Idol" and it didn't go well for some. In more "Idol" news, it's been rumored that Jennifer Lopez is not pleased with the attention fellow judge Steven Tyler is getting. He certainly adds a quirkiness to the show. Actress Marlee Matlin will guest star on tonight's episode of "CSI". She will play a character who will be interviewed for a murder investigation. "American Idol" airs again tonight as well. As mentioned, it remains to be seen who will make the grade. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Wednesday Roundup
Hallie Berry and her ex-boyfriend and father of her child have been waring recently, it appears. The two are heading to court for a custody hearing and the gentleman was quoted as saying what Ms Berry has alleged is all lies and the safety of his daughter is of concern to him. She apparently has been concerned about how safe the child is with him. Lil Kim is going at Nicki Minaj once again. She will reportedly release a mixtape called "Black Friday" on Valentine's Day. What once appeared to be a divorce settlement between Christina Milan and The Dream, really may not be after all. It seems that although Ms Milan was awarded a one time payment of $4 million and $5,000 a month in child support, she's asking for royalties from the Justin Bieber hit "Baby". Both she and The Dream are credited as writers on the song, which sold over 2 million copies and was the most watched video in You Tube history. The Dream is reportedly so upset by the renegotiations, that he has withheld payments. Rumors are swirling that rapper Wiz Khalifa is dating model Amber Rose. In a recent interview the rapper stated that the two are "cool", but they were also seen shopping together in Los Angeles. Stay tuned as this story develops. The parents of actor Charlie Sheen are now seeking to take control of his business affairs. As most know, he is the son of actor Martin Sheen, and the younger Sheen is completing rehab. Fox's "American Idol" will be in Austin TX tonight for auditions and it's anyone's guest who will make the grade. The show airs tonight on Fox at 8 p.m. As mentioned previously, the Academy Awards will air soon and as far as the nominee list goes, there have been quite a few surprises and a few snubs as well. Only time will tell who will walk away with the statue. On the tube: "American Idol" on Fox, "Live To Dance" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Minute To Win It" on NBC. Happy hump day!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Tuesday Tales
Reportedly, Sean "Diddy" Combs and rapper Rick Ross spent $1 million dollars at a Miami club a few days ago. The two took in the sights and sounds of the city and partied the night away. In other Sean "Diddy" Combs news, to reward his son for making the school honor role, the mogul bought the boy a Maybach. He says his children don't ask for much and that he wanted to give the gift because the boy had been working to make the honor role for some time. Rapper Eminem will appear in a Lipton Brisk Iced Tea ad this Sunday Feb. 6. He will appear as a Claymation character in the ad, which will chronicle a day in the life of the rap superstar. He will also perform at the Grammy Awards on Feb 13. Among those up for Grammys this year are: Sade, Betty LaVette, Jay Z, Eminem, Jessye Norman, Barbra Streisand and Marti Stewart and Connie Smith. The music industry's biggest night should be an exciting one that won't be forgotten. In other Eminem news, the Detroit rapper will appear on the cover of the upcoming issue of XXL magazine with his two new artists, Slaughterhouse and Yelawolf. Actor Charlie Sheen will undergo rehab in his home. It has also been reported that the Los Angeles police department will not investigate the matter regarding a suitcase. Tonight's episode of "NCIS" will find the team being sent to investigate the murder of a Marine who was killed in his own backyard. Tonight's episode of "The Good Wife" will center around a prison murder and a backstabbing politician. On DVD: "Let Me In" and "Alice In Wonderland". On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "No Ordinary Family" on ABC and "Biggest Loser: Couples" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!