Friday Facts

Rumor has it that rapper Nas and singer Amy Winehouse may have been involved some time before the singer's death. Nas stated what impact Winehouse had on him and it's unclear whether the two were involved or worked no any music together. "Jersey Shore's" DJ Paulie has confirmed that he has inked a three album deal with 50 Cent's G-Unit. There's been no word on a release date for his first project for the label. Actor/writer/director Tyler Perry has partnered with Lyonsgate Films to launch a Tyler Perry network which will air all of Perry's shows. With the success of his plays and films, this is yet another career milestone for the talented mogul. Several R&B artists who have been quiet are making comebacks. First up, Joe, who had hits in the 1990's such as "I Wanna Know" and "What Your Man Won't Do". The singer has a new CD, "The Good, The Bad , The Sexy" due out on September 27. He says he's bring back the raw, loving feeling of R&B. Singer Johnny Gill, who signed his first recording contract as a teenager, then went on to join New Edition, and continues to tour with fellow New Edition members Bobby Brown and Ralph Tresvant as Heads Of State, has a new CD due out called "Still Winning" on September 20. Al B. Sure!, who hit the top of the charts in 1988 with "Nite & Day", is rekindling that musical magic with the Secret Garden Rendezvous tour with Keith Sweat, Blackstreet, Cameo and Jagged Edge. Boyz 2 Men will celebrate their 20th anniversary with an upcoming double CD, "Twenty", set to hit stores on October 25, featuring 10 new songs and 10 updated renditions of their classics "I'll Make Love To You", End Of The Road" and "On Bended Knee". Atlanta based quartet Jagged Edge have kept fans coming back for more with their latest release "The Remedy". 80's quintet Troop, who rose to the top of the charts with the hit "Mamacita" in 1988, will have a new CD in stores next spring. Group members Steve Russell, Allen McNeil, and John Harreld all have solo projects in the works as well, although none have left the group. Fans will get the opportunity to enjoy a Michael Jackson tribute concert which will be streamed over the internet. Cee-Lo Green, Lady Gaga and Christina Aguilera have confirmed that they will perform during the tribute. Melanie Moore was crowned the winner of "So You Think You Can Dance". It's been an exciting season, with, hopefully, many more to come. Ms Moore certainly earned the grand prize. Actress Paula Patton has inked a deal to star in the remake of the 1970's cult classic "Sparkle". The original film was loosely based on The Supremes and set in Harlem in the late 1950's. Debra Martin Chase will co-produce the film with husband and wife writing and production team Salim Akil and Mara Brock Akil. There's been no announcement regarding a release date. In theaters this weekend: "Thirty Minutes Or Less", "Final Destination 5", "Glee: The 3D Concert Movie" and "The Help". On the tube: "NFL Preseason Football" on Fox, "Flashpoint" on CBS, "Shark Tank" on ABC and "Friends With Benefits" on NBC. Make it a weekend!