Friday Facts

There's no denying that it's been a tough year for Atlanta rapper Young Jeezy. Leading up to it's release, his long awaited album, "Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Abmition", has been plaqued by a series of push backs, most notably his public falling out with one-time collaborator-turned nemis Rick Ross. He's premiered the video for his single "F.A.M.E.", featuring fellow Atlanta rhyme slinger T.I. on "106 & Park", and seems ready to set the hip hop world on it's ear. He says perveserance and dedication were the keys to getting the new album done. His motto is if you grind hard, you shine hard. Shine hard is what fans have wanted him to do since the release of 2008's "The Recession". Delivering several mixtapes including "Trap Or Die 2" and this year's Gangsta Grills reunion "The Real Is Back" with DJ Drama between albums has helped him find his niche. With the new album filled with features from Jay Z, Andre 3000, Lil Wayne and others, it seems poised to be just as successful as his past releases. "Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition" hits stores on December 20. It's sure to be well worth the long wait. Hip hop band the Roots are feeling the backlash over an apparent stunt pulled on the NBC late night show "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon". Republican presidental candidate Michelle Bachman, who has been critized for making what some call false and iflammotory comments during her campaign, made a guest appearance on the show to discuss politics and family, only to be   welcomed to the stage to the band playing "Lying A*B*" from Fishbone's debut 1985 album. Now, conservatives, including Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh are speaking out calling the act disrespectful. Bachman herself has also commented calling the act disrespectful. This isn't the first time the band has sublimally dissed a "Late Night" guest. When Ashlee Simpson, who was caught lip-synching on 'Saturday Night Live" appeared on the show, they played "Girl You Know It's True" by fellow fakers Milli Vanilli. Black Eyed Peas front man Will.i.am told his 1.5 million Twitter followers back in June that his group would take a short break. Now, after a recent concert the group is set to take a short break with Will.i.am releasing a solo album next year and Fergie taking time to start a family with husband Josh Duhamel. Apl.de.ap lans to spend more time as an education ambassador to the Philippines and Taboo want to spend more time with his growing family. At any rate, let's hope the group gets back to making great music soon. It would be a shame to have them away from the music scene too long. The competition will continue on "The X Factor" and "The Sing-Off" as well as contestants battle it out for the grand prize. Be sure to tune in, there's sure to be plenty to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. On the tube: "Iron Man" on Fox, "Hoops & YoYo Ruin Christmas" on CBS, "Shrek The Third" on ABC and "National Treasure: Book Of Secrets" on NBC. Enjoy the holiday weekend!