Friday Facts

Rapper Sean Kingston will have to face a judge for an alleged sexual assault, according to celebrity web  site TMZ. The plaintiff, Carissa Capeloto, filed a multi-million dollar civil suit against the singer claiming she was gang raped in his hotel room by him, his bodyguard and a member of his band. According to Capeloto, she was invited to a meet-and-greet with the pop star following a Justin Bieber concert in 2010. Kingston had also performed that night. When she arrived at his hotel room, he was naked and in bed. His bodyguard then forced her on to Kingston, and then he, Kingston and a band member had sex with her while she was "obviously intoxicated and incapable of consent". She consumed 7-10 shots of vodka and smoked marijuana. Capeloto says a friend came to the room to help and police were called. The police interrogated Kingston. Capeloto was taken to a hospital where she was treated for her injuries. Criminal charges were dropped after authorities concluded that Capeloto's story wasn't credible. Capeloto now says she's been having trouble sleeping and also suffers from moods swings and panic attacks since the incident and is seeking $5 million. Kingston, meanwhile, has filed a counter claim insisting that the sex was consensual. The two will go to trial in November. Rapper Jay Z continues to waves in the music industry. He inked a deal with social networking site Facebook to premiere his "Holy Grail" CD on his Facebook page. The premiere was another successful venture for the Brooklyn native, and there's surely more to come. Rapper Waka Flocka Flame and his current lady love will reportedly be added to the cast of "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta". No word on when episodes featuring the two will air. The Brooklyn street where the late Notorious B.I.G. grew up could soon be named in his honor. A petition drive has been started to change the intersection of St. James Place and Fulton Way to Christopher Wallace Way, according to Complex.com. The rapper was gunned down in Los Angeles in 1997. In theaters this weekend: "Closed Circuit", "Getaway" and "One Direction: This Is Us". On the tube: "Bones" on Fox, "Undercover Boss" on CBS, "Last Man Standing" on ABC and "Betty White's Off Their Rockers" on NBC. Make it a weekend!

Thursday Dish

Rapper Lil Scrappy was arrested for his involvement in a recent scuffle inside a convenience store. The "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" star says the other gentleman involved made disparaging remarks about his current flame so he had to "put the paws on him". No word on whether any charges will be filed. Rapper Kanye West and Miley Cyrus will be collaborating on a remix for West's single "Black Skinhead". While no other details are available, the two reportedly skipped out on any and all VMA after parties to meet in the studio. No word on when the single will be released. Today is what would have been singer Michael Jackson's 55th birthday. Social networking site Instagram is having a world wide birthday celebration by asking fans to Instagram videos wishing the King of Pop a happy birthday. Rapper Kendrick Lamar's verse on Big Sean's "Control" had rappers stumbling backward from his words. During an interview with radio station Power 106, he opened up about the explosive lyrics, which called out everyone from Drake to J. Cole. He said he didn't know that there would be so much speculation behind it. He added that he just wanted to rap. Kendrick also rubbed some the wrong way when he dubbed himself the "king of New York" on the track. Lamar, who was a guest of Jay Z's and Diddy's at a VMA after party in NYC  added that the irony of the line was that some people got it and understood it. To be able to sit down with them isn't about Lamar being the king of either cost, but about him leaving a mark as great as Biggie or 2Pac. On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "Two And A Half Men" on CBS, "Motive" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

Rapper Too Short has taken a plea deal in connection with a DUI charge last month. The legendary West Coast artist was hit with seven charges, including possession of MDMA, but according to celebrity web site TMZ, the judge agreed to drop six of them if he agreed to plea no contest. He faces three years probation and mandatory alcohol education counseling. Singer Johnny Gill is suing the Four Seasons Hotel for neglecting to prevent or help him after a white man allegedly hurled racial slurs at him and pushed him to the ground so hard that it caused him injury, according to YBF. According to the suit, Gill was seated on the patio of the Four Seasons with friends last Friday when, at approximately 11 p.m. an inebriated patron came up to him, unprovoked, and called him out of his name "with racially charged negative remarks". The Grammy-nominated New Edition member "objected" and the drunken mans response was to push him so hard that Gill fell against a heating lamp and suffered injuries that resulted in major medical expenses and loss of income. The complaint states that the Four Seasons is to blame because "at no time did the defendant's security employees, staff or representative offer any assistance". Gill sued for $1 million in damages for negligence, failure to exercise reasonable care, pain and suffering and medical expenses, in Los Angeles Superior Court. Jay Z and Justin Timberlake made magic on "Suit & Tie", so it's only fitting that they keep the momentum going. Hova will appear on "Murder" a track from Timberlake's upcoming album, "20/20 Experience -2 of 2", according to the updated track list posted on Amazon UK. Rapper Drake will join Timberlake on "Cabaret". The Tennessee native confirmed the release in March, but not much else, taking fans on a treasure hunt of sorts to reveal information, singles and tracklist. The singer reteamed with some of "The 20/20 Experience" producers, including Timbaland and Jerome "J Rock" Harmon for the sequel. Their first effort, released in March, was the star's most successful album since 2006. It went nearly platinum in a week, and stands as the year's most successful album to date. On the tube: "MasterChef" on Fox, "Big Brother" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy hump day!

Tuesday Tales

More MTV Video Music Awards news. Singer/actress Mylie Cyrus caused quite a stir by twerking during her performance and it still has the internet buzzing. Rapper Juicy J. offered his opinion by saying Cyrus is the best twerker. Don't know if that compliment is going to lead to a collaboration between the two. Interesting thought nevertheless. Rumor has that mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs and rapper J. Cole got into a scuffle during a MTV Video Music Awards after party. Ever the gentleman, Diddy took to Twitter to say that Cole is his brother and offer a somewhat vague explanation of what happened. According to HipHopWired.com, the two were at the Dream Hotel in NYC following the MTV VMAs for an event sponsored by Diddy's Ciroc and Jay Z's D'usse, when an exchange of words between them  turned into a scuffle and ended only when security escorted Cole from the building. Diddy, however, maintains that the fight wasn't physical, it was just loud talking. He added that he usually doesn't respond to rumors, but he has too much respect for Cole and the two are friends. Rapper Drake if facing some legal trouble. A stylist has sued the Canadian for $76,000 claiming unpaid consulting fees, hotel bills, plane tickets and shopping expenses, according to TMZ. The OVO honcho hired Michael Raphael last August for a $39,583 monthly fee, but stopped paying in December, the same month the stylist racked up $40,000 in expenses. Raphael wants $76,490 to cover one month salary and reimbursement for out-of-pocket fees. Representatives for the rapper haven't commented on the matter. Singer Chris Brown won't be charged for an alleged nightclub assault two months ago. According to TMZ, Anaheim City Attorney reviewed and subsequently rejected Deanna Gines' case citing insufficient evidence. Gines claims Brown pushed her to the grown inside Heat Ultra Lounge. Surveillance footage shows Gines walking without injury and a statement from the club owner disproved the allegations. Brown has not commented on the matter. On the tube: "So You Think You Can Dance" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "Extreme Weight Loss" on ABC and "Hollywood Game Night" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!

Monday Memo

The film "Lee Daniels' "The Butler" topped the weekend box office once again, earning over $17 million. "We're the Millers", "Mortal Instruments: City of Bones", "The World's End" and "Planes" round out the top five films of the week. Mackelmore and Ryan Lewis were among the winners in the hip hop category at last night's MTV Video Music Awards. Other winners include Kanye West. 2 Chainz, Drake, Justin Timberlake and Miley Cyrus.  All in all, it was another exciting ceremony fans won't soon forget. Actor/singer Tyrese is doing well after fainting inside a Washington D.C. nightclub while performing with the group TGT injuring his wrist in the process. A rep for the singer said in a statement that the reason for the fainting spell is exhaustion. The singer took to Twitter to thank fans for their support and concern. He and his group mates can look forward to another exciting night. Their collaboration album, "3 Kings", is slated to sell 65,000-70,000 copies in its first week and debut at No. 5 on the Billboard Top 200. Rapper Fat Joe is scheduled to begin a four month prison sentence for tax evasion today. He plead guilty to the charges last  December and was sentenced earlier this month. He tweeted a farewell message to fans promising to return by New Year's Eve. Before checking into prison he released "The Darkside 3 ", a 10-track album featuring production from DJ Premier, 9th Wonder, Cool & Dre and more. Singer and reality star K Michelle graces the cover of the latest issue of Sister 2 Sister magazine. She discusses her new album, her career, the music industry and what's next for her. Sister 2 Sister magazine is on newsstands now. More Kanye West news. West is known for extravagant performances on the MTV Video Music Awards, and he didn't squander an opportunity to make a statement last night. What appeared to be West's silhouette  rapping in front of a random tree, was actually him rapping in front of an image of an actual relic from a dark era in American history. At the last minute during his performance the G.O.O.D. Music rapper swapped out "Black Skinhead" for "Blood On The Leaves", which samples Nina Simone's cover of Billie Holiday's "Strange Fruit" and added a lynching tree as a visual interpretation of Holiday's 1939 recording, lyrics of which are inspired by the post-slavery treatment of African-Americans in the South. Interesting indeed. On the tube: "Raising Hope" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "Shark Tank" on ABC and "American Ninja Warrior" on NBC. Happy Monday!

Thursday Dish

Rapper Kanye West is in legal trouble. Last month the Chicago native reportedly got into a physical confrontation with a camera man. The man has now lawyered up and says he suffered an injured hip and was on crutches as a result of the incident. The gentleman has hired civil rights attorney Gloria Alred to represent him in the case. No word on a court date. In other Kanye West news, he says he turned down an offer to become a judge on "American Idol". Mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs reportedly turned down an offer to judge on the hit Fox show as well siting not wanting to work with ex-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez as the reason.  Actor/comedian Katt Williams did a good dead recently. While out and about, he stumbled upon a woman in a wheel chair. He gave her cash wrapped in a  piece of paper. The woman assumed that the paper contained marijuana, until she looked inside. That was a very noble gesture. Rapper Drake recently unveiled the art work for both the original and deluxe edition of his new album, "Nothing Was The Same" via Instagram. The art work features him in the present day and him as an afro-wearing baby reminiscent of the Notorious B.I.G.'s "Ready To Die". The art was courtesy of San Diego-based artist Kadir Nelson. The album was pushed back a week from September 17 to September 24 and may be just what fans need to tide them over until it hits stores. In addition, Drake will be among the performers on Sunday's MTV Video Music Awards. He's also set to tour with Miguel and Future starting in September. Fans who want more of Drizzy can pick up a copy of the latest issue of XXL magazine on newsstands now. Marvin Gaye ///, son of late R&B singer Marvin Gaye, recently spoke out about the possibility of the Gaye estate suing singer Robin Thicke over the single "Blurred Lines". Thicke, along with T.I and Pharrell Williams recently asked a judge to declare that the song doesn't violate Gaye's copyrights. Gaye /// stated that the move was ill-timed as the estate hasn't yet decided to sue. However, they do see similarities between "Blurred Lines" and Gaye's 1976 hit "Got To Give It Up". Gaye's son says his council is taking care of business. On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

A former intern is suing Bad Boy Entertainment for violating minimum wage laws by not paying her for performing such duties as answering phones, filing documents and getting coffee. It's unclear how much the company is being sued for. No announcement on a court date has been made. CEO Sean "Diddy" Combs hasn't commented on the matter. Rapper Flo Rida has dodged a bullet in the form of  a lawsuit. A concert promoter sued the star for $400,000 claiming he was a no show at a recent concert. The problem is that the suit was filed via the social networking site Facebook. No comment from the rapper.  Producer Scott Storch was robbed at gun point while leaving a New York City hotel. Thieves escaped with $5,000 in cash and $1,000 in jewelry. Storch, who is visiting the city for the MTV Video Music Awards, filed a police report. No one was injured during the incident. Rapper Gucci Mane won't be able to avoid a court date in connection with attacking a fan with a bottle some time back. He reportedly offered to perform a concert, but the judge insisted on scheduling a court date. That date hasn't been announced as yet. As mentioned previously, rapper Kanye West is slated to appear on Kardashian family matriarch Kris Jenner's talk show on Friday. Now comes the news that pictures of baby North West will appear during the interview. This will be the first opportunity fans will get to see the infant since her birth. In other Kanye West news, to the surprise of perhaps many, when approached by a photographer recently, he smiled instead of flying off the handle. Legendary R&B singer Aretha Franklin has pulled out of the MLB Beacon Awards this Saturday due to health issues. The Queen of Soul was slated to receive the Beacon of Change Award spotlighting her embodiment of the Civil Rights Movement. While the singer mentioned treatment, she gave no further details regarding the absence. Franklin, 71, recently nixed a few scheduled concert dates, and has been hospitalized in the past. The Beacon luncheon is among many events for MLB's annual Civil Rights Game weekend. Franklin and past retired baseball star Bo Jackson were named the 2013 "Beacon of Change" honorees. Past honorees include Harry Belafonte and Willie Mays. On the tube: "MasterChef" on Fox, "Big Brother" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy hump day!

Tuesday Tales

A series of headlining concerts featuring singer Chris Brown  scheduled in Canada have been cancelled reportedly due to the singers' run ins with the law and recent health scare. He was slated to headline a series of shows in Toronto, Winnipeg, Saint John and Halifax, but the promoter scrapped each event. Brown's publicist expressed the singer's regret that he will be unable to perform. Brown hasn't commented on the matter. Fans let it be known how they felt when singer Beyonce was late for a recent concert. Once the star took the stage, they began to boo. The show went on without a hitch, however. Rapper Kanye West will make a guest appearance on Kris Jenner's daytime talk show. The episode is scheduled to air on Friday. West will discuss fatherhood and being "so in love" with Jenner's daughter Kim. Congratulations to "Real Housewives Of Atlanta" star Kim Zolac and her husband are in order. Zolac announced that she's pregnant with twins on her spin off show "Tardy For The Party". This will make the pair the parents of six. They currently have four. Singer Prince recently revealed the cover art for his new single, "Breakfast Can Wait". He pays homage to comedian Dave Chappelle by dropping an image of the funny man as Prince from his 2004 sketch "Prince: True Hollywood Story". "Breakfast Can Wait" is now available on Prince's eye Tunes. On DVD: "Mary Poppins". On the tube: "So You Think You Can Dance" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "Extreme Weight Loss" on ABC and "Hollywood Game Night" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!

Monday Memo

The Lee Daniels directed film "The Butler" topped the weekend box office earning over $25 million. "We're the Millers", "Elysium", "Kick-Ass 2", and "Planes" round out the top five films of the week. Singer Chris Brown has been given an additional 1,000 hours of community service. The terms of his probation was reinstated by a Los Angeles judge in response to allegations that his paperwork was falsified. This just one day after his hit and run case was dropped. He was ordered to complete 125 more days of community labor in a deal agreed upon in Judge James Brandlin's chambers. Brown hasn't commented on the matter. It looks like friendship can be fleeting in Hollywood. After reportedly sending friend and reality television star Kim Kardashian a gift, singer Katy Perry asked why the Kardashians are famous. Kim fired back by posting a picture to Instagram with a caption that ready "I strongly suggest that you not talk s*** after sending a gift". In other Kardashian news, rumors have been swirling about problems in the marriage of Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom. The latest is that Kardashian was visiting her husband only to throw him out after an argument. No comment from the couple. Singer Toni Braxton had an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction during a concert over the weekend. During her performance, her skirt came down leaving fans a view of her underwear. Braxton continued the show. A fan in the audience offered a blazer for the singer to cover herself with. After much speculation, singer/actress Jennifer Lopez will be back in the judge's chair for the next season of "American  Idol". She'll join country singer Keith Urban. It's still unclear who will fill the third judges chair, although there have been many rumors. We'll have to wait and see. On the tube: "Raising Hope" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "Shark Tank" on ABC and "American Ninja Warrior" on NBC. Happy Monday!

Friday Facts

Michael Jackson's ex-wife Debbie Rowe stated that daughter Paris is still devastated four years after the singer's death. A video of the teen in which she seemed to be not in the best of spirits surfaced some time ago. Mother and daughter have reportedly gotten closer recently, so lets hope that provides some healing. It looks like singer Chris Brown is off the hook for a hit and run his was involved in back in May. The alleged victim wanted to settle the matter due to the minor damage to her car. Prosecutors stilled argued that the singer should be punished for violating his five year probation, however. Brown tweeted "Thank God!!!" in response. Singer Miguel was pulled over for tints, then later arrested for DUI. He was given several field sobriety tests, all of which he failed. The Adorn" singer was booked and later released on $5,000 bail. He's due in court next month. Rapper Kanye West was recently spotted at a Los Angeles Dodgers game with Robert Kardashian. When he was shown on the video screen, the crowd booed. West later reportedly moved to another area. Still no word on wedding bells for he and Kardashian's sister Kim. Actor Terrence Howard has been evicted from his New York City apartment. The landlord claims that star failed to pay rent. His lease expired in November, but Howard continued to live in the apartment until May. The landlord is suing for back rent and legal fees. Music mogul Russell Simmons is now apologizing after posting a sex tape of abolitionist Harriet Tubman on his website. The tape reportedly shows Tubman outsmarting the slave master. Simmons says he only posted the video because he thought it was funny. It appears he may be in the minority as he has received some backlash over the posting. In theaters this weekend: "Jobs", "Kick-Ass 2", "Lee Daniels' The Butler" and "Paranoia". On the tube: "NFL Preseason Football Live" on Fox, "Undercover Boss" on CBS, "Last Man Standing" on ABC and "Betty White's Off Their Rockers" on NBC. Make it a weekend!

Thursday Dish

Singer Michael Jackson's ex-wife Debbie Rowe testified that doctors competed with one another to see who could give Jackson the strongest drug. There were drugs for Lupus, ache and pain as Jackson suffered burns while filming a Pepsi commercial in 1983. Rowe added that she tried to wean Jackson off drugs before the start of the Dangerous Tour and that Dr. Conrad Murray got in there and killed him. R&B star Usher's ex-wife Tameka told ABC's "Good Morning America" that she was angry not about Usher not being present during the accident that sent their son to the hospital, but that it occurred under his aunts watch. She added that none of her children have ever had an accident while under her watch. She added that she intends to seek to have the children sent to her when Usher is out of town. Rapper Kanye West's latest album has gone gold selling over 500,000 copies after eight weeks on the charts. It's West's lowest selling album, with no radio single or pre-sales. In the meantime, West and Kim Kardashian were seen leaving a doctors office after an appointment for baby North West. Kardashian is keeping her post baby body under wraps until the right opportunity comes along. Baby North West was covered as well. After admitting that she is indeed gay, former "Cosby Show" co-star Raven Simone was seen out and about with her new flame. No word on wedding bells just yet. Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs recently Instagrammed a photo of himself and Jay Z laughing in response to rapper Kendrick Lamar claims that  he's the king of New York. Meanwhile, rapper Wale says he's happy that he was featured on a track with Lamar and would have been offended if he hadn't. No further response from all parties involved. On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey is now backtracking on a statement she made regarding a recent incident in Switzerland where a store clerk refused to let her see a $38,000 handbag. Winfrey did mention the store name and now says that she's sorry that she did and that she's sorry that the whole thing has been blown out of proportion. It appears that Winfrey doesn't want anyone to think that she's seeking publicity for her new film "The Butler". It's looks like the Frank Ocean/Chris Brown feud isn't quite over. As some fans may know, a fight occurred between the entourages of both singers in the parking lot of a recording studio. Now, a young man is suing claiming that he suffered physical and emotional injuries during the brawl. He's seeking unspecified damages. The Waka Flocka Flame/Gucci Mane feud isn't over yet either. Gucci Mane tweeted that he'll offer not only Waka's contract, but his publishing to anyone who offers. No word on any offers as yet. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have recently purchased a kidnap and car jacking proof vehicle worth several thousand dollars. They apparently bought the item to avoid attention, but it appears that it will just the opposite. At any rate, here's wishing the couple the best. A new hip hop beef that seems to be brewing is one between Lupe Fiasco and Kendrick Lamar. It all began with Lamar's verse  attacking Lupe on the track "Control", which hit the internet and had Twitter reactions flooding social media. Lupe has released what appears to be a response, "SLR2", although he doesn't mention Lamar by name. The track wasn't enough to garner a response from Lamar. He has yet to comment. On the tube: "MasterChef" on Fox, "Big Brother" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy hump day!

Tuesday Tales

Rapper Soulja Boy got into hot water during a recent flight. He was asked to be seated as the plane readied for take off. When he refused, he was escorted off. He has since apologized for the incident. R&B star Usher's son has been released from the hospital after getting his hand caught in a pool drain. The 5-year-old has been seen wearing a bandage and is doing well otherwise. Rapper Juicy J tweeted that he'll produce a new album by rapper Pimp C. The album will contain previously unreleased material. Three Six Mafia's ties to UGK predate his untimely death. The two rap crews collaborated on more than one occasion. Once Three Six Mafia's 2000 single "Sippin On Some Syrup" and on UGK's single "Int'l Players Anthem". Pimp C died in 2007 of respiratory failure thought to be brought on by codeine addiction. The tragic incident brought to light the rap world's addiction to cough syrup, commonly called "sizzurp". In the years since, three Pimp C albums have been released, including 2010's "The Naked Soul Of Sweet Jones". Meanwhile, Juicy J is set to release his debut album "Stay Trippy" on August 27. G.O.O.D. Music rapper Big Sean has set the internet ablaze with a new single called "Control". He collaborated on the track with Kendrick Lamar and Jay Electronica. The track is seven minutes long, and Sean tweeted that the song isn't radio friendly, just straight rap. His album "Hall Of Fame" is set to hit stores on August 27. Singer Tiara Thomas is headlining cable network BET's Music Matters at SOB's tonight, when some of the biggest up-and-coming names in music will hit the stage and show the crowd why they are some of the year's most buzzed about artist. The singer/songwriter/guitarist, who captured everyone's attention with her sultry singing voice on Wale's hit single "Bad" will perform songs from her upcoming debut album "Sallie Mae". Thomas is an Indiana native who recently signed with Rico Love, who produced songs for Beyoncé, Usher and Chris Brown. The free event will also include performances by Raphael Saadiq protégé Adrian Marcel, who delivered an electrifying performance during the BET Experience, as well as crooner Eric Bellinger and singer Felicia Temple. DJ Lyve and host Buttaman kick things off at 8 p.m. On DVD: "Olympus Has Fallen". On the tube: "So You Think You Can Dance" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "Extreme Weight Loss" on ABC and "Hollywood Game Night" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!

Monday Memo

The film "Elysium" topped the weekend box office, earning over $30 million. "We're the Millers", "Planes", "Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters" and "2 Guns" round out the top five films of the week. Singer Chris Brown is reportedly doing well after suffering a seizure in a recording studio. Brown refused treatment. A representative for the singer blamed exhaustion for the health scare. At any rate, it's comforting to know he's doing better. A potential scuffle between rappers 50 Cent and Trav was avoided thanks to the intervention of rapper Meek Mill. 50 was on hand for the MixShow Live event in Atlanta to promote his new artist Kid, Kid when Trav tried to make his way on stage. Once 50 noticed, he shoved Trav. The incident was caught on tape and shows Meek whispering words to calm 50 down. and the would be scuffle simmers. Meek was quick to take to Twitter to let it be known that he isn't taking sides. He refused to take sides saying that 50 and Trav have their own relationship. Trav, meanwhile, retweeted messages about the incident bringing him publicity and post about his mixtape. 50  has yet to comment. On the tube: "Raising Hope" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "CMA Music Festival: Country's Night To Rock" on ABC, and "American Ninja Warrior" on NBC. Happy Monday!

Friday Facts

As reported previously, R&B star Usher publicly thanked the two men who saved his son after the boy's arm was caught in a pool drain. Now, the mother of one of the young men reportedly stated she's like to have Usher sing at the mans wedding. She quickly backtracked by saying that she was joking that the men were rewarded when Usher's son was saved. Rapper Ransom is firing back at Nicki Minaj over the single he released which alludes to him writing lyrics for the Young Money Barbie. He said Minaj didn't have to verbally attack him. He added that he meant that Minaj often called him to collaborate on material. Minaj has since backtracked as well. Sort of. She tweeted, "Iam protect my creditability as @All costs! #WishUDaBest".  Could Jay Z and Damon Dash have made amends with one another? Pictures have surfaced over the internet of the two hanging out together. No word if it will lead to Hova offering financial assistance to Dash. Rapper Drake responded to rumors that he'll be a part of a Big Tymers reunion built around Brian "Birdman" Williams. He said he hasn't gotten a call, but if he does, he'd do it. Birdman hasn't commented on the rumor. In the meantime, fans can pick up a copy of the new issue of XXL magazine with Drake on the cover when it hits newsstands on August 20. Singer Rihanna is denying that she didn't pay the bill for her grandmother's funeral. Celebrity web site TMZ reports that a Barbados funeral home is suing the pop star alleging that she failed to cover Clara "Dolly" Brathwaite's extravagant farewell ceremony. Brathwaite, who lived in Brooklyn, lost her battle with cancer last June. The superstar had her body flown back to Barbados for burial, racking up a $150,000 tab tributing her beloved gran gran. The bill included party tents and massive floral arrangements. According to the suit, the singer paid 25 percent ,but refused to hand over any more money. A representative for the singer told TMZ that the allegations are "completely false" and that she paid in full. Rihanna was close to her grandmother. She told Oprah Winfrey that her grandmother was  a legend. She paid tribute to her grandmother with a tattoo of the Egyptian Goddess Isis. In theaters this weekend: Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters", "We're the Millers", "Elysium" and "Planes". On the tube: "Bones" on Fox, "Undercover Boss" on CBS, "Shark Tank" on ABC and "Betty White's Off Their Rockers" on NBC. Make it a weekend!

Thursday Dish

R&B singer Usher is speaking out about the accident that left his son in ICU. He says the boy is recovering well. He also thanked the two men who pulled the boy from the pool after his arm became stuck in the drain. Meanwhile, he and ex-wife Tameka Raymond head to court for a custody hearing today. Rapper Nicki Minaj has fired back at rapper Ransom, who claimed he ghost wrote the First Lady of Young Money's rhymes. Minaj called the man desperate and added that he will never pop. Starring in the Lee Daniels directed film "The Butler" has brought up painful childhood memories for singer Mariah Carey. During a press conference for the film, Carey revealed that she was the target of a racist encounter. She recalled being spat on like the character played by actress Yaya Alfia because of the color of her skin. "The Butler" hits theaters on August 16. Rapper Drake will grace the cover of the upcoming issue of XXL magazine. In the magazine's 150th issue, the Young Money rapper discusses his new album, tour, and the sexual tweet from actress Amanda Bynes. Regarding the tweet, Drizzy stated that it was a little weird. As for his album, Drake said he's going for being the best. His next album is due in stores on September 17. He counts rapper Kanye West among the contemporaries he admires. On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

R&B star Usher's ex-wife Tameka Raymond has filed for emergency custody of the couple's two children after her son nearly drown in a pool. The children were staying with Usher's aunt at the time. The boys arm was caught in the pool drain. He was freed by two men working in the house and later given CPR. He was taken to a hospital where he is currently in ICU. Reports say he will be fine. Former Destiny's Child member Latoya Luckett graces the cover of the latest issue of Sister 2 Sister magazine. She discusses her career and what's next for her. Sister 2 Sister magazine is on newsstands now. On the tube: "MasterChef" on Fox, "Big Brother" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy hump day!

Tuesday Tales

While most find a way to break out of prison, singer Chris Brown recently found a clandestine way to enter prison. With the help of his attorney, Mark Geragos, he turned himself into authorities a day early to answer to hit and run charges. He was booked and released on his own recognizance a short time later. Brown avoided photographers who were in the courthouse for rapper 50 Cent's domestic violence case. Brown hasn't commented on the matter. Actor/comedian Kevin Hart has received three years probation and must attend a three month alcohol education class to answer to DUI charges from a few months back. Hart hasn't commented on the matter. Performances for the upcoming MTV Video Music Awards have been announced and rapper Kanye West will perform his single "Black Skinhead" during the telecast. It will mark West's seventh appearance on the show. West ties singer Madonna for the most appearances on the show. The 2013 MTV Video Music Awards will air on August 25, 2013 at 9 p.m. After many rumors and much speculation, actress Raven Simone has finally come out. She released a statement saying "Thank you government. Now I can get married". While there's no word on whom she's dating, the statement comes after the actress refused to address the rumors regarding her sexuality. Here's wishing her well. Sad news out of the world of R&B. Keyboard wizard George Duke died yesterday. He was 67. Known as a virtuoso in his field, he was a multifaceted musician in jazz, funk, R&B and fusion. He composed for Miles Davis, Gladys Knight, Anita Baker and Johnny Gill, among others. He also worked as music director for the 1989 Nelson Mandela tribute concert in London and for NBC's "Sunday Night". He created 30 of his own solo projects and collaborated with Jill Scott and Frank Zappa as well. His work has been sampled by several hip hop artist including Kanye West. He is survived by two sons, Rasheed and John. On DVD: "The Croods". On the tube: "So You Think You Can Dance" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "Extreme Weight Loss" on ABC and "Hollywood Game Night" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!

Monday Memo

The Denzel  Washington/Mark Wahlberg film "2 Guns" topped the weekend box office, earning over $27 million. "The Wolverine", "The Smurfs 2", "The Conjuring" and "Despicable Me 2" round out the top five films of the week. Rapper Chief Keef is yet in more legal  trouble. He's being sued by a concert promoter after he reportedly skipped out on a recent appearance. He hasn't commented on the matter. Video of rapper Soulja Boy flashing thousands of dollars has surfaced. In addition, a friend of the rapper is also shown in a vehicle as well. Some can be so foolish. Soulja could learn from producer Jermaine Dupri who behaved in a similar manner years ago. It's never a good look. Celebrity web site mediatakeout.com is reporting that a model claims rapper Jay Z made advances toward her. The woman claims that she and Jigga met at a club, he asked for a number saying he'd call, but she rejected him. No comment from Jigga. Rapper 50 Cent recently plead not guilty to domestic violence charges. He's been accused of attacking the mother of his child in her Los Angeles home. He appeared in  a Los Angeles court where he was also ordered to turn in his guns, according to celebrity web site TMZ. Although he's never confirmed it, he reportedly dated and had a child with model Daphne Joy. The G-Unit CEO allegedly flipped out at Joy's Los Angeles, destroying furniture and other items. He was charge with domestic violence and property damage. The alleged assault came after damaging another damaging report about the Queens native's family life surfaced. Last month, text messages between 50 and his oldest son, Marquise, leaked online. In those messages, the "21 Questions" rapper went so far as to disown his son during the exchange. He blames the child's mother for making the story public. A representative for 50 responded with "No comment" regarding the domestic violence charge. On the tube: "Raising Hope" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS, "The Bachelorette" on ABC and "American Ninja Warrior" on N'BC. Happy Monday!

Friday Facts

The friendship between singers Katy Perry and Rihanna may be over. Although Perry didn't mention Rihanna by name, she stated that some are surrounded by destructive entourages. She added that she's done playing save others. Rihanna hasn't commented on the remarks. Likewise, the friendship between teen sensation Justin Bieber and rapper Lil Twist may be about over. Twist has been accused of battering a woman in Bieber's home. Twist denies the allegations saying that security escorted the woman off the property after she became disruptive. This is the latest of several runs with the law that Twist has had. He was pulled over for speeding in Bieber's car in his gated community. He was later pulled over and charged with DUI. Neighbors haven't exactly welcomed the two with open arms, and this latest incident doesn't help. In the meantime, Bieber is currently touring. Reportedly Black Eyed Peas front man Will.i.am is in talks to become a judge on Fox's "American Idol". Country crooner Keith Urban will return to the show next season. Singer Jennifer Lopez is rumored to be in talks to return, although nothing's been confirmed. Former "American Idol" contestant Jennifer Hudson is also rumored to be in talks to join the show as a judge. Could there been trouble in Young Money paradise? Mediatakeout.com is reporting that Drake and Lil Wayne got into a physical altercation at a Miami hotel recently. Rumors had been swirling about Wayne's current girlfriend spending time with Drake. So far, neither artist has commented on the matter. Actor Nick Cannon has reportedly reached out to "All That" co-star Amanda Bynes via an open letter. Cannon offered his assistance to Bynes, who's been in the news for recent troubles. No word on a response from Bynes. In theaters this weekend: "2 Guns" and "The Smurfs 2". On the tube: "Bones" on Fox, "Undercover Boss" on CBS, "Shark Tank" on ABC and "Betty White's Off Their Rockers" on NBC. Make it a weekend!

Thursday Dish

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey has finally responded to actress Rae Dong Chong's verbal attack by saying young people today don't know history and that she thinks of those who heard the N word before being lynched. Chong went on the attack some time ago saying that decades ago, Winfrey would have been a house N. She later released a statement via video apologizing for the remarks. She's made no further comments on the matter. The late Whitney Houston's mother Cissy, has tried reconnecting with granddaughter Bobbi Kristina in an open letter in which she tells the teen how much she misses her. She goes on to add that she thinks Bobbi Kristina is too young to marry boyfriend Nick Gordon. Here's hoping that the two reconnect soon.  "Real  Housewives Of Atlanta" star Ne Ne Leakes is being sued by a wedding planner. The wedding planner claims Leakes only paid her half of what's owed for planning her upcoming nuptials. Leakes, however, claims the fee was paid; the planner just didn't do as good a job as expected. No word on a court date. Rapper T.I. made his feelings on the George Zimmerman verdict known on a recent visit to radio station Power 98 FM in North Carolina. The Grand Hustle leader, who was in town for the America's Most Wanted Tour, first went on to praise the Martin family for their non-violent reaction to the verdict before adding that had he been in a similar situation he would have been on trial. The father of six added that the Martins are more level-headed thinkers than he is. The controversial acquittal has drawn ire from many in the entertainment industry, including Jay Z and Beyoncé, who attended a New York City rally alongside Trayvon Martin's mother Sabrina Fulton. Singers Stevie Wonder and Chaka Khan have decided to boycott the Sunshine state in protest. Zimmerman hasn't been seen publicly since the trial. Over the weekend, he was pulled over for speeding in Texas. He told authorities that he was carrying a registered fire arm. He was let go with a warning. Fans thinking that DJ/producer DJ Khaled and rapper Nicki Minaj are busy planning their nuptials would be wrong. Khaled told Richmond VA's iPower 92.1 that the recent marriage proposal to Minaj was a joke. He was promoting his upcoming album "Suffering From Success", due out September 24. Minaj got a good laugh out of it and Khaled says  he's been getting calls for acting gigs. No word on when we'll see him on the big screen. On the tube: "Glee" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Wipeout" on ABC and "America's Got Talent" on NBC. Happy Thursday!