Thursday Dish

The manslaughter trial of Dr. Conrad Murray continued with an expert testifying that Dr. Murray violated seventeen standards of care and is directly responsible for the death of singer  Michael Jackson. The expert went on to say that Dr. Murray didn't have a clue how to use probaphal, and didn't have the right monitoring equipment on hand at the time he dispensed the drug to the singer. The expert concluded testimony by saying that the first priority should have been calling 911. Rapper Rick Ross is still recovering from the two seizers he suffered a few days ago, and cancelled two concerts. He was scheduled to perform in Georgia and Los Angeles, but it appears the shows won't happen at this point. Singer Rihanna has settled a lawsuit with a photographer who claims the singer stole some of his shots for her "S&M" video for an undisclosed amount. Meanwhile, tongs are wagging about the singer's video for her latest single "We Found Love". Some say the model in the clip looks like ex-boyfriend Chris Brown, and the clip does show the two fighting in a car. There's been no response from the singer regarding the rumor. After only a few months of marriage, rumor has it that Kim Kardashian and Chris Humphries are through. Tabloids have been reporting about the martial discord between the two for some time, and it seems things have finally come to a head. Both have been seen out a events without the other, and at any rate, here's wishing both the best. Rapper T.I. and wife Tameka "Tiny" Cottle are reportedly planning to release a relationship book. In the book, the two dish out advice on how couples can keep things fresh in their relationships. One tip they share is going to strip clubs and having threesomes with ones spouse. Wonder how many people will take heed? Rapper Weebie has been banned from cable network BET. No official reason has been given, although he reportedly whispered in the ear of a "106 & Park" co-host. There's been no word on when or if the ban will be lifted. Nicole Scherzinger fans should scratch November 15 from their calendars. The former Pussycat Doll's debut album, which was slated to be released before Thanksgiving, has been pushed back until December 6, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The long delayed album, which Scherzinger has been working on for five years, has already dropped a alternate version in the UK and peaked at number 8 on the charts. The singer explained the change of plans during an interview by saying she had been doing dance music for the UK, and for the U.S. wanted to go back to her roots. The U.S. version of the album, titled "Killer Love", features production by RedOne, Jim Jonsin, The Dream, Harvey Mason Jr (with R. Kelly) and Tricky Stewart. The album features guest appearances by 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg and Sting. Hopefully the album will be released in time for stocking-stuffer season. Good things come to those who wait, right?. Jay Z and Kanye West fans will be happy to know that the two hip hop superstars have added additional dates to their highly anticipated Watch The Throne tour. New York City, noticeably absent from the original list of tour stops, will now get two dates at New York's Madison Square Garden November 7 and 8. New dates have been added to Chicago and Los Angeles, giving those cities two nights as well. Tickets go on sale on October 21 at Ticketmaster.com and Livenation.com. The tour, which will feature the two performing solo and together, kicks off on October 28 at Atlanta's Phillips Arena. On the tube: "MLB Baseball" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Charlie's Angels" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

Are they or aren't they? Rumors have been swirling around the industry regarding whether or not Drake and Nicki Minaj are dating. The two performed on "Saturday Night Live" last week, and rumor has it they left the studio separately, but neither show up at the after party. Fans will recall that some time back, the two tweeted to each other, causing the rumor mill to run into over drive. We'll have to wait and see what, if anything at all materializes. Rapper DMX has continued his comeback by firing his manager. He says the manager has sabotaged his career in recent months, and isn't doing the job. The rapper has made several public appearances since being released from prison, and from all indications has rocked each crowd he's performed for. Now if he can just get to recording a new album. It's sure to be well worth the wait for fans. Rapper T.I. appeared on ABC's "The View" yesterday and stated he's now clean and sober. He also mentioned that some ask about his stints in jail, to which he replied that he's lived that lifestyle since the age of fourteen. Let's hope he keeps his life and career on track from now on. Teen sensation Justin Bieber revealed that he wanted to perform in the cypher at the 2011 BET  Hip Hop awards, but wasn't allowed to. The official reason, may be because he wanted rapper Ludacris to write a rhyme for him, but either the network or the DJ on the show felt that would hurt the integrity of the cypher. Maybe he and Luda can do something else together some time soon. It appears that sex tapes and their soundtracks are hot on the market. A beverage company has stepped up saying it would pay $1 million for the music playing in the background of the Tupac Shakur sex tape. It appears that Shakur's estate has taken notice. Even though Shakur's estate does not have the tape and the company may have not yet heard the track, according to TMZ, a representative from the late rapper's estate has reached out to anit-hangover drink company NOHO to make a deal. The website says their source tells them that if this track cannot be verified, they are willing to work it out for other unreleased Tupac songs. Two members of rapper Snoog Dogg's entourage are facing rape charges after being accused of rapping a fan who attended the rapper's show in the United Kingdom. The woman claims she went to a party after the event at the Cardiff-Hilton Hotel, which the rapper paid for. During the party, two men associated with the rapper allegedly raped her. The men have denied the charges, made bail and have returned to the United States. Snoop Dogg was interviewed by police as a possible witness, but not charged with any wrongdoing. Rapper Kanye West will perform at this year's Victoria's Secret fashion show, to air on ABC in November. The rapper/fashion designer will share the stage with Maroon 5. The show will include red carpet interviews with celebrities, behind-the-scenes action, and profiles of the participating models. The models who will participate in this year's show include Adriana Lima, Erin Heatherton, Alessandra Ambrosio and Miranda Kerr. The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show airs November 29 on CBS. Another week of competition ended on ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" last night, and the contestants have really been bringing heat, thus far. Tune in next week to see who goes home. "The X Factor" wrapped up competition as well, as the contestants went all out to impress judges. It remains to be seen who will walk away with the grand prize. On the tube: "2011 World Series" on Fox, "Survivor: South Pacific" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Up All Night" on NBC. Happy hump day!

Tuesday Tales

Dr. Conrad Murray's manslaughter trial will continue tomorrow while examiners determine what was in Michael Jackson's stomach on the day of his death. The defense will then present 17 witnesses will  testify, which could cause the trial to go on from Wednesday to Monday. No more planes for rapper Rick Ross. DJ Khaled has loaned  the Miami rapper his luxury tour bus as he continues to criss cross the country. As fans know, the rapper suffered two seizers within a 6 hour span, and is doing better. In what will probably be a great opportunity for both, rappers Pit Bull and Nicki Minaj will host the upcoming American Music Awards next month. The two will also perform on the annual awards show in which fans pick their favorite artists in several categories, including rock, pop, hip hop and R&B. The show airs on November 20. Actor Marlon Wayans is developing a sitcom about two brothers who also happen to be police officers. There's been no word on when the show will hit the small screen. Here's hoping the show does happen, it would be nice to see at least one member of that talented family back on television. Singer Toni Braxton squashed rumors she's currently dating "106 & Park" co-host Terrence J. She says she's met him once, but their not dating. Guess she's not as into the cougar thing as some think. Rapper T.I. 's new book hits stores today. The rapper will appear on ABC's "The View" to discuss his work. A documentary on the life and career of rapper Soulja Boy hits stores today as well. The documentary follows the rapper's rise from obscurity to the top of the charts and should make interesting viewing for fans. Waka Flaka had to cancel a concert appearance in Toronto because he was refused entrance into the country. No official reason was given, although the rapper's list of priors may be a factor. On DVD: "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides", "Willy Wanka and the Chocolate Factory", "Bad Teacher" and "Batman: Year One". ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" was filled with a few exciting performances. The results show airs tonight, where fans and contestants will learn who goes home. On the tube: "The X Factor" on Fox, "NCIS" on CBS, "The Last Man Standing" on ABC and "The Biggest Loser" on NBC. Happy Tuesday!

Monday Memo

The film "Real Steel" reigned supreme at the box office once again, earning over $16 million dollars. "Footloose", "The Thing", "The Ides of March" and "Dolphin Tale" round out the top five films of the week. Rapper Rick Ross had to health scares over the weekend. First, the rapper suffered a seizure on a Delta flight from Mississippi to Alabama. He was rushed to a hospital and treated. Rumors of why the incident took place began swirling. One rumor says it was due to his weight, and the other is that he had smoked several blunts during the flight. The rapper then suffered another seizure while on his private jet. Again, he was rushed to the hospital and treated and is doing well. He had tweeted a message to fans before each incident, but didn't post any messages over the weekend. Here's hoping the big man is doing well. Meanwhile, legendary West Coast rapper Tone Loc had a health scare as well. The rapper collapsed during a concert and had to be rushed to a hospital. He was given an i.v. and not other details have been given. According to a representative, exhaustion is the reason for the incident. Here's hoping he gets well. soon. Rappers 50 Cent and Lupe Fiasco have both denied rumors of a beef brewing between the two. The rumor started when 50 released the latest single in his Street King energy drink promotional series "50's My Favorite". Some took the lyrics to be a subliminal shot at Lupe. However, Lupe went on Chicago radio station 107.5 WGCI and stated that he has no problems with 50. He also mentioned that he's toured with the G-Unit general. Meanwhile, 50 took to twitter to address the matter by saying people don't listen to the lyrics. At any rate, is seems that Lupe is not on 50's list of many rivals. Rapper T.I. announced that he has signed a deal with prestigious management group Hip Hop Since 1978. The company, co-owed by Gee Roberson and Kyambo "Hip Hop" Joshua, has a star-studded roster that includes Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Drake, Young Jeezy and Nicki Minaj. In an interview, T.I. said that his long standing relationship with Roberson is what lead him to look beyond his own management company, Grand Hustle Entertainment, which he founded with partner Jason Geter. Under the new deal, Grand Hustle and Hip Hop Since 1978 will pool resources on the music side, while Brian Sher's Category 5 Entertainment will handle film and television. T.I.'s first novel, "Power & Beauty: A Love Story of Life on the Streets", is due October 18 from Harper Collins. Singer Janet Jackson, whose currently criss-crossing the country on her Number Ones, Up Close And Personal Tour, has taken a provision in her contract that forbids comedians she may be sharing the bill with from making any jokes about anyone in the Jackson family. Although one would think human decency would be a given, you can't blame the singer for wanting it in writing. Be sure to tune in as another week of competition begins on "Dancing With The Stars". It will be interesting to see how each contestant fairs after last week's competition. The competition continues on "The Sing-Off" as well. On the tube: "Terra Nova" on Fox, "How I Met Your Mother" on CBS "Dancing With The Stars" on ABC and "The Sing-Off" on NBC. Happy Monday!

Friday Facts

The trial of Dr. Conrad Murray continued with a cardiologist testifying that Dr. Murray should not have given Michael Jackson probaphal and the drug shouldn't have been in his home. At this point, it's doesn't look good for Dr. Murray, and it remains to be seen what other details will be revealed. Big Boi of Outkast avoided jail time by settling his drug possession case. As fans know, the rapper was arrested a few months ago after drug sniffing dogs detected  marijuana and ecstasy on a cruise ship the rapper was leaving. He has to undergo drug testing, do community service and contribute $2,000 to a charitable organization. Here's hoping he stays out of trouble from this point on.  Congratulations to Ne-Yo and his longtime girlfriend are in order. The two became the parents of a baby girl on Monday. Singer Rihanna has reunited with ex-boyfriend Matt Kemp, reportedly. The two split some time ago due to having a volatile relationship. Let's hope things work out this time. DJ Beverly Bond and cable network BET will team up once again to shoot the second annual Black Girls Rock! awards show. Named after the non-profit youth empowerment and mentoring organization of the same name, Black Girls Rock! is dedicated to honoring exceptional women of color around the world who serve as positive role models. This year, the show will honor political activist and scholar Angela Davis, gospel singer Shirley Caesar, actress Taraji P. Henson, WNBA president Laurel J. Richie, actress Tatyanna Ali and directors of the Rebecca Project For Human Rights Imani Walker and Malika Saada Saar. The all-female ensamble of performers include Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Melanie Fiona, Mary Mary, Elle Varner and Shirley Caesar. Actresses Tracy Ellis Ross and Regina King will host the show, while supermodel Alek Wek, reality star La La Anthony and actresses Sharon Leal and Tichina Arnold will be presenters. The show will be taped this weekend at the Paradise Theater in the Bronx, NY, then air on Centric and BET on November 6 at 8pm. While no track list has been revealed for Drake's new album, one collaboration has been. Reportedly Andre 3000 has expressed an interest in contributing a verse to a track on the album titled "Good Enough For Both Of Us".  Drake's sophomore album, "Take Care" has been moved to a November 15 release date. The Toronto MC revealed that Stevie Wonder and The Weeknd collaborated with him on the album. The album should be well worth the wait for fans. Pharrell Williams and others appeared on "X Factor" last night as another week of competition came to an end. It's now down to the top 32 contestants, and no doubt the pressure is on for all. Tune in next week to see who cuts the mustard. It should be exciting. With the remake of the hit 1984 film "Footloose" set to hit theaters, actor Kevin Bacon, the star of the original film, reflected on the experience. He said in a recent interview that watching his audition tape was like an out-of-body type thing. He went on to add that his only regret is that he wasn't able to do the flips and complicated dance moves in the movie's warehouse scene. In theaters this weekend: "The Big Year", "Footloose" and "The Thing". On the tube: "Kitchen Nightmares" on Fox, "A Gifted Man" on CBS, "Last Man Standing" on ABC and "The Office" on NBC. Make it a weekend!

Thursday Dish

Defense attorneys in the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray announced to a judge that they will no longer use the defense that Michael Jackson swallowed a dose of the drug probaphal. Tests taken proved that if that had occurred, it would have had no effect. The testimony of two prosecution witnesses confirmed this, as well as the fact that the singer, according to one doctor, was in better than average health for someone his age. It will be interesting to see what other details come to light during the trial. Autopsy photos of the singer were shown in court, which may have not been a wise move. Stay tuned. First it was Soulja Boy, then J. Cole and Rihanna and Tupac Shakur, and now Sean "Diddy" Combs. The hip hop mogul's American Express card was stolen recently, and with that revelation comes one that the thief may have access to his computer and very explicit photos of he and rumored girlfriend Cassie. There's been no comment on the matter from the mogul, and we'll have to wait and see what comes of the matter. Rumor has it that "Basketball Wives" star Tami Roman may not return to the show next season. No explanation has been given, and it's unclear what she'll do next. Another cast member rumored to be leaving is Royce Reed. The star's plans are unknown at press time, and we'll see what career moves she makes next. Singer Whitney Houston recently came close to having herself removed from a flight. The singer boarded  a plane, but refused to buckled her seat belt when asked to. A crew member had to buckle the seat belt for her. The singer was sober during the flight, however. That certainly is good news. Rapper Drake showed his sensitive side during a recent interview with Elle magazine. The rapper stated how an encounter with singer Rihanna didn't turn out as expected. He says although the singer broke his heart, he knew what it was and seems to hold no anger or bitterness inside after the experience. Let's hope the rapper finds love soon. For those wondering, Nas is back indeed. The rapper just released the video for his single "Nasty", which was directed by Goldwatch. The clip has the MC returning to his Queensbridge stomping grounds as if he never left. He can also be seen riding in a limo, suited up with two ladies in tow, of course. "Nasty" is the first single from the MC's forthcoming album "Life Is Good". It's good to see him back on the scene. He's been away too long. After disputing rumors that she's faking a pregnancy and facing a possible lawsuit from a Belgium choreographer who says the singer stole the moves shown in her video "Countdown", singer Beyonce admitted that she was inspired by the choreographer. The video pays homage to Audrey Hepburn and others. It's quite an exciting clip to watch, so fans should check it out.  Another week of competition has ended for both "Dancing With The Stars" and this week's competition was exciting, with more to come. Another week of competition airs on "X Factor" tonight. It will be interesting to see how the contestants fair. On the tube: "X Factor" on Fox, "The Big Bang Theory" on CBS, "Charlie's Angels" on ABC and "Community" on NBC. Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Roundup

The trial of Dr. Conrad Murray continued with testimony from another doctor who stated that singer Michael Jackson could not have injected himself with the drug probaphal. It was also mentioned during the trial that Dr. Murray excused himself to go to the restroom, only to find the singer was not breathing when he returned. According to testimony, the singer would had to have been under the influence of other drugs in order to inject himself, as the defense has claimed. Pictures of the singer's lifeless body were shown in court as well. Stay tuned. Rapper Lil Wayne took to his Twitter account to respond to comments made by legendary rapper Luther "Luke" Campbell. A letter from the Miami rapper appear in a  local paper in which he took Weezy and several other artists to task, saying that they hang out in the city, sleep with the women there, and don't give back to the community. Weezy let it be known on Twitter that he is not concerned about what Campbell thinks. It makes one wonder where things will go from here.  Singer Beyonce dispelled rumors that she's wearing a fat suit, and not pregnant in a recent interview. Pictures of the star have surfaced that seem to make some believe she's wearing a fat suit. The baby is due in November. Singer Fantasia called in to the "Wendy Williams Show" to dispel rumors about her dispute with the producers of the upcoming Mahalia Jackson biopic. She claimed that there's no script as yet and filming has not begun. The singer was mum when asked about the father of her baby and whether she is still involved with Antoine Cook, who is married. The nominees for the 2011 American Music Awards have been announced, and leading the pack this year is an undeniable import from the UK. British sensation Adele leads the nominations with four, including Artist of the Year, Favorite Female Artist, Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist and Favorite Album for "21". Lil Wayne, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga all have three nominations each. Weezy, Kanye West and Nicki Minaj have all been nominated for Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Artist, while Usher and Trey Songz have both been nominated for Favorite Male Soul/R&B Artist. Meanwhile, former Destiny's Child members Beyonce and Kelly Rowland along with Rihanna have all been nominated for Favorite Female Soul/R&B Artist. The American Music Awards will air on November 20 on ABC from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. Former G-Unit member Young Buck is facing more financial trouble. The rapper could have his assets seized and sold as he and his lawyers have not been able to find a way out of bankruptcy. The rapper has been attempting to get approval of a debt repayment plan that would restructure his recording contract in order to make good on outstanding debts to creditors, including 50 Cent and Universal Music Group. After 50 and company rejected the plan, the situation looks bleak. Without an approved repayment plan, the rapper's only option would be to file Chapter 7 liquidation. At that time, his assets would be sold and the resulting cash distributed among his creditors. Here's hoping the situation is worked out soon. Singer Chynna Phillips was sent packing on Tuesday night's episode of "Dancing With The Stars". The singer blanked on steps to her and partner Tony Dovolani's "Mission Impossible" dance routine. Tune in next week to see who survives another week of competition. Another round of competition will take place on "X Factor" as well. On the tube: "X Factor" on Fox, "Survivor: South Pacific" on CBS, "The Middle" on ABC and "Up All Night" on NBC. Happy hump day!