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The Game – My Life feat Lil Wayne
Gorilla Zoe - On The Corner - Ft Sean Kingston
Big Boi "Sumthing's Gotta Give" feat. Mary J. Blige
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WORD ON THA BLOCK:  
SUGE GETS ARRESTED FOR BEATING GIRLFRIEND PLUS DRUG AND WEAPONS CHARGES. Marion Hugh "Suge" Knight was arrested early Wednesday morning (AUG 27) in Las Vegas on weapons, battery and drug charges. According to Metro Police, Knight punched his girlfriend of three years in the face during an argument. It happened near a residence on Spring Mountain Road. Police say when they arrived they found Knight standing over his girlfriend holding a knife. Police say the two were earlier in a vehicle and Knight punched the victim in the head as he was driving. She grabbed the wheel in an effort to get away, crashing the car into a curb. She fled the car and was chased briefly by Knight. That's when Metro arrived on the scene. Police tell Vegas News 3 that Knight was taken into custody without incident. Knight was charged with assault with a deadly weapon, battery domestic violence, possession of a controlled substance and possession of dangerous drugs without a prescription. Police found Ecstacy and Hydrocodone on Knight at the time of arrest. Knight was taken to Clark County Detention Center. The victim was taken to Spring Valley Hospital. Source: Vegas News 3

JAY-Z SELLING 40/40 CLUB IN VEGAS.
According to a statement issued by Hov's camp, the Las Vegas 40/40 club will no longer operate under the 40/40 brand-- the sale is for the lease and not the naming rights. The sale amount was not disclosed but referred to as a “great business decision.” He says he plans to open 40/40 clubs in Chicago, Tokyo and Macau in the next 12 months.

MEDIATECHNICS CORP. INKS DEAL TO PURCHASE GLOBAL MUSIC DEAL - ( company who recently purchased Deathrow Records). Mediatechnics Corporation (PINKSHEETS: MEDT) has signed a letter of intent to purchase Global Music Group - New York (GMG-NY), the company that won the bid to acquire the assets of Death Row Records in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in June of this year for $24 million. Mediatechnics intends to provide Global Music with the funds needed to complete the acquisition. The landmark deal would give Mediatechnics Corp. ownership of Global Music Group, which will hold upon completion of the purchase -- free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances -- all of the assets that comprise Death Row Records, including Death Row's catalog of master recordings and published music, as well as all trademarks and other intellectual property, licenses, artist and writer agreements, works in progress, and options. An independent valuation of the bankruptcy estate completed last month placed the catalog value at $32 million. Mediatechnics President Richard Wilson said, "The acquisition of Global Music and Death Row Records will represent a landmark turning point for our company. Together with our subsidiaries, the Live Network and CRD Technologies, the prospects of co-branding, licensing and new product development are astounding." He continued, "We're driving hard to lock in all of the complicated pieces of this puzzle necessary to successfully conclude this remarkable deal." Susan Berg, President of Global Music Group - NY, said, "We are delighted by the prospects that this imminent transaction could bring to our two companies and believe the outcome, both financially and creatively, can be an incredible force." Berg qualified Global Music Group as a bidder with the Federal Bankruptcy Court prior to the auction in June, putting up more than one million dollars on deposit. Mediatechnics' transaction remains contingent upon several factors, not the least of which is the closing of the financing and the subsequent payment to, and acceptance by, the Bankruptcy Court and its trustee. While many factors outside the control of Mediatechnics could yet affect whether or not the transaction is completed, the company is currently in possession of a Letter of Intent from a lender to fund the transaction, and has been informed by GMG-NY that it is likely that the purchase will be accepted when funds are proven and delivered.

R. KELLY STATEMENT ON SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR SCAM.
Representatives of R&B superstar R. Kelly today released the following statement regarding media reports about an alleged South African swindler who used Kelly's name to bilk investors. "There is absolutely no truth to the reports that R. Kelly received money from a South African woman accused of swindling investors by convincing them to invest in a non-existent R. Kelly tour in 2005. Mr. Kelly has no knowledge of this woman, has never received any money from her, and has not been contacted by any law enforcement authorities regarding the matter. He will, of course, cooperate fully with any legitimate investigation of this matter, since he has nothing to hide."

NEW HEAT ROUNDUP
Brand new street missiles from Cashis, Guru, Slim Thug, Kanye West, Game, T-Pain and more!! LISTEN HERE

THE G INC SIGNS UNCLE LUKE.
The G Inc brand, label headed by Lu Diaz, Berto Torres, & Ata Gonzalez-- (collectively this trio is responsible for launching the careers of artists such as Pitbull, Qwote, Casely, Yungen, P Dot & The Backpack Clik, J Randall, Gabriel Antonio and GST) has announced the signing of an artist whose name is synonymous with Miami, a pop culture icon with fans within every race and nation, Luther Campbell p/k/a Uncle Luke. “Luke put South Florida on the hip-hop map, he paved the way for everyone that has followed, including ourselves, we grew up on Luke’s music,” exclaims Torres. Simply put, Luther Campbell is more than a multi-platinum selling artist. He is a legend. Campbell has a distinction that neither time nor current chart status can diminish: he is hip-hop’s first. “Before OutKast, Ludacris, or Jermaine Dupri, topped Billboard charts, Luther Campbell was the first Southern rap star. He was one of the first artists to own a thriving independent record label in the South and one of the first in the country. He was the first rapper to shoot videos in Miami with scantily-clad girls on beaches and boats. ”His early business model laid the entrepreneurial blueprint which we use today in hip-hop, he is the architect, and now he continues to blaze trails as he takes his company into the Publicly Traded arena”, says Ata Gonzalez. “The name of our game is relationships, we are honored to have Luke on board our label, he is King,” says Lu Diaz. The timing could not have been better, as Luke hits national television via VH-1 with his new reality show titled Luke’s Parental Advisory. The series chronicles Luke’s day-to-day activities as he juggles responsibilities between the two vastly different worlds of family life and running an adult entertainment business. Famous for his notoriously raunchy lifestyle, the founding member of 2 Live Crew is preparing to settle down with his fiancée Kristin, a straight-laced attorney. Luke’s Parental Advisory airs Monday nights at 10:30PM Eastern Standard Time on VH-1.

DR. DRE'S SON FOUND DEAD.
The Los Angeles Times is reporting the 20 year-old son of Hip Hop superstar Dr. Dre was found dead Saturday morning, when his mother attempted to wake him. According to reports, Andre Young Jr. had been out Friday night and returned home around 5:30 a.m. When his mother went to check on him around 10 a.m., she found him in his bedroom unresponsive. The cause of death is pending completion of a toxicology report. Dr. Dre has yet to release any statement. R.I.P.

BMI CRACKS $900 MILLION IN REVENUE FOR 2008.
Music performing right organization Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) has announced that it's brought in more than $901 million in revenue for its 2008 fiscal year, including its subsidiary Landmark Digital Services, LLCTM. This is the first time any copyright organization has topped the $900 million mark for music performance revenues, and it represents a 7.2 percent increase from the previous fiscal year. The company also announced that it set a high in royalty distributions, and it will disperse more than $786 million to the songwriters, composers and copyright owners it represents. BMI President & CEO Del Bryant commented, "BMI has been extraordinarily successful in signing the brightest and most popular new music creators across all genres, building upon a repertoire that already includes the most beloved songs of America’s legendary songwriters and composers. Our pro-technology and pro-business attitude has made it possible for BMI to continue to grow our revenues more than 7 percent each year, on average over the past 10 years, almost doubling our income in that period."

DRIVE SLOW HOMIE- Jojo Passes out On Stage. - (Video)
The web was buzzing this morning from video of K-ci and Jo-Jo performing in Australia. During their final song "All My Life" Jo-Jo collapsed in the middle of the stage. Many bloggers speculated it was due to Alcohol and drug use. Listen to K-ci attempt to clear up those rumors with Cipha Sounds and Rosenberg on Hot 97 New York City and see the video. CLICK HERE

SNOOP TO SHOWCASE HIS NEW FASHION LINE IN VEGAS THIS WEEK.
Snoop Dogg's new fashion label Rich & Infamous, a clothing line which was created with brand manager the Robert Thorne Co., licensing giant IMG World and design house Industry Concepts, is a line of streetwear for men 18-35. It will expand into accessories, grooming and home products as well. Snoop will unveil the collection this week at the Magic fashion tradeshow in Las Vegas. For Snoop Dogg, the name represents "a fraternity of sorts -- from presidents to gangsters -- who've been able to endure the burden of gaining wealth at any cost. Garnering equal parts admiration and disdain, these men savor the fruits and relish the spotlight." Those individuals include James Cagney, Frank Sinatra, Jimi Hendrix, Dean Martin, Muhammad Ali, Albert Einstein, Ronald Reagan and Paul Newman. "Big stars usually don't spend a lot of time promoting the brand," Thorne said. "This is no longer 'I'm going to make a few extra bucks.' Now it's about 'How am I going to make this about who I am and make this last a decade or two or more?' "
 
THE GAME
L.A.X. INTERVIEW Part 2

 Speaks on joining Westside Connection, and more!

CHECK OUT EXCLUSVE PHOTOS ON THE SET OF TI'S NEW VIDEO- CLICK HERE

B-REAL HOPS ON BOARD WITH DUCK DOWN.
In a continuing effort to expand their talented roster of artists, Duck Down Records has just announced a new album deal with B-Real, of Cypress Hill for his first solo album debut, "SMOKE N MIRRORS," in stores January 27th, 2009. The album to features SNOOP DOGG, DAMIAN MARLEY, BUCKSHOT, SEAN PRICE and SEN DOGG, of Cypress Hill. Production includes tracks from DJ Quik, Fredwreck, Scoop Deville, and B-Real himself for Audio Hustlerz, Inc. B-Real is currently on the ROCK THE BELLS Tour with Nas, Tribe Called Quest, Method Man, Ghostface, Immortal Technique, Kidz In The Hall and more. B-Real is the latest addition to Duck Down Records, who just recently announced a group project with KRS-ONE & Buckshot, that will be in stores in 2009, along with upcoming projects from DJ Revolution, "King Of The Decks" (September 16th) and a re-united Heltah Skeltah, comprised of Rock and Sean Price, aka Ruck, who, after ten years, are releasing their third album, "D.I.R.T." (Da Incredible Rap Team), on September 30th. Following this project is Sean Price Presents Ruste Juxx "Indestructible" in stores October 28th. Dru Ha, co-owner of Duck Down Records believes; "Adding another living legend in B-Real to our roster is really giving Duck Down a "dream team" line up for independent Hip Hop." Buckshot and I have been strategic with our label partnerships mixing the right blend of emerging artists with proven veterans. When you add the upcoming Random Axe Project (Sean Price, Guilty Simpson and Black Milk collaboration set for a 2009 release) we're excited about our ability to continue contributing quality Hip Hop albums to the game.

LL COOL J PREPS EXIT 13.
LL Cool J is preparing for the release of his new studio album Exit 13, due out September 9 via Def Jam. "I'm totally excited about people hearing it, because I want them to know how much I love my music," LL Cool J told MTV News. "If I never made an album before, I think this album would be hot." The album features 50 Cent on "Fell My Heart Beat" and Wyclef Jean on "Mr. President." "I thought his voice would do that song so much justice," LL Cool J said of Wyclef. "It resonates. It has that truthful energy to it, that pain. I wrote a song that basically, it's a letter to the president. If I had an opportunity to have a conversation with him, I'd pose a few questions to him in a respectful manner — because I think that, as a community, we can get further with me asking him questions in a respectful manner than me talking crazy." Exit 13 is the rapper’s 13th record with Def Jam and possibly his last. LL was vocal in his displeasure with Jay-Z's term as President of Def Jam, but now that Jay-Z has stepped down, LL and Def Jam are back on the same page.

JANET LAUNCHES LINGERIE LINE.
 On the eve of her World Tour with the Discipline album Janet Jackson is adding designer to her impressive list of talents with the launch of her fashion partnership with Australian designer Bruno Schiavi. Pleasure Principle will be Janet and Schiavi's first US lingerie collection with plans to have product in stores as early as November 2008 across America, with Australia, Japan and Europe to follow. "The collection has been carefully created with some of the finest laces from around the world. You will see a lot of satin and lace combined and rich colors such as burgundy and beige, silver and peach as well as your classic black and white. It makes you feel incredible and offers variety as diverse as the women who will wear it," Janet reveals. The brand name was inspired by Janet's 1987 global hit Pleasure Principle, which was the sixth single released from the Control album. As Schiavi explains, "Janet and I wanted to create a collection that empowers women and that makes women feel sexy, flirtatious and provocative. We wanted to make sure we captured the essence of all Janet's favorite colors, laces and making sure that we stay true to who she is and what she loves."

NINA SKY READIES NEW MUSIC.
Nina Sky gears for new album release "The Musical" dropping in October. The duo has spent four years challenging their voices and learning more about themselves in life and in business. "Just because we weren't in the spotlight doesn't mean we weren't making moves," Natalie explains. "These last four years were spent traveling, doing shows all over the world, writing and working with other artists. We've really had time to mature into women and master our craft. It shows lyrically and vocally on this album." "We aren't only singers; we write all of our music," Natalie reveals. "Nicole plays guitar and deejays. We are very musical and try to show this while on stage. Our vibe isn't like your typical group! Because Nicole deejays, she's able to command the crowd and every once and a while, we'll bring the guitar out on stage to show our versatility." Their new single, "Curtain Call featuring Rick Ross," and new label, Polo Grounds Music/J Records, is as close to a musical rebirth as the duo can get.Noted producers on The Musical include Krucial Keys , Ryan Leslie, Cipha Sounds, Solitair, Cool & Dre, Salaam Remi, Supa Dups, Neo da Matrix, The Runners, Big Bert & EST and more. Check out the new single "Curtain Call"(feat. Rick Ross) LISTEN

FAITH TELLS ALL IN NEW BOOK.
Her tell all book, "Keep the Faith: A Memoir" which drops Aug 29 reveals the truth to the "Tupac Affair" and what happened when Biggie heard rumors that her and Pac were messing around. "It's been over ten years since Big was killed. I grieved for him for a very long time. And then, as time passed, the icy wall of grief surrounding my heart began to thaw and I began to heal. I remarried, had more children, and continued to record and release more music. I continued to live my life. And while I can never discount the time I spent with Big, I've never felt the need to live in the past. But sometimes, I still find myself thinking about Big being rushed the hospital, and I break down in tears. It's not just because we hung up on each other during what would be our last telephone conversation. And it's not because I am raising our son, a young man who has never known his father. It's partly all of those things. But mainly it's because he wasn't ready to go. His debut album was called Ready to Die. But in the end, he wasn't. Big never got a chance to tell his story. It's been left to others to tell it for him. In making the decision to tell my own story, it means that I've become one of those who can give insight to who Big really was. But I can only speak on what he meant to me. Yet I also want people to understand that although he was a large part of my life, my story doesn't actually begin or end with Big's death. My journey has been complicated on many levels. And since I am always linked to Big, there are a lot of misconceptions about who I really am. I hope that in reading my words, there is inspiration to be found. Perhaps you can duplicate my success or achieve where I have failed. Maybe you can skip over the mistakes I've made. Use my life as an example-of what to do and in some cases, what not to do. It's not easy putting your life out there for the masses. But I've decided I'll tell my own story. For Big. For my children. And for myself."

SOUNDSCAN CHART NUMBERS/STATS-Week Ending 08/17/08
 Lil Wayne's Carter 3 comes in at #6 with 61,662 scans (2,204,760 total). Rhianna's Good Girl Gone Bad takes #9 with 42,267 scans (1,636,704 total). Daddy Yankee debuts Talento De Barrio in at #13 with 25,502 copes sold. Lloyd's Lessons In Love grabs #17 with 22,102 copies sold (73,386 total). Yung Berg Debuts Look what You Made Me Do in at #20 with 19,150 copies sold. Nas' N*gger comes in at #21 with 18,826 scans (335,176 total). David Banner's Greatest Story Ever Told takes #36 with 11,495 copies sold (113,127 total). G-Unit's TOS takes #77 with 6,526 copies sold (199,730 total). Janelle Monae debuts Metropolis: The Chase Suite, in @ #115 with 5,177 copies sold. Other Stats: Daz Dillinger's Only On the Left Side debuts with just 2,132 copies sold.

DIDDY LAUNCHING ANOTHER REALITY SERIES.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is launching a new reality competition series to search for the next male and female artist to sign to Bad Boy Records. “Starmaker,” which is set to air this winter on MTV. Diddy and producer Mark Burnett are casting STARMAKER, an MTV talent competition for vocalists. Two singers, one male and one female, will win a contract with Diddy's Bad Boy Records. They're "looking for all styles from soulful r&b and energetic pop, to twangy country and hot rockers." Come show Diddy you got what it takes to hang with the best in the biz , and become the next hot act to drop on Bad Boy Records. Open calls are scheduled for:
-San Francisco: August 23rd
-St Louis: August 26th
-New York: August 29th
-Los Angeles: September 6th
-Atlanta: September 9th

MUSIC VETERAN MICHAEL BULL JOINS THE ORCHARD.
The Orchard, who recently purchased TVT Records, today announced the hire of veteran music distribution executive Michael Bull. Bull will serve as the General Manager of TVT Distribution, The Orchard's newly unveiled physical distribution platform. Bull, one of the most respected independent music executives in the industry, joins The Orchard after a successful 16-year career with Caroline Distribution. After starting with Caroline as an intern in 1990, Bull rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Label Relations, a position he has held since 2001. Throughout his tenure, he was responsible for scouting, signing, and helping to develop many of Caroline's label partners. "TVT's robust and respected physical distribution operation enables The Orchard to ensure our independent label partners have a choice, and aren't inhibited from the digital distribution partner they prefer simply because they remain tethered to their physical distributor," said Greg Scholl, President and CEO of The Orchard. "In Michael, we found the ideal leader - his skills, relationships and deep knowledge of physical retail will ensure our labels remain healthy across all formats in which their music is sold." "The Orchard is a visionary company with a unique understanding of the modern distribution space, and its challenges. I believe in their commitment to offering real and unique solutions to help labels maximize their distribution of physical records," said Bull. "While I'll always be grateful for the wonderful people and labels that I've been privileged enough worked with over my years at Caroline, I'm very excited for the future and its opportunities. I look forward to applying my years of experience to ensure that TVT Distribution prospers."

KOOL DJ RED ALERT- 25 YEARS ON RADIO.
Kool DJ Red Alert is recognized and respected worldwide as one of the founding fathers of Hip Hop music and culture. Red is considered an icon of contemporary DJs and a pioneer of the radio mix show format. Red began his career on commercial radio at 98.7 Kiss FM in October 1983. After eleven years, he moved down the dial to Hot 97 where he rocked for seven years. He then returned to 98.7 Kiss FM for two more years. In 2002 he switched over to Power 105.1. In 2007, Red Alert returned back to where it all started for him: 98.7 Kiss FM! To commemorate Kool DJ Red Alert's 25 years on the radio, many events have been planned, culminating with a special tribute celebration hosted by 98.7 Kiss FM to be held at the Izod Center in New York on November 21st, 2008. - Kool DJ Red Alert was named one of the 50 Most Influential People in Music by Rolling Stone Magazine. - Red Alert founded Violator Records and Management, now headed by Chris Lighty. - Kool DJ Red Alert was a major catalyst and influence in the career development of such artists as A Tribe Called Quest, Queen Latifah, The Jungle Brothers, Fat Joe, Black Sheep, Funkmaster Flex, Kid Capri, DJ Enuff and many others. - Red Alert has six compilation albums to his credit. - Kool DJ Red Alert is Honored in the The Bronx Walk of Fame with a street named after him! - Red Alert Productions will soon present new artists. - Kool DJ Red Alert will be featured in the upcoming Wendy Williams biographical movie and Red has a role in "Sip'n Sin" an International Short Film.

FORBES HIP HOP KINGS LIST.
It's been some year for Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. In the past 12 months, the Brooklyn, N.Y.-born hip-hop demigod released a platinum album, signed a 10-year, $150 million deal with concert promoter Live Nation and tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Beyoncé Knowles. Quite a record. But only good enough for a silver medal. While Jay-Z topped Forbes.com's inaugural Hip-Hop Cash Kings list of the top-earning people in the business last year, in 2008 he cedes the throne to Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, who raked in $150 million over the past 12 months--almost twice what Jay-Z made.
1. 50 Cent
2. Jay-Z
3. Diddy
4. Kanye West
5. Timbaland
6. Pharrell
7. Swizz Beats
8. Snoop Dogg
9. Dr. Dre
10. Ludacris		 1. 50 Cent
2. Jay-Z
3. Diddy
4. Kanye West
5. Timbaland
6. Pharrell
7. Swizz Beats
8. Snoop Dogg
9. Dr. Dre
10. Ludacris
You can see the full report at Forbes website HERE
 
THE GAME
L.A.X. INTERVIEW Part 1
(CHECK BACK FOR PART 2)

NEW BURNERS FROM ASYLUM- Something to Ride To
Scarface "High Powered" LISTEN
BG & The Chopper City Boyz "Keep It Real" LISTEN
Willie The Kid "Love For Money" LISTEN
Sean P (YoungBloodz) "I'm a Hoodstar" LISTEN
Slim "So Fly Remix" Feat Jadakiss and Freeway LISTEN

D VLAD WANTS 4 MILL.
On August 15, 2008, a multimillion dollar assault and battery lawsuit was filed in the Federal District Court for the Southern District of New York by DJ Vlad (Vlad Lyubovny) against platinum recording artist Rich Ross (“William Leonard Roberts II”) stemming from an incident that took place on August 10, 2008 at the Ozone Awards in Houston, Texas. In the complaint, it is alleged that Rick Ross orchestrated a brutal attack upon DJ Vlad carried out by his accomplices in retribution for media coverage of Rick Ross’ prior life as a correctional officer. The injuries alleged to have been sustained as a result of the assault include, 7 stitches below the eye, 3 fractures to the face, a corneal abrasion and possible permanent nerve damage. The complaint seeks $ 2,000,000 in compensatory damages and $2,000,000 in punitive damages. The official complaint document can be downloaded HERE

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME RELEASE STATEMENT.
Statement from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Regarding the Passing of Jerry Wexler: "Jerry Wexler was instrumental in moving rhythm and blues into mainstream society affirming it's position as one of America's most treasured art forms," said Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum President and CEO Terry Stewart. "His passion for this style of music allowed Wexler to help artists including Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett and countless others to reach their full potential. Wexler was also passionate about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and we are forever indebted to him for his dedication."

LEGENDARY RECORD PRODUCER JERRY WEXLER PASSES AWAY.
Legendary record producer Jerry Wexler, who helped shape R&B music with influential recordings of Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and other greats, and later made key recordings with the likes of Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson, has died, said his son, Paul. He was 91. Paul Wexler said his father died at home in Sarasota, Fla., about 3:45 a.m. Friday of heart disease. Both his son and daughter Lisa were present at the time of his death. Paul Wexler told the Associated press his father's death was a tremendous loss. "The number of artists that he was involved with and helped significantly or just made great records with, the list is almost unbelievable," Paul Wexler added. "And many of them are gone now." Wexler helped boost the careers of both the "King of Soul," Charles, and the "Queen of Soul," Franklin. Wilson Pickett, Solomon Burke and Percy Sledge were among the other R&B greats who benefited from Wexler's deft recording touch. He also produced Dusty Springfield's classic "Dusty in Memphis," considered a masterpiece of "blue-eyed" soul. "He loved black music, R&B music and rhythm and blues was his foundation. He had a feeling for it, he had the knack to keep it going in his heart and recognize the talent that he felt was real," Burke told the Associated press after learning of his death. "Jerry Wexler didn't change the sound of America, he put the sound to the public. He open the doors and windows to the radio stations ... and made everybody listen." Paul Wexler said a private service will take place in the coming weeks in Sarasota, and his tombstone will read: "He changed the world."

GAME GOING AFTER HOV?
The Game was at an interview with 104.7's Chino yesterday (August 14).
A few years back Game was heard saying, "Memph Bleek can suck my d*ck/Beanie Sigel can suck my d*ck/Jay-Z can suck my d*ck/Roc-A-Fella can suck my d*ck." Jay reportedly said that he would not even address Game's taunts and would rather "just let him commit suicide." Game said yesterday.. "I'm too disrespectful for Jay-Z, I go too hard. His beef is mediocre beef, it's more swag and less hardcore," Game said. "Me, I go in on your grandma, your kids and your girl....it will get ugly and I don't mind. I have a whole coast to back me. My coast will turn their backs on whoever I turn my back on. So basically, let me commit suicide because I'm the only cat to commit suicide and resurrect every time. So for Jay to say that about me, that's cool man because he's Jay-Z and I'm just lil ol' Game. But if you fuck with me I'll turn to a beast, and I'll rip ya head off..bust ya lips," Game said. "I can be a fan of Jay and still rip him limb from limb lyrically and still be a fan. After I finish him off, I'm still going to listen to 'Reasonable Doubt' afterwards. I'll kiss Jay goodbye with his own lips. I'm going to make him mad enough to where he has to say something. Jay imma make you so mad you gonna have to diss me...[laughs] I need him to do it, I got an album coming out; help me."

LITTLE BROTHER TO PERFORM MYSPACE RELEASE SHOW IN HONOLULU, HI
MySpace Music is proud to announce that North Carolina hip-hop crew Little Brother will be performing a free show for their MySpace friends at Loft Lounge and Gallery in Honolulu, HI, on August 16 - a show being powered by Saints Row 2. Comprised of Phonte and Rapper Big Pooh, Durham, North Carolina's Little Brother revert back more to the transcendent, feel-good Native Tongues aesthetic of the late-'80s/early-'90s rather than the Dirty South sound of their regional, hip-hop contemporaries. Carrying on the tradition of their hip-hop "big brothers" such as De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest, Little Brother are continuing to keep the movement alive through their consistent, quality output that nods to tradition yet makes progressive strides for hip-hop as a whole. Featuring appearances from Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Skillz and Rhymefest, among others, Little Brother's latest "And Justus For All" is more of what you'd expect from NC's finest - solid musical production through its duration and insightful lyricism that is current with the times.

CHRIS BROWN LINKS UP WITH NEW ERA.
"The chance for New Era to collaborate with such a talented individual like Chris Brown was a no-brainer," said Gerry Matos, SVP of Marketing at New Era. "When Chris approached us with his affinity for our product and the idea of creating his own line of caps, we saw this as an opportunity to work hand- in-hand with one of the most renowned entertainers in the business." The new "CBE" 59FIFTY cap series was created by Brown from his own innovative designs and drawings. The teen icon worked with New Era's team of designers to create this exclusive 6 cap collection using several design elements including skulls, 80s inspired symbols like a boom-box and a "nerd" character, which Chris came up with himself, as well as a cap inspired by his very own insignia: "CBE." "I'm excited to be in this new venture with New Era. Everyone knows me as a singer/dancer/actor; this gives me a chance to showcase my creative fashion sense as well. I look forward to building a long term relationship with New Era," said Brown in a statement.

LYOR COHEN SELLS OFF 23% OF HIS WARNER SHARES.
Warner Music Group's top U.S. executive for recorded music, Lyor Cohen, sold 23 percent of his shares in the company earlier this week, according to a U.S. regulatory filing. The move comes after Warner's shares have climbed nearly 80 percent from all-time lows in January, as long-held concern about the company's prospects in the beleaguered music industry appears to be abating. Cohen, responsible for artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Green Day, sold 800,000 shares this past Monday at $8.45 each for around $6.8 million, according to the filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday. He retains ownership of another 2.6 million shares. One Wall Street analyst said the sale by Cohen, chairman and chief executive of Warner Recorded Music North America, contradicted management's contention that the company's shares were undervalued. "While Warner Music Group's (organic) revenues continue to decline, we are quite surprised to see Mr. Cohen selling such a large block of stock at these levels," said Pali Research analyst Richard Greenfield, a long-time critic of the company's management. In a statement, Cohen said his confidence in Warner's future prospects remained as strong as ever. "This sale reflects nothing more than a normal need for liquid assets for personal expenses, as well as my financial adviser's recommendation that I diversify my portfolio for tax and estate planning," he said. Cohen renewed his contract in March and extended his employment until March 2013. The agreement gave him an annual base salary of $3 million, with potential bonuses of up to $5 million. The amended contract also granted Cohen 1.5 million stock options with an exercise price of $5.29 as well as 1.75 million performance-based restricted shares. Source: Billboard.

VAN EXEL AND HOUSTON ROCKET MIKE HARRIS JOIN CELEB SOFTBALL GAME FOR CANCER THIS SATURDAY. Latium Entertainment and Rob G present the 1st Annual "Raquel G Celebrity Softball Game" benefitting Texas Children's hospital - brought to you by Monster Energy and Frenchy's Chicken WHO: Latium Entertainment, Rob G, Texas Children's Hospital, Letoya Luckett, Slim Thug, Bun B, Nick Van Exel, Houston Rocket Harris, Baby Bash, Fat Pimp, Trae tha Truth, Paul Wall, Boss Hogg Outlaws, Rap-A-Lot Records, Lil Keke, Steve O, Brian Angel, the staff of Houston's Party 93.3, Frenchy's Chicken, Monster Energy, Mr Boomtown, Aarron Brooks of the Houston Rockets and many more..WHEN: Saturday, August 16, 2008 - 9AM - Opening ceremonies WHERE: Memorial Park - Field 1 - Houston, TX WHY: Cancer can affect anyone, at any time. Rob G has felt its devastating presence not once, but twice and is dedicated to making an effort in the fight against this disease and to help raise awareness of its risks and the resources available if you or someone you love are afflicted. The "Raquel G Celebrity Softball Game" is an event to inspire people to get involved and to keep fighting back.

SOUNDSCAN CHART NUMBERS/STATS-Week Ending 08/10/08
Who charted- Who didnt? Who sold the most? Get the report HERE

VH1 HIP HOP HONORS SET FOR OCTOBER.
VH1 has announced the five honorees for their fifth annual "VH1 Hip Hop Honors," Cypress Hill, De La Soul, Slick Rick, Naughty By Nature and Too $hort. Hosted once again by Tracy Morgan, this year's musical celebration will give viewers a chance to step back and reminisce on a time when hip hop music began to make its greatest impact on American pop culture. Additional performances and appearances will be announced shortly. "Now in its fifth year, the 'VH1 Hip Hop Honors' has come to represent the pinnacle of innovation and achievement in hip hop music," said Tom Calderone, Executive Vice President and General Manager, VH1. "This year's five honorees are no different and are being recognized for their significant contributions to hip hop culture and for helping to elevate hip hop into a truly global phenomenon." "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" is executive produced by Lee Rolontz for VH1 and Jac Benson for Blackjac Entertainment. Louis J. Horvitz will direct. Nelson George and Fab Five Freddie are co-executive producers. The show premiers on Tuesday, October 7 at 10PM.

JAY-Z AT IT AGAIN.
Jay-Z is reportedly in negotiations to sell a stake of his Las Vegas 40/40 night club for an estimated $44 million. The New York Post is reporting that Jay-Z wants to offer a 50% stake of 40/40 night club to the Las Vegas Sands Corporation. The company owns the Palazzo Resort Casino where the Las Vegas 40/40 is located. An insider revealed to The Post that the deal will help expand the 40/40 franchise. Jay-Z has other 40/40 nightclubs located in New York and Atlantic City. “That will make the 40/40 club in Vegas the largest sports booking operation,” said the insider. “People can gamble both at the tables and on games. The Sands will also have the right to open 40/40 clubs in London and across Europe.”

HEAT ROUND UP
Check out new joints from E-40, Jay-Z, Bohagon, Akon and more.. CLICK HERE

RINGTONE WARLORD SET FOR NEW ALBUM
After spending much of 2007 and 2008 on the top of the charts with hits such as "Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin')" and "Bartender" and as a producer and featured artist on tracks such as Flo-Rida’s “Low” and Chris Brown’s “Kiss Kiss,” T-Pain announced today that Jive Records will release his third studio album Thr33 Ringz in Fall 2008. Album to Feature Chris Brown, Ludacris, Lil Wayne and Kanye West. Tallahassee, Florida native, T-Pain burst on the scene in 2005 with his debut Rappa Ternt Sanga and the unforgettable singles “I’m Sprung” and “I’m N Luv (Wit A Stripper),” a song that maintains the title of the highest selling ring tone. T-Pain continued his success with his sophomore effort Epiphany in 2007, which spawned the #1 airplay record of the year, “Buy U a Drank” (featuring Yung Joc) and the ubiquitous #1 hit “Bartender.” In 2008, T-Pain took home his first Grammy for Best Rap Song (for “Good Life”) with Kanye West, which also garnered a BET Award, where he was the most nominated artist of the night.T-Pain (age 23) currently resides in Atlanta with his wife and children.

CHRIS BROWN STATEMENT:
Recently, unauthorized Chris Brown material was leaked online. Most of the unfinished songs were demos and reference tracks Brown and his production team were writing and producing for other artists. Brown's record label, Jive Records is doing everything possible to prevent any further illegal distribution of these tracks.

STATEMENT FROM ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME REGARDING THE PASSING OF ISAAC HAYES. Jim Henke, Vice President of Exhibitions and Curatorial Affairs: "Isaac Hayes was a multi-talented artist whose body of work had a tremendous influence on the music of the last 40 years. In the 1960s and early 1970s, he was a songwriter, producer, pianist and vocalist for Stax Records, and he played a crucial role in the development of Memphis soul music. Among his many accomplishments, he helped write such classic hits as 'Soul Man,' 'Hold On, I'm Coming' and 'B-A-B-Y'. "His solo career included such classics as Hot Buttered Soul and the soundtrack to the movie Shaft. His work as a solo artist laid the groundwork for disco and, eventually, rap and hip-hop. Later, he embarked on a successful acting career. "He was a truly talented artist and he will be sorely missed."

ISAAC HAYES FOUND DEAD.
Isaac Hayes, the pioneering singer, songwriter and musician whose relentless "Theme From Shaft" won Academy and Grammy awards, has been found dead at his Memphis home. He was 65. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office says a family member found Hayes unresponsive near a treadmill on Sunday. He was pronounced dead about an hour later at Baptist East Hospital in Memphis. The cause of death was not immediately known. In the early 1970s, Hayes laid the groundwork for disco, for what became known as urban-contemporary music and for romantic crooners like Barry White. And he was rapping before there was rap. His career hit another high in 1997 when he became the voice of Chef, the sensible school cook and devoted ladies man on the animated TV show "South Park." Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

R.I.P. BERNIE MAC.
Comedian and Chicago native Bernie Mac died early Saturday morning (Aug 9) from complications due to pneumonia, his publicist confirmed. Mac, 50, had been hospitalized for about a week at Northwestern Hospital, according to his spokeswoman. A few years ago, Mac disclosed that he suffered from sarcoidosis, a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in tissue, most often in the lungs, but had said the condition went into remission in 2005. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

YOU READY FOR GRIP-HOP?
Often referred to as Atlanta’s underdog, Grip Plyaz’s music has finally come full circle. Representing for the 4th Ward, same area as rappers Young Jeezy and Slick Pulla, Grip Plyaz also represents for a different side of Atlanta music. Grip Plyaz has been bubbling the Atlanta underground music scene for the last ten years. His sound, an undeniably unique blend of ghettotech and 808, hasn’t changed much in the last ten years and that’s what fans respect and love about him. Here's a link to his joint “Shake Her Rear" LISTEN

SOUNDSCAN CHART NUMBERS/STATS-Week Ending 08/03/08
Who charted- Who didnt? Who sold the most? Get the report HERE

TOP DJ'S ACROSS THE COUNTRY ENDORSE NEW MACKIE.
Worldwide professional audio leader Mackie has teamed up with Seattle-based marketing agency Audio Agent, and Los Angeles-based consulting firm Rootz Media, to launch the innovative d.Pro Series of DJ Production Consoles. The launch campaign features some of the top DJs in the hip-hop, urban, and dance music world -- all lending their name and support for Mackie's innovative new mixers. The d.Pro Series mixers are exceptional DJ mixers complete with 24-bit/96kHz FireWire capabilities, making them ideal for the modern DJ and producer. Such a superior brand of equipment demanded an extraordinary team of superstar DJ’s to both endorse the products and reinforce the Mackie message. The DJ’s that signed on as endorsers of the d.Pro mixers were from all walks of musical life, style and status, exemplifying the Mackie brand, and the authentic quality that is Mackie. “We are thrilled with the overwhelming support from the DJ community,” comments Shaunna Thompson, Mackie Media and PR Manager, “We worked with countless artists when developing the d.Pro Series and the functionality of the mixers truly reflect their input. They are built by and for DJ’s.” The DJ’s involved in the d.Pro mixer campaign are of an eclectic range; Hip-Hop icons, the hottest Club DJ’s and internationally known producers such as DJ MUGGS (Cypress Hill), ARABIAN PRINCE (NWA), DJ SPINDERELLA (Salt-n-Pepa), and DJ VICIOUS LEE (2Pac). Joining the team of Hip-Hop icons are L.A.’s hometown heroes DJ GARTH TRINIDAD (KCRW), DJ KHALIL (Dr. Dre’s staff producer / Aftermath), DJ MARK LUV (ZULU KING), DJ EDSKI, DJ AMMO, DJ ERIK RICO,THE GAS LAMP KILLER and Prince’s own DJ RASHIDA. Also, DJ IRIE of the NBA Heat, Grammy nominee VIKTER DUPLAIX and House music legend ROY DAVIS JR. all have one thing in common besides an undeniable love of music—the use and abuse of a d.Pro Series mixer.

iTUNES STILL #1.
According to the latest MusicWatch consumer surveys from The NPD Group iTunes remains the #1 music retailer in the U.S. in the first half of 2008. "We expect Apple will consolidate its lead in the retail music market, as CD sales continue to slow," said Russ Crupnick, entertainment industry analyst for The NPD Group. "Amazon’s CD buyers tend to be older, so they haven’t abandoned the CD format to the extent seen in the average music buyer. Plus Amazon’s successful introduction of its digital download store will help the company improve its position in the future."
1. iTunes
2. Wal-Mart (Walmart, Walmart.com, Walmart Music Downloads)
3. Best Buy (Best Buy, Bestbuy.com, Best Buy Digital Music Store)
4. Amazon (Amazon.com, AmazonMP3.com)
5. Target (Target and Target.com)

CINCINNATI BENGALS PRO BOWLER WILLIE ANDERSON STARTS NEW ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY THINK BIG ENTERTAINMENT. Cincinnati Bengals four-time Pro Bowl Offensive Tackle, Willie Anderson, takes his prowess from the field to the entertainment industry by starting Think Big Entertainment a full fledged Entertainment Company that focuses on both music and film. Think Big's first release will be an album for 19-year-old rapper, G-Fiive, out of Anderson's hometown, Mobile, Al. "While football is my first love, music and film are a close 2nd," states the consummate businessman. "But the first businesses I started were the twenty (20) Fat Burger franchise licenses I've acquired throughout Atlanta and Cincinnati. Now that I've gotten a number of them up and running I can concentrate on making my dream come true by building a successful entertainment company. G-Fiive's energy gave me that spark I needed to go after my dream and make his dreams come true at the same time," says Anderson. The game plan for Think Big is to start small, one project at a time, with the initial focus on G-Fiive. "We feel development is the key element to success," states Anderson. "The goal is to saturate the Internet as well as the streets with G-Fiive's presence while gradually bringing awareness to the mainstream. Once this is established we will utilize the film arm of the company and give G-Fiive the visual affects he needs from video to short films.

RAPHAEL SAADIQ'S NEW SINGLE.
The album’s inspiration was indeed global. “I was cooling out and surfing in Costa Rica and The Bahamas,” recounts Saadiq, “and ran into people from all kinds of places. I noticed everybody was listening to classic soul music. When I came back home the music for this album flowed organically, naturally. Since I have my own studio, I was able to perfect it, take my time to make it right. I was able to live with it, day after day and that had a lot to do with how the album turned out.” Check out Raphael Saadiq's first single "Love That Girl" off of his upcoming album The Way I See It, in stores September. LISTEN

SONY TO PURCHASE BERTELSMANNS 50% STAKE IN SONY BMG
Sony Corporation and Bertelsmann AG today announced that Sony has agreed to acquire Bertelsmann's 50% stake in Sony BMG. The music company, to be called Sony Music Entertainment Inc. (SMEI), will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America. Sony and Bertelsmann AG originally created the Sony BMG joint venture in August
2004. "Music has been a vital and vibrant part of Sony's culture for over twenty years. This acquisition will allow us to achieve a deeper and more robust integration between the wide-ranging global assets of the music company and Sony's products, operating companies and affiliates. It enables us to offer a total entertainment experience to consumers," said Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman and CEO, Sony Corporation. "Over the past four years, Sony BMG has undertaken a very successful restructuring, streamlined operations and developed innovative digital partnerships that ensure it will continue to be a leader in the creation and distribution of music worldwide. It is an organization rich in talent, ideas and enthusiasm, and is a strong fit with our overall business strategy." "After a careful and thorough review, we made the strategic decision to sell our investment in this joint venture to Sony, a step that we believe will benefit the stakeholders of both our companies," stated Hartmut Ostrowski, Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann AG. "This move is consistent with our new growth strategy and will enable us to focus on our defined growth areas. Sony has been an excellent partner, and they are the right
company to take this business to the next step and ensure that it realizes its full value and potential. We look forward to witnessing Sony Music Entertainment's exciting future under Sony's ownership." Once the transaction is completed, SMEI will be comprised of premier music labels such as: Arista Records, Columbia Records, Epic Records, J Records, Jive Records, RCA Records, and Zomba. Key recording artists will include Celine Dion, Alicia Keys, Yo-Yo Ma, Bruce Springsteen, Justin Timberlake, Usher and Jay Chou. As part of the transaction, the parties have also agreed to continue to share the company's manufacturing and distribution requirements between Sony's manufacturing subsidiary, Sony DADC, and Bertelsmann's services company, Arvato Digital Services GmbH ("Arvato"), by extending the agreements with Arvato for additional terms of up to six years. In addition, Bertelsmann will be taking over selected European music catalog assets from Sony BMG. Consummation of the transaction remains subject to a number of conditions, including approvals of regulatory authorities in certain jurisdictions.

BERTELSMANN REALIGNS BMG FOR THE MUSIC RIGHTS BUSINESS.
Bertelsmann is gearing the business of its Bertelsmann Music Group (BMG) towards music rights management. The realignment is connected with the sale of Bertelsmann's stake in the Sony BMG Music Entertainment joint venture to the Sony Corporation of America. Bertelsmann is taking over selected European catalogs of music rights from Sony BMG as part of the transaction. They comprise the works of more than 200 artists. The catalogs will continue to be distributed by Sony Music. Taking over these catalogs is an important step towards the planned
establishment of a licensing and management platform for exploiting and marketing music rights under the BMG brand. The designated managing director of BMG, based in Berlin, is Hartwig Masuch, an experienced music industry executive, who most recently advised Bertelsmann in the negotiations with Sony. Maximilian Dressendorfer, Vice President BMG, will also be part of the management team. Bertelsmann's Chief Financial Officer Thomas Rabe, who is responsible
for the music division on the group's Executive Board, stated: "The many new distribution paths are causing an increase in the demand for music use rights. In view of this fact, we believe that building a business for the management and exploitation of such rights in Europe is an attractive
proposition. We want to take advantage of our opportunities and position ourselves with the strong, well-established BMG brand and a management that is highly regarded in the market." Designated managing director Hartwig Masuch added: "I am confident that, by building this new business under the historic BMG brand, we will continue to be successful in shaping the music industry. The activities of Bertelsmann's various divisions, coupled with the realignment of BMG,
provide countless opportunities for us to put together attractive service packages for creatives and rights owners. Our top priority will be to assert the rights owners' claims efficiently and protect their interests against a backdrop of increasingly complex use and distribution models." Consummation of the transaction remains subject to a number of conditions, including approvals of regulatory authorities in certain jurisdictions. JP Morgan acted as sole financial advisor to Bertelsmann on the sale of the Sony BMG stake and the new music venture.

NEW HEAT FROM TWISTA!
Talk To Me LISTEN

LLOYD - "Girls Around the World REMIX"
Feat. DJ Khaled, The Game, TI, Yung Joc, Rick Ross, Ace Hood, Yung Dro, Pitbull & Busta Rhymes LISTEN

CASSIE ft. Lil Wayne - NEW MUSIC
Here is the new single"OFFICIAL GIRL" from Cassie's upcoming album LISTEN

C-N-N Readies New Album Release - Channel 10
Legendary New York rappers Capone-N-Noreaga come together again to release their first album as a group in 8 years! The album, Channel 10, is the follow up from their 2000 gold-selling release - The Reunion. “I'm proud to be working on a CNN album, a lot of people have been begging for this to come out", N.O.R.E. explains. He goes on to describe his excitement about recording with Capone. "We recorded the whole album in the studio together. We want the music to be really good and it came out hot! Plus we own our masters!" Capone elaborates, “All the past albums had obstacles -this time we were able to come together in the studio. Record together, not over the phone, in different cities. It really shows in the music, we are really interacting in the whole album. We are giving the fans a whole different feel, a whole different texture and it is going to show in our music. Capone-N-N.O.R.E. enlisted DJ Premier, The Alchemist, STK, Grammy Award winners Play & Skills and Hazardous Sounds for production. Fat Joe, The Clipse, Dogg Pound, Maino, Uncle Murder, Picalo, and Charlie Hustle make guest appearances. Devoted followers will be excited to hear that the Queens based duo will release their first single this month, "Follow The Dollar" produced by The Alchemist. They will be shooting the video at the end of the month. C-N-N met in 1992 while serving kitchen duty together at Collins Correctional Facility in New York. In 1996 they released their first single, Illegal Life” through Penalty Records. Unfortunately, their album releases stalled throughout the years because of Capone's incarcerations and the duo only released 2 albums as a group. C-N-N's Channel 10 front begins in October.

RICK ROSS COMMENTS ON BEING EXPOSED.
Rick Ross recently commented on the Correctional officer claims in a Don Diva interview. “When I’m making my music and talking about blow, it’s because I did it,” Ross said. “When I say I’m rich off cocaine it’s because I did it. I never tried to hide my past! I put my name inside of all my CDs. My company has my SS #. I could’ve put a company name.” “I was one of the only niggas in the city with a show truck at 19 (years-old) on Dayton’s with TVs doing my own independent thing,” Ross said. “I done put a lot of losses in tis game. I done took losses in the street, losses with the music. I’ve been up and I’ve been down; that’s what makes me who I am.” “You know I’m strapped to the teeth. We got more bullets than we got dollars. That’s just how it goes and that’s how it’s going to go until the day we die … a nigga don’t like it, get at me. I’m the muthaf*kin biggest boss that you seen this far.” “I just talked to Plies two weeks ago and we fixin’ that Trick Daddy and Plies thing,” Ross said. “That’s small. We all street niggas that got 30 killers behind us and we all rich and we all wild. I love Trick, cause he the one that bought me in the game.”

GUNFIRE IN ATLANTA CLUB WHERE DIDDY, USHER AND OTHERS PERFORMED.
Anger over double-charging at Jermaine Dupri's after-party in Atlanta led to gunfire that sent celebrities running for their lives. Rap mogul Sean (Diddy) Combs, singer Usher and actress Gabrielle Union were partying inside Club Dreams around 4 a.m. when a loud noise rang out, WSB-TV reported. Bodyguards hustled the stars to safety so quickly that Combs didn't even have time to put down a bottle of what appeared to be Veuve Clicquot champagne. "A loud noise went off, and everyone started ducking. It sounded like a pop noise," Nigel D, an entrepreneur and photographer, told the Daily News. Police spokesman Marcus Hodge said an unknown man began to fire shots and that a security guard from the club was shot in the arm, WSB-TV reported. Hodge said the violence began after some patrons were being charged twice for the party and then escorted out after getting rowdy. Staff at the club tried to calm partygoers down after the shooting as cops swept the location for weapons. "The deejay said it wasn't a gunshot, just a bottle popping or the stereo making noise," Nigel D said. Officer Ron Campbell of the Atlanta Police Department's public affairs office said he had no information about the incident. The "Welcome to Atlanta" party was thrown by Jermaine Dupri as part of the So So Def Summerfest. "I guess you could say they went out with a bang," partyer Kellen Buffington told WSB-TV. Source: New York Daily

MARKET CONDITIONS- BY THE NUMBERS - Week of 07/31/08
Check out Soundscan's Business Conditions Report-- Overall, Singles, Videos, Albums, etc.. See the full report.. CLICK HERE 

ANOTHER THOUGHT PROCESS EDITION : RAP REALITY - Don't get your Heart Broke.
I could name countless moments where rappers have been shown not to be who they say they are, but does it really matter? Their music doesn't suddenly change when you find out. ... CLICK HERE

DJ REVOLUTION REPPIN TRUE HIP HOP-- KRS 1 NEW FIRE!
As DJ Revolution readies "KING OF THE DECKS," in stores on September 16th, he divulged further on the issues of the lack of communication between the MC and THE DJ stating that it "is one of the most obvious reasons Hip Hop has devolved so drastically over the years. Since MC's in general decided to toss aside the DJ as an asset and integral part of their success from production to performance, the music has suffered tremendously. My goal is to re-introduce to the world what a DJ is. He or She is not just a celebrity, or someone who plays records, or makes funny sounds with turntables. He or she is all of that and more. I recruited some of the most legendary and also most talented up and coming artists to help me express all of this within the context of the music. DJ Revolution said it best in a recent interview, "the connection between the DJ and the emcee has been severed. ”King of The Decks" is my attempt at reconnecting it." DJ Revolution did just that with his new album, as he brought together some of the most talented names in Hip Hop today, who not only produce quality music, but also respect the craft of the DJ Culture. DJ Revolution has spent 15 years perfecting that craft on the SP 1200. He's currently behind the wheels of the longest running Hip Hop show in the history of commercial radio, "THE WORLD FAMOUS WAKE UP SHOW alongside Sway & King Tech. Aside from his weekly duties on the show based out of LA on Power 106, and syndicated Worldwide, he has lent his now infamous scratch techniques to countless records and his production skills to many established artists. REV has also taken his skillz to the far corners as the globe and ripped clubs in locations such as Japan, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. He has also shared the stage DJ’ing for many artists including legends like Rakim all the way to current superstars such as Kanye West. Revolution has released two of his own Full length LP’s (“In 12’s we trust/R2K”) and one with his partners Sway & Tech (“This or That”). The title of the album is by no means a way of saying I'm the best on the turntables. "King of the Decks" is obviously just a play on words related to a deck of cards. However, it is also a statement that needs to be remembered. The DJ is King." Check out the joint "DJ" f/ KRS ONE from the upcoming project - LISTEN

BEHIND THE SCENES - NEW B.I.G. FLICK
See exclusive behind the scenes footage of the casting process for the role of Biggie in NOTORIOUS. Features interviews with the Director, Casting Directors, and Ms. Wallace!... WATCH HERE

DOUBLE O (KIDZ IN THE HALL) RELEASES STATEMENT.
Double 0 of Kidz In The Hall badly assaulted by security after performance; Management issues statement" Double O from the hip hop group Kidz In The Hall was assaulted by several bouncers early Saturday morning, July 26, while inside a nightclub in Tempe, AZ following a Kidz In The Hall performance. Group member and friend Naledge, who did not witness the assault on Double O, was arrested outside of the club. Naledge's attempt to get medical assistance for Double O was misconstrued as a hinderence to the investigation. Reports that no injuries were sustained are false as Double O was taken to the hospital with multiple injuries from the excessive force used by club security. On Sunday morning Double O underwent surgery for one of his injuries. He is still in the hospital, but in stable condition. In the last 2 years, Kidz In The Hall have traveled to over 10 countries, have done 200+ shows and never before been involved in any altercation, big or small, with club or concert security, or police officers.

GIORGIO ARMANI ANNOUNCES SOLANGE AS NEW ARMANI JEANS GLOBAL AMBASSADOR. Giorgio Armani is proud to announce singer and songwriter Solange Knowles
as the new Armani Jeans ambassador. Her sophomore album, titled SoL-AngeL and the Hadley Street Dreams, will debut on August 26th, 2008, on Music World/Geffen and will be followed by a worldwide tour beginning in late autumn. Giorgio Armani says, "Armani Jeans expresses my vision of a young, independent, casual lifestyle with a strong and cool, fashion sensibility. Solange epitomises this style perfectly and brings to it that swing so evident in her new single, 'I Decided'." Dressed in Armani, Solange will begin her European press tour with a stop in London at the end of this month followed by Cannes in early August.

SUGA-T BE ABOUT IT.
Local promotional company and “Suga-T,” of “E-40 and the Click,” unite to bring forth a positive event to both the Modesto and Stockton communities. Suga-T, along with Ms. Toi, most famously known from Ice Cube’s smash hit, ‘You Can Do It,’ and Salt-N-Pepa’s legendary deejay, Spinderella, seen recently on the popular VH-1 reality show, The Salt-N-Pepa Show, will be celebrating Spinderella’s Birthday with parties at the Fat Cat Club, in Modesto, California, on August 1st, and Chativas Sports Bar & Grill at the Waterfront, the following day on August 2nd, in Stockton, California. Doors will open at 9pm on both days. This event is not just a birthday celebration, but it is also helping to support the launch of “The Be About It Project”, an organization designed to mother, educate, and keep the peace and unity in the community. Suga-T, Ms. Toi, and Spinderella are all in full support of this project. Not only is Suga-T completely excited about being able to perform her long overdue, new album, The Game Needs Me, but even more important is the fact that she truly enjoys empowering youth and families through innovative initiatives, and building hope for those who are dealing with adversity through education, recreation, lack of employment & motivation, low self-esteem, and at-risk behaviors.
By creating positive events in the community, and standing in unity and support of this movement, these Renaissance Women join together in alliance to make positive change. "In talking to my manager and advisory team, we started thinking, 'What if we created workshops to connect with people, and the fan-base, to foster a deeper and more personal relationship in an effort to create real change, opportunities, and solutions to issues that adversely impact communities, and help people improve their lives through the platform of music,” Suga states matter-of-factly, “Instead of looking at what's wrong in the world, let's look at what we can do to change it through love and respect of all persons; regardless of race, sex, national origin & creed, and work together as the human family to ‘Save Our Planet’.” In addition, Suga-T highlights economic, political & social issues, and provides a forum through her lecture series, for her fans to become, what she calls, "Change Agents," and network to promote action, creativity, courage, and positive solutions for communities. Suga-T is a nationally known recording artist, entrepreneur, TV personality, and in-demand lecturer, who also holds a Guinness World Record for having the biggest brother/sister duet ever created, in 1995’s ‘Sprinkle Me,’ from E-40’s platinum-plus In A Major Way LP.

SCOTT FRANCIS NAMED PRESIDENT AND CEO,WARNER/CHAPELL MUSIC.
Warner/Chappell Music Chairman and CEO David H. Johnson announced today the appointment of Scott Francis to the newly created position of President, Warner/Chappell Music, and Chairman and CEO, Warner/Chappell Music U.S. Francis, a veteran music publishing executive who previously served as President of BMG Music Publishing's BMG Songs North America division, will run Warner Music Group Corp.'s (NYSE: WMG) U.S. music publishing operations as well as play a key role in Warner/Chappell's global strategy. Francis will report to Johnson and will be based in Warner/Chappell's U.S. headquarters in Los Angeles. Francis said, "Joining a company with Warner/Chappell's storied past, amazing current roster and boundless potential is truly an honor. I'm excited to work alongside Dave and his experienced team, and particularly delighted to work with the wonderfully talented songwriters that represent Warner/Chappell's roster today. More than ever, music publishers are ideally situated to enable and foster artist development, and as such, I'm committed to making Warner/Chappell the first-choice for songwriters, and in doing so, being a powerful resource for our record label partners. Warner/Chappell's library of standards and hit songs is exceptional, and I look forward to creating and seizing opportunities to bring these works to new audiences through an array of traditional and emerging platforms." Francis served as President of BMG Songs North America from 2000 to 2007. Prior to joining BMG, from 1994 to 2000, Francis served as Vice President, Business Affairs and Administration for Sony/ATV Music Publishing where he oversaw all aspects of business and legal affairs for the company's U.S. operations.

ROB STEVENSON NAMED VIRGIN US PRESIDENT.
EMI Music has appointed Rob Stevenson to president of Virgin US, effective Aug. 15. He will be based in the company's New York office and report to Nick Gatfield, president of A&R for North America, U.K. and Ireland at EMI Music. Source: Billboard

NEW SOLDIER OUTTA TWISTA'S CAMP
Check out the new joint called "Ridah" off the GMG Ent mixtape compilation called "Who's got next" from "Mello tha Guddamann", a soldier out of Twista's Get Money Gang. LISTEN

BUN B AND TERMANOLOGY LINK UP FOR NEW SINGLE
Termanology hooks up with Multi-Platinum rapper Bun B of UGK & producer DJ Premier for his new single "How We Rock." When asked how the collaboration came about, Term stated "Around the time when I released "Watch How It Go Down," Bun B reached out to Premier and expressed interest in working with me." I ended up hangin with Bun at his birthday party in Houston and me preem & bun cooked up this track for my album - "How We Rock."We're shooting a video shortly, look for it!" Termanology will be releasing his debut LP, Politics As Usual, in September via ST. Records/Nature Sounds. Politics As Usual features a who's who list of producers who chipped in to make Termanology's debut a very, very special record; those producers include: DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Alchemist, Hi-Tek, Havoc, Nottz, Buckwild, Large Professor + Easy Mo Bee. CHECK OUT THE NEW JOINT HOW WE ROCK LISTEN

SEAN JEAN TAPS NELLY FOR UNDERWEAR SPOKESMODEL.
John Underwear taps internationally renowned recording artist, Nelly, as their new spokesmodel. The first campaign features Nelly donning the Fall collection of underwear basics and loungewear. The campaign was shot by Randee St. Nicholas and showcases Nelly in both interior and exterior shots at a modern home overlooking Los Angeles. Although he is the first spokesmodel for this category, Nelly follows a long list of past and present celebrity models for the Sean John brand including Dwayne Wade, Nas, Snoop Dog, Lil' Wayne, Penelope Cruz, Cassie, and Lauren London. The Sean John Underwear, Sleepwear and Loungewear collection includes the core silhouettes as well as signature styles in luxury fabrics and is available at Macy's and better department and specialty stores nationwide. Sean "Diddy" Combs said, "I have known Nelly for many years and I really admire his work. To me, Nelly is the quintessential definition of the Sean John man. He has the attitude, the swagger, and most of all the physique that our customers can both aspire and relate to. And let's be honest, all of the ladies out there are going to be thanking us for this campaign. The images are so strong; they speak for themselves. We are truly excited to welcome Nelly into the Sean John family." Nelly said, "I have been a big fan of Diddy and the Sean John clothing line for years. So, when they asked me to work with them, it was a real honor. I hope my fans will enjoy this campaign as much as I did shooting it."

SIRIUS RADIO AND XM FINALLY APPROVED.
Federal regulators formally approved the merger of the nation's only two satellite radio operators on Friday (July 26), ending a 16-month-long drama closely watched by Washington and Wall Street. Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.'s $3.3 billion buyout of rival XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. will mean 18 million-plus subscribers will be able to receive programming from both services. Executives say it will mean huge cost savings that will lead to a first-ever profit for the relatively nascent industry. The Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to approve the buyout, with the tiebreaker coming Friday night from Republican commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate. Tate had insisted that the companies settle charges that they violated FCC rules before she would approve the deal. The companies agreed this week to pay $19.7 million to the U.S. Treasury for violations related to radio receivers and ground-based signal repeaters. FCC Chairman Kevin Martin confirmed the final vote Friday night. "I think it's going to be, in the end, a good thing for consumers and be in the public interest," Martin told The Associated Press. "Consumers will enjoy a variety of programming at reduced prices and more diversified programming choices."
The approval was a major blow for the land-based radio industry, which lobbied hard against the buyout. It was also opposed by consumer groups, various members of Congress and state attorneys general, all of whom argued a satellite radio merger would hurt consumers and was not in the public interest. "They kept each other on their toes," Democratic commissioner Jonathan Adelstein said of the two companies. "I hope they keep their edge and don't become a fat and happy monopoly." Adelstein voted against the buyout as did fellow Democrat Michael Copps. Joining Martin and Tate in approving the deal was Republican commissioner Robert McDowell. Source: Variety

TERA PATRICK LOCKS DOWN SPECIAL PRODUCER ROLE FOR VIDEO GAME SAINTS ROW 2. Tera Patrick is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and in-demand adult film stars in the world and her popularity continues to increase. Teravision today announced that Tera Patrick will be working as 'special producer' on the highly anticipated open-world action video game Saints Row 2. Known as one the best "finishers" worldwide, Patrick's role as "special producer", will bring her one-of-a-kind special touch to the project as the game nears release on October 14th. More details will be revealed July 30th. Tera will also be making a special appearance at THQ's Comic Con booth this Saturday, where she'll meet with fans and sign exclusive Saints Row 2 art. Further details on Tera's involvement with Saints Row 2 will be released leading up to the game's October 14th launch on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

CHARLES HAMILTON - THE NEXT GENERATION OF HIP-HOP?
Rapper, mad music scientist, Sonic the Hedgehog are just a few of the adjectives used to describe Charles Hamilton. With his self-produced mixtape “Outside Looking” hosted by Green Lantern praised by the likes of Pharrell and Eminem and a forthcoming album, via Interscope in the first quarter of 2009. Jimmy Iovine’s newest signee, Charles Hamilton produces and writes all his own music and plays multiple instruments at the very young age of 20. Part mythical character, part artist; Charles Hamilton’s existence is guided by and solely dedicated to music in order to sustain life. “If tomorrow I get dropped from my label, I'm not going back to a comfortable apartment. I'm homeless, again. I abandoned a negative lifestyle to achieve happiness in music. I'm watching my dreams unfold right in front of me, in my own zone. Reality, or as I call it, "The Lavalamp Zone”, he recently lamented.

RUTHLESS RECORDS PRESENTS: STREET RUNNAZ CLICK
From the crowded hallways of Creekside High, located on the south side Atlanta, Ga. emerges one of the latest rap acts to hit the industry: Street Runnaz Click Embracing a sound that was born regional and now penetrating the country with chart toppers. Street Runnaz Click proudly carry the weight of the south on their shoulders. Members Street Runnaz Click have won 1st place positions in every open mic contest entered and maintained a top 5 position for the unsigned rap category in GA on Myspace for over two years. They have opened up for some of the largest acts in the industry including Franchize, Young Dro, Lil Jon, Lil Wayne , Killer Mike, Mike Jones, Slime Thug, T.I., Young Jeezy just to name a few.." CHECK OUT THE NEW SINGLE “GET LOW LISTEN

FLEX AND DNELL AIR IT OUT.
 The fellas clown around with this weeks segment on Rick Ross, T.I., and more ... CLICK HERE

SAVAGE - REPPIN NEW ZEALAND.
The film “Knocked Up” may have made stars of actors Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogan, but it also introduced moviegoers to the music of SAVAGE, an artist already established on his home turf of New Zealand. A song called “Swing,” in a pivotal bar scene in the blockbuster movie, let the rest of the world know what Kiwis have been saying for some time now – Savage is a big man with a big voice and an even bigger talent. A recap for the un-initiated: Savage is a founding member of one New Zealand’s most respected Hip Hop crews, the Deceptikonz. The act stormed to #2 on the New Zealand Top 10 with their debut album “Elimination.” Fame and acclaim followed; with this strong foundation in place it wasn't long before Savage's powerful voice found itself at the front of a solo project entitled "Moonshine." “Moonshine,” produced by Platinum Atlanta based producer Sol Messiah (Young Jeezy, Chamillionaire, Nappy Rootz, Dead Prez), multi Platinum producer AKON and ATP from Beat Kamp Muzik, was released to critical and commercial acclaim in 2005. An instant success in New Zealand and Australia (it was on this album that the single “Swing” debuted), “Moonshine” racked up a #1 chart position and Platinum certification. The second single, “Moonshine feat AKON,” did the same. "Live performance is where I'm at my best, I can really show my personality and smash the audience and my fans with my big sound" laughs Savage. "I have a big voice and an even bigger presence when I get on the MIC…so if you weren't listening before I get on, you'll definitely be listening - and probably waving your hands - by the time the MIC goes off.” CHECK OUT HIS JOINT "SWING" featuring Soulja Boy Tell'em LISTEN

SOUNDSCAN CHART NUMBERS/STATS-Week Ending 07/20/08
NAS' Untitled album debuts at #1 with 186,640 copies sold. Lil Wayne’s “Tha Carter III” takes #2 with 105,590 units sold (1,912,052 total). David Banner’s “The Greatest Story Ever Told” debuted at #8 with 51,805 copies sold. Rihanna's Good Girl Gone Bad took #10 with 41,269 units sold (1,482,574 total). Usher's Here I Stand grabs #19 with 26,071 copies sold (906,641 total). G-Unit's T.O.S. grabs #24 selling 21,219 copies (159,369 total). Plies' Definition of Real grabs #26 with 20,522 scans (400,789 total). Three 6 Mafia's Last To Walk takes #29 selling 18,431 units (156,836 total). Rick Ross' Trilla takes #58 with 9,702 copies sold (629,610 total). Tech N9ne's Killer grabs #74 with 8,076 copies sold (57,771 total).

DEEZLE TOPS THE CHARTS.
For a third non-consecutive week, Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III" (Cash Money/Universal) topped The Billboard 200 last week, and Darrius “Deezle” Harrison is the distinct sound behind SEVEN tracks on the album. One of Deezle’s clever productions, a track entitled “ Mrs. Officer”, has also just been announced as the next single off the chart-topping record. After the success of Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop”, “Mrs. Officer” featuring Bobby Valentino, will undoubtedly prove that Deezle’s production deserves to be a mainstay on the top of the charts. “Working on this album was a great experience. The chemistry that I have with Wayne is incredible,” says Deezle. “It’s creative, exciting and fast moving. I can throw an idea to him and get it thrown back to me not only as a great concept, but as a finished idea. This happens in just minutes. I thank him for believing in me.” Deezle also served as co-producer with Kanye West on the critically acclaimed and fan favorite, “Let The Beat Build,” as well as vocally engineered majority of the album. His stellar musical contribution to Tha Carter III is guaranteed to make him a household name.
Right now Deezle is enjoying the success of Tha Carter III, but is still trying to take it all in. “It was such a surprise. I don’t think you ever know how big something is going to be. You know you’ve done the best that you can do, but you never expect this,” he says. “But now I know where I’m going. I’m on a path and I know where that path is headed.”

HARLEM GOT A SECRET.
Check out the new kid they call RIZ. Backed by a solid management team headed by Sha Money XL of Money Management Group, Will "DaBoss" of Media Management and David "Da Jeweler" of Diamond District Entertainment, RIZ has released two critically acclaimed mixtapes, hosted by heavy hitters in the game, DJ Envy and DJ Whoo Kid, respectively. He has collaborated with artists such as Lloyd Banks (GUnit/ Interscope), Trey Songz (Atlantic), Jim Jones (Sony WMG), Maino (Atlantic), and many more. He is currently recording his ?rst full length studio album to be released later this year independently. RIZ has the creativity, inspiration, knowledge and versatility to bring back to Harlem what only Harlem can offer. A star. Check out his latest joint titled Show You Bout It featuring Trey Songz LISTEN

MAC MINISTER FOUND GUILTY!
A Las Vegas jury yesterday (July 21) found Bay Area rapper Mac Minister guilty in the slaying of Kansas City rapper Fat Tone and his friend Jermaine "Cowboy" Akins. Mac Dre was shot and killed in a 2004 drive by shooting in Kansas City and Fat Tone was considered a person of interest in the murder but never a suspect. According to The Las Vegas Review Journal, Mac Minister was convicted Monday of first-degree murder and now faces life in prison.

BOBBY V. INKS MAJOR LABEL DEAL WITH EMI.
Platinum selling R&B recording artist, Bobby Valentino, signs a major label deal with EMI for his own imprint, Blu Kolla Dreams, just 3 short months after being dropped from Def Jam Recordings and leaving Disturbing Tha Peace Records (DTP). Blu Kolla Dreams is "the start of a new business venture for anyone who has taken the Blu Kolla approach and worked extremely hard over time to make an impact in their communities, achieve greatness and make their dreams come true," as stated by Courtney "Colt Luv" Stewart of RIGHT HAND MANagement (Bobby V's Manager)/Co-CEO of Blu Kolla Dreams. Bobby V fans can expect a powerful new album titled, The Rebirth, to be released in the coming months. Valentino reveals his thoughts on the new venture by stating, "I have been blessed to be in the music industry for over 10 years, and my past endeavors have been great learning experiences. Now I have the opportunity to step out on faith and use the knowledge and experience that I have gained to take my career to the next level." As a near veteran of the music industry, Bobby Valentino has been signed since the age of 13 as a member of the now defunct group Mista, most known for hit single "Blackberry Molasses," and as a solo artist on the DTP/Def Jam imprint with albums Bobby Valentino and Special Occasion. Bobby V's debut album self-titled Bobby Valentino is certified platinum and peaked at No. 3 on Billboard. The sophomore effort Special Occasion is certified Gold. Although Bobby Valentino has severed his ties with DTP Records he still maintains positive relationships with CEO's Chaka Zulu, Ludacris and the DTP/Def Jam staff.

FIRST ARTIST TO SIGN TO TAG RECORDS.
Putting an end to months of speculation about who would be the 1st artist signed to Tag Records, the New York-based venture led by hip-hop entrepreneur Jermaine Dupri, Island Def Jam Music Group and global giant Procter & Gamble (P&G), it was announced yesterday that Brooklyn's own "Q" will be the first young rapper to be launched on the new label. Q (aka Kareem Savage) was a former member of Da Franchise with fellow Brooklynites Red Café and Gravy. Q started his solo career as a contributor to mix-tapes by DJ Clue, Kay Slay, DJ Khaled and others. Relocating to Atlanta, it was inevitable that he'd cross paths with Dupri - who quickly recognized Q's talent and put him in the studio.Q landed his first major feature on Da Brat's "World Premiere" and the Drumline hit movie soundtrack. Ever since signing to JD's So So Def/Virgin imprint in the summer 2006, Q has been heard on a string of top-charted remixes including "Make Me Better" by Fabolous featuring Ne-Yo, "No One" by Alicia Keys, "Fine" by Mary J. Blige, "Can't Help But Wait" by Trey Songz, and more.

2 LABEL GIANTS -- MORE DOWN SIZING?
The New York post reports EMI is hunting for new, smaller New York headquarters for its North American recorded-music operations after completing a global cost-cutting initiative last month that eliminated some 2,000 jobs worldwide. The company, which is owned by private-equity firm Terra Firma, has retained Cushman Wakefield to shop a sublease of its existing location at 150 Fifth Ave. in the Flatiron District, where it occupies more than 180,000 square feet on floors 2-11 of the L&L Acquisition-owned building. Meanwhile, Sony BMG's RCA/J Records and Clive Davis - now BMG Label Group's chief creative officer - are relocating from Davis' former fiefdom of 745 Fifth Ave. to the major label's headquarters at 550 Madison Ave., sources said.
RCA's relocation comes on the heels of a BMG leadership shakeup earlier this year that saw Barry Weiss, formerly chief of the company's Zomba group, replacing Davis as chairman/CEO of BMG. Zomba relocated to 550 Madison from downtown last year. RCA's move is expected to be completed by September. EMI won't be moving for at least a year sources said. Source: New York Post

WEST COAST VET C-BO TEAMS UP WITH OMAR "BIG-O" GOODING.
C-Bo is raising the bar once again, this time collaborating with Omar "Big-O" Gooding. If that last name sounds familiar it's because he is indeed the brother of Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr. Omar "Big-O" Gooding is a television and movie star in his own right – you can see him in numerous TV series including Barbershop (based on the movie) along with movies such as The Gospel and Baby Boy. With the help of C-Bo, "The Mob Father", the duo has created one of the hottest albums of the summer. Tradin' War Stories officially marks Big-O's entry into the rap game, and his skills are sure to surprise a lot of people. The new project - Tradin' War Stories( out in August) is music to ride to – "Weeest!" LISTEN is poised to be a West Coast ‘hood anthem, featuring Playa Ham from up and coming South Central collective Young Giantz. Guests on the 17 track album, include Chino XL, Stylie Ray, Denver underground legends Young Doe and Hawk Man plus production from noted multi-platinum producer Focus. On this collaborative effort, Tradin' War Stories sees C-Bo delivering his signature street knowledge while Big-O demonstrates his venomous spit. A Big-O solo album is slated for release later this year. A couple other joints are We Ain't The Same LISTEN and What Yo Life Like (ft. Yukmouth) LISTEN .

T.I.'S 1ST OFFICIAL SINGLE
T.I.'s 1st official single off upcoming album PAPER TRAIL. The song is titled "Whatever You Like" LISTEN . Sounds like something from an amusement park.

SOUNDSCAN CHART NUMBERS/STATS-Week Ending 07/13/08
Not much to report in hip hop sales this week. Lil Wayne's Tha Carter III maintains #1 on the charts with 124,676 copies sold ( 1,806,562 total). G-Unit's Terminate On Sight takes #9 with 36,348 copies sold (138,150 total). Jim Jones & The Bryd Gang's M.O.B take #110 with 6,287 copies sold (23,545 total). Killer Mike debuts I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind Pt 2 taking #178 on the charts with just 3,566 copies sold.

NAS SET FOR FREE SHOW AND PARTY IN WEST HOLLYWOOD.
MySpace Music is proud to announce that Nas will be performing a free show for his MySpace friends in West Hollywood at 10:30 p.m. at the Roxy on Sunset - a show being powered by Saints Row 2. Celebrating his just released, highly-controversial untitled album, Nas will give fans a taste of what's in store for this next phase of his celebrated career. Early wristband pick-up for the free, all ages performance will begin at 12 p.m. on July 18 on a first come, first served basis. Also, Nas has unveiled plans for The Jones Experience, an intimate summer tour. Along for the ride will be Talib Kweli, Jay Electronica and DJ Green Lantern. The 21-date North American tour will visit primarily clubs and theaters.

July 19 - Chicago
July 20 - Toronto
July 22 - Montreal
July 24 - Burlington, VT
July 25 - New Haven, CT
July 26 - Boston
July 27 - Washington, DC
July 29 - Charlotte, NC
July 30 - Charleston, SC
July 31 - Atlanta
August 1 - New Orleans
August 2 - Miami
August 3 - New York
August 8 - Las Vegas
August 9 - Los Angeles
 August 10 - San Diego
August 14 - Reno, NV
August 15 - Chico, CA
August 16 - San Francisco
August 22 - Park City, UT
August 23 - Denver
August 24 - Austin
August 25 - Houston
August 26 - Dallas
August 28 - Cleveland
August 29 - Detroit
August 30 - Champaign, IL
September 3 - St. Louis
September 4 - Milwaukee
September 5 - Minneapolis
September 6 - Quincy, WA

TIMBO SAYS HE'S ON BOARD FOR JAY-Z NEW ALBUM.
"He wants me to do the whole thing this time around," Timbaland told MTV News recently. "I'mma make it a classic too. You better believe it. It'll be a monster! I always say this: You get a first single from me, I'mma get you up to gold. And it's hard to get you up to gold in this day [and age]." "Jay should never chill," he said about the rapper's decision to return to music full time. "We had a long talk, and I really talked to him. Jay-Z does it for the love. That's different. When somebody does it for the love, you don't stop. He has everything, but he's still current. A million people are buying his album regardless. "We wanna go to the world," he added. "The world is 'Big Pimpin'.' 'Big Pimpin' ' is an international hit, so we wanna do 10 of those. Meaning, some of the songs gonna sound like M.I.A. would rap on some of the beats. You gonna be like, 'Whoa!' But it's Jay on 'em. That means it reaches everywhere. I'mma have songs with bagpipes. The music is gonna be so wo rldwide, he'll be able to tour the rest of his life, maybe, off just this one album. The Jay-Z album is gonna be phenomenal. You know why? We don't care. We're doing great music just to do it. We doing it for our fans who love us to say we ain't quit. I'm doing it 'cause that's my homeboy."

MORE DEATHROW DRAMA! WHO REALLY OWNS THE LABEL AND THE ASSETS?
GLOBAL MUSIC GROUP a Delaware Corporation as Plaintiff filed a civil lawsuit Friday in Superior Court of the State of California Case no. BC394278 to assert their claim as rightful bidders of the assets of Death Row Records and to prevent the assets from falling under the control of a group controlled by former partners. Ron Goldberg, CEO of the company and of Alliance Capitol, LLC, its parent, announced that he filed the action against Global Music Group, Inc. a New York Corporation formed a day before the bid on June 9, 2008 by Global (Delaware) former president Anthony Marotta after Goldberg's Delaware company had retained counsel in March, 2008 and applied to be a bidder at the bankruptcy auction to be held June 24, 2008. Anthony Marotta and his new partners, RSB Investment Strategies, LLC, through the newly
formed corporation with the identical name are claiming they own the assets of Death Row Records. However, Goldberg said, "I have non-circumvent and non-compete agreements with both Marotta and RSB that prevent either from claiming to be the party in interest in the bankruptcy auction that determined the eventual owner of Death Row Record's assets." Goldberg has demanded that the parties involved in both Global Music Group, Inc. of New York and RSB cease any business pertaining to Death Row Records and specifically he states, "Susan Berg, Kathleen March, Ronnie G. Bush, Anthony Marotta, Anthony Davi, Jr. and Jeff Davi, who is current head of the Department of Real Estate of the State of California, are all in breach of their agreements with me." The complaint that has been filed contains Breach of Oral Contract, Breach of Written Contract, Misappropriation of Trade Secrets, Intentional Interference with Contract and Economic Advantage, Breach of Duty of Loyalty, and Unfair Competition causes of action. Goldberg is seeking a Constructive Trust with a Temporary Restraining Order to prevent the transfer of the assets. "When the Court sees the documents signed by the defendants that I rely on and when the work I did for a year in advance of the bid is made public,
it is beyond question who owns this record label," Goldberg said.

NEW JOINT FROM YUNG BERG
"Outerspace" from his upcoming album "Look What You Made Me" LISTEN

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME MUSEUM DISPLAYS NEW HIP HOP ARTIFACTS.
Not since the early days of rock and roll has an African-American-driven cultural phenomenon taken such a strong hold of mainstream American society as hip-hop. In its more than 30-year existence, hip-hop has transformed itself at least as much as it has transformed the culture at large. Whether hip-hop primarily reflects the culture from which some of it arises – the violence, despair, the sexism – or gives vent