Labels: Mariah Carey

Following Ciara's performance at the 2007 BET Awards this week, speculation has been mounting as to what the singer was trying to convey with her robe. Similar to James Brown, at the end of her set, a robe was thrown to the 'Promise' singer - baring '#25' across the back. Explanations ranging from her affiliation with 50 Cent (half of 50?) to her alleged romance with NFL star Reggie Bush (The Saints player #25) have been cited. However, she has revealed to MTV that the number was to poke fun at her placing at #25 on BET's Top 25 Dancers list - below Diddy, Beyonce, Prince and Missy Elliott:

Labels: Ciara

Amerie's debuted her newest single 'Gotta Work' yesterday. Scott Franklin - who also directed the vid for her last single 'Take Control' -directed the video. With a simple concept and great choreography, Amerie really delivered with this one. I'm still not entirely sure about the single choice, but it's an excellent video nonetheless.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Amerie

The 2nd single to be lifted from Kelly Rowland's new album- 'Ms. Kelly'- has been confirmed as 'Comeback'. According to Middlechild Promotions, the song has already been sent out to radio stations and will indeed serve as the album's next offering. The Scott Storch-produced track also won the AOL poll to decide the next single.

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Rapper 50 Cent stopped by BET's 106 & Park to perform his current single 'Amusement Park'. The G-Unit leader also took a moment to address his shambolic performance at the BET Awards earlier in the week. Performance aside, most of 50's new material just isn't cutting it and he'll need to come harder than this if his 'Curtis' album is to be a success.

What did you think of his excuse and performance?

Labels: 50 Cent

Following Beyonce's BET Awards performance earlier this week, the Internet has been rampant with claims that the 'Deja Vu' singer copied her set from another artist. According to many, Beyonce's entrance was a carbon-copy of pop star Kylie Minougue's on a past tour. I don't check for Kylie like that, so I wasn't aware. I hear the concept was taken from a film called 'Metropolis'...whatever the case, you be the judge:

What do you think?

Labels: Beyonce

The video for Bone Thugs latest single 'Lil L.O.V.E.' has finally premiered. I've had the song in heavy rotation for a while now and was anxious to see how the video turned out. Though it's nothing groundbreaking, the Chis Robinson-directed video is pretty good. It's great to see Mariah back on scene after being on a hiatus - she looks stunning in the vid. Bow Wow as well as the song's producer Jermaine Durpri also make appearances. After the success of 'I Tried', Bone Thugs look to be on course for another chart smash with this.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Bone Thugs N' Harmony, Bow Wow, Mariah Carey

Lil Fizz is the latest ex-boyband member to make a bid for solo stardom. 'Beds' is the lead single from the former B2K star's new album 'Payday'. Both the video and the song are so-so, however all the other members of B2K came out to support Fizz - with all three making cameo appearances in the vid. No words for Ray J..

What do think of the video?

Labels: Lil Fizz, Ray J

Following several months of speculation, Usher and his fiance Tameka Foster have announced that that they are expecting their first child. In a statement released to PEOPLE magazine, the couple had the following to say:

We are extremely excited at this point in our lives planning our wedding and the joy that comes with expecting our first child together. We hope people will be happy for us and respect our privacy during this happy period in our lives.

Labels: Usher

Labels: Ashanti, Nelly

Kelly must be feeding off her BET Awards energy because this is definitely one of her best performances of 'Like This' yet. Her stage presence and vocals have both been upped a notch. Having Eve there was great too - she amped up an already-hyped crowd even more. Great stuff.

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Labels: 50 Cent, Ciara

Jennifer Hudson & Jennifer Holliday - 'And I Am Telling You'

T.I. - Big Things Poppin'

Diddy (w/ Keyshia Cole & Lil' Kim) - 'Last Night'

Beyonce & Kelly Rowland - 'Get Me Bodied' / 'Like This'

Ciara - Like A Boy / That's Right

Robin Thicke - Lost Without You

50 Cent - Amusement Park

Erika Badu - Diana Ross Tribute

Judging from some of these performances as well as viewer reports, this years show was definitely one of the better instalments of the annual event. Performance of the night, in my opinion, goes to Beyonce and Kelly Rowland's joint showing. Everything about the performance was on-point; Beyonce nailed 'Get Me Bodied' and Kelly had her 'coming out of the shadows' moment by tearing down the stage with 'Like This' alongside Eve. Another notable performance was from Ciara, who did her thing with a medley of 'Like A Boy' and future single 'That's Right'. She has definitely upped her stage presence and live vocals too. I also really liked the Dreamgirls opening- which saw Jennifer Hudson perform 'And I Am Telling You' with the original Effie, Jennifer Holliday. It was a monumental moment seeing Jennifer Holliday finally get her moment to truly shine as Effie. On a side note, her facial expressions are still priceless lol. 50 Cent's performance didn't go...well just watch it lol. Overall it seemed like a great show.

The video for Kanye West's latest single 'Stronger' debuted on TRL today. As with most things Kanye, the video is a kinda left-field and I'm liking it. Directed by Hype Williams, the big-budget video features many special effects - though they are, somewhat, hit and miss. Cassie plays the female interest in the vid too. 'Stronger' is the official first single from Kanye's third album 'Graduation' (due August 21st) and was preceded by buzz single 'Can't Tell Me Nothing'.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Kanye West

'Tears Dry On Their Own' is latest single to be lifted from Amy Winehouse's breakthrough album 'Back to Black'. The track is one of my personal favourites from the album and I'm glad it was chosen as a single. Though this David LaChapelle directed video isn't all that great, it's still pretty decent and doesn't take away from what is a great song

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Amy Winehouse

It appears Eve isn't wasting any time releasing singles from her upcoming album 'Here I Am' (due August 7th). As her current single 'Tambourine' climbs the charts, the rapper has already shot the video for the follow-up single 'Give It To You' - which features Sean Paul. Judging from these pics from the set, the video looks like its gonna be a good one. Be on the lookout for the video in the coming weeks.

Labels: Eve, Sean Paul

Labels: Competition

As Ja Rule preps his comeback album 'The Mirror' (due for release later this year), another track from the set has surfaced. 'Uh Oh' sees the INC rapper team up with Lil' Wayne for what is a great collaboration. The production is really on-point, as well as Ja's flow. Lil' Wayne does his thing on the track too. I'm feeling alot of Ja's new material and will definitely be on the lookout for his new CD.

Labels: Ja Rule, Lil' Wayne

With her Stateside promotional campaign in full swing, Kelly Rowland stopped by the Today Show this morning to perform her current single 'Like This'. Judging from this performance, it seems the European performances were simply warm-ups because she delivered majorly. From the live band, to the improved choreography and the overall energy, this performance was on-point. I'm really anxious to see how she does tomorrow a the 2007 BET Awards.

What do you think of Kelly's performance?

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Chris Brown's 'Wall to Wall' video debuted earlier on today. The song is the first single to be taken from Brown's sophomore album 'Exclusive' (due August 28th). I really applaud him for thinking out of the box with this video - which has a Michael Jackson 'Thriller' vibe to it. I was expecting the typical 'club' type of vid. Having said that, the video isn't all that spectacular and the effects at times can become kinda jarring. Still, as usual, Chris came hard with the choreography and shows his competitors why he's at the top of his game.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Chris Brown

R&B star LeToya Luckett is hard at work on the follow-up to her self-titled debut. According to our friends at Rap-Up.com, a November release date has been pencilled in for the currently-untitled disc, which will drop via Capitol Music Group. Most interesting, however, is the producer line up - which is set to include Dr Dre, Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins and Babyface.

Are you anticipating LeToya's new album?

Labels: LeToya

With the 2007 BET Awards just days away, it has been revealed that Beyonce will be performing 'Get Me Bodied' at the annual show. Hailed by many as one the better tracks from her 'B'Day' album, no doubt she'll give a great performance. According to her longtime dancer, Tyrell Washington, the Grammy-Award winning superstar will be joined onstage by a 'special guest'. I'm kinda thrown off as to who the 'guest' may be...

Labels: Beyonce

Following the news, earlier this week, that Janet Jackson is currently recording a new album in Miami, Pharrell Williams has announced his involvement in the project. Williams, who has just finished work on both Britney and J.Lo's new albums, told radio station Hot 97 that he is scheduled to go into the studio with Janet toward the end of July.

Janet's new CD is shaping up to be pretty interesting. With likely contributions from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, JD, Ne-Yo, and now Pharrell, the album will hopefully propel Janet to the top of the charts again. The 'All for You' singer is reportedly now signed to Island Def Jam.

Does Janet have what it takes to be successful again?

Labels: Pharrell

This new Mike Jones track 'Bonnie & Clyde' is slated to appear on his upcoming album 'The American Dream' (due July 10th). The track, which features LeToya Luckett, is decent mid-tempo number. However, I'm not really feeling Mike's talk-singing in parts of the song. LeToya does great on the hook, though. She's really keeping her name out there in the run-up to the release of her as-yet-untitled sophomore CD.

Labels: LeToya, Mike Jones

Some of you may remember Tiffany Evans from her roles in Tyler Perry movies 'Madea’s Family Reunion' and 'Diary of a Mad Black Woman'. The 15 year old is set to release her debut album this year and 'Promise Ring' is the the lead single from the set. Interestingly, R&B star Ciara features on the track, singing backing vocals. I'm really liking the song and video; Tiffany has got a great voice and the choreography is on-point. It's not often artists nowadays can both sing and dance, but Tiffany has both on lock. It's great to see Ciara supporting an up-and-coming artist too.

What do you think of the song/video?

Labels: Ciara, Tiffany Evans

According to People.com, Eddie Murphy has been confirmed as the father of 'Scary Spice' Mel B's 2 month-old daughter Angel Iris. Rep's for Brown announced that she was informed of the DNA test results - which took place on June 11th - this Thursday. The news comes after months of denial by actor Murphy, who doubted paternity of the child. Brown and Murphy briefly dated last summer and split in December, when the 'Nutty Professor' actor revealed his paternity doubts live on a Dutch TV show. Thus far, Brown's reps have yet to comment.

Labels: Eddie Murphy, Mel B

Labels: Common

Contrary to recent rumours, Cassie has not been dropped from Bad Boy. According to Diddy, the 'Me & U' singer is currently recording the follow-up to her 2006 self-titled album. Producers drafted in to contribute to the project include Kanye West and Pharrell Williams. The as-yet untitled CD will be released in September.

Labels: Cassie

During her recent European promo blitz, Kelly Rowland performed current single 'Like This' on Dutch show Jensen. I'm liking this performance; both vocally and in stage presence, Kelly is improving with each performance.

What did you think of the performance?

In other Kelly news, there seems to be alot of confusion as to whether she'll be performing on the Pre-Show or Main Show at the BET Awards. As of today, Kelly has been added to the list of Main Event performers on the BET website and *will* be hitting the main stage on June 26th.

Tidbits:

Kelly's 'Like This' hit #4 on the Official UK singles chart this week.

Don't miss out on your chance to win a copy of 'Ms. Kelly' in our Kelly Rowland album give-away. Click here to enter!

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Another new track from Danity Kane's Dawn has surfaced. Produced by Jim Johnsin - who also produced the group's hit 'Showstopper' -'Flawless' is a major improvement over some of the other songs I've heard from her. I'm really feeling Dawn's swagger on the track and the production is on-point too. Despite the influx of new solo material from Dawn, it has been confirmed that Danity are still together and are currently recording a new album.

Labels: Dawn Richard

The video for Yung Joc's new single 'Coffee Shop' debuted on BET yesterday. Can't say I'm feeling the track much, but the video is pretty funny. Kudos to Joc for the the positive message at the end. Rick Ross, Lloyd and DJ Drama make cameo appearances. 'Coffee Shop' is the lead single from Joc's sophomore album 'Hustlenomics' - due August 28th via Bad Boy.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Yung Joc

Following her departure from the G-Unit, Olivia is slated to release her serially delayed album 'Behind Closed Doors' independently. This new Missy-Elliott produced track, 'Cherry Pop', is reportedly the first single from the set. I found myself liking this one upon first listen; it has an old-skool funk vibe to it. Missy did her thing on the production side of things and Olivia rides the beat nicely. I'm starting to think it was 50's loss letting Oliva go, because her post-G-Unit material sounds great.

Labels: Oliva

After the numerous delays and title-changes, critics and fans alike could be forgiven for believing Kelly Rowland’s sophomore effort ‘Ms Kelly’ would never see the light of day. However, Rowland dispels any notion of ‘doubt’ on what is a highly sassy, confident and, yet, emotionally vulnerable record. With ‘Ms Kelly’, the Destiny’s Child singer firmly establishes her prowess as a solo artist. Ready or otherwise, Kelly Rowland – the solo star – has arrived.

‘The girl that they used to know done changed’, Rowland proclaims on the fantastic album opener and lead single ‘Like This (ft. Eve)’. Indeed, the track- produced by Polow Da Don- is a departure from the more subdue sound Kelly featured on her last solo outing, 2002’s ‘Simply Deep’. Here, Rowland exudes a new found confidence that resonates throughout the album. The Scott Storch produced ‘Work (Put It In)’ – one of many highlights - best exemplifies this; with a pulsating beat and deliberately suggestive lyrics, Rowland doesn’t hold back.

‘Ms. Kelly’ particularly excels in its slower paced offerings. The whimsical ‘Flashback’ and confessional ‘Still in Love with My Ex’ see Rowland reflect on the harshness of love and break-ups. Vocally, Rowland’s delivery compliments the emotional pain and vulnerability the lyrics exude. Refreshingly, an alternate approach is taken to the prominent theme of relationships on the standout track ‘Love’. Produced by newcomers Mysto & Pizzi, Rowland sings ‘Love / It’s a cold, cold world out there/ When it rains it pours I swear’ with a distinct rawness in her delivery. ‘The Show’, a steamy duet with R&B crooner Tank also serves as another standout track.

Other notable songs include the laid-back Snoop Dogg collaboration ‘Ghetto’, whereby Rowland enlists the use of her upper-register to detail what she looks for in a man. Elsewhere, Kelly channels her ‘inner Brandy’ harmonically on the well-assembled ‘Better Without You’.

The album’s shortcomings are few and far between. However, it should be noted that the Storch produced ‘Comeback’ is somewhat letdown by questionable lyrics: ‘I got that Comeback / That Hubba Bubba’. Also, the, otherwise infectious, ‘Every Thought Is You’, may have benefited from Rowland vocally exerting herself more.

On this her second outing, Kelly Rowland has managed to establish herself as a credible solo star. ‘Ms. Kelly’ boasts a collection of great songs which convincingly convey Rowland’s own artistic merit; no longer is she stuck in anyone’s shadow. Sexy, sassy and confident, ‘Ms. Kelly’ is definitely worth purchasing.

‘Ms. Kelly' is released in Europe June 25th & in the US July 3rd

Will you be buying 'Ms. Kelly'?

Click here to enter our ‘Ms. Kelly’ CD Give-Away!

Labels: Album Review, Kelly Rowland

The video for Rihanna's 2nd single 'Shut Up & Drive' premiered yesterday on Yahoo's Launch. It's ok, but my expectations were higher after hearing her label Def Jam shelved out $600,000 for the vid. Nonetheless, Rihanna looks great and the vid illustrates the theme of the song well. I am left wondering whether this will do anything to re-ignite her album sales, as many assumed. According to Hits Daily Double, 'Good Girl Gone Bad' takes a -52% dip in it's second week, with the album dropping to #7 on the Billboard 200 Album chart.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Rihanna

The video for the R. Kelly's latest single 'Same Girl' (ft. Usher) debuted on BET today. I've felt the song to be one of the best tracks on his new CD 'Double Up', so it's great to see that the video turned out fantastic. The video, which is arguably one of the year's best, mirrors the concept of the song closely and there's an unexpected twist at the end. 'Same Girl' is fast climbing up the US charts and I anticipate this vid making the song a definite hit. Great stuff.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: R. Kelly, Usher

To celebrate the release of R&B star Kelly Rowland's sophomore album 'Ms Kelly', That Grape Juice is giving away 5 copies of the CD - courtesy of Sony BMG (UK). The album, which will be released in the UK on June 25th (July 3rd in the US) is the long-awaited follow-up to Rowland's 2002 effort 'Simply Deep' and has been described as 'more sexy, honest, playful and passionate'. Producers featured on the album include hit-makers Scott Storch, Rockwilder and Polow Da Don. Guest features include Snoop Dogg, Eve and Tank.

Labels: Competition, Kelly Rowland

Grammy-Award winning songstress Alicia Keys is hard at work on her new album. The video above is of Alicia recording a new track called 'Superwoman'. I'm really feeling the the song and it's got more even hyped for her project. The album was originally supposed to drop this month, however it was pushed back to October.

Are you anticipating Alicia's new album?

Labels: Alicia Keys

Labels: Mary J. Blige, Ne-Yo

R&B singer Monica is currently in the studio working on the follow-up to to her 2006 effort 'The Makings Of Me'. Speaking to Metro Weekly last month, she revealed that she is in the process of 'writing and putting songs together' for the new project. The 'So Gone' singer added that the album will be released 'far sooner than her typical three-or-more year wait between albums'.

Labels: Monica

Reports from HOT 107.9’s Birthday Bash XXII - which took place in Atlanta over the weekend -are claiming that Young Buck launched a profanity-filled attack on G-Unit leader 50 Cent. The tirade allegedly took place during Buck's set and signals his departure from the Hip-Hop collective. However Hot 97's Miss Info denies anything went down; 'Eyewitnesses say that he talked about his new label Cashville Records, which he recently found a home for, but he never dissed 50 and G-Unit' she said.

Labels: G Unit, Young Buck

According to the Miami Herald, Pop superstar Janet Jackson is in Miami recording a new album. The 'All for You' singer has booked 3 months of recording time at Circle House Studios. Interestingly, Def Jam head LA Reid has accompanied Jackson on the trip. Though boyfriend Jermaine Dupri has yet to been seen with them, he is slated to produce on the project.

Labels: Janet Jackson

R&B superstar Beyonce has officially been added to list of performers at the 2007 BET Awards. Also confirmed to perform at the event is Beyonce's fellow Destiny's Child band-mate Kelly Rowland. The pair join an already star-studded line-up of performers including 50 Cent, T.I. Ciara and Ne-Yo. Comedienne Mo'Nique hosts the awards which will air live on June 26th.

Whose performance are you most wanting to see?

Labels: Beyonce

It seems the, somewhat, underwhelming opening sales of Rihanna's new album 'Good Girl Gone Bad' hasn't affected her promotional campaign. The Def Jam star stopped by The View to perform her international smash 'Umbrella'. Aside from the obvious technical issues, this is performance was disappointing; she didn't seem all that into it and the vocals were kinda shaky.

What did you think of the performance?

Labels: Rihanna

This is the official art work for Common's latest LP 'Finding Forever'. I'm liking this. The album, led by first single 'The Game', will hit stores and iTunes on July 31st.

Labels: Common

The video for Timbaland's latest single 'The Way I Are' premiered yesterday. Upon listening to the producers' album 'Shock Value' a while back, I felt 'The Way I Are' to be one of the few decent cuts on the CD. Yet the video is poor. Similar to the vid for the first single 'Give It To Me', it's cheap and no thought appears to have been put into the concept. What's more is that it does little to introduce Timbaland protégée, Keri Hilson (who features on the track) to the masses; she just wonders aimlessly across the screen. Disappointing.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Keri Hilson, Timbaland

Following the poor sales of LL Cool J's last album 'Todd Smith', the rapper has been very vocal about his disappointment with Def Jam -his label since 1984. LL, 39, continues the trend on this new track 'Queens'. The song, which features 50 Cent, Mobb Deep, Tony Yayo, and Kool G Rap, sees LL taking shots at the reknown label; he raps 'I wish Rick (Rubin) and Russell (Simmons) was back. I miss the old Def Jam ’cause them new monkeys act like they don’t know who I am.' The track itself is decent, but I'm not feeling LL's approach on this. Considering that 'Queens' is slated to feature on LL's upcoming final LP under Def Jam -'Exit 13', I don't think it makes sense for him to go at the label that will be releasing the album. Does he really think they'll properly promote an album bashing them?

Labels: Cassidy, Danity Kane, Dawn Richard, LL Cool J

Singer T-Pain performed his #1 hit 'Buy U A Drank (Shawty Snappin)' on Jimmy Kimmel Live earlier this week. I'm not really feeling this performance; it's one of the first times I've heard his voice without the vocoder effect and he didn't sound too good. Nonetheless, the live band added an extra umph to the performance and the crowd were hyped throughout.

What do you think of the performances?

Labels: T-Pain

It's been somewhat of a slow news day and this video just came to my attention. I'm aware some of you may have seen it already, but after watching I just can't stop laughing. It's well-known that Mariah isn't the best dancer, yet I honestly didn't realise...well just watch lol.

What do you think of Mariah's moves?

Labels: Mariah Carey

Following the massive success of Mary J. Blige's last album 'The Breakthrough', the R&B star has revealed that she is currently working on her next LP. Speaking to Hamptons Magazine, Blige explained the upside to taking her time to perfect the album:

"It's like the difference between a rotisserie meal and a microwave dinner. It takes hours to get right, but it's going to be really good and you won't forget it. I'm a nice rotisserie — caramel-colored and well-seasoned."

Labels: Mary J. Blige

The video for T.I.'s latest single, 'You Know What It Is' premiered last night. As with the song, the video just doesn't move me. There isn't anything remotely entertaining about it; it seems to just goes on and on. Wyclef's presence (along with that fake Caribbean accent) is kinda jarring too. This all makes me wonder if T.I.'s latest effort 'T.I. vs T.I.P.' will have been worth the wait. He needs to step up his game, because as of now he isn't delivering. 'T.I. vs T.I.P.' hits stores July 3rd.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: T.I, Wyclef

Kelly Rowland performed a full set at London's G-A-Y venue last week. The R&B star performed a number of her hits including 'Dilemma' and 'Can't Nobody' as well as showcasing newer tracks such as 'Flashback', 'Work' and 'Ghetto'. Seems like she did great. Check out videos of some the performances below {Thanks Andy for the vids}.

Work / Ghetto

Flashback

Bootylicious

Click here to see more videos (including a Destiny's Child Medley)

What did you think of Kelly's performance?

Labels: Kelly Rowland

I'm still kinda baffled by T-Pain's staying power; I never would have imagined that he'd be so successful. After all, he is neither the best vocalist or a lady-magnet. Whatever the reason, people are feeling him and this new single/video 'Bartender' is set to further cement his place as a viable artist. It's more of the same from the 'Buy U A Drank' singer - nothing groundbreaking or too serious. The song is pretty good and the video serves it's purpose. T-Pain's latest album 'Epiphany' is currently #1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: T-Pain

Slated to be the 2nd single from T.I.'s upcoming album - 'T.I. vs T.I.P.'- this new track 'You Know What It Is' sees the self-proclaimed 'King of the South' collaborate with Wyclef Jean. The song itself is decent and T.I.'s flow is on-point as usual. However, the production is kinda lacking and Wyclef ruins the track with an annoyingly fake Caribbean accent. 'T.I. vs T.I.P.' hits stores July 3rd.

Labels: T.I, Wyclef

R&B star Ciara recently shot the video for 'Can't Leave 'Em Alone' - the third single from her current album 'Ciara: The Evolution'. The Darkchild produced track features 50 Cent and the video is expected to premiere in the coming weeks. Check out the pics from the set:

Though 'Can't Leave 'Em Alone' is a good track, I would have preferred she release the previously-confirmed 3rd single 'So Hard' instead. I can see why the label went with 'Can't Leave 'Em Alone' though; the song has laid-back summer vibe to it and releasing it during this period would be logical.

What do you think of the pics / single choice?

Labels: Ciara

In news that many would not have forseen, singer T-Pain's latest album 'Epiphany' has outsold Rihannna's 'Good Girl Gone Bad' to secure the #1 position on the Billboard 200 chart. Though mid-week sales indicated neither artist would be in contention for the top spot (Paul McCartney looked set for the position), T-Pain charted at #1 with 171,000 copies sold and Rihanna at #2 - selling 161,000 copies.

Labels: Rihanna, T-Pain

Ja Rule has been laying low these past few years; with little heard from him since the release of his last album R.U.L.E in 2004. However, the rapper is readying his latest LP 'The Mirror' for a September 25th release. This new track, Body', is slated to be the first single from the CD. Produced by 7 Aurelius (Ashanti's 'Only U') and Irv Gotti, 'Body' is a typical Ja Rule song - he's singing on the hook. I'm really feeling this, though; it has a cool summer vibe to it. Many have written Ja off since his feud with 50 Cent a few years back; with 50's career waning, I'm left wondering:

Labels: Ja Rule

I always felt 'LoveStoned' was one of the better tracks from Justin Timberlake's sophomore effort 'Future Sex/Love Sounds'. However the video is just not cutting it. Sub-par at best, the vid comes across as cheap and rushed. Maybe after the big-budget videos for 'SexyBack' and 'What Goes Around', the label didn't have much (funds) to work with? Whatever the case, this is a disappointment.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Justin Timberlake

Keyshia Cole has set the release date for her upcoming sophomore album 'Just Like Me'. The long-awaited CD will hit stores September 18th. Benny Boom will direct the video for the lead single 'Let It Go' - which features Missy Elliott and Lil' Kim - next week. Cole's last effort 'The Way It Is' spawned hits such as 'I Changed My Mind' and 'Love' and has been certified Platinum.

Labels: Keyshia Cole

After disbanding briefly in 2004, R&B trio Blaque have returned to the music scene. Now signed to Family Over Everything Entertainment/Geffen Records, the ladies are set to release their new album 'Beauty' in September. This new song, 'Blue Jeans', is slated to feature on the set. If this is any indication of the album's direction, then I may pass on it. The uptempo club track sounds too generic and doesn't really go anywhere. I'm hoping the rest of their material is better than this or there may have been no point reuniting.

Labels: Blaque

Singer Kelly Rowland is asking the public to select the follow-up to her current single 'Like This'. In partnership with AOL, Kelly has presented eight tracks as potential singles that can be voted for...

Click here to see the options/vote

Which song did you pick?

Labels: Kelly Rowland

There seems to be no stopping R&B star Rihanna. The singer's mega-hit 'Umbrella' remains on top of the official UK singles chart and her LP 'Good Girl Gone Bad' debuted at #1 on the album chart. This marks the first time the singer has had #1's on either chart.

It seems all that promo has paid off; Rihanna, 19, has been all over Europe in recent weeks. Even if the album isn't selling as well in the US, I have a feeling she'll do very well over here. The new musical direction she has taken on is very much what's 'hot' over here right now. The confirmed 2nd single, 'Shut Up & Drive', should further cement her place as a viable artist here.

Labels: Rihanna

Labels: Diddy, Laurie-Ann Gibson

R&B singer and burgeoning Broadway star, Fantasia performed at the 61st Annual Tony Awards last night. Singing 'I'm Here' from the Tony-nominated Broadway show 'The Color Purple', Fantasia absolutely nailed it. Each time I see her perform the song, she tops the last.

What did you think of the performance?

Labels: Fantasia

The video for Ali & Gipp's new single 'Almost Made Ya' premiered today. I've been liking this Jermaine Dupri-produced song for some time now and it's great that it finally got the video treatment. Though it's pretty standard, the video is decent and LeToya is looking on-point - as usual. Be on the lookout for new albums by both Ali & Gipp as well as LeToya in the months ahead.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Ali and Gipp, LeToya

This new Kanye West track 'Bittersweet' has me anticipating his upcoming 'Graduation' album even more. The melodic mid-tempo is a collaboration between Kanye and Pop Rock artist John Mayer. I'm really liking the laidback vibe the song has to it and having John Mayer on the hook works surprisingly well. It's not the first time Kanye has stepped out of the box with his feature artists - Maroon 5's Adam Levine joined Kanye on their 2005 hit 'Heard Em Say'. 'Bittersweet' is taken from Kanye's third album 'Graduation' which hits stores August 21st.

Labels: Kanye West

The second single from Amerie's latest album has been confirmed as 'Gotta Work'. It's being reported that Scott Franklin, who directed the singer's last video 'Take Control', will also work on this. Amerie, 29, released her third album, 'Because I Love It', in Europe this past May; the album is scheduled for a Stateside release in the summer.

Though 'Gotta Work' is a good track, I would have preferred her label go with one of the album's better cuts such as 'Make Me Believe' or 'Crush'. Either way, I'm hoping the video is better than the extra confusing 'Take Control' vid.

Are you feeling the single choice?

Labels: Amerie

R&B/Soul singer Joss Stone has finally responded to producer Dallas Austin's much publicised claims that she 'F*cked For Tracks'. Speaking to Metro New York, Stone had the following to say:

Labels: Dallas Austin, Joss Stone

Things aren't looking too good for 50 Cent's forthcoming 'Curtis' album. According to reports, execs at the G-Unit leader's record label, Interscope, are unhappy with the lack of public interest in regard to the rapper's latest singles 'Amusement Park' and 'Straight To The Bank'. This, apparently, was a major factor in the decision to push the album back from June to September. 50 is said to be frustrated and is 'attempting to salvage the situation'.

Labels: 50 Cent

This remix to Rihanna's mega-hit 'Umbrella' sees teen R&B star Chris Brown put his own spin on the track. Tweaking the lyrics, Brown replaces 'Umbrella' with 'Cinderella' and gives the song a cool new perspective. Having said that, the production is exactly the same and Chris' vocals are badly edited into the track. Still alright though...

Labels: Chris Brown, Rihanna

Continuing her promo blitz through Europe, R&B star Kelly Rowland performed 'Like This' on Loose Women today. I saw the performance as an improvement over her GMTV performance earlier this week. Her vocals were just as good, if not better, and she moved with a lot more sass. In other Kelly news, her single 'Like This' has moved into the top ten on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart - sitting at #7.

What did you think of Kelly's performance?

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Rihanna seems to be everywhere nowadays promoting her latest effort 'Good Girl Gone Bad'. This time the Def Jam star performed her #1 hit 'Umbrella' on BET's 106 & Park yesterday. As has been the case recently, she performed really well and her new-found confidence as a performer shone through. Considering the news of Rihanna's lower-than expected first week album sales, it'll be interesting to see how she fares with future singles.

What did you think of the performance?

Labels: Rihanna

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Mariah Carey took a break from recording her new album to make an appearance at the Fresh Air Fund's Salute to American Heroes last night in New York City. She looks great; it's the best I've seen her look in a long while. The downtime she's had since her tour wrapped, in October last year, has done her some good.

In other Mariah news, Timbaland collaborator Nate 'Danja' Hills - who co-produced Nelly Furtado's smash 'Promiscuous' - has stated that he is currently recording tracks with the 'We Belong Together' singer. Danja joins a host of hit-makers lined up to produce for the project including Jermaine Dupri, Swizz Beats and Scott Storch.

I'm anxious to hear Mariah's new material; after the success of 'The Emancipation of Mimi' it'll be interesting to see whether she can deliver once again.

Can Mariah top 'The Emancipation of Mimi' album?

Labels: Mariah Carey

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Labels: Kelly Rowland

According to AllHipHop.com, rapper Lil' Kim has (re)signed with Diddy's Bad Boy Records. The pint-sized star made her first appearance as a renewed Bad Boy artist during Diddy's set at Hot 97's Summer Jam event on June 3rd. This may come as a surprise to some, as the relationship between Kim and Diddy was rumored to be far from great.

Labels: Lil Kim

Our friends over at Rap-Up.com have posted what is supposedly the official cover for Eve's upcoming album 'Here I Am'. Can't say I'm liking it too much; she's stepped up her look overall, but that wig is just not cutting it. 'Here I Am', which features her current single 'Tambourine', will hit stores on August 7th.

Labels: Eve

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I'm not entirely sure what 'look' Ne-Yo was going for in this GIANT magazine shoot, but it definitely doesn't work. On first glance, I thought it was a joke, yet the pics are legit. This shoot- especially that first pic (lol)- don't do anything to ease the 'rumors' about him. What was he thinking?

Labels: Ne-Yo

It appears that even after the massive success of 'Umbrella' and a huge promotional campaign, Rihanna's latest LP 'Good Girl Gone Bad' won't be debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200.

Labels: Rihanna

This new Kanye West track is taken from his upcoming album 'Graduation' (due August 21st). It's refreshing to see Kanye switch up his approach; the Hip-Hop/Electro fusion samples House group Daft Punk's 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger'. Though, 'Stronger' doesn't 'wow' me, it's still a solid track - much better than the album's first/buzz single 'Can't Tell me Nothing'.

Labels: Kanye West

R&B songstress Teedra Moses is readying her sophomore album 'The Young Lioness' for an August release. The long-awaited LP sees the critically-acclaimed Moses return to the music scene after what appeared to be a three year hiatus. Speaking to VIBE late last month, Moses said she spent her time out of the limelight writing for other artists including Mary J. Blige and Macy Gray. 'I'm not the kind of person who's just gonna put together an album in two months or two weeks. I like to present myself over a period of time' she added. Though no definite lead single has been chosen, Moses is rooting for a track called 'Love's Gonna Be' - which samples Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrel's 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'.

Labels: Teedra Moses

Labels: R. Kelly, Usher

You can now preview every track from Kelly Rowland's upcoming album 'Ms Kelly' (due July 3rd). After listening to the lengthy clips, I feel Kelly has a genuine shot at solo success. Highlights from the CD at this point include 'Love', 'The Show (ft. Tank)', 'Ghetto' and current single 'Like This'.

What do you think of the tracks?

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Labels: John Legend, Outkast, UGK

Labels: Kelly Rowland

You would think that he would know better than to do something like this, particularly considering the backlash he received from the incident with underage girl. Part of me feels the fan deserved it, but Akon has a responsibilty as an artist.

Labels: Akon

Rihanna is currently dominating the charts and breaking records with her hit 'Umbrella', however it's being reported that Mary J. Blige wanted to record the song first. 19 yr old Rihanna managed to secure the track by convincing the songwriters to give it to her instead. Speaking to UK newspaper Daily Telegraph, the Bajan star said:

Labels: Mary J. Blige, Rihanna

R&B Tamia singer Tamia has finally premiered the video for her latest single 'Me'. It's been some time since her last video 'Can't Get Enough' debuted and a follow-up was long-overdue. The video for 'Me' is great; it plays on the concept of the beautiful ballad- a reaffirming ode to loving yourself. Tamia, who is 6 months pregnant, looks stunning too.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Tamia

I have to admit, I wasn't expecting Rihanna's anticipated performance with Jay-Z to be anything special; however I was pleasantly surprised by how good she did. Everything from her stage presence, to the vocals, to her look were all on-point. I'm still wondering what relevance Jay-Z has on the song, as he added nothing to the performance.

Amy Winehouse - Rehab

UK singing sensation Amy Winehouse also took to the stage to perform her hit 'Rehab'. I liked her performance and felt it improved as it went on. She's definitely had better performances than this, though. At the start she seemed kinda uncomfortable, yet got it together by the middle of the song.

What do you think of their performances?

Labels: Amy Winehouse, Rihanna

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Labels: Beyonce

Bad Boy Records artist Cheri Dennis is finally set release her long-delayed debut album, with the Yung Joc collaboration 'Portrait' as the CD's first official single. Label head Diddy confirmed the news at the 'Bad Boy Upfront' event in New York this week. For those not familar with Cheri, the talented singer/songwriter has been signed to Diddy's label for several years and her project has constantly been pushed back in favour of other artists- including Diddy himself. The hold-ups haven't stopped Cheri from carving out her own way through the industry; she has written tracks for numerous artists including Olivia and Danity Kane. Dennis also sang the theme tune to MTV's 'Making The Band' - 'Oh La La'. The currently untitled album is slated for a summer release and will feature productions from Ryan Leslie, Byan Michael Cox and Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins.

Labels: Cheri Dennis

'Cry' is featured as a bonus track on the Japanese version of Rihanna's upcoming album 'Good Girl Gone Bad'. Though the song wouldn't be out of place on the album's main tracklist, it's understandable why it was left off. The ballad is 'ok' at best and, though lyrically engaging, the song is pretty bland. I've definitely heard better ballads from the Bajan singer before.

Labels: Amy Winehouse, Kelly Rowland, Mutya Buena, R. Kelly, Rihanna

Labels: Fantasia

R&B singer Kelly Rowland continues the promotional rounds for her latest effort 'Ms Kelly', this time dropping by radio station 97.9 The Beat in Dallas, Texas. Rowland was interviewed and performed two of her hits - current single 'Like This' and the 2002 smash 'Dilemma'.

Labels: Kelly Rowland

Having been signed to Island Def Jam by the label's newly appointed President of Urban Music, Jermaine Dupri, Jagged Edge are back. The R&B quartet have enlisted the help of Ashanti on the JD-produced 'Put A Little'; the song will apparently feature on their upcoming new album. I'm liking the track alot; it's reminiscent of their trademark slow jams. Ashanti really comes through on this one and her verse is the highlight of the song.

Labels: Ashanti, Jagged Edge

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I guess it's just the affiliation with him. Being a female and being on his label and having a close business relationship. I guess that sparks the rumors. I'm guessing. Because there's no other way. At first it was funny, like Ah this is so funny! Why would they think this? Really? Ew. Then it was like they're still talking about this? This is getting a little frustrating now. Can they cut this out? Because it got really intense where people just weren't letting up. Then it turned into a "beef" between me and Beyonce. I was like where are these people going with this? This is crazy.

Labels: Rihanna

R&B singer Tamia recently performed a set for MSN Canada at the Orange Lounge in Toronto. The singer, who is six months pregnant, gave near-flawless renditions of some of her hits including 'Officially Missing You' and 'Can't Get Enough'. I have her most recent album 'Between Friends' on constant rotation, so it was great to see some of the tracks performed live. Real R&B at it's best. Check it out...

Labels: Tamia