CINCINNATI LIVE

Dorrough..."Ice Cream Paint"

2009-05-20T10:51:00.001-05:00

Michael Vick Released

2009-05-20T09:58:00.005-05:00

Michael Vick was released from a Federal prison in Kansas City, this morning, after spending the last 19 months in jail for his role in a dogfighting ring.

The former Atlanta Falcon was charged in 2007 with dogfighting conspiracy. Authorities found dogs, some injured and scarred, chained to buried car axles. Forensic experts discovered remains of dogs that had been shot with a .22-caliber pistol, electrocuted, drowned, hanged or slammed to the ground for lacking a desire to fight.

J.D. Gets Large Janet Tattoo

2009-05-20T09:51:00.005-05:00

Jermaine Dupri recently got a large portrait of Janet Jackson tattooed on his right side ribcage. This came as a belated birthday gift to Janet.

Even though these two have not yet tied the knot, Jermaine says that this is his true way of expressing his feelings for Janet.

Trill Entertainment Execs. Arrested

2009-05-20T09:18:00.005-05:00

Bail has been set in the case of two Trill Entertainment music executives accused of attempting to murder Baton Rogue area rapper Beelow.

Melvin Vernell Jr. and Marcus Roach, CEO’s of Trill Entertainment, are accused of the July 4th, 2005 shooting of rapper Bruce "Beelow" Moore in front of the store he owned.

Vernell Jr. and Roach were arrested and held without bond on May 8th, the second time they have been arrested and charged with attempted murder since the shooting.

Yesterday a judge set bail at $350,000 each and issued strict orders for both men to remain under house arrest from 7PM - 7AM.

Both are charged with attempted second degree murder, illegal use of weapons, aggravated battery, armed robbery, aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of an illegal firearm by a convicted felon.

Beelow was shot in the head after a dispute erupted over his allegedly bootlegging music by Trill artists.

Beelow, survived the shooting, returned fire and shortly afterwards, was taken to Earl K. Long Medical Center in a private automobile and treated for his wounds.

Rick Ross..."Cigar Music"

2009-05-19T12:33:00.002-05:00

R.I.P. Dolla

2009-05-19T11:53:00.004-05:00

Atlanta Rapper "Dolla" was killed during a high-profile shooting at the Beverly Center in Beverly Hills, California yesterday.

Dolla, born Roderick Anthony Burton II, was from East Atlanta and Los Angeles. He was signed to Akon’s Konvict Muzik.

Dolla was shot and killed shortly after a fight between a group of individuals broke out.

Witnesses report that a woman was seen firing a handgun. Another source said a male suspect was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport as he attempted to board a flight.

Dolla was also a model for Sean John.

Dolla had gained a buzz from his track "Who The Fuck Is That?" which featured T-Pain and Tay Dizm.

Young Dro & Yung L.A...."Take Off"

2009-05-18T12:44:00.002-05:00

Jimmy Pleads Not Guilty

2009-05-18T12:34:00.000-05:00

Jim Jones has plead not guilty in an assault case involving a 17 year old fan in Panama City, Florida.

Damion Johns is accusing Jones of punching him in the face at a March 13th, MTV Spring Break concert. According to Johns, Jones struck him immediately after ordering him to move out of the way during the show.

Johns stated he hit Jones back, but was then outnumbered when two of Jim Jones bodyguards jumped in. Johns was allegedly slammed to the ground and again punched in the face.

Jim Jones faces one count of misdemeanor battery for the alleged assault.

On June 4, Jones will be in court for another assault charge stemming from his December 2008 brawl with NeYo manager Jayvon Smith at a New York Louis Vuitton store.

Lil Kim..."The Price Of Loyalty"

2009-05-18T12:25:00.004-05:00

Lil Kim will reflect upon her 10 month federal prison stint in her new tell all book titled "The Price of Loyalty."

Lil Kim writes about her experience behind bars at the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia, after she was accused of lying about her former Junior M.A.F.I.A. group member and co-manager's involvement in a 2001 shooting in Manhattan, New York, and was found guilty of perjury. The Brooklyn native was sentenced to a prison term of a year and one day in 2005, but was released in Sept. 2006 after serving only 10 months.

The book, according to Kim, is meant to provide inspiration to others, specifically those who are serving time in prison.

"It's about the things I learned and went through," she says. "You don't think about things until it happens to you. The book is going to give people who have been in those situations a bright outlook on life."

T.I. To Serve His Time In Arkansas

2009-05-18T12:24:00.001-05:00

Details of T.I.'s impending incarceration were released over the weekend.

T.I. will serve his federal prison sentence on weapons charges in Arkansas, and he'll get credit for 305 days of home detention that he already served...which means his actual time behind bars will likely last only two months.

T.I., born Clifford J. Harris Jr., must report to Forrest City's low-security federal prison by noon on May 26th, according to court filings. There, he will join 1,500 other inmates as he serves a year and one day prison sentence after pleading guilty in March to federal weapons charges in Atlanta.

Upon his release, T.I. will be on probation for three years. He must also pay a $100,000 fine as part of his sentence.

A spokesman for the prison, said T.I. likely would be treated like any other prisoner coming into the facility. "Unless there are custody or security concerns, all incoming inmates are placed in general population,".

The spokesman also said each cell at the prison is double bunked. T.I. will also have the opportunity to use the recreation yard, as well as take part in counseling or participate in one of the facility's 14 religious groups.

28 year old T.I. was arrested after trying to buy unregistered machine guns and silencers from undercover federal agents in 2007. That came after his best friend was killed following a post-performance party here in Cincinnati in 2006. The rapper has said the bullets that killed his friend were meant for him.

T.I. had faced a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each charge in his three-count indictment.

Willie D. Arrested In iPhone Scam

2009-05-18T10:10:00.000-05:00

Original Geto Boys member, Willie D (born William James Dennis) was arrested by FBI agents last week at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston and charged with wire fraud in connection with an alleged plot to sell iPhones over the Internet and then never delivering them.

The arrest warrant in the case alleges that Willie D, acting through a shell company called Texas One Wireless, arranged to sell iPhones and other electronics to overseas buyers over the Internet.

Beginning in September 2008, Willie D allegedly used eBay to establish his credibility with international buyers. Once a buyer became interested, D then allegedly moved the transaction outside of eBay to an e-mail account.

Once the buyers had electronically transferred money into his account, the warrant claims, the rapper would send tracking numbers for packages that were never shipped. When the shipments never arrived and the buyers complained about not receiving their purchases, officials allege that Willie D. claimed he filed a complaint with the U.S. Postal Service or the carrier handling the shipment, but that he could not refund their money until he tracked down the goods.

At some point, investigators claim, Willie D. would stop communicating with the buyers, which led one of the disgruntled customers to contact law enforcement authorities. The charge carries a maximum punishment of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Ace Hood..."Straight Outta Broward"

2009-05-14T13:32:00.002-05:00

DMX Released From Prison

2009-05-14T13:21:00.005-05:00

DMX has been released from Tent City Jail in Arizona.

DMX"s publicist Pam Pinnock said that the troubled rapper was freed yesterday and is currently out on bail after serving three months behind bars for drug, theft and animal cruelty charges.

Although he has served his time for his problems before entering the facility, the Yonkers MC is not out of the weeds yet in regards to the charges he picked up once in the system.

Pinnock says DMX is scheduled for a May 19 court date stemming from an assault case on a jail officer, in which "X" has publicly denied the incident.

DMX, who is currently signed to indie label Bulldog Records, is working on a new album with fellow Ruff Ryder Swizz Beatz. His rep tells interested parties that "X" is presently available for guest appearances.

Joc Suing Block Ent. & Bad Boy

2009-05-14T11:33:00.005-05:00

It seems that Yung Joc, who’s raked in millions of dollars for Bad Boy Records and Block Entertainment, has had his share in dealing with shady business practices of the music industry, particularly with Block Ent.

Shady business deals, missing budgets, and now rumors of company financial hardships.

Block Entertainment’s number one artist has been noticeably absent from the roster for at least a year. There have been industry whispers going around that there was inner turmoil inside the record label, particularly between Joc and Block. A couple of weeks ago the newest rumor was that Joc was leaving Block Entertainment all together and had decided to make the full move over to Bad Boy Records, but it looks like Bad Boy records is playing games with Joc too, so now Joc’s taking everybody to court.

Joc alleges that due to contractual situations, unpaid royalties and unpaid advances that he and is legal team is currently in the process of taking legal action against his record label.

The multi-platinum rap star alleges that Block Ent. & Bad Boy Records hasn’t offered any label support since 2007. Yung Joc went on to make shocking claims about the inner dealings of Block Ent.

According to Joc, he’s paid for his own public relations, claims to not be receiving his advance money for his projects, alleges that Block has used advances for other projects, and even makes shocking claims regarding his former management company 9196.

Joc quickly broke down his reasons for splitting with his former mgmt company, which happened to be owned by Big Block, but is fronted by CEO Rico Brooks. Joc breaks down the situation by saying that it was nothing more then a 360 deal , that resulted in Block getting a piece of everything Joc does.

Big Block charged other record companies $25,000. to clear Joc for a record? That explains why we haven’t seen Joc in any video’s recently. Joc shared tails of Block’s ‘Suge Knight" type actions that’s prevented Joc from being cleared to do other music projects, with other artist outside of Bad Boy and Block Ent.

Joc is currently being legally represented by Londell Mcmillian and Nova Perry.

Joc’s currently hard at work on his newest project “Mr Robinson’s Neighborhood”. Joc has re-teamed up with producer Nitti.

Cam'ron..."Cookies-N-Apple Juice"

2009-05-13T13:30:00.003-05:00

Gucci's Off Big Cat...Signs With Warner

2009-05-13T13:02:00.003-05:00

Gucci Mane has confirmed that he has signed a new contract with Warner Bros.

This move ends Gucci’s long-standing professional relationship with Big Cat Records, who yesterday released Murder Was the Case...a collection of Gucci songs recorded years ago, including “Stoopid” and “Runnin-Back Gittin Fat.”

Although Gucci is grateful for the support his previous label provided during his 2005 murder acquittal and 2006 incarceration, Gucci made it clear that he does not endorse the Big Cat project nor considers it an official LP.

"I am no longer signed to, booked by, or working with Big Cat Records or any of its employees in any way,” Gucci Mane said. “The CD that Big Cat is putting out consists of records that were never planned to make my album and is a non-official release. My fans will get the official Gucci Mane album in August on Warner Bros. Records.”

G-Unit Dropped From Interscope

2009-05-13T12:10:00.000-05:00

G-Unit, has been officially dropped from Interscope and Lloyd Banks has commented on the situation.

“I was ready to make a move,” Banks said. “I’m a brand-new engine. If anything, it’s their loss. It’s been a dark shadow cast upon that. That’s why you hear Funk Master Flex on the radio boycotting Interscope, because it’s an aura created around that machine, and the artists automatically get smacked in the head.” “An artist signed to Interscope doesn’t even know what’s going on,” Banks said.“You just turn on the radio, and they’re saying, ‘Fuck Interscope Records,’ and you fall into that batch. So it’s almost a foul taste in the mouth when they deliver the record. I felt it’s time for me to go somewhere where it’s not biased and I get a fair shot. There’s a lot of stuff on the table right now. You don’t wanna speak about it until it gets ironed out all the way.”

Statement Issued In The La La Incident

2009-05-13T12:09:00.001-05:00

“La La Vasquez became distressed during a heated playoff game, after being verbally attacked by some opposing fans, who were using racial slurs, calling her child crude names and throwing ice cubes. She sent her son home early and was preparing to leave herself when she was physically pushed. Although shaken, she left the premises on her own will and is happy to be at home with her fiancée and child.”

“Obviously the play-offs games bring out the best and the worst in fans but what happened on Monday night with the racial slurs/threats, verbal attacks on my son and physical attacks to myself by irate fans was unacceptable,” states La La. “The fans were totally out of control. What the cameras captured was me defending myself and didn’t show the abuse that was taking place.”

Jay & Ciara's Hitting The Road

2009-05-13T12:09:00.000-05:00

Jay-Z has officially announced that he and Ciara will be hitting the road with a full band this Summer. Five dates have already been confirmed by representatives of Jay.

Ciara will open for Jay-Z on select dates on the tour. On a recent post on her Twitter page, Ciara wrote:

“I will say it because the information has been leaked…me and Jay Z will be doing a 10 city tour run together! more details coming soon [sic]!”

Below are 5 confirmed dates and locations so far:

July 3 Las Vegas, NV The Pearl at the Palms Casino Resort

July 4 Las Vegas, NV The Pearl at the Palms Casino Resort

July 7 Chicago, IL Charter One Pavilion at Northerly Island

July 10 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena

July 12 Atlanta, GA Chastain Park Amphitheatre

Lauren London..."Pregnant"

2009-05-13T12:08:00.003-05:00

The Website Necole Bitchie is reporting that Lauren London (New New from ATL) is 5 months pregnant, and that the father is none other than Weezy F. Baby (Lil Wayne). For all of you that has not been keeping up...for several months now, Lil Wayne and Lauren have been seen together everywhere, including courtside at recent playoff games.

Saaphyri Sentenced To 3 Years In Prison

2009-05-13T11:31:00.007-05:00

Saaphyri from Flavor of Love, Charm School, and I Love Money 2, whose real name is Wanda Scott, has been sentenced to three years in prison after failing to show up for a November 2005 sentencing hearing.

It all began in 2004 when she was arrested for stealing her uncle’s identity and using it to rack-up thousands of dollars in debt. Part of the money was used to purchase a breast augmentation.

She plead no contest to the charges and was scheduled to be sentenced in November 2005 but never showed up in court.

Wanda was pulled over in Los Angeles last November for driving with an invalid license. She was sentenced to serve the prison time and also ordered to pay restitution, fines and fees totaling $8,500 or more.

This is why Saaphryi wasn’t seen on the I Love Money 2 reunion!

She would like her fans to write to her.

Saaphyri Wanda Scott X359545
C.I.W. Barnerberg B 1137 Low 16756
Chino Corona Rd. Corona, CA 92880

No Cameras at the Lil Wayne Trial

2009-05-11T20:00:00.005-05:00

An Arizona Superior Court judge ruled that cameras will not be allowed during the weapons trial of Lil Wayne.

Judge Mark Wayne Reeves decreed that the press will be able to attend and report the trial proceedings.

However, Reeves added that Lil Wayne's legal right to a fair trial was paramount, and the decision was made to prevent Wayne’s trial from degrading into a media circus.

Lil Wayne, was arrested last year on January 28, 2008 after Border Patrol officials on Interstate 8 East allegedly discovered an ounce of cocaine, 41 grams of Ecstasy, and close to four ounces of marijuana from the rapper’s tour bus.

Wayne was also originally booked on weapons charges, but was later cleared after the .40 caliber pistol was found to be registered under a Florida concealed weapons permit.

Ricky Rockin "Knock offs"

2009-05-11T19:49:00.005-05:00

Louis Vuitton had to let XXL know that their recent cover star Rick Ross, was wearing counterfeit Louis Vuitton shades.

Louis Vuitton reached out to the magazine, concerning the May 2009 cover saying:

“We were dismayed to see the cover of the May 2009 issue of XXL Magazine, which features a photo of Rick Ross wearing a pair of sunglasses prominently featuring counterfeit Louis Vuitton trademarks. Because the photo has generated considerable confusion among your readers and Louis Vuitton customers among others, we feel it is important to clarify several points. “The first is that the sunglasses Mr. Ross is wearing were not made by Louis Vuitton, and in fact, are counterfeit…”

Damn Ricky!

Rev. Run's Son, Lil JoJo Arrested

2009-05-10T22:22:00.007-05:00

JoJo Simmons was arrested and then released on his own recognizance after being charged with two counts of possession of marijuana and a count of resisting arrest, on Friday.

Police had initially charged him with attempted reckless endangerment, which is a felony, but on Saturday, a Manhattan judge reduced the charges.

Police watched as JoJo sat behind the wheel of his BMW, and started rolling a joint which led to an undercover officer knocking on his window. That's when police say that Jo Jo crashed into two cars while trying to evade them.

Slim & Ron Browz..."Heel's On"

2009-05-08T10:40:00.003-05:00

T.I. Drops Alfamega From Grand Hustle

2009-05-08T10:27:00.006-05:00

T.I. cuts off Alfamega for being a one-time Federal Informant.

" Even though all our artists and employees are asked by us to be honest and open about their past history, at no time did Alfa disclose to me or Grand Hustle what has now appeared in the media. He essentially deceived us by failing to fully disclose the truth about his past and there is no place in our organization for dishonest and misleading behavior. As I have always said, you must take responsibility for your own actions. We at Grand Hustle can not support or condone the blaming of others for our own mistakes. I hope and pray to god bless his financial plans, but I don’t forsee me or my company playing a role in his personal or professional business. End."

For those of you who are not familiar with the situation at hand that lead up to T.I. Cutting Alfamega from the Grand Hustle roster...CLICK HERE to read more.

Gotti Cuts Ties With Ashanti

2009-05-08T10:19:00.003-05:00

Irv Gotti says he and Ashanti, the Princess of the Inc., will soon be parting company. He said they haven’t been on speaking terms for some time, and he says there’s nothing he can do but end their musical and business affiliation.

“The relationship has run its course,” Gotti explained. “The chemistry of what’s needed...we’re in two totally different places. You’re talking to somebody that took her and shaped and molded her and put her out there for the world, and it blew up. We hold the record for the fastest selling debut by a female R&B artist — 503 thousand. We did it! My views and philosophies and her views and philosophies are not meeting up.”

Rick Ross & The Dream..."All I Really Want"

2009-05-06T20:20:00.002-05:00

Trick Has Words For Rick Ross

2009-05-06T19:48:00.005-05:00

It's no secret that there's been tension between Trick Daddy and Rick Ross for months, starting with rumors that Trick leaked the corrections officer photos and info about Rick Ross.

In a recent radio show interview, Trick denied those accusations, and later said that without him there would be no Rick Ross.

"The sad part about this is when the first corrections officer picture came out, about a week later I saw an interview, the interviewer said, 'So Rick Ross, how do you feel about Trick Daddy calling you a prison guard?' Time out," Trick said. "Ain't no way you went for that dumb ass shit right there. The sad part is that that interview is three years old. You do the math?"

"I just don't understand it, I was a big Ross fan and if you check all my interviews, you check the web, radio, I never sneak dissed him",Trick Said. "I always tell people I like Ross as an artist, even when he was Teflon Don. Whatever he wanted to be, I supported him. For him to try and assassinate my character?"

If you've already copped the new album by Rick Ross (Deeper Than Rap) you may have heard his record "Valley of Death," in which Ross says Trick Daddy has AIDS, not Lupus.

"Caught a little case, buddy had a little cheddar," Ross raps on the diss." "Pled out to 15, poured his life in a letter / Very first line he called Trick Daddy stupid / Said he had AIDS, telling people that it's lupus / Not the one just to jump to conclusions / I'm getting money, small talk can be a nuisance."

"I've been arrested and convicted of more crimes than he been pulled over and written a ticket for. When did I have time to be a pussy?" Trick asked. "Why do you gotta use me as an example? I don't give a fuck who told you what. Don't mention my name in your raps. That's disrespectful."

"I'ma real Miami nigga. I was born and raised in Miami. I'm not moving no fuckin' where. I'm not going nowhere. My studio was in Carol City for three years...that whole three years that player hatin' shit was going on," he continued.

Through the shots and all, Trick has taken the high road, but he now says that he's going by a new set of rules...ass whoopings. So, respect him or suffer the consequences.

"The problem is police, snitches, niggas use 911. Your kids use 911 against you," Trick said.

"Like I said, I'd like to apologize for not raising my son properly, but I got new rules. I'm going back to the old ass whooping days. I'm whopping all my kids' asses. Whoever it is, fake ass cartel, whoever you wanna send. I'mma have to start beating my kids' ass for disobeying me. Ass whoopings worked for me back in the days. You gonna have to start respecting me."

Million Dollar Jay Concert A Flop.

2009-05-06T11:43:00.006-05:00

Jay-Z’s superstar presence was not enough to make a recent Arizona Stadium concert a success, as event promoters confirmed the show posted a loss of $917,000.

The "Last Smash Platinum Bash" was organized by the Associated Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA), who paid Jay-Z $750,000 to perform. Arizona Stadium, which is known for football, had not hosted a concert in 32 years.

According to estimates, the student union gave away over 4000 tickets in hopes of securing valuable marketing deals with newspapers and radio stations.

In total, the concert cost $1,420,000, while tickets and merchandise purchases only posted $503,502.

Soulja Boy & OJ Da Juiceman..."Gold Grill"

2009-05-05T13:14:00.001-05:00

Grand Hustle's "Alfamega"...(SNITCH)

2009-05-05T10:38:00.007-05:00

The protégé of T.I., Cedric “Alfamega” Zellars is a convicted felon whose songs boast about his status as an “original gangster” and contain de rigeur references to police tape, automatic weapons, and murder.

Alfamega, an artist with T.I.’s Grand Hustle Entertainment, calls himself “The Grand Hustle Muscle,” and proclaims, “I’m a real hood nigga.” What he does not mention, though, is his prior work as a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) informant who snitched out criminal cohorts and testified as a government witness at the trial of an Atlanta heroin trafficker.

Court records show that Zellars began working with law enforcement officials after he was sentenced in October 1995 to 110 months in a federal gun case (Zellars, who had a prior felony robbery conviction, was collared for selling weapons to an undercover federal agent).

Zellars “agreed to cooperate with authorities and was debriefed” about the criminal activity of several individuals. “In particular he was debriefed concerning the drug trafficking activities of a Mr. Ali Baaqar,” according to a government court filing. During his cooperation against Baaqar, Zellars met with a DEA agent and a federal prosecutor, and subsequently testified at trial. “Ali Baaqar was convicted of conspiracy to distribute heroin based upon the trial testimony of Zellars.”

In return for his snitching, Zellars had 18 months shaved off his prison term when he was resentenced in July 1997 by Judge J. Owen Forrester. A court order signed by Forrester came after federal prosecutors petitioned the jurist to reduce Zellars’s sentence in light of his “substantial assistance to the Government.”

The disclosure of Zellars’s informant past will likely not sit well with rap fans and performers alike, many of whom promote hip-hop’s “Stop Snitching” doctrine. Additionally, since T.I. is soon headed to prison due to the work of a government informant.

Zellars’s time as a government asset could be a cause for tension around the Grand Hustle offices.

Lebron Takes MVP

2009-05-05T10:13:00.005-05:00

It’s official! LeBron James is set to become the league’s most valuable player (MVP).

Lebron will accept the award at a press conference at St. Vincent-St. Mary’s High School, his alma mater, at 4 p.m. on Monday. Lebron becomes the first Cavalier to win the award. At 24, he is the second-youngest player to win the award, behind Wes Unseld, who won it at 23 in 1969.

With all due respect to the likes of Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul, there was no other possible conclusion to the MVP race. Lebron had a sensational season with statistics that could not be ignored. James averaged 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game this season, leading the Cavaliers in all three categories. His per-36 minute averages — 27.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists — were all career bests.

Lebron rightfully earned his position at number one but many can debate the names of Dwayne “Flash” Wade or a Kobe “The Closer” Bryant for that spot. Congrats King James! We’ll see you in the finals…

Apple Bottom...(The Fragrance)

2009-05-05T09:25:00.001-05:00

Nelly is diversifying his business portfolio with a new fragrance and body care line through his brand, Apple Bottoms.

Nelly has teamed with Romane Fragrances to distribute the scent, which is also named Apple Bottoms by Nelly.

Nelly has also launched a line of body care products centered around the Apple Bottom brand, which launched in 2003 and currently includes eyewear, women’s denim, jewelry and handbags.

The Apple Bottom’s by Nelly fragrance is due to hit stores nationally this fall.

50 Cleared In Fire Accusations

2009-05-04T12:07:00.004-05:00

50 Cent has officially been cleared of any wrongdoing in the fire that destroyed the Long Island Mansion that housed his son Marquise and the mother of his child, Shaniqua Tompkins.

thisis50.com, reports that “the police department and insurance investigators ruled that there is absolutely no proof or evidence suggesting that Curtis Jackson or any affiliated parties were involved. Curtis Jackson has just been cleared of all the accusations. The investigation will continue until the guilty party is found.”

The $1.4 million dollar estate was suspiciously set ablaze in May 2008 sending both Tompkins and Marquise to the hospital. While 50 was in the process of trying to get Tompkins evicted from the house prior to the incident, he denied having anything to do with it, instead pointing his finger at his ex. Tompkins did the same, which resulted in both filing restraining orders against one another.

The Return Of Maxwell

2009-05-04T11:35:00.003-05:00

Maxwell is gearing up for the release of his new album, BLACKsummers'night, his first full-length release since 2001.

The first single, “Pretty Wings”, was released last week, while the video premiered on "106 & Park" and on Musze.com, Maxwell's official website.

The new project reunites Maxwell with long-time collaborator Hod David, who serves as co-producer and co-writer of the album. Striving for an emotional authenticity and real world sound for the album, Maxwell and Hod recorded the entire album live in the studio with an A-list ensemble of elegantly sympathetic musicians.

BLACKsummers'night will hit stores July 7th.

Gucci Mane..."I'm Back Bitch"

2009-05-01T15:15:00.002-05:00

Suit Dropped Against Foxy

2009-05-01T15:12:00.001-05:00

Foxy Brown’s BlackBerry assault suit has been thrown out.

Justice Robert Miller of the Brooklyn Supreme Court dismissed the suit, ruling that the rapstress was never actually served with legal papers.

Brown, born Inga Marchand, was sued by her Prospect Heights neighbor Arlene Raymond last year over an incident dating back to July of ‘07 where she allegedly struck the woman with her BlackBerry phone.

Deeper Than Rap...Tia's Diary

2009-05-01T15:02:00.006-05:00

The mother of Rick Ross’s son, Tiallondra "Tia" Kemp, will be releasing her memoirs this month.
Tia’s Diary: Deeper Than Rap, will be available in bookstores across the country on May 20th.

In addition to Tia's story, the book will also include exclusive court transcripts, legal documents and never-before-seen photographs.

“The reason I felt that it would be interesting to write a book is because I have had a very big struggle in my life,” she said. “I grew up without a father, my mom was a single parent and it was very hard for her to raise six kids on her own. Being the oldest, I experienced a lot of things growing up, a lot of challenges in life that I went through. I got married young, I had two kids and after that I ended up getting in a another relationship.”

But fans hoping to read about Ross need not worry as Tia promises a lot of candid information about the Miami rapper. “When I met Ross he wasn’t a celebrity,” she explained. “There are a lot of things that I experienced in my life before I met Ross that was overwhelming or outrageous or just crazy. And there are a lot of things that we went through that I thought would be very interesting for people out in the world to hear.”

www.deeperthanrapbook.com has posted the prologue of Tia’s Diary: Deeper Than Rap and will continue to releases excerpts until the book drops.

Nas & Kelis Divorce...

2009-05-01T14:14:00.002-05:00

The marriage between Nas and Kelis is officially over. Divorce papers were filed on April 30 by attorney Laura Wasser on behalf of Kelis.

The songstress cited verbal abuse and infidelity as the reasons behind the filing. The split concludes the romantic saga between Nas and Kelis that began when the pair first met in 2002 at an TV Video Music Awards afterparty thrown by “Diddy”.

The meeting at the afterparty resulted in a two year dating relationship that set the stage for Nas and Kelis’ marriage. The couple officially tied the knot in a small ceremony in Atlanta on January 8, 2005.

DMX Joins Celebrity Rehab

2009-04-27T10:14:00.004-05:00

Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, follows a group of celebrities as they struggle to move forward from drug and alcohol addictions by entering a treatment program run by addiction medicine specialist Dr. Drew Pinsky.

Well DMX has signed up and is checking himself into Dr. Drew's Celebrity Rehab. The show is reportedly set for this fall.

Gotti & Diddy Returns To Vh1

2009-04-24T10:42:00.004-05:00

VH1 has ordered new seasons of a number of its reality TV programming, including a second run of episodes for both I Want To Work For Diddy and Gotti’s Way 2.

Irv Gotti’s show, which chronicles his struggles to keep record company Murder Inc. afloat and his problematic relationship with estranged wife Deb, will be the first to air, returning on May 4 at 10:30pm ET/PT.

Diddy’s search for a new assistant willing to meet his rigorous demands will return in the summer or fall. Last season saw Suzanne Siegel and Mic Barber both hired as winner and runner-up, respectively. Contestants can currently apply for a spot on the show at www.workfordiddy.com

Buffie Tells It All

2009-04-24T01:00:00.003-05:00

Buffie “The Body” is prepping the release of her tell-all, Vixen Icon.

Linking up with Urban Literature company Triple Crown Publications, Buffie will reveal her journey from an unknown woman from Athens, Georgia to one of the most popular models in the industry. The book will also include exclusive pictures of Buffie.

Buffie first hit the scene appearing in Tony Yayo’s “So Seductive” video four years ago. Since then she has appeared in a ton of magazines, including KING and XXL, who named her 2005’s Eye Candy of the Year.

Vixen Icon is scheduled to come out on June 1.

Not Lookin Good For Weezy...

2009-04-24T00:33:00.004-05:00

In a New York court room, Judge Solomon decided to reopen the hearing on whether or not to include the .40 caliber handgun in the case upon prosecutor Joan Illuzi-Orbon’s request. In light of learning of an undisclosed conversation between the arresting officer and Lil Wayne, the prosecutor asked the judge to re-evaluate.

Officer Illuzi-Orbon busted Lil Wayne after she boarded his tour bus allegedly smelling marijuana. She claims to have witnessed Wayne trying to hide a gun as she approached him in the vehicle.

Wayne’s lawyer Stacey Richman believes the officer falsely claimed that she smelled smoke in order to illegally get into the vehicle. Lil Wayne had just finished a performance at the Beacon Theatre.

Wayne, who pled not guilty and is free on $70,000 bail, is scheduled to return to court on May 20.

T.I. & Tiny To Marry

2009-04-24T00:25:00.003-05:00

Tiny and TI are planning to marry before T.I. goes to Jail on May 19th and The bachelor party will take place in Miami at the infamous King of Diamonds strip club .

It's August For The Kid

2009-04-24T00:18:00.005-05:00

Kid Cudi’s debut album Man on the Moon: The Guardians would land on Universal Motown, and we now have an official launch date.

The Cleveland MC will release his first project on August 25. He has been in the studio with Travis Barker, Ryan Leslie, Will.i.am, Swizz Beatz, and Just Blaze.

Kanye West’s protégé has a busy summer ahead. In addition to completing his album, Cudi has been included in the lineup at the 2009 Lollapalooza Festival being held Aug. 7-9 at Chicago’s Grant Park. He is also acting in a Mark Wahlberg-produced show for HBO called “How to Make It in America.”

Deeper Than Rap Tops Chart

2009-04-23T11:56:00.004-05:00

Rick Ross' third album Deeper Than Rap, will top the Billboard Top 200 Album chart next week.

Deeper Than Rap is on pace to move over 150,000 copies during its first week in stores.

Ross' fan base remained solid throughout his beef with 50 Cent.

Deeper Than Raps first week sales will rival his past two releases, Port of Miami (187,000) and Trilla (198,000).

Earlier this month, Ross announced that the label he owns, Maybach Music, inked a distribution deal with Def Jam.

The first project to be released will be from Ross' clique, Triple C's, which features rappers Gunplay, Torch and Young'n Breed.

Tyrese Wins In Court

2009-04-23T11:26:00.005-05:00

Tyrese was hauled back into court by his estranged wife. Her name is Norma Mitchell, and on January 29th in Los Angeles, she filed court papers that put a new wrinkle in their on-going divorce proceedings.

The couple have a young daughter together and Mitchell was seeking modification of their custody arrangment , as well as a change in child & spousal support, as well as attorney fees.

According to the court documents, Mitchell claims Gibson was an absentee-father who didn’t support her or their daughter.The couple filed for divorce last October after 10 months of marriage.

Well here is the outcome of the proceedings...

His estranged Wife Norma doesn't get a piece of any of Tyrese's possessions -- not his production company, not his cars, not his house ... nothing.

The prenup does state that Norma would get a lump sum of $50,000 for every year that they were married -- maxed out at 10 years.

They was only married 10 months.

The prenup even says that if either side files for separation or divorce, Norma has to move out of the house within 60 days -- or else Tyrese can get a court order to make her move out. Wow.

Lil Boosie Arrested...(Again)

2009-04-23T02:41:00.004-05:00

Lil Boosie was arrested again, this time for an assault that took place at his house last week.

Louisiana Sheriff officers arrested Lil Boosie yesterday and charged him with 2nd degree battery.

Police say an unidentified man was assaulted during the confrontation, after Lil Boosie accused him of stealing a necklace.

Police say the man was struck with a vase.

Less than 6 months ago, East Baton Rouge police arrested Lil Boosie for marijuana possession, possession of a firearm and resisting arrest.

Lil Boosie and his partner Lil Webbie are also the subjects of several multi-million dollar lawsuits, which allege the entertainers took tens of thousands of dollars for performances, but never showed up.

Jody Breeze..."Too Much"

2009-04-22T10:38:00.002-05:00

Wayne Loses In Court

2009-04-22T10:11:00.005-05:00

A state court has refused to block the upcoming release of a new controversial documentary on Lil Wayne named The Carter.

The film is being released by QD3 Entertainment, a company owned by producer Quincy Jones III, which has also released Hip-Hop themed titles like Thug Angel, The Freshest Kids, the Beef series and others.

Lil Wayne filed a lawsuit against QD3 Entertainment, claiming the company reneged on a deal that would have allowed him to have approval over the films final cut.

The rapper reportedly took issue with certain scenes displaying his drug use in the documentary, which follows him all over the country and to Amsterdam.

According to the lawsuit, Lil Wayne’s manager reviewed The Carter in December and requested that the scenes in question be removed.

A second cut also failed to live to his manager’s expectations in January and the scenes in question were still in the film when it premiered during the Sundance Film Festival a few weeks later, prompting the lawsuit.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Mink denied a request for a preliminary injunction, paving for the way for QD3 to seed distribution for the project.

Jones' Trial Pushed Back

2009-04-22T09:41:00.008-05:00

Jim Jones made a scheduled court appearance yesterday in his misdemeanor assault case involving Ne-Yo’s manager, Javon Smith, with Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Felicia Mennin adjourning the case until June 4th.

The move comes after Jones refused a plea deal during his last appearance on March 24th, the same day his album, "Pray IV Reign", hit stores.

Jones’ lawyer Scott Leemon was dismissive over the possibility of a bargain being reached, saying, “I always listen but at this point we’re preparing for trial.”

Leemon also reiterated his doubts over the legitimacy of the accusations made by Javon Smith, the victim in the case. “There were no injuries here and this is all revolving around an alleged civil suit that was filed,” said Leemon.

“From what I understand from media reports, the plaintiff is seeking somewhere in the vicinity of millions and millions of dollars. So, I think that criminal action is brought to set up the civil suit.”

The case stems from an alleged altercation last December between Jones and Smith, in the 5th Avenue Louis Vuitton store. Smith is suing Jones for $7 million due to the pain he claims to have suffered from the incident.

Jennifer Hudson...Pregnant?

2009-04-22T09:16:00.003-05:00

Jennifer Hudson is pregnant. While her manager and publicist deny the rumors, two sources very close to Jennifer confirmed that she is indeed expecting. This would be the first child for Hudson.

Hudson, who is currently on tour with Robin Thicke, is engaged to David Otunga, a Harvard Law graduate and former contestant on “I Love New York 2.” The couple plans to marry sometime soon, but hasn’t confirmed a wedding date.

Keyshia's A Different Me Tour

2009-04-21T19:37:00.005-05:00

Keyshia Cole has annouced the dates for her "A Different Me Tour", in which she wil be joined by The Dream, Keri Hilson and BobbyValentino.

The tour kicks off here in Cincinnati, May 13th.

Here are the dates and locations for A Different Me Tour:

May 2009:

13 - Cincinnati, OH - Aronoff Center

14 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theatre

15 - Chicago, IL - Chicago Theatre

21 - Atlanta, GA - Fox Theatre

28 - Washington, DC - Constitution Hall

30 - Portsmouth, VA - Ntelos Pavilion at Harbor Center

31 - Columbia, SC - Township Auditorium

June 2009:

5 - Mashantucket, CT - Foxwoods Casino

6 - Baltimore, MD - Pier Six Concert Pavilion

7 - Richmond, VA - Landmark Theatre

11 - St Louis, MO - Fox Theater

12 - Memphis, TN - DeSoto Center

13 - Grand Prairie, TX - Nokia Live at Grand Prairie

14 - Houston, TX - Reliant Arena

18 - Oakland, CA - Paramount Theatre

20 - Los Angeles, CA - Nokia Theatre LA Live

21 - Las Vegas, NV - The Pearl Concert Theater at The Palms Casino Resort.

Hot Boys Reunion A Go

2009-04-21T18:26:00.005-05:00

Talk of a Hot Boys reunion began in 2007, but it never jumped off. With Wayne blowing up in the mainstream, it looked as though, a reunion project was far from happening.

However, news has surfaced, and it looks like the reunion is back on again. In an interview with Vibe.com, Juve says the Hot Boys are a go.

"I already signed the deal," Juvenile said. "So for me, I'm gonna definitely say it's a go. I already received my check. Wayne is going to put that out, so for me and Wayne, it's a go. I don't know if the business been straightened out, but I know B.G.'s on board and he's willing to do it. I don't know where Turk stands on the business side."

Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and B.G. were scheduled to perform together for the first time in years during All-Star Weekend in New Orleans last February. But, the show was canceled when shots rang out outside the club before they even made it to the there.
So, the concert was shut down.

"It was going to be a big, historic moment," B.G. said shortly after the incident. "I was just saying that everybody was cool during the All-Star Weekend, then they start shooting. Why'd they have to shoot up on our night? Guess that's Chopper City for ya."

Soulja Boy..."Gucci Bandana"

2009-04-20T12:03:00.005-05:00

Chingy Like It Right Thurr? "WOW""

2009-04-20T11:48:00.009-05:00

Y’all gotta hear this shit. A Transvestite named "Foxx Jazell" called into a radio show and made some EXPLOSIVE claims about Chingy. Claiming that he/she slept with Chingy. Click here, or on the Photo of Chingy above to watch and listen.

T.I. Won't Tweet On Twitter

2009-04-20T11:02:00.002-05:00

Rick Ross going in on Eminem

2009-04-20T10:50:00.005-05:00

Rick Ross has sidetracked his beef with 50 Cent, bringing up 50's boss Eminem. Ross said that 50 isn’t a worthy competitor anymore.

“50 you bore me, I might need to get at Eminem now,” Rick said. “Eminem, I’m a big fan of yours but your monkey, you’re pet monkey is boring me.”

“If I want any competition I’m gonna have to take this to Eminem’s front door,” Ross added.

Ross even offered an invitation for Eminem to join him on a track.

“Shout out to Aftermath,” Rick said. “Shady what’s up. Eminem you need to get on this ‘Magnificent’ remix. You feel me. I’ma help everybody out.”

When asked if he thinks the feud with 50 helped his career, Rick Ross instead declared himself the undisputed victor.

“Everybody gotta accept this,” he said, “Rick Ross went to war with the monkey and beat him.”

Yo Gotti..."Sold Out"

2009-04-17T11:26:00.003-05:00

IRS...On Xzibit's Heels

2009-04-17T11:24:00.000-05:00

Xzibit was summoned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for being delinquent on his taxes.

According to reports...Xzibit ( born Alvin Joiner), owes the IRS $501,840 in federal taxes.

The debt resulted from a $296,355 lien filed by the IRS in Los Angeles County on April 17, 2008.

That action was followed by a $205,485 lien the IRS filed in the Los Angeles County Recorder of Deeds office on February. 4, 2009

Xzibit is the latest celebrity to come under fire for failing to pay taxes.

Last Month the New York Department of Taxation repossessed Method Man's 2008 Lincoln Navigator.

The seizure took place at Method's Staten Island home, after Method Man failed to pay $52,503 in personal income taxes.

Mike Jacked For His Jewels

2009-04-16T19:14:00.005-05:00

It's very easy to notice Mike Jone's big weight lost...100 lbs to be exact, but one thing you may or may not have noticed about Mike is that his huge, diamond encrusted chain and Ice Age pendant is missing from around his neck. The reason why is because it was stolen.

Mike revealed that his missing chain wasn't the result of someone snatching it, or robbing him while in the streets, but it was stolen right from under his nose, while in his own home, while he was asleep.

"I was asleep in my house one day, I woke up, and my homies stole it from me,"

"They stole my chain, bracelet, and my watch, but I still got my ring though. I'm good. All that shit was insured, so all that's coming back."

Mike explained that his close friends...ones he grew up with...waited until he fell asleep and made off with his jewelry.

"It was homies that I grew up with , like partners I grew up with," Mike said.

"It wasn't like someone ran up on me and said 'Give it here.' I was asleep in my house, and I wake up and its gone...inside my house.

"I stay in a penthouse, you just can't come in there like that. I got security at the bottom. You ain't just able to walk in and just come up to my floor. There's people who have access to be up in my room. I guess they waited until I fell asleep, when I woke up, it was gone".

"That was a learning lesson to me. That's material stuff. I ain't tripping on that 'cause I'm gonna re-get it. Point of it is, they just sold they souls and they showed they true colors. Now that I'm back on top, a lot of people trying to come back to Mike Jones, but I tell em: 'Back then you didn't want me, now I'm hot you all on me.'"

These types of situations are some of the topics covered on his comeback album, The Voice, where he says he'll address everything ... and leave nothing out.

"I wanted to really just let my true fans know where I been and why I was took away from the game, and why this happened and why that happened. And, put a little light on this and that and this issue. I call it The Voice, so ya'll gonna hear me April 28".

"I'mma answer all questions, and still give ya'll the hits that ya'll want. I'mma let ya'll know, very clearly what happened with me, what's going on, what's the delay, and why I went through a four year hiatus. I'mma tell you everything. ... When I drop this album, I'm gonna put my right hand up and tell you the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

The Voice hits stores April 28.

Lil Boosie Wipes out Wal-Mart

2009-04-16T10:36:00.005-05:00

Check out Lil Boosie as he buys ALL the bikes Wal-Mart had in stock to give to the kids who attended his annual “Lil Ivy’s Easter Bash.” Lil Boosie stay giving back to the hood.

Boosie had to go to several different Wal-Marts, purchasing 2000 bikes, totally some $38,000. Now that's giving back to the hood for real.

Mike Jones..."Swagger Right"

2009-04-15T13:19:00.001-05:00

Scott Storch...Arrested

2009-04-15T13:15:00.000-05:00

Producer Scott Storch was arrested in Miami on Friday and charged with, grand theft auto. Scott posted an undisclosed amount for his bond soon after.

According to the authorities, Storch had begun leasing a 2004 Bentley GT in February 2006, with a return date of March 2008. The owners of the vehicle, Atlas Leasing Company, are alleging that Scott failed to comply with the terms of their leasing agreement.

Atlas Leasing also claims the producer's negligence has cost the company $65,000 in revenue that could have been accruing from other clients for the Bentley. Scott has had a slew of legal and financial troubles in the past year or so.

In June 2008, he failed to show for a child-support hearing where he was accused of being behind on his payments. Scott was also way behind on paying his property taxes, owing the government $500,000 which resulted in having his $10 million Miami mansion foreclosed on.

At one time, Scott was one of the most in-demand producers in the music business, producing such hits as "Candy Shop" for 50 Cent, "Lean Back" for Fat Joe and "Baby Boy" for Beyoncé.

Em Speaks On T.I. and Lil Wayne

2009-04-15T13:12:00.001-05:00

Although Lil Wayne dissed him in the past, saying he was scared to collaborate with him, Eminem thinks Weezy's latest album Tha Carter III helped make hip-hop "look a lot better" right now.

In Em's cover story with XXL, Em revealed that while his last solo album came in 2004 with Encore, he felt as though hip-hop was on a downhill slope. But, with new albums from T.I. and Lil Wayne, it's helped the genre stay afloat.

"I stayed up on the music, and obviously I watch TV and saw what was going on. And without naming any names, it just felt like hip-hop was going downhill," said Em. "It seemed like kinda fast. You know, in them three years, it was like everybody just cares about the hook and the beat; nobody really cares about substance. But with this new T.I. album, with this new Lil Wayne album of recent, it seems like things are looking a lot better now."

"You can appreciate Lil Wayne using different words to rhyme and actually rhyming words that you know. Or T.I., where you hear shit and you're like 'Whoa, ah, I wish I would have thought of that!' You know what I mean? Or you hear all the compound-syllable rhyming and all that. It just seems like now the craft is getting cared about more," Em continued.

Eminem, who is currently gearing up for the release of his highly-anticipated Relapse, album also touches on some of the things he was dealing with while away, which included drug addiction, and coping with the loss of his best friend and D12 brother Proof.

According to Em, he took Proof's death so hard, he fell into a self-loathing, drug-laced depression, and finally, he's just now starting to get over it.

"Everyone felt his loss, from his kids, to his wife, to everyone. But, for some reason, in hindsight, the way I felt was almost like it happened to just me," Em admits.

"Maybe at the time I was a little bit selfish with it. I think it kind of hit me so hard. It just blindsided me. I just went into such a dark place that, with everything, the drugs, my thoughts, everything."

"The more drugs I consumed, and it was all depressants I was taking, the more depressed I became, the more self-loathing I became... By the way, I'm just now at the point where I'm better talking about it. It took me so long to get out of that place where I couldn't even speak about it without crying or wanting to cry. Proof was the anchor. He was everything to D12. And not just the group -- for me, personally, he was everything," Eminem continued.

Em's XXL cover hits newsstands May 5, two weeks before his fifth solo album, Relapse, hits stores May 19.

The issue also will be a special collector's edition, showcasing the rapper as Marvel Comics' notorious vigilante The Punisher. It includes an exclusive collaboration between XXL, Em's Shady Records and Marvel Comics: a special edition Punisher comic book entitled Eminem/Punisher: Kill You, starring the rapper and created by Marvel Comics.

Young Buck...On His Buck Shit

2009-04-15T13:10:00.005-05:00

Young Back is back…on his Buck shit, that is. The Nashville MC recently announced the release of his new mixtape - with that appropriate title - in a short web video.

“Streets wanna know whats going on with Buck and where I been at and all that good shit, look around you can see for yourself,” he said.

“The streets done waited long enough, so get ready man, mixtape is on the way, DJ Scream, DJ Smallz, Young Buck, Back On My Buck Shit.”

“I’m good people, I’m doing what you should be doing and that’s surviving.” Only to add, “At this point I feel like I’m more focused than I’ve ever been in my career.”

As of press time it is uncertain when the mixape will hit the streets.

Kiss Puts Up Big Numbers

2009-04-15T12:16:00.004-05:00

Jadakiss has did it. The Yonkers rapper has blew beyond expectations on his first week on the Billboard 200 sales chart with his Def Jam debut, The Last Kiss.

This is Jada's first solo album since 2004’s Kiss Of Death, reached the no. 3 position behind country acts Miley Cyrus and the Rascal Flats. Breezing past the 100,000 mark, Jada officially pushed 134,520 copies of his CD the first week, according to Nielsen’s SoundScan.

Boasting features from The Lox, Mary J. Blige, Ne-Yo, Nas, Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Raekwon and Ghostface.

The next hip-hop release is Flo Rida all the way down at the no. 17 spot. R.O.O.T.S, the muscle-bound rapper’s sophomore release fell nine places down this week, scooping up 31,740 sales numbers. In his second week, Rida has sold a total of 87,100 copies.
UGK, who led the pack last week, dropped from no. 6 to no. 20 this week. The group’s final LP, UGK 4 Life, pushed an additional 26,300 discs this week, making its two-week tally 102,900.

Def Jam crooner The-Dream slipped seven spots to no. 25 this sales cycle. The singer’s latest CD, Love Vs Money, bagged up 23,750 more discs this week, making his his total stand at 295,240.

At no. 30 is T.I. who continues to keep registers ringing, selling 19,490 copies of Paper Trail this week. After about seven months the disc has an overall sales number of 1,877,550.

Sliding all the way to no. 48 is Bow Wow’s New Jack City Part II. After debuting at no. 16 last week, the young MC managed to score 12,940 more albums sold this week, making his second week total 43,890.

In his first week, New York rapper Mims, landed at the no. 53 spot. The “This Is Why I’m Hot” MC sold 12,400 copies of his sophomore disc Guilt.

T.I.'s Bodyguard Sentenced

2009-04-15T12:05:00.000-05:00

Corey Williams, former bodyguard to Hip-Hop star T.I., has been sentenced to one year and a day in federal prison for his role in last year’s machine gun/silencer scandal.

According to the Smoking Gun, Williams entered into a plea deal for his role in purchasing illegal firearms for T.I., real name Clifford Harris.

In court records, Williams revealed that he started working for T.I. in July 2007.

Soon after, Williams’ previously clean record allowed him to purchase weapons for T.I., who is barred from obtaining any due to his previous criminal convictions.

The arrangement was discovered by ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms) authorities when Williams attempted to purchase a machine gun without registering the weapon, which is required by federal law.

Upon his arrest, Williams agreed to wear a wire during face-to-face meetings with T.I., which led to the rapper’s arrest on felony weapons charges.

Although no charges were filed, Williams also implicated T.I. protégé Alfamega in the conspiracy.

T.I. faced up to 10 years in prison for the charges, but was able to secure a unique deal that allowed him to perform 1000 hours of community service to at-risk youth.

In the past year, T.I. successfully completed the requirement by speaking at over 70 schools and community centers, and filming the MTV reality series Road to Redemption.

T.I. received the same one year sentence as his former bodyguard under his plea deal, and will start serving his sentence sometime next month.

Pending good behavior, the Atlanta native can be eligible for release within 10 months.

Corey Williams has already started his jail term.

Wayne Dodgin Lawsuit

2009-04-15T11:54:00.003-05:00

A man is accusing Lil Wayne of trying to dodge a lawsuit filed against him for copyright infringement over his track "Mrs. Officer."

Producer Michael 'Mali Boy' Bradford alleges the song bears strong similarities to a tune called "Crush," which he composed for a little-known artist named Sky. Bradford claims the track somehow ended up in the hands of beatmaker Deezel, who turned it into "Mrs. Officer" for the rap star's Grammy-winning 2008 album, "Tha Carter III."

Bradford filed suit in January in a Georgia court - but his lawyers have been unable to serve the star's attorney with the court summons, and is accusing them of deliberately keeping a low profile to avoid the case.

A statement released by Bradford's representative says, "It (the case) is currently awaiting a responsive answer from the defendants. According to the plaintiff Michael Bradford, Lil Wayne's attorney, Mr. Sweeney has attempted to evade the summons in order to answer the complaint. Deezel has filed for two thirty (30) day extensions to file an answer, the other defendants in the case were given a sixty (60) day waiver of summons."

However, Bradford has had some success in his bid to win a share of the royalties from the song - executives at Wayne's label, Cash Money Records, have agreed to temporarily halt payments from "Mrs. Officer."

The statement continues: "Cash Money Records has agreed to put a freeze on mechanical royalties payments for all retail, digital downloads and ringtone product sales until the civil matter involving 'Mrs. Officer' is resolved."

Mike Epps..."Trying To Be A Gangsta"

2009-04-15T11:50:00.001-05:00

Kanye's Case Delayed

2009-04-15T11:45:00.005-05:00

Kanye West's arraignment on misdemeanor assault charges has been delayed, giving Kanye and his lawyers another month to prepare.

According to the Associated Press, a Los Angeles judge granted a delay in Kanye's case, giving him until May 20 to enter a plea.

He was scheduled to be arraigned on 3 misdemeanor chrges filed as result of a scuffle with a paparazzo at LAX in September 2008, which was caught on tape by TMZ.

In TMZ's clip, Kanye's road manager Don C. was seen grabbing the camera of a TMZ photographer and throwing it, while Kanye himself snatched the flash attachment and smashed it on the floor.

Kanye was charged with misdemeanor counts of vandalism, battery and grand theft, while Don C. (real name: Don Crowley) was hit with two counts of vandalism, two counts of grand theft and two counts of battery. If convicted on all counts, Kanye could face up to two years and six months in jail, while Crowley could face up to five years in jail.

Both Kanye and Don C. are free on bond, pending their next court date.

Kanye's attorney, Blair Berk, told a court commissioner that Monday (April 13) was the first time she had been allowed to review the police report and she is waiting for prosecutors to turn over any additional evidence they have.

T.I. Working On New Album

2009-04-14T14:49:00.003-05:00

T.I. is expected to turn himself into authorities to serve a one year bid behind bars for federal gun charges, he has already started work on a new record.

Following up the platinum-plus Paper Trail, Tip’s next disc is tentatively scheduled to hit shelves in 2010. According to MTV News the ATLien has already recorded 20 tracks in preparation for his new project. While he picked up the pen for Paper Trail, Tip says he’s recording some tracks straight from his memory.

“I’m doing it half and half,” he told MTV of his writing process. “It depends on the type of record I’m doing. I have records now I did and I just went and did it like I used to, and I got some where I wrote it down. I’m not committing myself to one way or another. It’d have to be an infusion, just depending on what sort of album I want to make.”

“Recording is never a problem for me,” he added. “I’m able to record any time. Through the best of times and through the worst of times, I’m still able to record. It may change the sort of song you do, but you never can tell. You never know until that moment gets there.”

In addition to his upcoming solo set, the Grand Hustle leader will also be re-releasing Paper Trail with five new songs, as well as other extra content. As of press time it is uncertain when either album will drop.

Chris Moves On...

2009-04-14T14:42:00.002-05:00

Chris Brown is rumored to have moved on already ... and is dating a new woman.

According to the blogosphere, the woman he's rebounded to is a woman named Erica Jackson, who grew up with Chris in Virginia and are said to have dated for a brief period of time.
The couple are said to have hooked up recently, when he was back in Virginia, laying low, while awaited his court date in the Rihanna assault case.

"[Chris and Erica] met in Virginia, where he's from,” a friend of Brown said. "They dated back in the day and reconnected a few weeks ago when Chris was in town. They've been spending a lot of time together, but things only really heated up over the last two weeks."

The couple was reportedly spotted at a tattoo shop in Los Angeles.
Despite the rumor mill gossip, Brown's camp has jumped in to deny the speculation, insisting he's not dating Erica and wasn't seen with her the past few weeks.

"Chris did go to a tattoo parlor with someone from the studio named Dean. There was a woman there who was a friend of Dean. There is no truth to this at all. Chris does not know the woman nor does he know the name of the woman," said his rep.

Bow Wow talking retirement

2009-04-14T14:30:00.003-05:00

Bow Wow is ready to hang up his mic. He recently revealed that his latest album, New Jack City II would be his last, as he focuses in other areas of the entertainment business.

Bow Wow explained that with so much accomplished throughout his decade-plus year career in music, he's ready to try new things.

"This my last album because for me, there's no more that needs to be done on the music side. I've done everything," the rapper said. "I've done everything from ... the scary thing is that I'm 22 years old. I'm young, I'm still a baby. On the music side, I've been doing this since five, 17 years of just non-stop music.

"There's nothing more that I wanna accomplish that I haven't seen yet. It's very repetitive. I've done seven arena tours, sold out tours. I've been to Europe, I've been everywhere. I've rocked every arena, every theater, every skating rink, everything. I visited every radio station, shook every hand, every autograph. It's kinda like, for me, I just feel like now, it's time for me to endure a new challenge. I feel like now it's time for me to go do something else," Bow continued.

That something else is acting. Although he's already done films in the past (in 2002 he starred in the film "Like Mike," and has smaller roles in numerous other films), Bow Wow is ready to focus solely on Hollywood, and he says, so far, so good.

"The acting career is taking off," the young rapper explains. "The new movie I have is called 'Hurricane Seasons', starring myself and Forrest Whittaker. Aside from that, I'm back on 'Entourage.' ... The acting side of things is crazy. ... I'm so excited about focusing on that aspect of my career. I'm blessed that music has opened up all these different avenues, so I can choose."
In addition to movies, he also wants to become a successful business man. He's currently preparing for the release of his own clothing line called B-Fly, which is being designed and created through Travis Barker's Famous Stars & Straps label.

With all these different things going on, Bow Wow did admit that music will always be in his heart. He says he'll continue to create new music, but as far as albums, it's a wrap.

"I'm gonna still make music. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't gonna make music. It's like a hobby. The studio and music for me is no different than Xbox," he says. "... Even if I wanna just go in there and just sit, it's just in me. I don't think I'll ever stop doing that. I'll never stop making music, but as far as albums, I'm cool. I'm good. Seven albums at 22 years old? That's crazy."

In 2000, Bow Wow released his first studio album, Beware of Dog, which peaked at no. 8 on the Billboard 200, but went on to be certified triple platinum worldwide. Over this seven album discography, he's got three platinum albums, and three gold.

His latest, New Jack City II, debuted at no. 15 last week, selling just 30,000 copies to start.

2009-04-14T13:59:00.003-05:00

What's good people...what it do? Cincinnati Live is back like Hov. It's been over a year since my last post, due to a quick penitentiary sentence your Editor-In-Chief had to serve, but ya boy is back. For those of you who is new to the site...let me let you in on what "Cincinnati Live" is about. I am Wild Bill...Editor-In-Chief of "Cincinnati Live". Cincinnati Live is where you can find the most accurate and hottest entertainment news, gossip, and exclusive music videos and downloads, you won't find anywhere else. "Cincinnati Live" is updated 7 days a week with the rawest, realest, juiciest inside scoops and news throughout the entertainment world from New York, thru Cincinnati, across the ATL, and all the way down to Miami. There's no holds barred...if it's news, I'm going to bring it to you raw. If for any reason you would like to get in touch with me...CLICK HERE to email me. If you have news I can use...get at me, or if you would like to advertise on "Cincinnati Live"...get at me. "Cincinnati Live" is a great place to advertise...I receive thousands of views every single day (7 days a week). "Cincinnati Live" is where all the women go to get there beauty salon gossip..."Cincinnati Live" is where everyone goes to catch up on their latest Hip Hop/R&B and entertainment news and to hear, and download exclusive songs and videos you can't find nowhere else but "Cincinnati Live". So enough of the small talk people..let's get it back poppin "chop chop".

2009-04-14T13:08:00.004-05:00

All post below this post are at least a year and a half old...newer and most recent post are above.

T.I. wants to host Thanksgiving dinner

2007-11-07T14:27:00.000-05:00

Lawyers for T.I. filed two motions yesterday asking a judge to allow him to have visitors at his house on Thanksgiving day.

T.I. is under 24-hour house arrest while he awaits trial on allegations that he attempted to illegally purchase three machine guns and two silencers and possessing a cache of weapons in his Atlanta mansion.

The motion filed on yesterday requests that the three-visitor rule imposed by his $3 million bond be temporarily waived from 9:00am until 6:30 pm on Thanksgiving day.

T.I. also submitted a list of proposed visitors for the judge to approve, who must all undergo criminal background checks, as does any other visitor.

T.I. is also forbidden from consuming alcohol even if the motion is granted. He must also pay for additional security guards to police the Thanksgiving Day celebration.

T.I. also filed a motion with the judge so he can hire workers to clean his yard, pool and house.

Jay takes on Elvis

2007-11-07T14:18:00.000-05:00

Jay-Z will tie Elvis for the most number one albums in history, a feat that depends on the success of his American Gangster album.

Jay-Z landed his ninth number one album last year with Kingdom Come, which sold about 680,000 in its first week.

The Kingdom Come album put Jay-Z in a tie with The Rolling Stones, who have landed nine number one albums throughout their 40-year career.

If Jay-Z's American Gangster sells well, only The Beatles would have offered the music world more number one albums.

Beanie Sigel - All of the Above

2007-11-01T11:48:00.000-05:00

Weezy goes to court

2007-11-01T11:17:00.000-05:00

Lil Wayne appeared in an Atlanta courtroom yesterday morning for his arraignment on three counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. The charges stem from an August 2006 arrest at the Twelve Hotel in Atlanta during which police confiscated marijuana and the prescription drugs Xanax and hydrocodone. After failing to show up for a previous court date, Weezy was picked up in Idaho on October 5 on a warrant issued by authorities in Atlanta. Lil Wayne's attorney, William Head, says the whole thing is a misunderstanding.

According to the lawyer, a case notice from the Fulton County District Attorney’s office was mistakenly mailed to Weezy’s old address in New Orleans, which was wiped out in Hurricane Katrina. On Wednesday, Head filed motions with the court disputing the legality of the hotel room search that led to the initial arrest, and also requested that the defense be allowed to inspect fingerprint evidence taken from the bottles of pills found in the room.

“We asked to examine the evidence so we can prove it has no connection to him,” Head said.

“Let’s see what the fingerprints are.” Wayne is also facing a separate charge of being a fugitive in Idaho, a charge that will have to be handled in a Boise court.

Jada signs with the Roc

2007-11-01T10:57:00.000-05:00

Jadakiss has signed with Roc-A-Fella Records.

"Well, I"ve been actually trying to get Jadakiss to come to the Roc for a minute, It"s in the final stages, though. And I just finished talking to Dean, CEo of Ruff Ryder's and all of them about doing something really special with a Roc-A-Fella/ Ruff Ryders collaboration." says Jay Z.

Da Brat arrested after altercation

2007-11-01T10:40:00.000-05:00

Da Brat was arrested on felony aggravated assault charges early this morning after allegedly hitting a woman in the face with a bottle at Jermaine Dupri’s Studio 72 club in Atlanta.

The altercation started out as a verbal disagreement but soon escalated to a shoving match. Witnesses say that Da Brat then grabbed a bottle of rum and hit the waitress in the face with it.

The unidentified woman was hospitalized with cuts on her face and above her eye. Da Brat was taken to the Dekalb County Jail and will remain in custody until a hearing.

Knuck If You Buck

2007-10-31T16:20:00.000-05:00

A series of brawls broke out during a party on the Harvard University campus on Saturday night after a DJ threw on the Crime Mob song “Knuck If You Buck.”

The altercations occurred at an after party for the annual Harvard Society of Black Scientists and Engineers step show. The event, which took place in the University’s Lowell House dining hall, attracted over 400 students from Harvard as well as Boston University, Boston College, MIT and other schools.

At around 1:00 a.m., when the DJ played “Knuck If You Buck,” Crime Mob’s crunk anthem that has been blamed for inciting violence in the past, a fight broke out on the dance floor.

“That’s a song where everybody goes wild,” said Jarred Watson, a Northeastern University student and party attendee. “The crowd started touching each other and bumping into each other. Then I saw a whole bunch of people screaming, and I saw people fighting.”

The fighting soon spiller out into the Lowell House courtyard while Harvard University Police Department officers tried to quell the situation. Eventually, the HUPD was joined by six state trooper cruisers and several Cambridge police vehicles.

Two men were taken into custody in connection with the brawl, but were later released without charges.

“Knuck if you Buck” caused controversy in January of 2006 when 16 year-old Baron “Deuce” Braswell II was stabbed to death while the song was playing during a party in Fredericksburg, VA.

Jacob cops a plea

2007-10-30T11:31:00.000-05:00

Jacob “The Jeweler” Arabov entered a guilty plea on charges of making false statements to investigators in Detroit Federal Court. Jacob was arrested in June of 2006 by federal authorities on charges that he allegedly conspired to launder as much as $270 million in drug profits for the Detroit based Black Mafia Family organization.

Jacob accepted the plea agreement offered by prosecutors, who in turn agreed to drop the more serious charges of money laundering. He is expected to face between 37 and 52 months in federal prison.

Jacob is well known in the hip-hop community as a purveyor of fine jewelry to some of the biggest names in rap. He has been immortalized in lyrics from a slew of top artists such as The Notorious B.I.G., Nas and Kanye West.

Project Pat - Don't Call Me No Mo

2007-10-26T23:04:00.000-05:00

T.I. released on $3 million dollar bail

2007-10-26T22:23:00.000-05:00

T.I. was released on a $3 million dollars bond but must stay in home confinement until his federal trial for possession of machine guns and silencers begin.

Judge Alan Baverman said that T.I. will be restricted to a house in Henry County, Georgia and will be monitored 24 hours a day by a private monitoring service that he must also pay for.

The judge said that T.I. was to have no contact with witnesses or informants associated with the case.

T.I. faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count.

T.I. couldn't return to his residence since the address was made public by news organizations.

The monitor will search visitors who are on a list pre-approved by the judge.

He is restricted to the home except under limited circumstances, including medical appointments and court appearances. He cannot own any firearms and cannot have contact with any witnesses or informants in the case.

40/40 Club sued

2007-10-26T21:49:00.001-05:00

Jay-Z's 40/40 Club has been hit with a lawsuit by a woman who claims she was fired because she was pregnant. The lawsuit was filed in New York County Court claiming that she was fired by managers who said her pregnancy didn't fit the club's "sexy image." The woman seeks an unknown amount in damages.

In May, Jay-Z and the 40/40 Club were hit with a class action lawsuit in Manhattan Federal Court. In that lawsuit, a woman accused the club of not paying minimum wage and making waiters and waitresses work for tips only.

Free At Last

2007-10-26T21:43:00.000-05:00

Free At Last will arrive in stores next month. The album was executive produced by Jay-Z and 50 Cent and features guest appearances from Paul Wall, Rick Ross, Scarface, Lil' Wayne, Jadakiss, Busta Rhymes and others.

Memphis Bleek - Get Ya Money Up

2007-10-25T15:48:00.000-05:00

Weezy being sued by Jeweler

2007-10-25T15:20:00.000-05:00

Lil Wayne procured a $138,000 diamond ring and a $32,000 necklace from a Miami jeweler, but failed to pay for the items. Consequently, the jeweler Jack Sutton has filed a lawsuit against the New Orleans rapper. According to the suit, Wayne owes $146,000 on the $170,000 purchase he made on October 6th.

Sutton claims that Wayne had agreed to pay monthly installments. He received a check for $24,000 on October 12. The second $24,000 check was postdated for January 18, and according to Sutton a stop payment was issued on that check when he attempted to deposit it.

Sutton was bewildered by the irresponsible behavior on the part of “one of his best customers.”

“He spent a lot of money with me,” he said. “I thought we have a really good relationship. I don't know what happened, unless it's a misunderstanding.'”

Diddy moves in on Ciroc

2007-10-25T14:03:00.000-05:00

Diddy has entered into an alliance with the Diageo liquor company and will take over brand management of the liquor brand Ciroc.

Diddy and Sean Combs Enterprises will play the leading role in the brand management of Diageo's premium vodka Ciroc, as part of a multi-year U.S. collaboration.

Diddy will be responsible for the marketing, advertising, public relations, product placement and events promoting the Ciroc brand.

All profits will be split 50/50 in the deal, which could be worth over $100 million for Sean Combs Enterprises.

Diddy revealed that his focus will be on growing the established Ciroc brand first and then he may consider developing his own signature brand.

"The first part is to focus on Ciroc and create a fine spirits empire," Diddy said.

"Once that happens, we will see. What really makes this historical is that I am an African-American and I have teamed up with the world's largest spirits company, Diageo, to reshape how a luxury brand is marketed."

Diddy noted that the vodka trade is worth $3 billion dollars and that the "ultra premium" category featuring spirits like Ciroc is growing faster than any other in the spirits industry.

Diddy praised the distinct manufacturing process of Ciroc, which is made from French grapes as opposed to the normal process of using potatoes.

"Now I don't know about you, but if I had the choice to drink potato grains or French grapes, I would go with the grapes," Diddy quipped.

Jay speaks on Lil Wayne

2007-10-22T15:07:00.000-05:00

"It's the new generation of fans and rappers who are gonna judge you the harshest. Do you think it"s fair that you"re compared to every new sensation, like Lil Wayne? I don"t think it"s fair to me, and I don"t think it"s fair to them, with the amount of work that I put in. But it"s human nature. So I gotta do what I"ve been doing. I gotta compete with my work. Not to take anything away from him. I think Lil Wayne is extremely talented. I think he"s one of the most talented ones out there. I mean, even more so how his delivery is than what he says. I don"t think some of the things he says sometimes are the greatest things, but the way he delivers it, that"s part of it. People got to look at that, too. That"s a big, important part of the puzzle. But do I think me and Lil Wayne should be in the same sentence? Me? No. I mean, hopefully one day. He has to accumulate work. Put some classics under his belt."

R.I.P. LaLa Brown

2007-10-22T12:04:00.000-05:00

Up-and-coming singer Yolanda "LaLa" Brown and her boyfriend were found shot to death in a recording studio over the weekend.

LaLa Brown was well known for her duet with Lyfe Jennings on his hit single "S.E.X".

Rich Boy - Let's Get This Paper

2007-10-19T15:21:00.000-05:00

T.I. denied bail

2007-10-19T13:34:00.000-05:00

T.I.'s request to be released on bond was denied today by U.S. Magistrate judge Alan Baverman.

The judge was ready to release T.I. under house arrest but T.I. and his attorneys did not meet the specific conditions of bond release today, which included a $3.7 million cash and property bond, a private alarm monitoring company with an employee of the alarm company living on the property, Tiny (his fiance) can be the only adult living on the property (in addition to T.I., the adult monitor and T.I.'s children) and T.I. must submit to twice weekly drug testing.

The next hearing is scheduled for next Friday. If T.I. and his attorneys meet these requirements, T.I. will be released under house arrest with very strict conditions.

The courtroom was packed with family, media and supporters in the industry such as Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles, Michael Mauldin and Young Jeezy.

Jahiem signs with Atlantic

2007-10-19T12:34:00.000-05:00

Jaheim has signed with Atlantic. The former Warner Bros. artist will release his as-yet-untitled label debut on Dec. 18.

"This is a milestone project for me, which reflects on changes and growth in my personal and professional life. I produced and wrote half of the album. I'm just focused," Jaheim said.

"I'm with people that understand the market -- no disrespect to anyone over there at Warner Bros. At this point in my career, I need a company that understands and Atlantic is taking me to a whole new level."

Babyface, R. Kelly, KayGee (Naughty By Nature), Jasper Cameron, the Clutch and Nat Adderley Jr. of Luther Vandross fame lent their production efforts to the set, the latter producing a tribute to the late Vandross.

Keyshia Cole is the only feature on the album so far, though Jaheim hopes to record more collaborative tracks in the coming weeks. The first single from the album is titled "Never." In addition, Jaheim can be heard on Atlantic's soundtrack to the new Tyler Perry film, "Why Did I Get Married?," released Oct. 2. He is featured on "DJ Don't (Remix)," alongside the late Gerald Levert.

ATL...no more 18 & up to party, 21 to drink

2007-10-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

If your favorite stripper is 18 or 19, say goodbye to her: she won't be around next week when a new ordinance goes into effect in Atlanta. The Atlanta City Council unanimously passed the ordinance which prohibits anyone under 21 from entering establishments where alcohol is served.

That means no under-21 strippers working at Magic City anymore and no more '18 to party, 21 to drink' parties in Atlanta.

The ordinance, which Mayor Shirley Franklin will not veto, does not affect restaurants where alcohol is served, nor supermarkets or convenience stores. Shouts To Sandra Rose OnThe Info

5 Star Stunna

2007-10-19T12:27:00.000-05:00

Birdman is back on the grind and ready to drop another album. The Cash Money mogul will release his third solo album, "5 Star Stunna", this winter. “Poppin’ Bottles,” featuring Lil Wayne is the first official single from "5 Star Stunna."

Other songs on Birdman's new album include: “I’m a Stunna” and a song titled “100 Million,” which features Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and Young Jeezy.

Yung Joc - Bottle Poppin' (Feat. Gorilla Zoe)

2007-10-14T23:01:00.000-05:00