The Pop Culture Junkie | Get Addicted

Check It: At Last, Plus Couple Date Night

2008-10-23T23:34:00.003-05:00

Here is the studio version of Etta James' wedding classic "At Last" from the upcoming Cadillac Records Soundtrack. Of course she gives a flawless vocal performance, I'm glad she kept strict to the original and didn't overpower it with Sasha. Etta's version is just so beautiful, it deserves to remain simple. The movie will be released December 5th, but a video for the track with clips of the movie is set to premiere in the coming weeks.

Beyonce recent revealed to press that she gained about 15-20 lbs to play the role of Etta James.

LISTEN: Beyonce - "At Last"

Plus check out flicks of Bey-Z out on a date, partying at 1 OAK Nightclub in the Chelsea district at a cocktail party celebrating Diddy’s cover of the “Black on Black” cover of L’Uomo Vogue’s October 2008 Music Issue, before heading out for dinner and drinks!

Keri Hilson: Return the Favor

2008-10-23T23:16:00.002-05:00

Check out Keri Hilson's next single where Timbaland "Returns the Favor" for her debut album, In a Perfect World... which is set to finally be released on December 9th... A very space age video.

On Set: One More Drink

2008-10-23T00:10:00.004-05:00

Check out a behind the scenes look at the making of Ludacris' new video for "One More Drink" co-starring T-Pain which I am really feeling. This is said to be Luda's funniest video ever! Directed by Chris Robinson, the video was shot in Atlanta at Noir. Check out more pictures from on the set HERE.

I'm looking forward to Theater of the Mind...

DAYUM! Lyfe collides with the po-pos!

2008-10-22T21:49:00.002-05:00

This is one treacherous mug shot! Yikes.

Whoa Chester! That's Lyfe Jenning's government name. He was arrested Sunday after being chased by police for shooting a gun in the air and then fleeing.

AJC reports that it all started when he bust down the door looking for his wife/manager Joy Pound and two sons in Smyrna, Ga.

He posted a $50,000 bond Monday night. Jennings could not be reached for comment. In addition to the gun charges and trespassing, he has been charged with eluding police and driving under the influence.

Jennings served 10 years in prison from 1992-2002 on a felony charge when he was 14.

Smyrna police chased Jennings after receiving a call about a gunshot fired. Police followed Jennings in his red Corvette along Concord Road, where he was going about 70 mph according to the warrant.

Once he was stopped, Jennings refused a field sobriety test. The warrant said he “had a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage” coming from his breath.

Not Surprised at all!

2008-10-22T21:15:00.003-05:00

The ongoing soap opera that is Usher and Tameka Foster his aired a new episode. After pictures of Usher and a mysterious woman surfaced and Tameka arriving at Tyler Perry's Studio Opening solo and pregnant, the rumors of separations seem more like reality.

Scoop nabber Jawn Murray laid out more juicy details about their all but confirmed separation...

...on Oct. 1, I got a call from a woman whose name for now I will withhold claiming to be a "friend" of the Raymonds and "concerned because Usher was having an extramarital affair."

After a bunch of hemming and hawing about how she "didn't want her name mentioned" and how she was "only calling me to do the right thing," this alleged "friend" of the couple went on to accuse a fellow R&B/Pop singer of being Usher's mistress.

After checking out this alleged extramarital affair I realized that the dates in question were improbable because Usher and the alleged mistress were in two separate countries for two and a half months of this alleged affair.

Further research allowed me to discover that days after my call from the "friend" of the Raymonds – this being the same weekend as the opening of Tyler Perry's studio in Atlanta to be specific – the singer in question and several of her associates got a call from Foster-Raymond tipping them off Usher & Tameka's wedding photothat this story was bubbling under and that "someone had warned her about it."

Upset, confused and completely blindsided, said singer then phoned Usher, who was both shocked and outraged by the whole ordeal.

Sources close to the situation tell me that this caused him to reach his breaking point and he made it clear that he believed his wife was behind the entire thing.

READ MORE OF THE LONG DRAWN OUT STORY! Lots of "oh really?" moments! Jawn usually keeps it real and true, so the I believe what he wrote is good as true... We all knew the "hook by crook" chick was no good from day one however his personal life has always been a part of his marketing plan for his album. This time it's not really working because his album sales are pretty poo!

The stork visits Lil Wayne

2008-10-22T17:27:00.007-05:00

News broke today that Lil Wayne is a new daddy of a baby boy...

Word on the curb is that the young lady is neither Nivea or his ex-wife, but a 22-year old student from the University of Cincinnati named "Sarah B." Apparently she met him 3 years ago and have been off and on since. Report from Christ Hospital in Cincinnati say Weezy was in the delivery room waiting for the new arrival. I also hear that despite publicly announcing the arrival of his new son at the BET Awards this weekend, he has requested a DNA test. Understood.

To add to the growing buzz surrounding this story, word is that he and Nivea are very much engaged and living together in the ATL.

All hear say at this point though!

Update: According to Miss Info, she got the following info from a "celebrity drama insider."

“Sarah B—-w is her name…my ex use to sleep with her too so that’s how I found out.

He wouldn’t really get into it ‘cuz he only told me that to basically be like “why would I be f—in’ her while she is pregnant by anotha n—a?”

She has “Mrs. Carter” tattooed on her chest. She deleted her myspace but it did say she wuz in a relationship and dat she is pregnant with a boy and is due this month…[she] even had pregnant photos up. So I don’t know, I’m believing it….She’s Vietnamese and white. Oh and she’s a lil girl. She just turned 21 in August and this is goin to be her 2nd child.”

My girl Stylerazzi has sources that say she went to Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio.

UPDATE PART DEAUX: Miss Info has the flicks of the chick... There are others pictures floating around of a more stripper-esque chick.

Kanye expresses himself with Melody!

2008-10-22T00:26:00.002-05:00

Yeezy dropped by Big Boy's neighborhood to talk about the new album, 808s & Heartbreak. He speaks on why he's going beyond just rapping, making the album, his new track "Coldest Winter Ever," and his mother.

Great tidbits about him...

Check It: J. Holiday still getting high!

2008-10-22T00:20:00.003-05:00

New music from J. Holiday! ...and it's about getting high, er or higher! No surprise but baby boy can sing about curtains and microwaves for me. I can see this is a mixtape joint or even maybe a album track. Not a single, though. Love the 70s funk sample as well.

LISTEN: J. Holiday -"Higher"

MIke Epps is a Rapper too?!

2008-10-22T00:19:00.002-05:00

I've never heard this song a day in my life until tonight, let alone knew Mike Epps was rapping now?! I'm not a big girl, but too all my voluptuous vixens, this is for YOU!

Pure "Grade A" Shits & Giggles!

I Can't Even Be Mad!

2008-10-21T13:00:00.003-05:00

This little firecracker did the damn thing to Beyonce's "Single Ladies!" Thanks to LexAve for this nugget of pure sweet fruit loop joy!

Musiq: IfULeave ft. Mary J. Blige

2008-10-20T23:51:00.002-05:00

I love Musiq Soulchild's second single, "IfULeave" with Mary J. Blige. I like their voices together. The video is beautifully shot, love the day/night contrast, and the split screen at the end.

Random thought: I need to know why Musiq is anti-spaces in titles? Should have asked him that...

First Look: Cadillac Records

2008-10-20T22:48:00.003-05:00

Here's the first look at stills from the upcoming film, Cadillac Records starring Adrien Brody as Leonard Chess, Jeffrey Wright as Muddy Waters, Emmanuelle Chriqui as Revetta Chess, Mos Def as Chuck Berry, Beyonce Knowles as Etta James, Gabrielle Union as Geneva Wade, Columbus Short as Little Walter, and Cedric the Entertainer as Willie Dixon.

A tale of sex, violence, race and rock and roll in 1950's Chicago, Cadillac Records follows the the rise and fall of Chess Records and the exciting but turbulent lives of some of America's musical legends, including Muddy Waters, Leonard Chess, Little Walter and Howlin’ Wolf and Elvis Presley. It will open in theaters December 5th.

Images via Blackfilm.com

Ryan Leslie Steps Back...

2008-10-20T20:55:00.003-05:00

Ryan Leslie is back in the studio and has pushed his album back to February of 2009. Why? Extreme leakage of album. He's no Kanye, only he can leak his own ish and people still buy it. As he says, and I agree, he needs more exposure...

This clip opens with me playing back an extended instrumental arrangement of I-R-I-N-A with some overdubs by my man Jermaine Parrish on drums and Al Carty on bass.

Inspired, I decided to re-visit one of my favorite songs called 'Just Right'. Here's a look at that session. I had to rebuild it from scratch as one of my hard drives had crashed and many sessions had been lost. I love the new elements, and here's to you loving them too...

For everyone that's been asking, I'll be releasing the album in February. The main reason why it's been pushed back is very simple: I need more exposure!

BET Awards Round Up...

2008-10-20T12:47:00.002-05:00

The reports and rumors are flying out of the ATL as the BET Hip Hop Awards went down his weekend. From what I hear, there are plenty of highs and lows and foolery! T-Pain replaced Katt Williams, but not for the reason BET wants you to believe. Lil' Wayne dropped a bomb about a baby martian on the way. Salt-N-Pepa reunited and absolutely killed it! But where did they find Lady Rage? Ciara and 50 Cent wouldn't even look each other's way, hmmm.

Read all about it @ Necole Bitchie and Straight from the A!

More scoop to come... The show airs October 23rd!

T.I. Wants a "Respectable Freak"

2008-10-20T00:19:00.003-05:00

Isn't that what all men want?

T.I. describes what he finds attractive in a woman. First being a woman that is secure with herself. Like Tiny, you have to be secure with yourself to have 4 different colors of hair. Just saying.

Covergirl: Beyonce for InStyle

2008-10-19T23:47:00.003-05:00

Beyonce fever is in full effect and she's gracing the cover of November's InStyle Magazine.

Inside Beyonce's closet? I'm there...

It's not pimpin', pimpin'!

2008-10-19T01:56:00.003-05:00

It's only fitting that the BET Hip Hop Awards would hit some kind of snag to go along with the inevitable foolery. So I get a random email saying that Katt Williams had a moment of Deja Vu and was snatched up by the Feds, hence unable to host the show. That's just a rumor, but it is true that Katt Williams was replaced by T-Pain as host of the show. See what I mean, foolery!

Word on the curb is that Katt and BET had some kind of breakdown last night, but according to one of BET's blogs it all came down to a break dancing contest. More foolery!

Says Stephen Hill, “So we were all hanging out last night and Katt bets T-Pain couldn’t beat him in a break dance battle. Not knowing T-Pain was an extremely DOPE break dancer, Katt thought it was an easy win. T-Pain said if I win, I get to host the Hip Hop Awards.”

More people, BET, get more people! Either neither Katt skipped the show and is said to be at home.

A Baby for Lil Wayne?

2008-10-19T01:47:00.005-05:00

Whaaaaa? A baby? By who? Yeah, we are all wondering who he has a son the way with. He's been linked to his ex-wife, Superhead, and Nivea over that last few months, but they all have been out with him partying. So could it be someone chick we know nothing about? He dropped this nugget of joy in his exceptance speech during the BET Hip Hop Awards..."I got a son dropping any day, pray for me."

I guess... Well congrats.

Return of Slim Shady...

2008-10-16T21:39:00.003-05:00

During an interview last night on his Sirius Satellite Radio channel, Shade 45, Eminem announced his forthcoming sixth album would be titled Relapse and will include the track "I'm Having a Relapse." [LISTEN] The radio show part of an on-air party for Eminem's new book, The Way I Am, which goes on sale next Tuesday.

No release date on his album, however he did announce that he will go on tour with 50 Cent in mid-2009!

And he's not FAT!! He looks depressed as hell, but he is obese as rumored...

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW

Aubrey's Hoe-ish Image Did Her In!

2008-10-16T20:52:00.004-05:00

Well that's not a surprise! Pretty much what we all figured anyway. Remember her crackwhore-esque spread in Complex Magazine? Well, that may just be what put the nail in the coffin...

"We had just did a signing with Dollhouse Teen, which is for 13, 14-year-old young girls," Dawn Richard tell UsMagazine. "So we can't do that one day and then the next day do an obnoxious cover.... [Diddy] wants the fans, and he says he can't do that if we can continue to go in the direction that we were going."

Dawn also reiterated that D. Woods was just caught in the crossfire [pun intended], but that the group will continue on, at the least as a trio but maybe even with a new member.

"Well Puff told me specifically that Aubrey is no longer in Danity Kane and Danity Kane will move forward without her. He has not said anything [about auditioning new members] but I think in my heart that he is gonna do another show."

The group, the name Danity Kane, is locked into Bad Boy for 7, yes s-e-v-e-n, albums. He could release them from the contract [like firing the girls] but I am sure we can look out for Making the Band 3 season 17 "Search for the new Member" on MTV...

Both Dawn and Aubrey [looking her usual fugly mess] were both out in NYC and spotted at the Hennessy Artistry Finale Event keeping their distance...

Eye Spy: Spirit of Life Awards Dinner

2008-10-16T16:30:00.003-05:00

Many stars came out to support and perform at City of Hope’s 2008 Spirit of Life Awards held in Santa Monica, California last night. Rihanna, who performed, worked a chic orange look with the animal print belt. Cute. She also ran into former boss, Jay Z as well as Toni Braxton, Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon and performances by Robin Thicke, Erykah Badu, Keyshia Cole and Trey Lorenz, who reunited with Mimi.

More pics after the jump...

Chris Brown: Superhuman ft. Keri Hilson

2008-10-16T13:14:00.003-05:00

I actually love this song, it was in heavy rotation for the longest about 2 months ago when I first snagged it. "Superhuman" ia Chris Brown's second single from the re-release of Exclusive: The Forever Edition. The music video was directed by Erik White, Brown's seventh video directed by him.

Down to 3...Almighty Puff Power Rules

2008-10-15T13:14:00.008-05:00

After watching the finale of Making the Band, I am in no way shocked or surprised. I wasn't expecting D. Woods to end up out of the group, but I'm not surprised. I actually think she really got caught in the crossfire and got the boot for being guilty by association. I didn't know that their was so much tension between former BFFs Aundrea and Aubrey, though.

Here's the deal, when the Danity Kane's debut album came out, I was expecting a second album. I said it back in 2007 when the rumors around Aundrea started swirling. As much as I love them as a group, I wasn't confident in their success as a reality TV product on Bad Boy. I have my issues with Bad Boy and Almighty Puff Power because we all see how the other artists were eff'd over by that situation.

I have to agree with Diddy on the fact that Aubrey became a distraction. Making it how you live is all cool and ish, but she really changed - for the less attractive. The cliques and distrust was bound to hurt the group. So, what next?

In the interest of MTV, I can see them trying another round of MTB and following the remaining girls. As for Diddy, he's still a business man and he wants to put out music. I can see him entertaining the thought of bring the girls together again. He left that door open. Danity Kane as a three member group? I don't know, 2 of the 3 best vocalists are still there, but D. Woods voice can't be duplicated. Aubrey wasn't the best singer in the crew, so that doesn't hurt the group and they all can dance so that doesn't hurt either. It is possible to market these girls though. Almighty Puff Power could try to make them the next Destiny Child... I feel bad because it seems like the ones remaining really feel like they didn't have anything to "go back to." Aubrey as a solo artist = FAIL! D. Woods has potential but the clock is ticking.

Or how about this is really just the end of them as a group!? My bet is on this.

What do you think? Take a look at Aubrey's response after the jump...

..she didn't really say much, did she?

Where you been Dave?

2008-10-15T00:17:00.002-05:00

Dave Chappelle has be keeping on low low, doing the small town thing with the fam in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where they reportedly lives on a 65 acre farm. However he was spotted in NYC with his wife Elaine and two handsome sons, Sulayman and Ibrahim, out for a little skateboarding.

Eye Spy: Beyonce does TRL

2008-10-14T23:15:00.006-05:00

Beyonce made her video rounds hitting uo TRL and later BET to officially drop off her two singles... She also confirmed the double-disc release I Am... and that she will be performing on TRL's finale on November 16th at 8pm. Tuesday's episode was dedicated to counting down Beyoncé's greatest video achievements.

About her alter ego driven release she says, "I recorded over 70 songs, and I took a lot of time and made sure it was something that would last forever, something that never goes out."

Look out for the Spanish release of "If I Were a Boy," she recorded the vocals earlier this week and the rerecorded version should hit radio next week. As with her last release, B'Day, she will shoot a video for each song on the album and release a video anthology in February of 2009 along with a Spanish release of I Am... damn. Money in the bank.

Simmons Sisters get Spin Off...

2008-10-14T22:28:00.003-05:00

Lookout for Angela and Vanessa Simmons on their new spin off from "Runs House" on MTV as the go bi-coastal to L.A. to expand their Pastry shoe and apparel line. Said to be titled "Daddy's Girls" the girls are looking to take their brand to a more "grown up" level.

I think they are funny together, so I think their show could be just as popular as "Run's House."

On The Set: Keri Hilson's Return the Favor

2008-10-14T17:45:00.002-05:00

Keri Hilson gives you a look behind the scenes of her next video for "Return the Favor" featuring Timbaland. Her album In a Perfect World... is waiting on a new release date.

Who is Sasha Fierce?

2008-10-14T08:23:00.005-05:00

Beyonce says: "I Am."

Meet Beyonce's new marketing promo "Who is Sasha Fierce?" for what will be a 2 disc album, I Am... on November 18th [you were right J.P.]... Divided into her two performance personalities, I am Beyonce and I am Sasha. Of course, if you don't know, Sasha is her onstage persona that shakes, rattles, and pops! Hence the two vastly different singles released. I wonder if every release will be double singles? So you'll get the full bodied vocals with powerful ballads and then you can get bodied with Sasha on the uptempo tracks.

You can even buy Sasha Fierce merch! As well as add her as a friend on MySpace... It's starting.

See the proposed track listing after the jump!

DISC 1: “I AM BEYONCE”
01.If I Were A Boy.
02.All You Can’t See.
03.Roses And Chocolates.
04.Sometimes It Hurts.
05.Love Me Not.
06.Street To Nowhere.
07.Hate To Leave.
08.Together.
09.God Blessed Our Love (Ave Maria Interlude).
10.At Last.

DISC 2: “I AM SASHA”
01.Lights Out.
02.Do A Dub.(ft. Kanye)
03.Single Ladies.
04.Baker.
05.Beat My Drums (ft. Jay Z)
06.Movin’ Aside.
07.Freeze.
08.Breaking the rules.
09.Mighty King.
10.Nightcap’s lovers (ft Justin Timberlake).

Who's Your Daddy?

2008-10-13T23:06:00.003-05:00

Word is this is Diddy's daughter Chance with Sara Chapman, who is just a few months older than his twin daughters with Kim Porter. I'm no geneticist but she surely looks like the the twins with those cheeks...

Beyonce: Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)

2008-10-13T20:21:00.004-05:00

This video says "all I need is a stage." Beyonce is very secure to drop a video with nothing but a leotard, two background dancers, and some hot choreography by Jaquel Knight and Frank Gaston. I see a little Tina Turner in there and a little majorette dance line... This video was also directed by Jake Nava. It's simple yet unique and there aren't too many artists that can pull this off!

I've been hearing so many people say they aren't feeling it, but just as many people are loving it. I can't lie, I've been loving it. It's a hot club banger.

Eye Spy: Diesel xXx Rock & Roll Circus

2008-10-13T08:33:00.003-05:00

T.I., Pharrell, and a very pregnant M.I.A. burned up the stage at the xXx Rock & Roll Circus to celebrate Diesel's 30th anniversary at Pier 3 in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday. Sounds like a hot show I would have died to be at. M.I.A. hasn't publically confirmed her pregnacy, despite much speculation, however her belly tells it all. A month ago M.I.A., who is engaged this summer to musician Benjamin Brewer, joked to Rolling Stone about being pregnant, “I’m kind of putting on weight. That could be it. I haven’t made it to the counter yet to buy a test. But when I do, I’ll let you know.”

Continue reading for more event flicks...

T.I.'s Road to Remeption

2008-10-13T00:28:00.003-05:00

T.I. talks about turning his life around with CNN in a piece called "Road to Redemption." With a number one album, two number one singles, movies in the making and even possible a book deal, T.I. hasn't let his legal problems hurt his career. He seems to have genuinely made a change for the better.

No No, Ne-Yo!

2008-10-12T23:37:00.002-05:00

In a moment of TMI, Ne-Yo reveals a few things as he performs for Power 106's Big Boy Backstage Breakfast, that I could live without knowing... Like losing his virginity at 9 to a 15 year old [insert side-eye here] and how many chicks he's smashed since his debut. Just nasty.

The Dream Returns...

2008-10-12T22:12:00.002-05:00

Terius "The Dream" Nash is returning to the music scene as an artist with his sophomore effort, Love vs. Money, set to be released Dec. 16th. Sticking with his hit-making team of Tricky Stewart and Los the Maestro, this is album will have tracks inspired by the 60s, R. Kelly, pop and R&B. There will also be a guest appearance by Mariah Carey on "My Love."

"In the beginning I was just having fun. I didn't want people thinking too hard, I just wanted them to gravitate toward my lyrics," the-Dream tells Billboard.com. "But this time my vocals are different. I've definitely grown in my singing."

An encore to the heartbreak track "Nikki" from the first album will also appear on the set. The Dream says his third project will most likely include a song in the vein of "Nikki" as well, as he hopes to release a full album of the Nikki chronicles at some point. A single has yet to be chosen, but The Dream would love to pull a Beyonce and release 2 singles, one pop and one R&B...

In the meantime, Dream will spend his time working with J. Holiday, Jamie Foxx, Mario and Usher.

Beyonce: If I Was a Boy

2008-10-11T20:12:00.004-05:00

Beyonce's two singles, "If I Were a Boy" and "Single Ladies" are growing on me pretty quickly. See how she just sucks you in, LOL. Excellent video as well, great treatment. I love how it switches up at the end! The black and white adds to the dramatic effect too.

Now let's see what "Single Ladies" will look like!

Common: Universal Mind Control

2008-10-09T20:33:00.002-05:00

Look for the new album, also titled Universal Mind Control, in stores Nov. 11th!

I Vote No...

2008-10-09T20:03:00.005-05:00

...please do not Aubrey. Obama needs all the support possible, but no ma'am you and Lindsey Lohan can just make sure vote on November 4th and we'll call it even. M'kay... Thanks! This is the type of poppycock that gets your ass fired.

T.I. Tops Charts, Jennifer Hudson Follows

2008-10-08T12:18:00.003-05:00

T.I. took the top spot on the Billboard Top 200 chart with his latest release Paper Trail. T.I. moved 568,000 copies in the U.S., according to Nielsen SoundScan, which is also the third-biggest sales frame of the year.

T.I. also has a big week over on the Hot 100, where he breaks the record for largest climb to No. 1. "Live Your Life" featuring Rihanna, the second single from the album leaps 80-1, replacing the album's first single "Whatever You Like" at No. 1!

Jennifer Hudson claims the No. 2 spot with her eponymous debut album on this week’s Billboard Top 200 Albums. With a total of 217,720 units sold, the entry of Jennifer Hudson is the biggest first week for a debut R&B female since Fantasia’s November 2004 debut album Free Yourself.

Plus, Robin Thicke scores his best sales week and highest charting album on The Billboard 200 with Something Else which enters at No. 3 with 137,000.

All three are great albums that you need in your collection!

Ciara: Go Girl

2008-10-07T23:41:00.002-05:00

Ciara premiered the video for her first single, "Go Girl" which features T-Pain today and its definitely hot!

The 3 things I got from the MTB4 Finale...

2008-10-07T23:17:00.005-05:00

Diddy backstage at Madonna's "Sticky & Sweet" Tour with his broke arm for Obama!

Okay the first 40 minutes of the finale are cool but the last 20 where the best! Diddy + Danity Kane = awesome Diddy one liners!

Here's what I got out of it, other than all those rumors were heard were true:

"Somebody gon' tell the truth up in this bitch!"

"Emotions will have you broke!" [Need that on a t-shirt please!]

"Almighty Puff Power" [Officially Diddy's new moniker!]

Priceless! If you saw it, what do you think the final outcome will be?!

Halle Berry: Sexiest Woman Alive!

2008-10-07T20:05:00.004-05:00

Can't disagree with that, and I think having a baby only made her sexier. [No homo, LOL] But Halle Berry has made us very proud as a great beauty and actress. Esquire Magazine awards Halle with the title, as well as made history with Halle's cover where they recreated a classic Esquire cover from December 2000, featuring Bill Clinton.

In her "acceptance speech" Halle write about being the sexiest woman alive...

"I don't know exactly what it means, but being 42 and having just had a baby, I think I'll take it."

"Sexiness is a state of mind — a comfortable state of being," she says. "It's about loving yourself in your most unlovable moments."

"I share this title with every woman, because every woman is a nominee for it at any moment."

Read the full article written by Halle after the jump! She even talks about the big O!

I've been in the business for more than twenty years, and you decide now, at this particular time, that I'm the sexiest woman alive? Come on. I mean, you couldn't go with the Bond-girl year? You didn't like the orange bikini? I liked the orange bikini. That would have been a pretty good year. Or what about the Monster's Ball year? That was a sexy moment. Couldn't you have packaged that up with some list of the best movie sex scenes ever? That would have been very easy, very magaziney. But 2008? Well, I don't know exactly what it means, but being forty-two and having just had a baby, I think I'll take it. There are billions of women on the planet, but let's just say for shits and giggles that I am the sexiest woman alive. First, I would have to thank all the people who made it happen. I would thank the good folks at Esquire for thinking outside the box -- even if those folks are just eight editors wearing competing seventy-five-dollar button-down shirts, swinging themselves around in cheap desk chairs in some windowless conference room somewhere above Manhattan. I'd also have to thank my "team," the ones who make the magic happen -- my hair designer, my stylist, my makeup artist, and my beloved trainer. And I would absolutely have to thank the photographer, because without him, the camera is all lies of a different sort. I mean, look at the pictures. That takes a lot of work. I'm lucky to have these people. Don't think I don't know it.

Does being the sexiest woman alive imply that I know a thing or two about what's sexy and, possibly, about sex itself? I'm not sure, but here's what I do know: I know damned well I'm sexier now than I used to be. Let me make an argument here -- not so much for me, or even for my age being sexy, but for what I've learned. I've picked up a little over the years. Sexy is not about wearing sexy clothes or shaking your booty until you damn near get hip dysplasia; it's about knowing that sexiness is a state of mind -- a comfortable state of being. It's about loving yourself even in your most unlovable moments. I know a little bit about that.

Sexiness is also about knowing what's sexy to you. To me, spaghetti is sexy, especially when it's served off the tips of a man's fingers. I like that. And I think wine is sexy, just before sex. It relaxes me. But if I want to get a serious groove on -- if I want an out-of-body experience -- I'm all about the sloe-gin fizz.

I think lingerie is sexy, and I'll wear it, sure. But truth is, I'm good-to-go in a tank top and bare feet -- although every woman should own at least one good pair of pumps. That's really the only wardrobe you need for sex: a tank top and pumps.

When it comes to what I think is sexy about men, I like forearms. That's my body part. They're generally exposed, available, a little bit vulnerable. A forearm is different with every man, and when it comes to forearms, size matters. I don't like them slight.

Ask me what's the sexiest car in the world and I'll just say my man's car, because it smells like him, because his shape is pressed into the seat, because it's littered with little bits of his life -- his golf balls or his chocolate-bar wrappers -- and it's ripe with the smells of him. That's the car I most want to ride in.

What else? Ah, yes: the big O. You know that stuff they say about a woman being responsible for her own orgasms? That's all true. And in my case, that makes me responsible for pretty damned good orgasms these days. Much better orgasms than when I was twenty-two. And I wouldn't let a man control that. Not anymore. Now I'd invite him to participate. I'll tell you this: I've learned my tricks. I know what I like. I do not wait around. I initiate. And I'm not all about frequency. I favor intensity.

There have been some men in my life who have been wickedly sexy and have taught me much about sexual pleasure. There are a few men I should thank, and others I need to forget. But I don't regret. To hell with regret. I like what I am now. I like being a mother. I like my body better since I became a mother. I feel sexier as a result of becoming a mother.

You see, the years go by and you learn, and that just deepens your understanding of every experience. And then sex is better -- it feels like you're in control, and you're sort of not in control at the same time, and that is completely satisfying.

So, yes, there are times when I feel like the sexiest woman alive, but would I ever argue that I am the sexiest woman alive? Of course not. I figure at one moment the sexiest woman alive is a waitress in Abilene, Texas. And in the very next second, it's a woman in the bush of Vanuatu. Then, right away, somewhere else. Sex and sexiness. It's all about the moment; it's about what you know as much as it is what you offer. That's why I share this title with every woman, because every woman is a nominee for it at any moment. Maybe that's why there are so many women these guys love.

If there were a real event where they gave an award for this title, I would wave the trophy here. I would thank everyone all over again, then I'd probably blow a kiss to Tom Chiarella for helping me write this. I would turn my head and say, "You can start the music now, I'm done." I'd be wearing pumps. I'd be just a little breathless. And I admit I would not rush off the stage. [SOURCE]

Rapper's Wife Caught on Tape...

2008-10-07T20:03:00.002-05:00

I haven't heard any super scoop from Wendy Williams recently, but today she dropped a bomb on her show about a "platinum selling rapper" whose R&B singer wife (not wifey) was caught on tape doing their best Kim K and Ray J impression... with another man! [insert GASP here] Word n the curb is that she was drugged out and doing some freaky ish...

LISTEN TO THE DIRTY DETAILS HERE

Let's see... you have very few rapper/singer marriages out there! So the blind item isn't so blind at all. Sounds like Kelis to me! Can we get a screen shot?

Kanye West: Love Lockdown Premiere

2008-10-07T13:30:00.006-05:00

Kanye West dropped by The Ellen DeGeneres Show for his first interview since the passing of his mother. Ellen was also the last interview they had together before her untimely death. He chose to premiere the video for "Love Lockdown" on the show.

As usual, it very artistic and clean! I've fallen in love with the song, though.

808s & Heartbreak will be out November 25, Kanye confirms in the interview with Ellen...

Check out the interview after the jump!

Finally, Beyonce talks marriage!

2008-10-06T22:24:00.004-05:00

When you have an album coming out, you gotta drop some good tidbits, like talking about your secret wedding! Essence Magazine got the scoop first from Beyonce in the upcoming November issue, though I doubt she'll start blabbing about it every interview. In the cover article entitled, “I Am Legend,” she opens up about life in the spotlight and being Mrs. Shawn Carter. Finally.

"…What Jay and I have is real. It’s not about the interviews or getting the right photo op. It’s real,”

Get a snippet of the interview after the jump!

ESSENCE: I've heard that you and your mom are rather close. Is that true?

Beyonce Knowles: You know what's so beautiful about our relationship? Some mothers are your friends, some mothers are strictly your mother, some mothers are both. Some mothers know when to draw the line, some mothers know when to tell you when you're wrong and when you're right. Some mothers don't tell you when you're right. (My mother) knows when to be my friend. And growing up, she knew when to be my mother.

She was strict but still, she explained things and made things make sense to me so I didn't feel like she was disciplining me or trying to boss me around. I understood why, which made my life a lot easier. Another thing is she tells me the truth. My mom's never asked me for anything. My mom doesn't want anything from me but for me to be happy. And for me to succeed and be as good, as strong, as happy as I can be. So, knowing that, I'm just lucky to have that honesty in my life.

I always felt safe and I always felt secure because I knew that it was going to be okay. I knew it was 'cause my mom knew it was. She always let me know that regardless of this group, regardless of me singing, regardless of the movies, whatever, she loved me. And I'm young and I'm smart and everything I've ever wanted to do, I made it happen. So it goes beyond that, like I still have somewhere to go. I still have something else to do, this isn't the end of the world. And I think ... just knowing that, like right now if I never sell another record, it puts a whole 'nother perspective on this.

Do you think as Black women, we are expected to be superwomen? Even in relationships we are expected to hold it together.

Yeah. Guys are babies sometimes. Like they need you and it's like, I need you and you are just supposed to drop it. I mean it's very beautiful when you all are just doing the same thing for each other. But I know you just expect the woman to drop everything and fix it. A woman doesn't even ask for it because they're supposed to be strong enough to take care of it.

What is church for you, in the real way?

I completely believe that you don't have to go to church at all if you are disciplined enough to sit down and dedicate time to pray and get to know God and read the Bible. But me, it's better for me to go to church because it's hard to, for real, sit down by myself for that long, as long as I would be just totally committing myself in my house with the TV on and the distractions. It's way harder to do that than to go to church with a bunch of people who believe in God, where you can just feel it so much more.

Will history still remember you as having the soul of the artist? As opposed to just a girl who sold a lot of records.

I don't want to be remembered as a member of this huge group that, you know, did whatever. I want to be acknowledged as a woman in a very talented group with great harmonies and great songs that made history and changed the culture of women, not only in America but all over the world. (A woman) who could sing a cappella and write her own songs and produce her own songs.

To see Beyonce's entire interview, pick up the November issue of Essence magazine, on newsstands October 12th.

Covergirls: D'Lila Star & Jesse James

2008-10-06T18:14:00.004-05:00

Too cute to boot twins, D'Lila Star and Jesse James join mommy and daddy on the cover of Baby Couture looking squeezably adorable. Those cheeks are just calling for you to pinch them. You can read the full article here.

Knowles-Carter Crew Do Miami...

2008-10-06T17:40:00.003-05:00

Beyonce was in town received her award and Jay-Z headlined the Last Chance for Change Rally at Bayfront Park in Miami. The Knowles-Carter crew took time to enjoy the sun and city... Bey-Z were spotted getting lunch, as well as Beyonce with sis Solange and cousin Angie enjoying the pool. Fun times indeed!

More fun in the sun after the jump...

Don't Forget! Deadline to register is here!

2008-10-06T08:39:00.002-05:00

Please make sure you register to vote, update your registration or verify your voters registration today! Today is the last day.

Again, we can only get Barack Obama and change in the White House if we VOTE! Eight is enough!

VOTEFORCHANGE.COM

Yes, she is so very pregnant...

2008-10-06T00:58:00.004-05:00

No more rumors, Tameka Foster-Raymond and Usher are indeed expecting another baby! Sigh...

SOURCE

Eye Spy: Tyler Perry Unveils New Studio

2008-10-06T00:10:00.003-05:00

Tyler Perry hosted an A-list black tie affair for the unveiling of his new motion picture and television studio in Atlanta this weekend. I hear the the event was ultra exclusive and the party of the year in Black Hollywood. From Sidney Poitier to Oprah Winfrey to Will Smith and many others came in from both coasts to participate in what looks to be an emotional night. Rudy Dee was also there for the dedication the opening of the Ruby Dee/Ossie Davis Soundstage.

The normally guarded Tyler Perry was spotted with Galila Bakele, who he was seen with back in late 2007. The last time he was on Oprah, he said he had found a great woman and I suspect that it is her.

Continue reading for more pictures from the exclusive event...

Brandy says Kim K. has a thief problem!

2008-10-05T23:56:00.003-05:00

Brandy made her way to Hot 97 with Angie Martinez and talks about the things that she has gone through over the last 4 years and her new album Human... Best of all, she calls Kim Kardashian a thief, based on allegations by Brandy's mom that Kim ran up massive credit card bills after working as a stylist. Kim has denied these allegations. Didn't think Brandy would get gully like that, but remains sweet saying that she still loves here.

Continue reading for part two of the interview where she speaks on Ray J's tape and his ex-husband...

Note to Brandy and Ray J: an album is baaaad idea!

T.I.: “I am doing everything I can these days to ensure success”

2008-10-05T22:12:00.002-05:00

T.I. has definitely been on his hustle, his Grand Hustle I guess, lately as his impending one year sentence quickly approaching. Outside of performing and popping up at events on all coasts, he has acting and book ventures to keep him busy!

Q: In June you signed a three-picture deal with Screen Gems that included “Bone Deep,” a drama called “Boulevard” and a then-unnamed third film. Figured out what that will be yet?

A: ” ‘Boulevard’ is not a definite yet — not a definite title. The only thing we know for sure about on that deal is ‘Bone Deep.’ And no, we still haven’t figured out the third of the three, either.”

Q: Ever thought about doing something autobiographical for the screen?

A. “Absolutely! I think I’m gonna have to write the book first. And we’re working on it now…We’re working on a few different types of books now, actually. All nonfiction.”

Q: What do you think is the most cinematic song on “Paper Trail”? “Slide Show” (featuring John Legend)? “My Life Your Entertainment” (featuring Usher)?

A: “Those are good choices. But it may be between ‘You Ain’t Missin’ Nothing’ and ‘Dead And Gone’ [featuring Justin Timberlake]. I’m real proud of them…[Laughs] Guess I shouldn’t say ‘Porn Star’, huh?” [SOURCE]

A book by T.I.? I think I might want that in the library, I think it would be an interesting read...

Check It: New J. Holiday

2008-10-05T20:52:00.003-05:00

Another track popped up this weekend from blog fave J. Holiday... "The Way it Was" is a hot ballad. You know he is good for a good babymaking slow jam. I am looking forward to more new material from him. There was word of a new album in the works, hopefully we'll get some more definitive info soon.

LISTEN: J. Holiday - "The Way it Was"

Beyonce loves the kids, gets an award...

2008-10-05T19:57:00.002-05:00

Lady in red, Beyonce Knowles was inducted into the International Pediatric Hall of Fame at the Miami Children's Hospital Foundation Diamond Ball and Private Concert at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida.

In Case You Missed It: SNL does VP Debate

2008-10-05T19:25:00.002-05:00

We saw this one coming! As long as Palin is around we get more funny from Tina Fey! Bring it on... well until Nov. 4th. Then she can go back to being the VP of Alaska.

It's my birthday...

2008-10-03T18:50:00.003-05:00

Excuse me while I celebrate!! I accept all major credit cards. LOL!
Have a great weekend...

DON'T FORGET! Oct. 6th is almost here!

2008-10-03T18:23:00.005-05:00

Please remember that the deadline to register to vote is quickly approaching this Monday, October 6th. We've got Obama to the race, now we have to vote to get him in the White House for CHANGE! Please take heed to this open letter from Diddy, Jay-Z, and others.

Dear Young America,

WE ARE IN A STATE OF EMERGENCY !!! YOU MUST REGISTER TO VOTE BY MONDAY OCTOBER 6, 2008!!!!! We are only 31 days from the most important election of our lifetime. MONDAY OCTOBER 6, 2008 IS THE DEADLINE. We are at war, banks are closing, people are losing their jobs and houses every day. It is our responsibility to protect our futures. Time is running out. You must register by Monday October 6th. Barack Obama cannot win this election on his own; he needs our help. This election is about us. This election is about our children’s future. If you have not registered to vote, you are disrespecting everyone that sacrificed their lives for you to have this right. You are also disrespecting your future.

The time is NOW for us to use the voices with which God has blessed us. We need you to do all you can. Here is what we need to do:

Register to vote BY MONDAY, OCTOBER 6th 2008 Get as many people as you can to register with you Go to the poll and vote on November 4th.

Barack Obama said it best, “Eight is Enough.” No longer will we stand by and follow leadership with no regard for us and no accountability to us.

We can be the deciding factor in this election, but you must register to vote to make your voice heard. Who are we? We are young America . This is our moment of truth. Are you registered for change? October 6th is only a few days away.

Make sure that on November 4th, we are able to say that we did everything in our power to make sure that Barack Obama becomes the next President of the United States. We owe this to our children, our parents, our grandparents and ourselves. We need you to become a part of Team Obama. This is the most important election in our lifetime. REGISTER TO VOTE BY MONDAY OCTOBER 6th and VOTE TO MAKE HISTORY ON NOVEMBER 4th!!!!

Visit www.VoteForChange.com to register to vote TODAY

It is our duty to make our voices heard. STOP what you’re doing right now and lets REGISTER TO VOTE. Time is running out!!!!!!!!!

God Bless,

Sean “Diddy” Combs
Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter
Mary J. Blige
Kevin Liles

Brandy's "Human" Cover

2008-10-03T14:05:00.002-05:00

Look for major promotion from Brandy, including an appearance with Oprah this November. Human hits stores November 11th! Very excited to hear her new work...

T.I. Comes Clean on cover of Giant!

2008-10-02T23:55:00.003-05:00

T.I. graces the cover of the new October/November 2008 issue of Giant Magazine. In his cover article, he talks about his new Paper Trail album, voting, making his own mistakes and more!

Preliminary reports show that T.I.’s Paper Trail will debut at No. 1 on next week’s Billboard albums chart. According to early sales figures, it is on track to move 550,000 copies in its first week!

Beyonce says get at her on Nov. 18th!

2008-10-02T22:22:00.004-05:00

Beyonce decided to respond to the rumors of delay surrounding her next release...

I wanted to address my fans about my upcoming album.

I have worked on this album for close to one year. I have taken the time so I can create my sound. Something that says who I am at this stage in my life. I have poured my heart and soul into it. It is my baby. It is the most time I have spent on any project since my first records as a member of Destiny's Child when I was 15 years old. I have recorded over 70 songs and have created a sound that reveals all of me. I am in a different place right now and I wanted people to see the many sides of me. The music is upbeat for the dance, fun side and it is reflective, passionate and serious for the personal side. I have taken risks here. I am not afraid and my music will explain it all. There is no label or tag on my sound. It's me and I am so excited to share it with the world on November 18."

Love,

Beyoncé

So there you go, November 18th! Straight from the horses mouth...

T-Pain's Vocoder Fights Back

2008-10-02T17:12:00.002-05:00

LOL... this is actually pretty funny.

Oh Baby! Laila Ali with son...

2008-10-02T11:13:00.002-05:00

Awe sweet doodlebug! Laila Ali, with husband Curtis Conway, introduces baby boy Curtis Muhammad Conway Jr. in the new issue of OK Magazine.

[SOURCE]

VIBE endorses Obama!

2008-10-02T10:35:00.003-05:00

No surprise here, but VIBE took their endorsement of Barack Obama to the cover of their November collectors edition. I am sure there will be many more covers of Obama as we get closer to election day.

In an unprecedented move by the magazine, Editor-in-Chief Danyel Smith says, “I am clear about what must be done. The staff is behind me. This is a formal endorsement, by VIBE magazine, of Senator Barack Obama.”

Remember that voter registrations deadlines are getting closer, here in Louisiana it is October 6th! So log on to VoteforChange.com to register or check your registration status! Barack Obama can't win, if you don't vote!

Usher: Trading Places

2008-10-01T22:23:00.003-05:00

Here's the product of Usher and Chris Robinson teaming up for the "Trading Places" video. It turned out beautiful, love the piano visual effect! I wonder if this new single and tour will boost his album sales?

On Set: Musiq & Mary J Blige

2008-10-01T22:05:00.002-05:00

Musiq and Mary J. Blige were in Manhattan, NY shooting the video for their duet, "Ifyouleave" from his upcoming release. On My Radio is set to be released this December!

Make sure you check out my interview with Musiq! You can check out more shots from the video shoot after the jump.

Behind the Scenes: Mrs. Officer

2008-10-01T21:42:00.003-05:00

This song just goes hard! Lil Wayne and Bobby Valentino take it to the beach in the video and it gets pretty hot... Check out these scenes from the video shoot.

Eye Spy: Robin Thicke Album Release Party

2008-10-01T16:17:00.002-05:00

Robin Thicke, with is beautiful wife Paula Patton, celebrated the release of his latest album, Something Else at the Rainbow Room last night in NYC. Diddy, Jay-Z and Jadakiss were also spotted at the celebration.

Make sure to pick up your copy of Something Else, in stores now! Look out for our exclusive interview!

Janelle Monae: Many Moons

2008-09-30T21:51:00.003-05:00

I can't pretend like I been jocking Janelle Monae like others have, but I always thought her style was out there and I honestly was concerned that Diddy would eff up her ish. Her video for "Many Moons" is pretty hot though. Very Outkast-eque. As I was watching and saw some of the shots of her in different looks, I realized how classically pretty she is. My theory is that she chose to go completely left field to not be just another cute chick in the game from Kansas City. Her voice is great though, her style is fresh.

Check out a look at behind the scenes after the jump...

Covergirl: Reagan Gomez

2008-09-30T10:54:00.003-05:00

Reagan Gomez covers the November issue of King Magazine.

Fall back, Sarah Palin—cinnamon starlet Reagan Gomez is our all-American mom. She dishes takeout in T.I.’s “Whatever You Like” video, but proves here that her political savvy is flavorful. Talk about raising the bar.

Funny, I was just flipping through the channels and saw her on "The Parent'hood" which I haven't seen in ions and thought about how far she has come.

Eye Spy: Music in Motion Party

2008-09-30T01:35:00.003-05:00

T.I. made an appearance in New York at the Music in Motion Tour Party at Marquee, along with a few other notables. The Patrón Music in Motion Tour was a concert series that raised funds to support efforts to rebuild New Orleans that rolled across the country this summer.

Janet Jackson Hospitalized!

2008-09-30T01:22:00.005-05:00

According to statement released by W&W Public Relations, the singer canceled her concert in Montreal on Monday after she "got suddenly ill" during her sound check and had to be rushed to the hospital just before show time.

The statement says Jackson is being monitored at the hospital and hopes to reschedule the show. No further information was given about Jackson's condition. [SOURCE]

Hopefully it isn't anything serious, but has just not be her week, since I hear that J.D. upchucked his birthday cake all on her at his party. That's just nasty!

Jennifer Hudson on the Promo Trail...Gushing over Wedding

2008-09-29T23:11:00.004-05:00

Jennifer Hudson made an appearance on "The View" today to promote her self titled album that debuts today, and she gushed over he wedding and that Neil Lane gigantor engagement ring! Funny how they just skimmed over his former gig as a New York loving punk, named "Punk!" I like how she threw out his Harvard education... LOL.

Click through to hear how Punk [sorry he'll always be Punk] proposed to her on her 27th birthday!

[via MySpace]

“I had no clue at all… We went to the beach during the day and he blindfolded me… and he gave me a purple shovel, because purple’s my favourite colour… and I had to dig.

“I ended up digging through all this sand. When I found it, it was like a bunch of beautiful cards… one related to the other, and the last one said, ‘Look around, take the moment in, turn around and I have a gift for you.’”

Covergirl: Jada Pinkett-Smith

2008-09-29T21:33:00.002-05:00

It's like Smith Family World Domination! Jada Pinkett-Smith looks chic and gorgeous on the cover of Jet Magazine.

When she landed her first major role as feisty freshman Lena James on the sitcom “A Different World” Jada Pinkett was cocky and a know-it-all. Today, 17 years later, as half of one of Hollywood’s power couples, Jada Pinkett Smith (Will Smith’s wife) sees herself–and her world – differently.

Wow, has it been 17 years? I feel old! She aged with "style and grace" though.

Trailer: Seven Pounds

2008-09-29T09:36:00.004-05:00

Will Smith tells the emotional story of a man who will change the lives of seven strangers in his new film, Seven Pounds. Teaming up again with the director of The Pursuit of Happyness,the film also stars Rosario Dawson, Woody Harrelson, and the oh-so-fine Michael Ealy. Michael, who is currently starring in Spike Lee's Miracle at St. Anna, was hand picked by Will to play his younger brother. Tom Cruise's adopted son, Connor Cruise, will also make his on screen debut as the younder version of Will's character, Ben.

The film, which looks very intriguing, hits theaters this December!

Racism on the Elevator!

2008-09-29T00:04:00.001-05:00

Funny ish! Free laughs on me... Check out the Office Party PSA as well.

Eye Spy: Finger Licking Good Side Eye

2008-09-28T23:33:00.003-05:00

This pic of a man giving Rihanna the side-eye outside a KFC in L.A. is priceless. With his beer and paper, she stolls by in her stillettos and leather jacket. And what is up with Ri-Ri and her KFC runs with Chris Brown. How does she stay so itty bitty eating fast food like this? Must be nice.

Oh and I did not get the memo that ruffled light denim skirts made it back to the fashion scene!

Now she is giving someone just the plain ole' evil eye!

Game On!

2008-09-28T19:36:00.005-05:00

I am super duper excited that The Game is one, still on and two, premieres this Friday on The CW. It one of the few shows still worth watching on that channel. The season finale left one hell of a jaw dropper. Kelly left Jason, Med School confessed her feelings, and Jenay is preggers! Oh and Tasha Mack hooks up with Rick Fox! Whew.. fun times!

Check out flicks from the premiere party and you can catch the promo here.

Tiny Fey as Palin...Even More Funny!

2008-09-28T16:49:00.002-05:00

This is the one and only funny part of all of SNL last night [its been pretty bad lately]... but Tina Fey has Sarah Palin down. The end is the best part.

Zero! How many times McCain mentioned the Middle Class

2008-09-27T19:22:00.004-05:00

This is Barack Obama's first ad after the presidential debate that happened Friday.

My take: Barack Obama won the debate (most major polls agree), though it wasn't a complete knock out. That is because it was poorly moderated and the topics were on John McCain's playing field. I think that the economy should have been address longer.

Plus, John McCain and his creepy laugh and fugly smirk gave me nightmares!

OBAMA '08! Yes We Can...

Chris Rock: "It's simple, vote for the guy with one house"

2008-09-26T15:21:00.003-05:00

Ha ha...Chris Rock brings the funny to politics on Larry King Live. LMAO @ him on Palin, but it's true, she has only done 3 interviews!

Exclusive: One on One with Raphael Saadiq!

2008-09-26T02:15:00.004-05:00

Every new R&B crooner says they are here to bring R&B back, but once you listen to Raphael Saadiq's newest album The Way I See It, you will see that he is bringing real R&B in its original form. From Motown to Curtis Mayfield, Raphael tapped into some of the best sounds in the era of true R&B. It's like a period piece as an ode to the greats.

His debut single, "Love That Girl" possesses a sense of Smokey Robinson and transports you to the late 50s when the kids gathered at the local community center for dances. In an love song about a New Orleans miss, the trumpet-heavy "Big Easy" features the renowned brass band, The Rebirth Band. Even Stevie Wonder makes an appearance in the soulful "Never Give Up." One of my favorites, "Sure Hope You Mean It" is eerily reminiscent of The Temptations and his style right out the David Ruffin playbook. To top it off he teams up with Jay-Z for the smooth remix of "Oh Girl."

Touching these classic sounds make the album feel so familiar. If you are a fan of the classics - Motown, Stax, Chi-town, Philly - like me, you will thoroughly enjoy The Way I See It! I had the pleasure of getting the scoop straight from Raphael on making the FAB album, his inspirations, and of course, will there ever be a reunion with Tony! Toni! Tone!?

LISTEN TO FIND OUT THE ANSWER!

Check out a preview of the full album on his Official MySpace! Plus, keep up with dates of upcoming shows on his official website, RaphaelSaadiq.com. Make sure to get your copy of The Way I See It, in stores now!

Watch the video for the debut single, "Love That Girl" here.

Halle Works Out and Prepares to be Crazy...

2008-09-26T02:05:00.003-05:00

Halle Berry was spotted heading to her morning workout at her Brentwood Gym, armed with her iPod and reading materials... On of the book titled “Diagnosis and Treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder,” is actually being used to prepare for her role in the new movie, “Frankie and Alice.”

In the upcoming drama, Halle will star as “a young woman with multiple personality disorder who struggles to remain her true self and not give in to her racist alter-personality.”

Sounds deep!

Teaser: Madea Goes to Jail

2008-09-25T16:40:00.005-05:00

Sheeees baaack! With cornrows. I saw the stage play and it wasn't fall over funny, but Madea is just funny to me. Madea Goes to Jail is set to be released February 20, 2009. Keisha Knight Pulliam, Vanessa Ferlito, Tamela and David Mann are also starring in the movie.

Jay Z: NY's Top 40, Takes shots from 50 and Oasis

2008-09-25T14:18:00.004-05:00

Jay Z has way of staying on top, so it's no surprise he made the list of New York's Top 40 in Time Out New York’s 40th anniversary issue. In his profile interview he reveals his thing for Diana Ross, working with Nas, and still keeps mum about wife Beyonce.

What about favorite moments?
Jay-Z: Damn.

What comes to mind?
Jay-Z: That’s a difficult one. I always relate it back to music—I don’t have a life outside of that. Playing the Garden, headlining that for the first time, was—Oh! I have my greatest moment! I don’t even know how I forgot this! When I was a teenager, early teenage years—maybe later, I went to see Diana Ross in Central Park, in the rain, the infamous “in the rain.” And it started raining and everyone started running. And I’m running and slid down the entire hill. Oh, it was the greatest day.

Diana was pretty hot. Were you old enough to—
Jay-Z: Yeah, I had hormones. I thought she was fantastic. Her hair was blowing. The rain was hitting her face, and her outfit was, well—It was working for me. And she really braved it out, still trying to go in a torrential rainstorm. I don’t know who said “run,” but everyone started running. I don’t even know—me and my friend. I don’t know what two guys were doing at a Diana Ross concert, but [Laughs] anyway, I think we was already in the city, okay? We slid, got up and kept running to the train.

You’re the only rapper on this list. We were considering Nas but have this 13-year rule: People on this list had to have had an impact in the last 13 years. And Illmatic was 1994. Should we have included him?
Jay-Z: Ah, wow! [Laughs] That’s a tough question. [Pauses] Yeah, only because of the impact of that album, when it’s considered one of the best albums ever created, you have to document that.

And B? What was your first meeting with your wife like?
Jay-Z: I can’t answer that question. [Laughs] Come on now.

Seriously? You guys wrote a song about being in love.
Jay-Z: I’m actually pretty open, especially in the music. And in conversation, when I get to know people. But there’s one side of my life I tend to keep quiet. You have to have some time of sanity. You can’t live with everything out there. You have to have sanctuary.

Diana Ross = Deena James, he must had fun with that! But I am amazed at him and Bey's have been so closed tight about there relationship. When dating, I get it, but the silent treatment about being married is just slightly weird. But it keeps up guessing and on the look out for any little sign of their marriage. I think they are strategically planning to keep it all private so they can write a book or something and cash in on the details!

Read the full interview here.

In other Jay Z news, both 50 Cent and Oasis has recently taken shots at him!

According to PR-Inside.com, 50 Cent claims Beyonce made Jay Z saying, "I'm a big fan of Jay-Z, but outside of the States and hip-hop circles, no one really knew who he was until he married Beyonce." I don't know, 50 is starting to sound real bitchy lately. It's not becoming of him at all.

Now remember when Jay Z played Gastonbury, to the criticism of the festival fave Oasis, and he came out singing Oasis' "Wonderwall?" Well they came back, a little late though, with a whole diss track! This is just plain laughable. Pop on Rap Beef? Listen to the song here.

Too much time on their hands...

Rihanna brings back the rocker...

2008-09-25T00:28:00.003-05:00

After playing down the rocker chic with a more soft rock look while out doing promotions in Europe, she was spotted back in form at the Gucci Spring Collection show during the Milan Fashion Week. Platinum streaks, black boots, and all. Still works for her, though.

Ludacris Honored, Working with Swizz Beatz

2008-09-24T23:37:00.003-05:00

Ludacris became the first hip-hop artist to be inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame on Saturday at a ceremony at the Georgia World Congress Center. That's pretty significant!!

Upon accepting his award, he said, "Just think - 10 years ago I was trying to put pizzas through the oven at Pizza Hut to make sure I didn't get fired.

"Now the only way I'll get fired is if I fire myself, so that's a beautiful thing right now for sure."

Hey, that's my goal in life! Snaps for Luda!

Luda will release his next album, Theater of the Mind, on Nov. 11th and features guest appearances by T.I., P-Pain, Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, Jamie Foxx, The Game, Plies, Rick Ross, Playaz Circle, and Willy Northpole. Make sure snatch up his debut single, "What Them Girls Like" on iTunes!

Continue reading to check out Swizz Beatz in the studio working on Ludacris' album...

Ciara v. Vibe Drama Continues...

2008-09-24T13:49:00.000-05:00

Just to get you up to speed since I didn't post about it when the drama began... After the cover of Ciara nekkid on Vibe Magazine came out, word was that she was planning sue Vibe for photoshopping her clothes off, which turned out to be just a rumor.

Vibe Editor-in-Chief, Danyel Spencer, defended the cover, saying that Ciara was nude according to staff on set [despite Ciara's claims that she wasn't] and that she came to Vibe wanting to be “grown up and free.” LISTEN TO THE FULL AUDIO HERE. Vibe isn't Time Magazine or anything, but I can't imagine that she would take the legal risk of photoshopping the clothes off a person. Ciara was airbrushed, but that's standard... Danyel says that she has the original untouched photos to prove it, but won't release them.

So now, MTV recently caught up with Ciara and she still singing the same tune that she wasn't naked. She says she had on underwear... In a video posted from on set of the photoshoot, she said he had fun with the "suggestive nudity" which I just saw another show this weekend, and means you are naked but you cover the private places with hands, ect. However, she feel as though the cover was misleading.

I think, at this point, I'd rather just be quiet about things such as that but I definitely want to make it clear that I was going in to do something artistic, and I was upset that when I saw the photos, everything was gone," the singer told MTV News last weekend, from the set of her forthcoming music video for "Go Girl," which features a cameo from T-Pain. "It's very, very upsetting and somewhat misleading."

It seems like she knew what she was getting into though, but you know how they say any publicity is good publicity!

See the video after the jump...

Kanye West Moves Up Release Date!

2008-09-24T13:44:00.007-05:00

Looks like 50 Cent can let go of his idea to go head-to-head with Kanye West on December 16th [probably for the best], since Kanye just announced on Twitter that the album has been moved up! 808s & Heartbreak will come out sometime in November...

He also wants you to vote! Me too... VoteForChange.com. You can register and check to see if you are registered.

Plus, here's a preview of his new show with Rhymefest, "Alligator Boots" on Comedy Central...

Update: T.I. to Pay More, Mom Still Unhappy!

2008-09-24T10:08:00.005-05:00

Superior Court Judge Bensonetta Tipton Lane [yeah, she's a sista with a name like Bensonetta] in the child support and custody case between T.I. and LaShon Dixon has ordered him to increase his monthly payments and for them to have joint custody of the 2 boys. The slight increase from $2000 to just over $3000 in support and time with the boys seems to be more of a win for T.I. LaShon originally asked for $10,000. Hmph... T.I. has publicly defended his financial support of his boys.

Tipton Lane also awarded the couple on Tuesday joint custody of the boys, ages 7 and 8. Dixon, 28, was granted primary physical custody. The children previously spent about 40 percent of their time with the rapper.

Dixon's attorney, Randy Kessler, said his client is still unsatisfied with the amount the judge ordered T.I. to pay but is happy to receive more child support.

"Every little bit helps," Kessler said. "She was just getting by with the children, while they lived a different life with their father. It can't be complete opposites on the other side." [SOURCE]

Note to LaShon: Get a job and provide the boys the lifestyle you want them to have by doing it yourself. I wish I got $3000 a month, plus schooling, medical, and extracurricular activities. I make it on my own income every month, no formal child support. Child support is for children not your lifestyle, that would be alimony and since you weren't married, well, sorry for ya! This just gives mothers a bad rap, like they are more concern with the men supporting their life, not the children. It just seems lazy to me.

Well Hello, Captain Obvious!

2008-09-23T20:53:00.002-05:00

Check It: Lil Wayne turns on Keri Hilson

2008-09-23T20:03:00.003-05:00

Or is it the other way around? Keri Hilson has chosen her collaboration with Weezy F. Baby, "Turnin' Me On" as her second single. Her album In a Perfect World... will drop November 4th. These days you can't go wrong with Lil Wayne on the track, and the Polow Da Don produced song is definitely radio-friendly.

LISTEN: Keri Hilson - "Turnin' Me On" ft. Lil Wayne

Cover via Rap-Up

Eye Spy: Rihanna in London, Plus new tour with CB

2008-09-23T15:04:00.005-05:00

Rihanna has been popping up all over the globe, from LAX to Paris, now London as she stops by the BBC Radio One Studios. Overseas is where she'll be for awhile as she just announced a tour with boyfriend/bestfriend Chris Brown in Australia. Of the 8 dates scheduled, 7 are already sold out! That's a pretty hot ticket.

In a recent interview with Aussie radio station 2DAY 104.1 she talks about growing up in Barbados, more denials of dating Chris Brown, the upcoming tour, and the rumors of being broke...Listen to the interview:

In Case You Missed It: Toni Braxton Cha Chas on the Dance Floor

2008-09-23T14:41:00.002-05:00

Toni Braxton shook her hips to the Cha Cha during the premiere of "Dancing with the Stars" last night! Toni really looks great, so tiny and I hope this really helps her microvascular angina.

Kim Kardashian and Warren Sapp did their thing too... see those videos under the cut.

Hip Hop Meets the Muppets...

2008-09-23T11:49:00.002-05:00

...on Comedy Central! Kanye West has teamed up with the cable channel for a new show tentatively titled "Alligator Boots." A half-hour pilot has already been been shot for the project.

It's from Jackhole Prods., the production company founded by Jimmy Kimmel, Daniel Kellison and Adam Carolla that also was behind Comedy Central's puppet-centric "Crank Yankers."

The project, which is under consideration for 2009, would feature music produced and performed by West and fellow rapper Rhymefest, both of whom are serving as executive producers on the pilot alongside Kellison.

West also hosts the pilot; the idea is to have a different celebrity guest host for every episode, similar to the setup on the original "Muppet Show." [SOURCE]

Sounds like something I'd watch!

Janet gets off the Island!

2008-09-23T11:01:00.002-05:00

It only took 14 months and an album flop for Janet Jackson to pack up and leave Island Def Jam. Janet previously expressed disappointment with the promotion of Discipline, namely the lack of singles released after the debut single "Feedback." I can understand being tiffed about that, but on the label side, it wasn't the best album and it was poorly received on the charts. No amount of promotion can fix that. It only sold 415,000 copies in the United States so far, according to Nielsen SoundScan, and spent just 14 weeks on the chart.

According to Billboard, the label agreed to dissolve their relationship with the artist at her request. Now, Jackson "will have autonomy over her career, without the restrictions of a label system," reads a statement from her team. "Always known to break new ground and set trends, Janet's departure from Island makes her one of the first superstar artists to have the individual freedom to promote their work through a variety of avenues such as iTunes, mobile carriers and other diverse and innovative channels."

Janet is current on her "Rock Wit U" Tour with LL Cool J and Donnie Klang...

Trailer: Notorious

2008-09-23T10:19:00.005-05:00

Based on the pictures from on set, it look like this was going to be BET's next Blackbuster movie of the month. The trailer doesn't feature any real acting either so we'll have to see if will live up to the hype.

Notorious hits theaters January 16, 2009. Are you going to see it or bootleg it?

Yes We Can: Voices of a Grassroots Movement

2008-09-22T14:08:00.004-05:00

The Obama Biden '08 Campaign has a new soundtrack! Inspired by the grassroots movement created by Barack Obama’s historic presidential run, and his call for “Change: We Can Believe In” Hidden Beach Recordings has assembled a first-of-its-kind music compilation featuring an array of artists and material that reflects America’s diversity and taps into the creative community’s overwhelming response to the campaign’s universal themes of hope, unity and change.

The 18-song disc, titled Yes We Can: Voices of a Grassroots Movement, borrows its name from one of the campaign’s central messages and boasts a stellar collection of artists from across genres, including such renowned, multi-platinum performers as Stevie Wonder, Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, Kanye West, Jill Scott, Los Lonely Boys, Yolanda Adams, Jackson Browne, BeBe Winans, Lionel Richie, Adam Levine, Keb’ Mo’ and John Legend. The project features current and classic material as well as new music heard here for the first time and speech excerpts from the Democratic nominee, which are embedded throughout the project, all elements highlight, Yes We Can.

LISTEN: "Promised Land" -Kanye West, Malik Yusef, Adam Levine

LISTEN: "Pride in the Name of Love" - John Legend

The album is available now for download and hardcopy CD exclusively on the campaign’s official website www.BarackObama.com!

Ne-Yo: She Got Her Own ft. Jamie Foxx & Fab

2008-09-22T02:16:00.004-05:00

Sigh... love Jamie Foxx! This is the remix of "Miss Independent" featuring Jamie and Fabolous. Check for cameos from Jill Marie Jones, Eve, Keisha Cole and Estelle. Love the real slow groove of the song.

I got it. No, I really do.

Eye Spy: Halle and Nahla Enjoy Day at the Park

2008-09-22T02:01:00.003-05:00

Halle Berry took advantage of the last day of summer by taking baby Nahla out to the park in Los Angles with her mother. Halle seems to be enjoying her "time off" and new mommyhood. Her next role is said to be a reunion on screen with Bill Bob Thorton in Tulia. Based in Tulia, Texas, Halle plays an attorney who works on behalf of a group of local black men who are wrongly convicted of their involvement in a drug ring.

See more fun at the park after the jump, including Nahla's adorable "Life is Good" Onesie!

Josh Groban + Fresh Prince Theme = LOLs

2008-09-22T00:41:00.001-05:00

This was quite entertaining... maybe the most entertaining part of the the whole evening!

On Set: Usher Trades Places

2008-09-22T00:25:00.003-05:00

Chris Robinson directed the newest video for Usher's third single "Trading Places" earlier this month in Venice, CA. In his second collaboration with Chris Robinson, the pair set out to deliver "something very forward-thinking." He goes on to add, "It's gonna be hot. The story is, like, wishful thinking for all men to have a woman who takes control and compliments us the way we compliment them."

See more shot after the jump...

PIC SOURCE