Kanye West feat Kay.Tunes & Pusha T (Runaway part 2)..(Extended Version) DOWNLOAD LINK
Download Link
http://www.zshare.net/audio/82429900482b1178
50 Cent Helps Broadway Star Shannon Tavarez Find Bone Marrow Match
Last month, platinum-selling superstar Rihanna lent a helping hand in saving the life of actress Shannon Tavarez, who was diagnosed last April with acute myeloid leukemia. At the time the 11-year-old star of Broadway's hit musical 'The Lion King' was in desperate need of a bone marrow transplant.
Tavarez's diagnosis not only caught the attention of the Cover Girl spokeswoman, she also managed to receive help from hip-hop icon Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, who reached out and assisted in finding her a bone marrow match. Coincidentally, the rapper-turned-actor is a distant cousin of the young actress and made it a priority to not only help his relative but also help leukemia patients across the nation.
Two weeks ago 50 -- alongside fellow G Unit MC, Tony Yayo -- joined the world's largest marrow donor center, DKMS and filmed a PSA (view the PSA below) urging their fans to register to save the lives leukemia patients as part of their "Get Swabbed to Save a Life" initiative.
Continue reading 50 Cent Helps Broadway Star Shannon Tavarez Find Bone Marrow Match
The New Dynamic Duo: Bow Wow, Brandon T. Jackson in 'Lottery Ticket'
By Wilson Morales
From Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier to Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, comedic duos have paved the way for a crop of new talent to carry on the tradition of providing urban flavor in their films.
Arriving in theaters Aug. 20 is the comedy 'Lottery Ticket,' which stars Bow Wow and Brandon T. Jackson in a film co-produced by Ice Cube.
When Kevin (Bow Wow) wins the lottery during the Fourth of July weekend, he has to find a way to hide from all of the folks who want to cash in on his winnings before he collects his money. Jackson plays his wisecracking best friend, Benny.
After first pairing up in 2005 on Malcolm D. Lee's 'Roll Bounce,' Bow Wow went on do more music and starred in the blockbuster action film 'Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift,' while Brandon starred in 'Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief' before playing opposite Robert Downey Jr. in the hilarious comedy 'Tropic Thunder' in 2008.
Directed by Erik White, the film also stars Naturi Naughton, Ice Cube, Loretta Devine, Terry Crews, Keith David and Mike Epps.
From Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier to Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, comedic duos have paved the way for a crop of new talent to carry on the tradition of providing urban flavor in their films.
Arriving in theaters Aug. 20 is the comedy 'Lottery Ticket,' which stars Bow Wow and Brandon T. Jackson in a film co-produced by Ice Cube.
When Kevin (Bow Wow) wins the lottery during the Fourth of July weekend, he has to find a way to hide from all of the folks who want to cash in on his winnings before he collects his money. Jackson plays his wisecracking best friend, Benny.
After first pairing up in 2005 on Malcolm D. Lee's 'Roll Bounce,' Bow Wow went on do more music and starred in the blockbuster action film 'Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift,' while Brandon starred in 'Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief' before playing opposite Robert Downey Jr. in the hilarious comedy 'Tropic Thunder' in 2008.
Directed by Erik White, the film also stars Naturi Naughton, Ice Cube, Loretta Devine, Terry Crews, Keith David and Mike Epps.
Lil Wayne Breaks His Silence From Prison, Reveals Jailhouse Routine
Although Lil Wayne has been relatively quiet since his March 8 imprisonment, the Grammy Award-winning rapper finally broke his silence this week via a New York radio station interview.
Weezy phoned in to popular DJ Funkmaster Flex's live show on Tuesday evening to dish about life behind bars, as well as all the support he's been receiving from his fans.
"It's been more than amazing, brother," he told the listeners of Hot 97 from New York City's Rikers Island. "I promise, I can't explain the love and support that I've been getting from my fans. I never knew it was like that, the way it is. I've been doing this thing for 16 years now and I never knew it is what it is. I promise it's breathtaking."
Since beginning his eight-month prison stint, the 27-year-old 'Lollipop' rapper faced the music when he was caught concealing "unauthorized music contraband." Correction officials reportedly found a charger and a watch that doubled as an MP3 player in his jail cell.
As expected, the headline has forced the Cash Money Records MC (legally known as Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr.) to shun all of his listening pleasures.
"I'll be very honest with you, Flex, I don't listen to no music," he revealed. "All I listen to all day, if I am listening to anything, it's sports. But that's because the simple fact. I never listen to any other music except for my own. And since I'm not able to do that up in here, I don't listen to anything. I don't listen to anything but my thoughts."
Outside of collecting his thoughts and catching up on today's latest sports news, Weezy revealed his daily jailhouse activities, which include waking up at noon, reading an abundance of fan mail, and talking to family and friends, including his children. Although the platinum-selling artist enjoys reaching out to loved ones, he's also very self-conscious in doing so while behind bars.
"Everybody get mad at me. They be like, 'Why don't you call or why haven't you called me?,'" he explained. "And I be like, 'because I don't want to bother.' I think when you're put in this position right here where I'm at, I feel like for some reason every time I pick up the phone to dial somebody's number, I feel like I'm bothering them because I'm in jail and I don't have nothing else to do but to talk to you."
"And sometimes that may not be what you want to do at the time," he continued. "I don't know if that's just a conscious thing, but I always feel like I'm bothering whenever I call."
Moving closer toward his Nov. 4 release date, Wayne is also thinking about moving "more carefully" and being more cautious once he resumes his career and personal life.
"I'll take more heed to my situation and my status," he said. "Everybody says that you're here for a reason, so I promise you, Flex, I try to find out that reason every day. And I think when I get out that'll be the only time I'll know the answer."
After numerous delays for emergency dental surgery and courthouse fires, Lil' Wayne turned himself in to authorities on March 8 to begin his prison term stemming from a July 2007 gun-possession charge.
Whitney Houston Turns 47
Whitney Houston, the six-time Grammy Award-winning chanteuse who burst on the scene in 1985 with her self-titled debut, and within a quarter of a century became one of the best-selling vocalists of all time, is celebrating her 47th birthday.
Throughout the 1990s, the New Jersey native made headlines not only for her tremendous vocal range and Hollywood acting roles, but also for her tumultuous marriage to R&B bad boy Bobby Brown and rumors of drug abuse.
The two divorced in 2007, and Houston returned focus to her music career. The world eagerly anticipated her comeback with the 2009 release of 'I Look to You.' Despite mixed reviews of the album, legions of Houston fans continue to root for the pop diva.
In celebration of Houston's birthday, BlackVoices.com takes a look at the woman, the myth, the legend -- through the years.
Flo Rida: Rapper's Musical Vibe Embodies 'Step Up 3D' Flick
By Bridget Bland
The latest installment of the 'Step Up' dance movie franchise, 'Step Up 3D,' takes the popular film to the streets of New York, with the addition of 3-D technology.
And this time around, the music is still the centerpiece of the story.
For the third 'Step Up' movie, director Jon Chu enlists the help of one of today's most popular rap stars -- chart-topping Atlantic Records rapper Flo Rida.
"We heard a couple songs he was throwing at us for the movie, but when we heard 'Club Can't Handle Me,' it was the perfect fit and summer fun song," Chu shared with the BV Newswire earlier this week during press rounds for the movie in Los Angeles.
"I love his energy, and I think he embodies the 'Step Up' franchise through his whole vibe."
Continue reading Flo Rida: Rapper's Musical Vibe Embodies 'Step Up 3D' Flick
The latest installment of the 'Step Up' dance movie franchise, 'Step Up 3D,' takes the popular film to the streets of New York, with the addition of 3-D technology.
And this time around, the music is still the centerpiece of the story.
For the third 'Step Up' movie, director Jon Chu enlists the help of one of today's most popular rap stars -- chart-topping Atlantic Records rapper Flo Rida.
"We heard a couple songs he was throwing at us for the movie, but when we heard 'Club Can't Handle Me,' it was the perfect fit and summer fun song," Chu shared with the BV Newswire earlier this week during press rounds for the movie in Los Angeles.
"I love his energy, and I think he embodies the 'Step Up' franchise through his whole vibe."
Continue reading Flo Rida: Rapper's Musical Vibe Embodies 'Step Up 3D' Flick
Notable/Quotable: Foxy Brown Gives Nicki Minaj Props
What's funny, I actually applaud Nicki for it. I think she's doing an incredible job of branding herself. When you're a boss, you give it up. Send her a Chanel bag or something. If you're winning, you're winning. That's just how I see it."
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1644636/20100728/foxy_brown.jhtml
Diddy Calls Nightline Host Racist For Questioning Son's Maybach
Diddy recently told Vibe magazine that Nightline Host Martin Bashir's question about him giving his son a Maybach for his birthday was racist:
"There were times in the interview when I had to give him an ultimatum," Diddy told Vibe. "The questions weren't being handled the right way. In hindsight, when I saw him, I shouldn't had done the interview because I know the style of interview that he does . . .. The whole thing about giving a Maybach to my son, that's really like a racist question."
"You don't ask White people what they buy their kids," he continued. "And they buy 'em Porsches and convertible Bentleys, and it ain't no question. It's really a racist question and put things back in perspective with money and the way that people still look at you. And I'm not saying that consciously he's a racist. But he probably don't even realize that he would not ask Steve Jobs that. He would be like Steve Jobs has that money and that's the gift his kid is supposed to get."
I think Diddy was right about one thing: Most journalists would never question a wealthy white person like Steve Jobs or Warren Buffet about a car they may have bought their children.
I think, though, he is missing a critical difference between himself and men like Steve Jobs. Men like Jobs and Warren Buffet and Bill Gates have not made a fortune promoting luxury lifestyles and defining themselves by them.
A tenet of hip-hop is ostentation and glamour and luxury. Diddy's image, probably more than any other entertainer, is built on throwing wealth in the faces of others who look on with a mixture of awe, envy and delight. He brags at every opportunity about his wealth, so why shouldn't it be fair game in an interview? The image of boundless wealth, big mansions and fancy cars is how hip-hop has defined itself, and whether he wants to admit or not, Diddy is one of the main architects.
I bet a reporter wouldn't ask Bob Johnson or Kenneth Chenault about a car they bought for their children.
I believe the question was less about race and more about the fact that he is not taken seriously.
You can't be a media whore and then get mad if someone asks you a question you don't like. If you don't want to be questioned about what you give to your children, don't do it on TV. You can't have it both ways, Diddy. I can't remember the last time Bill Gates bragged to the world about how much money he had.
I also think that the question is more relevant to Diddy than to America's wealthiest business leaders, because of the impact that his lifestyle has on young people.
Many young people want to be like Diddy, because he's rich. Not because he worked hard and built a mega-empire from nothing. Unfortunately, the message of hard work and the story behind Diddy's rise to power is lost on a generation who believe they are entitled to big Sweet Sixteen parties and Maybachs without lifting a finger.
We have collectively failed as a community in this regard. Diddy, along with the rest of us, are culpable in raising a generation who just want to be "rich." They don't want to work hard, they don't want to excel in school. They just want be a baller. And if they can't be rich, at least they can look rich, even if it means begging, borrowing and stealing to accomplish it. Somewhere along the line, we forgot to teach our young people the most important four letter word of all: WORK.
And a small part of that is Diddy's fault. If he spent as much time talking about the hard work it took the get to where he is as he does rattling off the brand names in his closet, perhaps he could be taken more seriously as a business leader and not just some rich hip-hop buffoon. Isn't he the one who said, "It's all about the Benjamins?"
"There were times in the interview when I had to give him an ultimatum," Diddy told Vibe. "The questions weren't being handled the right way. In hindsight, when I saw him, I shouldn't had done the interview because I know the style of interview that he does . . .. The whole thing about giving a Maybach to my son, that's really like a racist question."
"You don't ask White people what they buy their kids," he continued. "And they buy 'em Porsches and convertible Bentleys, and it ain't no question. It's really a racist question and put things back in perspective with money and the way that people still look at you. And I'm not saying that consciously he's a racist. But he probably don't even realize that he would not ask Steve Jobs that. He would be like Steve Jobs has that money and that's the gift his kid is supposed to get."
I think Diddy was right about one thing: Most journalists would never question a wealthy white person like Steve Jobs or Warren Buffet about a car they may have bought their children.
I think, though, he is missing a critical difference between himself and men like Steve Jobs. Men like Jobs and Warren Buffet and Bill Gates have not made a fortune promoting luxury lifestyles and defining themselves by them.
A tenet of hip-hop is ostentation and glamour and luxury. Diddy's image, probably more than any other entertainer, is built on throwing wealth in the faces of others who look on with a mixture of awe, envy and delight. He brags at every opportunity about his wealth, so why shouldn't it be fair game in an interview? The image of boundless wealth, big mansions and fancy cars is how hip-hop has defined itself, and whether he wants to admit or not, Diddy is one of the main architects.
I bet a reporter wouldn't ask Bob Johnson or Kenneth Chenault about a car they bought for their children.
I believe the question was less about race and more about the fact that he is not taken seriously.
You can't be a media whore and then get mad if someone asks you a question you don't like. If you don't want to be questioned about what you give to your children, don't do it on TV. You can't have it both ways, Diddy. I can't remember the last time Bill Gates bragged to the world about how much money he had.
I also think that the question is more relevant to Diddy than to America's wealthiest business leaders, because of the impact that his lifestyle has on young people.
Many young people want to be like Diddy, because he's rich. Not because he worked hard and built a mega-empire from nothing. Unfortunately, the message of hard work and the story behind Diddy's rise to power is lost on a generation who believe they are entitled to big Sweet Sixteen parties and Maybachs without lifting a finger.
We have collectively failed as a community in this regard. Diddy, along with the rest of us, are culpable in raising a generation who just want to be "rich." They don't want to work hard, they don't want to excel in school. They just want be a baller. And if they can't be rich, at least they can look rich, even if it means begging, borrowing and stealing to accomplish it. Somewhere along the line, we forgot to teach our young people the most important four letter word of all: WORK.
And a small part of that is Diddy's fault. If he spent as much time talking about the hard work it took the get to where he is as he does rattling off the brand names in his closet, perhaps he could be taken more seriously as a business leader and not just some rich hip-hop buffoon. Isn't he the one who said, "It's all about the Benjamins?"
Notable/Quotable: Irv Gotti Compares Nicki Minaj To Lauryn Hill
By Brennan Williams
Irv Gotti: The world has yet to see the best of Nicki Minaj. What she's delivering to the world now is basically what they want. But I know that she's a super talented superstar who can do anything at a high level—rap, sing, act, whatever she wants to do. This is just the beginning of Nicki Minaj. Her best is yet to come. In my opinion she is as talented as my other girl Lauryn Hill. They have completely different styles. But as far as the talent is concerned they both can do it all. Nicki just isn't showing it yet 'cause she doesn't want to. But world be prepared 'cause she's the truth!
Irv Gotti: The world has yet to see the best of Nicki Minaj. What she's delivering to the world now is basically what they want. But I know that she's a super talented superstar who can do anything at a high level—rap, sing, act, whatever she wants to do. This is just the beginning of Nicki Minaj. Her best is yet to come. In my opinion she is as talented as my other girl Lauryn Hill. They have completely different styles. But as far as the talent is concerned they both can do it all. Nicki just isn't showing it yet 'cause she doesn't want to. But world be prepared 'cause she's the truth!
Love & Marriage: Our Celebrity Columnist, Bilal, Teaches YOU How to Decode Men!
July 26th, 2010 - By Bilal Oliver
Ok … So I was asked to write this column with the idea of giving you my opinion on love, relationships, spirituality and stuff like that. Every week the beautiful ladies of Madame Noire send me a topic and I just say what I want and then they give it to you. So here it is.
My topic for this week was: ”How to Decode A Brother When He’s Talking All That Jazz” …
So I kicked this one around a little bit and decided to just answer a few questions that my female friends are always asking. What does it mean when he did this or what does it mean when said that?
1. He says he’s going to call and doesn’t …
Now I really don’t understand why anyone would do this but I guess it’s just to be cordial. I’ve never really taken someone’s number and not called. Men probably do it just to be nice or maybe it was a one-night stand and he wants to keep it cool. But if you meet a guy and he takes your number and doesn’t call you, he’s JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU!
2. He says “nothing” when you ask him what’s wrong …
If so, it’s because most guys don’t want to be in an exhaustive conversation about their feelings. I’m not having a two- or three-hour long conversation about my feelings. I’m not.
3. He forgets your birthday …
Ohhhh … Don’t take it personal. Guys forget a lot of sh*t. It’s not personal though. Women are a lot more emotional about remembering things. I don’t remember sh*t … Sometimes I don’t remember my own mother’s birthday.
4. He says he wants to take things slow
He either got a chick on the side or … HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU! Ha! Most guys want to take it slow because they’re not really ready to just be with you. They’re still in player mode.
5. Do men ever outgrow player mode?
Yeah.
6. All the way fully?
Look … You’re only good as your last hit. It depends on the dude and it depends on the woman he meets. Most dudes don’t want to cheat. They just don’t’ find the right person that makes them not want to cheat.
7. It’s been a month of dates and he hasn’t tried to get me in bed …
You’re either really intimidating or you’re just a turn-off. Either way, you’re in the friend zone. OR he’s one of those dudes that’s trying to turn you out. He’s trying to wait for you to go crazy and just attack him like “TAKE ME NOW!” There’s always that cat that doesn’t like to make the first move and likes chicks to be on him.
8. He doesn’t try to kiss you on the first date …
Well he could just be a gentleman or he has some more sneaky plans for you. You can do a lot to a woman if you make her wait, because that’s her game.
9. He says he’ll be home at midnight and comes home at 4am …
Smell his nuts.
10. He says he’s not ready for commitment
Believe him. You have an honest one. You should really try to create a friendship with him.
11. He’s taking a weekend trip with the fellas …
Depends on his type of friends. If they look like macks, then you already know. If they look sweet, you already know. If you you’ve never met his friends, it’s either really his girlfriend or he’s probably trying to distance himself from you … Sounds like game.
Ok … So I was asked to write this column with the idea of giving you my opinion on love, relationships, spirituality and stuff like that. Every week the beautiful ladies of Madame Noire send me a topic and I just say what I want and then they give it to you. So here it is.
My topic for this week was: ”How to Decode A Brother When He’s Talking All That Jazz” …
So I kicked this one around a little bit and decided to just answer a few questions that my female friends are always asking. What does it mean when he did this or what does it mean when said that?
1. He says he’s going to call and doesn’t …
Now I really don’t understand why anyone would do this but I guess it’s just to be cordial. I’ve never really taken someone’s number and not called. Men probably do it just to be nice or maybe it was a one-night stand and he wants to keep it cool. But if you meet a guy and he takes your number and doesn’t call you, he’s JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU!
2. He says “nothing” when you ask him what’s wrong …
If so, it’s because most guys don’t want to be in an exhaustive conversation about their feelings. I’m not having a two- or three-hour long conversation about my feelings. I’m not.
3. He forgets your birthday …
Ohhhh … Don’t take it personal. Guys forget a lot of sh*t. It’s not personal though. Women are a lot more emotional about remembering things. I don’t remember sh*t … Sometimes I don’t remember my own mother’s birthday.
4. He says he wants to take things slow
He either got a chick on the side or … HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU! Ha! Most guys want to take it slow because they’re not really ready to just be with you. They’re still in player mode.
5. Do men ever outgrow player mode?
Yeah.
6. All the way fully?
Look … You’re only good as your last hit. It depends on the dude and it depends on the woman he meets. Most dudes don’t want to cheat. They just don’t’ find the right person that makes them not want to cheat.
7. It’s been a month of dates and he hasn’t tried to get me in bed …
You’re either really intimidating or you’re just a turn-off. Either way, you’re in the friend zone. OR he’s one of those dudes that’s trying to turn you out. He’s trying to wait for you to go crazy and just attack him like “TAKE ME NOW!” There’s always that cat that doesn’t like to make the first move and likes chicks to be on him.
8. He doesn’t try to kiss you on the first date …
Well he could just be a gentleman or he has some more sneaky plans for you. You can do a lot to a woman if you make her wait, because that’s her game.
9. He says he’ll be home at midnight and comes home at 4am …
Smell his nuts.
10. He says he’s not ready for commitment
Believe him. You have an honest one. You should really try to create a friendship with him.
11. He’s taking a weekend trip with the fellas …
Depends on his type of friends. If they look like macks, then you already know. If they look sweet, you already know. If you you’ve never met his friends, it’s either really his girlfriend or he’s probably trying to distance himself from you … Sounds like game.
Detox DOES exist..
Ofcourse we’ve all heard these 4 words… “Look Out For Detox” … and still… NOTHING! I even have some homies who say they are on Detox… but I’ve never seen any proof! Well… a song has finally been “leaked” I guess you can say and it features Jay Z. I do have one question though… “Was it worth the wait?”
Kay Tunes (Live In the Studio) With Grammy Producer Rio of SavantSoundz SHE CAN SING WOW!!
***Rising Star Kay.Tunes***WOW Amazing!!! (( Kay.Tunes)) in the Studio with Grammy Producer Rio of SavantSoundz Singing one of her songs"Come Back Home" ***Acapella***This is a pure display of Kay.Tunes Soulfulness UNPLUGGED!! A MUST SEE & Another (Brown Brother Production)
Snoop Dogg Says Daughter's Battle Against Lupus Made His Family Closer
Snoop Dogg really was living the life he described in his rap songs - one punctuated with women and drugs - and it was destroying his marriage to his wife, who is also the Mother of his three children:
"You know, I was caught up with Hollywood, and the girls and the night life," Snoop said in 2008.
Snoop even filed for divorce, but the couple reconciled and renewed their vows to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2008; they were originally married in June of 1997.
"I thought I was the man and I was willing to give up what I had at home for that, until I realized that what I had at home was irreplaceable, so I gave that up to go back home," Snoop said.
Now Snoop and Shante have revealed to People Magazine that the discovery that their then-6-year-old daughter, Cori (pictured above, third from right), had lupus helped to bring their family closer.
C.Scholar Who AM I (The Future is Near)) A must See Video!
This young aspiring musician from RIchmond, Virginia is showcasing his talent to the world. From singing dancing to rapping the young phenomenon known as C.Scholar has what it takes to become the next BIG Superstar. Follow him on twitter @C_Scholar Check Video Below!
Buzz Exclusive: Alicia Keys Parts With Longtime Manager
By Jawn Murray
Grammy winner Alicia Keys has parted with her longtime manager, Jeff Robinson.
The 29-year-old singer, who has been represented by Robinson's MBK Entertainment since the beginning of her career, supposedly ended her business relationship with Robinson earlier this week.
There are multiple rumors as to why the pair is ending their business relationship, however one rep for Keys – she has two – told BV Buzz that it was "amicable" and sent a joint statement on behalf of the singer and her former manager.
"Jeff Robinson, CEO of MBK Entertainment Inc., and 12 time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys have decided to change the structure of their business relationship. Robinson and Keys will continue to collaborate and produce future albums together through MBK/J Records while Alicia will now oversee all aspects of her own personal career. MBK Entertainment Inc. has been the management firm for Alicia Keys since she was a teenager-guiding every facet of her career, including the international success of her Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum albums, films and branding opportunities. Keys and Robinson have been partners for over a decade and would like opportunities to pursue other endeavors. Their decision is mutually agreed upon and amicable," the statement read.
"This decision will allow Alicia more control over all aspects of her career from singing and songwriting, to leading many business ventures and social causes," the statement to BV Buzz continued. "Keys' company, AK Worldwide, will now have responsibility and oversight for Alicia's touring, endorsements, sponsorships, licensing, new business development, television and film ventures. MBK, a multifaceted entertainment company with a film, television, publishing and independent marketing divisions, will have the opportunity to focus on developing the careers of new, young talented artists. The company will also delve deeper into the gospel music format with their newly formed Glory to Glory Records."
Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys
Keys' personal life has been a constant in the headlines in recent months after the singer went public with her relationship with hip-hop producer Swizz Beatz.
According to Beatz's ex-wife Mashonda, the 'Karma' singer supposedly began her relationship with the 31-year-old producer in December of 2007 though the couple was still married. Beatz, whose real name is Kasseem Dean, apparently made his then-wife aware of his extramarital affair with Keys on Mother's Day in 2008.
Beatz's child with Keys will be his third.
Grammy winner Alicia Keys has parted with her longtime manager, Jeff Robinson.
The 29-year-old singer, who has been represented by Robinson's MBK Entertainment since the beginning of her career, supposedly ended her business relationship with Robinson earlier this week.
There are multiple rumors as to why the pair is ending their business relationship, however one rep for Keys – she has two – told BV Buzz that it was "amicable" and sent a joint statement on behalf of the singer and her former manager.
"Jeff Robinson, CEO of MBK Entertainment Inc., and 12 time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys have decided to change the structure of their business relationship. Robinson and Keys will continue to collaborate and produce future albums together through MBK/J Records while Alicia will now oversee all aspects of her own personal career. MBK Entertainment Inc. has been the management firm for Alicia Keys since she was a teenager-guiding every facet of her career, including the international success of her Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum albums, films and branding opportunities. Keys and Robinson have been partners for over a decade and would like opportunities to pursue other endeavors. Their decision is mutually agreed upon and amicable," the statement read.
"This decision will allow Alicia more control over all aspects of her career from singing and songwriting, to leading many business ventures and social causes," the statement to BV Buzz continued. "Keys' company, AK Worldwide, will now have responsibility and oversight for Alicia's touring, endorsements, sponsorships, licensing, new business development, television and film ventures. MBK, a multifaceted entertainment company with a film, television, publishing and independent marketing divisions, will have the opportunity to focus on developing the careers of new, young talented artists. The company will also delve deeper into the gospel music format with their newly formed Glory to Glory Records."
Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys
Keys' personal life has been a constant in the headlines in recent months after the singer went public with her relationship with hip-hop producer Swizz Beatz.
According to Beatz's ex-wife Mashonda, the 'Karma' singer supposedly began her relationship with the 31-year-old producer in December of 2007 though the couple was still married. Beatz, whose real name is Kasseem Dean, apparently made his then-wife aware of his extramarital affair with Keys on Mother's Day in 2008.
Beatz's child with Keys will be his third.
Vonetta McGee: Leading Lady of Blaxploitation Era Dead at 65
Vonetta McGee, an actress who scaled the ranks of black Hollywood during blaxploitation film era of the 1970s, died after experiencing cardiac arrest and being on life support for two days. She was 65, though some have her year of birth listed as 1940.
McGee appeared opposite Fred Williamson in the black action movie 'Hammer' in 1972 and had starring roles in the crime drama 'Melinda' and the popular horror film 'Blacula.'
One Los Angeles Times movie reviewer once considered McGee "one of the busiest and most beautiful black actresses."
The San Francisco native also appeared with Richard Roundtree in 'Shaft in Africa' (1973), and co-starred with her lover, Max Julien, in 'Thomasine & Bushrod' (1974).McGee also appeared alongside Clint Eastwood in the 1975 action-thriller 'The Eiger Sanction,' which was considered a coup for a black actress during that period.
"I was pleased to see her get a role with Clint Eastwood," Williamson told the Los Angeles Times. "Not many black actors had that opportunity to be in a movie where color doesn't matter."
"Vonetta McGee was like a lot of actors and actresses at that time, like myself, Jim Brown, Richard Roundtree, Billy Dee Williams and Pam Grier, in that we had more talent than we were allowed to show because everything was perceived as a black project. Once they categorize you, your marketability becomes limited," he added.
Known to be outspoken herself, McGee didn't care too much for the blaxploitation label that was attached to many of the films of her heyday. The label, she said, was used "like racism, so you don't have to think of the individual elements, just the whole. If you study propaganda, you understand how this works."
"She was a brilliant actor, with a distinctive style and grace," Pam Grier told BV Newswire upon hearing about McGee's death. "I hope everyone revisits her films and enjoy. I wish peace and love to Carl, her husband, her son and and her family."
McGee appeared opposite Fred Williamson in the black action movie 'Hammer' in 1972 and had starring roles in the crime drama 'Melinda' and the popular horror film 'Blacula.'
One Los Angeles Times movie reviewer once considered McGee "one of the busiest and most beautiful black actresses."
The San Francisco native also appeared with Richard Roundtree in 'Shaft in Africa' (1973), and co-starred with her lover, Max Julien, in 'Thomasine & Bushrod' (1974).McGee also appeared alongside Clint Eastwood in the 1975 action-thriller 'The Eiger Sanction,' which was considered a coup for a black actress during that period.
"I was pleased to see her get a role with Clint Eastwood," Williamson told the Los Angeles Times. "Not many black actors had that opportunity to be in a movie where color doesn't matter."
"Vonetta McGee was like a lot of actors and actresses at that time, like myself, Jim Brown, Richard Roundtree, Billy Dee Williams and Pam Grier, in that we had more talent than we were allowed to show because everything was perceived as a black project. Once they categorize you, your marketability becomes limited," he added.
Known to be outspoken herself, McGee didn't care too much for the blaxploitation label that was attached to many of the films of her heyday. The label, she said, was used "like racism, so you don't have to think of the individual elements, just the whole. If you study propaganda, you understand how this works."
"She was a brilliant actor, with a distinctive style and grace," Pam Grier told BV Newswire upon hearing about McGee's death. "I hope everyone revisits her films and enjoy. I wish peace and love to Carl, her husband, her son and and her family."
Ne-Yo Debuts 'Beautiful Monster,' 'Champagne Life' Videos "The singer takes on superhero powers in two new clips from his upcoming Libra Scale."
By Jayson Rodriguez
Ne-Yo took over BET's "106 & Park" on Wednesday evening (July 14), premiering two story-driven videos, "Beautiful Monster" and "Champagne Life." The singer promised MTV News last month that the clips accompanying his forthcoming album, Libra Scale, would form part of a larger overall visual narrative.
" 'Beautiful Monster' is one piece of a very long and intricate story," Ne-Yo revealed. "When you see the first video, make sure that you're paying attention because all of the videos tell a story. So pay attention — you don't want to miss nothing."
Under Ne-Yo and Wayne Isham's (Madonna, Aaliyah, Adam Lambert) direction, the clips present the singer as a member of a crime-fighting trio called "The Gentlemen." Ne-Yo is granted otherworldly powers by a mysterious figure (Columbus Short), who assures the three blue-collar workers that their new powers will remain active so long as they don't fall in love.
In "Beautiful Monster," Ne-Yo is portrayed as a disheveled superhero, à la Will Smith in "Hancock," who must battle his former flame Princess Sinclair in order to save the world from danger. Fans later learn in the "Champagne Life" video that Ne-Yo's superhero and Sinclair were once romantically involved. As a result, she assumed some of Ne-Yo's powers, but in adverse fashion. The transfer turned Sinclair into Diamond Eye, a "crazy, psycho mass-murderer," as Short's character describes her.
Short's shadowy character revisits Ne-Yo, now four years after first granting him those special powers, and offers the star an ultimatum: Both Sinclair and her alter ego, Diamond Eye, must die to save the world or Ne-Yo must reverse her curse and give up his own life to save the world. The singer then sets off in search of his onetime love and must make the difficult decision.
" 'Beautiful Monster,' in a nutshell, represents the love interest/ archnemesis in the story [of] Libra Scale, which the entire album is based off of," Ne-Yo told MTV News about the theme of the LP, due September 21.
What did you think of the "Beautiful Monster" and "Champagne Life" videos? Let us know in the comments below!
Ne-Yo took over BET's "106 & Park" on Wednesday evening (July 14), premiering two story-driven videos, "Beautiful Monster" and "Champagne Life." The singer promised MTV News last month that the clips accompanying his forthcoming album, Libra Scale, would form part of a larger overall visual narrative.
" 'Beautiful Monster' is one piece of a very long and intricate story," Ne-Yo revealed. "When you see the first video, make sure that you're paying attention because all of the videos tell a story. So pay attention — you don't want to miss nothing."
Under Ne-Yo and Wayne Isham's (Madonna, Aaliyah, Adam Lambert) direction, the clips present the singer as a member of a crime-fighting trio called "The Gentlemen." Ne-Yo is granted otherworldly powers by a mysterious figure (Columbus Short), who assures the three blue-collar workers that their new powers will remain active so long as they don't fall in love.
In "Beautiful Monster," Ne-Yo is portrayed as a disheveled superhero, à la Will Smith in "Hancock," who must battle his former flame Princess Sinclair in order to save the world from danger. Fans later learn in the "Champagne Life" video that Ne-Yo's superhero and Sinclair were once romantically involved. As a result, she assumed some of Ne-Yo's powers, but in adverse fashion. The transfer turned Sinclair into Diamond Eye, a "crazy, psycho mass-murderer," as Short's character describes her.
Short's shadowy character revisits Ne-Yo, now four years after first granting him those special powers, and offers the star an ultimatum: Both Sinclair and her alter ego, Diamond Eye, must die to save the world or Ne-Yo must reverse her curse and give up his own life to save the world. The singer then sets off in search of his onetime love and must make the difficult decision.
" 'Beautiful Monster,' in a nutshell, represents the love interest/ archnemesis in the story [of] Libra Scale, which the entire album is based off of," Ne-Yo told MTV News about the theme of the LP, due September 21.
What did you think of the "Beautiful Monster" and "Champagne Life" videos? Let us know in the comments below!
Rihanna: Lending a Helping Hand to Save the Life of 11-Year-Old Broadway Star Shannon Tavarez
The platinum-selling music superstar is lending her name and using her influence for something other than promoting a product. The 'Pon De Replay' singer is urging her fans to help save the life of Shannon Tavarez, an 11-year-old star of Broadway's hit musical 'The Lion King' who was recently diagnosed with acute leukemia.
"Being a performer myself I know what it's like to be given the opportunity of a lifetime at a young age, and I would have been destroyed if that was taken away from me," the Def Jam Records chart topper and CoverGirl spokeswoman said. "Shannon deserves to live and share her beautiful voice with the world."
Rihanna, who Tavarez considers her idol, got wind of her plight and felt she had to do something to help – urging her fans to register with DKMS at WWW.GETSWABBED.ORG to save Shannon's life and the lives of other leukemia patient's life.
Tavarez, who performed four shows a week as young Nala in 'Lion King,' needs a bone marrow transplant. Her mother is African American, and her father is Dominican. According to a spokesperson, only 8 percent of the 7 million registered donors are African American, which means that only 17 percent of African Americans in need of a transplant will receive one.
"When I found out, it hit me really hard, like someone was throwing a ball at me," said the talented tween, who currently lives at Schneider Children's Hospital in Long Island, where she receives daily chemotherapy treatments. "It was shocking and I thought, why me?"Brought to America in 2004 by Katharina Hart, the organization's mission is to save lives by recruiting bone marrow donors for leukemia patients. More than 20,000 DKMS donors have helped save lives by donating their bone marrow. Founded in 1991 by Peter Hart in Germany, DKMS is the largest bone marrow donor center in the world with more than 2 million registered donors.
"When I listened to Shannon's voice, I got really sad. Her voice is so beautiful. She should be performing on Broadway, but she is confined to her bed, fighting for her life. Shannon needs to find a bone marrow donor to survive. I urge all my fans to register with DKMS," said Rihanna, who has close ties to DKMS.
The cost to DKMS for registering a new potential bone marrow donor is $65. DKMS does not make paying the fee mandatory, but it depends on public donations and appreciate any contribution.