Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Kanye Gives White Designer Pass to Use N-Word in Collection



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Dr. Dre Working With White Rapper from Texas as New Protege



Dr.


Kevin Gates Could Be Key Witness in Concert Shooting, Police Say


Did Kevin Gates witness a shooting at one of his concerts? That’s what police want to ask him after gunfire broke out at a show he was performing at in Kentucky Sunday (Jan. 25).


TMZ reports that the cops want to speak with the “I-slept-with-my-cousin” rapper because he was allegedly onstage during the shooting and was in the perfect position to witness everything.


A video from the concert shows the 28-year-old jumping into the crowd and performing, though it’s not clear if this was before or after gun shots rang out. One person received a non-life threatening injury, and another was hurt when people were stampeding out of the venue.


So far, Gates is keeping quiet about the incident since police have not been able to reach him. Is he following the controversial no snitching rule or did he really not see anything? Perhaps he’ll head to Instagram like usual to address the situation. One thing we do know: we’ll hear “I don’t get tired” before his 15 seconds are up.


See 20 Rappers’ Real Names Revealed



Russell Westbrook Cuts Off Journalist During Post-Game Interview



By now it's no surprise that Russell Westbrook isn't the biggest fan of the media, particularly the interviewers that ask him questions during post game interviews.


Marshawn Lynch Gives Incredibly Bizarre Super Bowl Interview (@MoneyLynch)



Marshawn Lynch attended the Super Bowl 2015 Media Day event for one simple reason: so he "won't get fined.


Rico Love vs. Charlie Wilson – The Boombox Battle

Rico Love Charlie WilsonThe Boombox

Last week’s The Boombox Battle proved to be a close race between LeToya Luckett and Rico Love. However, in the end, Rico’s song, ‘Somebody Else,’ squeezed by with 56 percent of the fan vote.


The track, appears on his upcoming debut album, ‘Turn the Lights On,’ due May 19 via Division1/Interscope Records. He sings about getting over a broken heart on ‘Somebody Else,’ which hits home home for anyone who’s trying to move on but can’t seem to forget about a love that they lost.


“When I see your face I start to break / I love you babe, it’s hard to keep staying strong / ‘Cause it’s take strength to keep from crying, wish I knew how to not hold on,” he sings.


Rico’s opponent this week is Charlie Wilson. Being an industry veteran for over 40 years, the crooner brings wisdom, experience and swagger on his track, ‘Infectious.’ Off his new album, ‘Forever Charlie,’ the funky, disco track will quickly get you on your feet and warm you up during this winter season. Snoop Dogg is featured on the effort, delivering some more lyrical suavity.


“Baby girl, lips so red they call you Maybelline / Rock my world, if looks could kill you’d know me off my feet,” Charlie croons.


Meanwhile Snoop raps, ““To kiss your lips, dip, slip into a zone, 2, 1, 3, 5, 4 home alone / Infectious, gold tips with the chrome, nick nack, paddy wack, give me my bone / I want you and I know that you want me too / So let’s just do what’s on your mind, take your time girl and put that thing on me.”


Who will win this week? Rico Love’s heartbreaking ballad or will Charlie Wilson and Snoop’s party track earn the fan votes? Go vote for your favorite song in the poll below. Remember, you can vote once per hour until the poll closes on Tues., Feb. 3, at 10AM ET.


Watch Rico Love’s ‘Somebody Else’ Video


Listen to Charlie Wilson’s ‘Infectious’ Feat. Snoop Dogg



Rules of The Boombox Battle

Two artists and their respective songs compete against each other each week. The triumphant artist goes on to compete in the next The Boombox Battle. If an artist wins The Boombox Battle four times consecutively, their song will be honored in The Boombox Battle Hall of Fame.



Adidas Originals Top Ten Hi 'Fox Red'

Sneaker Politics

If versatility is an important characteristic when it comes to sneaker purchases, then this latest creation from adidas is sure to receive high marks. The adidas Originals Top Ten Hi has been reworked in a way that fits any niche imaginable.


The shoe has been given an upper that could hang with any construction boot thanks to a fox red nubuck build and metallic gold eyelets. The outsole gets treated with translucent gum for a smooth finish that is as understated as it is awesome.


While you definitely won’t want to put these up against the elements, they definitely have that rugged feel. Look for them now at select retailers including Sneaker Politics.


Sneaker Politics Sneaker Politics Sneaker Politics

Porn Star Mia Khalifa Reveals Drake Tried to Smash Via DM



It seems porn has a new "it" girl in Mia Khalifa, as the top-heavy beauty recently became the #1 searched porn star on PornHub and is garnering the attention of everyone from the average Joe to arguably the biggest rapper in the game, Drizzy himself.


J. Cole Turning "Forest Hills" House Into Home for Single Moms (@jcolenc)



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Mya Claps Back at Fans Judging Her Strip Club Performance



This weekend, DMV native and beautiful songstress


Masika's Extremely Steamy Bedroom Nudes Leak Online (@masikakalysha)



Love & Hip Hop star Masika Kalysha has recently learned what it's like to have her nude photos leak online.


Lil Wayne Is Taking Drake and Nicki Minaj With Him When He Leaves Cash Money

Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil WayneYouTube

A few days ago we shared news that Lil Wayne is suing Birdman for $8 million to be released from Cash Money Records, and now more details on the lawsuit are trickling in.


According to TMZ, Weezy is demanding that Nicki Minaj and Drake leave Cash Money with him, as both artists were not only discovered by the rapper, but they’re also signed to his label Young Money. Lil Twist, Christina Milian and Mack Maine are also on the label.


But here’s where things get convoluted. Wayne’s artists have a distribution deal with Cash Money and before they can jump ship, those deals have to be settled for all five artists to move on. This looks like a major legal fight.


Remember the lyrics on Tunechi’s song ‘CoCo,’ off his recently released ‘Sorry 4 the Wait 2′ mixtape? He gives a brief reminder of the artists that belong to his roster. “I ain’t tripping, I got Barbie and Drake too,” he spits.


A very long, drawn out court battle is about to go down.


See 10 Bootylicious Beauties



Wale Reponds to Baddie Calling Him "Ugly" on Instagram



Wale has become known as one celebrity with little to no problems checking a fan via Instagram or Twitter who he feels is disrespectful, and it appears the same rules apply to women and men, as the DC spitter recently addressed a Southern dime who called him "ugly" on social media.


Body Cam Footage Shows Death of College Student Shot Dead by Cop



Warning: The video above contains graphic images.


DJ Cipha Sounds Announces Departure From Hot 97 (@ciphasounds)



DJ Cipha Sounds, most notable for his 17 years of spinning at Hot 97, has just announced that he will no longer be working for the station.


Common and John Legend to Perform 'Glory' at 2015 Oscars

Common, John LegendParas Griffin, Getty Images

After Common and John Legend‘s song ‘Glory’ won for Best Original Song at the 2015 Golden Globe Awards, it became obvious the soulful cut written for the movie ‘Selma’ touched many, from critics to fans. It’s likely the song will touch even more when the duo perform it at the 87th Academy Awards next month.


After the ‘Nobody’s Smiling’ creator received the news that he and Legend would be performing, Com took to Twitter to express his gratitude. “I’m humbled and blessed to announce that @TheAcademy invited me @johnlegend to perform at the #Oscars on Feb 22nd,” he wrote.


His G.O.O.D. Music brethren also shared his appreciation for the invite. “I’m so honored to announce that @TheAcademy invited me and @common to perform at the #Oscars on Feb 22nd,” Legend tweeted.


The night could be a big one for both artists, as they’re also nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. If the Golden Globes are any indication on how they’ll do, there’s a good chance they’ll walk away with the coveted statue.


We wish both Com and Mr. Legend good luck.


See 10 Rappers & Singers Promoting Unexpected Products



Jodeci Deliver Touching Ballad 'Every Moment'

Every Moment CoverSoda Pop

If you’ve heard Jodeci‘s comeback song ‘Nobody Wins,’ featuring B.o.B, you probably thought it lacked that classic sound the group established back in the ’90s.


Well, this time around they’ve nailed it with ‘Every Moment,’ a touching ballad that contains their signature sound, but with a nice 2015 twist.


“Cars, clothes, girls, and games, though the years nothing’s changed / We shared a love like a melody, my sweetest moment is when you’re hear with me,” sings JoJo, right before the other group members launch into a four part-harmony.


“Every morning is so sweet, when you laying next to me / Our hearts beating as one, nothing we can’t overcome,” they sing over big drums, which helps to accentuate their vocals.


Clearly, this is a song that’s not about a fly-by-night romance; it’s about actual love and commitment — the group does a splendid job of relaying the sentiment.


There’s no doubt the cut will please loyal Jodeci fans. Experience their moment below.


Listen to Jodeci’s ‘Every Moment’


See 20 Singers’ Real Names Revealed



Ride or Die: Tae Heckard Sticks by Brandon Jennings Post-Surgery (@BrandonJennings @taeheckard)



Brandon Jennings and Tae Heckard have been together for quite some time now, but his gorgeous woman really showed her true colors recently after he suffered a season-ending injury by rupturing his left Achilles.


VladTV Is Hiring!



VladTV is hiring local reporters in all major cities!


- Do you have access to red carpet and other celebrity events?


- Do you have backstage access at big concerts?


- Do you go to music video shoots?


- Do you work or intern at a radio station?


If you answered yes to any of these questions, VladTV would like to speak with you about a paid position as a VladTV reporter in your city.


NBA's Quincy Miller Checks Promoter Flirting w/ Vixen Girlfriend



Sacramento Kings player Quincy Miller is clearly focused on his career at the moment, as his prowess on the court landed him at the #1 spot in the NBA Development League, and now a spot with the Sacramento Kings.


Exclusive! Skin Diamond: I'm Honest About Porn Career With Those I Date (@skin_diamond)



Porn star Skin Diamond sat down with VladTV and discussed her affinity for dominant/submissive relationships, how things are going in her first "civilian" relationship, and how it feels to be recognized when out and about on the streets.


25 Facts You Probably Didn't Know About Mary J. Blige

Mary J. BligeStephen Lovekin, Getty Images

Mary J. Blige is considered the standard for R&B with her two decades of work, so it’s easy to forget she was actually a bit of a risk when she signed with Uptown Records in 1989. Sporting bubble jackets and combat boots, the singer certainly wasn’t like the typically refined and glamorous stars of the genre from that time. She never once hid the fact she was Mary from the Yonkers, N.Y. projects.


Her straightforward approach is what makes MJB special. Blige was open about her traumas and drug abuse during her earlier years, and perhaps it was that sort of intensely personal inspiration that led to such passionately sung music. Her warm mix of hip-hop into her R&B stylings and pure talent led to two all-time classic albums, ‘What’s the 411′ and ‘My Life.’ The more soulful and polished sound of Blige’s later years reflected the increasing stability of her personal life. She’s been able to maintain that emotional spark in her music despite artistic changes.


To put it simply, Mary J. Blige has always been Mary J. Blige, but even her most dedicated fans may need to be schooled about a thing or two from her past. Check out 25 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Mary J. Blige.








1



On her 'My Life' album, Keith Murray rhymes over the 'Who Shot Ya?' beat because the original Notorious B.I.G. version was considered to be too violent.









2



Her passionate performance on 'My Life' has been linked to her tumultuous relationship with JoDeCi's K-Ci. The relationship includes rumors of substance and physical abuse.









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At 18, she was the youngest and first female artist to sign to Uptown Records.









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She once worked as a directory assistance operator.









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MJB was the lead vocalist in her church's choir as a kid.









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Led Zeppelin was one of her favorite bands growing up. Blige even performed 'Stairway to Heaven' when she was on 'Oprah.'









7



Blige was a background vocalist in 1989. She sang the hook on Father MC's forgotten hit, 'I’ll Do 4 U.'









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She made her acting debut on 'The Jamie Foxx Show.'









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The songstress is one of the only singers to have Grammys in the R&B, Rap, Pop and Gospel categories.









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Her husband, record executive Kendu Isaacs, was a driving force in keeping her sober.









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After dropping out of high school during her junior year, Blige got her GED in 2010.









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Blige's tour rider requests that the name Mrs. Jefferson be used as her alias when she checks into hotels.









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She was sadly molested by a family friend when she was 5.









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Her mother, Cora Blige, survived a stabbing from her neighbor in 1987.









15



While plenty of the youth look up to her, Blige has no plans on having any children of her own.









16



'Rainy Dayz,' a song featured on her 2001 LP, 'No More Drama,' was originally written for TLC. That's why lyrics like "We’re always livin’ so crazy and sexy and cool," which refers to the group's album, 'CrazySexyCool,' found their way on to the song.









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The New York native has always been quiet when it comes to explaining that scar under her left eye. Many suspect an incident occurred during her childhood living in the Yonkers projects, which lead to the scar.









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Rihanna's hit song 'Umbrella' was originally written with Blige in mind.









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She appeared in the Notorious B.I.G.'s 'Big Poppa' and 'One More Chance' videos.









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You can thank the soap opera 'The Young and Restless' for inspiring the production on her 2001 song 'No More Drama.'









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Foxy Brown and Blige recorded songs for a joint album called 'The Best of Both Girls.' The plans got derailed after Brown lost her hearing.









22



She was originally tapped to play Nina Simone in the upcoming biopic, which will now star Zoe Saldana as the late singer.









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Her track 'You Gotta Believe,' off 'My Life,' features background vocals from Faith Evans.









25



Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are known for being New Jack Swing practitioners. Blige actually moved away from that sound when they connected for 'Share My World.'









25



She shares a birthday with one of the founding fathers of the U.S., Alexander Hamilton.









KRS-One: Real Men Don't Exist in Mainstream Hip-Hop (@IAmKRSOne)



KRS-One dropped knowledge on the culture of Hip-Hop in this interview with Jonathan Gasana.


Cam'ron Ethers Instagram Troll Who Calls Him a "Local Rapper" (@mr_camron)



It is clearly clap back season for Harlem spitter Cam'ron as he's had no problem lately setting his critics straight.


Exclusive! Lil Mouse: The Chicago-Sun Times Story Was Good Promotion (@mousemyers)



Young Chicago rapper Lil Mouse sat down with VladTV and discussed being featured on the cover of The Chicago-Sun Times for an article criticizing him for speaking on such violent acts at such a young age.


LHHH's Moniece Slaughter Professes Love for "Daddy" Rich Dollaz



While Moniece Slaughter of Love & Hip-Hop Hollywood fame has been throwing hints here and there that she and fellow L&HH star Rich Dollaz are an item, she essentially confirmed the hearsay on Instagram where the young beauty called Dollaz "Daddy" for all of his followers to see and professed that she is "so in love" she "can't keep quiet.


Exclusive! RL of Next: Chris Brown Needs a Friend to Check Him Sometimes (@justrl)



R&B singer RL Huggar spoke briefly on current R&B sensation Chris Brown, saying he feels Brown is the most talented star of his generation, but that he's still quite young and doesn't seem to know how to handle himself at times and may not be mature enough to filter out the BS criticism he receives, responding to certain nonsense that will only hurt him in the end.


N.E.R.D Transform Into SpongeBob Squarepants' Friends in 'Squeeze Me' Video


N.E.R.D. transform into animated squares in the video for ‘Squeeze Me,’ a song featured in the soundtrack for ‘The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.’


For most of the video you can see Pharrell, Chad Hugo and Shay Haley dancing around as their own versions of SpongeBob — all three of their heads are attached to an animated square body.


The Krusty Krab and the beach, landmarks in the cartoon series, pop up as well as scenes from the actual movie.


“Play with us before we melt, everybody enjoy yourself / The best part is the middle of me / I’m your sponge, baby, go on and squeeze / I’m better than pillows, what, you don’t believe me? Squeeze me,” Pharrell sings on the feel-good song.


‘The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water’ hits theaters on Feb. 6.


Enjoy yourself with N.E.R.D. above.


See 10 Rappers & Singers Promoting Unexpected Products



Exclusive! Charlamagne on Past Beef With Boyfriend of LeBron James' Mom (@cthagod @KingJames)



In this clip from his exclusive interview with VladTV, Charlamagne spoke on his past issues with LeBron James' mother's boyfriend, Da Real Lambo.


Keyshia Cole Fires Off on Stripper Saying She "Fell Off"



Keyshia Cole has never been one to bite her tongue and spoke her mind freely when one exotic dancer called her out, saying the Bay Area singer "fell off" and can "only cry about n****s" for so long.


Teyana Taylor Addresses Fan Clowning Her Ex, Brandon Jennings



While singer Teyana Taylor is in a


Fat Trel Engages in Twitter War With Retch for Dissing Wale



Still reeling from the death of friend and mentor A$AP Yams, Hackensack, Jersey rapper Retch's grief created a minor back-and-forth between the rapper, Wale, and Fat Trel over the weekend.


Exclusive! Crooked I: Give Me $1 Million and I'll Battle Loaded Lux (@CrookedIntriago @iAmLoadedLux)



Crooked I addressed the possibility of him battling Loaded Lux in this clip from his exclusive interview with VladTV.


Lovers' Quarrel: Kimbella Airs Out Juelz Santana on Twitter



Last week, ex Love & Hip-Hop star and Juelz Santana's longtime girlfriend


Exclusive! Lord Jamar on Bobby Shmurda: These Kids Tell on Themselves (@lordjamar)



Lord Jamar shared his thoughts on Bobby Shmurda's recent legal issues, saying a lot times, kids who come up actually doing dirt hear older rappers spit about crimes they never committed, and end up doing the same thing except they actually commit the crimes they speak about.


Kim Kardashian Speaks on Bruce Jenner Allegedly Becoming a Woman (@kimkardashian)



Bruce Jenner has had the world talking for some time now, with rumors floating around the media that he is, or has, undergone procedures in order to pursue the rest of his life as a woman.


A$AP Yams Laid to Rest in New York [VIDEO]


A$AP Yams, the influential leader of A$AP Mob, was laid to rest Sunday (Jan. 25) at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Home in New York. A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg were among the mourners who gathered at the ceremony to bid farewell to their “spirit guide.”


Prior to the funeral, over 100 fans came together for a public memorial for Yams, who passed away on Jan. 18. His cause of death has not been released. A private service was held later in the evening for close friends and family.


Rocky denied rumors that Yams had died of a drug overdose. “People were saying that Yams overdosed on drugs — he didn’t overdose on any drugs,” he told Billboard after performing at the Sundance Film Festival. “I feel like people feel that way because that’s all he’s in pictures doing.”


Although the Harlem rhymer is in mourning, he’s appreciative of the outpouring of prayers and support from his fellow rappers. “I’ll be back in my zone in a bit,” he said. “I’ll be fine. God is good and I keep all hope and faith.”


A$AP Yams may be gone but he won’t be forgotten. The mastermind’s spirit will be felt on Rocky’s still-untitled second album, which will also feature production from Dangermouse.


“Dangermouse and Yams — I’m really intrigued for people to hear how that combination sounds. Yams manifested his powers into it,” Rocky attests.


Rest in peace, A$AP Yams.


See Stars We Lost in 2014



Fetty Wap Taps French Montana for 'Trap Queen' Remix

Trap Queen RemixSoundcloud

By the looks of it, French Montana has become the official remix rapper for songs gaining popularity. Fetty Wap‘s hit single ‘Trap Queen’ is no different.


Just like his addition to Bobby Shmurda’s ‘Hot N—-’ track, the Bronx, N.Y.-bred rapper brings his own brand of braggadocio to the head-nodding tune.


“And I ain’t got to worry about her going through my phone / And I ain’t got a back page f—in’ with them hoes / I ain’t gotta worry about her popping up at shows / Give her 36 put that bitch out on the road / I’m in love with my baby, no Safaree, I Minaj with my bitch / Do it large with my bitch / Mommy doing grande, Big Sean with my bitch,” he raps.


French is doing his best to keep his name ringing, as his sophomore release, ‘Mac & Cheese: The Album,’ still has no release date. Plus, with the mainstream spotlight that Khloe Kardashian brought him beginning to fade a bit, it’s smart of him to deliver new music.


As for Fetty Wap, the New Jersey native is prepping the release of his self-titled mixtape and recently debuted his new song, ‘RGF Island.’


Listen to Fetty Wap’s ‘Trap Queen’ Remix Feat. French Montana


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Fabolous Hints At Relationship Problems With Pregnant Emily B?



Emily B announced on New Year's Eve that she and longtime boyfriend Fabolous are


Rich Homie Quan Asks an Honest Question on 'Have You Ever'

Earl Gibson III, Getty Images

Rich Homie Quan closed out 2014 in busy fashion, jumping on tracks with Drake and releasing a few Young Thug-assisted songs along the way. Now he’s picking up where he left off with a very melodic, sing-songy tune called ‘Have You Ever.’


“Have you ever have your partner steal from you shawty? / How the f— you take from me when you live with me, shawty? / You deal with me shawty, but this ain’t Vegas girl / Have you ever had your sideline and your favorite girl? / In the same room, same bed, same place? / And I ain’t gon’ lie I f— them same hoes the same day,” he sings over a subtle baseline and faint horns.


And although the young crooner details living it up with fly women and his wealth, the song still has an inspirational feel to it since he shares many of his personal trials and struggles.


Answer some of the Atlanta rapper’s questions below.


Listen to Rich Homie Quan’s ‘Have You Ever’


See 10 Rappers & Singers Promoting Unexpected Products