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Yes, we know what you’re thinking. Yet another Beyoncé post. As she counts down to Sunday’s Super Bowl performance, Bey keeps teasing us with footage from her halftime rehearsals.
In the video for Day 2, she and her dancers practice some fierce choreography as her all-female band performs her 4 album cut “Until the End of Time,” one of the songs likely to be included in her 12-minute set.
Her backup singers also get some camera time, harmonizing to the song, which earns them approval from the boss. Get in Bey’s zone.
Sunday is all about Beyoncé…and football. In preparation for the Super Bowl halftime show, Bey made the media rounds on Thursday. After her press conference, she changed into a red dress and sat down with Deion Sanders on the NFL Network to discuss her highly-anticipated performance, motherhood, and some of her favorite past performers.
She remained tight-lipped about what she’s got in store (aside from saying that there will be new choreography and wardrobe changes). She has been preparing for months, watching past performances online, and selecting which songs she will fit into her 12-minute set.
“This is the highlight of a career,” said Bey, who admitted that she gets nervous. “The hardest thing was figuring out what I was gonna perform.”
Mrs. Carter also opened up about her one-year-old daughter Blue Ivy, who knows the “Single Ladies” dance and sings “Uh oh!”
Beyoncé even sang some of the lyrics to Deion’s 1994 rap single “Must Be The Money” and got up to do the choreography.
Check out the highlights below.
On why she decided to start her press conference with the National Anthem: “I figured it was the best way to address it and move on. I love my job. I love my country. I love that I’m able to do what I was born to do, so I’m proud.”
On what makes her happy: “Right now my family. My husband is incredible. He’s so supportive and my daughter… When I wake up in the morning, the best thing in the world is seeing her face. She’s starting to talk. It’s just such a beautiful time in my life to have a child and everyday see something new.”
On motherhood: “It’s so much more fulfilling than anything else in the world.”
On her favorite past halftime performances: “My favorite probably was Prince. Of course I loved Madonna’s. I studied Michael’s—all my heroes, they were all great.”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/beyonce-beams-about-blue-ivy-teases-super-bowl-set-on-nfl-network/
Rihanna’s “Jump” gets the remix treatment courtesy of Theophilus London. The globe-trotting rapper, who has been spending time in Paris soaking up the music scene, teams with French producer Club Cheval on an electrified version of the Ginuwine-sampled song off RiRi’s album Unapologetic.
Theophilus is currently working on the follow-up to his debut Timez Are Weird These Days and will play Coachella in April.
President Obama and Rosie O’Donnell have all come under fire from Donald Trump. And now the outspoken real estate magnate is taking aim at Mac Miller for using his name on his hit song.
Trump called out the 21-year-old rapper on Twitter. “Little @MacMiller sent me an expensive plaque for making his song ‘Donald Trump’ such a big hit. Mac, you still don’t have the right to use my name,” tweeted “The Apprentice” boss, who posted a photo of the plaque.
The track, which originally appeared on Mac’s 2011 mixtape Best Day Ever, was released as a single to iTunes. But the accolades weren’t enough to satisfy Trump, who is now demanding that he get a cut of the sales.
“Little @MacMiller, I want the money not the plaque you gave me!” he insisted. “You illegally used my name for your song ‘Donald Trump’ which now has over 75 million hits.”
He even threatened legal action. “Little @MacMiller, I’m now going to teach you a big boy lesson about lawsuits and finance. You ungrateful dog!”
The jabs kept coming. “Little @MacMiller—I have more hair than you do and there’s a slight age difference,” taunted the 66-year-old Trump.
As of press time, Mac had not responded. However, in the past, he acknowledged that Trump was aware of the song.
“I was just excited that I reached the level where someone like that, I’m on their radar,” he told Hard Knock TV. “He definitely thinks that he’s the coolest man in hip-hop right now. He’s like 20 million views… He’s like, ‘I’m pretty proud of that.’”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/donald-trump-calls-out-mac-miller-for-illegally-using-his-name-on-song/
The Grammys won’t be the only thing to look forward to next month. Drake is set to release his new single on Grammy night.
Universal Music confirms to Billboard that the Young Money rapper will debut the first single off his upcoming third album on the night of the 55th Annual Grammy Awards on February 10.
The song is rumored to be titled “Started From the Bottom” and was produced by Noah “40” Shebib and Mike Zombie. The Canadian rapper, who is nominated for three awards including Best Rap Album at this year’s Grammys, recently shot a video for the track in his hometown of Toronto with director Little X.
Birdman says 2013 will be a big year for YMCMB. “This year we got something in store. We got a new record coming out this year,” he told Billboard. “It’s just one of those nights that, after seeing each other together, that’ll be like the highlight of our night, the highlight of our life, the highlight of our year.”
Drake’s sophomore album, 2011’s Take Care, debuted at No. 1 and has sold 1.9 million copies to date.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/drake-set-to-release-new-single-on-grammy-night/
Following the lip-syncing controversy at President Obama’s inauguration, Beyoncé silenced her haters by singing live during Thursday’s Super Bowl press conference. Bey walked on stage in a white dress and before even answering a question, she belted out the National Anthem live.
“Any questions?” she laughed after wowing with her rendition.
She also addressed the lip-syncing rumors once and for all. “I decided to sing along with my pre-recorded track,” she told reporters. “I’m very proud of my performance.”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/video-beyonce-sings-the-national-anthem-at-super-bowl-press-conference/
Beyoncé. Alicia Keys. And now Jennifer Hudson is the latest diva to join the lineup for Sunday’s Super Bowl festivities. The Oscar winner will perform “America the Beautiful” with students from Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Fresh off her performance at President Obama’s Inaugural Ball, J-Hud will sing the patriotic tune with 26 students from Sandy Hook during the Super Bowl XLVII pre-game show on Sunday (via USA Today).
The performance comes a little more than a month after 26 children and faculty members were killed in the tragic mass shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.
“I’m blessed & honored to be singing ‘America The Beautiful’ with Sandy Hook elementary school chorus at the Super Bowl Sunday,” tweeted J-Hud.
In addition to Hudson, Alicia Keys will sing the National Anthem and Beyoncé will headline the halftime show at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/jennifer-hudson-to-perform-with-sandy-hook-chorus-at-super-bowl/
LoLa Monroe is armed and dangerous on the seductive cover of her upcoming mixtape Lipstick and Pistols, hosted by DJ Ill Will. Taylor Gang’s First Lady, who is expecting a baby with Bad Boy rapper King Los, looks glamorous while holding a gun and carrying a fur over her shoulder.
The tape does not have a release date, but it is expected to feature her Taylor Gang labelmates Wiz Khalifa and Juicy J.
Frank Ocean is going to the Grammys. This year’s most-nominated artist has officially been added to the performers for the 55th annual awards.
The Recording Academy announced that the 25-year-old singer-songwriter will take the stage on Sunday, February 10, at Staples Center in Los Angeles. The show will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. on CBS.
Ocean is nominated in six categories including Record of the Year for “Thinkin Bout You,” Album of the Year for his critically-acclaimed debut channel ORANGE, and Best New Artist.
The R&B crooner hinted that he would be performing in a tweet following his confrontation with Chris Brown. “cut my finger now I can’t play w two hands at the grammys,” he wrote.
Previously announced performers include Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys with Maroon 5, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, FUN., the Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, Carrie Underwood, Ed Sheeran, and more.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/frank-ocean-added-to-grammy-performers/
French Montana’s debut Excuse My French hasn’t even dropped yet, but he’s already proclaimed it the “biggest album of the decade.” While on set of his video for “Ocho Cinco,” the Bad Boy rapper backed up the bold statement by revealing the star-studded cast of collaborators.
In addition to executive producers Diddy and Rick Ross, he’s enlisted Nicki Minaj (“Freaks”), The Weeknd (“Gifted”), Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Drake, Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, and M.I.A., plus production from Harry Fraud, Young Chop, Mike WiLL Made It, and Rico Love.
“I feel like it’s going to be a classic,” French told Rap-Up TV. “I feel like it’s going to be the best album to come out in a decade.”
One artist he’s still waiting on is Lana Del Rey. The pop starlet has yet to clear her sample. “That’s the only thing holding it up,” said French.
Find out if Excuse My French lives up to the hype when it arrives on April 16.
Nicki Minaj topped the charts last year with her hit “Starships” and sophomore album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, so it came as a surprise when she was shut out of this year’s Grammy nominations. But while her fans may be disappointed, the “American Idol” judge isn’t losing sleep over it.
“I’ve gotten tons of awards and I believe when it’s my time to get a Grammy, I’ll get a Grammy,” she told The Associated Press.
The Young Money rapper had one of 2012’s biggest hits with her RedOne-produced single “Starships,” while Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded went gold and even spawned a re-release.
Although she received three nominations at last year’s show including Best New Artist, she was noticeably absent from this year’s list of nominees. Nicki believes she knows the reason why.
“I think that the Grammys had a different reason, that I do not want to discuss … and that’s just between me and them,” said Nicki, who performed at last year’s show. “But I respect their organization and I’ll get a Grammy eventually. I’m not worried about it.”
There are more important things to her than awards. “I understand that artists and critics make a big deal over the Grammys. But when I go to my shows and I’m selling out arenas in London, and when I’m in Australia and Japan, there aren’t any Grammys there,” she explained. “There are human beings who I’ve touched. There are human beings who are inspired by me, who I love dearly. And that’s what my career is based on.”
While she isn’t upset about the snub, her manager Cortez Bryant called out the Recording Academy. “Congrats to @LilTunechi and @Drake and @Hit_Boy on their Grammy Noms butttt they was on some bullshit for not nominating @NICKIMINAJ,” he tweeted.
It’s unknown if Nicki plans to attend the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, which air live on February 10 from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/31/nicki-minaj-not-worried-about-grammy-snub/
G-Unit meets T.D.E. on “We Up,” a new song from 50 Cent and his G-Unit signee Kidd Kidd. A debonair Curtis Jackson puts on his suit and tie and celebrates with some sexy ladies in the grown-and-sexy video, directed Eif Rivera. Kendrick Lamar doesn’t appear in the preview clip, but he will guest on the full song off Kidd Kidd’s upcoming mixtape.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/video-50-cent-x-kidd-kidd-x-kendrick-lamar-we-up-sneak-peek/
Get your DVRs ready. With or without Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé’s Super Bowl halftime show is sure to be a spectacle. After teasing with some rehearsal pics, Bey has released a 42-second video of her intense rehearsals for Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans this Sunday.
She is seen practicing choreography with her troupe of dancers and working on her laptop in the venue as her song “Countdown” plays in the background.
Check out the first day of her rehearsals in the “Countdown to Touchdown” clip.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/video-beyonce-rehearses-for-super-bowl-halftime-show-day-1/
Music’s biggest night just got bigger. In addition to just-added performer Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys will join Maroon 5 onstage at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards next month.
The 14-time Grammy winner will perform with Adam Levine and his band live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 10, at 8 p.m. EST on CBS.
Maroon 5 made the official announcement on Twitter, writing, “We’re excited to perform with @aliciakeys on @TheGRAMMYs Feb. 10 on @CBSTweet #TheWorldIsListening.”
This is not the first time the two have worked together. Alicia and Adam dueted on a cover of The Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses” during her MTV “Unplugged” set in 2005.
They join previously announced performers including Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert, The Black Keys, FUN., the Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, Carrie Underwood, Jack White, and Ed Sheeran, who will perform with Elton John.
Before the Grammys, Alicia will take the field at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans on Sunday to sing the National Anthem at Super Bowl XLVII.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/alicia-keys-to-perform-with-maroon-5-at-grammys/
Usher lends his star power—and dance moves—to Mercedes-Benz in an action-packed commercial for the Super Bowl.
The R&B superstar, who is nominated for a Grammy at next month’s awards, shows off his fancy footwork on the dance floor in a dream sequence promoting the CLA-Class, Mercedes’ all-new four-door coupe.
The star-studded clip, which is set to air on Super Bowl Sunday, also features appearances from Kate Upton and Willem Dafoe.
See Ursh make all the right moves in the extended spot below.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/video-usher-makes-a-move-in-mercedes-benz-super-bowl-commercial/
Class is in session. After appearing on the Cruel Summer compilation, G.O.O.D. Music’s CyHi the Prynce gets back on his mixtape grind with the DJ Holiday-hosted Ivy League: Kick Back.
The 22 tracks feature appearances from 2 Chainz, Big K.R.I.T., B.o.B, Diamond, Yelawolf, Trae Tha Truth, and Childish Gambino, with production by Lux Luger, Beat Billionaire, The Audibles, and more.
Lil Wayne unveils the cover art for his new album I Am Not a Human Being II. A red insect resembling a butterfly appears against a black backdrop on the unconventional artwork, which was designed by DONDA, the creative content company founded by Kanye West.
Previously due February 19, the follow-up to 2011’s I Am Not a Human Being will now arrive on March 26 featuring the Detail-assisted single “No Worries,” plus contributions from Juicy J, David Banner, StreetRunner, Kane Beatz, and Cool & Dre.
While Kanye didn’t produce on the album, he asked Wayne if he could design the artwork. “I’ma let ‘Ye do what he do. As long as it ain’t nothin’ out the box crazy. ‘Ye is ‘Ye, he’s a genius,” Weezy previously told MTV.
DONDA also designed the artwork for Wayne’s Mike WiLL Made It-produced single “Love Me” featuring Drake and Future. See it below.
What do you think of the cover art? Sound off below.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/lil-wayne-unveils-i-am-not-a-human-being-2-cover-announces-new-release-date/
ScaffBeezy blasts off with another cut from his upcoming mixtape Vs Clarity Volume 1 Brooklyn, hosted by DJ Don Cannon and Adrian Swish. Nicki Minaj’s right-hand man gets on his flashy flow, boasting about Ferraris, Audemars Piguet watches, and G5 jets.
“I’m on fire, Mike Jackson, Pepsi commercial/ Because I’m thrilling hos, beat it ni**a/ ‘Cause once I do Diana dirty, you won’t never see her,” he raps on the Ade Cruse-produced cut.
Hear SB rap about his riches below.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/new-music-scaffbeezy-bitch-please/
Meek Mill shows a softer side on the remix to Bridget Kelly’s “In the Morning.” The MMG rapper, who is managed by Roc Nation, recalls a wild night of drinking and sex. Despite all the girls clamoring for his affection and texting his phone, he decides that one special lady deserves his heart.
“I know I ain’t never tell you this, but I love the shit out you,” says Meek in a voicemail to his girl. “Call me back, I want to tell you to your face.”
The original version of the Ne-Yo-penned cut appears on Bridget’s 2011 EP Every Girl.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/new-music-bridget-kelly-f-meek-mill-in-the-morning-remix/
Hot on the heels of her critically-acclaimed debut Goldenheart, Dawn Richard liberates “NLX,” the remix to “Northern Lights.” The all-new production appears as a bonus cut on the deluxe edition of the album, available exclusively at FYE.
Unlike the upbeat original, the new version features a subdued beat, with Dawn singing about chasing love, whether it’s wrong or right.
Without backing from a major label, the independent release still managed to debut at No. 2 on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart and at No. 137 on the Billboard 200.
There’s nothing Alicia Keys can’t do. The “Girl on Fire” is stepping into a new role as BlackBerry’s Global Creative Director.
The Grammy-winning singer was on hand for the announcement today at RIM’s BlackBerry 10 launch event in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
In her new position, Keys will work closely with app developers, content creators, retailers, carriers, and the entertainment industry to further shape and enhance the BlackBerry 10 platform through music, books, film, and apps.
“Alicia Keys has come to BlackBerry because she believes in the product and technology, and subscribes to our overriding philosophy to ‘Keep Moving’: to empower people through mobile computing and communications,” said BlackBerry President and CEO Thorsten Heins. “We are excited she will be bringing to us her enormous capabilities, as well as a vast network of relationships in the entertainment, social media and business communities, to help shape our brand and grow our business.”
Alicia shared her excitement over her new job. “I have been using the BlackBerry 10 for a few weeks now, and I’m truly inspired by its innovation,” she said. “It has entirely revolutionized the experience. I know the potential this platform has to help creative people be more productive, and help productive people be more creative. This is such an incredible age to be living in, with such profound advances in communications and technology. As Global Creative Director, my goal is to inspire creativity with this platform, and I’m so excited to jump right in.”
As part of BlackBerry’s “Keep Moving” Project, she plans to use the device to create a music video for each city she tours in on her “Set the World on Fire” tour, launching this March.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/alicia-keys-becomes-blackberrys-global-creative-director/
Bow Wow may be the host of the family-friendly “106 & Park,” but that won’t have him toning down his music. The Cash Money rapper shares his dirty desires on “Pu**y on My Mind,” a raunchy cut off his upcoming mixtape Greenlight 5.
“I think about your pu**y all the time,” he raps, adding, “Put it in my face. Can I have a lick?”
Due March 9, Greenlight 5 features appearances from Chris Brown, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, Kendrick Lamar, Jadakiss, Gucci Mane, Busta Rhymes, Omarion, and Lil Wayne, who appears on the single “We Bout That (Eat the Cake).”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/new-music-bow-wow-pussy-on-my-mind/
Timbaland is down with the Roc. The super-producer has signed with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation for management.
The announcement was made on Jay-Z’s Life + Times website. “Roc Nation welcomes TIMBALAND to the family,” read the message.
Roc Nation represents some of the biggest stars in music including Rihanna, J. Cole, M.I.A., and Shakira.
Timbaland, who is still signed as an artist to Interscope Records, is currently in the studio working on Justin Timberlake’s comeback album The 20/20 Experience as well as Keri Hilson’s third album.
He recently partnered with 50 Cent on his SMS Audio headphones line. As part of the deal, Timbaland will serve as an investment partner and member of the company’s board of directors.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/timbaland-joins-roc-nation/
Grab your suit and tie. Justin Timberlake is bringing sexy back to the Grammy Awards. The six-time Grammy winner is set to perform at the 55th annual ceremony next month.
This marks the first time in four years that the pop superstar will grace the Grammy stage. He will perform material off his first album in seven years, The 20/20 Experience, due March 19.
Music’s biggest night will be broadcast live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 10, at 8 p.m. EST on CBS.
Previously announced performers include Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert, The Black Keys, FUN., the Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, Carrie Underwood, Jack White, as well as Ed Sheeran, who will perform with Elton John. LL Cool J returns as host.
Additional performers and presenters will be announced in the weeks ahead.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/justin-timberlake-to-perform-at-grammys/
Nelly hit the road and headed to the desert outside of L.A. to shoot the video for his new single “Hey Porsche” on Tuesday. The St. Louis rapper posed in front of a vintage Porsche and got dirty while playing a mechanic.
“Had to get alil DERRTY today!!!! Need a shower now!!! Who helping??” Nelly asked his fans.
He cleaned up nicely in a suit for another scene before calling it a wrap. “Just got done wit HEY PORSCHE video shoot shit cray!!!!!!!!!!long day in the middle of desert but well worth it!!!”
The radio-friendly record, which is set to appear on his upcoming album M.O., will be available on iTunes on February 5.
Photos via Instagram
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/nelly-gets-dirty-in-the-desert-in-hey-porsche-video/
Yes, it’s TRU. 2 Chainz’ debut Based on a T.R.U. Story is now gold. The Atlanta rapper celebrated the milestone with his Def Jam family at a dinner in New York City last night.
“Hardwork paying off,” tweeted 2 Chainz, who was presented with a plaque from Def Jam president Joie Manda.
He will attend the Grammys in L.A. on February 10, where he is nominated for Best Rap Album. He also recently shot his acting debut in the CBS sitcom “2 Broke Girls,” airing February 11, and is in the lab working on his sophomore album.
Photos via Instagram
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/2-chainz-celebrates-gold-album/
Rick Ross is not taking any chances. The Bawse is beefing up his security in the wake of Monday’s drive-by shooting.
According to TMZ, the Miami rapper has hired 24-hour armed personal security for his protection following the scary incident.
Rozay was already employing armed bodyguards for major events and public appearances, but now he’s enlisted full-time security.
He had reportedly been receiving threats, but didn’t take them seriously. Sources tell TMZ that he considers the shooting to be an “eye-opener” and will do whatever it takes to ensure his safety.
The 37-year-old MC was targeted in a drive-by shooting in Ft. Lauderdale on Monday when a car pulled up next to his Rolls-Royce and shots were fired. He lost control of the vehicle and crashed into an apartment building.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/rick-ross-hires-24-hour-armed-security-following-shooting/
After putting in the hard work, Machine Gun Kelly enjoys his success in the video for “La La La (The Floating Song),” a bonus cut off his debut Lace Up.
The “Wild Boy” rides an ATV, smokes on the beach, and parties on a yacht with his EST crew in the laid-back visuals, which were shot during his holiday vacation in Saint Martin. Security tried to stop him from filming, but he wasn’t about to put down the camera.
Next up, MGK will release his new single “Peso” featuring Meek Mill and Pusha T, followed by his mixtape in February.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/video-machine-gun-kelly-la-la-la-the-floating-song/
Rihanna sizzles on the sultry cover of Rolling Stone’s latest issue. A long-haired RiRi poses for a close-up, shot by famed photographer Terry Richardson. This marks her second time gracing the cover of the music magazine (Her first was in 2011).
RS interviewed the “Diamonds” singer at her $12 million Pacific Palisades mansion for their cover story entitled “Crazy in Love,” where she opens up like never before about her reconciliation with Chris Brown.
“I decided it was more important for me to be happy,” the 24-year-old singer tells the magazine. “I wasn’t going to let anybody’s opinion get in the way of that. Even if it’s a mistake, it’s my mistake. After being tormented for so many years, being angry and dark, I’d rather just live my truth and take the backlash. I can handle it.”
While they’ve had a tumultuous past, their relationship has changed for the better. “You see us walking somewhere, driving somewhere, in the studio, in the club, and you think you know. But it’s different now,” she explains. “We don’t have those types of arguments anymore. We talk about shit. We value each other. We know exactly what we have now, and we don’t want to lose that.”
But if Brown was to repeat his mistakes, she won’t tolerate it. “He doesn’t have the luxury of fucking up again,” says RiRi. “That’s just not an option. I can’t say that nothing else will ever go wrong. But I’m pretty solid in the knowing that he’s disgusted by that. And I wouldn’t have gone this far if I ever thought that was a possibility.”
Read the full interview when the issue hits newsstands on Friday, January 31.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/30/rihanna-covers-rolling-stone-opens-up-about-chris-brown/
Mindless Behavior is all grown up on the futuristic cover of their sophomore album All Around the World, due March 12. The teen heartthrobs— Prodigy, Roc Royal, Ray Ray, and Princeton—transform into special agents, wearing suits and sunglasses as they walk down the street.
“We’re taking it to a new level for 2013,” Roc told Rap-Up TV of the follow-up to the group’s 2011 debut #1 Girl. “This album is about us maturing—new styles, new look, everything. We’re just getting older.”
A video for the first single “Keep Her On the Low” was recently shot in L.A. They will also release their documentary, Mindless Behavior: All Around the World, in select theaters on March 15.
Go behind the scenes of the album packaging shoot below.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/album-cover-mindless-behavior-all-around-the-world/
Frank Ocean wasn’t the only one injured in Sunday’s scuffle at a West Hollywood recording studio. On Tuesday, Chris Brown was seen leaving his house with a hard cast on his right hand covering his knuckles.
An eyewitness told TMZ that Chris threw the first punch after Frank refused to shake his hand. However, Chris insists that he did not make the first move.
Following the chaos, Chris reportedly fled the scene. Now the “Deuces” singer wants to speak with detectives and tell his side of the story.
Chris’ lawyer, Mark Geragos, claims that the surveillance video shows that Chris did not throw a punch. But the video also clears Frank of any wrongdoing, only showing their crews fighting.
Frank cut his finger during the altercation. “got jumped by chris and a couple guys. lol,” he tweeted. “cut my finger now I can’t play w two hands at the grammys.”
Photo credit: TMZ
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/chris-brown-gets-hand-cast-after-frank-ocean-fight/
50 Cent is not backing down. Following the drive-by shooting that ended with Rick Ross crashing his Rolls-Royce, the G-Unit mogul took the opportunity to have some fun at his rival’s expense.
50 was one of the first to speak out after Monday’s events, calling the incident a stunt. “Hahaha fat boy hit the building? lol it looks staged to me. No hole’s in da car,” he tweeted.
Rozay lost control of his silver Rolls and crashed into an apartment building in Ft. Lauderdale after a gunman opened fire on him. But 50 wasn’t feeling sorry for his longtime nemesis.
“50 hahaha that boy was spooked. I ride like OBAMA level 6 built proof, bomb proof,you already know,” he said.
On Tuesday, he returned to Twitter to take more shots at the Maybach Music boss. “Man they miss the whole f#cking car were they do that at,” said Fif, later joking, “ok it was just firecrackers but who ever lit them in trouble cause the man damn near had a heart attack.”
Neither Ross nor his passenger, fashion designer Shateria L. Moragne, was injured and no bullets struck the vehicle.
50 makes light of his beef with Ross and his crew in the video for “Major Distribution.” In the clip, a child is seen wearing an MMG chain, similar to the one that was reportedly stolen from Gunplay at last year’s BET Hip Hop Awards.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/50-cent-taunts-rick-ross-on-twitter-following-drive-by-shooting/
With only five weeks to go under Wiz Khalifa and Amber Rose welcome their first child, the expecting couple is sharing more details about the “boss” name they’ve picked out for their son.
The father-to-be is not taking his duties as a dad lightly. During a visit to Power 106’s “Big Boy’s Neighborhood” on Tuesday, he explained why he’s made fatherhood a priority.
“This is the only [job] that I’m really, really focused on right now, being a dad,” he said. “I’m a new dad, this my first kid, so I’m trying to be the best.”
He may even record some music for his son. “Maybe sleep herb songs,” joked Wiz, who has been staying close to home, working on new videos and the Taylor Gang compilation, so that he doesn’t miss his fiancée’s delivery.
The couple has a name picked out, but they won’t reveal it until the baby is born. “We’ve had the name for a long time. [Amber] actually came up with it,” shared Wiz.
“It’s a total boss name for a boy,” said Amber, adding, “It’s a normal name, it’s just not common.”
They originally thought they were going to have a girl, so they picked out a female name, which they plan to use should they have another child.
During the interview, Wiz also revealed that he wants a male baby shower and confirmed that the next single off O.N.I.F.C. will be “Let It Go” featuring Akon.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/wiz-khalifa-and-amber-rose-pick-out-boss-name-for-son/
Emeli Sandé has already conquered the U.K. and now she plans to leave her mark on America. The Scottish singer-songwriter, who’s written for Alicia Keys and Rihanna, brought her talent across the pond to the “Today” show during her U.S. promo tour. She spoke to Matt Lauer about winning over a new audience and performed two songs off her acclaimed debut Our Version of Events.
“It’s just that real, raw excitement at the beginning when people have just found you as an artist. I love that,” said the 25-year-old Emeli, who performed at the London Olympics. “It’s a brand new challenge for me and I’m really enjoying it.”
Watch Emeli invade U.S. television with “Next to Me” and “My Kind of Love.”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/video-emeli-sande-performs-on-today-show/
What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Astro aka The Astronomical Kid uses his criticism as motivation on his new song “He Fell Off,” the first release from his mixtape Deadbeats and Lazy Lyrics, due February 18.
The 16-year-old “X Factor” alum uses his vicious rhymes to silence his haters who criticize his looks, personal life, and career. He raps about getting a co-sign from Nas (“Nas gave me the stamp, I’m initiated”) and putting Brooklyn back on the map.
“Kick lines ’cause they demand it/ I will not lose,” proclaims Astro.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/video-astro-the-astronomical-kid-he-fell-off/
French Montana has come a long way. A young boy, depicting the Moroccan-born, New York-bred rapper, treks across the desert on the cover of his Bad Boy debut Excuse My French, due April 16.
“It is about the journey of an artist that has come from Morocco to New York and worked his way to becoming one of hip hop’s hottest movements,” Bad Boy President Harve Pierre tells Rolling Stone.
The album, executive produced by Diddy and Rick Ross, features the strip club anthem “Pop That,” with appearances from Drake, Lil Wayne, M.I.A., and Nicki Minaj, who appears on the next single “Freaks.”
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/album-cover-french-montana-excuse-my-french/
Touchdown! Beyoncé makes the rules, transforming into a super-hot referee in a black-and-white striped top, high-waisted shorts, thigh-high stiletto boots, and face paint, while holding a football in the latest promo photo for Super Bowl XLVII.
For the past week, Bey has been in New Orleans rehearsing for the halftime show at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday. However, it’s still unclear whether she will be joined by her Destiny’s Child bandmates, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.
Michelle recently denied that she will be joining Bey onstage, but she will be conspicuously absent from her Jay-Z and Will Smith-produced play “Fela!” in Washington, D.C. on Super Bowl Sunday.
Are you excited to see Bey perform at the Super Bowl? Let us know!
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/beyonce-plays-sexy-referee-in-super-bowl-promo-pic/
CeeLo Green provided the soundtrack to our holidays with his Christmas album CeeLo’s Magic Moment. After taking leave from “The Voice,” the Lady Killer gets back to making love songs with his smooth new single “Only You,” a duet with Atlantic Records signee Lauriana Mae. The tender tune, penned by Skylar Grey, will appear on his upcoming as-yet-untitled album.
“It’s about two people on different paths, hoping for the best, hoping that those paths lead to each other,” CeeLo tells Rolling Stone. “It’s like love lost or the acknowledgment of a love lost, but it’s still optimistic.”
He will kick off his “Loberace” residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas starting February 27.
Hear the song at RollingStone.com and check out the glitzy show promo below.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/new-music-ceelo-green-f-lauriana-mae-only-you/
The countdown is on to Justin Timberlake’s first album in six years, The 20/20 Experience, due March 19. While the public has only heard the Jay-Z-assisted single “Suit & Tie,” Keri Hilson got a sneak peek of what J.T. and Timbaland are cooking up in the lab.
Miss Keri, who is signed to Timbaland’s Mosley Music Group, says the dynamic duo behind “SexyBack” is about to change the sound of music once again.
“They both are capable of redefining the sound of radio, and I believe, based upon what I’ve heard, they’re gonna do that again,” she told Rap-Up TV. “So I’m proud of them and I’m excited for what’s about to happen.”
In addition to Justin, Timbaland has been working with Keri on her third album. “I’m all about blending the worlds of pop and hip-hop and R&B all in a pot,” said Keri of the follow-up to 2010’s No Boys Allowed.
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/keri-hilson-justin-timberlake-and-timbaland-will-redefine-radio-with-new-music/
Fresh from her European promo tour, Ciara was spotted back at her favorite restaurant, Crustacean, in Beverly Hills with her favorite man, Future, on Monday. The rumored couple exited together, smiling for fans and photographers, as they made their way to the valet.
While they’ve remain coy about their chemistry outside the studio, you can expect more collaborations between the two. “The energy that we’ve been discovering is just so crazy and so fun and I’m having a blast working with him,” Ciara told US RAP NEWS. “He’s able to come with a different approach that inspires me.”
Ciara’s new album One Woman Army is due this year featuring the singles “Sorry” and “Got Me Good,” plus collaborations with Nicki Minaj and Rick Ross.
Photo credit: Splash News
via Rap-Up.com http://www.rap-up.com/2013/01/29/ciara-and-future-dine-together-in-beverly-hills/
