Sweet Talk Entertainment Blog

OBITUARY: 'Soul Train' Founder Don Cornelius Dead After Apparent SUICIDE?!

2012-02-01T13:41:00.000-05:00

Chiiiiiile boo! Say it ain't so!

Word on the sidewalk is that 75-year-old Donald Cortez Cornelius aka "Mr. Soul Train" was found dead in his Encino, CA home earlier this morning from a gunshot wound to his head. The Los Angeles Police Department has speculated that Don shot himself. <---[I'm in utter shock]!!!!!

Now, let's be clear...we [black folks] are notorious for quite a few things but suicide definitely ain't one of 'em boo boo kitty! I am so hoping that the "powers that be" leave no stone unturned and do all of their fact finding because this is a sad situation.

Anyhoo, here's the story from the horse's mouf! Well, not really. It's from the LA Times..now read on:

A family member of Don Cornelius arrived at his Mulholland Drive home in Encino on Wednesday morning and found the "Soul Train" creator with a gunshot wound to the head, authorities said. He was rushed to Cedars Sinai Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, according to law enforcement sources.

His death is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department and L.A. County coroner's office. The sources said detectives think it was a self-inflicted gunshot wound but stressed they are still investigating.

The sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the case was ongoing, said the LAPD's initial review of the crime scene suggested no sign of foul play. He was 75 and recently had gone through a divorce.

In a 2010 interview with The Times, he said he was excited about a movie project he was developing about "Soul Train." "We've been in discussions with several people about getting a movie off the ground. It wouldn't be the 'Soul Train' dance show, it would be more of a biographical look at the project," he said. "It's going to be about some of the things that really happened on the show." According to The Times Hollywood Walk of Fame database, Cornelius’ "Soul Train" became the longest-running first-run nationally syndicated show in television history, bringing African American music and style to the world for 35 years.

Inspired by "American Bandstand," he devised a similar program spotlighting black music and introduced it on the Chicago UHF station WCIU in 1970. It was syndicated in 1971, and Cornelius soon moved the production to Hollywood. Cornelius was the deep-voiced host, and in addition to major black artists, the show also attracted such R&B-leaning rock performers as David Bowie and Robert Palmer.

Cornelius stopped hosting the show in 1993, and "Soul Train" ceased production in 2006.

One thing is undeniable..Don Cornelius created an era in music television that will NEVER be forgotten! Peep some of the show's footage [below]:

Rest in "Love, Peace, and Sooooul" Don!

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RECAP: Diddy Hosts Rick Ross' 36th B-Day Bash at Club Amnesia!

2012-01-30T13:48:00.000-05:00

Last night Rick Ross aka "The Bawse" threw a birthday bash that's probably gonna be the talk of the town for the next few months. He was joined by a host of hip-hop music industry notables as he celebrated turning 36.

Capping a festive birthday weekend, Ross shined the brightest last night at South Beach's Club Amnesia. The event, which was hosted by Diddy, boasted a massive guest list, including Meek Mill, Wiz Khalifa, Amber Rose, Cassie, Ace Hood, The LOX, French Montana, Wale, DJ Khaled, LEP, The Dream, and platinum recording artist & producer, Dr. Dre.

Later in the evening Ross enlightened the crowd with a memorable performance of cuts off his 'Rich Forever' mixtape and other notable cuts from his prized catalog. Ross began is birthday trek in NYC at Queens' Club Perfections with a stop the following night in Atlanta before wrapping up in his hometown of Miami.

Happy Birthday Bawse!

Shout out to my homie Marcellus of Night Life Photo Guys for the clip. Thanks boo!

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EVENT: Pro Bowl'n With The Stars on Friday, February 10, 2012! [DAVIE, FL]

2012-01-30T12:57:00.000-05:00

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OBITUARY: Legendary Singer Etta James Dies at 73!

2012-01-20T13:02:00.000-05:00

We are sad to report that the music industry has lost one of its gems. Legendary singer Etta James died today after a long battle with leukemia.

As it appears on BET:

Etta James, the singer portrayed by Beyoncé in the film Cadillac Records, died today at Riverside Community Hospital in Riverside, California at the age of 73. The "At Last" singer endured an ongoing battle with chronic leukemia and reportedly also suffered from dementia and kidney failure.

Born Jamesetta Hawkins in Los Angeles in 1938, the singer formed her first doo wop group at the age of 14. By 22, she signed to Chess Records and had her first top 10 hit the same year with "All I Could Do Is Cry." The following year she released her most notable hit, "At Last," which only reached the top 50 on the pop charts but reached number 2 on the R&B charts.

Though James battled a heroine addiction for many years, she performed consistently and successfully for over four decades. She was inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame in 2003.

James leaves behind two sons, Donto and Sametto James, her husband of 42 years, Artis Mills, and a legacy of beautiful music. She would have celebrated her 74th birthday this coming Wednesday, January 25. May she rest in peace.

Rest in peace Ms. James. Your music will live forever!

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

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Beyonce and Jay-Z Give Birth to Baby Girl 'Ivy Blue Carter' at New York's Lenox Hill Hospital?!

2012-01-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

We can FINALLY put an end to the month-long rumor that Beyonce has given birth! Word on the sidewalk is that the pop star delivered a healthy baby girl last night via a scheduled c-section. According to the New York Daily:

Music royalty Beyonce and Jay-Z welcomed the baby girl in a private wing of Lenox Hill Hospital, the E! network reported Sunday.

Music mogul Russell Simmons also confirmed the arrival of the bundle of joy, tweeting “congrats to my good friends Beyonce and Jay-Z.”

A very pregnant Beyoncé had checked into the upper East Side hospital on Friday night under the name “Ingrid Jackson,” a hospital staffer told the Daily News.

Beyoncé and her hip-hop hubby, whose real name is Shawn Carter, rented out the hospital’s entire fourth floor for $1.3 million, the employee said.

On Saturday night, people were seen bringing bags of takeout and a dozen bottles of red wine onto the heavily guarded hospital wing.

After 11 p.m., even doctors and nurses were barred from entering the fourth floor, prompting one doc to complain that he had patients to see.

In an effort to keep images from leaking to the public, hospital workers placed tape over security cameras and are forcing employees to turn in cell phones when they arrive for their shifts, a source said.

Several security guards were spotted patrolling the perimeter of the hospital Saturday night. A Lenox Hill staffer confirmed that a patient named Ingrid Jackson was in a “labor room.” Reps for the power couple did not return requests for comment.

The 30-year-old singer was last seen Thursday when she was photographed leaving a Manhattan apartment building wearing hip-hugging jeans, gold heels and a patterned scarf masking her belly.

According to E! Online, the baby’s name is Ivy Blue Carter…. hole' up…we're hearing that [as of 2:10am EST] they changed the baby's name to Blue Ivy Carter. <---Chile boo! Shake yo' self and get it together. You guys have had nine long months to finalize the baby's name. Anyhoo..babies are a blessing from God so, Congrats Bey & Jay!

Beyonce spotted with mom, Tina Knowles, in NYC the day before giving birth.

Check out this video of Beyonce gushing about motherhood with Terrance of BET's '106 and Park' [below].

SOURCE

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RECAP: Moet & Hennessy Present Rick Ross New Years Eve at Cameo [MIAMI, FL]

2012-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

Miami native and Maybach Music Group's founder & CEO, Ricky Rozay, brought 2012 in with a bang as he hosted Cameo's New Years Eve party. Ross stepped outside the box and rocked a tailor-made tuxedo accessorized with white diamonds. From his hit music to his fashion sense..and right on down to the "pimp daddy" pinky ring Ross consistently shows us why he deserves to wear the self-given title, "BOSS". Check out a few pics [below] courtesy of our friends over at Night Life Photo Guys.

Deuce Pound - Stalley - Rick Ross - Mike & Mechelle Epps

Gucci Pucci - Spiff TV - Rick Ross

Magazeen & Rick Ross

Mike Epss - Mechelle Epps - DJ Khaled

Rick Ross - Amazin Amie - Torch

Rick Ross & Rich Kidd

Stalley

Whyl Chyl

Rick Ross & DJ Khaled

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FASHION: Alexander McQueen's Raspberry Crepe Gown!

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Shape a beautiful silhouette after dark in Alexander McQueen's elegant raspberry crepe gown. Masterfully draped and gathered, we love the way the fabric falls into an elegant train. You can offset the sumptuous hue by pairing this elegant gown with a nice pair of Yves Saint Laurent earrings, a Monica Vinader cuff, and a gorgeous pair of Jimmy Choo shoes, and a Michael Kors clutch and you'll be sure to set the town on fire this holiday season. This gown retails for $3280.

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EVENT: Basketball Wives' Star Draya Hosts 'Got Swag Thursdays' on Thursday, December 22, 2011! [PEMBROKE PINES, FL]

2011-12-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

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EVENT: Crave the Sweet Life on Thursday, December 22, 2011! [HOLLYWOOD, FL]

2011-12-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

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'Real Housewives' NeNe Leakes Jumps into T-Shirt Business?!

2011-12-16T23:00:00.000-05:00

Todays reality TV stars are known for coining phrases and trying to cash in on them, and 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' star Nene Leakes is no different. On the first episode of the fourth season of the show she made it clear that she is very rich. <---[side eye]. In an argument with Sheree she said, "I'm very rich b*tch", after cashing her check from real estate tycoon Donald Trump.

Nene is now trying to profit off the statement by selling a cotton t-shirt with embroidered swarovski crystals with the catch phrase. The shirt will retail for $150. One thing's for sure..you'd have to be rich or very well off to drop that much lucci on a cotton t-shirt.

I ain't even mad with Ms. Nene for capitalizing off of her Housewives fame. Werk mutha'!

SOURCE

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ARRESTED: 'Lean On Me' Actor Busted for Buying 200 Pounds of Marijuana?!

2011-12-16T10:42:00.000-05:00

Talk about being in a ~~f*cked up~~ bad situation at Christmas time...

Jermaine Hopkins, the actor who became famous for his role as a troubled kid in the classic movie, 'Lean On Me,' has been arrested for trying to buy 200 POUNDS of weed???!!!!! <---this is definitely a WTF moment!

According to TMZ:

The guy who starred as troubled youth Thomas Sams in the 1989 classic "Lean On Me" was arrested in Arizona for allegedly buying 200 pounds of pot from an undercover cop this week.

Jermaine "Huggy" Hopkins has been charged with two felony counts of possessing, transporting and trying to sell marijuana.

According to police, the 38-year-old actor lives in North Carolina ... but traveled to AZ to make the drug deal on Tuesday. Cops in Maricopa County say they set up the sting operation ... and after Hopkins took possession of the dope, they pulled over his SUV and arrested him. Cops say they found $100k in cash in the ride. Officials later searched Hopkins' Arizona apartment and claim they found an additional 100 pounds of weed. Police say Hopkins told them he got involved in the drug deal to provide a nice Christmas for his family.

Hopkins is being held on $35,000 bond. If convicted, he faces up to 5 years in prison.

Uhhh, Joe Clark..come get yo' boy!

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EVENT: Jazz In The Gardens, March 17-18, 2012 [MIAMI, FL]

2011-12-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

For more info, log onto: www.JazzInTheGardens.com.

Also log onto www.TicketMaster.com to purchase tickets.

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SEEN ON THE SCENE: Beyonce House Hunting in Miami?!

2011-11-17T23:44:00.001-05:00

A pregnant and glowing Beyonce was spotted in the M-I-yayo this past Wednesday. The evening prior Beyonce was spotting bouncing her baby bump at her husband Jay-Z’s 'Watch the Throne' concert which also featured ~~gal~~ pal Kanye West. At the concert Beyonce rocked a crimson red v-neck dress with matching red lipstick but managed to tone the outfit way down the following day on a rumored house hunting trip.

The mommy-to-be can be seen wearing a bright yellow ~~bedspread~~ coverall, little to no makeup and a pair of sandals. According to several sources Beyonce was house hunting luxury estates. With only a few months left in her pregnancy Beyonce and Jay-Z may be shopping for an alternate home for their growing family.

Yesterday Beyonce’s wedding dress picture surfaced from a beautiful "I Was Here" video, which depicts the singer's many accomplishments.

Peep the video [below]:

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VIDEO: "Lotus Flower Bomb" - Wale ft. Miguel

2011-11-17T11:06:00.001-05:00

Maybach Music Group recording artist, Wale, just released the official video for his smashing hot single, "Lotus Flower Bomb" featuring Miguel from his second studio album entitled, 'Ambition', which is in stores now.

Check it out [below]:

One things for sure..this joint is addictive and it seems to be an automatic hit with the ladies. That means Wale is WINNING!!! <---[in my best Charlie Sheen voice]

Click HERE to download Wale's new album 'Ambition' on iTunes.

Wanna see Wale LIVE on the 'Ambition' Tour? Click HERE to purchase tickets.

Click HERE to keep up with Wale on his official website.

Pop the hood [below] for the lyrics to "Lotus Flower Bomb" :

[Wale:]

I'm a rap to you real quick. I wanna enjoy the luxury of like, not knowing each other for real. Hol' up

[Intro: Miguel]

Lotus flower bomb, firefly When I'm low, she take me high I can teach you all the sounds of love

[Verse 1: Wale]

Flowerbomb, let me guess your favorite fragrance And you got that bomb, huh, I'm tryna detonate you No disrespecting baby, just tryna make you smile Try to keep my spirits up, that's why I lays it down Try to keep your spirits up, lil vodka whatever Took you forever to get dressed, I acknowledge your effort So I clap for her, she deserves an applause Shawty working so hard, she deserve that Vuitton Shawty where your baton, racing through my mind like She heard that I got that work, I heard that she been on strike Care to tell, I read your mind, she been on them dollars first Caramel macchiatos when shawty get into work I can be your boyfriend be your nigga or a friend with perks I'm just tryna work that huh, they just tryna work your nerves I'm just tryna read your mind, I'm just tryna feed you mine I'm just tryna give you light, they just tryna leave you blind

[Hook: Miguel]

We're living in a fantasy I feel it when you dance with me It's feeling like you need to be My lady, my baby, yeah Can't you see I'm talking about eternity Tell me would you care to be My lady, my baby

[Verse 2: Wale]

Flower bomb, can I blow up on your mind This is not no Sandra Bull, but you're Potion #9 Navigating through her eyes, destination to her thighs And I hate to tell you too much, cause I stay with too much pride And we way too young to know love, maybe not but we don't need no rush Don't believe in love at first sight, but I believe in love at first huh Can I be with you just one night? I could wear you out inside I could tell you like persistence, but I make you cum in tri's I just think we need one night, can't decide if I came right Easy baby my thing tight, but that lotus flower just ain't right I ain't thinking I ain't right, can't decide but I can't fight Easy baby you the bomb and all, but I be damned if I do not land mine Or at least try, can I speak up? was it peace out? can we eat lunch? Can we take shots with your flavor, flat drinks we call A cups I just think I need one night, slightly more if it's done right With that gorgeous face, I don't know your name, it ain't important babe cause I'm a call you Mine

[Hook: Miguel]

[Bridge: Miguel]

Cause you don't know who, you don't know when If I keep stickin' baby, what's it gonna be You don't know who, you don't know when Let me teach you all the sounds of love

[Outro: Miguel]

Ahhhh, ayyyyy, eeeeee, ahh ohh ooo Baby this was for you, lotus [feat. Miguel]

[Wale:]

I'm a rap to you real quick. I wanna enjoy the luxury of like, not knowing each other for real. Hol' up

[Intro: Miguel]

Lotus flower bomb, firefly When I'm low, she take me high I can teach you all the sounds of love

[Verse 1: Wale]

[Hook: Miguel]

[Verse 2: Wale]

[Hook: Miguel]

[Bridge: Miguel]

Cause you don't know who, you don't know when If I keep stickin' baby, what's it gonna be You don't know who, you don't know when Let me teach you all the sounds of love

[Outro: Miguel]

Ahhhh, ayyyyy, eeeeee, ahh ohh ooo Baby this was for you, lotus

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NEW MUSIC: "Mass Appeal" Freestyle - Wale

2011-11-10T07:35:00.001-05:00

Maybach Music Group presents "Mass Appeal" Freestyle by Wale, plus an exclusive sneek peek of "Work" by Meek Mill feat. Rick Ross.

'Ambition' is in stores now!

Download Wale's "Mass Appeal" freestyle, click: HERE

Download Wale's new album 'Ambition' on iTunes now, click: HERE

See Wale LIVE on the Ambition Tour! Get Tickets, click: HERE

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Amber Rose Tells Wendy Williams She Doesn't Care If Kanye Wants Her Back; She Wants to Marry Wiz Khalifa?!

2011-11-10T07:12:00.001-05:00

Amber Rose sat down and chopped it up with the "Queen of All Media", Ms. Wendy Williams. During the interview Amber opens up about her past relationship with Kanye West and says she doesn't care if Kanye wants her back because she'd never date him again! She also admits to a brief fling with Kim Kardashian's ex, Miami Dolphins running back, Reggie Bush. Amber gushes on about being in love and wanting to marry current boyfriend, "Black & Yellow" rapper, Wiz Khalifa.

Peep the video [below]:

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OBITUARY: Pioneer Rapper Heavy D Dead at 44?!

2011-11-08T18:40:00.001-05:00

Today the Hip-Hop community lost one its pioneers. Forty-four year old rapper Heavy D [real name Dwight Arrington Myers] who was affectionately known by adoring fans as "The Over-Weight Lover", was found unconscious on the walkway of his Beverly Hills home. He was rushed to the hospital where he later died. As it appears on TMZ:

"Rap legend Heavy D -- one of the most influential rappers of the '90s -- died earlier today ... TMZ has learned. Heavy D -- real name Dwight Arrington Myers -- was rushed to an L.A. hospital around noon today ... and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 1 PM. He was 44 years old.

We've learned a 911 call was placed from Heavy's Beverly Hills home around 11:25 AM to report an unconscious male on the walkway . When help arrived, we're told Heavy D was conscious and speaking -- and was transported to a nearby hospital. He died a short time later.

Cops are investigating the death -- and so far, there are no obvious signs of foul play. Police are currently at the home.

Heavy D had several massive hits - including "Now That We Found Love." He also wrote and performed the theme song for "In Living Color" ... and appeared as an actor in the movie "Life."

Heavy just performed at the Michael Jackson Tribute Concert in Wales on October 8. He sang "Jam" with La Toya Jackson -- and rocked it."

Rest in peace Heavy D!

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EVENT: Stop the Violence and Dance, Nov. 20, 2011 [MIAMI, FL]

2011-11-08T16:13:00.000-05:00

Stop The Violence And Dance

I am uber-excited to announce [again this year] that www.SweetTalkEntertainmentBlog.com is an official Media Sponsor for Reggie Saunders' 2nd Annual "Stop the Violence and Dance" event which will take place on SUN., NOV. 20th @ 7PM at the JOSEPH CALEB AUDITORIUM. This spectacular event will be co-hosted by WEDR, 99.1 FM radio personality Toine the Don and comedian Larry Dogg.

Special invited guest include
Poe Boy/Atlantic recording artist Brianna
performing her smash hit
"Marilyn Monroe"

and

B Major Music recording artist Guyana

Winner recieves a $2500 CASH PRIZE

...AND...

A $500 Grand Prize for the "SHOW TIME AT THE APOLLO" contest! Can you rap, sing, dance, tell a joke, or play an instrument? Then this event is your time to shine!

To register (or) for more information, log on to:

www.StopTheViolenceAndDance.com

ABOUT STOP THE VIOLENCE AND DANCE:

STOP THE VIOLENCE AND DANCE was founded in 2010 on the belief that all forms of dance essentially serve one purpose, to express one's soul in an artistic manner.

Today, many dancers are segregated, classified, and unjustly grouped into different categories of dance such as: modern, hip hop, jazz, house, ect. Our goal is to unite dancers from various styles, backgrounds, ethnicities, and ages. We strive to highlight the beauty of these different forms, preserve their roots and traditions, and educate people on history.

Additionally, we would like for dancers to cross train in new disciplines and for the audience to be open minded and appreciate other styles. This will ultimately expand the ability of the dancers and provide the opportunity for dance.

Furthermore, We will provide a competition that enables competitors to meet or exceed their expectations in the dance or vocal field and inspire them to strive for excellence. STOP THE VIOLENCE AND DANCE mission is to motivate and actuate all to embrace their potential, as well as to foster the infinite growth and improvement of its dancers to teach individuals to move as one.

www.StopTheViolenceAndDance.com

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Boxing Legend Smokin' Joe Frazier Dies at 67?!

2011-11-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's death of boxing legend Joseph William Frazier [better known as Smokin' Joe Frazier] took the world by surprise and touched the hearts of millions.

Frazier, who died at 67 of liver cancer, had struggled financially after his boxing career ended. He made public appearances to earn income, such as one just this summer at Saratoga Race Track in New York to commemorate the 40-year anniversary of the first fight in his epic trilogy against Muhammad Ali. Those who were there were concerned by how frail Frazier looked. On Saturday, word came he was receiving hospice care and near death.

After hearing of Frazier's death one of his longtime admirers, the undefeated world welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. took to Twitter to express his sentiments, tweeting: "My condolences go out to the family of the late great Joe Frazier. #TheMoneyTeam will pay for his Funeral services." This wouldn't be the first time Mayweather has made such a gesture. Earlier this year he paid for the funeral of a one-time opponent, Southland former world champion Genaro Hernandez.

Pop the hood [below] to read the full story:

As it appears on Yahoo.com:

Muhammad Ali drew the crowds, charmed the media and stole the show. But while Ali is deservedly remembered as "The Greatest," it was Joe Frazier who defined what being a fighter was truly about.

Frazier, who died Monday in his Philadelphia home after a fight with liver cancer, is inextricably linked in boxing history with Ali.

They competed in two of the most sensational bouts of all-time and defined an era with their fearsome rivalry.

Ali had nearly all of the physical advantages, but in the fight that remains the most significant in the sport’s history, it was Frazier who threw perhaps the perfect left hook to knock down Ali in the 15th round, punctuating a victory on March 8, 1971, in what will forever be remembered as "The Fight of the Century."

Frazier rose from the most humble beginnings in Buford, S.C., to become a gold medalist and the world heavyweight champion, doing it through sheer will and perseverance. He fought in a classic bobbing-and-weaving style, working his way to the inside by attacking the body and then unleashing his money punch, the left hook.

He paid a heavy price to get inside, particularly in his bouts against Ali, but Frazier was fearless.

"I really and truly loved the guy," promoter Bob Arum, who handled Ali, said. "He was a real man. He was a proud, great warrior who was everything that was great about boxing. It was one of my life’s great experiences knowing him. If I were in a war zone fighting against any enemy, the guy I would choose to have next to me was Joe Frazier. There was no quit in him and he was really a man."

Frazier spent nine days in the hospital after becoming the first man to defeat Ali, and he was never the same fighter again. He went 5-4-1 in his next 10 fights, losing twice to Ali and twice to George Foreman.

He harbored a grudge against Ali that he never truly got over. Ali mercilessly taunted Frazier as he was promoting their fights, referring to him as a "gorilla" and an "Uncle Tom." That incensed Frazier, who could never come to terms with the fact that Ali was simply trying to draw attention to his fights.

Larry Merchant, the one-time sports editor of the Philadelphia Daily News and now an HBO Sports boxing analyst, said Frazier was too proud to forgive Ali’s taunts.

"Ali, in his way of trying to market fights, had been cruel at times," Merchant said. "We all knew that Ali was just doing a sales job, trying to promote the fights, but if you’re the target and the bullets are hitting you and you have to take them, then I guess it could be pretty hard to take. And Joe really resented him for years and years for the things Ali had said."

Frazier took delight in Ali’s struggles with Parkinson’s syndrome that rendered the most talkative athlete ever mute.

"I did that to him," Frazier would say to anyone who would listen. He felt betrayed because he tried to help Ali when Ali was stripped of the heavyweight title for refusing induction into military service. Ali was exiled for three years at the peak of his powers, from 1967 to 1970, and Frazier went to bat for him in order to help him get his license back.
He went so far as to plead Ali’s case with President Nixon. And because he felt he had done so much, he resented Ali’s taunts during the promotion of their three great fights.

They were both guaranteed $2.5 million to fight each other as unbeaten heavyweight champions in 1971 and Ali immediately waged a war of words against Frazier, who privately seethed.

"Believe me when I tell you this, Ali respected Joe an awful lot," said Gene Kilroy, Ali’s long-time friend and former business manager. "When they signed for that fight, they made so much money and everything was guaranteed. They didn’t have to do a thing to promote it, because it wouldn’t make a difference. But Ali never met a camera he didn’t love and he began talking about Joe to anyone who would listen."

"I told Joe years later that Ali was just trying to sell the fight, but Joe said to me, ‘How do you think I feel when he calls me an Uncle Tom? My kids come home from school and tell me the other kids told them their Dad’s a gorilla.’ Joe just couldn’t get over it."

Frazier nearly quit boxing in 1964 when he lost to Buster Mathis in the Olympic Trials and didn’t make the U.S. team. But when Mathis broke a hand, Frazier went to Tokyo in his place and won a gold medal.

And that was the closest to quitting Frazier ever came at anything. He was legendary for his competitive streak and for the way he pushed himself in training.

"There was nothing not to love about Joe Frazier and how hard he trained, how hard he fought and much he wanted to win," Merchant said. "That 1971 fight is still the biggest and greatest event I ever covered and it exceeded all the extraordinary expectations that were placed upon it."

That’s what Joe Frazier was. He was a guy who exceeded expectations. He wasn’t the fastest or the strongest or the most athletic, but there were few who were as fearless and few who gave as much of himself in pursuit of a victory.

Ali will always be "The Greatest," but his biggest rival was plenty great, too.

Former champion Smokin' Joe Frazier will forever be remembered for his legendary trilogy against Muhammad Ali and his extraordinary career in boxing. Rest in peace Champ!

PHOTOS: AP

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Michael Jackson's Doctor, Conrad Murray, Is Found Guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter?!

2011-11-07T16:50:00.003-05:00

As if we couldn't see this coming... The King of Pop's killer, Dr. Conrad Murray, is convicted of involuntary manslaughter. As it appears on BET.com:

Michael Jackson's doctor, Conrad Murray, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter Monday by a jury of his peers.

Prosecutors charged that Murray gave Jackson a deadly dose of the anesthetic in the bedroom of Jackson’s mansion on June 25, 2009. Defense attorneys claimed Jackson self-administered the dose when Murray left the room, while prosecutors contended that Murray "looked out for himself and himself alone."
Over the course of the trial, the panel heard dramatic testimony — including that of a tearful nurse who said her efforts to save Jackson were rebuffed by Jackson, who insisted he needed the surgical anesthetic propofol to help him sleep.

Murray declined to testify during the six-week trial but had previously acknowledged to police that he gave Jackson propofol and other sedatives on the morning the singer died.

Ahead of the reading of the verdict, Jackson's sister LaToya tweeted: "Verdict is FINALLY IN!!! I'm on my way! I'm shaking uncontrollably!"
Outside the courthouse, upon hearing that a verdict had been reached started cheering and started chanting, "Guilty! Guilty!"
During closing arguments, Murray's attorneys attacked prosecutors and their witnesses. Prosecutors countered that Murray was an opportunistic and inept doctor who left Jackson's three children without a father, writes the Associated Press. They said that Murray giving Jackson propofol as a sleep aid violated standards of care and amounted to a secret experiment in which the doctor kept no records.

The jury reached their verdict on the second day of deliberations.

The seven-man, five-woman jury included a diverse group between the ages of 32 and 57. They are white, Black and Hispanic and include a professor, postman, bus driver, actor and movie animation supervisor.

And [boom] there you have it folks!

SN: Ole' Conrad had better guard his booty-hole in the pokey because I'm sure there are quite a few inmates who are ready to make him their "biyotch behind bars!" Pow!

PHOTO: Irfan Khan-Pool/Getty Images

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Basketball Wives' Star Evelyn Lozada Lands a Six Figure Book Deal with Cash Money Records?!

2011-11-06T00:03:00.000-04:00

Evelyn Lozada may not be everyone's favorite on VH1's super successful reality show, "Basketball Wives", but that definitely hasn't been a deterrent for the starlet when it comes to cashing in on her newfound fame. Word on the sidewalk is that mutha' has landed a six figure writing deal and she's currently penning a series of books called "The Wives' Association".Evelyn's book is being released by Cash Money Content, the book publishing arm of the record label Cash Money Records, which was founded by brothers Bryan "Baby" Williams and Ronald "Slim" Williams.

We're hearing that the book series will be loosely based on Lozada’s life, using the alter ego Eve Inez-Landon to fictionalize the true stories she has learned from years of dating professional athletes.Evelyn says, "The stories that you hear—what goes on in these relationships, and just being in that circle—I decided to let everyone experience a piece of it for themselves by writing this series of juicy novels. By partnering with Baby and Cash Money Content, we have the potential to turn these ‘novels’ into a full-fledged brand. Everything Baby and CMC touches turns to gold, and our brands together will be magical."

I ain't mad at Ms. Evelyn for trying to rake in the lucci. All I have to say is, "make the money Diamond, don't let it make you!" Um-kay?! <---[from the movie "Players Club"]

SOURCE

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Will & Jada Smith Just Became Part Owner of the Philadelphia 76ers?!

2011-11-06T00:02:00.000-04:00

Despite going through recent breakup and cheating rumors, Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett-Smith just became the next entertainers to own a professional sports team. This makes Will the 4th major recording artist to own part of an NBA team. The power couple is part of an investment group, headed by multi-billionaire Joshua Harris, who made the major purchase and was unanimously approved by the NBA Board of Governors. “My partners and I are thrilled to have become owners of the Sixers,” Joshua Harris said in a statement. ”It is an honor to become part of this storied franchise. We have a lot of work to do, but we have a rich history, a strong foundation and a bright future.”

The Smiths join the likes of R&B singer Usher (Cleveland Caveliers), and rappers Nelly (Charlotte Bobcats) and Jay-Z (New Jersey Nets). Kudos!

SOURCE

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FASHION: Matte Leather Wood Wedge by Finsk!

2011-11-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

Check out this hawt matte leather, six strap wood wedge sandal with three dimensional heel detail from Finsk. With its dynamic heel height and modest platform this shoe is sure to snag its owner some serious attention from the crowd. #sickenin'

Retail: $565 (USD)

Heel height: 5 inches

Platform Height: 1.5 inches

Style #: 252-106

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Lauryn Hill Being Sued for STEALING?!

2011-11-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

Lauryn Hill just got slapped by the fashion police..not for her recent choice of outfits, but because she's allegedly been stealing the ish she's been wearing.

A fashion consultant by the name of Via Davia Vintage filed a lawsuit in L.A. Superior Court saying that Lauryn jacked her for her clothes back in 2007 during Lauryn's European tour. Instead of keeping the clothes for the amount of time she initially agreed to Lauryn kept the borrowed threads for months. And when she finally decided to return the clothes, she didn't return all of them. TMZ reports:

According to a lawsuit filed in L.A. County Superior Court, Via Davia Vintage provided Hill "with an entire wardrobe of high fashion items." The company claims Hill agreed to pay a fixed weekly fee for 4 weeks.

But according to the lawsuit, Hill hung on to the clothes for three months, paying only a fraction of what she owed.. And to top it off ... the consultant claims Hill only returned about 30% of the items, keeping the expensive stuff.

Child boo!

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EVENT: "Best of The 90's" Concert feat. Boys II Men, Faith Evans, & Keith Sweat!

2011-11-01T20:34:00.000-04:00

Click HERE to purchase your ticket.

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Legendary R&B Singer Vesta Williams Found Dead?!

2011-09-23T12:13:00.000-04:00

It is with a heavy heart that I report this...

Vesta Williams the 80's diva known for her powerful voice, was found dead in her California hotel room last night, according to reports. Though news sources have reported the singer was 48 years old, Williams can be seen in a 2010 interview saying she was 53. Williams scored a big hit with "Congratulations," a song about a woman who discovers her former lover is getting married. It became a talent show staple, as well as, "Sweet Sweet Love" and "4U".

News of the singer's death seemed to have saddened those "industry friends" who knew her well. Jackeé Harry, the television actress, tweeted her condolences about the singer's passing, "just received truly devastating news: R&B great, and my friend of many yrs, Vesta Williams (@vesta4u), has passed away. #RIPVesta". Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph shared her thoughts on Twitter, saying, "I am so deeply saddend at the passing of my diva friend Vesta Williams. RIP Vesta." Meanwhile fellow singer Shanice Wilson also used the social networking site to share her loss tweeting, "My friend Vesta died…I can’t believe this…RIP."

In the 1990s, Williams made headlines for her dramatic weight loss. She told Ebony that she began gaining weight rapidly after her singing career started to falter. Vesta, who was 5-foot-3, eventually reached a size 26. She said her size was the reason she lost her recording contract. "When I lost my record deal and my phone wasn't ringing, I realized that I had to reassess who Vesta was and figure out what was going wrong," she said. "I knew it wasn't my singing ability. So it had to be that I was expendable because I didn't have the right look." The singer went on to lose 100 lbs, and got down down to a size 6, while finding something of a second career as a songwriter and session singer. In recent years, Vesta had become an advocate for the prevention of childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes.

Rest in peace Vesta! Your music will live on luv!

SOURCE

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Beyonce Announces That She's PREGNANT?!

2011-08-29T07:21:00.000-04:00

Beyonce has said [before] that she wanted to start having chirrenz by the time she was 30-years-old. Well, word straight from the camel's wife's mouf' is that she indeed has a bun in the oven. This baby news comes just a couple of weeks shy of her 30th birthday.

As it appears on MTV:

After performing at the 2011 VMAs, Beyoncé Knowles unbuttoned her sparkly jacket and rubbed her belly -- announcing her pregnancy to the world. The camera then cut to Jay-Z and Kanye West in the audience and their over-the-top jubilant reaction.

Married to Jay for three years, the star has said time and time again that she planned on having a baby by the time she was 30; well, B turns 30 early next month.

The power couple tied the knot back in 2008 in a private ceremony at Jay-Z's New York apartment, and since then, there have been years of pregnancy rumors that they've shot down.

In June, the singer told CNN interviewer Piers Morgan that she wanted to get pregnant.

"I feel like a woman. I feel like I'm very aware of who I am. I feel great and I feel like 30 is the ideal age [to start a family], because you're mature enough to know who you are and to have your boundaries and your standards, and not be afraid, too polite -- but you're young enough to be a young woman," she said. "I'm so looking forward to it."

The singer added, "I always said I'd have a baby at 30. But I also said I'm going to retire at 30. ... Only God knows."

In that same interview, Beyoncé talked about her husband.

"Jay and I have kind of made a decision that we want to be known for our music and not our relationships or scandals. But he is amazing," she said. "I definitely had a very natural friendship and connection with him. We've been together for a very long time and I'm very happy. Love is the foundation of everything, everything I do. My music is inspired by love -- from my family, my husband, my sister."

No word on when the baby is due.

Congrats!

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EVENT: A Night with ESTELLE at Santo Live!

2011-07-19T14:36:00.000-04:00

Live performance by

ESTELLE

tomorrow night

Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at 9:00pm

SANTO LIVE

501 S. Federal Highway

(inside Gulfstream Park & Casino)

Music by Bigg D and The Bottom Shelf Band

Sounds by DJ Griot (WEDR 99.1FM)

Complimentary Grey Goose cocktails from 8pm-10pm

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R&B Singer Monica Marries Shannon Brown A Second Time?!

2011-07-11T12:45:00.000-04:00

Word on the sidewalk is that 30-year-old R&B singer, Monica, and 25-year-old Los Angeles Lakers star, Shannon Brown, walked down the aisle for the second time this past Saturday. The couple, who quietly wed in November, held a large wedding ceremony for hundreds of family and friends. The wedding took place at a renovated 19th-century cathedral in downtown Los Angeles with a guest list that included Carmelo Anthony and his wife LaLa Vasquez, and Brown’s teammates Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher. The beautiful bride wore a Stephan Rowland gown.

We're also hearing that Shannon and Monica went all out, hiring celeb wedding planner Mindy Weiss to coordinate the festivities. The couple's "blue and purple" themed reception featured a sit-down, three-course dinner. Fat Burger was served at the reception, and dessert included a Charm City Cake.

The couple met in June 2010 when Brown appeared in Monica’s music video for "Love All Over Me." Brown put a ring on it in October and the two jumped the broom a month later in their Los Angeles home.

Monica has two children, Rodney Jr., 6, and Romelo, 3, with ex-fiancé Rodney "Rocko" Hill. Brown also has a child from a previous relationship. The singer, who most recently appeared on "The Voice," is currently working on her seventh studio album, "New Life," set to be relesed in October.

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Tyrese Gibson Speaks About Dating Whitney Houston?!

2011-07-11T12:05:00.002-04:00

There have been recent rumors floating around [which I believe started from Perez Hilton’s blog] that Tyrese Gibson and Whitney Houston were dating on the low. Well Tyrese got word of the rumor and decided to address it head-on via Twitter. Thing is..his tweet seemed to have rubbed Whitney’s daughter, Bobby Kristina, the wrong way. Peep their tweets [below]:

Tyrese tweeted:

"Negative blogs, press, blurbs, people spreading negative things. Rumors. I rest well at night cause none of these things matter anymore…"

"Man if ya’ll don’t GTFOH <--[get the f*ck out of here] with this dumb sh*t.. Hahahahahaahahaa… #Never… I repeat.. Never..!!"

Bobbi Kristina responded with:

"Lmao <--[laughing my a$$ off] at @Tyrese.. Damn it’s like that?! Hah, well to clear it up, Trust Me, MY MOM WOULD Never. Hah #shesroyalty."

Child boo! Next....

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Missy Elliott Talks About Battle With Graves' Disease?!

2011-06-24T14:53:00.000-04:00

Many people [myself included] have been wondering where rapper Missy Elliot has been. She's been out of public view and off the music scene for a hot minute now. Turns out the uber-talented hit maker has been suffering in silence from Graves' disease and is finally speaking out on why she’s been missing in action for the last few years. Elliott will be appearing on VH1′s 'Behind the Music' on June 29th. The shows executive producer, Brad Abramson, said it was a very personal interview, stating:

"Missy was great and very candid. She talked for the first time about her [near fatal bout with] Graves disease, which she’s been battling for the last few years, and spoke in detail about the sexual abuse she experienced as a child."

When the symptoms first began appearing, they came on so fast that she lost the ability to write a note or even drive a car. She described one terrifying incident to People magazine,

"I was (driving and) trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn’t keep the brake down and almost crashed."

Poor muscle control, as well as, mood swings and hair loss are just some of the symptoms people suffering from the autoimmune Graves disease may experience. Missy says,

"I couldn’t write because my nervous system was so bad. I couldn’t even use a pen."

On a more positive note, Missy has shed some pounds and is said to be in the studio cooking up some hot music with longtime producer/friend and collaborator, Timbaland. She says,

"I’m 30 pounds lighter because I’ve been exercising. My thyroid is functioning, so I haven’t had to take medication in about nine months. (But) you live with it for the rest of your life."

Missy's strength and perseverance is admireable, to say the least. I'm anxious to hear her new music. And I'm definitely gonna have a ring-side seat when VH1's 'Behind the Music' airs on the 29th. *sets DVR to record*

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Goodbye Ron Artest...Hello "Metta World Peace"?!

2011-06-24T14:04:00.003-04:00

Just when you thought you had seen and heard it all regarding NBA baller Ron Artest....

Chile my sister's cousin's uncle's baby momma's twin brother's girlfriend had said datt... The LA Lakers forward filed paperwork in Los Angeles County Superior Court to legally change his name to "Metta World Peace." Heidi Buech, who was Artest's longtime publicist until resigning earlier this week confirmed this news by simply saying, "It's true, he did." The word metta is a multi-significant term meaning loving-kindness, friendliness, goodwill, benevolence, fellowship, amity, concord, inoffensiveness and non-violence.

Artest has informed the Lakers of his plans but has not yet filed paperwork with the NBA to apply for a name change on the back of his jersey, Lakers spokesman John Black said. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson went through a highly publicized name change to Chad OchoCinco back in 2008.

For a long time, Artest carried the reputation as an instigator in the infamous "Palace Brawl" in 2004, but he seemed to complete a personality turnaround in recent years. The [now] charismatic Artest, 31, is due back in court for a name-change hearing on August 26, according to court records. The attorney who filed the proposal, Jill Rubin, said she was handling the change of Ronald William Artest Jr.’s name "procedurally, as a matter of course," and had no additional information as to why the 14-year NBA veteran who helped the Lakers to the 2010 NBA title was doing so.

Child boo! ...Bye! *storms off & slams the door*

Pop the trunk [below] to peep a copy of the actual court docs:

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NEW MUSIC: "Magic Happen" - Kindred The Family Soul

2011-06-24T13:22:00.000-04:00

Check out Kindred the Family Soul's video for their single entitled, "Magic Happen," from their forthcoming album, "Love Has No Recession," which is set to be released in July. The video was directed by Matthew A.Cherry. Check it out [below]:

video platform video management video solutions video player

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Talk Show Host Montel Williams Speaks About His Reefer Smoking?!

2011-06-24T13:04:00.000-04:00

In case you hadn’t heard..talk show host Montel Williams is a major advocate for the legalization of marijuana. The TV personality started smoking it medicinally to cope with chronic pain after he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Williams says he tokes up everyday and will do so forever. His admitting that he's a "puff, puff, passer" hasn't sat too well with certain folks and its garnered him some not-so-good press to which he replied, "It’s absurd. I can go get morphine pumped into my system and nobody’s got a problem, but all of a sudden they’re really worried if I smoked a joint."

Anyhoo, check out the video clips [below]:

The new word on the sidewalk is that Montel has opened Albatin Wellness Cooperative, his very own medical marijuana dispensary in Sacramento, California. He says his dispensary will differ from the others because [reportedly] there are no marijuana plants in plain view. Patrons won’t see any bud, which will be sold in smokable or in edible forms, until the end of the process and none of the products can be used/consumed on the premises. Williams says, "I want this to be someplace your mother and father could see themselves walk into."

Well alrighty then Montel. Smoke on wit' ya' smokin' a$$! Pow!

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Meagan Good Covers Heart & Soul Magazine!

2011-06-24T12:21:00.000-04:00

Check out the very beautiful Meagan Good as she graces the June/July 2011 cover of Heart & Soul magazine. Also peep some of her behind-the-scenes pics [below]:

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Eric Williams Goes On Twitter Rant About Recent Episode of Basketball Wives?!

2011-06-24T11:36:00.000-04:00

On last Monday's episode of VH1's 'Basketball Wives', Suzie told Jennifer that Eric Williams [Jen's soon-to-be ex-husband] called her and requested to meet with her. Suzie suggested that she and Jennifer set Eric up to see what if he was scheming to get back at Jen. Turns out Eric and one of his partners wanted to cast Suzie in their independent film as an Asian woman who robs rich dudes for sport. Eric, not liking one bit the way he was portrayed in the episode, took to Twitter to set the record straight. Check out what he had to say [below]:

Well dayum Eric! Tell 'em why you really mad son! LMFAO

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SEEN ON THE SCENE: Kelly Rowland

2011-06-24T11:04:00.001-04:00

Kelly Rowland was spotted leaving the Lowry Hotel in Manchester on the last day of filming the X Factor in the city. She looks stunning!

These platform booties are sickening! #LuvEm

Cute enuff!

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NEW MUSIC: "600Benz" - Wale feat Rick Ross & Jadakiss

2011-06-24T10:56:00.000-04:00

Maybach Music Group has been delivering new material quite frequently this year. They've been giving us an extensive look into the life of its CEO, rapper Rick Ross, and his newly assembled dream team. It seems these guys never stop working. Here is yet another video for you to add to your archives. On the latest off "Self Made Vol. 1", Wale goes all-black-everything with Rick Ross and Jadakiss in the video for the new hit single, "600 Benz" which is directed by Spiff TV. Check it out [below]:

Also, check out some behind the scenes footage of "600 Benz".

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Jennifer Hudson Set To Star In The Three Stooges Movie?!

2011-06-24T10:34:00.000-04:00

Word on the sidewalk is that Oscar winning actress and vocal powerhouse Jennifer Hudson just signed on for a role as a nun in The Three Stooges movie. She'll be joining Jane Lynch, who’s playing Mother Superior, and Larry David, who’s playing Mother Mengele. We're hearing it’s likely that Jen will play the role of Sister Rosemary, the nice nun at the orphanage where the Stooges come of age, despite the best efforts of the nuns to get the comedic trio adopted.

The 20th Century Fox comedy has begun production, with Peter and Bobby Farrelly directing Chris Diamantopoulos [Moe], Sean Hayes [Larry] and Will Sasso [Curly]. The Three Stooges is due in theaters some time in 2012. Woot woot! You go Jennifer!

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First Lady Michelle Obama Does Push-Ups With Archbishop Desmond Tutu?!

2011-06-24T10:26:00.000-04:00

Check out First Lady Michelle Obama as she gets it in with a push-up session with Archbishop Desmond Tutu yesterday at Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa. She was in South Africa participating in youth activities to help raise awareness for HIV prevention. She looks amazing, as usual. Werk First Lady, werk! *snaps in circular motion*

RANDOM THOUGHT: Hmpff..I wonder how many push-ups can Hilary Clinton, Laura Bush, Barbara Bush or any of the previous First Ladies do? I'm just sayin'...

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EVENT: Bum Bum Entertainment Presents Pajama Jam [MIAMI, FL]

2011-06-23T19:45:00.001-04:00

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UPDATE: Sean Kingston Is 'Alert' and 'Communicating'?!

2011-06-05T17:50:00.003-04:00

Hip-Hop singer Sean Kingston is making moves towards recovery following his catastrophic jet ski accident during Memorial Day weekend. And, although doctors stated that it would take up to six months for a full recovery, sources close to Kingston have revealed that he is alert and awake. TMZ is reporting that despite having a breathing tube in his mouth, Kingston is improving daily by communicating with head nods and using sign language.

Kingston crashed his brand new jet ski into a bridge near Miami's Star Island last weekend. After being thrown from the watercraft, he fell into the water where he was saved by a stranger, who noted that he was spitting up blood but was coherent. He was later air-lifted to Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital here in Miami.

The "Beautiful Girls" singer has since been stabilized and transferred from the trauma unit to the ICU where he is recovering from several injuries including a broken jaw and a fractured wrist. The 21-year-old has been showered with well wishes from his celebrity friends, and is expected to be released from the hospital within the next few weeks.

We're hoping for a speedy recovery for Sean.

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DJ Mister Cee Pleads Guilty To Transgender Prostution Charges?!

2011-06-05T17:15:00.002-04:00

Rap producer and DJ Mister Cee recently pleaded guilty to a loitering offense after he was caught receiving oral sex from another man earlier this year. Forty-four-year-old Cee, whose real name is Calvin LeBrun, and his younger male companion, Lawrence Campbell, were caught by police at 4am in a parked car in lower Manhattan, New York, on March 30th. The well-respected producer pleaded guilty to a charge of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense, which is actually a violation and not a crime.

The judge ordered Cee to do 12 counseling sessions with a doctor, one source said. He was originally charged with public lewdness, but offered a guilty plea to the loitering charge instead.

Cee first made a name for himself in the hip-hop world as Big Daddy Kane’s deejay. He later went on to produce Notorious B.I.G's first album, "Ready To Die." He also hosts "Throwback At Noon," on the popular hip-hop radio station, Hot 97. At the time of his arrest police said their behavior was "open to public view." Cee strongly denied the allegation at the time.

He took to Twitter to defend himself tweeting, "Never was I in a car with anyone when I was detained. The facts will come out and show what is being reported is totally untrue." Well umm-err-uhh..the ish has hit the fan and in the court of public opinion DJ Mister Cee has been found guilty of stabbing the back of a tranny's throat wth his wee wee! Owww...

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NEW MUSIC: "Best Thing I Never Had" - Beyonce

2011-06-05T15:15:00.000-04:00

Beyonce is gearing up for the debut of her fourth studio album aptly titled "4." The mega star just released a new single from the forthcoming album called, "The Best I Never Had." Check it out [below]:

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Chile, They Say Whitney Houston Is Dying..AGAIN?!

2011-06-05T14:30:00.000-04:00

Poor Whitney Houston couldn't catch a break from intense public scrutiny if her life depended on it. I'll tell you we have heard it all..from the stories of her being a delusional, venom-spewing crackhead to her now being one cigarette puff away from death's door. On the heels of quite a few sub par and canceled live performances, Whitney now has a much more serious battle to fight — emphysema. Peep what the National Enquirer had to say about the once vocal powerhouse:

A badly shaken Whitney Houston is fighting for her life against deadly emphysema – and her daughter is waging a desperate battle to save her.

Doctors have told the 47-year-old singer she’s suffering from the early stages of the frightening lung disease – and informed her in no uncertain terms she must immediately quit smoking or she will die, The Enquirer has learned exclusively.

Tragically, it’s fallen to her 18-year-old daughter Bobbi Kristina – who just recently got out of rehab – to stop her beloved mom from digging her own grave.

During Whitney’s world tour last year, critics and fans were shocked and mystified when she became breathless on stage and had to halt performances while she recovered.

"She’s developed emphysema – and her doctors are warning her she’ll die a horrible death," a friend told The Enquirer exclusively.

In early April, Whitney canceled several of her European tour shows due to a respiratory infection. The tour was initially conceived to promote her 2009 comeback album, "I Look To You" — her first album in seven years. We're hoping that Whitney will "look to God" before she finds herself six feet under. Um-kay?!

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Sean Kingston Rushed to ICU After Near Fatal Jet Ski Accident?!

2011-05-30T18:12:00.000-04:00

Miami is the ultimate travel destination during Memorial Day Weekend. There is non-stop partying and a plethora of celebrities at nearly every venue in the city.

In addition to the beautiful sandy beach backdrop, diverse culture, delicious cuisine, dope music, bright lights, fast cars, and gorgeous people, there's also the ever-lurking stigma of being arrested for simply being ~~black on Miami Beach~~ in the wrong place at the wrong time, getting robbed, being injured, or even killed.

We just got word that Hip-Hop singer, Sean Kingston, fell victim to one of many beach-goer's fears. Turns out the singer and an unidentified female companion were seriously injured in a jet ski accident on Miami Beach yesterday afternoon. According to Yahoo:

Hip-hop singer Sean Kingston has been stabilized and moved to the intensive care unit at a hospital after crashing his watercraft into a Miami Beach bridge, his publicist said Monday.

The publicist, Joseph Carozza, said Kingston's family is grateful for everyone's prayers and support.

Kingston and a female passenger were injured when the watercraft hit the Palm Island Bridge around 6 p.m. Sunday, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesman Jorge Pino said.

The Miami Herald reports that a passing boater saw the accident and took the two on board his vessel.

Both were hospitalized early Monday at Ryder Trauma Center, but Pino said he didn't know their conditions.

Authorities are investigating the crash, and "nothing at this point would indicate that alcohol played a role," Pino said.

Kingston rose to fame with his 2007 hit "Beautiful Girls" and was also featured on songs by artists including Justin Bieber. His self-titled debut album sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

On Twitter, Bieber posted a message of support for Kingston.

"Got my friend Sean Kingston in my prayers tonight," Bieber tweeted early Monday. "A true friend and big bro. Please keep him in your prayers tonight as well."

And according to TMZ:

Jonathan Rivera, a member of the Coast Guard, says he was driving his boat around Star Island on his day off ... when he was called over to the accident scene by a man and a woman on a jet ski. Rivera says he noticed an empty jet ski, a woman in the water floating (she was wearing a vest and complaining her head hurt) and Kingston.

Rivera says the two people on the jet ski were trying to hold Kingston up, but they were struggling to keep his head above water. Rivera says Kingston's size was a problem for them, as his life vest had come off.

So Rivera says he jumped in the water and noticed Kingston was "puking up blood out of his mouth."

Rivera says he wrapped his arms around Kingston and held on to the jet ski to help keep Kingston's head above water. Rivera said Kingston was "convulsing and throwing up blood all over me" -- but said he didn't notice any head trauma.

Rivera tells us he held onto Kingston for about 15 minutes, until a police boat finally arrived. Rivera says he doesn't think he could have held on much longer than he did.

Rivera says when helped arrived, he told Sean he was going to be okay. He says Kingston repeated back to him, "I'm going to be okay."

When it came time to get Kingston into the boat, Rivera says Kingston was able to follow directions, though he did need some assistance getting in.

From there, paramedics quickly came and cleaned Kingston up and rushed him to an ambulance that was waiting nearby.

Rivera, who says he didn't recognize Kingston until well into the rescue, tells us, "I mean regardless of whether I was in the Coast Guard, I would have still jumped off to help him. He needed help."

Jimmy Vega, who was with Rivera at the time and assisted in rescuing Kingston, talked to a local reporter and explained, "We were about to turn back around [and go home] when we noticed him. I truly believe if we did turn around, he would not be with us today."

We're praying that Sean's recovery is swift.

SOURCE#1 SOURCE#2

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Spoken Word Artist & Poet "Will Da Real One" Gunned Down Outside The Literary Cafe?! [MIAMI, FL]

2011-05-29T13:17:00.002-04:00

As it appears on NBC:

A well-known and respected local poet was shot and killed early Sunday morning outside the coffehouse and spoken word venue he owned in North Miami.

Willie Lee Bell, Jr., also known by his stage name "Will Da Real One," was shot multiple times outside the Literary Cafe and Poetry Lounge on NE 125th Street around 12:40 a.m.

The incident occured in front of a number of patrons, and eyewitness reports place black male suspects fleeing in a dark-colored vehicle with a spoiler or a light-colored car.

Bell, who opened his cafe about six years ago to host and promote spoken word poetry, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Canadian World International Poetry Slam Champion and Miami Masters Poetry Tournament Slam Champion, Bell was featured on two seasons of HBO's 'Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry'. He also appeared regularly for a time on local radio station Power 96's Teddy T and Lucy show.

Anyone with information is asked to call the North Miami Police Department at 305-891-8111 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 305-371-TIPS.

Will was a well-respected, hard working guy who thoroughly enjoyed wiriting and reciting poetry at The Literary Cafe & Poetry Lounge, a venue that he owned and managed with pride. My question is...WHO could be so cruel and so cowardly that they were willing to take his life? And, for what?... *awaits answers*

Take your angel wings and rest in the sweet peace that only the Holy Spirit can bring Will.

Please call the North Miami Police Department at (305) 891-8111, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (305) 371-TIPS if you have any information that could help police solve this case.

(5/29/2011 @5:44pm)

Edited to include the following performance videos:

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Rick Ross Covers VIBE Magazine?!

2011-05-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

Check out rapper Rick Ross bare-bellied on the cover of the latest issue of VIBE Magazine. This dude is one confident mutha' somethin'. Werk Boss!

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Daniel Gibson & Keyshia Cole Get Married?!

2011-05-24T13:59:00.001-04:00

Congratulations are in order...

Word on the sidewalk is that Cleveland Caveliers' player, Daniel Hiram Gibson [aka "Boobie"], just made it official with fiance' Keyshia Cole, locking her down as his new "wifey". The newlyweds, who are co-parents to one-year-old son, Daniel Gibson, Jr., exchanged vows in Cleveland, Ohio this past Saturday.

The groom was so ecstatic over his nuptials that he tweeted the following, "So the world ain't end. Not yet... But a brand new world for me and my family has just begun! #Blessed Wedding Pics coming 2morrow! B E Z." Shortly thereafter Keyshia tweeted in response, "@BooBysWorld1: It's OFFICIAL!! #Done & #TrulyBlessed... Mr. & Mrs. Gibson. We appreciate all the Well Wishes!" ... Yeees." And, it wasn't long before the couple's friends started chiming in and wishing them marital bliss. "Congratulations to @keyshiacole Wishing u guys a lifetime of happiness," tweeted R&B singer Monica.

Anyhoo, check out some of the "wedding pics" we were able to dig up [below]:

Daniel tweeted this photo [above] just before the couple boarded their helicopter that flew them to their honeymoon destination. Kudos!

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SUPER TRAILER: Basketball Wives 3

2011-05-24T11:36:00.001-04:00

Last season ended with the stars of VH1's "Basketball Wives"' once tight-knit circle being shattered in the wake of flighty cat fights, accusations of two-faced behavior, and the bombshell disclosure of a personal secret linking Evelyn Lozado sexually to Tami Roman's ex-husband. This left viewers wondering if Season 3 will rescue the ladies' friendships from the ashes or put the final nail in the coffin for Jen, Evelyn, Tami, Suzie, Royce and Shaunie.

Well, for those of you who care....

The highly anticpated Season 3 of VH1's "Basketball Wives" will premiere Monday, May 30th. And, in true I-used-to-be-married-to-a-basketball-player fashion, the ladies do not fail to deliver the goods to its drama-hungry viewers. This season not only welcomes a new castmate, Meeka Claxton [wife of retired point guard and current scout, Speedy Claxton] but, judging by the super trailer, its filled with a sh*t-load of foolery too. Take a look at the clip [below]:

Dayum! *pre-sets the DVR to record*

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Prodigy of Mobb Deep Accused of Being A Snitch; Blasts Jay-Z & Lil Kim?!

2011-05-20T14:06:00.000-04:00

Somebody's got some serious explaining to do....

Looks like Prodigy of Mobb Deep may have to change rap groups, going from "Mobb Deep" to "Deep DooDoo", as he is blatantly accused of being a "dry snitch". I ran across this video link from @_MirandaRights while hanging out in Twitterville yesterday and boy is it juice-sayyy! Take a look:

Wow, Prodigy! That's how you get down, son? SMDH

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Rapper Trina Says: "F*ck BET!"

2011-05-20T12:50:00.000-04:00

Rapper Trina is hella-pissed about being snubbed by the BET Awards for the Best Female Hip-Hop Artist category. Mutha' took to Twitter and gave BET network execs the biz'niss in two simple words ---->"f*ck BET!"

Trina’s heated response comes as no surprise, considering that out of all this year's nominees, which include Nicki Minaj, video vixen-turned-rapper, Lola Monroe, Cymphonique [Master P’s daughter] and Atlanta rapper, Diamond, only Nicki Minaj and Trina have released full-length albums in the past year. And, although her album sales were low, Trina’s 2010 album, "Amazin", still managed to debut at No. 2 on the Billboard Rap Albums chart and, according to Nielsen SoundScan, it has sold 98,000 copies to date.

After tweeting the toxic blow to BET, Trina then congratulated Diamond on her nomination after the Atlanta rapper expressed her confusion over the nominees list and praised the Miami emcee for her influence. "Shoutout to my big sis @TRINArockstarr she has always been my idol! I don’t know what happened with the nominations.. But she raised all of US!" tweeted Diamond. Even fellow nominee Nicki Minaj seemed to disapprove of Trina’s snub and simultaneously dismissed her fellow nominees tweeting, "Looks @ nominations. Didn’t know it was April Fools… *waits for Trina’s name to appear before I take this seriously*".

Child boo! Award, or no award, Ms. Trina is [and I quote] "...still the baddest, ain't a d*mn thing change!" #Pow!

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Lady Gaga, Oprah Winfrey, Beyonce, and Usher Make Forbes' “Celebrity 100 Power″ List?!

2011-05-20T12:04:00.000-04:00

Lady Gaga, Oprah Winfrey, Beyonce, and Usher are being recognized as some of the most influential artists in entertainment as Forbes Magazine has released its "Celebrity 100 Power" list, which ranks the most powerful stars based on their earnings and media prominence. The Black Eyed Peas are this year’s highest ranking Hip-Hop act, coming in at #16. Beyonce checks in at #29, while her husband, rap superstar Jay-Z, comes in at #38. Usher makes this year’s list at #32, while Sean "Diddy" Combs is seated in 52nd place. Other artists on the list include Eminem at #71, Kanye West at #76, and Lil Wayne at #85.

Topping this year’s "Celebrity 100 Power" list is eccentric pop diva Lady Gaga. Despite making considerably less money, her incredible star power catapulted her to the number one spot, ahead of media mogul Oprah Winfrey. Justin Bieber, Tiger Woods, Simon Cowell, and LeBron James are some of the other celebs that made this year’s top ten.

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Taraji P. Henson and Michael Ealy Join Kevin Hart in the Cast of “Think Like A Man”?!

2011-05-20T11:36:00.000-04:00

Uber-talented Taraji P. Henson and Michael Ealy are the latest celebrities to be casted for the film adaptation of Steve Harvey’s widely popular book "Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man," alongside hella-funny comedian, Kevin Hart. The critically acclaimed actor and actress are the new stars of director Tim Story’s "Think Like a Man." The film is slated to hit theaters some time next year.

Word on the sidewalk is that Taraji and Michael are casted as a couple in the movie. And, Kevin Hart will play the role of a soon-to-be-divorced, self-professed relationship expert who dishes out advice to the couple. The film, "Think Like a Man", follows the relationship between a dreamer with culinary talents [played by Michael Ealy] and a high-powered advertising executive [played by Taraji P. Henson].

Sounds like this movie has the potential to be a box office hit.

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Music Legend Chaka Khan To Receive Walk Of Fame Star Today?!

2011-05-19T12:32:00.000-04:00

One of my absolute favorite singers of all time, Chaka Khan, will be honored in Los Angeles today. The vocal powerhouse will be receiving her own star on the renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame.

As it appears on CBS Los Angeles:

Chaka Khan is scheduled to receive the 2,440th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Thursday.

Khan was born Yvette Marie Stevens on March 23, 1953, in Chicago. She was later given the name Chaka Adunne Aduffe Hoodarhi Karifi by an African shaman and married Indian bassist Hassan Khan in 1970.

She formed the all-female vocal group the Crystalettes when she was just 11 years old and sang for several other groups before joining Rufus.

Her first hit with the group, "Tell Me Something Good," was written by Stevie Wonder and won a Grammy in 1975 for the best R&B vocal performance by a duo, group or chorus.

Khan’s solo debut album, "Chaka," was released in 1978 and featured the crossover disco hit, "I’m Every Woman."

Khan’s other No. 1 singles are "What Cha’ Gonna Do for Me"; "I Feel For You"; "This is My Night"; "Ain’t Nobody"; "Love You All My Lifetime"; "Never Miss the Water"; and "Disrespectful."

Khan’s most recent album, "Funk This," was released in 2007 and won her a Grammy for best R&B album.

Hollywood's recognition of Chaka's amazing talent is certainly long overdue. Congrats Chaka!

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