Showing posts with label HOT 97 Summer Jam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HOT 97 Summer Jam. Show all posts

4/17/18

The Daily Buzz For April 18 ☕📰☕


Gabrielle Union Is Serving all kinds of FABOULESSNESS For Her Ebony Cover!
Gabrielle Union graces the cover of Ebony Magazine for their April/May 2018 issue and it’s gorgeous.
The actress wears a Michael Kors ensemble on the cover and gives a seductive pose. The juxtaposition between the white v-neck top and the sequin biased cut skirt is splendid and eye-catching. Her hair was done by Larry Sims.

The editorial is equally as stunning. In the above shot, she’s wearing Marc Jacobs.
Union wears Stella McCartney and gives a confident pose. This shot is fire.
The editorial and cover are styled by Thomas Christos and is BEAUTIFUL!


#RHoA: Peter Thomas And Shay ‘Buckey’ Johnson Dating?
Peter Thomas and Cynthia Bailey haven’t been an item for a long time, so it only makes sense that Peter moved on to someone else. However, many of his fans didn’t expect him to choose Shay Johnson.

The entrepreneur took to Instagram to reveal a photograph of himself along with the Love & Hip-Hop: Miami star, in a post which you can see below. In case you can’t recall, Johnson also had a starring role in the reality series, Flavor Of Love.

Underneath the photo in the caption, Thomas praises her for her beautiful freckles. He stated, “beautiful with absolutely no makeup, and have the nerve to have freckles.” Apparently, Thomas loves freckles.
Johnson reciprocated the feelings of appreciation when she posted the same image on her account as well. The couple looked very comfortable snuggling up to together.
It was mentioned that Thomas used to date an unidentified woman named, Toni, but they broke it off shortly after starting the relationship.

An insider shared, “we don’t really know who Peter was dating but it was a girl named Toni, and he never really said a lot about her. I think it was like a side-piece situation, to be honest.”
As for Shay and Peter, another source added, “Thomas and Shay are definitely dating and they’re a match made in heaven. Their personality traits balance against each other.”

And while they might make a good item, social media commenters were legitimately surprised. One person wrote, “wow, are these two f*cking serious? I can’t believe it LOL.” However, there were nice comments, especially in relation to Shay’s looks. A commenter wrote, “Yes, she is definitely very beautiful, make-up or no make-up.”


#Empire: Trai Byers Celebrates 2nd Anniversary With Wife Grace Gealey!
There's no greater feeling than knowing you've found the love of your life and it's a moment that Empire actor Trai Byers cherishes.

The star took to Instagram over the weekend to commemorate he and wife Grace Gealey's two year anniversary, sharing a heartfelt story of their journey to love and the moment he knew she was "the one."
"I remember being caught in your eyes, and deciding I would never leave. I remember watching you dance the Bachata, and thinking I want to be the man you dance with. I remember sitting next to you at the “Selma” premiere, I was so nervous and I wanted to impress you. I remember when you looked me in the eyes and told me what I’d waited my whole life to hear, “I’m ready”. God remains the tether that binds us together. Two years feels like two seconds for me with you. I’m caught in your love, and I’ll never, ever leave. Happy Anniversary My Blessed Queen. I love you now and forever!"
The couple met on the set of the hit Lee Daniels' Fox series and formed a friendship that blossomed into a bond that let their happily ever after.
Gealey also celebrated their special day by reflecting on their wedding day and sweet photo from their celebratory anniversary dinner together.

Here's to another year of wedded bliss for Mr. and Mrs. Byers!


#NewMusic from Janelle Monae – I Like That
Miss Wondaland wonder woman Janelle Monáe surprises us with her new song “I Like That.”
The playful track contains minor homages to classic doo-wop, but still feels completely fresh and smooth. Janelle addresses her personality and the duality of her varied feelings.

Take a listen to “I Like That” HERE

“I Like That” is the latest release from Janelle’s upcoming third album and “emotion picture,” Dirty Computer, due April 27. The project has also spawned the songs “Make Me Feel” and “Django Jane.”


#HipHoipNews: Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, Asap Ferg And More To Perform At 2018 Hot 97 Summer Jam
Hot 97's annual Summer Jam is now less than two months away, and it looks like it's going to be just about as big as it gets. On Monday (April 16), the folks at Hot 97 unveiled the lineup for the 2018 Hot 97 Summer Jam, and Kendrick Lamar was listed as the headliner.
This news adds to what's been a steady stream of wins for K. Dot. Earlier today, Kendrick was announced as the first-ever rapper to win a music Pulitzer Prize. A few weeks before that, his fourth studio LP, Damn., became his third album to sell a literal 1 million copies. So yeah. Pretty dope.

Joining him as performers at MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sun., June 10 will be folks like A$AP Ferg, Lil Wayne (performing Tha Carter classics), Tory Lanez, Swizz Beatz & Friends, Remy Ma, Rich The Kid, Megan Ryte & Friends, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Hood Celebrityy. On the Summer Jam's Festival Stage will be the likes of Famous Dex, Jay Critch, Don Q and Snoopy Dinero.
Additionally, Hot 97 is facilitating their first-ever “Who’s Next” chatbot, which is an app that allows artists to have their music rated by fans and if its trending high enough, it will gain the attention of Hot 97 personality and Festival Stage curator TT Torrez.
Entering its 25th concert, the 2018 iteration of Hot 97 Summer Jam carries the theme "94 Till' Infinity," which could be a reference to Souls of Mischief's "'93 Til Infinity."
“Our team got together and felt the theme, ‘94 to Infinity,’ captured where Summer Jam is today launching into the 25th year," says Ebro Darden, who operates as the Assistant Programming Director and a host of Hot 97's popular morning show, Ebro in the Morning.
"We wanna make sure the culture knows we plan to keep it cracking for the Tri-State and hip-hop," Darden continues. "Summer Jam has established itself as a mainstay in an artist’s evolution since the beginning, and we will keep working with artists and fans to keep the same energy."

Famed Hot 97 persona Funkmaster Flex echoes Ebro's sentiments. “Summer Jam has been epic since the days when the music wasn’t considered one of the most consumed genres like it is today," he offers. "We’ve worked hard to put Hip-Hop and Summer Jam on the map and this year will be no different.”

The general public can cop tickets for the 2018 Hot 97 Summer Jam concert at Ticketmaster.com beginning this Friday (April 20). For more information, you can visit the official Summer Jam website.


Robert Downey Jr., Karen Gilian and  Benedict Cumberbatch Bring 'Avengers: Infinity Wars' to Singapore
Robert Downey Jr. and Benedict Cumberbatch are celebrating Avengers: Infinity War in Singapore!
The co-stars stepped out at a fan event for the upcoming movie on Monday (April 16) at Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza in Singapore.
They were also joined by their cast mate Karen Gillan. After the event, Robert took to his Instagram to share a video of the crowd cheering for them.
Avengers: Infinity War is set to hit theaters on April 27th.


#OOOPS! Chris Brown Deletes Instagram Account After Getting Dragged For Commenting On Karrueche Tran Bikini Photo With Victor Cruz
An angry Chris Brown had a new meltdown and deleted his Instagram account after seeing a series of photos of his ex-girlfriend, Karrueche Tran, and her new and nonviolent partner, Victor Cruz, kissing.

The Claws actress and model is currently on vacation with Victor in Miami, Florida.
In the photos that surfaced online, Tran is wearing a colorful thong bikini with the matching top, and she is enjoying some downtime in the pool with Victor while at the Setai Beach Hotel.

The pair was caught having a very hot and steamy moment while in the cool water, and Chris could not help but react to the photos.
Rihanna’s former boyfriend jumped under the PDA-packed pool session and wrote: “GOAL.”
He later returned, and he posted emojis of a sad man walking away from a couple in love.

The Internet caught wind of Chris’ move, and he was mocked — this prompted him to delete his account.
The romance between Karrueche and Chris ended in court, and she was awarded a restraining order. She claimed that the R&B singer assaulted her and threatened her life.

It is also believed that Karrueche dumped Chris because he fathered a daughter with another woman while they were together.

One fan told Chris: “I bet what hurts him is the fact that Karrueche said she wants no baby mama drama then turns around and gets with a man that has a child and “200 sidechicks”. Imagine how that feels. He was told by a judge not to have any contact with her this would be a violation of his parole because he wasn’t even supposed to contact her through social media that’s why he took his page down probably.”

Another commenter said: “Rihanna nor Karrueche wants him anymore. He needs to go drink milk. She’s the one who got her heart shattered. Chris thought he could have his cake and eat it too. No woman will allow her man to be dating two women at the same time, and let’s not forget how his fans bullied and are still bullying her. Moral of the story, you are responsible for your own happiness. I am so glad for her.”

A third supporter told Chris to get his act together and added:
“Love me some Chris brown but I mean he fcked up, and he realizes it now . should have done shorty right. I bet he thinks he’ll never find someone like her again. Well when he had her, he shoulda respected her. Now that she is happy… he probably thought she would never get the guts to leave. Had to learn the hard way but praying he sees someone and treat them right next time..I’m out.”

Many are hoping Chris will move on with his life.


Khloe Kardashian Reveals Baby Girl’s Name … And It’s kinda Ironic
Is Khloe Kardashian trying to tell us something? The 33-year-old reality star just revealed the name of her new baby girl … and it’s pretty ironic, to say the least.
Khloe announced on Monday via Instagram that she and boyfriend Tristan Thompson named their baby girl True Thompson. “Our little girl, True Thompson, has completely stolen our hearts and we are overwhelmed with LOVE,” Khloe wrote.

“Such a blessing to welcome this angel into the family! Mommy and Daddy loooooove you True!”
The name is not only unconventional, but also telling … in a weird way. Considering Tristan is accused of cheating on Khloe with numerous women, one might think that the KUWTK star is letting the world know, in a subliminal way, that the reports that her man is a dirty dog are indeed … true.

Khloe nor Thompson have responded to videos and photos that surfaced last week showing the Cleveland Cavaliers power forward engaging in unfaithful acts with five different women.
Khloe’s sweet post announcing her baby’s name is the first from the reality star in over a week. According to reports, the couple hadn’t picked a name at the time of her birth on Thursday, April 12.

Not sure how they decided on True, but, by all accounts, reports that she is staying with her unfaithful baby daddy are also … true.
Clearly she has chosen to give the baby his last name, Thompson, instead of Kardashian, so she must not be that upset. Also in the post she uses the word “our,” which makes it seem like she’s still in a relationship with Tristan … despite all the cheating.


#YIKES! Usher Reportedly Had $820,000 In Jewelry And Cash Stolen From His Home
Usher is a victim of a recent home theft.

According to The Blast reports, According to a police report filed with the LAPD, Usher’s estranged wife, Grace Miguel, reported the singer’s house had been broken into. Miguel says she was notified of the incident by the housekeeper on March 29.

The housekeeper told Miguel that when she arrived at the home that morning, she “discovered a footprint on the second floor, a handprint on the pillow in the lower floor, and the curtains to the lower floor window were open.”

According to Miguel, when the housekeeper went to check the recording box where the security camera footage was kept, “she noticed that the recording box was missing and connecting wires were cut.”

Miguel says when she arrived at the house, she verified some jewelry had been stolen and when she called Usher to tell him what happened, she discovered that cash was also missing from a box on the nightstand (approximately $20,000, according to the report).


'American Idol': Five More Eliminated After Celebrity Duets
The top 14 artists will sing for America's vote.

On Monday’s American Idol, the 12 contestants from the top 24 who performed solos on Sunday night took the stage again to sing celebrity duets with professionals from the industry. At the end of the night, five contestants were eliminated by judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. The remaining artists, along with the seven who survived last week, will have a chance to sing for America’s vote next week.

First up, Caleb Lee Hutchinson was paired with Bebe Rexha, singing Rexha’s own “Meant to Be.” It was a great matchup and song choice, suiting Hutchinson’s country sound. He gave a fun performance, and the judges were satisfied though not necessarily super-impressed.

Ada Vox, who had a standout solo performance on Sunday night, sang with actress and singer Lea Michele on Monday night. They sang “Defying Gravity” from the musical Wicked, which was a risky song choice that really paid off. Vox proved she has the power and control of a seasoned Broadway performer like Michele, and it made for a bold, theatrical performance that still had enough layers to it to make it more than just showy.

Maddie Poppe teamed up with Colbie Caillat to sing Caillat’s own “Bubbly.” Poppe expressed some concerns about her own nerves, but she ended up giving a confident and seasoned performance. The song choice was perfect for Poppe’s unique tone, and Bryan’s comments suggested that she’s a fully formed artist.

Next up, Ron Bultongez sang “Someone to You” with musician Banners, and it just wasn’t the right song choice for him. The performance felt very by-the-numbers, but the judges seemed pleased with it. They have been championing him all season.

Amelia Hammer Harris next sang with Rexha. They did a duet of Rexha’s “Me, Myself, and I,” and the song choice was a good fit for Harris’ range and vibe. She again showcased a star quality that the judges are drawn to.
Shannon O’Hara teamed up with country music star Cam to sing “Burning House.” O’Hara has shown a lot of versatility in this competition so far, and she continued that with this country ballad. It was gentle and gorgeous, and Bryan was mesmerized. Perry again expressed that she was impressed by how young O’Hara is.

Alyssa Raghu also sang with Banners, performing a duet of “Yellow” by Coldplay. It was the first underwhelming performance of the evening. Raghu seemed like she was still trying to figure out what kind of artist she wants to be, and the judges are looking for something more polished at this point. “Just give us a couple more notes the next time you sing,” Perry said.

Marcio Donaldson sang Marvin Gaye's “What’s Going On" with Allen Stone. Their voices blended very well together, and their chemistry sold the performance. Donaldson once again showed effortless stage presence and a strong understanding of who he is. The judges were blown away just like they were with his solo last night.

Michele returned to sing with Jurnee, who admitted that she was a big fan of Glee. They sang a powerful duet of “Run to You,” and the harmonies were gorgeous. It was a better song choice than Jurnee’s solo on Sunday night. “The sky’s the limit,” Richie said.

Garrett Jacobs was next up, also pairing with Caillat to sing “Lucky,” which Caillat originally sang with Jason Mraz. It was stronger than his performance on Sunday night, and Jacobs was surprised by his girlfriend in the audience in a touching moment. Bryan said it was a step in the right direction for Jacobs and that he was proud.

Mara Justine was up next, paired with Rachel Platten to sing Platten’s own “Fight Song.” It was a big and emotional song, and Justine nailed the nuances, allowing herself to be vulnerable and soft. “I thought that what I saw tonight was so beautiful,” Perry said.

Closing out the night, Cam was back to perform with rocker Effie Passero. It was an odd pairing since Cam skews more country, but together they gave a solid performance of Cam’s own “Diane.” Despite coming from different genres, they blended very well together and the harmonies were on point. “You harmonized beautifully,” Bryan said.

Next, it was time for the judges to deliver their verdict, eliminating five contestants and sending the remaining seven to sing in the top 14 for America’s vote. Justine, Jurnee, Poppe, Vox, Jacobs, Donaldson and Hutchinson advanced, and the remaining artists were eliminated. After the top 14 sing next week, four will be sent home.


Beyoncé Announces $100,000 In Scholarships For HBCU Students
The program will give $25,000 each to Xavier University, Wilberforce University, Tuskegee University and Bethune-Cookman University.

Beyoncé will give $25,000 to four historically black colleges and universities for the 2018-2019 school year as part of a new scholarship program that was inspired by the singer’s historic Coachella performance this past weekend. One student from each HBCU ― Xavier University of Louisiana, Wilberforce University, Tuskegee University and Bethune-Cookman University ― will receive the money.

To qualify for the Homecoming Scholars Award Program, applicants need to have at least a 3.5 GPA. Each university will select its own finalists and winner, with winners set to be announced sometime this summer.

The news comes on the heels of Beyoncé’s show at Coachella, where she brought out her former Destiny’s Child bandmates for a mini-reunion. She was the first black woman to headline the major music festival.

The scholarship program is Beyoncé’s second through her philanthropic BeyGOOD initiative. Last year, BeyGood’s Formation Scholars Awards Program gave money to students studying creative arts, music, literature or African-American studies at Berklee College of Music, Parsons School of Design, Howard University and Spelman College. Those scholarships were in commemoration of the one-year anniversary of the singer’s visual album, “Lemonade.”

The announcement for the Homecoming Scholars Award Program ties the gifts to the Coachella performance, saying the show “put the spotlight on art and culture, mixing the ancient and the modern,” and was the “impetus to mark her second scholarship program.”

Ivy McGregor, director of philanthropy for BeyGood, announces a safe water initiative during the 2017 Essence Festival.
BeyGood also has a partnership with UNICEF for an effort called BeyGood 4 Burundi. The initiative, announced last year, aims to “improve water, sanitation and basic hygiene practices in the East African nation of Burundi, where nearly half the population had no access to clean, safe water.”


BREAKING: GOP Rep PA-15 Charlie Dent To Resign earlier now in May he will step down!
Charlie Dent was already one of a record number of House Republicans who weren't running for re-election this November. Now he's rushing out the door even faster.

The moderate Pennsylvania Republican — who hasn't been shy about voicing his frustrations with the congressional GOP and disdain for President Trump — on Tuesday announced he would soon resign from Congress instead of sticking around until January.
Shortly after announcing his retirement last fall, Dent told NPR's Scott Simon on Weekend Edition he was frustrated with the increasing partisanship in Congress.

"There's an increased polarization. There are groups out there that profit off of this type of instability and uncertainty and chaos. And they put a lot of pressure on members of Congress," Dent bemoaned. "I would tell you there are members in - both political parties right now have some very serious challenges. They're being pushed into some bad directions. And we need to have a stronger voice from the center of the political spectrum."
Dent had tried to be that voice from the middle. He was chair of the moderate Tuesday Group and was a frequently quoted in the media, and could be looking to make that a more permanent, paid job. Dent told the New York Times last year he'd "had conversations with TV news executives about becoming an analyst" though there were "no definitive plans." yet. Former Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz followed that path when he resigned last year to join Fox News.

Dent's resignation will likely trigger a special election, said Wanda Murren, the communications director for the Pennsylvania Department of State. Murren indicated it's possible the special election could be held on Nov. 6, concurrent with the general election, to fill out the remainder of Dent's term until the new Congress is seated in January.

Dent had long represented a competitive Lehigh Valley-based district that President Trump carried by seven points. Redistricting made it the new 7th District, one which was slightly more Republican though Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton still carried it by one point. Primaries are being held next month, and the Cook Political Report rates the open 7th District as Lean Democratic.

"Congressman Dent consistently worked across the aisle to deliver results for the hardworking families of his district. I respect his decision and wish him the best," National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Steve Stivers said in a statement. "We will work tirelessly to keep this seat under Republican control."


Stormy Daniels Reveals Sketch Of Man Who Allegedly Threatened Her Over Trump Story!
The adult film actress says a “thug” demanded she stay quiet about an alleged affair she had with Trump in 2006.
Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels, revealed a composite sketch Tuesday of the man she says threatened her in 2011 to stay silent about an alleged affair she had with President Donald Trump.

“His face is burned in my memory,” Clifford told the hosts of ABC’s “The View” on Tuesday. “I was really rattled. It just never left me.”
The adult film actress has alleged she had sex with Trump in July 2006, a few months after first lady Melania Trump gave birth to Trump’s youngest son, Barron.

Clifford, during an appearance on CBS’ “60 Minutes” last month, said a man approached her in a Las Vegas parking lot in 2011 and demanded she stay quiet about the alleged affair.

“I was in a parking lot, going to a fitness class with my infant daughter,” Clifford said. “And a guy walked up on me and said to me, ‘Leave Trump alone. Forget the story.’ And then he leaned around and looked at my daughter and said, ‘That’s a beautiful little girl. It’d be a shame if something happened to her mom.’ And then he was gone.”
The sketch, drawn by renowned forensic artist Lois Gibson, describes the man as “lean but fit,” standing between 5 foot 9 inches and 6 feet.


Clifford’s lawyer, Michael Avenatti, is offering $100,000 to anyone who can identify the man who allegedly threatened her. Anyone with information is encouraged to email IDTheThug@gmail.com, Avenatti said Tuesday on “The View.”


OH SNAP! Kendrick Lamar just won a Pulitzer Prize
Kendrick Lamar has become the first non-classical, non-jazz artist to win the Pulitzer Prize for music for his 2017 album DAMN.

The prize listing describes Lamar’s record, which documents the complexities of growing up in his hometown of Compton, as “a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life.”

Released almost exactly a year ago and featuring credits from Rihanna, U2, James Blake and (ironically, given the milestone) jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington, DAMN. has been described as the more compact successor to Lamar’s experimental, often complex sophomore record, 2015’s To Pimp a Butterfly. It sold 353,000 copies its first week, according to Billboard (that’s not including streams — overall it racked up 603,000 “album-equivalent units”), and went platinum earlier this month, the third of his records to do so. Like Butterfly before it, DAMN. garnered Lamar an Album of the Year nomination and the award for Best Rap Album at the 60th Grammy Awards.

“LeBron James or the little boy around the corner, we come from the same struggles, and it comes out of my mouth for them to relate to,” Lamar told Dave Chappelle of the album in Interview Magazine last summer. “I don’t want anybody to classify my music. I want them to say, ‘This is somebody who’s recognizing his true feelings ... and views on the world, all on one record.’ I want people to recognize that and to take it and apply it to their own lives.”

The Pulitzer Prize, which was founded in 1917, first established its Music category in 1943. Its recipients were exclusively classical artists until 1997, when trumpet player Wynton Marsalis became the first jazz musician to win the award; Marsalis was only the second African-American composer to win, following composer George Walker’s win with Lilacs just a year before.

Lamar has released at least one album every year since 2015, including, most recently, the accompanying soundtrack for Marvel’s Black Panther, which he curated. He made guest appearances onstage at Coachella over the weekend, during the sets of Black Panther collaborators SZA and Vince Staples.


Halle Berry Says ‘Black Panther’ Owes Her Credit
Halle Berry has a bit of a bone to pick with “Black Panther.” The actress said the film’s huge success is due in part to her 2004 commercial failure “Catwoman.” But if you think Berry was being serious about this, think again.

While presenting the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Individual Episode Thursday, April 12, Berry explained that seeing yourself reflected on screen makes you feel “legitimate and included.”
“And each story builds on the next. It’s like that old saying goes: behind every Black Panther is a great Black Catwoman!” she jokes, playfully stroking her ego while the audience erupts in cheers. “You know, I’ve gotten a really bad rap for this role and I think Catwoman deserves another goddamn chance, don’t you?”

After the crowd gives Berry and enthusiastic round of applause and cheers, the actress says through laughter, “I knew this room would understand.”
“Catwoman,” which opened at no. 3 at the box office in July 2004 with $23.3 million behind the $74.7 million of”The Bourne Supremacy,” may have paved the way for “Black Panther” in some respects as a film with a Black superhero. But hit films like “Blade” and “Hancock” are probably more deserving of the declaration. Plus, before “Blade,” star Wesley Snipes was set to play the Black Panther in a movie adaptation of the Marvel comic in the 1990s.

And even though Berry likely wasn’t serious, folks were adamant about their disagreement about her remarks.
“‘Behind every ‘Black Panther is a catwoman.’ Halle Berry come on now.” someone said.

“Wakanda s— is that?” another asked.
“OK, as much as I love her she’s very, very wrong,” a different person said.


Sean Hannity Named as Trump Lawyer Michael Cohen's Mystery Third Client
The Fox News host said on his radio show that he's had brief legal conversations with Cohen but has never been represented by him "in any specific matter."
President Donald Trump's personal lawyer Michael Cohen was reluctant to name one of his other clients during a Monday hearing — but, after pressure from a New York federal judge, it was revealed that mystery client is Fox News host Sean Hannity.

After his office was raided by the FBI on April 9, Cohen was ordered to appear in court before U.S. District Judge Kimba Wood to rule on his request that his own attorneys be allowed to review seized documents and records — before government investigators do — to assess whether his attorney-client privilege would be implicated.

Hannity said Monday on his radio show that he's occasionally had "brief discussions" with Cohen about legal issues that he wanted "his input and perspective on." But, he added, "Michael never represented me in any matter. I never retained him in the traditional sense of retaining a lawyer. I never received an invoice from Michael."

Hannity clarified that Cohen never represented him in a matter involving a third party, and wondered why the media is blowing up the story. "I don't think that is that complicated," he said. "How did this blow up to be such a big deal?"

Hannity also tweeted later on Monday, "I assumed those conversations were confidential."

In a filing opposing Cohen's request to review the evidence, the government argued that there's no precedent and that Cohen has "exceedingly few clients and a low volume of potentially privileged communications" — and went as far as to question whether the attorney actually has any clients other than Trump.

Cohen, of course, is at the center of the media and legal blitz surrounding Trump's alleged affair with porn star Stormy Daniels. She's suing, under her legal name Stephanie Clifford, in an effort to have a "hush agreement" she signed declared invalid because it doesn't contain Trump's signature. The president has denied any knowledge of the contract, and Cohen has publicly stated that he personally paid Clifford $130,000 as part of the deal — shortly before the 2016 election.

Cohen's other known client was GOP financier Elliott Broidy — for whom he reportedly negotiated a $1.6 million payment to an ex-Playboy model — but the lawyer was hesitant to name Hannity, acknowledging that that the revelation would be embarrassing.


AND FINALLY FROM THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART FILES
‘ON BREAK’
I hate when you gotta slip out the back of the strip club in the middle of your shift to run to Walmart because you forgot to get a birthday card for Jasmine but if you don’t get her something everyone else will put that drama on you.


EGGPLANT NATION: Meet  Felix!
Meet Felix! You can see more when CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PICS! And remember they’re NSFW!

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.

Enjoy!


HAVE A GREAT DAY EVERYBODY!!!
EFREM

4/5/16

The Daily Buzz For April 6



Beyoncé Addresses ‘Formation’ Video Backlash, Says Her Message Is Not Anti-Police!
In addition to her new activewear brand for women, Ivy Park, perfectionism, and power – Beyoncé addresses backlash she received after releasing her new song/video -“Formation” – in her interview with ELLE.
Following its release, some called for a boycott of the singer, saying the video’s message is anti-police. In setting the record straight, Bey explained:
I mean, I’m an artist and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood. But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and the families of officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe. But let’s be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice. Those are two separate things.

If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me. I’m proud of what we created and I’m proud to be part of a conversation that is pushing things forward in a positive way.
She adds that she is exhausted by labels, and doesn’t want calling herself a feminist to make it feel as though it’s her one priority, over racism, sexism or anything else.

“If you believe in equal rights, the same way society allows a man to express his darkness, to express his pain, to express his sexuality, to express his opinion—I feel that women have the same rights,” she says.
Beyoncé hopes that her work will encourage others do the right thing. “I hope I can create art that helps people heal,” she explains. “Art that makes people feel proud of their struggle. Everyone experiences pain, but sometimes you need to be uncomfortable to transform.”



#RHOA: Kenya Moore Continues To Fuel Pregnancy Rumors – “Practices” With Baby Stroller!
After fueling pregnancy rumors for months – many (including myself) thought she would wait for the RHOA reunion to reveal she was expecting; however in true Kenya form, nothing is straight forward!
When asked about it by Andy, Kenya stated that she couldn’t say. As she didn’t deny it, many took this as a “yes” but thought that she didn’t want to confirm until she was ‘x’ months along.

While I do understand that and realize that many women want to wait until after a certain time before announcing it, it seems like Kenya is just using this time to milk press for all it’s worth (as opposed to waiting until she is in the “safe zone”.)
Case in point? Kenya has used Instagram to say her “pants no longer fit” and more recently to take her dogs on a walk in stroller for “practice”.
If you ask me, whether Kenya is pregnant or not she is loving the extra spotlight she is getting for all of this!
Kenya posted the following photo to her Instagram saying:
“Practicing with #kingandtwirl with the baby stroller today”

In the photo, Kenya is also wearing a loose fit poncho so we can’t tell for sure if she has a baby bump. At this point she needs to either confirm or deny as she’s not politely asking people for privacy but instead is begging for speculation!
What are your thoughts on Kenya’s post? Do you think she’s pregnant? If so, do you think she should just announce it already?



#EMPIRE NEWS: 'Empire' Season 2 News, Spoilers: 'Expect Weddings And Funerals,' EP Says!
After Lucious (Terrence Howard) lost control of Empire to Camilla (Naomi Campbell) and Mimi (Marisa Tomei) and Hakeem (Bryshere Y. Grey), the new CEO, betrayed his father, things on the Fox musical drama "Empire" are almost at a boiling point.

"Empire" executive producer Ilene Chaiken recently spoke to Deadline about the recently debuted back half of season 2 and suggested that events on the show will only get more explosive from here on out.
In the interview, Chaiken explained why the back half of the second season will have fewer celebrity appearances than the first season and hinted at what's ahead for Camilla and Lucious.
"What I can say is that the first two episodes launch us into Season 2B and then it takes off like a demon," the "Empire" boss said.
Chaiken also spoke about the reason season 2B will have fewer guest stars than the show has ever had. According to the "Empire" show-runner, the show will focus on telling stories about the Lyon family and, as such, celebrity guest appearances will have to be "in the context of and in service of" the Lyons' stories.
As for what's in store for Camilla, who everyone but Hakeem seems to want to get rid of, Chaiken said, "Let's just say Camilla's story will be resolved in the way that the Lyon family resolves those kinds of situations."
Chaiken also hinted at a major storyline for the Lyon family patriarch, saying that "Empire" viewers will learn more about Lucious and what made him the man he is today.
"The past comes home to roost in a lot of different ways," she teased. "You can expect weddings and funerals."
Meanwhile, actor/performer Bryshere Y. Grey, who plays the youngest and most fame-obsessed Lyon son in "Empire," recently spoke to PEOPLE about the advice his idol, "Suicide Squad" actor Will Smith, has given him.

"[He tells me] to stay strong, keep the realness, stay truthful to your character, stay truthful to yourself, and keep your family around you," Grey said. "Keep God first."

"Empire" airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET on Fox.



DECISION 2016: Cruz, Sanders emerge victorious in Wisconsin primaries!
Republican Ted Cruz stormed to a commanding victory in Wisconsin Tuesday, denting front-runner Donald Trump’s chances of capturing the GOP nomination before the party’s convention. Bernie Sanders carried the Democratic race over Hillary Clinton, a win that still leaves him with a mathematically difficult path to the White House. 
Trump’s defeat capped one of the worst periods of his campaign, a brutal stretch that highlighted his weaknesses with women and raised questions about his policy depth. While the billionaire businessman still leads the Republican field, Cruz and an array of anti-Trump forces hope Wisconsin signals the start of his decline. 
“Tonight is a turning point,” Cruz told cheering supporters at a victory rally. “It is a call from the hardworking people of Wisconsin to America. We have a choice. A real choice.” 
  
For Sanders, Wisconsin was the latest in a string of victories that have given him an incentive to keep competing against Clinton. But he still trails her in the pledged delegate count and has so far been unable to persuade superdelegates— the party officials who can back any candidate — to drop their allegiance to the former secretary of state and back his campaign. 
The results in Wisconsin make it likely both parties’ primaries will continue deep into the spring, draping front-runners Trump and Clinton in uncertainty and preventing both from fully setting their sights on the general election. 
  
For Sanders, Wisconsin was favorable territory, with an overwhelming white electorate and liberal pockets of voters, and the Vermont senator’s victory gives him a fresh burst of momentum. 
Because Democrats award delegates proportionally, Sanders and Clinton will both emerge from Tuesday’s contest with more delegates. 
  
Heading into Wisconsin, Clinton had 1,243 to Sanders’ 980 based on primaries and caucuses. When including superdelegates, the party officials who can back any candidate, Clinton holds a much wider lead — 1,712 to Sanders’ 1,011. It takes 2,383 delegates to win the Democratic nomination. 
Clinton’s campaign has cast her lead as nearly insurmountable. Yet Sanders’ continued presence in the race has become an irritant for the former secretary of state, keeping her from turning her attention to the general election. 

According to exit polls, Sanders has excited voters in Wisconsin, with more than half of Democratic primary-goers saying the senator inspires them more about the future of the country. But three-quarters of Democratic voters say Clinton has realistic policies. 
The exit polls were conducted by Edison Research for The Associated Press and television networks. 
Trump has battled a series of campaign controversies in the lead-up to Wisconsin, including his campaign manager’s legal problems following an altercation with a female reporter and his own awkward stumbles in clarifying his views on abortion. Wisconsin’s Republican establishment, including Gov. Scott Walker, has also campaigned aggressively against the businessman. 
  
Exit polls in the state underscored the concerns about Trump that are surging through some corners of the Republican Party. Nearly 4 in 10 GOP voters in Wisconsin said they were scared about what Trump would do as president. 
  
Complicating the primary landscape for both Cruz and Trump is the continuing candidacy of John Kasich. The Ohio governor’s only victory has come in his home state, but he’s still picking up delegates that would otherwise help Trump inch closer to the nomination or help Cruz catch up. 
If Cruz wins all of Wisconsin’s 42 delegates, Trump would need to win 57 percent of those remaining to clinch the GOP nomination before the July convention. So far, Trump has won 48 percent of the delegates awarded. 
To win a prolonged convention fight, a candidate would need support from the individuals selected as delegates. The process of selecting those delegates is tedious, and will test the mettle of Trump’s slim campaign operation. 
Cruz prevailed in an early organizational test in North Dakota, scooping up endorsements from delegates who were selected at the party’s state convention over the weekend. While all 28 of the state’s delegates go to the national convention as free agents, 10 said in interviews that they were committed to Cruz. None has so far endorsed Trump. 
  
Despite the concern among some Wisconsin Republicans about Trump becoming president, nearly 6 in 10 GOP voters there said the party should nominate the candidate with the most support in the primaries, which so far would be Trump. Even among voters who favored Cruz, 4 in 10 said the candidate with the most support going into the convention should be the party’s nominee





#NEWMUSIC: Ruben Studdard – Can’t Nobody Love You
Love some soulful horns, and Ruben Studdard brings it heavy with his brand new single “Can’t Nobody Love You,” the first release off his forthcoming album, When Love Calls Me, due out this fall.
The Grammy-nominated, American Idol winner teams up with Earnest Echols on the ’70s soul inspired love song. Declaring his unbeatable loving abilities, Studdard sings: “You can look high and low, but they can’t love you girl / No, they can’t love you like I do.”

Ruben has a busy TV schedule this week, including a performance on the finale of American Idol on Thursday.

Take a listen to his soulful new single HERE
The Velvet Teddy Bear is back!



#HIPHOPNEWS: HOT 97 Summer Jam Festival Stage Performers Announced
Hot 97 just announced the line up for their 2016 Summer Jam Festival Stage. Chance the Rapper, Torey Lanez, Curren$y and Desiigner were among the names revealed.
Post Malone, Dave East, Justine Skyy, Dougie F and Rotimi round out the line up that was revealed this morning on the Ebro in the Morning show.
In a press released on Hot 97’s website, Ebro states:
Last year’s show was so hot, it sold-out the morning of! So it left a few people unable to get tickets out in the parking lot.  We want to make sure everyone gets to party with us this year, so get your tickets early and plan to get to MetLife for the Festival Stage, kicking off at 3 p.m.!
Presale tickets are on sale now. Performers on the Stadium Stage will be announced on Friday, April 8. General admission tickets will go on sale on Saturday, April 9.



#DISGUSTING! Mississippi Governor Signs 'Religious Freedom' Bill Into Law
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant has signed a controversial "religious freedom" bill into law.
The legislation, HB 1523, promises that the state government will not punish people who refuse to provide services to people because of a religious opposition to same-sex marriage, extramarital sex or transgender people.
Supporters say it protects the rights of people who are opposed to homosexuality but who now live in a country where same-sex marriage is a legal right.
Opponents say the law amounts to a state sanction for open discrimination.
The Rev. Chris Donald, a Methodist chaplain at Millsaps College, joins other human rights advocates Wednesday at the state Capitol's rotunda, calling for the Mississippi Senate to defeat what they believe is a discriminatory anti-LGBT bill. The Senate passed the bill, which is now on the governor's desk.
In a statement on Twitter, Bryant said he signed the bill into law "to protect sincerely held religious beliefs and moral convictions ... from discriminatory action by state government."

He said the new law "merely reinforces" existing religious freedom rights, "does not limit any constitutionally protected rights or actions" and does not challenge federal law.
"The legislation is designed in the most targeted manner possible to prevent government interference in the lives of the people from which all power to the state is derived," Bryant said.
The law is not a broad religious-protections law, such as many recent controversial state laws. As we reported last week, the Mississippi legislation protects only three beliefs or convictions: that marriage is between a man and a woman, that sex is "properly reserved to such a marriage," and that words like "male" and "female" are "objectively determined by anatomy and genetics at birth."
The law protects, among other things, state employees who refuse to license marriages, religious organizations who fire or discipline employees and individuals who decline to provide counseling or some medical services based on those oppositions.
Did You Know It's Legal In Most States To Discriminate Against LGBT People?
Even without such a law, it is already legal in Mississippi — as in most states in the country — to discriminate against LGBT people in providing employment, housing and public accommodation.
The law's language also suggests protections for those who deny services based on an opposition to premarital sex; but similarly, it was already legal in Mississippi to deny an unmarried couple housing because of a moral objection.

Paul Boger of Mississippi Public Broadcasting reports that Republican state Rep. Andy Gipson of Braxton, who introduced the measure, says it has been misrepresented.
"It specifically says that is a case where a person has a religious conviction, they can decline, but they must provide somebody in their office to provide that service," Gipson says. That requirement covers state employees declining to license or perform a marriage.

LGBT advocates in Mississippi had been calling for Bryant, a Republican, to veto the legislation, as had members of the business community such as the Mississippi Manufacturers Association, Nissan North American and Tyson Foods.
The Family Research Council described business opposition to the measure as "economic blackmail" and celebrated Bryant's signature. "No person should be punished by the government with crippling fines, or face disqualification for simply believing what President Obama believed just a few years ago, that marriage is the union of a man and a woman," FRC President Tony Perkins said in a statement.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi's executive director, Jennifer Riley-Collins, said in a statement, "This is a sad day for the state of Mississippi and for the thousands of Mississippians who can now be turned away from businesses, refused marriage licenses, or denied housing, essential services and needed care based on who they are. This bill flies in the face of the basic American principles of fairness, justice and equality and will not protect anyone's religious liberty."

However, A nonprofit humanitarian group has the perfect response to the new Mississippi law that legalizes discrimination against the LGBT community.
The organization Planting Peace, which earned viral fame after purchasing a house adjacent to the Westboro Baptist Church and painting it with rainbow colors, may have outdone themselves entirely with a new billboard in Jackson, Mississippi. The billboard shows Jesus face-palming, along with the text, “Guys, I said I hate figs and to love thy neighbor,” making reference to a less well-known section of the Bible in which Jesus curses a fig tree, making it barren.
The billboard is located on High Street in downtown Jackson, just blocks away from the Mississippi State Capitol.

The law goes into effect July 1….SHAMEFUL!



Karrine Steffans Granted Temporary Restraining Order Against Columbus Short
Karrine Steffans has received a temporary restraining order against her husband, Columbus Short. According to multiple reports, the former Scandal actor has been instructed to move out of her home. We’re told that Karrine takes issue with Columbus’ erratic behavior, especially when he drinks and becomes physically violent. Reportedly, Columbus threatened Karrine’s 18-year-old son. Karrine has remained mum on social media. Last week, shortly after their split, she tweeted the following:
And on Monday, Columbus tweeted:
Columbus nor Karrine have yet to comment on the restraining order



LA Lakers Deactivate Nick Young
LA Lakers head coach deactivates Nick Young amid cheating scandal...
Last week LA Lakers D'Angelo Russell apologized for posting video online of teammate Nick Young admitting that he cheats on his fiancé, Australian rapper Iggy Azalea.
This week Lakers head coach Bryon Scott confirms Nick has been deactivated because he head isn't in the game.

Coach Scott tells the media,
“It has nothing to do with chemistry and everything to do with just basketball. Right now, I know what he’s going through, and I know it’s hard on him. But he’s not here with us, mentally, and there’s no need for me to put him out there on the floor.”

DAMN HOMIE!



#WINNING? NeNe Leakes Adds a Second Show in Charlotte
Last month NeNe Leakes announced a one-off one woman stage show in Charlotte,
NeNe adds a second performance after the first show sells out...
Strange that she’s such a friend of the Gays that she would still go perform after that hate bill has been signed into law!



Adele Overcomes Sound Issues And Emerges Victorious In Birmingham UK
Ever since the microphone fell on her piano during the Grammy Awards earlier this year, Adele has consistently proven she’s a consummate professional performer regardless of her context.

Case in point- a few nights ago, the “Hello” songstress was giving a concert in Birmingham, England when the house PA system suddenly cut out.

Rather than freaking out, Adele kept singing “All I Ask” through to the end, and as it turns out her in-ear monitors had been working just fine. She asked the crowd, “The sound went off? The PA f*cking cut off? So you guys had a private concert down in the front? Every f*cking show I sing live.” Check the video HERE!
YESSSS!



The Celebs come out to Celebrate "Jungle Book" Premiere
Lupita Nyong'o arrived at The Jungle Book premiere at Hollywood's El Capitan Theatre in this fabulous gold skirt and simple tee as she promoted her upcoming animated film.
She brought her brother Peter along for her big night, and posed it up with co-star (who is the only human in the movie) Neel Sethi:
'Pita added a denim jacket and posed it up with her upcoming Queen of Katwe co-star David Oyelowo.
Lupita's pulling double duty as she's currently starring on Broadway in Eclipsed.  So she hopped a cross-country flight to link up with her co-stars to promote their big movie.

Fab designer Rachel Roy brought her gorgeous daughters Ava and Tallulah Dash to see the epic film.

The gorgeous Garcelle Beauvais, new host of "Hollywood Live," brought her adorably dressed twins Jax and Jaid. 
"Grey's Anatomy" and "Mistresses" star Jason George brought his wife and kids out for some fun.
Faizon Love was there and grabbed a pic with his longtime friend Kym Whitley.
The Jungle Book hits theaters April 15th.



#EGGPLANT NATION!!! Meet That Butter Pecan Man!
He wants YOU to touch him! Well you can ‘virtually’ when CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PICS! Remember they’re NSFW! ENJOY!



AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES?
‘BACK IN BLACK’
Bro, WTF? If you’re going to wear leggings like that, fine. Go for it. But with sandals? C’mon dude, you’re better than that.



HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM

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