Rick Ross Plays Santa Ross, Gifts Sneakers & Money To The Community!
Miami rapper Rick Ross has been dubbed Santa Ross as he recently was spotted spreading good tidings and cheer through out the community.
Rick Ross Charities along with Miami’s 103.5 The Beat gave away over 200 pairs of Reeboks and eight grand in cash. He also fed attendees his signature lemon pepper wings, took photos and signed autographs.
Shout out to Thaddaeus McAdams and ExclusiveAccess.Net for the pics.
RIHANNAMANIA CONTINUES! Puma SIGNS Rihanna As New Creative Director
That Rihanna regin just won’t let up! Chick is taking the fashion world by storm…in every department.
It was just announced that Rihanna will be serving as the new creative director for sportswear giant PUMA. RiRi will oversee the sportswear brand’s womanswear collection getting super hands-on with Puma’s fitness and training line, including apparel and shoes. Ahh..can't wait to see what Rih has in store!
The CFDA Fashion Icon has signed a multi-year contract to "work with Puma to design and customize classic Puma styles as well as create new styles to add to the Puma product portfolio", according to the activewear company.
Yesterday, the “Diamonds” singer flew to Puma’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany for her first creative session with the design team to pick out colors, styles and discuss the line’s direction. But first, chick had to make it official by signing her name on the contract, which we hear is about $1 million.
Not only is she serving as the creative director, she will also act as the company’s global ambassador, joining Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt and Italian footballer Mario Balotelli. The Pop princess will be starring in Puma’s fall 2015 ad campaign as well.
As she geared up for her annoucment, RiRi posted a few pics with hints of what was to come on her Instagram. After it was official, Rih took to IG and said, "the face you make when you the Creative Director of a sportswear company #PUMA"
The Bajan beauty follows in Solange’s footsteps teaming up with the third-largest sporting goods maker. Solo was hired as the brand’s art director earlier this year, where she released two collections of sneakers.
Congrats Rih!
Is Adrian Peterson Considering Retiring from the NFL?
Adrian Peterson lost his appeal and his suspension until at least April 2015 was upheld by arbitrator Harold Henderson. He hasn’t exhausted all his options yet but he’s so disappointed in the NFL’s disciplinary process that Adrian Peterson considering retirement from the NFL and entering a whole new sports field.
In a 60-minute phone interview with ESPN, Peterson said he plans to file a lawsuit against the league, adding he wasn’t sure if he could trust the NFL’s process for reinstatement. If a lawsuit would eventually put the 2012 NFL MVP’s chance for reinstatement at risk, Peterson said he would consider walking away from the game altogether.
“I’ve considered retiring from the NFL,” Peterson said. “I still made $8 million dollars this year. I’ve thought about getting back into the real estate (business in Texas) I’m already in. That’s something I’ve been interested in, something I’m involved in. I’ve thought about getting back into that. I’ve thought about going after the Olympics — you only live once. It might be time for me to pursue that, as well. I love playing football, don’t get me wrong, but this situation is deeper than that. For me, it’s like, ‘Why should I continue to be a part of an organization or a business that handles players the way they do? Making money off the field anyway, why not continue to pursue that (Olympic) dream and pursue other dreams and hang up the cleats?’”
Peterson said he’s interested in competing in the 200- and 400-meter dashes in the Olympics, adding, “I’ve seriously thought about this real hard. I continue to pray about it, but it’s been something that has been heavy, heavy on my heart.
SEASONS GRIEVINGS? Mariah Carey Gets Emotional During Holiday Performance At The Beacon Theatre NYC!
Mariah Carey took the stage at NYC's legendary Beacon Theatre for the first holiday-themed concert series of her career. And it was soaked with tears at many points.
The sold-out show kicked off the start of a six-night stint featuring a cast of nearly 40, including “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies,” a ballet troupe, a prancing snow man, a gospel choir, carolers, several acrobats and a group of kid singer/dancers. She's called the Queen of Christmas for a reason.
Visually, Mariah presented herself like a diva should, She went through several costumes changes (better-fitted than past outfits), adorning an array of sequined and bedazzled gowns paired with amazing jewelry.
Admittedly, it's been a tough year for Mariah. In addition to the split from Nick Cannon, she suffered several blows to her ego with the failure of her Elusive Chanteuse disc and an embarrassing performance at The Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony.
In spite of what she's been through, Mariah pulled out a great performance for her fans, and even sang through her tears on several songs.
WATCH BELOW!
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I love her but the magic of her voice is really fading away!
The Reviews are in For Nicki Minaj’s Pink Print CD!
Nicki Minaj’s The Pink Print dropped yesterday and on this album Nicki is being very open and candid on this third album, the features go from Ariana Grande, Lil Wayne to the King Bey… She also enlists production from hitmakers including Da Internz, Mike WiLL Made-It, Dr. Luke, Hit-Boy, and Boi-1da.
According to Rap-Up The reviews are in:
Los Angeles Times: The Pinkprint won’t fully placate the hard-core rap heads, but it’s got the bangs and the thrills many of us have hoped for, even if it’s a slow build kind of power and slacks at times. 3/4
The New York Times: The Pinkprint is her third studio album, and like the first two it’s full of compromises and half-successes. Sometimes she wants to be cousins with OneRepublic, sometimes Lil Wayne. And she succeeds at both, though only one of those goals is noble.
USA Today: The deftly syncopated and haunting “All Things Go” seems more authentically confessional, with Minaj admitting to her doubts and her dreams. The more upbeat “The Night Is Still Young,” with its funky bass and guitars, is another high point, with Minaj professing, “Life is a journey/I just want to enjoy the ride.” 2.5/4
New York Daily News: It’s the most pop-friendly album of her career, primed for evening the playing field with teen-adored stars like [Iggy] Azalea. 3/5
New York Post: The New Yorker serves up a surprisingly introspective and atmospheric third album, The Pinkprint. … She’s still Nicki, but the person is now just as big as the persona. 3/4
The Atlantic: As a personal statement, The Pinkprint works effectively. As an album … it has some issues. There are absolutely highlights: The Beyoncé-featuring “Feeling Myself” is a delightfully cocky boast for both queens. The two Meek Mill collaborations—”Big Daddy” and “Buy a Heart”—practically bounce through the listener, they’re so energetic.
Well what do you think?
Jennifer Aniston Poses Topless for Allure Magazine
The actress was photographed topless for the January 2015 Allure magazine photoshoot, wearing nothing but a pair of jeans, with her arms wrapped around a tattooed man’s muscled body , but don’t worry she is still with Justin Theroux- the guy hugging topless Aniston, is her hairstylist and longtime friend Chris McMillan.
Aniston told Allure magazine that:
“I don’t like [the pressure] that people put on me, on women — that you’ve failed yourself as a female because you haven’t procreated. I don’t think it’s fair. You may not have a child come out of your vagina, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t mothering — dogs, friends, friends’ children,” she said.
Actress and Fox News talking head Stacey Dash recently revealed to The Edit Magazine that she and her cousin, Roc-A-Fella co-founder Dame Dash, no longer speak due to her political beliefs and her refusal to “keep her mouth shut” when it come to critiquing President Obama.
Reports Vlad: “My family and I have not spoken. My cousin Damon and my brother [Darien, CEO of DME Interactive Holdings] were role models to me because they were great capitalists. Now we’re not really talking because they were the ones who told me to keep my mouth shut. They felt that I should do certain things because I’m black.” She goes on to say that while she may have broken relationships with family, she’s thanked by black conservatives all the time for speaking her mind.
“Certain friends don’t speak to me any more either. But you know what? In the street I get [approached by] so many people of every color saying: ‘Thank you so much for standing up and being so brave.’ I thought it was time to have a black president and that it would unite us in such a profound way. But as a country, I don’t think we’ve been so divided since the Civil Rights Movement. I mean, isn’t it extraordinary that we are even discussing race in 2014?”
Pilar Sanders Sentenced to Seven Days in Jail
Pilar Sanders stay losing, she’s been sentenced to 7 days in jail after the judge found her being in contempt for failing to return her children with Deion Sanders as ordered in the divorce decree.
The judge ordered her to initially do thirty days behind bars, but uspended and probated that sentence. Still, as part of the probation she must serve a week behind bars in county lock-up.
According to Dallasnews.com
As the bailiff was taking her into custody, Pilar Sanders objected to the proceedings. She was then escorted out of the courtroom.
Original post at 9:41 a.m.: A hearing is being held in Collin County this morning in the defamation suit Deion Sanders filed last month against his ex-wife Pilar Sanders.
The suit accuses Pilar Sanders of publishing false statements on social media that accuse the broadcaster and former Dallas Cowboy of multiple crimes, including child abuse, spousal abuse, assault and attempted murder. The suit also refers to statements she allegedly made on TV in a recent appearance on The O’Reilly Factor.
Filed Nov. 24 in Collin County, the lawsuit seeks damages of $200,000 to $1 million as well as other relief to which he may be entitled.
It’s obvious Deion is playing chess and she’s playing checkers, get it together for your children…. Deion needs to use his power and get her some mental treatment, because she clearly has an issue…
HMMMMMM, Tyga Passes Out Toys With Kylie Jenner, HOSTS LA Gear Teen Impact Holiday Party
"Rack City" rapper Tyga and his not-yet-legal gal pal, who clearly thinks a crop top is appropriate for any ocassion, Kylie Jenner headed into the Pediatric Cancer Ward at Children's Hospital Los Angeles with a wagon full of goodies for the patients. Tyga donated gifts including gift bags from his clothing brand Last Kings, toys for all ages donated by iconic shoe brand LA Gear, Squishy Sand, Shimmer Jewelry Tattoos and speakers/headphones courtesy of 808 Audio.
The day of giving, hosted by Tyga, was presented by LA Gear and dubbed "The Teen Impact Holiday Party." He visited over 300 kids and treated them to a Photo Booth, green screen, dance floor, arts and crafts section, complimentary food and beverages.
While we have no confirmation on the relationship between Tyga and Kylie, it's worth noting that she supports him in all of his charity work. (And partying.) For Thanksgiving, we spotted her passing out turkey and veggies alongside the (former?) Cash Money rapper.
Speaking of Cash Money, label preident Mack Maine told MTV News that the label is looking to resolve its issues with Tyga. In the meantime, he'll be dropping a single named "AYO" on January 6th and an album...independently.
Fantasia Performs at DeKalb County Scholaraship Ball Special Will Packer & Terrence
The CEO’s Scholarship Ball, themed “A Gatsby Affair,” awarded $2,000 in scholarship proceeds to 15 deserving DeKalb County High School Students, as well as recognized 7 prolific community leaders in the CEO’s Vanguard Award ceremony.
The highlights of the evening included an epic performance by singer Fantasia and a heartfelt recognition of Will Packer by actor Terrence
Check it out below. The 2014 DeKalb County CEO Vanguard Award Honorees are Emory University Hospital, DeKalb Chamber of Commerce President, Katerina Taylor, Larry Callahan of Pattillo Industrial Real Estate, John Shelton of DeKalb Medical Hospital, Vaughn Irons of APD Solutions, Greg Street of V-103, and Will Packer of Will Packer Productions.
The evening was amazing with a wonderful concert by Fantasia. Fantasia is working on a new album and she promises that it will be HOT! In addition to Fantasia’s performance the guests were impressed by Terrence J heartfelt words for recipient Will Packer. Terrence J flew into town to support Will Packer. The actor shared that he’s grateful to the Packer for helping him start his career.
The night was so much fun and all about charity. DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May had the following to say about the evening,
“This event is a celebration of DeKalb County’s future, our young people. As brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, mentors, and friends, the support we provide to our youth as they move from high school to institutions of higher learning helps determine the type of citizens they become and greater impact they will have on society,”
Ryan Cameron of V-103 and Cynné Simpson of Fox 5 served as master and mistress of ceremony and Grammy award-winning singer Fantasia was featured as the headlining act.DSC_0093
Check out the photos below:
NICE!
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘WATCH MY FANNY!’
Stop staring ladies and stop player hating guys, you know you wish you had buns of steel like this old dude.
Legendary Film Critic Roger Ebert dies at 70 after battle with cancer
For a film with a daring director, a talented cast, a captivating plot or, ideally, all three, there could be no better advocate than Roger Ebert, who passionately celebrated and promoted excellence in film while deflating the awful, the derivative, or the merely mediocre with an observant eye, a sharp wit and a depth of knowledge that delighted his millions of readers and viewers.
“No good film is too long,” he once wrote, a sentiment he felt strongly enough about to have engraved on pens. “No bad movie is short enough.”
Ebert, 70, who reviewed movies for the Chicago Sun-Times for 46 years and on TV for 31 years, and who was without question the nation’s most prominent and influential film critic, died Thursday in Chicago. He had been in poor health over the past decade, battling cancers of the thyroid and salivary gland.
He lost part of his lower jaw in 2006, and with it the ability to speak or eat, a calamity that would have driven other men from the public eye. But Ebert refused to hide, instead forging what became a new chapter in his career, an extraordinary chronicle of his devastating illness that won him a new generation of admirers. “No point in denying it,” he wrote, analyzing his medical struggles with characteristic courage, candor and wit, a view that was never tinged with bitterness or self-pity.
On Tuesday, Mr. Ebert blogged that he had suffered a recurrence of cancer following a hip fracture suffered in December, and would be taking “a leave of presence.” In the blog essay, marking his 46th anniversary of becoming the Sun-Times film critic, Ebert wrote “I am not going away. My intent is to continue to write selected reviews but to leave the rest to a talented team of writers hand-picked and greatly admired by me.”
Always technically savvy — he was an early investor in Google — Ebert let the Internet be his voice. His rogerebert.com had millions of fans, and he received a special achievement award as the 2010 “Person of the Year” from the Webby Awards, which noted that “his online journal has raised the bar for the level of poignancy, thoughtfulness and critique one can achieve on the Web.” His Twitter feeds had 827,000 followers.
Mr. Ebert was both widely popular and professionally respected. He not only won a Pulitzer Prize — the first film critic to do so — but his name was added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005, among the movie stars he wrote about so well for so long. His reviews were syndicated in hundreds of newspapers worldwide.
The same year Mr. Ebert won the Pulitzer — 1975 — he also launched a new kind of television program: “Opening Soon at a Theater Near You” with Chicago Tribune movie critic Gene Siskel on WTTW-Channel 11. At first it ran monthly.
The combination worked. The trim, balding Siskel, perfectly balanced the bespectacled, portly Ebert. In 1978, the show, retitled “Sneak Previews,” moved to PBS for national distribution, and the duo was on their way to becoming a fixture in American culture.
“Tall and thin, short and fat. Laurel and Hardy,” Ebert once wrote. “We were parodied on ‘SNL’ and by Bob Hope and Danny Thomas and, the ultimate honor, in the pages of Mad magazine.”
His colleagues admired him as a workhorse. Ebert reviewed as many as 285 movies a year, after he grew ill scheduling his cancer surgeries around the release of important pictures. He eagerly contributed to other sections of the papers — interviews with and obituaries of movie stars, even political columns on issues he cared strongly about on the editorial pages.
In 1997, unsatisfied with spending his critical powers “locked in the present,” he began a running feature revisiting classic movies, and eventually published three books on “The Great Movies” (and two books on movies he hated). A second column, his “Movie Answer Man” allowed readers to learn about intriguing little details of cinema that only a Roger Ebert knew or could ferret out.
That, too, became a book. Mr. Ebert wrote more books than any TV personality since Steve Allen — 17 in all. Not only collections of reviews, both good and bad, and critiques of great movies, but humorous film term glossaries and even a novel, “Behind the Phantom’s Mask,” that was serialized in the Sun-Times. He even wrote a book about rice cookers, The Pot and How to Use It, despite the fact that he could no longer eat. In 2011 his autobiography, “Life Itself” won rave reviews. “This is the best thing Mr. Ebert has ever written,” Janet Maslin wrote in The New York Times. It is, fittingly enough, being made into a movie, produced by his longtime friend, Martin Scorsese.
Roger Joseph Ebert was born in Urbana on June 18, 1942, the son of Walter and Annabel Ebert. His father was an electrician at the University of Illinois, his mother, a bookkeeper. It was a liberal household — Ebert remembers his parents praying for the success of Harry Truman in the election of 1948. As a child, he published a mimeographed neighborhood newspaper, and a stamp collectors’ newspaper in elementary school.
In high school, he was, as he later wrote, “demented in [his] zeal for school activities,” joining the swim team, acting in plays, founding the Science Fiction Club, co-hosting Urbana High School’s Saturday morning radio program, co-editing the newspaper, being elected senior class president.
He began his professional writing career at 15, as a sportswriter covering the high school beat for the News-Gazette in Champaign-Urbana.
Ebert went on to the University of Illinois, where he published a weekly journal of politics and opinion as a freshman and served as editor of the Daily Illini his senior year. He graduated in 1964, and studied in South Africa on a Rotary Scholarship.
While still in Urbana, he began free-lancing for the Sun-Times and the Chicago Daily News.
He was accepted at the University of Chicago, where he planned to earn his doctorate in English (an avid reader, Ebert later used literary authors to help explain films — for example, quoting e.e. cummings several times in his review of Stanley Kubrick’s groundbreaking “2001: A Space Odyssey.”)
But Mr. Ebert had also written to Herman Kogan, for whom he freelanced at the Daily News, asking for a job, and ended up at the Sun-Times in September of 1966, working part-time. The following April, he was asked to become the newspaper’s film critic when the previous critic, Eleanor Keen, retired.
“I didn’t know the job was open until the day I was given it,” Mr. Ebert later said. “I had no idea. Bob Zonka, the features editor, called me into the conference room and said, ‘We’re gonna make you the movie critic.’ It fell out of the sky.”
Mr. Ebert’s goal up to that point had been to be “a columnist like Royko,” but he accepted this new stroke of luck, which came at exactly the right time. Movie criticism had been a backwater of journalism, barely more than recounting the plots and stars of movies — the Tribune ran its reviews under a jokey generic byline, “Mae Tinee.” But American cinema was about to enter a period of unprecedented creativity, and criticism would follow along. Restrictive film standards were finally easing up, in part thanks to his efforts. When Ebert began reviewing movies, Chicago still had an official film board that often banned daring movies here -- Lynn Redgrave’s “Georgy Girl” was kept off Chicago screens in 1966 — and Ebert immediately began lobbying for elimination of the censorship board.
He had a good eye. His Sept. 25, 1967 review of Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway in “Bonnie and Clyde” called it “a milestone” and “a landmark.”
“Years from now it is quite possible that ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ will be seen as the definitive film of the 1960s,” he wrote, “showing with sadness, humor and unforgiving detail what one society had come to.”
It was. Though of course Ebert was not infallible -- while giving Mike Nichols’ “The Graduate” four stars in the same year, he added that the movie’s “only flaw, I believe, is the introduction of limp, wordy Simon and Garfunkel songs.’’
Ebert plunged into what turned out to be a mini-golden age of Chicago journalism. He found himself befriended by Mike Royko — with whom he wrote a unproduced screenplay. He drank with Royko, and with Nelson Algren and Studs Terkel. He wrote a trashy Hollywood movie — “Beyond the Valley of the Dolls’’ for Russ Meyer, having met the king of the buxom B-movie after writing an appreciation of his work.
In later years, Ebert was alternatively sheepish and proud of the movie. It was the first “sexploitation” film by a major studio — 20th Century Fox, though Time magazine’s Richard Corliss did call it one of the 10 best films of the 1970s.
Nor was not Ebert’s only foray into film writing -- he was also hired to write a movie for the Sex Pistols, the seminal British punk band in the late 1970s.
Eventually, Sun-Times editor James Hoge demanded that Ebert -- who took a leave of absence and went to Hollywood to write “Beyond the Valley of the Dolls” -- decide between making films and reviewing them. He chose newspapering, which increasingly became known because of his TV fame, which grew around his complex partnership with Gene Siskel.
“At first the relationship on TV was edgy and uncomfortable,” he wrote in 1999, after Siskel’s untimely death, at 53. “Our newspaper rivalry was always in the air between us. Gene liked to tell about the time he was taking a nap under a conference table at the television station, overheard a telephone conversation I was having with an editor, and scooped me on the story.”
In 1981, the program was renamed “At the Movies” and moved to Tribune Broadcasting. In 1986, it became “Siskel & Ebert & The Movies” and moved to Buena Vista Television, and the duo began the signature “thumbs up, thumbs down” rating system that Ebert came up with.
“When we left to go with Disney . . . we had to change some things because we were afraid of [violating] intellectual property rights,’’ he said. “And I came up with the idea of giving thumbs up and thumbs down. And the reason that Siskel and I were able to trademark that is that the phrase ‘two thumbs up’ in connection with movies had never been used. And in fact, the phrase ‘two thumbs up’ was not in the vernacular. And now, of course, it’s part of the language.”
“Two thumbs up” became their registered trademark and a highly coveted endorsement that inevitably ran at the top of movie advertisements.
Ebert’s cancer forced him off the air in 2006. After auditioning a number of temporary co-hosts, Ebert settled on Sun-Times colleague Richard Roeper in 2000. At its height, “Ebert & Roeper,” was seen on 200 stations,
All that need be mentioned of Ebert’s social life was that in the early 1980s he briefly went out with the hostess of a modest local TV show called “AM Chicago.” Taking her to the Hamburger Hamlet for dinner, Ebert suggested that she syndicate her show, using his success with Siskel as an example of the kind of riches that awaited. While she didn’t return his romantic interest, Oprah Winfrey did follow his business advice.
In his memoirs, Ebert writes of a controlling, alcoholic, faith-obsessed mother whom he was frightened of displeasing. “I would never marry before my mother died,” he wrote. She passed away in 1987, and in 1992 he married, for the first time, at age 50, to attorney Chaz Hammel-Smith (later Chaz Hammelsmith), who was the great romance of his life and his rock in sickness, instrumental in helping Ebert continue his workload as his health declined.
“She fills my horizon, she is the great fact of my life, she is the love of my life, she saved me from the fate of living out my life alone,” he wrote.
In addition to his TV and newspaper work, Ebert was a fixture at film festivals around the world – Toronto, Cannes, Telluride — and even created a festival of his own, The Overlooked Film Festival, or just “EbertFest,” which he began in Champaign in 1999 and dedicated to highlighting neglected classics.
Between 1970 and 2010, Ebert made yearly visits to the University of Colorado’s springtime Conference on World Affairs, where he has presented frame-by-frame critiques of classic movies to enraptured audiences.
He has also used the conference to speak on a variety of subjects, from his romantic life to his recovery from alcoholism — he stopped drinking in 1979 — to the problem of Spam e-mail. In 1996 Ebert coined the “Boulder Pledge,” considered a cornerstone in the battle against spam.
“Under no circumstances will I ever purchase anything offered to me as the result of an unsolicited e-mail message,” Ebert wrote. “Nor will I forward chain letters, petitions, mass mailings, or virus warnings to large numbers of others. This is my contribution to the survival of the online community.”
R.I.P!
TV One Unveils Season 2 of ‘R&B Divas ATL’ Promo With new members Angie Stone & Latocha Scott
Yep, it’s about that time! TV One is returning w/ popular reality show, ‘R&B Divas’, taking place in the ATL.
And contrary to popular belief AND rumors (we absolutely stand corrected), the ENTIRE cast is back–including Faith Evans, Nicci Gilbert, Syleena Johnson, Monifah and KeKe Wyatt. What’s more? Two more ‘divas’ have been added, Angie Stone and LaTocha Scott (formerly of XSCAPE). Instead of spoiling the teaser, that you can see w/ your very own two eyes, we’ll let you watch for yourself.
Check it out:
EXCITED? I am!
Say Whatttt……Pilar Is Dating “Slim” From Cash Money???
Well look at what we have here, I guess money can buy love. Deion Sanders’ estranged wife Pilar has a new boo in her life, according to Sandrarose, Slim reportedly is taking very good care of Pilar and her children, even tho she lost custody of them all.
Check out Pilar, and her kids rocking some YMCMB gear below:
All I can say is do you PILAR, because we see Deion is doing him, by dating Tracy Edmonds. But what a HORRIBLE choice…still do you!
Jay-Z Launches Sports Agency; Signs NY Yankee Robinson Cano
*Jay-Z has extended his empire into sports management.
The rap mogul’s entertainment company Roc Nation today announced the launch of Roc Nation Sports, a full-service sports management company led by Jay-Z (a.k.a. Shawn Carter) and partnering with Creative Artists Agency.
The group also announced the signing of Roc Nation Sports’ first client, New York Yankees All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano.
“Because of my love of sports, it was a natural progression to form a company where we can help top athletes in various sports the same way we have been helping artists in the music industry for years,” Hov said in a statement.
The formation of the agency creates an array of branding opportunities for Roc Nation athletes, who could take advantage of the global cachet in the entertainment world that association with Jay-Z would bring, reports USA Today.
“At this point in my career, I am ready to take a more active role in my endeavors both on and off the field,” Cano, who is leaving agent Scott Boras to sign with Roc Nation, said in a statement.
“I am confident that the pairing of Roc Nation Sports & CAA Sports will be essential in helping me accomplish my short- & long-term goals.”
Roc Nation’s next move could be a jump into the NFL with New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz. The two have been friends for a while, with Cruz showing up at a few Jay-Z concerts last year.
Plus, Cruz added a twist to his touchdown celebrations last year. After his signature salsa, he flashed Jay-Z’s “Illuminati” symbol toward TV cameras.
Asked after a game in October if he and Jay-Z were working toward a business partnership, Cruz dodged the question.
“I’d rather keep that under wraps. I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag just yet.” Asked if he’d provide any clarity soon, Cruz said, “We’ll see in the upcoming weeks what happens.”
Cruz recently fired his agent and signed with CAA’s Tom Condon, which would seemingly set the stage for his aligning with Jay-Z in some capacity.
EMI Gospel And Motown Form A New Label
Motown Records and EMI Gospel have entered into a 50-50 joint venture partnership to create Motown Gospel. The new label launches officially tonight (APR02) with a press reception and showcase at Los Angeles’ Arc Theater featuring performances by roster artists Smokie Norful, Tasha Cobbs, Tye Tribbett and Kierra Sheard. Under terms of the joint venture, the team behind the former EMI Gospel — headed by president Ken Pennell — will still handle day-to-day operations Plans are also in place to staff up on the A&R front at the new joint venture. The first such appointment is Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer Aaron Lindsey as VP of A&R. His production credits include the Marvin Sapp No. 1 gospel crossover hit Never Would Have Made It.
The first new signing to Motown Gospel is fellow Grammy winner CeCe Winans, with a new album slated for early 2014. Rounding out the label’s 2013 release slate are new albums by Tye Tribbett, Kierra Sheard and Smokie Norful. The Motown Gospel roster also includes VaShawn Mitchell and Anita Wilson.
Forest Whitaker To Produce Richard Pryor Biopic
Actor Forest Whitaker is said to be producing a biopic about the life of comedian Richard Pryor. There have been several attempts to make a film but none have yet to come to life. Find out more details on this project inside.
Forest Whitaker is said to be working with the late comedian’s widow, Jennifer Pryor, on the new project. Several other comedians have had an opportunity to take the film to the big screen such as Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Damon Wayans, and Eddie Griffin. However, the film has yet to be produced.
It’s crazy that this film hasn’t already been produced because Richard Pryor has an interesting life story. He was born in a brothel and became one of the most famous forerunners in the comedy business. It’s also no secret about Richard almost catching himself on fire while freebasing with cocaine. With all of this drama and action, we’re surprised that hasn’t already been a film made yet.
Do you think Forest Whitaker will live up to the task? Would you go see a biopic about Richard Pryor?
CONGRATS: Tina Turner Engaged To Longtime Boyfriend ‘Erwin Bach’
Wow, after 18 years of living together Tina Turner and her boyfriend, Erwin Bach, are engaged. Turner is said to be planning a lavish ceremony at Lake Zurich close to their home in Switzerland.
According to Swiss newspaper Blick chefs Rico Zandonella and Horst Petermann from Turner’s favourite restaurant, Rico’s Kunststuben, have been called in to cater the reception.
This will be the icon’s second marriage after her tumultuous relationship with soul singer Ike Turner ended in divorce after 1976 after 14-years together.
Turner renounced her U.S. citizenship to become Swiss in January this year.
Spotted Out:Brandy Takes her daughter to ‘Disneyland’
Brandy Norwood was the center of all attention at Disney California Adventure Park hours ago, snapped by fans and paparazzi alike as she hit the fun filled venue with her daughter Sy’rai.
Caught enjoying the day together, the mother-daughter duo arrived days after Brandy returned from the Japanese promo leg of her new album, ‘Two Eleven’ and as she continues to grace screens across the US via BET’s ratings winner ‘The Game‘.
More from the ‘Put It Down‘ singer below!
Your thoughts?
Kelly Rowland Hangs Out and PARTIES IT UP In ATL
Kelly Rowland flew down to the ATL to wrap up her upcoming album and host a party at The Compound. While in town, she chatted it up with Big Tigger on his V103 radio show.
Kelly, who was born and raised in Atlanta until she was 7, revealed a few deets about her Talk A Good Game disc which will include a duet with Pharrell Williams.
"I'm actually in the process of wrapping it up. This is actually the last recording session I've got for this album, but I'm so excited. I've been in the studio with Dream. I've been in the studio with Harmony. I've been in the studio with Pharrell. I've been in the studio with Kevin Cossom, who is incredible. When I tell you, he is so incredible and I'm so happy I got the opportunity to work with him."
She also defended Beyonce's "Bow Down" record saying,
"I've heard pieces of what she's done. She's heard things that I've recorded and I just think it scratches the surface to everything else. I think it's a great record ("Bow Down"). It's her expression. I think, as an artist, you can express yourself however you want to and I just can't wait for everybody to hear the rest of the record. It is insane."
As her "Kisses Down Low" single climbs the charts, fans can expect to hear the completed project on June 4.
And later at the club. That night!
"Ice" singer Kelly Rowland was seen walking into The Compound on Saturday evening.
The sultry singer rocked a quilted black leather jacket over a long fitted dress with Christian Louboutin booties.
Once inside, Kelly, who just wrapped up her Talk A Good Game disc, danced all night and greeted tons of fans.
Ludacris' manager Chaka Zulu was among her many guests.
And hit maker Sean Garrett was also spotted throwing his hands in the air at Kelly's celebration.
Producer Jazze Pha partied at Compound too.
Kelly hung out with Lala Anthony's cousin Dice.
Kelly was seen dancing with her boyfriend Tim Weatherspoon.
Later, the couple partied with“I Like It” singer Sevyn Streeter, who co-wrote Chris Brown's "Fine China" single.
Uh Oh? Professor Michael Fauntroy on Roland Martin: ‘A Marginally Knowledgeable Loudmouth’
'More sizzle than steak ... He is lucky to have had his turn (at CNN).'
In street parlance he’d be called a hater, but we’ll just say that Professor Michael Fauntroy (George Mason University) intellectually disagrees with Roland Martin.
He thinks Martin is basically full of himself and well, wasn’t really qualified to be at CNN in the first place. In short, he thinks we should “resist the urge to make Roland Martin out to be some wrongly aggrieved talking head.”
And that was just for starters. In fact, you may be wondering why the hate, er, should we say why is the Professor not on the same page with Roland Martin?
Here’s Prof. Fauntroy in his own words:
I got into a back-and-forth on Twitter this past weekend with someone who is a fan of soon-to-be former CNN political analyst Roland Martin. The writer took umbrage with some of my tweets regarding Martin’s departure from the network. My position? Let’s resist the urge to make Roland Martin out to be some wrongly aggrieved talking head. He is a marginally knowledgeable loudmouth who was more sizzle than steak. No academic training politics and government. No significant campaign experience. No experience as a political reporter at a major media outlet (He wrote opinion pieces at CNN). He is lucky to have had his turn. So to those who are shedding tears following the announcement of his departure from CNN: Your time would be better spent applying pressure to the cable networks to put minorities on who actually know something about politics and government.
America’s public discourse on politics and government is infested by too many people with thin or nonexistent credentials. They are on television and radio because there are either well connected, telegenic, or otherwise project the image the network wants you to see; expertise is not at the top of the list of traits. Their exposure gives them a level of popularity that legitimizes their analysis while, concurrently, inoculates them from criticism of their inanity (“they’re on X network, so they must know what they’re talking about”). While Roland Martin is the subject here, he is not the only person I’m thinking about. There are many experts on television, but in political media, those who know are almost outnumbered by those who don’t.
I wonder why we accept this. We wouldn’t listen to a science and technology analyst with no academic or employment history in the fields in which he or she is commenting. We wouldn’t listen to a Wall Street analyst with no academic training in corporate finance or employment as a stock and bond trader. We wouldn’t listen to a medical analyst with no academic medical training or employment. So why should we listen to a political analyst with a similarly thin background? We deserve better from our media. We deserve a political discourse that includes real experts, not just well practiced-talking heads.
Roland Martin is an overrated political analyst. But because there are so few political analysts of color getting serious run on cable news networks, we accepted his inane, somewhat self-promotional pundit routine (And were happy to see a brother on CNN). I hope as we continue to debate where CNN is going after reducing the role of talented people like Soledad O’Brien or not renewing Roland Martin’s contract that we also include discussions about the kinds of backgrounds we want in our political analysts. I also hope the conclusion results in our demanding more of an emphasis on expertise. We can have expertise and personality. We will all be better for it.
And if you’re interested, there is a long list of Black political scientist professors who actually know politics and government. Let me recommend a few (although I could easily give you 50 more names): Michael Leo Owens, Khalilah Brown Dean, Pearl Ford Dowe, Sekou Franklin, Wilmer Leon, Keesha Middlemass, Audra Gillespie, Mark Sawyer, Lester Spence, James Lance Taylor, and David Wilson.
OK, you no doubt want to see where/how this winds up.
Erykah Badu Calls Out Papoose for Unauthorized Use of Vocals
Erykah Badu has a message for rapper Papoose. The Neo-soul priestess and mother of two took to Twitter to call out the rapper’s unauthorized use of her vocals in his song, “The Cure”.
“This Papoose song Cure. I sang those vocals 10 years ago. That’s 2 babies ago. Sh—-t. So mcs just throwing out old material- no paperwork..”
The above-mentioned song was slated to appear on Papoose’s long-delayed album, “The Nacimera Dream”, during his stint with Jive Records. After leaving and releasing several mixtapes, the rapper finally saw a release on indie label Honorable Records.
Of course, with Erykah Badu calling out “The Cure”, there’s no telling what will happen to this particular project.
Denzel And Mark Wahlberg Star In “2 Guns”
Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg —now here’s a pairing! The trailer for their new film 2 Guns debuts, offering insight into a gripping thriller that pins the two juggernauts against each other as the world of operatives collide with betrayal and deceit. The actors star as Marcus “Stig” Stigman and Bobby Trench respectively, the story sees the two operatives working together only to find that the other is an undercover agent. The two then realize they’ve been setup by the mob – the organization they previously assumed to be stealing from for their respective agencies.
Check out the trailer:
Nice!
NeNe Leakes Set for Her Own Bravo Spinoff Show?
"Real Housewives of Atlanta" star NeNe Leakes looks like she's getting her own spinoff. And it was all accidentally leaked last night by Kandi Burruss.
While Kandi was answering a caller's question about the status of NeNe & former co-star Kim Zolciak's love-hate relationship, Kandi explained that they're good for now, seeing that NeNe has invited Kim to the wedding.
But then Kandi (wearing a Karen Millen zip zag dress and yellow Ruthie Davis pumps) revealed that Kim may even appear on NeNe's show. Oh really? Seeing that no one has confirmed a show was even in the works--it seems Kandi knew way more than the public.
Host Andy Cohen tried to quickly change the subject, but it looks like the obvious is happening. NeNe seems to be getting either a wedding special a la "Tardy For The Wedding,"or another type of spinoff show.
It won't be a shocker if NeNe gets her own wedding special for her re-nuptials with Gregg, even though she says in recent interviews that it's unknown if she will have some type of show around her wedding. We're pretty sure the "Glee" actress was simply waiting on the right price. Not mad at that.
Serena Williams Wins Her SIXTH Sony Open, Ranked #1 In The World!
Recently Serena Williams celebrated beating out her Russian opponent Maria Sharapova to win the Sony Open at Crandon Park Tennis Center in Key Biscayne, Florida.
With her sixth win, Serena now holds the record for the most Sony Open victories by a female. She gushed to the crowd, 'I felt good today. It's so good to be No. 6 now - I mean, the six-time - oh, gosh. Thank you.''
Despite coming out on top, Serena admitted it wasn't her best performance. ''I'm happy to be holding the championship. It's definitely not my best tournament. I think everyone here can agree. But those are the moments that count - when you can still come out on top.''
And then, Serena headed over to Crandon Park beach where she took a few post-victory photos and celebrated her #1 world ranking:
So what does a champion do to celebrate an international victory? Serena revealed what went on at her post-victory celebration to her Twitter followers tweeting, "Big day. Celebrate?? Chicken and karaoke. #family"
Prince May Be Lawyering Up For Twitter War, Hits Site With Copyright Complaint
Prince is not playing with one of y’all’s favorite social media sites. The legendary singer may be lawyering up for a potential war with social media site, Twitter. The Next Web reports that Prince’s NPG Records has issued Twitter’s Vine video app with a copyright complaint under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. The site reports:
The takedown request was sent on March 22nd by an unnamed label representative, who pointed to eight clips that contained “unauthorized recordings” and “unauthorized synchronizations.” The offending videos seem to have been removed as the links listed at the end of the letter – which you can read at ChillingEffects.org, where Twitter posts every such copyright claim it receives – all lead to dead pages. Twitter’s copyright and DMCA policy, which is the same for Vine, allows the site to remove or restrict access to videos that contain copyrighted material. The site also attempts to contact account holders to explain the take down and how they might file a counter-notice.
No official response has been shared from Twitter, however, Rolling Stone reports that a Twitter says that this incident was not the first takedown requests issued for content on Vine, though The Next Web found no other such complaints listed on Chilling Effects.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
