The Daily Buzz for Jan 28

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER 

Beyonce & Jay Z Top BILLBOARD Power List

Beyonce & Jay Z are still riding high from their epic success in 2013.  Bey changed all the rules with her secret yet record-breaking release of her visual album Beyonce.  And Hov changed the rules of what makes platinum sales platinum with his Magna Garta Holy Grail album and collabo with Samsung.

So it's only right BILLBOARD recognizes them as the top of the Billboard Power 100 list.

“She took a high risk and was highly rewarded for it,” said Guy Oseary, who manages Madonna and U2. “I love what she did. Thank you, Beyoncé—it brings much-needed excitement and buzz to our industry.”

“Artists have always had the power but courage is in short supply. It’s just that the hip-hop generation believes in the possibilities,” said Jay Z’s longtime associate Lyor Cohen. “Jay and Beyoncé don’t listen to the noise—they make the noise.”

Congrats to the Carters! The full list is over at BILLBOARD and the issue is on stands now.

Oprah gears up for her milestone birthday as she celebrates early with a spinning class at SoulCycle 

She may be old enough to qualify for a free bus pass, but Oprah Winfrey is preparing to ride into her 60s on an exercise bicycle, as this new video shows.

'I just had the best birthday experience ever at SoulCycle, ride baby ride!' Oprah said, in a video posted to her Instagram account today.

Oprah, who turns 60 on January 29, joined dozens of riders at a trendy SoulCycle class in West Hollywood, which is billed as 45-minutes of fat-burning cardio, and a full-body workout with choreography.

In the short video posted to her Instagram account, Oprah, wearing a bright yellow headband and surrounded by girlfriends, shouts to the camera: 'Ride baby ride!'

The 59-year-old media mogul has had a life long battle with her weight, and has tried countless methods to keep trim.

An insider told the MailOnline: 'Oprah was so happy, she had so much fun, it was her first time at Soul Cycle and she totally killed it.'

'It was to celebrate her 60th, so she came with all her friends. Oprah looks amazing for 60!'

Oprah was recently nominated for a best supporting actress award by the Screen Actors Guild for her work in Lee Daniels' The Butler. It was the former talk show host's first SAG nomination for her acting work.

The Butler is Oprah's third film outing as an actress. Other roles include 1998's Beloved and 1985's The Color Purple, which earned the former talk show host an Oscar nomination. 

Oprah has also been recognized for her work by The Hollywood Reporter, who honored the TV magnate with the esteemed Sherry Lansing Leadership Award at the 22nd annual Women in Entertainment Breakfast at the Beverly Hills Hilton on December 11.

Yet the TV star wrote on her blog that her highest achievement was, 'never shutting my heart down. Even in my darkest moments—through sexual abuse, a pregnancy at 14, lies and betrayals—I remained faithful, hopeful, and open to seeing the best in people, regardless of whether they were showing me their worst. I stayed open to believing that no matter how hard the climb, there is always a way to let in a sliver of light to illuminate the path forward.' 

She added: 'As I approach this milestone, the landmark of 60, with humility, supreme thanksgiving, and joy. Knowing for sure grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.'

Wale Writes A Letter Explaining His Social Media Hiatus

Not sure if you’ve paid attention to D.C. Rapper Wale’s Twitter page, or not, but he hasn’t tweeted anything since October 26th, 2013?

His fans have been asking him about his absence and he hasn’t fully given an explanation….until now. Through his Tumblr, EveryBlueMoon.com, he pens an open letter explaining what brought his Twitter hiatus and disappointment of the Hip Hop culture that constantly criticize his choice of music.

You can also read the letter below:

Where have I been?

Man, I been everywhere. Everyday trying to get a better understanding of myself and this crazy game I have given my life to.

What I’ve come to grips with is the fact  that I am not superhuman, BUT super human. I think our culture has made  it almost a prerequisite to be “too cool” or “swagged out” carrying a  “nothing can phase me” image. It’s to the point that the ones who show  they care, get attacked the most. Who ever thought we’d see a day when  somebody used the word “poetic” as an insult? I certainly never thought  that. “I can’t fuck wit Wale ‘ol poetic ass.” Really? These are the same people who probably have every Pac album embedded in their head. But, I digress. I took an absence from Twitter because I started to care  tooooo much. I still don’t know the root of what makes me care THAT  much, but I’m quite sure it started by wanting to lead people in a  direction that wasn’t as cliché as some of my peers.

I’m no saint. I fuck with ratchet  bitches. I say bitch. I bitch about things my damn self. But, I can  honestly say, that I try to use my “human” traits as a means of relating to other humans. If I can bare my insecurities and flaws before you,  maybe you won’t feel so insecure and flawed.

There came a point where people went out  of their way to remind me that I’m missin my mark. Albeit, I made myself a target to slander and criticism. I think it became a trend to fuck  with anybody that cared about people’s opinion. I’m not one of those  people who make music for material things. I strive to make music for a  public that appreciates raw emotion. And I will continue to.

I went through stages of frustration in  my career with publications because of my own selfishness and sense of  entitlement. I admit that. Nevertheless, I think if we calling a spade a spade, some media outlets be on they bullshit with me for reasons  outside of music. But, my goal moving forward is to focus less on THEM  and more on US. We all have goals and mine is simple. Empower the  people. Empower MY fans and focus on MY fans and their energy . I don’t  think it’s humanly possible for me to appease some of these outlets no  matter what I create. It burns my soul to hear there’s no message tho.  So knowin that I may have fell short of connecting with some of them,  I’ve decided to use my energy on US. The guy with all the mixtapes. The  guy who listens to every song twice because they know there’s things  hidden in there. The girl who can’t wait to hear “Ambitious Girl 3” (Oh, it’s coming). The girl with the “Ambition” tattoo, who gets dressed to  “Illest Bitch Alive” every morning . The ones who understood my  frustration, hated my rant but understood it nevertheless . I may never  be the biggest rapper in the world (still one of the best doe) but, I’ll be the most dedicated to my fans and it starts with this right here.  This is rare. This is REAL. This is about us. This is about the music  again. My ReRE -Dedication to greatness. What we got doesn’t happen  often, nor with too many people. This is an rare occasion when a rare  bond… Happens

Everybluemoon

-Folarin

So there…

Channing Tatum Looks For A Big Apple Abode

Searching for his home away from home while visiting the Big Apple, Channing Tatum went apartment hunting in the Upper East Side on Friday (January 24).

The "Magic Mike" star stepped out in a navy blue sweater, matching baseball cap, and jeans as he joined other New Yorkers out in the cold.

Recently, the 33-year-old actor's lovely wife and "Step Up" co-star Jenna Dewan-Tatum spoke to People about their dietary differences.

A vegan for years, she shared, "Sometimes I can drag him to my vegetarian/vegan restaurants—he politely eats, then promptly goes home and eats what he really wants!...Opposites attract!"

Air Jordan 10 "Powder Blue" [PHOTOS]

At this point, assume that Jordan Brand will pull out all of the stops for new releases. After years of rumors surrounding the never-before-retroed shoe, the Air Jordan 10 "Powder Blue" will release this year.

OG sneakerheads will recall the days these were called the "Charlotte Hornets," which released during Michael Jordan's first retirement. A white pebble leather upper with set off by a lining, midsole and sole that's black with powder blue accents.

Simple and clean, these are a highly coveted pair of kicks to say the least. Connoisseurs may have an opportunity to cop the Air Jordan 10 "Powder Blue" sooner than expected, as they're tentatively set to hit shelves on February 22.

Nicki Minaj BLASTS ESPN Magazine For Bad Re-Touching Job -- You Made My Forehead Too Long!

One would think Nicki Minaj would be grateful to be tapped to cover ESPN magazine with an NBA living legend like Kobe Bryant.  But instead, she spent her time on IG complaining about a "bad re-touching" job done by the mag.  She posted her own personal pics to combat the "long forehead" she claims the mag gave her. 

I’m a not photoshop expert or anything--even though we can usually spot a majorly fake PS job a mile away--but we're thinking Nicki's personal "untouched" photos are looking pretty similar to the cover ESPN magazine went with as their final shot.

The pretty rapstress posted several of her own pics saying, "I love my personal un-retouched photos where my forehead doesn't mysteriously grow in length." 

So check out the "untouched" photos below and decide for yourselves:

She did say she was honored to take part in this with Kobe.  Maybe she's just a chick who's a perfectionist when it comes to her brand.  We get it.  And can't be mad at that..

MusiCares Person Of The Year Gala Honors Carole King

Supporting fellow artists in need, plenty of famous faces headed to the Los Angeles Convention Center for the 2014 MusiCares Person of the Year Gala on Friday (January 24).

Honoring the legendary Carole King, the evening began with a duet of "Hi-De-Ho" sung by LeAnn Rimes and Steven Tyler.

Later, Alicia Keys brought her soulful voice to (You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman" and Lady Gaga gave her take on "You've Got a Friend."

Helping to raise more than $5.5 million for the organization, other attendees included Hilary Duff, Kristin Chenoweth, Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, Victoria Justice, Kacey Musgraves, Sara Bareilles, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, and Ciara. Check out the photos from the pre-Grammy celebration below.

Snoop Dogg's Weed Smoke Brings Australian Firefighters [PHOTOS]

Snoop Dogg was almost banned entry to the entire continent of Australia and he's already making is presence felt in the loudest way possible.

With actual "loud."

Local firefighters responded to a fire alarm at the Palazzo Versace in the Queensland Gold Coast area around 10 a.m. Upon arrival, the smiles and sighs of relief came quickly as it was discovered Snoop was just taking his daily dose of lean, green medicine.

It's Snoop Dogg. Would you expect anything less?

Reports TMZ:

Here's what went down ... cops say "smoke from an unidentified source" triggered a fire alarm around 10am ... and firefighters who happened to be in the hotel rushed up to the scene to investigate the situation.

Once the situation calmed down, Snoop actually took some Instagram pics with the responders ... and talked about how he always wanted to be a firefighter.

The legendary rapper is currently habitating Down Under as the headliner for the Big Day Out concert. A group of feminists petitioned his appearance on stage due to the controversial subject matter found in his music, but everybody loves Snoop Dogg even when he dont' love them h*es.

Doggs will be doggs but Snoop better set a better example as his son just may be a member of the current national champion Florida State's football team soon.

Trina Braxton’s Bar Chix Head West on The Bar Chix Tour Bus

In case you missed it “Trina Braxton” singer/Reality TV Star now adds CEO of Bar Chix Inc to her list of talents. We should have known when Trina Braxton got her bartending license it was to do bigger things than serve up some drinks. 

We TV captured the launch of “Bar Chix” on Braxton Family Values and Trina hasn’t stopped yet. The latest news is the #BarChixTourBus has departed from Atlanta Georgia and is headed to the West Coast! Cute Bus…..LOL

NFL: Washington Redskin Sean Taylor’s Murderer Sentenced (Sentencing Details)

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Dennis Murphy imposed the sentence on Eric Rivera, 23, one of five Fort Myers-area men charged with Taylor’s death after they broke into his house looking to steal cash. One has pleaded guilty and three others are still awaiting trial.

Rivera confessed to police on videotape that he shot Taylor after the NFL player confronted them at his bedroom door with a machete. In the confession, Rivera also said the group didn’t realize Taylor would be home with a knee injury instead of playing a Redskins game against Tampa Bay.

“He lost his life defending and protecting his family,” said Assistant State Attorney Reid Rubin in a closing statement. “They kicked the door in and they shot him and killed him, for no good reason.”

Testifying in his own defense last fall, Rivera claimed the confession was false and improperly coerced, and that someone else in the group shot Taylor with a 9mm handgun. A jury convicted him of second-degree murder and armed burglary. He was originally charged with first-degree murder but was ineligible for the death penalty because he was 17 at the time of the killing.

In a brief statement, Rivera told members of Taylor’s family he was sorry for the killing and that Taylor was “a good man.”

“I live with his death every day. I’m going to have to deal with the consequences,” he said.

Several Rivera family members pleaded for leniency, noting that Rivera was still a minor at the time and that he had never been in trouble with the law before. But Rubin said Rivera had committed perjury in his testimony and tried to influence the testimony of others in his case.

“He’s a sophisticated, manipulative criminal. There’s no good reason to believe he will change,” Rubin said.

Rivera could have gotten life behind bars. His lawyers are planning to appeal his conviction.

Taylor, a first-round pick by the Redskins in the 2004 draft, was a hard-hitting Pro Bowl safety who had previously starred at the University of Miami. He was shot during the November 2007 confrontation in the upper thigh, damaging his femoral artery and leading to massive blood loss. Taylor was 24 when he died.

His girlfriend at the time, Jackie Garcia Haley, and their then-18-month old daughter were in the room with Taylor when the confrontation occurred. Garcia Haley, in a statement read by Rubin, said Taylor’s death was difficult to bear — particularly for their daughter, also named Jackie.

“You only get one dad and hers is gone. It breaks my heart to pieces to go through each day and each milestone without him,” she said.

The gun was never found. Police said it was stuffed in a sock and thrown into the Everglades.

Several witnesses at Rivera’s trial testified that Taylor often kept large sums of cash in the house. One of the other men charged in the slaying, 25-year-old Jason Mitchell, attended a birthday party a few weeks earlier for Taylor’s half-sister, who testified Taylor gave her a purse containing $10,000.

The half-sister, Sasha Johnson, lived in Fort Myers and knew Rivera. In his testimony, Rivera said the group thought they could steal between $100,000 and $200,000 in cash by burglarizing Taylor’s house.

Draya CELEBRATES 29th Birthday With Boyfriend Orlando & Friends In L.A.

"BBW LA" star Draya Michele celebrated her 29th birthday last night at Philippe Chow.

One of Draya's looks was a strapless bold blue gown by Michael Costello. "You've seen my birthday dresses, but this is my birthday gown."

And the night before, she hit the town with her girls and her man:

She rocked a sexy dress from Houston-based designer Dominique Vinae.

Her boyfriend, Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick, kept it cozy with her all night and posed for a few photos.  

We noticed that Chantel Jeffries, one of Draya's Fine Ass Girls models, was not at the party.  

We suspect she's still in Miami dealing with the Justin Bieber fallout.

AND FINALLY FROM THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART FILES

‘THE WHOS’

I see the residents of Whoville feel pretty comfortable leaving their little isolated town when it’s not Christmas time. Go get ‘em guys!

HAVE A GREAT DAY EVERYBODY

EFREM

The Daily Buzz for Aug 6

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!

Gabby LANDS Cereal Box Cover!

Gabby Douglas, the first African American to win gold at the Olympics in the all-around competition, has landed on a box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes.. and on the TODAY Show.  Gabby Douglas, who won the Olympic women's all-around on Thursday, appears on the latest edition of Kellogg's Corn Flakes boxes.  USA Gymnastics today posted photos of her holding the box. 

And earlier, Douglas appeared on the Today Show with her mom, sister, brother and host family she lived with while training in Iowa. She revealed that it wasn't a pleasure trip to get to the Olympic Games--and wants people to know it took HARD WORK. She said,

“I just want people to know it took a lot. It took a lot of hard days in the gym and determination, passion and drive. Gold medals are made out of your sweat, blood and tears, and effort in the gym every day, and sacrificing a lot that you have to do.” 

She added, “It’s so meaningful to be the first African-American to win the all-around gold medal in the individual and making the history books is definitely one of the perks. It just feels amazing.”

As for her her dad, Air Force Staff Sgt. Timothy Douglas (who's been stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq), he wasn't able to attend the London games but he did fly to California see her during the trials on June 29.  She said,

"I'm like, 'Who's calling my name?' And then I look up. It was my dad and his friend, and I haven't seen him in a while. They were holding up the flag. And I almost felt like bawling. I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh, Dad!"

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Gabby's parents are divorcing, but they are completely united in support of their daughter.  Timothy (shown above at the trials in June) said,

'We knew (gymnastics) was in her heart because one day she came home from the gym and she had a 102-degree temperature. She went to bed, slept it off and woke up and got back in the gym the next day. That’s when we knew she had a winner’s attitude, a winner’s spirit.'

Also, Gabby's proud mom Natalie told Us Weekly at the Olympian's photoshoot for the mag right before the Olympic Games:

"Have fun -- that's a really big thing that I always tell her.  This is your sport, and you love to do it, so just go out there and enjoy it. How many other times are you going to get to compete at the Olympics? Soak up every minute of it. Push out all distractions. Fear is crippling; there's nothing to be afraid of. You've trained for this moment . . . you're going to be nervous, but let it fuel and feed your desire to go out there and get what you want."

"I absolutely have no regrets," Hawkins told Us. "I wish there was a gym closer . . . but the fact that she's joined with a coach who believes in her 100% and she believes in them 100% . . . that all means the world to me because she's happy."

Garrett Reid found DEAD in dorm room  at Lehigh Univ

Garrett Reid, son of Eagles coach Andy Reid, was found dead in a Lehigh University dorm room early Sunday morning, the team said.

Reid’s body was discovered by an "Eagles official," who called police at 7:20 a.m. to report that he was unresponsive, according to Edward Shupp, Lehigh University Chief of Police. Shupp declined to say who the Eagles official was, but said it was not Andy Reid.

Eagles training camp 8 new Eagles to watch Training Camp Battles

Shupp said police arrived at the dorm room at 7:21 a.m. An autopsy is expected to be completed in 24 to 48 hours, he said.

 “There is no indication of a suicide or foul play,” Shupp said.

The 29-year-old son of Andy Reid and his wife, Tammy, had been assisting the team, helping out with strength and conditioning during training camp. Garrett Reid had a troubled past that involved drug addiction and stints in prison.

"This is a tough morning for all of us in the Eagles family," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said. "Garrett grew up with this team, which makes this news even harder for us to process."

Garrett is the eldest of the Reids' five children. Roseman said that Andy Reid spent the morning informing his family and Eagles owners Jeffrey and Christina Lurie. A press conference with Jeffrey Lurie had been scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m., but was canceled following news of Garrett Reid's death.

"The news is heartbreraking for everyone in the Eagles family," Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to Andy, his wife, Tammy, and their children."

Eagles offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg and defensive coordinator Juan Castillo oversaw the team's practice Sunday morning and will oversee the squad until Reid returns, the team said.

The Eagles' first preseason game is scheduled for Aug. 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lincoln Financial Field. The team's season opener is Sept. 9 at the Cleveland Browns. The Eagles' afternoon practice will take place at 2:45 p.m. as scheduled.

"From a football perspective, I can tell you Andy has asked that we go forward with training camp," an emotional Roseman said at the Lehigh practice fields. "On a personal note, we’ve been with Andy for a long time. He’s always been strong for us, we’re going to be strong for him right now. As a father and a friend, we’re all hurting.”

Shupp, in a statement delivered after Roseman spoke, said that his office received a 911 call at approximately 7:20 a.m. this morning of an unresponsive male in the Sayre Park dorms. The Eagles reside at Sayre Park during camp.

"Upon arrival attempts were made to revive the individual," Shupp said. "They were unsuccessful. ... There were no suspicious activities."

Northampton County Coroner Zachary Lysek said that he was conducting an investigation with the cooperation of the Lehigh police department.

"I personally pronounced Mr. Reid deceased at the scene," Lysek said. "The investigation will be ongoing."

Reid was not present for the start of the Eagles' walkthrough Sunday morning. The Eagles originally said that Reid was dealing with a personal issue and that they would issue an update following practice.

The Eagles coach is a familiar presence at the team's practices, always hovering in his matching black shorts and shirt. The team was seen gathering together in prayer before practice, an ominous sign that something was amiss.

Players and coaches were not made available for interview following the morning walkthrough.

The last time Reid was believed to miss a practice was in November 2007 to appear in court with Garrett, after his son was arrested on gun and drug charges. Britt Reid, the Reids' second eldest son, was involved in a separate incident involving drugs and a gun on the same day as Garrett.

Reid later took a six week-long leave of absence during the 2008 offseason as his sons faced criminal charges. Garrett Reid was sentenced 23 months for smashing up another motorist's car while he was on heroin.

Britt Reid was sentenced 22 months plus probation. Reid, who works as a graduate assistant for the Temple football program, got married this July near the Reids' summer home in Southern California. Condolences to Coach Reid and Family

Meagan Good’s Hubby, DeVon Franklin, Gets Columbia Promotion

Great career news for Meagan Good’s newly married husband, DeVon Franklin. Today, it was announced that he’s been promoted w/in Columbia Pictures. The press release confirms:

DeVon Franklin has been named Senior Vice President of Production for Columbia Pictures it was announced today by Doug Belgrad, President of Columbia Pictures, to whom Franklin will report. In his new role, Franklin will find, develop and supervise production of commercial material geared towards the urban and faith-based markets. He will work with all of the film divisions within the Sony Pictures umbrella. His next project will be the film adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller, Heaven Is For Real.

The promotion recognizes the executive’s success supervising such hit films as The Karate Kid, Jumping the Broom, and the highly anticipated film Sparkle, starring Whitney Houston and Jordin Sparks.

Franklin will continue to work on Columbia Pictures franchise titles such as The Karate Kid, Masters of the Universe and After Earth. Since joining Sony Pictures, Franklin has helped to oversee such hits as The Pursuit of Happyness,Hancock, and Seven Pounds, all of which starred Will Smith and saw enormous worldwide success as well as the hit film 21, starring Kevin Spacey.

Not bad for a man only 34 years young, right?

Who You Won't See on Keyshia Cole's Reality Show

Keyshia Cole has a new album coming out and a reality show to promote so she reactivated her Twitter account and took questions from her fans last night. One fan asked who was going to be on Keyshia's new show 'Family First' and Keyshia said everybody except one person...Unfortunately, Keyshia and her sister Neffie just don't get along and as a result Neffie won't be on the show. After fans pressed Keyshia for more tea, she simply said there are two sides to every story, but admitted she and Neffie aren't even able to be cordial for the sake of the kids

.

Quick Pic: Mary J. Blige & Christina Milian All Smiles On Set Of ‘The Voice’

Cop a gander of R&B stars Mary J. Blige and Christina Milian posing it up on the set of NBC’s The Voice.

‘Be Without You’ singer Blige is serving as an “advisor” on the hit show, teaming with coach Adam Levine. Meanwhile Milian has plenty of reasons to smile, the most notable being that she has been invited back to reprise her role as Social Media Correspondent.
Season 3 of The Voice kicks off on September 10th. Here’s hoping it brings with it the chart comebacks of its star Christina’s – Aguilera and Milian. Let the countdown begin!

Snoop Dogg changed Name to Snoop Lion

Rapper Snoop Dogg has reportedly changed his name from Snoop Dog, to Snoop Lion. The Examiner reports the gangsta rapper-turned reggae man thinks he is Bob Marley reincarnated telling reporters Tuesday that after a “spiritual awakening,” it was clear he had to adopt a new style.
Lion even has even reportedly been meeting Marley Kids including Rohan Marley. According to sources, Snoop, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, Jr., had people lost for words after he mad the big announcement. This man must have been extra extra high.

“Snoop said that after traveling to Jamaica recently as part of a spiritual cleansing, a Rastafarian priest convinced him to take his life in another direction. The radical transformation began with a name change.”

Snoop Lion said this after the meeting in a temple:“The High Priest asked me what my name was, and I said, ‘Snoop Dogg.’ And he looked me in my eyes and said, ‘No more. You are the light; you are the lion.’”

Yes, Snoop Dogg changed his name to Snoop Lion, and if you don’t know, now you know. However, the former Dogg Father said that with a name-change comes a different style of music. Enter reggae for the newly-cleansed Snoop Lion.

“Rap is not a challenge to me. I had enough of that. It’s not appealing to me no more. I don’t have no challenges. I’m ‘Uncle Snoop’ in rap. When you get to be an uncle, you need to find a new profession so you can start over and be fresh again. I want to be a kid again.”

Snoop’s name change places him in the company of others who have gotten new handles mid-career. Christina Aguilera changed her name to Xtina, Puff Daddy went from Puffy to P. Diddy to Diddy, Garth Brooks changed his name to Chris Gaines and Beyonce morphed into her alter ego, Sasha Fierce, citing the Washington Post.

What do yall think, will he keep the name?

Rihanna & Drake LEAD The PACK With FIVE 2012 VMA Nods

Pop star Rihanna and rapper Drake are the top nominated artists for the 2012 VMAs with five apiece. Get the deets on their noms inside and find out how Beyonce and Frank Ocean did......
Rihanna and Drake may both get tons of camera time at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards as they are the most nominated artists.
Both walked away with Video of the Year nods (“We Found Love” and "Take Care) while Drake's “HYFR” video got him a nomination for Best Hip-Hop Video.

Also, “Take Care” (which featured Rihanna) picked up Best Male Video, Best Art Direction, and Best Cinematography nods.
Meanwhile, Beyoncé, Frank Ocean and M.I.A. all landed three nominations. While Chris Brown & Nicki Minaj landed two.
The 2012 MTV VMAs will air September 6 at 8 p.m. from the Staples Center in Los Angeles. So far, Alicia Keys has been booked to perform.

Here the full nominee list:

Video of the Year
Katy Perry, “Wide Awake”
Gotye, “Somebody That I Used To Know”
Rihanna, “We Found Love”
Drake feat. Rihanna, “Take Care”
M.I.A., “Bad Girls”

Best New Artist
Fun. feat. Janelle Monae, “We Are Young”
Carly Rae Jepsen, “Call Me Maybe”
Frank Ocean, “Swim Good”
One Direction, “What Makes You Beautiful”
The Wanted, “Glad You Came”

Best Hip-Hop Video
Childish Gambino, “Heartbeat”
Drake feat. Lil Wayne, “HYFR”
Kanye West feat. Pusha T, Big Sean & 2 Chainz, “Mercy”
Watch the Throne, “Paris”
Nicki Minaj feat. 2 Chainz, “Beez in the Trap”

Best Male Video
Justin Bieber, “Boyfriend”
Frank Ocean, “Swim Good”
Drake feat. Rihanna, “Take Care”
Chris Brown, “Turn Up the Music”
Usher, “Climax”

Best Female Video
Rihanna, “We Found Love”
Katy Perry, “Part of Me”
Beyoncé, “Love on Top”
Nicki Minaj, “Starships”
Selena Gomez & The Scene, “Love You Like a Love Song”

Best Pop Video
One Direction, “What Makes You Beautiful”
Fun. feat. Janelle Monae, “We Are Young”
Rihanna, “We Found Love”
Justin Bieber, “Boyfriend”
Maroon 5 feat. Wiz Khalifa, “Payphone”

Best Rock Video
Coldplay, “Paradise”
The Black Keys, “Lonely Boy”
Linkin Park, “BURN IT DOWN”
Jack White, “Sixteen Saltines”
Imagine Dragons, “It’s Time”

Best Electronic Dance Music Video
Duck Sauce, “Big Bad Wolf”
Calvin Harris, “Feel So Close”
Skrillex, “First of the Year (Equinox)”
Martin Solveig, “The Night Out”
Avicii, “Le7els”

Best Video with a Message
Demi Lovato, “Skyscraper”
Rise Against, “Ballad of Hollis Brown”
Kelly Clarkson, “Dark Side”
Gym Class Heroes, “The Fighter”
K’Naan feat. Nelly Furtado, “Is Anybody Out There?”
Lil Wayne, “How to Love”

Best Art Direction
Katy Perry, “Wide Awake”
Drake feat. Rihanna, “Take Care”
Lana Del Rey, “Born to Die”
Regina Spektor, “All the Rowboats”
Of Monsters & Men, “Little Talks”

Best Choreography
Chris Brown, “Turn Up the Music”
Rihanna, “Where Have You Been”
Beyoncé, “Countdown”
Avicii, “Le7els”
Jennifer Lopez f/Pitbull, “Dance Again”

Best Cinematography
M.I.A., “Bad Girls”
Adele, “Someone Like You”
Drake feat. Rihanna, “Take Care”
Coldplay feat. Rihanna, “Princess of China”
Lana Del Rey, “Born to Die”

Best Direction
M.I.A., “Bad Girls”
Duck Sauce, “Big Bad Wolf”
Coldplay feat. Rihanna, “Princess of China”
Frank Ocean, “Swim Good”
Watch the Throne, “Otis”

Best Editing
Beyoncé, “Countdown”
A$AP Rocky, “Goldie”
Gotye, “Somebody That I Used to Know”
Watch the Throne, “Paris”
Kanye West feat. Pusha T, Big Sean and 2 Chainz, “Mercy”

Best Visual Effects
Katy Perry, “Wide Awake”
Rihanna, “Where Have You Been”
David Guetta feat. Nicki Minaj, “Turn Me On”
Linkin Park, “BURN IT DOWN”

Lee Daniels & Hugh Jackman Will Try Teaming Again On MLK Assassination Film 'Orders To Kill'

Try as they might, so far, Lee Daniels and Hugh Jackman just haven't been able to make a movie together. Over two years ago, the actor was lining up to play segregation enforcer Sheriff Jim Clark in the director's civil rights tale "Selma," which never was able to get in front of cameras. And then, earlier this year, Jackman was sought out for a role in Daniels' currently shooting "The Butler" but it never worked out due to "The Wolverine" schedule, which is also rolling in front of cameras at the moment. But by golly, they're hoping the third time's the charm.

The LA Times reports both are now attached to "Orders To Kill," a movie that will center on the conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Now before you think this is gonna be some kind of Oliver Stone, "JFK"-style kettle of ideas, guess again. The movie will be based on the book of the same name by William Pepper, and adapted by Hanna Weg. So who is this Pepper? He's an activist and attorney (who will be played by Jackman) who argued for years that the convicted shooter James Earl Ray was a patsy, who was set up by the government, who themselves carried out the hit on the civil rights leader, fearing his opposition to the Vietnam War. Far fetched? We haven't even gotten to the most eye-opening part yet.

In 1998, the King family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Loyd Jowers, the owner of Jim's Grill near the Lorraine Motel in Memphis where MLK was killed. 

The legal action was prompted due to a 1993 appearance by Jowers on ABC's "Prime Time Live" in which he alleged the Mafia and the U.S. government worked together to assassinate King. In 1999, in a trial that was virtually ignored by the mainstream media, a Memphis jury found Jowers and "governmental agencies" responsible for MLK's death. It's this trial that will serve as the climatic part of the movie, though, it should be noted, that a separate Department Of Justice investigation in 2000 found no evidence of a conspiracy and separately King's biographer David Garrow and author Gerald Posner also refute such claims (though the latter also thinks Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in JFK's killing).
So, needless to say, this is one movie that will definitely get people talking, but it's a bit of a way off just yet. Millenium Films are producing and financing the movie and taking it out to distributors, but with both Jackman and Daniels busy at the moment, who knows how long it will take to develop this one. And we also wonder how much the approval of the Martin Luther King Jr. estate will weigh on this film as well, and the potential for distributors to come on board. 

As you might recall, they are very particular about how the late leader is portrayed, and their disapproval over elements of more unsavory portions of his life in both Daniels' "Selma" and Paul Greengrass' "Memphis" were part of the reason those movies were shelved. That said, considering they've long believed King was killed as part of a conspiracy, they will likely want to see this story told.

It's all very intriguing nonetheless, and clearly Jackman and Daniels want to work together. Will this be the project that finally allows that to happen?

Bikini Baring Christina Milian's Jamaican Holiday

Making sure to fit in some relaxation while on a trip for business, Christina Milian posted pictures to her Twitter page to show off her day of preparation and fun for a magazine cover shoot.
The "Bring It On: Fight to the Finish" actress started her busy work day with hair and makeup in the wee hours of the morning as she posted a photo of of herself in a bath robe with a caption reading, "Good Morning.. day started bright and early 5am #Lego #milianheiress" before adding a picture of her in a bikini getting perfected, writing, "Getting Glammed.. all the work for 1 pic #getbronzed."
Check out all of Christina's Instagram pictures below!

After finalizing her flawless look, Christina then took to the beautiful ocean waters of the Caribbean as she frolicked in a hot pink bikini before later stepping into a one piece that left little to the imagination as she showed off her large tattoo on her backside.

Miss Milian finished off the day by getting into the island culture as she sipped the juice out of a fresh coconut, rode around on a motorbike with a local and went on a sunset boat ride.

Lil Kim Endorses New Boyfriend ‘Mr Papers’

With a career spanning over twenty years and an impressive 5 Mics to her name, there’s no denying Lil Kim‘s influence on the Hip Hop’s evolving community.
So, in what saw her use that influence altruistically, she has encouraged fans to support her new boyfriend ‘Mr Papers’ who like the Brooklyn native is a Rapper.

With many fans awaiting her new music , here’s hoping Kim ‘goes just as hard’ when the campaign for her new LP kicks off.

For, with cuts like ‘Key To The City’ and ‘If You Love Me‘ proving she’s still got it as a writer, there’s no reason she can’t release an album which enjoys critical if not commercial acclaim.

Chris Brown Fires His Manager?

It has been widely reported that a sexy text message from Chris Brown's manager Tina Davis was the reason Chris Brown and Rihanna got into their infamous fight inside Chris' Lamborghini the night before the Grammy Awards in 2009
Welp, word on the curb is that Tina is out as Chris' manager...

According to Sandra Rose Christopher is now being managed by Akon's little brother Bu Thiam.
Insiders claim Tina is being blamed for the disastrous sales numbers for Chris Brown's last album and that she has been demoted to a minor role in his camp.

Tammie Grant Sets the Record Straight & Denies Pregnancy By Stevie J

Shortly after Episode 7 of ‘Love and Hip Hop Atlanta’ aired, rumors surfaced that Stevie J. could be expecting an unexpected love child. The woman in question, was Tammie Grant, ex-wife of NBA player Doug Grant. It wasn’t too far of a stretch, considering that at one point Stevie J was producing an album for Tammie’s daughter Tauryn Grant. However, Tammie Grant released a statement to set the record straight.
Tammie says that Stevie J did not break up her marriage, she is not pregnant and she’d love to distance herself from Stevie J and all of his foolish scandals.

I am not pregnant with Stevie J’s baby. There are rumors being said that just are not true. Yes, at one time me and Stevie were very close and we were seeing each other. I never gave Stevie any money which is absurd, nor did he break up my marriage, me and Gary Grant were already separated for 2 years when me and Stevie met. It was at my best interest to distance myself from Stevie and the scandals. I only have kind things to say about him and fond memories. I wish him and his beautiful children all the luck.

Snippets: Tamia – ‘Beautiful Surprise’ Album

August 28th sees vocal powerhouse Tamia release her fifth studio album ‘Beautiful Surprise’. And as if the set’s awesome lead single wasn’t already reason enough to buy, the Canadian diva has shared a preview of what fans can expect from the LP – which has been almost six years in the making.

Listen below…
Click here to preview ‘Beautiful Surprise’

(Via Amazon)

1. Lose My Mind
2. Give Me You
3. It’s Not Fair
4. Believe in Love
5. Beautiful Surprise
6. It’s Not Over Yet
7. Love I’m Yours
8. Him
9. Still Love You
10. Because of You
11. Still

Thoughts?

After All there are Signs Of Life At OWN

After months of doom and gloom reports about disappointing ratings and the lackluster performance of the Oprah Winfrey Network, there are hopeful signs of new life.
Discovery CEO David Zaslav said today that there has been an improvement in the overall performance at OWN. According to him, there has been a 20% ratings growth in the second quarter among the network's core audience of women between the ages of 25-54. 

Zaslav made it a point about the improving numbers, and added that "canidily we're significantly ahead of where we thought we would be."
He further said that the network "spilled less red ink in the second quarter" than it did in the previous one. Though a lot of the savings this quarter was due to the cancellation of the Rosie O'Donnell talk show.

However, he added that more money would be spent in the future on marketing and programming, and that they expect OWN to actually turn a profit in late 2013.

Ginuwine Is BACK...

Ginuwine is on the comeback tip. The "Differences" singer wants the world to know he's still here. And can still bring out a crowd. So before performing a sold out show at BB Kings this Mr. Ginuwine partied it up with reality stars Jennifer Williams & Somaya Reece.

At Uptown Magazine & Ricardo Steak House's Ginuwine event at The Limelight Shops in Manhattan this past weekend, folks turned up to find out what the crooner's been up to.

In addition to being a hubby to rapper Sole and being a dad to umpteen kids, Ginuwine is back in the music saddle with his newly formed group with Tank & Tyrese called TGT. So he thanked his celeb friends and fans for coming out to the special event. Here's some more pics:

"Basketball Wives" star Jennifer Williams is looking great these days.

So is "Love & Hip Hop" star and rapper Somaya.

"The View" co-host Sherri Shepherd and her husband Sal were there. Oooooh this wig Sherri...

Guests chomped on yummy eats from Ricardo Steakhouse, sipped cocktails from Leblon & Remy V and treated the folks there with tix to his sold-out show the following night. Well isn't he sweet...

The pretty crooner is touring in the U.S and overseas. Next stop is Melbourne, Australia (August 9th).

Kim Burrell New Reality Show Promo

Kim Burrell is a world-renowned Gospel singer who’s life is becoming epically vast. Although she’s had her singing career for more than 20 years, she’s just now started a roll-a-coaster of pop culture sensationalism. Kim Burrell is entering a dimension – the world of reality television, with business partner and friend, Krishnar Lewis. Cameras have been rolling for over a year now, as Kim and Krishnar make their way through real hardships, real triumphs, real drama, real life, and definitely real love. Take a look at a sneak preview of the new show, Whatever It Takes — after the click:
Krishnar Lewis is an entertainer & and industry-entrepreneur. Most notably known as a top male fashion model, Krishnar used the platform to extend and showcase his talents in music and television as well. Kim started out as a client of Krishnar’s firm but the two quickly became great friends and business partners with several ventures.

WATCH:

In addition to her own reality show — Kim will appear on Lifetime’s The Houston Family Chronicles, the docu-series that will show her along with Whitney’s mother, Cissy Houston; daughter Bobbi Kristina Brown; sister-in-law and manager Pat Houston; her husband, Gary; and their daughter, Rayah; working to move past the singer’s death

Juelz Santana and Love & Hip Hop’s Kimbella Show Off New Baby Girl

Last week, rapper Juelz Santana and is his reality star girlfriend, Kimbella Vanderheeare (of Love & Hip-Hop) welcomed a bouncing baby girl into the world. Weighing, 7 lbs, 3 ounces Kimbella (who is now the mother of three bambinos) showed off her new daughter on twitter, writing:

I was blessed a third time with the birth of my Daughter last Saturday.. Here we are in the flesh right after birth! What a beautiful moment I was able to go through and come out of “Still Pretty!”

Congrats!

Bobbi Kristina Stirs Marriage Rumors

Whitney Houston's daughter Bobbi Kristina declares her undying love for ex-brother Nick Gordon while posting pictures to suggest they may have taken their relationship to the next level...

Oh Whitney!

Scandal’ Fans Get Ready For Season 2

Source are saying, Scandal will jump right back into the action when the ABC political fixer drama returns in September with its second season.
Scandal cast members talked to THR about what audiences can expect in Season 2!

Quinn, the newest member of Pope & Associates, was taken into custody for her role in boyfriend Gideon’s murder in the seventh and final episode of Season 1 only to find her boss Olivia (Kerry Washington) reveal to the rest of the team that “Quinn” didn’t really exist.

Stay tuned for a stronger-bolder, 13+ episode Season 2 that begins September 27th @ 10pm!

Celebrity Sighting — Usher Raymond is Back out being seen after Stepson's death!

Usher Raymond seems to be in good spirits when spotted at Whole Foods Market with a friend in El Segundo, California.

The super-star R&B singer first emerged this weekend following the tragic death of his stepson Kile.

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘The Beer Olympics’

Pffft, who needs the Olympics in London? Here in Murrica our summer games are the Beer Olympics and this guy is the Michael Phelps of rockin’ out!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!
EFREM