KANYE WEST IN LEGAL TROUBLE

Dbanj and Kanye West

Hip-Hop star Kanye West is the subject of a lawsuit over an illegal sample contained on a 2006 mixtape.

Robert Poindexter filed a lawsuit against Kanye West in the United States District Court of Southern New York, on March 27.

Kanye is being sued over the song “Girls Girls Girls (Remix)” on the mixtape “Freshmen Adjustment 2.”

Robert Poindexter claims that Kanye’s track contains an illegal sample of the song “Trying Girls Out” by R&B group The Persuaders.

Robert Poindexter seeks $500,000 in damages from Kanye West.

NEW MUSIC; EHEN EHEN OKAY OKAY- THE FOLAKE

THE FOLAKE

After débuting at number one on the Afro Pop charts (CD Baby) with her self-titled debut single “The.Folake”, award-winning actress, model and musician THE.FOLAKE! returns with a more sombre and serious brand new single titled “Ehen Ehen Okay Okay”.

 

Drawing influences from her Spoken Word and Poetry roots, this self-produced single seesThe.Folake! speaking candidly about the ills and “wahala” that her Nigerian people are forced to deal with and live through on a daily basis - bribery, corruption, lack of electricity and the recent fuel subsidy removal among other trials and tribulations.

 

Offered up as a free download to everyone willing to listen, “Ehen Ehen Okay Okay” speaks directly of the times we’re living in now, not only in Nigeria but in several parts of the world.

DOWNLOAD EHEN EHEN OKAY OKAY

DOWNLOAD LINK 2

NEW MUSIC: OLIVER TWIST- WALE MMG (FREESTYLE)

Drake, Wale and Big Sean

Since D’Banj released Oliver Twist, the covers spawned by the single has been nothing short of the word phenomenal, first was the covered of Oliver Twist by the British Grammy award winning artiste, Estelle. I really did not take her attempt at remixing the song serious, now it is the turn of Wale, the American-Nigerian rapper on MMG Featuring a DJ Semtex drops, the freestyle by the emcee, born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin, was premiered on the 1Xtra DJ’s mixshow a few hours ago. Download and feel free to share.

DOWNLOAD

TUFACE IDIBIA TO LAUNCH NEW ALBUM IN APRIL

Tuface Idibia

Come 30th April, 2012, Tuface Idibia is set to formally launch his newest effort at his Buckwyld n Breathless - Away & Beyond Concert,  at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos. Pundit have been betting their two cents on the forthcoming effort to be a master piece. I hope Mr Innocent Idibia does not disappoint his fans.

Spotted! Rihanna Hits Up Radio 1

Rihanna spotting a Stella McCartney blazer

Rihanna sported a colorful Stella McCartney blazer as she exited her Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London enroute to Radio 1. A day prior, she sat down with Kate Garraway of Daybreak to discuss her acting experience in Battleship, her success and more. Luckily, she didn’t have to clap back at any reporters

DMX Loses It On ‘Couples Therapy’

DMX and Tashera Simmons

One can only imagine the effects media scrutiny adds on celebrity couples’ already-tumultuous relationships. Relationship therapist Dr. Jenn Berman has teamed up with the producers of VH1′s Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew for her own show, Couples Therapy.

She gathers five couples with hopes of reviving and reconciling their relationships. DMX and his wife of 14 years, Tashera Simmons, are one of the couples seeking therapy (and a check). Watch below as DMX refuses to take part of a group therapy session, along with the complete first episode.

What we’ve been up to… Drake at O2 Arena (March 26th)

DRAKE PERFORMING AT O2 ARENA IN LONDON

When it comes to Drake, critics like to focus on the 25-year-old Canadian’s excessive compulsion to over-sentimentalise his rapid flight to fame and the many women he’s slept with (plus the ones who got away), often disregarding that it takes a certain kind of man to present all that mushy stuff in the guise of hip-hop and get away with it.

Pulling in lady fans to score two UK gold and US platinum albums, that’s easy enough (he’s a looker) but the fact men adore the former child actor just as much, if not more, makes Drake the sort of clever conundrum that could remedy the many faux pas hip-hop has willingly entertained over the last 20 years. He’ll say himself that he’s more concerned with reckless good times, than thuggish bravado, welcoming tonight’s sold out crowd to “the greatest fucking club in the world, club paradise” – and for at least 90 minutes, he pulls off one heck of a party.


It’s not an easy job either, as he’s joined only by a six-piece band, a few visuals, and a humble light show (and not even an outfit change). However, he runs laps along the O2 stage as track after track from his latest album Take Care crash brilliantly around the arena, like  ‘Under Ground Kings‘.   ”I bet we can make tonight the greatest story ever told, cause I’m down to spend whatever, lately I’ve been on a roll!” yells the rapper as the crowd effortlessly screams along.


Other big hitters like ‘Headlines‘ and ‘Over‘ – where urgent, grandiose beats meet his hooky, monotonous flow – also light up the proceedings, and even when he goes into R&B mode à la Craig David and delivers the emo-ballad ‘Marvin’s Room‘, he’s still winning.  That is, until a knucklehead thuggishness makes an appearance by way of his excessive use of the N-word (“Tonight we’re gonna let it slide,” he smiles) and references to “bustin pussy” sound way too wrong to be consensual.


Perhaps his mentor Lil Wayne is to blame for gutter moments, coming off a bit try-hard for a guy named Aubrey who hails from the land of Celine Dion and takes every possible gap to gush about how much he loves his fans. But as far as hip-hop shows go, Drake does a good job in showing he’s earned the hype, and with a heartfelt approach to the genre that’s tougher than you’d imagine.(Words: Matilda Egere-Cooper) 

Nas speaks on his nasty divorce from R&B singer Kelis.

Nas speaks on his nasty divorce from R&B singer Kelis.

Nas and Kelis

During an appearance yesterday on MTV's "RapFix Live,"Nas broke his silence about his ugly divorce from R&B singer Kelis in April 2009. After ending their four-year relationship, the Queensbridge, New York native was dragged through the mud in court and pilfered for an exorbitant amount of spousal and child support. Esco says that he always tries to stay out of the limelight, but acknowledges how the divorce made him more of a public figure.

"Life is crazy. I [wound] up paying more money to baby mommas than what some of my rap brothers and sistren make," he said. "I've always been away from too much limelight and that right there put me in your... No one's exempt from people probing into your life once you get into the game. So it put a lot of my business out there, man. It was like, people weren't thinking I was making that kind of money, and now they knew.

"I was always low key with it in a lot of ways. It was hard with people being all in your business, and it was just ugly. Divorce can be crazy," he continued, offering some advice for married couples. "Man, if you're happy... Love is a beast, man. Hold on. Be prepared for any way it may go, and be honest."

Drake Delivers Freestyle On "Tim Westwood TV"

Drake spits a freestyle during a sit-down with the British DJ.

DRAKE

Drake recently delivered a freestyle during a sit-down with Tim Westwood for "Tim Westwood TV."

The Young Money rapper spit off the top of the dome during the freestyle, dropping lines about a girl whose status raised after they dated. "Remember when you was my bitch? / My special friend with benefits / You remember how you got here, hope to God you ain't forget / But the look you're giving me tells me you did / Empty stares from across the club like you don't recognize the kid."

Watch the freestyle below

Meek Mill "Dreamchasers 2" Mixtape Release Date

Meek Mill preps the follow up to his DJ Drama-hosted mixtape, which released in August 2011.

Rick Ross and Meek Mill

Meek Mill has announced the release date for his upcoming mixtape Dreamchasers 2.

Breaking the news on Twitter, the Maybach Music Grouprapper revealed that the mixtape will release on April 24th. "#Dreamchasers2 April 24th ...... Gotta feed them streets!" he wrote.

The sequel comes more than eight months after the release of Dreamchasers, which dropped in August 2011. The tape, hosted by DJ Drama, featured guest appearances from Rick Ross, Yo Gotti, Young Chris, Beanie Sigel and more.

Kendrick Lamar Addresses Pressure Of Recording Debut Album "Good Kid In A Mad City"

Kendrick Lamar says that he's been preparing for this album for his entire life.

K.DOT speaks on new album

Kendrick Lamar is currently prepping the release of his debut Good Kid in a Mad City, set for release onTDE/Aftermath/Interscope. During an interview on “Last Call with Carson Daly,” K. Dot spoke on the record, stating that he’s always known how important his debut would be from the beginning of his career.

“This is something that I always prep for. When you have a vision to come out and have the world know your music, you have to see that first before you get in the studio and do anything,” he said. “Since the day I stepped in the studio, I always envisioned this first album and what it would be like and what I wanted to feel subconsciously. There’s really no pressure for me, it’s just me going in and doing what I love. Executing. All those years of preparation and dedicated to my craft, I feel like it’s time now where I know I’m going to execute, I know I’ll give the people what they need and what they expect from me. And what I expect from myself, at the end of the day.”

Kahli Abdu presses on with Rebel Friday II series, drops two sick tunes; “Stuck With You” and “Survivor”.

Kahli Abdu presses on with Rebel Friday II series, drops two sick tunes; “Stuck With You” and “Survivor”. 

Really don't understand why hip hop heads in Nigeria are sleeping on Kahli Abdu, this cat has shown us that rap is both poetry and lyricism laced with heavy equal dose of consciousness and braggadocio; check out his Ministry of Corruption and with the Rebel Friday II Series, he's definitely carving the book of Nigerian rap on rock.

He took on X.O Senavoe on Kid Connect produced Stuck with you and laced the awe-inspiring Survivor with Lindsey

Kahli Abdu – Stuck With You (Produced by Kid Konnect) 

                                                   DOWNLOAD FREE

Kahli Abdu ft Lindsey – Survivor 

DOWNLOAD SURVIVOR FT LINDSEY

Honey Cocaine Shot After Tyga Concert In Nebraska

Tyga and protege, Honey Cocaine 

The week's biggest story was when Tyga protege Honey Cocaine was shot Monday (March 19) in Omaha, Nebraska. The female rapper survived the shooting, and even tweeted within 24 hours that she was later shopping in New York City.

Police said a black Ford Taurus followed the band's bus to 16th and Jackson streets, and continued to fire, striking the bus and its trailer, shattering a window.One of the two people shot was taken to the hospital. The other person hit refused treatment at the scene.There were nine people in the bus at the time of the shooting, including two children. 

 Later in the week, Tyga revealed that the shooting stemmed from the Young Money rapper's decision not to have opening acts at his concert, prompting violence from local performers. Is there a way of saving hip-hop from itself?  

RIHANNA CHANNELS TANG DYNASTY ON SET OF "PRINCESS OF CHINA" VIDEO

Riri on set of "Princess of China"

You saw her perform it at the Grammys alongside Coldplay and were probably wondering 'What? How?'.  It seemed like an unlikely combination but the video for "Princess Of China" is underway.  Hopefully it will merge the idea alittle more cohesively.  Rihanna shared a few pics from the shoot.  Do we like Rihanna better as a blonde or brunette?

Riri shares pictures from the set

ASA, LAURYN HILL, CELINE DION, ARE MY GREATEST INFLUENCE SAYS AFRO-FUSION POP QUEEN PAMELA

PAMELA; THE AFRO FUSION QUEEN

The Nigerian music keeps emerging, and with it, a crop of talents who have been able to combine academics well with their passion. Names that readily pop to mind when we discuss this topic are artistes like EldeeTheDon, Sound Sultan, Banky W, Naeto C, Cobhams Asuquo and others. The music industry is a blinding cluster that takes a discerning mind to spot real talents who have been able to do  well while combining their passion point and academic. Today Akin Alaka and Motunrayo Reis-Alade interviewed a budding lawyer and an eclectic Afro-pop fusion singer, Pamela. Below is the excerpt. Enjoy.

MOTUNRAYO: Okay here we go. I have listened to a leak of your single, Sangalo, comes to mind is the powerful voice, lots of range. It’s packed with lots of energy and verve...who is Ego?


PAMELA: My full names ar Pamela Ego Johnny Abii .......Am the 1st child of my parents. I have three siblings. Graduated from the University of Imo State where I studied Law. And now waiting on Law school coming soon...Now school aside, I am a musician... Spontaneous to different genre of music (laughs) I don't rap.

AKIN: How long have you been doing music professionally and how did you get into music?

PAMELA: Ahhh…about 2 years now…I have been singing professionally for two years. I come from a family where music is loved greatly; I had that music vibe since I was a kid. And it’s been growing ever since. I love music it’s like I breathe music (Laughs). I didn't learn to sing, it’s given, you know God gave me…it is a must developed skill.

MOTUNRAYO: You didn't tell us anything about your background, when and where you were born...

PAMELA: (Smiles warmly at the interviewers) Ok... I’m from Ezinihitte Mbaise in Imo state; the land of hope. I was born in Lagos state and still live in Lagos. I’m in my early twenties. I studied at Imo state University, I studied law. I will be going to Law school in April this year. (Smiles brightly).

AKIN: Abii sounds like a Cross Riverian name...

PAMELA: Am very Imo state

PAMELA

MOTUNRAYO: What kind of musical instrument do you play? Why do you like it?

PAMELA: I play the guitar...still improving on it though. I have one; I love it because I know learning it would help me write faster and better

AKIN: What do you consider your greatest asset as a musician? And what are you doing to hone that skill?

PAMELA: My greatest strength is my vocal ability. I’m easily identifiable, I love creating melodies, and in fact I create melody to every note that comes to my head. I have people I work with...they are very good at directing and showing me where to improve more on...

MOTUNRAYO: Who are your sources of influence and why do you consider them at all?

PAMELA: My greatest source of influence are Celine Dion, Erica Badu, Lauren Hill, our Own Asa; I love these people because they love music and they have a passion for the art that  surround music irrespective of the challenges and the setbacks or the general acceptability or otherwise of their craft. I see me in that platform, as much as I want to deliver good music, to be trendy and lots more, I love the art surrounding music and I have a passion for music.

SEXY, SULTRY AND HIP

MOTUNRAYO: So what are your plans for your art and what should your fans expect from you soon?

PAMELA: Aaah...I am creating the ability through my music where we youths, elders and fans can express themselves through whatever profession we chose...And let's all remember anything we love that's positive and contributing to our society is a profession. We shouldn't let the negative tell us differently. We are all wonderful as long as we create positive influence...all of us. My fans should expect good messages, sensational songs and... Sangalo would be out soon and many more...

AKIN: Thank you for your time...it's been wonderful having you

PAMELA: You most welcome!

THE UNDERGROUND MIXTAPE VOL 1...THE REVOLUTION

THE UNDERGROUND MIXTAPE VOL 1

The Underground Mixtape is a collection of songs put together by different bloggers to promote both establish and up coming arts in the country. A collection of the best mixtapes from all the regions in Nigeria in term of artistic and musical content. With a strong support base that is hinged on the tested expertise of the bloggers in the music industry, who will make sure its content is widely promoted, distributed and marketed via DJs, Media houses, and massive on-line promotion with the joint support of LasgidiStars,Flightmuzic, Djfinal,360nobs, Itsmusiccafe,  irepgoodmusic, Ogagus and Unilagolodo. 

If you are new in the game and talented, don't miss the opportunity to be heardContact 07062538428 for more inquires, entries would be closed on April 27th. 

Nicki Minaj Rocks A Retro Pink Afro On The April Cover Of Allure Magazine

 

Our darling Nicki Minaj graced the April cover of Allure Magazine decked out in full Spring attire. She's rocking a satiny pink skirt with what looks like a white bra and leather pastel gloves with floral accents. Not that it matters because Nicki Minaj almost never adheres to fashion rules especially as it relates to seasons. In the issue she tells fans about her struggles with staying fit and dishes on why she switches her hair up so often. "I had done something I thought was really, really, really cute, and I showed my neighbor. She was like 'Why'd you do that to your hair?' And I never forgot what I said: 'I'm someone new in this hair." This issue hits stands on March 20th!

Game - The City ft. Kendrick Lamar

The Game kept us waiting for so long for this...enjoy

TOP 10 PRODUCERS IN NIGERIA...@ NO 9

Puffy T

Temidayo Babatope Joseph who is popularly known as Puffy T is an Ekiti State born beatmaker who has churned out major hits like Yahooze (Olu Maintain), Lori Le (X-Project), Gba Mi Leti (Dudu of Krazie Kulture), and Sip Easy (Freestyle) just to mention a few.

Puffy T also run an entertainment production outfit, he has a record label and a recording studio.

He is our No 9 producer on the top ten count down.

TOP 10 MUSIC PRODUCERS IN NIGERIA

And No 10 is Solomon Oyeniyi popularly known as K-Solo, is no doubt one of the hottest music producers in Nigeria. K-Solo who is known to have produced most of Timaya’s big hits is still scoring high in the industry.

Watch this space...

Stars now spotting Justin Beiber's new look

Jayz's Bieber

Is Justin Bieber' hair cut the new fad? Many fashionista and music cats are now spotting it...check out the pics.

And who's this...Natalie Portmann too?

Girlfriend Selena Gomez is not to be outdone

Check out Selena Gomez

Dbanj Oliver Twist Official Video HD

Dbanj Oliver Twist Video 2012

 

The long awaited official video for Nigerian afrobeat superstar D’Banj‘s global monster jam “Oliver Twist” (which has already been remixed by several artists globally including the likes of Skepta, Kardinal Offishall and Estelle) has finally arrived. Featuring guest appearances from the G.O.O.D Music family including Kanye West, Big Sean, Pusha T, Manny Fresh and Hit-Boy alongside UK’s own Sneakbo and former Sugababes member Keisha Buchanan. 

Watch the official video after the jump. Watch: D’banj – “Oliver Twist” [starring Kanye West, Sneakbo + Keisha Buchanan] | Music Video

 

Cash Money records is, once again, under fire for not paying royalties.

Cash Money records is, once again, under fire for not paying royalties.

Cash Money records is, once again, under fire for not paying royalties.

According to Courthouse News Service via Soul Culture, music giant EMI is suing Cash Money because the label simply ceased quarterly royalty payments they had agreed to make as part of a 2009 settlement between the parties.

Cash Money allegedly owes $491,000 in royalties for samples from EMI's catalog.

“Because Defendant has ignored numerous communications from EMI regarding Defendant’s contractual obligations, EMI once more is being forced to commence a lawsuit against Defendant to recover royalty payments,” the complaint states. “The sales of Defendant’s products have far exceeded the payments that EMI has received.”

“It is clear from Defendant’s conduct that it has no intention of honoring the Agreement,” the complaint continues

“Because Defendant has ignored numerous communications from EMI regarding Defendant’s contractual obligations, EMI once more is being forced to commence a lawsuit against Defendant to recover royalty payments,” states the complaint. “The sales of Defendant’s products have far exceeded the payments that EMI has received.”

“It is clear from Defendant’s conduct that it has no intention of honoring the Agreement.”
The turn of events is somewhat less than shocking, as the house that Slim and Birdman built has been a near-constant target for lawsuits over the past several years. Plaintiffs in previous cases have included Bangladesh, producer T-Mix, Done Deal Enterprises, producer David Kirkwood, Bridgeport Music, "Lollipop" producer Deezle, and many, many more. Also of note are high-profile controversies with Mannie Fresh and Wendy Day over money.