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Tag: Alicia Keys

  • Janet Jackson: Open American Music Awards, Keeping Busy with New Projects

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    janet jackson

    janet jackson open american music awardsOn the heels of the announcement that Whitney Houston would take the stage at the 37th Annual American Music Awards – the ‘I Will Always Love You’ singer’s first performance at the show in a decade – comes more big news.

    Janet Jackson has just signed on to open the Nov. 22 live broadcast with a special opening medley.

    This marks the second time the ‘Control’ singer has opened a major award show this year. A few months ago, she performed ‘Scream’ in tribute to her late brother Michael Jackson at the ‘MTV Video Music Awards.’

    American Music Awards producer Larry Klein couldn’t be happier to have Jackson on the show’s roster. He said, “We’re thrilled about having Janet Jackson open this year’s show. She is an incredibly dynamic performer and I think the audience will be excited to see what she has in store.”

    Jackson joins previously announced performers include Rihanna, Green Day, Shakira, Lil’ Wayne, Mary J. Blige, Keith Urban, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie UnderwoodbDaughtry and Adam Lambert.

    Jackson has a busy schedule lined up in the next few months. On Nov. 18, she will sit down with Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts for her first interview since the death of her brother. Her second compilation album, a two-disc set called ‘Number Ones’ will be released on Nov. 17. The album includes a new single ‘Make Me,’ produced by Rodney Jerkins and Jackson. She also is hitting the big scree, again. Jackson just wrapped shooting of ‘Why Did I Get Married Too,’ the sequel to the successful 2007 Tyler Perry-helmed flick. A trailer for the film hit the Web last week.

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    Janet Jackson Pictures
    PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson attends the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
    Getty Images
    Getty
    BlackVoices.com

    Janet Jackson Photos

      Singer Janet Jackson (R) and musician Will I. Am (L) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011175), contact FilmMagic.com

      WireImage.com

      Singer Janet Jackson attends the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011173), contact FilmMagic.com

      WireImage.com

      Musician Will I. Am (L) and singer Janet Jackson (R) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011174), contact FilmMagic.com

      WireImage.com

      Singer Janet Jackson (R) and Musician Will I. Am (R) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104 Los Angeles – Celebrities In The Crowd.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011172), contact FilmMagic.com

      WireImage.com

      Janet Jackson attends the ‘Mario de Janeiro Testino’ book launch at Cafe Carmen on October 5, 2009 in Paris, France..”Mario de Janeiro Testino” Book Launch – PFW Spring/Summer 2010.Cafe Carmen.Paris, France.October 5, 2009.Photo by Julien Hekimian/WireImage.com..To license this image (58567448), contact WireImage.com

      WireImage.com

      PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson and photographer Patrick Demarchelier attend the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

      Getty Images

      PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson attends the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

      Getty Images

      PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson attends the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

      Getty Images

      PARIS – OCTOBER 02: Janet Jackson arrives at the Lanvin Pret a Porter show as part of the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 2, 2009 in Paris, France (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

      Getty Images

      PARIS – OCTOBER 02: Janet Jackson arrives at the Lanvin Pret a Porter show as part of the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 2, 2009 in Paris, France (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

      Getty Images

     

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  • Whitney Houston: Returning to the American Music Awards in a Big Way

    Whitney Houston I Look To You


    Whitney Houston is ready to show just how strong she is on primetime television.

    On Nov. 22, the 46 year-old entertainer will sing her Diane Warren-penned ballad ‘I Didn’t Know My Own Strength’ on the ’37th Annual American Music Awards’ telecast. The song is a featured single from her seventh studio album ‘I Look To You,’ which debuted atop the charts and remains marked the biggest first week sales of her career.

    The ‘I Will Always Love You’ singer’s AMA performance will be her first time on the show in a decade. She previously performed ‘Until You Come Back’ and ‘My Love Is Your Love’ with Babyface and Wyclef Jean on the 1999 telecast. I

    t will also mark her first primetime U.S. network performance in five years since appearing on the ‘World Music Awards’ in 2004.

    According to a rep for Dick Clark Productions, Houston will also be presented with the American Music Awards International Artist Award, in recognition of “special artists who have gone beyond the borders of their own country to be acknowledged for their superstar status around the globe.” She becomes the eighth honoree to join a elite group of award-winning recipients, including Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart, Led Zeppelin, the Bee Gees, Aerosmith, Madonna and Beyoncé.

    Previously announced American Music Award acts include Rihanna, Green Day, Shakira, Mary J. Blige, Keith Urban, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry and Adam Lambert. The American Music Awards will broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on Nov. 22 at 8 PM EST on ABC.

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    Whitney Houston Through The Years
    Just Whitney
    Since releasing her 1985 self-titled debut, Whitney Houston has become one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Though her signature voice and amazing vocal range made her a household name, this New Jersey native made headlines for her marriage to New Edition singer Bobby Brown, her alleged drug use and her recent relationship with Ray J. On the cusp of Houston’s latest comeback album, ‘I Look to You,’ Blackvoices.com takes a look at the singer throughout the years.
    Retna / Getty Images / AP / WireImage

    BHM MEDIA NEW

      While on a family vacation with Tom and Suri, Katie Holmes hit the beach near Rio de Janeiro in this blue one piece.

      bauergriffinonline.com

      Rihanna hits the stage at the NFL Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert in a pair of knee-high black boots. What do you think about the pop singer’s look?

      Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images for NFL

      Mischa Barton wore this Elie Saab couture mint green gown to the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is Mischa’s look a hit or miss?

      Eric Ryan, Getty Images

      Heroes star Hayden Panettiere arrives at the NBC Universal Pre-Super Bowl event at Portofino in a black tuxedo jacket and dress with a plunging neckline. Is the Hollywood starlet hot or not?

      Gerardo Mora, Getty Images

      Diane Kruger wore Nina Ricci for the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is her dress a mess or amazing?

      Eric Ryan, Getty Images

      Kim Kardashian opted for this floral strapless Tracey Reese dress for the 2009 Moves Magazine Super Bowl Party at The Venue Club. Let us know what you think about Kim’s look.

      Tim Boyles, Getty Images

      Burlesque beauty Dita Von Teese wore an ice blue Elie Saab (left) satin dress at the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville.

      Dominique Charriau, WireImage

      Spanish actress Penelope Cruz appeared at the the 2009 Goya Cinema Awards in Madrid in this black lace Chanel gown. Is it a win or a loss?

      Carlos Alvarez, Getty Images

      Amy Adams wore a Jasmine di Milo gold and silver sequin backless dress and Christian Louboutin heels to the 61st Annual Directors Guild of America Awards.

      Frazer Harrison, Getty Images

      Being thousands of miles away didn’t stop Meryl Streep from celebrating the inauguration. The actress wore this Catherine Malandrino flag dress to the Paris premiere of Doubt.

      Julien Hekimian, WireImage

     

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  • Alicia Keys Goes Uptown

    Posted by: urbanmusicdirect

    Check out the beautiful, sexy and talented Alicia Keys on the cover of Uptown Magazine. What Do You  Think?

     

     

     

  • Alicia Keys – Doesn’t Mean Anything (Sneek Peak)

    Posted by: JustGrinding

    Get your 1st look at the official video for Alicia Keys new single “Doesn’t Mean Anything” from her album “The Element of Freedom” which hits stores December 1st.

  • HOT COPY: 37th Annual American Music Awards nominations announced

    Filed under: ,

    Snoop DoggPaula Abdul, Adam Lambert and Snoop Dogg revealed nominees for the 37th Annual the American Music Awards (AMAs)
    This morning, Snoop Dogg, Paula Abdul and Adam Lambert revealed nominees for the 37th Annual the American Music Awards (AMAs). Taylor Swift leads the nominations race with six total nominations. The late, great Michael Jackson follows with five, while Eminem follows with four nominations. Beyonce, Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, Kings of Leon and T.I. are all up for three awards, respectively. Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas, and Jennifer Lopez were also announced as performers for the 37th annual AMAs. The live broadcast will take place at the NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE on Nov. 22 at 8:00 p.m. on ABC. More information on the 37th Annual American Music Awards can be found at The Futon Critic.

     

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  • Is Alicia Keys a Homewrecker?

    Singer Mashonda allegedly wrote a letter to Alicia Keys about her estranged husband Swizz Beatz. Get details on the ongoing saga.

  • The Week That Was: Fela! Sure to Wear Broadway Out, Chris Brown Has the ‘Power’

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    This fall, the Great White Way will feel one hell of a jolt when the new musical ‘Fela!’ hits the boards at New York’s Eugene O’Neill Theater, starting Oct. 19. The show, which chronicles the life and music of groundbreaking African composer, performer and activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti, was all the rave during its very limited and sold-out run at the 37 Arts Theater last fall. Created by Tony Award winner Bill T. Jones, the masterfully produced tour de force attracted fans such as Jay-Z, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, Toni Morrison, Lou Reed, Fiona Apple and Charlize Theron.

    This week, BV Newswire was invited to an exclusive preview of this provocative hybrid of concert, dance and musical theater that will dazzle audiences for generations to come. (See VIDEO below.) Now wonder it won the 2009 Lucille Lortel Award for best musical. Two-time Emmy Award winner Kevin Mambo and Tony Award-winning vocal powerhouse Lillias White (pictured above, center and right) have been added to the multitalented cast, which is led by Sahr Ngaujah, whose breakout performance as the Afrobeat icon who died of AIDS in 1997, was a work of sheer theatrical genius. Tickets start at $27. For more information about ‘Fela!,’ visit www.FelaOnBroadway.com.

    *****

    Nick Cannon may be having the best year ever. The dashing and debonair host of NBC’s ‘America’s Got Talent’ is getting a windfall of media attention on the day before wife Mariah Carey releases her new album, ‘Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel.’

    For those who don’t know, the San Diego native is the new chairman of Nickelodeon’s teen network, TeenNick.

    On Sept. 28, The N (current name) will rebrand itself as TeenNick and we will be airing a celebrity promo spot in connection with the launch.

    Various celebrities — including wifey, Ellen DeGeneres, Taylor Swift, Sharon Osbourne, Tony Hawk, Keke Palmer, and Ice Cube — are all featured in this promo congratulating Cannon on his chairman position.

    *****Fela

    LL Cool J‘s latest foray into television is off to a good start. According to the Hollywood Reporter, CBS scored big with its new series ‘NCIS: Los Angeles,’ which features the hip-hop superstar and movie star Chris O’Donnell. Apparently, Tuesday marked the network’s most-watched premiere night since 1993, thanks to the triple threat of drama in the form of ‘NCIS’ (20.6 million viewers), ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ (18.7 million) and Julianna Margulies‘ new series ‘The Good Wife’ (13.7 million). From 1995-1999, LL Cool J (real name James Todd Smith) starred in the NBC sitcom ‘In the House.’

    *****

    Chris Brown is getting back to work – the kind that pays. The beleaguered R&B crooner with the dazzling smile and mean right hook can breathe a sigh of relief. His battery and assault of girlfriend Rihanna hasn’t hurt him among hip-hop fans. The Jive Records artist is due to headline the “Powerhouse” concert, an event hosted by New York City’s hip-hop radio station Power 105. According to EURweb.com, the ‘Run It’ singer’s Oct. 27 performance at the Izod Center in New Jersey is his first official live show since his February altercation with the Cover Girl spokesmodel earned him probation and community service. Also on the “Powerhouse” lineup: the-Dream, Fabolous, Keri Hilson, Trey Songz, Mario and Ginuwine.

    Black Music Notes June 1

      6/1/09: Minnie Riperton
      A very fitting homage will be paid to late, great songbird Minnie Riperton when a new batch of the acclaimed TV One docu-series ‘Unsung’ hits the small screen this month. Best known for her signature ballad ‘Lovin’ You,’ the Chicago-born singer/songwriter’s career and life were cut short after a three-year battle with breast cancer in the late 1970s. After Riperton’s cancer diagnosis, she went public instead of retreating, serving as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. . She was only 31 years old when she died at the prime of her career. ‘Unsung’ premieres June 7 at 8 PM ET, repeating at 11 PM, as well as Thursday, June 11 at 10 PM and Friday, June 12 at noon and midnight.

      Wire Image

      6/1/09: Grace Jones
      The one and only Grace Jones has been tapped to perform live at the ‘We Love’ festival in Ibiza on Aug. 9. For the first time ever, the ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ singer will grace the Spanish island’s celebrated summer concert series, as part of the Wall Of Sound recording company’s 15th anniversary. Last year, festival organizers bought The Chemical Brothers back to the Ibiza after a ten-year hiatus. This year, they are ready for Amazing Grace, who recently released a new music project titled ‘Hurricane’ on the United Kingdom based label. “We are putting on a line-up to inspire and one that will take all lucky enough to be there on a journey they will never ever forget,” Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones said.

      Getty Images

      5/28/09: Chaka Khan
      Fresh from a headlining gig at the 2009 St Lucia Jazz Festival, Chaka Khan is ready to take on the nation’s capital. The 10-time Grammy Award winning diva will fill in for previously announce headliner Natalie Cole, who is recovering from a live saving kidney transplant surgery, at ‘The 18th Annual Capital Jazz Fest’ running June 5 – June 7. The ‘I Feel For You’ chanteuse will join a slew of noted musical acts at the lovely wooded setting of Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland. According to a spokesperson for the event, the line-up includes performances by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor Wooten, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Lalah Hathaway, Fourplay, Norman Brown, Roy Ayers, Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Pieces of a Dream with special guest Phil Perry, Guitars & Saxes (f/ Jeff Lorber, Euge Groove, Jeff Golub and lady saxophone newcomer Jessy J) , Regina Belle, Marion Meadows and trumpeter Joey Sommerville.

      AFP/Getty Images

      5/28/09: Grandmaster Flash
      Grandmaster Flash will be honored with the Living Legend award at the Urban Music Awards USA 2009, set to be held at New York City’s Highline Ballroom on July 17. According to a spokesperson for the event, more than 175,000 music fans across the world have voted online for the hip hop veteran to receive the honor. “Flash is an absolute legend and he remains an inspiration to the hip hop culture all together by flying the flag from its inception to the success it has become today,” said Jordan Kensington, who is the C.E.O of Invincible Group & Founder of the Urban Music Awards. Nominees for the inaugural awards show include Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Bobby Valentino, M.I.A, Day 26, The Dream, Estelle, Kat de Luna, Akon, Kanye West, Keri Hilson, Ne-Yo and Eminem.

      Getty Images

      5/21/09: Jay-Z
      Despite stepping down from his Def Jam presidency in late 2007, hip hop mogul Jay-Z has finally left the label as an artist. Rumors started surfacing online that the platinum-selling lyricist, who owed the label one last album, brought himself out of his contract for $5 million. “I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely,” he revealed to hip hop site Rap Radar. “I’ve been in the family for almost my entire career. Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique ‘negotiations’ ever…I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music.”

      Frank Micelott, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Mary J. Blige
      Mary J. Blige recently expanded her brand by signing with The William Morris Agency. According to Variety, the diversified entertainment agency, which also represents Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Kanye West, and Prince (to name a few), will assist the Queen of Hip Hop Soul in all areas of her career including the expansion of her entertainment company, Matriarch Entertainment. This fall the Queen of Hip Hop Soul will make her feature film debut in Tyler Perry‘s ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself,’ scheduled to hit theaters September 11. She can be heard in the trailers for the Oprah Winfrey-presented drama ‘Precious,’ due out in November.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: The Dream
      Following in the veins of fellow hip hop stars DMX and Tupac Shakur, singer-songwriter The Dream is planning on releasing his second album of 2009 entitled, ‘Love King.’ The R&B crooner, who recently released his certified gold album ‘Love vs. Money’ in March, revealed to Billboard magazine that he already has seven songs in the can and expects the album to hit stores in December. “I have to pace myself ’cause there’s so much time between here and then,” he said, “but the seven records I do have are timeless records. Whether they come out now or later it’s not really going to matter what kind of records they are.” In between recording sessions for ‘Love King,’ fans can now catch The Dream on tour with Keyshia Cole.

      Getty Images

      5/19/09: The Whispers
      After releasing classic hits such as ‘In The Mood’ and ‘Rock Steady,’R&B stalwarts The Whispers are set to release their first gospel album on Kingdom Records. Grammy Award-winning gospel star Fred Hammond is expected to produce a bulk of the tracks. “We’ve been wanting to do this for ten years,” explained founding member Nick Caldwell. “God has been really, really good to the Whispers. He was looking out for us even when we were ignoring Him. He allowed us to live long enough to do this inspirational CD that we want to use to inspire people to get closer to God.” The as-yet-untitled anticipated album is tentatively scheduled for release later this year.

      5/19/09: Mariah Carey
      On May 23, Mariah Carey is set to perform a one-hour set at the opening of the most expensive resort in Europe, The Mardan. Carey alongside legendary British soul singer Tom Jones will reportedly be paid £1 million each to perform at the exclusive £926 million Turkey development, which features five acres of fresh water swimming pools and a sunken aquarium. Actress Sharon Stone and Paul McCartney are among the many guests invited to the 560 room hotel opening.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Will Downing
      Overcoming his bout with the muscle disorder Polymyositis, Will Downing has set the stage to release is latest musical offering, ‘Classique.’ The balladeer’s 14th album and second Peak Records project features his signature baritone vocals over 10 smooth-sensual tracks. Vocalist Phil Perry joins the ‘After Tonight’ singer for Marvin Gaye penned ‘Baby I’m for Real.’ Other album highlights include ‘Love Suggestions,’ ‘More Time,’ ‘Something Special’ and Barry White‘s classic hit ‘I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little More Baby.’ ‘Classique’ hit stores June 16.

      Verve

     

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  • Touré: New Gig In ‘Hip Hop Shop’

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    Former Rolling Stone scribe Touré just signed on to host a new weekly music video show on Fuse called ‘Hip Hop Shop.’ This marks the television network’s new push to include music-centric shows hosted by experts of the respective genre.

    Fuse hinted that Touré would be getting a new gig when he nailed the job of sitting down with Jay-Z for a two-part special that aired before the Brooklyn MC’s live 9/11 tribute concert, which took place at Madison Square Garden. He also served as a backstage correspondent during the concert special.

    Black Music Notes June 1

      6/1/09: Minnie Riperton
      A very fitting homage will be paid to late, great songbird Minnie Riperton when a new batch of the acclaimed TV One docu-series ‘Unsung’ hits the small screen this month. Best known for her signature ballad ‘Lovin’ You,’ the Chicago-born singer/songwriter’s career and life were cut short after a three-year battle with breast cancer in the late 1970s. After Riperton’s cancer diagnosis, she went public instead of retreating, serving as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. . She was only 31 years old when she died at the prime of her career. ‘Unsung’ premieres June 7 at 8 PM ET, repeating at 11 PM, as well as Thursday, June 11 at 10 PM and Friday, June 12 at noon and midnight.

      Wire Image

      6/1/09: Grace Jones
      The one and only Grace Jones has been tapped to perform live at the ‘We Love’ festival in Ibiza on Aug. 9. For the first time ever, the ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ singer will grace the Spanish island’s celebrated summer concert series, as part of the Wall Of Sound recording company’s 15th anniversary. Last year, festival organizers bought The Chemical Brothers back to the Ibiza after a ten-year hiatus. This year, they are ready for Amazing Grace, who recently released a new music project titled ‘Hurricane’ on the United Kingdom based label. “We are putting on a line-up to inspire and one that will take all lucky enough to be there on a journey they will never ever forget,” Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones said.

      Getty Images

      5/28/09: Chaka Khan
      Fresh from a headlining gig at the 2009 St Lucia Jazz Festival, Chaka Khan is ready to take on the nation’s capital. The 10-time Grammy Award winning diva will fill in for previously announce headliner Natalie Cole, who is recovering from a live saving kidney transplant surgery, at ‘The 18th Annual Capital Jazz Fest’ running June 5 – June 7. The ‘I Feel For You’ chanteuse will join a slew of noted musical acts at the lovely wooded setting of Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland. According to a spokesperson for the event, the line-up includes performances by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor Wooten, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Lalah Hathaway, Fourplay, Norman Brown, Roy Ayers, Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Pieces of a Dream with special guest Phil Perry, Guitars & Saxes (f/ Jeff Lorber, Euge Groove, Jeff Golub and lady saxophone newcomer Jessy J) , Regina Belle, Marion Meadows and trumpeter Joey Sommerville.

      AFP/Getty Images

      5/28/09: Grandmaster Flash
      Grandmaster Flash will be honored with the Living Legend award at the Urban Music Awards USA 2009, set to be held at New York City’s Highline Ballroom on July 17. According to a spokesperson for the event, more than 175,000 music fans across the world have voted online for the hip hop veteran to receive the honor. “Flash is an absolute legend and he remains an inspiration to the hip hop culture all together by flying the flag from its inception to the success it has become today,” said Jordan Kensington, who is the C.E.O of Invincible Group & Founder of the Urban Music Awards. Nominees for the inaugural awards show include Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Bobby Valentino, M.I.A, Day 26, The Dream, Estelle, Kat de Luna, Akon, Kanye West, Keri Hilson, Ne-Yo and Eminem.

      Getty Images

      5/21/09: Jay-Z
      Despite stepping down from his Def Jam presidency in late 2007, hip hop mogul Jay-Z has finally left the label as an artist. Rumors started surfacing online that the platinum-selling lyricist, who owed the label one last album, brought himself out of his contract for $5 million. “I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely,” he revealed to hip hop site Rap Radar. “I’ve been in the family for almost my entire career. Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique ‘negotiations’ ever…I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music.”

      Frank Micelott, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Mary J. Blige
      Mary J. Blige recently expanded her brand by signing with The William Morris Agency. According to Variety, the diversified entertainment agency, which also represents Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Kanye West, and Prince (to name a few), will assist the Queen of Hip Hop Soul in all areas of her career including the expansion of her entertainment company, Matriarch Entertainment. This fall the Queen of Hip Hop Soul will make her feature film debut in Tyler Perry‘s ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself,’ scheduled to hit theaters September 11. She can be heard in the trailers for the Oprah Winfrey-presented drama ‘Precious,’ due out in November.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: The Dream
      Following in the veins of fellow hip hop stars DMX and Tupac Shakur, singer-songwriter The Dream is planning on releasing his second album of 2009 entitled, ‘Love King.’ The R&B crooner, who recently released his certified gold album ‘Love vs. Money’ in March, revealed to Billboard magazine that he already has seven songs in the can and expects the album to hit stores in December. “I have to pace myself ’cause there’s so much time between here and then,” he said, “but the seven records I do have are timeless records. Whether they come out now or later it’s not really going to matter what kind of records they are.” In between recording sessions for ‘Love King,’ fans can now catch The Dream on tour with Keyshia Cole.

      Getty Images

      5/19/09: The Whispers
      After releasing classic hits such as ‘In The Mood’ and ‘Rock Steady,’R&B stalwarts The Whispers are set to release their first gospel album on Kingdom Records. Grammy Award-winning gospel star Fred Hammond is expected to produce a bulk of the tracks. “We’ve been wanting to do this for ten years,” explained founding member Nick Caldwell. “God has been really, really good to the Whispers. He was looking out for us even when we were ignoring Him. He allowed us to live long enough to do this inspirational CD that we want to use to inspire people to get closer to God.” The as-yet-untitled anticipated album is tentatively scheduled for release later this year.

      5/19/09: Mariah Carey
      On May 23, Mariah Carey is set to perform a one-hour set at the opening of the most expensive resort in Europe, The Mardan. Carey alongside legendary British soul singer Tom Jones will reportedly be paid £1 million each to perform at the exclusive £926 million Turkey development, which features five acres of fresh water swimming pools and a sunken aquarium. Actress Sharon Stone and Paul McCartney are among the many guests invited to the 560 room hotel opening.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Will Downing
      Overcoming his bout with the muscle disorder Polymyositis, Will Downing has set the stage to release is latest musical offering, ‘Classique.’ The balladeer’s 14th album and second Peak Records project features his signature baritone vocals over 10 smooth-sensual tracks. Vocalist Phil Perry joins the ‘After Tonight’ singer for Marvin Gaye penned ‘Baby I’m for Real.’ Other album highlights include ‘Love Suggestions,’ ‘More Time,’ ‘Something Special’ and Barry White‘s classic hit ‘I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little More Baby.’ ‘Classique’ hit stores June 16.

      Verve

    The new show will feature in-studio interviews with musicians and celebrities.The premiere episode of ‘Hip Hop Shop’ will feature former 3LW singer Natauri Naughton, who will discuss her new role in the upcoming remake of ‘Fame.’

    Since dropping out of Emory University to intern at Rolling Stone, Touré, who has served as a contributing editor for the magazine since 1997, has written cover stories on everyone from Lauryn Hill to Alicia Keys. The Boston native has also penned three books ‘The Portable Promised Land, which is a collection of short stories, as well as a novel called ‘Soul City’ and a collection of his pop culture writings called ‘Never Drank the Kool-Aid.’

    Most recently, the 38 year-old father of two served as CNN’s pop culture correspondent for ‘American Morning’s 90 Second Pop.’

    Fuse’s ‘Hip Hop Shop’ debuts on Sept. 23 aToure Never Drankt 7:00 pm ET.

     

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  • The Week That Was: Vibe magazine to get fresh blood, Ola Ray wants pay

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    Vibe magazine seems to be rapidly rising from its proverbial ashes with new owners, who this week announced that Jermaine Hall will helm the resurrected title. A native of St. Lucia, raised in Queens, Hall is the former editor-in-chief of King magazine, and previously served stints as a music editor of The Source, and a webmaster of Vibe. He will now serve as the editor-in-chief of Vibe and its website. “I’ve always been very confident about anything dealing with editorial, so I’m definitely not intimidated,” the Iona College graduate told the website mediaite. “I’m very excited. I love all the eras of Vibe but one of my favorite eras is Alan Light‘s tenure [1994-1997] – the book was at its broadest during that time. I’m looking to recapture that feel, but bring it up to date.” The Quincy Jones-founded urban music magazine shuttered in June, after 16 years of publication, when its previous owners could not find new buyers or restructure the company’s debt. It was bought earlier this month by InterMedia Partners, a private equity fund and now is managed by the Vibe Lifestyle Network, led by Vibe’s original business leaders Robert Miller and Leonard Burnett and Uptown magazine co-founder Brett Wright. A new issue is planned for November/December.

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    It’s time to pay Ola Ray. Or that’s what she says. The original music video girl, who starred in Michael Jackson‘s seminal ‘Thriller’ video and appeared in its best-selling ‘Making Of’ home video, is seeking unpaid royalties for her work from 25 years ago. Ray’s attorney filed Los Angeles court documents stating she is a creditor to the singer’s estate and is owed an undetermined amount of money.

    The actress, whose most recent “acting” credit dates back to 1987, sued Jackson in April, claiming he had failed to pay her royalties that she was due for the past four years. That suit, and two others filed by the video’s director John Landis, remains unresolved.

    According to reports, one of Landis’ lawsuits claimed he also hadn’t been paid royalties on the “Thriller” video for several years.

    When Jackson died in June, the St. Louis native – who has a Grammy Award in her possession (that she accepted on his behalf) made the media rounds. “I am freaking out, I can’t believe that he is gone,” she said. “He was my hero as well as my mentor. And I really respected him as an entertainer and we made history together, and he will always be the best.” Now she’s listed as one of the creditors of his estate.

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    Now that Chris Brown has been officially sentenced and ordered to stay away from Rihanna for five years, his mother is speaking out – in the name of Jesus. “I just want to say from the bottom of my heart thank you for your continued support. I’m sorry I wasn’t allowed to speak to anyone as this case was ongoing,” Joyce Hawkins wrote on her son’s official web site TheChrisBrownFanClub.com. “I made a promise. I would never be ashamed of him no matter where I am or who I talk to. You see this whole thing isn’t about Chris, it’s about God. He wants to show all of you the goodness of him through Chris. Chris will be addressing all of his fans very soon. We love you so much and so does God.” During an interview last year on ‘The Tyra Banks Show,’ Brown revealed he witnessed his mother being physically abused by her spouse.

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    LaToya Jackson will not be doing ‘Dancing with the Stars’ (as previously rumored in the press), but will be spread like butter on other ABC-affiliated shows. This week, the network announced that the best-selling author and former Playboy magazine cover girl will guest co-host ‘The View’ on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18. The woman comedian Paul Mooney once referred to as “La Dangerous” will also sit down with Barbara Walters for a one-on-one interview on the network’s newsmagazine ’20/20,’ scheduled to air on Sept. 11. She will discuss her relationship with late brother Michael Jackson and to explain for her belief that he was murdered.

    Black Music Notes June 1

      6/1/09: Minnie Riperton
      A very fitting homage will be paid to late, great songbird Minnie Riperton when a new batch of the acclaimed TV One docu-series ‘Unsung’ hits the small screen this month. Best known for her signature ballad ‘Lovin’ You,’ the Chicago-born singer/songwriter’s career and life were cut short after a three-year battle with breast cancer in the late 1970s. After Riperton’s cancer diagnosis, she went public instead of retreating, serving as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. . She was only 31 years old when she died at the prime of her career. ‘Unsung’ premieres June 7 at 8 PM ET, repeating at 11 PM, as well as Thursday, June 11 at 10 PM and Friday, June 12 at noon and midnight.

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      6/1/09: Grace Jones
      The one and only Grace Jones has been tapped to perform live at the ‘We Love’ festival in Ibiza on Aug. 9. For the first time ever, the ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ singer will grace the Spanish island’s celebrated summer concert series, as part of the Wall Of Sound recording company’s 15th anniversary. Last year, festival organizers bought The Chemical Brothers back to the Ibiza after a ten-year hiatus. This year, they are ready for Amazing Grace, who recently released a new music project titled ‘Hurricane’ on the United Kingdom based label. “We are putting on a line-up to inspire and one that will take all lucky enough to be there on a journey they will never ever forget,” Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones said.

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      5/28/09: Chaka Khan
      Fresh from a headlining gig at the 2009 St Lucia Jazz Festival, Chaka Khan is ready to take on the nation’s capital. The 10-time Grammy Award winning diva will fill in for previously announce headliner Natalie Cole, who is recovering from a live saving kidney transplant surgery, at ‘The 18th Annual Capital Jazz Fest’ running June 5 – June 7. The ‘I Feel For You’ chanteuse will join a slew of noted musical acts at the lovely wooded setting of Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland. According to a spokesperson for the event, the line-up includes performances by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor Wooten, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Lalah Hathaway, Fourplay, Norman Brown, Roy Ayers, Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Pieces of a Dream with special guest Phil Perry, Guitars & Saxes (f/ Jeff Lorber, Euge Groove, Jeff Golub and lady saxophone newcomer Jessy J) , Regina Belle, Marion Meadows and trumpeter Joey Sommerville.

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      5/28/09: Grandmaster Flash
      Grandmaster Flash will be honored with the Living Legend award at the Urban Music Awards USA 2009, set to be held at New York City’s Highline Ballroom on July 17. According to a spokesperson for the event, more than 175,000 music fans across the world have voted online for the hip hop veteran to receive the honor. “Flash is an absolute legend and he remains an inspiration to the hip hop culture all together by flying the flag from its inception to the success it has become today,” said Jordan Kensington, who is the C.E.O of Invincible Group & Founder of the Urban Music Awards. Nominees for the inaugural awards show include Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Bobby Valentino, M.I.A, Day 26, The Dream, Estelle, Kat de Luna, Akon, Kanye West, Keri Hilson, Ne-Yo and Eminem.

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      5/21/09: Jay-Z
      Despite stepping down from his Def Jam presidency in late 2007, hip hop mogul Jay-Z has finally left the label as an artist. Rumors started surfacing online that the platinum-selling lyricist, who owed the label one last album, brought himself out of his contract for $5 million. “I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely,” he revealed to hip hop site Rap Radar. “I’ve been in the family for almost my entire career. Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique ‘negotiations’ ever…I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music.”

      Frank Micelott, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Mary J. Blige
      Mary J. Blige recently expanded her brand by signing with The William Morris Agency. According to Variety, the diversified entertainment agency, which also represents Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Kanye West, and Prince (to name a few), will assist the Queen of Hip Hop Soul in all areas of her career including the expansion of her entertainment company, Matriarch Entertainment. This fall the Queen of Hip Hop Soul will make her feature film debut in Tyler Perry‘s ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself,’ scheduled to hit theaters September 11. She can be heard in the trailers for the Oprah Winfrey-presented drama ‘Precious,’ due out in November.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: The Dream
      Following in the veins of fellow hip hop stars DMX and Tupac Shakur, singer-songwriter The Dream is planning on releasing his second album of 2009 entitled, ‘Love King.’ The R&B crooner, who recently released his certified gold album ‘Love vs. Money’ in March, revealed to Billboard magazine that he already has seven songs in the can and expects the album to hit stores in December. “I have to pace myself ’cause there’s so much time between here and then,” he said, “but the seven records I do have are timeless records. Whether they come out now or later it’s not really going to matter what kind of records they are.” In between recording sessions for ‘Love King,’ fans can now catch The Dream on tour with Keyshia Cole.

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      5/19/09: The Whispers
      After releasing classic hits such as ‘In The Mood’ and ‘Rock Steady,’R&B stalwarts The Whispers are set to release their first gospel album on Kingdom Records. Grammy Award-winning gospel star Fred Hammond is expected to produce a bulk of the tracks. “We’ve been wanting to do this for ten years,” explained founding member Nick Caldwell. “God has been really, really good to the Whispers. He was looking out for us even when we were ignoring Him. He allowed us to live long enough to do this inspirational CD that we want to use to inspire people to get closer to God.” The as-yet-untitled anticipated album is tentatively scheduled for release later this year.

      5/19/09: Mariah Carey
      On May 23, Mariah Carey is set to perform a one-hour set at the opening of the most expensive resort in Europe, The Mardan. Carey alongside legendary British soul singer Tom Jones will reportedly be paid £1 million each to perform at the exclusive £926 million Turkey development, which features five acres of fresh water swimming pools and a sunken aquarium. Actress Sharon Stone and Paul McCartney are among the many guests invited to the 560 room hotel opening.

      Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

      5/19/09: Will Downing
      Overcoming his bout with the muscle disorder Polymyositis, Will Downing has set the stage to release is latest musical offering, ‘Classique.’ The balladeer’s 14th album and second Peak Records project features his signature baritone vocals over 10 smooth-sensual tracks. Vocalist Phil Perry joins the ‘After Tonight’ singer for Marvin Gaye penned ‘Baby I’m for Real.’ Other album highlights include ‘Love Suggestions,’ ‘More Time,’ ‘Something Special’ and Barry White‘s classic hit ‘I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little More Baby.’ ‘Classique’ hit stores June 16.

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