NaS Plays Rock Band!

WHAT THE SH**!!! NaS is playing Rush's "Tom Sawyer" on Rock Band for XBOX 360!!!! Get this on the expert setting and gets a 95% finish!! I think we all know what he does on his days off bwahahahaha!!! This clip is from when he was back stage waiting to go on the Colbert Report!

Xcalibur

Lil Wayne Feat. T-Pain & Mack Maine - Got Money

Thought I would post this video since they clearly got the concept from one of my favorite movies titled The Inside Man. There are some changes in the video version of the song and the album version. This version has a new Weezy verse and Mack Maine is added. Is it just me...or does T-Pain's Mad Hatter Hat disturb you too?? Oh Well...

Watch IT!!

Xcalibur

Consequence Feat. GLC & Really Doe - Disperse [Video]

My favorite joint off of Consequence's album. This mess is too funny and features cameos from the Star Trak camp, Lupe, and the G.O.O.D Music fam! The video is directed by Rik Cordero.

Watch IT!!!

Xcalibur

KiD CuDi x 10.Deep - A KiD Named CuDi Mixtape

MAN!!! This Fxcking mixtape is sooooooooo fresh!!! I haven't really listened to anything but KiD CuDi and the Cool Kids for like the past 4 days!!! You will love this one people!!! Link included...

A KiD Named CuDi

Enjoy!! AND Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

Rapper Big Pooh - "With You" [Video]

WOOOOOOO!! New heat from Big Pooh of Little Brother. The joint is called "With You" and is produced by 9th Wonder and will appear on Pooh's new mixtape Rapper's Delight.

Watch!!

Xcalibur

Luda x Drama Gangsta Grillz: The Preview

ALL RIGHT!!!! Here it is people! Its official Ludacris and DJ Drama's new Gangsta Grillz monster!!! Here is the link and tracklisting:

Luda x DJ Drama

Tracklisting:
01. And Starring…
02. Still Spittin’
03. DTP Magic (Feat. Willy Northpole)
04. Get Up Get Out (Feat. Block Xchange)
05. So Thoro
06. The Vocalizer
07. Bigg Ass House
08. 2 Kings (Feat. I-20)
09. Politics As Usual
10. Look What I Got (Feat. Playaz Circle)
11. Pinky Shinin’ (Feat. Small World)
12. Sho’Nuff Revisited (Feat. Lil Fate)
13. Ordinary Negroes
14. Busta Rhymes - Throw It Up (Feat. Lil Wayne & Ludacris)
15. LA The DarkMan - Coogi Down (Feat. Willie The Kid)
16. I’m A Dog (Feat. Playaz Circle)
17. Smokin Big Kill (Feat. Shawnna)
18. Stay Together
19. We Ain’t Worried Bout You
20. Roll The Credits
21. Been Puttin On / Secret Song

LISTEN UP!!! Its Gangsta GRILLZ you BASTARDS!!!

Xcalibur

Young Chris Feat. Wale - "Large"

Man!! Young Chris goooooes!!! I love dudes flow but he is mad underrated. And along with Wale too!! Hmmmmmm sounds good manye!!!

Large Feat. Wale

Listen Up!!

Xcalibur

Nas Talks To Colbert About Protest, Plus A Preformance Of "Sly Fox"

Finally Bill O'Reilly's Response...


He is throwing around numbers and info...not impressed

Watch and Listen!

Xcalibur

Nas Protest At Fox News

Man this is some powerful stuff. Nas became the spokesmen for 600,000+ people that are protesting the Fox News Network. If you haven't heard the album, Nas has a song on there called "Sly Fox" which goes at Fox about its racist and one sided comments that they always seem to make towards blacks and cause most blacks to drop their jaws in disbelief at what was just said. And if you've ever watched Fox then you know what I'm talking about. From calling Michelle Obama "Barack's Baby Mama" to criticizing the "fist bump" between Michelle and Barack to trying to say Barack was flipping someone the "bird" at of of his speeches. Its always been out of control at Fox, but because of the election they have gone waaaaay too far and its not right man... The crew at SOHH.com have been keeping tabs on the whole thing:

NaS Protest Fox

Watch the Sly Fox

Xcalibur

Bert and Ernie - "Ante Up"

Wow!! This is what you get you Bert and Ernie from Sesame to just Street. HAHA!! Its way too funny to pass on posting!!

Xcalibur

Street Fighter x Triumvir Collection

Man!!! I had to show this off!! I am a huge fan of Street Fighter and I am really into boutique lines like The Hundreds, Bape, BBC/Ice Cream, etc. To celebrate Street Fighter IV, Capcom teamed up with boutique line Triumvir for a new exclusive collection. I am going to link this so you can see for yourself. The first of the collection comes in a quick-strike pack that will be shown off at the upcoming Comic-Con. There will be two versions of the exclusive pack, one in Triumvir Black & White and the other in the colours of Street Fighter crime syndicate/villian, Shadaloo/ M.Bison (Red, Royal Blue, and Black). Each pack comes with a t-shirt of the same colour and a Estate LA fitted cap!! Whoooa!! Time to geek out!!! Check the link:

Street Fighter x Triumvir Quick-Strike

Look fresh and nerdy at the same time!!

Xcalibur

Forget What You Heard, Jimmy Iovine Still Runs Interscope

A representative for Interscope founder Jimmy Iovine has denied reports that he has been replaced at the company has founded.

Rumors began to spread after a blog post implied that the label was in turmoil, due to a number of artists being dropped from the labels roster.

Additionally, reports that Busta Rhymes was dropped and the weak sales of 50 Cent and G-Unit's Terminate on Sight helped perpetuate the rumor, which is false, AllHipHop.com has learned.

“The story is complete nonsense and it is utterly untrue," Peter LoFrumento, Executive VP for Univesal Music Group, told AllHipHop.com exclusively.

Before founding Interscope in 1990, Jimmy Iovine was also a critically acclaimed producer.

Via producing and Interscope, Iovine has helped guide the careers of a number of popular artists, including U2, Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, Gwen Stefani, Fergie, Mary J. Blige, Nelly Furtado, The Black Eyed Peas and numerous others.

Originally Written By Nolan Strong For AllHipHop.com

Dr. Dre Talks "Detox" And Beats By Dre

The six year wait for Detox may be coming to a close, as Dr. Dre has confirmed plans to release his highly anticipated third solo album by the end of the year.


After years of fine-tuning and direction changes, the legendary producer finally feels the project is ready for mass consumption.


“I’m just now, over the last couple months, starting to feel that it’s going to be right and it’s something I can be proud of, and everybody is going to love it,” Dr. Dre explained to USA Today. “In a perfect world, I’m shooting for a November or December release.”


Recording for the project began in 2003, and tentative dates were announced every single year afterward, only to see the album constantly pushed back due to Dre’s perfectionist demeanor.


Like its predecessors The Chronic (1992) and The Chronic 2001, many expect Detox to raise the bar for producers in Hip-Hop.



For Dre, it’s simply about making great music, and hopefully the accolades come.


“I’ve never set out to do that,” states Dre. “I just make the music feel the way I want it to feel and I don’t put it out until I’m totally happy with it. Then it does what it does...I’m going to put this record out, promote it, and then become a hermit,” Dre explains. “I’m going to stay in the studio and produce. All I want to do is sit in the studio with that person (a new artist) for a year and try to create another masterpiece.”


For guests, Dre has confirmed collaborations with Nas, Lil Wayne, and Jay-Z.


On the business end, Dre also disclosed a venture with Monster, a leader in audio/video accessories, called Beats by Dr. Dre. Dre, Interscope head Jimmy Iovine, and Monster have developed high definition powered isolation headphones available on Friday (July 25) exclusively at Best Buy and Apple stores for $349.95.


Iovine and Dre’s goal was to create a product that duplicated the clarity of recording studios.


“Dre and I have been developing these headphones for awhile and in Monster we found a partner that could work with us to crystallize his vision and develop them to the quality he expects,” Iovine said. “Beats By Dr. Dre is yet another example of Interscope’s commitment with its artists in developing new avenues to experience music.”


For more information visit the official website www.beatsbydre.com.


Detox is tentatively scheduled for a November or December 2008 release.

Originally Written By Ismael AbduSalaam for AllHipHop.com

DJ Khaled Feat. Akon, Rick Ross, Plies, Ace Hood, Trick Daddy, & Lil' Boosie - "Out Here Grindin'" [Video]

Whoa this video is a little much lmao!! It was like a live action cartoon or something lol. Well interesting enough the video version does not have verses or cameos from Young Jeezy OR Lil' Wayne....hmmm wonder why...Oh well the song is still dope and produced by The Runners! Shout Out to The Runners!!! We The Best!!! Who!?!?! MEEEEEE!! Xcalibur that is haha!!

Xcalibur

Skillz And Black Thought Freestyle [Video]

Skillz and Black Thought giving each other a run for their money!! Damn!! And being funny as shit lmao!

Listen UP!!!

Xcalibur

My Contact Info...Well Email...

OK OK OK I just read a comment from my man Matty C and he wanted my email to send me some things soooo here goes:

djxcalibur@gmail.com

Got it? Good. And please....serious inquiries only, in all fairness I don't need random emails from people. This is a blog site for ill Hip-Hop and R&B that gives info on the illest of the ill and endorses the future of our wonderful business and art form.

That being said...that also means questions, comments, concerns, and all that jazz do apply as serious, on top of mp3 tracks, and press releases.

Thank =]

Xcalibur

Luda x Drama Gangsta Grillz Cover

WOOOOOW!! The cover for the new Ludacris mixtape with DJ Drama. It's called The Preview and its going to rock so many faces!!!!!!! Stay tuned for more info as I get it...

Be prepared to Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

Young Jeezy Feat. Kanye West - "Put On"

Why does 'Ye put everybody to shame with everything!! He F****** makes auto-tune cool again...almost....

Fest your EYYES!!

Xcalibur

KiD CuDi!!!!

Ok so I have been totally sleepy sleepy on this KiD CuDi dude for a minute but he is actually way fresh (duh!!). Any waaaay dude has a mixtape coming out that is sponsored by the boutique line 10.Deep, who also sponsored one for my new favorite Hip-Hopper Wale. The new mixtape is called A Kid Named CuDi and releases June 17th, soooo like tomorrow!!! And 10.Deep is holding a special event for him as well at the Red Bull Space event in NYC, where 10. Deep will also be releasing a KiD CuDi Special Edition shirt. So I looked up a few joints for your listening pleasure. Enjoy!!!

Maui Wowie

Biggest Grinder

Spazzin'!

One mooore thing!!! He is signed to DJ A-Trak's label Fools Gold the same label as Kid Sister! Indies stand up!!! Oh and he reps Cleveland, OH so he's a MidWest dude too!!! Go Head!!

Check KiD CuDi's Website and 10. Deep's...

Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

Just Blaze Vs. DJ Delinger [Video]

Just Blaze Vs DJ Delinger from Nile Ivey on Vimeo.

DJing at it F****** finest!!! This shit is soooooo dope!!!! Wow both of these guys killed it!! Shout out to Just Blaze!!! I'm a big fan of his lol.

Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

Gym Class Heroes Feat. Busta Rhymes - "Peace Sign/Index Down"

WOOOOOO!! New music from Gym Class Heroes!! This ISH is dope!!! Produced by Cool & Dre and featuring Busta Bust!!!

Listen Up!!!!

Xcalibur

Album Cover For T.I.'s New Album "Paper Trail"

Wow pretty fly if I do say so myself. This is the cover for the new T.I. album Paper Trail. The album is due out in August, hopefully it will be and do better numbers than T.I. Vs. T.I.P.... we shall see!!! Stay Tuned for more info!!

Xcalibur

Quincy Jones Hand Picks David Banner & Pharrell To Remix Songs For Upcoming Album

Mississippi rapper/producer David Banner has been exclusively chosen by legendary entertainer Quincy Jones to remix his classic songs for an upcoming album.

According to Billboard, the colorful entertainer will have the opportunity to remake his top picks alongside a team of other popular producers.

“Quincy Jones got me, Akon, Pharrell Williams and T-Pain,” he explained. “[He] allowed us to choose and remake our favorite songs.”

The famous record producer’s catalog extends from his first album The Birth Of A Band, Vol. 1 to various other releases including contributions to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Banner’s selection came from the Jones-produced 1983 album Give Me The Night.

“I chose ‘Give Me the Night’ by George Benson with Jamie Foxx singing it.”

As of now there has been no release date for the upcoming album.

Originally Written By Cyrus Langhorne for SOHH.com

Rick Ross Addresses Prison Guard Rumor, Takes Shots At Trick Daddy

Man!!! I thought all them Florida boys was cool!! I try to stay away from the beef stuff but this is odd especially since its a whole movement down there in the Gunshine State. Rick Ross addresses the rumor of him working as a prison guard and goes at Trick Daddy hard!!! WOOOOO!!!! It might get even hotter down there!! Stay Tuned!!

Xcalibur

Fonzworth Bentley Feat. Andre 300, Kanye West, & Sa-Ra - "Everybody" [Video]

WOOOOOW!! This joint is mad fresh!!! Hopefully Mr. Bentley's album will come out soon!! COOL OUTRAGEOUS LOVERS OF UNIQUELY RAW STYLE!!!!!!

Listen UP!!!!

Xcalibur

KRS-One Supports Kevin Powell And His Run For Congress

In the midst of his strong headlining performance at the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, The Blastmaster KRS-One made a strong political statement, by endorsing Kevin Powell’s run for the House seat in New York’s 10th Congressional District on September 9.

After bringing the crowd to a frenzy with renditions of “Black Cop,” “9mm Goes Bang,” and “The Bridge Is Over,” KRS then spoke extensively about America’s political process and the current presidential election.

“You know [Dick] Cheney is related to Obama by cousins, right?” KRS explained to the thousands in attendance at Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park. “The United States has never had a president that was outside of a certain family structure. Don’t vote because someone told you to vote. If you don’t vote, that is a vote as well. It means you are content with society and the way that it is. It doesn’t make you any less of an American citizen.”

The Teacher further elaborated on his view that the real impact of voting is seen on the local levels, where people such as activist/poet Kevin Powell currently serve.

“You want to really get your vote on?” KRS challenged after bringing Powell to the stage. “Vote for Kevin Powell. Local politics is where voting really counts. Vote for a new sheriff. Vote for a new Board of Education. Vote for a new congressman, one that comes to a gathering like this. This is where all candidates should be, in front of you…like this.”

Powell is challenging incumbent Edolphus Towns, who has served in the House of Representatives since 1983.

Knowing he faces an uphill climb, Powell spoke briefly to the mostly young crowd about his intention to bring their Hip-Hop voice to a higher political platform.

“We’re taking Hip-Hop to Congress y’all on September 9,” Powell promised the crowd. “Where’s Brooklyn at? If you’re in Fort Greene, Bed Stuy, Canarsie, or East New York I’m running to be your Congressman. September 9!”

A prolific activist, Kevin Powell has worked extensively throughout the country in prisons, school, and camps to mentor neglected inner city youth and the homeless.

He organized an initiative that sent over 700 college students to rebuild Katrina devastated regions.

In media, Powell worked as a senior writer for VIBE magazine from 1992-1996.

His latest book of poetry, No Sleep Till Brooklyn, was released in March.

Originally Written By Ismael AbduSalaam for AllHipHop.com

NaS Prepares Tour, New Untitled Album Hit Stores Today

Multi-platinum Def Jam recording artist Nas will embark on a 21-date summer tour in support of his untitled ninth studio album.

The Jones Experience summer tour will kick off July 22 in Montreal, Canada, seven days after the highly anticipated and controversial album hits stores.

Produced by Guerilla Union, the entity behind the Rock the Bells and Paid Dues Festivals, the tour will bring Nas to various small clubs across North America, in what Nas described as “a big show in an intimate venue.”

Nas will be joined on the tour by Talib Kweli, who still touring in support of last year’s Eardrum, radio personality and producer DJ Green Lantern, who contributed to the new Untitled project and newcomer Jay Electronica.

The Jones Experience runs through Labor Day weekend and coincides with Nas’ appearances on the Rock the Bells Festival’s previously announced ten-date run.

“I truly appreciate all the fans that have supported me over the years, and this is my way of giving back,” Nas told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “My album drops on July 15 and I hope to take the movement from the stores to the stage.”

The second release on Nas’ Def Jam imprint The Jones Experience, the untitled album features production and appearances from a variety of artists and musicians, including Busta Rhymes, Mark Ronson, the Dapkings, DJ Toomp, Stic.Man, Stargate and Cool & Dre.

Nas’ untitled album landed in stores today (July 15).

Originally Written By Tai Saint Louis for AllHipHop.com

Ted Lucas Prepares To Take Slip-N-Slide In New Music Directions

Slip-N-Slide Records has added two new artists to its roster in an attempt to recreate the indie label’s Hip-Hop success in new arenas.


Newcomers Shonie and Camar are both set to release their debut albums in early 2009, after years of first hand experience of music business.


The two new recruits are part of Slip-N-Slide Records founder and CEO Ted Lucas’s goal to set new musical territory and develop more projects to set the label apart.


“We are expanding our wings into the R&B and Reggae scene as well as starting our Rock division,” Lucas told AllHipHop.com. “I want to continue to put out good music for the fans. When you’re on top, you have to keep doing what you’re doing to stay on top.”


Established in 1993, the company has sold more than 10 million records, having introduced the world to multi-platinum artists Trick Daddy, Trina, Rick Ross and most recently Plies.


Jamaican-born Camar has performed the world over, introducing audiences to his own style of music, Yard Soul.


Defined as R&B stylings over traditional dancehall beats, the artist combines the influences of artists like Jodeci and Boyz II Men with Jamaica’s traditional sound.


The result has been tested on stages from the U.S. to Europe, alongside the likes of U2’s Bono, Annie Lennox, and Jagged Edge.


Powered by the single “She Loves The Flavor,” Camar’s Slip-N-Slide debut Yard Soul is due out early next year.


“Reggae and Dancehall are really big in the Miami music scene,” Lucas explained. “I wanted to get involved in that type of music and when I heard Camar's music, I knew he was a star.”


While Shonie’s name may not yet be a familiar one, the South Bronx songstress has already attained chart-topping success.


The Miami-transplant made her national radio debut assisting new label mate Trina on “Single Again,” the first single from her latest album Still The Baddest.


A rapper-turned-singer, Shonie has also recorded with Flo-Rida, Trick Daddy, Cool & Dre and B5.


“I want to be more than a rap label,” Lucas said. “I'm taking Slip-N-Slide to a new level and we plan to extend our brand into all genres of music.”

Originally Written By Tai Saint Louis and Nolan Strong for AllHipHop.com

N*E*R*D - Spazz [Video]

New video from those N*E*R*D boys!!!!! SPAZZ IF YOU WANT TO!!!!!

Listen UP!!

Xcalibur

Young Jeezy "The Recession" Album Cover

This is the cover for Young Jeezy's new album The Recession. No word on a release date or tracklisting yet. Stay Tuned!!!

Xcalibur

Lupe Announcing CRS Video [Video]

Lupe lets loose a little info about a CRS Video!!! Excitement!!!

Xcalibur

Tracklisting and Cover For Ice Cube's Raw Footage

WOW!!! Finally some info on Ice Cube's new gift to the world!! The gift, an album by the name of Raw Footage. Here is the tracklisting and the album cover. Raw Footage hits stores August 19th!!!

1. What is a Pyroclastic Flow?
2. Jack In the Box
3. It Takes a Nation
4. Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It
5. Hood Mentality
6. Why Me? (ft. Musiq Soulchild)
7. Cold Places
8. Do Ya Thang
9. Thank God
10. Here He Come
11. Get Money, Spend Money, No Money
12. Get Use To It (ft. The Game & WC)
13. Crack Baby
14. Tomorrow
15. Stand Tall
16. Take Me Away (ft. Butch Cassidy)

The HOT Summer continues!!

Xcalibur

Flesh-N-Bone Is Free!!! Bone Thugs Prepare New Album

After almost 10 years behind bars Stanley “Flesh N Bone” Howse is now officially a free man.


The 34-year-old rapper, who was originally sentenced to twelve years for threatening a friend with an AK 47, was released from his California penitentiary early yesterday morning (June 13) to the waiting arms of family and friends which included Krayzie, Layzie, Bizzy and Wish Bone.


This now marks the first time that all five of the original members of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have been together in over a decade.


“It feels amazing, refreshing, exciting [and] I'm so happy for him to finally come home to his family and friends and fans,” Bone Thug’s longtime manager Steve Lobel told AllHipHop.com. “Flesh is a very great, loving, talented, creative individual. We have a lot of memories together. Hopefully we can have more.”


Upon his release Flesh-N-Bone wasted no time getting back to work.


All five Bone members instantly hit the studio to begin work on their upcoming album, which is expected to be released on Interscope through a joint venture with Swizz Beatz’ Full Surface imprint.


The album will be the follow up to the 2007’s gold selling Bone album Strength and Loyalty which only featured three of the original quintet due to Flesh’s imprisonment and Bizzy Bone being shown the door.


Bizzy Bone also reconciled and recently reunited with the group, officially making the group a quintet again.


"I know his Bone brothers are so excited he's home and now they can make history again,” Lobel said. “They all deserve it. They are amazing and unstoppable together as a team. Thanks to all the fans who wrote to Flesh while he was away and stuck by his side and supported him. I know his brother Layzie [born Steven Howse] couldn't wait for this time to come.”


Flesh is also expected to start working on his third solo album and will begin looking for a label home in the coming weeks.


The Cleveland born rapper enjoyed his best success with his 1996 Def Jam release entitled T.H.U.G.S. which went on to be certified Gold later that year.

Originally Written By George Skoutakis and Nolan Strong for AllHipHop.com

Luda x Drama [Video]

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

Big Luda talking about his new mixtape with Mr. Barack O'Drama!!

Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

A Milli, A Milli....I'm Going To Do A "Milli" Freestyle Next!!!

Well, I guess this is my night to rant/vent, so here is another one for you...Lil' Wayne's "A Milli." Now is rhyming over this beat a way for EVERYONE to prove that they are better than Weezy or because the beat is hot? I think it is the first option. Why? Because nobody has been trying to mess with Bangladesh like that, THAT'S WHY!!!! He did tons of ILL joints for Ludacris and dope ass beats for Kelis too. I remember my boy showing me a video of Bangladesh making a beat at the Producers Ball In ATL and it was sick but the people there were just kind of "Oh Whatever" about it. Check the vid:



Now out of all the joints I have heard from him 8 ball & MJG's "Forever" Featuring Lloyd is the most ill, even though he has done sick stuff for Ludacris. So why is everyone from Jay-Z to Ne-Yo to Killer Mike to Chris Brown trying to kill this song? Did it take someone like Weezy to take Bangladesh's career to the next level cause everyone thinks Weezy is the modern 2Pac? Sad to say yes...and I feel that its kind of a slap in the face to Luda because he was one of the first ones to miss with Bangladesh. Here are some of the freestyles:

"A Milli" Freestyle - Killer Mike

"A Milli" Freestyle - Uncle Murda (Fabolous Diss)

"A Milli" Freestyle - Curren$y

"A Billie" Freestyle - Jay-Z

Man!! And these are just four of the many that are out that I could find!!! Here is what XXLMag.com Had to say about it:

Wanna Kill A Milli??

One last thing and I'm done. LA producer Flying Lotus also did a remix. But here is the kicker, Lil' Wayne' s vocals are still in tack and he switched up the beat! (Gasp!) And this is fly!! Enjoy

Flying Lotus x Lil' Wayne - A Milli (Remix)

Xcalibur

XXL's Top 10 Indie Hip-Hoppers & Snubs

OK I'm glad I put off doing this so I could post the 10 ten list along with the snubs. Basically XXLMag.com took a look at the top 10 indie Hip-Hoppers. I agreed with most of them no question...one i didn't agree with, hey can't win them all. Here is a link for the top 10

XXL's Big 10!!

FYI so you know Shawty Lo was the one I didn't agree with and I'll explain why in a minute.

Now the Snub list was F****** full of great artists that should have been on the Big 10. One snub I took to heart was Tech N9ne. I bought Killer AND keep Everready in the rotation constantly. My issue starts with me being from Kansas City, Mo, like ninety-five percent of it actually. But even if I was not, dude is too ill on to snubbed not only by XXL, but AllHipHop.com as well when they reviewed Everready when it dropped. XXL said "The Kansas City-based veteran rapper just landed at number one on the Billboard independent album charts with his latest LP, Killer. We like totally missed that one." And AllHipHop.com said this about Everready in '06 "However, in whole, the music on Everready is disjointed and inconsistent. Rather than establishing a sound of his own, the Tech's album consists of a la carte beats made to appeal to old school, South, West, and Rock audiences." The Midwest takes influences from everywhere man, chill with the down talk. Other Snubs I was not happy about were as follows, Elzi from Slum Village, Little Brother, Skyzoo, Termmanology....well damn!! Let's just say the whole list!!!! While at most I think Little Brother and Tech N9ne deserved to be in the Big 10. Check the list:

Honorable Snubs

Now for the Shawty Lo issue....(sigh). They disquilified Wale (for being signed to Interscope) and Saigon (for talking to majors after leaving Atlantic). Now Shawty Lo is signed to Atlantic.....HUH!?!?! Being signed to Asylum Records and Atlantic still makes you major, and fyi Asylum is a subsidary of the Atlantic/Warner family, so still major. And he lack lyrics man....sorry EL-O...and layoff T.I..

I'm done ranting Haha!!

Xcalibur

"Pepsi Who???" Ludacris Strikes New Business Deal With AT&T

Multi-Platinum Artist Ludacris has just signed a multi-million dollar deal with phone giant AT&T, the first hip-hop act to land such a large contract with the company.

He’ll lend his likeness to online and TV ads promoting the service and he just wrapped shooting of his first commercial.

"I had a lot a fun shooting this commercial,” Luda said. “If you like the AT&T commercials you've seen then you'll love this one."

The rapper plays a guy who doesn’t have AT&T phone service and misses an important call. The “phone,” also played by Luda, tells viewers exactly what he missed out on by not having service.

His installment in the campaign will begin running next month.

On the music front, Luda’s putting the final touches on his sixth studio project, concept album Theater of Mind, slated for an October release.

And on the big screen, the rapper/actor will star in the new Guy Ritchie movie, RocknRolla with Idris Elba and the theater adaptation of the video game Max Payne, with Mark Wahlberg. Both flicks will also be coming out in October.

Oringinally Written By Brandi Hopper for SOHH.com

Album Releases For July 8th AND Batman!!!

Okay!! Another day in the Hot Summer of album releases. Today there is only really one big release and a few single additions to iTunes. Killer Mike's I Pledge Allegiance To The Grind II is out today and available at your local store or on iTunes (The big one). Also a new indie gem from Paul Wall titled "Already Famous" is as up. Support indie Hip-Hop ya'll!! GO BUY THIS SHIT DON'T BOOTLEG!! Back to it, a new EP from Common is up on iTunes called Announcement and it features the songs "Announcement" and "Universal Mind Control." Both songs are produced by The Neptunes and feature Skateboard P or Pharrell and will appear on Common's new EP Invincible Summer. And the new Clipse single "Fast Life" from the Re-Up Gang album is also available for purchase.

ANNNND if you are a fan of Batman like I am here is a treat. The new anime film Batman: Gotham Knight is out today as well and is available on DVD, DVD Collectors Set, & Blu-Ray. The film is six interlocking stories all done by six big name in Japanese Anime. The new Batman movie Dark Knight comes out July 18th, and the new Lego Batman Game comes out in September.....yes I said Lego Batman!!! Kick Ass!!!

Aight I'm off to play some Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike

Xcalibur

Lloyd gives fans "Lessons In Love" [Album Cover]

Hot Damn!!! Its time for another Lloyd album already?! Wooooo! Ok I loved Street Love hopefully this one will be more of the same old Lloyd. Or maybe not if you notice Mr. "My Hair Is Better Than Most Dudes/Chicks" has cut off is signature locks and gone for the Caesar look. Wow, looks good though. His first single "How We Do It Round My Way" with Ludacris is gaining quite a buzz buzz and he just released his new single "Touched By An Angel" (sorry no links folks). Well the album is due out August 5th. Yes yes ya'll its on again!!! The summer IS hot!!!

Xcalibur

YO YO YO!!! This is the album cover for the new Re-Up Gang album coming out. Not feeling the first single "Fast Life" because I think its a waste of the Clipse true talent. But you be the judge. Hopefully there will be more joints on there like their mixtapes. Clipse Present: The Re-Up Gang hits streets August 5th!!!

Nas Feat. Keri Hilson - Hero [Video]

One of my favorite joints right now!! New ISH from Nas and Keri Hilson produced by Polow Da Don. Nas' new "Untitled" album will his stores July 15!!

Listen Up!!!

Xcalibur

BUSTA BUST GETTING DROOOOOPED!?!

WOOOOW!!! Well here is some news going around the many blog spheres. This is all rumor mind you so don't take this as fact. Word is Busta Rhymes is or might be getting dropped from his parent company Interscope. Now Busta is currently signed to Dr. Dre's Aftermath label through Interscope and his new album Blessed is still scheduled for a August. He is said to have gotten dropped just days after a heated argument with Jimmy Iovine (Head of Interscope Records). Word on the block is there are other artists at Interscope that are on the chopping block as well and a huge chunk of them are going to be coming from the Aftermath, Shady, and G-Unit camps. Now Obie Trice has already left Shady Records stating problems with Interscope not promoting his last two albums "Cheers" and "Second Rounds' On Me." Hey maybe Jimmy Iovine got tired of Dre playing his "I'm A Perfectionist" card and wants him to produce some numbers, or at the least Detox. But expect Busta Rhymes' new album Blessed to be in stores in August unless something uber major happens. Expect me to keep you posted on any label changes and what not.

Xcalibur

Ice Cube Sets Date To Release "Raw Footage," Premieres New Video ANNND Goes On Tour!!!

Ice Cube has set August 19th as the release day for his highly-anticipated album, Raw Footage, featuring the politically-charged track “Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It.”

The former N.W.A. member’s 8th studio album will feature collaborations with Young Jeezy–it was recently announced Cube and Jeezy would be partnering together for a movie, as well–The Game, WC, and Musiq Soulchild. The remix to “Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It” featured guest Scarface and Nas. Maestro (Lil Wayne), Da Beatsmith, and others contributed production to the project.

The album’s first single, “Do Ya Thang,” was recently released to radio and the video clip premiered today on the rapper’s personal Web Site.

Cube is scheduled to hit the road later this month for an international promo run before returning to the states in August and September to tour.
Ice Cube tour dates are as follows:

July 2008

11 – Leipzig, Germany – Splash Festival
12 – Frauenfeld, Switzerland – Openair Frauenfeld
14 – London, UK – Electric Ballroom
15 – Tilburg, Netherlands – 013
16 – Amsterdam, Holland – Melkweg
18 – Dour, Belgium – Dour Music Festival
19 – Stuttgart, Germany – MTV Hip Hop Open
21 – Stockholm, Sweden – Kagelbanan
23 – Helsinki, Finland – Helsinki Icehall
25 – Copenhagen, Denmark – KB Hallen
26 – Oslo, Norway – Rockefeller Music Hall

August 2008

21 - Seattle, WA - Showbox at the Market
22 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
24 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot
26 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore
27 - Bakersfield, CA - The Fox
29 - Anaheim, CA - The Grove
30 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues

September 2008

1- West Hollywood, CA - House of Blues
2 - San Diego, CA - 4th and B
3 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee Theatre
5 - Albuquerque, NM - Sunshine Theatre
6 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
7 - Denver, CO - Ogden Theatre
9 - North Kansas City, MO - Harrah’s North Kansas City/Voodoo Lounge
10 - St. Paul, MN - Myth
12 - Fort Wayne, IN - Piere’s
13 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
14 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
16 - Mt. Clemens, MI - Emerald Theatre
17 - Johnson City, NY - Magic City Music Hall
19 - Philadelphia, PA - The Fillmore at Theater of Living Arts
21 - New York, NY - The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza

Originally Written By LaTisha Robbins for XXLMAG.com

Bishop Lamont - Grow Up [Video]

Man!!! This joint is sick!! It's Bishop's new single off of his album "The Reformation" & showing off Dr.Dre's new headphones, Beats by Dr.Dre. Check it out!!

Xcalibur

DJ Drama x Snoop Dogg - The City Is In Good Hands [Mixtape]

WOOOOOOOO!!! I Knew this one was coming, but not this soon!!! DJ Drama has moved to the West Coast and is bringing some mixtape heat rocks!!!! His first is with the DoggFather and is called "The City Is In Good Hands." I haven't listened to it yet but, its on my to do list. I still have the new Tech N9ne and G-unit to finish!!! This is just the first of three!! Drama is also going to release mixtapes with Dogg Pound and Terrence Martin (look him up, dude is ill!!)! Wow ok check the link!


LISTEN UP!!!!!

Xcalibur Prime

Pharrell On Tattoos [Video]

N*E*R*D talk Tattoos

Album Releases For July 1st, Surprises & More Surprises

DAAAAAAAAMN Game's wig got pushed back again!!!!!!!! Wooooooo wow! I'm not surprised though. Well today is pretty hot! Go pick up G-Unit's "T.O.S" and Tech N9ne's "Killer." Also DJ Khaled's new single "Out Here Gridin'" (Featuring Akon, Rick Ross, Plies, Trick Daddy, Young Jeezy, & Ace Hood) is avaible on iTunes. Nas' new untitled album will be out in about two weeks (July 15) and you can pre-order on iTunes now or just wait and buy it before work like me lol.

Also another hot little piece of info for your brains, Maxwell is coming back ya'll!!! EXCITEMENT!!! He has a new album trilogy that he has been away working on, well he also got married but hey good job on both lol. Ok the trilogy is called "Black Summers' Night" and will be released over the course of the next three years starting this year!! Joy!!

Aight I'm out, time for pancakes =] Xcalibur Prime

Gym Class Heroes Ready "The Quilt"

Alternative Hip-Hop group Gym Class Heroes have announced the date of their third album, titled The Quilt.

The album is the follow up to the Geneva, New York group's album As Cruel as School Children, which has been certified gold and contained the group's No.1 single, "Cupid's Chokehold/Breakfast In America."

The Quilt features production from Cool & Dre, The-Dream and Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy and cameos by Busta Rhymes, Estelle and Daryl Hall of Hall and Oates fame.

The first single from the album is titled "Cookie Jar," which was produced by The-Dream.

Gym Class Heroes will debut new material from The Quilt as headliners on the Vans Warped Tour.

The Quilt is in stores and online on September 9th.

Originally Written By Roman Wolfe For AllHipHop.com

The Clipse & Re-Up Sign With KOCH For New Group Album

Celebrated Virginia duo The Clipse have announced a special partnership deal with Koch Records today.

The deal is for a special LP entitled The Clipse Present the Re-Up Gang, and will be released on August 5th. The project will be a full album with nine new tracks including a Scott Storch produced single and 3 new remixes of tracks from We Got It 4 Cheap Vol. 3.

The project will feature all four members of the Re-Up Gang: The Clipse, Ab Liva, and Sandman. The collective has been recording together since the Clipse's platinum debut Lord Willin' in 2002.

Named "Fast Life," the Scott Storch produced single will be released to radio outlets next week. With what Koch calls its "infectious hand claps and retro synth effects," the label feels the track has "irrepressible energy" and have compared it favorably to the Clipse's hit song "What Happened to that Boy."

After years of bitter legal disputes and lost opportunities on their former label Jive, Clipse member Pusha T was reflective and grateful for the new deal.

"Everything happens for a reason," Pusha T explained to AllHipHop.com. "We put out the We Got It for Cheap series on our own for the street and that helped keep us visible and build the Re-Up name as an entity. This time, (our manager) Tony Draper got with (Koch General Manager) Alan Grunblatt to put together an official album with new music and let Koch records do what they do best. This release gives us something fresh in the marketplace to reward Re-Up fans while we continue to work on the Clipse album."

"Tony Draper and I have worked together since the days of Suave House and Relativity Records," states an excited Alan Grunblatt. "Koch loves the Clipse and are thrilled to be working with the Re-Up Gang."

With the Re-Up Gang taken care of, the Clipse have also found time to negotiate a 5 year, 50/50 deal with Sony/Columbia Records for their own albums. The deal with also allow the Clipse to retain ownership of their masters.

The Clipse Present the Re-Up Gang is scheduled to hit stores August 5.

Originally Written By Ismael AbduSalaam For AllHipHop.com

Shady Records Issues Statement About Obie's Departure

Following the heavy circulation of Obie Trice's new single "The Giant" signaling the Detroit rapper's departure from his situation with Shady Records and it's parent company, Interscope, the brass at Shady issued a statement Monday (Jun 30) reaffirming its support of Trice's decision.

"Shady Records has agreed to allow Obie Trice to pursue his craft in a different forum free from the constraints of the current major label model," Eminem's long time partner and manager Paul Rosenberg told AllHipHop.com.

Sources on the web have erroneously reported that the new explanatory track released to the web on Sunday (Jun 29) included lyrics meant as a diss to his former label and Eminem, who added Trice to the label's roster in 2000.

At issue was the song's opening verse, on which Trice raps "Guess it was meant / for me to branch off from my Caucasian friend" and "Nope, no more 2nd place to Eminem / question if I was 2nd is the question to many men."

"Eminem will continue to support and work with Obie on many levels of his career," Rosenberg stated frankly. "He remains a close friend and member of the Shady family."

During his time as a Shady/Interscope artist, Obie Trice's two albums which were well received critically, established the artist as Eminem's heir apparent.

The first, 2003's Cheers, sold over 500,000 copies worldwide, while its follow-up Second Round's On Me found slightly less commercial support.

Originally Written By Tai Saint-Louis For AllHipHop.com

Obie Trice No Longer Shady?

Detroit's Obie Trice has left Shady Records after eight years and two albums, AllHipHop.com has confirmed today (Jun 30).

He is currently working on his third album, while solidifying a new situation for his own imprint.

“Obie and Shady were moving in different directions,” the 30-year-old rapper’s manager Terry Wilson says of the situation. “But he still has a great relationship with Shady Records. He has some big plans for his World Wide Hustle label.”

Currently recording his third album while solidifying his label situation, Trice has released a track explaining his decision to leave the label with which he attained a considerable amount of respect and success.

While a source at Shady confirms the split is amicable, the new song, “The Giant,” indicates that Obie’s complaints may have been with parent company Interscope.

“I murdered e’ything when I wore the Shady logo,” he spits after announcing there’s no more Shady.

“O is a mogul/Low on the totem pole ‘cause Interscope’s loco/Now I’m gettin’ mo’ dough.”

Following a personal introduction to Eminem via D12’s Bizarre, Obie Trice joined the Shady Records family in 2000 and was introduced to listeners outside of Detroit on the supergroup's 2001 debut Devil’s Night.

His own RIAA-certified gold debut Cheers came two years later, with a follow up, Second Round’ s On Me released in 2006.

Continuing with the theme of his two previous releases, Trice’s third album is tentatively titled Bottoms Up.

Originally Written By Tai Saint-Louis For AllHipHop.com