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Bits & Bytes
August 31, 2000 Playboy Has Eyes on Lil' Kim Lil' Kim, the queen of hip hop, is being hounded by playboy. Apparently the infamous men's magazine is interested in the pint-sized rapper's physical assets. The tentative deal comes as no surprise to an artist who is notorious for her sexually driven lyrics and seductive image. But the glamorous diva is wavering on a possible deal, citing her spirituality as a major determent. Kenny Meiselas, Kim's lawyer states, " She has a very strong spiritual side to her. She's indicated she wants to make sure it's tastefully done and consistent with her spirituality." According to the Post, Lil' Kim is concentrating on her sophomore album Notorious K.I.M. " I can't really say I will or I won't right nowÉfor some people it works and for some people it doesn't. We'll see what happens. I'm just really focusing right now on pushing my album." After the success of her first album Hardcore, Lil' Kim took a four-year hiatus and returned with Notorious K.I.M., which is currently ranked at number 34 on Soundscan. Stars Support Isaac Hayes B-Day Bash The legendary singer, actor, and composer Isaac Hayes, brought down the house at his annual Birthday Bash. Held at the Copacabana nightclub in Manhattan New York City, the event was a star-studded affair down memory lane. Hosted by Nile Rodgers from the disco group Chic, the theme "Memphis in Manhattan," apparently symbolized Hayes' transition from his hometown in Tennessee to the Big Apple. It also paid homage to the many Memphis artists that helped to define contemporary soul. "Memphis has had a rich musical tradition that has touched millions. I wanted to relive this tradition in Manhattan this year," said the 58-year-old birthday boy. Proceeds from the event benefited Hayes self-titled foundation, which seeks to offer musical opportunities to children by providing scholarships and instruments.Performers such as Cheryl "Pepsi" Riley caused quite a stir with her rendition of "I Can't Stand the Rain," while Eddie Floyd had the crowd moving with old favorite "Knock On Wood." Latin star Tito Nieves, singer Najee, and Howard Hewitt all sang oldies but goodies for the enthusiastic crowd while songstress Rachelle Ferrell serenaded Hayes with a "Happy Birthday." Even diva Chaka Khan blessed the stage, belting out the Dusty Springfield hit, "Son of a Preacher Man." The artists were backed by the legendary funk band the Bar-Kays, who got their start as a house band at Memphis' Stax Records alongside Hayes. Hayes' celebrity well wishers included Wesley Snipes, actor Leon, soul duo Ashford & Simpson, Kool DJ Red Alert, Cissy Houston, and New York's Hot 97 DJ and singer, missjones. Boxer Joe Frazier and recently retired Dallas Cowboy wide receiver Michael Irving were also among the illuminaries present. Isaac Hayes fans will be pleased to know that among other projects, the renowned singer has plans to release a new album in 2001, an autobiography, and fitting to his role as "Chef" on the popular cartoon-series South Park, a cookbook.
August 30, 2000 BET Sued for $21 Million Former Black Entertainment Television (BET) CFO Dwight Crawford filed a $21 million lawsuit against BET on Wednesday in Washington Superior Court. The lawsuit claims that BET company officials conspired to evade federal taxes and used corporate funds and credit cards for their own personal use. Crawford said that he was fired in January after telling BET officials that he wouldn't go on with the alleged illegal financial dealings. The suit states, "BET terminated Mr. Crawford's employment because he was outspoken in his opposition to the company's illegal and improper financial practices (and) because he refused to participate in such practices." BET chairman Robert Johnson and president Debra Lee were also named in the lawsuit. Crawford is seeking $21 million in damages for financial loss and emotional distress. He said BET told him to resign after not going along with their dealings and that he was fired when he refused. He also claims that Johnson threatened him, saying, "he would make it difficult for him to secure future employment" if Crawford took legal action. Crawford said in a statement, "I intend to hold BET accountable for firing me for my adherence to professional and ethical accounting standards." Byron F. Marchant, general counsel for BET, called the lawsuit "frivolous and totally without merit." Product G&B Victim of Attack Product G&B, the R&B duo singing on Carlos Santana's hit, "Maria, Maria" are steaming mad. Sincere (a.k.a. Marvin L. Moore-Hough) and Money Harm (a.k.a. David McRae) were allegedly attacked at Club Hollywood on August 16th in New Rochelle, New York. Club bouncers allegedly attacked the two singers and their entourage after a dispute between their friend and a bouncer occurred. Product G&B's friend wanted to enter the club but was prohibited because he was carrying a bottle of champagne. Moore-Hough and McRae claim that the bouncers then instigated a dispute and proceeded hitting the entourage with chains and aluminum bats as they were being bombarded with racial slurs. Moore-Hough told the Post that "I heard, 'Porch monkey this' and 'N****r that,' once I was outside, from all these guys...all you heard was 'You black motherf**ker, get out of our town." The duo is reportedly in the midst of talks with attorney Johnnie Cochran, infamous for his role in the acquittal of O.J. Simpson. The singing sensation also claims that authorities failed to intervene during the altercation and are filing brutality charges against the local police. Moore-Hough states, "the cops were watching us get hit with bats, and they were slamming my friends on cars." Product G&B won a Grammy for their collaboration with Santana and recently performed the National Anthem before a New York Mets baseball game.
August 29, 2000 Source Awards Ends in Violence A melee erupted at the second annual Source Hip-Hop Music Awards 2000 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California last night. The violence caused police to stop the show about 2 1/2 hours into the event.
The Pasadena Police Department issued a statement shortly after the incident stating, "At approximately 8 p.m., a large fight broke out in the audience. As a result of the fight, scores of people poured out of their seats, some towards the exits of the auditorium, while up to 75 others took to the stage. As uniformed police personal attempted to quell several fights occurring simultaneously, unknown members of the audience began throwing objects such as bottles and CD covers onto the stage."
"For the safety of the audience, and with no apparent hope of continuing the show peacefully, the Pasadena Police Department announced the show would not continue and asked the audience to leave quietly," the statement continued. "The majority of the audience was very cooperative and left the auditorium without incident. After approximately two hours, the area around the auditorium had been cleared. It was unknown at this point what may have started the initial fight. There were no arrests and no injuries were reported."
The Source management also issued a statement after police called off the event reading, "We regret what went on this evening and we are deeply embarrassed by it. That the actions of a few people ruined a night of music for the many who gathered here. We have not made a determination on the restaging of this event at this point, but will be able to provide details tomorrow." The Source Hip Hop Awards 2000 was scheduled to be aired on the UPN Network on August 29th.
Suave, a manager for several of hip hop's stars, stated, "I saw it coming. It was too much pausing going on in between the show. It was too much confusion, too many people in the walkways. I mean people were fighting everywhere. My main thing was to get my artist out of there, Xzibit and Kurupt, and the Alkaholiks and Sapphire."
He also said, "We just did the whole "Up In Smoke Tour," nothing but gangsta music and not one incident, and to come back home and have this happenÉ It shouldn't happen in L.A. (The Awards), if they ever have it again. L.A is definitely the wrong place. I think next time they should have it somewhere more tropical. That'll put everybody in a better mood. Cause everybody is already tense when they come here to L.A. They on alert mode, just from what they hear. And people from L.A. know that so that makes everybody from L.A. that much more bolder to make that image come true. So to eliminate all that, have it someplace tropical where everybody can't get to."
Though the Source Hip Hop Awards 2000 was abruptly ended, Dr. Dre and Ice Cube did take home their "Lifetime Achievement" Awards. Eve won "New Artist of the Year" and Eminem was awarded "Lyricist of the Year." Here is the complete list of winners though most of the recipients have no idea that they won:
* Artist of the Year, Solo: Dr. Dre The Show Must Go On The Source Hip Hop Awards 2000 will still be broadcast on August 29th at 8 p.m. on the UPN Network despite abruptly ending after a melee broke out at the show on Tuesday. Most of the scheduled performances already took place before the altercations broke out so the television audience will see sets by Wyclef Jean and the Rock, the Cash Money Millionaires, Jay Z, Lil Kim, and Mobb Deep. The show will also feature medleys by Made Men, dead prez, Tha Eastsidaz, Mos Def, and Lil' Bow Wow. Performances by Method Man and Redman, and Dr. Dre alongside Eminem, Snoop, Kurupt and Nate Dogg were scheduled to occur before the brawl broke out. Footage from the fights will also be omitted from the television broadcast of the show.
Charles Barlie, a spokesperson for the UPN network, said that after reviewing tape footage, "There was enough material recorded to warrant putting it on the air. The show will appear seamless to the audience (watching it on television)." He also said, "In spite of what happened, this is a music and a culture that needs to be celebrated in an awards show." He also said that there have not been any talks to discontinue The Source Awards and that a show next year "is a very real and good possibility."
Dave Mays, founder and publisher of The Source magazine issued a statement saying, "It is regrettable that the actions of a few individuals disrupted an evening which seeks to celebrate the music and unity of the hip hop community. The Source does not condone violence of any kind and over the years has worked hard to dispel negative images associated with hip hop."
August 26, 2000 Hollywood Hires Black Writers According to the Hollywood Reporter, the Fox Broadcasting Co. and the Writers Guild of America are setting up a minority training program. The program is part of a diversity agreement that the network signed with minority advocacy groups that protested the lack of minorities in behind the scenes positions. The program will place minority writers on all of Fox's programs including 20th Century Fox TV studios and outside ventures. The NAACP led the minority protests against Hollywood. Gail Berman, entertainment president of Fox, told the Hollywood Reporter, "I am 100% personally and professionally committed to fostering racial, gender and ethnic diversity throughout Fox Broadcasting Co." Berman made the decision on Monday at a breakfast, where she also introduced Misty Wilson, Fox's new Senior Vice President of Diversity Development. Wilson was also introduced to members of the Congressional Democratic Black Caucus who are in town for the Democratic National Convention, which is being held in Los Angeles, California at the Staples Center. O.J. Simpson Attempts to Sack "American Tragedy" O.J. Simpson is involved in another legal battle as the gridiron great seeks to stop production of American Tragedy, the first television movie dealing with his infamous murder trial. Simpson was acquitted of killing his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman in 1994. However, he was found guilty in the civil trial and ordered to pay $33.5 million in damages, which he refuses to pay as he stands by his affirmation that he is innocent.The mini-series American Tragedy is said to be based on the book of the same name by Lawrence Schiller and James Willwerth. Superior Court Judge David Yaffe refused to issue a restraining order to stop production of the film on Tuesday, however, he set another hearing for September 6th while he reads the script to determine if it releases information not found in the book. Simpson claims that the movie reveals inside secrets of his defense team and violates his attorney-client privilege. Simpson's lawsuit names Schiller, Project 95, the company producing the film for CBS, and his former attorney Robert Kardashian. Simpson also claims that he sent letters to his defense team while jurors deliberated his case in 1995 warning that their conversations were privileged. The statement read, "No one is permitted to divulge privileged communication unless and until you receive a written authorization signed by me." Schiller's lawyers claim that Simpson has been threatening to file litigation since the book was published in 1996 but "chose to sleep on his purported rights, waiting until the defendants were in the middle of filming the multi-million dollar television mini-series on a tight production schedule to seek extraordinary injunctive relief." They also argued that stopping production would violate freedom of speech and cause millions in damages. The filming of American Tragedy is expected to be completed by the next court hearing. It will star Ving Rhames, Christopher Plummer, Ron Silver, and Bruno Kirby.
August 25, 2000 Iman & David Bowie Deliver Baby Girl Supermodel Iman and Rock star David Bowie gave birth to a baby girl on Tuesday. Alexandria Zahra Jones was born at 5:06 a.m. in New York weighing in at 7 pounds and 4.6 ounces. According to their publicist Mitch Schneider, Bowie assisted in the delivery and cut the umbilical cord. The 53-year- old Bowie and the 45-year-old Iman married in 1992. The couple also has children from previous relationships. Iman's daughter, Zulekah, is 22 years old and was conceived when Iman was married to former basketball star Spencer Haywood. Bowie's son Duncan is 29. Hollow Man & Space Cowboys Fight It Out for # 1 Spot Kevin Bacon's suspense thriller Hollow Man and the sci-fi film Space Cowboys featuring Clint Eastwood and Tommy Lee Jones tied this week at the box office as both films grossed $13.1 million. Autumn in New York with Richard Gere and Winona Ryder placed third with $11.5 million followed by The Replacements at fourth. Eddie Murphy's comedy, the Nutty Professor II: The Klumps,placed fifth rounding out the top five movies this week.Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford's thriller What Lies Beneath came in sixth, grossing $9.8 million. Bless the Child placed seventh as Coyote Ugly followed in at eighth. The comic book reprisal X-Men placed ninth as The Perfect Storm followed behind, closing out this weekend's top ten. Here are the gross figures: FILMS GROSS * 1. Hollow Man $13.1 million
August 23, 2000 Madonna Delivers Baby Boy Pop superstar Madonna gave birth to a baby boy on Friday. Her publicist released a statement reading, "English film director Guy Ritchie and Madonna are delighted to announce the birth of their son, Rocco Ritchie, on August 11, 2000...Overjoyed mother, father and sister Lourdes are all safe and sound at an undisclosed location." Lil' Rocco came approximately a month before his expected due date. Madonna also has a 3-year-old daughter named Lourdes from a previous relationship with her personal trainer Carlos Leon. The proud mother will also turn 42 next week on August 16th. In related news, the "Material Girl" is scheduled to release her latest album, Music, on September 19th. The title cut is currently in heavy radio rotation and is ranked at 23 on Billboard's Hot 100. The video for the single will be released on September 5th on DVD. Marlon Wayans Battles Heroin and Dragons Marlon Wayans has been cast in the upcoming film Dungeons & Dragons. The film will also star Thora Birch, Jeremy Irons, and Lee Arenberg. It will be released through New Line Cinema and is scheduled to hit theatres by the end of the year. Dungeons & Dragons was written by Topper Lilien and Carol Cartwright and will be directed by Courtney Solomon. The film centers around an evil wizard who attempts to dethrone a new empress, and a battle over a device that controls dragons. Wayans will play a character named "Snails." He is currently featured in the hit film Scary Movie, which also costars his brother Shawn and is directed by his other brother Kennen. Marlon Wayans will also star in the upcoming film Requiem for a Dream, alongside Ellen Burstyn, and Jennifer Connelly. Wayans will play a heroin addict in the film, which is scheduled to hit theatres on October 6th.
August 22, 2000 Eminem Rejects Mom's Settlement Hip hop star Eminem has declined an out of court offering to settle a $10 million defamation of character lawsuit filed by his mother Debbie Mathers-Briggs. The matriarch of the Mathers family filed the lawsuit in 1999 claiming that Eminem portrayed her as unstable, a drug user, and lawsuit happy in various interviews and on his debut album, The Slim Shady LP. She claims that the accusations caused her physical and psychological damages. Mathers-Briggs apparently is willing to settle for $2 million from her only son. The case is scheduled to be heard in Macomb County Circuit Court in Detroit later this year. Eminem is scheduled to give a deposition on the case on September 13th. His sophomore album is currently ranked fourth on Soundscan and has sold close to six million copies. He is also performing on the "Up in Smoke Tour". EMI & Blackground Make a Pact EMI's Virgin Records recently signed a deal with Blackground Records worth an estimated $15 million. The label was previously distributed by Warner Music Group's Atlantic Records. According to Blackground, the deal ended when Atlantic passed on the soundtrack to Romeo Must Die, which Virgin picked up and released. Blackground is headed by CEO Barry Hankerson and executive VP Jomo Hankerson.Blackground's upcoming projects include albums from Aaliyah, Outsiderz 4 Life, Dave Bing, and the Hamptons. Acclaimed producer Timbaland's Zman Records is also part of the Blackground umbrella. Timbaland and Magoo's forthcoming album, Indecent Proposal, is scheduled for release in February 2001. The album will include collaborations with Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg.
August 21, 2000 NY Radio Personality Stalked Hot 97 New York Radio personality Star has become the victim of an obsessed fan over last three months. The situation came to a head when a woman was arrested on Tuesday at 12 p.m. after arriving outside the station at 5 a.m. The 26-year-old woman, identified as Vala Murray, reportedly waited outside the studio for months telling the DJ amongst other things, that she wanted to be his "Nubian Princess." Murray, described as a tall, lanky woman with dreadlocks, was charged with aggravated harassment. Star, whose real name is Troi Toran, is part of the Hot 97 morning team "Star and Buckwild," who have been compared to the obnoxious Howard Stern. The duo often hassles their audience and berates their musical guests. Star told The New York Daily News, "She kept telling me she wanted to have a baby, she wants to get married. She was leaving all these messages, reading poetry on the answering machine. But when she started showing up at 5:15 a.m. every morning and waiting for hours, I'm like this is getting a little crazy." Star is a reportedly dating Bianca from the hip hop group Major Figgas. He also said that she was receiving threats. "I told her, I got a girl. Tone it down," said Star. "But she said, I'm going to get you. I'm going to show you what being with a Nubian Queen is all about." Erykah Badu Grabs Hold of Burning Spear Legendary reggae artist Burning Spear is currently on a 75-plus date tour with his Burning Band. Erykah Badu recently joined him onstage at New York's Irving Plaza to perform the reggae icon's classic, "Jah No Dead." Burning Spear said of the impromptu performance, "I've been sometimes surprised at the artists who have approached me to perform together. The vibe was right with us and I think we really moved the audience, which is always my intention. I like giving people music they can feel and remember in their hearts."Burning Spear recently won a Grammy for "Best Reggae Album of the Year" for Calling Rastafari. He has released over 34 albums with uplifting socially conscious messages. For more information on Burning Spear and his tour, log on to www.burningspear.net.
August 20, 2000 Rosa Parks, Johnnie Cochran to Sue OutKast Famed attorney Johnnie Cochran has signed on to help defend Rosa Parks in her appeal against Atlanta based hip hop group OutKast. Parks sued the multi-platinum duo last year when they used her name in their 1998 hit "Rosa Parks," which was featured on their critically acclaimed album Aquemini. The suit claimed that OutKast exploited her name for profit. OutKast and their label La Face Records argued that the song was a tribute and that they were protected by the First Amendment. U.S. District Court Judge Barbara Hackett ruled in the group's favor last November. Parks and her lawyer Gregory Reed appealed the case. Both Parks and OutKast have submitted written arguments to the court, while no court date has been scheduled. Parks gained fame in 1955 when she refused to give up her seat to a white person which sparked the Civil Rights Movement. Cochran gained notoriety when he helped acquit O.J. Simpson of murder. OutKast is scheduled to release their fourth album, Stankonia in October. Common & The Roots Set to Tour The Roots, Common, and dead prez are among the featured artists on the upcoming "okayplayer tour." The three-hour shows will embody a jam session where the Roots will provide the musical backdrop for the acts. The tour will also include Mos Def, Dilated Peoples, Talib Kweli, DJ Hi-Tek, Jill Scott, Jaguar, and Bilal Oliver. The tour itinerary has yet to be announced but it is scheduled to play at least 20 cities and make stops in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The concert will also continue with the theme of the okayplayer website and feature activity stations set up with laptop computers and community based educational information. Okayplayer is the official website for such artist as The Roots, D'Angelo, Talib Kweli and DJ Hi-Tek, and Common. Common's latest album, Like Water for Chocolate, is currently ranked at number 63 on Soundscan. The album's current single, "The Light," features Erykah Badu in its video.
August 19, 2000 Joseph Lieberman Reassures "Affirmative Action" Democratic Vice-Presidential candidate Senator Joseph Lieberman spoke to over 300 members of the black caucus yesterday as he came in to Los Angeles for the Democratic National Convention. Lieberman told the caucus that he was in support of affirmative action, a life-long advocate of civil rights, and a strong proponent of public school education. Lieberman, who is Jewish, said, "My commitment to civil rights begins with my religion and we are all children of God," and "I feel as if I'm with my family." He spoke of his days as a student registering black voters in Mississippi in 1963. Lieberman also said that his position on affirmative action had been misconstrued because of an off-hand quote he gave to a reporter in 1995. He stated, "I have supported affirmative action, I do support affirmative action, and I will support affirmative action." After the speech, he received a standing ovation and an endorsement from Democratic California Representative Maxine Waters, who withheld her support until she learned more about Lieberman's views. However, civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton said he wouldn't back Lieberman until he makes a stronger public defense of affirmative action, and Vice-President Gore speaks more about racial profiling. Sharpton said, "I will not be in support of a ticket that has been very muffled on these issues. Usher Prepares "It's All About U" R&B sensation Usher is expected to release his third album, It's All About U, on October 31st. The album is scheduled to include production by Jermaine Dupri, She'kspere, and Babyface. Arista President and CEO Antonio "LA" Reid recently signed She'kspere to an exclusive joint venture label and production deal with the company. She'kspere also co-wrote TLC's Grammy-winning hit "No Scrubs" and Destiny's Child's Grammy-nominated "Bills, Bills, Bills" with Kandi Burruss, a former member of the R&B group Xscape.Usher recently collapsed in a New York recording studio from dehydration and exhaustion, but is back on the mend. The R&B heartthrob recently filmed Texas Rangers. The film also stars James Van Der Beek and Rachel Leigh Cook. Usher will play Randolph Douglas Sipio in film based on the justice agency that was formed on the Texas frontiers following the civil War. Usher previously appeared in the films The Faculty and Light It Up and with fellow R&B singer Brandy on her sitcom, Moesha. Texas Rangers is expected to hit theatres next spring.
August 18, 2000 Sir Alec Guiness Returns to the Stars Sir Alec Guiness, the famed actor who starred as Jedi knight Obi-Wan Kenobi in the 1977 film Star Wars, died on Saturday at the age of 86 in Hampshire, southern England. The actor reportedly took ill last Thursday and was taken to King Edward VII Hospital in West Sussex, southern England. News reports from England say that actor had been battling liver cancer and suffered from chronic glaucoma, but a cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Guiness first appeared on screen in 1946 in the film Great Expectations. Guiness won an Oscar for his role in the 1957 war film The Bridge on the River Kwai and also appeared in other films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Oliver Twist. He was also featured in many plays such as Libel and Hamlet. His last film was 1984's Passage to India. Guiness was knighted in 1960 and became Sir Alec. He is survived by his wife Merula and son Matthew. Hollow Man Seeps Through Box Office Top Ten Kevin Bacon's suspense thriller Hollow Man terrorized the box office this week as it seized the number one position, grossing $26.8 million. Eddie Murphy's comedy, the Nutty Professor II: The Klumps, placed second with $18 million followed by Space Cowboys at third with $17.6 million. Coyote Ugly came in fourth as Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford's thriller, What Lies Beneath, grossed $13.9 million, rounding out the top five movies of the week.The comic book reprisal X-Men, placed sixth and grossed $6.1 million. The Wayans' brother's horror movie parody, Scary Movie, frightened audiences into giving up $4.2 million for the comedy flick, which placed seventh. The Perfect Storm crashed in at number eight being trailed by Disney's The Kid at ninth. Mel Gibson's The Patriot brought in the flag at number ten as it grossed $2.3 million and rounded out the top ten. Here are the gross figures GROSS * 1. Hollow Man $26.8 million
August 17, 2000 Reggae Artist Lexxus Makes Debut with Mr. Lex Reggae artist Lexxus, born Christopher Palmer is making waves in his native country of Jamaica and is planning to be the next sensation in America. Born in Kingston and hailed as the next Beanie Man, the dynamic artist spoke about his love for performing, the differences between dancehall and reggae and his debut CD Mr. Lex. Lexxus's first love is to perform and his desire to entertain becomes evident when he explains his metamorphosis into his alter ego as he's on stage. "Let me tell you this, as long as I'm on stage and there's a large crowd out there, I just do my thing," said Lexxus. "Yo, it doesn't matter. I don't feel a difference performing abroad or here, [Jamaica]. I like performing so once I got the audience I transform. I'm not the normal person that just walks up on the stage, I transform...I turn into the monster that I love...It's overwhelming to have worked for so long and for now it to be actually happening, it feels good." Lexxus obvious love for hip hop is evident in his musical taste and his hip hop tinged style can be heard on his debut album. Lexxus cites some of his favorite artists as Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes and the illustrious Lil' Kim. Lexxus implies that hip hop and reggae's mutual respect for each other allow them to compliment one another as he discusses the hip hop influence on Mr. Lex. "You just have to blend the right artists together, the right reggae artists with the right hip hop artists and you'll see wonders work." Lexxus also differentiates between dancehall music and reggae, as he describes dancehall music as stemming from reggae but appealing more to the younger generation with a distinct hip hop influence, adrenaline filled lyrics and body winding beats. " Everybody goes for reggae, the younger people go for dancehall...internationally I consider myself a reggae artist...but in Jamaica I'm a dancehall act...Dennis Brown is reggae, Bob Marley is reggae... but Shabba Ranks is dancehall." Mr. Lex was released in mid-June and the album includes production by Steely & Clevie, Tony Kelly, Richie D, King Jammy,and Bobby Konders. Papa Was A Rolling Stone Rolling Stones' frontman Mick Jagger was in court again yesterday to discuss legal at a child support hearing. Jagger and his ex girlfriend, Brazilian model Luciana Morad, are currently battling over child support payments for their 14-month-old son Lucas. The rock star is currently paying $10,000 in temporary child support, but Morad is asking for $30,000 a month. David Kirschblum, a hearing examiner for the Family Court, ordered Jagger to file a financial disclosure form. Kirschblum said, "This court should not have to guess what the respondent's income is, nor will it utilize a search engine, the truthfulness of the content of which this court cannot guarantee."John Vassallo, Jagger's lawyer, claimed that his client shouldn't be required to reveal his financial worth since he's not a New York citizen. Furthermore, Vassallo added that the information may be leaked to the media. He will appeal the decision. Jagger has 30 days to send the court "a recent pay stub and all his 1999 income tax returns from all jurisdictions with all attachments." Jagger was also chastised by Kirschblum for not appearing at any of the court proceedings, which he has been handling over the phone from London, England. Jagger didn't inform the court official that he was in New York last month, which was highly publicized in the media. Kirschblum stated, "It is my intent that if Mr. Jagger is going to come back to this state, he's going to appear in this courtroom," said Kirschblum. He also stated that if the rock star appeared in New York again, he'd be considered in default. "This game is over and there will be no further electronic means of communication. If Mr. Jagger is going to come to this state, then he's going to appear in my courtroom." The couple is due back in court on September 18th.
August 16, 2000 Ice-T Joins NYPD Ice-T is set to hit the small screen again as he joins the cast of NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims." Ice-T will play detective Odafin Tutuola, a street-smart police officer on the television series which focuses on cases pursued by the New York Police Department's sex crime unit. He will partner with detective John Munch played by Richard Belzer. Ice-T said, "It's a great thing to be asked to be on board such a great show." "Law & Order: Special Victims" will kick off its second season this fall. The series is also a reunion for Ice-T and series producer Dick Wolf. Ice- T has previously worked with Wolf when he starred on the NBC drama series "Players" (1997-1998) and Fox's "New York Undercover" (1994-1998). He also starred in the television movie, "Exiled: A Law & Order Movie," which Wolf also produced. Wolf said, "Working with Ice is always a pleasure. He is a consummate professional, a great actor, a terrific person, and he has a great sense of humor. I am really looking forward to the chemistry (and most likely fireworks) between his character, and Belzer's Detective Munch." In related news, the veteran rapper will release The Greatest Hits: Evidence tomorrow on Atomic Pop Records. The album will include such classics as "6in the Mornin," "New Jack Hustlers," and "Colors." Ice- T released his seventh album, 7th Deadly Sin, in 1999. Donell Jones Gives the People What They Want Donell Jones is riding high off the success of his sophomore album, Where I Wanna Be. The album features the hit singles "Girl You Know What's Up" and "Where I Wanna Be." Jones recently spoke about the sluggish sales of his critically acclaimed 1996 debut My Heart, and his perseverance to keep striving for perfection. "Anything you want to do in life, you definitely have to stick with it," said Jones. "I been in this game for five years and it's taken me that much time to get where I'm at right now."The R&B crooner is also against shortchanging his fans. He makes it an effort to give them a 100% in everything he does. Jones vows that he will never put album fillers on his product. He said, "I give a complete album. My albums, you can put them on from beginning to end and let them play. I believe when people go out and spend their money, they supposed to get something from the beginning to the end. Sometimes you got people that put out three singles and the rest of the album is wack. You'll never get that from me. Each of my songs has the possibility of being a single. That's how I put together an album." Where I Wanna Be is currently ranked at # 89 on Soundscan. The latest single released from the album is "Shorty (Got Her Eyes on Me)." Jones is also featured on the Shaft soundtrack with the hit single, "Do What I Gotta Do."
August 15, 2000 Mary J. Blige Nominated for Lady of Soul Awards Mary J. Blige, Destiny's Child, and Eve are the leading nominees for the sixth annual Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards. The artists were each nominated for three awards. Blige was nominated for "Best R&B/Soul Single" and "R&B/Soul or Rap Song of the Year" for her release "All That I Can Say." Blige's fourth album, Mary, was also nominated for "R&B/Soul Album of the Year - Solo." Destiny's Child's hit single "Say My Name," was nominated for "R&B/Soul or Rap Song of the Year" and "Best R&B/Soul Single by a Group, Band, or Duo." Their album, The Writings on the Wall, was nominated for "R&B/Soul Album of the Year by Group, Band, or Duo." The platinum bombshell Eve was nominated for "Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist" and "R&B/Soul Album of the Year - Solo" for her album, Let There Be...Eve. Her hit single, "Love Is Blind," a dedication to battered women, was nominated for "Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video." She also received a cameo nomination in that category for appearing on Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliot's hit, "Hot Boyz." The song also features Nas and Q-Tip. R&B singer Sisqo and actor Shemar Moore will co-host the Lady of Soul Awards on September 2nd at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Moore currently stars on the soap opera "The Young and the Restless" and hosts the long running weekly dance show "Soul Train." Here is the complete list of Soul Train Lady of Soul Award nominees: Best R&B/Soul Single - Solo Best R&B/Soul Single - Group, Band, or Duo R&B/Soul Album of the Year - Solo R&B/Soul Album of the Year - Group, Band, or Duo R&B/Soul or Rap Song of the Year Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist - Solo Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist - Group, Band, or Duo Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video Best Gospel Album She'kspere Signs Production Deal With Arista Arista President and CEO Antonio "LA" Reid has signed producer extraordinarie Kevin "She'kspere" Briggs to an exclusive joint venture label and production deal with the company. The Atlanta based producer will also serve as an A&R consultant and staff producer for Arista. He has worked with such artists as Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, Faith Evans, and N'Sync. She'kspere and LA first worked together in 1997 when the producer recorded a remix for La Face's R&B artist Sam Salter. Briggs has yet to announce a name for his label. She'kspere also co-wrote TLC's Grammy winning hit "No Scrubs" and Destiny's Child's Grammy nominated "Bills, Bills, Bills" with Kandi Burruss, a former member of the R&B group Xscape. Burruss will be releasing her solo debut, Kandi, on September 19th on Columbia Records.
August 13, 2000 James Brown Knife Assault Dropped The Godfather of Soul James Brown can breathe easier now since one of the charges levied against the singer has been dropped. Russell Eubanks, a South Carolina Electric & Gas employee, filed a police report on July 13th accusing Brown of holding him against his will at his Beech Island, South Carolina home. Eubanks claimed that the singer pulled out a knife on him after he was called to investigate a power outage at the singer's home. Eubanks says that he entered the singer's house through an unlocked gate only to be met by Brown who ordered him to wait. Brown reportedly returned a steak knife in one hand and a suit in the other stating, "That means that I'm a government agent. And I can lock you up for trespassing and sneaking around on my property." Reportedly, Brown's security guard showed up to protect Eubanks and helped him exit the property. Robert Downey Jr. Freed at Last Actor Robert Downey, Jr. was released from California State Prison on Wednesday after posting $5,000 bail. Downey, notorious for his drug and alcohol abuse problems, was sentenced for three years in prison for drug violations in 1999. However, Superior Court Judge Lawrence Mira apparently forgot to take into account the 323 days Downey previously served when he had spent time in a drug rehabilitation center. Downey's lawyers fended for the actor in court explaining that he had already served his time if the judge would consider his days in rehab as inclusive to his sentence. Apparently, the appeals court also agreed as they granted Downey his release. Downey also had legal troubles in 1996 when he was stopped for speeding in LA and police discovered heroin, cocaine, and a gun in his car. Downey was nominated for an Oscar in 1992 for his role in Chaplin. Downey's last movie,Wonder Boys, was released in February of this year and co-starred Michael Douglas and Tobey Maguire. He was also featured in Wu-Tang Clan's opus, Black and White.
August 12, 2000 Paul Robeson's Son Sues The son of prolific African-American Paul Robeson is not happy. Paul Robeson Jr. filed a complaint at Manhattan Supreme Court last week with plans to sue recording conglomerate EMI for allegedly withholding royalties from him for his father's work. The suit is asking EMI for a record of its sales and plans to sue if the court decides that the company intentionally withheld royalties from Robeson Jr. However, EMI implies that they were not required to pay Robeson after his father's recordings were released to the public. According to The Daily News, Robeson Jr. claims that "with no explanation, the checks simply stopped coming" and claimed that the last time he had received a check from EMI was in 1985. Paul Robeson, Sr. was an actor, singer, activist, and athlete. He acted in 11 motion pictures and appeared on Broadway in such productions as Porgy and Bess and Show Boat. He became the first African-American football player at Rutgers University and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in1995. Robeson was also famous for his bass voice and sang in operas, spirituals, and musicals. He died on January 23, 1976. Duran Duran Hit With Lawsuit Popular 80s band Duran Duran is being sued by Los Angeles resident Cornell Zachery. The lawsuit, filed on July 28th in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims that the band allegedly gave out Zachery's number, mistakenly listing it as their contact number. Zachery claims he was badgered with numerous phone calls from fans wanting to purchase Duran Duran memorilbia. The incessant ringing reportedly began in July 1998 and allegedly left Zachery with hazardous medical conditions such as a sleeping disorder and high blood pressure. The suit reads, " As a result thereof, those millions of fans of rock band Duran Duran dialed and connected with the telephone number owned by [Zachery] resulting in continuos ringing of [Zachery's} telephone day and nightÉAs a proximate results of the act of [Duran Duran] [Zachery] was hurt and injured in his health, strength, and activity, sustaining injury to his nervous system and person." Zachery also claims that even after requesting his number to stop being published, the phone calls continued. Duran Duran is known for many of their chart topping hits such as "Hungry Like the Wolf" and "Rio." Their last album, Pop Trash was released earlier this year.
August 3, 2000 Spice Girls to Release New Album Great Britains' favorite girl group, the Spice Girls, have returned and are scheduled to release a new album in November. The girl power quartet is in the midst of shooting a video that will be released around the time that the new album drops. According to Reuters, Spice Girl Mel C. said, " We have two more weeks in the studio. We are shooting a video and then it will be all done and dusted." During the group's hiatus, Mel C. a.k.a. "Sporty" Spice pursued a solo career. The sporty Brit won an award for her platinum solo debut album, Never Be the Same Again. Former Spice Girl Geri "Ginger Spice" Halliwell, who left the group to pursue a solo career, contributed to prevailing rumors of a supposed rivalry between her and the remaining members of the group. Halliwell released her solo debut, Schizophonic, in 1999. The Spice Girls' last album, Spice World, was released in 1997. EMI Set to Release Albums for Download EMI Recorded Music is planning to sell quite a few of their recordings online on Tuesday when it will release music from popular artists for viewers to download from the Internet. Some of the artists expected to be downloaded on EMI will be the Spice Girls, Pink Floyd, Snoop Dogg, and Bonnie Rait. It is believed that part of the company's incentive in developing the program is to lure Internet users away from Napster and MP3.com. Both companies serve to distribute music via the Internet and have had recent disputes with famous artists such as rapper Dr. Dre and megastar pop singer Madonna. Problems arose because the companies allowed access to songs without the protection of copyright or royalty laws for the artists. EMI will be the first company to sell its recordings online. Richard Cottrell president of EMI , stated to Reuters that " EMI is the first major record label to release this volume of songs for digital download into the retail channel."
August 2, 2000 Cash Money's Discusses the Art of "Stunting" Cash Money Millionaire Bryan "Baby" Williams recently talked about flossing (showboating) and occasionally speaking on social issues like on the Big Tymer's track "My Life" and "Dirty World" from the Hot Boys album, Get It How U Live. "We like to speak on how white folks be making it easy for other motherfuckers and so hard for us. We speak on shit like that from time to time," said Baby. "Stunting is me flossing. I like to floss and show my shit. I like to shine. As you see in the videos, nothing but chrome and ice." Cash Money will also be releasing a straight to video film and soundtrack, Baller Blocking. Baby stated, "It's some shit we shot in the hood, in our project. Just everyday living in the hood. It stars us, (Cash Money Millionaires), A.J. Johnson, T.K. Kirkland, and the project. It's some straight hood shit." The Baller Blocking film and soundtrack will be released on August 22nd. The Big Tymers album, I Got That Work is currently ranked at # 34 on Soundscan. Director Roman Polanski Sued by Artisan Entertainment Polish director Roman Polanski, famous for such movies as Rosemary's Baby andDeath and the Maiden, is being sued by Artisan Entertainment. The suit was filed on July 11th in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles and concerns the movie The Ninth Gate based on the novel "The Club Dumas" by Auturo Perez- Reverte. Apparently, because the movie was filmed in France there was a value-added tax that Polanski was deliberately withholding for himself and his production company, R.P. Prods. Supposedly, the money was to be given to the International Film Guarantors, Aristan's completion bond company. According to Reuters, Artisan is claiming that Polanski " brazenly deposited the money in a private account" and " has refused all requests to return the money." Ostensibly, R.P. Prods. had received $619,000 in value-added tax refunds and was set on receiving another $577,000 as stated in Reuters. The comedy/thriller, the The Ninth Gate starred Johnny Depp and Lena Olin and was released on March 10th of this year.
August 1, 2000 Eminem Arraigned for ICP Brawl Eminem was arraigned on weapons charges in Oakland County, Michigan Circuit Court. The charges stem from an altercation last month with members of the rock/rap group Insane Clown Posse (ICP). Since Eminem is currently on the "Up In Smoke" tour, he was arraigned by mail for the felony of carrying a concealed weapon and a misdemeanor charge of brandishing a firearm in public. Eminem's pre-trial court date has not yet been set. In related news, the "Up In Smoke" tour came to New Jersey's Continental Airline Arena on Saturday. The explosive concert featured Eminem and Proof from the Detroit group D-12, calling ICP "Insane Clown Pussies," and tossing two sex blow up dolls in the audience with ICP's signature make up on them. Dre and Snoop also rocked the show riding onto the stage in a '64 Impala with the DOC as they bought the "Still D.R. E" video to life. The show also featured a performance by Ice Cube and his West Side Connection cohorts, Mack 10 and WC, who even went through a Crip-walking exhibition. A tribute to Tupac, Eazy-E, Biggie, and Pun was also held. The concert ended with a NWA (Ice Cube, Dr. Dre. MC Ren & Snoop) reunion, as they performed their latest hit, "Chin Check." Here is the remaining tour itinerary: * 8/1 - Fort Lauderdale, FL @ National Car Rental Center* 8/2 - Tampa, FL @ Ice Palace * 8/4 - Atlanta, GA @ Lakewood Amphitheatre * 8/5 - New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena * 8/6 - Houston, TX @ Astrodome U.S.A. * 8/7 - Dallas, TX @ Starplex Amphitheatre * 8/8 - San Antonio, TX @ Alamodome * 8/10 - Phoenix, AZ @ America West Arena * 8/11 - Las Vegas, NV @ Thomas & Mack Center * 8/12 - Fresno, CA @ Selland Arena * 8/13 - San Jose, CA @ San Jose Arena * 8/15 - Tacoma, WA @ Tacoma Dome * 8/16 - Vancouver, BC @ General Motors Place * 8/18 - West Valley, UT @ E Center * 8/20 - Englewood, CO @ Fiddler's Green Amph "Quarter Waters" May Possibly Cause Asthma The popular kid beverage commonly referred to as "quarter water" is believed to cause asthma attacks and other allergic reactions in children. The drinks are often sold individually or in six-packs under such brand names as Daily's Little Hug, Citrus Squeeze, Sun Dew and Sun Burst. The drinks maintain their bright colors by using a preservative called sodium metabisulfite. Dr. David Rosenstreitch told The New York Daily News, "Metabisulfite does cause asthma in sensitive individuals. It can be quite severe." Rosenstreitch is the director of the division of allergy and immunology in the department of medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center. He also said the attacks can be triggered in people who already have asthma or in people who have never had it.The American Beverage Corporation, which manufactures the Little Hug and Sun Dew brands, announced that it stopped adding sodium metabisulfite to its brands at the start of the year. However, lab tests by the New York daily News proved that sodium metabisulfite was still used and the ingredient labels listed the compound. Tim Barr, marketing director for American Beverage Corporation, said that the company normally build inventory for the summer about eight months in advance so "it's conceivable that we're looking at it from September ('99)," which will mean that next summer's inventory should be free of sodium metabisulfite. The infamous sulfites were used in the 80s at salad bars to keep vegetables from turning brown. The preservatives caused allergic reactions and some deaths, and were eventually banned, including sodium metabisulfite, in vegetables and fruits. The Food and Drug Administration maintains that the preservatives are still legal in processed food and drinks as long as its listed in the ingredients. Posters have been placed throughout New York City neighborhoods to warn parents of the possible dangers of the drink. The posters read, "Color me red, green, blue or orange. I am found in your corner store, for only 25 cents. I can make your asthma get worse. I contain chemicals that are harmful to children's breathing."
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