The Boombox Music Blog

Nicki Minaj: 'American Idol' Live Shows May Bring the 'Crazy Psycho' Back Out

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST

Jim Dyson, Getty Images Just one day ahead of her "American Idol" debut, Nicki Minaj is trying her best to do some damage control on her reputation. Following her fight with beloved pop legend Mariah Carey, Nicki seems to feel like she's been painted the villain in the whole debacle, or in her own words, the "crazy psycho." "I don't know. It was just two big old divas, I guess," the rapper explains on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show." "I was just like sitting there, and I guess before I went in there I heard all the stuff that was being said, but I didn't believe it. I heard them saying 'Mariah doesn't want you on the panel' but I was like, 'No. I am friends with Mariah.' I was like arguing people down. Like, 'Don't believe everything you read, you're crazy.'" Well apparently, the rumors were true. "I went there and I started to feel a bit of the shade," Nicki revealed, "And I just kind of overcompensated by being crazier." "You know, when someone maybe doesn't like you, it's kind of like, now you're gonna really go in," she explains of her decision to act out on the judges panel. "Because it's like a defense mechanism. You know what I mean? It's really that. Your feelings are hurt and you can't believe it, so you kind of just compensate with being crazy." ...

Mariah recently told her side of the story -- including the fact that she stepped up her security after allegedly receiving threats from Nicki -- during an interview with Barbara Walters. But these days, Nicki insists the beef has been squashed between the two.

"We're fine," Minaj claims. "I cannot hold a grudge against Mariah Carey. What people don't understand is that I've looked up to her for so many years. Since she came out, 'Vision of Love,' all that. Me and my mother would sing her songs like all day and all night. So I don't know if she's gotten over it, but I have. I mean, I'm over there cracking up laughing, having fun and if she's still holding a grudge. I don't know. Like, I don't care."

That is, until the live-show portion of the programming begins. Ms. Minaj admits that should any future incidents arise, she may not be able to edit herself in the heat of the moment.

"Just like if there's a slick comment being made, I just want it to go well," she says. "It's about the contestants. We have a lot of great talent, and I don't want anyone on the panel to say something too crazy, because then I don't want to look like a crazy psycho again. I am not really a crazy psycho, you guys."

Season 12 of "American Idol" premieres Jan. 16 on FOX at 8PM ET.

See Nicki Minaj's Fashion Evolution Photos

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-141082|153354|147192%

Watch Nicki Minaj's "Starships" Video

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Nicki Minaj Songs | Buy Nicki Minaj Albums

Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj Feud: Singer Admits She Hired 'More Security' Following Fight

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 15:40:00 EST

Getty Images The Season 12 premiere of "American Idol" is just days away, so you know what that means ... time for Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj to hash out that three month-old feud! "It felt like an unsafe work environment," Mariah tells Barbara Walters in a new ABC News interview. "Anytime anybody's reeling threats at somebody, you know, that's just -- it's not appropriate. I've got two babies. I'm not going to take any chances. Yeah, I did hire more security. I just felt it was the appropriate thing to do." READ THE FULL STORY AND WATCH MARIAH'S INTERVIEW AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Kanye West, Kim Kardashian Mansion: Parents-to-Be Drop Staggering Sum on New Home

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 09:05:00 EST

Denise Truscello, Getty Images As they prepare to welcome their first child together, it looks like Kanye West and Kim Kardashian are sparing no expense. The expectant parents are set to move in together, purchasing an $11 million mansion for their new family! According to TMZ sources close to the couple, Kimye splurged on a 10,000-square-foot home in California's gated Bel Air community a few weeks ago. A-list neighbors include Jennifer Aniston, NBA star Chris Paul, and "Girls Gone Wild" creator Joe Francis. ...

And if that wasn't enough, the property is undergoing a gut renovation in the hands of its new owners, and will be expanded in size to 14,000-square-feet!

The Italian-style villa will boast a gym, bowling alley, basketball court, indoor and outdoor pool, movie theater, and hair and makeup salon. And following reports about Kanye's pal Jay-Z's nursery for baby Blue Ivy, we can only imagine what over-the-top luxury is in store for baby Kimye's room.

The insider also shared that Kanye and Kim have not made any plans to walk down the aisle as of yet.

Kanye West's 10 Things to Do Besides Date Kim Kardashian
%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-155054|159053|171128%

Watch Kanye West's "All of the Lights" Video

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Kanye West Songs | Buy Kanye West Albums

Beyonce Documentary Trailer: Baby Bump Appears in New Preview (VIDEO)

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 10:18:00 EST

Mike Coppola, Getty Images It's time to take a sneak peek at Beyonce's directorial debut. Following HBO's announcement of an impending Queen B documentary, helmed by the singer herself, a trailer for the TV special has been released. "I always battle with how much do I reveal about myself," Bey admits as the clip opens. "If I'm scared, be sacred. Allow it; release it," she says over fierce performance footage. The preview also shows off-stage shots of the entertainer, including video of her then-burgeoning baby bump. "Everybody knows Beyonce's music, but few know Beyonce the person," Michael Lombardo, president of HBO programming, said in a previous statement. "Along with electrifying footage of Beyonce onstage, this unique special looks beyond the glamor to reveal a vibrant, vulnerable, unforgettable woman." ...

Beyonce's documentary special premieres February 16, 2013 on HBO, just days after her headlining gig at this season's Superbowl Halftime Show. Until then, check out the trailer below.

Watch Beyonce's Documentary Trailer

Check Out Beyonce's First Week on Instagram

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-170837|171128|164263%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Beyonce Songs | Buy Beyonce Albums

Frank Ocean, Willy Cartier Dating? Singer and Model Spark Relationship Rumors With New Photo

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 09:37:00 EST

Instagram Frank Ocean is fueling rumors that he is romantically involved with high-fashion model, Willy Cartier, after posting a snapshot of himself and Cartier embracing on his Instagram page. Admittedly this photo, captioned "archives," does not look like a candid PDA shot of the pair. The image is likely a screenshot from Ocean's next music video, in which Cartier may star. Nonetheless, the relationship rumor mill is churning and in response to fan reactions to the photo, Ocean took to the comments section of the post. "Lol y'all are crazy," he wrote, neither confirming nor denying the rumors. "Remember, everyone goes to the grave. Let me live." ...

This isn't the first photo of the pair to spark relationship rumors. Just of couple of weeks ago, Ocean and Cartier were snapped together on the GQ Men of the Year event red carpet.

Ocean revealed his teenage romance with another man via a coming out letter earlier this year, ahead of the release of his debut album, Channel Orange.

Check Out Frank Ocean's Coming Out Letter Below

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-159736|150731|158195|156181%

Watch "Frank Ocean: Bio and Origins of the R&B Singer"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Frank Ocean Songs | Buy Frank Ocean Albums

'Diamonds': Jonas Brothers, Sia Cover Rihanna's Hit -- Which Version Wins? (POLL)

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST

Charles Sykes, Invision/AP Rihanna's "Diamonds" is hot, hot, hot! The Billboard record-breaking single off Ri's new No. 1 album Unapologetic is stuck in everyone's heads these days, including some of the singer's pop peers. The Jonas Brothers took the stage with a live, guitar-laden cover of RiRi's hit during their show at Los Angeles' Pantages Theatre this week. Oh, those luscious, brotherly harmonies! And the JoBros' weren't the only act giving the song a makeover. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG ...

Alicia Keys: Baby Egypt Joins Mom Onstage at iHeartRadio Live Performance (PHOTOS)

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 17:05:00 EST

Theo Wargo for Getty Images/iHeartRadio Last night (Nov. 27) Alicia Keys put on an intimate performance in conjunction with iHeartRadio for an audience of Hurricane Sandy first responders, volunteers and their guests. The New York-native's thank you to those who came to the rescue of the hardest hit neighborhoods included classics like her debut single "Fallin'," "You Don't Know My Name" and "If I Ain't Got You." The Grammy winner also took the opportunity to share new songs off her fifth studio album, Girl on Fire, which was released earlier that day. Alicia was absolutely radiant onstage, delivering a powerful, engaging performance, but the songstress never looked so excited as she did while interacting with her number one fan -- her 2-year-old son, Egypt. The toddler danced and smiled in the wings along with father, Alicia's husband, Swizz Beatz, until it was time to join his superstar mom onstage. ...

Egypt bounced in Keys' arms during the live rendition of her hit "No One," and even took control of the mic to introduce the next song.

"I love you," Egypt told his mom, much to the audience's delight.

"I'm going to sing your favorite song right now. What song should I sing next?" Alicia asked. "What about the song, 'Brand New ...'," Alicia led, before passing the mic to Egypt.

"Part of Me," Egypt followed, finishing the lyrics to his mom's new Girl on Fire track, "Brand New Me."

Check out the photo gallery of moments from last night's show and click the button below to stream Alicia's entire new album on AOL Music's CD Listening Party.

Listen to Girl on Fire

See Photos From Alicia's Performance
%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-172142|163137|153354|171128%

Watch "Alicia Keys on Son Egypt: My 'Greatest Collaboration'"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Alicia Keys Songs | Buy Alicia Keys Albums

Rihanna: 'Unapologetic' Album Is Career Milestone, Brings Singer to Tears

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:55:00 EST

Amazon.com The seventh time's the charm for Rihanna. Following six top-10 albums, the singer has finally scored her very first No. 1 in the U.S. with her seventh studio release, Unapologetic. "Wait!!!!! What the FUCK?!!!!" Rihanna tweeted upon hearing the big news that her album debuted atop the Billboard Albums 200 chart. "#UNAPOLOGETIC just debuted at #1 in AMERICA!!!!! My first number 1 album there!!! Thank you Navy, u deserve it." "I'm legit crying like a pussy right now!! #UNAPOLOGETIC," she added in another messaged to her 26.9 million followers on the social networking site. READ THE FULL STORY ON AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Rihanna, the Police: Does 'Unapologetic' Track Borrow From Rock Classic?

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 16:10:00 EST

Charles Sykes, Invision/AP As Rihanna's Unaplogetic album is expected to debut big on the Billboard Albums chart this week, it appears the songstress owes quite a lot to her pop and rock predecessors. Ri's eclectic seventh studio album is, in many ways, a nod to the classics, but one song in particular may go beyond the homage. Rihanna's "Love Without Tragedy/Mother Mary" borrows directly from The Police's 1979 hit "Message in a Bottle." The Police track was penned by Sting, who also produced the song along with Nigel Gray, and band members Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers. Carlos McKinney and Terius Nash, aka The-Dream, are credited for the production on the Rihanna reinterpretation. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG ...

Ne-Yo Admits to Disappointing Fans, Shares 'R.E.D.' Experience in Behind the Sessions Video

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:50:00 EST

Gino DePinto, AOL After premiering Ne-Yo's Sessions performance videos and interview earlier this week, The BoomBox brings you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the singer's live set in our New York studios. Check out the video below to get a fly-on-the-wall look at the making of the R.E.D. creator's Sessions as he prepare to hit the stage and pose for an awesome photo shoot on the streets of New York. ...

Watch Ne-Yo in The BoomBox's Exclusive Behind the Sessions Video %VIRTUAL-globalVideoEmbed-{"videoIds":"517529586","width":"476","height":"357"}%

See The BoomBox's Exclusive Photos of Ne-Yo's Performance

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-170264|170100|166863%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Ne-Yo Songs | Buy Ne-Yo Albums

Rihanna, 'Nobodies Business': Chris Brown & Singer Cause Controversy, Channel Michael Jackson -- Listen

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 13:15:00 EST

Def Jam After rumors of another Chris Brown collaboration were confirmed by Rihanna herself with the release of her Unapologetic album tracklisting, a snippet of the new duet has debuted. Despite an overwhelming amount of backlash for her decision to invite her physically abusive ex-boyfriend to sing on her Talk That Talk album "Birthday Cake" remix, the recently reunited couple are at it again, and they have a message for all their detractors. The title of the new duet says it all -- "Nobodies Business." "I sing it to the world, baby give me something/ Imma be your girl I wanna make you mine/ And it ain't nobodies business/ It ain't nobodies business/ It ain't nobodies business/ It ain't nobodies business/ Just mine, and my baby," Ri sings, channeling Michael Jackson and a line from his classic, "The Way You Make Me Feel." READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Ne-Yo Talks 'R.E.D.' Album, Fatherhood, Artists vs. Celebrities & More During Sessions Q&A

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

Gino DePinto, AOL "It's so easy to be a celebrity nowadays," Ne-Yo tells The BoomBox, sitting down for an interview following his exclusive Sessions performance in our New York studio. "I feel like the essence of what it is to be an artist has been lost ... The work ethic of some of these younger artists that I'm coming across is embarrassing." He's reminiscing about a time before showbiz shortcuts like Auto-Tune and viral YouTube videos. Still, as he releases his fifth studio album, 'R.E.D.,' out today (Nov. 6), the 30-year-old entertainer admits the effort is an attempt to make up for his own previous shortcomings. "My last album [2010's Libra Scale] was not as commercially successful as my previous three and that's 100 percent my fault," he reveals, explaining the motive behind the decision to delay his 'R.E.D.' album release. "I didn't pay as much attention to the music as I normally do, and I feel like I let my fans down. "So with this fifth album, I have to make sure that everything is as right as humanly possible before I put it out there. I don't want to say that this is my apology album, but to a degree it's like I got a little too cool for the room with the last one." With the new LP, the singer-songwriter vows to "bring back" the Ne-Yo his fans know and love. Yet, the new album marks a lot of firsts for Ne-Yo, with this being his first release since moving from Def Jam to Motown Records and being appointed Senior Vice President of A&R at Motown. It's also his first LP since becoming a father to daughter Madilyn and son Mason. Check out Ne-Yo's exclusive Sessions Q&A, performance and photo shoot below. ...

Your album title, R.E.D., is an acronym for "realizing every dream." You've accomplished a lot in your career, but what dreams haven't you realized yet?

Well, I'm a rather multifaceted person -- or at least I like to fashion myself as such -- so my dreams are multifaceted. For example, I had a dream of winning a Grammy, right. I've done that three times over. However, Stevie Wonder has done that in double digits, so, I got a little more work to do, you know what I mean. I dreamed of one day starring in a film. I've done that twice. Denzel Washington has done it countless times, so I still got some work to do. So with that being said, with every dream realized there's another piece to that dream that has yet to be realized. So, you know more growing to do, more learning to do, just more dreams to realize.

Watch Ne-Yo's Interview With The BoomBox %VIRTUAL-globalVideoEmbed-{"videoIds":"517530569","width":"476","height":"357"}%

This is your first album since becoming a father. How that has that influenced your music and songwriting?

The birth of my children hasn't so much changed my music; it's just kind of put a magnifying glass on something that I already knew to be true, but now really, really hits home. As an artist, you know as a person in the public eye, period, you kind of have a responsibility to the younger kids that are watching and emulating what you do. Whether you like it or not, you're a role model of sorts. So I kind of pride myself on making the kind of music that a 4-year-old, a 14-year-old and a 40-year-old can all listen to.

Now, on the other side of that same card, I am a grown man, so there are some songs that I'm going to do that pertain a little more to my adult audience. That's when you as a parent have to step in and go, "OK, [track] No. 5 is not for little Susie. We won't play that one for her." But now that I have kids of my own, it just really nails home the fact that you've got to be careful with the power. You have to be careful.

Do your kids listen to your music?

Yeah! Daddy's the best in my house. What are you talking about? They don't listen to nothing else ... except for the Fresh Beat Band. They love the Fresh Beat Band.

What's their favorite song of yours?

Well honestly, there's a song on my album R.E.D. that I dedicated to my daughter. It's a song called "Alone With You." The first night that we brought her home from the hospital she was just inconsolable. She was just crying her head off, screaming her head off and we couldn't figure out why. We didn't know what to do. The bottle didn't work, changed the diaper, rocking, nothing worked right. I remember hearing the pediatrician say at one point that music helps to calm babies, helps to soothe. So her mom just hit random on the iPad and the song popped up and the second the song started, she was quiet. So to this day, whenever she gets in that place where it's just crying and there's nothing that we can do, we turn that song on and it mellows her out. So, I put that song on the album, dedicated to her.

Check Out The BoomBox's Exclusive Ne-Yo Sessions Photos

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-170264|159177|157985%

Your lead single "Let Me Love You (Until You Learn to Love Yourself)," which you performed for The BoomBox during your Sessions set, is about someone who hasn't had positive examples of love in their life. Is that a subject you have personal experience with?

What I've learned over the course of time is that love is not something that can be defined with a single definition. It's hard to tell a person what love is, but once you get to a place where you understand what it is to love yourself, then it makes loving another person that much easier. It's like a "How can I help you if I can't even help me?" type situation. That's kind of what it speaks to. "Let Me Love You" is about being brave enough to let a person get close enough to you to teach you how to love yourself, to teach you the importance of loving yourself.

How has starting your own production company, Compound Entertainment, and being on the business side of the industry affected your ability to maintain a sense of creativity as an artist?

If you let it, the business side of the music business will completely destroy your creative vibe. It will murder it if you let it, because art is not about practicality -- or at least not from the school that I was taught at. It's not about practicality; it's about vibe, it's about emotion. It's not about one plus one is two. In the world of art, one plus one is 99 if you feel like it. That's just what art is. And then to take an artist and put them in a world where everything is super-duper practical and it's about the numbers and it's about forgetting what it feels like, and thinking if it's going to sell -- that's a whole other language to learn. It's the other side of the brain to learn how to use and I'll be honest, it's not easy; it's not easy for me.

I feel like the essence of what it is to be an artist has been lost a little bit. It's so easy to be a celebrity nowadays. All you've got to do is get on YouTube and do something crazy and all of a sudden the whole world knows your name. It's not something that you really have to work for anymore. The work ethic of some of these younger artists that I'm coming across is embarrassing. Like, "No I don't have to sing on key. Auto-Tune it." I'm trying to bring back that hunger, that thirst that by any means necessary I've got to get it. And not because I want to be famous, and not because I want to make some money, but because I love music, I love the craft, I love to sing, I love to dance, I love to write, I love to play my guitar. Whatever it is, it's coming from a place of love. It's coming from a passion for the art. That's what I'm looking for.

You spoke earlier about starring in more films, but you recently turned down the chance to play Martin Luther King, Jr., due to scheduling conflicts. If you had the chance to portray another famous figure in a biopic, who would it be?

Man, that is a great question. I would play Marvin Gaye. I think Marvin Gaye's story is incredible. I got the opportunity to sit down with Barry Gordy not too long ago and just talk to him about what it was like back in those days. Marvin Gaye was a drummer. He wasn't even an artist, he was the drummer for everybody else and then they decided to give him a shot. I just feel like his story is really incredible. If given an opportunity, I would love to attempt to play Marvin Gaye.

Watch Ne-Yo Perform "Lazy Love" for AOL Sessions %VIRTUAL-globalVideoEmbed-{"videoIds":"517529388","width":"476","height":"357"}%

Watch Ne-Yo's Full AOL Sessions Performance

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Ne-Yo Songs | Buy Ne-Yo Albums

Rihanna, 'Diamonds' Video: See Photos From the Set

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:55:00 EST

Instagram Filming for the Rihanna "Diamonds" music video is underway! RiRi hit the set for the visuals for her new lead single, and steamy photos of the songstress are popping up all over Instagram. "Heading to set," Rihanna tweeted on the car ride over. Once again, Ri called on famed video director Anthony Mandler who shot most of her previous videos, including "Disturbia" and "Only Girl in the World." "We're like #Diamonds in the sky... " Mandler tweeted. Rihanna slipped into some sexy, slinky maxi-dresses for the shoot, and friends and spectators on set snapped and posted photos of the star on Instagram. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Ne-Yo Performs 'Let Me Love You' Live for AOL Sessions -- Exclusive Video

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 10:45:00 EST

Gino DePinto, AOL Ahead of the Nov. 6 release of his fifth studio album, R.E.D., Ne-Yo graces the stage at our New York City studios to perform an exclusive set for AOL Sessions. To tide you over as we get ready to unveil the full Sessions experience -- including performance videos, behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive photos -- check out the crooner's live rendition of "Let Me Love You (Until You Learn to Love Yourself)" in the video below. Stay tuned for the full Ne-Yo Sessions, coming soon! ...

Watch Ne-Yo Perform "Let Me Love You" at Sessions

Check Out Our Gallery of Celebrity Dads & Their Kids

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-158432|158291|157889|158195%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Ne-Yo Songs | Buy Ne-Yo Albums

Rihanna 'We Found Love': Leona Lewis Recorded Song First, Her Version Is 'Better'

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 09:30:00 EST

Getty Images Rihanna's 2011 chart-topper "We Found Love" was one of her biggest to date. But did you know the song, which spent 10 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart, was actually originally recorded by another pop star before RiRi made it a hit? Leona Lewis has revealed she had her vocals on the Calvin Harris-produced track first, and she's not too proud to say she's green with envy about Rihanna's success with the song! "I worked with Calvin and we recorded 'We Found Love,'" Leona told The Daily Star. "But he went touring with Rihanna and she ended up releasing it. I didn't commit to it because I wanted 'Trouble' to be my first single, so I think that was another reason they went with Rihanna." READ THE FULL POST AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Bobbi Kristina Engaged: Whitney Houston's Daughter Confirms Rumors in Reality TV Show Promo

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:40:00 EST

Maury Phillips, Getty Images for A+E Networks After much speculation about her controversial relationship with "adopted brother"-turned-boyfriend Nick Gordon, Bobbi Kristina Brown has confirmed rumors of their engagement. The announcement appears in a new promo for the forthcoming Lifetime reality TV series, "The Houstons: On Our Own," starring Whitney Houston's daughter with ex-husband Bobby Brown. "We're engaged," Bobbi, 19, announces to her family between giggles. The celebrity offspring and her new fiancé, 22, grew up together after Whitney took Gordon in and raised him as her own. That being said, the announcement does not go over well with the Houston family. READ THE FULL STORY AND WATCH THE PROMO AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Kesha, VIBE Magazine: Singer Is First White Woman to Land on Cover

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:10:00 EST

VIBE Kesha is VIBE magazine's newest cover girl. And not only is this the "Die Young" singer's first appearance on the publication's cover, it's the first time any white woman has ever landed on the front of the hip-hop and R&B mag. Kesha's delivery of partially rapped, partially sung lyrics blurs genre lines for some, but the performer herself dismisses suggestions she is a rapper. "The first time someone called me a rapper, I started laughing," she says. "I was shocked, and thought it was hilarious. But then, Andre 3000 was telling me how he thinks I'm a good rapper. And Wiz [Khalifa], who's a good friend of mine, thinks I'm a good rapper? Snoop [Dogg]? It's crazy and funny to me." READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Beyonce Ditches Lead Role in Clint Eastwood Film, 'A Star Is Born'

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:45:00 EST

Getty Images for BET In June, news hit that Beyonce was set to star in a Clint Eastwood-directed remake of "A Star Is Born." Now it looks like Queen B has pulled out of the movie's lead role and left Eastwood hanging without a leading lady. Beyonce is an ardent Obama supporter, helping to raise millions for the president's reelection campaign, while Eastwood recently made headlines for his controversial empty chair speech at the Republican National Convention. But before you go jumping to conclusions about the two stars' political allegiances contributing to the failed film collaboration, both parties have released statements on the matter. "I was looking forward to the production of 'A Star Is Born' and the opportunity to work with Clint Eastwood," Bey tells E! News. "For months we tried to coordinate our schedules to bring this remake to life but it was just not possible. Hopefully in the future we will get a chance to work together." READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Jennifer Lopez, 'The Fosters': Anti-Gay Protesters Campaign Against Singer's TV Sitcom

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 10:45:00 EST

Pascal Le Segretain, Getty Images Jennifer Lopez's new sitcom, centered on a lesbian couple, has yet to air, but it's already receiving backlash. Conservative campaigners with One Million Moms are targeting Lopez's upcoming ABC Family show, "The Fosters," for "attempting to redefine marriage and family." "Obviously, ABC has lost their minds," a post entitled, "ABC Continues to Produce Anti-Family Programs," reads on the group's website. "ABC Family has approved a series pilot from Jennifer Lopez's production company, Nuyorican, about a lesbian couple and their diverse family ... A premiere date has not been set, but One Million Moms wanted to sound the alarm about this new series. It will be airing on the network soon unless we do something about it," the group warns. "While foster care and adoption is a wonderful thing and the Bible does teach us to help orphans," the campaign continues, "this program is attempting to redefine marriage and family by having two moms raise these children together. None of this material is acceptable content for a family show." READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Chris Brown, Drunk Taxicab Confession Reveals Rihanna, Karrueche Love Triangle -- Video

Contessa Gayles — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 09:50:00 EST

Getty Images | FilmMagic "Ain't nobody bidness..... But mine and my baby!" Rihanna tweeted yesterday (Oct. 4). The message followed Chris Brown's public statement that he had broken up with his girlfriend Karrueche Tran, as his "friendship" with Rihanna was becoming a source of tension for the couple. Despite Rihanna's MYOB message, Brown decided to make the messy love triangle situation everyone's business when he filmed a drunken "Taxicab Confessions"-style video and tweeted it to his 11.3 million followers. "Do you know Chris Brown????????" the embattled singer asked in a Twitter post before sharing a link to a Vimeo video entitled, "The Real Chris Brown." The clip shows Brown in the back of a cab following a night of partying. ...

"We had fun at the club. I'm a little drunk so I'm gonna be honest," he tells the camera. "Y'all don't really get the real Chris Brown, so I'd like to just be honest, man. I'm stressed out."

"It's just, you know, when you share history with somebody, then you tend to fall in love with somebody else, it's kind of difficult," he says, revealing he still had feelings for his ex, Rihanna, while carrying on a relationship with Tran. "It's like, is there such thing as loving two people? I don't know if that's possible, but for me, I just feel like that ... I'm being real."

"I don't wanna hurt either," Brown continues. "I'm just me. I'm not trying to be a player, my mama raised me differently. So it's like, I just can't ... Too much ... Life of Chris Brown."

Despite a physical assault in 2009, which saw Rihanna the victim of a brutal beating at the hands of Brown, it appears the former couple has reconciled.

Watch Chris' video below.

Watch "The Real Chris Brown"

"The Real Chris Brown" from David Alan on Vimeo.

See R&B's Worst Jobs

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-160769|166665|161673%

Watch "Rihanna and Chris Brown Attend Jay-Z Gig Together"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Chris Brown Songs | Buy Chris Brown Albums

Bruno Mars 'Locked Out of Heaven' Debuts: Listen to New Single

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST

Larry Busacca, Getty Images Bruno Mars is back with "Locked Out of Heaven," the new lead single off his forthcoming sophomore album, Unorthodox Jukebox. Mars' voice soars on this up-tempo dance track about falling in love ... and making love! According to Bruno, lyrics like, "Cause your sex takes me to paradise" and his favorite line of the song, "But swimming in your water is something spiritual," are in tune with the rest of the album's theme: "Sensual, sensual and sensual." Mars spoke on the new single during a Google + Hangout live chat last night (Oct. 1), and is set to perform "Locked Out of Heaven" live for the first time when he hosts and takes the "Saturday Night Live" stage on Oct. 20. Unorthodox Jukebox drops Dec. 11. LISTEN TO "LOCKED OUT OF HEAVEN" AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Beyonce Pregnant? Jay-Z Addresses Rumors About Second Baby

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 16:50:00 EST

WireImage While Beyonce's previous pregnancy had many conspiracy theorists questioning whether or not she really did have a bun in the oven, rumors have hit the web that Blue Ivy's mom is expecting a second child with husband Jay-Z. Apparently, there's no excuse for not having concave abs -- other than pregnancy, that is. Never mind having just given birth nine months ago. The web lit up with pregnancy chatter after Queen B was spotted out in a figure-hugging Roberto Cavalli dress that showed off her amazing curves. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Rihanna 'Diamonds': Singer Announces New Single and Release Date

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:30:00 EST

Instagram If it seems like Rihanna is churning out new music every year like clockwork, it's because she is. The pop star has put out an album every November since 2009, and it looks like she may be ready to go four years strong. RiRi has just announced that she's ready to release her next single in -- wait for it -- two days! Personally, we've still got "We Found Love" stuck in our heads, but ready or not, Rihanna's newest lead single, "Diamonds," will debut this Wednesday (Sept. 26). As she announced on "Elvis Duran and The Morning Show" at this weekend's iHeartRadio music festival, "Diamonds" is a "happy and hippie record" with a "laid-back" and "hopeful" vibe. "It gives me such a great feeling when I listen to it," Ri admitted. "The lyrics are very hopeful and positive, but it's about love and the gears are a little different from what people would expect. I'm excited to surprise them sonically." READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG. ...

Michael Jackson Inspires Philip Treacy Show at London Fashion Week

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:40:00 EST

AP After staging a performance art piece in which she subjected herself to a live-tattoo session in front of a sea of guests at her Fame perfume launch party last week, Lady Gaga is at it again. The fashion industry darling teamed up with world renowned hat designer Philip Treacy at his Spring 2013 runway presentation at London Fashion Week yesterday (Sept. 16). The singer opened up the show, which was an extravagant ode to another pop superstar, Michael Jackson! Mother Monster donned a sheer pink burka as she stepped out onto the runway to announce her milliner friend's show. She later rocked a floral wreathe around her head as she watched the King of Pop-inspired creations strut down the catwalk from the front row. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG Listen to Michael Jackson's Bad 25 ...

Lil' Kim, Kelly Osbourne 'The Bitch Is Back' Collaboration in the Works

Contessa Gayles — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 17:45:00 EST

Getty Images Well, this is an odd pairing if we've ever seen one! Rock offspring Kelly Osbourne and hip-hop's Queen Bee, Lil' Kim, are teaming up for a studio collaboration. Yes, really. "I am telling you first that Kelly Osbourne and I are working on a record together!" the MC revealed to the New York Post backstage at designer Betsey Johnson's New York Fashion Week show on Wednesday (Sept. 12). "It's titled 'The Bitch Is Back.' It is a blend of British rock and rap and you won't believe your ears when you hear it!" she boasted of the unlikely collaboration. The track will be a remake of Elton John's 1974 single of the same name. READ THE FULL STORY AT AOL MUSIC BLOG ...

Rihanna, Joan Rivers Twitter Beef: Kelly Osbourne Joins the Spat

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 10:55:00 EST

Getty Images The always opinionated Joan Rivers got into a bit of a war of words over Twitter with the equally outspoken Rihanna this past weekend. Now Rivers' "Fashion Police" co-star Kelly Osbourne has jumped in the ring with the feuding celebs ... and is picking sides! It all started on Aug. 24 when Rivers issued her public reaction to Rihanna's confession from her "Oprah's Next Chapter" interview that she still loves her abusive ex-boyfriend Chris Brown. "Rihanna confessed to Oprah Winfrey that she still loves Chris Brown. Idiot! Now it's MY turn to slap her," Rivers tweeted. ...

TO READ THE REST OF THE STORY, CLICK HERE TO GO TO AOLMUSIC.COM.

See Rihanna's Most Shocking Twitter and Facebook Photos

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-155527|154622|151210|155262%

Watch "Rihanna 'Unfollows' Chris Brown on Twitter "

Watch Rihanna's Sessions

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Rihanna Songs | Buy Rihanna Albums

Michael Jackson 'Bad' Anniversary: Ne-Yo Reflects on Album's Impact -- Exclusive Video

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:05:00 EST

Gino DePinto, AOL On August 31, 1987, Michael Jackson released his now-iconic Bad album. This Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the King of Pop's historic record, which includes classics like "Smooth Criminal," "The Way You Make Me Feel," "Man in the Mirror" and, of course, the album's title track, "Bad." In celebration of Bad, we asked our recent Sessions performer Ne-Yo to reflect on the LP and the artist that played an indispensable role in inspiring his own career as an entertainer. Watch Ne-Yo speak on MJ's Bad in the video below, and stay tuned for his Sessions performance, coming soon. Happy anniversary, Bad! ...

Watch Ne-Yo Remember Michael Jackson's Bad Album

See 15 of the Best Hip-Hop & R&B Albums of 2012 (So Far)

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-163137|161673|161082%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Ne-Yo Songs | Buy Ne-Yo Albums

Beyonce Debuts House of Dereon Ad Campaign for Fall 2012 -- Photos

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 16:15:00 EST

Facebook.com As reported by AOL Music: Beyonce has unveiled the latest looks from her House of Dereon clothing line in a smoldering new ad campaign. The style-savvy star seems to be channeling her alter ego Sasha Fierce in a series of Jean-Baptiste Mondino-framed snapshots that have been posted to the House of Dereon Facebook page. Work it, girl! Queen B's latest collaboration with her impossibly glamorous mom, Tina Knowles, is inspired by the boho concertgoer at the Glastonbury Festival, which Beyonce headlined in 2011. ...

The Fall 2012 aesthetic is also a reflection of Bey's personal style, including her newfound love of wild prints, wide-brimmed fedoras and circular sunglasses!

"I am so excited about this autumn and winter ad campaign," Bey's mom and business partner said of the new collection. "The images of Beyoncé are amazing and we had a lot of fun using the festival experience as our inspiration. Like music, fashion has a universal appeal," she said on the HOD official website.

See Photos of Beyonce Performing at the United Nations

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-162233|159053|152455|152455%

Watch Beyonce's "I Was Here" Video

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Beyonce Songs | Buy Beyonce Albums

Rihanna, Oprah Interview Confession: 'I Still Love' Chris Brown -- Video

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST

TMZ.com As report by AOL Music: We've seen a couple of teary-eyed previews from Rihanna's "Oprah's Next Chapter" interview, centered on the subject of the singer's abusive ex-boyfriend, Chris Brown. After admitting she lost her "best friend" when she split with Brown and was more concerned with her assailant's well-being than her own, Ri's full interview with Oprah has aired. Of course, Rihanna had a lot to confess about her true feelings for Brown, starting with the rumors of a romantic reconciliation. "We're very, very close friends," she said with tears in her eyes. "We built a trust again and that's it. We love each other and we probably always will. And that's not anything that we're gonna try to change. It's not something you can shut off if you've ever been in love." The Bajan songstress admitted the two have been in touch since her restraining order against Breezy was lifted in February 2011, but they are not "seeing each other." "He is in a relationship of his own. I'm single," she insisted. Rihanna says rebuilding a friendship with her ex "has not been easy," and "is awkward, because I still love him ... My stomach drops [when I see him] and I have to maintain this poker face ... suppress it." ...

Ri goes on to name Chris, "The love of my life." Watch a segment of her "Oprah's Next Chapter" interview in the video below.

Watch an Excerpt From Rihanna's Interview With Oprah

See Rihanna's Most Shocking Twitter and Facebook Photos

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-155527|154622|151210|155262%

Watch "Rihanna 'Unfollows' Chris Brown on Twitter "

Watch Rihanna's Sessions

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Rihanna Songs | Buy Rihanna Albums

Carl Davis Dead: Famed Chicago Soul Producer Dies at Age 77

Contessa Gayles — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 08:25:00 EST

Amazon.com Chicago music impresario Carl Davis has died at the age of 77. The record producer was known as the King of Chicago Soul for his work in the 1960s, including his first No. 1, which was Gene Chandler's "Duke of Earl," and Jackie Wilson's "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher." Born in Chicago on Sept. 19, 1934, Davis began his music career as an assistant to a radio DJ, later getting into music marketing, then working as an A&R for Columbia Record's subsidiary label OKeh. ...

Davis went on to produce for everyone from Curtis Mayfield to Major Lance and founded two record labels of his own, Dakar and Chi-Sound.

The music industry veteran passed away at his home in Summerville, S.C., on Aug. 9 from pulmonary fibrosis. He is survived by his wife Dedra and seven children.

See R&B's Worst Jobs

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-160769|162233|162274%

Watch Jackie Wilson Perform "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher," Produced by Carl Davis

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Jennifer Hudson, Nephew's Murder: Singer Breaks Down in Tears at Charity Event

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 08:35:00 EST

AP Jennifer Hudson may finally be able to move forward now that her estranged brother-in-law is serving three life sentences for the murder of her mother, brother and young nephew -- but of course, the pain remains. The singer broke down in tears, sobbing through a charity event in her native Chicago, Ill. yesterday (Aug. 14), marking what would have been her slain nephew Julian King's eleventh birthday. After the child was shot and killed by his estranged stepfather, William Balfour, back in 2008 at just 7-years-old, Jennifer and her sister Julia, Julian's mother, founded the Julian D. King Gift Foundation to benefit underprivileged Chicago youth. Yesterday, the sisters distributed school supplies to low-income students while hosting the second annual Hatch Day event, named for a phrase coined by Julian. "To be able to turn such a negative around and make it a positive thing ... seeing this is like, 'Wow,' the Grammy winner said, becoming very emotional during an interview with WGNtv.com. "What's the point of being who you are if you can't make a difference? If you can't help someone else?" Jennifer asked. Watch Jennifer's interview in the video below. ...

Watch Jennifer Hudson's Emotional Interview

Watch "Jennifer Hudson Takes the Stand as Murder Trial Begins"

Jennifer Hudson Sessions

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Jennifer Hudson Songs | Buy Jennifer Hudson Albums

Mariah Carey Debuts New Family Photos of Moroccan and Monroe

Contessa Gayles — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 14:55:00 EST

Instagram As reported by AOL Music, Mariah Carey is soaking up all the family time she can with twins Moroccan and Monroe before her "American Idol" judging duties begin later this year. The mother-of-two shared some adorable new family photos taken with her 15-month-old babies, who are looking more and more like their famous mom and dad, Nick Cannon, everyday. They grow up so fast! "As per your request, me & ms. Monroe on a lazy day," MiMi wrote along with a pool-side bikini pic of herself and her inflatable car-driving daughter. "Me&Roc Starr taking a lil nap," she posted along with another adorable photo -- this one taken of her smiling, makeup-free face next to her baby boy, in bed atop a heap of pillows. See the Moroccan photo after the jump! ...

Instagram

Now that Dem Babies are getting older, we can definitely see their resemblance to mom and dad. But who do you think the twins look most like, Mariah or Nick?

See R&B's Worst Jobs

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-160769|161082|158834%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Mariah Carey Songs | Buy Mariah Carey Albums

Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz Car Accident: Couple Caught Up in Fender Bender

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 09:35:00 EST

Gregg DeGuire, WireImage Alicia Keys may be singing about a "New Day," but these days, she and husband Swizz Beatz are probably thinking more about a new fender for their car. The musical power couple -- and their $200,000 luxury sports car -- were caught up in a fender bender last night (July 31) in New York. Keys and Swizz left baby Egypt with the sitter and took their black and red, limited-edition Morgan Aero Coupe out for a spin down Manhattan's Madison Avenue. Unfortunately the vintage car was damaged when it collided with another vehicle. Eye witnesses tell WENN, the hip-hop producer stepped out of the car to take down the details of the other driver before driving away with a scraped-up fender. Luckily, no one was hurt in the accident. ...

Pharrell Williams Negotiating Deal With 'American Idol' to Be New Judge -- Report

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 17:45:00 EST

Getty Images According to Us Weekly, Mariah Carey's future "American Idol" co-stars are very close to signing their own deals with the hit reality competition show for it's upcoming twelfth season. Youngest Jonas Brother Nick Jonas and famed producer, singer and rapper Pharrell Williams are the frontrunners for the gig! N.E.R.D. frontman Pharrell, 39, is reportedly negotiating the terms of his own contract. "Everything is looking good, but they're still working out details," an insider claimed. As talented and established as he is, we'd be surprised if Williams scores a paycheck anywhere near Mariah's rumored $18 million deal. ...

Earlier this month, judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler announced they would not be returning to the show for its upcoming season. The only remaining original "Idol" judge, Randy Jackson, has yet to make a statement about his future on the program, but he's reportedly transitioning into a "mentoring role."

Nick and Pharrell join the likes of Adam Lambert and Toby Keith on the list of previous potential "Idol" judges. We'll have to wait and see if their names stick!

Watch "Pharrell Williams Speak With Steve Stoute About the Tanning Effect"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Pharrell Williams Songs | Buy Pharrell Williams Albums

Game and Fiancée Reconcile After Calling Off Wedding, Reschedule Ceremony

Contessa Gayles — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST

Noel Vasquez, Getty Images After calling off their impending wedding just a couple of weeks ago, Game and fiancée Tiffney Cambridge have apparently reconciled. On July 19, news broke that the longtime couple had cancelled the nuptials, despite reports that they had just signed on to be on an upcoming VH1 wedding reality show. Game, born Jayceon Taylor, was quick to shoot down suggestions that the relationship drama was staged for the sake of the reality cameras. "Just in case you blogs think I cancelled [the] wedding on some kool [sic] s--t ... I didn't ... She did cuz [sic] of my web of lies, cheating & lack of presence," the rapper tweeted. ...

"The rumors are TRUE. The wedding is OFF," Game originally tweeted on July 19. "It's not her fault, it's mine! She's a GREAT woman, I just wasn't man enough 2 [sic] see it through."

The announcement marked the father-of-three's second failed attempt to walk down the aisle. Back in 2006, Game and actress-model Valeisha Butterfield called off their March 2007 nuptials.

Now, however, it seems like Cambridge is willing to move past Taylor's lies, infidelities and M.I.A. tendencies. "Congratulations to Tiffney Cambridge & Jayceon Taylor [who] have reconfirmed their intention to be wed in the very near future," an official announcement reads on the couple's wedding website. According to TMZ sources, the ceremony has been rescheduled from the original June 28 date to Aug. 12.

Watch "Game Calls Off Wedding"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Game Songs | Buy Game Albums

Mariah Carey Photoshop Fail: 'American Idol' Promo Image Shows Impossibly Tiny Waist

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:50:00 EST

AFP/Getty Images | FOX Let's start by giving credit where credit is due -- Mariah Carey's body (above left) is the fierceness. It is not, however, the ridiculously proportioned silhouette imaged (above right) in her new "American Idol" promotional photo. This is what we call an epic photo-retouching fail. Since giving birth to twins Moroccan and Monroe back in April 2011, Mariah has been working hard to shed the baby weight and live up to her duties as a Jenny Craig spokesperson. But it looks like MiMi has gone on a digital diet, with 'Idol' retouchers instantly removing that extra 10, 15 ... 50 pounds with the click of a mouse! I mean, come on -- seriously with that waist? ...

The 42-year-old diva is, of course, no stranger to the slimming and reshaping wonders of Photoshop. Just check her out in AOL Music's "Worst Photoshopped Album Covers of All Time" photo gallery below!

Check Out Our "Worst Photoshopped Album Covers" Gallery

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-145744|145605|142582|145122|142922|142528|142193|138856%

Watch "Mariah Carey Loses 30 Pounds in 3 Months"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Mariah Carey Songs | Buy Mariah Carey Albums

Jackson Family Feud Continues: Marlon Breaks Down in Tears During TV Interview -- Video

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 09:35:00 EST

Chelsea Lauren, WireImage As reported by AOL Music Blog, the Jackson family drama is just getting started. The feud, which seems to have originated over a plot to overthrow the Jackson estate administrators, has already seen matriarch Katherine Jackson reported missing by some members of the family and caused police to intervene after an altercation that involved Janet Jackson and Paris Jackson. In a new interview with "The Insider," Michael Jackson's brothers Marlon, Tito and Jackie reveal they have been denied communication with their mother Katherine, who according to authorities, is resting on doctors orders at daughter Rebbie's home in Arizona. "We've been told that our mother is safe. She's doing well. But we have not spoken with her," Marlon said. ...

"We have not talked with her and I don't know where my mother is." Marlon then broke down in tears on camera and began to raise his voice in frustration, "All I know is she is in Arizona, and whatever doctor is saying I can't talk to my mother, you call me!" Marlon then apologized as he stormed off the set.

In another clip from the TV interview, when asked who was behind the confusing and divisive plot, Marlon replied, "I'm not going to go into all that ... All I know is that there is somebody who made the decision that my mother cannot talk to me and whoever that person is they're going to answer to me because I'm going to see my mother and I'm going to bring her home."

In addition to appearing in the emotional "Insider" interview with Marlon and Jackie, Tito has released his own statement, speaking out against the plot to overthrow Jackson estate administrators and revoking his signature from a scathing five-page letter that accused them of presenting a fraudulent will on behalf of the late Michael Jackson.

"I completely retract my signature from the July 17th letter sent to the executors of my brother Michael's estate and repudiate all the claims made against them," Tito announced in a statement to TMZ. "I don't want any part of that letter whatsoever." The letter was also signed by Jermaine, Janet, Rebbie and Randy Jackson. LaToya Jackson seems to be the only sibling who has thus far remained neutral in the feud.

Meanwhile, TMZ reports Tito's 34-year-old son TJ is preparing to go to court in the hopes that he will become the temporary guardian of Michael's three kids, Prince, Paris and Blanket, amid the drama.

Watch Marlon Jackson Break Down on "The Insider"

See Michael Jackson Through the Years

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-148418|147921|147083|143953|142582|142528%

Watch "Michael Jackson by the Numbers"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Michael Jackson Songs | Buy Michael Jackson Albums

Mariah Carey Confirmed as 'American Idol' Judge, 'Excited' for New Gig

Contessa Gayles — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 16:55:00 EST

Abdeljalil Bounhar, AP As reported by AOL Music Blog, it's official -- Mariah Carey is the newest "American Idol" judge! Following weeks of speculation, FOX has announced the pop diva will reside on the hit reality competition's judges' panel for the upcoming twelfth season. FOX entertainment president Kevin Reilly broke the big news during a FOX executive meeting at the Television Critic's Association Summer Press Tour, which Mariah joined via phone. "I'm so excited to be joining 'Idol;' I wanted to be there today and I wish I could've been there myself to tell you," Carey said over speaker phone, according to AP. "It happened really quickly, I can't wait to get started in a couple months, everybody have a great TCA and I will see you in January." ...

According to recent reports, the new gig will earn MiMi anywhere from $12 - $17 million for just a single season! This may seem like pennies to the 42-year-old's husband Nick Cannon -- he's been quite vocal about his wifey's potential paycheck. Cannon first suggested "Idol" would have to "double" former judge Jennifer Lopez's salary, and later asserted, "I ain't letting her outta the house for less than $100 million ... who's gonna watch my kids if she goes on 'American Idol?'"

Nobody puts MiMi in a corner!

See Photos of Mariah Carey in the Studio
%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-153584|153257|152455|151454|151558%

Watch "Nick Cannon Says 'Idol' Can't Afford Mariah Carey to Judge"

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Mariah Carey Songs | Buy Mariah Carey Albums

A$AP Rocky Arrested After New York City Street Brawl

Contessa Gayles — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 08:20:00 EST

Getty Images A$AP Rocky apparently doesn't like to have his picture taken. According to TMZ, the rapper was taken into police custody on Thursday night (July 19) in New York after attacking two men who were snapping photos of him on the street. The 23-year-old was in downtown Manhattan when he got into a verbal dispute with someone. When two male bystanders saw the spat going down, they decided to play paparazzi and start taking photos of the heated exchange. A$AP then turned his attention to the nosy bystanders and allegedly left them with cuts and bruises, and landed one of the victims in the hospital. ...

Complex has shared photos of the rapper being apprehended by four police officers, along with another man, who seems to have lost his shirt. Despite the brawl, A$AP was reportedly arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery.

See Hip-Hop's Worst Jobs

%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-154727|156181|151454%

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download A$AP Rocky Songs

Beyonce 'Countdown' Video Snuggie Version: Kid Kills Re-Make With Wacky Faces & Sweater Blanket

Contessa Gayles — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:40:00 EST

Vevo.com | YouTube.com As reported by AOL Music, a totally awesome kid who goes by the name "TON" is the shining, Snuggie-swaddled star of an amazing new viral video. The Beyonce super fan uploaded a home-video recreation of Bey's "Countdown" video, and he completely kills it! Aside from his great at-home editing job and spot-on choreography and facial expressions, TON's ode to Beyonce is all the more amazing because he's wearing a giant blue Snuggie through almost the entire thing! Queen B should really give this kid a gold star, or something. Watch TON work in the "Countdown (Snuggie Version)" video below! ...

Watch "Countdown (Snuggie Version)" Video

Watch Beyonce's "Countdown" Video

See Beyonce's Tumblr Photo Gallery
%VIRTUAL-MultiGallery-152455|154873|150731|151454%

Watch Beyonce at Sessions

Follow @theboombox on Twitter | Like Us on Facebook | Sign Up for Newsletter

Download Beyonce Songs | Buy Beyonce Albums