The Boombox Music Blog http://www.theboombox.com The Boombox Music Blog The Boombox Music Blog http://www.theboombox.com en-us Copyright 2013 Blogsmith, LLC. The contents of this headlines and excerpts feed are available for limited commercial distribution. You may repost this feed to your site provided you link back to the original story, do not edit the material, and do not remove this copyright notice. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Melanie Fiona 'The MF Life:' Singer Wants Thom Yorke, Talks Relationship With Drakehttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/03/12/melanie-fiona-the-mf-life/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/03/12/melanie-fiona-the-mf-life/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/03/12/melanie-fiona-the-mf-life/#comments
Universal "Hi everyone. I'm Melanie Fiona," the Canadian singer announced while joyfully accepting the first of two trophies at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards earlier this year. Melanie felt the need for introduction but fans and producers know the chart-topper behind songs like 'It Kills Me' well. She was honored that night for her duet prowess on Cee Lo Green's soulful track, 'Fool for You,' and has worked with the likes of Nas, Drake, John Legend, Salaam Remi and J. Cole. She's a rising star from the "Great White North" and after adding "Grammy award-winner" to her bio, hopefully there will be no need for further introductions. Despite getting the last flight out of snow-panicked Chicago, Melanie looked stress-free as she strolled into the Universal Republic Records office building in midtown New York City. She was calm, collected and ready to chat. Melanie has an air of confidence about her -- she knows who she is and where she's going. The '4 AM' singer looked at home in a cozy room filled with leather couches and worldly textiles. Her first album, 'The Bridge,' was highly influenced by artists like Amy Winehouse so it seems fitting that an almost wall-sized portrait of the late songstress sits mounted proudly overhead. While enjoying some sliced pineapple, the Canadian native discussed the Adele-like breakup that fueled her sophomore album, 'The MF Life,' due March 20, her longtime relationship with Aubrey Drake Graham, and her genre-bending dream of collaborating with Thom Yorke or David Guetta. ...

Tell me how your sophomore album has evolved beyond 'The Bridge'?

The first album was definitely more reflective of my inspirations, an homage and respect to retro soul and soul music in general. I think now, on this album, I've evolved into my own artist and have embodied this sound that is an evolution of retro and current soul that mixes a lot of different genres. It's a little more aggressive. It's bigger, it's fuller and it goes through a range of vulnerability, power and strength, both lyrically and melodically.

Were there any mistakes you learned from while recording your first album?

I don't think there's really any mistakes you can make, truthfully, cause they're all growing experiences but I did learn that I wanted to be a lot more involved on the writing side. When you first start out, as an artist, you really don't know what you are getting yourself into or what to expect. It does take a team of people to show you and guide you. I learned a lot from working with writers on the first album so this time, I was able to step up my writing chops. It was more hands-on, in the studio, working with every producer, writing with every producer. It was really a great experience. I wrote six songs in total including 'Change the Record' featuring B.o.B, 'Wrong Side of a Love Song' and 'Watch Me Work.'

Watch Melanie Fiona's '4 AM' Video

Tell me about the recording process of 'This Time' with J. Cole. How did that come about?

J. Cole and I worked together on 'Beautiful Bliss' for Wale's album and we talked about doing a record together. We're both signed to Roc Nation so we're friends and label-management mates as well. 'This Time' I did separate from J. Cole and then I went and met him in the studio. I brought him the track and told him the vibe, he said, "Alright, I'm going to do it tonight." So, he did. In one night he hit us back and sent us the verse. It was really cool. He was in the process of working on his album so it was really great that he made the time to do that for me.

'L.O.V.E' with John Legend, who produced it and wrote it?

No I.D. produced it and John and I wrote it together. I love this record because I feel it's important to have a socially conscious record on every one of my albums. On my first album, I feel that 'Ay Yo' is that record. For 'The MF Life', it's definitely 'L.O.V.E;' it's all you need -- pretty much -- and I do believe that in all regards. It's all you need to get by in life and to keep that at the forefront of respect for one another as humans interacting everyday, being responsible for each other as a society. It's actually the last song on the album so it's a nice positive ending as well.

Did you and John have any chemistry in the studio -- any 'L.O.V.E'?

Well, no because I love his girlfriend [laughs] but we absolutely do have a love for each other musically. We met just before we did 'Wake Up' for his album. When I got back to L.A., we wrote a few songs together, just to jam out, but this one made the album. I love that we were able to do 'Wake Up,' which was a socially conscious record for his album and do one for mine as well. John Legend is actually one of the most talented people that I have ever worked with. He can just get behind a piano and create. It's so organic for him so just being around that is an inspiration.

You write a lot about heartbreak. Did you have an Adele-like breakup that really impacted you?

Yeah, for sure. It's interesting because on the first album I experienced a really bad breakup and on this album I experienced a really bad breakup. I actually wrote all the songs that I ended up living, before I lived them, which is really crazy. I found myself with all the records that I wrote in succession and they actually told the story of what happened in that relationship. I was in the relationship and at the time; I didn't foresee it ending.

So, how is it that you were writing from a place of heartbreak when you were in a happy relationship?

I think that subconsciously our emotions get the best of us even though we consciously don't necessarily recognize them. For me -- frustration, sadness, despair, anger -- these are the things that help me write my best music because I feel that I'm a positive person overall. My outlet to express that darker side of me is through my music. I don't necessarily have to live that everyday but it's therapeutic for me to get it out. Oddly enough, it's not just me, the singles that become the hits are the ones that people choose. It seems that there are a lot of people going through heartbreak and just need a voice to help them say it. You live and you learn. I moved on from 'It Kills Me' and now, we'll get through 'The Wrong Side of a Love Song.'

I read you were in a group called The Renaissance with Drake and he penned the song 'Been That Girl' on your new album. How did you first meet and how has the relationship evolved? Do you ever reminisce together about Canada?

Yeah, all the time. He's actually fortunate enough to still be there because he has private jets and stuff, he's so fancy [laughs]. But, I'm so proud of him because when I met Aubrey, when I met Drake, he was 17. He was on 'Degrassi' and he had this fire that needed honing. He was so talented and everyone around us felt that. We all had a mutual respect for each other and we would jam out, provide dinner entertainment music at these supper clubs in Toronto. It was just a good time in our lives. We were fun, young, budding artists in Toronto and we found the best of the best. It was me, him, a super talented singer by the name of Anne Clark and now, Drake's current keyboard player, D10. Of course, we were all working on solo careers and now we get to look back and laugh at how goofy we were then. It's great reinforcement to know that you were on the right path, with the right people, when you can see that you end up in the same place, individually.

Watch Melanie Fiona's 'Ay Yo' Video

You have a tattoo that reads "Live on Purpose." Do you have any other tattoos and can you explain the meaning behind them?

I have only one other tattoo, and that's my purple heart. Interesting enough, I got both of my tattoos in moments where I felt that I had grown. My purple heart was right after I finished the Kanye West tour. I was getting ready to release the first single and I had gone through a really bad breakup. What I realized in that moment was that I was stronger than I thought I was in the past. I lived through those experiences, both monumental and dark, and picked myself up and did great things. The purple heart is my symbol of courage and it's a reminder that I don't need to give into the weak moments that face me.

The new one, "Live on Purpose," came about after meeting one woman in particular. She's a breast cancer survivor and her energy was so infectious to me and inspiring. I told her that I was moved by her story and that we shared the same sentiment of living on purpose, making everyday count. Whatever you do, do it on purpose, don't be apologetic for it and own what you do. I actually got this right before the Grammys.

Wow, how fitting. Now that you're riding the wave of two Grammy wins, what do you want to show the world with your sophomore album?

I'm hoping to achieve more Grammys [laughs]! These Grammys are such an honor and I just use them as fuel and motivation. Hopefully, they fuel and motivate people to pay more attention to the music and what I have to offer as an artist. It gives you another notch on the respect belt in the industry and that's really what I'm about. I don't care if I'm ever the most famous artist but if I can be one of the most respected -- that's all I care about.

The-Dream worked on your album and also helmed Rihanna's 'Birthday Cake' remix. From a female perspective, how do you feel about Rihanna and Chris Brown working together again on two tracks?

I think what's sad about the whole thing is that they lived a very private situation in a public forum. That's real, dispute and abuse is a real thing that's happening to people everyday. I just think, you got to live your life, if that's what they wanted to do and they really don't give a damn about what anybody has to say, then, why should anyone have to say. At the end of the day, you just have to live and stand by what you say. Once you do something, you got to live with it.

The album is done. Are there any surprise artists you want to collaborate with next?

I would love to do something with Miguel. I'm a huge fan of his. I would also love to do a really cool, big house record. If I could get in with David Guetta, I would love that. When you think about CeCe Peneston ['Finally'] and back in the day, C+C Music Factory ['Everybody Dance Now'], these big voices that were over dance tracks went well and they tend to be classic records forever. I know I love a good house song, you know you can't deny that. I also love Radiohead; I love their last album 'King of Limbs.' I think that Thom Yorke is brilliant and I'm really feeling this underground group from Denmark called Quadron. I'm really into finding music that I enjoy like James Blake, that kinda mellow electronic music is cool when I'm trying to be still.

What's one thing about you that fans may not know? What do you enjoy away from music?

I'm into sports. I like to watch sports. I used to play sports. I really like boxing, I love watching Saturday night fights. Anytime there's a good fight on HBO, I'm locked in. I'm pretty athletic and I think that's one thing people would be surprised to know about me because I wear heels and perform like a girl but I'm kind of like a dude inside.

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]]>cee lo greenCeeLoGreendrakej. coleJ.Colejohn legendJohnLegendmelanie fionamelanie fiona the mf lifeMelanieFionaMelanieFionaTheMfLifethe bridgethe mf lifeTheBridgeTheMfLifeKelly MahanMon, 12 Mar 2012 11:00:00 ESTNina Sky 'Day Dreaming' Video: Twins Show Good & Bad of a Relationshiphttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/28/nina-sky-day-dreaming-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/28/nina-sky-day-dreaming-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/28/nina-sky-day-dreaming-video/#comments
YouTube.com Nicole and Natalie Albino, the identical twin duo known as Nina Sky, debut the official video for 'Day Dreaming,' the first single off their sophomore album, 'Nicole & Natalie,' due in July. Adam Sauermilch directs the video, taking viewers through the fights of one relationship and the love story of another. The sisters are seen separately throughout the video, where they apparently date the same guy, but in actuality, do not. One version is real, the other is fantasy. ...

The Queens natives cruise though New York, watch a film and hang in the same bed but the plot changes with one of the ingenue's temper.

The Beau Vallis-produced track is sure to prompt a welcome return as 'Nicole & Natalie' marks the end of an eight year hiatus for Nina Sky, due to label mishaps.

In 2010, Nina Sky debuted 'The Other Side,' a DJ Yonny-produced eight-song EP that featured tracks like 'You Ain't Got It (Funk Dat)' but they are best known for their 2004 reggae-inspired single, 'Move Ya Body.' Over the years, the duo has stayed busy in the studio collaborating with acts like N.O.R.E., The Alchemist, Diplo, Ryan Leslie, Rick Ross and Salaam Remi.

Watch Nina Sky's 'Day Dreaming' Video

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]]>day dreaming videoDayDreamingVideonatalie albinoNatalieAlbinonicole albinonicole and natalie albumNicoleAlbinoNicoleAndNatalieAlbumnina skynina sky day dreaming videoNinaSkyNinaSkyDayDreamingVideoKelly MahanTue, 28 Feb 2012 15:25:00 ESTUsher 'Climax': Diplo Produces 'Baby-Making' Song -- Listenhttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/15/usher-climax-diplo/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/15/usher-climax-diplo/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/15/usher-climax-diplo/#comments
Getty Images (2) Usher has a knack for making fans "wanna leave the one their with" for his falsetto pipes and studly moves. 'Climax,' his latest track produced by Diplo and written by Redd Stylez and Ariel Rechtshaid, is no exception. The R&B crooner released the track via Twitter on Valentine's Day (Feb. 14) for all the ladies to drool over. "Here is my Valentine to my fans," Usher tweeted, with a link to his hot new track. His voice soars over heavy Diplo-produced synths, singing sweetly, "Where are you now, when I need you around." It's Usher's first release since 'Without You,' off of David Guetta's 'Nothing But the Beat' and the timing couldn't be better for Diplo, riding the wave of his 2012 Grammy nod for Best Rap Song with Chris Brown's 'Look at Me Now.' ...

"Seriously the best record ive been part of. Really proud of it [sic]," Diplo tweeted. "Im pretty sure in 9 months there are gonna be a lot of new babies that this song is responsible for."

Usher knows the power he has over women adding, "Yeah...I hope they don't name the babies Usher too...I don't need them problems...lol."

Check out Usher and Diplo's 'Climax' below!

Listen to Usher's 'Climax'



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]]>diplousherusher climaxUsherClimaxKelly MahanWed, 15 Feb 2012 12:10:00 ESTNicki Minaj Vibe Cover: Rapper Appears in Orange Wig & Royal Crownhttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/14/nicki-minaj-vibe-cover/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/14/nicki-minaj-vibe-cover/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/02/14/nicki-minaj-vibe-cover/#comments
Jason Merritt, Getty Images As Nicki Minaj proved Sunday night (Feb. 12), with her stupefying Grammy performance -- a high-flying, religious-themed fantasia that included an exorcism and offended some Catholics -- the rapper is beyond kowtowing to critics. She says as much in the February/March issue of VIBE magazine, the cover of which The BoomBox is pleased to officially premiere Tuesday (Feb. 14). The 'Roman Holiday' creator appears on the cover -- seen below -- decked out in a glittering crown and flowing orange wig. In the issue, she sounds off on various topics, among them the challenges she faced while recording her debut LP, 'Pink Friday,' which earned her a Best New Artist nomination at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards. ...

"I felt like I had something to prove to everyone who said a female rapper could not make an album unless she was talking about her p----," Minaj reveals. "And so I went above and beyond to prove that I could not talk about sex and not talk about my genitalia and still have a successful album."


Vibe


When asked whether it's difficult for a female artist to navigate the notoriously male-dominated industry, she responded with confidence. "It's not hard to get your way when it's your way or the highway," she says, clarifying that it's not a bad attitude but a successful business model. "In the beginning, if people didn't know me they'd probably assume I wasn't smart or wasn't business savvy. But once you sit and talk to me, it's a different story."


See Photos of Nicki Minaj's Grammy Performance
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The Queens-bred MC is also known for her daring wardrobe choices, garnering a dedicated Lady Gaga-like fan base who love her for her larger-than-life style. After photos of Vogue editor Anna Wintour and Minaj surfaced from Fashion Week 2011, she felt a shift, no longer needing to appease the magazine world with a guise that's not her own. "I've made up my mind that when you see a Nicki Minaj magazine cover from now on, it's really going to reflect me and it's going to be something that I creatively had a hand in," Minaj shares. "The fashion world will have to come to Nicki Minaj, as opposed to Nicki Minaj trying to go to the fashion world."

The Nicki Minaj Vibe cover story is available next week.

Watch Nicki Minaj Perform 'Roman Holiday'
Watch: Nicki Minaj's 'Mess' of Grammys Performance



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]]>nicki minajnicki minaj vibe coverNickiMinajNickiMinajVibeCovervibeVibe magazineVibeMagazineKelly MahanTue, 14 Feb 2012 12:00:00 ESTLil Wayne 'Mirror' Video: MC Crucifies Himself as Bruno Mars Watcheshttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/31/lil-wayne-mirror-video-bruno-mars/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/31/lil-wayne-mirror-video-bruno-mars/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/31/lil-wayne-mirror-video-bruno-mars/#comments
Kevin Winter, Getty Images | Frank Hoensch, Getty Images Lil Wayne turns inward in the video premiere of 'Mirror' featuring Bruno Mars. The visual opens with a tour of Weezy's tattoos, highlighting pieces like 'Fear God' on his eyelids and 'Life's a Gamble' on his shoulder. But, like many rappers before him, Wayne's blasphemous symbolism may anger religious groups. With red paint on his hands -- representing blood -- the New Orleans native works on what appears to be a large scale, chaotic, Jackson Pollock-esque painting. Bruno Mars adds to the work with a chorus of "Mirror on the wall. Here we are again. Through my rise and fall, you've been my only friend." ...

VEVO

The painting and tattoos serve as Wayne's reflection while the lyrics delve into his past. After several allusions to Jesus, the viewer quickly realizes that the painting is not chaotic but a clear image of Weezy -- crucified on a treble-clef cross.

The "misunderstood" -- he has the word inked over his eye -- rapper flows with, "I see the change; I see the message. And no message coulda been any clearer, so I'm starting with the man in the..." crediting Micheal Jackson for teaching him to look within.

Watch Lil Wayne's 'Mirror' Video Feat. Bruno Mars

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]]>bruno marsBrunoMarsLil WAynelil wayne mirrorLilWayneLilWayneMirrortha carter IVThaCarterIvKelly MahanTue, 31 Jan 2012 14:05:00 ESTBig Boi, Mumford & Sons & DJ Quik Experience 'The Crown Life' -- Videohttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/30/big-boi-the-crown-life-european-tour-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/30/big-boi-the-crown-life-european-tour-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/30/big-boi-the-crown-life-european-tour-video/#comments
YouTube.com Big Boi brings his supporters on a behind-the-scenes trip during his Northern European tour in partnership with Crown Royal Black Whiskey. The 12-minute short film includes a moment when "tragedy strikes" -- all bags are lost -- and includes a guest appearance from Mumford & Sons and DJ Quik as he performs at Glastonbury and the Hove festival in Norway. The OutKast rapper and his troupe of equally silly yucksters cruise around a Norwegian shopping mall in search of clothes for his set that night and toast to the "Crown Life" in Budapest on a rare day off. ...

"Since I was a young child, when I was 16, I've been an international player and I don't know how to do s--- else. You got to get out here and see the world... it's Crown Life over hear for sure," Big Boi explains in the film.

'The Crown Life' is a campaign designed to highlight life's 'crowning moments' with musicians, designers, and filmmakers. Check out Big B. in Europe, sipping on the brand's black whiskey below.

Watch Big Boi's 'The Crown Life'


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]]>andre 3000Andre3000Big Boibig boi the crown lifeBigBoiBigBoiTheCrownLifebudapestdj quikDjQuikmumford and sonsMumfordAndSonsoykastthe crown lifeTheCrownLifeKelly MahanMon, 30 Jan 2012 18:05:00 EST50 Cent: Floyd Mayweather's Son Gets Tattoos With MC?http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/26/50-cent-floyd-mayweathers-son-gets-tattoos-with-mc/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/26/50-cent-floyd-mayweathers-son-gets-tattoos-with-mc/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/26/50-cent-floyd-mayweathers-son-gets-tattoos-with-mc/#comments
Credit: Getty Images (2) Between Rihanna's "thug life" tribute to Tupac Shakur, Chris Brown's elbow shrine for his new girlfriend and a Drake fan's impulsive forehead stamp, it seems that the year of controversial tattoos is carrying over into 2012. 50 Cent is the latest artist making headlines after tweeting a questionable image of boxer Floyd Mayweather's 13-year-old son, Koraun, with full arm tattoos of his name, a star and a money symbol. While it seems like a joke, the famed boxer was quick to express his disappointment, citing the G-Unit head honcho for his reckless babysitting job and providing a photo -- check it out below -- of his inked offspring. ...



The 'Candy Shop' crooner and boxing's literal hitmaker have been friends for a while now, spotted together while Fif places bets on major fights and Mayweather enters the ring. The two both have children and seem to share the same sense of humor, with Floyd joking that 50 Cent's son was next. "I'm going to take @50cent son to get a tattoo on his face. No LOL," he tweeted.

Time will tell if the ink fades, but for little Koraun's sake, we hope it does.


Watch 50 Cent's 'I Get Money' Video

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]]>50 cent50Centfloyd mayweatherFloydMayweatherKelly MahanThu, 26 Jan 2012 18:25:00 ESTQueen Latifah: 'Joyful Noise' Role Brings Her Closer to Godhttp://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/04/queen-latifah-joyful-noise/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/04/queen-latifah-joyful-noise/http://www.theboombox.com/2012/01/04/queen-latifah-joyful-noise/#comments
Jemal Countess, WireImage Queen Latifah and country singer Dolly Parton join forces on Jan. 13, for 'Joyful Noise,' a film chronicling the journey of an underdog gospel choir from Georgia trying to win big at the National Joyful Noise Competition in Los Angeles. The rapper-turned-actress plays Vi Rose, a conservative Christian raising two kids on her own, while Dolly, the wealthy widow of the former choir director, pushes her buttons with each provocative outfit and progressive idea she owns. The two seem like an unlikely match at first but, after one round of witty barbs, it's apparent they're both Queens of their own respective kingdoms and that's a lot to have in common. In their roles, the lauded entertainment icons fight to boost the morale of their down and out town, which was hit hard by the economic recession, but in the end they must find a common voice to succeed. Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton sat down with The BoomBox to discuss their respect for one another, Latifah's surprise dream collaboration with British act Zero 7 and the rhymer's childhood connection to God. ...

What drew you to work on 'Joyful Noise'? Were you ever in a choir?

Queen Latifah: Yeah, I sang in the chorus when I was a little kid and my aunt directed a big mass choir in Virginia where I kinda grew up. I grew up a lot in Maryland and Virginia because that's where my mom is from so we were always down there for summers, Thanksgivings, Christmas, you know. Church was a requirement, there was no choice in the matter, so was vacation bible school. Gospel has been in me since I was a kid.

Your character in the movie has strong Christian values and your performance on the song 'Fix Me Jesus' is very raw and emotional. Did performing the spiritual music in the movie bring you back to any particular crossroad in your life?

QL: Umm, probably a few of them. How many crossroads are you allowed to have in life? I seem to have a lot of crossroads. I think maybe I crossed back across the same road too often. For me doing that [performance], I thought about the challenges of everyday life, personal things going on in my life, family things going on and really just wanting to be connected to God. Just knowing that God can fix me. He can fix me, he can fix you, he can fix everything and that's a good thing to know.

I think in that particular scene I was able to draw on a lot of personal challenges that I have faced over the last year or two and really just put it into that and always keep coming back to God.

Watch 'Dolly Parton Vs. Queen Latifah in 'Joyful Noise''

How are you different than your characters Vi Rose and G.G. Sparrow, in the movie?

Dolly Parton: Not much [laughs]. Just the fact that my name's Dolly Parton and her name is G.G. Sparrow.

QL: I think I'm cuter personally but people may debate that [laughs]. Well, I'm not a mother of two teenagers but I think I'm not as rigid or traditional as Vi Rose may be. I think I'm a little more open-minded, modern and maybe a little more out there.

Vi Rose is more of a Taurus or a Virgo; she's more of a perfectionist with things and a controller. I'm a Pisces so I'm more free-spirited. But, I do feel like I have a direct connection with God for some reason; always have since I was a little kid -- I would talk to God, talk to the sky.

When did you first realize you had that connection with God?

QL: When I was pretty young and I don't know if maybe it's because we had a lot of deaths in our family at a young age. I lost my grandfather at 7, I lost a lot of aunts and uncles who were very close to me at an early age and I just felt an inclination to talk to God. I don't know how it came about exactly but I never really felt that I was alone. Later on, it developed more into a religion I think, but I always felt connected to a higher power.

Warner Bros. Pictures

Is there any chance that you and Dolly may do a country-rap collaboration?

QL: [Laughs] I'ma do the singin' though, she gon' do the rapping and the dancing. That would be awesome! I don't know if it will be a country-rap collaboration but I think that there is a possibility of a collaboration in our future for sure.

DP: No, I can't do rap music but we might write something together! Weren't you impressed with her singing in the movie? I thought her performance on 'Fix Me Jesus' was incredible and I think she really can sing it on out there.

Did you learn anything from each other musically or pick up any acting tips while on set?

QL: No, I think I just admired her. She is extremely gifted and talented, I mean she is a hellified singer. You can just feel the soul in her music. She can do runs that the soulful-est soul singer can't do. She is really, really a great songwriter, a great singer and a great actor.

I was surprised how quickly she was able to come up with songs for this film. It seemed like one day, Dolly's in, three days later, here's five records for the movie. I was like, "Wow, she's so skillful at it," and I thought that the songs that she wrote were great.

DP: I just liked her and everybody used to say to me, "You and Queen Latifah should do something together. You have a very similar personality, very likeable, very upfront and out there." I could see that myself, I used to think it would be fun to work with her because I like her. When we both got the chance to do this and found out that we both were looking at the script, we both said yes, we'll do it if they do.

Watch 'The Joyful Noise Trailer'

Did you have any influence on the musical direction of the film? For example, on the pop mash-up 'Higher Medley'?

QL: No, I adjusted some of the lyrics. I know Mervin Warren [the film's composer]. I had something to do with him getting the job, and I know his skill level so I don't need to do his job for him. I just suggested an adjustment to certain words that I thought rode the line a little too close to secular content.

I brought him a little closer to being more gospel, more praise and God-influenced rather than secular. Those are the things that I kind of influenced, reining some of that stuff in to make sure that it was realistic for what a church choir would sing.

There has been a lot of change in the industry since your first album dropped in 1989. How have you adapted over time and stayed positive?

QL: I think as far as the music industry is concerned, it's kind of been the wild, wild West in a way with the Internet, which is not necessarily a bad thing to me. I think it's been tough for us as writers when our music is downloaded for free. But as far as what an artist can do, I think is fantastic. I come from an independent mindset, you know from Flave [Flavor] Unit Management. We come from an independent background so creating your own destiny without a lot of money or creating your own identity and success without a label is, I think, a fantastic accomplishment.

Before the Internet got to where it is right now you couldn't really do that as easily. I think that it's been a good thing in that sense for the artists. It's made you have to work harder but you get the control. You have more ownership, you can create your own identity and you can build something of value for a label to want to invest in. I think that's a great thing so I think it's been kind of cool in those ways.

I don't like that the part where female rappers don't play on the radio as much. That to me is the big deficit -- females in hip-hop. Other than that, I think that there's a lot of good things happening.

Treach and Vin Rock recently sat down with The BoomBox to discuss Naughty By Nature's new album and your collaboration on 'God Is Us.' Are there any other artists in 2012, that you would like to work with?

QL: Oh yeah, my boys! Hmm, there are a lot of new people that I think are pretty dope. Zero 7, I would love to work with Zero 7. I love their vibe and their instrumentation. I love the various kinds of music they can make as an electronic group. They still sound influenced by so many different types of music that my style could fit into a lot of different vibes that they create and I'm more collaborative like that.

Are there any other artists that you are into right now?

QL: I listen to Drake, Rick Ross. God, who do I listen to? I like Wale, Uncle Murda. Of course, Jigga, Kanye, Nicki [Minaj], you know all the rest that everybody loves.

So you like what Nicki's doing?

QL: Yeah, it's raunchy as all get-up but I love it! She's the best at what she does. I think she has a great voice too. She's a pretty good singer, so I like that she sings and raps. I knew you was going to work that Nicki in there! Nah, Nicki's dope.
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]]>dolly partonDollyPartonjoyful noiseJoyfulNoisequeen latifahqueen latifah joyful noiseQueenLatifahQueenLatifahJoyfulNoiseKelly MahanWed, 04 Jan 2012 11:35:00 ESTTwo-Year-Old Rapper Khaliyl Iloyi Is a YouTube Star -- Videohttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/12/12/two-year-old-rapper-khaliyl-iloyi-is-a-youtube-star-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/12/12/two-year-old-rapper-khaliyl-iloyi-is-a-youtube-star-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/12/12/two-year-old-rapper-khaliyl-iloyi-is-a-youtube-star-video/#comments
YouTube.com Two year old Khaliyl Iloyi is an internet sensation, stunning YouTube viewers with his gift for gab, rhythm and flow. The rapping toddler spits, "gaga goo goo gon gada," in perfect time with fellow U.K. wordsmith Alim Kamara, all while donning a stylish pajama onesie. The video featuring Khaliyl has been viewed more than a half million times but the success is no surprise to his family. His father, Femi Iloyi aka Smooflow, is a rapper and his older brother Kieyen was a YouTube hit himself rapping at the age of 3. ...

While his baby-like sounds may not be coherent, it's still mighty impressive especially when he includes the signature hand gestures and head bob made famous by hip-hop legends.

The video was shot by Khaliyl's dad, who describes his son's rap debut as "such a great moment" to ABC News.

"At the age of four months, Khaliyl started showing signs of interest in music, making noises to songs that we played," Femi Iloyi said. "At around 9 months, his timing and ability was very clear.

"He continued to show us the joy he felt when listening to music and was able to choose his favorite songs by expressing noises or pointing," he added.

Be sure to check out the tiny rhymer who brings "poppin' bottles" to a whole new level in the video below!

Watch Two-Year-Old Khaliyl Iloyi Rap

]]>2 year old rapper2YearOldRapperkhaliylkhaliyl lloyikhaliyl+iloyikhaliyliloyiKhaliylLloyirapping+toddlerrappingtoddlertwo+year+old+rappertwo+year+old+rappingtwoyearoldrappertwoyearoldrappingYouTubeKelly MahanMon, 12 Dec 2011 14:30:00 ESTDrake, Snoop Dogg, YG, Nipsey Hussle Rap on 'Motto' Remixhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/29/drake-snoop-dogg-yg-nipsey-hussle-rap-on-motto-remix/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/29/drake-snoop-dogg-yg-nipsey-hussle-rap-on-motto-remix/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/29/drake-snoop-dogg-yg-nipsey-hussle-rap-on-motto-remix/#comments
Getty Images Drake's 'Take Care' bonus track 'Motto,' a hyphy-inspired song featuring his Young Money boss Lil Wayne, has been given the remix treatment. West Coast rappers Snoop Dogg, YG and Nipsey Hussle lend their vocals to the track to give the song some legitimacy. Canadian-born Drizzy gets "stupid," struggling through Yay area slang -- a play off the name for the Bay, where the hyphy movement was born -- singing "airy day" with Julie Andrews-like clarity. Luckily, the track gets some California love with Snoop on the bill. ...

The song opens with a synth beat signature of the Bay area sound, giving a lyrical nod to Mac Dre and his hit 'Feelin' Myself.' YG and Nipsey slur while spitting E-40-like quick-tongued rhymes but Snoop manages to slow it down with his signature stoner-style.

Lil Wayne and Drake headed West to film the visuals for the track off 'Take Care' -- San Francisco, Calif. will be the setting for the video. Hopefully we'll see the Young Money crew and company do the "thizzle dance" in the city by the bay.

'Take Care' earned Drake a No. 1 spot on the Billboard charts, with 659,190 units sold.

Listen to Drake's Motto' Feat. Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, YG & Nispey Hussle



Drake's Fashion Evolution


Watch 'Drake Is Confident on His Debut Album Release'
]]>&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&sqi=2&ved=0cb4qqqiwaa&url=http://www.thebay areaBayAreadrakehyphylil wayneLilWaynemottomotto+remix+snoopmottoremixsnoopnipsey+husslenipseyhusslesnoop doggSnoopDoggtake careTakeCarethe+motto+remixthemottoremixKelly MahanTue, 29 Nov 2011 16:10:00 ESTMathew Knowles Starts New Girl Group, 'From Above'http://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/21/mathew-knowles-girl-band-from-above/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/21/mathew-knowles-girl-band-from-above/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/11/21/mathew-knowles-girl-band-from-above/#comments
Getty Images Mathew Knowles, former manager of Beyonce and Destiny's Child, is at work to create the next chart-topping female group. Bey's father, who split professionally from his daughter in March, after he managed her burgeoning career for more than 20 years, is setting his sights on another global girl group takeover with From Above. Beyonce's father partnered with MTV to create a new reality show 'Breaking From Above,' which will feature five girls from the U.K. and two from the U.S. The women will compete on air for a slot in 'From Above,' the new girl group that will emerge from Knowles' trademarked Star Power Boot Camp of hardcore physical, vocal, media and choreography training. "If I'm the lead singer, I've got to know that, accept that, and all the members have got to accept it," he said. "Everybody's role has to be established at day one," said Knowles, who serves as executive producer of the show. ...

"Most reality shows are about putting together groups, this is the opposite," he added.

The girl group aficionado, who founded the record label and management company Music World Entertainment, currently has numerous artists on his roster, including Trin-i-tee 5:7, Brian Courtney Wilson, Juanita Bynum, Micah Stampley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Rudy, among others.

The reality show airs over MTV affiliates in 160 countries, including the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy but it's undetermined when it will run in the U.S.

Watch Destiny's Child's 'Bills, Bills, Bills'

Watch 'Michelle Williams Surprised Beyonce Left Matthew'
]]>beyoncebeyonce knowlesBeyonceKnowlesfrom aboveFromAboveMathew KnowlesMathewKnowlesKelly MahanMon, 21 Nov 2011 19:00:00 ESTRihanna Is 'Princess of China' on New Coldplay Track -- Listenhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/17/rihanna-is-princess-of-china-in-new-coldplay-track-listen/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/17/rihanna-is-princess-of-china-in-new-coldplay-track-listen/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/17/rihanna-is-princess-of-china-in-new-coldplay-track-listen/#comments
Neil Lupin, Redferns Rihanna lent her pipes to Coldplay's 'The Princess of China,' a new song from the band's fifth studio album, 'Mylo Xyloto,' set for release Oct. 24. The tune is a definite departure from Coldplay's whimsical sound, replacing guitars with a synthesized melody and includes an R&B groove throughout. Martin admitted he was shy about asking the Bajan beauty to join him on the track but after seven Grammys and six Brit Awards, he decided to take the chance. "The album is designed as a whole piece. It has boy and girl lead characters and top of our list for the girl part was Rihanna ... but it took a while to pluck up the courage to ask her," he told The Sun. ...

Rihanna and Martin blend their voices to create a moody, haunting song that transports the listener into a dark club far away, where the bass rattles the night away. 'The Princess of China' is a narrative starring RiRi as Martin's love interest, and is the band's first foray into electro-pop.

It turns out Rihanna didn't only 'Talk That Talk' but walked the walk, impressing Martin through every step of the recording process.

"She's one of the top five singers in the world," Chris Martin told EW. "It was very organic. I played her the song on the piano, and then she said 'OK, leave it to me.' And then the next thing you know, you've got a f---ing beautiful Rihanna record. She's amazing."

Be sure to check out the rest from 'Mylo Xyloto' for some unexpected shifts in Coldplay's signature sound. Listen to a stream of 'Princess of China' here.


Watch Rihanna on Set of Her New Video for 'We Found Love'



]]>RihannaKelly MahanMon, 17 Oct 2011 14:05:00 ESTNas Premieres New 'Nasty' Video, Highlights Queensbridgehttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/11/nas-premiers-new-nasty-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/11/nas-premiers-new-nasty-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/11/nas-premiers-new-nasty-video/#comments
Jerritt Clark, WireImage Nas has premiered the video for his lead single, 'Nasty,' off his 10th studio album, 'Life Is Good,' today (Oct. 11). Jason Goldwatch directs this throwback piece that revisits 'Nasty' Nas' start in the Queensbridge projects where he rose to fame as an MC. Nasir acts as a freestyling host who navigates viewers through his day-to-day life growing up in New York City. The video begins with Nas in the studio spliced with scenes of him visiting his own hood and cruising around town in a Rolls-Royce, since he's skinny but "still too big for a Bentley." ...

"You know 'Nasty' is what I would like the game to be right now in a lot of ways; back to the realness," Nasir told MTV News.

"I never see the whips n----s be claimin' they drivin'/ I guess entertainment means blatantly lyin'/ Fake it 'til you make it, I've driven those toys/ Been in the wars, in the streets, cops kickin' in doors/ For my deen n----s, your flow cheap as limousine liquor," he spits while touring through his friends' house and back to the studio where the music video comes to a close.

Watch Nas' 'Nasty'



Watch Nas Speak About His New Album, 'Life Is Good'



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]]>NasKelly MahanTue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 ESTAlicia Keys Says 'I'm in Love' With Directing, Preps 'Five'http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/alicia-keys-five-movie/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/alicia-keys-five-movie/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/alicia-keys-five-movie/#comments
Larry Busacca, Getty Images for Lifetime Alicia Keys sat down with 'Good Morning America' to discuss her directorial debut of the short film tied within the candid Lifetime movie 'Five,' set to air Mon., Oct. 10. The 'Songs in A Minor' creator co-directed the made-for-TV film alongside actresses Demi Moore and Jennifer Aniston. 'Five' chronicles the emotional journey women face from breast cancer diagnosis to chemotherapy. Each section of the film is woven together to create a story arc that holds each character together. ...

Keys' piece of the puzzle, titled 'Lili,' follows the life of a career-driven woman -- played by Rosario Dawson -- who must lean on her mother and sister to get through the treatment despite their familial differences.

"Lili's family, I mean, it's such a powerful dynamic because everyone is kind of their own interesting person... and all they're going through it together. And that's what we deal with as families," the 'Empire State of Mind' singer said. "This was my first time directing and I am in love! You will see me behind the camera more, I'm hoping."

Keys also cooed over her son turning one and his first "tender" kiss with fellow director Aniston.

Tune into Lifetime Oct. 10 to see Keys' work behind the camera.

Watch Alicia Keys' Interview on 'GMA'


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]]>alicia keysAliciaKeysKelly MahanThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:10:00 ESTKreayshawn Announces Tour With Unlikely Partnerhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/neon-indian-kreayshawn-tour/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/neon-indian-kreayshawn-tour/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/10/06/neon-indian-kreayshawn-tour/#comments
Getty Images Kreayshawn and Texas indie electronic band Neon Indian have joined forces for a two-week. 10-city college tour sponsored by Dell and Intel's Noisey project. It's an obvious pairing, like wine and cheese, with one band releasing an LP titled 'Psychic Chasm' and the pint-sized Bay Area native opting to title her single 'Gucci Gucci'. This is a match made in irony heaven. ...

Neon Indian take the stage with the rapping YouTube sensation starting Oct. 24 at the University of Iowa and will continue to confuse concert-goers until their final performance in Missouri Nov. 11.

Check the Noisey College tour dates below.

Oct. 24: Iowa City, Iowa - University of Iowa
Oct. 25: Columbia, Mo. - University of Missouri
Oct. 26: Urbana, Ill. - University of Illinois
Oct. 27: Ames, Iowa - Iowa State
Oct. 28: Madison, Wis. - University of Wisconsin
Oct. 31: North Hampton, Mass. - Smith College
Nov. 1: Syracuse, N.Y. - Syracuse University
Nov. 2: Hempstead, N.Y. - Hofstra University
Nov. 3: Providence, R.I. - Providence College
Nov 4: Brunswick, Maine - Bowdoin College

Watch Kreayshawn's Interview with the Boombox %VIRTUAL-globalVideoEmbed-{"videoIds":"517720581","width":"476","height":"357"}%

]]>KreayshawnKelly MahanThu, 06 Oct 2011 10:00:00 ESTT.I. Is Free, Released From Halfway House in Atlantahttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/29/t-i-is-free-released-from-halfway-house-in-atlanta/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/29/t-i-is-free-released-from-halfway-house-in-atlanta/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/29/t-i-is-free-released-from-halfway-house-in-atlanta/#comments
Moses Robinson, WireImage T.I. is a free man today (Sept. 29), after spending 10 months in an Arkansas federal prison. The rapper, who was arrested in Los Angeles on drug charges and for violating probation for firearms offenses in 2010, was released last month to a halfway house to complete his federal custody sentence. However, the 'Bring 'Em Out' creator was forced to return to prison in Arkansas after he was suspected of conducting business during his 375-mile relocation trip to Atlanta with his wife and two industry executives. On Sept. 15, the 30-year-old lyricist was released once again and sent to the Dismas Charities halfway house in Atlanta to complete his sentence. The New York Times reports that there was little "fanfare" as he exited in a chauffeur-driven car. ...

Tip, born Clifford Harris, will celebrate his freedom during a brunch in Atlanta. The first annual A King of Oneself brunch is presented by men's lifestyle fashion brand AKOO Clothing, owned by T.I., and Grand Hustle Entertainment, his label.

The entertainer is currently working with VH1 on a documentary series showcasing his release from prison and life thereafter.

]]>T.I.Kelly MahanThu, 29 Sep 2011 14:15:00 ESTRoberta Flack Plans Beatles Cover Album, Drops Singlehttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/28/roberta-flack-releases-first-single-from-beatles-cover-album/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/28/roberta-flack-releases-first-single-from-beatles-cover-album/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/28/roberta-flack-releases-first-single-from-beatles-cover-album/#comments
Paul Zimmerman, Getty Images Legendary four-time Grammy award-winner Roberta Flack is back with a Beatles tribute album after an eight-year hiatus. The songstress, who is most noted for tracks like 'Killing Me Softly' -- which inspired rap groups like the Fugees to cover it -- debuted her first cover, the 1965 hit 'We Can Work It Out,' this week (Sept. 27) on iTunes. The full album release is expected in February 2012. "Love, inspiration, friendship and my own life's lessons come together when I sing the songs they created. I am honored to be a part of the fabulous legacy of the Beatles, " the R&B icon said in a statement. Flack catapulted to stardom in 1969, with her debut cover of Ewan MacColl's 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,' the same year the Beatles released 'Abbey Road.' ...

She lived alongside John Lennon and now, Yoko Ono, in the famed Dakota building in New York City -- where Lennon was murdered in 1980 -- so the musical influence of the Beatles infiltrated both her personal and professional career.

"I live in the same building [The Dakota] that John [Lennon] did up until the day he died. As a matter of fact, on the same floor -- and I'm a friend of the family." she told Spinner.

"My passion for this project comes from the magical genius of the greatest songwriters of all time," Flack added in a statement.

Listen to Roberta Flack's Beatles Cover of 'We Can Work It Out'


Watch Roberta Flack Perform 'Killing Me Softly'

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]]>Roberta FlackRobertaFlackKelly MahanWed, 28 Sep 2011 17:20:00 ESTFrank Ocean Is the 'Dos Equis Man,' Opens Up About Jay-Zhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/22/frank-ocean-is-the-dos-equis-man-opens-up-about-jay-z/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/22/frank-ocean-is-the-dos-equis-man-opens-up-about-jay-z/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/22/frank-ocean-is-the-dos-equis-man-opens-up-about-jay-z/#comments
YouTube.com Without hip hop's stereotypical sunglasses, fast car or jewelry in tow, a humble Frank Ocean sat down with Hot 97 host Angie Martinez to discuss his recent collabo on 'Watch the Throne' and life with Odd Future. Even after the release of his debut mixtape 'Nostalgia, Ultra,' the man of mystery remained incognito, shying away from media -- unlike Odd Future's frontman Tyler, the Creator. "I think that's just my personality. I'm not even going for it, that's just kinda how it is... I'm like the Dos Equis man," Ocean said. ...

The 'Novacane' singer's warm candor may be attributed to an unexpected career path that landed him in Los Angeles. Ocean was studying at the University of New Orleans when he was evacuated during Hurricane Katrina, a life change that prompted the start of a career in the music business.

He rarely collaborates with artists outside of Odd Future's collective but when the opportunity arose to work with Jay-Z and Kanye West, his choice was obvious.

"I worked with Jay on his solo album before I did the 'Watch the Throne' sessions. The second time I went [to work with him] it was Barry Weiss, Jay, Beyonce, Kanye, couple other people, it was a pretty heavy room," he explained.

"The first seven minutes or so of working with Jay was - I won't even say it was seven minutes... he wasn't saying anything, and I was nervous, " he added. " As soon as we started talking [it was fine]. He's super cool. I think he was just tryna make me nervous, make me sweat. It seemed a little intentional."

The hype is there for Ocean to release more than a mixtape but he disclosed that he has no date set for a full LP. "I just want to make sure the next thing is right and I don't want to go on the record and say that it's coming out on some phantom date that never appears."

In true Dos Equis style, it sounds like fans will have to wait -- "Stay thirsty, my friends."

To listen to the entire interview, check out Part One, Part Two and Part Three.

Watch Frank Ocean's 'Swim Good'
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]]>Frank OceanFrankOceanKelly MahanThu, 22 Sep 2011 12:40:00 ESTTimbaland Debuts 'Pass At Me' Video With Pitbull -- Watchhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/21/timbaland-pass-at-me-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/21/timbaland-pass-at-me-video/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/21/timbaland-pass-at-me-video/#comments
Getty Images Bikini clad babes rule the world in Timbaland's new island-themed video for 'Pass at Me,' featuring Pitbull and David Guetta. Pitbull opens the song, manning a yacht set sail for a deserted paradise filled with bootylicious dancers. Apparently, that much booty makes Timbaland crazed and the video climaxes with a rave-like dance party led by David Guetta. The video is rife with product placement including ads for beer, cars and a new book by fashion photographer Rapahael Mazzucco titled, 'Culo [A--] by Mazzucco.' ...

Mazzuco partnered with Interscope Chairman Jimmy Iovine to release the book and, naturally, Timbaland's rump-themed dance track was selected for cross-promotion.

For a heavy dose of butt, be sure to check out the video preview of the book highlighting the best of Mazzuco's 'Culo' images below.

]]>TimbalandKelly MahanWed, 21 Sep 2011 13:40:00 ESTKid Cudi Takes the Shape of a Puzzle, Speaks on Sober Lifehttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/20/kid-cudi-takes-the-shape-of-a-puzzle-speaks-on-sober-life/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/20/kid-cudi-takes-the-shape-of-a-puzzle-speaks-on-sober-life/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/20/kid-cudi-takes-the-shape-of-a-puzzle-speaks-on-sober-life/#comments
Pamela Littky, Complex Kid Cudi graces the October/November issue of Complex magazine -- in the shape of a puzzle -- and delves into life post drugs, jail and a baby. In three short years, the 'Day N Nite' singer rose from obscurity, was arrested, fired his managers and had a child. Now the sober entertainer is piecing life back together, one section at a time. "I'm not even going to attack the people in my life that didn't step in and try to stop it, 'cause I was just so bullheaded," Cudi said in the interview. "There's no way to slow somebody when they're speeding down a path of destruction." After the release of 'Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager,' the Ohio native disappeared from the spotlight, opting to spend time with his mom and fellow hip hop veterans like Kanye West. ...

"Being around Kanye and music was my escape," Cudi explained. "He's a sober guy, he has a drink every once in a while, but seeing how he throws himself into the studio when he's stressing about something, I totally admire that. Being around that was therapy for me."

His musical side project, 'Wizard,' has been a huge source of inspiration as well. "After I got off the drugs I was like, I need a f---ing hobby, " he said. "So I picked up the guitar last fall and I started fiddling with it."

"It's like a kid learning to ride a bike -- you can't have those training wheels forever. I have to learn how to be inspired by other things than my turmoil and pain and stress. I have to learn how to sit in the studio, clearheaded, and make a jam."

Check the interview in full here.

Watch Kid Cudi's 'Erase Me' Featuring Kanye West

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]]>Kid CudiKidCudiKelly MahanTue, 20 Sep 2011 14:30:00 ESTMissy Elliott Works It 'All Night Long' With Demi Lovatohttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/15/missy-elliott-works-it-all-night-long-with-demi-lovato/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/15/missy-elliott-works-it-all-night-long-with-demi-lovato/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/15/missy-elliott-works-it-all-night-long-with-demi-lovato/#comments
Getty Images Comeback kid Demi Lovato has joined forces with Missy Elliott and Timbaland for a new song, 'All Night Long.' 'All Night Long' is the second track to drop from Lovato's third studio album, 'Unbroken,' set for release Sept. 20. The song is this fall's perfect party anthem with beats supplied by hip-hop's famed producer and Elliott's Grammy award-winning rhymes. The track differs greatly from Lovato's emotional power ballad 'Skyscraper,' showcasing the sillier side of teenage life. "It's about staying up all night long and singing it to the boy that you like, and it's flirty and fun and it's not too grown-up, but it's grown-up enough," Lovato said in an interview with MTV. ...

Twitter

Aside from Missy and Timbaland, Demi's upcoming album features a number of collaborations with other artists, from Jason Derulo to Dev.

Listen to Demi Lovato's 'All Night Long' Featuring Missy Elliott & Timbaland

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]]>Missy ElliottMissyElliottKelly MahanThu, 15 Sep 2011 11:35:00 ESTRick Ross Calls Kreayshawn a 'Dirty B----,' Threatens Her Teamhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/12/rick-ross-calls-kreayshawn-a-dirty-b/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/12/rick-ross-calls-kreayshawn-a-dirty-b/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/09/12/rick-ross-calls-kreayshawn-a-dirty-b/#comments
Gary Miller, FilmMagic | Tim Whitby, Getty Images Rick Ross is not a fan of Kreayshawn and he is not afraid to show it. According to KarenCivil.com, the Maybach Music Group founder threatens the 'Gucci Gucci' rhymer's team and makes insulting remarks about her in the October issue of XXL Magazine. "I can't wait to slap the s--- out of whoever carries her bags," Ross said in his interview with XXL Magazine. "And I hope it's her n----. Dirty b----. You better know the f--- you talking about. I'll pay 50K to mess up your whole week." ...

Cameras were rolling backstage during a recent spat between Kreayshawn's posse and Rick Ross at the 2011 MTV Music Awards, forcing their beef into the spotlight. It all started when the Bay area native called Ross a "fake" during a freestyle radio session on Cosmic Kev's "Come Up Show."

However, Kreayshawn explained that she didn't "intentionally" dismiss Ross. " I'm not like a person to go against anyone or anything. So hey, no offense to you Rick Ross. There's no Rick Ross offensive things going on in there, even though it sounds like it," she told MTV News.

But Ross, apparently, didn't get the memo before their awards show altercation and his interview with XXL Magazine.

Watch Kreayshawn's Interview With The BoomBox
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]]>KreayshawnKelly MahanMon, 12 Sep 2011 18:10:00 ESTMelanie Fiona Is Heartbroken on New Song, '4 A.M.'-- Listenhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/25/melanie-fiona-is-heartbroken-on-new-song-4-a-m-listen/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/25/melanie-fiona-is-heartbroken-on-new-song-4-a-m-listen/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/25/melanie-fiona-is-heartbroken-on-new-song-4-a-m-listen/#comments
Getty Images Someone broke Melanie Fiona's heart and she is back to sing about it. Her latest track, '4 A.M.,' produced by Rico Love and Earl & E, delves into the heartbreak that comes when dating an adulterous man. Hopefully the song is fictional, but either way, fans will be pleased with the teaser single from her upcoming sophomore album, 'The MF Life,' set for release Oct. 25. The 'MF Life' features contributions from Chuck Harmony, Jack Splash, Jerry "Wonda" Duplessis and Salaam Remi, among others, but that's not all fans have to look forward to. Before the studio album release, the 'It Kills Me' singer adds some reggae and soul to an upcoming mixtape, which will hit airwaves before October. 'The MF Mixtape' includes 'Like I Love You,' a new song with a similar '4 A.M.' lust-for-love theme. ...


Listen to Melanie Fiona's '4 A.M.'

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]]>4 am4Amalbummelanie fionaMelanieFionathe mf lifeTheMfLifeKelly MahanThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:50:00 ESTNicki Minaj Will Lend Her Voice to 'Ice Age 4' Characterhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/08/nicki-minaj-gets-animated-in-ice-age-4/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/08/nicki-minaj-gets-animated-in-ice-age-4/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/08/nicki-minaj-gets-animated-in-ice-age-4/#comments
Getty Images Nicki Minaj, known for her animated personality and style, announced today that she will be joining the cast of 'Ice Age 4: Continental Drift' along with fellow stars Drake, Queen Latifah and Jennifer Lopez. It's a family-friendly headline long overdue for the 'Pink Friday' rapper, whose recent press coverage includes a nip slip on national television and domestic spats with hypeman, Safaree Samuels. But the animated fun doesn't stop there. The Queens native will also be lending her voice as a guest on Fox's TV Series, 'The Cleveland Show.' The animated series returns this fall on a television screen near you while the fourth 'Ice Age' installment is slated for release in July 2012. ...


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]]>cleveland showClevelandShowice age 4IceAge4nicki minajNickiMinajsafaree samuelsSafareeSamuelsthe cleveland showTheClevelandShowKelly MahanMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTKelly Rowland's 'Here I Am' Hits No. 1 on R&B Albums Charthttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/04/kelly-rowlands-here-i-am-hits-1-on-top-randb-albums-chart/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/04/kelly-rowlands-here-i-am-hits-1-on-top-randb-albums-chart/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/08/04/kelly-rowlands-here-i-am-hits-1-on-top-randb-albums-chart/#comments
Kevin Winter, Getty Images Kelly Rowland could not have picked a more apt title for her third solo album, 'Here I Am,' which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top R&B albums chart this week. After only one week, the album has sold over 75,000 copies, somersaulting it to No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200, her highest score yet. Her hit single, 'Motivation' featuring Lil Wayne, helped generate anticipation over the album's release and fans came out in full force to get their hands on a copy. However, Rowland is no stranger to success. She has sold over four million solo albums to date and more than 60 million worldwide with Destiny's Child but her recent release marks a significant course change for the star. ...

In other words, the five-time Grammy Award-winner has always been at the party but she is now the main attraction. Hopefully, she will keep the momentum going and fans like 50 Cent can watch 'Here I Am' continue to soar up the Billboard charts.


Watch Kelly Rowland's 'Motivation' Featuring Lil Wayne

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]]>albumbillboardchartshere i amHereIAmkelly rowlandKellyRowlandKelly MahanThu, 04 Aug 2011 12:00:00 ESTNew Orleans Hip-Hop Pioneer Tim Smooth Dead at 39http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/27/tim-smooth-dies/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/27/tim-smooth-dies/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/27/tim-smooth-dies/#comments
YouTube New Orleans based rapper Tim Smooth passed away Tuesday, July 26 after a long battle with throat cancer. He was 39 years old. Smooth, whose real name is Timothy Smoot, first established himself as a teen MC in Louisiana's burgeoning '90s hip-hop scene. The MC was a member of Rap-A-Lot Records early on in his career, putting forth his Too Cool-assisted 'Straight Up Drivin' Em' album. He released his first single, 'I Gotsta Have It,' in 1991, and went on to craft four albums and collaborated with various artists and labels including Big Boy Records. It was at Big Boy Records where he met and cemented a lifelong bond with fellow New Orleans rapper Mystikal, a friendship that lasted until the end of his life. ...

"Had I never met Tim, I would be a totally different artist," Michael "Mystikal" Tyler told the Times-Picayune. "He even co-wrote the title cut with me [in] 'Mind of Mystikal,'" he added. "Thanks for the memories."

Known as the 'the Knight from Kennedy Heights,' Smooth established himself an early pioneer of New Orleans hip-hop.

"I hope they remember how he was - he was a friend to everybody, everybody loved him," his sister, Nicole Smoot, said to Nola.com. "He never had a fight in his whole life, and he was 39 years old. He was a happy person. He was always cracking jokes, and even with the cancer, he never didn't have a smile on his face."

According to KevinNottingham.com, he was involved in a new project with Jr. Mack and The Mighty Pimptations before his passing.

Listen to Tim Smooth's 'Used Car'

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]]>dieddieship-hopMystikalnew orleansNewOrleanspassedpassed awayPassedAwaythroatthroat cancerThroatCancertim smoothTimSmoothKelly MahanWed, 27 Jul 2011 14:20:00 ESTKeri Hilson Apologizes for Amy Winehouse Tweethttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/26/keri-hilson-apoligizes-for-amy-winehouse-tweet/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/26/keri-hilson-apoligizes-for-amy-winehouse-tweet/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/26/keri-hilson-apoligizes-for-amy-winehouse-tweet/#comments
Ed Jones/AFP/Getty Images | Arlene Richie/jpistudios.com Keri Hilson has officially been dubbed 'insensitive' by angered fans after publishing a tweet of her and a seemingly intoxicated woman that resembled Amy Winehouse, just hours before the late singer's funeral. "*gasp* Amy Winehouse resurrected to party w/ me!!! (seriously, uncanny resemblance) http://twitpic.com/5w0mdy, " the R&B singer tweeted late Monday evening (July 25). ...

Although it was meant as a joke, the public reaction was almost immediate. Fans upset over the loss of Winehouse on July 23 retweeted the post over 100 times scrutinizing the 'Knock You Down' singer for her insensitive banter.

"Come on, I mean no harm. All due respect. But really the resemblance freaked me out. This was simply the best tribute ever. #RIPAMYWINEHOUSE," she added on Twitter.

In the wake, Hilson has now been accused of using Winehouse's tragic passing as a platform to draw attention to herself. Not a move that 'Twitterville' finds acceptable.

"I had no ill intent, but I understand how it appears insensitive...my bad twitterville. For real. Good night :)," she added.

Hopefully Hilson's 1.4 million Twitter followers will find a place to forgive her.


]]>amy winehouseAmyWinehouseappearancedeaddeathkeri hilsonKeriHilsonresemblanceresurrectedtweettwitterKelly MahanTue, 26 Jul 2011 14:00:00 ESTRick Ross Gets Off in Dog Death Case, Lawsuit Dismissedhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/rick-ross-gets-off-in-dog-death-case-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/rick-ross-gets-off-in-dog-death-case-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/rick-ross-gets-off-in-dog-death-case-lawsuit-dismissed/#comments
Getty Images It turns out Rick Ross is out of the doghouse, at least for now. A lawsuit against the 'God Forgives, I Don't' rapper was dropped today (July 21), which claimed that earlier this year, his three pitbulls mauled Banks, a Yorkshire Terrier owned by his neighbor. According to TMZ, the judge ruled that Banks' owner, identified as Maria in court documents, failed to "properly serve Ross the suit," making the case null and void. The lawsuit claims the three pitbulls escaped from Ross' Atlanta mansion before entering Maria's property and brutally attacking her dog. She demanded more than $15,000 in damages and fees for the incident that allegedly left her pup with four large bite wounds, which led to his eventual death. ...

Although the case was dismissed, Maria told TMZ that, "she isn't giving up... and vows to correct her mistake and eventually get justice for Banks."


Watch Rick Ross' 'Super High' Featuring Ne-Yo
]]>deathdoglawsuitrick rossRickRossKelly MahanThu, 21 Jul 2011 17:30:00 ESTDa Brat Discusses Writing Her Book, Famous Jail Visitorshttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/da-brat-writing-her-book-famous-jail-visitors/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/da-brat-writing-her-book-famous-jail-visitors/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/21/da-brat-writing-her-book-famous-jail-visitors/#comments
Stephen Lovekin, WireImage In 1994, Da Brat was riding high. Her album 'Funkdafied' made history, earning her the title of first female rapper ever to release a platinum-selling LP, but an attack on a cheerleader in 2007 brought her career to a screeching halt. In 2008, the rhymer was sentenced to three years in jail for striking an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader with a bottle leaving permanent facial scarring. Da Brat, born Shawtae Harris, opened up with CNN to discuss her three-year stint in jail, a new book and a celebrity visit in the slammer that left her stunned. ...

"I actually didn't do any writing of music while I was locked up. I wrote a book, but I didn't do any music," Da Brat told CNN. "The book is pretty much about myself as a child, growing up in church and the different things I encountered like being in a gang and trying to sell drugs," she added.

In addition to her new book, Harris is shopping around a reality show, following in the footsteps of her sister LisaRaye, who stars in 'LisaRaye: The Real McCoy' on TV One. "The sad thing about it is most of these networks want the fighting, they want the drunkenness, they want the confrontational and that's not me anymore," the 'Funkdafied' lyricist revealed. "I've outgrown that and I don't want that to be the main focus. Been there, done that and been through hell because of that."

Her relationships with family and friends remained strong during her incarceration but it was a visit from Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon that left a lasting impression. "She found a private airport that I didn't even know existed, flew her G5 in and came to see her BFF. I was really touched by that," the former Jermaine Dupri protégée said.

Be sure to check out Da Brat's latest mixtape titled 'Life After Death,' which can be found on Jermain Dupri's Global14.com here.

Watch Da Brat's 'Give It 2 You'
]]>albumda bratDaBratfunkdafiedjaillisa rayeLisaRayemariah careyMariahCareynick cannonNickCannonrapperKelly MahanThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:10:00 ESTNicki Minaj Police Report Details Attack in Dallashttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/14/nicki-minaj-police-report-dallas-attack/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/14/nicki-minaj-police-report-dallas-attack/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/14/nicki-minaj-police-report-dallas-attack/#comments
Getty Images It seems as though Nicki Minaj and her hypeman Safaree Samuels are the stars of their own real-life hip-hopera. The saga continues today with TMZ's release of the official incident report from the Dallas, Texas attack on the 'Pink Friday' rapper that took place on Monday (July 11). Minaj and Samuel worked quickly over the last two days to squash any allegations via Twitter that they were involved in a heated fight placing the blame instead on a story run by TMZ. "The media could pee on ur leg & tell u its raining. You'd believe it," an angry Minaj tweeted. "You'd believe u were an adopted martian if TMZ told u so," she added. ...

The story took another turn however, when TMZ published the official incident report citing Samuels as a witness on the night of the altercation.

According to the Dallas Police report, there were three witnesses the night of the attack. An employee at the Palomar Hotel in Dallas was asked to call the police at the request of Minaj after a heated argument took place at the hotel pool. Minaj then returned to the room she was sharing with "Witness 1", presumably Samuels, and continued to fight over a suitcase.

She was packing a bag that included the witness' personal belongings when he "grabbed the suitcase," and in the process, "shoved the suitcase across the Comp's [Minaj's] chin and lower lip."

The reporting officer then "observed slight swelling and redness" to Minaj's chin, which occurred when her "teeth struck the inside of her lower lip, causing the inside of the lower lip to cut and start to bleed."

The raptress and her hypeman may continue to deny the story but the police report provides some concrete evidence that something went down between the two at the Palomar Hotel.

By the time the paramedics arrived on the scene, Samuels had left and Nicki refused to file a police report or take any photos.

Watch Nicki Minaj's 'Super Bass'
]]>dallasmouthNicki MinajNickiMinajpink fridayPinkFridaypolice reportPoliceReportrappersafaree samuelsSafareeSamuelssuitcasetexasTMZKelly MahanThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:15:00 ESTNicki Minaj Squashes Reports of Her Attack at Dallas Hotelhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/nicki-minaj-squashes-reports-of-her-attack-at-dallas-hotel/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/nicki-minaj-squashes-reports-of-her-attack-at-dallas-hotel/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/nicki-minaj-squashes-reports-of-her-attack-at-dallas-hotel/#comments
Kevin Winter/Getty Images Nicki Minaj has taken to Twitter to set the record straight about a TMZ report claiming she was attacked in a Dallas, Texas hotel room Monday (July 11). "The media could pee on ur leg & tell u its raining. You'd believe it," an angry Minaj tweeted. "You'd believe u were an adopted martian if TMZ told u so." TMZ reported that Minaj was relaxing near the Palomar Hotel pool when an unidentified man she knew approached her and a heated argument ensued. The man followed her to their room where the fight continued and ended with a police report and an injury to Minaj's lower lip. ...

The 'Romans Revenge' singer denies that the story happened and wanted to make it clear that she would not put up with domestic violence in her life.

"The fact that u believe a man either slapped or punched me in the face & didn't leave on a stretcher w/his balls hangin off? #getaF%cknLife," Minaj added on Twitter.

But Nicki Minaj was not the only one affected by the story. Safaree Samuel, the 'Pink Friday' creator's hypeman and rumored boyfriend, vented on Twitter to clear his name and make his view known.

"4the record I would never lay a hand on ANY woman, I have all sisters and No brothers And that's the last I'll say about that!!! God bless," he tweeted today.

Minaj is currently touring through Texas as an opener for Britney Spears on the Femme Fatale tour.

]]>attackdallashotelnicki minajNickiMinajrumorssarafee samuelSarafeeSamueltexastmzKelly MahanWed, 13 Jul 2011 15:20:00 ESTR. Kelly Faces Home Foreclosure in Chicagohttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/r-kelly-faces-home-foreclosure-in-chicago/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/r-kelly-faces-home-foreclosure-in-chicago/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/13/r-kelly-faces-home-foreclosure-in-chicago/#comments
AP Photo/M. Spencer Green Grammy award-winning artist R. Kelly is making headlines once again but this time the R&B singer of 'Trapped in the Closet' fame may actually lose his closet and all that goes with it. According to Crain's Chicago Business, Kelly faces a $2.9 million foreclosure suit on his suburban Illinois mansion in Olympia Fields. Apparently a complaint was filed by J.P. Morgan Chase Bank against R. Kelly last month, after a year of missed monthly mortgage payments. A friend of the singer disclosed that he stopped making payments in an attempt to force a modification of the bank's loan, a decision that ultimately left him with a hefty suit. ...

The 11,140 square-foot home was custom-built for the artist 11 years ago, but has sat empty for over a year. It includes a four-car garage and six full bathrooms but the appraised value of the home has fallen considerably in the last two years.

AP Photo/Frank Polich


Kelly was also sued last month for more than $1 million by his former manager Jeff Kwatinetz for withheld commissions. The complaint, which was filed with the Los Angeles Country Court, alleges that Kelly failed to pay because he "needed instead to 'pay off' various individuals threatening to expose alleged illicit, embarrassing and unlawful conduct by Kelly, including sexual misconduct."

It's a surprise that R. Kelly would be strapped for cash after the successful run of his Love Letter U.S. tour. 'Love Letter,' his 10th studio album, debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America.

Watch R. Kelly's 'Same Girl' Featuring Usher

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]]>crains chicago businessCrainsChicagoBusinessforeclosurehomelove letterLoveLetterr. kellyR.KellyKelly MahanWed, 13 Jul 2011 13:30:00 ESTBay Area Rappers Rescue Tenants From Burning Buildinghttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/06/bay-area-rappers-rescue-tenants-from-burning-building/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/06/bay-area-rappers-rescue-tenants-from-burning-building/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/06/bay-area-rappers-rescue-tenants-from-burning-building/#comments
Amazon Bay Area rappers Sleepy D and Big Hongry helped rescue a number of tenants from a burning apartment building in Oakland, Calif. Tuesday afternoon (July 5). According to the San Francisco Examiner, Sleepy D and Big Hongry were watching TV in a top-floor apartment when they smelled smoke and quickly realized the building was on fire. The blaze, which was determined to be a one-alarm fire, began at about 2:20PM on the ground-floor of the three-story building in the 1500 block of 31st St. The duo leapt into action, rescuing an elderly resident and then combed the building looking for more trapped families. "We had to get everybody out of there," Sleepy D told the SF Examiner. "We just kicked their doors in." ...

The Oakland fire department arrived on scene shortly after and worked with residents to safely evacuate the building with no injuries reported.

Oakland fire Battalion Chief Melinda Drayton disclosed that the fire was confined to one apartment, and three other units had smoke damage. Total damage was estimated at $80,000 to $100,000.
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]]>bay areaBayAreabig hongryBigHongrycaliforniafirerapperssleepy dSleepyDsmokeKelly MahanWed, 06 Jul 2011 16:30:00 ESTNicki Minaj Tweets About Murdered Cousin in Brookylnhttp://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/05/nicki-minaj-cousin-murdered/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/05/nicki-minaj-cousin-murdered/http://www.theboombox.com/2011/07/05/nicki-minaj-cousin-murdered/#comments
Jason Merritt, Getty Images Nicki Minaj stunned fans with a series of tweets announcing that that her cousin, Nicholas Telemague, was murdered in his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y. on Monday (July 4). "Lived in Brooklyn his whole life. My precious cousin. My baby. Killed last nite," Nicki tweeted. "My cousin Nicholas. Also goes by Juse, or @brolicalcoholic Murdered. http://lockerz.com/s/117042525." The photo showcased a young man standing in front of a mirror at a gym. According to MTV.com, police responded to a call in East Flatbush, Brooklyn at 2:40AM, where they discovered "Telemaque, 27, with multiple gunshot wounds to the upper torso region." He was pronounced dead on arrival at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, N.Y. ...

An investigation is underway but no arrests have been made.

Minaj spent July 4th in Winnipeg, Canada, a stop on Britney Spears' summer Femme Fatale tour, where she heard the news. She has not released any further information but fans including celebrity blogger Perez Hilton have taken to twitter to offer their condolences. ]]>Brooklyncousinmurdernicki minajNickiMinajshotTwitterKelly MahanTue, 05 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST