Our favorite artists are dying right before our eyes. In one music video after another, singers, rappers and musicians are being shot, decapitated, crushed, drowned and bludgeoned.

Why are pop stars having themselves mock-executed on camera with numbing regularity? Are they looking for sympathy, trying to shock us, or do they have something profound to say?

Check out these raconteurs of ultra-violence:

1.

“Find Your Love” by Drake

What a great single! This 808s & Heartbreak-influenced mid-tempo jam was shot on the “gully” side of Kingston, Jamaica. Drake gets caught up in a torrid love affair with bombshell Maliah Michel and a set-up with her boyfriend,  local kingpin Mavado. Unfortunately for Drake, stone-faced Michel pulls the gun on him, using the rapper for target practice. Ouch!

2.

“Russian Roulette” by Rihanna

The reggae mademoiselle turned to the shadows on her last effort, Rated R. A dish best served cold, the Bajan ice princess sings about the game of love and getting hurt in the process–tell us about it! She is run over by a car in the woods, shot at under water and then sprayed by ammunition through the heart in the interrogation room. Yikes!

3.

“Window Seat” by Erykah Badu.

The ethereal and off-beat Queen of Neo-Soul returned with a vengeance with this homage to iconic president John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Shot guerrilla style, Madame Badu walks through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas, stripping down to her birthday suit. Then she is shot in the head and blue blood spurts out onto the pavement, spelling the word “groupthink” beside the grassy knoll. I admire Badu’s nerve, but I can’t help but think the video was done mostly to unnerve us.

4.

“99 Problems” by Jay-Z

The Bed-Stuy rapper and sometime street prophet made us turn up our stereos and blast this unforgettable classic. The Mark Romanek-directed clip shows the Roc-A-Fella mogul getting ripped by a barrage of bullets sent by unseen assailants. The rapper noted that the shooting was analogous to the death of his moniker “Jay-Z,” and was a “rebirth” of Shawn Carter. Apparently, H.O.V.A. rose from the phoenix’s ashes with his acclaimed “The Blueprint 3,” but I’d have to assume he has more freemen than Pac-Man.

5.

“Flashing Lights” by Kanye West

The Chi-town wunderkind of hip-hop clobbered ghetto blasters everywhere with this Grandmaster Flash-esque disco-rap, and its accompanying video did the same to our eyes. It was visually epic: hot Playboy model in sexy lingerie–check! A pyre of burning clothes–check! Kanye West, tied-up in the trunk of a car, screaming for help until his lungs give out–check? And it gets worse as Rita G, the sexy sadist, gives him a farewell kiss before stabbing the hip-hop iconoclast with a shovel over and over again.

6.

“It’s My Life” by No Doubt

This delicious, Golden Age Hollywood red carpet affair directed by pop culture surrealist David LaChapelle was genius. However, when you aren’t paying attention to the pretty colors, the designer threads or Gwen’s MGM femme fatale shtick, its quite scary. In the four minute clip, we see Stefani as the blushing black widow picking off the boys one-by-one: lacing a plate of dinner with rat poison, running a victim over and tossing a vintage hairdryer into a bathtub with the victim inside. But what’s a story without a happy ending? The clip ends with the boys laughing at Gwen Stefani from the afterlife as she is thrown into a gas chamber.

7.

“Paparazzi” by Lady Gaga

The neo-cosmopolitan duchess of electro-pop scored big with this chart topper and the eight-minute video was a crowning achievement! Pushed over the ledge of a veranda by True Blood actor Alexander Skarsgård, she falls to what should have been her death but instead, falls out of fame. Luckily,  her love of kooky fashion broke the star’s fall. Unfortunately for him, it meant keeling over after she sprinkles a little poison in his morning tea.

Imagine if you will.

It’s Friday afternoon, and the streets are a blaze of black. The glitterati city slicker photographers stand in a perfect 180° on the subway platforms, like a line of a coke a mirror shard. Staring through plated glass, fashionistas copulate wordplay of their favorite obsession. Its was that time of the year again, New York’s Fashion’s Night Out and most importantly, its fashion’s night out. Rule of thumb, wear something black… or black-like.

Sean “Diddy” Combs blasts party crunk jams on a sight-seeing bus through 34^th Street, his Sean John insignia below his B&W Herb Ritts-inspired mug in a white tuxedo on the side. Sexy women in skimpy outfits dance as spectators take pictures from the sidewalks of the assiduous fashion Mecca. Rock band Train tunes their guitars and rocks out to their signature jingles like “Soul Sister” at a Tommy Hilfiger tailgate soiree. And despite the saturated Technicolor of fabric swimming in the wind and neon lights swirling amidst the night air, it’s like a neo-cosmopolitan funeral for club kids and nu-vogue wild wunderkinds.

The second annual credit card chewing monster extravaganza involving 1,200 retail galas around the megacity began with rendezvous at Macy’s. Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, designers Michael Kors and Rachel Roy, performer Jennifer Lopez, and actor Neil Patrick Harris were among the millions of shoppers. There were others all over the city: Magic was made with a performance by turntable gizmos N.E.R.D. and a surprise pop-and-lock cameo by former R&B poster boy Chris Brown and a warped recital by the cast of the Broadway musical “Hair.” Not to mention, there were tons of celebrity appearances by Michael Bloomberg, Serena Williams, Metric, Tyrese and Ludacris, producer Ryan Leslie and Japanese designer Nigo to name a few.

It was a grand ole time in the city and here are some trends we’d expect to see in this fall:

Tailored Suits

The Ultramodern Military Jacket

Camel and Sequined Jeggings (however, not together)

Velvet Suits

Tailored Denim

Combat Boots

Plaids

Orange

Monk Straps

Flannels & Stripes

Dapper Debonair

Leather

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Superstardom is ultramodern. Define superstardom today and textbook examples would be long lost Motown songstress Alicia Keys, world pop phenomenon Beyoncé Knowles and post-Warhol shock art fashionista Lady Gaga. All of those women have changed views of feminism, sex appeal and physical lyricism in one way or another. Alicia Keys encourages women to be superwomen. Superwoman Beyoncé is the biggest sex symbol since Farrah Fawcett and Janet Jackson. Lady Gaga has reinvigorated the meaning of life imitating art.  Amidst their peers, Barbadian chanteuse Rihanna is a hard sell.

Finalizing her first headlining world tour, Rihanna had some thing to prove: that Miss Sunshine could let her freak flag fly high. With Travis “Travie” McCoy nowhere insight to open for her and with glitter brat Ke$ha also M.I.A., there was no warm up for her tour kiss-off on Saturday, August 28. She was also at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse, which meant a lot of distraction, considering the buzzing lights of Ferris wheels in the backdrop.

Opening instead was DJ Ross Rosco who played the grand-slam list of 80s and 90s Top 40 club anthems who kept the place jumping, while up-and-comer J Brazil sang a 10-minute set of three songs, drawing a mix of cheers and jeers for scream-belting like an Adam Lambert hopeful.

With face-melting guitar licks, lipstick lez-ploitation strappado swinging, and some kinetic chick-chick-kaboom pyrotechnics, Ri Ri kicked off the show with moxie. Introduced by a sci-fi silver screens and a dream machine motif, the dreamscape nirvana and nightmare underbelly of Rihanna’s world is perplexing and at the same time, visually stunning presentation.

Wearing a cascading, floor-length black ball gown, she preformed “Russian Roulette,” the first single of her recent Rated R album, to the images of nude, burning mannequins. Gunned down by pink rifles held by her shirtless male backup dancers, she is lit up like a red Christmas tree, as a platform below her rose to the heavens. ‘Dead,’ she began to the first of six costume changes, stripping into a tiny pink leotard with padded shoulders.

There were many highlights: From her epic straddling of a florescent life-size pink tank in “Hard,” to her take-no-prisoners flouncing amidst outer space tarantulas on stilts in “Disturbia.” Her vandalizing a graffiti-ed car to hell with a slugger in “Shut Up and Drive” to her gas-masked backup dancers hitting their marks on “S.O.S.” to the pair of tightlacer aerial Cirque Du Soliel vixens dangling like autumn leaves from two colossal machine guns in “Te Amo.” Ri Ri produced the goods. Even more surprising, she actually sang most of her songs—with few signs of miming—belting out notes yet experienced via recording on a shrink’s chair, adorned with sham disembodied limbs.

The tour highlighted why Rihanna is cherished today. She’s not a dancer per se and with contagious earwigs like “Rude Boy” and “Don’t Stop the Music,” she let the backup handle it. Which is wise: she played to her strengths. The only weakness in the nigh two-hour spectacle was the awful air guitar “solo” she did on “Rockstar 101.” Couldn’t they have given her a few cords to play? But at last, all was forgiven when she actually did some awesome banging on the drums when she covered Sheila E.’s “Glamourous Life.” She even performed the cameo performances that built her celebrity such as “Love the Way You Lie” and “Live Your Life.”

Finishing up with her signature “Umbrella,” red confetti blasted into the crowd, as a grungy distorted guitar howled, she left a barrage of images in one’s head by the end of the show: crash test dummies, mushroom clouds, creepy claws crushing a heart. She may not be playing with the big girls, but this girl knows how to leave a lasting impression.

Rihanna Set List:
“Russian Roulette”
“Hard”
“Shut Up and Drive”
“Fire Bomb”
“Disturbia”
“Rockstar 101″
“Rude Boy”
“Hate That I Love You”
“Rehab”
“Unfaithful”
“Stupid in Love”
“Te Amo”
“Pon de Replay”
“Don’t Stop the Music”
“Breakin’ Dishes”/”The Glamorous Life”
“Let Me”
“SOS”
“Take a Bow”
“Love the Way You Lie”
“Wait Your Turn”
“Live Your Life”
“Run This Town”
“Umbrella”

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Electro hop is in. With emcees becoming more diverse, leaving the traditionalist hip-hop approach in favor of a bigger, bombastic, ballsy sound, the game is on the precipice of becoming a vending machine of little ringtone pocket universes. With frat rap groups 3OH!3 and confetti gangsta hipsters LMFAO as radio paper weights, and EDM punks Far East Movement riding the airwaves, rap and hip-culture are changing. However, one can argue that among the fluff and pipe dreams, the art of hip-hop is evolving. Just look at these three electro hop stars that are doing it big and changing hip-hop below. These trailblazing artists have made music that has had a profound effect on us. But, how big exactly?

SMALL

Kid Cudi

Notable work: Man on the Moon: The End of Day

When the hip-hop head from Cleveland, Ohio made his rounds on Chi-town No.1 emcee Kanye West’s 808s & Heartbreak after dropping his stellar mixtape A Kid Named Cudi, rap upstart Kid Cudi went solo. Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi’s moniker became a hold name, featuring on the splendid HBO series How To Make It In America, and all because of his comprehensive Man on the Moon: The End of Day. The album, which broke the fresh-faced rap mold and took us into the mind of post-911 young black hipster was astounding. With producers Dot da Genius, Emile, Kanye West, Plain Pat and Ratatat, Mescudi found a niche with his neo-psychedelic trip-hop electro boogie emo-rap and the cool kids found a new rapper to emulate. His spacey, introspective sensibility helped turn a seemingly passing fad into a hip-hop sound worth evolving.

MEDIUM

Drake

Notable Work: Thank Me Later

Who knew that the kid from Degrassi: The Next Generation would become one of the most celebrated rappers a few years later? After dropping his massive So Far Gone mixtape—an album so jam packed with hits, he could’ve released a greatest hits compilation album—Aubrey Drake Graham took the world by storm and his coveted EP took home Grammy nods. The Toronto wunderkind released his long-awaited first studio album Thank Me Later earlier this summer to excellent critical praise. Spawning club anthems “Find Your Love” and “Over,” it solidified Drake’s hype with berserk, glitchy automation Auto-Tune slow jams and introspective, confession culture trouncing.

GIANT

Kanye West

Notable Work: 808s & Heartbreak

Egocentric rapper Kanye West has had better albums, each one more ammunition explosive, high-flying flamboyantly electric with a larger-than-life razzle-dazzle than their predecessor. But this one had bite: he lost his mother Donda to cosmetic surgery, he broke from his engagement with fiancée Alexis Phifer, and critics had doubted he could drop a successful follow-up in the wake of the epic Graduation, which added an additional six chart topping hits to his repertoire. This time around he unloaded an epitaph that wallowed in self-deprecation, emotional decadence, the pain of car-crash relationship and divvied an introspective meditation on loss through androgynous Vangelis-inspired sci-fi flourishes and sweeping and synth-pop machine-powered braggadocio. The result: followers, B.o.B., Drake and Kid Cudi.

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The world is changing. In this tech-savvy world of ours where sexting is cool and Craigslist killing is in vogue, where online dating is becoming more popular than face-to-face interaction and employers use Skype™ for interviews, you can say we’re lost together. Gone are the simply days where you could simply run to the library or a local bookstore to read celebrated novels and novellas. Now, we have the Kindle as designed by Apple™. And, our conversations are now lacking depth. Instead of simply writing this out, we have gotten accustomed to abbreviating everything. Here are 7 songs we love (and love to hate) that are probably to blame for the C.O.O..L.-ness of abbreviation.

1.

“OMG” by Usher

Seriously, Usher needed a comeback. His newly-found socially conscious grown-ass man swag was embodied in the 2008 lukewarm so-so effort Here I Stand, shifted from stoic father figure to lighthearted balladeer. Despite his latest album Raymond V. Raymond, as inspired by the divorce epic Kramer vs. Kramer, releasing to mixed reviews, it was indeed a step forward from the snapping of piano strings on his last album. “OMG,” an abbreviation for “Oh My God” or “Oh My Gosh,” moved us to the dance floor with its radio arena chants and electro quenched tenor delivery from the R&B prince we’ve grown to love.

2.

“LOL Smiley Face” by Trey Songz

Surprisingly inspiring an answer song from Usher, the tacky titled song with its gimmicky, staccato-repetitive, bouncy-bounce pop pyrotechnics is still making splashes on airwaves everywhere. Why? We don’t know, but there’s got be a reason why so many people are in love with it. We’re still waiting to understand why it became so popular, considering we’ve been laughing out loud by the addition of the smiley face.

3.

“P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” by Michael Jackson

One of those rare B-sides that should have been a released single (as with all of the other unreleased songs from Thriller), The King Of Pop’s 1982 tour de force divvied up an amusing post-disco standard. Sampled on numerous occasions by Monica, Kanye West and Donnell Jones to name a few, the up-tempo R&B jam with the funky-synth featured two pretty young things, sisters Janet and Latoya as backup singers. Talking about giving one lucky lady some extra TLC who craves Mike’s tender love and care, we are still rocking out to a record that is nearly 30 years old. Long live the king.

4.

“U.N.I.T.Y.” by Queen Latifah

Man, was Dana Owens feisty! Before she went on to become a banking black Hollywood powerhouse in films Set It Off, Life Support and Chicago, Queen Latifah was the reigning sovereign of hip-hop. Her landmark All Hail The Queen launched a post-feminist movement in hip-hop but it was her third album Black Reign, was her most dynamic record (and most successful). The hit U.N.I.T.Y. which sampled The Crusaders’ “Message from the Inner City,” totally changed the landscape of the male dominated hip-hop culture and won her the coveted Best Solo Rap Performance award at the 37^th Grammy’s (over Snoop Doggy Dogg’s “Gin and Juice” no less). We’ve been coming together every summer since at barbecues, blasting this hip-hop and rap classic.

5.

“O.P.P.” by Naughty by Nature

Are you down? No, we’re not talking about the Ontario Provincial Police but other people’s… er, property. The demurely ambiguous second “P” is now iconic and has been parodied hundreds of times over, most famously “Down wit’ MTV” for hip-hop emblem Yo! MTV Raps. Why? Well, imagine if you will, one having the willingness to have sex with someone in a relationship with their significant other… No wonder why its notorious! The infectious single released in the fall of ’91 by Naughty By Nature, that sampled Melvin Bliss’ “Synthetic Substitution,” “Oh Honey” by Brit one-hit-wonders Delegation and the No. 1 Jackson 5 smash hit “ABC,” turned a bunch of baseball-bat-wielding droogs into accidental hip-hop legends.

6.

“YMCA” by The Village People

Disco fever was in full effect when this 1978 novelty hit sports arenas around the globe. Six men were to blame: a biker, a cop, a cowboy, a construction worker, a Native American, and a G.I. The result was one of the most ambiguous and catchy songs of all time. Heterosexual leader singer Victor Willis penned the song allegedly after reflecting on activities that cater to young inner city black youth like basketball and swimming at the Young Men’s Christian Association. But the band of boys, who sprang to fame from their lair in the underground gay circuit scene, sang the song with a reverie that made others pick up the implication that the tune was a celebration of the YMCA’s rep as a popular cruising and shack-up spot for young gay men. The double entendre is now iconic.

“Izzo (H.O.V.A.)” by Jay-Z

The self proclaimed god of all hop-hop emcees finally cut his teeth. The –izzle lingo that surrounded one of Kanye West’s greatest cuts (sampling The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back”) delivered one of best the rags to riches anthems since Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy,” proving The Blueprint was one for the records. Here, Jay-Z stepped out of the shadows of his regular street swag with a noughties anthem that sparkled like a Sierra Leone blood diamond. Its grit gave us chills and considering it surpassed his debut Reasonable Doubt with flying colors, had less of the Mafiaso shtick and had more of a carefree, naïve child sensibility than previous records.

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Kanye West is an enigma of epic proportions. For certain he is one of the most unique characters in the music business, though it seems his quirkiness has peaked as of late. Between the on-stage melt downs, the bald headed barbie (ex?) girlfriend and the one-of-a-kind sense of style, we are left wondering, ‘where does West’s eccentricity come from?’

Kanye seems more akin to a mad-genius-music-scientist than the run-of-the-mill rapper, and for that we are ever-intrigued.

After a long hiatus following the Taylor Swift-MTV Awards debacle, Kanye has reemerged with a single that is tearing up airwaves. “Power” is West’s catchy return to rap, post the era of “Heartbreaks and 808′s.” While the song is acoustically appealing enough to ride the wave of success straight to the top of the charts, we are a bit bothered by its message. Hearing West agonize about the woes of “one man having all this power” over the hymn-like lulling of a gospel choir is eerily ominous. Add the references to a “beautiful death” from his proposed “Jumping out the window, ” and Kanye has managed to throw us into a full blown panic. Is “Power” merely an egotistical testament to West’s accomplished stature laced with his signature ef-you attitude, or the mark of a troubled genius struggling with the responsibilities of new-found power?

We decided to use the lyrics of “Power” as the means by which we take a stab at the complicated question of “Whats bugging Kanye West?”

Here’s what we came up with:

No one man should have all that power

The clock’s tickin’, I just count the hours

Stop trippin’, I’m trippin’ off the power

(21st century schizoid man)

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

We’re Guessing: The immense pressures of fame. We think Kanye is just trying to get a handle on the

The system broken, the schools closed, the prisons open

We ain’t got nothin’ to lose, ma’f**ka, we rollin’

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

We’re Guessing: We don’t really think that Kanye has jumped ship on democracy and capitalism in favor of anarchy (especially considering the shout out to his diamond chain a few bars later). Perhaps, though, there is a tinge of lawlessness involved with limitless power and privilege. If he is the genius that we believe he is, the Kayne is definitely making reference to the perceived absolution of rules that results from fame.

In this white man world, we the ones chosen

So goodnight, cruel world, I see you in the mornin’

Huh? I see you in the mornin’

This is way too much, I need a moment

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: Who  among us has not had a moment of “woe is me cruel world.” Add race into the equation and it is easy to see what has Kanye down. He just needs a moment people.

F*ck SNL and the whole cast

Tell ‘em Yeezy said they can kiss my whole ass

More specifically, they can kiss my asshole

I’m an asshole? You n*ggas got jokes.

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: Everyone attacked Kanye after his VMA outburst, and as all major stars do, West went on SNL to address the incident directly in a humorous way. In the end, though, we think that Kanye thinks that the joke was on him. Shame on those SNL-ers for tricking him into furthering his egotistical  image to the public, thus making everything worse! We just can’t lame the man for being upset and feeling bamboozled! There was also this set, in which the cast sarcastically blasted West for his exorbitant effort to defend Beyonce’s “Single Ladies”:

Now I embody every characteristic of the egotistic

He know, he so, f*ckin’ gifted

I just needed time alone, with my own thoughts

Got treasures in my mind, but couldn’t open up my own vault

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: How does one balance being gifted and recognizing one’s own talent without seeming egotistical? Maybe this is also his way of saying, ‘no people, I was not in rehab or in India. I was just taking sometime to gather my thoughts outside of the spotlight.’

My childlike creativity, purity and honesty

Is honestly being prodded by these grown thoughts

Reality is catchin’ up with me

Takin’ my inner child, I’m fighting for it, custody

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: Apparently he’s also trying to find and keep a hold of his inner child. Not even halfway through the song, this man has already unveiled a handful of issues.

With these responsibilities that they entrusted me

As I look down at my dia-mond-encrusted piece

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: When we saw Kayne perform at the BET awards with that humongous Egyptian piece we thought 2 things: a) Oh no, Kanye has abandoned Jesus (the pendant, that is) and; b) how ridiculous is that. But after seeing the pictures of him visiting the sarcophagus of King Tut’s Great-Grandmother, we decided that he was just inspired. He must be upset with the rest of you out there who judged him too. Maybe.

Lost in translation with a whole f*ckin’ nation

They say I was the obamanation of Obama’s nation

Well, that’s a pretty bad way to start the conversation

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: Everyone seems to be down on Kanye, and he’s definitely feeing thepressure.

I don’t need yo’ p*ssy, b*tch, I’m on my own d*ck

I ain’t gotta power trip, who you goin’ home with?

How ‘Ye doin’? I’m survivin’

I was drinkin’ earlier, now I’m drivin’

Where the bad b*tches, huh? Where ya hidin’?

I got the power, make yo’ life so excitin’ (So excitin’)

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: 2 words; Ambe Rose. Kanye took Amber from total obsurity to total fame. Now rumors of Ambers expoits are running as wild as she allegedly is. Whatever happened to loyalty Amber? We think Kanye’s trying to send a message to his ex along the lines of ‘i don’t need you, you need me.’

Now this’ll be a beautiful death

Jumpin’ out the window

Lettin’ everything go

Q: Whats Bugging Kanye?

A: This seems like Kanye’s way of giving peole what he thinks they want. Since h obviously feels like he’s important enough to be crucified by the public, he’s throwig his hands up and giving ua a ‘beautiful death.’ Well Kanye, thats not what we want. Just keep making good music and cooky life decisions.

Chi-town hip-hop whiz kid Kanye West is taking the term “innovative” in a very odd direction. This time, he’s adding show tunes to his repertoire. Surprisingly though, this technique is not uncommon.

West, known for constantly expanding his musical palette, has encompassed  a variety of sounds into his gamut—70s-era R&B, baroque pop, and arena rock to trip-hop, disco and electronica, to name a few. So, this may not come as a shock from “The Blueprint” producer.

On Friday, June 18, a five-minute behind-the-scenes clip was leaked on Youtube showing West spinning records, sampling a signature from The Great White Way: “Popular,” a sassy show tune from Broadway machine Wicked, made famous by lyric soprano Kristen Chenoweth. Mr. West, is an obvious fan of the the Wizard of Oz parody from which the song originates.

With a few cuts and sweet loops embellishing the frenzy of sound, Mr. West bridges the gap between theatre snob and hip-hop head within seconds. For sure, this is closest Chenoweth has come to letting it all hang loose. Who knows, maybe she might get some street-cred.

Celebrating his tentative fifth studio LP album Good Ass Job, the neo-cosmopolitan rapper has been hard at work since he was shunted by the public for gatecrashing Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Awards. With his latest single “Power” featuring soul-bro crooner Dwele blasting the radio, the maverick emcee is back. Will we see this cut on his latest effort? We can’t quite say until it drops in September or when it leaks.

But here are some of our favorite (and not so much) show tune hip-hop anthems:

1.

“Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” by Jay-Z. While one can critique Roc-A-Fella East Coast rapper Jay-Z on his professionalism or God complex, no one could hate on this definitive hip-hop throwback. Partnering with The 45 King to sample Broadway’s favorite ginger-headed orphan, Jay-Z took Broadway to a new level, peaking the interests of unlikely fans. Returning to the American stage in 2012, 35 years after it premiered on Broadway, Annie is guaranteed to be hot seller for fans old and new.

2.

“Rich Girl” by Gwen Stefani. On the cover of the Orange County girl’s 80s-inspired electro-bootylicious soda pop Love. Angel. Music. Baby., she made a statement: she was the reigning lady sovereign of pop . With songs like the slowjam “Luxurious,” she made it known that she was the official material girl. Ironically, she samples Fiddler on The Roof’s “If I were a Rich Man,” a song about aspiring to be rich when it was impossible. No matter, because on this ragga-juiced radio smash featuring the First Lady of Ruff Ryders, Eve, Mrs. Stefani let it rain with her cashflow!

3.

“Roc-A-Fella Billionaires” by Freeway. Freeway never really carved out a name for himself amongst friends and fellow talents like Beanie Sigel or Lil’ Wayne, and not even his high-pitched vocal growls could save him. However, on this upbeat rap track, Freeway and buddy Jay-Z took the cabaret classic “Big Spender” from the musical Sweet Charity and voilà! They made a track, worthy of nigh-billion dollars.

4.

“Wind It Up” by Gwen Stefani. It’s unanimous: No Doubt’s leading Madame loves her show tunes! In her sophomore effort, when she wasn’t flossing her bling libido, the L.A.M.B. style icon came back with a big beat marching band caliber and a cute yodeling. Sampling “The Lonely Goatherd”  from American landmark The Sound Of Music, the ska queen wound us up in a tornado.

5.

“Love Hater” by OutKast. by 2003, OutKast had reached a level of superstardom that was unheard of for a funk-rap duo. While the phenomenal “Hey Ya!” and the clubland chart topper “The Way You Move” were making their rounds on the dance floor, fans got to tune into some sweet jams like the jazz-influenced  “Love Hater” which sampled another Sound Of Music standout, “My Favorite Things.” The result: A great start to arguably the best side of the Speakerboxxx/The Love Below double album.

It has recently been reported that the notorious fashion phenom Lady Gaga is looking to become a master of her craft.

The pop star is said to be in talks to secure an internship with the famed hat designer milliner Philip Treacy. According to Vogue UK,

“LADY GAGA is set to take her relationship with fashion to the next level, by learning to create her own unique headwear. The singer has applied for an internship with Treacy after the two worked together on several headpieces to accompany her extravagant stage outfits.”

Kanye West has also expressed similar interests in the past. The rapper-turned intern worked closely with Louis Vuitton (where he developed a limited edition shoe), and the Gap.

We can definitely respect an artist’s efforts to further delve into their craft. For that reason we totally support Gaga and West in their endeavors.

Still, there are a few artists that could use the extra experience, but seem to lack the ambition or humility to start over, at the bottom. Here are our recommendations for artists that are in need of a good old coffee fetching internship to boost their credentials.

Take a look:

1.

Beyonce & Tina Knowles

Ideal Internship: Carolina Herrera

House of Dereon is a joke in the fashion world. The design palette is lacking, largely because it is manned by Tina Knowles who is more of a seamstress and less of a designer. We suggest that this mother-daughter combo humble themselves and go knocking at the door of Carolina Herrera. This seems like the ideal setting in which to learn the ins-and-outs of high end couture and classic woman’s wear, which Herrera has mastered.

2.

Lala Vazquez

Ideal Internship: Martha Stewart

Lala has been fully consumed with her upcoming nuptials. Overall, we don’t care all that much either way. However, we do think that Lala should parlay her domesticity into an empire a la Martha Stewart. Why not use the buzz over marrying NBA superstar Carmello Anthony to your own advantage Lala? You can only host “Flavor of Love” reunions for so long. Get your apron out and learn how to be a business woman in Martha’s kitchen.

3.

Nicki Minaj

Ideal Internship: Warner Brothers Studios

So, Nicki…you want to be a character? Learn from the pros. Warner Brothers is the home of the classic cartoon, so put on your thinking cap and prepare to figure out how to be more entertaining and less annoying from the folks who have been doin’ it.

4.

Wacka Flocka Flame

Ideal Internship: Haliburton

There are a lot of rappers out there claiming to be business men and gangsters at the same time. It just so happens that both interests are combined in a single corporate entity by the name of Halliburton.

Halliburton is the world’s second largest oilfield services corporation with operations in more than 70 countries. It has close to 300 subsidiaries, affiliates, branches, brands and divisions worldwide, and employs over 50,000 people. Flocka might be making tricks in the drug world but really, there is no drug more potent that oil in terms of its value in the market place and the lengths people are willing to go to acquire it. Seeing as how Halliburton is a titan in the oil game, we see this as a good prospect through which Wocka can really talk dirty money. And when we say dirty, we mean dirty like the oily waters of the gulf coast. Now THAT, is gangsta.

5.

Kelis

Ideal Internship: June Ambrose

Kelis has officially gone off the deep end in terms of her fashion sense. There is, however, hope. If paired with a wardrobe genius like celebrity Stylist June Ambrose, we believe that she can be saved. We strongly believe that Kelis has a problem and June has the answer. Simple things like learning the difference between unique and ridiculous could help her greatly.

Check out these prospective interns in this gallery:

Celebs set many trends that carry over into the rest of the population, but frankly, there are just some trends that people should and shouldn’t do- rich or not!

Check out this gallery of do’s and don’ts:

There are not many things in our current economy that are recession proof, but the ice on a chain can outlast any tough time. Although talking about ice, bling, freeze or whatever else people are coming up with to call their beloved girl’s and guy’s best friend is now a dying fad, it is fun to look back on the good times. When musicians had nothing else to talk about expect the temporary blindness they incurred as a result of their jewelry addiction, fans were wishing for the Robin Leech lifestyle with a few cold pebbles to match. Although denial is usually not a good look, we are going to take some time to flip the bird to this recession and talk about the best songs that rep for unnecessary extravagance in addition to giving a nod to the cold weather thats on its way. Ice talk can bring a smile to any one’s face.

Repping the Ice for Love

Teairra Mari:Diamonds

Teairra Mari proves that talking about bling isn’t all superficial. She wants to love her man just as much as she treasures her diamonds because after-all,they are forever. This former ROC princess used to throw her diamonds in the sky with Jay. Even though she has switched labels she made sure to bring along her love for the ice. If bling can bring you closer to your man, why not shine and love at the same time?

Longevity Matters

Kanye West: Diamonds Are Forever

Kanye’s book is not the only thing he owns that will Glow in the Dark. Known for being quite the fashionisto, he is never one to be without essential accessories and we all know that Yezzy loves his multiple diamond incrusted Jesus pieces. It’s common knowledge that diamonds are forever but Kanye made it a point to dedicate a full 3 minutes and 33 seconds to his VVS lifestyle. And it turns out that bling is also representative of the enduring success of the ROC label his diamonds represent. His diamonds are alive every-time he rhymes and with that said, no one’s bling can top the everlasting iciness of Kanye’s freezy power.

Flirting with Ice
Fabolous: Diamonds in My Damn Chain

If you can’t get girls at least you know once you come up on some diamonds you will be able to pull a few. Fab makes a case for blinging your way to love lust. According to Loso, if you want a good chain of events don’t leave the house without bling in toe. Dating can be awkward and meeting girls in the club can be a tricky task, but trust fellas, if you do like your boy, Fab and get real icey the ladies will start relaxing. Diamonds might not be the key to a lasting relationship, but they are the key to loose women cooperating in the club.

Keeping it Simple

Smitty: Diamonds on my Neck

Smitty is not exactly a word smith, but he is explaining all the varied activities he is able to participate in while having diamonds on his neck – which can be positive. This song illustrates bling’s ability to work well in all kinds of unique and compromising situations. Diamonds do not have elastic qualities but the flexibility concerning the moments where they are appropriate can translate into almost anything as Smitty demonstrates. I guess he is keeping it simple and letting the ice speak for itself here. Guess you can’t knock the hustle.

Prerequisites
Lil’ Kim: Diamonds

The Queen B is taking her royal status to the head on this song. It seems that she has some pretty specific demands in terms of her gentleman callers. According to the Notorious K.I.M the only thing better than money is diamonds. Along with the bling this song gives a laundry list of other outrageous high priced items she expects from her male company. Its surprising that she had time to make that long list in the middle of accusing every rapper for copying her eternal love Biggie Smalls (even though she pretty much re-raps all his hot lines in ALL of her songs). Maybe Kim and Fab should get together, he has the bling to meet her Diamond standard.

A Smile on the Rocks
Nelly: Grillz

Forget  working hard or balling on a budget, just follow Nelly’s advice, rob the jewelry store and tell them to make you a grill. Don’t aim to be a Crest Kid, head to your nearest mall and cop some jewelry cleaner. A great smile is a wonderful asset and what better way to let your words speak for themselves if they have diamonds to back them up? If you are on the Nelly plan, pictures won’t be the only thing worth thousands, a cool mouth piece will have you blinding people with your smile, literally.

Shining From Miles Away
Cash Money: Bling Bling

Its not a coincidence that Lil’ Wayne runs around talking about money all the time. Back in the day before he was leaning and baby making full time, he was spitting about blinging something serious in Nola. Every time he came around your city it was bling bling. Cash money’s creative conscious was focused on one thing and that was out blinging every one. There is no doubt that Nola’s finest brought the idea of dreaming, wishing and talking about ice to a whole new level. In the 90′s every one was seeing diamonds thanks to Weezy and his crew.

The Originator
Prince: Diamonds and Pearls

All hail the great Purple one. Before talking about bling was an industry standard, Prince was singing about two times the jewelry. Noting that diamonds are just an accessory and that love is the master plan, this epic song reminds us that diamonds, pearls and even the world don’t add up to the sum total of good ol fashioned love. The Artist formally know as an unpronounceable symbol takes the high road by down playing the importance of bling and gives big ups to tender love and care instead. A wrist full of diamonds…millions of dollars, A slew of Pearls…thousands of dollars, Prince reminding us all that love shines brighter than them all…Priceless.

Even though P.Diddy claims that he invented the remix, he did not invent the remake. There is nothing fresh about the idea of sampling songs, but we have found a list of artists that created songs as good, if not better than the original. Like the saying goes, there is nothing new under the sun, and when it comes to our favorite artists we are glad that they too appericiate the sentiment of embracing a blast from the past. By borrowing some of the magic from yesteryear and adding something special to the exsisting songs, they recreate musical must-haves and re-introduce them to our rotation. Here is a list of ten songs that stand out but are in no particular order.

Steph Jones: “LaLa”

This remake of the Delfonics Lala means I love you puts a unique spin on the break up to make up fad. Not only does Lala mean I love you, but according to Steph Jones it means you can press the replay button, start over and come back better than before. Good thing Steph Jones came along in order to remind us that all it takes to get things back on track is a lil Lala and some familiar faces,places, and tunes. Next time you want to get your girl back, don’t spring for flowers, go back to the basics and turn your speakers up so you can remind her that “you were never just another dude”. Afterwards be sure to thank the Delfonics and Steph Jones for making things easy for you.

Kanye West: “Through the Wire”

Before the auto tune, Amber rose and all the heart break, Kanye was making music that’s fire and spitting his soul through the wire, literally. After his car accident in October 2002 he went to the studio so the world could feel his pain. This was the debut single from his classic freshman album College Dropout. Kanye may be many things, but he knows his music and who better than to help him find out how to spit through the wire than some one who has been through the fire? With the extra star power of Chaka Khan Kanye’s single stayed on the charts for 22 weeks.

Jay-Z: “Show Em What You Got”

Even Mr. H.O.V himself can use a little inspiration from those who graced the hip-hop charts before him. Being number one comes with its fair set of challenges, including some major hatin’ from those who are always gunning to take the top spot. Its no wonder Jay decided to take notes from Public Enemy and borrow their track to give a shout out to all those who provoked him to come out of his short lived retirement. Jay told every one to give tha drummer some, but his whole song was a shout out to Flav and his throwback crew, if you ever want to show some one what you got, just remake their song.

Alicia Keys: “Girlfriend”

While there have been blogs and twitters galore dubbing Ms.Keys as a home wrecker, I am pretty sure anyone has yet to call her an Ol’ Dirty Bastard. But if you do your home work, then you would know that she might not take offense and instead feel honored. Her hit single “Girlfriend” has ODB’s “Brooklyn Zoo” to thank. It seems that Alicia has some Ms.Cleo psychic powers and was writing “Girlfriend” from the future perspective of  Swizz beatz soon to be ex-wife. I hope that her ability to predict the future via lyrics doesn’t come back on her in the form of Karma.

The Fugees: “Killing Me Softly “

Most of the time “Killing” has such a negative connotation but in 1996 every one wanted a brotha with a nice voice to kill them softly when this song hit the radio. Thank goodness for Roberta Flack because her song inspired the Fugess to give new life to the idea of dying for love. Although Wyclef reminds the listeners that being killed softly can only occur one time (one time) this song was in heavy rotation and introduced the world to Lauyrn Hill’s killer talent.

NWA: “Express Yourself”

NWA might have had an attitude problem but they took notes from one of the greats and saw the genius in identifying self expression. Charles Wright gave the NWA crew and the rest of the world some great advice and encouraged everyone, to speak up, stand out and Express Yourself. The young West Coasters call out hypocrisy, drug usage and corruption. Even with all the negative feelings “gangster rap” was stirring up back in the day,CD breaking and all, NWA came out with a positive message. After all, the world is stage, so EXPRESS YOURSELF!

LLoyd: “You”

Lloyd makes loyalty sound so good. Ladies, you know that if Lloyd is checking for you, even if your home girl is fine too, he’ll still want you. Since infidelity is not on Lloyd’s agenda,even with all of the eye candy running around in Atlanta, it seems that Lloyd either knows his history or enjoys Adam Sandler movies. Lloyd or some one in his camp studied up and took notes from the 80s band Spandau Ballet to make a hot single that his lady friend would be happy to make Street Love too.

Miarah Carey: “I Remember”

Memory lane is one of the best roads to travel. Mrs. Canon is teaming up with T-Pain to make nostalgia the hottest musical necessity for fall 2009. So new in fact, that we can only hear a snippet. Full song or not, Mimi is giving a nod to the one hit wonder Ahmad with his west coast classic Back in the Day. Although I can’t really picture Mimi rockin some chucks, khakis and a flannel shirt, her remake of the song seems like a winner. Its always important to look forward, but thinking about how things were back in the day can be a fun past time.

Lupe Fiasco: “Fire”

Run-DMC tapped into the genius of the rock and rap combo in the 80′s and Lupe is smart enough to follow suite. Even though playing with fire can get you burned, Lupe is standing right next to it and extinguisher or not, it’s working out well for him. Taking his musical ques from the late great Jimi Hendrix’s Fire, Lupe seems to be aiming high and showing off his rock star power. Cliche as it is to say something is hot when discussing fire, this song is indeed blazing… fire and all.

Drake: Lets Call it Off

Well, there is something to be said for honesty. I guess if you are dating Drake, one thing is for sure, he will let you know what’s on his mind. If you are trying his patience he will be sure to let you know he can’t effing stand you. Heart break Drake must be a good poker player because if nothing else, he sure knows when to fold ‘em. At least Drake cannot take full blame for his quick draw relationship approach, Ella Fitzgerald and Louie Armstrong came up with this strategy first. Calling it quits is never easy but at least you can thrown in the towel with some good tunes on in the background.

Vintage is not just a good look for trendy clothes, its a good fit when it comes to music too. When attempting to create quality songs what better way to ensure a good out come then trying something thats already worked out well. While newness is always encouraged every once in a while an oldie but goodie can be just what artists need to get those creative juices flowing.

Once upon a time some of our favorite celebs were getting their Trey Songz on and “just trying to make it”. While now it seems like all they do is show up and take pictures, grab awards and have Twitter fights, they used to be putting in over time trying to secure a top spot. Like a wise man once said, everything that happens to some one is like an ingredient that has shaped the present, so lets check out what these stars were cooking up before the good life.

The LV Don GAP Don

Before he was the LV Don, he was falling into the GAP and using his skills to fold some good ol’ creased khakis. Usually having retail experience teaches you valuable communication skills and patience but I guess ‘Ye was much to creative to be working in a stock room talking about t-shirts for the contempo casual crowd. Some where in the midst of making “five beats a day for three summas” it looks like Yezzy was spending some quality time at the mall. Good thing all of his hard work paid off because I don’t know about you, but I would hate for Kanye to roll up on me and tell the cashier that while my khakis look good on me they would look better on Beyonce because she deserves the reasonably priced merchandise more than me!  The GAP has the best khakis of all time…of ALLL TIME!

Lights! Camera! Canada!

 
For all of you Canadian television/Nickelodeon lovers Drizzy Drake was dealing with teen drama up north on Degrasi before he got in the studio with every one’s favorite baby daddy Lil wayne. And he has no shame in his pre-rap hustle game, because he repps for it on his track Ransom, “I’m the same yellow boy that used to play up on Degrasi can pocket 20 thousand to be anywhere they ask me…” Good thing Wanye is a fan of the Nick Jr. because now Drake is So Far Gone and making moves on the Billboard charts and rapping with the best MCs in the game.

Checkers Isn’t Just a Board Game

 
While Mr. Nash is now a big time executive, his humble beginnings prove that his stage name is well deserved. Before the writer/producer/singer was The Dream, he was apart of the fast food nation cooking up burgers and fries at Checkers. Even though The Dream was specializing in speedy eats, his rise to the top was not as fast. Long hours and thousands of fries later he put the spatula down, picked up the pen and wrote hits like “Umbrella” for Rihanna and “Single Ladies” for Beyonce. Ummm the sweet tast of success.

In Good Spirits

 
Before she was crying about Jodi doing her wrong, learning that “its hard out here for a pimp” and giving motherly advice to Benjamin Button, Taraji P. Henson was singing and dancing as a server in the Country’s Capital on the Sprit of Washington Dinner train. Not only was she warming up her vocal chords on the rail road, she also worked as a secretary in the pentagon. This leading lady has played several different roles in life and on the silver screen. Looks like her diverse employment experiences were good prep work for all of her staring roles.

Some Quality Cardio

 
Before she was gracing runways, magazines and Kanye’s beloved arm Ms. Rose was making it do what it do in the gentlemen’s world. While pole dancing is considered a great work out, this former video vixen was getting them Benjamin’s . All her moves paid off and landed her top dollars to hang out in her birthday suite alongside her man in a LV add. Now Amber Rose is becoming an icon for her skin tight numbers and space glasses to match. You can’t tell this lady that all those singles don’t add up to a whole lot of success.

For those of you who don’t believe that hard work pays off these celebs can give you a little extra pep in your step as you make your way to work. While stripper poles, fast food joints and retail establishments are no one’s dream jobs, its clear to see that you can make it past the minimum wage and make your way to center stage. So on your way to clock in, make sure you have your paparazzi shades ready, you never know when you will make your super star debut and come up on a Kanye just like Amber.

There is no question that Beyonce reigns supreme in terms of female performers and it seems some of  the confidence that reserves her the top spot can be credited to her alter ego. So in the spirit of naming part of your personality, we decided it would be fun to review some exisiting alter egos and create a few new ones.

1. Beyonce
Alias: Sasha Fierce

Fierce pronounced Fierrrrrccceee (add a snap for good measure)  means furiously active or determined. There is no better way to describe Bey for all the hard work she puts in. Shasha sure knows how to work it and in case you forget, check the surname to be reminded of the FIRE that goes along with the FIERCE.

2. Bow Wow
Alias : Lamborghini Bow

If you have a GIANT question mark on your forehead you are not alone. When Chris Brown decided to start calling himself Lamborghini Brezzy, Mr. Wow, joined the Lambo club car frenzy and decided to follow suite. Thank goodness this never really caught on. Although, the speed racer thing might not be a bad look for Bow Wow. Since he is signed to young money and Drake is always talking about Phantoms, maybe they will sponsor car shows as a side hustle and Cam’ron can swing by with his mobile car wash to make sure the merchandise is nice and shiny.

3. Mary J Bleig
Alias: Brook-Lyn

Apparently MJB had an alter ego long before Ms. Fierce. Back in the day when Mary wanted to turn her swag on she called on her alias Brook-lyn (not to be confused with the borough).  Brook-lyn is not only cocky, but she’s multi talented because this ego raps too. I’d like to see Brook-lyn have a rap battle with Lil’ Kim and find out who holds it down the best for BK. My money might be on Mary.

4. Keri Hilson
Alias: Regulator

Miss Keri bay -bay has earned herself the title of regulator. Not only is she one of the hottest artists out there but like her buddy Kanye, she has no problem speaking her mind and correcting other ladies in the game that think they are the only ones running things. From remixes calling out two female artists in particular, to tweets telling Lil mama she needs to STFD , this ATL shawty don’t play. In case you didn’t know Keri “Regulator” Hilson will most definitely  let you know if you’re “turning her off”.

5. Ryan Leslie
Alias: Prez Les

This guy might give Obama a run for his money. Ryan Les for Prez is something this multifaceted artist often says at the beginning of his tracks and for good reason. From Harvard to the studio, he’s  got politician written all over him. He was persuasive enough to skip his senior year of high school and gain acceptance to the current president’s law school alma marter and this smooth talker has used his gifts to win the public over via his musical selections. He can even play the sympathy card for voters by being the victim of a heart breaking scandal that involves a hot younger woman and Mr. Diddy himself. If you believe in the Amazing Music Political party you should vote Ryan “Prez Les” Leslie.

6. Lil Wayne
Alias: The Pharmacist

If  Wayne ever decides to hang up the mic he’s got a promising career in pharmaceuticals. Thanks to his verse on the “Knuck if you buck” remix we know that he has an assortment of goods for your convenience such as ” that tussin, that scummy and that A dust, so pick your high, he will s-u-p-p-l-y and correct change is whats up” . Even though he didn’t manage to finish up his studies at the University of Houston I’m sure with his skill he could earn himself an honorary doctorate. I suggest any one in the music game that suspects they are going to catch cold should avoid the hospital and call this guy, because he is sure to have a remedy to relax your mind. SMH.

7. Kanye West
Alias: Dr. J/Mr. Hyde

Poor Kanye just can’t pick a side. Sometimes he’s friendly as can be and other times he’s taking away people’s awards (I wonder if his kryptonite  is Henesy?). But it must be hard battling two personalities. One thing is for sure, no matter which Kanye you get, they are both uber talented and full of surprises. Kanye is like a weekend special, you get two for one, and in this recession who are we to argue with a bargain?

8. 50 cent
Alias: Fireman

The roof the roof is on FIRE! No worries, Just call ya boy 50. Since he’s not busy beefing with Game anymore and seems to have some personal experience with flames what better way to give back to the community than by putting out some scorchers with all that formula 50 vitamin water? Sounds like a win-win to me. The burn sights would have a nice grape smell and he could recycle the bottles after. 50 this is your chance to go green, and since you already have enough paper in your pocket it shouldn’t be problem.

9. John Legend
Alias: Professor

It seems that this legend could teach us a thing or two besides how to break up and make up over and over and over again. He has been know to profess the essence of non-committal relationships in such a convincing  way that it would make you be proud to check the “its complicated box on your facebook” for him. Before his voice was being used as a sound track to Gap commercials and we were reminded that “we’re just Ordinary people”, John “Professor” Legend was at the University of Pennsylvania studying English Literate, no wonder he has such a way with words.

10. Usher
Alias: Lion Tamer

After Usher let the world know it was “my way” or the highway he has been breaking hearts ever since. In spite of the neon skullies, Usher is real ladies man. So much so that he was able to use his moves to lock down several older women like Chilli, Naiomi Camble and Tamika. Its clear that even though Mr. Moving Mountains could have his fair share of good looking younger ladies, he prefers the cougar crowd. In the world of celebrity dating, its a circus out there and since Usher is a pro his experience has earned him the title of Lion Tamer.

Normally being two faced is a bad thing, but for these celebs its an asset. There are many perks that come with fame and having two personalities is just another thing to add to the list. When you’re famous you can promote yourself as two people and no one will think you are crazy, they will applaud your genius. So my hats off to anyone who can convince millions of people that it is normal and even cool to be two people at the same time. Now thats talent.

We all know there’s that something special and unique about certain celebs that makes us tune in to hear them speak, watch their videos, or listen to their music. It could be something as small as their stylish accessories to their ridiculous ensembles, but what happens when we get tired of the same ol’ thing or we just don’t want to see the sh*t anymore? Then it’s time to switch it up! So here are some suggestions that could help their career:

Fans are hyped over the Jay-Z and Alicia Keys duet performance (sans Lil’ Mama) on the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. Listening to these two heavy hitters on the “Empire State of Mind” track recalls to mind all the other collaborations in music. Songs with one superstar are good, but songs with two or more superstars are even better.

Watch the music videos for some of the hottest track collaborations over the years:

Jay-Z, Rihanna and Kanye West – “Run This Town”

Jay-Z and Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”

Jay-Z and Mary J Blige – “Can’t Knock the Hustle”

T.I., Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z and M.I.A. – “Swagga Like Us”

T.I. and Justin Timberlake – “Dead and Gone”

Ciara and Justin Timberlake – “Love, Sex and Magic”

Diddy, Jermaine Dupri, Murphy Lee and Snoop Dogg – “Welcome To Atlanta (remix)”

Diddy, Faith and 112 – “I’ll Be Missing You”

Busta Rhymes, DMX, Mary J Blige, Missy, Rah Digga, Papoose and Lloyd Banks – “Touch It (remix)”

Busta Rhymes and Janet Jackson – “What’s It Gonna Be”

Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson – “Scream”

R. Kelly and “Mr. Biggs” (The Isley Brothers) saga -

• “Down Low (Nobody Has to Know)”

• “Contagious”

• Kelly Price’s “Friend of Mine (remix)”

Drake and Trey Songz – “Successful”

Left Eye, Lil’ Kim, Missy, Angie Martinez and Da Brat – “Ladies Night”

Brandy and Monica – “The Boy is Mine”

Sure Kanye West is a huge  a**hole, and sure he has the biggest ego in hip-hop but without him, things tend to get a little boring. His outburst at this years Video Music Awards was the highlight of the night, and even though he embarrassed/ disrespected poor Taylor, I think its safe to say that he also gave her career a little boost. Watch what happened:

Now, check out some of the reasons why Taylor should thank him:

1. She got to share the stage with Beyonce, that’s a once in a lifetime oppurtunity.

2. We actually watched her VMA performance, even if it was to see if she could make it through it without crying.

3. Thanks to Kanye she’ll always have a spot at Music World Entertainment (Matthew Knowles record label-founded in 2003).

4. After ratings soared out the roof for this years VMA’s, you better believe Taylor Swift will be sitting in the front of every award show next year.

5. Thanks to Kanye, people took the chance to use the word n*gger and get away with it.(Actually this wasn’t a good thing, this set us back a couple of years/ lifetimes, Kanye.)

So as we can see there have been some feelings hurt and statements made from Mr. West, but I can’t help but look at how much his controversy benefits everyone who was involved. Beyonce is ever more of an angel, Taylor Swift looks like a goddess, and Kanye made every single news headline.

Hmm…coincidence, I think not!

By now, the ghetto fabulous sight of Kanye walking the VMAs red carpet with Hennessy in hand should be burned in your brains. It was awfully surprising, given the caliber of artist of Kanye, to see him openly swiggin’ from the bottle—we expected something like this out of, say, Weezy or Juelz, although they’re known to be a bit more discreet with the contents of their Styrofoam cups.

But in hindsight, it shouldn’t be all that of shock. Rappers have always loved Hennessy and still do. Kanye just happened to glorify the phenomenon a bit too much-or he just forgot a flask, though I’m not sure they make ones in that size. As a result, we here at GIANT have chosen to explore rappers’ love affair with the cognac du jour.

Best Henny-Inspired Moment: Kanye Making Taylor Swift Cry

Well, obviously. Homey pulled an ODB and he wasn’t even dusted. Though Kanye can’t be justified in that Taylor’s video was probably more “for the children” than Beyonce’s, there was no video better than Bey’s, at least in the eyes of a guy who’s seen numerous females try their scantily-clad best to reenact said video. And technically, it was pretty on-point, too.

Best Overall Use of Henny by a Rapper: Uncle Murda’s Self-Medicating

When used in conjunction with menthols, Hennessy is the equivalent of world-class public private health care. Shot in the head early last year, Murda bragged during an interview with Wendy Williams that he was easing the pain with Newports and his favorite cognac.

Best Henny Name-Check in a Song: Mobb Deep, “Drink Away The Pain [Situations]”

My man P put me on to the shorty henn rock…

A classic cut from a classic album, Havoc continues the song-long metaphor of tasty beverages as golddiggin’ “bitches” (his words), but this time, it isn’t all fun and games, as Hav despondently raps:

But enough of that, I got the shake so I need that/
Son caught me stressed out I just be that…

Best Song Entirely About Henny: Mac Dre, “Bleezies-N-Heem”

Trust a Left Coaster (Bay Area head, no less) to somehow come up with “Heem” as gansgta code for Hennessy. They did give the world “Thizz,” after all. Mac Dre gets the nod because he’s dead now-and all dead rappers occupy GOAT-status once they die.

Best Phrase Involving Henny Coined By A Rapper: “Henny-head Mu’f**kas”

Because that guy up there said it.

Every woman wants a sensitive man and lately it’s not hard to find one of the ‘it’ guys in hip-hop spending time in the booth playing the vulnerable card. For some, this sensitivity bit might appear to be a recent trend in keeping it real. But if the new comers ever run out of tissue, they should do their homework and tap into the old school.

Here’s the formula: Listen: Old School, Learn: New School

1. Listen: LL Cool J “I Need Love”

Learn: Kid Cudi, “Day N Night”

If the lonely stoner would have opened up a lil like LL and admitted he needed love, maybe he could put down the Mary Jane and leave the house for something other than a swisher. If he’s lucky maybe he will find love with a lady with similar ”interests.”

2. Listen: Tupac, “Do for Love”

Learn: Bow Wow, “Outta My System”

If Bow Wow would have just signed up to be a “sucker for love” like Pac, he wouldn’t have got caught up and lost CiCi. Admitting you’re a sucker from the beginning would have saved him alot of time and heartache. He should have just embraced his sensitive side.

3. Listen: The Roots, “You Got Me”

Learn: Kanye ” Paranoid”

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If Yeezy had the Roots in heavy rotation, he would know that when someone has your back, paranoia is the last thing on your mind. Him and Amber Rose should sit down and bump the track together. Being down for one another is half the battle.

4. Listen: Whodini, “One Love”

Learn: Drake “Successful”

Drake should wax on Whodini’s life lesson about love and all the luck you need just to find it even once. This way he can avoid all the groupies that want to get in his rented Phantom. Less groupies= smaller bills=more successfuuuulll.

5. Listen: Slick Rick, “Teenage Love “

Learn: Diddy, “Angels” (Dirty Money)

When Puff feels sad about his bad relationship choices, instead of calling on the Angels he should listen to Slick and keep in mind that love is tough for everyone. Even though he is no longer a teenager, “Daddy” could use a lil love cuz his new Emo style is a red flag that he might want to step it up and buy Cassie some flowers.

*****Note to the new school******

Dear MC,

Life is hard. The economy sucks. Sales are down. Girls don’t respect you cuz your chain ain’t heavy. We understand. Everyone needs to let it out. It’s OK to feel hurt, and it’s nice to know that the game is opening up to MCs who are in touch with their feelings. But please, please, let’s not make it habit. Club bangers are still a must.

No need to make all the songs cry…

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1. Diddy: Check out this Bad Boy getting all Dirt Money in his newest video, “Angels.” The track features the late great Notorious B.I.G. Diddy’s Last Train To Paris album should be leaving sometime next year.

2. Kanye West: This bi-polar superstar was all smiles with Dame Amber Rose at the movie screening for the highly anticipated film Precious, starring Mariah Carey, GIANT Paula Patton, and funny woman Mo’Nique. Yeezy’s was in rare paranoia form last week when he threw a temper tantrum because the paparazzi were following him while he was shopping. Cool it down Yay, I don’t think Amber would approve.

3. Ciara: Seems like after that short weave, I mean cut, CiCi’s hair, shoot, I mean weave just keeps getting longer and longer. The singer was spotted leaving the hair salon with that good import from Taiwan.

4. Raekwon: The buzz around  this former Wu-Tang Clan member is getting crazy. Kwon’s Only Built For Cuban Linx… Part II is getting so much attention, it’s even giving HOV’s Blueprint III a run for its money.

5. Jamie Foxx: Smh… C’mon now Jamie, you couldn’t blame these nude pics on alcohol. It’s about time you admitted to the photos, but did you admit to much with the large gay following?

6. T-Pain: The auto-tunes king spoke on his Jay-Z beef this morning when he called into the Power 105 Morning Show and did a little venting. Pain was actually a little salty because he felt like Jigga was dissing him on the low… well duh!! Everyone’s getting a little tired of that screechy voice and probably those ridiculous top hats. HOV might have done you a favor.

7. Barack Obama: Guess some parents didn’t want their their little chaps to hear President Obama’s back-to-school speech. The president called for all schoolers to work hard and focus on their school work instead of outside nonsense. Yea parents, Obama’s speech was definitely bad and too much for the precious children to bear.

8. The Dream: Wonder how long The Dream and Christina Milian will be together now that they’re officially married. As long as there’s no sex-tape surfaced,  cheating, domestic abuse, money stealing, subliminal disses on records, or infatuation with Amber Rose the happy couple should do just fine.

9. Mary J. Blige: Did this R&B diva have an alter-ego named Brook-Lynn long before Beyonce introduced us to Sasha Fierce? Seems like Mary is quite as contrary as she proclaimed to be…

10. Chris Brown: Seems like the Virginia native is having a lot of fun at his tricked out crib lately. Breezy tweeted some of his household toys to his fans. Hope the singer’s remorse for woopin’ up on Rihanna was genuine. Still can’t get over that baby-blue boe-tie.

With the leak of two Timbo-produced joints from The Blueprint 3 confirming the tracklisting that made its way to the Internets last week, Jay-Z stans everywhere have been up in arms when faced with the reality that a follow-up to the ’01 original will lack production from the likes of Just Blaze (or Bink! for that matter), while also featuring newcomers such as KiD CuDi and Mr. Hudson. In a perfect world, here’s what the tracklisting to the feverishly anticipated album would look like:

1. Hand It Down Part 2 (Featuring Pain In Da Ass and J. Cole) (Produced by DJ Premier)

If President Obama was the hip-hop fan he claims to be, he’d pass a law mandating that every Jay-Z album begin with Pain In Da Ass doing his best Tony Montana impression, with a beat provided by Premo.

Jay also seems intent on letting J. Cole get some shine seeing as homey got on BP3 with only one mixtape to his name. At least this way, he’d do it in classic style. Hell, Jay wouldn’t even have to write his verses.

2. D.O.A. [Death of All Y'all] (Featuring T-Pain) (Produced by No I.D.)

The OG joint had Jay biting his tongue a bit too much. T-Pain on the hook would serve notice to everyone except for the rapper-turnt-sanga to kill that Auto-Tune’d noise. And then Hov could slip Pain one of his trademark build-you-up-and-break-you-down subliminals, kinda like what he did to mixtape Weezy.

After going at Auto-Tune, Jay could turn his attention to Jaz’s bum ass once again, as well as the always disrespectful Game (their new Hov diss is heat rocks, btw).

3. Run This Town (Featuring Beyonce) (Produced by Rich Harrison)

Forget Rihanna and her attempts at singing. Hov should’ve got at B, so she can be all up in the video (I’m thinking something along the lines of “Single Ladies” here) for this surefire radio single meant for z100.

And remember how go-go was supposed to be the next big thing in hip-hop? It didn’t quite pan out that way, but Jay can take another stab at it–after “Jockin’ Jay-Z” failed to get more spins–by recruiting the man best suited for bringing the sound (Harrison), thus rekindling the musical magic between Hov and his wifey.

4. Empire State of Mind (Featuring Nas) (Produced by L.E.S. and Wyldfyer)

Ms. Keys is cool and all, but early reports had the Lil’ Homey on the track instead. L.E.S. and Wyldfyer should handle the beat, as they’ve already been responsible for two of the dopest collabos between the two formerly feuding emcees. And it’s always entertaining to hear Nas continue to throw shots at Jay even when they’re on the same track.

5. Off That (Featuring Drake) (Produced by Timbaland)

This track is actually not that bad. Here, Jay gets all the money talk out of his system, all the while tapping into the Lil Wayne demographic with Drake’s cameo (i.e. the high school chicks who actually throw down on tix to see the “America’s Most Wanted Tour”). Oh, and Timbo spazzed on this beat.

6. U Don’t Know Part 3 (Featuring M.O.P. and DMX) (Produced by Just Blaze)

It’s the only series of songs to make the first two BPs, so why not the third one? Adding Crackhead Earl to the mix should up the ante (no pun intended), even if Danze and Fame ripped the beat to shreds already. This shit right here, though, would really make cats wan’ go and commit felonies.

7. Hate (Featuring Kanye West) (Produced by Kanye West)

Going by the title at least, this joint seems eerily similar to that cut from BP2 when a hungry Hov was rapping like he “got a chip on [his] shoulder the size of the Golden Nugget in Vegas.”

8. Real As It Gets (Featuring Young Jeezy) (Produced by Don Cannon)

Another actual cut from BP3, Don Cannon should be behind the boards for this instead of The Incredibles. Cannon usually brings out the best in Jeezy. Not to mention, he’s like a poor man’s version of Just Blaze so this would sorta help to fill the necessary Justin Smith quota for a Jay album.

9. Guess Who’s Back Again (Featuring Scarface and Beanie Sigel) (Produced by Kanye West)

“This Can’t Be Life.” “Guess Who’s Back.” “Some How, Some Way.”

10. Another Murder (Hidden Guest Verse) (Produced by Just Blaze)

“Back to Shawn Carter the hustler, Jay-Z is dead.”

Building on the theme from the Volume 3 standout, it’s the perfect way to end the Blueprint series, as Jay shifts roles from artist to robber baron executive.

So, naturally he’d have to pass the torch to someone right? J. Cole seems the right business move being a Roc Nation artist, but the natural heir is someone with actual Rocafella pedigree who isn’t best suited for weedcarrying duties (or in Hov’s case, washing his Jay-Z blue Lex bubble Maybach). Hence, Young Chris to close out the show.

And Just would have to produce this last track, after crafting the perfect sendoff for Jay with “My 1st Song.”

So yes, only ten tracks. Isn’t the GOAT album the true hip-hop blueprint, anyway?

Note to celebs: The economy is in bleeding, fa real. Just peep your latest concert ticket sales. Sure, schlepping it out and cutting back on your morning latte routine is cool, but we need you out there, doing what you do best: Spending money. And you know what? We’re no longer gonna throw shade when we see you on yet another European vacay, because we realize you’re doing your part. So here are five informal economic indicators of how celebs are doing their best to help boost the economy.

They dine at expensive restaurants
Jay-Z and Beyonce recently shared a romantic dinner at Nello, a swanky upper East Side eatery known for its hefty prices and clientele with even heftier pockets. Here, celebs drop upwards of a $150 for a meal for one. Add to that the notable wine list, and you’re on your way to a $600 date.

They still don’t fly economy
Paps recently snapped Rihanna at the 34th Street heliport returning from a weekend in the Hampton’s; a ride that averages about $2,500. And that’s just one-way.

They shop at high-end boutiques
Yeezy and Amber Rose recently went on a shopping spree at H.Lorenzo in LA. This high-end boutique is the go-to spot for LA’s fashion elite looking for avant-garde designers like Ann Demeulemeester, Viktor & Rolf and Junya Watanabe, whose t-shirts start at about $195.

They sleep in expensive-ass hotels
Rihanna makes her exit from the exclusive Gramercy Park Hotel. A night at the chic midtown boutique hotel costs anywhere from $600 – $2200.

They still pop bottles like it’s 1998
Solange and big sis’ Bey recently hit up Hyde Lounge in Hollywood to celebrate DJ Rashida’s bday. Bottle service is the order of the day at this teeny celeb trap, where regulars like Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton drop anywhere from $200 to $1000, and that might just be on a slow night.

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At only 26 years old Reggie Yates is the man behind the most talk about acronym in London-Town “ATCN” bka “A Tribe Called Next”! Now I know that “A Tribe Called Next” must bring up all types of connotations for hip-hops alike; but no, “A Tribe Called Next” is not a sub-par English tribute band to “A Tribe Called Quest”! It’s a group of carefully picked individuals, who use their website as a portal to “throw up” their thoughts and ideas; also giving you a little insight to the working life of a few of Londons’ most promising creative set. If Hypebeast had a younger cooler brother, with an English accent, an enjoyment of cockney-rhyming slang [East-London Slang] and Grime music “ATCN” would be him. With members ranging from emcee’s, Djs, comedians, stylist and visual artists; there’s always a whole lot of goodness [on the website] to feast you eyes on and keep you distracted at work!  “ATCN” is not just an Internet site it is a lifestyle; and one that is so popular, has people queuing at the door of their monthly club name “trading places”. Even Kanye West has come to shake a leg and show love!

We got a chance to chit chat with “ATCN” founder about what’s next for the tribe.

Reggie Yates

GIANT: Many people in the United Kingdom will most definitely know who you are, but for those  in the United States that may not be aware of who Reginald [bka] Reggie Yates aka “No-Bizzi” is, how would you describe yourself?

RY: I’m a creator who is lucky enough to love his day job and fortunate enough to indulge his passions in his spare time…

Reggie partying in the DJ Booth

GIANT: Who inspired you growing up, and what people dead or alive, continue to have that inspirational impact on your life today?

RY: I wouldn’t really say there has ever been anyone that has inspired me to change or try to be like. I admire lots of people and respect their achievements. Where I want to end up is uncharted territory. I want to originate and do things in a way this city is yet to experience. I’m a work in progress…

GIANT: ‘A Tribe-Called-Next’ [ATCN] has had a large following pretty much ever since it’s conception. What promoted you to give birth to such a brilliant idea; and did you ever think that, “ATCN” would become such a big part of the London creative scene?

RY: Well I’m always surprised when it is described as being so important as really, its a lots of us throwing up online our thoughts and feelings daily… It was set out to be a great portal where creative people I know and or admire get another avenue to shine. It seems to be working and has grown into something bigger then I had imagined. But as ever we don’t sleep, so what we have planned capitalizes on our popularity and will hopefully give us all the opportunity to do more creatively.

GIANT: How did you pick the other members of the tribe, and are you still hiring

RY: Always hiring and always looking. It’s about moving with good-natured, talented, honest people. I work hard on several projects daily and expect nothing less. For me, by in large I only ever approach people I believe have the same work ethics as me and for the most part are on the come up.  My dream is to have each triber be a beast in their own field and go on to create their own brand. TV show, label,… etc

GIANT: The “ATCN” club night at Trading Places has become the place to be! With queues trailing down street corners, the only advice given is come early or
be disappointed, [and before you ask I Have been one of the disappointed few lol!].

RY: Sorry about that! Trading, like Tribe has grown into something bigger then us which is why we have pulled it from being a monthly. We never set out to have a rave; we wanted a hang out for our friends and family. Good music and good people, which is why it started with 120 people. Where we are now is where we began. Pulling it back but keeping it under the radar. Friends and family, good people good music. Its is attracting a lot of attention so watch this space..

“Trading Places” Party Flyer

GIANT: What is the craziest thing that has ever happened at a “ATCN” club night?

R.Y: I think Young Jeezy and Kanye West performing “Amazing” around a piano being
Played by Mr. Hudson while London thirty one floors below buzzed totally unaware of history going down upstairs is pretty special…

Kanye West partying at “Trading Places” in London

• For more info got to: atribecallednext.com

Hakeem Balogun

These A-listers can’t keep themselves out of the public. Find out which celebs are making headlines and have made todays GIANT list…

1. Beyonce: We can’t get enough of her! Other than “Posion” being leaked Bey has also signed on for some lesbi-honest action in a new film “Tipping the Velvet” about a lesbian love affair. Beyonce seems to be breaking out of Papa Knowles’ mold and taking notes from her free-spirited sister Solange.

2. Drake: After months of singing “Successful,” he’s finally given us a glimpse of what’s to come in the video featuring Trey Songz. Looks like Drake’s knee may be even strong enough for some two-stepping in the video.

 3. R. Kelly: R. Kelly just won’t give up. We know the Piped Piper is considered the King of R&B but is making songs such as “Pregnant” really in his best interest? Kellz has also released the track-listing and album cover for his latest baby making soundtrack. 

4. Kanye West: For always expanding his resume. The producer-turned-rapper-turned-designer-turned-fashion-intern is now acting in “We Were Once a Fairytale,” a short-film collabo with Spike Jonze.

5. Fabolous: Fabolous has really been on his grind. Not only riding off the success of Loso’s Way but Fab has also inked a deal with Reebok. Check some video footage while on set here. 

6. Barack Obama: Just for acknowledging Sidney Poitier for all of his work. Would this have happened if John Mccain was president? 

7. Dwayne Johnson: We pray the “Rock” can overcome his newest opponent, diabetes.

8. Kid Cudi: The martian has managed to make news once again, releasing the artwork for his upcoming album. He’s also on the cover of the latest URB. 

9. Amerie: Though her album has been pushed back once again, Amerie knows how to rock a mean pair of pumps in her Elle Magazine photoshoot. 

Word around town is that Yeezy’s puppy dog love for his heartbreak blondie Amber Rose may be reaching a higher plateau. With the “preggos” buzz surrounding the trendy couple, you can’t help but wonder what  Ye’s oh so amazing swag and Amber’s seductive stiletto’s could possibly birth. If  the twosome had a boy would he mirror Pharell’s edgy style or would they introduce to the world a baby girl resembling Keri Hilson’s chic whip appeal. Check out the love child possibilities for hip-hop’s most controversial couple.

The summer of ’09 has played host to some of the best, worst, and unexpected concerts that we’ve seen in years. From Young Money’s paragon, Drake “Drizzy,” to Beyonce’s Sasha Fierce-like performances, this summer’s artists got ya bobbin ya head to the beat or making you question your recent ticket purchase. Yes indeedy, this summer’s cinematic concerts have earned the right to administer their own awards show: the CTA’s.

Check out the categories below and who’s taking home that prized mantle piece or that disappointing dust collector.

And the first CTA Award goes to: Drake for “Best Epic Fail”

Taking a cue  from his role as Jimmy on Degrassi: The Next Generation, hotshot rapper Drake shocked fans at an “America’s Most Wanted” tour performance in Camden, New Jersey, when the Canadian superstar flopped to the stage in pain just seconds into his hit single, “Best I Ever Had.” It is said that the Young Money youngster, unaffected by the doctor’s orders prior to the concert, decided that the show must go on, even after injuring his ACL. Drizzy, along with Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, and Soulja Boy have teamed up for the “America’s Most Wanted” tour, one of summer’s most anticipated hip-hop performances. Drake will be twittering his performance speech along with his up-to-date surgery schedule

CTA’s second award goes to: Beyonce for “Future Comeback Queen”

The bombshell diva has been touring all summer promoting the presence of her alter ego Sasha Fierce in her “I Am” tour which has had its ups and downs as far as success goes, with rumors floating around of hubby Jay-Z  buying a lump sum of tickets to boost her concert sales. Nevertheless, Bey has always reigned supreme and come out on top, but with thoughts of temporarily stepping off stage to have S Dot Carter’s children, there’s no mistaking that Beyonce earned this award. A mini-Bey onstage with the original Sasha Fierce makes a hiatus all worthwhile.

The third CTA Award goes to: Jay-Z for “Till I Croak”

With his long awaited Blueprint III LP on the way, Mr. Carter has pulled out all the cards for his summer 10-city tour. The seasoned rapper, best known for his sellout shows, insists on being relevant in the rap game until “death do them part.” Even though the Jigga followers are staying consistent, it’s evident that HOV has reached his pinnacle. In an ever-changing hip hop world the ROC proprietor refuses to separate that diamond and bask in his millions.

The CTA’s present an all new category for the 4th award given to: Kid CuDi, Asher Roth, & 88 Keys for “New Skool”

Hip-hop’s freshmen class, Asher Roth, Kid CuDi, and 88 Keys are kicking butt and taking names. The kickoff of  ”The Great Hangover” Tour have placed these young bucks in a class of their own. The 19-city tour began at the legendary House of Blues and has been rocking out-of-spacers and college-lovers all over. This trio will definitely be collecting more and more awards as their careers launch forward.

And last but not least, the final CTA Award goes to: Kanye West & Lady GaGa for “Wonder Twins Power”

The Louis-Vuitton Don is teaming up with pop music’s newest bad girl, Lady GaGa for one of the most anticipated tours since “The Glow In The Dark.” The Kanye West/Lady GaGa Tour is sparking so much buzz that fans are squirming over tickets to see the co-headliners. The flashing lights surrounding both superstars have catapulted a movement above and beyond, marking the un-slated tour as one of the best in hip-pop history.

Since their breakout in ’02, The Clipse have soldiered on as ambassadors of the neighborhood pushas, weaving their intricate rhymes with the synthy sounds of The Neptunes. With their third album Til The Casket Drops looming this year, The Clipse have decided to finally expand their sound outside the grasps of Pharrell and Chad Hugo, also collaborating with the likes of Sean C and LV and DJ Khalil.

“It’s just about growing a little bit,” said Malice backstage at the New York stop of the DIESEL tour last night at Webster Hall. “This is the first album The Neptunes didn’t produce solely, 100%, and plus, the fans been calling out to us. They wanna see us get down on other cats’ tracks so that’s what we did.”

Evident from the first few leaks off Casket Drops, the Thornton brothers have also lyrically moved away from the dark “coke rap” label, cemented in particular by their last album, Hell Hath No Fury, where they rode mostly solo, with the exceptions of collabos with their Re-Up Gang cohorts. With their new lead single “Kinda Like A Big Deal,” the duo has turned to Kanye for a guest spot, as well as Keri Hilson for the most recent leak from the upcoming album. No, they haven’t gone soft, but it seems that after grabbing the respect of the critics, the duo is now shooting for mainstream props.

“I think we pretty much already proved our point,” added the older Thornton brother, alluding to claims they’ve made of being the best rap duo out. “We were never one to mingle and have a whole bunch of different features and allow the features to make up a good percent of the album. So this time, it was good to reach out.”

Though The Roots closed out last night’s DIESEL show in signature livewire fashion (with the exception of their collaboration with the ambitious, yet offbeat Lykke Li), The Clipse provided the biggest moment of the evening by bringing out Kanye West for a performance of the single (view below).

(Spotted at The Urban Daily)

Yet even before West hit the stage, the duo held the crowd in rapture with grimey street cuts such as “What Happened To That Boy” and “Keys Open Doors,” despite the fact that earlier in the evening, those in attendance were vibin’ out to DJ sets including the disco-tinged “Blind (Frankie Knuckles Remix)” by Hercules and Love Affair and performances from electro-hop act Theophilus London and the aforementioned onstage oddball Li.

Pusha T of The Clipse explained the group’s bridging-the-gap nature. “We have a strong voice, a diverse fan base, and people aren’t afraid of The Clipse,” said the younger Thornton brother. “They hear the electro side, as well as all the labels that’s put on us. It’s no biggie. Everybody loves us.”

If the duo stay the course on their current trajectory, Soundscan (or zShare download counters) will provide Pusha the confirmation to support his claim. Last night surely made it seem valid.

With the likes of Kanye and Swizz Beatz, its seems like producers-turned-MCs has become the transitioning trend of the century, but for 33-year-old producer/songwriter/rapper, 88-Keys, it’s a lifestyle. Producing beats for Mos Def at the age of 14, the now 15-year hip-hop vet should don the title best in his class as opposed to being associated with these “freshmen” on The Great Hangover Tour. From a strictly Polo attire to the Vag, here 88 chops it up with GIANT while on tour…

GIANT: What’s the first tour you’ve ever been on?

88: The very first tour that I’ve ever performed was 2K Sports Bounce Tour with Common and Q-Tip. I was the opening act with Percee P. He had 20 minutes and I had an hour. That was, what, only two years ago? Yeah, I’m new to this rap shit [chuckles]. And I wasn’t even rapping yet but the first tour that I actually rode out and actually slept on the bus and learned not to go number 2 on the bus was Kanye’s “Touch the Sky Tour” which was my favorite tour to date.

GIANT: And that was your favorite tour?

88: See I don’t know if I can really say the “Great Hangover Tour” just yet but tour number one completely blew me away, Day one was so awesome with Boston—oh my God, they caught me off guard. It was the crowd because I had a feeling that a lot of people got to know who I was from that show. Even though when I asked, ‘Yo, ya’ll eff with 88-Keys?’ They were like ‘yeaaah.’ And I was like come on ya’ll don’t know me like that but I appreciate it. I appreciate not having me listening to crickets when I ask questions.

The show was so awesome that there was a part for one song in particular I tried to get a wave going. So I asked them, ‘Alright, we’re going do the wave now.’ And we’ll do the wave through the first hook and then I start rapping and they’re waving the WHOLE song. I was like that’s incredible. That’s when I said alright, Boston got it. But we’ll see what happens.

Ok, If I can’t say the “Great Hangover Tour” then I would have to say “Fresh Rhymes and Videotape Tour” headlining with Dilated Peoples, Aceyalone and the Alchemist. I believe I was the opening act for that tour as well. That tour was just so fun cause it’s just a bunch of comedians on the bus. Everybody snapping on each other—like actually playing tricks on each other on the bus. It was like a frat house. Alchemist and Evidence, really need their own reality show, seriously. And I actually ended up forming a group with them which we haven’t gotten to it yet because all of our schedules have been hectic.

GIANT: What do you look most forward to while on tour?

88: I look forward to visiting different cities so I can visit their different record shops so I can go digging. And also hitting different Ralph Lauren stores. Other than that I just look forward to the show and performing and stuff like that.

GIANT: Least look forward to?

88: Being asked to go to the after parties and stuff like that. I appreciate getting the offer and I know I should be there and I really do try to force myself to actually show up and be seen and heard by the public and stuff. But I prefer after the show to shake a few hands, meet the people, meet the crowd, and stuff like that and straight to the hotel and break out my laptop and watch Law & Order SVU, Heroes, talk to my wife because I’m a homebody. I’m used to just staying home and making beats. Being married and having kids and stuff I’m just used to being at home. I get more enjoyment indoors than I do outdoors. Indoors is like my own personal space.

GIANT: I know you’ve been wearing polo head to toe for like 16 years, do you plan on coming out with your own line?

88: Nope. Just Ralph Lauren Polo strictly, no other fabric touches my body. Besides that, seriously for about 16 years I’ve been doing this. I stopped wearing Nikes and Timbs in about 2006. No endorsement deals or anything like that. I’m not seeking one either. I respect what Ralph does as a businessman and more so his designs and fabrics that he chooses. And its funny because I’m not into fashion at all. Like I could give a damn about what’s hot this season or you know or what Gucci has coming out this season, like I don’t subscribe to that. I’m just strictly Ralph Lauren. It’s my lifestyle and my daughters lifestyle. I keep them fresh.

GIANT: What about the Adam concept?

88: Well the song title came from my boy DJ Homicide. He’s the DJ from the group Sugar Ray, I met him in ‘04. Him, Sugar Ray and Kanye had a concert together out in Rutgers University or something like that. And I met Sugar Ray and DJ Homicide and I exchanged info and we used to instant message each other because we both had Sidekicks and eventually we got so cool that he would just instant message me a joke. So one day he hits me going back like 5 years ago, and he hits how many different names do you know for the vagina but he used the p word (pussy). And he hits me like a thesaurus of words for vagina and one phrase that stuck out was the death of Adam. Then the whole concept came up when I was working on beats for my first album. I made the beat that became the song “There’s Pleasure in It” and I just kept thinking this gave the album meaning. I was thinking you know what gives me pleasure–the VAG.

GIANT: What are you working on now?

88: I’m just starting to work on my second mixtape or album or both depending on how the songs come out. I’m working with Colin Munroe, on a project we plan on doing an album together. A remix for one of my favorite bands, The Morning Wood, and also Ra Ra Riot. And also just a bunch of features. I’m doing like a lot of rap features for future artists that are coming out and those that are out there already. But the next project that’s been confirmed, 100% mixed and mastered is Colin Munroe and myself we have a song called “Wake Up Call’ on the next NBA Live video game.

GIANT: Do you game?

88: Yea I play video games, well I used to play video games. But like I’m not into the sporting games I’m more into the fighting games. Tekken, then games like Dino Crisis, Resident Evil, stuff like that.

GIANT: What do you do while on tour to past time?

88: I just listen to my Ipod. Listening to the Morning Bender’s album, I’ve started listening back to my old records so now I’m putting my record collection onto my Ipod and twitter.

GIANT: Do you tweet?

88: I do it in spurts. Its like once I see a lot of people hitting me up and I read it and usually I’m busy I just start answering everybody like in a row. And I definitely go to the app store on my Iphone because I am the app man.

GIANT: Anything else you want to do add?

88: Eightocho.com my website.

Also this week, 88 dropped a new video for “The Friends Zone” from his album The Death of Adam. Check it out after the jump. 

  -Felicia Kelley

Instead of dedicating this song to that special somebody, Toronto’s finest Drake Drizzy Rogers, decides to dedicate it to an entire starting line up in his video for “Best I Ever Had.” Directed by the boob man himself, Mr. Kanye West, “Best I Ever Had” takes the creative use of slow motion to another level.

Between the stretches and pauses long enough to measure the cup size of the video vixens, the video isn’t the mushy-gushy love story expected or what Drizzy raps about on the most buzzed about singe played. Drake takes a spin on his relationship with women and instead of picking a main chick or “starter” in this instance, he claims everyone on his roster is his best. 

With lines like “Take the “D” like the champions you are” and juxtaposition between the overtly huge basketball players with the 5’5″ vixens, the video is creative and comical at its best. It isn’t what was anticipated but for every guy, it’s the best he’s ever had.

-Felicia Kelley

With two hot sneaker collabo’s from Nike and Louis Vuitton, Mr. West shows his music fans that he’s still focused on his cinematic music videos. “Street Lights” is a visually stunning video highlighting the track from his 808″s & Heartbreak album.

Kanye glides down the streets of what seems like a virtual MIami in a futuristic Lamborghini while his lyrics mix with the beat. The video debuts after his recent “Paranoid” video.

Jeremy Clayton

When stars hook up for a tour, it’s a good idea if they both cater to the same audience—a clash of differing styles just leaves an awkward atmosphere for the audience. In other cases, it brings together too much of a bad thing. Here’s are some prospective offenders:

Kanye and Lady Gaga

Kanye, as announced on “The View” this week, will share the stage with Lady Gaga. The scantily-clad, buttah-faced Brit won’t fill the opening slot but rather will perform onstage simultaneously with West… which begs the question, can straight dudes even go to this? I’m sure it’ll be a fine opp to pick up chicks but vibin’ out to 808s and Gaga material equates to an irreconcilable man fail.

Jay-Z and Ciara

Nowadays, Jay just goes into his old-man rap stance and just sways back and forth as if he has visions of sitting in a rocking chair onstage (taking another page from Rakim’s rhyme book). He used to bring out the Roc boys but since they’re not en vogue at the moment, his guests will probably just be… Beyonce. And Ciara, as attractive as she is (well, she can’t sing), is hard to admire from a mile away—seeing as Jay charges too much for tix.

Asher Roth and KiD CuDi

Bobby Ray is the opener and usually delivers an entertaining set, mixing it up on guitar and piano and just wildin’ out in general. But with Asher Roth and CuDi on the same bill, the crowd just might be the most un-hip-hop in hip-hop (frat boys and hipsters).

Maxwell

Smart money says he pulls a Lauryn and doesn’t even show. Look what happened with The Alchemist’s new video.

- Devin Chanda