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YRB Magazine just did a dope photo shoot and interview with Amber Rose. The woman who was once only known as Kanye West's girlfriend is starting to carve out her own niche.

Although she's come a long way, Amber hasn't forgotten her South Philadelphia roots.

I grew up very poor, raised by a single mother,” Amber says. “We didn't have much as far as material things, but we had love and we had fun all the time. She raised me to have confidence and always taught me to be humble no matter what God brought my way… I’m confident in everything I do in life.”

In most pictorials Amber seems to be wearing little or nothing, but that is her choice.

I’m very comfortable with my body, even in my home I’m always naked. I love being free – no hair and no clothes!

So is she bi-sexual ? It's a question many people have wondered about.

The thing that people don’t understand when it comes to a relationship with a man or woman is that it’s not about sex at all, even though that’s the first thing that pops in your head. It’s about the love and the vibe you get from the person, and I believe you can find that in anyone," she tells YRB.

One thing she isn't is ungrateful, she may not be on his arm anymore, but she gives Kanye West the ultimate compliment.

Honestly, Kanye saved my life, and I don’t even think about what I would have been; I just think about what I’m gonna be

Check out her full interview at www.YRBMagazine.com.

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Gansta Marcus is now on Facebook

Thats right, if you already know who Gansta Marcus is or dont, then lets add him as a friend on Facebook. Keep exclusive updates on the artist and much more.

Gansta Marcus
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Amber Rose was spotted out on the town recently looking really hot.

Kanye West's girlfriend was rocking tight black see through spandex leaving very little to the imagination.

Yeezy took a big L in 2009 for the Taylor Swift incident, but he definitely won with Amber in my opinion.

What do you guys think?






Pics Courtesy Of Global Grind


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Tracklist:


1. Babyface – Grown and Sexy (9th Wonder Please Talk To Me Remix)
2. Memphis Bleek – Be At (9th Wonder Fire Remix)
3. Kanye West feat. Ludacris – Breathe In, Breathe Out (9th Wonder Soul Remix)
4. Goapele – Catch 22 (9th Wonder I’m Stylisticin’ On Ya Remix)
5. Heavy D feat. Diddy – It’s Your Birthday (9th Wonder Let’s Work Remix feat. Diddy)
6. Method Man – Method Man and 9th (9th Wonder Babydoll Remix)
7. Method Man – Method Man and 9th (9th Wonder Pre-quel Remix)
8. Method Man – Method Man and 9th (9th Wonder Rainy Day Remix)
9. Method Man – Method Man and 9th (9th Wonder Smoke Something Remix)
10. Beyonce feat. Donna Summer – Naughty Girl (9th Wonder Hip-Hop Remix)
11. Kanye West feat. Jay-Z – Never Let Me Down (9th Wonder The Real Hip-Hop Remix)
12. Little Brother – Not Enough (More) (9th Wonder STILL Ain’t Enough Remix)
13. Supernatural – Off The Top (9th Wonder Nature Super Remix feat. DJ Babu On De Cuts)
14. Memphis Bleek – R to the O to the C (9th Wonder Creepin’ Through The Hood Remix)
15. Ghostface feat. Jadakiss, Nas and Big L – Run (9th Wonder Remix)
16. Monica feat. Joe Scudda – So Gone (9th Wonder Dedication to the Moon Cuz it’s Black Remix)
17. Twista feat R. Kelly – So Sexy (9th Wonder Change Up Remix)
18. Memphis Bleek – Take a Minute to Breathe (9th Wonder I Can Take It Remix)
19. Common feat. Kanye West and The Last Poets – The Corner (9th Wonder 70’s Pimped Out Willie Hutch Remix)
20. Nas – Thief’s Theme (9th’s Back to Metcalf Remix)
21. Tweet feat. Missy Elliot – Turn Da Lights Off (9th Wonder Oh No You Didn’t Remix)
22. John Legend feat. Renee and Angela – Used To Love You (9th Wonder Playmates Imaging Remix)
23. A Tribe Called Quest feat. Consequence – Wordplay (9th Wonder Lounging Around Remix)

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In a business where release dates shift for multiple years before an LP actually drops, it’s tough to really get excited for an artist’s new album. But we’re starting the new year off with an optimistic attitude—2010 is gonna be filled with some fuckin’ amazing albums. Halfway through January, we’ve already seen a few solid releases (Vampire Weekend’s Contra and Kanye’s Storytellers), but the best is yet to come. To let you know what’s in store for 2010, we rounded up all the albums we’re expecting this year (key word being expecting—forget pipe-dream releases like Detox), including everything from the psychedelic indie rock of Yeasayer to Drake’s long-awaited debut. See who made the cut with Complex’s 25 Most Anticipated Albums of 2010

#25: Beastie Boys Hot Sauce Committee, Pt. 1 RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Nas, Santigold WHAT WE KNOW: The iconic NYC trio’s first proper album in 5 years was originally supposed to drop last fall, but was delayed after MCA was diagnosed with cancer. Expect the boys to build on the retro style of To The 5 Boroughs for an album they described as “strange” and “bizarre” in a BBC interview. After their Nas duet “Too Many Rappers” got a good buzz going last summer, we’re eager to see what they drop next.

#24: Nicki Minaj TBD RELEASE DATE? Third Quarter PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Polow Da Don (rumored), JR Rotem (rumored), Young Money WHAT WE KNOW: Fresh off a hit mixtape and some song-stealing verses on the Young Money album, our recent Hot Complex is easily the most buzzed-about female rapper in a decade. She recently took a break from touring to focus on finishing her debut, and teased the fact that she might leak a single called “Married In The Club” (nope, no sign of it yet). With mixtape records like “I Get Crazy” and “Itty Bitty Piggy” still getting burn, expectations for her debut are high.

#23: Pac Div Grown Kid Syndrome RELEASE DATE? Summer 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Swiff D, The Neptunes (rumored) WHAT WE KNOW: These three Cali kids had everyone bumping their Church League Champions mixtape last year (even Diddy…in the lambo!), and their new mixtape “Don’t Mention It” should be dropping any day. Their official debut is now slated for some time this summer—expect more futuristic boom-bap goodness from in-house producer Swiff D, along with whatever came out of that week they spent in Miami with Pharrell.

#22: Common The Believer RELEASE DATE? Summer 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Kanye West, No I.D. WHAT WE KNOW: Right around the time Common’s last LP, Universal Mind Control, dropped and people didn’t like it so much, due to its dance faux-future feel, he began talking up his next endeavor: an entirely No I.D. and Kanye West produced album. While no details have leaked, Common has clearly made the best music of his career with these guys so The Believer will hopefully recapture that magic.

#21: Hot Chip One Life Stand RELEASE DATE? February 8, 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: N/A WHAT WE KNOW: The kings of British electropop never disappoint, so we’re expecting their fourth album to bring them even more mainstream exposure than their 2008 album Made In The Dark (are we the only ones who want them to cross over?). In fact, the new LP leaked last week, led by the single “One Life Stand,” and from our first listen, it seems like their most pop-friendly album to date

#20: The-Dream Love King RELEASE DATE? May 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Tricky Stewart, Los Da Mystro WHAT WE KNOW: His first two albums—2007’s Love/Hate and 2009’s Love Vs. Money—were R&B masterpieces (LVM was our #2 album of 2009), so it’s pretty safe to say that the third installment in the trilogy will be more of the same (which is a good thing). Love King—Dream’s supposed “final album”—was being mixed last weekend, so expect a lead single to leak any day now.

#19: Justice TBD RELEASE DATE? “Early 2009″ PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: N/A WHAT WE KNOW: Three years ago, their gritty electro-house debut peeked its head up into the mainstream and warmed a hell of a lot of indie rock and hip-hop kids to dance music for the first time. But after touring, releasing a live album and a handful of dope remixes in ’08, the duo went radio silent. Last summer, Billboard reported that they would be a part of the relaunched Elektra Records roster, with a new album in “early 2010.” Whenever it comes out, we’re expecting something next-level. “We are at the beginning of knowledge about production and music-making,” Xavier de Rosnay told Pitchfork about their new material back in ’08. “It’s changing every two months.”

#18: Gorillaz Plastic Beach RELEASE DATE? March 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: De La Soul, Mos Def, Snoop Dogg, Lou Reed, Barry Gibb, Bobby Womack WHAT WE KNOW: Our favorite animated band is ready to take over 2010 with their first new album in 5 years and a headlining performance at Coachella. It’s gonna be hard for Damon and Jamie to top the success of their first two—which sold a whopping 15 million combined—but it will no doubt be another genre-bending mix with mass appeal. Damon premiered some rough demos on Radio 1 last January, before going off to record with the Syrian National Orchestra. The requisite eclectic guest list was announced, and Mos Def said a track he’s on is “one of the greatest thing’s I’ve ever done.” Okay, we’re excited.

#17: B.o.B. The Adventures of Bobby Ray RELEASE DATE? May 25, 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Eminem, Lupe Fiasco, T.I., Rivers Cuomo, JR Rotem WHAT WE KNOW: It seems like we’ve been waiting on B.o.B.’s album for years (listen to Shake’s excellent compilation Should Have Been The First Album to hear all the hits he’s made in the meantime) but it looks like his debut is finally dropping at the end of May. After sorta changing his name, aligning with Grand Hustle, and dropping a pop-friendly single “Nothin’ On You,” all the stars finally seem to be aligning. He’s been working with everybody, and he’s one of the most versitile artists in hip-hop, so it’s hard to say exactly what will end up on the finished product. Expect the unexpected.

#16: Ghostface, Raekwon & Method Man The Wu-Massacre RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: RZA, Inspectah Deck WHAT WE KNOW: If there’s one thing we learned from the fuckery of 8 Diagrams, its that a Wu-Tang reunion is a bad idea. Luckily, Raekwon went a long way towards repairing the Wu brand last year with his shockingly good Cuban Linx sequel, setting the stage for another dream Clan fan project: The Wu-Massacre. Let’s face it, Rae, Ghost and Meth have always been the crew’s real stars, each as lyrically sharp as they are charismatic, so an album with all three should be an easy win for Def Jam. P.S.— they’re looking for a group name!

#15: Yeasayer Odd Blood RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: N/A WHAT WE KNOW: Their 2007 debut put this Brooklyn crew on the indie map, but their stock rose last year thanks to work on the Bat For Lashes album and a high-profile performance at the Guggenheim. Fortunately (for us, anyway), their sophomore LP Odd Blood leaked back in December, and it’s pretty clear that they have the talent to back up the hype. No matter what your normal listening habits are, we guarantee you’ll fuck with their irresistible mix of psychedelic electro-rock. Odd Blood is definitely worth picking up when the official version drops next month.

#14: J. Cole TBD RELEASE DATE? Late Spring/Summer 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: No I.D., Syience, Pharrell WHAT WE KNOW: Roc Nation’s marque act has been busy since dropping his mixtape The Warm Up this past summer; between promoting his “Lights Please” single, touring with Jay-Z on the Blueprint 3 tour, making records with vets like Reflection Eternal and Mos Def, and stealing the show on Wale’s “Beautiful Bliss.” His debut will feature production from himself, No I.D., and his characteristic deep, hard-hitting rhymes. Pictures recently surfaced of him working with Pharrell. Cole’s rhymes over Skateboard P beats? Yessir, indeed.

#13: T.I. TBD RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Jim Jonsin WHAT WE KNOW: The high-drama of T.I.’s legal troubles over the last few years were played out perfectly in the music (and marketing) of his last album Paper Trail, an introspective step forward that hinted at the next phase in Tip’s career. He toned down the tough-talk, completely removing any references to guns, and remarkably, it worked—Paper Trail was Tip’s most commercially successful album to date, and one of his best. Producer Jim Jonsin recently revealed that Tip is working on the follow-up while staying in a halfway house, and we have no doubt that he’ll be coming back with a bang…just not from a gun.

#12: Jay Electronica Act II: Patents of Nobility RELEASE DATE? First Quarter PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Just Blaze, Nas, Mos Def, Eminem (rumored) WHAT WE KNOW: He’s dropped only two songs in the last 12 months, but we can’t front, they’re good enough that we’re literally chomping at the bit waiting for more. Long teased, Act II is something between an EP, a mixtape and a video art project, but will certainly be a compelling piece of rarely heard lyricism. Add to that the best beats Just Blaze can craft, and appearances by Nas and Mos Def (and possibly even Eminem… to hear Jay tell it, at least), and you have an effort that should occupy real rap fans’ iPod’s for the rest of the year.

#11: Lupe Fiasco Lasers RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Soundtrakk WHAT WE KNOW: Lupe keeps getting better and better and all signs point to Lasers being his best full-length to date. There aren’t a lot of hard facts about the effort available, but his mixtape Enemy of the State proves his lyrics are better than they’ve ever been, and between his Twilight joint and his Japanese Cartoon material it’s clear that his palatte is expanding with his ear. An early single “Shining Down” leaked last summer, and now it seems another leak called “I’m Beaming” is getting a proper single release.

#10: LCD Soundstsyem TBD RELEASE DATE? April 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: N/A WHAT WE KNOW: Little has been said about UK dance-punk group’s new album—so far we have the faux title: ‘Internet Sensation!’ and the band’s cover of Alan Vega’s “Bye Bye Bayou” (which will not appear on the album) to hold us over. We do know recording has taken place in LA and New York with work from members Al Doyle, Pat Mahoney, and Gavin Russom. Most recent word from front man James Murphy (as told to NME) is that the new album is “definitely better than the other two” and will have a “wider palette of sound” than the group’s self-titled debut and wildly influential Sound of Silver album.

#9: Kid Cudi Cudder: The Revolution of Evolution RELEASE DATE? Second Quarter PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Kanye West, The Neptunes, Snoop Dogg WHAT WE KNOW: Party time, excellent! See, it’s like this: Kid Cudi’s life has changed and his new album will reflect it. Where MOTM was maudlin, thoughtful and self-deprecating, Cudder will be buoyant and exuberant. And where MOTM had barely any guests, and was produced mostly by his in-house team, Cudder will feature the likes of Snoop and beats by The Neptunes. Yeah. That happens when you score a number one record, fuck mad hoes, and cop a crib in Tribeca. Trust us. We know.

#8: MGMT Congratulations RELEASE DATE? Spring 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Sonic Boom, Dave Fridmann, Chemical Brothers (rumored) WHAT WE KNOW: Having ridden to improbable success in 2008, the boys from Brooklyn (by way of Boston burbs) are ready to follow up the album that spawned anthems like “Kids” and “Time To Pretend.” But don’t a hit parade—in fact, they have no plans to even release singles from their sophomore album. “We’ve been talking about ways to make sure people hear the album as an album in order,” Ben Goldwasseer recently told NME. “Not just figure out what are the best three tracks, download those and not listen to the rest of it.” Early rumors had them working with the Chemical Brothers, but all recent reports say the album was created with their old producer Dave Fridmann, along with Spacemen 3’s Peter Kember (aka Sonic Boom).

#7: Lil’ Wayne Tha Carter 4 RELEASE DATE? 4th Quarter PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Deezle WHAT WE KNOW: During last summer Universal said this record would be released in the 4th quarter of 2009, after Rebirth, so clearly there are songs recorded. But with Rebirth’s release at a standstill due to lack of interest and the Best Rapper Alive ‘pon lock for most of 2010, we’re thinking Universal, and more importantly their shareholders, are gonna force this LP’s release by the end of the year. The big question is, will it be a frankenstein of the rap records he’s made post-Rebirth, or will he scrap everything when he gets out of jail and put together an entirely new LP reflecting his presumably changed world view?

#6: Santigold TBD RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Pharrell, Diplo, Switch, Spank Rock (rumored) WHAT WE KNOW: Santigold has been busy as hell since her ’08 debut blew up, battling informercial jeweler Santo Gold over her name, touring with Coldplay, and popping up in a million commercials. While we haven’t heard any of the new music, she’s been producing for Devo, co-writing for Christina Aguilera’s upcoming Bionic album, and working with everyone from the Beastie Boys to Basement Jaxx. Last summer she told Nylon about some potential producers, but we’re still waiting for more concrete info on the album that could really take her to the next level.

Young Jeezy Thug Motivation 103 RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Kanye West (rumored), Drumma Boy (rumored), Tha Bizness (rumored) WHAT WE KNOW: Young Jeezy is like Ghostface, Redman, Too Short and AC/DC before him: Every album hits basically the same notes, and is basically a great listen, too. A year ago Jeezy teased that he’d done 7 songs with Kanye West behind the boards, which might indicate a slight change in sound, but then the two records he’s leaked thus far have been straight back to the trap. However it breaks, though, Jeezy has a consistent track record and shows no signs of chasing crossover hits.

#4: M.I.A. TBD RELEASE DATE? Summer 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Blaqstarr, Rusko WHAT WE KNOW: M.I.A.’s whole world has changed since her anti-crossover album Kala crossed over, thanks to the Grammy-nominated, boundry-smashing anthem “Paper Planes.” She’s had a baby and hunkered down with Baltimore producer Blaqstarr for most of her third album (which is rumored to be titled Mission.Impossible.Area), which will include the recently-leaked track “Space Odyssey” and a song called “I’m Down Like Your Internet Connection” that reportedly features an actual Verizon customer service employee on the hook. “Paper Planes” might have been a pop radio fluke, but you can bet whatever she does will be one of the year’s most original albums.

Eminem Relapse 2 RELEASE DATE? First Half of 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Dr. Dre, Just Blaze WHAT WE KNOW: Our current cover star is extremely focused and has moved on from the punchline driven shock-rap that dominated Relapse, for a more enduring, emotive sound. Working for the first time in years with outside production, courtesy principally of Just Blaze, we expect Em’s attention on the intricacy of the rhymes, and the candor of the sentiment. Given Em’s vocal appreciation of T.I.’s Paper Trail, and Blaze’s involvement, perhaps he’s sitting on a “Live Your Life” meets “Lose Yourself” type anthem.

#2: Kanye West TBD RELEASE DATE? 3rd Quarter PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Kid Cudi, Consequence, Common, Mr. Hudson, Drake, No I.D., Tony Williams WHAT WE KNOW: Rap! That’s what we expect from Kanye’s much-anticipated follow up to 808s & Heartbreak. If his last LP embodied the emotional rollercoaster he went through in ‘07 and ‘08, it seems likely his forthcoming effort will address his chaffing discomfort with the mainstream (yeah, you MTV.) with aggressive and dangerous RAP! Never a slouch on the mic, since 808s release ‘Ye has made a pointed effort to blaze all of his cameo verses, so we’re expecting some very forcused, very articulate vitriole on a variety of topics, along with his usual memorable one-liners, etc… Recorded mostly in Hawaii (so far), it seems ‘Ye has surrounded himself and all of his key collaborators (Kid Cudi, Consequence, Common, Mr. Hudson, Drake, No I.D., and Tony Williams) in seclusion. There haven’t been indicators of where ‘Ye’s taking the beats these days, but each of his albums has been one-half departure, one-half evolution, so we’re imagining tracks in the vein of 808s with a decidedly more aggressive, hip hop edge.

#1: Drake Thank Me Later RELEASE DATE? March 2010 PRODUCERS/COLLABORATORS: Boi-1da, 40, The-Dream, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Sade WHAT WE KNOW: He absolutely owned 2009 with a classic mixtape and a slew of guest appearances, so expectations could not be higher for Drizzy’s long-awaited debut. By sticking with his trusty in-house producers and sprinkling in a few superstars, he should be able to match the perfect balance of punchlines and R&B that made So Far Gone such a hit. At this point, 2010 is his to lose. Complex Follow Me @Twitter.com/ChasinMoPaper
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Video After The Jump Hard Knock TV cameras caught a rare acoustic performance of "The Light" by Common featuring Grammy Award Winners Zac Brown on guitar and Colbie Caillat on vocals. Common also spoke on his upcoming cd titled 'The Believer' which features production from NO I.D., Kanye West and Twilight Tone. He said he expects the new album will be released this fall. Follow Me @Twitter.com/ChasinMoPaper
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2009 is behind us and the hype machine is starting to rev up on artists and albums for 2010. The interesting thing about "most anticipated albums" lists is that in many cases the hype proves to be far superior to the finished product. But that doesn't really matter at this time of the year. So let's take a look at Vibe's 2010 list of albums they think we most want to hear. # 10

Andre 3000, TBD Release Date: 2010? Expected Production: A studio loner, it’s likely Three Stacks’ solo LP will be mostly self-produced, but don’t count out Outkast affiliates Rico Wade or DJ Swift. Expected Collaborations: If 2003's The Love Below is any indication, Andre will keep the guest list extra-exclusive. Partner-in-rhyme Big Boi may be the one and only guest spot, if any. Why The Buzz? Hip-hop heads collectively sighed after discovering Andre Benjamin’s deeper-than-rap raps were replaced by idiosyncratic crooning on his first solo effort, The Love Below. Today, lyricists from Fabolous to T.I. are hitting notes, and maybe that’s a good thing––for them––because each infrequent verse from ’Dre threatens that coveted hottest rapper alive title. While his inclusion here is wishful thinking, lets just hope his long-awaited rap LP isn’t on a Detox-like schedule. # 9

Nas and Damien Marley, Distant Relatives (Tuff Gong/Def Jam) Release Date: March 16, 2010 Production: Damien and brother Stephen handle the bulk of the album, but 9th Wonder and long time Nas collaborator Salaam Remi chip in also. Expected Collaborations: Somali rhymer K’naan is featured on two cuts, while songstress Joss stone and legend Stevie Wonder lend their vocals for “Our Generation.” Why the Buzz? For the first time, reggae and hip-hop unite for an entire album. And who better kick off such a happening than two of the best to do it in their respectable arenas? God’s Son and Bob’s son will both preach and teach as expected, but also entertain. “As We Enter,” the album’s first leak, promises the project’s going to be equal parts “patois and rap star.” # 8

Erykah Badu, New Amerykah, Part II (Return of the Ankh) (Universal Motown) Release Date: Feb. 23, 2010 Expected Production: An eclectic lineup that includes 9th Wonder, Sa-Ra, James Poyser, Madlib, Karriem Riggins, the late J. Dilla and Ms. Badu herself. Expected Collaborations: Roots band leader/drummer ?uestlove offers his masterful hands. But the Lil Wayne-featured track “Jump in the Air” (one of 10 versions of a two-fisted, rap-funk sound clash that will feature 10 MC’s) is floating around the web via leaked download. Why the Buzz? The usually forward-thinking Badu gives a sincere nod to her jazzy torch song style that first made her a neo-soul superstar with 1997’s Baduizm, making it one of her most accessible projects to date. Still, there’s plenty of the left field brilliance of 2008’s critically acclaimed standout New Amerykah, Pt. 1: 4th World War. # 7

T.I., TBD (Grand Hustle/Atlantic) Expected Release: TBD Possible Production: Tip should have plenty of options. Expect him to pull from the likes of Just Blaze, DJ Toomp, Swizz Beatz and Kanye West. Possible Collaborations: In the past, T.I.’s worked with everyone from Jay-Z and Busta Rhymes to Justin Timberlake and Rihanna, so we expect more high-caliber cameos. An Alfa Mega sighting––not so much. Why the Buzz? T.I.’s only halfway out of jail, but reportedly already all the way back in the studio. For roughly six months, the king’s been absent from his throne. Gucci Mane (now imprisoned) and a host of other Southern style MCs have emerged during his leave. We’re anxious to see if he’ll put them back in their place. # 6

Lupe Fiasco, Lasers (Atlantic) Expected Release: Spring 2010 Expected Production: Instead of shelling out top dollars for super producers, Lupe works exclusively with his 1st & 15th producers Soundtrakk and Prolyfic. Expected Collaborations: Contributions from his stable of artists, including Gemstones and Nikki Jean Why the Buzz? While in the past Lupe dazzled true hip-hop heads with his intricate wordplay, he’s always shirked the spotlight. After reneging on retiring from the game, though, he’s now out to prove he should be No. 1 on everybody’s list (see: his Thanksgiving mixtape, Enemy of the State). Which means more work for those still decoding metaphors from his last two albums, 2006’s Food & Liquor and 2007’s The Cool. # 5

Young Jeezy, Thug Motivation 103 (Def Jam) Release Date: Feb. 9, 2010 Expected Production: Kanye West is the first producer invited to Mr. Birthday Bash’s motivation party. After assisting Mr. West in Hawaii with 808s & Heartbreak in 2008, expect the “Put On” creator to give Jeezy a bunch of tools to teach. Southern beats kings Shawty Redd, Zaytoven and Drumma Boy will also lend a hand. Expected Collaborations: Nothing is confirmed yet, but Jeezy reportedly has a wish list that includes Lil Wayne (featured on the leaked “Scared Money”), Eminem, Jay-Z and Kanye. Why the Buzz? On his last album, The Recession, Jeezy took a break from talking about what could be to rap about what is. With the America’s economy headed back in the right direction, the snowman’s back to being the trap’s go-to professor. Class is back in session. # 4

Sade, Soldier of Love (Epic) Release Date: February 8, 2010 Expected Production: Producer Mike Pela has handled the boards since the smoky vocalist’s 1984 debut Diamond Life and will be featured on her sixth studio effort. Expected Collaborations: Sade’s longtime bandmates, which include steady guitarist, sax man Stuart Matthewman and keyboardist Andre Hale, once again share writing duties with the Nigeria-born Brit. Why the Buzz? Sade’s first new studio album since 2000’s Lover’s Rock has all the classic, haunting, soul searching hallmarks of her previous releases, as well as a few curve pitches. The title track and first single “Soldier of Love” sounds like a Sade-led Portishead scoring a ‘60s-era Sergio Leone spaghetti western while the groove-heavy “Bring Me Home” is destined to become a freestyle favorite for underground MC’s. # 3

Usher, Raymond vs. Raymond (LaFace) Expected Release Date: March 2010 Possible Production: Ursh is getting help from old favorites like Jermaine Dupri, Sean Garrett, Rico Love, The Neptunes and Polow Da Don. Expected Collaborations: Usher’s sixth set will feature a few rappers including Nicki Minaj (as heard on the leaked “Little Freak”), Plies on “Hey Daddy” and possibly Jay-Z. Why the Buzz? In an era where most artists pray for a gold album, Usher cursed the fact that he only went platinum with his mild-mannered 2008 effort Here I Stand. But Mr. Entertainment’s single again, meaning that he’s cutting the monogamous lyrics loose and is back to macking like it’s 2004. # 2

Kanye West, TBD (G.O.O.D./Def Jam) Expected Release: Summer 2010 Possible Production: As usual, West is expected to handle the majority of the album's melodies. Possible Collaborations: Big brother Jay-Z will likely make an appearance along with Young Jeezy. Members of West’s G.O.O.D. team, Common, Mr. Hudson and Kid Cudi may also come aboard. Why the Buzz? After taking three months off to get his clear his mind, it appears Mr. West has more to say than ever. And he's starting fresh; as 'Ye's blog tells it, he made his grand return to the studio on New Year's Day. 808s & Heartbreak, his eccentrically emo 2008 effort, featured the rapper singing his Auto-Tuned heart out. We're hoping ‘Ye’s next effort will be a hybrid of heart-on-sleeve croons and boisterous rhymes. Just look at all the cheers he received when he crashed Kid Cudi’s Nokia Theater stage last week. They’re ready. And it appears he is, too. # 1

Drake, Thank Me Later (Universal) Expected Release: March 2010 Expected Production: His longtime collaborators Omen, 40 and Boi-1Da (“Best I Ever Had”). He also has studio sessions with Kanye West scheduled this January. Expected Collaborations: Confirmed guests include Jay-Z, Lil Wayne and Bun B. And, last we heard, Drake was looking to nab Sade. Why the Buzz? On top of a classic mixtape (that’s right, classic) and an Eminem collabo, the golden boy of 2009 has one of the most anticipated debuts since 50 Cent. In many eyes, Drizzy hasn’t spit a horrible verse or song yet (see: “Forever,” “Fear”), so the ball is his to drop. But with his sing-songy flow and witty stanzas, failure is unlikely. Vibe Follow Me @Twitter.com/ChasinMoPaper
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Cleveland rapper Kid Cudi appeared on The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien Tuesday (December 22). The Good Music/Universal Motown Records artist performed "Pursuit Of Happiness" off of his debut album 'Man on the Moon: The End of Day' which is in stores now. Kid Cudi "Pursuit Of Happiness" Live
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HipHopWired Reports It's funny how perception does a full tailspin as a person becomes progressively famous. As an artist continues to get the embrace of the mainstream, especially those in Hip Hop , questions begin to arise as to how they were able to claim that success and there is even speculation that is business being dealt with evils. Since “D'Evils,” Jay-Z has been heavily scrutinized by many that feel as though he looks at himself as God and as a member of a secret society that is trying to usher in a new world order. Churches have been the venue for preachers to find “hidden message” within his music such as “Luficer” where he allegedly proclaims, ‘Murder, murder, Jesus, Jesus. Pastor Claims Jay-Z Song "Lucifer" Has Demonic Message The most recent attack is from a young youth pastor that made the claim that “Empire State of Mind” was telling people that they cannot depend on Jesus to save them. Youth Pastor Calls Jay-Z Out For Dissing Jesus On "Empire State Of Mind" Even the visual for “Run This Town” was interpreted by some as his imagery for the world once a new order is finally established, if it's not already in the process.

50 Cent recently spoke with Rolling Stone and made the statement that Jay-Z only looks for his own best interests and has a mentality as though he's above everyone else. “He has a king complex, he thinks he's fucking Jesus, you know what I mean? This J-Hova shit." Usually known for his subliminal shots instead of attacking a problem head on, the rapper has finally taken the direct approach to the latest to make the statement that he goes against God. Back in 2006, hoping to finally dead the allegation, the rapper conducted an interview with radio host Egypt on New York's Power 105.1 to address the allegations that have been made against him. At the time, a man known as Craig Lewis of EX Ministries developed a DVD titled, The Truth Behind Hip Hop, labeling Jay as a culprit in working with the devil. “He should be arrested, seriously. My position is not unlike anyone else who ascends to the top of their field. That comes with the game. But that's crazy. That might be the craziest one I've had.” Although not a man to find his way into the church to praise, he adds that he still maintains a relationship with God no matter what his particular opinion is on religion. “Nah, I'm more spiritual that [having] organized religion. I have a personal relationship with God…I believe in karma, I believe in cause and effect…but religion, I have my opinions about religion.” From throwing up the diamond signs, “symbolizing” pyramids to secret handshakes between himself and Nas to rumors of him being a Freemason, the rapper has been the poster child to what some would perceive as being a hidden evil consuming the Hip Hop world.

People feeling that he has the ability to fire Charlamagne Tha God and keep Chris Brown from performing are all indications of the fact that some look at Hov as having the power to have complete control over what goes on in music. Jay-Z doesn't stand alone as being under fire of devil worship as rappers such as Snoop Dogg, Bone Thugs and DMX have allegedly negotiated with the force of darkness in order to make it in the music world. Religion, an aspect of life meant to instill some sense of hope and a desire for a better life has been heavily misconstrued as time had progressed. How can a person find belief in something when others are so quick to shun the idea of individual beliefs and opinions? Condemning an artist's success to embracing evil is what causes such a separation throughout the country and the world.

Lack of understanding and an unwillingness to comprehend difference is a weak trait to have an feed to others. Occult Secrets of Jay Z, Kanye & Nas
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Video After The Jump DJ Lazy K caught up with that new n*gga now, French Montana at Allure Studios. Akon's newest signee gave an impromptu in studio performance of his version of Drake's mega hit "Forever" French never stops grinding, even with his deal deal securely in place, dude stays busy. Young rappers take notes.
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Gucci Mane Gets Emo......LMAO !

Video After The Jump Broken Equipment is back again going in on a few of your favorite rappers. This one stars Gucci Mane, OJ Da Juiceman, DJ Kay Slay, Papoose, Lil Wayne, Kanye West & Flo Rida with his new song "Step On Da Rabbit" lmao. B.E. really wilds out on this one, I know some of these rappers probably agitated, lol.
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For those who have an intravenous Internet hookup, Jay-Z's long-delayed, much-anticipated "Blueprint 3" leaked sometime in the wee hours Monday morning and made it's debut Tuesday on Rhapsody's and MTV's websites. We listened to the entirety of Sean Carter's 11th album in one fell swoop -- not even taking a break to sip overpriced Champagne, smoke overpriced cigars or take our Maybach out for a leisurely spin. That's either dedication or... a paying assignment from our editor. "What We Talkin' About" (ft. Luke Steele of Empire of the Sun) Jay-Z has enlisted Luke Steele of Australian hairspray techno auteurs Empire of the Sun to sing the hook. For those doing the math at home, that means that the man behind this album has more face-time on a Jay-Z album than longtime collaborators DJ Premier and State Property. In the course of the cut, Jay-Z claims, "I'm not talking about profit; I'm talking about pain." Within 30 seconds, he's bragging about being bff's with Barack Obama. Apparently, Jay-Z feels the pain of the potential loss of the public option more than we will ever know. Hova also declares "I'm not talking about [rivals] Jimmy [Jones], Game or Dame [Dash]," thus robbing him of any semblance of conflict that might make his music that much more interesting. "Thank You" Rather than use the liner notes, Jay-Z decides to write a song thanking the fans for supporting him. He mentions that he has 10 No. 1 albums -- a factual inaccuracy. He has 10 official solo albums released prior to this one, and not all reached No. 1. You'd think that with all of his money, he could at least pay sidekick Memphis Bleek to fact-check for him. He also mentions his predilection for wearing really nice suits and going to the opera. "D.O.A." The long-ago leaked first single proves that no matter how cranky and cantankerous Jay-Z sounds, a Janko Nilovic sample can salve all wounds. Moreover, whether you agree or not with his traditionalist stance, Jay at least has a coherent point here. "Run this Town" (ft. Rihanna & Kanye West) The second single currently earning heavy urban radio play. You've probably heard it. If not, let me give you a hint about who runs this town -- it rhymes with May-B. "Empire State of Mind" (ft. Alicia Keys) Essentially, a list of New York City streets with the titular inspiration seemingly swiped from Nas' "New York State of Mind." For the 723rd time, Jay-Z compares himself to Frank Sinatra, an analogue that's becoming ill-fitting. There's something timeless about Sinatra's catalog and his choice of collaborators. Something tells me that Mr. Hudson, featured on the last track of "Blueprint 3," is no Antonio Carlos Jobim. Even Alicia Keys can't save this track from foundering. "Real as it Gets" (ft. Young Jeezy) This feels like a shameless shill to get Southern rap fans to buy the album, lured by the promise of a Young Jeezy cameo. When used properly, Jeezy's gravelly timbre can produce earthshaking force; but on "Real," the result is both rappers abandoning their gritty street raps for self-worshiping ennui. It's hard to blame them; it's tough to stay hungry when you have a personal chef. "On to the Next One" (ft. Swizz Beatz) The first track yet that doesn't make me want to skip onto the next one. Swizz Beatz is clearly channeling "A Milli," and while he doesn't get the exact same results, he clearly creates one of the album's standout tracks, sounding simultaneously au courant and catchy. Jay-Z continues his recurring obsession with being artistically progressive and moving forward. "Off That" (ft. Drake) Timbaland's beat sounds like one of the better castoffs from the last Justin Timberlake album, and Drake's hook is cool and self-assured. But there's something here that reads as stasis: Timbaland continues to envision the future as silver suits and astronaut ice cream, while Jay sounds like he would probably try to lecture the “Say Hey” kid for wearing tight pants. "A Star is Born" (ft. J. Cole) Featuring a guest appearance from J. Cole, the fledgling artist whom Jay-Z has signed to Roc Nation. Cole acquits himself fine with a nimble resonant verse about coming from poverty, though his performance lacks the appeal of past Jay proteges Beanie Sigel, Kanye West or Memphis Bleek. "Venus vs. Mars" A naked play to entice female listeners, with Timbaland delivering a monstrous beat. Unfortunately, Jay utilizes the lurid leering tone of the rich guy at the bar promising helicopter rides to any nubile female who will look in his direction. In 10 years, "Venus vs. Mars," will go down in history as the first rap song ever inspired by a self-help romance guide intended to illuminate gender differences. I can't wait until Drake releases his prog-rap opus, "He's Just Not That Into You." "Already Home" (ft. Kid Cudi) The most organic and hence best song on the album. Kanye fulfills his symphonic "Late Registration"-era aspirations and Jay fills it with regnant "Blueprint" majesty. The decision to pair up with Kid Cudi and Kanye West finally yields some dividends for Jay's experimentation. Granted, it's not exactly the London Muddy Waters Sessions, but it works. Kid Cudi's stoned insularity proves a nice foil to Jay's swagger and the song sounds fun and spontaneous. "Hate" (ft. Kanye West) The logical continuation of the "Graduation" dud "Drunk and Hot Girls," "Hate" sounds like the result of staying up all night in the studio mixing various liquors and then letting the tape recorder roll. You're in that deluded state where you think that everything you record is genius and filled with revelations. Then you wake up the next morning to realize that except for three seconds, everything you made was garbage. Except that never happened, and Jay and Kanye decided to put it on the album. "Reminder" Where Jay-Z reminds us that he's better than you and me. Presumably, this is supposed to even out the hospitality of "Thank You." "So Ambitious" (ft. Pharrell) Apparently, all ambition means these days is making songs that both Pharrell and Jay would've scoffed at during their "Roc La Familia"-era salad days. "Young Forever" (ft. Mr. Hudson) Sampling "Forever Young" on the the final track is one of the worst decisions of Jay-Z's legendary career and confirms everyone's deepest fears about the album: that it's a Hail Mary attempt by a veteran artist to stay relevant. There's maturing gracefully and then there's this -- a maudlin cut that sounds like bar mitzvah montage rap. After hearing this, cleanse with "Brooklyn's Finest" on repeat. Verdict: Regardless of this lackluster effort, nothing can alter Jay-Z's place as one of the greatest rappers of all time. That said, despite several strong moments, "Blueprint 3" documents an artist who refuses to wallow in the past, but lacks a (ahem) blueprint for the future. As with all Jay-Z albums, it tries to be all things to all people, and occasionally succeeds, but more often than not, it offers a tepid futurism. If Jay-Z is rap's Rolling Stones, this is his "Dirty Work," even if he maintains that he doesn't like his colors too bright. LA Times Review
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Marsha speaks on working with Just Blaze and Dre for her new album and the difference between working on a solo project as opposed to her work with Floetry. Also, footage from her August 2009 performance at the legendary SOB's in NY!
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HipHopWired Reports Chicago rapper Kanye West has had one of his music videos turned into a short film and is set to be released in September on iTunes. Spike Jonze, who was also responsible for the “Flashing Lights” video will be the manpower behind the film titled, We Were Once A Fairytale. Originally the film was set to be the music video for West's single, “See You In My Nightmare” featuring Lil Wayne off his last album, 808s and Heartbreak. The 15-minute short has already premiered as it was featured at the Los Angeles Film Festival in June. According to Jonze, the film was made in the course of 24 hours. The actual story shows Kanye playing himself, which is more character than any role he could be given, in a club drunk basically boasting about how great he is. He engages a woman whom he later has sex with before passing out. When he comes to, he realizes that the woman was actually a hallucination and he was actually getting it in with a pillow. As with the “Flashing Lights” video, it does become weird, or creative, as he goes to vomit and rose petals come out. While in the restroom, West finds a knife and digs into his stomach which revealed more petals and as he digs deeps he uses his hands to pull out a rodent that has resemblance to a demon. Realizing the demon is attached to him through an umbilical cord, he rips the two apart then hands the demon the knife who then stabs itself through the stomach. Yea, that's some trippy shit.
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