NobleMag

Rapper 50 Cent is speaking out months later on the circumstances leading up to the fire of his Long Island home, which was destroyed by the blaze, and is hinting at his son's mother being involved.

During an upcoming interview with Access Hollywood‘s TV One Access , the G-Unit frontman revealed his home went up in flames, just days after his ex-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins was ordered to leave the residence.

"The courts told her she had to leave," 50 Cent told TV One Access correspondent Quddus. "It’s kind of more like, ‘If I can’t have you, you can’t have it.’" When asked if Tompkins set the fire in response to the order, the rapper declined to specifically name the single mother and deliberately became vague.

"Well, I don’t want to say that… don’t try to make me say something I don’t want to say," 50 Cent stated. "But the circumstances to it might seem that way."

The TV One Access interview is the latest development in the aftermath of the home’s destruction, which occurred in May.

According to reports, Tompkins and 50 Cent’s son, Marquise, were among the six people taken to a hospital and later released, after suffering smoke inhalation following the incident.

In a lawsuit filed earlier this year against the rapper, Tompkins claimed the rap star had promised her a house more than a decade ago. A war of words resulted from the suit as Tompkins’ lawyer Paul Catsandonis alluded to an "extremely dangerous incident" between "the parties in question" in his Manhattan office, just days before the fire. Catsandonis further noted that 50 Cent signed an agreement that would give Tompkins half of all his earnings as a Hip-Hop superstar, reports AllHipHop.com.
"Everything that’s his is hers, everything that’s hers is his. He memorialized in an e-mail that he intended to give her the house," the attorney told the Associated Press .   TV One Access’  interview with 50 Cent is scheduled to air in its entirety at 7 p.m. on January 4.

50 cent

Bush is trying to save his reputation by not leaving the white house with an Auto industry disaster on his watch. He's too late on both ends. His rush to attempt to use the Wall Street bailout money to save the Auto Industry should not go through without severe stipulations being placed on the industry and its infastructure.

Running out of time and options, the White House said today it would consider using money in the Wall Street bailout fund to prevent the U.S. auto industry from collapsing after the Senate refused to pass a rescue bill endorsed by President George W. Bush and congressional Democrats last night. "The current weakened state of the economy is such that it could not withstand a body blow like a disorderly bankruptcy in the auto industry," White House press secretary Dana Perino said.

The Wall Street bailout fund is one of the few remaining options for General Motors Corp . and Chrysler LLC, which have said they could run out of cash within weeks. Bush had originally refused to use the bailout fund to help the automakers, insisting that help come from Congress. But the White House said it must reconsider after the Senate failed to agree on a $14 billion rescue plan.

"Congress spoke last night. They don't have the votes to do anything," Perino told reporters on Air Force One as Bush traveled to a commencement speech in Texas . "They didn't get it over goal line and so we have to consider what other options we would take." She declined to say when a decision would be made.

About $15 billion from the first half of the $700 billion financial bailout remains uncommitted. Treasury in the past two months has pumped out about $335 billion to banks and insurance companies. To begin tapping the second half of the bailout, the administration would first have to notify Congress, which could block it or put new conditions on how the money is used. This is where the stipulations on the greed and curruption from the Auto industry needs to be placed. American auto makers have been ripping off American's for DECADES. Cheap auto parts, poor assembly, too many recalls, service price gouging, limited and useless warrantes, loans with exaggerrated interest rates and more.


The Senate's rejection of the $14 billion rescue plan and further evidence of a deepening global recession made world stock markets plunge. U.S. stock index futures pointed to a big sell-off later on Wall Street . The Dow Jones industrial average was projected to drop 278 points, or 3.2 percent, to 8,292, while the broader Standard & Poor's 500 index was forecast to fall 33.80 points, or 3.9 percent, to 840.70.

In Detroit, United Auto Workers President Ron Gettelfinger said he was confident that a solution to the auto industry's financial crisis will emerge in Washington despite the Senate's defeat of a bailout bill.

President Bush

Comedian Katt Williams was reportedly hospitalized on Friday (November 14) where he was to undergo a pyschiatric evaluation. Williams' publicist released the following statement to Punchline Magazine :   Following an arduous 300 shows and an 18-month touring schedule that left him incredibly fatigued, Katt felt compelled to be with his family in an effort to deal with his stress . While doing so, he is under a doctor's care. As this is a private and personal matter, we hope the media will respect his family's request for privacy .   South Carolina's The Item.com news site is also reporting that comedian Katt Williams underwent a psychiatric evaluation over the weekend at the insistence of his family members.
After a string of erratic behavior over the past several weeks, including a Nov. 4 no-show on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and an arrest in New York on weapons charges, the comic had run-ins with both city and county law enforcement in Sumter – resulting in an alleged mental evaluation for a possible hospital commitment, at the urging of local family members, the Web site reported.

Sumter Police Department Maj. Perry Herod said officers responded to a suspicious behavior call from the Mount Vernon Inn Friday at 8:30 a.m. in reference to Williams, 35. He "was trying to buy a room while dressed in a bathrobe and a towel wrapped around his head," said Sumter Police Chief Patty Patterson. After determining no criminal activity was taking place, officers left.

Attorney Garryl Deas said Williams then visited his office at 201 N. Main St. at around 9 a.m. asking for help. Deas said Williams told him he felt the police were "attempting to violate his rights." Williams also went on to talk about his entertainment career and revealed there were people who thought he was missing because he had failed to report to some engagements, Deas said. The actor said there were even rumors he had died in a plane crash.

Deas said Williams agreed to wait for him to return from a 9:30 a.m. scheduled court appearance. When Deas came back at 10:30 a.m., Williams was waiting for him, but his behavior had changed. "His demeanor was a little troubled," Deas said, adding the actor seemed "disoriented."

About that time, family or close friends of Williams arrived and tried to take him to the hospital for mental evaluation, Deas said. He said the family was seeking to have the actor committed. He was under the impression the family members were a teenaged daughter and the daughter's mother. Williams, however, was against the hospital visit.

"He just said that he doesn't trust anyone anymore," Deas said. Williams said he thought "everyone has turned against him. He wasn't really coherent."

Deas said the family was seeking an order to force him to be seen for a mental evaluation. Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said the call came in around noon and deputies arrived to transport Williams to the hospital. Though he was vocal in his desire not to go, Williams was not physically aggressive.

"Officers did talk with him, and then my understanding is he went on his own to Tuomey Hospital," said Sumter Police Department Maj. Perry Herod.

Meanwhile, Williams is scheduled to appear Nov. 20 at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas and on Dec. 31 in Detroit with comedian Steve Harvey . Williams has reportedly said the Dec. 31 gig will be his last stand-up show, according to Eurweb.com.

katt williams

ABC Radio Networks announced yestereday that it has signed national radio personality Michael Baisden to a multi-year syndication deal. The Michael Baisden Show launched in syndication with ABC in 2005 and has grown to 68 affiliates. It is the top-ranked Urban afternoon program in the country and holds the number one position in its slot in key markets such as New York, Philadelphia, Detroit and Washington, D.C. It will encompass a development deal in addition to multi-media platforms including websites, podcasts, mobile channel and live events. 

"Michael's show has developed one of the most loyal audiences in radio today and his consistently strong ratings have made him a brand of choice for key advertisers," said Jim Robinson, President of ABC Radio Networks. "Renewing our original agreement was a priority and positions us for substantial success in the years ahead." Baisden is credited with bringing last year's Jena Six march to the national forefront. He was recently featured on the CNN special series Black in America and has become a significant political force on radio and television in the past year. He broadcast his show live from two of the presidential debates and President-elect Obama became a regular guest of the program through the primary season and months leading up to the general election. Baisden's election results broadcast in Miami drew a live audience of more than 5,000 Florida voters and the show's guests included Donna Brazile, Forrest Whittaker, Denzel Washington, Michelle Obama, Will Smith, Gayle King and Spike Lee. "Our show has come so far in such a brief period of time yet I know the best days are still ahead of us," said Baisden. "Connecting with my listeners and providing them a forum is what drives me each and every day. I'm thrilled to know I'll be taking the program to the next level and reaching even more listeners with the same phenomenal team." The Michael Baisden Show is hosted by New York Times best-selling author and TV talk show personality Michael Baisden. The entertaining four-hour afternoon radio program airs Monday - Friday from 3-7 p.m. ET and combines the best in music, comedy and social commentary to inspire real change across America. Heard in 22 of the top 25 Urban radio markets, The Michael Baisden Show reaches more than 4.6 million listeners each week.

micheal baisden, abc radio

(Stephen Hill, surrounded by songbird deliciousness: Ashanti and Mary J Blige) I have always admired Stephen for making the leap from radio to television.

BET Networks today announced two new leadership appointments to its Programming team, with Loretha Jones named President of Programming and Stephen Hill promoted to President of Programming. Both Jones and Hill will report directly to Debra L. Lee,Chairman and Chief Executive Officer , BET Networks. Hill will continue to be based in New York, while Jones will be based in Los Angeles , and both appointments will take effect immediately.

As President of Programming, Jones will oversee original programming, news, development, planning and acquisitions for BET. In his role as President of Programming, Hill will oversee all music programming and specials for the network.

"I'm thrilled to welcome Loretha to the BET Networks family, and I'm so excited about Stephen's promotion," said Lee. "We've made great strides over the last few years with our original programming strategy, and this development is the next step in our evolution and in building on what we've already achieved.

"Loretha has spent her entire career working in the entertainment industry and has a wealth of experience -- not to mention a strong passion for the BET brand, fantastic energy, ground-breaking ideas, and strong industry relationships," Lee continued. "Stephen has done an incredible job during his tenure at BET Networks, thanks to his unparalleled creativity, his remarkable ability to produce unforgettable, buzzworthy shows, and his knack for knowing the 'next big thing.' I'm so proud of the path we're on, and I believe that
the unbeatable combination of Loretha and Stephen gives us the right mix of skills, talent relationships, originality and imagination to bring us even more success."

About Stephen Hill

Named #1 on The Source magazine's 2006 list of most influential executives in the music industry, Stephen Hill previously served as Executive Vice President of Music Programming & Talent for BET. His responsibilities included managing and directing the creation, development and production of music programming at BET. He has overseen the production of the network's music programs,
including 106 & PARK , RAP CITY and THE DEAL, and network specials SPRINGBLING and RIP THE RUNWAY. Hill also serves as Executive Producer for the BET AWARDS (2002-present) and the BET HIP HOP AWARDS (2006-present).

Prior to joining BET in 1999, Hill worked for four years at MTV in New York City as director of music programming. As director, Hill was responsible for selecting and programming all genres of videos for airplay, working with talent and supervising the network's standards processes.

Hill got his start in the music industry during his time working with industry legend, Elroy Smith, who was program director at WILD-AM in Boston, MA. Upon Smith's departure, Hill was promoted to program director. In 1993, Hill and his team took WILD-AM to its highest rating ever, beating six full-time FM stations in the process. Hill has also done extensive work with ABC Radio Network's Urban Gold Format by launching their 24-hour format. Gaining many accolades for his work with ABC Radio Networks, he also served as executive producer for the Tom Joyner Morning Show.

Born in Southeast Washington, D.C., Hill credits much of his success to his childhood passion of announcing various songs that he kept on a tape player. He began shaping his formal career when he got his start at Brown's University's radio station, WBRU-FM, in Providence, RI.

About Loretha Jones

Prior to joining BET Networks, Loretha Jones had served as Executive Vice President of MTV Films / Paramount Pictures since July 2007. Before that, she was Senior Vice President of MTV Films / MTV Home Entertainment, overseeing development, production, music and marketing for multiple feature film, television and home video projects for the MTV and CMT brands from May 2005 to July 2007. From 2000 to 2005, Jones was a consultant and producer for MTV Films.

Jones has several television and film production credits to her name, including: Director / Executive Producer, multiple seasons of the television series The Parent 'Hood ; Executive Producer, My Super Sweet 16: The Movie ; Executive Producer, Broken Bridges ; Executive Producer, All You've Got; Producer, Grammy Award-nominated The Fighting Temptations ; Executive Producer , Carmen: A Hip Hopera ; Executive Producer, The Price of Glory; Producer, The Meteor Man ; and Producer, The Five Heartbeats. Before her career as a producer, Jones was an attorney with the law firm of Frankfurt, Garbus, Klein & Selz, representing various clients in film, theater, television and music.

Jones received her bachelor of arts degree from City College of New York and her juris doctorate from the New York University School of Law . She is a member of the Directors Guild of America , the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Producers Guild of America and New York State Bar Association .

stephen hill

Sirius XM Radio, the pay-radio marriage of the two former satellite services, formally combined their program lineups Wednesday.
Some channels from each service went away in the merger, with Sirius and XM Radio subscribers each getting new channels from the other service. Some channels will be moved and/or re-named. Sirius XM said there will be no increase in the subscription fee or need to change or upgrade existing radios for the basic service, but that doesn't include the "Best of" packages.  XM subscribers will have to pay extra if they want a "Best of Sirius" package with such premium draws as Howard Stern, Martha Stewart Living, Playboy, NASCAR and the NFL. Sirius subscribers will have to shell out more for a "Best of XM" lineup that includes Oprah Winfrey's Oprah & Friends, the NBA, the NHL the PGA and The Virus, which is home to Gregg "Opie" Hughes and Anthony Cumia .  Among the Sirius channels going away are Movin' Easy, Punk, Sirius Disorder, The Strobe, Boombox, Backspin and Universo Latino. XM channels being retired include XM Sports Nation, the Weather Channel, XMX, X-Country, Fungus, Rhyme, Raw, Beyond Jazz, Fine Tuning, The System, Chrome, Viva, Aguila, Caricia.  E! Entertainment Radio is going away for each service's subscribers.  New channels for XM include Elvis Radio, Bruce Springsteen's E Street Radio,  “Little Steven” Van Zandt’s Underground Garage and Outlaw Country, Jimmy Buffett's Radio Margaritaville, Jamie Foxx's The Foxxhole, Eminem's Shade 45, NPR Now, Blue Collar Radio, Cosmo Radio, Catholic Channel, Doctor Radio, BBC Radio One, World Radio Network, The Coffeehouse, Faction,  Jam On, The Grateful Dead,  Underground Garage, Hair Nation and, as of Jan. 1, The Bridge.

New channels for Sirius include Sporting News Radio,'40s on 4, '90s on 9, The Loft, Willie Nelson's Willie's Place, enLighten, B.B. King's Bluesville, Escape, Cinemagic and Sirius XM Book Radio ,which XM subscribers have known as Sonic Theater.  Sports talker Chris "Mad Dog" Russo's Mad Dog Radio will launch soon for all subscribers, Sirius XM said.  The new lineup for Sirius can be found here. The new XM lineup can be found here.  Sirius XM Radio Inc., which was created in July, earlier this week said its third-quarter losses totaled $4.88 billion after recording a sizeable charge connected to a decline in its stock. The company earlier this month said it expects to end this year with 19.1 million subscribers and next year with 20.6 million subscribers. The economic slowdown, particularly its its effect on auto sales, has hurt its growth.

siruis, xm

I have to be careful, Jermaine Jackson and one many Motown stars and alumnus read Radio Facts, I don't want to offend them.... Motha fook that, they dont' buy ads... wanna take a quick stroll down memory lane?... I just thought about something.... remember when Eddie Murphy used to insinuate that Michael was gay and he made fun of him in his comedy routine? Isn't life ironic, the dog that brings the bone? The routine was hillarious before Eddie was busted for his own tastes for sluts with nuts (laugh). As far as Micheal, attorney's can be VERY expesive and when you go from buying exotic monkeys and shit to GIVING away the entire ranch, these times, they are a changin'. OK maybe I'm not being very sensative about the situation but shit, people out there are trying to eat, it's hard to feel sorry for somebody who has to give up their exotic zoo and shit to survive... (laugh). Mike may never admited it, (first that a BLIND man can see he's had plastic surgery and lots of it) but those alleged charges ate a hole in his bank account to pay those attorney fees but jail, was NOT an option. Now the superstar  has given up title to his Neverland ranch, transferring the deed to a company he partly controls. Wonder how that will work? Is he about to file bankruptcy on the business? He is smart as hell and that would not affect his personal credit. hmmm

The singer filed a grant deed on the ranch Monday that makes the new owner an entity called the Sycamore Valley Ranch Co. LLC, Tom Pearson of the Santa Barbara County clerk-recorder's office said Wednesday. Sycamore Valley Ranch Co. is a joint venture between Jackson and an affiliate of Colony Capital LLC, according to a person with knowledge of the transaction who was not authorized to speak on the record and requested anonymity. The person could not say what would become of the 2,500-acre property in the bucolic, oak-studded hills of Santa Barbara County's wine country, 120 miles northwest of Los Angeles but as a real estate agent I can tell you... that property will sit for a while, the only saving grace is that you have other filthy rich celebs in the area who have the money to splurge on that land which is probably worth half of what it was 2 years ago but I will STILL take that fooking commission. Jackson had gone into default on the $24.5 million he owes on the property and had faced foreclosure before Colony Capital bailed him out earlier this year by purchasing his loan. Pearson said the deed did not indicate who else owns Sycamore.

The latest Gallup Poll, one of the most reliable pollsters in the United States, provides further proof that Joe Biden and Barack Obama have already won the election. The latest poll has Obama up by 11 percent, a 52-41 percent lead. The main reason for Obama’s success is the economic crisis. 59% of voters believe he is more competent to deal with the crisis than the Republican nominee, John McCain. McCain’s main advantage left is foreign policy, but he’s losing ground on that subject as well. Increasingly more Americans believe that Obama too will be able to deal with the country’s enemies and friends in an effective manner, while protecting U.S. interests. It marks the largest lead for Obama ever. Obama’s lead is unlikely to decrease by much in the coming weeks, as reported by PoliGazette.com. It is likely that we will see a change in Obama in the coming days, if other polls show the same results. He will undoubtedly start behaving more like someone who has already won, someone who is America’s president. This will probably increase his appeal for a lot of people. Because, the more people believe it’s over, the more likely it is that McCain will lose in a landslide.

Sneak peek of DeBarge Family episode airs Thanksgiving night (Nov. 27) at 7 PM, with the series airing on four consecutive nights starting Sunday, Nov. 30 at 10 PM ET --
 
 Aretha, Whitney, Diana, Stevie, Marvin, The Winans - Everyone knows the name of black music’s biggest stars. But the full picture of black music in America is much larger than the acknowledged superstars, and many of the greatest have failed to achieve superstar status. Beginning with a sneak peek of one episode Thanksgiving night and airing on four consecutive nights starting Sunday, Nov. 30, TV One will premiere Unsung, a series of four, one-hour biography specials that celebrate the lives and careers of four of those accomplished artists or groups who deserved – but didn’t make – the transition to superstardom.
 
Narrated by singer, songwriter and radio personality Al B. Sure ! Unsung will chronicle the careers of:
 
·          Donny Hathaway – the musical genius who hit chart highs with Roberta Flack and influenced countless vocalists, but whose personal demons resulted in a tragic end; (airs 12/2)
·          The Debarge Family – this sweet-voiced family group composed their own songs and were thought to be the answer to the Jackson 5 , before changing musical trends, family squabbles, and deadly addictions led to their demise; (airs 11/27, 12/3)
·          The Clark Sisters – these second generation gospel stars broke down gospel/secular barriers for artists such as the Winans and Kirk Franklin , but their own personal struggles and backlash from the most traditional in the church community kept them from becoming the crossover gospel household names they were destined to become; (airs 12/1) and
·          Phyllis Hyman – sultry, statuesque and glamorous, with a smooth voice to match, Phyllis Hyman should have been a record executive’s crossover dream. But her jazzier musical inclinations ultimately limited her career, while her stormy temper and personal battles with weight and depression cut her life short (airs 11/30).
 
In a special Thanksgiving night sneak peek, TV One will offer The DeBarge Family episode Thursday, Nov. 27 at 7 PM. The entire series will then air on four consecutive nights beginning Sunday, Nov. 30, with each episode airing at 10 PM, 11 PM and 2 AM (all times ET). 
 
Unsung will reveal the multiple factors that kept these artists from achieving the iconic commercial status they deserved.  And, in the process, these specials will “sing” the praises and celebrate the artistry that has kept fellow artists and fans talking about them for years.  Featuring exclusive interviews, musical clips and archival footage, each episode will investigate the stories of these pivotal artists, their journey through music and their perhaps unexpected influence on the music of today.
 
“We wanted to celebrate the music of these artists that you remember fondly from your own or your parents’ collection of vinyl LPs and your classic editions of Ebony and Jet magazines…some of the most influential and talented R&B and Gospel artists of the 1970’s ‘80’s and ‘90’s,” said TV One Senior Vice President of Programming Strategy and Acquisitions Jeff Meier. "Though many of these artists managed to build a dedicated Black fan base, they were not able to make the often musically deserved transition to superstardom.  In these specials, we want to answer, ‘Why did these artists remain mostly ‘unsung’ to the world at large?’”

bet, al b sure,

The Lanham-based radio broadcasting company reported a loss of $266.1 million, or a $2.81 per basic share, compared to a net income of $4.7 million, or 5 cents per basic share, for the same period last year.
The company recorded a massive non-cash impairment charge against the company’s Federal Communication Commission licenses of $337.9 million -- which lead to a net operating loss of about $315.6 million.
Net revenue at Radio One (NASDAQ: ROIAK, ROIA) fell 2 percent to $86.2 million for the third quarter. Station operating income totaled $34.7 million, a 17 percent decrease from the same period in 2007.

“Clearly all advertising based companies, including radio are experiencing extremely challenging times given the slowdown in consumer spending, and I expect this to continue through all of 2009,” said Alfred Liggins, head of Radio One. “Our focus remains on increasing our radio market share, cutting costs and diversifying into TV and online revenues. We continue to make progress on each of these goals, by outperforming our radio markets by 170 bps year to date, restructuring our radio workforce, and generating solid revenue growth in TV One and Interactive One.”

Radio One (NASDAQ: ROIA) owns and operates 53 radio stations in 16 markets, including four Baltimore stations: WERQ-FM 92Q Jams, WOLB-AM 1010, WWIN-AM 1440 and WWIN-FM Magic 95.9. Its stations primarily target African-American and urban listeners. The company successfully integrated the online social networking company, Community Connect Inc. , giving the company access to eight million monthly unique visitors to its online properties. Radio One also owns Magazine One Inc., and has interests in TV One LLC, and Reach Media Inc.

Radio One

BET Keeps it all in the Family with the Return of ' Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is ' and the New Original Series 'Brothers To Brutha'

The Third Season of the #1 BET Original Series " Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is " Premieres Tuesday, November 11 at 10:00 PM and New Series "Brothers ToBrutha" Premieres Tuesday, November 18 at 10:30 PM* One-hour "Brothers To Brutha" Special Will Air After The Premiere Of " KeyshiaCole: The Way It Is " on Tuesday, November 11

R&B means "reality and BET" every Tuesday with the return of KEYSHIA COLE : THE WAY IT IS and the debut of BROTHERS TO BRUTHA, BET's latest unscripted family drama that follows the music career of five brothers from South Central Los Angeles. Both series explore the dual battle of surviving and thriving in the music industry while maintaining and creating family bonds. KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS season three and BROTHERS TO BRUTHA will take reality to new heights and re-define the meaning of family and success.

KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS

Premiering Tuesday, November 11 at 10:00 p.m.*, season three of KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS finds the family making progress and discovering their own personal paths. Frankie, Neffie and Keyshia attempt to truly step above their past hurts.  During the process, Keyshia finds herself on the path to becoming the woman she is destined to be, leading her family and her business down the road to success. This new path also opens Keyshia's heart and she is finally ready to allow herself to find love once again.

Keyshia Cole's third album, A Different Me, is set for release on December 16, 2008 via Universal & Geffen with the lead single, "Playa Cardz Right," featuring rapper Tupac. A Different Me focuses less on heartache than Keyshia's two previous albums and showcases a more mature side to her vocals and lyrics. With such producers as Kwame, Toxic, Drummer Boy and Polow, A Different Me marks a new phase in Keyshia's growth as she writes every track on the album.

BROTHERS TO BRUTHA

From the moment they could walk and talk down the streets of South Central Los Angeles, the Harrell boys were singing, dancing and determined to make it to the top. Jacob, Poppa, Jared, Anthony and Grady come from a long line of artists and musicians who never broke through to the "big time."  Now that their R&B group Brutha is signed to the Island Def Jam Music Group, the chance to truly put the family name in the spotlight has finally arrived.

Premiering Tuesday, November 18 at 10:30 p.m.*, the emotional new series  BROTHERS TO BRUTHA follows the lives of the Harrell brothers as they attempt to find the balance between family and fame. Under the management of their uncle, music veteran Donny "Drano" Harrell, and under the tutelage of the late Shakir Stewart, Executive Vice President of Island Def Jam , Brutha hopes to realize the entire Harrell clan's lifelong dream of success. Under pressure to be perfect at every turn, the lines between blood and business become
blurred and the brothers are put to the test.  Will this industry wound thefamily even more, or will it keep them brother to brother ?  Brutha's debut self- titled album is set for release on December 23, 2008.  (BROTHERS TO BRUTHA is dedicated to the memory of Shakir Stewart).

KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS is executive produced by James DuBose of DuBose Entertainment.  BROTHERS TO BRUTHA is executive produced by DuBose, Donny"Drano" Harrell and Shakir Stewart and co-executive produced by Antonio "LA" Reid and Adriane Hopper.  Reginald Hudlin (former head of Entertainment), and Sitarah Pendelton (current Vice President of Development) are the executives for BET Networks .

Viewers can visit http://www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows for more about KEYSHIA COLE: THE WAY IT IS and BROTHERS TO BRUTHA, including biographies, upcoming episodes and exclusive interviews.

Keytshia Cole

 The Tom Joyner Morning Show(TJMS), the nation’s No. 1 nationally syndicated urban radio show, will bring its listeners unparalleled Election Day coverage through a special radio broadcast and an exclusive Tom Joyner Election Day Blog Party on BlackAmericaWeb.com .  The TJMS will air a historic extended broadcast from 5am CST – 12pm CST today from the Obama Presidential Campaign Headquarters.  Black America is invited to stay with Joyner and the crew all day long through their local affiliate or online at BlackAmericaWeb.com.
 
As always, the Tom Joyner Morning Show plans to deliver unprecedented content throughout Election Day.  Tom Joyner along with co-hosts Sybil Wilkes and J. Anthony Brown will continue broadcasting exclusive continuous coverage LIVE from the heart of Chicago to help drive listeners to the polls, provide complete up-to-the-minute information on the day’s election process, and give 1-866-MYVOTE1 Election Trickery Reports .  TJMS regular contributors including Roland Martin , Ken Smuckler, Jacque Reid , DL Hughley , Rev. Al Sharpton , Sheryl Underwood , and Huggy Lowdown the Celebrity Snitch are al l appearing during the broadcast as well as exclusive interviews with Rev. Jesse Jackson , Donna Brazille , Al Gore , and the man of the hour, presidential hopeful Barack Obama .  The broadcast from today will be available all day on the “If You Missed It” page of BlackAmericaWeb.com. 
 
Additionally, as part of the special evening coverage, Sybil Wilkes will anchor BlackAmericaWeb.com Headlines Election Night Updates offering listener’s real time updates as the polls close across the country.  The reports will be a fusion of the latest return results mingled with timely commentary/reports from well known political pundits and election observers.  The :90 second segments will be available to listeners via their local Tom Joyner Morning Show affiliate.   The special evening coverage begins at 6pm CST with feeds to local TJMS affiliates at the top and bottom of the hour until 10pm CST. 
 
Also, during the evening from 6pm CST until midnight, Joyner will be a featured panelist on TVOne’s special Nov. 4 th broadcast LIVE from Grant Park in Chicago .  Michael Eric Dyson will join Joyner in providing commentary and perspective as well as TJMS’ senior analyst, Roland Martin, who will be reporting live from CNN’s election headquarters in New York .  During the TVOne broadcast Joyner will continue to provide 1-866-MYVOTE1 Election Trickery Reports , making sure that there will be few, if any, voters being systematically disenfranchised.

A community memorial celebration will be held honoring the lives of Darnell Hudson Donerson, Jason Hudson and Julian King on Sunday, November 2nd at the Pleasant Gift Memorial Baptist Church , located at 4526 S. Greenwood in Chicago , IL 60653 .  Th   Hudson family welcomes anyone who wishes to attend and pay their respects to these three beloved members of the Chicago community.  *Jennifer and Julia Hudson will not be in attendance. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 ND. Times 3:00 PM-4:00PM: Private, invitation only service , 4:00 PM-7:00 PM: Open to the public. The location is the PLEASANT GIFT MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH , 4526 S. Greenwood, Chicago , IL 60653

jennifer hudson family memorial service

The small record label which acquired Death Row Records’ assets back in July has learned that Suge Knight and a long-time associate may have hidden a portion of the label’s catalog, to avoid having the items included in the sale.

According to Global Music Group’s attorney, Michael J. Collesano, a woman approached him last weekend, claiming to be the ex-girl of Knight’s associate, Carl "Butch" Small. Collesano said Small helped run Death Row studios and was once listed as one of the label’s principals.

The woman, whose name was only revealed in court documents, said that during the course of their 18-month relationship, Small revealed to her that between 2001 and 2005, he removed a series of master recordings, videos and other property from the Pacific Coast Title Archives in California reports AllHipHop.com.

As a result of the move, those items were not inventoried with the assets purchased by Global Music Group.

The woman revealed many of these items to officials in Detroit, Michigan earlier this month, after she was allegedly attacked by Small on October 1.

The following day, having obtained an order of protection against Small, who she claimed tried to kill her, she was accompanied by Livingston County Sheriff’s Deputy Christopher Schmidt to a storage unity in Burlington, Michigan under her name.

Schmidt proceeded to confiscate several black boxes containing what appear to be certain master recordings and videos.

The woman claims that she may also have additional items in her possession, which she would like to return to their rightful owners.

"Global Music Group of Delaware has arranged financing to acquire the assets and stands ready to acquire the record label once the Trustee identifies the inventory to a certainty," Collesano said. "We cannot see how anyone can bid on the assets with such a cloud surrounding the property being sold. In fact, on September 19, 2008, we submitted a bid that we hope the trustee will consider at this time, but our purchase will require proper due diligence."

Collesano filed a Declaration with the Los Angeles Bankruptcy Court to investigate these new developments.

suge knight

Elev8 Creates New Online Experience Where Spirituality, Life and Culture Collide; Aetna signs on as launch sponsor
Interactive One, LLC the Digital Connection for Black America, and the leading African American online network, announced today the launch of Elev8, the latest in its suite of content sites powered by the BlackPlanet Universe. Elev8 is a personal empowerment website dedicated to uplifting and enriching the lives of African Americans by offering services, tools, information and community.
"The African American community is uniquely affected in areas such as health, education, and wealth; we quickly recognized there was a void online for accessing information specific to these needs and developed Elev8," says Smokey D. Fontaine Chief Content Officer, Interactive One. "The launch of Elev8 is a natural progression in the development of our online network created to super-serve the African American community. We have partnered with some of the most well respected spiritual leaders, life coaches and advisors on health, wellness and wealth building, to bring the community the authentic information they are seeking and unable to find on other sites."
Elev8 addresses the specific needs and concerns of the Black community providing an ever-present resource to help overcome personal challenges, deepen the bonds of family and promote positive and rewarding lifestyles in a one-of-a-kind online experience. Whether its health issues around weight loss, diabetes, drug abuse or cancer; emotional issues around depression, mental illness or self-esteem; societal issues around racism, the economy and education; or issues with our children around education, affordable childcare, and the opportunities for healthy upbringings, Elev8 will listen, inform and connect.
Elev8's esteemed contributors include Dr. Jamal Bryant, Dr. John Guns, Steve Perry, Melanie Clark and Big Corey Fresh to name a few. These featured bloggers will write on a weekly basis about different topics ranging from health and fitness, nutrition, spirituality to children and family, personal finance and relationships, many times answering users questions and concerns. Iyanla Vanzant, inspirational speaker and author, will contribute with a blog called "Tapping the Power Within," based on her best selling book.
"We are excited to offer our partners an opportunity to connect with African Americans online who are actively looking for resources to enrich their lives," said Keith Bowen, Chief Revenue Officer for Interactive One. "With Elev8 we are providing an online resource for anyone looking to better themselves physically or mentally. We are thrilled to be partnering with Aetna, one of the nation's leading diversified health care benefits companies, to make this vision a reality and to provide these services to the African American community."
Elev8 joins the BlackPlanet Universe, the premiere African American social network with over 18 million members. BlackPlanet.com was acquired by Interactive One earlier this year and last week announced the BlackPlanet Universe which unites the social network with its content sites, NewsOne ( www.newsone.com), The Urban Daily ( www.Theurbandaily.com), and HelloBeautiful ( www.hellobeautiful.com).

Filed Under: You're Joking.... Right?

Tavis Smiley is releasing a four-CD collection of his most memorable commentaries made during his four-year run on Tom Joyner's nationally-syndicated radio program.  Released this week from SmileyBooks, "ON AIR: The Best of Tavis Smiley on the Tom Joyner Morning Show 2004–2008" comes with a booklet featuring color photographs that capture the essence of Smiley and the Tom Joyner Morning Show, memorable moments, reflections from well-known fans of the show, and the text of Smiley’s last commentary.  During the commentary for his final show on June 26, 2008, Smiley explained: “My role has been one of challenging us to re-examine the assumptions we hold, helping us to expand our inventory of ideas, and hopefully empowering us with information that can help us live better lives.”

"ON AIR" retails for $23.95. Smiley is currently on a promotional through Walmart stores around the country. Dates and locations are listed below: (NOT, that would be free advertising)

 On October 20, 2008, Radio One, Inc. (the "Company) (NASDAQ: ROIAK and ROIA) received notification (the "Notification") from the NASDAQ Stock Market ("NASDAQ") that for the 30 consecutive business days prior to October 16, 2008, the bid price of the Company's Class D common stock had closed below the minimum $1.00 per share requirement for continued listing under Marketplace Rule 4450

As such, the Company's Class D common stock had become non-compliant with NASDAQ's continued listing requirements. The Notification does not affect the Class A common stock.  In the Notification, NASDAQ noted that the prior several weeks had been marked by unprecedented turmoil in domestic and world financial markets. Given these extraordinary market conditions, NASDAQ determined to suspend enforcement of the bid price and market value of publicly held shares ("MVPHS") requirements for all of its listed companies, including the Company, through Friday, January 16, 2009. Consistent with market conditions and its determination, the Notification included notice that on October 16, 2008, NASDAQ had filed an immediately effective rule change with the Securities and Exchange Commission to suspend its bid price and MVPHS requirements. The Notification noted that NASDAQ will reinstate the bid price and MVPHS rules on Monday, January 19, 2009 and the first relevant trade date under the reinstated rules will be Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Following the reinstatement of the bid price and MVPHS rules, NASDAQ has afforded the Company 180 calendar days from January 20,2009, or until July 20, 2009, to regain compliance with the rules. If, at anytime before July 20, 2009, including during the suspension period, the bid price of the Company's Class D common stock closes at $1.00 per share or more for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days, NASDAQ will provide written notification that the Company has achieved compliance with the Rule. If the Company does not regain compliance with the Rule by July 20, 2009, NASDAQ will provide written notification that the Company's Class D common stock will be delisted. At that time, the Company may appeal NASDAQ's determination to delist the Company's Class D common stock to a Listing Qualifications Panel. Alternatively, the Company may apply to transfer its Class D common stock to the NASDAQ Capital Market. If its application is approved, NASDAQ will afford the Company a second 180 calendar day compliance period in order to regain compliance while on the NASDAQ Capital Market. Radio One, Inc. ( www.radio-one.com ) is one of the nation's largest radio broadcasting companies and the largest radio broadcasting company that primarily targets African-American and urban listeners. Radio One, Inc. owns and/or operates 52 radio stations located in 16 urban markets in the United States. Additionally, Radio One owns Interactive One, LLC interests in TV One, LLC ( www.tvoneonline.com ), a cable/satellite network programming primarily to African-Americans, Reach Media, Inc. ( www.blackamericaweb.com ), owner of the Tom Joyner Morning Show and other businesses associated with Tom Joyner, and Community Connect Inc., an online social-networking company, which operates a number of branded websites, including BlackPlanet, MiGente and AsianAvenue. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements represent management's current expectations and are based upon information available to Radio One at the time of this release. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Radio One's control, that may cause the actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Radio One does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush had surgery on his left knee and it's unclear when he will be back with the team (or now with Kim Kardashian). (Sources say Kim Kardashian was immediately on the look out for a new athlete that she could continue to use financially in the waiting room of the hospital...). OK was it just me or did anyone else notice what Kim did in that Ray J porn vid when he said "I'm cumin'"?

Bush was injured on a punt return in the first half of Sunday's 30-7 loss to the Carolina Panthers, and had the operation Monday in Birmingham, Ala., (Kardashian was at his bedside, going through his wallet to see if there were possibly any balances remaining on his credit cards.) Saints spokesman Greg Bensel said Tuesday in an e-mail to the Associated Press. Instead of accompanying his teammates on the trip to London to face the San Diego Chargers on Sunday at Wembley Stadium, Bush instead visited Dr. James Andrews, reports the Assoicated Press. "He has been a big part of what we have been able to do offensively and it's an injury that we have to deal with," Saints coach Sean Payton said shortly after the team arrived Monday. "Hopefully on a short-term basis rather than a long-term basis, and it sounds like that's the case."

Bush sustained cartilage damage, and some athletes have missed several months because of surgery to repair similar injuries. "From a timing standpoint, it falls with this game and then a bye weekend, so there is a little bit of time there for him as it pertains to his recovery," Payton said. "We'll have to make some adjustments offensively."

A male Beyonce' Knowles fan has been arrested in Connecticut for reckless driving after alleging he was on his way to a romantic liaison with the married R&B superstar.

Thirty-three year old Robert Williams Jr., from Michigan, was taken into custody in Milford on Sunday, October 19 after almost smashing into a police car. Officers claim he stopped to ask police for directions to Detroit, Michigan before driving off, narrowly missing the cop car and driving over a sidewalk (OK I have to confess this part is some funny shit). Williams, who had flowers and a teddy bear in the car, is also alleged to have asked the cops if they would escort him to New York City, where he claimed the "Crazy In Love" singer had agreed to meet him at the George Washington Bridge, according to ContactMusic.com (Brilliant idea, wonder if the police were suspicious after THAT!)

Knowles, who is married to rapper Jay-Z, was not contacted by police and officers added Williams had not made any threatening remarks about the singer. The man was arrested and charged with erratic driving, speeding and other traffic offences, and was taken to a local hospital for a mental evaluation. He is due to appear in Milford Superior Court on November 4.

beyonce

DONE DEAL - International singer/songwriter Taleen (seated) signs contract with FoxxKing Entertainment. Pictured with Taleen are (from left to right): Bug Music CEO John Rudolph, FoxxKing Entertainment owner Jamie Foxx, FoxxKing Entertainment Senior VP, Music Development and Production LaRonda Sutton, FoxxKing Entertainment owner Marcus King, Taleen's mangaer Sylva and attorney H. Kalbian, Esq. of Kalbian Hagerty, LLP. Photo credit: Malcolm Ali Los Angeles, CA - With a fan-base that extends from the U.S. to Dubai, the international recording artist Taleen has an impressive resume, which now includes the title of songwriter. FoxxKing Entertainment, a multi-media production and management company, signed Taleen, 20, as a writer to create original music content for its growing roster of recording artists. A native of the Virginia area, Taleen began her singing career with the Washington Opera, at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, performing in six operas.. At 11, she sang the national anthem before a Washington Wizards game and at age 12, performed the "Ave Maria" a cappella for Pope John Paul II, during his historic Papal visit in Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Before turning 13, she belted out "The Star-Spangled Banner" at a Washington Redskins game at FedEx Field. By age 16, Taleen's interests turned to more mainstream music. She was the first and youngest American artist to be invited to Abu Dhabi to perform as the headliner which resulted in a lecture tour at local universities, as well as radio and television appearances in Dubai. In addition to writing for FoxxKing, Taleen is working on her solo recording project, which blends her unique style of pop and R&B sensibilities with lyrics, and therefore a message which gives voice to those of her generation from a global perspective. Taleen will be the opening act for Christina Aquilera on October 24th at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. In 2007, Foxx King Entertainment and publishing house Bug Music established a joint venture to develop and nurture new songwriters and recording artists. The partnership capitalizes on FoxxKing's multi-media projects and the global presence of Bug Music. The deal was engineered by LaRonda Sutton, senior vp of music development and production for FoxxKing, and John Rudolph, CEO of Bug Music.

jamie foxx

Suge Knight's presumably ex-girlfriend, Melissa Isaac, who he
allegedly kicked and punched and left naked on the side of the road in
Vegas, is missing.



Several weeks ago, Isaac was discovered completely nude in the
street with the Death Row Records boss still attacking her after
allegedly arguing with her as they rode in Knight’s car, police
say.



TMZ reported that the Las Vegas PD went to re-interview the victim,
but there was no one of that name living in the apartment building
where she claimed to live. Authorities said that folks at the
residence reportedly claim she never lived there.



Isaac was to testify against Knight, however, the bad news for Suge
is that prosecutors don’t necessarily need Isaac’s
testimony to prosecute him for the attack. Even if she doesn't show up,
the D.A. can still proceed with the case.

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell officially announced his endorsement of Barack Obama in the race for the White House. Powell, whose support for the Illinois senator as long been assumed, makes his Presidential pick at a particularly opportune time for the Obama campaign - 16 days before the election.

"I think he is a transformational figure, he is a new generation coming onto the world stage, onto the American stage, and for that reason I'll be voting for Sen. Barack Obama," Powell said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

The retired U.S. general, who was the first African American to Chair of the Joint Chiefs of staff and also the first to serve as Secretary of State, was once viewed as potentially being the first black president in the United States.

Powell - a republican - stated that he has respect for Obama's opponent, John McCain, but felt that the Arizona senator was unsteady in his reaction to financial crisis triggered by the recent Wall Street meltdown - an event he called the "final exam" for the candidates.

"Obama displayed a steadiness, an intellectual curiosity, a depth of knowledge," Powell said. "He has met the standard of being a successful president, being an exceptional president," he continued.

The endorsement comes as yet another score in a very succesful weekend for the Obama campaign. The Democratic candidate drew an estimated 100,000 people to a St. Louis, Missouri rally yesterday. Then this morning his campaign announced that it had raised a whopping $150 million in the month of September, reports the Washington Post (the capital-city staple also officially announced an endorsement of Obama last week).

Powell shot down rumors last August that he'd be appearing at the Democratic National Convention to publicly back Obama. At the time, sources said the former general had not yet made his choice between the Republican and the Democrat.

"I will ultimately vote for the person I believe brings to the American people the kind of vision the American people want to see for the next four years," he said. "A vision that reaches out to the rest of the world, that starts to restore confidence in America, that starts to restore favorable ratings to America. Frankly, we've lost a lot in recent years."

colin powell, barack obama

Emimem's return to hip-hop is now official. After months of rumors, the Oscar-winning MC announced the title of his sixth album, "Relapse," Thursday night (October 15) during an on-air radio launch party for his book "The Way I Am." Eminem also introduced a new track, "I'm Having a Relapse." "There's a lot of album titles floating around that are fake albums titles," Eminem told Shade 45 hosts DJ Kayslay and Angela Yee on Sirius Satellite Radio. No release date has been confirmed, but the album is rumored to hit shelves before year's end. Eminem's last release, 2005's "Curtain Call: The Hits," has sold 2.9 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. His last studio album was the previous year's "Encore," with sales of 5.1 million copies. Representatives for Eminem's label, Interscope, were unavailable for comment.

eminem

The advent on instant online content has literally taken commercial media by storm. Now viewers can get news online in an instant without the usual filters, racist profiling or slants in just about any format...CNN must be concerned as they are the latest entrant into the TV comedy business is ... CNN?The news network announced Wednesday that it's starting a show with comedian D.L. Hughley. Tentatively titled "D.L. Hughley Breaks the News," it will air live at 10 p.m. Saturdays and replay 24 hours later.The show will debut Oct. 25.Hughley describes it as a news-oriented talk show — more like David Letterman's and Jay Leno's program than Jon Stewart's. It will air before a live audience from CNN's New York studio.Jon Klein, CNN U.S. president, said he took note of Hughley when the comic made an appearance on Glenn Beck's CNN Headline News show last year. Hughley, one of the four "Original Kings of Comedy," had a four-year run as the star of his own ABC sitcom and his own late-night show for Comedy Central.Hughley was shopping his prospective one-hour show to two other networks when Klein called his agent to express interest."My agent called to say, `What do you think about CNN?' and I said I'm not a newscaster," Hughley said.But the more he thought about it, the more it seemed to make sense.Comedy on news networks — planned comedy, that is — is unusual but not unprecedented. Fox News Channel aired the "Half Hour News Hour," but production stopped in 2007. CNN International, seen outside of the United States, airs reruns of Comedy Central's "The Daily Show.""The audience that gets so much of its news from comedians these days clearly has no problem with that," Klein said.Klein said CNN drew a record high audience for cable television among the youthful 18-to-49-year-old audience during the second presidential debate, so the network wants to keep those young viewers engaged. News viewership tends to skew old, an audience less valuable to advertisers.As for setting limits on Hughley, Klein said, "Anything goes.""It's as if we're shutting off the lights at the end of the day and letting him run amok," he said.TV veteran Mitch Semel is the executive producer. Semel was the first head of programming at Comedy Central, started "Politically Incorrect" with Bill Maher and was a CBS late-night programming executive.Hughley already has a road trip planned, to interview participants at a Sarah Palin rally in North Carolina."It's a black guy and a Jewish producer, so we will stand out like `Mississippi Burning,'" he said.

john mccain, barack obama

BET'S AMERICAN GANGSTER SERIES "CAN'T STOP WON'T STOP" - Director Billy Wright ("Dead Homiez") acts as consulting producer for a special segment of BET's "American Gangster" series, dedicated to the legend of "Monster" Kody Scott ( aka Sanyika Shakur ) when the series returns for a third season run this October 23. Wright is currently in post production and preparing to release his independent film, "Can't Stop, Won't Stop" (www.cantstopwontstopthemovie.com/) a movie, narrated by the now incarcerated Monster Kody and based on the best selling book, Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member. "This has been a landmark year for my friend and homie. In addition to our film, Grove/Atlantic, Inc. is re-releasing his first book, Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member and they also just recently released his new novel, "Thug Life" reveals Wright. Pictured from left to right: Billy Wright, consulting producer, Monster Kody episode of "American Gangster"; Mark Rowland, supervising producer, "American Gangster" ; Mio Kim, associate producer, "American Gangster" ; seated, P. Frank Williams, producer, "American Gangster."

Station distributes ‘101.9 RXP Rockconomy Stimulus Packages' in Financial District New York rock station 101.9 RXP “The New York Rock Experience” is doing their part to help out on Wall Street and stimulate the Rockconomy by distributing 101.9 RXP Rockconomy Stimulus Packages in the financial district. All week 101.9 RXP gave 101.9 RXP Rockconomy Stimulus Packages to Wall Street executives as they exited the market floor. Each package was filled with relief items including a pair of local rock concert tickets, free massages, stress balls, Tylenol and station merchandise. The relief effort was part of 101.9 RXP’s on air “Rockconomy” stimulus effort providing financially strapped rock fans in the tri-state a month of free tickets every hour including “1000 Rock concert tickets in 31 days”. For more info on how 101.9 RXP is helping to stimulate the Rockconomy visit www.1019RXP.com.

EU scientists sounded the alarm yesterday about the dangers of using digital music players, warning that listening to them too long and at too high a volume can cause permanent hearing loss. They found that 5-10% of those who listen to MP3 players for more than an hour a day weekly at a high volumes risk permanent hearing loss. They study says that 184 tp 246 million portable audio devices had been sold over the last years, including 124-165 million MP3 players. That means that between 2.5 million and 10 million people are at risk. The panel found that people who listen for only 5 hours a week with a volume above 89 decibels... would exceed the current limits in place for noise allowed in the workplace. Users listening for longer periods risk permanent hearing loss after five years, according to their findings. EU rules already restrict noise levels from such MP3s to 100 decibels, but the European Commission said that there was growing concern about excessive exposure to such devices, especially among youths.

Howard Stern, the self-proclaimed King of All Media, has lost his crown.The shock jock's syndicated morning radio show once drew a national audience of 12 million, but since jumping to satellite radio three years ago, his listeners have dwindled to a fraction of that. Where once Stern routinely commanded a parade of Hollywood's hottest stars -- George Clooney, Johnny Depp, Julia Roberts -- today publicists are left to tout studio appearances by the likes of Chevy Chase, Joan Rivers or Hulk Hogan. [read the whole story here]

So far this year Stanford’s Fair Use Project has taken on an author and the estate of a beloved musician. Now they’re going after a talk show host. With the copyright battle between Premise Media, Yoko Ono and EMI just recently extinguished, the Fair Use Project is back at it. On Friday, with the help of Bingham McCutchen, the Fair Use Project’s Tony Falzone, representing Brave New Films, filed a suit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against talk radio host Michael Savage and Talk Radio Network. [read the whole story here]

micheal savage

It's obvious the African-American male posing as Bristol Palin's baby's father on multiple Internet videos were fake. The real dad, Levi Johnston, who's having a baby with Gov. Sarah Palin's daughter, speaks out in an exclusive interview with the Associated Press, and can't believe all the things he's hearing. No, he wasn't held against his will on the campaign trail. No, he's not being forced into a shotgun wedding with 17-year-old Bristol Palin. "None of that's true," Johnston, 18, said in a rare interview with The Associated Press. "We both love each other. We both want to marry each other. And that's what we are going to do." Standing in the driveway of his family home in this small Alaska town, Johnston spoke about the rumors swirling around him. The soft-spoken teenager discussed his relationship with Palin and how life has changed with fatherhood fast approaching. He agreed to talk despite the presidential campaign's advice in the days following Gov. Sarah Palin's nomination to avoid the media. "They're not telling me anything right now," Johnston said as he checked his Blackberry. "It's pretty chill." Not surprisingly, Johnston was a little shocked when he learned about Bristol's pregnancy, but he says he quickly embraced the prospects of fatherhood. Johnston hinted he's expecting a boy, but he declined to discuss baby names. The baby is due Dec. 18. Johnston has dropped out of high school to take a job on the North Slope oil fields as an apprentice electrician. "I'm looking forward to having him," he said. "I'm going to take him hunting and fishing. He'll be everywhere with me." Johnston, a Wasilla heartthrob, said he wanted to set the record straight. For starters, he said his much-maligned MySpace page was a joke - the one that claimed he said: "I'm a ... redneck," and "I don't want kids." Johnston said his friends created the page a few years ago and he had nothing to do with it. Johnston said he has dated Palin since his freshman year in high school. "We were planning on getting married a long time ago with or without the kid," he said. "That was the plan from the start." While Johnston provided few details about next summer's wedding, the planning has started: A cousin will likely be his best man, and he has asked two hockey buddies, Ben Barber and Dane Wilson, to be groomsmen. Johnston said he wasn't forced to campaign with Palin's mother. Bristol Palin invited him and Johnston jumped at the chance. It was a whirlwind experience for Johnston, who was seated with the Palins at the Republican National Convention. "At first, I was nervous," he said. "Then I was like, 'Whatever.'" While his friends say he is a celebrity now, Johnston said it hasn't changed him. "I'm still the same old boy," said Johnston. "I'm just a workin' man." And now he's also about to become a family man. "We're up for it. I'm excited to have my first kid. It's going to be a lot of hard work but we can handle it." Wasilla hockey coach Bill Sturdevant, who was invited to the wedding, said he was sorry to hear Johnston wasn't going to return for his senior year of high school. But he said he believes Johnston, a talented hockey player, will find his way. "He's a tough kid," Sturdevant said. "He's taking everything in stride." Johnston spoke on politics, stating, he wasn't an expert on politics by any stretch. Asked about Barack Obama, he replied: "I don't know anything about him. He seems like a good guy. I like him." But Johnston is still rooting for John McCain and Sarah Palin. "I just hope she wins," he said. "She's my future mother-in-law. She better win.

bristol palin

The latest Gallup Poll, one of the most reliable pollsters in the United States, provides further proof that Joe Biden and Barack Obama have already won the election. The latest poll has Obama up by 11 percent, a 52-41 percent lead. The main reason for Obama’s success is the economic crisis. 59% of voters believe he is more competent to deal with the crisis than the Republican nominee, John McCain. McCain’s main advantage left is foreign policy, but he’s losing ground on that subject as well. Increasingly more Americans believe that Obama too will be able to deal with the country’s enemies and friends in an effective manner, while protecting U.S. interests. It marks the largest lead for Obama ever. Obama’s lead is unlikely to decrease by much in the coming weeks, as reported by PoliGazette.com. It is likely that we will see a change in Obama in the coming days, if other polls show the same results. He will undoubtedly start behaving more like someone who has already won, someone who is America’s president. This will probably increase his appeal for a lot of people. Because, the more people believe it’s over, the more likely it is that McCain will lose in a landslide.

obama

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has vetoed the "Donda West bill," which was aimed at helping to prevent plastic-surgery-related deaths, after a three-month delay due to budget contstraints on Sunday. The bill, prompted by the November death of Kanye West's mother, Dr. Donda West, failed to make it past the governor because of the backlog in California. Donda, 58, died a day after undergoing a breast reduction and liposuction surgery. With this summer's historic 80-day delay in passing the state budget, Schwarzenegger said he had time to enact only the top-priority legislation. "This bill does not meet that standard, and I cannot sign it at this time," read the veto message, one of dozens Schwarzenegger issued Sunday, according to the Los Angeles Times. An autopsy found that Dr. West had previous health problems, including high blood pressure and cardiac artery blockage. The cosmetic-surgery bill, AB 2968, received almost unanimous support in the legislature, and would have required people to undergo a physical examination, give a complete medical history and get a doctor's clearance before undergoing plastic surgery, reports LA Times. Democratic California Assemblywoman Wilmer Amina Carter proposed the bill, along with Kanye's cousin Yolanda Anderson, following Donda's death. The surgeon who performed her surgeries, Dr. Jan Adams said at the time that nothing had gone wrong during the procedures. Earlier this year, the California state medical board reportedly revoked Adams' medical license due to his two alcohol-related arrests in recent years and his failure to pay child support.

kanye west

Check Kendra G Out!!

NBC 10- ABSTINENCE IS
KOOL -VIDEO

http://www.nbc10.com/video/17680235/index.html

ALL HIP HOP.COM
Kendra G “ABSTINENCE IS KOOL”

http://www.allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2008/10/09/20567852.aspx

Philadelphia
Weekly:

http://www.philadelphiaweekly.com/articles/17768/news

Raptress Lil' Kim has been hit with a $2.5 million dollar lawsuit, amidst claims she tried to exit her contract with a fledgling entertainment company, before delivering all the recordings the contract requires. Brookland Media, which was launched by famed Hip-Hop producers The Trackmasters (Tone and Poke), filed the lawsuit in Manhattan's Supreme Court on Tuesday. Lil' Kim's lawyer, Londell McMillan, says Brookland sued "to leverage their own position" in the contract dispute. The lawsuit accuses Lil' Kim of breaching a one-year contractual agreement by demanding a more lucrative deal. According to the lawsuit, Kim refused to perform unless Brookland agrees to a number of requests, including demands to have Wyclef and Akon added as producers. In addition to withholding a $200,000 payment to fully free Kim from her contract with Atlantic Records, Brookland won an injunction, temporarily preventing Lil' Kim from negotiating with other record labels, as reported by AllHipHop.com. Brookland also claims it invested another $250,000 dollars towards the album and Lil' Kim's career. Brookland Media is being represented by attorney, Jonathan Davis.

Lil Kim

You have to give this man a lot of credit with the likes of Sidney, Oprah, Cicely, Will Smith and others there, he has indeed acomplished an incredible feat...

Tyler Perry

Fan Votes Give Eminem Victory Over Jay-Z as the People’s Choice for Best Rapper in the Game –

VIBE has today announced Eminem as the winner of the Best Rapper Alive competition. The Detroit native beat out New York’s rap king Jay-Z in the Final Round with 69 percent of the votes, crowning him as the people’s choice for the true king of hip hop. The results of the contest are detailed in VIBE’s November 2008 issue hitting newsstands October 21st. "It’s obviously an honor to have won the fans' support by being voted the Best Rapper Alive,” says Eminem in response to his victory. “I don't think that there is any one rapper that is simply the best though. Everyone who was in consideration and many others are the best at certain things, and at what they do. But since Vibe's offering the distinction, hell yeah I'll accept!" The Best Rapper Alive competition gave VIBE readers the opportunity to decide who’s the best rapper in the game. This interactive, NCAA-style tournament pit the top 64 MCs recording today against each other in a head-to-head battle. Artists such as Lil Wayne, The Game, Nas, Kanye West, Rick Ross, and others competed against one another in the five-week tournament. The winners of each match-up were determined by fan votes on VIBE.com. More than 920,000 votes were cast since the contest began on July 21, 2008. VIBE readers could also cast their vote by mailing-in brackets provided in the August 2008 REAL RAP ISSUE. More than 500 brackets were submitted with the winner filling out the entire bracket correctly having a chance to win a free “Best Rapper Alive” engraved iPod, courtesy of Apple. For more information, visit www.vibe.com.

eminem