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Friday, July 31, 2009

Eminem Mariah Carey Diss Track “The Warning”

Since his return , Emimen's comeback has been a bit lack luster...that was until Mariah Carey released "Obsessed", the song that may or may not have dealt with the brief relationship that Ms. Carey may or may not have had with Marshall Mathers.

In his response to the track, Detroit's finest rapper returns to battling roots with the brilliant, but harsh "The Warning" , where Em lyrically dicesMariah and her husband Nick Canon to shreds.

Although it remains to be seen if Em is back to his Slim Shady ways,"The Warning" is a remind us how lyrically gift Marshall Mathers still is.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Stephon Marbury Crying (Official Video)

This is soooo wrong, I don't know what to say. Why Steph? Why are you letting the world see you cry through "Lean On Me" by Kirk Franklin on your laptop? Somebody might need a little T-H-E-R-A-P-Y.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Video: Amerie, 'Why R U' -- New Video

I'm reeeeeally digging this song by Amerie.

Sounding like she did when she debuted with "Why Don't We Fall In Love" in 2002, Amerie's "Why R U" (which samples Ultramagnetic MCs' 'Ego Trippin') sounds like a lost track Mary J. Blige's My Life in the mid 90's

Although Amerie doesn't have Mary's pipes, the song just makes you feel good

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Shinedown - Second Chance - Official Music Video

Although this song by hard rocking crew grunge inspired crew from has been out for a long time, it has one of the best lyrics in recent memory:

"Sometimes Goodbye is a Second Chance", beccasue it's true.

Friday, July 24, 2009

First Trailer for Denzel Washington's 'The Book of Eli'

Video: Johnny Depp & Twilight Cast Causes A Stir @ Comic Con 2009

Comic Con attendees got two for the price for one as Johnny Depp and nearly the entire cast of Twilight showed up to promote their latest flicks.

While promoting his latest film "Alice in Wonderland", Tim Burton brought out his long time a friend and film's "Mad Hatter" Depp to the unsuspecting crowd.

Not to be outdone, Twilighters Taylor Lautner, Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson were on hand to the delight of many to offer a sneak peek their next movie "New Moon" opening on November 20






New York Times Best Selling Author E. Lynn Harris Passes Away

Author E. Lynn Harris died during a west book tour today, he was 54 years old.

A few months ago, I saw Mr. Harris speak at the Akron Public Library.

I never read any of his books, but I knew of him from college friends who were religious fans of his work, plus as a fellow author, I wanted to show some support and learn a few literary tricks.

Prior to his appearance, Harris said that he wasn't in the best of moods, but the warm reception he received from the mostly female audience, made him forget about his problems and treasure is time in the former "Rubber Capital of the World".

During his talk, the openly gay father of one son, told the story how he left a good job, yet unfulfilled job at IBM to write his first novel, "Invisible Life".

When he could not find a publisher, Harris published the book himself.

The book's success which led to string books that dealt with relationships and sexuality including "Just As I Am" , "And This Too Shall Pass", "If This World Were Mine", "I Say A Little Prayer", "Just Too Good To Be True" among others, all published by Doubleday.

Before leaving Akron, Harris read passages from his still unfinished book "Basketball Jones", which revisited some of his former characters, (a Harris staple).

As he exited the stage, Harris told the audience that Akron would be on his next book tour when "Basketball Jones" would be released.

Sadly, this will never happen.

However much like Michael Jackson, E. Lynn Harris literary works will live on forever.

Sean Paul Performs So Fine and Temperature Live on Good Morning America (GMA)

It's a been a awhile since Sean Paul graced the US with his Hip Hop inspired Ragga- Muffin style.

The rasta man brought his reggae vibes to Good Morning America to the delight of many island loving music fans.




Thursday, July 23, 2009

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Sneak Peek: Kanye West Live in Chicago Debuts On Fuse July 25th @ 8PM

Kanye West | Good Life Live Performance Chicago Theatre '09

Video: Jordan Crawford Dunking On Lebron James

Here's the ballyhooed video of King James getting dunked on by Xavier's Crawford during a pick-up game at the LeBron James Skills Academy in Akron, Ohio.

Although the quality is pretty decent, I don't know why either Nike or Lebron made a big deal out of nothing, everybody gets dunked on or crossed over by somebody, that's just the game of basketball

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

A Message From Chris Brown (Video)

Yesterday, Pop/R&B star Chris Brown apologized to his fans for assaulting his former girlfriend Rihanna. Brown plead guilty to the charge and will be sentenced to 180 days of community service for the February 8th incident.

Welcome to step of the rehabilitation of Chris Brown.


Usually it takes about five scandal free years for a celebrity to fully find their way back into the grace graces of the public.

Given Brown's youth and his young fan base, his rehabilitation might come sooner than later; but from now and most of 2010, Chris Brown will be on long road back to respectability


Monday, July 20, 2009

Beastie Boy's Adam Yauch Announces He Has Cancer (Video)

A few years ago, MTV had a discussion of the greatest acts in Hip Hop history and The Beastie Boys were knocked out of the top ten because they were "hot on streets" anymore.

Its been decades since, The Rolling Stones were "hot on the streets" but they are still regarded as one of the best bands of all time.

Hip Hop is a very fleeting industry where youth is king.

Where if were a top performer in the 80s and sometimes the 90s, you are regarded as irrevelant. The Besatie Boys are far from irrelevant, they are musical icons.

Prior to Outkast and kanye West, the Beasties were the ones pushing the musically envelope to expand not only Hip Hop's growth, but their own.

The announcement of Adam Yauch having Cancer is mind boggling. I grew up listening to the Beasties, Public Enemy, Jazzy & The Fresh Prince, etc.

To hear that one of these artists facing a life threatening disease, makes one wonder about your own mortality or better yet what we need to do make our lives more productive.

Adam Yauch should beat his Cancer many other who also people out there you has Cancer, Lupus, AIDS, Sickle Cell etc.

Take the time to donate money to find cures for diseases like Cancer or AIDS, volunteer at a hospital to help patients in need or better yet, write to your congressperson to find out what needs to be done to get universal health care.

That is something that Adam Yauch and Beastie Boys would do and we should follow their lead

Good luck Adam.

Friday, July 17, 2009

New Video: Obsessed-Mariah Carey

Produced by produced by The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, Mariah's "Obsessed" has been rumored to be about Eminem, but the director insists the track is not about the Detroit rapper. "I guess, it's a good rumor" says the video's director Brett Ratner of Rush Hour and X-Men fame.

Mariah Carey's latest album "Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel" will be released August 25th, 2009. Check Obsessed remix with Gucci Man HERE



Obsessed-Mariah Carey @ Yahoo! Video

Michael Jackson - A Place with No Name-Snippet

A Place With No name is a lost track from Michael Jackson's Invincible album from 2000.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Emmy Nominations 2009: 30 Rock Receives 22 nods, True Blood Snubbed

The 2009 Emmy nominations was announced today and NBC's 30 Rock led the way with a record setting 22 nominations, (AMC's Mad Men follow with 16 nods).

Not to knock 30 Rock, but 22 nominations?!?
That's a lot for a show that is humorous, but far from a ratings juggernaut like The Cosby Show, Seinfeld and Friends.

Other nominations include Fox's animation hit The Family Guy receiving a nod for Best Comedy, while Lost, Breaking Bad, Dexter, Damages, House and Mad Men will be duking it for the very competitive Outstanding Drama Series category.

This year's biggest subs Scrubs for Outstanding Comedy and HBO's True Blood which was completely left out of Emmy consideration.

Just like with Buffy The Vampire and Angel before it, the Emmy folks for some reason does not like well written vampire shows.

Maybe if Tina Fey was playing True Blood's Sookie than the engaging Ana Paquin, then the show probably would have received got 30 nominations.

Here are the rest of the nominees:



Outstanding Comedy Series
ENTOURAGE
FAMILY GUY
FLIGHT OF THE CONCORDS
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
THE OFFICE
30 ROCK
WEEDS

Outstanding Drama Series
BIG LOVE
BREAKING BAD
DAMAGES
DEXTER
HOUSE
LOST
MAD MEN


Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama
Brian Cranston, BREAKING BAD
Gabriel Byrne, IN TREATMENT
Michael C Hall, DEXTER
Hugh Laurie, HOUSE
John Hamm, MAD MEN
Simon Baker, THE MENTALIST

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama
Kyra Sedgwick, THE CLOSER
Glenn Close, DAMAGES
Mariska Hargitay, LAW & ORDER: SVU
Elisabeth Moss, MAD MEN
Sally Field. BROTHERS & SISTERS
Holly Hunter

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy
Jemaine Clement, FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS
Steve Carell, THE OFFICE
Alec Baldwin, 30 ROCK
Jim Parsons, BIG BANG THEORY
Tony Shaloub, MONK
Charlie Sheen, TWO AND A HALF MEN

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy
Christina Applegate, SAMANTHA WHO
Toni Collette, UNITED STATES OF TARA
Tina Fey, 30 ROCK
Julia Louise-Dreyfus, NEW ADVENTURES…
Mary Louise Parker, WEEDS
Sarah Silverman, THE SARAH SILVERMAN SHOW

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama
Cherry Jones, 24
Rose Byrne, DAMAGES
Sandra Oh, GREY’S ANATOMY
Chandra Wilson, GREY’S ANATOMY
Dianne Wiest, IN TREATMENT

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama
Christian Clemenson, BOSTON LEGAL
Michael Emerson, LOST
William Hurt, DAMAGES
Aaron Paul, BREAKING BAD
William Shatner, BOSTON LEGAL
John Slattery, MAD MEN

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy
Kristin Chenoweth, PUSHING DAISIES
Jane Krakowski, 30 ROCK
Elizabeth Perkins, WEEDS
Amy Poehler, SNL
Kristin Wiig, SNL
Vanessa Williams, UGLY BETTY

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy
Jon Cryer, TWO AND A HALF MEN
Kevin Dillon, ENTOURAGE
Tracy Morgan, 30 ROCK
Jack McBrayer, 30 ROCK
Neil Patrick Harris, HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series
Jennifer Aniston, 30 ROCK
Elaine Stritch, 30 ROCK
Betty White, UGLY BETTY
Tina Fey, SNL
Christine Baranski, THE BIG BANG THEORY

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
Alan Alda, 30 ROCK
Beau Bridges, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES
Jon Hamm, 30 ROCK
Steve Martin, 30 ROCK
Justin Timberlake, SNL

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Sharon Lawrence, GREY’S ANATOMY
Ellen Burstyn, LAW & ORDER: SVU
Brenda Blethyn, LAW & ORDER: SVU
Carol Burnett, LAW & ORDER: SVU
CCH Pounder, THE NO. 1 LADIES’ DETECTIVE AGENCY

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Edward Asner, CSI NY
Ernest Borgnine, ER
Ted Danson, DAMAGES
Michael J. Fox, RESCUE ME
Jimmy Smits, DEXTER

Outstanding Reality Competition
THE AMAZING RACE
AMERICAN IDOL
DANCING WITH THE STARS
PROJECT RUNWAY
TOP CHEF

Outstanding Host for a Reality Competition Program
Tom Bergeron, DANCING WITH THE STARS
Phil Keoghan ,THE AMAZING RACE
Heidi Klum, PROJECT RUNWAY
Padma Lakshmi, Tom Colicchio, TOP CHEF
Jeff Probst, SURVIVOR
Ryan Seacrest, AMERICAN IDOL

Outstanding Reality Program
ANTIQUES ROADSHOW
DIRTY JOBS
DOG WHISPERER
INTERVENTION
KATHY GRIFFIN: MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST
MYTHBUSTERS

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie
Kevin Bacon, TAKING CHANCES
Kenneth Branagh, WALLANDER: ONE STEP BEHIND
Brendan Gleeson, INTO THE STORM
Kevin Kline, CYRANO DE BERGERAC
Sir Ian McKellen, KING LEAR
Kiefer Sutherland, 24: REDEMPTION

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie
Drew Barrymore, GREY GARDENS
Jessica Lange, GREY GARDENS
Shirley MacLaine, COCO CHANEL
Sigourney Weaver, PRAYERS FOR BOBBY
Chandra Wilson, ACCIDENTAL FRIENDSHIP

Outstanding Animated Program
AMERICAN DAD
ROBOT CHICKEN
SOUTH PARK
THE SIMPSONS

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Still The King! Michael Jackson Dominates The Charts For a Third Week

Over the past week, some critics have taken offense that has been called Michael Jackson the greatest entertainer of all-time.

Well, selling 1.1 million copies should shut some of them up for awhile.

During the week of his memorial, Michael Jackson's catalog continues sell big.

Since his death the "King of Pop" has sold 2.3 million copies.
The Number Ones collection is # 1 on Billboard's Top Pop Catalog Albums chart with 349,000 copies sold, followed by Thriller at #2 with of sales of 264,000, (an increase of 41 percent).

The Essential Michael Jackson is #3 with 149,000 (up 18 percent) followed by Off the Wall at 107,000 copies (a 108 percent jump). Bad was #5 (97,000, up 332 percent), followed by Dangerous (67,000, up 157 percent) and the Jackson 5's Ultimate Collection at #7 (34,000, up 239 percent).

The Jackson 5 Millennium Collection is at #8 (17,000, up 280 percent), followed by Vol. 1 — Greatest Hits HIStory at #9 (15,000, up 98 percent) and HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book 1 at #10 (14,000, up 153 percent).

Even his last studio album Invincible sold 14,000 (up 61%). This from an album that was panned by critics and ignored by Pop radio, but has remained a favorite on adult R&B radio for years.

On the downloads front Jackson also has 17 songs on the Hot Digital Tracks chart, led by "Man in The Mirror" at #3 with 130,00 copies sold. Billboard reports that Jackson sold 2.5 million digital tracks in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand over the past week

Sales will no doubt slow down as the weeks go by, but the mere fact Michael Jackson has sold this amount albums in this short of time proves that he still had a lot of fans in America.

Too bad it took his death to make people realized how much they loved him and his music.


(Source MTV.com)

Video: The 1984 Pepsi Commercial Fire-The Day Michael Jackson's Pill Addiction Began


I remember when Michael Jackson's hair caught on fire during the filming of The Jackson's Pepsi ad back in 1984.


The event was big deal and there were even rumors flying that Michael Jackson died. Of course he didn't die as Jackson continued to make tour and make songs.

But what fans didn't know was that MJ's scalp was burned so bad that he started taking prescription drugs, which allegedly led to his addiction to prescription meds.

On US Weekly Magazine's website there is new never before seen footage of the fire. During the video, you not only get to see how much fire engulfed Jackson hair, but also how bad Jackson's scalp was burned in the process.


Although the fire was put out quickly, those chain of events would change Michael Jackson's life forever.

Ouch! NBA Baller Richard Jefferson calls Off Wedding Two Hours Before The Event

Here's a tip fellas, if you feel uneasy about marrying someone, make sure you cancel the wedding before the guests arrive.

According to the New York Post, former New Jersey Net and current Dallas Maverick Richard Jefferson was set to marry former New Jersey Net dancer Kesha Ni'Cole Nichols, but last week he got a case of cold feet.

However, Jefferson allegedly waited until two hours before the actual wedding day to call it off, by then guests were already trickling in for the 2 million dollar spectacle. This is not a good look bruh.

If you don't want to marry someone that's cool, but at least tell the guests.

Now who is going to take the pair of those his and her matching Snuggies?

He's Alive! Dave Chappelle perfroms @ Pioneer Square in Portland

What does Big Foot, The Loch Ness Monster, Sly Stone, Lauryn Hill and a Yeti have a common with Dave Chappelle?

That's right no one has seen them.

However, the ever elusive Chappelle popped up for free impromptu show at Pioneer Square in Portland, Oregon Wednesday morning at midnight.

Thousands of people came to hear the ground breaking comedian, unfortunately most people couldn't hear Chappelle because all he had was a tiny speaker.

Although most of the video from the event are of pretty poor quality, here's a clip of Chappelle prior to show joking around with Portland locals.

Dave Chappelle in Portland

Karrine Steffans (Superhead) On The Today Show

Still milking her 15 minutes of fame after the success of her tell all books "Confessions of a Video Vixen" and "The Vixen Diaries", Karrine Steffans recently popped up on the Today Show to promote her new relationship book "The Vixen Manual: How to Find, Seduce & Keep the Man You Want".

Although Steffans has caused problems for the men that she had relationships in the past, she is an attractive woman...maybe I can be in her next book?

Umm, on second thought...

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Trailer: The T.O. Show Debuting 7/20 on VH1


Love him or hate him, NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens is a star.

Most sports critics will swear that Owens is bad for the game.

While the former Dallas Cowboy and current Buffalo Bill can be selfish and at times come across as a bit crazy, the fact is that the NFL needs guys like Owens to play the villain, so they can sell tickets, jerseys and beer to keep the ratings high and the stadiums full.

In television, drama creates ratings and Terrell Owens is a true drama king.

On his new VH1 reality show the T.O. Show, the charismatic Owens will probably do the following:

Work Out
Date hot chicks
Cry
Feature his charity
Work Out some more
Cry again
Date more hot chicks
(Owens is reportedly dating Sports Illustrated model Jessica White).

While most sports critics will publicly say that they will not watch Owen's show, secretly they will be tuning in each week with a pom pom in one hand and popcorn in another.

New Video: Britney Spears -Radar

You have to give it up to Brit.

Even though the mother of two has had a ton of personal problems and make songs nowadays that stays with you as long as Chinese food, she's still a money maker.

Her recent tour has done quite well and "Radar" is the fourth video released from of her album "Circus."

Hard believe she's been around for 10 years.

New Music: Andre 3000-Look 4 Ya

Outkast has been quiet for a little awhile, but Big Boi's eclectic partner Andre 3000 returns with "Look 4 Ya" from the DJ Envy and Tapemasters Inc's "Purple Codeine Part 25" mixtape.

In 2008, Andre was able to squeeze out one hit from John Legend's lackluster album "Evolver" with the club favorite "Green Light". While Big Boi is expected to drop "Sir Lucious Leftfoot: The Son Of Chico Dusty" later this year, no word if Mr. Benjamin will drop his own solo joint.

But if this bouncy two minute ditty is any indication, a new Andre 3000 disc might be out sooner than we think.

Read more about about Andre 3000 in GQ UK

Nothing is Impossible: Armless Man Plays Guitar

Whenever you feel like you can't accomplish something or too old to try something new, remember this video.

Monday, July 13, 2009

The Rise & Fall of Sarah Palin


Just how did former beauty queen Sarah Palin go from unknown Governor of Alaska to a popular Republican Vice Presidential candidate to now the ex-Governor of Alaska? The New York Times takes a look at the rise and fall (for now) of Sarah Palin.

Joe Thomas-Majic

I always joke with people that R&B crooner Joe (aka Joe Thomas) and I were separated a birth. Looking at his latest video Magic from his forthcoming album "Signature", I think I better start connecting with my long lost twin brother.

House Music Spotlight: Beat Matrix with DJ Stout XTC

I enjoy house music.

I am not an aficionado, but I enjoy the fact that most house music still believes in rich melodies and strong vocals...something that used to be the hallmarks of R&B in the 70's and a bit in the 80's.

Every Monday night at 9 p.m. on 91.1 WRUW, Cleveland's DJ Stout XTC who has opened for house music stalwarts presents Dajae, Andy Caldwell, Mazi, Rick Preseton, Alexander East and Justin Long presents Beat Matrix, which features an rich blend of house, dance, electronic rock, jazz, funk, and soul.

Even if you are not a fan of House music, take a minute a listen to the show anyway; you might be suprised by what pleases your ear drums.

Join Beat Matrix on MySpace @ myspace.com/beatmatrix

Recent playlist from a Beat Matrix show:
The Crystal Method Smile
Udachi Jellyroll
Mos Def Auditorium
Martin Buttrich Hunter
Nickodemus The Love Feeling
The Chemical Brothers Three Little Birdies
Blak on Blak Live Mix
Major Lazer Mary Jane
Nero Something Else
Benga & Coki Night (Digital Soundboy Remix)
Nine Inch Nails Piggy

Top 10 Most Played Songs on Beat Matrix
Unstoppable(Drum n Bass Remix)-Santogold
The Last Time-Gnarls Barkley
Acceptable In the 80's-Calvin Harris
Booty La La Bugz-In the attic
Last Call-Brazilian Girls
Fa Fa Fa-Datarock
Shake A Fist-Hot Chip
I Love to Move Here(Holy Ghost Remix)-Moby
I Can See-Jazzanova
Robot Rock-Daft Punk

Top 10 Most Played Albums on Beat Matrix
Donuts-J Dilla
Polo Club/Om Records-Greenskeepers
made in the dark-Hot Chip
I Created Disco-Calvin Harris
The Remix Game-Bitter:Sweet
White Label Advance-Santogold
Of All Things-Jazzanova
Radio Free Five-Fort Knox Five
Dewdrops in the Garden-Deee Lite
Get Used to It-Brand New Heavies

Disgusting! Joe Jackson Wants to Promote Michael's Kids as The Jackson 3 on a World Tour

When Michael Jackson died, me and buddy of mine, renowned House Music DJ Stout XTC both said keep Joe Jackson away from those kids... and for good reason.

Allegedly Papa Joe has approached MJ's kids Paris, Prince Michael and Blanket about going on a world tour as the Jackson 3 next year and he supposedly also offered two of the children record contracts; the situation has infuriated the family.

There is reason why Michael Jackson never forced performing on his kids and left guardianship to his mother and not Joe.

MJ remembered what he through as a child performer and from all accounts he never pushed his children into performing, but encouraged them to be creative.

Yesterday, there were rumors that flying around that Katerine Jackson and Debbie Rowe were working on deal that would keep Joe out of the children's lives, while allowing them to stay with Katherine in Encino, California and Debbie would have visitation rights.

This scenario sounds promising, but until both ladies sign their names on the dotted line, keep Joe Jackson away from those kids.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Bruno (Sacha Baron Cohen) on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien

Part 1
Bruno talks about coming to America, his childhood, and his terrible arrest in Milan!



Part 2
Bruno talks about making a sex tape, his hate of Paris Hilton, and reveals a surprise

Video Mario - Break Up (Feat. Gucci Mane & Sean Garrett)

Mario is back with a cool mid tempo track , where for the former "Dancing With Stars" contestant is dumped by his girl.



Mario - Break Up ft. Gucci Mane & Sean Garrett (MP3)

Friday, July 10, 2009

Michael Jackson Tribute - Stockholm. July 8, 2009

The dance collective Bounce came up with the idea and invited the public to a short choreographed session before hitting the streets.

G8 Summit Rewind: Video Clears Up Misleading Obama Photo

Here's the ABC News video dispelling the photo that made it seem like President Barack Obama was admiring a woman's backside. The video makes a lot of sense, but the photo is still my favorite screen saver for this month.

Obama's G8 Summit: Talks, Hanging with Sarkozy and Booty


During their visit at the G8 summit in L’Aquila, Italy, U.S. President Barack Obama and France’s President Nicolas Sarkozy took a minute to do some site seeing, which included the bum of 17 year old junior delegate Mayara Tavares from Brazil.

Most likley, neither gentlemen probaly knew how old the young lady was or that the cameras were rolling. But as long President Obama look and not touch then everything should be cool.

Now Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, that's another story.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Jay Z Gives Tribute to Michael Jackson in Chicago

During a recent gig in Chicgao, Jay-Z celebrates the life of Michael Jackson with a montage of photos followed by a performance of "Can I Live".

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Live Feeds Michael Jackson Memorial


The live for Michael Jackson's memorial is suppose to start at 1pm. If you have any problems with the MSNBC or HULU Feed go the bottom of the pages for more links.




Michael Jackson: Rare Unreleased Tracks from Thriller

For devout Michael Jackson fans, they probably have been listening to these songs for years. But for everyday MJ lovers, these songs are brand new finds.

Legend has it that Jackson finished "Thriller", but decided to scrap half the songs, because he didn't think the album was good enough. It is hard debate him on that, "Thriller" is not only the best selling album of all-time, but it proves how focused Michael Jackson was on achieving greatness.

Below are few of the many tracks that didn't "Thriller" These are not bad songs, in fact a couple of them could have made the album. But at the end of the day, MJ's instincts in 1982 were correct and his shrewd musical ear is why so many fans from around the world will be mourning his passing today, but will be also celebrating his genius for years to come.

Love Never Felt So Good

How this track didn't make the final cut is mystery, "Love Never Felt So Good" might be the best Michael Jackson songs never released. Co-written by Paul Anka, this demo is built solely on MJ's vocals, hand claps, finger snaps and a piano played by R&B crooner Johnny Mathis, (who later took the song after Mike passed on it).

The youthful exuberance and joy in MJ's voice is great reminder that Michael Jackson loved to sing. With a lot of today's stars, I don't know if they love singing...maybe because most of them can't. On this track you can tell that not only did Michael Jackson LOVED to sing, but he LOVED singing this song.




Got The Hots

No one could sing "girl" on wax like MJ did back in his "Thriller" days and the funky seduction of "Got The Hots" is Jackson at his near peak; It is hard to believe this funky ditty didn't make "Thriller".

Co-written by Jackson and Quincy Jones, "Got The Hots" with its Marvin Gaye type vocals and soulful 80's groove sounds like it could've been sampled for on Kanye West's "808 and Heartbreak" album, definitely a lost gem.




For All Time

Allegedly this song replaced "Human Nature". Its hard to bicker with the choice since "Human Nature" is one of MJ's best songs of all time, however "For All Time" is quite a solid tune on its own.




Carousel

Written by Michael Sembello (who sang "Maniac" from "Flashdance"), "Carousel" is reminiscent of slow jams made by R&B stars like O'Bryan back in the day. But its understandable why MJ passed on the track.

After the Grammy's failed to give him Album of Year for "Off The Wall", Michael Jackson's goal was to make the best pop album ever and if he had too many R&B songs on "Thriller", he probably would have sold a lot of records, but probably would have been overlooked for Album of the Year again.




R.I.P. Michael Jackson on Diana Ross's CBS Special (1981)

Watching this video, you sometimes forget how big of star Diana Ross was before Whitney, Mariah and Beyonce and Britney.

From her 1980's CBS special Diana! Michael Jackson joins "The Boss" on stage for performing "Rock With You", her hit "Upside Down" and an interview than makes the still youthful Jackson blush when she called him sexy.

It is always refreshing to see the post "Off The Wall", pre "Thriller" Michael Jackson. His looks were still natural.

His dances moves displayed glimpses of what would come years later and there was a fun and joyfulness in his face that seemed to fade a bit after he "King of Pop"

Rock With You


Interview/Upside Down/Rock With You Part 2

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Details of the Steve McNair and Sahel Kazemi Murder Suicide

Here is a recent update of the murder of former Tennessee Titan and Alcorn State quarterback Steve McNair and his companion Sahel Kazemi:

Breaking news from Yahoo News:
Police confirmed that Steve McNair's 20-year-old girlfriend killed him before turning the gun on herself.

Police believe McNair was asleep on a sofa at a condominium he rented with a friend when Kazemi shot him in the head. She then apparently shot him twice in the chest before shooting him again in the head and then shooting herself.

She sat next to his body and tried to position herself to fall into his lap when she died. She did, but her body slid to the floor and ended up at McNair's feet, Serpas said. The gun was found underneath Kazemi.

Interviews with friends indicated Kamezi was becoming increasingly distraught over events in her life, including financial problems.

Detectives also learned that Kazemi recently found out about another young woman she thought McNair was romantically involved with and even followed that woman home, though she did not confront her.

Update: 7/8: According the Flordia Times Union, two weeks ago, Kazemi and McNair planned a trip to Las Vegas. Kazemi flew to Nevada but McNair never showed up. Specualation is that Steve McNair was pulling away from the affair.

According to USA Today, Kazemi's ex boyfriend Keith Norfleet uploaded a rap song on soundclick.com called "Cold Casket" based on the Eminem track "Benzino Dis". The lyrics describe the killing of an older man.


Update 7/6: WAPT News reports that on Sunday, the family of Steve McNair were by detectives that McNair was killed in a murder suicide on Saturday.


McNair's family said that they had never heard of Kazemi.


According to the New York Daily News, his wife, Mechelle Cartwright was reportedly not aware McNair was having an affair until his murder.


The family said that a public memorial service will be held Friday at 6pm in McNair's birthplace in Mount Olive, Mississippi. Instead of sending flowers, fans can make donations to the Steve McNair Foundation


Update 7/5: Autopsies were performed on both victims. Steve McNair was shot four times: twice in the head and twice in the chest. Sahel Kazemi was shot once in the side of the head. McNair was found seated on a couch in the living room. Kazemi was on the floor, close to McNair.
A semiautomatic pistol was recovered from under Kazemi's body. It was not initially visible and was discovered late in investigation of the crime scene.

The two died sometime in the early Saturday hours and had been dead for a number of hours before they were discovered.

ATF is tracing the ownership of the pistol, and police are working to interview its owner. Aaron said the evidence at the scene is consistent with the gun recovered.

Steve McNair apparently met the 20-year-old at Dave & Buster’s restaurant in Nashville where Kazemi worked as a waitress.

Friends said McNair and Kazemi had been dating over the past several months.

Steve McNair married Mechelle in 1997 and they have four sons; Junior, Steven, Tyler and Trenton.
The sister of Sahel Kazemi says she was a young woman who wanted to have fun and couldn't have hurt anyone — not herself, nor anyone else.


Kazemi told her sister that McNair was in the process of divorcing, but there are no court records shows there is not a divorce pending in Nashville. However, McNair's house is for sale.

Kazemi's family believes a third person was involved.

McNair's death has been ruled a homicide. The Metro Police Department has not yet classified Kazemi's death and expect it will be several days before her death is classified.

McNair was seen at Blue Moon Lagoon Bar and Loser's Bar into the early-morning hours of Saturday.

There were no signs of forced entry. A key was used by Wayne Neeley to get into the apartment. McNeeley discovered the bodies. He walked into the kitchen and did not see blood until he walked walked back from the kitchen.

Police are checking surveillance cameras in the area.

A witness said Kazemi's Cadillac Escalade was already at the condo when McNair arrived.

Police are planning to interview Kazemi's ex-boyfriend.

(Sources: WAPT, Yahoo News, NY Daily News WSMV, USA Today: Photos AP, TMZ)

Friday, July 3, 2009

George Carlin-Michael Jackson is the Best Entertainer Ever

I heard this clip on Tariq Nasheed's Mack Lesson's podcast, where legendary comedian George Carlin explains why Michael Jackson is the greatest entertainer who ever lived:

Better than Elvis Presley.

Better than Sammy Davis Jr.

Better than ole' blue eyes himself, Frank Sinatra.

Pretty interesting stuff.

Ticket Registration Information: Michael Jackson Memorial @ The Staples Center


It was announced today that 11,000 free tickets will be made available at Staplescenter.com for the Michael Jackson memorial service at the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles, California, (6,500 tickets will be available at the Nokia Theatre, which is across the street from the Staples Center at L.A. Live).

Patrons will be randomly chosen for two tickets each and will receive notification via email on Sunday for the Jackson memorial service on Tuesday, July 7th 2009 at 10AM (pacific time).

Registration for the free tickets begins on July 3rd, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time and ends at 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday, July 4, 2009.

CLICK HERE OR PICTURE TO REGISTER

Thursday, July 2, 2009

|VIDEO|: Footage of Michael Jackson’s Last Rehearsal

Michael Jackson rehearses with dancers during a June 23 session at the Staples Center.

Entertainment Weeekly Featuring Multiple Michael Jackson Tribute Covers


On Friday, Entertainment Weekly will issue a special tribute issue for Michael Jackson. The 28-page spread will feature four covers from Jackson's musical legacy.

Matt Lauer Interviews Jermaine Jackson on the Today Show

Since his initial press conference to announce his brother's death, Michael Jackson's older brother Jermaine Jackson has not been seen. On the Thursday's Today Show, Jackson tells Matt Lauer that he wishes that he had died, not his brother.

Part 1

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Part 2

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Shaq's Press Conference with the Cleveland Cavaliers

One year before Lebron James may or may not enter free agency, the Cleveland Cavaliers are doing everything they can to win a champions in the 2009-10 NBA season.

One of those things is Shaquille O'Neal who was recently acquired from the Phoenix Suns. Cleveland is not only a new team for Shaq, but after being in Louisiana (LSU), Orlanado, Los Angeles, Phoenix and Miami, the this will be the first time the big fella will be playing in a cold, non glamorous market.

But I'm sure as long as wins his fifth ring to best Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan as well as "Win a Ring for the King", Shaq will get used to snow.


Click here for the the press conference.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

The Michael Jackson Story (1985-2009) [Full 45 Miin BBC Documentary]

[Performance] Maxwell – Pretty Wings (Bet Awards)

Michael Jackson Reclaims his King of Pop Crown on the Charts




It is always interesting when an artist dies.

It doesn't matter if it is a singer, actor, painter or a rapper, the work of someone who is immensely creative, tends to be appreciated more in death than in life.

Nearly a week after his tragic death, Michael Jackson took the top nine positions on Billboard Magazine's Top Pop Catalog Albums totaling 415,000 copies.

His greatest hits package "Number Ones," was #1 with 108,000 copies sold, followed by "The Essential Michael Jackson" (102,000) "Thriller" (101,000), "Off the Wall"(33,000) the Jackson 5's "The Ultimate Collection" (18,000), "Bad" (17,000), "Dangerous" (14,000), HIStory -- Volume 1" (12,000) and the 2004 box set "The Ultimate Collection" (11,000).

Since his death, Jackson also sold 2.3 million digital downloads on Apple's ITunes and Amazon.com, compared to only 37,000 the week before, (although 2.3 million is an outstanding number, the fact that MJ sold 37,000 downloads without a current album or video proves that Jackson was still relevant to music fans around the world).

On the U.S. ITunes chart, Jackson classics "Man in The Mirror", "The Way You Make Me Feel", "Billie Jean" and "Black White" made the top ten, battling out with current hits by artists who grew up watching the "King of Pop" like Lady Gaga("LoveGame") and the Black Eyed Peas ("I Gotta Feeling", "Boom, Boom Pow").

On France's ITunes charts, Jackson's "We are the Word" and "Thriller" make an appearance in the top ten, along the top two songs "Billie Jean" and "Beat it", which is very reminiscent when both songs from "Thriller" dominated the Billboard singles charts back in 1983.

However, as the days, weeks and the months go by, Jackson's current musical dominance will soon fade, but not completely.

Much like iconic artists like Elvis Presley, James Dean, Kurt Cobain, Basquiat, Marilyn Monroe and Tupac Shakur, there will always new Michael Jackson fans. Ones who will be amazed the first time they will see the "Thriller" video or try to imitate the clean Fosse-like moves on Beat It".

These new fans will then be compelled to download Jackson songs and albums and as will another who will embrace Jackson's music on something other than CD's and MP3's.

This is why art is such a wonderful thing.

It doesn't when it was created, there will be new people who embrace its complexity, its beauty as well its brilliance from generation to generation and beyond.