NextUpWorldWide

Hell To the Chief.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 06:28:00 +0000

So, who is Chief Keef? Well, the 16-year-old Chi-Town native made headlines after the release of his single “I Don’t Like”. Keef exploded after the release of “I Don’t Like” video went viral in March after reaching 6.5 million views on YouTube. If things couldn’t get any better for the youngster, his name grew even quicker after Kanye West co-signed and remixed his “I Don’t Like”, which was originally produced by a young Chicago native producer named Young Chop, for a G.O.O.D. Music verison which featured Pusha T, Big Sean, and Jadakiss. With Chief Keef creating such a major buzz, there was a bidding war for the young superstar. The labels fighting over the young act consisted of Young Money/Cash Money, Bad Boy Ent., Grand Hustle Records, and even Def Jam were all in the running. In a interview with MTV’s RapFix and Cash Money CEO Birdman, who spoke on Chief Keef and stated, “He’s out the streets, I think he swagged up and I’m definitely talkin’ to his people and I’d like to see if we could get it to pop, see if I can get him to be down with the team.” In disappointing the Cash Money CEO, Keef made the Executives, Presidents, VP’s at Interscope Records, very happy. In recent news, Chief Keef stated that, he was calling Interscope his home for building his career and future in music. Keef stated his reasoning in signing with Interscope was because they saw eye-to-eye in what direction they wanted to take his career. He also felt that Interscope was a label that housed music of artists like Eminem and 50 cent, and that could be a great place for him to expand as an artist.

The Spitter.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 05:37:00 +0000

So, who is the spitter from Philly, with the unique sound and aggressive street delivery? Maybach Music’s very own Meek Mill, born Robert William; who first signed with T.I.’s Grand Hustle Record, in which their partnership didn’t last do to T.I.’s legal issues putting him away for almost a year in prison. Meek Mill felt like it was time for him to grow as a recording artist, and asked to be released from his contract with T.I. & Grand Hustle Records. Meek Mill wishes was generously granted and in February of 2011, Mill’s was able to join forces with Maybach Music’s C.E.O Rick Ross and became part of a team that consisted of artists like D.C’s very own Wale and Ohio native Stalley.

The North Philly native has made a name for himself, since signing with MMG and has never looked back. In the summer of 2011, he released his first debut single, "Tupac Back" featuring Rick Ross, from the Maybach Music complication album Self-Made Vol. 1. There after, another record was followed with "I'ma Boss"also featuring Rick Ross, which was a major hit. "I'ma Boss" was such a hit that it was remixed with featured artists like T.I., Birdman, Lil' Wayne, DJ Khaled, Swizz Beatz and Rick Ross; the "I'ma Boss"remix even reached at the number 51 spot, on the Billboard Hot 100 list. If things couldn't get any better, the year that followed, MTV listed Meek Mill's as the 7th best hottest MC in hip-hop, on their annual "Hottest MC's in the Game" list. In the same summer Meek Mill released his second mixtapes of his series of Dreamchasers mixtapes.

So what next for Meek Mill, and his future in hip-hop. Well, expect to hear more from Meek Mill on the Maybach Music's second complication entitled, Self-Made Vol. 2; which is set to be released sometime at the end of June. Meek Mill is also preparing to release his first debut album which is entitled, Dreams & Nightmare, which is set to be released sometime in the begin of the fall of 2012.

Spanx That..

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 03 May 2012 04:24:00 +0000

Sara Blakely is a self-made billionaire, who took a savings of $5,000 and transformed it into a billion dollar company. She did it by starting her very own undergarment company called Spanx. This high level of success helped lead her to become the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire. Sara is a graduate from Florida State University, with a degree in Communications. What lead her to success was that one day she wished her pantyhose didn’t have leg selves, so she cut them off. In doing this, this changed her outlook in life, and that’s when her life changed in becoming an entrepreneur. Her plan in designing these Spanx’s pantyhose was to design a garment that hide the women’s panty line, but her design and creation did a little bit more that. Sara’s Spanx Company is believed to have helped and inspired women to feel more comfortable and happy with themselves.

While developing her company, her business plan was very different and unique. Being a Communications major from FSU, her degree wasn’t going to play a major role in leading her to success. So Sara read books on marketing, she designed her own logo, and saved $3,000 in legal fees needed to trademark the Spanx name. She also used books from Barnes & Noble and she learned how to do it herself. In 2000, she launched the company from her own home. She worked full time, taking all initial calls and marketing the Spanx product herself across North America.

With a positive attitude, Sara never gave up on becoming something and making something of herself. Her original plan was to attend law school to become and attorney. After taking the LSAT twice, and failing it horribly, she felt as if becoming an attorney wasn’t her calling. But when looking at the bigger picture, she was able to do more with her abilities and skills. In 2006, she started and launched the Sara Blakely Foundation to help women with education and entrepreneurial skill training.

A Solid Future.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:00:00 +0000

There seems to be no way around Future. So who is the Decatur native importing a different sound and style to hip-hop. Future seems to have a very bright future as a rap musician. With great encouragement from his cousin and the legendary Dungeon Family producer Rico Wade, who consistently encouraged him to continue to sharpen and better his skills as an artist. Rico’s advice has assisted Future in blossoming into a star. Throughout 2010 and 2011, Future released a series of mixtapes introducing himself to the world as a designed and creative lyricist. On the journey of his introduction to the world, Future released two of the hottest singles from his series of mixtapes this past summer. Future first released “Tony Montana”, and quickly followed it with “Ain’t No Way Around It”. Throughout his campaign, Future also collaborated on a mixtape entitled, “Free Bricks”, with Atlanta native and the Brick Squad C.E.O Gucci Mane. He was also able to join forces with another Decatur native featuring on Y.C’s “Racks” single.

In 2011, Future was able to land a deal with Epic Label Group. In the days that followed, Future released another mixtape entitled, “Streetz Calling”. The mixtape received wonderful reviews from all angles and directions. In January of 2012, Future released his final mixtape before the release of his debut album entitled, “Astronaut Status”. Future will be set to release his first studio debut album, in April of 2012. The album will be entitled, “Pluto”; which will feature tracks like “Tony Montana (Remix)” featuring Drake and “Magic” featuring T.I. The album will also feature collaborative work with artist like Snoop Dogg, R.Kelly, and Trae Tha Truth. So lets see what the future holds.

Next To Blow: A$AP... Recognize That Name.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 02:44:00 +0000

So, who is A$AP Rocky? Born Rakim Mayers, the 23-year-old Harlem native is working on bringing a new sound, energy, and image to hip-hop. Rumor has it that he was named after the famous 80’s hip-hop star Rakim, who was one half of the Eric B. & Rakim duo. Growing up A$AP Rocky didn’t have it so easy; at the age of 12 year old his father was sent to jail in connections with distributing drugs. In the years that followed, Rocky's older brother was found murdered near his apartment. After losing his brother, this inspired him to take rap very seriously. Since the tender age of 8, hip-hop has always been apart of Rocky.

In the fall of 2011, A$AP Rocky’s “Peso” leaked onto the Internet and within weeks it received airplay on the highly profiled New York radio station Hot 97. He quickly released a second single entitled “Purple Swag”. The music videos for "Peso" and "Purple Swag" helped generated a bigger buzz and resulted in A$AP Rocky signed a $3 million record deal with RCA and Sony. In October of 2011, ASAP Rocky released a mixtape entitled, “Love.Live.A$AP”; the mixtape received positive reviews from critics, fans, and listeners. Rocky will be set to release his first studio album entitled, “Long.Live.A$AP”, which is set to be released in the summer of 2012. A$AP Rocky isn’t just an artist, but also a businessman. According to sources, the deal with RCA/Sony wasn’t just to push Rocky as an artist, but to also push his own group A$AP Mob. A$AP Mob is also set to release a studio collaboration album entitled, “TRILLUMINVTI”; which is set to be release in May of 2012.

So, what’s next for Rocky? Well, A$AP Rocky just rapped up his tour with Young Money/Cash Money’s very own Drake, for Drake’s “Club Paradise Tour”. The tour also featured Compton’s own Kendrick Lamar, so you can bet that with free time; Rocky will be working on all his feature projects.

Excuse My French

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 17:35:00 +0000

French Montana is one of the hottest hip-hop artists coming out of the Bronx and is seen as one of the best out. French Montana who was recently in a bidding war over several label like Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music and Rick Ross's Maybach Music. The South Bronx rapper was once seen representing numerous labels at one point; which made the viewer and listener unaware of where he called his artistry a home. It first started with Akon's Konvict Music, and Gucci Mane's Brick Squad. In recent news, Montana made it very clear where he was calling it home. Montana has signed with the label that has helped manufactured talents like 112, Faith Evans, Total, and one of the hip-hop's greatest of all time The Notorious B.I.G. French Montana has joined what Sean "P. Diddy" Combs calls the "The New Bad Boy". The new resurgence of Bad Boy consists of a list of new and reformed faces like Red Café, MGK (Machine Gun Kelly), Day26, Cassie, and Los. One of the significant out comes with the signing of French Montana was the fact of Montana did not sharing his publishing rights with Bad Boy. Rumor has it that Montana is believed to be the first artist to ever sign with Bad Boy and walk away with his publishing. French Montana is currently meeting expectation so far as a signed artist. He has one of the hottest records out entitled "Shot Caller". Which was followed with a remix featuring P. Diddy and Rick Ross.

History of NaStradamus.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 14:54:00 +0000

Most won't believe it's Stillmatic', but Nasir "Nas" Jones has recently signed a book deal, agreeing to publish his history and memoirs this year. The memoir is to be entitled, "It Ain't Hard to Tell"; which was also a track title on his first album, Illmatic. It will also be in collaboration with music journalist Touré, who will co-write the book. The book will tell Nas's whole story, not just about the hit records and champagne bottles. It will cover certain periods throughout his life and his career as a hip-hop artist. Nas will now join numerous artists who have taken their biographies as rap musicians and translate it into a published book like Jay-Z, Chuck D, and Grandmaster Flash. According to sources, the biography will cover Nas's feud with former rap enemy Jay-Z and TV talk show host Bill O'Reily. It will also uncover his mother's battle with cancer. The book will also shine light on his four-year marriage with Kelis, and his relationship with ex-girlfriend Carmen Bryan, who is also the mother of his first child. Carmen Bryan also wrote a tell-all book back in 2006, and in the book she gives some insight on the good and bad with her relationship with Nas. Hopefully Nas's book can help clarify the truth about her tell-all publishing. The book is set to be released by Simon & Schuster imprint Atria Books in the Autumn of 2012.

What's going on: Patenting Issues...

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:57:00 +0000

In the eyes of numerous people and software engineers, who believe that the patent system is stunting the growth of technology development. Some visualize patent laws, especially, those patents created to protect software development. Some may say that, it’s just another way for development company’s to make money through lawsuits. In an article podcast entitled, “The Tuesday Podcast: The Patent War”, which through out both the short article and podcast they mention that tech companies are only fighting over big dollars. They’re putting large amounts of money toward purchasing patents, and they’re not doing it to bring more creativity and innovation. They’re doing it to protect themselves from potential lawsuits. In San Francisco’s Silicon Valley, there’s a legal battle between numerous companies and patents seem to be the weapon of choice.

When focusing attention on patents, its always been thought of as a protection for some type of software, innovation, and or tech development. Patenting now seems to be going as far as protecting the human body. It’s not just the human body that being patented, things like living organisms and plants are some of the things being secured under the patent laws of intellectual property. It’s as if the human body has become a new monopoly. In an article podcast entitled, “Deadly Monopolies? Patenting The Human Body,” medical ethicist and author Harriet Washington discusses that it not that the human body is actually being patent. When focusing on the laws of the government, patenting the human body would fall under the affects of the Anti-Slavery Statutes. Washington does state that an individual can patent his or her cells and tissues. Once those cells and tissues are patented they are sold or licensed to corporations, and those corporations exploits’ those patents.

On a more balanced subject when focusing on the scope of patents, it’s trusted that some of the more popular brand-name prescription drugs will be coming off the patent security, and will be going generic. Lipitor, which brought in close to $11 billions in sales this past year, will be one of prescriptions drugs to fall off the patent cliff. Other drugs that will soon follow are Plavix, which is a prescription drug for heart disease. Seroquel is a prescription medication made to treat depression, and Nexium is a prescription drug for digestive problem. The reason behind this situation is that patients often times pay more money for the name brand medication, even when their insurance is covering their expenses. A majority of most patients have no choice; unlike Lipitor not many drugs yet have generic competition. So what is there to do…

What's Up: Apple vs. Technology

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:23:00 +0000

It seems as if, competing in the world of technology through retail isn’t enough for some of the world’s most popular enforcers in tech development. Motorola, Kodak, and Samsung have been fighting against and suing Apple for patent violations. In recent news, Apple has gone from suing Samsung in believing that they have infringed on the Samsung’s Galaxy Tab 10.1 and 10 different other devices that seem to break the laws of infringement, according to sources. Reports show, that Apple is suing Samsung threw an Australian lawsuit, which claims 278 patent infringement violations. But Samsung isn’t only playing the role of the defense; Samsung is also counter suing Apple for infringement on the design, feel, and even the teach screen capability for the iPad.

Motorola has recently filed a new patent infringement lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the latest release of their newest hardware and software violate 6 of Motorola patents. The development of iPhone 4s and the iCloud are the alleged victims to the Apple and Motorola lawsuit. There are two counts of patent infringement on the iPhone 4S and four counts on the iCloud. Motorola had planned to append these charges to the ongoing lawsuit it filed against Apple two years ago; which targeted Apple's App Store and iOS. The new lawsuit comes after the judge in the original suit request that Motorola do so.

Apple believes that the patent Kodak is suing them for maybe rightfully in the hands of Apple’s ownership. Apple had launched an investigation of their own, and believes that they are rightful owner of the invention. On the information gather based on collaboration between both Kodak and Apple in the development of a digital camera. Apple trust that they’re the rightful owner of the ‘218 patent and even potentially many other patents by Kodak.

Next Up Music: God Forgives, I Don't....

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:41:00 +0000

The biggest boss in the game is set to do it again. Rick Ross is preparing to release his 5^th solo studio debut album entitled, God Forgives, I Don’t. His last album Teflon Don crushed the streets with hits like “Super High” featuring Ne-Yo, “Aston Martin Music” featuring Drake & Chrisette Michele, and we can’t forget the street anthem “B.M.F (Blowing Money Fast)” featuring Style P. Rozay believes that God Forgives, I don’t could be his best studio album ever. God Forgives, I don’t was set to be released within the second week of December, but was believed to pushed back do to health issues that Ross was facing.

The Maybach Music CEO is offering listeners an appetizer before the release of God Forgives, I Don’t with his free release mixtape Rich Forever hosted by MMG’s DJ Scream, and Hip-Hop historian Shaheem Reid. The mixtape features bangers from new producers like Beat Billionaire, DRich, The Academy, DVLP, DJ Spinz, Chuck Ingish, and many more. The mixtape also includes guest appearances from Diddy, 2 Chainz, Wale, French Montana, Drake, and even John Legend. This free release is believed to have put fans on edge for the release of God forgives, I Don’t.

On the final track of the mixtape entitled, “Shaheem Reid Speaks,” Shaheem Reid has a one-on-one interview with the boss himself. Throughout the conversation, Ross gives a clear understanding of a lot of things like the release of Self-Made Vol. 2, and the release of Maybach Music’s very own Meek Mill debut album. He states that he and Drake plan to release a project entitled, YOLO (You Only Live Once); which could be a great look for both of their careers and the future of Hip-Hop. Ross also addresses the inspiration behind the title of the mixtape Rich Forever. He states that most people dream of living forever, but his dream is to be rich forever. In his eyes, he believes what’s living worth if you’re going to struggle forever, so trust that it would be best to be rich forever.

Next Up Music News: Not 100, but 103.

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:21:00 +0000

The southern voice of the streets, Jay “Young Jeezy” Jenkins, continues to motivate his listeners. The long a waited fourth studio album, released by the Thug Motivator himself, has finally seemed to satisfy the streets. Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition didn’t disappoint the fans. The album in which fans had been waiting for a little more over two years, in which was contently pushed back from the offices of Def Jam. It seems as if this major set back was able to work in the favor of Jeezy. It helped clear the air of the many questions and issues that surfaced around the CTE CEO. The delay allowed Young to clear the air with issues with his Def Jam label mate Rick Ross and fellow GA native Gucci Mane, in a track on the album entitled, “This One’s for You”, featuring Trick Daddy.

After the long waited album, Thug Motivation 103, the first week sales debut at number three, selling 233,000 records. These numbers didn’t seem to surpass his last album, The Recession, which debuted selling 260,000 copies in its first week of sales. But it still seems to keep the streets buzzing over the recent release.

So what’s next for the South Carolina native? Well, in a recent interview on Power 1-11 Radio, T.I. speaks that there is a slight possibility of both T.I & Young Jeezy coming together and disturbing to the world with a collaboration album. We’ve seen some collaboration albums over this past year from artists like Jay-Z & Kanye West (Watch the Throne), and Waka Flocka & Gucci Mane (Ferrari Boyz). This collaboration won’t only be a good look for the two’s careers, but a great look for hip-hop. Jeezy is also in line to start his touring to continue to market and reach the fans that waited so long and patiently for the music. The first show kicks off in Detroit, on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at the FOX Theatre.

Next Up Music News: Public Enemy Number 1

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 16:42:00 +0000

Downloading music has made the joy of having some of our favorite musicians tracks easier and faster for our enjoyment. Downloading music is better than waiting on the release of their actual album release; especially, with itunes right in the palm of our hands, and at the point of our fingertips. Maybe for those who may own an iPhone, iPod, or even iPad. Even though downloading music in our current generation seems so easy. Many people make it seems so hard; especially, when doing it illegally. With fans downloading some of their favorite recording artists’ music illegally, they’re not only breaking the law. They’re also breaking the pockets of these same artists’.

When looking at the music industry, artists’ always seem to be behind and for some strange reason at a disadvantage within the music industry. They’re always cheated out of their funds and rights. At the end of the day, it seems as if the labels get richer, while the recording artist get poorer. It’s also important to remember that it’s not only the artist these illegal downloaders are cheating. Along side the recording artist and the record labels; there’s the producers and publishers/ songwriters, who do receive rights and pay to those same records that people illegally download off the Internet.

What really puts an artist at a disadvantage is the fact that an artist may sell 1000 units through digital download, and may absolutely see nothing in return from the record labels. When hearing this, you may think this is impossible. In recent news, Public Enemy’s Chuck D. claims that Universal Music Group artists get paid $80.33 for every 1000 download. Chuck D. has decided to sue Universal Music, believing that the label has miscalculated Public Enemy’s royalties for digital downloads. In the class action suit, he proves in a printed document that artists at UMG receive $80.33 for every 1000 downloads. When the group should've receive $315.85. Chuck D. trust that digital downloads should be seen as licenses and not have the same expenses as physical album.

Next Up Artist Finance: Get Paid..

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 02:46:00 +0000

We often hear stories about recording artist selling a large number of records, but may still be in debt with their record labels or not even see close to the amount of money thought possible. Martin F. Frascogna who’s an entertainment attorney, music marketing executive, and also a co-author of the book, Entertainment Law for the General Practitioner; did an informational video post entitled, “How To Sell 1 Million Albums & Owe 500,000”. Frascogna covers, how if an artist were to see a million dollars after record sales, all the deductions that the record label takes out before even paying the artist.

Many of the deductions may be seen as uncalled for. For example, the uncollected account deduction is a deduction that covers, if a store carrying the artist album for sale, and happened to go bankrupt. Well instead of the record label picking a fight with that store carrier, they would just deduct a fee from the particular artist. This too many, maybe be seen as unfair or not right. Some of the other deductions that Frascogna goes in depth, which decreases an artist’s payday, are fees like breakage, free gods, container charge and reserves fee. Frascogna goes more in depth, on how advances, recording cost; producer and mixer fees are also deducted.

At the end of it all, it seems as if the artist is always held out and cheated at the end. With all these deductions an artist still has to pay his/her personal staff like a manager, attorney etc. It’s one thing, when talking about a solo artist, but it’s a sure thing that the money seems like peanut compared to pennies, when deal with a band or group. The video post by Frascogna has shinned a light on an area many may have seen profitable for an artist or even brand/group. Artists have seemed to find new ways in making money, especially with the growing age of technology.

Next Up Inspiration: Viktor Frankl

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:51:00 +0000

TED.com features a video on Viktor Frankl entitled, Why To Believe in Others. The video was shot in May of 1972 and was posted on TED.com, May of 2011. In the video Frankl speaks on the issues on what young peoples interest in their search for the meaning of life. He believes that our youth only focuses on the search for making money. His researches lead him to believe that 16% of all students in school, main objective goal in life is to make money. While 78% expressed that their main objective in life is to find meaning and a purpose in life. Mr. Frankl also trusts that as individuals, we should assist one another by helping each other advance in life. He states that, if we take man as he is, we make that man worst. But if we take a man for what he should be, we can make him capable of what he can become.

Many may think differently about Viktor Frankl opinion, with how individuals may feel about their main objective in life; especially, young adults. Compared to when Frankl made his thesis, and how he feels about the new generation’s thoughts and opinions of living life. Some say that the main goal of making money is the goal of reaching for success. In our society today, money is normally defined as how successful individual really is. Other may say that money can’t buy you love or happiness, but some say that money can buy you love and happiness. Then the question to the thought would be, “Is it real love?”

Viktor Frankl inspired the audience by trying to convey the understanding of what’s more important to life, money or understanding your meaning and purpose in life. He conveys the significant events and how he over came adversity; with how time changed with the young individuals mind focus in life over the past few years.

Next Up Technology: Cell Phone Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:23:00 +0000

Technology is seriously changing in a rapid, cool, and innovative way. We first, saw the development of the MP3/phone, and now the birth of an exclusive cell phone watch. The watch isn’t believed to be a hot item for everybody, but the concept of it gives an easy way to carry a mobile device without really having to carry it.

According to The-Gadgeteer, the Thrifty Cell Phone made by Nokia which is also known as a TCP. The TCP is displayed on 1.3 inch LCD touchscreen, with a 2GB internal memory life. It has the ability to hold one SIM card. It works a Global System of 850, 900, 1800, 1900, and functions on a General Packet Radio System (GPRS). It’s Bluetooth ability can works on a hands-free and headset process. The TCP’s Call Setting Options (CSO) works on a call waiting, caller ID, call divert, call barring, automatic redial, and black list. It massaging system seem to work the same as regular hand held devices, with picture, video, texting messaging, and voicemail. The TCP can also transfer its display language to English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, and Chinese. It also has video and audio player, and a built-in mic for its sound recording capability. It Power Source is a rechargeable Li-ion battery; it’s battery life woks very well, with a talk time of approximately 2-4 hours. Its stand by is approximately 120-150 hours depending on settings.

Like any other product, the TCP does have its advantages and disadvantages as a watch phone. Its disadvantages would be its screen size and its lack of buttons. When having a small screen and lack of buttons, it makes it difficult to text, dial, and read information. Another disadvantages would be the challenges of using a Global System Communication Service only. Some Advantages for the TCP would be its cost to customer at only $80 dollars, and its easy carrying ability. A big advantage is that when purchasing a TCP you wouldn’t need to sign a cell phone contract. A customer can just buy the phone, as long as they have a Global System Communication Service from a previous plan already in service, like a AT&T plan and just witch the SIM card.

That's What's Up: Proving Everyone Wrong...

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:12:00 +0000

Lil' Wayne numbers for the release of his front week sells for the release of Tha Carter IV, which released Monday, August 29. Tha Carter IV didn't necessarily sale what Tha Carter III sold in the release of its first week. Tha Carter III sold 1.5 million copies in its first week sales, the Tha Carter IV sold 960,000 copies. Though that's still about another 900,000 copies shy of topping Tha Carter III. The album still found success. Tha Carter IV even topped the release of Jay-Z & Kanye West collaborative project Watch The Throne, which only sold 436,000 in its first week. So Congratulation to Weezy and the YMCMB family.

The Next Strong Team Up: Maybach Music

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 04:01:00 +0000

In the Hip-Hop culture, when having a strong career as an artist; it’s important to have a strong team. When building a career as an artist and trying to build an empire, it’s important to have a firm-supporting cast. When we look back and think about legendary greats that changed the music industry, by expanding their names from a brand to a company, it’s amazing. When we think of people like Master P, we think of No Limit Record; Baby (Birdman), we think of Cash Money Records; Jay-Z, we think of Roc-A-Fella Records. The list just goes on.

One artist in our modern day generation who’s building an amazing team is no other than the Biggest Boss himself, Rick Ross. Ross, who is one of the biggest bosses in the game, is living up to his name now by building an empire with his very own label Maybach Music Group (MMG). Rick Ross who is also known as Rozay worked very hard this summer collecting and gathering some of the most talented unsigned artists to be part of his very own empire.

Maybach Music is featuring some extremely talented acts like Wale, Meek Mill and Pill. Wale, is a native of Washington D.C. He released his first album Attention Deficit in 2009, under Interscope Records, which sold 130,000 copies. Meek Mill is a street gritty, aggressive, smooth, swagged out street rapper, who is from North Philadelphia but was born in South Philly. Pill is a GA native, who has a very street and aggressive sound. In 2010, XXL Magazine featured him as part of their Freshmen Top 10 line-Up. The three (Wale, Meek Mill and Pill) were also were featured on an album compilation under Maybach Music entitled, Self-Made Vol. 1. Self-Made Vol. 1 was released in the summer of May 2011. It sold 109, 000 copies in the U.S.

Rick Ross worked very hard in in expanding his Maybach Music movement label; especially, after receiving a distribution deal from Warner Bros. Records. The MMG family is still hard at work. Wale is working on his second album Ambition, which set to be released under Maybach Music, and he recently released his mix tape The Eleven 1 Eleven Theory. Meek Mill has one of the biggest records in the country with his single from the Self-Made compilation album entitled, “I’m a Boss”. Pill has been hustling hard with a street hard single entitled “Pacman” featuring Rick Ross, he has also released a mix tape entitled The Diagnosed.

Maybach Music has also signed talented acts like Gunplay, Torch, Young Breed, Teedra Moses, Stalley, and Masspike Miles. You can also check out more about Maybach Music on this month issue of XXL Magazine, who are also featured on the cover.

What The.... A 21-foot crocodile captured..

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 01:39:00 +0000

A 21-foot giant crocodile was captured, Sunday September 4, 2011; in the Manila, Philippines.

Charisma, Fashion & Sound: Theophilus London

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 05:06:00 +0000

Born in Trinidad, Theophilus London who started rapping and performing at the age of 12; who picked the world of rap from his two cousins. The two introduced Theo to the world of rap and inspired him to continue to do more with the culture of hip-hop. London was also influenced by the iconic sounds of Prince, James Brown, Biggie Smalls and most definitely Kanye West. London and Mr. West seem to share the same mind set, when it comes to fashion.

After releasing his first album, Timez Are Weird These Days, under Warner Bros. Records, London seem to have turned a lot of heads. Theo’s new sound seems to have come from the assistance of top record producer Mark Ransom, and the singer-songwriter Damon Albarn. His album, Timez Are Weird These Days, brings a range of style; from both soul-pop and post punk to electro and contemporary R&B. Theophilus London is believed to be the next big thing with a big buzz. In 2011, London brought major attention with his performances at the Cannes Film Festival, he also brought a large crowd when he was one of the headliners at the Northside Festival, in Brooklyn.

So what’s next for the Brooklyn raised fashion sense rapper, too much. Theophilus London is working on a new mixtape, dedicated to all the sexy women. The most interesting assignment for London is putting his fashion sense to work, by designing a shoe for designer Cole Haan. The shoe designed by Theophilus London will be set to release sometime soon. London will also be working on his newest video for his single, “Girls, Girls $”. The work doesn’t seem to stop there for the 24-year-old Trinidadian native. London will be touring all through Australia, with recording artist Big Boi and Friendly Fires. London is mostly excited about performing at the festival, in Austin City Limits, Australia.

Up Next in Sells: "Tha Cater IV...

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 20:19:00 +0000

With Lil'Wayne's "Tha Cater IV" set to release Monday, August 29. Everyone wants to know, will it top his last album, "Tha Carter III", which released in June of 2008. "Tha Carter III" sold over 1.5 million copies in it's first week. "Tha Carter IV" released several great singles to help push its release like "6 foot 7" featuring Corey Gunz, "John"featuring Rick Ross, and his last single "How To Love". But with the "Tha Carter IV" leaking over the internet on Wednesday, the sells maybe be disappointing. While Jay-Z & Kanye West release their collaborative project, "Watch The Throne", which sold 436,000 copies in its first week. On the note of Jay-Z, Weezy seems to take a shot at the Jigga man for his remarks at his father (Birdman), "Baby Money", on the record "It's Good". When his states:

Talk about baby money, I got your baby money.
Kidnap your b!tch keep that that how much you love your lady money
I know you fake nigga, press your brakes nigga.
I’ll take you out, that’s a date nigga.
I’m a grown ass blood, stop playing with me.
-Lil Wayne

Look Out: Kendrick Lamar....

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Coming Straight Outta Compton, crazy mad rapper named Kendrick Lamar. Who in 2009 released a EP entitled, "The Kendrick Lamar EP". In 2010 he also released a mixtape entitled O.D (Overly Dedicated). In the summer of July 2, 2011, he released his third solo project "Section 80". The release turned some heads and built a fan base, with the release of his first single "HiiiPower". Which was produced by Roc Nation artist J. Cole. In recent events Lamar, was crowned by Snoop Dogg, The Game, and Dr. Dre as the "New King of The West Coast".

What's Next For Apple...

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:44:00 +0000

With Steve Jobs stepping down as the head man of Apple. Many has the question, "What's next for Apple". Many believe that Apple is in for a rude awaking. Steve has been the force behind Apple's latest and greatest creations from the iPhone, iPad, and what started it all the iPod. The former CEO's, medical issues came about in 2004; when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and two years later received a liver transplant. Tim Cook, Apple's Chief Operating Officer (COO), will be taking over as Apple's new CEO. With Jobs stepping down, Apple will still release their new products as planned; especially, the iPhone 5 which is set to debut in the fall, and the new iPad 3 to be released sometime next year.

Just May Be Legendary...

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:38:00 +0000

Roc Nation artist J. Cole, who is a North Carolina resident. In a article by Rap-Up, his boss and idol Jay-Z state, that his up coming album "Cole World", maybe a classic.

The Next To Blow: Who Is Frank Ocean?

noreply@blogger.com (Ednick Belizaire) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 03:10:00 +0000

Born Christopher Breaux, the New Orleans born, Los Angles based singer/songwriter has elevated his character as an artist. Since the release of his download free album Nostalgia, Ultra. Frank Ocean, who was originally known as Loony, whose name seems to have grown throughout the industry. The 23-year-old musician, who is also a member of the group Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA); has often times been compared to Young Money artist Drake. The comparisons seem to come with both artists having the similar smooth, hip, and swagful deliveries. Many may see this comparison, but others see different.

In his latest creation “Nostalgia, Ultra,” Ocean caught a lot of attention, on the EP (extended play) with songs like, “Song For Women” and “Swim Good”. His radio banger, which created major, waves “Novocain”. The song basically describes, how he fell in love with a female college student, who couldn’t deal with her stress so she steals Novocain to ease the pain. “Novocain” has seen some success, hitting 82^nd on the “U.S Billboard Hot 100 Charts”, 7^th on the “U.S Billboard Heat Seekers Songs,” and also reaching 17^th on the “U.S Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs”.

The future looks very bright for Frank Ocean. His name is making its way around the world. In recent activities, Ocean has received major exposure working along side legendary hip-hop artist. His skills and talents, has seem to have made an impression on greatness like Jay-Z and Kanye West, on their collaborative project “Watch to Throne”. Ocean is featured on two tracks, “No Church in the Wild” and “Made in America”. Frank Ocean appears to be new to the industry as a recording artist, but has been helping numerous artist pen point artists like John Legend, Brandy, and Beyoncé. Ocean will continue his work, by joining his group OFWGKTA, for the first time on tour.