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Jay & Beyonce Tonight at Knicks/Nets Game!

2012-02-20T21:32:00.000-05:00

The NBA twitter handle caught Mr. & Mrs. Carter courtside tonight at the Knicks/Nets game. Only 1 of 3 appearances we've seen of Beyonce post Baby Blue Ivy being born!

Jay & Bey are staples at NBA games-they have been since they starting dating. Wonder who's home with Baby Blue :) & wonder if Jay knows about this Rihanna & Chris Brown takeover tonight.....

Uh Oh! @ChrisBrown & @Rihanna Collaborations are Here! Turn Up the Music Rmx & Birthday Cake Rmx!

2012-02-20T20:12:00.007-05:00

Tried to use the youtube videos instead.. hopefully they work best for everybody!

Chris Brown-Turn Up the Music ft. Rihanna

Rihanna- Birthday Cake ft. Chris Brown- Explicit

We knew they were coming! Though the WORLD seemed to have every reason to try to stop these two from making music together, it looks as though Chris & Rihanna took things into their own hands and did it anyway- times 2.

In what seemed to be a well planned out twitter release between the two of them they both sent each other links to their remixed versions of one another's records. Then each of them RT'd the link. A unified front to me.

Chris took to his twitter account just before releasing the links to these much anticipated collaborations with these words-

In other words.. this reunion on records is in hopes of bringing people together more than anything?? I respect that. It's time we learn to forgive people and move forward.

Looks like Mama Breezy is in support too. She's been thought to have done some sub tweeting to Rihanna herself in the past couple of months. She RT'd both links out on her twitter page tonight too.

I think this is just Rihanna's way of letting the world know that she has forgiven Chris... doesn't mean she's back with him necessarily. Plus I'm sure they had a ball working together. What do you guys think!?

Whitney Houston Laid to Rest + Full Homegoing Celebration Program (Obituary)

2012-02-20T11:09:00.003-05:00

If you're anything like me, you still can't believe that Whitney Houston has passed away. It has truly been so hard for my to accept, and the rare moments of acceptance that I do have are filled with crying spells. Yes, it's that real to me. Since her death I was wondering and hoping how the family would go about giving me hero a homegoing service. I wondered in what way would they honor her life?

That question was answered and with the best response I could've imagined on Saturday 2/18 when Whitney's mom Cissy Houston and family gave her the best homegoing celebration in the church she grew up in. It was incredible for many reasons. Friends and family from throughout Whitney's incredible life and career were there all to share their love and memories.

Guests on program included, Donnie McClurkin, Tyler Perry, Oprah, Ray J, Brandy, Kim Burrell, Alicia Keys, Kevin Costner, R. Kelly, Clive Davis, and many more. The words of encouragement given to the family, the testimonies toWhitney's undying love for Jesus, and the uplifting songs sang were all simply beautiful. As many put it, Cissy Houston brought the whole world to church to celebrate her daughter's life, and I can't help but believe Whitney wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

Many touching moments occurred during the services. Highlights for many were Kim Burrell's personal rendition of Sam Cooke's Change Is Gonna Come, Tyler Perry's testimony to Whitney's faith, Kevin Costner's heartfelt story, and the Winans' family over all. It was an experience you can get in any black church around the country on any given Sunday, but with a special touch for Whitney. At the end of the service her casket was carried out with her incredible voice singing her iconic rendition of "I Will Always Love You" while her mother and daughter followed. Tears began to flow immediately from the family, friends present, and fans around the world.

Sunday in a private burial Whitney Houston's body was laid to rest next to her father who passed in 2003. She is greatly missed, but her legacy lives on.

Chris Brown Publicly Wishes Rihanna a Happy Birthday

2012-02-20T09:51:00.001-05:00

The young couple in 2008

Following a few really hard days in the public eye (make that years), Chris Brown and Rihanna seem destined to show the world that they have moved on from their situation. Even after apologizing numerous times, handling his legal woes impeccably (according to the judge), and producing amazing albums and performances, Chris is still at the very bottom of the totem pole on many lists. The one person who has seemed to have forgiven him and moved on, is the one person hurt the most out of the incident, his ex Rihanna.

The two have been rumored to have rekindled their relationship many times since parting 3 years ago, but never has it been so obvious that if anything, they are friends. It all started last year when the restraining order against him was lifted with Rihanna's blessing. The reports spread that they were carrying on a low key relationship again. Then, one day it became obvious that they were following each other on twitter, then more rumors that they were sexually involved again.

Most recently an ongoing cycle of subliminal tweets with the hashtag #1Love from Rihanna has had the world starting to believe these two actually are headed back towards a relationship. Just last week the rumor mill exploded with reports that Chris Brown was at Rihanna's private 24th birthday party, and that he is featured on the remix of her song, Birthday Cake.This sent the haters of the world into a full frenzy. People have yet to move on and forgive Chris Brown for his huge mistake.

I went on a long twitter rant about this the other day, so I won't reiterate again, but- hoping someone gets help, and shedding a positive light on the fight against domestic violence does not equate to bashing, demeaning, and outright disrespecting Chris Brown.

If you don't wish them together and think he's an abuser then say that and pray they both get help, but some of the hateful things written to and about him are just heartbreaking even for me. There is a better way to state your opinion on such a real issue, that may actually help someone. Clearly the way many people are stating their opinions right now- is causing more hurt than it is helping anyone.

With that said, Rihanna & Chris don't seemed to be moved from their decision to publicly show that they actually have moved on and still care for one another. Following their responses on twitter to several comments and blogs regarding their situation comes a moment many have been waiting to see play out. They've been following each other on twitter for a while, which is in itself some sense of acknowledgement. Chris Brown has even favorited her tweet before, but never have they spoken directly to one another via twitter.

Well, today is Rihanna's 24th birthday and everybody was wondering if Chris would acknowledge that on twitter....as soon as the clock struck 12 he joined the ranks of many fans , family members, and friends including Producer the Dream who is in London recording with Rihanna right now- to wish her a happy birthday.

Chris tweeted HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROBYN (Rihanna's first name- her moniker is her middle name), and Rihanna immediately replied with a simple thank you. For the first time the two have a definite public interaction with each other, and of course it would be by twitter. We wish Rihanna a happy birthday as well! It's Pisces season!!!!

New Video: @Wale ft. @BigSean- Slight Work (Directed by @ChrisBrown)

2012-02-20T08:48:00.000-05:00

Wale released his brand new video for, Slight Work which features Big Sean! Surprisingly it is directed by Chris Brown! This guy is everywhere right now (Chris). He's putting in work in many ways and thats commendable. Slight Work is just one of many hot records of Wale's critically acclaimed album Ambition.

Cissy & Bobbi Kristina Arrive At Whitney's Wake

2012-02-17T19:13:00.001-05:00

Whitney's family held a private wake today in Newark. Whitney's mother Cissy (below) was spotted arriving with her daughter Bobbi Kristina (above). It's becoming more and more real that Whitney is gone. Praying for the family. Also in attendance was Clive Davis and Whitney's cousin Dionne Warwick among others.

Whitney's Homegoing will now be broadcasted online and television for her fans to view. Reported to have been invited to the small ceremonies are: Oprah, Jay Z & Beyonce, Ray J, Brandy, Kevin Costner, Aretha Franklin, Mel Gibson (said to not be attending), and a few others.

Source

NEW VIDEO: Chris Brow- Turn Up The Music

2012-02-17T09:52:00.001-05:00

Fresh off of his Grammy winning weekend, Chris Brown is still working hard. With rumors still heavily circulating that he and Rihanna rekindled their relationship, and photos of him simultaneously in the airport with now girlfriend Karrueche, Chris is still managing to focus on his career for the most part. A few weeks ago he dropped his first single- Turn Up the Music- from his much anticipated follow up album to his last release, F.A.M.E. dually entitled, FORTUNE.

Early Friday morning he premiered the video via his twitter page. Check it out below!

Jada Smith Releases Special Valentines Day Song for Will.. Sound Split Up to You!??

2012-02-16T03:14:00.001-05:00

Photo on her FB page from Will's bday in September

Reports have been circulating for months now that one of Hollywoods most adored couples Will & Jada Smith are splitting/have split. Well, Jada released this song for Will no her facebook page & honey..this is not a song you record for a man you're divorcing. Here is the note she attached with the song, entitled Burn..

With the major losses we have experienced in the last few weeks...

We should remember...
Our lives are worth living fully.
...
Therefore...

Our risks are worthy.
Our mistakes are worthy.
Our traumas are worthy as well.

The very paths we are told not to
Tread are the paths that hold the
keys to our deepest understanding of
love for our lives and ourselves.

Self love is the gateway to truly loving
another...deeply

We were born to be loved and to love...
fiercely.

Will,
I love you.
Happy Valentine's Day.
This is for you.

j

Praying for these two to make it! I love them!

@TYRESE & @OfficialChilli Stop By 106th & Park to Premiere New Vid Nothing On You

2012-02-15T15:43:00.001-05:00

Add caption

Few days ago we featured some pretty steamy photos from the set of Tyrese's new video for my favorite song on his latest album, Nothing on You! TLC's Chilli played his leading lady in the video and the twitter flirting between these two was priceless the whole time. Well the video is finally here! Tyrese & Chilli stopped by BET's 106th and Park as surprised guests to debut the video for millions of fans! The chemistry between these to is just too real.

Tyrese explained via twitter that Chilli is one of his dream women, so he was very excited to work with her.Yall how about Chilli is about to be 41............................................................................................. aging SO gracefully

The video directed by Matt Alonzo chronicles the love life of a man showing his woman that even though many women want him, he only wants her. This has been my jam since before the album came out, so I of course am excited it's a single.

Open Invitation boasts Tyrese's first number one album to date, and he did it all as an independent artist. Love this guy.. yall enjoy the video & HAPPY VALENTINES DAY FROM TYRESE!

Here it is: Nothing On You

Wayne Popped the Question to Girlfriend Dhea?! [photos]

2012-02-15T11:02:00.000-05:00

Wayne has been spotted with this woman on his arm for a bit now. The media went into a frenzy trying to figure out just who she is. From the beginning people assumed it was something serious as Wayne was all cuddled up with her beachside, courtside, and even brought her to his daughter Reginaes 13 yr. Birthday Ball. So who is she?

Well, we don't know much about her except she's Italian, Wayne's girlfriend and potentially his fiance'?!??
Last night he tweeted something that was replied to by Birdman and of course twitter ran with it. The tweet:

Considering how smitten Wayne appears to be over her via his twitter acct- the obvious assumption was, Wayne has finally popped the question!!

I've watched Wayne tweet the sweetest things about needing his lady, or going to spend time with her. Some times it's even just her name that he tweets, or something cute like this one below:

So many of you jumped ship and thought.. WOW Wayne FINALLY proposed & to her????! Hahhaaa... guys.. even I know Wayne better enough to not take anything he says at face value! He's a rapper & a genius one at that. He uses words, flips them, plays with your head with them, because that's what he gets paid to do. I knew the whole time exactly what Wayne was doing!

The answer is NO! Wayne did not ask Dhea (though he may be in love with her) to marry him.. just to be his Valentine..

Maybe this will calm all of the raving fans on twitter going off about him marrying some "random" girl and not Nivea, Lauren, or Sarah. All of which have a kid by him and were at some point in a relationship with him. I even saw one tweet asking why he'd married her and not Reginae's mom Toya (um. he did. they divorced. Toya's happily married.) lol. Gotta love fans.

Anywho.. s/o to Wayne for being silly as heck and all of yall for falling for it. Kudos to he and Dhea anyway..they're riding pretty hard.. who knows.. maybe someday he will, but not today!!!!

Lessons on My Hero: Whitney's Endless Charitable Deeds overshadowed By Her Golden Voice & Inner Struggles

2012-02-15T10:00:00.062-05:00

The voice in arguably it's best form- Superbowl National Anthem

In the wake of Whitney's death the media coverage has been a systematic roller coaster ride. Either they've loved her for her voice, or hated her for her struggles. This isn't too distant from their relationship with her while she walked this Earth. That same relationship caused me much frustration growing up- as Whitney is for many reasons- one of my heroes.

I loved Whitney from an early age. She quickly became one of my biggest inspirations in life. As a child you try to identify with the people you admire in some way. I looked nothing like her, but I could sing & so could she & I always remember thinking she had pretty hands.. and thats what people would always tell me. As I got older her inspiration grew..and for reasons, the media really has yet to acknowledge.

The Whitney I grew up admiring was vivacious, beautiful, brown skinned, and extremely gifted. Even now listening to her vocals on any given record is mesmerizing, they are in fact perfect. So, I truly understand and am one with the rest of the media who focus so heavily on that incredible instrument she shared with us.

The Whitney I grew up admiring also was burdened. Burdened by a beast that many people carry. The burden of insufficiency. Not having enough of something. Most people call that addiction. I refer to it as insufficiency because usually that first try of any drug is in order to achieve something..then youre hooked. I watched Whitney struggle through the years too, so I understand people wanting to discuss her war with addiction.

The Whitney I grew up admiring also was a mother. When Bobbi Kristina was first announced I remember how I felt. I was like, "Woah! Whitney is pregnant!?" Then I saw her in the video for I'm every woman, gleaming with light and love. She was so beautiful and happy. While the media seeks to mention she has one child with ex husband Bobby Brown, they seem to be rather careless with their reports considering, that one child is still here to read what they say about her dear mother.

Whitney LOVES her Bobbi Kristina. I leave that present tense because I'm not sure how a mother's love ever ends. It's been evident since the moment she was born. This photo is of the two just last year on the red carpet attending Clive's annual Grammy's Party. This is the very party she was preparing for this year when she passed away. Though it is a sad thought to have, this is one of my favorite recent shots of her. She looks so happy and with Bobbi Kristina in arm.

The Whitney I grew up admiring wore many hats, but one that I think has yet to be mentioned in the media is her charitable work, and her heart for children. I recall always seeing her name somewhere for something during the height of her success. So this morning I went on a mad hunt to try to find some more positivity to shed on this whole experience, and of course, thanks to Whitney there is much of it.

It only took one search to find numerous sources mentioning Whitney's charity work. The list goes on and on. Not only did Whitney start a foundation for children that built playgrounds in inner city neighborhoods and invested in academic programs, but when she got married she asked guests to bring a donation for that charity instead of gifts. Below is the most extensive list I've found of all she has contributed to/done.

UNCF celebration

If you know Whitney to be more than just a great singer with a struggling habit, this post should resonate with you. I'm glad I am a fan of such an amazing person! May she rest in love and may her legacy live on.. not just through her voice, or her struggle, but her works:

The Whitney Houston Foundation For Children: Formed in 1989, the WHFC aids sick and homeless children, and works toward the prevention of child abuse, teaches children to read, and has built inner city parks and playgrounds. In past years, the foundation also has hosted a Christmas party for homeless children.

The United Negro College Fund is a favorite Whitney Houston charity. She raised a quarter of a million dollars for the UNCF at a 1988 Madison Square Garden concert, appeared on at least two "Lou Rawls Parade of Stars" telethons to benefit the UNCF, and has been honored by the organization for her consistent giving with the Frederick D. Patterson Award. One of Whitney Houston's first gigs was a benefit concert for the UNCF in which she sang "Tomorrow" from the musical "Annie."

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation: Whitney Houston regularly attends their "Carousel of Hope" charity gala and was honored for her giving in 1996 with the Brass Ring Award.

St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital: Founded by the late actor Danny Thomas, this hospital helps critically-ill children without asking for money from their parents or guardians. It is subsidized completely by charitable giving. Whitney Houston has given so much to the hospital over the years that the founder's daughter, Marlo Thomas, honored her at a charity banquet in 1994.

South Africa: The announcement that Whitney Houston would participate in the 1988 Freedom Fest concert event (for a then-imprisoned Nelson Mandela) drew other artists and much media attention.

In 1994, Whitney also toured in South Africa, giving concert proceeds to numerous children's charities including two children's museums, the President's Trust Fund (for the freed Nelson Mandela), the Kagiso Foundation and several orphanages. In the 1980s, when Whitney was an up-and-coming fashion model, she also refused to work for any company that did business in then-Apartheid South Africa.

American Red Cross: Whitney Houston donated all of her proceeds from the single and home video sales of her Superbowl XXV rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" to benefit Gulf War troops and their families. Whitney's record company followed suit. Whitney was elected a member of the American Red Cross Board of Directors in 1991.

New York Firefighters and Police: Whitney Houston re-released "The Star Spangled Banner" charity single to benefit the New York Firefighters Disaster Relief Fund and the New York Fraternal Order of Police Fund following terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. She waived her royalty rights to the single, which went on to top the U.S. sales charts in October 2001 and raised more than $1 million.

The Children's Defense Fund: All of Whitney Houston's proceeds from her two "Classic Whitney" concerts in Washington, D.C., totaling a quarter of a million dollars, were donated to this charity.
The National Birth Defects Center: The Boston area center named its Hearing & Language Disorder Clinic after Whitney due to her giving.

UMDNJ University Hospital: The Newark, N.J.-based hospital named its Pediatric Special Care Unit after Whitney Houston due to her giving.

Hale House: Whitney Houston donated enough to this Harlem-based charity that they were able to build a Learning & Recreation Center.

Rainbow House: Whitney Houston has provided financial assistance to this shelter for adolescent mothers and for children with HIV and AIDS.

Russian Aid Fund: In February 2004, Whitney donated 1 million rubles to the Aid Fund for victims of a bomb attack in the Moscow subway. The funds were raised by her performances in Moscow.

T.J. Martell Foundation: Whitney Houston has supported this foundation, which funds research for leukemia, cancer and AIDS.

Harlem Boys Choir, New Jersey State PBA, and The Youth of Atlantic City: Whitney donated proceeds from her only 1990 U.S. concert appearances to these three charities.

Debt Relief: Whitney supported a cyber petition by international debt relief campaign Jubilee 2000 to persuade world leaders to erase debt owed by 40 of the world's poorest nations.

Wyclef Jean Foundation: Whitney Houston participated in a Carnegie Hall benefit that earned about $250,000 for this foundation in January 1991.

Welcome Home Heroes: Whitney's Easter Sunday 1991 concert in Norfolk, Va., was free for returning Gulf War veterans and their families. HBO, which televised the event live, encouraged cable systems to descramble their signal so everyone could enjoy the show for free.

1994 Rainforest Benefit: Whitney Houston made a surprise guest performance at this event, notable for Whitney's singing a bit of "La Donna e Mobile" from Giuseppe Verdi's opera "Rigoletto." She also performed "If It's Magic" and "I Will Always Love You."

For the 1992 movie premiere of "The Bodyguard," proceeds went to The Whitney Houston Foundation For Children and to the Magic Johnson Foundation for pediatric AIDS research .

For the 1996 movie premiere of "The Preacher's Wife," proceeds went to The Whitney Houston Foundation For Children, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (Denzel Washington's choice) and a third charity chosen by director Penny Marshall.

Kurdish Refugee Relief 1991: Whitney performed at the "Simple Truth" concert at London's Wembley Stadium and allowed MTV to simulcast her performance of "Miracle" at her Oakland, Calif., concert during a telethon held for this cause.

Fighting AIDS: One of Whitney Houston's favorite causes, highlights include her performance at the Arista 15th Anniversary AIDS Benefit in 1990. She also flew to Los Angeles for the "Commitment for Life" AIDS Benefit in 1994 from her South American tour, and then immediately flew back to resume her concert tour.

Fighting Cancer: Another of Whitney Houston's favorite causes, Whitney performed at a Cancer Research Benefit at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

Michael Bolton Foundation: This charity honored Whitney for her giving in 1995 with a fund-raising gala. In 1997, Bolton's foundation joined forces with Whitney's foundation to honor other charitable artists at a fund-raising gala.

Emmanuel Cancer Foundation: Whitney was unable to attend a 1990 benefit held in her honor, so she turned it into a food drive to benefit this New Jersey chidren's organization.

Special Olympics: Whitney performed at the Opening Ceremonies in 1987 and recorded "Do You Hear What I Hear" for free for their first "A Very Special Christmas" benefit album in 1989.

1988 Olympic Games: Whitney Houston recorded the song "One Moment In Time" for an album of the same name to benefit Olympic athletes.

Ronald McDonald Children's Charities: The South Florida arm of this organization honored Whitney for her giving.

The Bronx Zoo: Whitney Houston donated two lion cubs to the Bronx Zoo in New York City in 1989.

For her 1992 wedding, Whitney asked attendees and fans to contribute to the Whitney Houston Foundation For Children in lieu of gifts.

Whitney Houston has been honored for her charity work by the VH1 Honors in 1995, The First Annual Triumphant SPIRIT Awards by Essence Magazine in 1997, and 1998 Trumpet Awards (organized by Ted Turner).

Source

Branica (Brandy & Monica) Pay Tribute to Whitney Houston in New Video

2012-02-14T14:11:00.000-05:00

Brandy & Monica recently shot the video to their much acclaimed new single, It All Belongs to Me. Just before the passing of both of their inspiration- Whitney Houston, they were able to sit with her & Bobbi Kristina.

Monica released these photos via her twitter page of her ensemble in the first take of their video. Looks as though they will in some way be honoring Whitney in it.

Brandy & Monica's single will be featured on both of thier upcoming projects. Love it.

Bobbi Kristina all smiles just 1 day before her Mother's passing. Please pray for her!

Adele Sweeps & Chris Brown Shines at Grammys

2012-02-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

Reminiscent of Lauryn Hill's epic Grammy take over after her first solo project, Adele went 6 for 6 at the 53rd annual Grammy Awards. What was most intriguing about her name being called over and over again was her sense of humility and happiness in the moment.

Unlike many of her peers who seem to not really know how to respond to such love from the audience, Adele simply took it all in. There were a few moments where Adele was forced to just stand there and be applauded. That is really an awkward position to be in, but she did even that with grace. She really produced an amazing album and rightly deserved every Grammy she received!

Another recipient who stood humbly was Chris Brown, who took home the Grammy for best R&B album. The past few years have been all but nice to the r&b singer who had an altercation with (then) girlfriend Rihanna 3 yrs ago during the Grammys. He's been banned from radio stations and even award shows like the Grammys. So, to see him receive a Grammy and get the opportunity to perform twice did my heart well.

It was a redemptive moment when he stood up on the podium, nerves a wreck, and speechless. He simply thanked God and his fans. Clearly his priorities were in order.

I went on a small twitter rant last night in response to country singer Miranda Lambert's mean tweets about Chris needing to be "Put back in his place" because he "hit a girl". Those types of comments are from people who feel they are perfect. One day you all will realize that condemning Chris to a life of misery & strife in no way uplifts Rihanna or sheds a productive light on the issue of domestic violence. I'm proud of Chris & Rihanna's handling of THEIR situation. Go Chris!

UPDATED: Whitney's Family Says to Newark- "No public memorial please."

2012-02-14T12:38:00.002-05:00

Despite of the public outcry from fans all around the world in grievance of Whitney Houston's death, Mayor Cory Booker was asked by the Houston family to not host a public memorial.

Instead the family will celebrate Whitney's life in a private ceremony at her childhood church. A representative for the Mayor's office released a statement saying that the family asked Whitney's hometown not to publicly memorialize her in any way and that they were in total compliance with the families wishes at this time.

Many fans are taking this the hard way, being that Whitney felt like a family member to a lot of them. Fans all around the world are still grieving their loss. The family for whatever the reason wants the opportunity to lay Whitney to rest privately.

As big of a fan of Whitney's as I am, and as hard as I have taken her death, I respect and understand them wanting to give her a peaceful and private memorial. The chaos surrounding every little detail of her death has been overwhelming for me. I haven't really been able to keep you all updated because it feels so personal.

The media is scavenging every minute detail in hopes of breaking news first. I'm more interested in giving you information that is important. I don't want to represent Whitney in any other way than the way I represented her in her life- with love and respect.

Whitney's autopsy has been completed and speculations are all over the Internet, but I'll wait till to the final say is released to share. I hope she went in peace is all I can say right now.

Please remember Bobbi Kristina and the entire family in your prayers at this time, but also remember the die hard fans who had emotions and feelings invested in Whitney's life as well. It's a touchy subject- publicly memorializing icons. The feedback I've received on social media sites is mixed as to whether people think her family should have a public ceremony for her fans.

Maybe they can do something similar to Michael's and sort of have both. Now THAT would be incredible.

UPDATE: CNN has learned that the memorial services for Whitney will be held in Newark at 1pm on Saturday. It will be a private ceremony for close friends and family. The service will be officiated by Whitney's childhood church's Pastor Joe Carter and the Eulogy brought by Pastor & Gospel singer Marvin Winans. Pastor Winans also officiated the marriage of Whitney & Bobby back in 1997.

It is still not clear what happened to Whitney, but a close source tells CNN that the family is very unhappy with the media highlighting Whitney's drug abuse. The family friend goes on to say that Whitney had been clean of hard drugs for 3 yrs. and that they were all very proud of her. She did take Xanax for anxiety and sleep deprivation and was on an antibiotic for sore throat, but nothing other than that.

The family continues to grieve their loss as the world looks on in disbelief. Bobbi Kristina her only child was rushed to the hospital twice in the wake of her mother's death. Whitney's fans have expressed honest concern for Bobbi Kristina since Whitney's passing. Her father Bobby released a statement to People stating that they were going to pull through it as a family.

"Obviously the death of her mother is affecting her, however, we will get through this tragedy as a family."

There are unconfirmed talks of the ceremonies being broadcasted to screens outside of New Hope Baptist Church.

Too $hort and XXL magazine apologize for controversial love advice

2012-02-14T12:00:00.002-05:00

XXL Magazine is apologizing for a controversial video on young love advice from a much older rapper Too $hort that was sure to make anyone cringe.

Too $hort released a video with the magazine which gave advice on how to "turn out" young girls. The rapper, who has been known to release sexually explicit songs throughout his career, offered the advice to teenage boys.

"When you get to late middle school, early high school and you start feeling a certain way about the girls. I'm gonna tell you a couple tricks," he said on the video. "A lot of the boys are going to be running around trying to get kisses from the girls. We're going way past that. I'm taking you to the hole."

Crazy, right? It only gets worse from there. In graphic detail, the rapper offers steps that young boys can use to get to a young girl's heart.

"You push her up against the wall. You take your finger and put a little spit on it and you stick her finger in her underwear and you rub it on there and watch what happens," Too $hort said.

Not all readers appreciated the advice. The first comment on the site read, "This clip is totally INAPPROPRIATE on so many levels and advocates sexual aggression toward young gir;s that['s] consider[ed] RAPE, I'm [really] surprised this clip is publicly viewable. XXL lacks social responsibility with this immoral content!"

Charing Ball, cultural critic and writer for The Root, questions why Too $hort was given a platform for giving "fatherly advice" in the first place, particulary by a white female editor. "That is like Essence magazine hiring Don Imus to give black women hair care advice, or Rick Santorum being invited to an LGBT rights organization luncheon to speak about marriage equality," Ball wrote.

A large outcry on Twitter and blogs have prompted the video's removal from the XXL website and a circulating petition is calling for the dismissal of the Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Satten for promoting the rape of young girls.

"The minds and bodies of black girls are continually under attack," the petition reads. "Those in charge at XXL, particularly Vanessa Satten the magazine's editor in chief, value the security of young black women so little that they chose to trade it for pageviews. Let them know that we will not sit and watch while they wage war."

Satten defends her position, saying that she doesn't see all content before it goes live.
"I agree with their perspective. When I saw this video, I was truly offended and thought it crossed the line," she said. "I had it taken down immediately. I am disappointed that an employee decided to post it and I am putting internal procedures in place to make sure content like this does not go on the site."

Too $hort's reasoning was this: "I want to apologize to anyone I may have offended with the XXL video interview I recently did. When I got on camera I was in Too $hort mode and had a lapse in judgment. I would never advise a child or young man to do these things, it's not how I get down. Although I have made my career on dirty raps, I have worked over the years to somewhat balance the content of my music with giving back to the community...If you're a young man or a kid who looks up to me, don't get caught up in the pimp, player, gangster hip-hop personas. Just be yourself."

Do you buy these apologies? Do you think this type of advice from this kind of recording artist is too much, perpetuating rape culture that's so pervasive among young girls? Speak!

Rihanna Grammys Best Dressed & Her Secret On Stage Message to Chris

2012-02-13T11:01:00.005-05:00

Rihanna of course! For reasons I don't have to explain to anyone with eyesight, Rihanna had the best dress of the night. It was barely there, but it was a perfect fit. In yet another collaboration with Armani, Rih Rih sported a backless, plunging necklined, thigh high splitted, form fitting dress that I swear I heard say, "Hey!!! look at meeeee!" when she walked onto the red carpet.

Sporting her hot new blonde do and a nude face, Rihanna dazzled last night at the 53rd Grammys. She also performed her hit We Found Love in which she managed to mention Whitney's name. She even performed her hit with Coldplay, Princess of China (See video below.). Easily one of the best performers of the night. Needless to say the pressure was on as her ex-beau (& rumored lover) Chris Brown had an amazing night as well.

Interesting enough it was pointed out to me by a girlfriend of mine that during her set with Coldplay, there is a line in the song that says, "You stole my stars" It appears that Rihanna reaches her hand back to touch the star tattoos that were significant for she and Brown's relationship. The two reportedly got similar tattoos of stars while they dated back in 2008.

I had to watch it back to catch it, but sure enough, her hand reaches up towards the tattoos during that line..Coincidence? Maybe, but with Rihanna's recent subtweeting habits, and their clubbing together lately, they don't really leave people any other option but to assume they're still in love. If you missed the performance with Coldplay check it out below as well as some of the other looks I really liked at the 53rd Grammys!

Katy Perry Adele Rihanna

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Jennifer Hudson Graces Grammys Tribute to Whitney- Pressure Too Much for Chaka

2012-02-13T08:24:00.002-05:00

The music world paused again last night to recognize it's most talented individuals as the 53rd annual Grammy Awards were held live in LA. The show was filled with big celeb performances from the likes of Tony Bennet to Chris Brown. The show gave much to talk about from Nicki Minaj's bizarre outfit & seemingly offensive (Roman Catholic Church) performance to the disappointment of Whitney's tribute being one song.

The death of the Icon overshadowed the show with numerous celebrities breaking to tears while on the red carpet speaking of the world's loss in Whitney Houston's passing. Rap legend LL Cool J hosted the show and opened up with a prayer in solidarity for the "family member we lost." Rihanna also gave love to Whitney during her set as well. The range of genres affected by Whitney's passing was evident last night. From country music's current love Miranda Lambert to revered gospel & all around vocalist Kim Burrell, both of whom took to tears at mention of Whitney.

Jennifer Hudson was originally slated to perform along with Chaka Khan. With such a short notice the Grammys had to put together a tribute for one of the greatest voices and biggest stars music has ever known. Hoping to render something worth while, the show contacted people they thought could pull it off.

Considering the pressure to stand in front of the most influential people in music and pay tribute to the best, this obviously wouldn't be an easy task so soon after Whitney's death. The great Chaka Khan took to her twitter to inform us that she'd decided the pressure was too much for her at this time and pulled out of her part in the tribute, which left Hudson to go it alone:

"As I grieve the loss of my friend and "little sister", I dont feel it appropriate to perform at this time. Continue to pray for the family"

Jennifer Hudson graced the stage with Dolly Pardon's "I Will Always Love You" made famous by Whitney Houston, and delivered. She delivered. It was sweet and graceful. The performance was clearly full of love and admiration and a bit of sadness at the same time. It was a beautiful moment that I know Whitney is proud of.

Many fans felt like it wasn't enough. They thought the Grammy's could've scrapped a few of the people who performed twice to give Whitney more of a tribute. I'm not sure about that idea, considering that the show was already planned, money, time, agreements and such had already been prioritized. The greater question to consider is who could've at such short notice and with the loss so present, who could've delivered. I'm sure the Grammy's wanted to give Whitney a great tribute, she gave them SO many incredible moments. The tribute was short and sweet, but impactful.

Whitney Houston died on February 11, 2012. We will forever love and miss her presence on Earth.

Jennifer Hudson's touching tribute.

BREAKING: Whitney's Daughter Bobbi Kristina Rushed to the Hospital

2012-02-12T14:51:00.002-05:00

TMZ is reporting that just a couple of hours ago Whitney's only child Bobbi Kristina was rushed out of the Beverly Hilton hotel on a stretcher.

Bobbi was reported to have naturally gotten into a shouting match and rage when officers denied her the chance to see her mother's body at the hotel where Whitney was found unresponsive in a bath tub.

Bobbi Kristina is the daughter of Bobby Brown & Whitney. The world has watched her grow up and we have all witnessed how close she was with her dear mother. Story is still developing. We're praying for you Bobbi! She is 18.

I just know Whitney meant these words to Dolly's song for Bobbi more than anyone!
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QaI-M9sxW4?hl=en&autoplay=1"></a>

UPDATED: RIL Whitney Houston (August 9, 1963 – February 11, 2012)

2012-02-11T20:37:00.004-05:00

Whitney Houston died today. I have no words. I will always love Whitney. One of my biggest inspirations. Cause of death is unknown at this time. My prayers go up for Bobbi Kristina & their family.

UPDATE: Here is what we now know. Whitney's body was found in her hotel room in LA in the bathtub. Once paramedics arrived individuals were already attempting CPR to resesotate Whitney, but it was too late. She was pronounced dead at 3:55pm PST. The cause of death still has yet to be revealed.

There are reports being made that Whitney's daughter Bobbi Kristina naturally arrived and was not allowed to go in to see her mom. She is reported to have -naturally- thrown a huge fit in response. Her father and Whitney's ex husband Bobbi Brown gave a tearful performance at his show in Mississippi with group New Edition. He broke down on stage while singing as he pointed to the sky and said, "I love you."

Whitney's mom Cissy Houston and cousin Dionne Warwick were said to have just spoken with Whitney who seemed, "Just fine." only hours before her death. They were all in preparation for Clive Davis' annual Grammys party last night. Clive is credited with starting and revamping Whitney's career. He is also reported to be taking this hard.

I went on my #DearWhitney rant on twitter as a salute to the icon that changed our lives. Many others took to their twitter accounts to show love as well. Rihanna tweeted that she doesn't know how to feel about being at the Grammys now amongst other things. Brandy, who's career was hugely influenced by Whitney's simply tweeted.. "Whhhhhhhhhhyyyyyyyyyy??????" which is a question we are all asking.

There is not a voice so great, a spirit so unwillingly shaken, or a smile so bright on this earth. I know she's outsinging the angels right now. Tears continue to flow as I write this, never thought I'd have to, but.. May Whitney Houston Rest in Love.

My niece sings Whitney's Greatest Love of All

UPDATED: PHOTOS OF BLUE IVY CARTER RELEASED!

2012-02-10T19:42:00.005-05:00

I didnt expect to see these for a while but today Solange tweeted these photos of her niece Blue Ivy Carter. In the most unexpected way Jay Z & Beyonce decided to share their adorable baby girl in their own way.

As if the photos weren't personable enough, the Carters put an extra special touch on their presentation of Baby Blue with this handwritten note..

She's SO adorable. Congrats to the Carters again! #HelloBlue!

Brandy, Monica, & Clive Davis Talk "Rihanna or Adele" with MTV

2012-02-10T13:08:00.000-05:00

Making their rounds promoting their new single It All Belongs To Me.. Brandy & Monica stopped to chat with Clive Davis and MTV as we prepare for this Sunday's live Grammys on CBS. The question I assume was who deserves to take home the covetted Grammy this year. Clive basically says, this is the year of Adele..no shade to any other artists. Brandy and Monica gave their honest opinions as well.

We'll have to see how the night goes, but I'm sure it will be a big night for both ladies.

Ted Turner's Daughter to Be on Real Housewives Of Atlanta?!

2012-02-10T12:06:00.002-05:00

You look at this photo and tell me.

People have been asking around as to whether Marlo's reported Sugar Daddy (doubt it.) THE Ted Turner's (owner of all of everything-Google him.) daughter Laura is joining the cast of RHOA.

I didn't think she'd be a "fit" for such a show so I was skeptical of blogging it. You guys know how I am about blogging the truth! I couldn't really bank on any of my sources who kept telling me yes..so I didnt bother to blog it. I figured it would all come out eventually for you faithful RHOA viewers.

Well, I got word today via twitter from who I like to personally consider THE source of all things RHOA- our girl Michelle Brown bka Atlien from straightfromthea.com that this is indeed a rumor. Laura will not be joining the cast, though it appears she was in fact offered the opportunity by Bravo.

In an exclusive interview with the AJC a rep denied that Laura would be joining the reality show. Thats that! I knew it. Didn't seem like a fit at all! No shade to the current (trying to act like they are not current) cast members, but there is a certain type of woman that works in reality tv. While she's trying to clear up that rumor Atlien says, her dad is out to clear up the one about him buying Marlo's..............

Though she's seen around town with some of everybody and has a pretty interesting life, there has to be some level of high school drama and Laura Turner Seydel just doesn't give me that. Oh well.. visit straightfromthea.com for more details on that show. She ALWAYS has the scoop on them.

Adele Sings a bit for Anderson Cooper..Acapella Post Surgery-Is she Grammy Ready?!

2012-02-10T11:43:00.001-05:00

Late last year fans across the world where stunned and saddened to learn that one of the favorite voices of our generation was silenced. Adele, who has seemingly taken over the industry in the passed couple of years with her incredibly sultry and sweet voice, underwent a successful surgery to repair her highly esteemed chords. Fans were happy that the surgery was a success, but many were brought to tears when Adele painfully announced she had to cut her tour short for some much needed vocal rest.

Well, the wait is over, Sunday night at the Grammys on CBS, Adele will perform live for the first time since her surgery. The question is always -can she do it? Is she ready..? Well, she stopped by 60 minutes and gave Anderson Cooper a heads up.. you be the judge...

Behind the Scenes: Drake ft. Rihanna- Take Care Video Shoot

2012-02-10T11:18:00.000-05:00

Easily one of music's most talked about potential couples, Drake and Rihanna have been rumored to be together more than not. They've partnered on Rihanna's number 1 hit, Whats My Name, hung out some, and have even been spotted leaving a club together, but nobody really knows for sure the extent of their relationship. Whatever it is, it makes for magic behind the mics as they are back at it with their hit song Take Care.

Drake is reported to have written the song knowing that Rihanna was the only person who could deliver it as he wanted to. Now the two are busy shooting the video for it somewhere in LA. Looks like their having fun. Should be a great video. I happened to be up having another sleepless night in Atlanta when our good friends from Rihanna Daily RT the video director Yoann Lemoine:

Oh by the way I just shot Drake & Rihanna’s ‘Take Care’ video. Beautiful track, amazing artists. EDITING NOW ! http://bit.ly/zCZhAs

Almost looks like @drake is photobombing my picture with @rihanna Love you guys. http://twitpic.com/8hxkl6

It really does look that way in the photo! Fun for Rihanna & Drake fans. I'm quite excited to to get a visual for this record I dig it.. if you havent heard it..press play.
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dS7BopTi8VA?hl=en"></a>

S/o to @RihannaDaily

Behind the Scenes: J.Cole Video Shoot -Nobodys Perfect ft. Missy Elliott

2012-02-10T09:38:00.022-05:00

THE Mona Scott Young shared a few pictures via twitter of her client Missy Elliott on set with rapper JCole for his hit Nobodys Perfect which features the legendary Missy E. If you haven't heard it it's definitely a smooth hip hop record.. and Cole sings a bit on it. You know what this means guys.... Missy is BACK! After a break from the game for many speculated reasons (none of which matter to me) she is coming back hard with this collaboration with J Cole- as he is one of the hottest MCs in the game right now. Mona Scott Young sent these photos out via twitter eeeaarrrrly this morning as they wrapped up their highly anticipated video shoot.

Missy is known for her fun, bold, and funky approach to hip hop. She's one of the few artists who can actually sing and rap and do them both well! Not sure when to expect her new project, but you know you can expect ME to have it blogged for you here whenever I find out. In the meantime we have to enjoy this collaboration on JCole's record and be happy. Love to Missy! Maybe this feature will speed up the process of her hitting us with the "heee" sooner than later. There is this void every time certain artists are gone and Missy is one of those artists. Shout out to JCole for having the legendary Missy Elliott on his record and in his video. Kudos to the whole Monami Ent. family and Mona Scott Young. I just adore her whole presentation of Boss hood.

Check the record out here if you havent heard it yet!