New Music: Meek Mill f/ Rick Ross – ‘Black Magic’

Meek Mill and Rick Ross make “Black Magic” on their latest collabo off the Self Made, Vol. 2 compilation, due June 26. “Poof, there go the car/ Poof, there go the crib/ Poof, a hundred mill, David Copperfield,” raps Rozay on the catchy hook. Dip into their bag of tricks.

Single Cover: Lil Wayne f/ Big Sean – ‘My Homies Still’

Lil Wayne may have beef with Pusha T, but that hasn’t hurt his relationship with Big Sean. Weezy enlists the G.O.O.D. Music rapper for “My Homies Still,” the first single off his 10th studio album I Am Not a Human Being II, the sequel to his 2010 release. The song is expected to debut tomorrow. Rap-Up.com has your first look at the cover artwork.

Beyoncé Leads Cast of Animated Film ‘Epic’

Beyoncé has tried her hand at drama, comedy, and musicals, and now she’s set to star in her first animated feature. The singer-actress will lend her voice to the 3D CG-animated film Epic.

According to Deadline.com, Beyoncé will play Queen Tara in 20th Century Fox Animation and Blue Sky Studios’ Epic, which is being developed by the makers of Ice Age and Rio.

In addition to B, the movie stars Colin Farrell, Josh Hutcherson, Amanda Seyfried, Johnny Knoxville, Aziz Ansari, Pitbull, Jason Sudeikis, Steven Tyler, and Judah Friedlander.

Directed by Ice Age’s Chris Wedge, Epic follows a battle in the forest between good and evil. A teenage girl magically transports into a secret universe, where she and a cast of fun and whimsical characters unite to save their world, which eventually saves the real world. It will be released to theaters on May 24, 2013.

The role is Beyoncé’s first since giving birth to her daughter Blue Ivy in January. She is also set to star in Clint Eastwood’s remake of A Star Is Born.

Grammy Awards 2013: Date Announced, Nominees to be Revealed in December

If you're a fan of the Grammy Awards, mark your calendar for Feb. 10 - that's when the annual event will be held next year.

The Staples Center in Los Angeles will again be the stage for what's billed as "music's biggest night." The nominations will be revealed about two months earlier on Dec. 5 during a live prime-time concert on CBS.

CBS will also broadcast the Grammy Awards.

This year's Grammy broadcast was seen by almost 40 million viewers, making it the second most-watched Grammys in history. The broadcast was highlighted by Adele's Grammy sweep and a tribute to Whitney Houston, who died a day before the event.

Usher to Launch Album with Interactive Live Stream Concert

Usher is connecting with his fans around the globe for a one-of-a-kind concert event. The R&B superstar has teamed up with American Express, VEVO, and YouTube for a live stream concert on the eve of his album release.

The art-in-motion experience is part of American Express’ livestream music series, “American Express Unstaged.” Usher’s exclusive performance will be livestreamed from the Hammersmith Apollo in London, at 4 p.m. EST / 1 p.m. PST on Monday, June 11, at www.youtube.com/UsherVEVO.

The show will celebrate the release of his seventh studio album Looking 4 Myself, available June 12. Fans worldwide can virtually take the stage with Usher by creating a customized digital dancer featuring some of Usher’s best choreographed dance moves.

“I am excited to introduce my new album Looking 4 Myself with a worldwide performance in such an innovative way,” said Usher. “It’s very exciting to interact with my fans from a global stage through American Express Unstaged’s live stream. Using the cutting-edge ‘take the stage’ technology will allow my fans to join me virtually via their dancing avatars on stage at London’s renowned Hammersmith Apollo Theatre. Be there on June 11th.”
\
Looking 4 Myself features the singles “Climax,” “Scream,” and the Rick Ross-assisted “Lemme See,” along with appearances from Pharrell, A$AP Rocky, and Luke Steele.

Video: Robin Thicke – ‘Exhale (Shoop Shoop)’

Robin Thicke pays homage to Whitney Houston with the black-and-white video for “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” his cover of the late legend’s 1995 single. The star of ABC’s new singing competition “Duets” walks the streets of downtown Los Angeles, performing an impromptu concert on the sidewalk as fans pull out their camera phones. He passes by Skid Row and the Palace Theatre with a marquee that reads, “Goodbye Whitney Houston, We Miss You.” Watch his touching tribute below.

Video: Dondria f/ Bertell – ‘Ready’

After dropping her So So Def debut Dondria vs. Phatfffat in 2010, Dondria is back in the lab working on her sophomore album with Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox. To hold fans over, the YouTube sensation has released “Ready,” a tender duet with Houston singer Bertell Young. The YouTube sensation waits by the computer as her man makes his way to her apartment in the accompanying video. This one goes out to all the lovers out there.

Ciara Announces New Album ‘One Woman Army,’ First Single ‘Sweat’

C-Squad, get ready. Ciara is marching back to the front lines with her fifth album One Woman Army.

The R&B singer revealed the title during a live chat with MTV to promote the comedy That’s My Boy. “Sweat” will serve as the first single off the follow-up to 2010’s Basic Instinct.

“I’m finishing up my album. It’s called One Woman Army and you guys will be in for a treat very soon,” she told MTV News. “My new single ‘Sweat’ will be coming as well. … It’s gonna make you sweat in all kinds of ways.”

Last year, Ciara parted with Jive and reunited with longtime mentor L.A. Reid at Epic Records. She also stars alongside Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg in That’s My Boy, in theaters June 15.

Are you excited for Ciara’s new album? Let us know!

New Music: Chris Brown – ‘Countdown’

Chris Brown turns the lights down low and does what he does best on “Countdown,” another bedroom banger that will not appear on his album Fortune. Breezy reveals his freaky plans as he sings and raps over the sex-drenched record. It’s going down in 5, 4, 3, 2…

Video: Juvenile f/ Rick Ross – ‘Power’

Juvenile is trippin’ off the “Power” in the video for the first single off his album Rejuvenation, due June 19. The New Orleans rapper, best known for his 1999 hit “Back That Azz Up,” recruits Rick Ross for the Mr. Boomtown-directed visuals, which were shot in the Fifth Ward of his hometown.

Video: Chris Brown f/ Big Sean & Wiz Khalifa – ‘Till I Die’

Chris Brown lives it up with Big Sean and Wiz Khalifa in the wild video for “Till I Die” off his upcoming album Fortune, due July 3. The colorful clip, which was directed by Chris and shot in Los Angeles, was inspired by the Beastie Boys’ classic “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party!).”

The fellas get into all sorts of mischief, crashing an office with Jamie Kennedy, riding in Snoop Dogg’s yellow Pontiac Parisienne, and getting high in an abandoned mansion with Method Man and Redman.

Breezy dedicated the video to Adam “MCA” Yauch, who passed away from cancer earlier this month. “RIP TO MCA(Adam Yauch)! this video is dedicated you!” tweeted Chris.
Buckle up for the trippy ride.

On Set of Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre’s ‘The Recipe’ Video

What’s “The Recipe” for the perfect summertime video? Women, weed, and weather. Kendrick Lamar mixed up the three ingredients while shooting the video for the first single off his upcoming debut on Wednesday.

The Compton rapper performed alongside a pool full of bikini-clad babes at a mansion in Malibu, and was joined by his mentor and collaborator Dr. Dre, who knows a thing or two about throwing a West Coast party.

Kendrick’s fellow Black Hippies ScHoolboy Q and Ab-Soul also stopped by the set. Check out more photos below.

Lil’ Kim Hints at Tour with Missy Elliott and Eve

Lil’ Kim has been making her way across the country on her “Return of the Queen” tour. During a stop in Chicago, the Queen Bee visited Power 92 where she sat down for an interview with Tone Kapone. When she wasn’t flirting with the on-air host, she discussed her book, new single, and hinted at an upcoming tour with Missy Elliott and Eve.

“The next single is called ‘Look Like Money’” and it’s produced by Rockwilder,” said Kim.
The song is expected to drop in about two weeks. “By the time we hit L.A. [June 8], it should be just dropping.”

Once her current tour wraps later next month, she is planning a larger scale event. “Then we go on a bigger tour. We got something really special planned and it stemmed with me, Missy, and Eve,” said Kim, who was joined by her fellow femcees on stage at her show in New York earlier this month.

Kim, who has slammed the Notorious movie for being inaccurate, is also planning a film told through the eyes of herself and those who were close to the Notorious B.I.G. “Let’s just be real about it. His wife, his mom, and all them people who was running that movie, aside from Puff, were not around this man the way we were around this man. We were around this man every five minutes, every day. I think our story would be a little more real.”

Interview

“Look Like Money” Snippet

Rihanna Goes Topless for Esquire

The pages of Esquire just got hotter thanks to Rihanna. The Barbadian beauty bares her body for the U.K. magazine’s July issue. In the photos shot by Matt Irwin in London, a blonde RiRi poses nude with her arms covering her breasts. She blows a whistle while sporting a netted bikini and camouflage shorts in another striking image. Check out some of the sizzling outtakes and behind-the-scenes video before the issues goes on sale June 4.









Photo credit: Matt Irwin/Esquire

Justin Bieber Sparks State of Emergency in Norway

Justin Bieber told his Norwegian fans to calm down and listen to police after the mobs caused a near state of emergency.

"NORWAY - please listen to the police. I don't want anyone getting hurt. I want everything to go to plan but your safety must come first," Bieber Tweeted on May 30, adding later, "for the show to happen u must all listen to the police. we are all concerned for your safety and I want what is best for u. please listen."

The 18-year-old pop sensation is in Norway to perform a free concert in Oslo, the capital but fans enthusiasm has led the show's organizers and local police to re-consider the event.
According to Billboard magazine, Bieber was scheduled to perform six songs, including two new releases, on the roof of the Opera House for his "Around the World" TV special.

But thousands of teenage girls have put a strain on police forces and NRK news reports, that mobile use in Oslo has spiked dramatically, slowing down service for everyone. The mobile company estimates that there are 25,000 more people in the city center than on an average day.

A video can be seen below of fans running into traffic to chase a car, reportedly carrying Bieber to the venue. Though injuries have not been reported, "about 15 girls passed out" and authorities are worried that the area around the Opera will go into a state of chaos.

The Oslo police have criticized Universal Records to a lack of planning and for holding the secret concert in an area with space limitations. The pop star is scheduled to visit Paris next.

Earlier in the week, a photographer claimed that Bieber struck him in the face after he tried to take photos of the singer and his girlfriend, Selena Gomez. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Malibu-Lost Hills Station detectives are investigating the incident. Bieber recently broke another YouTube record after his newest single "Boyfriend" accumulated over 8 million views in its first 24 hours online. Bieber took to his official Twitter page on April 27 to reveal the standard and deluxe edition album covers for his upcoming album, "Believe," which is set to be released on June 19. It is Bieber's third studio album.

Watch a Norwegian broadcast of fans in Oslo below:

Video: Wiz Khalifa – ‘The Grinder’

Wiz Khalifa smokes, drinks, and hustles hard in the video “The Grinder” off his mixtape Taylor Allderdice. The Taylor Gang leader reflects on his rise from the gutter to a condo in Hollywood, as he cruises down Sunset Blvd. in a Rolls-Royce. See how he’s living now.

Bobbi Kristina Reportedly Quits Tyler Perry’s Show

Whitney Houston‘s daughter Bobbi Kristina reportedly stormed off the set last week of her new television series ‘Tyler Perry’s For Better or Worse.’ According to RadarOnline, the budding actress quit the show after filming only a few episodes of the TBS sitcom.

Apparently, Kristina is still struggling with the death of her late mother. Sources at Tyler Perry’s studio in Atlanta say that Kristina simply walked off the set in tears and left. “She thought she was ready for this, but she wasn’t,” one source told RadarOnline.com.

“Bobbi Kristina had a private breakdown and barely anyone saw it,” the source continued. “She was crying and said she needed a minute, she needed a break to get herself together. But then she decided she couldn’t handle doing the show right now. She’s still mourning her mom.”

Kristina had a recurring role on the show, which is scheduled to air its second season in July. Perry seems forgiving about Kristina’s abrupt departure. “He understands. He’s upset and worried about her,” said the insider. “But now he’s had to do a lot of restructuring work on the show.”

Since Whitney’s death, Kristina has been embroiled in a myriad of drama. Most recently, the 19-year-old teen was caught gambling at a Las Vegas casino, which is illegal since she’s underage.

Kristina’s father, Bobby Brown, downplayed the rumors surrounding his daughter and supports her to the fullest. “That’s my baby girl. She’ll forever be my baby girl. She’s doing what she’s doing, and I’m extremely proud of her,” Brown told MTV News. “She’s acting and she’s working on music and she’s doing what she has to do to recover from her loss — our loss.”

Despite reports of his daughter’s past substance abuse, Brown insists that drugs are not a factor in Kristina’s life. “Any parent that has a teenager in their life, they go through things. They go through phases that they might not be doing exactly what you want them to do in life, but they grow out of it, and my baby girl has grown out of it,” he says. “I trust and believe that she’s smart enough to not go down the same road that maybe I did in the past or her mother did in the past. She’s extremely smart.”

Watch Bobby Brown Speak About His Daughter Bobbi Kristina to MTV News

Sean Garrett Owes Over $700,000 in Taxes

Here we go again!

Sean Garrett is in trouble for not paying his taxes. Despite producing over 15 number one singles for some of the biggest names in hip-hop, the producer owes back taxes from 2006 and 2007 totaling a whopping $732,553.57.

According to TMZ, the government plans to garnish his wages. They have ordered BMI, the company responsible for collecting royalties, to turn over all of Garrett's earnings!

The 33-year-old's has made hits for Beyonce, Ciara, Nicki Minaj, Usher and more.

T.I. Calls André 3000 Collaboration a ‘Proud Moment’

T.I. has worked with everyone from Rihanna to Kid Rock, but he’s especially excited about a new record with André 3000.

The Atlanta rapper revealed that he has collaborated with the elusive OutKast member for his upcoming album Trouble Man, due September 4. “I got a record with 3000,” he told DJ Whoo Kid on Shade 45. “That’s a proud moment for me.”

Tip recalled what the fashionable MC was wearing during their studio sessions. “He dressed like Stacks. Matter of fact, I think he did have a white tee on. It was a Three Stacks white tee though.”

He has also worked with Usher on a “humongous hit” produced by Rico Love. “It’s a dope party record with some dance influence and some urban influence,” he explained.

Kanye West also pitched in on the follow-up to 2010’s No Mercy. “I got a record with Kanye too. When you do records with Kanye, you do the record initially, then you go back to it and you try and perfect some things that you feel you could’ve did better. I’m in phase two of that because when you send it back to him and he do the production different, it’s gon’ be a problem.”

Tip is also eyeing collaborations with Katy Perry, Santigold, and Bruno Mars. “I’m trying to remain the guy who will shock the shit out of you with who he on a record with.”

Nelly Furtado: ‘Big Hoops’ Was Inspired by Odd Future

Nelly Furtado got some unlikely inspiration from Odd Future when recording her latest single “Big Hoops (Bigger the Better).” The Canadian singer reveals how Tyler, the Creator and his controversial crew influenced the Rodney Jerkins-produced track.

“The state of mind I was in, I was actually listening to a lot of different music a few weeks before,” Nelly told MTV News. “I think I was listening to Odd Future or something, and I was inspired by how dark it sounded and how heavy and visceral and how it made your blood feel things. And I just thought, ‘Wow—that’s really missing in music. We’re missing that rawness, that energy and that power.’”

She also reflected upon her own teenage years. “I think music can tap into a lot of powerful emotions, and I think in the studio on ‘Big Hoops’ I tapped into a really powerful memory of being 14 years old, completely in love with hip-hop and R&B along with all my friends, and putting on my sister’s big hoop earrings and heading down to the mall to hang out with my backpack and jeans,” she explained.

Nelly’s fifth album The Spirit Indestructible is due in September featuring contributions from Salaam Remi, Nas, Passion Pit’s Michael Angelakos, and eight tracks by Jerkins.

New Music: Bobby V f/ Lil Wayne – ‘Mirror’

Bobby V takes a look in the “Mirror” on the first single off his fifth album Dusk Till Dawn, due October 2 on Blu Kolla Dreams/eOne Music. The R&B crooner gets freaky with his girl in the bedroom, while a lovestruck Lil Wayne buzzes about finding his Apollonia on the upbeat R&B jam, produced K.E. on the Track (Chris Brown, Travis Porter).

Robin Thicke Pursues Paula Patton in Remy Martin Commercial

Robin Thicke and Paula Patton sizzle on screen in their first-ever TV commercial together for Rémy Martin VSOP. The “Duets” star follows his beautiful wife through a fantastical mansion, meeting up on the rooftop to enjoy a glass of cognac.

The power couple previously showed off their chemistry in the steamy videos for “Lost Without U” and “Love After War.”

Rémy Martin’s nationwide campaign kicks off June 4, but you can watch the 60-second spot below.

French Montana Parties Poolside with Drake, Rihanna, & Lil Wayne in ‘Pop That’ Video

French Montana is recovering after shooting the wild video for “Pop That” with Drake, Lil Wayne, and Rick Ross during Urban Beach Week in Miami over Memorial Day weekend. The Miami Herald‘s Deborah Acosta was on set as the Bad Boy rapper and his famous entourage partied poolside in the clip for the first single off his upcoming debut Excuse My French.

Weezy skated onto the set and performed alongside Drizzy, Rozay, and a pool full of bikini-clad models, while Rihanna watched from the sidelines. Afterwards, they hit up LIV nightclub where the festivities continued.

See them turn it up in Miami Beach.

Is Diddy Trying To Sign The Weeknd?

Over the weekend, Diddy and... The Weeknd spent some time hanging out in Miami.
MissInfo.TV reports:

The Weeknd posted some photos of his stay in Florida, that included some hang out time with Diddy and Cassie. It’s hard not to think when Puff’s spotted with a new artist that there’s something planned down the line. Maybe some work for Cassie’s new album? Of course the obvious is the possibility of Forbes #1 Hip-Hop Cash King trying to sway the ellusive singer to join his Bad Boy camp.

Justin Bieber Learns to Box With Mike Tyson

 

Boxing is no joke for wanted man Justin Bieber. The singer, who appeared in a battered, boxing-themed spread for his Complex cover, who escorted Floyd Mayweather into the ring a few weeks ago and who reportedly got into a scuffle with a photographer who got too close this weekend, recently learned to box with the legendary Mike Tyson.

You can watch the video of the training sesh below, as the Biebs is jabbing with a punching bag, while Tyson barks words of encouragement. We really only get a peek at Biebs’ back while he throws punches. He really has a thing for the ring.

Tyson tweeted a shot of himself, the singer and an associate, posting: "Me, @johnny and @justinbieber before we started training JB."

The Bieb’s obsession with boxing is no joke. There’s also no better teacher than former champ Tyson, who saw his career revived with his appearance in ‘The Hangover.’

Tyson shared the 42-second video, revealing that the ‘Boyfriend’ singer popped by prior to the Billboard Music Awards to say hello to the family. He killed time with the bag, too!

                                       
                                            Watch Justin Bieber Box With Mike Tyson

 

New Music: Rihanna f/ Flo Rida – ‘Where Have You Been (Remix)’

Rihanna’s “Where Have You Been” is already smashing in the clubs, and now Flo Rida pumps new life into the Dr. Luke and Calvin Harris-produced record. The radio-friendly rapper, who previously remixed RiRi’s single “We Found Love,” turns the dance-floor anthem into a duet, trading lines with the pop star and adding his own ad-libs. Report to the dance floor for another round.

Kelly Clarkson: ‘I’m Not Beyonce’

 

In a new interview, Kelly Clarkson takes issue with the type of showmanship (or should we say "showwomanship") that Beyonce and her ilk employ when they perform live. So is she actually throwing shade at Queen Bey?

Not quite — at least we don’t think so. The outspoken ‘American Idol‘ winner talked to press about her ‘Duets,’ and how she wants the focus to be on the music over the wardrobe of the show.

Clarkson revealed that she worries that producers and press will pressure her protege, Jordan Meredith, into conforming to an image. "I need [Jordan] to be comfortable on stage and people are pushing her to wear something else and that is not our focus," Clarkson told PEOPLE (via ContactMusic). "Especially in a competition you need to be comfortable and confident."

She added, "Not only can the music be formulaic, but the attire can be formulaic. Just like music, with style there is room for everything and it might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it is that person’s thing."

What isn’t Kel’s thing? Costumes! In what may have been a reference to Katy Perry or Lady Gaga, Clarkson said, "This is such a funny industry. Sometimes I turn on awards shows and pop stars are wearing alien costumes. I’m like, ‘That’s cool for you but ain’t no way in hell someone is going to convince me to wear that on stage."’

Clarkson, who usually performs barefoot, specifically called out Queen Bey. ‘I don’t want to wear no stilettos! I am not a model and I am not Beyonce," she laughed. "It is not going to happen."

We don’t think she meant any harm towards Bey, and knowing Kel, she was probably actually paying Beyonce a compliment. Not everyone can move like that in heels that high and carry a tune at the same time!

Justin Bieber Adds New York City + Vancouver Shows to Believe Tour

New Yorkers can’t get enough of the Biebs and the previously scorned Vancouverans are getting their fair share! Justin Bieber has added a pair of new dates to his upcoming, 45-city tour in support of ‘Believe,’ which launches Sept. 29 and runs through Jan. 26 of next year. A second date has been added in the New York City market, with a Vancouver date also confirmed. Both were booked in order to meet the overwhelming demand. Both cities have a raging case of Bieber Fever.

A second show at Madison Square Garden, the world’s most famous arena, has been added for Nov. 29. It is Bieber’s fourth New York area show and it will be the final area addition.

His native Canada also added another show, this time in Vancouver, British Columbia. That gig is set for Oct. 10. The Biebs took serious heat from the British Columbia faction of Beliebers, since there was no date in the city upon the initial tour date announcement. Since tour opener Carly Rae Jepsen hails from the BC province, it was considered an affront and a slap in the geographical face. But Biebs made up for the oversight on the quick.

Any PopCrush readers planning to attend these or any of the other gigs on the massive, four-month tour?

Kelly Rowland Honored at Glamour Women of the Year Awards

Kelly Rowland was beautiful in black as she accepted her award for TV Personality of the Year at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards 2012 in London. Now that her gig on the U.K. version of “The X Factor” is over, the Destiny’s Child diva is working on a new album with Sean Garrett, T-Minus, and Rico Love, among others.

“Thank you to the GREAT BRITISH PUBLIC and Glamour readers for my award. I was so shy and shocked to receive this! I love you!” tweeted a humbled Kelly, who just returned from Atlantic City where she saw Beyoncé in concert.

“I watched the show two nights in a row. She was incredible!” she told “Showbiz 411.” “I’m so proud of her. When I looked at her onstage, I said no woman has an excuse. We don’t have any excuses. I think that it’s just more so about taking care of your baby, taking care of your body. That’s what she’s done. She looked incredible.”

During one of her shows over the weekend, Beyoncé thanked Kelly for taking care of her daughter Blue Ivy while she performed at Revel.

Kim Kardashian Parties With Beyonce in Atlantic City

Though Kanye West denied calling Kim Kardashian "his Beyonce," it doesn’t mean the famous ladies aren’t friendly. The kurvaceous reality starlet bonded with Queen Bey in Atlantic City this weekend. That’s a whole lot of bootyliciousness for one room!
Us Weekly reports that Kardashian, who’s dating Jay-Z‘s BFF, was spotted backstage at Beyonce’s concert on Sunday at Revel. Despite early reports of the two famous femmes not being too fond of one another, the duo hugged and even danced together after Bey’s showstopping performance.

A spy told the mag, "Kim thought it was such a great show. There’s always some random rumors there is tension between them and there totally isn’t! Kim had so much fun."

Kardashian wasn’t the only VIP to take in Bey’s highly anticipated post-baby shows. First Lady Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha were also in attendance over the Memorial Day holiday, alongside Oprah and Gayle King.

New Music: Big Boi & Theophilus London f/ Tre Luce – ‘She Said OK’

Big Boi and Theophilus London provide some sexual stimulation on their freaky new collaboration “She Said OK.” The bedroom jam features some explicit lyrics and soulful crooning from Tre Luce, who sings the blunt hook (“Let me see your titties, she said OK”). The OutKast MC, who just announced the title of his sophomore album, rolls some cherry kush and describes his fantasy, while Theophilus makes it rain at the strip club. Oowee!

Usher Says Justin Bieber is Better at Relationships Than He Is

Usher opens up about his past relationships in the latest issue of Q magazine. The R&B superstar, who is currently locked in a bitter custody battle with his ex-wife Tameka Foster, reveals that he’s been a playboy when it comes to his relationships with women.

"I’ve had many women. And I understand how to deal with a lot of different ones," he tells the magazine (via Entertainmentwise). "But it is complicated when your reality is a fantasy. Fame is the modern double-edged sword."

Which is why Usher commends his pop protege Justin Bieber for remaining faithful to his current boo Selena Gomez. The couple have been dating for over two years now and shows no signs of slowing down.

"Well, check it out, it the area of relationships, he’s actually done a lot better than I did," Usher says, adding, "I was a little bit more … experimental."

Experimental? Do tell, Usher.

"I’ve learned what women like," he continues. "Confidence. And I’ve learned there is a softness that only a woman can possess. And you begin to see it when they have something, like a child, to love."

While Usher admits he overindulged in having too many women in his life, he’s confident that Biebs will stay in one relationship at a time. "He doesn’t have as many issues, he knows what he wants," he explains. "What were my issues? Well, maybe not locking into one relationship."

Hopefully, as Bieber gets older and wiser, he doesn’t have the wandering eye and decide to get "experimental" like his mentor Usher. Judging by the pictures of Bieber and Gomez kissing at the airport recently, it looks as if the couple are truly in love.

Video: Jay-Z & Kanye West f/ Frank Ocean – ‘No Church in the Wild’

After releasing videos for "Otis" and "N----s in Paris," Jay-Z and Kanye West provide the next visual installment from their Watch the Throne collaboration in the form of "No Church in the Wild," the third single off the album.

Rather than feature Jay-Z, West or Frank Ocean, who sings the song's chorus, the Roman Gavras-directed video centers on a battle taking place in Prague. A masked citizen throws a Molotov cocktail at officers in riot gear and a fight ensues. A sea of men then rush towards the police, caring little about their own unprotected faces and raging into war.

The architecture of the city is highlighted, with ivory statues getting face time on camera while cops beat the assailants. Cars are overturned and fire erupts while peace seems to be a distant thought.

 

Video: Tank f/ T.I. & Kris Stephens – ‘Compliments’

The General joins forces with the King in the video for “Compliments” off Tank’s new album This Is How I Feel. The labelmates kill the ladies with their flattery, while singer-songwriter Kris Stephens adds her feminine touch.

“That record was a street buzz record in the beginning and we leaked it out there and let people hear it and get familiar with it,” Tank told Rap-Up.com. “Once we put T.I. on there, it just skyrocketed from there.”

Listen to Afrojack’s Remix of Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’

With the 25^th anniversary of Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’ album coming up and being re-released as a three-CD, one DVD deluxe set to be titled ‘Bad 25,’ artists all around the world are showing their love for the late and great king of pop. Amid them all one in particular is surely going to stand out and have us dancing for days on end. It’s Dutch music producer and DJ Afrojack‘s remix of the title track, ‘Bad.’

With the 1987 original song holding already an immense amount of beats that have had us entertained for 25 years, Afrojack adds a whole new take on it. The remix is nearly rave-like with a club beat and a bit of fist-pumping qualities for all of the club goers. The guitar that once was on the track has been lowered to allow an added presence of bass, making the song unique and pushing it to a new level of bad — the good kind, we assure you.

Cue the strobe lights, glow sticks and glow in the dark paints, folks, because Afrojack’s remix is the one to hear and dance to. And be on the lookout for not only other great Michael Jackson remixes coming from Diplo, Skrillex and A-Trak, but also the ‘Bad 25’ deluxe set being released on September 17.

Go on and get down with your bad selves … you know you want to.

Listen to Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad (Afrojack Remix)’

Mary J. Blige Responds to FFAWN Allegations

Mary J. Blige is facing more drama this week after her non-profit organization FFAWN (Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now) was sued over an unpaid loan. The R&B songstress addressed the allegations during a phone call with Angie Martinez.

On Sunday, TMZ reported that TD Bank had filed suit against Blige and co-founder Steve Stoute over a $250,000 loan that the charity took out in June 2011. According to the suit, FFAWN agreed to pay the money back, but as of December 2011, they had only paid back $368.33. Additionally, the non-profit didn’t file a federal tax return for 2010 and is being sued by musicians who claim they were not paid to perform at a 2011 fundraising gala.

Speaking from Beijing, China, where she was performing at an event for Armani, Blige admitted
FFAWN’s faults and explained how she was working to remedy the situation.

“FFAWN has been mismanaged and when I found out about all these issues, I immediately got on the phone with my lawyers and my advisers and tried to fix this so that none of those women would suffer,” said the singer. “My goal is to do exactly what I set out to do. My motives were true and upfront. I set out to empower and encourage women, but it turns out the business part of it was not managed properly.”

While she didn’t mention any specific names, she placed blame on those running the organization. “I just found out that when you don’t hire the right people and have them in the right places, doing the right things, and they don’t have the same motives that you do, your business suffers,” she continued. “And there’s a business to giving as well. So you have to have the right people to make sure everybody’s straight.”

A new team is in place and FFAWN will continue operations. “So right now as we speak, I’ve hired a team of people that are making sure my business is taken care of as far as FFAWN is concerned,” she said. “FFAWN is not closing down. We are just restructuring. We put a great team of people in place. I’m just proud to say that the grants, the scholarships that we set out to take care of, will be taken care of. The Mary J. Blige Center for Women in Yonkers, everyone’s in good standing, and all the scholarship programs.”

But her intentions were pure. “I’m an artist and my goal was to do something great. I dreamed about helping save the lives of women. This is something I always wanted to do, but I only wanted to do it if I had the right team of people who can do the part that I can’t do. I don’t know about the business side of this thing. All I know is giving—giving my time, giving my lyrics, giving my life.”

She is willing to accept the consequences. “Just know this, Mary J. Blige always bears the brunt of everybody’s horrible mistakes. Mary J. Blige always bears the brunt of people’s incompetence. If it’s my responsibility, that’s fine. I’m a soldier, I’m strong and I can take anything.”

Blige is making sure that the women who received scholarships are being taken care of. “Right now they’re all OK. Everybody’s in good standing. We caught it right in time. What happened when I caught it, a lot of girls were on their way out and I had to pay out my pocket. I was not going to let those girls just suffer like that.”

Britney Spears’ ‘Blackout’ Breaks the 1 Million Mark

Go girl!

On top of completing a hectic week of ‘X Factor‘ auditions (complete with an adorable video message from fiance Jason Trawick), Britney Spears has something else to celebrate. Digital Spy reports that the ‘Toxic’ singer’s 2007 album, ‘Blackout,’ finally sold 1 million copies.
‘Blackout’ hit shelves during some of Spears’ darkest moments, both in her life and her hair color. It was her first release following her breakdown in which she shaved her head and attacked paparazzi with an umbrella. In light of her trauma, Spears’ label released the record with the least amount of fanfare possible as she was keeping a low profile.

The album was Spears’ first to not debut at No. 1, which disappointed fans — but not as much as the record’s failure to meet the 1 million mark. Fans launched “Blackout Purchase Week” in July of last year in hopes of reaching the benchmark, but came up short. The album received critical acclaim and launched fan favorite tracks like ‘Gimme More’ and ‘Piece of Me,’ but perhaps due to Spears’ personal problems and the lack of promotion and touring, the album didn’t move as many units as her usual juggernaut hits.

Now that SoundScan confirmed the 1 million sales, it’s up to Spears and her team to apply for RIAA-certified Platinum status. Let’s get on that!

Watch the Britney Spears ‘Piece of Me’ Video

Kanye West Unveils New ‘Cold’ Artwork

First it was “Theraflu,” then “Way Too Cold,” and now Kanye West is just feeling plain “Cold.” The hip-hop superstar has retitled and revised the artwork for his controversial single. After debuting “Theraflu” in April, he changed the title to “Way Too Cold,” removing the Theraflu bottle from the illustrated cover. However, the cold and flu medicine maker denies that they pressured him to do so.
Now he’s posted a new image on his official website featuring another nude portrait of a woman in blue.

Do you prefer the new or old artwork? Check out the past single covers below.

“Theraflu”


“Way Too Cold”

50 Cent Talks 'Lost Tape,' Mixtape Evolution, Working With 2 Chainz and Cam'ron

Just a few hours after 50 Cent's first Gangsta Grillz mixtape with DJ Drama hit the Internet, VIBE caught up with G-Unit boss at his New York City office. With DJ Drama on speakerphone, we talked freely about the new release, 50's mixtape evolution, and his upcoming projects. Check out the no-holds-barred interview below.

VIBE: Drama now that the tape is out and everyone is digesting it and tweeting about it, is the pressure off you?
Drama: This my kick my feet up time. Just kind of marinating and seeing what the feedback and the response is.
I know that this has been a long time in the making.
[50 Cent walks into his own office where Drama is being interviewed on speakerphone]
50 Cent: What the fuck is up? Drama, what’s good?

50, I was just talking to Drama about the tape.
50 Cent: He killed it for me. The 2 Chainz remix, he’s responsible for that. Some artists ain’t really open to you helping them in different ways but they usually aren’t very successful artists. The successful artists, they take on the challenge. Because I feel like I can rap to anything. Regardless of—a lot of times I stay away from styles because when I fell in love with the culture it was important that you had your own identity and your own style and they would be like ‘oh this reminds me of the old Fif’ and I’m intentionally using my style.

I hear you. In the ‘90s, if you were from New York, you’d rap like you’re from New York.
50: A lot of things changed. Things cycle. Like in fashion, it’s the same. Instead of the hippies, they’re hipsters, instead of the pants being bell bottoms, they’re tighter because of skateboard culture emerging at the same time. For me when I look at—The things that I fell in love with within the culture, there’s no longer a lot of that representation out here. So, I feel like it’s important that I represent that. Even if it’s not exactly with what is the trend for the moment because we cycle [in hip-hop]. Before 50 Cent, there was DMX and “Get At Me Dog.” “What Up Gangsta” was for Get Rich Or Die Trying.

And that “Riot” record you mentioned is poppin’. Were there anymore records that Drama brought to you like ‘Yo, you need to spit over this?’
50: He inspired the OJ joint. But I actually met 2 Chainz and I like him—not necessarily everything that he says in rap or everything that he may do in life but I like him on a personable level like when we actually got a chance to talk man to man. So, I want to see him win. So, I take it and I make it—I’m actually writing both of us on to the record. Instead of—I wrote everybody else out of their own when I came up.

It’s got to be hard to see the things you’ve done 10 years ago working for new rappers. Like the joint you did with Bun B, “As The World Turns,” if some new rapper put that out today, fans would be like ‘oh sh*t, he’s killin’ it.’
50: Bun and Pimp C , when we—that actual song was done before “Big Pimpin’” —that just shows how people pay attention. That’s why Jay-Z is as successful as he is. He saw the move but I didn’t . Then I got shot, I was gone and he did the other one.

You really think so?
50: They don’t miss no beats. Look who we talkin’ bout. It’s all good. I look at—each one of those opportunities to do different things. Like I see artist’s momentum, true momentum versus what record companies think. They go out prematurely. Like in Future’s case.

You think “Tony Montana” came out a little too early?
50: Not the song. I think they actually launched his album too early.

Build it up more and get 50 Cent on a record [Laughs]?
50: He’s talented, that would’ve helped.

That “Same Damn Time (Remix)” with Diddy and Luda is retarded. The way Diddy rapped on that is almost how he rapped on your “I Get Money (Remix)” years back
50: [Laughs] Puffy’s wack. As an artist, tell the truth.

I mean when he has dope people writing his sh*t he’s not wack. When he’s got somebody writing his sh*t that’s ill, we still love it.
50: People who say they sing songs just because they enjoy the music, they’re usually more believable. He’s the best producer and business man. His contribution to hip-hop culture is the remix. I acknowledge that.

Flo Rida Gets ‘Wild’ with Jennifer Lopez and Lil Wayne on New Album

Flo Rida is adding some star power to his upcoming album Wild Ones, due July 3. The Miami rapper has enlisted LMFAO, Jennifer Lopez, and Lil Wayne for collaborations.

In exchange for his verse on J.Lo’s new single “Goin’ In,” Flo got the sexy superstar to guest on a song for his project.

“She actually reached out to me to get on a record of hers and I was like, ‘Hey, let’s just swap it out,’” he told Fuse. “I definitely look forward to expanding my career in the Latin market just doing a record with her and both of the records are amazing, so I look forward to having a lot more success with these records.”

He also had the chance to hit the studio with Lil Wayne. “His energy, his aura is just amazing,” said Flo. “I’m always excited to hear what’s gonna come out of his mouth next. I actually got a chance to do two records and we’ll probably put out the next record on the next album or so, but both of the records are crazy.”

Michelle Obama Praises Beyoncé on ‘GMA’

Beyoncé’s shows in Atlantic City over the weekend brought out many celebrities, but none more famous than Michelle Obama and her daughters Sasha and Malia. During her appearance on “Good Morning America” on Tuesday, the First Lady bestowed praise on the pop superstar.

“Anybody who’s got talent, I’m all for,” Obama told Robin Roberts. “But Beyoncé has just been a tremendous supporter of ‘Let’s Move!’ Without asking, she reformulated ['Get Me Bodied'] to do a flash mob for kids across this country.”

Beyoncé recorded “Move Your Body” for the First Lady’s “Let’s Move! Flash Workout” campaign to help fight childhood obesity.

“Beyoncé stepped up in a way that so many of our celebrities and athletes are stepping up on behalf of this issue, so I love her to death and was glad to be out there moving my body with her,” said Obama.

Earlier this month, the First Lady told PEOPLE that if she wasn’t in the White House, she would be the “Love on Top” singer. “If I had some gift, I’d be Beyoncé,” she said. “I’d be some great singer.”

The feeling is mutual. In April, Beyoncé penned a handwritten letter to Obama on her website, thanking her for being a great role model.