Behind The Scenes: Swizz Beatz & Eve On the Set of Coolin’

Swizz Beatz
Swizz is looking sharp too. I must give him his props.
Swizz Beatz & Eve were in California yesterday to shoot the video for “Coolin,” off of Swizz Beatz’ upcoming album, Haute Living. The video was shot by Taj and features Diddy’s mini me son, Christian.
Eve is looking right nice in these pics! I LOVE a woman with all of her original body parts. It’s so easy to give in to peer pressure and buy fake breasts and azz these days.
I had to post this picture of one of the extras on the set for my male readers

Keyshia Cole, Bobby V, Bow Wow, Chris Brown

Rapper Bow Wow and his BFF, Chris Brown performed live on BET’s “106 & Park” yesterday in New York City. Brown’s album, F.A.M.E. is in stores today.
Bobby V

Young Money artist, Lloyd, performed at the Power Live Presents Keyshia Cole In Concert at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill last night.
Keyshia Cole headlined the Power Live Presents Keyshia Cole In Concert at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in NYC last night. Prior to stepping onstage, Keyshia appeared on BET’s 106 & Park to promote her album, Calling All Hearts. According to BET blog, will give a special musical performance on April 30 during the New York EIF Revlon Run/Walk for Women. Good for her!

Rihanna’s Asking You Drink Her Home’s Tap Water For Charity,

Rihanna teamed up with UNICEF for a new charity called “Celebrity Tap Project.” Now you can purchase water that comes from Rihanna’s Home Faucet which comes in a limited edition Rihanna Bottle. Sales supposedly benefit a kid somewhere by giving him clean water. Another little Roni involved is Selena Gomez…

Lil Romeo’s First Night On Dancing With The Stars

Jordin Sparks Shows Off New Fab Body: Does Weight Loss Simply Take Willpower Or Is It Something More?

By Leslie Pitterson
There are few things that the entire blogosphere unanimously agrees on. But every once in a while, miracles do happen and reaction to Jordin Spark’s weight loss has been positive across the board.

The American Idol star revealed her newly trim body at Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night XVII in Phoenix. Jordin says she has weighed as much as 200 pounds at her heaviest , but has been working hard on eating healthier and exercising more.

Her hard work has certainly paid off. After months of getting it in at the gym and keep the unhealthy foods out her diet, the 5’10” singer has shed 30 pounds. The loss is a dramatic one for any one but with her very visible lifestyle the star has been put as the centerpiece of everyone’s favorite before and after shots.

Going from a size 12 to a size 6 is a huge accomplishment for any sister but often in the world of celebrity weight loss, stories like Jordin’s can become just another story of dramatic results seemingly happening overnight.

Of course celebrities, with access to personal trainers and chefs have an advantage on sticking to a new regimen but that doesn’t mean getting results is impossible for you. According to new research the willpower that many of us believe is necessary to achieve weight loss is often overrated.

James Hill, executive director of the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center at the University of Colorado says that while willpower is essential to losing weight, it isn’t everything.

“Willpower is not inexhaustible,” he says. “You only have a certain amount of it, and it’s gone.”

Hill instead offers an interesting approach to weigh loss, telling people that they can target the vulnerable moments in their weight loss journey by picturing the moments where they feel “fat.”

So what are the top moments where a diet breaks? According to Hill:

1. On vacation
   
2. After a break-up
   
3. A party with fabulous food
   
4. Watching TV
   
5. At a buffet, or a restaurant with enormous portions

While it’s easy to plan out a diet on a day to day basis, it’s the highs and lows that can often derail our plans. Hill says that by envisioning those weak moments, we allow ourselves to see the scenarios where we could falter and prepare ourselves for them before they pop up. Heading to a function- eat a head of time. Dealing with a bad breakup, don’t wallow- force yourself to be active. By tracing our patterns ahead of time, we give ourselves the ability to foresee possibly pitfalls and avoid them. When you can see your blind spots of emotional or mindless eating, you allow yourself the ability to charge forward on the way to your best self.

Sneak Peak: Love & Hip-Hop Ep. 2, Have You Ever Lied About Your Relationship?

Well, hip-hop’s finest ladies are back. After a successful debut that had all of the social networks talking, VH1’s “Love & Hip-Hop” is back, and the ladies seem to be as dramatic as ever.

On the first episode, we met the ladies and quickly found out Chrissy didn’t have much love—or respect—for upstart rapper Somaya Reece. Chrissy, who’s been in a relationship with rapper Jim Jones for over six years, didn’t appreciate sexy Somaya working with her man. After searching the ‘net to get info on the Latina rapper, Chrissy confronted Reece inside the ladies room of a NYC club. Let’s just say, their meeting didn’t go so hot, and the two probably won’t be singing “Kum ba yah” anytime soon.

On tonight’s episode, it seems like Emily B.—Fabolous’ undercover lover—catches Olivia in a little lie about her relationship with pro-football player Darelle Revis (or is HE lying? hmmm). Although she’s been telling the other ladies that she and Revis “have been seeing each other,” Revis claims that the pair broke up eons ago. Is this another case of Fabolos’ “single as a dollar bill” Syndrome rubbing off on another man? Or is Olivia fudging the truth to look good in front of her girls? Things that make you go hmmm.

Love & Hip Hop |Olivia Longott |Somaya Reece |Mashonda Tifrere

While Emily and Chrissy try to catch Olivia in a lie, Somaya is forced to confront the reality that music will not pay her bills, at least not yet. Although she’s given up everything to move to New York City and pursue her career, her pocketbook is empty and her manager wants her to make ends meet by showing off some of her *ehem* assets.

Although Somaya openly uses sexiness to her advantage, she seems to have a limit. I just hope she—and the other women—don’t get swallowed whole by the quest for fame and go completely off the deep end. One thing is sure, however, Love &Hip-Hop makes for very interesting TV.

Mixed Race Couples In The Deep South On The Rise

For generations here in the deepest South, there had been a great taboo: publicly crossing the color line for love. Less than 45 years ago, marriage between blacks and whites was illegal, and it has been frowned upon for much of the time since. In the first comprehensive accounting of multiracial Americans since statistics were first collected about them in 2000, reporting from the 2010 census, made public in recent days, shows that the nation’s mixed-race population is growing far more quickly than many demographers had estimated, particularly in the South and parts of the Midwest. That conclusion is based on the bureau’s analysis of 42 states; the data from the remaining eight states will be released this week.

In North Carolina, the mixed-race population doubled. In Georgia, it expanded by more than 80 percent, and by nearly as much in Kentucky and Tennessee. In Indiana, Iowa and South Dakota, the multiracial population increased by about 70 percent.

“Anything over 50 percent is impressive,” said William H. Frey, a sociologist and demographer at the Brookings Institution. “The fact that even states like Mississippi were able to see a large explosion of residents identifying as both black and white tells us something that people would not have predicted 10 or 20 years ago.” Census officials were expecting a national multiracial growth rate of about 35 percent since 2000, when seven million people — 2.4 percent of the population — chose more than one race. Officials have not yet announced a national growth rate, but it seems sure to be closer to 50 percent.

“Racial attitudes are changing,” said Marvin King, a professor of political science at the University of Mississippi who is black, married to a white woman, and the father of a 2-year-old biracial daughter. “Day in, day out, there is certainly not the hostility there was years ago, and I think you see that in that there are more interracial relationships, and people don’t fear those relationships. They don’t have to hide those relationships anymore.”

“The reality is that there has been a long history of black and white relationships — they just weren’t public,” said Prof. Matthew Snipp, a demographer in the sociology department at Stanford University. Speaking about the mixed-race offspring of some of those relationships, he added: “People have had an entire decade to think about this since it was first a choice in 2000. Some of these figures are not so much changes as corrections. In a sense, they’re rendering a more accurate portrait of their racial heritage that in the past would have been suppressed.”

Experts say there are some elements, like military service or time spent on a college campus, that lay the groundwork for interracial relationships. With the Camp Shelby military base on its southern side and the University of Southern Mississippi as an anchor, perhaps it is not a surprise that Hattiesburg, a city of about 50,000 residents, and its surrounding counties would show rapid mixed-race growth.

They are also part of Mississippi’s coastal culture, which has historically been more liberal and outward looking — given the port towns — than the rest of the state. (Harrison County, south of Hattiesburg and home to the Gulf Coast cities of Gulfport and Biloxi, has the highest share of mixed-race residents in the state, according to the 2010 census.)

Read More at NYTimes

Snoop Promoting Four Loko Knockoff: Is New Drink Really Aimed At Young Black Girls?

By Leslie Pitterson
Four Loko may be off shelves, but Colt 45 has cooked up a new line of caffeine-free alcoholic beverages to take its place.

Marketers are gearing up around plans to release a new label called ‘Blast’ with help from rapper Snoop Dogg. New ads will be featured as part of both television and print campaigns.

The fruity drink contains 12% alcohol by volume, about twice the level of the original version of Colt 45. The Metropoulos, family new owners of Colt 45 acquired the malt-liquor brand as part of their purchase of Pabst Brewing Co. The company is the fifth largest beer supplier in the U.S. and with the addition of ‘Blast’ it hopes to turn around its declining sales.

The new line is a controversial move for the new owners with the recent uproar over Four Loko and similar drinks in the category. Many critics say that drinks like Four Loko and blast are targeted towards underage drinkers, but with ‘Blast,’ Colt 45 says it is going after a new target: us.

The Wall Street Journal reports:

Colt 45 has long targeted an urban, African-American audience, but Blast is aimed at a broader array of drinkers, including women, said Daren Metropoulos, 27 years old.

‘Blast’ is set to hit stores the first week in April. The drink will be sold in six packs of seven-ounce bottles, as well as in single, 23.5-ounce cans. Flavors include strawberry lemonade and raspberry watermelon, with colors to match. A six-pack will cost about $7.

Colt 45 has said they want to promote more than anything “responsible drinking” but some aren’t so sure. Paul Scott, an African-American community activist and longtime critic of malt liquor, said the marketing of Blast is “irresponsible” and will have a negative influence on “the young hip-hop generation.”

Tell us what you think Clutchettes: is Colt 45’s ‘Blast’ targeting underage black girls? Does the marketing of the new drink goes too far? Share your thoughts!

Are Black Women on Reality TV A Reflection of Real Life?

By Bene Viera
I love reality TV and I won’t apologize for it either. Maybe that makes me a part of the problem. It is entertaining and packed with drama, but the critic in me is highly interested in race, popular culture and gender representations on television which keep me tuning in at least three days a week to various reality shows.

MTV’s “Real World” was my first introduction to reality TV at the age of 10. There was something appealing about watching the pseudo “real” lives of total strangers living together under one roof. Reality television in the early 90’s didn’t seem as harmful as it is today. As an adult I realize the images of minorities, particularly Black women, portrayed on countless reality shows are making it hard for people to decipher reality from fiction.

My addiction to reality TV does not negate my concern for the representation of Black women on said shows. Like many women of color I cringe when Black women are p-popping on national television for the likes of Flavor Flav, or calling each other out over trivial things. The recent headlines of Star Jones and Nene Leakes’ upcoming blowout argument on “Celebrity Apprentice” were quite disappointing. And I felt embarrassed for Black women pretty much the entire season of “Basketball Wives.”

Even with their supposed status, the women of “Basketball Wives” were not exempt from foolish behavior. But what would a reality show be without drama? Ironically, there was only one married woman on a show about the wives of professional basketball players. Needless to say she’s now headed for divorce. The class and elegance they prided themselves on having sounded good, but was in actuality nonexistent. Seeing grown women curse, yell, throw drinks and physically fight in public was appalling. The bullying tactics and pettiness instantly reminded me of high school.

What does the representation of Black women on reality TV suggest about Black women as a whole?

Here’s where the problem lies. It is only inevitable with multiple reality shows portraying Black women as jezebels, mammies, sapphires and tragic mulattos, audiences will walk away believing this to be a true representation of Black women. And those images transfer into how Black women are viewed and treated in their everyday lives. There is also an unfortunate void of Black women in television (and films), which eliminates what would be an otherwise balance. If shows similar to “Living Single” existed for every three reality shows, Black women wouldn’t at least be portrayed as one-dimensional. Ideally, marginalized groups would have an array of options on television to depict our diverse stories. Perhaps if Black shows with nuance were prevalent we would be able defy the constant negative representations we see throughout reality TV, but diverse characterizations of Black women are solely lacking.

Reality TV not only serves as a mirror of reflection of our ideas about Black women, but it also raises the question if these are images of Blacks we want those of other races and ethnicities to see.

With 3 million viewers, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” has the highest ratings of the Real Housewives franchise. Anderson Cooper, Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher are a few of the White celebrities who have publicly professed their love for the RHOA. Every time one of my White counterparts uses colloquialisms such as “Ya know what I mean?” or “Oh no he didn’t” and other ridiculous phrases they assume I use because I’m a “sistah,” I wonder if this is the result of reality television. And I am frightened for the impressionable young girls who are watching, trust they are watching, who will internalize what these images say about Black women.

Granted reality shows are hyped by drama-concocting producers who pit the cast members against one another. The editing is done in such a way that will boost ratings only telling a fraction of the real story, and cast mates are all trying to secure their spot for next season by being over the top. However, none of these factors change the images we see reflecting back at us when we watch the shows.

Though there are women of all races who act like this in real life, we are at a point in television where we have to ask if we would rather see a negative portrayal of Black women or no representation at all. By no means do I condone the sometimes funny, but disturbing behavior, however, I do think it’s problematic to attempt to silence it by not showing it at all.

I’m not at liberty to tell Black women what we must do as I will continue to tune in. But I do hope when Black women are cast on these shows they will make an earnest effort to resist stereotypical behavior. I hope networks will start seeing shows like “Girlfriends” as profitable, eventually cutting down on the phenomenon of reality TV altogether. And while I’m watching, I hope with all the air in my lungs people are not walking away from this unable to determine the real from the fake.

By far, Reality TV does not represent all Black women. Not even a little bit.

Johnson Says There's No 'Magic' to Business Success

(Inc.) — When you hear the name Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jr., the first thing that comes to mind is basketball. Yes Johnson is a former point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers with five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and an Olympic gold medal. But the basketball hall of famer is also a philanthropist and savvy businessman.

After retiring from the NBA in 1996, he focused his attention on the Magic Johnson Foundation and Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE), which includes a portfolio of funds to finance revitalization projects in underserved communities. He is notorious in business for having owned over 70 franchises of Starbucks and the only franchisee to own a 50 percent share. Although he recently sold his Starbucks in 2010, as well as his share of the Lakers, his name and brand is still associated with AMC Magic Johnson Theaters and 24 Hour Fitness Magic Sport centers. Johnson recently became chairman of VIBE Holdings LLC, a multi-cultural media company that includes Vibe magazine, Uptown magazine and Soul Train brands. He is also leading the charge in bringing a football team back to Los Angeles. Taking a break from March Madness, Johnson talked toInc.com’s Tiffany Black about managing multiple businesses, the keys to a great comeback, advice for start-ups and minority businesses, and his love of music.

Read More…

Do You Think That Mixed People Are More Attractive? [Video]

Money Rules That Every Woman Should Know

Money rules are generally the same for everyone, but women need a special bit of financial attention, until society adjusts to compensating women as equally as it does men. Here are a few basic money rules that every woman should know:

1. Don’t rely on a man for everything, but still reasonably expect something
Society still hasn’t embraced the idea that men and women should be compensated equally (although, I think women should be compensated way more). Thus, when entering a relationship with a man, it’s great to be independent, but it’s totally and completely acceptable to expect that he provide some items for you. Allow a man to be a man. Don’t knock him if he can’t provide, but where he can, allow him. Don’t overdo the “independent woman” bit, unless somehow the ratio of women’s pay to men’s pay becomes astronomical. (P.S.: hasn’t happened yet).

2. Never back down in a financial battle
There’s no place for shyness or other timid behaviors in the world of finance. If you earned money, claim it. If you made money, grab it. Whether there’s a recession or not, you must stay on the offense and avoid being bullied into situations that will leave you with less compensation than you deserve. When it comes to money, be aggressive – and ensure that you’re just as qualified, if not more qualified than the Boys Club, so that no one can even argue that you don’t deserve what you deserve.

3. Save-aholic, not shop-aholic
Before, when the economy was booming and everyone was a millionaire (huh? when was THAT?), it was cool to be a fashionista and a shopaholic. Now? The buzz words are: economista and save-aholic. You don’t want to be that dummy who spends too much and makes too little. Get on the bandwagon and start saving like your life depends on it!

4. If you can’t pay for it in cash without going into debt, don’t buy it
Credit cards are evil. Regardless of what other personal finance gurus tell you, do not rely on “credit” to help you out of jams. Stick to this rule: if you can’t pay for it in cash, then don’t buy it! The only credit that’s acceptable is a home loan or school loan–and even those can be evil too. If you do use a credit card to raise your credit score, get it, keep it open, but cut up the cards and/or barely use them. Otherwise, here’s the rule again: if you can’t pay for it in CASH that you have, without going broke, then guess what? Don’t buy it! ‘Cause ya can’t afford it. Period.

For Discussion: Are You Still Friends With Your Exes??

s it really possible to be “just friends” with someone who shares a romantic past with you? Would you give your man the side-eye if his gooooood friend also happened to be an ex? We asked these lovely New Yorkers about the whole friends/former lovers thing.
Check it out at MadameNoire.com.

Full Jennifer Hudson 20/20 Interview Talking About Death Of Family! [Video]

Wyclef Shot In Haiti On The Night Before Country’s Run-Off Election

Hip-hop singer Wyclef Jean was recovering Sunday after he was shot in the hand, his publicist said.

Spokeswoman Cindy Tanenbaum said Jean, who was in Haiti, was shot in Port-au-Prince on Saturday — on the eve of the country’s presidential runoff vote.

The wound was superficial, she said.

The singer was taken to a hospital, treated and released.

“He is doing well,” Tanenbaum said.

Haitians are choosing between a former first lady and a popular musician Sunday in the pivotal presidential runoff vote for a nation still recovering from a devastating earthquake and political turmoil.

Former law professor and first lady Mirlande Manigat faces singer Michel Martelly in the second round of presidential elections.
Final results of the runoff will be released on April 16, according to officials.

Jean, who was born in Haiti, shot to fame in the mid-1990s as a member of the Fugees, a U.S.-based hip-hop and reggae group. He now performs as a solo artist.

He has been an outspoken proponent of Haiti through his Yele Haiti Foundation and was one of the first celebrities to offer aid after the earthquake.

In September, he officially ended his bid to be president of Haiti a month after election officials ruled that he was ineligible to run.

Jean previously vowed to fight the Haitian electoral council’s ruling that he was not a resident of the country.

Evelyn & Ocho Show In The Works

“Basketball Wives” star Evelyn Lozada has an incredibly lucrative back-up plan in case she decides to quit the show — why, a NEW reality show of course … co-starring her NFL star fiancé Chad Ochocinco.

Sources close to Evelyn tell TMZ — as soon as E! execs caught wind that she wanted to quit “Basketball Wives” … they approached her with a new TV offer.

We’re told the new show would feature both Evelyn and Ocho living the life — which is kinda difficult … because she lives in Miami … and he lives in Cincinnati.

Evelyn hasn’t made any official decision yet — but according to sources, the couple is seriously entertaining the offer.

You can’t front though: these two would make for SUCH good TV.

Vivid Entertainment Offers To Buy Usher/Tameka Sex Tape To Prevent Release

TMZ has obtained a copy of a letter Vivid Entertainment honcho Steve Hirsch sent to Usher — and shockingly … Hirsch offers to help Usher STOP distribution of the tape.

Mind you … Hirsch is the guy who put out Kim K, Kendra Wilkinson and Montana Fishburne’s sex tapes — but in the letter to Ush he says, “As a result of this being an intimate and very personal tape we can certainly understand why you would want to stop its distribution.”

Hirsch goes on to say he’s shut down “many celebrity sex tapes” … and claims he’s willing to do the same for Usher.

Porn king with a heart of gold? OMG, indeed.

Time to Lose Some Weight Babe

From Black Voices – Relationships often play out with two sets of rules: his and hers. Nowhere do double standards flourish more than when it comes to issues of weight. Men want their girlfriends and wives to stay in shape. While it may or may not always work out that way, we certainly find ways to make our feelings known: “Babe, you sure you want to eat that deep-fried doughnut?” After all, there is only so much cushion for the pushin’ that one man needs.

But turn the tables, and you find that most men roll differently. And when I say “roll,” I mean actually rolling up on the drive-thru and, two heartbeats away from cardiac arrest, we’ll bark out our order: “I’d like my double standard with cheese please.”

Indulge me as I speak from my own personal experience because, you know, that’s something I never do.

I’ve been married for close to six years. For the first four, I still enjoyed a very high-functioning metabolism. The energy it took me to even step on a scale seemed to burn 200 calories. But to quote Notorious B.I.G ‘Things Done Changed.’ My metabolism, once a Kenyan track star, is now the slow Swedish cat bringing up the rear hoping not to get lapped. All told, I gained 15 pounds last year. And here I was giving my wife grief if she ordered French fries.

One evening I remember being at the movie theater eating a gratuitously big bag of popcorn. Halfway through the movie, I find myself trudging out to the lobby to reup on the salt. Yes, more salt. Fabulous idea. While doing so, a young woman behind the counter offers to “top off my popcorn.” Top off my popcorn for free? I had never heard of such thing. I wondered for a moment, “Is this a sexual metaphor that I need to decode; is she hitting on me or is this the explanation to American obesity?” Better question – was I part of the problem?

(Continue Reading @ Black Voices…)

QOTD: Is Marriage Still Necessary?

By Britni Danielle
Yesterday, Rashida Jones made a few headlines when she suggested that marriage may no longer be necessary. While discussing her new film, “Monogamy,” with MSNBC, Jones said:

“Things are changing so much, especially this country, we have kind of failed with marriage. We’re so protective of this really sacred but failed institution. There’s got to be a new model. I don’t know what it is, but maybe it’s like 10 years with a lease to buy or rent to own.”

While the majority of people believe that marriage is still very necessary and important to building stable families, some agree with Jones. Last year, a Times Magazine survey found that many (nearly 44% of those surveyed) believed that traditional marriages are obsolete. This is evident by the fact that people are waiting longer and longer to get married, and some are choosing to opt-out of marriage all together, deciding instead to live with their committed partner and raise a family, all without being married.

So what side of the debate do you fall on, is marriage still necessary?

The World of The ‘Guybrow’: Do You Prefer The Well Groomed Man?

By Leslie Pitterson
This past weekend, The New York Times’ Style section looked at the expanding world of men’s grooming- specifically the ‘guybrow.’

The term was coined by brow guru, Ramy Gafni, an eyebrow stylist in Manhattan whose celebrity clients include supermodel Naomi Campbell and many other A-listers. The cost for the perfect frames for that handsome face? Gafni charges $75 per session for men looking for better brows.

Gafni’s business is still primarily supported by his women clients but he says the number of men who frequent his salon has tripled in the past ten years. But don’t calling it eyebrow shaping. According to the stylist, what he does for men is more “eyebrow sculpting.”

“I don’t create an arch for men. You want to take the weight out of it and groom the brow, but you don’t want it to look ‘done.’ Sometimes I even leave a couple stray hairs so it looks less done, and I would never do that for women.”

The ‘guybrow’ is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. A recent consumer survey found that 63 percent of men regularly trim their ears, noses or eyebrows, fewer than those who trim groins (69 percent), but more than those who trim their heads (44 percent), chest (40 percent) or armpits (31 percent).

If anecdotal evidence counts for anything, just this weekend over manis and pedis with the girls, I bared witness as a group of brothers (who looked like they could have been the groomsmen in “The Best Men”) coming to get their brows treated to some hot wax.

Personally, there’s something about unkempt brows that can work as the perfect compliment for a guy’s eyes. I don’t mind a guy getting his brows groomed, but I do mind when said guys brows look mine.

What’s your take are you down with the ‘guybrow’ or do you prefer the look of undisturbed brows on your man?

Janet Signs Production Deal With Lionsgate: Are Tyler Perry-esque Films To Come?

By Leslie Pitterson
While she has sold over 100 million records and is a five-time Grammy award winner, many people forget that Janet Jackson got her start acting. And though the star has come a long way since first filming the 1976 television series, The Jacksons, it seems she is getting back to her roots.

According to reports, Janet and her production company, jdj Entertainment, has signed a production deal with Lionsgate to select, develop and produce one feature film for the independent studio.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about the deal, Janet said:

“I have been fortunate to work in the film industry, though not as much as I would like. I have a passion for storytelling, and have been doing it through my music for some time.”

The deal with Lionsgate is a natural transition for Janet, as she has starred in three Tyler Perry films under the studio. She first appeared in Why Did I Get Married, and then the sequel, Why Did I Get Married Too. She most recently starred in For Colored Girls, holding her own amongst a star-filled cast.

Janet says she is particularly attracted to film noir, but it remains to be seen what that will mean for the direction of this film. We will be watching to see how this film develops. Who knows- if this one is a success, maybe the deal will be expanded to include more of her work.

That Dirty Money Exclusive Video Sneak Peek Ft Trey Songz “Your Love”Video

Rihanna Vogue 2011 Photoshoot Behind The Scenes Video

Congressional Candidate Wants To Deport Latino Farmworkers, Bus Blacks To Pick Crops

Congressional candidate Jack Davis shocked local Republican leaders in a recent interview when he suggested that Latino farmworkers be deported — and that African-Americans from the inner city be bused to farm country to pick the crops.

Several sources who were in the Feb. 20 endorsement interview with Davis confirmed his comments, which echo those he made to the Tonawanda News in 2008, when he said: “We have a huge unemployment problem with black youth in our cities. Put them on buses, take them out there [to the farms] and pay them a decent wage; they will work.”

When Davis repeated those sentiments in the recent interview, the Republican leaders — who later delivered the party endorsement for the vacant seat in the 26th Congressional District to Assemblywoman Jane L. Corwin of Clarence — said they couldn’t believe what they were hearing.

“I was thunderstruck,” said Amherst GOP Chairman Marshall Wood. “Maybe in 1860 that might have been seen by some as an appropriate comment, but not now.”

Davis spokesman W. Curtis Ellis defended Davis’ comments by saying, “It may not be politically correct and it may not be racially correct, but when you have African American people in Buffalo who do not have jobs and are out of work, why are you bringing people into this country illegally to take jobs?” Ellis asked.

Davis is one of several candidates battling to replace coozehound congressman Rep. Chris Lee, who resigned last month after getting caught out there sending shirtless pictures to a woman on Craigslist — who wasn’t his wife.

When asked before the event about the comments he made, Davis replied: “It’s politics.” He did not address the remarks when he spoke to those assembled at the event.

During the Feb. 20 endorsement interview with the district’s Republican leaders, Davis “repeatedly almost disqualified himself” by contradicting typical party positions, said Gordon Brown, the Wyoming County GOP chairman.

“The most racist part was where he said he was busing the blacks in to pick the vegetables,” Brown said.

Davis’ comment came in response to a question about immigration, a major issue in the rural parts of the 26th District, where many farmers rely on migrant workers — who are supposed to be on a temporary work visa — to pick the crops.

When Davis made his comment, “the room sort of went silent,” Brown said. “It was like: Did I just hear that?”

Davis, an Akron industrialist, ran for Congress as a Democrat in 2004, 2006 and 2008, and was seeking the GOP nod this time.

Spurned by the party, he is now collecting signatures in hopes of appearing as the Tea Party candidate in the May 24 special election.

Source

Whitney’s Shipping Bobbi Kristina Off To Rehab

A heartbroken WHITNEY HOUSTON will put her daughter BOBBI KRISTINA into rehab after The ENQUIRER published world exclusive photos in our print edition of the troubled teen snorting cocaine.

Crushed by our report that her daughter – known to friends as “Krissi” – is hopelessly addicted to cocaine and alcohol, Whitney begged her: “Don’t let drugs ruin your life the way they ruined mine,” sources say.

The Grammy-winning diva and her ex-husband, Krissi’s father Bobby Brown, are blaming each other for their only child’s problems, according to insiders.

“Whitney was devastated over the photos showing Krissi using cocaine, and The ENQUIRER story that quoted her telling friends, ‘I’m just like my mother,’” a friend divulged.
“She called a family meeting and sobbed as she told Krissi, ‘I don’t want to lose you.’”

The singer, 47, also canceled plans to celebrate Krissi’s 18th birthday on March 4 in Atlantis, the luxury resort in the Bahamas, the source revealed.

“Whitney called Bobby, and they agreed that Krissi needs rehab,” the friend said. “They also agreed on a tough-love move to shake Krissi up, and Whitney returned a Lexus convertible that she’d bought for Krissi’s birthday.”

Despite her parents’ decision, Krissi is fighting the idea of rehab, said the source.

“Krissi is denying that she has a problem. She says that she does cocaine for fun and isn’t addicted,” said the source.

Meanwhile, Whitney and Bobby – who have both battled serious drug habits – are blaming each other for Krissi’s problems, sources say.

“Bobby reminded Whitney that she used to have drugs all over their house,” a friend divulged.
“He also accused her of being ‘coked up’ in public, looking like a mess and setting a bad example all along to their daughter,” the friend said.

But “The Bodyguard” star was quick to snap back at her bad boy ex, said the source.

“Whitney told Bobby that he did drugs too and got into more legal trouble than she ever did,” the friend said.

Bobby, 42, has been arrested for DUI, possession of marijuana, driving without a license, probation violations and misdemeanor battery for slapping Whitney.
The former “New Edition” singer, who has five children with four different women, has also been dragged into court numerous times for failure to pay child support.

“Bobby and Whitney are pointing fingers at each other, but the truth is that they’re both responsible. Krissi has been around while her parents and their friends were drinking and drugging ever since she was a little girl,” said another pal.

Krissi was only 12 when she was photographed drinking from a wine glass as her parents looked on.

In 2008 she was admitted to a psychiatric ward after attempting to slash her wrists with a razor blade. As The ENQUIRER reported, Krissi’s suicide bid came after she tried to stab her mother during a heated argument.

Rihanna’s Vogue Spread

Rihanna and that flaming red hair was smoking hot on the latest cover of Vogue Magazine. It’s no secret that she has a great body, so it was only right that the popular fashion magazine enlisted her for the cover of their 10th Annual Shape Issue.

Letoya Luckett Celebrates Birthday With Kelly Rowland And Brandy Norwood

Letoya Luckett
Letoya Luckett
LeToya & make-up artist AJ Crimson

Keyshia Cole’s former manager Manny Halley and LeToya
After a long weekend of celebrating her birthday Vegas style, Letoya Luckett jetted back to Los Angeles to continue the celebration. She was spotted at Phillipe Chow last night with former Destiny’s Child bandmate Kelly Rowland as well as Brandy Norwood, who helped blow out those 30 candle

Chris Brown’s F.A.M.E. Is Getting Great Reviews

Perhaps the greatest enemy of Chris Brown’s poorly received last album was time. Released in December 2009, just six months after the multiplatinum crooner pleaded guilty to assaulting Rihanna, Graffiti — frankly, not a bad collection at all — was widely panned. Everything from the title of his new disc, F.A.M.E. (an acronym for the off-putting title ”Forgiving All My Enemies”), to his recent nude photos and ill-advised tweets suggests that Brown has not yet mastered the art of image rehabilitation. Musically, though, he’s in top form. F.A.M.E. (out March 22) shines brighter than anything he produced before that now-infamous incident. Melodic raps on tracks like ”Say It With Me” and ”Oh My Love” lead to intoxicating hooks, as do bedroom knockers ”Wet the Bed” and ”No Bs,” which for better (or worse) rival the bump-’n'-grind heights of ’90s Casanova crew Jodeci.

The uncertainty of love is a recurring theme on the album: On the thumping midtempo cut ”Next to You,” Brown and guest Justin Bieber trade verses assuring their ladies of their dedication. The more relevant question is whether Brown can count on his old fans to be just as devoted. The fact that several singles have already crept into Billboard’s top 20 is a good indication that he’s winning them back. Graffiti clearly came too soon. And some still think Brown should go — and stay — away. But on its own merits, F.A.M.E. deserves to be heard. B+

Making It Rain Michael Vick Signs Another Endorsement Deal

Vick will be joining fellow NFL players Pittsburgh Steeler Maurkice Pouncey and Green Bay Packer A.J. Hawk who also inked a deal with the Lutte Licensing Group, the makers of the Core bands.

The high-tech silicone bracelets tout improved flexibility, balance and increased core strength. They are quickly becoming a fad among athletes.

The once-highest-paid NFL player and coveted pitchman, with numerous sweet deal endorsements that earned him millions, quickly went from a hero to a zero following his 2007 infamous arrest on dog-fighting charges. The arrest landed him an 18-month stint in federal prison.

Vick, who has been on the road to redemption, also picked up another endorsement deal last January. The first company who was willing to forgive his past was Unequal Technologies. Vick signed a two-year deal with the shock-blocking sports pads manufacturer. The Unequal Technologies deal tested the waters and two months later another company dared to follow suit.

Now, the powers that be at Core Synergy are ecstatic that Vick decided to come on-board to rep their brand:

“We are extremely excited to add Michael Vick to our list of outstanding athlete endorsers,” says Michael H. DiSabato, CEO of Lutte Licensing Group. “Michael epitomizes what the Core Synergy brand stands for. He’s a pure, authentic athlete who dominates one of the most competitive sports in the world.”

Okay, so it ain’t exactly Nike or Gatorade, but Vick did his time then put in work on the football field, these endorsements are well-deserved. Congratulations!

Source

R.I.P.: Nate Dogg

Nate Dogg is dead, according to a report in his hometown Long Beach Press Telegram, which cited a family announcement.

TMZ says they have confirmed the report but did not indicate how.

The West Coast legend, born Nathaniel D. Hale, was known for his distinctive deep singing voice, which was used on numerous hiphop hooks. He collaborated on hit songs with a number of artists including Warren G, 50 Cent and Eminem.

LisaRaye Returns With Season Two of Reality Show

LisaRaye is on the comeback trail and will be letting viewers follow her through it all on a new season of her TV One reality show. The “Player’s Club” actress announced that she is currently filing nine new episodes of “The Real McCoy” that will air in this Spring.

“We’ve come a long way since we first started taping season one of this show,” said LisaRaye. “I am very excited to be back with TV One for season two, and to share with viewers the many exciting developments and blessings in my life over the past year.”

The show will chronicle the adventures of the former first lady of Turks and Caicos, as she travels from Puerto Rico to Los Angeles and everywhere in between. Viewers will get to watch has LisaRaye juggles motherhood, singledom, and her new role in the upcoming VH1 series, “Single Ladies.”

Girlfriends Elise Neal, Tatyana Ali, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Jacque Reid will make appearances on the show as well as Twista, Nelly, DeRay Davis, Rev. Bishop T.D. Jakes and Chef G. Garvin.

Season Two of “The Real McCoy” is set to air April 7th on TV One.

Tell us will you be tuning in to LisaRaye’s reality show?

What if He Moves On and You Don’t?

By Niema Jordan
It’s not an unfamiliar feeling. Still, I don’t think one ever gets used to heartbreak. We avoid it at all cost–putting rules and restrictions on our interactions like somehow we can control what happens. But sometimes, despite the distance you create, the walls you build, and the promises you make yourself, you open up. And it’s amazing and it’s everything you could have hoped for…until it isn’t. That sinking feeling you spent so much time trying to avoid has taken over and it’s much worse than you remember. But surely you’ll get over it, you always do.

I’ll get over it. I always do. I kept reminding myself that I’d get over him and the next one would be better for me just like he was better for me than my last. And for a while I had myself going. But then someone posted Adele’s performance of “Someone Like You” and I couldn’t help but tear up. She said she could imagine being older and going to look for a man from her past and he’d be completely happy while she was still on her own.

With the last guy, it was Jill Scott’s “My Love” that would trigger a spiral. But back then I was heavy on comparisons. Always trying to figure out what she had that I didn’t. Using the image I’d created of her as my complete opposite, I was able to explain away my hurt. I consoled myself with the idea that while my love was in fact better and I was without a doubt better for him, she just may have been easier. Fine. Whatever. But even when I was “over it,” I wondered what if we’d worked. Then I questioned if the what ifs would ever stop. They still haven’t faded completely. Which brings me back to Adele.

After my most recent encounter with that shattered feeling, I imagined what my life would be like years from now. Quick flashes of failed relationships were there, but they weren’t the most haunting. The most troubling thought was of me being alone. Honestly, I didn’t imagine a sucky life, I saw the type of life and freedom folks write home about from an Italian villa. Successful? Yes. Partying my ass off? Yes. The favorite aunt? You know it. And even if I was a bridesmaid more times than Katherine Heigl, I’d be the best effing bridesmaid ever. I saw myself happy and smiling with a damn near perfect life. But then I saw myself running into him again.

Beautiful as ever he’d be the man he aspired to be: A figure in the community, happily married to wonderful woman. And they’d have children, beautiful well-behaved mini thems fit for sparking revolutions and running the free world. I’d be happy for him. I’d be as pleased with his success and family as he was with my best sellers and weathered passport. But he would be the man I was supposed to be with and I would be the Gabrielle Union character he made sure to avoid. But I would only be that way because I never found someone that measured up to him.

And that’s why the song triggered tears. I hit one of my best friends up on gchat with a link and a note that simply read “This. This is the feeling.” The more I think about it, the more dramatic it sounds. And the more I think about it, the more I wonder when this fear will go away.

Watch This Mom Teach Her Son How To Say “N**ga, N**ga, N**ga!!”

All I Can Say Is WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Evelyn Names Her Price: Keeping Her On Basketball Wives Will Cost Her BFF Shaunie

TMZ has learned “Basketball Wives” star Evelyn Lozada is giving show producers an ultimatum — either pay her $20,000 an episode … or she’s gone for good.

As we previously reported, Lozada has already threatened to leave the show — after, we’re told. she became upset because she believes the producers of the show leaked sensitive information about her to another cast member in hopes of inciting a violent confrontation between the two women.

Sources close to the production tell TMZ, Lozada and the other girls currently pull in around $7,500 an episode — which means Lozada’s latest demand would mean a SERIOUS raise.

New Survey Claims That People Feel That Folks Of Mixed Races Are The Most Attractive

At one point the idea of what was considered “beautiful” was thin, blonde, flat-bootied, and WHITE. Now it seems the tables have turned…

Who decides what’s beautiful and what’s not in our society? I’ve always wondered why some women are considered drop dead gorgeous while others, not so much. In the past, the standard of beauty in America has been “blonde hair, blue eyes, and skinny”. It’s no secret that as African American women, we are known for our larger butts and boobs, fuller lips and darker skin which obviously the complete opposite of the standard “American Beauty stereotype”, or however you choose to look at it. In this day and age however, as we see women of other races becoming successful in Hollywood, that standard has changed with the majority of women wanting curvier bodies, fuller lips, and darker skin! Give it up for the sistas!

A recent study done by Allure Magazine states that Americans have changed their opinions of what is sexy from 20 years ago. The survey stated that 64% of people think that mixed race women represent the epitome of beauty, 70% of those surveyed want their skin color to be darker and 74% believe that a curvier body is more appealing than a skinner body. It’s interesting to see how the “opinion” of Americans on what is considered most beautiful has changed from 1991 till now. I personally believe that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, however, to each his own!

Take a look at some of the other factors that have changed from 1991 till now below!

Beauty idol: Then, Christie Brinkly, now Angelina Jolie
Women’s peak age for beauty: Then, women said 34; men said 31. Now, women say 31; men say 28.
Women’s peak of sexual attractiveness: Then, women said 32; men said 30. Now, women say 31; men say 28.
Men’s peak age for handsomeness: Then, women said 35; men said 33. Now, women say 34; men say 31.
Men’s peak age of sexual attractiveness: Then, women said 33; men said 31. Now, women say 34; men say 30.
How important is physical appearance in attracting a significant other? Then, 37 percent of women said it was important. Now, 51 percent of women and 52 percent of men say it is either very important or the most important thing in attracting a mate.

Source

OMAR EPPS & FAMILY ATTEND CHARITY EVENT IN CALI

Actor Omar Epps pictured with his wife Keisha Epps and children, daughter Aiyanna (from a previous relationship), daugther K’mari (6 years-old) and son Amir (3 years-old) at the 8th annual John Varvatos Stuart House benefit in Los Angeles on Sunday (March 13th).

The event is held annually to help support the UCLA Rape Treatment Center and they reportedly raised $500,000 this year (click here for more info).

CHRIS BROWN SHOPPING IN CALI

Singer/dancer Chris Brown was spotted out in Hollywood this past weekend sporting the blonde look and shopping with an entourage. The 21 year-old is gearing up for the release of his fourth album, F.A.M.E., which hit stores next week.