Jay-Z And Mary J Blige: Heart of the City Tour Schedule

The King of NY teams up with the Queen of R&B for what's sure to be a sizzling hot 22 city tour.




Mar 22, 2008
Sat 8:00 PM Miami, FL
American Airlines Arena


Mar 24, 2008
Mon 7:30 PM Orlando, FL
Amway Arena


Mar 26, 2008
Wed 7:30 PM Baltimore, MD
1st Mariner Arena


Mar 27, 2008
Thu 7:30 PM Uniondale, NY
Nassau Coliseum


Mar 28, 2008
Fri 7:30 PM East Rutherford, NJ
Izod Center

Mar 30, 2008
Sun 7:30 PM Philadelphia, PA
Wachovia Center


Apr 02, 2008
Wed 7:30 PM Toronto, Canada
Air Canada Centre

Apr 03, 2008
Thu 7:30 PM Boston, MA
TD Banknorth Garden


Apr 05, 2008
Sat 7:30 PM Greensboro, NC
Greensboro Coliseum


Apr 06, 2008
Sun 7:30 PM Washington, DC
Verizon Center


Apr 08, 2008
Tue 7:30 PM Atlanta, GA
Philips Arena


Apr 09, 2008
Wed 7:30 PM New Orleans, LA
New Orleans Arena


Apr 10, 2008
Thu 7:30 PM Houston, TX
Toyota Center

Apr 12, 2008
Sat 8:00 PM Dallas, TX
Superpages.com Center


Apr 15, 2008
Tue 7:00 PM Phoenix, AZ
Us Airways Center


Apr 16, 2008
Wed 7:00 PM Los Angeles, CA
Hollywood Bowl


Apr 18, 2008
Fri 7:30 PM Irvine, CA
Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre


Apr 19, 2008
Sat 8:00 PM Las Vegas, NV
MGM Grand Garden Arena


Apr 20, 2008
Sun 7:30 PM Oakland, CA
Oracle Arena


Apr 25, 2008
Fri 7:30 PM Auburn Hills, MI
Palace Of Auburn Hills


Apr 26, 2008
Sat 7:30 PM Chicago, IL
United Center


Apr 27, 2008
Sun 7:30 PM Chicago, IL
United Center


May 02, 2008
TBA New York, NY
Madison Square Garden


May 06, 2008
Tue 7:30 PM New York, NY
Madison Square Garden

May 07, 2008
Wed 7:30 PM New York, NY
Madison Square Garden

Common Confirms Justice League Involvement

From the first time Clark Kent walked into a phone booth mild mannered and walked out able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, the concept of superheroes having dual identities has been almost as important to the genre as the superpowers themselves. Not so for John Stewart, Earth’s fourth Green Lantern and sometimes member of the “Justice League of America” — one of the more prominent heroes to choose not to wear a mask.

Now the actor who was cast to play him is pulling back his.

Long rumored to be in contention for the role, Common confirmed to MTV News for the first time publically that he was cast in the now dormant film, calling being picked for the role “an honor.”

“It’s a blessing really, to know that I could potentially be this superhero,” he enthused. “Justice League itself is an honor, and Green Lantern is an incredible character to play. It’s a blessing to be associated with it.”

In particular, Common felt it was a special privilege to be the cast’s only black super.

“Just being a black person, a black man, playing a superhero is an honor in itself,” he smiled.

Meanwhile, back at the Hall of Justice: Last month the superhero tag team fell to a foe even greater than Lex Luther or Darkseid, the villainous organization known simply as the WGA. But while the film may have been momentarily shelved, Common still sees it moving forward relatively soon, declining to discuss plot details since it was still “in progress.”

Source: MTV Movies



Watch The Trailer

NIKE's ''Better Than I've Ever Been'' Featuring Kanye West, Nas and KRS-One Nominated for Grammy

February 7, 2008 3:45 PM EST

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The much talked about collaboration for the NIKE (NYSE: NKE) commissioned hip hop track, "Better Than I've Ever Been," which was executive produced by Cornerstone, has been nominated for the 2008 Grammy Awards for "Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group." Featuring Kanye West, Nas, KRS-One and produced by Rick Rubin, the song was created to celebrate the 25th year anniversary of Nike's iconic shoe, the Air Force 1. In addition, a remix version of the track featuring hip hop veteran Rakim which was produced by DJ Premier was recorded as part of the campaign.

"Better Than I've Ever Been" marks the first time Nike has ever commissioned a Grammy-nominated song in the company's 35-year history.

Spearheaded by Cornerstone, the music collaboration included everything from concept to execution, such as securing the talent, overseeing production of the track and music video, releasing the song, and securing digital placements and radio airplay. The partnership was led by Cornerstone's music supervision and lifestyle departments which were also responsible for coordinating previous music projects for Nike on iTunes, including securing exclusive workout tracks from some of today's most well respected artists for the Nike + initiative.

"From the great talent to Nike's commitment to the idea, everything aligned perfectly for us," said Rob Stone, Co-President and Founder of Cornerstone. "To top it off with a Grammy nomination is an incredible honor. This campaign exemplifies how a creative idea successfully executed can have a much greater impact on the culture as compared to a traditional advertising campaign. This is a pure example of organic marketing -- growing a brand through channels in a way that truly connects with the consumer."

Twenty-five years ago Nike introduced the Air Force 1 performance shoe to satisfy the demands of the most uncompromising and forceful players in the game of basketball. In 1982, the Air Force 1 became the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air technology. The comfort and protective qualities of the Air Force 1 changed the game forever and created a platform that launched Nike's long-running legacy in performance basketball. During the past 25 years the Air Force 1 evolved from a performance breakthrough on the court to an icon of the street.

All Nike and artists' proceeds from the sale of the original Air Force 1 song "Better Than I've Ever Been" will go to the Nike Youth Sport for Change Fund to support two chapters of Baltimore's Boys & Girls Club of America -- Jackson Unit Boys & Girls Club of America and The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club of America.

About Cornerstone

Based in New York City and helmed by Rob Stone and Jon Cohen, Cornerstone is a full-service marketing firm that builds emerging brands and reenergizes established ones. Representing Fortune 500 clients across multiple disciplines -- with an emphasis on consumer products and services and entertainment industries -- Cornerstone designs and executes customized and innovative brand strategies that target and effectively reach the elusive market of 15-34 year olds.

About NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Cole Haan, a leading designer and marketer of luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear. For further information about Nike visit www.nikebiz.com.

Source: NIKE, Inc.

Recording Artists T-Weaponz and Mighty Mystic Lend Talent

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Amalia Martino/BlueShoes Media (425) 361-2754 / amalia@blueshoesmedia.com

 

Recording Artists T-Weaponz and Mighty Mystic Lend Talent to I LOVE DR Concert to Benefit Victims of Hurricane Olga

New York, NY / February 4, 2008 – Hip Hop and Reggae recording artists join for a benefit concert hosted by ilovedr.org on Thursday, February 7, 2008 at Bruckner Bar and Grill in New York City. Hurricane Olga hit the Dominican Republic on December 11, 2007. Over 60,000 people were affected and many were left without homes, food, or basic necessities. All proceeds from The I LOVE DR benefit concert will go to the Sur Futuro Foundation to benefit the victims. T-Weaponz, Mighty Mystic, Rebel Diaz, Lokixximo, Lee Wilson and El Principe will provide live entertainment. When: Thursday, February 7, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. Where: Bruckner Bar & Grill 1 Bruckner Blvd. Bronx, New York 718-665-2001 Cost: $10.00 This is an all ages event, sponsored by Dominican Times Magazine and Harrell Co. Productions. For more information, please visit ilovedr.org and surfuturo.org

 

### About T-Weaponz T-Weaponz is a hip-hop trio from Brooklyn, East New York. They have been called "the most anticipated independent artists of the year" by Allhiphop.com and released their debut digital album "Just Begun…" in late 2007. The album features the hit single "Dem Boyz" which skyrocketed to #6 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip Hop Singles Sales and #44 on the Hot Singles Sales charts. The album consists of 12 tracks including the smash hit "Mira Mira" featuring Notch. About Mighty Mystic Recipient of the Boston Music Award's Artist of the Year in 2006 and the Joe Higgs' Rising Star Award in 2007, Mighty Mystic is set to release his debut album (Wake Up the World, Split2nd Entertainment) later this year. His first single "Riding on the Clouds" (2005) was a Top Ten Radio Single in Jamaica and locally raised to the #1 spot on WERS 88.9 and won consecutive Battle of Beats on WJMN 94.5. ### For a media pass or more information, please contact: Amalia Martino Amalia@blueshoesmedia.com (425) 361-2754

Rap mogul is named in gang injunction

City officials asked a judge to ban members of the Mob Piru street gang from being able to congregate in a neighborhood of Compton — and asked that the order include Marion "Suge" Knight.

The co-founder of Death Row Records was one of 200 people the officials said were members of Mob Piru. The injunction would ban them from congregating, carrying guns, drinking alcohol in public or staying out past 10 p.m.

Knight called the injunction a "publicity stunt."

"This is crazy," Knight told the Los Angeles Times in Thursday's editions. "I'm a 42-year-old businessman, not a gang member. I don't even live in Compton anymore."

A hearing on the matter was to be held Thursday.

Although such injunctions are a common anti-gang tactic in southern California, this is the first time one has been sought in Compton, a city less than 10 miles south of downtown Los Angeles that announced a gang crackdown two years ago.

Mob Piru members have gained notoriety for their alleged links to Knight and Death Row, once home to artists such as Tupac Shakur and Snoop Dogg.

Hell Razah

Hell Razah aka Heaven Razah has risen from the Red Hook section of Brooklyn, NY.

This cat has paid his dues and in my eyes epitomizes the game of hip hop. His lyrics are very intelligent and on point. It's been a long time since I heard a banger that ain't talking big cars, big guns and big asses. This reminds me of what we got into the game for in the first place. I hope the Hip Hop Police is listening to this shit. I would give Renaissance Child amongst the hottest joint of the year 2007. Back in the day Razah did his thing with Sunz of Man, Wu Tang Clan disciples, with production under my man Supreme. What up Preme? Later Black Market Militia. Anyhow back to the beats!!! This thing is bangin, the intro is hot!!! buried Alive, the first track gets you open and makes you want more. Millenium Warfare is just plain crazy. Project Jazz tells a real story of Brooklyn almost in a Daddy Kayne style. Yo check out Chain Gang and tell me who aint on it? The production is real tight and a very refreshing relief from what hip hop has evolved into. Dirty Needlez and Bronze Nazareth did they thing. All in all this joint's what's up. If you gonna buy sommen you gotta get this.


One!!!!

State Of Nyc Hip-Hop

When The East Is In The House. - State Of Nyc Hip-Hop Submitted By: Rasheedah Andrews
When the east is in the house OMG (DANGA!) - Blazay Blazay
That was the mid-90s, fast-forward to 2006 and ask yourself - Is the East in the house? Short answer, yes. It’s
been “in the house” for quite sometime, very sheltered and remaining awfully quiet. I’m patiently waiting for the
east to come back outside to play; honestly I’m getting bored. By nature, hip-hop has always been territorial.
There is a sense of pride knowing your region is on top and the genre’s stars are people from your own community.
In listening to Tru Life’s “New New York” I understand where this rap artist is coming from. To hear New York
artists spitting about “trapping” or “getting crunk in the club” or “going dumb” makes me feel awkward. I would
welcome this lingo with open arms had it came from artists in the areas the jargon originated. Observing this
tells me upcoming artists in New York City have major identity issues and are simply looking to mimic whatever is
“hot” at the moment.
As a recording artist, industry professional and most importantly as a fan, I attend hip-hop showcases in New York
City rather frequently. New York City is the Mecca of hip-hop, an emcees breeding ground. The city is flooded with
aspiring hip-hop stars, I’m willing to bet New York City has the highest number of rappers per capita in the
world. Do these artists have talent? Many of them do – but does talent always translate to commercial success, NO.
This is what many artists fail to understand, once you start looking for external sources to finance your career,
you are an investment. Of course you’d like to feel like more since after all, the lyrics are your personal
memoirs (accurate or fabricated) and the music is something you’ve poured your time, life and money into. Despite
the previous statements, one thing that you should never lose sight of is the following: the music business is
just that, a business. Grey areas are to be expected since the ultimate product stems from creativity but where
there is a company, there is a bottom line – period.
If you walk into a bank looking to secure a loan for your business, you will have to demonstrate to that financial
institution that you have the ability to pay back, plus interest. You’ll have to supply supporting documentation,
income projections – you have to have a plan. They don’t want to sample your product (or in this case, evaluate
your demo). They want tangible evidence – previous sales, spins, shows, web traffic, celebrity endorsements etc.
Unlike a bank loan, where they will hunt you down, destroy you and take everything short of the clothes off your
back if cannot repay – with a record label’s investment, if things don’t pan out…you walk with almost no
consequence (aside from difficulty securing future deals or possible shame). Taking this into consideration, they
should reserve the right to be selective and invest in those acts most likely to meet certain sales criteria.
Simply stated, right now – New York doesn’t appear to be that. Being well versed on both the business and creative
sides of the spectrum, there are many artists I enjoy listening to personally but had I been an A&R, I still
wouldn’t sign them. Why? Because I’d like to keep my job and part of my job is to scout talent that will
inevitably bring money to the company I work for.
Where do New York artists fit into the scheme of all this? How do the previous statements about business and
investments relate to the changes currently taking place in the hip-hop landscape? Easy. New York City artists
have to prove that they aren’t poor investments. You must also bear in mind that many of your predecessors as of
late have failed to meet the target. These facts damage your reputation to potential investors, it’s like a bad
credit score. You can argue to the cows come home about “real hip-hop,” more than likely you are not going to
change popular opinion. Attending showcases lately in NYC, it’s like…if you’ve seen one – you’ve seen them all. In
terms of fashion, every artist looks the same. With regard to content (or lack thereof), every artist is
addressing the same issues. The repetitiveness in subject matter has reached new lows. Some artists become
remarkably frustrated at the prospect of not having a deal after years of hard work. This anger eventually finds
it’s way into their music and as a potential fan; I don’t want to hear about it. I’ve attended shows where rappers
felt obligated to express their displeasure with the likes of Chingy and D4L during their performances – it’s
ridiculous. I can take this opportunity to start plugging my music as a New Yorker and discuss in great detail how
I can revolutionize the game, but I’ll summarize now. New York City is known as the birthplace of rap music. New
York rappers are famed for being lyrically proficient, fly by default and envied by rappers of all regions. We
have that Big Apple swagger. We don’t follow trends, we just set them. Please don’t ever forget that. So in
conclusion, don’t obsess over the current success of other regions. Rather, make a point to create material worthy
of carrying the Empire State’s torch. Understand what investors are looking for and what fans want - incorporate
your personal style (after all, no one wants a clone of an artist who already exists). With this newfound outlook
and your talent, hopefully we can see the genre returned its owners. Peace!!!

About the Author:
R.S. Andrews, BBA MSA - President/CEO of Sheer Badness Entertainment, professional songwriter, performer and hip-
hop/rap recording artist p/k/a SHEE. More info: http://www.sheemusic.com/, info@sheerbadness.com or call (908) 245
-6467