Swagger Ready

Mastodon's "The Hunter" Augmented Reality App Innovates But Misses Social Opportunity

2011-10-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

Mastodon's "The Hunter" Augmented Reality App Innovates But Misses Social Opportunity:

For Mastodon's latest album release, "The Hunter", they worked with augmented reality company, Total Immersion, to create a web app that takes live webcam images and places a mask based on AJ Fosick's album cover art over one's face. It's a bit hard to describe but you can see it in the video below. However, despite the fact that it's pretty cool, they also lost a huge social media opportunity in the process. WATCH:

"Video of my son becoming Mastodon's Hunter"

Hard rock/metal band Mastodon released their latest album, "The Hunter", September 27th on Reprise Records (Warner Bros. Records) with album art by a really amazing artist, AJ Fosik. Around the time this release was in motion, the folks at Total Immersion, contacted WBR about their augmented reality services and a fan-oriented project was born.

Total Immersion has done a wide range of projects, many of which feature a nonmobile immersive experience unlike the world tagging approach that cyberpunk readers like myself were conditioned to expect.

As you can see from the above video, the basic concept uses a form of face mapping which allows for an overlay of the roaring, firebreathing Hunter mask. The experience is designed for the viewer having fun at home with their monitor and webcam. For example, when you're playing with the app, there are a variety of sounds that occur that add to the experience.

You are given the option to take a pic or short video and upload them to Facebook or YouTube. However, the app does not facilitate downloading to your desktop and, as you can tell from the above video, the sound you hear when playing with the app is not included on the video that is uploaded to YouTube.

I spoke with drummer Brann Dailor who said the band really likes the concept and they've gotten positive feedback from fans but he was unaware that the uploaded videos did not have sound. I was a bit confused until speaking with Rick DeWeese, Total Immersion's West Coast Sales Director, and realized that the focus of the app was the in-front-of-computer experience. It was intended to be a fun thing for fans but the Facebook and YouTube uploads were extras that did not seem to be an integral part of the experience.

But the opportunity to take this fan experience, and make it a much larger social media event, was lost. For example, as we've seen with so many acts, they could have provided some of the band's music to create a mini-soundtrack for the videos that would have made them much more enjoyable to watch on YouTube. Or they could have just included the app sounds in the video and that would be nice as well.

But there are even cooler possibilities. If you search YouTube for "Mastodon cover", you'll find a whole bunch of guitarists doing covers of Mastodon songs. Think about how much guys like that would dig being able to play covers while their head was the fire breathing Hunter? Other folks might want to sing the lyrics to their favorite Mastodon song. And, if that seemed a bit open-ended for the label, they could have picked one song and held a contest where people did covers of that song only for a big YouTube event.

I'm glad to see bands experimenting with new technology and both Brann and Rick were great guys to talk to but it kind of blows my mind that this opportunity to do something potentially much bigger was missed.

More On The App
The folks at Total Immersion introduce the app and take a closer look at the offering and how it works.

Bonus
Here's a video of a live face mapping application, not by Total Immersion, during an Aphex Twin concert in which his image is superimposed over faces of the fans. I'm definitely looking forward to the future of this technology.

Hypebot contributor Clyde Smith is a freelance writer and blogger. He currently maintains a writing hub at Flux Research and periodically blogs at All World Dance and This Business of Blogging. To suggest music services and related topics for review at Hypebot, please contact: clyde(at)fluxresearch(dot)com.

Rob Grimes - Grimetime Mixtape Artwork

2011-10-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

From : www.robgrimes.blogspot.com

Its that time... Its been an amazing ride so far. Its really time to kick it up a notch and give some more music to the people. #Grimetime is 90% done. I will be back with you soon with a release date. Until then please join the mailing list so you can be the first to know!!

Swag me out!!

- Rob Grimes

2011-04-19T17:02:00.001-07:00

ROB GRIMES - THE FEELING ( ARTWORK + TRACKLISTING)

2011-04-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

J. Dilla's Mother Announces New Album, 'Rebirth of Detroit'

2011-04-05T09:30:00.001-07:00

Maureen "Ma Dukes" Yancey, mother of revered Detroit beatmaker J. Dilla, has announced that a new album from her son will be released later this year.
The album, entitled 'The Rebirth of Detroit,' will solely feature Detroit artists who Dilla worked with during his lifetime, over unreleased beats crafted by the revered producer.

"People on this project will be the closest and most dear friends that Dilla had," Ma Dukes explained in a new video. "They worked with him personally one on one. They have a vested interest in Detroit; everyone that is involved in this project are Detroiters, that truly love Detroit for all that it has to offer ... It's a tribute from the heart and soul of these people. It's something different than what's been in the past."

Ma Dukes went on to say that 'The Rebirth of Detroit' is intended to work as a vessel, promoting unity among the members of the city's hip-hop community as well as the city of Detroit itself. "This will bring together artists that have drifted away from one another and haven't been able to work with each other lately," she continued. "It's a healing process for the city ... It's time to be proud to be a Detroiter. It's time to give something back to the community."

Although Dilla left a wealth of unreleased music when he died in 2006, much of it has been re-released with different titles or recorded with new vocals without the permission of his estate. Ma Dukes confirmed the project will be entirely "fresh" material.

Details on the album's features have yet to be announced. 'The Rebirth of Detroit' will be released in the fall.

Here is a free download to keep you guys fed until album is dropped!

BIG SEAN - HOMETOWN

2011-03-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

Chris Brown - Look At Me Now (Feat. Busta Rhymes & Lil' Wayne)

2011-03-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Mos Def - World Premiere

2011-03-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

Kanye West feat. Jay-Z & Swizz Beatz – Power (Remix) [CDQ]

2010-08-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

DOWNLOAD LINK : http://www.mediafire.com/?x975w5z6lizg9cr

ROB GRIMES FEAT. HAVANA - TALK OF THE TOWN (PRODUCED BY MPAZES)

2010-08-16T19:35:00.001-07:00

Download Link:

http://www.zshare.net/audio/78209279565cf01d/

Rob Grimes Featuring Havana- Talk Of The Town by ROBGRIMES

J COLE - BLOW UP

2010-08-14T22:50:00.001-07:00

THIS IS MY THEME SONG RIGHT HERE. BEST J COLE SONG I HAVE EVER HEARD. I GET GOOSEBUMPS WHEN I HEAR THIS SONG.

DOWNLOAD: http://usershare.net/t17fbgcsbndr

Drake Wants Lil Wayne At VMAs

2010-08-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

MTV Shows

Drake Brings Out Justin Bieber

2010-08-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

Lloyd Banks Apologized To Ashanti

2010-08-14T22:39:00.000-07:00

MTV Shows

NEW MUSIC : KANYE WEST - SEE ME NOW FEAT BEYONCE & CHARLIE WILSON

2010-08-11T18:21:00.001-07:00

DOWNLOAD LINK: http://usershare.net/hr9k4449dvql

DONT ASK GUCCI MANE ABOUT WAKA FLAKA

2010-08-09T19:57:00.001-07:00

So after news that Waka and Gucci dont rock anymore this is what happens when you ask Gucci about his old protege.

TYGA - FEAT LIL WAYNE - IM ON IT

2010-08-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

ANDRE 3000 X YOUNG JEEZY - I DO

2010-08-09T19:49:00.001-07:00

DOWNLOAD LINK : http://usershare.net/xr0rnktg7zle

The rumors are this is a leak from Young Jeezy - TM103. We will see if this makes the cut, Andre comes with his typical swag thats on point. Gotta love him for it.

YOUNG JEEZY - DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR (RICK ROSS DISS)

2010-08-09T19:45:00.003-07:00

DOWLOAD LINK : http://www.mediafire.com/?jyu057t6diniilf#1

Ok. Well Jeezy doesnt come out and say names here, but its pretty dam obvious who he is talking about.

"How you Blowin’ Money Fast? You don’t know the crew/Oh, you part of the fam? Shit, I never knew/"

Adidas Skateboard Line Grand Opening

2010-08-06T09:22:00.001-07:00

KANYE WEST - POWER

2010-08-06T08:18:00.001-07:00

Lupe Fiasco’s “Trilly & Truly” 2010 Collection

2010-08-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Trilly & Truly 2010: Basic Info from RSVP Gallery on Vimeo.

DRAKE HAS REGRETS

2010-08-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

MTV Shows

“The saddest part to me is that I would have made ’9 AM in Dallas’ the intro for the album, but I did it the day of mastering, which is crazy, so it couldn’t make the album. That’s probably my greatest upset, was the fact that it couldn’t be on the physical disc and be a part of that album. ‘Darlin’ ‘ was a loss just because it was never mixed, and every time I hear it in the club, you can never really hear the words. I think the words are the best part of that song. I think Wayne painted such a vivid picture. I tried to come in and add my little two cents at the end.

“Most of the music made it. Most of the music we held for a long time, and the stuff that did leak, it was pretty good references. It wasn’t anything I was too upset about. ‘Shut It Down’ leaking early was painful. I think it could have been a bigger record had it not been out there so long. And ‘Fall for Your Type’ I wish was on there, but I have other plans for that record, so it’s gonna be good.”

CoolRain x MINDstyle x NBA Mini Figure Series 1

2010-08-04T10:07:00.001-07:00

Having earned notoriety for his custom toys in the past, Korean designer CoolRain teams up with a full-on toy brand in MINDstyle to release an upcoming NBA-based mini figure series. Just recently, we’ve seen a number of collaborative projects involving MINDstyle, however this is arguably one of their projects with the greatest reach. Series 1 incorporates a star-studded cast including Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Garnett, Derrick Rose, Dirk Nowitzki, Brandon Roy, Steve Nash, Manu Ginobili, Amare Stoudemire and Dwayne Wade

SWAG ALERT : G SHOCK MIRROR FACES

2010-08-04T10:00:00.001-07:00

Casio G-SHOCK introduces an extension to their Mirror Face Collection with these new releases, again working with the DW6900SB model. As you can see, rich metallic bodies are paired with mirrored façades in four new colorways: deep navy blue with lime green accents and LCD, maroon with electric purple screen, sleek gray with dark red contrasts and tangerine with orange and white highlights. Each of the new models are now available at Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Tourneau, Fashion Time and select stockists for around $99.Via hypebeast.com

LIL WAYNE CALLS FUNK FLEX FROM RIKERS

2010-08-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

Well its good that Wayne is still in good spirit. You can tell from this conversation that he is hungry and ready to get out. Cant blame him. Free Weezy

J DILLA - DONUT SHOP

2010-08-02T19:51:00.001-07:00

Serato and Stones Throw have teamed with the J Dilla Estate for the official J Dilla Serato release, Donut Shop. This is 2 discs with six J Dilla tracks, 2 sides with Serato Control Tone (for use with Serato Scratch Live DJ software), and 2 donut slipmats in a package designed by Studio No.1. This will be released May 10th (the day after Mother’s day–what’s up Ma Dukes?).

Artwork.

2010-08-02T16:33:00.001-07:00

DR DRE. AND EMINEM COVER VIBE

2010-08-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak preview of the interview. Hits newstands soon. Cop that.

What was the best thing someone said about you? Was there ever a hot Eminem diss?
Um, no. [Laughs.] Nah, I’m kidding. Shit, there was a couple of lines Everlast said like, “You ain’t running up on me with no empty gun.” I know that there is a lot of shit that I would have said about me.

Do you think about your own death?
Yeah, I do. A lot. I think about it a lot. I try not to think about it but I do and it creeps me the fuck out. It creeps me out because they say that if I got to the hospital two hours later then I would be gone. I think about that a lot. When I lay in bed at night is when I think about it the most. It creeps me out man.

What were your thoughts when you heard that your 8 Mile co-star Brittany Murphy had passed?
It was crazy. It’s crazy. It’s crazy because at one point we were very close and she was a really good person. It’s crazy when you see things not just with her but just all these things that are happening in Hollywood with people in music, with people in acting . . .

. . . famous people.
Famous people. Famous people are overdosing at alarming rates and—that almost sounded like a commercial. Wow.

It sounded like a Sally Struthers commercial. “Please give to this charity.”
Right. But they are. And it’s one of those things man where you’re famous, doctors will kiss your ass because they love the celebrity. “Oh, I can call up Eminem and get him on the phone right now. Oh, hi Marshall, how are you doing? Do you need that [prescription]?” There are doctors that will give you certain things just because of who you are.

Carlos Slim Buys New House

2010-08-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

Carlos Slim, the world’s richest man, added a new piece of property to his portfolio. The Billionaire purchased the Duke-Semans Mansion in New York for $44 million. The mansion is said to be the only private mansion left on Fifth Avenue and was originally listed at $50 million. According to the Wall St. Journal, Slim reportedly got it for $6 million less than the asking price. The five-story residence was built in 1901 has 12 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms. It also has 11 fireplaces and a doctors office in the basement.

Kent Money - Becoming Mixtape

2010-08-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Kent M$NEY is the latest artist to come out of the Surf Club Movement, and after listening to his Surf Club debut project “Becoming”, you’ll understand why popular producer Boi-1da got on this, and why Mississippi’s latest sensation, Big Krit, lended not only his vocals but his production skills to the project. Executively produced by Hit-Boy and Chase N. Cashe, the album also features TY$L (“Toot It & Boot It”) and production from UPS.
“This project is everything I’ve been through and am currently going through that’s preparing me for what I’m Becoming” – Kent M$NEY

Album Artwork by: Karla “HustleGRL” Moy

Download Link: http://usershare.net/1bxldcsz1gg9
Via http://itsthesurfclub.com/2010/08/02/kent-mney-becoming/

DRAKE BRINGS OUT EMINEM

2010-08-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO BRING OUT EMINEM ... ISNT EMINEM SUPPOSE TO BRING YOU OUT? FOR A NEW ARTIST THATS AMAZING... DRAKE CONTINUES TO KILL THEM. ALWAYS, AND FOREVER.

Swag Alert : PF FLYERS

2010-07-31T09:09:00.001-07:00

Super clean. These remind me of the Sandlot but the 2k10 version. Good work. Looking at prices now.

Kanye West Previews Album For Rolling Stone Mag

2010-07-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yeezy always got something to say and he always got a story to tell. Remind me of ya Grand Daddy. Looks like Ye is making his media round right now and promoting his recently untitled album. Here he a good tell.

Brandy Looking Scrumptious

2010-07-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Free off her new reality show, Brandy is spotted in the Sunset Plaza looking beautifal. Rumor has is there reality show got picked up again for a second season. No more melt downs please. Thanks.
Spotted: http://necolebitchie.com/2010/07/28/brandy-is-a-happy-camper/

Tell us how you really feel Bobby...

2010-07-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

"It’s easily more accepted for a woman to go out with her man and he done chopped everyone in the club [than a woman doing the same]. Look at Reggie Bush. He can’t marry Kim Kardashian because she has a sex tape and she’s smashed a million dudes. Right? He can’t marry her. It’s not a good look. On the other hand, Reggie Bush has f*cked a lot of women. You think Kim Kardashian cares about that?"
Source : http://www.hasmagazine.com/

New: G Shock's

2010-07-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

CASIO G-SHOCK update their incoming line of watches for the month of August, 2010. Available next month at select retailers.

PHARRELL WILLIAMS ON CUSTOM DESIGNED HARLEY

2010-07-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

Pharrell Spot For Harley-Davidson from Team Satten on Vimeo.

Pharrell recently teamed up with Rides for Creative Customs, and Harley-Davidson some time ago to customize one of their chopper bikes. Here Sk8board P talks about the job. More money more money more....

Get em P.

New: Spit Fire Shades

2010-07-30T15:53:00.000-07:00

New "Spit Fire" shades. Ive seen a couple of this brands shades and i was very impressed. Classy and fresh. Can make an old head feel young again. lol
Check them out http://www.spitfire-design.com/

SWAG ALERT : IMKING GEAR

2010-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

RICK ROSS WANTS WIZ KHALIFA

2010-07-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

MTV Shows

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

With love,
Swagger Ready

Slow Jam Sunday: Az Yet "Hard to Say I'm Sorry"

2010-01-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

I used to love these guys. Where are all the male R&B groups at these days?

And the Nominees Are ... Ed Lover's "C'Mon Son" 2009 Awards

2010-01-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

Hilarious! Go to CmonSonOnline.com to cast your vote. Dr. Conrad Murray definitely has my vote for "C'mon Son of the Year" for killing our beloved King of Pop, Michael Jackson. I'm just sayin'.

Pepa Gets on the Reality TV Show Bandwagon

2010-01-10T17:59:00.000-08:00

Sandra "Pepa" Denton, of the female rap duo, Salt-N-Pepa, is the latest celebrity attempting to salvage her career with a reality TV show, "Let's Talk About Pep." Pep and her cast members, Kittie a.k.a. Kali Troy, Joumana Kidd and Jacque Reid dish out the details with radio host Angela Yee. Make no mistake about it -- the show is not another "Real Housewives of Atlanta;" in fact, they liken it to "Sex and the City" -- but I'm sure the general cattiness will be prevalent as well.

It premieres on Monday, Jan. 11 at 10:30 p.m. on VH1. Watch the trailer below:

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

From the looks of it, this may actually be interesting. SMH at "Your toes taste like meatloaf." Really?

Video of the Day: Jay-Z feat. Swizz Beatz "On To The Next One"

2010-01-01T17:18:00.000-08:00

As we move on to 2010, Jay-Z presents the official video for "On To The Next One," off "Blueprint 3." How fitting.

New Joint: Chingy feat. Bobby Valentino "Be My Girl"

2009-12-29T20:44:00.000-08:00

Guess who back making music? Chingaling!

New Joint: Jensen Kirk (Jay.K) feat. Big Sean "Paper Cha$er"

2009-12-29T20:16:00.000-08:00

I like what Big Sean did what the song. Watch the official video for "Paper Cha$er," directed by AG Rojas.

In the Studio: Cool Kids feat. Boldy James "Tires"

2009-12-29T19:48:00.000-08:00

Don Cannon + Cool Kids: Tires ft. Boldy James from Decatur Dan on Vimeo.

"And we almost got arrested/ Now watch out for the cops/ Roll the windows down, turn everything up"

Spotted at URB.com

Video of the Day: Amerie feat. Fabolous "More Than Love"

2009-12-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

Check out the official video for "More Than Love," off Amerie's "Love & War" album, in stores now.

Snippet: SkiBeatz "Taxi" feat. Mos Def

2009-12-23T21:47:00.000-08:00

"We can either make love or we can spar/ Either way we hollerin' out 'Good Lord'"

New Joint: Kidz in the Hall "We Gone"

2009-12-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

This song is featured on the Kidz' free album, "The Professional Leisure Tour," out now. Watch the video, directed by Motion Family. I see you, Rapper Big Pooh!

Sneak Peek of Mos Def's "History" feat. Talib Kweli

2009-12-23T21:09:00.000-08:00

Two of the greatest -- Mos and Kweli -- teamed up for "History," the J Dilla-produced record from his Grammy-nominated album, "The Ecstatic." Look out for the official music video soon.

Jay Sean: "With Hard Work and a Big Dream, Things Can Come True"

2009-12-23T20:53:00.000-08:00

Jay Sean, the Cash Money recording artist who sings "Down," catches up with fellow Brit Tim Westwood and addresses how his road to stardom began.

Kid Cudi Performs "Pursuit of Happiness" on Conan

2009-12-22T23:06:00.000-08:00

The Cudder puts on his best singing voice for the audience at "Late Night with Conan O'Brien."

DivaSpeak TV Mini, Episode 12

2009-12-22T21:28:00.000-08:00

Amanda Diva does her final show of 2009 and gives examples of why this year sucked so badly (it really did), and tells us who's not going to have a Merry Christmas. Hilarious.

Soulja Boy: "I Keep My Ear to the Streets"

2009-12-21T22:07:00.000-08:00

Soulja Boy pays Tim Westwood a visit while on his European tour. They talk chains, rumors, signing UK artists, Chris Brown deleting his Twitter page, an upcoming UK mixtape, tattoos, cars and more.

Slum Village "Da Night"

2009-12-21T18:28:00.000-08:00

The "Villa Manifesto EP" now is available on iTunes. "Fantastic Vol 2.10" is slated for release on Jan. 12.

Asher Roth Comes Out of the Closet?

2009-12-20T16:31:00.000-08:00

Several sources are reporting that the "I Love College" rapper reportedly is out of the closet. He allegedly is slated to make an appearance on E! News to discuss his sexual orientation. While the rumors have long speculated that Roth is gay, his coming out comes as a surprise, seeing that openly gay rappers are virtually unheard of.

Spotted at 24 Hour Hip Hop

Sneak Peek of Timbaland's "Carry Out" feat. Justin Timberlake

2009-12-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

The dynamic duo is back at it again. Stay tuned for the official music video for "Carry Out," coming real soon.

Angie Stone Has Been through the Wire and Emerges with a New Album

2009-12-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Angie Stone discusses the meaning of her fifth studio album, "Unexpected," with Ms. Drama, as well as rumors, D'Angelo and more.

Shane Sparks Arrested!

2009-12-20T14:40:00.000-08:00

"America's Best Dance Crew" judge and choreographer Shane Sparks, 40, was arrested on Friday on felony charges of child molestation. The alleged incidents were said to have take place in the 1990s, some at the Millennium Dance Studio in L.A.

TMZ.com reported that Sparks -- also a choreographer for "So You Think You Can Dance" -- posted his $590,000 bail on Saturday. Sparks said this is a case of extortion.

Wow, I hope to goodness this isn't true.

Slow Jam Sunday: Whitney Houston "I Believe In You and Me"

2009-12-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

"I believe in miracles/ And love's a miracle/ Baby you're my dream come true ..."

Here's a nice little jammy from "The Preacher's Wife" soundtrack. This reminds me of Christmas ... It's only five days away!

Snoop Dogg and Travis Barker Join Forces to Celebrate Important 10ths

2009-12-09T20:34:00.000-08:00

Snoop Dogg is celebrating his 10th album, while Travis Barker is commemorating the 10th anniversary of Famous Stars and Straps. The guys are planning a party in their honor. Watch as they practice Snoop's "I Wanna Rock" off "Malice in Wonderland."

Drake Describes the Sound of "Thank Me Later"

2009-12-09T20:16:00.000-08:00

Drake gives the listeners a clue into his highly anticipated first album, "Thank Me Later. Featured artists Lil Wayne, Jay-, Kanye, Young Jeezy and others provide an "eclectic mix."

New Joint: Sean Paul "Hold My Hand"

2009-12-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

Watch the official music video, directed by Lil X, for the third single off Sean Paul's "Imperial Blaze," in stores now.

Jason Derülo "Whatcha Say (Acoustic Version)"

2009-12-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

Let's just say I pictured Jason Derülo looking differently. I think this version showcases his vocal ability better ... And good luck getting this song out of your head.

Rihanna Says She Respects Lady Gaga

2009-12-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

"I have to say, I have so much respect for original artists and artists who aren't afraid to do what they want to do. That's what I respect most, so she's awesome."

Watch an extended series of Rihanna interview clips at MTV.com.

Nicki Minaj and Mack Maine Stop By "106 & Park"

2009-12-07T21:01:00.000-08:00

The two Young Money artists unveil the music video for "Bedrock."

Drake: "It's Cool to Hear Now, But I Know In 10 Years It Will Actually Mean Something"

2009-12-07T20:53:00.000-08:00

Drake shares his reactions to his Grammy Award nominations, which he says may be a major first for the music industry.

Video of the Day: Young Money feat. Lloyd "Bedrock"

2009-12-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Watch the latest video from Young Money, directed by Dayo. "We Are Young Money" will be in stores on Dec. 21. Don't sleep.

Trailer for Usher's "Raymond vs. Raymond" Album

2009-12-07T20:32:00.000-08:00

"Papers" is getting a decent amount of radio play. Come March 2010, the world will be ready for the release of Usher's sixth studio album, "Raymond vs. Raymond."

The Best Hip Hop Albums of 2009, Presented by Hip Hop Official

2009-12-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

According to Hip Hop Official, Jay-Z's "Blueprint 3" was the "biggest album of 2009." Also highlighted are Eminem's "Relapse," 50 Cent's "Before I Self Destruct," Rick Ross' "Deeper Than Rap," Raekwon's "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt II," Ghostface Killah's "Ghostdini," the self-titled release from Slaughterhouse and Method Man and Redman's "Blackout 2," among others.

What do you think? Was anybody left out?

50 Cent Is "So So So Disrespectful"

2009-12-06T23:28:00.000-08:00

Fif speaks on Tiger Woods, Jay-Z beef, Rick Ross' baby's momma, Joe Budden's ex, Soulja Boy and more.

Slow Jam Sunday: Janet Jackson "Again"

2009-12-06T19:10:00.000-08:00

"Good intentions you had many/ I know you did/ I come from a place that hurts/ And God knows how I've cried/ And I never want to return/ Never fall again."

Oh, heartbreak. Love stinks.

R. Kelly Speaks on Others' Opinions of Him

2009-12-03T22:28:00.000-08:00

Given R. Kelly's track record, it's no surprise that other artists have passed judgments about him. But, he does make good music though. It's hard for people to separate the two.

Raekwon Teams with Capone and Noreaga

2009-12-03T22:21:00.000-08:00

The Chef has some news: Capone and Noreaga have joined the Icewater family. Stay tuned for a major announcement at the start of the new year.

Melanie Fiona: "It's a Great Situation ..."

2009-12-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

This Toronto native burst onto the scene with her first single, "Give It To Me Right." Now she's on her way to the top. Find out more about Ms. Fiona in this HipHollywood exclusive interview.

New Joint: DJ Khaled feat. Usher, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross & Drake "Fed Up"

2009-12-03T22:10:00.000-08:00

This song is featured on Khaled's next album, "Victory," slated for a Feb. 16, 2010, release.

And the Nominees Are: 2010 Grammy Awards

2009-12-02T23:25:00.001-08:00

The 52nd annual Grammy Awards will air live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, on CBS, starting at 8 p.m. With 10 nods, Beyoncé leads all the nominees. Taylor Swift trails with eight nominations, while Lady Gaga earned five.

RECORD OF THE YEAR
* Halo - Beyoncé
* I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
* Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon
* Poker Face - Lady Gaga
* You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* I Am... Sasha Fierce - Beyoncé
* The E.N.D. - The Black Eyed Peas
* The Fame - Lady Gaga
* Big Whiskey And The Groogrux King - Dave Matthews Band
* Fearless - Taylor Swift

SONG OF THE YEAR
* Poker Face - Lady Gaga & RedOne, songwriters (Lady Gaga)
* Pretty Wings - Hod David & Musze, songwriters (Maxwell)
* Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - Thaddis Harrell, Beyoncé Knowles, Terius Nash & Christopher Stewart, songwriters (Beyoncé)
* Use Somebody - Caleb Followill, Jared Followill, Matthew Followill & Nathan Followill, songwriters (Kings Of Leon)
* You Belong With Me - Liz Rose & Taylor Swift, songwriters (Taylor Swift)

BEST NEW ARTIST
* Zac Brown Band
* Keri Hilson
* MGMT
* Silversun Pickups
* The Ting Tings

BEST FEMALE POP VOCAL PERFORMANCE
* Hometown Glory - Adele
* Halo - Beyoncé
* Hot N Cold - Katy Perry
* Sober - Pink
* You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift

BEST MALE POP VOCAL PERFORMANCE
* This Time - John Legend
* Love You - Maxwell
* Make It Mine - Jason Mraz
* If You Don't Know Me By Now - Seal
* All About The Love Again - Stevie Wonder

BEST DANCE RECORDING
* Boom Boom Pow - The Black Eyed Peas
* When Love Takes Over - David Guetta & Kelly Rowland
* Poker Face - Lady Gaga
* Celebration - Madonna
* Womanizer - Britney Spears

BEST FEMALE R&B VOCAL PERFORMANCE
* Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - Beyoncé
* It Kills Me - Melanie Fiona
* That Was Then - Lalah Hathaway
* Goin' Thru Changes - Ledisi
* Lions, Tigers & Bears - Jazmine Sullivan

BEST MALE R&B VOCAL PERFORMANCE
* The Point Of It All - Anthony Hamilton
* Pretty Wings - Maxwell
* Sobeautiful - Musiq Soulchild
* Under - Pleasure P
* There Goes My Baby - Charlie Wilson

BEST R&B PERFORMANCE BY A DUO OR GROUP WITH VOCALS
* Blame It - Jamie Foxx & T-Pain
* Chocolate High - India.Arie & Musiq Soulchild
* Ifuleave - Musiq Soulchild & Mary J. Blige
* Higher Ground - Robert Randolph & The Clark Sisters
* Love Has Finally Come At Last - Calvin Richardson & Ann Nesby

BEST TRADITIONAL R&B VOCAL PERFORMANCE
* At Last - Beyoncé
* Soul Music - Anthony Hamilton
* Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight -Boney James & Quinn
* Sow Love - Ann Nesby
* Woman Gotta Have It - Calvin Richardson

BEST URBAN/ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE
* Daykeeper - The Foreign Exchange
* All Matter - Robert Glasper & Bilal
* Pearls - India.Arie & Dobet Gnahore
* A Tale Of Two - Eric Roberson, Ben O'Neill & Michelle Thompson
* Blend - Tonex

BEST R&B SONG
* Blame It - James T. Brown, John Conte, Jr., Jamie Foxx, Christopher Henderson, Brandon R. Melanchon, Breyon Prescott, T-Pain & Nathan L. Walker, songwriters (Jamie Foxx & T-Pain)
* Lions, Tigers & Bears - Salaam Remi & Jazmine Sullivan, songwriters (Jazmine Sullivan)
* Pretty Wings - Hod David & Musze, songwriters (Maxwell)
* Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - Thaddis Harrell, Beyoncé Knowles, Terius Nash & Christopher Stewart, songwriters (Beyoncé)
* Under - D. Babbs, L. Bereal, M. Cooper, A. Dixon, J. Franklin, T. Jones, R. New & K. Stephens, songwriters (Pleasure P)

BEST R&B ALBUM
* The Point Of It All - Anthony Hamilton
* Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics - India.Arie
* Turn Me Loose - Ledisi
* Blacksummers' Night - Maxwell
* Uncle Charlie - Charlie Wilson

BEST CONTEMPORARY R&B ALBUM
* I Am... Sasha Fierce - Beyoncé
* Intuition - Jamie Foxx
* The Introduction Of Marcus Cooper - Pleasure P
* Ready - Trey Songz
* Thr33 Ringz - T-Pain

BEST RAP SOLO PERFORMANCE
* Best I Ever Had - Drake
* Beautiful - Eminem
* D.O.A. (Death Of Auto-Tune) - Jay-Z
* Day 'N' Nite - Kid Cudi
* Casa Bey - Mos Def

BEST RAP PERFORMANCE BY A DUO OR GROUP
* Too Many Rappers - Beastie Boys & Nas
* Crack A Bottle - Eminem, Dr. Dre & 50 Cent
* Money Goes, Honey Stay - Fabolous & Jay-Z
* Make Her Say - Kid Cudi, Kanye West & Common
* Amazing - Kanye West & Young Jeezy

BEST RAP/SUNG COLLABORATION
* Ego - Beyoncé & Kanye West
* Knock You Down - Keri Hilson, Kanye West & Ne-Yo
* Run This Town - Jay-Z, Rihanna & Kanye West
* I'm On A Boat - The Lonely Island & T-Pain
* Dead And Gone - T.I. & Justin Timberlake

BEST RAP SONG
* Best I Ever Had - Aubrey Drake Graham, D. Hamilton & M. Samuels, songwriters (Drake)
* Day 'N' Nite - S. Mescudi & O. Omishore, songwriters (Kid Cudi)
* Dead And Gone - C. Harris, R. Tadross & J. Timberlake, songwriters (T.I. & Justin Timberlake)
* D.O.A. (Death Of Auto-Tune) - Shawn Carter & Ernest Wilson, songwriters (Gary DeCarlo, Dale Frashuer, Paul Leka, Janko Nilovic & Dave Sucky, songwriters) (Jay-Z)
* Run This Town - Shawn Carter, R. Fenty, M. Riddick, Kanye West & E. Wilson, songwriters (Athanasios Alatas, songwriter) (Jay-Z, Rihanna & Kanye West)

BEST RAP ALBUM
* Universal Mind Control - Common
* Relapse - Eminem
* R.O.O.T.S. - Flo Rida
* The Ecstatic - Mos Def
* The Renaissance - Q-Tip

View the complete list of nominees at Grammy.com.

A Look at the Jam Master Jay Doc, “2 Turntables And A Microphone”

2009-12-02T23:19:00.000-08:00

In this documentary, hip-hop icons 50 Cent, Common, Kid Rock, David Banner and others weigh in on their favorite DJ. “2 Turntables And A Microphone – The Life And Death Of Jam Master Jay” is in stores now.

Trailer for Chris Brown's "Graffiti" Album

2009-12-02T22:48:00.000-08:00

"So far, my life has been like a roller coaster. They say, 'What doesn't break you only makes you stronger.' Now I have to do it all over again. But this time, we're going to do it the right way."

Del the Funkee Homosapien on His New Album and Working with His Cousin, Ice Cube

2009-11-30T19:16:00.000-08:00

Del the Funkee Homosapien. Now that's a name I haven't heard in quite some time. He's gearing up for a comeback, however, and currently is in the studio preparing for the release of his new album.

Side note: He looks as grimey as ever.

Swag Check: Luxirie

2009-11-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

Take a look-see at the latest in ladies wear from LRG's sister brand, Luxirie. Will definitely be adding a couple of those items to my Christmas list.

Behind the Scenes: DJ Khaled feat. Usher, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross & Drake "Fed Up"

2009-11-29T22:04:00.000-08:00

Check for the official video soon!

Slow Jam Sunday: Toni Braxton "Breathe Again"

2009-11-29T21:57:00.000-08:00

This song is the truth. Hope your week is great.

On the Road with Consequence and Asher Roth

2009-11-24T20:49:00.000-08:00

Cons and Asher take Flint, Michigan, by storm and do a little freestyling along the way.

Spotted at G.O.O.D. Music Blog

London Town Welcomes Rihanna

2009-11-24T20:17:00.000-08:00

"Please Don't Stop the Music"

Rihanna - New Music - More Music Videos

"Run This Town"

Rihanna - New Music - More Music Videos

Say what you want about her personal life, but that Rihanna knows how to put on a show.

Spotted at Buzzworthy.MTV.com

New Joint: D. Woods "Legalize Me"

2009-11-24T20:09:00.000-08:00

Former Danity Kane songstress D. Woods is back with a video, directed by Mo the Mogul, for "Legalize Me."

Get Your Christmas Shopping Done Affordably, Thanks to Digital Gravel

2009-11-23T22:54:00.000-08:00

The good people over at Digital Gravel have some recession-friendly streetwear: $10? You can't beat that with a bat! Gone get you some.

Busta's Got "The Chemo" to Cure The Industry's Cancer

2009-11-22T20:16:00.000-08:00

Busta Rhymes is hard at work, crafting his ninth studio album masterpiece, titled "The Chemo."

"I called the album 'The Chemo' because it seems like the industry and music overall is dying slowly," Busta told Billboard.com. "The cancer that's stricken the business is killing the music, not only from a business standpoint, but also the value of the content and the creativity behind it. I just want to start the first stage of chemotherapy treatment that needs to take place and hopefully inspire others to do their part and contribute to different stages of the cure."

The followup to 2009's "Back on My B.S." is slated for an early 2010 release.

Spotted at Billboard.com

2009 American Music Awards Live Performances

2009-11-22T19:54:00.001-08:00

Janet Jackson medley

Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys "Empire State of Mind"

Rihanna "The Wait Is Ova"/"Hard"

Eminem and 50 Cent "Crack A Bottle"/"Forever"

Mary J. Blige "I Am"

Whitney Houston "I Didn't Know My Own Strength"

Videos courtesy of Mr. World Premiere

Slow Jam Sunday: Jagged Edge "Promise"

2009-11-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

Jagged Edge - Promise
Uploaded by melek69000. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

"If you need a love, I got the love that you need/ Ain't no way they can take that from me/ And I pray to God that one day they will see/ (They'll see that I'm all you need)"

Feeling a little sentimental on this Slow Jam Sunday ... Sigh.

New Joint: Janet Jackson "Make Me"

2009-11-21T20:23:00.000-08:00

Ms. Jackson is baaaack! Check out the latest from Janet's newest project.

50 Cent on "Chelsea Lately"

2009-11-19T21:51:00.000-08:00

Fif heads to the set of "Chelsea Lately" to promote his upcoming album and film,"Before I Self Destruct," his fragrance "Power," his book, sex and more.

DivaSpeak TV Mini, Episode 11

2009-11-19T20:32:00.000-08:00

Amanda Diva's take on the "Precious" film, the recent shooting sprees and the Rihanna-Chris Brown saga.

Emilio Rojas: "I Make Good Music That's Relatable"

2009-11-19T20:23:00.000-08:00

Emilio Rojas, who hails from Rochester, New York, sat down with Karmaloop TV and shares how he fell in love with hip hop, working with Green Lantern, his upcoming "The Natural" mixtape and his philosophy about fashion.

Throwback Thursday: LL Cool J feat. Total "Loungin'"

2009-11-19T20:08:00.000-08:00

"You gotta try love/ Can't buy love/ If you play your hand then it's bye-bye love."

I remember lusting after LL in this video. I was all of 12 years old. Shameful. Also, where is Total now?

New Joint: U-God feat. Method Man "Wu Tang"

2009-11-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

Peep the official music video, directed by Don Tyler, for U-God's "Wu Tang." This track comes from his album, "Dopium," which is in stores now.

Hot or not?

MJ's "This Is It" Grosses $200 Million +

2009-11-12T21:48:00.000-08:00

"This Is It," Michael Jackson's concert film, has brought in more than $200 million worldwide. And it's only been out for two weeks. The movie is now the 22nd biggest grossing movie worldwide of 2009.

Spotted at Billboard.com