Lil Wayne Breaks Down "Rebirth's" Sound, "I Play Guitar On 80% Of The Songs"

Grammy-winning rapper Lil Wayne has offered more details on his upcoming Rebirth album and said fans could still expect to hear a heavy rock influence on a majority of the records.

According to Weezy, rocker Travis Barker made the album's guest features cut.

"Yes, the album is still rock," Wayne explained in an interview. "I play guitar on 80 percent of the songs and there's a lot of rock influences and rock beats. I also have Travis Barker on the album. But I don't want people to think I'm trying to do something I can't do. Don't think you're going to put on the album and hear me screaming and singing... Don't worry about that [laughs]. When people hear me say rock, they may get a little scared like, Oh, God. What is he going to do? When I said I was doing a rock album, it was about doing a freedom thing. This album isn't hip-hop. When I do my Carter albums, I know I've got to rap, I know I've got to spit. I know the words I've got to say and the subjects I've got to talk about. I also know the things I shouldn't say, the things I shouldn't talk about. There's none of those limits on this album. I say what I want, how I want. That's what this album is, a freedom album. And rock is the avenue that gives you that freedom. I'm just having fun, that's all. Trust me, people will like these songs. It's my job to make them love them, but I know for a fact they'll like them." (Rap Radar)

He recently touched on the public's misconception of the project being speculated as fully "rock."

"I don't want the people to classify what I'm doing as 'rock' and then look at rock and say, 'Oh, he's gonna do that.' No. You look at rock and whatever, then look at what Lil Wayne is and say, 'Lil Wayne is gonna do something to that?' That's how you look at that...I don't even know how to do that, I know how to do me." (Tim Westwood TV)
Cash Money Records co-founder Birdman recently took a moment to describe Wayne's new projects.

"We still feel like we got a long way to go man," Baby said in an interview. "His music and his heights are unlimited. We do pop, rock, rap, everything, so when you catering to our nationalities, our songs, it's not gonna be just one urban record. You gotta do pop records, cross over records...They think [Rebirth] is rock, but it got a little heavy metal to it. He still Wayne, he still doing his thing on that motherf*cker...And the music he's about to do, because he's coming with the rock album and Tha Carter IV as a double disc. It's a lot out there, and the Young Money album all on the same day. December 15th. My album and Jay Sean album come out November 24th." (New Lil Wayne)

Young Money's Shanell aka SNL, who penned "Prom Queen," recently spoke with SOHH about Wayne's upcoming Rebirth.
"It 'does' exist and it's incredible in my eyes," Shanell promised. "I really think it shows another side of Wayne and Young Money because everybody's on it. Everybody's been able to express somewhat an alternative side of themselves so it's gonna be interesting, it's going to be different. There's a lot of rapping, but there's a lot of other stuff. I just think the world is ready to hear some different music. He's a creative person and you can't rush creativity and as you saw even with Tha Carter 3 album, that was pushed back and pushed back and pushed back but when it came out? It blew up and it was a great album so I would say, you know, good things come to those who wait."
Lil Wayne's The Rebirth is due in stores Tuesday, December 15th.

50 Cent Disses Young Buck & The Game On "BISD" Track, "One's A Fucking Junkie & One's A Fucking Queer"

A new snippet track off of 50 Cent's upcoming Before I Self Destruct album called "Strong Enough" has landed online after rumored speculation over the summer and features the G-Unit leader tossing a jab at former members Young Buck and The Game.

In the reference, Fif explains why his five-member Unit was slimmed down to remaining rappers Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks and will appear on his new album.
"That Big Poppa, I'lll send your monkey a** to see Allah," Fif raps. "These niggas ain't strong enough, they money ain't long enough, when they bump heads with me...When I say I'll kill ya, I'll kill ya/As a kid I wasn't fittin' in/ special ed kid in the back on Riddelin' -- Hooptie all fucked up/Pockets all fucked up/Now nigga what's up?/I'm rich now, n*ggas know about my dividends -- Crib the size of a New York City clock now/Okay, okay, try me and get shot down/I'm like a Zebra, I got so many stripes/I'm the fucking general/I run my click right/There was five of us, all of us millionaires/Now one's a junkie and one's a fucking queer/Now it's three of us/That's the way it started..." ("Strong Enough")
Fif's tracklisting from the upcoming album landed online today (October 26).

Before I Self Destruct: The Invitation, Then Days Went By, Death To My Enemies, So Disrespect, Psycho, Hold Me Down, Crime Wave, Stretch, Strong Enough, Get It Hot, Gangsta's Delight, I Got Swag, Baby By Me (Featuring Ne-Yo), Do You Think About Me, Ok, You're Right, Could've Been You (This Is 50)

Speaking with radio personality Big Boy last week, Fif said he did not understand The Game's "G-Unot" campaign back in 2005.
"I doubt that strongly," 50 said about collaborating with Game in the future. "I never really understood, I didn't know what the motivation was for The Game issues. Initially it was a decision on his part, I went over it in my head like a million times...I didn't have a long period of time with Game, we worked for five days. [Dr.] Dre spent a year in the studio with him, so he had a chance to be around him and gauge what kind of character he is. Right after [his debut] was out, it was like, 'I'm hot,' because of the actual number of records he sold at that point...You'll see Rick Ross out there as if he was a correctional officer when I went into his background. This guy is rapping like he's a drug dealer when he's a correction officer. Game background, when you went into that, he used to be a stripper. He used to work at his mom's strip joint. So it was interesting themes that I seen from both of them but it didn't match what the content was and then I seen the transformation myself." ("Big Boy's Neighborhood")

Game previously apologized to the Unit and said his past "G-Unot" taunts were due to his youth.
"Jimmy [Iovine] always says, 'Man, I told you guys not to break up the Beatles,'" Game said in an interview. "He says he told John Lennon the same thing a long time ago. But I was young, man. I was dumb. I did a lot of dumb things. I felt me and 50 clashed. I'm not gonna diss 50. I'm not gonna go back on the plane. He had his side, I had my side. I did what I felt was necessary for me and my career to have longevity and survive in hip-hop and music to be around when I'm Quincy Jones' age -- not just be Quincy Jones' age, but be a Quincy Jones. Now, four albums in, I can honestly say from Banks to Young Buck to [Dr.] Dre to Yayo to whoever, if it would have kept going, endless paper. Millions of albums sold --- because we were great together. Me and 50's chemistry was like how Method Man was to Redman when they get in. You know when Method Man gets with Redman, it's going down." (MTV)

The track originally circulated online over the summer, however, it was not yet determined whether it would be featured on 50 Cent's latest effort.

Jay-Z Responds To Beanie Sigel's Claims, "He Has A Lot To Complain About"

Jay-Z has answered back to Beanie Sigel's recent claims of not supporting his Roc-A-Fella team to the fullest during their time at Def Jam and said the rapper was given multiple opportunities to succeed.


Citing Beans' State Property and clothing line, Hov pointed out the rapper's misconstrued accusations.
"He has a lot to complain about," Jay jokingly said during a press conference. "Not me. Well Beanie Sigel at the time, and you can look it up if you like, just to be honest, was driving two Bentleys, I don't know how. It's impossible to drive two cars at one time with his mama in the sticks and selling 800,000 records. I don't know what more you can do for somebody at that point. What people choose to do when they attain that type of success, you know, at some point you have to look in the mirror and look at yourself. Beanie Sigel had a record deal, a record label, and a clothing line. And never went platinum, ever. I don't know in the history of rap has anyone done so much with so little. I don't know what more you can do for a person at that point. But a record deal, that's normal. A record label and a clothing line, so, if that's not pushing a person, sh*t. Thank-you." (La Rue Du Hip Hop)

Writing via Twitter, Memphis Bleek expressed his initial confusion toward Beans' "Average Cat" diss.
"Just waking up my phone going crazy over this segiel sh*t," Bleek wrote Friday (October 30) morning. "I just seen son at power house wasn't nothing now its something..... I'm lost on that.... Guess that's how the rap game work....F*ck bleek 3 haaa that's a good one...And for the rec....I can't diss that's my nigg we gotta get up an chop it up that's all..He know me that's all I could say..." (Memphis Bleek's Twitter)
On "Average Cat," Beans also warns Hov about exposing his habits to his wife, Beyonce.
"This ain't a diss record, this a real record/How it feel to get exposed -- I was the fly on the wall, I witnessed," Beans raps. "I could say sh*t to make B look at you different/And my gangster was never on trial, I was, stood up tall, no snitch/But the rapper Shawn called the police on me/Because I was front row at the Blueprint 3/I just wanted to see him emcee/Reminisce when we were the R-O-C/But he called on the c-o-p's/Not only that, he brought in the f-e-d's/So that's telling me, F-U Sig/So F you too and F Bleek three/Whether I rap or riddle out this motherf*cker -- my name good in every hood." ("Average Cat")
Hours after its release, Beans addressed the record in an interview Friday (October 30) morning.
"I'm not really dissing Jay, there's certain parts in there where my emotions [take over]," Beans explained in an interview with radio personality Charlamagne Tha God. "I'm a rapper, I listened to the Blueprint 3 album, I heard things in there where he was taking shots at people but a lot of things were directed at people...I think my feet was meant for a couple of 'em...Collectively, you gotta understand, people like Peedi Crakk did some unadvised things like make mixtapes called Camel Hunting Season...It's the Roc as a whole -- but when he says lines like 'I heated up the Roc already, so why can't y'all get hot already' -- when you listen to them lines, those are those lines that I know as a rapper, because I know what he do...I know when he's slick on records." (100.3 The Beat)

Beanie Sigel Releases “What You Talkin Bout”, Jay-Z Diss

In a move that seemed to come out of nowhere, Philly rapper Beanie Sigel has released “What You Talkin Bout (Average Cat)” a diss aimed at fellow rapper Jay-Z.

Released in the early hours of Friday, October 30 “What You Talkin Bout” premiered on DJ Kay Slay’s radio show on HOT97.

In the song Sigel seems to air out his grievances regarding Jay-Z and Roc-A-Fella Records. And on the track he even alleges that Jay-Z had him kicked out by police at Jay-Z’s September 11 concert at Madison Square Garden this year.

“The rapper Shawn called the police on me/cause I was front row at the Blueprint 3/Shit I just wanted to see him MC/ And reminisce on when we was the R.O.C./But he called all the C.O.P’s, not only that, he brought out the F.E.D’s/So that’s telling me ‘F You Sieg,’/So F you too and F Bleek three,” Sigel raps on “What You Talkin Bout.”

Following the release of the song Sigel spoke with 100.3 The Beat’s Charlamagne Tha God to make a few clarifications.

In his interview with Charlamagne, Sigel explained that he felt that he was called out on Jay Z’s Blueprint 3 and that while on Roc-A-Fella State Property never really got that “push” needed to propel their careers on the label.

“Jay in another place and I understand that. He did what he did as far as signing people to Roc-A-Fella Records, you did that,” Sigel explained to Charlamagne. “But as far as the push that people coulda got that really could have did things, you didn’t do that.”

Jay-Z has yet to respond to Sigel’s claims and “What You Talkin Bout.”

Rick Ross Edition

Over the past week, rappers The Game and Rick Ross have had a lot to say regarding fellow rappers 50 Cent and G-Unit members Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo.

At a concert in California Game didn’t hold back, he repeatedly shared his distaste for 50 Cent by yelling “Fuck 50 Cent” at the crowd.

Miami rapper Rick Ross continued the 50 Cent, G-Unit taunting in a recent video that was released. In the video, Rick Ross calls out Lloyd Banks for signing to Amalgam Digital and hints at a gay sex tape.

“Niggas go from double platinum, I just heard he [Lloyd Banks] signed a deal with Amalgam Digital…It's sad, imagine what Tony Yayo life really like. That boy can't afford that $20 coke habit. He's finished. I bought Hunger For More, if the music was still that good, I'd buy it…but ever since 50 put out the gay tape all his confidence went out the window,” said Rick Ross.

In other Rick Ross news, he has just sold over two million copies of his albums. News of Ross’ accomplishment was spread via a Tweet made by DJ Khaled.

In his Tweet, Khaled congratulated Ross and attached a picture of Ross holding a plaque made in honor of this latest feat.

50 Cent Edition

50 Cent has fallen victim to an album leak, as a copy of Before I Self Destruct prematurely hit the internet - just under a month before its intended November 23 release.
According to digitalmusicnews.com, the album is marked as the "International Version," though it contains all of the album's expected tracks. The quality reportedly would indicated that it is from a streamed source, rather than the CD itself.
In other news, Interscope Records released a statement revealing 50 Cent will be screening his latest film, also titled Before I Self Destruct, on the following dates:

Date Market
2-Nov Boston
3-Nov Philadelphia
4-Nov DC
5-Nov NYC
7-Nov Atlanta
9-Nov Chicago
10-Nov San Francisco
11-Nov Los Angeles
12-Nov Houston
13-Nov Dallas

The film stars 50, and is "about an inner city youth raised by a hardworking single mother. When his dream of becoming a basketball player fails to materialize after his mother is tragically gunned down, Clarence (played by [50]) is consumed by revenge and takes up a life of crime in order to support his younger brother."
Fans can log onto movietickets.com/50 to download tickets to the release.

Finally, it seems that even 50 is tried by these economic times, as the rapper revealed to The London Telegraph that he now has to sell some old diamonds before buying new ones.
"The credit crunch has hit rap,” revealed Fif. “I buy diamonds on a very regular basis, but now I am selling my old stuff before I get something new.

“These are times when you learn about the value of money,” added 50, who says he's lost "a few million."

The rapper was able to put a positive spin on the matter, however, explaining that “If you don’t lose money in this recession, it means you didn’t have enough to start off with.”

New York Yankees Talk Jay-Z, Alicia Keys World Series Performance

On Thursday evening, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys took center stage before the World Series match up between the New York Yankees and Philedlphia Phillies. The duo performed their hit "Empire State of Mind," a track off Jigga's latest effort Blueprint 3. Due to Major League Baseball's regulations, the song's clean version was performed.

"I think it's special for all of New York," Yankees captain Derek Jeter, who also uses the track as his at-bat music, said, according to MLB.com

"I think it almost seems like it's the anthem for New York right now," Jeter added. "I got an opportunity to get to know Jay-Z throughout the years and he's very, very talented doing a lot of things. But he knows what he's doing, so I think New York has kind of embraced that song."

In a statement, Jay added that performing this track at Yankee Stadium was important for him.

"As a die-hard Yankees fan, I'm honored to perform a song that celebrates the greatness of New York in one of our city's most important landmarks, Yankee Stadium," he noted.

Rick Ross & Baby Collabo LP In The Can, "[We] Finished The Album Already"

Baby and Rick Ross' rumored joint collaboration album has been finished according to the Cash Money Records' co-founder.
Despite confirming the album's completion, Baby said an exact release date has not been penciled in.
Plans are still on the table for a Birdman and Rick Ross album. The rappers' collaborative effort is in the bag and just waiting a release date. "Ross and I finished the album already. It's called The H," Birdman revealed to Rap-Up.com. "We'll probably put it out in the summer." The Cash Money Records CEO has a lot of admiration for his fellow paper chaser, who's currently promoting his group Triple C's debut Custom Cars & Cycles. "I respect Ross. He gets money and his music is hot." (Rap-Up)
Ross previously discussed the possibility of dropping a joint project with Baby.
"[Me and Birdman] have so much music already recorded," Ross said in an interview earlier this month, "so anytime he in the studio in Miami I come through and we stay working. We gonna handle the business on that real soon so that will be coming." (Wild 101.1)
He also has said the Cash Money Records boss gives him a street feeling.
"When I hear Birdman rapping, it's a feeling I used to get when I'm in the streets that you could only get from that big homie that was making money," Ross said in an interview over the summer. "That's the feeling I get when I hear Birdman." (MTV)
Aside from their record, Baby recently spoke on Lil Wayne's upcoming Carter IV and Rebirth albums.
"We still feel like we got a long way to go man," Baby said in an interview. "His music and his heights are unlimited. We do pop, rock, rap, everything, so when you catering to our nationalities, our songs, it's not gonna be just one urban record. You gotta do pop records, cross over records...They think [Rebirth] is rock, but it got a little heavy metal to it. He still Wayne, he still doing his thing on that motherf*cker...And the music he's about to do, because he's coming with the rock album and Tha Carter IV as a double disc. It's a lot out there, and the Young Money album all on the same day. December 15th. My album and Jay Sean album come out November 24th." (New Lil Wayne)

Update: Man Involved in Murder of T.I. Associate Pleads Guilty

The driver involved in the murder of T.I.’s close friend and assistant Philant Johnson, pled guilty to manslaughter and other charges in a Cincinnati courtroom yesterday (October 28).

According to the Associated Press, Padron Thomas is now facing 10 years for the crime. The 41-year-old man will officially be sentenced on November 17. He is currently in jail serving a 17 year sentence on separate drug trafficking charges. Both sentences will reportedly run concurrently.

Thomas was originally charged with murder, along with his brother Hosea. He then struck a deal with authorities back in December 2008, agreeing to testify that his brother was the one who pulled the trigger. This led to Hosea getting convicted and sentenced to 66 years last May.

Johnson was murdered on May 3, 2006 in a shootout after a club altercation spilled onto a Cincinnati highway. T.I. and his entourage were in town for a concert.

Wyclef Jean & Tony Yayo Support Haitian Recycling Program

Haitian hip-hop personalities Wyclef Jean, Tony Yayo and Sha Money will supporting their homeland in a competition that could help the country.

Haiti is currently competing with 11 other countries in the BBC News “World Challenge ‘09,” to earn a grant to extend their environmentally friendly waste management system.

Other rap related supporters who have all been named ambassadors of the project include Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons, former host of “106 & Park” and current Power 105 radio personality Free and The Wire actor Jamie Hector, among others.

Those interested can vote for the country, whose team is titled Love ’N Haiti, online. Voting ends on November 13.

Soulja Boy Has “Three More Mixtapes for Thanksgiving

Soulja Boy puts in work. On the brink of releasing three new mixtapes on Halloween, the teen sensation tells XXLMag.com that he’s got more in store for his fans next month.

“I’m about to drop three more mixtapes [on] Thanksgiving,” he said earlier today (October 29). “Be on the look out for it… I’m probably gonna call them DatPiff, Pt. 2, Cortez, Pt. 2 and… what [else] we got? We got Lambizzie: The Mixtape. The official Black Label mixtape with DJ Woogie; that shit gonna be hard. I’ma do an SOD Money Gang mixtape, too.”

The ATL-bred rapper revealed plans to put out mixtapes on all of the upcoming holidays. “Christmas, I’m droppin’ [on] muthafuckin New Years, I’m dropping on April Fool’s Day,” he said. “Real talk, I’m just trying to hit all big events.”

Paranormal Activity—his tape with DJ Woogie and DJ Neptune, DatPiff, hosted by DJ Holiday and the DJ Whoo Kid, and the DJ Scream-assisted Cortez are all set for release on Saturday. The G-Unit DJ leaked Cortez earlier this week, but SB says there’s no beef.

“That wasn’t my plan; Whoo Kid leaked that shit out,” he said. “See, he knew I had three mixtapes dropping all on one night, so he leaked it for his website radioplanet.tv, but I ain’t got no problem with it because I fuck with DJ Whoo Kid and the whole G-Unit. It’s all love.”

Latest World Wide News Bits: Soulja Boy, Jay-Z

With Halloween just around the corner, Soulja Boy has planned a few treats for his fans come October 31.

Hooking up with several big name deejays’, including DJ Neptune and DJ Whoo Kid, the young rapper will release three mixtapes in an effort to show his versatility on the microphone. “I wanted to have more music out and I wanted to have three different styles on three different tapes,” he told MTV.

While Cortez will feature his recent collaborations, and DatPiff’s tracks are mostly over other artists beats, Soulja Boy stated Paranormal Activity will be the headlining mixtape of the trio. “The Paranormal Activity shit, that's really the Halloween mixtape: dark beats that's gonna keep you vibing.”

Fans can check for all three mixtapes at datpiff.com on October 31.

In other news, Brooklyn rapper Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ performance for the World Series has been postponed to Thursday evening.

Originally set for the opening game Wednesday (Oct. 28), a predicted rain forecast mixed with the rapper’s stage would likely cause unsafe conditions for performers and players alike. The performance will now precede the pregame ceremonies on October 29, with the New York Yankees battling the Philadelphia Phillies for the world title.

Jadakiss Says Diddy Offered L.O.X. One Album Deal

Speaking with Philadelphia’s Power 99FM, Jadakiss recently gave light to the possibility of the forthcoming L.O.X. album, the group’s third album, but first since 1998, that would be released by Diddy on the mogul’s Bad Boy label. 'Kiss said that “[Diddy] put an offer out there for a one album deal.”

This would be the first L.O.X. album to feature the Bad Boy name since the group’s debut over a decade ago. Jadakiss has attributed a lack of industry savy on the L.O.X. part as one of the reasons for the split but acknowledges, “We learned a lot from [Diddy].” Jadakiss also believes this possible reconciliation “shows maturity as artists, it shows respect as men” and that “if we all make dollars thenit can all make sense.” As of right now no deal has been finalized as the Yonkers group continues to put the finishing touches on the new album.

In the last decade, the L.O.X. have operated under the moniker D-Block with an assortment of other members assisting the core three. They have released albums through Koch.

Last week, Diddy freed fellow '90s Bad Boy rapper Mase from the famed label, after years of hold-ups.

Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 10/25/2009

Jay-Z climbed slipped just one space with Blueprint 3 , as the emcee tours North America, including a stop tomorrow night in The Bronx to continue his promotion of the Yankee hat. Jay joins Eminem and The Black Eyed Peas as the lone three platinum 2009 Rap albums. The trio is within 300,000 units of each other, with Jay-Z and Black Eyed Peas gaining close on Marshall.

Speaking of, the Peas refuse to quit. The E.N.D. held rank from last week, after being out for over three months. The California veterans are striking new chords with their latest single "Meet Me Halfway."

Mariah Carey's latest, Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel went to #14, heading towards 300,000. The singer recently landed a LG phone campaign to bolster her market presence. This effort gained street support with help from Gucci Mane on "Obsessed (Remix)." Whitney Houston reamained in the Top 20 with I Look To You, one of the biggest comeback albums of 2009. The effort still stands a chance of reaching platinum by year's end.

Just units short of 200,000, Drake's EP, So Far Gone stayed in the Top 25. The sneak attack Cash Money Records EP has proven to be one of the most successful in its format of all times.




* please note: figures below approximated to nearest thousandeth.

Top 200 Album Sales (Top 5 Hip Hop/R&B)

Rank	Artist	Album	This Week	Est. Total
4	Jay-Z	Blueprint 3	43,000	1,159,000
6	Black Eyed Peas	The E.N.D.	35,000	1,270,000
14	Mariah Carey	Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel	21,000	275,000
20	Whitney Houston	I Look To You	19,000	750,000
23	Drake	So Far Gone	17,000	197,000

Like Drake, Kid Cudi is chasing the 200,000 mark, with his debut Man On The Moon: End Of Day . The Cleveland rapper/singer was at #61 last week. A place behind, Eminem continues to lead Relapse as the top-selling Rap album of 2009, bringing the Shady/Aftermath reign back as 50 Cent and Dr. Dre are expected to follow-up.

Lil Boosie is approximately a week away from six-figure sales of his Superbad: The Return of Boosie Badazz . The rapper has recently been ordered to serve a felony jail sentence, and rumors swirl that he's already completed his next album's worth of material to release during incarceration.

The big debut on last week's shelves was Royce Da 5'9" with his four-years-in-the-making album, Street Hop . Executive produced by DJ Premier, a producer who's worked with Royce since his earliest releases, the project featured an all-star cast and a new label, The Orchard.

Lastly, Jay-Z cosigned artist and DXnext alum Melanie Fiona snuck attack her much-delayed LP The Bridge. The SRC Records release debuted in Top 130, a dismal debut from an artist that had such buzz at the top of the year.

Rank	Artist	Album	This Week	Est. Total
61	Kid Cudi	Man On The Moon: End Of Day	8,900	183,000
62	Eminem	Relapse	8,500	1,490,000
95	Lil Boosie	Superbad: The Return Of Boosie Badazz	5,500	95,000
111	Royce Da 5'9"	Street Hop	4,600	4,600
129	Melanie Fiona	The Bridge	4,000	4,200

Will Tech N9ne kill the charts with K.O.D., and can Triple C's buy new custom cars and cycles off of first week sales? Stay tuned to Latest World Wide to find out.

Chris Brown Unveils Release Date for New Album

Emerging from controversy, Chris Brown is trying to get his career back in order. With a new album on the way, the singer is also prepping a tour.

"Official album date: December 15. Graffiti. Now blog about this. LOL," he recently told fans via Twitter.

He is also gearing up to head out on a Fan Appreciation Tour. The tour will start in Houston on November 14 and it will end on December 15 in New York, in time for his new album to drop.

Proceeds from this tour will go to charities like Best Buddies International [click here], which helps children suffering from intellectual disabilities and Los Angeles' Jenesse Center [click here], an organization that works to help victims of domestic violence.

The tour dates for the Fan Appreciation Tour are below.

Nov. 14 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
Nov. 15 – Dallas, TX @ Palladium
Nov. 18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Avalon
Nov. 19 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
Nov. 22 – Richmond, VA @ Landmark
Nov. 25 – Detroit, MI @ Royal Oak
Nov. 26 – Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
Nov. 29 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution
Dec. 1 – Atlanta, GA @ CenterStage
Dec. 4 – Washington, D.C. @ Warner Theater
Dec. 5 – Providence, RI @ Lupo’s
Dec. 6 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
Dec. 9 – Sayreville, NJ @ Starland
Dec. 11 – Baltimore, MD @ Sonar
Dec. 12 – Wallingford, CT @ Chevrolet Theater
Dec. 13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
Dec. 15 – New York, NY @ Nokia Theater

Artists Cyphers A Highlight Of The BET Hip Hop Awards

Following the airing of the 2009 BET Hip Hop Awards last night (October 27) the most talked about topic of the night seemed to be the award shows cyphers.

Consisting of three segments, the cyphers featured Hip Hop artists from across the country rocking verses to beats by DJ Premier.

Artists included in the cyphers included Joe Budden, Nicki Minaj, KRS-One, Wale, Eminem, Black Thought, Buckshot, and more.

“All the love I'm getting from [you] guys is greatly appreciated, thank y'all,” said Joe Budden via Twitter in response to feedback regarding his verse in the cypher.

Even rapper Drake gave his thoughts on the Hip Hop Awards cyphers via Twitter, proclaiming “EVERYBODY JUST GOT ATE!!!! Nicki Minaj is the best female rapper alive.”

BET will air an encore of the Hip Hop Awards on Thursday, October 29 at 9 p.m.

Rihanna's 'Rated R' Album Cover Debut

You've probably seen Rihanna's racy single cover, and now PopEater is proud to exclusively premiere the cover for her impending album, 'Rated R.' Thegrainy black-and-white cover shows the R&B queen draped in hand jewelry and covering one eye.

The album, which is set to be released on Monday, Nov. 23, is Rihanna's first album since 2007's 'Good Girl Gone Bad.'

It is also Rihanna's first album since she was assaulted by boyfriend Chris Brown in February.

The 'Rated R' cover was shot by famed photographer Ellen von Unwerth,who says that "Rihanna was looking to create something a bit new forthe look of the album."

Von Unwerth goes on to say that Rihannais "so beautiful, sweet and tough at the same time -- and a pleasure toshoot," adding that she's "fantastic to work with -- very giving, verycreative, very involved in every aspect of the shoot, and ready to pushthe boundaries."

The first single off of 'Rated R' is aslowed-down track titled 'Russian Roulette,' a dark tune in whichRihanna sings: "And you can see my heart beating / You can see it through my chest / And I'm terrified but I'm not leaving / Know that Imust must pass this test / So just pull the trigger."

Plies Pays Young Fan $1000 To Leave His Show

Since Plies flooded the airwaves with his sex-driven lyrics on trackssuch as “Becky” and “Bust It Baby”, the rapper has come off as being more than rated R as he has dubbed himself the realist. Being the realist, he has been one not to bite his tongue and say things exactly how he feels.

As a replacement for Gucci Mane this weekend at FAMU, however, the rapper showed that he is aware of that fact of timing and that there isa time and place for everything.

It was reported that before performing “Bust It Baby,” the rapper saw afan that looked to be too young to be hearing those particular lyrics.As a result, the rapper gave the girl $1,000 from his pocket and askedher to leave and have her parents take her some place more appropriate.

If that's not a curveball, then what else could it be?

The rapper has been one to show his charitable side in other instancesas he gave his chain to a girl during a basketball game some time ago,but this action is much more than just making a girl's day.

Society has always been the one to point out the fact that Hip-Hop'slewd lyrics have caused a downfall in the youth of the country as they have been heavily influenced by what they hear and see through theserap artists.

Although he essentially paid for it, Plies showcased the fact that heacknowledges his responsibility as a rapper. He may not be able to stopeveryone from buying his CD, but he will have some control to who he will allow to hear him while in his presence.

In related news, beef might be stirring between the Florida native and DJ Kay Slay. The Drama King recently expressed his issues with the rapper as he was a no show when asked to appear in the video for hisupcoming album's first single, “Blockstars.”

Initially, the track featured Plies, Jim Jones, Busta Rhymes and Ray J,but communication came to a halt when talk came about shooting a musicvideo, according to the DJ, which resulted in him being replaced withYo Gotti. The lack of communication between the two also resulted inthe album being pushed back to December 8.

Clearly frustrated, the Drama King let his words fly during “DramaHour” on Hot 97 where he stated that Plies' judgment has been compromised due to his young age and his rising success.

“This is what happens when these niggas come around early andyou show them love. Plies has been on my show twice. Once niggas get afew checks…I believe it's niggas around him, because the kid can't possibly have did that shit blatantly after he came and said this, that and the third.”

Maybe the” realist nigga in the room” isn't who he says he is.

50 Cent's new Fragrance

New Fif fragrance...POWER. The Money Making Mogul is at it again!!

Eminem “In Talks” For Horror Movie Series

Earlier today (October 28) reports hit the ’Net that Eminem was prepping the release of a series of horror films titled Shady Talez.

Gore fans read on shocktillyoudrop.com that the Detroit MC had plans to develop an anthology of flicks paying homage to some of the genre’s cult favorites, like Christine, Aliens and The Lost Boys. According to the site, Em would even have multiple acting roles in the project.

XXLMag.com spoke to the rap superstar’s publicist, Dennis Dennehy, who said nothing is set in stone thus far. “There’s been talks,” he said, “but [I] can’t confirm anything yet.”

Em is set to release Relapse 2 by the end of the year.

Jay-Z Wins Big as Gucci Mane Lights Up the Stage at BET Hip Hop Awards

Jay-Z and T.I. were the big winners at the 2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards, which aired last night (October 27) from the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Georgia.

Young Jeezy opened up the show—hosted by funny man MIke Epps—with his verse from “As Real As It Gets.” This eventually set the stage for Hova’s grand entrance. The Brooklyn rap legend finished the song from his Blueprint 3 album, and later walked away with three trophies for MVP of the Year, Best Live Performer and Lyricist of the Year.

Hometown hero Tip earned two trophies; one for Best Hip-Hop Collabo for “Live Your Life” with Rihanna and another for Best CD for Paper Trail. Tiny, T.I.’s wife, accepted on behalf of the incarcerated rapper, reading aloud a letter T.I. wrote from jail, thanking his fans.

Young Money MC Drake was named Rookie of the Year and took home another statue for Track of the Year for his appearance on “Every Girl.”

Ice Cube joined previous recipients Russell Simmons, Grandmaster Flash and KRS-One by receiving the I Am Hip Hop Award for his role in pioneering the West Coast rap movement in the late 80’s. Special tributes was also made to Missy Elliot and choreographer Fatima Robinson for their contributions to hip-hop. The late DJ AM who was recognized during the ceremony as DJ of the Year.

Throughout the night BET aired three seperate pre-recorded ciphers. Standouts from the lyrical showcase included Eminem, Joe Budden, Nicki Minaj, KRS-One, and Black Thought.

If there were an award for most appearances onstage for the night Gucci Mane would’ve gotten it. The ATL favorite made his way in the spotlight three separate times, performing with Plies, Mario and Soulja Boy and Shawty Lo.

Dallas rapper Dorrough also had a notable performance bringing out West Coast stars Nipsey Hussle and Snoop Dogg along with Soulja Boy and Jim Jones for his “Ice Cream Paint Job” remix.

Closing out the show with their classic “Guess Who” was the recently reunited Atlanta group Goodie Mob

Rappers React To Lil Wayne's Prison Sentence

In response to Lil Wayne's one-year prison sentence [click to read], several rappers took to Twitter, determined to offer their opinions.

Jim Jones drew a comparison to rapper T.I.'s prison sentence [click to read]. "Thts crazy lil Wayne gets a year for a hand pistol and ti gets the same tome for having army issued rifles wit silencers U tell me wtf."

Juelz Santana also offered his thoughts on the matter. "A! I just arrived 2 the set. Just did a MTV News interview wit Shaheem about Lil Wayne. That's some BULL SHIT!!!!," wrote Santana, a frequent collaborator of Wayne's.

Finally, Miami rapper Rick Ross also weighed in, but provided a positive outlook on the subject. "It hurt us," said Rick Ross to MTV News. "We strategize and work towards this for so long, [and] when something like that, a major inconvenience such as that, nine people out of 10, that stint could hurt them. But I think Wayne has a unique situation with his Cash Money family and now his Young Money roster, I know they got a lot of things poppin'. Wayne's got enough music. He's one of the few artists I feel could eat those 10 months up, or that year, and then come home to rap royalty. If anybody is gonna be able to do it, it's gonna be Wayne."

Tracklisting Leaks For 50 Cent's Before I Self Destruct

iTunes has posted a pre-order to 50 Cent's long-awaited Before I Self Destrict. Although typically sequences and final titles are subject to change, this is the first of its kind. ThisIs50.com is endorsing the listing at this time.

1. The Invitation
2. Then Days Went By
3. Death To My Enemies
4. So Disrespectful
5. Psycho
6. Hold Me Down
7. Crime Wave
8. Stretch
9. Strong Enough
10. Get It Hot
11. Gangsta’s Delight
12. I Got Swag
13. Baby By Me (feat. Ne-Yo)
14. Do You Think About Me
15. Ok, You’re Right
16. Could’ve Been you
17. Flight 187 (Bonus Track)
18. Baby By Me (Bonus Track)
19. Man’s World (Bonus Track)

Latest World Wide will keep you updated.

50 Cent & Freeway Reach Out To “Freeway” Ricky Ross

Shortly after finishing a 14-year prison sentence former drug kingpin “Freeway” Ricky Ross [click to read] revealed that one of the first people to reach out to him was rapper 50 Cent.

Ross [click to read] revealed this and more in an interview with AllHipHop Radio’s Eric B. And Friends radio show on October 26.

"50 Cent called me the day I got out and let me know if there was anything I needed to just let him know," said Ross during his interview. "I don't know how he got my cell but the morning I got out he called me and expressed his support.”

And according to Ross [click to read], he has yet to hear from Miami rapper Rick Ross although he has in fact heard from rapper Freeway since his release from prison in September of this year.

“Freeway reached out and told me anything I needed he had me but Rick Ross, he hasn't reached out to me as of yet,” said Ross in a radio interview with Charlamagne Tha God. “That's not saying he won't reach out one day. But as of right now, he hasn't reached out.”

In his various interviews, Ross made it known that he has a number of projects in the works including four movies (one with comedian Mike Epps) and his own record label.

“I am more prepared now than I ever have been before in my life,” Ross explained on AllHipHop Radio. “I took all my prior experiences and I’ve been able to flip them into this legitimate world. I’ve transformed my drug experiences into legitimate business.”

DMX Says He Won't Be Training For Upcoming Fight

DMX called into Washington’s 106.7FM The Fan recently to talk about his upcoming amateur boxing match in December against actor Eric Martinez. The emcee stated that he has no plans to train for the bout claiming, “I’ma just walk in as is. It wouldn’t be fair if I trained.” Confidence is definitely not something the Yonkers rapper lacks and he went on to say that while he may not knock out his opponent in the first round he doesn’t think the fight is “gonna make it to the end.”

DMX added that he has plenty of experience fighting from his younger days but he doesn’t plan on this exhibition fight becoming a new career, “I ain’t tryin to have my face all messed up,” joked the Hip Hop superstar.

On the musical front, DMX plans to release his new album “hopefully first quarter [of 2010].” The controversial rapper said he is “in the studio everyday” and his life is currently about trying to “stay focused on the music, stay focused on my family.”

B.o.B.’s “I Feed These Streets” Originally Meant for DJ Drama

Earlier today (October 27), former XXL Freshman alum B.o.B. (now known as Bobby Ray) leaked an unreleased track online, titled “I Feed These Streets.” XXLMag spoke with Bobby’s manager, TJ Chapman, about the song, and was informed that the song was originally supposed to be on Grand Hustle label mate DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz: The Album, Vol. 2.

According to Chapman, the song was recorded over a year ago, but instead of letting it collect dust, he put it online for fans to hear. “That was supposed to be on Drama’s album,” Chapman told XXL. “Drama had it for over a year and it just ain’t done nothing… We were just like fuck this. This song’s just been sitting too long.”

Chapman says this isn’t the first time fans are hearing the song, though. Somehow it got into the wrong hands and was played over the radio. In fact, he even heard one version with Busta Rhymes and Maino spitting alongside the young Atlanta upstart. But now it has being released as it was initially intended.

As of press time it is uncertain if the track will be included on B.o.B.’s major label debut, The Adventures of Bobby Ray, which is currently slated for a June 2010 release.

Jay-Z Sneaks Back Into the Top 3, Black Eyed Peas Shoot up the Charts

With no big releases this week, Jay-Z managed to sneak back into the top 3 on The Billboard 200.

The Blueprint 3, moved up two more spots this go-round, selling 54,900 units. After six weeks BP3 has a tally of 1,116,500 albums sold, according to the Nielsen SoundScan.

The Black Eyed Peas made an amazing climb this week from no. 23 all the way to no. 6. The group’s E.N.D. disc had a 56 percent rise in sales, going from 25,500 units sold last cycle to 39,600 this week. The Peas have a total of 1,234,600 CDs sold in 19 weeks.

R&B star Mario debuted at no. 9 with his new album D.N.A. The CD, which includes the hit song, “Break Up” with Gucci Mane and Sean Garrett, moved 31,600 units in its first week on shelves.

Twenty spots down is T.Dot up –and-comer Drizzy Drake. The Young Money rapper climbed one spot this week to no. 27 with his So Far Gone EP. He sold 17,700 LPs this week, making his overall stats stand at 180,000.

Next week look for Royce Da 5’9” to make an appearance on the Billboard 200.

Violence Erupts at Akon Concert, 18 People Injured

Eighteen people were injured at an Akon concert in Melbourne, Australia last night (October 26) after more than 50 people rushed security guards to gain access to the concert venue.

According to ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) News, eight of the 18 people injured in the incidents that occurred both inside and outside Melbourne Park had to be rushed to the hospital. Although many fans were involved in the brawls only one 21-year-old man has been charged with assault so far.

Kon reportedly walked into the crowd to try to stop fans from fighting. The YouTube video footage of the concert last night below shows Akon entering the audience with his bodyguards asking people to “calm it down” while fans cheered. [Watch below]

“Hold on Melbourne…I need ya’ll to let me speak for one second,” Akon told an excited audience from atop the shoulders of one of his bodyguards. “I don’t know if ya’ll know how hard it took me to get there. It took me almost two years for Australia… and I am not going to let them fuck up our concert tonight.”

Akon is scheduled to perform in Sydney, Australia tonight. There is no word yet if this incident will affect the performance.

Kanye West Sentenced to Community Service in Airport Altercation

Kanye West is in the clear. Earlier today a court commissioner dismissed all charges against the rapper stemming from a 2008 incident at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) involving Ye, his road manager Don Crowley and an unidentified photographer.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Mark Zuckerman sentenced West and Don C to perform community service for the American Red Cross. TMZ.com reports that they both agreed to 50 hours of work each.

“I am very pleased the court granted dismissal of all charges,” Kanye’s lawyer Blair Berk told the Times.

The Chicago native and his co-defendant were hit with eight misdemeanor charges in total, including battery, vandalism and grand theft, following their arrest on September 12, 2008. The men were caught on tape attacking a member of the papparazi and smashing his camera. The Grammy-award-winning artist faced upwards of two years behind bars, while his associate could have been away for five. Kanye has reportedly settled out of court with the photographer for the broken equipment.

Kid Cudi Debunks Kanye West Rehab Rumors

Kid Cudi addressed the rumors that Kanye West is hiding out in rehab or an Indian ashram while being interviewed by MTV News backstage at the Ulalume Festival in Columbia, Maryland last weekend.

According to the Cleveland rapper, Ye is not receiving any medical attention.“All that’s definitely false. I mean… rehab for what? Being awesome?” said West’s 25-year-old protégé. “We talk every once in a while. Like I said, he’s like a brother to me, I worry just as much as the next person, but when I say Kanye is cool, believe me, Kanye is okay. He’s a strong dude, I mean, we’ve seen him grow from College Dropout to now… the things he’s dealt with, the things he’s been through. He’s a strong dude.”

West recently backed out of the highly anticipated “Fame Kills” tour with Lady GaGa shortly after making several public apologies for crashing the stage and interrupting an acceptance speech being given by Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. GaGa later announced that she was going to continue on with a revamped and renamed version of the tour with Cudi instead, called The Monster Ball.

“I didn’t get his blessing or anything, I just agree because it’d be an honor,” he said. “From what I heard, Kanye backed out from the tour, because he wanted to work on something- maybe a project- or just wanted some time off.”

Cudi’s not the only one speaking up for the Louis Vuitton Don. About a week ago, when internet rumors spread that Kanye West had died, his girlfriend Amber Rose went on Twitter to address the fact that the gossip had became one of the most popularly tweeted phrases on the site.

“The RIP Kanye West topic is not funny and its NOT TRUE!” wrote Rose. “Its in extremely poor taste to have that as a trendy topic. It’s totally disrespectful to make up a story like this…”

In other news, Kanye West was also recently cleared of all charges stemming from a 2008 incident at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) involving Ye, his road manager Don Crowley and an unidentified photographer. According to the Los Angeles Times, Mark Zuckerman sentenced West and Don C to perform community service for the American Red Cross. TMZ.com reports that they both agreed to 50 hours of work each.

The Game Confirms Dec. 8 Album Release, Competes With Gucci Mane, Snoop & Clipse

December 8 is starting to get a little crowded. As previously reported, Gucci Mane, Snoop Dogg, Clipse and Chamillionaire are all slated to face off on the same release date and now they can add one more to the line-up, Game.

In a video for hiphollywood.com [watch below] Game confirmed that he has not only dropped “the” from his name, but he will also put out his upcoming LP The R.E.D. Album in the second week of December.

“I’m strictly the color red,” he said. “That’s where I’m at. I ain’t going no further than that. It’s gone be the craziest album out of all four of ‘em. It’s the most hood album but the girls gone get into this one. It’s gone be live. You know how we do it under the Aftermath umbrella, we keep everything on the low but it’s gonna be out Dec. 8.”

According to dubcnn.com the disc will reportedly feature cameos from Akon, Diddy, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross and Beanie Sigel. Production will be handled by Pollow da Don, Cool & Dre and DJ Khalil. Chuck Taylor’s linked with Gucci Mane and Timbaland for the first street single, ”Crazy” and his another single with Chris Brown titled, “L.A. Girl” produced by Pharrell.

Game says both songs should be coming out next week.

50 Cent Unites New York at ThisIs50 Fest

With Manhattan sitting stage right, illuminated in the nighttime sky, the ThisIs50 fest proved to be a thoroughly New York affair this past Saturday (October 3) at The Beach on Governor’s Island.

After a lively start from Wale and his go-go stalwarts, the UCB Band, Brooklyn transplant KiD Cudi took the stage to a tepid response, until closing his set out with his show-stealing anthem, “Day ‘n’ Nite.”

An onslaught of New York emcees came on next, including Papoose, who cut his lengthy “Alphabetical Slaughter” at the letter G, Cory Gunz who dropped his “A Millie” verse, and Uncle M (formerly Uncle Murder) who held down “Brooklyn.” Slaughterhouse followed, fueling rumors of a Shady situation in the near future. The group’s lone NY rep, Joell Ortiz, naturally garnered the most love from the crowd, rocking the mic and a bloody chef’s apron to boot.

About two hours in, The Diplomats minus Cam’ron were next up, launching into their Come Home With Me-era hits, such as “Oh Boy” and “Dipset Anthem,”before Juelz debuted new material from his upcoming album, his first solo venture in four years.

Finally, it was time for the night’s headliner, who surprisingly opened with his verse from “Crack A Bottle,” before dropping “I Get Money.” When 50 decided to cut the track less than a verse in to segue into his new single “Baby By Me,” it seemed he had lost the crowd for good, who obviously didn’t come out to see any R&B. “We in New York City and they don’t wanna hear the lovey dovey shit,” Fif observed from the crowd’s lack of life. “You want me to take y’all back?” he asked, before dropping “What Up Gangsta?” and effectively shutting it down.

Fif then walked off so that D-Block could drop a quick set that included “I Get High,” “Fuck You,” “We Gonna Make It,” and “Who’s Real” in closing. The Unit returned to the stage for “Ayo Technology,” after which the likes of Maino and Red Café dropped their trademark singles. The biggest guest of the night was arguably Newark, NJ native Wylcef Jean, who, among others, performed “Sweetest Girl.” That left it for Fif to outshine the bevy of guests, by dropping a complete version of “I Get Money,”the banger still managing to resonate despite the recession. After all, the crowd had much to celebrate, bearing witness to a NY renaissance for just $50.-

DJ Khaled Plots Victory, Calls in Usher & Drake for New LP

Miami tastemaker DJ Khaled is hard at work on his upcoming album, which he says will include a few surprises.

According to MTV News, Khaled says his album will feature the usual Florida regulars like Rick Ross and Plies, along with two artists he’s never worked with before- Drake and Usher.

“I worked with someone I never worked with before that I always wanted to work with,” Khalid told MTV. “I won’t tell you if it’s one of my singles or one of the singles, ‘cause I like that to be a surprise. But I did work with someone I always wanted to work with; his name is Usher. I did work with him, and I’m excited by that. I worked with someone [else] I never worked with before; his name is Drake. I’m a fan of his music. I think he’s talented.”

The album, his fourth, is titled Victory and is scheduled for release in 2010.

T-Pain Apologizes To Jay-Z In New Song, 'More Careful'

Pain concludes song by saying, 'My bad,' over recent flap with Hov.

OK, we get it: T-Pain really has no problem with Jay-Z.

The Auto-Tune star took aim at the legendary MC earlier this month while DJ'ing in Las Vegas, rebelling against the rapper's hit "D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)" in an explicit tirade. A day later, though, he backed away from his comments during a radio interview, claiming he'd just been trying to get clarification from Jay-Z about whether the song was about him or not.

Now, T-Pain has taken to song to apologize to Jay-Z publicly, saying, "My bad."

In a freestyle set to Drake and Trey Songz's "Successful" called "More Careful," the dreadlocked singer makes amends for his lack of discretion.

"I got the money, the money and the cars, the cars and the clothes, and unless I wanna let it all go, I just gotta be, I just gotta be more careful," he croons on the chorus.

"Aight, so let's talk about the Jay sh--," he raps in the third verse. "Some days I wish that I ain't never say sh--/ And Diddy said ain't no excuse for what I did/ But I felt like he was knocking the same sh-- that feeds my kids/ I do music 'cause I need it to make my world spin/ So when you get down to it, it's like you dissing my girlfriend."

T-Pain said in the past he was unclear of Jay-Z's motives behind his anti-Auto-Tune anthem. In his interviews, T-Pain pointed out, the rapper would defend Kanye West's and Lil Wayne's use of computer-aided vocals while simply saying he wasn't targeting Pain on the track. The vague responses, T-Pain said, felt like subtle indictments since he's the most acclaimed and accomplished artist associated with the program.

T-Pain also said Jay-Z snubbed him at Hot 97's annual concert, Summer Jam, when the rapper joked to radio personality Angie Martinez that he thought it was a fan who joined him on stage when Pain joined the Brooklyn wordsmith for his performance of "D.O.A."

But after T-Pain lashed out, when pressed about the burgeoning issue, Jay-Z said he thought the singer/producer was talented enough not to have to rely on the device. The response relieved T-Pain, he said at the time. But in rhyme he admitted it surprised him to even hear Jay-Z respond.

"And Jay one of the only n---as out here bringing it/ So I didn't think he would even entertain the sh--," T-Pain rapped. " 'Cause entertainment is see-through, but if you really feel like I'm dead, then, n---a, me too/ I ain't tryin' to write your rhymes, but you coulda skipped one DJ/ And all you had to say is, 'T-Pain, we cool.' "

He finishes the track out explaining he wasn't hating on Jay-Z's fame or trying to dis the rapper, and made sure his apologetic ode was clearer than a car windshield.

"But by all means, don't take this as a dis or hatin'/ I just wanna explain my side of the situation," T-Pain spits. "So if you knew how much respect that I have/ You'd know I'm a real n---a when I say, 'My bad.' "

T-Pain Apologizes To Jay-Z In New Song, 'More Careful'

Pain concludes song by saying, 'My bad,' over recent flap with Hov.

OK, we get it: T-Pain really has no problem with Jay-Z.

The Auto-Tune star took aim at the legendary MC earlier this month while DJ'ing in Las Vegas, rebelling against the rapper's hit "D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)" in an explicit tirade. A day later, though, he backed away from his comments during a radio interview, claiming he'd just been trying to get clarification from Jay-Z about whether the song was about him or not.

Now, T-Pain has taken to song to apologize to Jay-Z publicly, saying, "My bad."

In a freestyle set to Drake and Trey Songz's "Successful" called "More Careful," the dreadlocked singer makes amends for his lack of discretion.

"I got the money, the money and the cars, the cars and the clothes, and unless I wanna let it all go, I just gotta be, I just gotta be more careful," he croons on the chorus.

"Aight, so let's talk about the Jay sh--," he raps in the third verse. "Some days I wish that I ain't never say sh--/ And Diddy said ain't no excuse for what I did/ But I felt like he was knocking the same sh-- that feeds my kids/ I do music 'cause I need it to make my world spin/ So when you get down to it, it's like you dissing my girlfriend."

T-Pain said in the past he was unclear of Jay-Z's motives behind his anti-Auto-Tune anthem. In his interviews, T-Pain pointed out, the rapper would defend Kanye West's and Lil Wayne's use of computer-aided vocals while simply saying he wasn't targeting Pain on the track. The vague responses, T-Pain said, felt like subtle indictments since he's the most acclaimed and accomplished artist associated with the program.

T-Pain also said Jay-Z snubbed him at Hot 97's annual concert, Summer Jam, when the rapper joked to radio personality Angie Martinez that he thought it was a fan who joined him on stage when Pain joined the Brooklyn wordsmith for his performance of "D.O.A."

But after T-Pain lashed out, when pressed about the burgeoning issue, Jay-Z said he thought the singer/producer was talented enough not to have to rely on the device. The response relieved T-Pain, he said at the time. But in rhyme he admitted it surprised him to even hear Jay-Z respond.

"And Jay one of the only n---as out here bringing it/ So I didn't think he would even entertain the sh--," T-Pain rapped. " 'Cause entertainment is see-through, but if you really feel like I'm dead, then, n---a, me too/ I ain't tryin' to write your rhymes, but you coulda skipped one DJ/ And all you had to say is, 'T-Pain, we cool.' "

He finishes the track out explaining he wasn't hating on Jay-Z's fame or trying to dis the rapper, and made sure his apologetic ode was clearer than a car windshield.

"But by all means, don't take this as a dis or hatin'/ I just wanna explain my side of the situation," T-Pain spits. "So if you knew how much respect that I have/ You'd know I'm a real n---a when I say, 'My bad.' "

“Pimpin’ Curly” Voted Funniest 50 Cent Stunt, Says New Poll

Pimpin’ ain’t easy…unless of course you’re 50 Cent. In XXLMag latest poll, readers determined that Fif’s “Pimpin’ Curly” episodes are the funniest videos the rapper has posted online.

Close to 3,000 fans voted in the poll, with Pimpin’ Curly earning 39 percent of the total votes. The Queens-bred MC’s latest video, aimed at rival Fat Joe, came in second place with 29 percent. Coming in at third with 18 percent was 50’s comical narration of the sex tape involving the mother of Rick Ross’ child and the Officer Ricky Cartoons landed in last place with 13 percent of the overall tally.

50 first introduced the flamboyant, high-pitched character earlier this year during his online battle with rival Rick Ross. When the Miami rapper referred to Fif as “Curly” in an interiew, the G-Unit general took the nickname and created the personality, releasing a handful of clips on his thisis50.com Website.

Jay-Z, Alicia Keys Shoot 'Empire State Of Mind' Video Near Ground Zero

'New York City belongs to everyone,' Keys says of song's appeal.

Thank goodness, Lil Mama was nowhere in sight on Wednesday, when Jay-Z and Alicia Keys shot the video for "Empire State of Mind" in New York. But there were plenty of other onlookers feeling the vibe and blowing up Twitter with talk about the two New York giants filming in Tribeca and around Ground Zero for the clip, directed by Hype Williams.

Before performing the song at the VMAs last month, Keys told us how the collaboration for the Blueprint 3 track came about.

"Working together on 'Empire State of Mind' was incredible," Keys said. "I've admired Jay-Z for a long time. Reasonable Doubt is my all-time favorite album, period, and he's been on the scene for long time. I always figured that we would do some type of collaboration, and finally, it came together with this. He reached out to me said, 'I have this big New York record. I feel its right for us to do it together. It has this big Frank Sinatra, take-it-there feeling. I feel like you could really do something with it.'

"I went by [the studio], took a listen to it," she continued. "I really felt the energy of New York all through it. It felt classic, it felt so good; the piano obviously was in there. I said, 'I love it, so let's do it.' We communicated a lot during the process. I think we both are really happy with how it came out."

Keys said that though "Empire State of Mind" was inspired by her hometown, it resonates with all people — which explains why the song is currently #10 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"New York City belongs to everyone," she said, adding her own Sinatra nod: "If you can make it here, you can make it everywhere."

Jim Jones Pleads Guilty in Assault Case Against Ne-Yo’s Manager

In a court appearance yesterday (October 5), Jim Jones pleaded guilty to a minor assault charge in the beating of Ne-Yo’s manager, Jayvon Smith, at a Louis Vuitton store in Manhattan last December, reports New York’s Daily News.

Jones agreed to a sentence of time served. However, a $7 million lawsuit filed against Jones by the victim, who is the younger brother of Jay Z’s right hand man,Ty Ty, is still pending.

Jones’ lawyer Scott Leemon reported his doubts over the legitimacy of Smith’s accusations to XXLMag.com in April, “There were no injuries here and this is all revolving around an alleged civil suit that was filed,” said Leemon. “From what I understand from media reports, the plaintiff is seeking somewhere in the vicinity of millions and millions of dollars. So, I think that criminal action is brought to set up the civil suit.”

Meanwhile Jayvon maintains that the blows that landed on his face “caused redness, swelling, and substantial pain.” A court will ultimately decide how fair these accusations are.

Jay-Z 'Deserving' Of Hottest MC Title, New York Governor David Paterson Says

'I can personally attest to his commitment to New York and the impact he has on New Yorkers of all ages,' he says.

The feedback on our 2009 Hottest MCs in the Game list has been tremendous since we started to reveal our picks last Monday. We started off with Raekwon the Chef at #10, and Jay-Z finished the list as the #1 Hottest MC right now.

On Monday night, MTV News received an e-mail about the list from New York Governor David A. Paterson, who applauded Jigga's crowning.

"Jay-Z is not only an outstanding hip-hop artist, but a dedicated philanthropist as well," Paterson said in a statement. "Having just attended his September 11th benefit concert in Madison Square Garden a few weeks ago, I can personally attest to his commitment to New York and the impact he has on New Yorkers of all ages. He is most definitely deserving of the top MC of 2009 title."

A few weeks ago, before the Hottest list came out, Paterson gave his personal criteria for what he thought made a hot MC.

"I think these days, since hip-hop is now nearly 30 years old, that it's the creativity," he said. "There are too many people who think you become successful by mimicking what others have done, and I think every performer starts out with a favorite, but it's those people who blaze new trails that I think are the MCs of the future.

"I also think that the MC that figures out that people 18 and older who got the right to vote in 1972 never exercised it till 2008 — there's a real culture for discussing how our government works and how our society works," he added. "The MC who could blaze that trail and find a creative way of displaying it will be the MC of the next decade."

What do you think of our Hottest MCs in the Game list? Upload your comments, reactions, arguments and/or your own list to Your.MTV.com — the best videos could be on TV!

Eminem Says Relapse 2 is “More Emotionally Driven”

Celebrating his radio station, Shade 45’s five year anniversary, Eminem went on the air with Tony Touch tonight (October 6) and revealed more details on his forthcoming album, Relapse 2.

Last weekend he went on Whoo Kid’s show and surprised fans, saying that he had “four, possibly five” songs with superproducer Just Blaze. Em continued to dish the details on his new disc today.

“It’s probably gonna be a lot different than people expect as far as the contrast from the last record,” he said. “The overall basis of the record is more emotionally driven. The last record I was concentrating more on just spitting. And with this record I feel like there’s some of that, but at the same time I kind of went back to making songs with feels to ‘em as opposed to just rap records.” [Listen here]

Em’s manager Paul Rosenberg also spoke on a new song that will be included in the special Renegade edition of the DJ Hero video game. [Listen here]

As of press time there is still no scheduled release date for Relapse 2, but the Detroit lyricist says he is finished recording for the project.

50 Cent Responds to Fabolous’ Twitter Swipe

Fabolous recently shared his thoughts on the G-Unit General’s ThisIs50 Fest on his twitter account, and it seems like Fif might have a new online battle on his hands.

As previously reported 50 brought together a slew of New York artists, including Dipset, D-Block, Cory Gunz, Maino and Papoose, among others last Saturday (October 3) for concert promoting his Website. Fab, who was noticeably absent from the lineup, commented about the event on twitter.

“It’s interesting to c 50 cent unite wit NY artists when he’s 1 of the reasons NY hip hop became so isolated & crumbled,” he wrote. Adding, “I wonder if it’s a law in the 50th law of power book??”

No stranger to conflict, the Queens-bred MC responded to Fab’s comments on his site, thisis50.com. “Reading what Fab said about me on Twitter was disappointing,” he wrote. “I have extended myself to Fab personally to allow him to expand himself as an international Touring Artist. I thought we were Friends but that’s cool.”

50 followed his statement with an excerpt from his book 50th Law of Power: “Law #2: Never put too much trust in Friends, Learn how to use Enemies.”

To Loso’s credit, the Brooklyn rapper didn’t only criticize 50 on twitter, he also offered praises. “At 50’s peak his grind was unmatched, image was bulletproof, music was ignorantly motivational & catchy, even classic. most never hav that,” he said. “So don’t think I’m taking shots at 50…Jus that NY show me a lil puzzled.. But i love NY so i couldn’t knock it if i wanted to.”