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STEP UP keep it real & World Tour Event Presents Unkut Brand's owner 'BOOBA" in Brussels.

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Step Up keep it real

Step Up  was launched in 2011 in Brussels ( Belgium ) to a young clientele and dynamique.

At the beginning, we worked mainly with brands Hip-Hop French and American, such as FRED PERRY, POLO RALPH LAUREN, LACOSTE, NIKE, ADIDAS, PUMA, GOLA, KEDS, ELEMENT, DC, DVS, ETNIES, LAKAI, DIAMOND SUPPLY CO, VLADO, RADDI,PATRICK EWING, JORDON, KIX, NEW ERA, MITHCEL&NESS, AMERICAN NEEDLE, TISA, OBEY, 47BRAND, ZEPHYR, UNDFTD, HUF,MISHKA,THE HUNDREDS,BENNY GOLD,STARTER,FAMOUS STAR, DICKIES, CONVERSE, UNKUT,JOKER,PRIMITIVE,LEVIS,REEF,DR DENIM,MAJESTIC NFL NBA MLB,ZOO YORK, SKULL CANDY, SHAMBALLA JEWLS NEW YORK,IRON FIST.
The store is located at: Rue Marché aux Herbes 30 1000 Brussels Belgium.

Projects Step Up keep it real

Recall that before all things the trademark "Step Up keep it real" is a registered déposée.
Step Up project of sponsoring large events but also to launch his own collection to demonstrate our know-how in the core curriculum and power to satisfy Hip-Hop lovers.
This collection will be distributed in Europe, which will allow Step Up's expansion and offer its services throughout Europe.

Step Up Crew

Step Up  is primarily a company that loves the team and offers a family agreement within the group. But as a team offering a service with many conviviality to have a good customer relationship.
The crew is mostly bilingual multilingual to see some of them.

It's important to understand why we are happy to inform you of this so that you can tell without the language barrier in front of you. Step Up interest loan to all new trends by visiting numerous exhibitions to offer the best models of each season.
All products are rigorously selected references to models sold in previous seasons



Beanie Sigel reflects on issues at his former label, as well as with Jay-Z.

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Beanie Sigel reflects on issues at his former label, as well as with Jay-Z.

Though Beanie Sigel just released his sixth studio album, This Time, it doesn't mean he never thinks of his older projects.

In an interview with Complex, the former Roc-A-Fella emcee recalls dropping his acclaimed album The B. Coming, and how Def Jam didn't work the project properly.
"The B. Coming, that came out when I was incarcerated, too. It went gold with no promotion, nothing," explained Beans. 'I did seven videos in two days and only one got airtime, and that was 'Feel it in the Air.'"

"Def Jam/Universal dropped the ball on that album," elaborated Beans, who looked at the project as a missed opportunity. "If I can go gold from sitting inside a jail cell, with no promotion or nothing, if they would have paid a little bit more attention to the album and seen what it was doing, then that could have been a platinum album. There’s no telling what it could have been if I was out."

"They dropped the album about five months before I was released. I adamantly requested for the album not to be released, for it to be released on my release date so I can capitalize off of that album monetarily. But they just threw it to the wolves. When I came home, they admitted their mistake.

They dropped the ball on that album."

Sigel also discussed regrets about his relationship with Jay-Z, which went from a friendship to a one-sided beef, with Sig slinging bars at his old boss.

Interestingly, the Broad Street Bully referenced some wisdom courtesy of Hov. "Jay got a song on Reasonable Doubt where he says, 'You gotta learn to live with regrets.'

You can’t take it back. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a present. Unwrap it and enjoy the gift, man."

Redemption Songs: Michael Jackson's Greatest Hits

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 ON JUNE, 27 1999, Michael Jackson nearly died for his music. But the 70,000 screaming fans packed inside Munich’s sold-out Olympic Stadium that night had no idea he had just cheated death. They were all too caught up in the spectacle that was Michael Jackson & Friends, a televised extravaganza with elaborate staging.

While his fame in America had waned since child abuse allegations cut short his Dangerous tour in 1993, Jackson’s ‘96-’97 HIStory trek played to a record 4.5 million spectators, grossing more than $165 million. But only a few of those 82 concerts were staged in the United States. Taping this all-star concert in Germany was Jackson’s way of showing gratitude to the loyal European subjects who still revered him as the same King of Pop who sold more than 51 million copies of 1982’s Thriller.

After a greatest hits medley, Jackson launched into an 11-minute version of his green anthem “Earth Song,” which would culminate with a tank rolling on stage and Jackson standing in its path like a protester from Tiananmen Square. “Where did we go wrong?” he wailed from atop a metal platform 30 feet above the stage. “What about us?” a mighty choir answered as the audience wept and cheered. And then, somewhere in mid-song, the wires supporting the sturdy platform snapped.

“The local crew evidently put the wrong cable wire on the metal and the bridge came crashing down into the orchestra pit with Michael on it,” recalls the show’s producer Kenny Ortega, who would go on to direct Jackson’s critically-acclaimed concert documentary This Is It. “Michael felt the fall. He knew it was happening and timed his jump as the bridge hit the ground,” Ortega says, incredulous. “And he continued to do the show!”

The scrambling stagehands and tour executives were horrified. “Weren’t you trembling in fear?” Ortega asked him minutes after the gig. Jackson responded like he was reading a script from one of those endearingly cheesy 1930s’ musicals: “Well, Kenny, I always was taught that the show must go on.”

Jackson survived that fall just like he survived all the others—through a combination of talent, luck and fancy footwork. But the worst was yet to come. The first time allegations of child molestation threatened to tarnish his brilliant career, a private settlement of a reported $20 million between the singer and his young accuser was reached. (No charges were ever filed in the case.) But that was just one of many incidents that contributed to his so-called “Wacko Jacko” persona: the battles with addiction; the extreme plastic surgeries; the day he dangled his infant son Prince Michael II over a Berlin hotel balcony. But after his sensational 2005 jury trial in which Jackson was acquitted on a second accusation of child molestation, he appeared to be a broken man.

Michael was reportedly hundreds of millions in debt, resulting from lavish spending and legal problems. Michael Joseph Jackson had hit rock bottom. Ominous reports circulated that he was juggling doctors to sustain his addiction to prescription pain medicine—after a pyrotechnical accident during a Pepsi commercial burned his scalp—and that he would end up like another tragic music icon: Elvis Presley. At one point Jackson even told his then wife Lisa Marie Presley that he was afraid he would die of an overdose like her father.

Snoop Dogg is at the center of a lawsuit.

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Snoop Dogg is at the center of a lawsuit and a nightclub.

Whether they booked Snoop Dogg or Snoop Lion, a Los Angeles nightclub is livid that they didn't get some incarnation of the West Coast rapper as they had originally expected.

TMZ reports that Exchange LA has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles against Movement Management, claiming that Movement promised to book Snoop for a show on June 30.

Exchange claims it paid a $15,000 depost (out of $25,000) to get Snoop for the show. Days later, Movement apparently said Snoop had been double-booked. Indeed, Snoop was in Europe at the time.

Exchange is suing for breach of contract and fraud, claiming that Movement has yet to pay up. Exchange is seeking $100,000 in punitive damages.

DMX Show In New England Canceled Over Concerns Of Violence

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A concert featuring superstar rapper DMX has been canceled at the urging of police in New England, over concerns of violence.

DMX was supposed to hit the stage at Whites of Westport on September 7, but a number of incidents in the area moved police to urge Whites, as well as the local promoter Hurricane Promotions, to cancel the concert.

“This cancellation is very unfortunate. DMX loves to perform for his fans and hates to have to reschedule his shows.
However, we are still taking bookings and are hoping to create a national tour this Fall,

Two men were shot – one fatally – at a Providence nightclub over the weekend, while a show featuring Philadelphia rapper Cassidy ended in brawls early Friday morning (August 24).

“Local law enforcement strongly advised us against doing this,” White’s VP Chris Lafrance told The Herald News. “We’ll regroup, maybe find some acts that fit a little better for the venue.”

Hurricane Promotions’ Michael Herren said that he had a security plan in place for the DMX concert and didn’t expect any issues, despite the violence last weekend.

“Unfortunately when people talk about gun violence, rap music is often intertwined,” Herren told The Herald News.

In addition to White’s own in-house security, ten state police were slated to be stationed around the venue, which can hold around 1,500 people.

Several hundred tickets had already been sold at $33 a-piece. Those fans who paid in advance can receive a full refund from Whites.

Beanie Sigel New Releases [ This Time ] The Reunion With State Property

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It’s been a long, story-filled road for Beanie Sigel. From his days on Philadelphia’s Sigel Street, to his years with Jay-Z, Dame Dash, and Roc-A-Fella, to his current reuniting of State Property under a new deal with Ruffhouse/EMI, it has been an eventful ride so far for the “Broad Street Bully.”

Today (August 28), Beanie Sigel drops off his latest album, This Time, and actually, he is just in time.

According to Beanz, time is of the essence in Hip-Hop and society – the tight male clothing, the too overt sexual imagery (he calls himself a “homophobe”), and the opulent lyrics of some of his peers these days had him feeling like he needed to do something fast.
His solution was to bring his own brand of Hip-Hop back to the table – via This Time – just before it’s too late.
The State Property-heavy project has already achieved high marks for its first single, “The Reunion”, a feel-good, summer banger featuring most of his protege’ clique. The album has massive West Indian vibes, too, and memorable lines that show Beanie’s growth – in life and on the mic.
Beanie noted that he was really digging Nas’ recent release, and he added in a few counter-thoughts about MMG’s Rick Ross, and types like him that brag on things like “owning two Maybachs.” As for Beanie, he said he’s thinking more of the ‘hood, where people are broke and scrounging for chicken wings from the local Chinese takeout.

Time is also of the essence as Beanie Sigel counts down to his September 12 surrender date to federal prison for a two-year stint. When one considers he won’t be around for a while, his This Time album becomes all the more important.

It’s clear in his presence that Beanie Sigel is a man very much in transition. Watch his video interview below, and be sure to cop his This Time album on iTunes.

Jim Jones Collaborate With CMG Entertainment For "Vampire Life"

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Jim Jones plans to star in a feature length film and executive produce its soundtrack.

CMG Entertainment has announced a multi-million dollar deal with Jim Jones to produce Vampire Life: The Movie and its accompanying soundtrack.

The full-length film is set to star the Capo and shooting will begin in mid-September in Miami, New York, Boston and Baltimore.

The flick is slated for release in December 2012.

Additionally, the Dipset member will executive produce the soundtrack for the film alongside CMG Entertainment CEO Cisco Rosado.

"We are very excited to partner with Jim Jones and be a part of the Vampire Life movement,” says Rosado. “Any time you have the opportunity to partner with a established artist and businessman of Jim’s caliber, you are bound to have a successful project and we look forward in growing the partnership.”

Lupe Fiasco Urges Fans To Boycott SPIN Magazine Over Negative "Bitch Bad"

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Lupe Fiasco has been injecting messages into his songs ever since his star turn with his smash debut single “Kick Push” back in 2006.

With the latest video for “B-tch Bad," the latest single from his forthcoming Food & Liquor 2: The Great American Rap album, Lupe is once again using music as a means to incite a deeper conversation.

Although well-received by fans across the social media sphere, longstanding music publication SPIN magazine hurled heavy criticism at the Chicago wordsmith over the song.

Lupe Fiasco has reacted by urging his fans and supporters to boycott of SPIN, saying they should call for a “higher standard.”

Writer Brandon Soderberg, who helms SPIN's Hip-Hop blog "No Trivia," gave Lupe Fiasco's video poor marks and didn't mince words in his dissection of the piece.

From SPIN:

"B**ch Bad" is, to play Lupe's game and get histrionic, how you "debase" a "culture." You twist a rap song into poorly thought-out grab for attention, and give it a muddled video, all under the guise of "starting a conversation," which implicitly suggests that rap music isn't having these conversations already.

Lupe Fiasco defended himself via Twitter last Friday by calling the critique unfair and directly tweeting to Soderberg's account. “And now that you have my attention @notrivia I intend to do my best to expose you and your publication 4 ur actions #BoycottSpinMagazine,” tweeted Lupe.

The fiery rapper has not only galvanized fans to change their Twitter avatars to a “Boycott Spin Magazine” logo, he has continued to rail against the magazine all weekend. Additionally, Lupe fans have also started an online petition replete with the boycott message.

Soderberg has seemingly relished the attention and even mentioned that the Lupe controversy has raised his profile. MTV News senior Hip-Hop writer Rob Markman also got into a brief exchange over Twitter with Soderberg after he defended the song, with the SPIN blogger hurling insults in Markman's direction as a result. In one of his last salvos towards SPIN, Lupe tweeted, “U should b proud @notrivia I mean look at how ur words got ppl 2 exercise their 1st amendment rights! Today Spin 2morrow maybe world hunger!”

Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor 2: The Great American Rap Album is in stores September 25th. This story will continue to develop.

Death Row Records To Release "20 To Life [Rare & Dangerous Vol 2]

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O.F.T.B., Soopafly, Jewell and Swoop G are just some of the former Death Row Records artists featured on the second volume of never-before-songs to be released from the archives.

Death Row Records will continue its 20th anniversary of releasing albums with a second volume in its 20 To Life compilation series on September 25. Rare & Dangerous Volume 2 will feature unreleased music by former artists including Crooked I, Daz Dillinger of Tha Dogg Pound, Swoop G and O.F.T.B. (Operation From The Bottom), among others.

These songs largely stem from 1997-2001, during the time label co-founder and former CEO Marion "Suge" Knight was incarcerated. Other artists appearing include Death Row's longtime R&B acts Danny Boy and Jewell, as well as DPG affiliate Soopafly.

May's Volume 1 including music from the LBC Crew, K-Solo, Lady Of Rage and Bow Wow

Ludacris Drops Off Exclusive Details on His Upcoming “LudaDay Weekend” in Atlanta

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While for most Labor Day marks the official end of summer, the beginning of a school year, and the approach of the holiday season, in Atlanta, Labor Day is LudaDay Weekend. In year’s past, celebrities and key influencers from all over the world have flocked to ATL to lend their time and talents to support the community initiatives and activities surrounding this annual event.

“LudaDay Weekend” always means lots of great parties all around the city; however, the importance of giving back to the community is the primary focus of “LudaDay Weekend.” This year, Ludacris has made a commitment to highlighting local charities that support the city of Atlanta, including Frank Ski Kids Foundation, Inc., Keshia Knight Pulliam’s Kamp Kizzy, Antwan “Big Boi” Patton’s Big Kidz Foundation, Josh Powell’s 21 Reasons Foundation, Get Schooled.org, Do Something, Ryan Cameron Foundation, and the Boys & Girls Club of Atlanta.

“Each and every year LudaDay Weekend gets bigger and better. I’m grateful to give so much back to the city that put me on in the first place, Atlanta, GA. This weekend has been known to change people’s lives. Including mine,” Ludacris told AllHipHop.com exclusively from London where he is filming Fast & Furious 6.

In addition to the above mentioned causes, “LudaDay Weekend” has also partnered with the local organization, Charles McCree Presents: Project Walk A Mile In My Shoes, to collect donations of new and slightly used shoes and sneakers to be collected at the Ludacris (Team Luda) vs. Kevin Hart (Team Hart) Celebrity Basketball Game on Sunday, September 2, at Atlanta’s Morehouse Forbes Arena.

The 7th Annual LudaDay Weekend will also feature other exciting events including a DJ and Media Appreciation Party, Luda & Friends College Campus Takeover at Clark Atlanta University on Saturday, September 1, a day party at Frank Ski’s Restaurant and Lounge, and a private mansion pool party.


visit: DTPRecords and TheLudacrisFoundation 
For more information on LudaDay Weekend or to see the full schedule of events 



Beanie Sigel Says He Was A "Commodity" To Roc-A-Fella

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Beanie Sigel reflects on his time spent at Roc-A-Fella Records, expresses his appreciation for Meek Mill. 

 With the days winding down until the start of Philly rapper Beanie Sigel’s prison sentence, the State Property leader has been making the rounds in the media. Just yesterday Sigel appeared on MTV’s Rap Fix Live alongside fellow rapper Jadakiss and earlier today (August 24) he appeared on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club to discuss his upcoming prison sentence, Roc-A-Fella, and even fellow Philadelphian Meek Mill.

Although it’s been several years since Sigel left Roc-A-Fella Records, the rapper’s distaste for the label is still quite present. During his interview with The Breakfast Club he went on to reveal that he felt used by the label during his time there.

“I was an asset. I was a commodity to Roc-A-Fella,” Sigel explained in a video posted on 2DopeBoyz.com. “Like I said people got rich off of my unique thinking out loud. And Jay made a statement, ‘Beans I ain’t tryna change you. I’mma just give you some game.’ But where the game coming from?”

On a less serious note Sigel spoke on Maybach Music artist Meek Mill who he says reminds him a lot of himself at that age.

“I love Meek man for what he doing. Looking at Meek Mill is a fun thing to do cause it’s like looking at myself coming with Roc-A-Fella at the age of 22, 23-years-old,” said Sigel. “And him the same thing with him with Ross with Maybach Music and him accomplishing what he’s doing is a good feeling. A lot of people, like when you in the mix of it and you running time go by quick. You on the road and you’re doing shows and you on tours, you don’t really get to see your career until it’s over…But me I’m blessed with being able to look at Meek Mill do his thing with Ross.”

Sigel is expected to begin his prison sentence on September 12. His upcoming album, This Time, will be released prior to the start of his prison sentence on August 28.



 

Xzibit New Album “Napalm” Due Out October 9th

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West Coast veteran Xzibit has announced an October release date for his highly anticipated album Napalm.

Xzibit lined up a who’s who in Hip-Hop for Napalm, which will feature guest appearances by artists like Wiz Khalifa, E-40, Prodigy, Crooked I, The Game, Slim The Mobster and Tha Alkaholiks.

“If you know Hip-Hop, you’re going to love and appreciate Napalm,” Xzibit told AllHipHop.com. “The tone of the album is a testament to what I’ve been through in the last six years. I’m ready to kick some ass!”

Producers Dr. Dre, Akon, David Banner, S1, Focus, UK’s Beat Butcher  contribute to Napalm, while 1500 or Nothin’ created the album’s title track.

The single for “Napalm” features drums by Travis Barker and scratches by DJ Sid of Slipknot.

The video, which pays homage to the American troops, was shot entirely in Iraq and represents the aggressive nature of Xzibit’s 7th album.

“It was surreal when we visited real, relevant places like Saddam Hussein’s Palace and actually filmed my video and documentary in there,” Xzibit said.

The documentary Xzibit referenced is a four-part, behind the scenes view of the rapper’s excursion to Iraq, which will be released bi-weekly.

The album also features a unique track that Xzibit created as an ode to his deceased mother, who passed away in 1983.

The track, titled “1983,” features Xzibit backed by nothing but a piano and a 38-piece orchestra.

“My mom was a poet who wrote a book before she died,” Xzibit told AllHipHop.com. “On the song we incorporated excerpts of her talking from an old cassette tape when she was alive.”

The former “Pimp My Ride” host said that Napalm also discusses the ups and downs that have occurred since his album Full Circle, which was released six years ago.

“I believe I have a lot to offer when it comes to the connections I make between my personal life, the state of world events and the music,” Xzibit said.

Xzibit’s album Napalm hits stores on October 9, 2012.


Watch the video below

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have announced the release date for their newest album

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Rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have announced the release date for their newest album, Art of War III.

The latest album from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony features all five original group members: Krazie Bone, Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Flesh-N-Bone and Layzie Bone.

Additionally, the group linked with longtime producer DJ U-Neek and Kenny McLeod, who produced Art of War III for the rap group.

The album, which is being released through Seven Arts Entertainment, is due in stores on November 27.

“We are very excited by BTH’s new music, which brings them back to their roots and their great success with DJ U-Neek and Kenny McLeod on ‘Art of War.’ The
boys are back in town!” said Seven Arts Music’s CEO, David Michery.

The first single from Art of War III is titled “Bring It Back,” which incorporates elements of Cameo’s classic single “Why Have I Lost You” and Sheila Hutchinson’s song “So I Can Love You.”

Lauryn Hill Owes $440,000 To New Jersey State

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Lauyrn Hill is facing up to three years in prison after failing to pay $1.8 million in federal taxes, but her problems with Uncle Sam run deeper than thought.

According to TMZ, the reclusive singer is also accused of failing to pay $446,386 in state taxes, says the State of New Jersey.

The State entered a civil judgment against Hill on June 14th, but it hasn't yet become a criminal matter for the artist.

In June, Hill pleaded guilty to intentionally failing to file federal tax returns in 2005, 2006 and 2007. She faces up to three years in prison, and will be sentenced in November.

Responding to the situation, Hill took to Tumblr at the time to give her side of the story.

 "My intention has always been to get this situation rectified.  When I was working consistently without being affected by the interferences mentioned above, I filed and paid my taxes,” Hill explained.

“This only stopped when it was necessary to withdraw from society, in order to guarantee the safety and well-being of myself and my family.”

Ice Cube Leads The Coors Light “Coldest MC Cypher”

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Ice Cube has conquered music, movies, and television, and is worth a reported $100 million.

The West Coast jack of all trades is currently working on the highly anticipated N.W.A. movie, as well as the new installment of Friday. In between all this filmmaking, Ice Cube has found the time to take part in the Coors Light “Coldest MC Search.”

“It’s dope that Coors Light is reaching out to the Urban community,” said Ice Cube.
They did this [search] last year with N.E.R.D., and I was like, we have the relationship, I have the [commercial] with the can to see whose the coldest, so it’s only right I jump into the search for the coldest contest this year.”

Ice Cube played host to the six finalists in New York City recently and was on deck to select a winner. Before the winner was announced, Ice Cube led a rap cypher. The contestants, who hailed from New York, New Orleans, Charlotte, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Baltimore each took turns spitting their hottest 16 bars.

Some of the MCs got really lyrical with it and put on a good show for the crowd.

Check out the video below


Ice Cube ended up crowning Charlotte’s Felony Fame the Coors Light “Coldest MC.”

Beanie Sigel “Man-to-Man” With Dr. Ben Chavis

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Beanie Sigel is making his rounds right now as travels the country for his “Pre-Prison” tour, in anticipation of his August 28 release, This Time. Just last night (August 16), he rocked the house at New York City’s famous SOBs.

Before Beanie makes his surrender to federal authorities on September 12 to serve a two-year sentence, the “Broad Street Bully” has also been taking some time to free his mind in a series of “Man-to-Man” discussions with well-known activist and spiritual leader, Dr. Ben Chavis. Dr. Chavis spends this segment sharing how he feels personally about Beanie’s music.

Check the final episode below: 


Rapper Tone Loc Has Seizure At Comedy Club

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California rap legend Tone Loc suffered a seizure during a comedy show at the Laugh Factory last night, sources said.

The rapper was attending a charity event to benefit “My Friend’s House,” an organization that helps homeless.

Suddenly, he began to “flail around in his seat,” according to sources with TMZ.

The rapper reportedly struggled to breath and was sweating profusely.

He was cooled down with cold water.

An ambulance was called, but the 46-year-old rapper recovered and didn’t need the paramedics.

Loc left the venue immediately and was home resting at press time.

In the past, the rapper has told authorities that he suffers from seizures. A rep for the rapper says he did not have a seizure at the Laugh Factory and that some food made him ill.

Raekwon Teams With Clothing Co. Akomplice For Belt Line

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Wu-Tang Clan member Raekwon the Chef has teamed with clothing brand Akomplice, to launch a limited edition line of leather belts.

Raekwon’s new limited edition “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx” series of belts are being manufactured in limited runs, according to Akomplice Co-owner Patrick McCarney.

Raekwon decided to work with Akomplice, due to his affinity for the brand.

“It’s a tough belt, I like the metal part, I felt like it was different and authentic,” Raekwon said.

 “I got together doing it with my peoples at Akomplice and I said, ‘yo I’m a fan of clothing and apparel,’ all that type of stuff.

I felt like that would be hot, to see somebody walking around with a Raekwon/Akomplice belt on, you know, something different. And that’s what I liked about the belt, ‘cause it’s not your average okay-put-it-on, it’s a got a method to it.”

The “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx” belts, which will only see 25 manufactured, use premium black and brown leather, with an intricate brass fastening system.

Additionally, fans who scoop up the first 25 belts will also receive a limited edition Raekwon/Akomplice cigar box.

“We ended up using a maroon brown leather for the waist band and brass for the buckle,” explained Akomplice’s Co-CEO, Mikey Akomplice, who runs the brand with his brother Patrick.

“We added some subtle detail using laser on the band, and the entire belt is packaged in a cigar box, paying tribute to the Cuban Linx series. End product came out beautiful,” Mike McCarney said.

Read more news @ Akomplice.com.

Swizz Beatz explains how Sheek Louch helped him become a producer

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Swizz Beatz explains his origins with the Ruff Ryders and how Sheek Louch helped him become a producer.

Although Bangladesh may not agree, few producers have been able to establish the kind of brand recognition that Swizz Beatz has with his music.

Now, in a recent interview with Al Lindstrom, Swizzy recalls his roots with the Ruff Ryders and how he first got into production.

He explained that he actually started out focusing almost exclusively on DJing when he joined the Ruff Ryders in 1988.

He admitted that he didn't even know what it meant to produce in Hip Hop, even though his favorite DJs like DJ Premier and Marley Marl were producers.
However, his uncles and Sheek Louch recognized the potential in his mixtape intros and pushed him to begin producing.

"I got my start with Ruff Ryders in ’91ish, ‘92ish – nah, ’88. That’s when Ruff Ryders first started," he said. "My uncle started it, and my Uncle B came along...

I was DMX’s DJ for a long time. I didn’t even care about being a producer. I didn’t have no role models as producers back then because to me, it was all about the DJs.
Producers weren’t in the forefront at that time. But I was a fan of DJs that were producing, like DJ Premier, like rest in peace Scott La Rock, Marley Marl…
I was fans of those guys. Diamond D and them, that whole crew. But I ain’t know they were producers."

He continued, "I got into producing when my uncles and them, and I remember Sheek Louch also, I used to make mixtapes and I used to make my intros to my mixtapes so people could rap on it. I didn’t know that was producing. I thought it was just making the intro for your mixtape. I wasn’t familiar with that word ‘producing.’ They was like take all of those words and all that stuff out, and I did that. They was like, that beat is knocking.

Make another one of those. And my uncle was like, you should produce. I was like, produce? He said what you doing is producing. At this time, he was working with Irv Gotti, Chad Elliott, he had bought them all equipment and they was in the studio and they was supposed to teach me.

They would teach me like this. That’s how you make the beat. Real fast. I had to teach myself because they was so busy doing they thing, and I was glad I was able to teach myself."

                                                                        Watch the full interview below.


Timbaland & Missy Elliott Won't Work On Aaliyah's Album

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A rep for Missy Elliott and Timbaland says they will not appear on Aaliyah's upcoming posthumous release.

Even though Drake and Noah "40" Shebib have signed on as executive producers, it looks like things have gotten off to a rocky start with Aaliyah's upcoming posthumous album.

Now, two of the late singer's most frequent collaborators - Missy Elliott and Timbaland - will not be appearing on the final tracklist.

In a recent report from Billboard, Missy's manager Mona Scott-Young revealed that Timbo and Missy will not be working on the Blackground-released effort.

She said that the two have yet to be contacted to appear on it and would not likely agree to work on the album if they were contacted.

"Although Missy and Timbaland always strive to keep the memory of their close friend alive, we have not been contacted about the project nor are there any plans at this time to participate," said Scott-Young. "We've seen the reports surfacing that they have been confirmed to participate but that is not the case.

Both Missy and Timbaland are very sensitive to the loss still being felt by the family so we wanted to clear up any misinformation being circulated."

Last week, Blackground's Jomo Hankerson declared that Aaliyah's longtime collaborators were going to be involved in the release.

Slim The Mobster Calls 50 cent Gay & Accuses Him Of Working With The Feds

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Slim the Mobster goes in on 50 Cent on Twitter, stating that he tried to stop his promotion over at Interscope Records.

 Slim the Mobster went in on 50 Cent on Twitter earlier today, stating that the G-Unit general called Interscope to cease the promotion of his music and accused him of being gay.

During his tirade, Slim said that Fif put in a call to stop promoting his music.

"But guess what nigga me and @shamoneyxl did that ourselves but you copy my style you ain't fresh," he wrote.

Slim, who said that he would most likely get dropped based off of these tweets, said that Fif uses West Coast rappers like Game and Spider Loc to make the area "look fucked up." He also claimed that 50 Cent was gay, and implied that he had connections to the Feds to prosecute anyone who crossed his path.


Read the tweets from @Slimthemobster






EVELYN LOZADA FLEES TO NEIGHBORS TO GET AWAY FROM CHAD ‘OCHOCINCO’ JOHNSON,

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According to TMZ, Evelyn Lozada was so afraid of her husband, Chad Johnson, during last night's alleged altercation she had to flee to a neighbor's house for safety, according to the police report.

According to the report, after Johnson allegedly head-butted Lozada during an argument about a receipt for condoms, Johnson began screaming at Lozada, saying, "I don't give a f**k! I don't give a f**k about my career!"

According to the report, Lozada "fled on foot to a neighbor's house to get away from Johnson."


The report goes on to say that Johnson drove around the neighborhood looking for Lozada, who had called police from the neighbor's home.

The officer who responded says in the report he observed a 3" laceration on her forehead. The officer said when he spoke to Johnson, he admitted the two argued, but said she yelled "F**k it!" at him and then she head-butted him.

Johnson told the officer he was driving around to try and give her time to calm down.

Guess that squashes the first claims, that they bumped heads by mistake huh?!!

You can see the official police report here

Flavor Flav failing to pay almost $1 million Tax Bill

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Public Enemy group member Flavor Flav has been charged with failing to pay almost $1 million in back taxes.

According to TMZ.com, Flavor Flav owes back taxes for the years 2004, 2005 and 2006.

During the years in question, the rapper was the star of reality shows like “The Surreal Life,” “Strange Love,” and “Flavor of Love.”

The IRS says the rapper owes $52, 243.47 for 2004, $303,035.93 for 2005 and $550,971.16 for 2006.

That adds up to a grand total of $906,250.56 owed to the U.S. government.

12-Year-Old YouTube Star With Cancer Inspires Through Make-Up Tutorials

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What would you do if you had two types of cancer and four months to live?

According to the Daily Mail, Talia Joy Castellano has turned her shortcomings into inspirationa
l make-up tutorial videos on YouTube.

Her channel has over eight million views and 117 thousand subscribers.

In one of her recent clips, she says 'the chances of surviving are fewer than surviving,' but that she will continue making her videos 'for as long as I can.'

Though she uses the make-up as a confidence booster and a "wig," Castellano expresses her bubbly personality through tutorials that aim to improve her viewers' self-esteem.

'When I put on my make-up I feel like I can embrace those features that I really like about myself," she said. "I feel if someone's looking at me, they're looking at my makeup, not looking at my bald head.

I am just trying to make young girls, young adults, adults, anyone, feel beautiful by using makeup."

Tony Yayo Responds To 50 Cent

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Tony Yayo says that the media is trying to tear G-Unit apart.

Tony Yayo has responded to 50 Cent's widely publicized comments that he "disabled" Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo by handling much of their promotion, thereby rendering them lazy about their careers.

Taking to Twitter, Yayo acknowledged Fif's comments but blamed the media for trying to pull G-Unit apart. "GPG 5 you fucking with the best man these other rap niggas is fantasy life and shout out to the haters keep your hate up," he wrote. "Why would I blow shots at 50 the media want see Gunit fail so bad we won to much in front of niggas everybody running with our format."

Last week, 50 explained that he's at fault for not communicating with his fellow group members, but acknowledged how he negatively impacted their current work ethic.

"I actually haven’t spoke to ‘em very much. I’m to fault for that, though. I think I disabled them," he said. "I did so much for them that they don’t have a continuous work ethic.

They got both of those tapes out there, but did you see any visuals? Anything? There’s certain things that the new guy is doing to create momentum or energy.

They just sit there and wait. When someone works for you, you have the habit of dealing with things by not dealing with them. You may get in the regimen of coming over and doing it for them."

Wave Mercury Rise Above

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With over 120 stellar processors and over 400 component plugins, Mercury features more Waves in one package than ever before!

From time-domain effects to equalizers, from dynamics control to noise reduction, from guitar sound modeling to the sound of classic analog components, there has never been such a comprehensive collection as this. 

The Mercury Collection offers more effects, more channel components, more mixdown tools, more processors than ever before in one place.

Finally-the world of Waves in one massive collection.Waves Mercury.
*SSL 4000 Collection not included




Read more:

Azealia Banks Addresses T.I. Twitter Tantrums

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Azealia Banks

Music newcomer Azealia Banks has come clean on making headlines earlier this year for publicly going at T.I.

and admitted she regrets taking out her issues through Twitter.

Banks said her problems with Tip stemmed from his persistence in defending Grand Hustle's Iggy Azalea in light of their short-lived feud.








"It's like, "Listen, T.I., if I was a f*cking boy you wouldn't say anything to me." But when I'm a girl and I say something back, the media wants to turn it into all these different things. Rappers beef all the time. I said what I said about [Iggy Azalea] and kept it moving. Then a month later you said what you said. And it keeps coming up. Leave it alone. I didn't say she couldn't rap. I said something very real. Out of everything, she had to [call herself] "a runaway slave master"? C'mon, that's not swag. That's not fly sh*t." (VIBE)

Azealia also admitted despite the frequency, she regretted the Twitter clashes.
"Of course, because it's e-thugging... Who wants to look like that? But how else am I gonna reach y'all? I don't have a T.I. to get on a radio show and defend me; I'm the one behind me. Y'all expect me to agree like, "Oh yea, I'm wack. I only have one song." That's one song y'all n*ggas don't f*cking have. You might win some, but you just lost one." (VIBE)

Last April, the rapper took to Twitter and unleashed multiple disses at the "King of the South."
"@tip What a f-cking clown," she tweeted Monday (April 23).

"@tip ain't you the same dude that got photographed butt naked n a pair of sneakers and a beanie???!?!"

"@tip it's dead... The streets already know what kind of dude you are. Stop making yourself look softer by dragging this out."

"@tip funny how you have plenty of time to address me but nothing to say to the dudes who have been calling you a snitch forever." (Azealia Banks' Twitter)

Her remarks were fueled by Tip's decision to openly speak on the Iggy feud in a radio interview.
"See, the thing about that is I ain't even know anything about it until just now. I ain't even see it. I know they are going through their thing. But in regards to her speaking upon me and mine, I ain't even see it. That is what I consider-and excuse my language-but that's b*tch sh-t. I am a man. You ain't have no business addressing me. When you get a man, get him to address me and he and I can speak on it. But you and me ... Keep dealin with that woman [Iggy]. Y'all handle that. Me and you ain't got nowhere to go with that." (Morning Riot)



BUJU BANTON REQUEST FOR NEW TRIAL DENIED

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Feburary of lasy year, famed raggae artist, Buju Banton was convicted of cocaine trafficking and conspiracy conviction that landed him a 10-year.

Since then he has attempted to appeal the desicion.

A judge has denied Buju's request for a new trial, stating there is no need because of a previous appeals court ruling. In June, Atlanta's appeals court upheld Banton's conviction, ruling that there was sufficient evidence to prosecute him.


Banton's attorney filed a motion in July seeking a new trial, a request that Judge James Moody denied yesterday.


Lupe Fiasco says his Commercial Rap Career Is “Coming To An End”

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Lupe Fiasco continues to promote his on-again-off-again relationship with the music game.
Rather than just throwing in the towel, in an interview with Big Von of Bay Area radio station, 106 KMEL, Fiasco explained why he's still around.

“I'm on my way out,” he said. “I remember Jay-Z was like ‘Grand opening, grand closing.' We were like in the studio, and he was like ‘Man, you gotta' close strong too,you can't just sneak out the back.'”

Fiasco is never one to mince words when it comes to politics, or his disdain for his record label and Hip-Hop in general, all of which may have helped him reach the conclusion that his career is going in a different direction.

 But since he is involved in a business, there are still a few loose ends that he needs to tie up. “Everything is a process, I still have contractual obligations, I still have to set up the system of what is post-industry Lupe's gonna' look like.”

Once he gets everything in order the Chicago native said that he will focus less on the Fiasco that the Hip-Hop world once knew, and cross over into his true self. “It's definitely coming to an end, and I say ‘An end' in its commercial space. I've kind of had my feel with being in the commercial space, I want to get more

into the artist space.”
For those fans still interested in “commercial Lupe,” be on the lookout for his forthcoming Food & Liquor 2 album set to drop this fall.

Watch the video below


Raekwon takes a trip down memory lane to discuss "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx

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Raekwon takes a trip down memory lane to discuss "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx," speaking on the impact of the purple tape.

While analyzing his own purple tape, Raekwon began to reminisce. The Wu-Tang emcee recently did this with 3 Little Digs, reminding himself and others of the '90s.

In his trip down memory lane, The Chef explained that he was never meant to go solo but that he was excited for his first release, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.

"I wasn't supposed to do a solo," he shared in the interview, before candidly explaining why he wasn't jumping to do work without his Wu brethren. "I was scared."

However that changed once The Chef began working on his project.

"I was amped when we made this," he said while holding the tape. "I was talkin' movie shit and everything...But I didn't know it was gonna pop off like that."

When pondering about the success of the tape, Rae noted that it was realistic and relatable to many. 

"This started a nation of goons, man, a nation of political goons that came through," he added. "Niggas really love this shit because they believed a nigga.

Watch the video below for more

Eminem Speaks About Rap and How He Almost Quit His First Deal

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Eminem says that he almost quit Rap after bombing his first live performance.

He may now be one of the world's highest selling emcees, but there was once a time before Eminem found fame and acclaim.

Now, The List reports that Marshall Mathers actually almost gave up on his career before it even started.

Em recalled that he almost gave up on music after getting booed off stage at his first live performance. Despite the trauma of bombing on stage, he worked past it and grabbed the mic once again. He went on to say that rapping has been his driving force in life and helped him come back from his lowest moments.

"The first time I rapped in front of actual people that mattered, in a club, I got booed. And it was very traumatic for me," he said.

"I just remember it being so fucking traumatic, and I think I went home and I was like, man, I quit. And you know a week later, a day later, an hour later I got the urge, and I was like, I gotta get up, I gotta do it again."

He went on to say, "I certainly feel like if it wasn't for Rap, obviously, I wouldn't be here, but it gave me my voice, it gave me my outlook, it gave me strength, you know what I came back from, overdose and a whole load of shit - without rap I wouldn't be able to do a fucking thing."

GoldenEyeMusic Presents ''We Made IT v.1''

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Check out the new music video from ''We Made IT v.1'' (out since 18th June 2012) Joke ''MTP Anthem'' prod Richie Beats (#GEMG)


'We Made IT vol.1'' is exclusively produced by the Golden Eye Music's beatmakers Cannibal Smith, Blastar & Richie Beats (who have produced many hits in France) and gather a selection of  the biggest names in French rap like RIM-K, LINO, MAC TYER, NIRO, SADEK, DIXON, AMY, LADEA SADEK, LYGNE 26 and more.

To buy it: Itunes





Check Out The Video Below From ''We Made It''


Promoters Call Nicki Minaj “False”,

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Nicki Minaj wrapped up her Dallas stop during her tour.

She  tweeted to fans that there would be no after party.

However, according to Zouk nightclub, Minaj missed her appearance after being paid $30,000 to attend.

 “From my understanding, she was outside, she had shown up, her security had done a walk through and she just decided not to come in”, Claims Zouk's rep Matt Cislo.

 According to Zouk, they received copies of the money transfer and contract from an outside promoter and Pink Personality LLC, that claimed to have been associated with Minaj's group.

“We looked at their contracts, the wire transfer, we had seen everything; that's why we went through with the show,” Cislo added.
Minaj also tweeted about the promoters who sold tickets under false pretenses. “As soon as everyone found out she wasn't showing up on Twitter they were messaging us, text message, emails, you know why are you putting on a fake show? Just gives us a bad rep,” Cislo explained.


Beanie Sigel On The Pre-Prison U.S. Tour

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State Property ringleader and Ruffhouse Records/EMI-signed rapper Beanie Sigel has announced that he will be embarking a “Pre-Prison Tour” in support of his new project new project, This Time.

According to a statement from Ruffhouse Records, Beanie Sogel will be heading to New York and out west to California, while several other dates are expected to be added to tour.

The “Pre-Prison Tour” will also feature appearances on NBC’S Late Night Show with Jimmy Fallon, BET’s 106 & Park, and several media appearances to promote the album and new single, “The Reunion”.

On the new single, Beanie Sigel brings together his former State Property group of Omillio Sparks, Young Chris, Peedi Crakk, and Freeway, previously assembled on Roc-A-Fella Records.

“The Reunion” samples Sly & the Family Stone’s “You Can Make It If You Try”, and received airplay during its first radio week at major urban stations like Hot 97 in New York, Power 99 in Philadelphia, WPWX in Chicago, and Sirius Shade 45 and Hip Hop Nation.

The 11-track album, produced by Beanie Sigel & Alex “Don Cheegro” Chiger, also features Akon and the Game and is set for worldwide release on the newly revived Ruffhouse Records distributed by EMI Label Services.

“It’s real life stories,” Beanie explained. “People go through things and that’s the music that I make. My music is honest. You have a lot of dudes that live the façade. They start falling to the character that they are portraying in the music. I don’t do that.”

Two weeks after the release, Beanie Sigel aka the “Broad Street Bully” will go to federal prison to begin serving a two-year sentence.

“Regardless of his unfortunate situation, Beanie has created a tremendous body of work that is totally worthy of the Ruffhouse name,” says CEO of Ruffhouse Records, Chris Schwartz. “He stands tall among all the major MCs and he’s revered by all hip-hop aficionados around the world. We’re extremely proud to be re-launching Ruffhouse Records with Beanie Sigel as our first artist.”

Beanie Sigel’s current “Pre-Prison” tour includes the following performances and appearances:

New York (Aug. 16 @ S.O.B.’s)

BET’s 106 & Park (Aug. 24th)

Los Angeles (Aug. 30 @ The Key Club)

Oakland, CA (Aug. 31 @ The New Parish).

NBC’s Jimmy Fallon Show (Sept. 6th w/ The Roots)

Florida Man Defends His Crime By Telling Police " I Only Shot A N! "

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Florida is losing. As if the tragic, death of  Trayvon Martin didn't leave enough of a stain on the state's growing reputation for being the epicenter of racist acts, another figure has offered up more proof.

Walter Henry Butler shot his Black neighbor in the face Monday (July 30) night, and allegedly admitted his crime to police, telling them “I only shot a ni**er!”

The Port St. Joe resident was reportedly “annoyed” by being arrested for shooting 32-year-old Everett Gant, with a .22 caliber rifle, at the Pine Ridge Apartments.

According to police, Butler, 59, has a history of showering Black children in the complex, with racial slurs. He reached a new level of disgusting behavior when he fired at Gant— who came to speak with him about his behavior— then closed his door, called 911, and finished preparing dinner.

“He was brought to the investigation unit where he was interviewed and basically admitted to shooting the victim and said he shot a, used a racial slur, and said that is what he shot and acted like it was not like a big deal or anything to him,”said Gulf County Sheriff Joe Nugent.

Butler is being held at the Gulf County Jail. He faces attempted murder, and hate crime charges.

Gant is in the hospital, and is expected to survive.


Lupe Fiasco says That "97 Percent Of Hip Hop Is Terrible

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Last week, Lupe Fiasco made comments that “97 percent of Hip Hop is terrible,” explaining that the substance of mainstream music isn’t of quality. During an interview with “Windy City Live” (via FSD), the Chicago, Illinois native elaborated on his comments, stating that the culture is technically at a high point but the messages in the music are subpar.

“I think the substance of it. I think technically, it’s great. The music is as well-produced as it’s ever been, videos are as polished, the chains are as clean, the models are as beautiful as they’ve ever been… But then you get into the substance of the records. The majority of commercial Hip Hop – most of what everybody sees is commercial Hip Hop – is lacking substance. Terribly.”

The outspoken rapper explained what it would take for Hip Hop to get back to a good place. He said that there are few artists who are willing to address the problems in Hip Hop but the problems have become the norm.

“I think there should be a balance. On the radio, you turn it on and every other record is referring that bitch, that negative lifestyle. There’s a premium kind of put on the things that are somewhat whimsical but at the same time dangerous. It’s funny. Over the past 10 years, the things in Hip Hop that we’ve allowed to become the norm. It’s kind of taboo at a certain point to address a certain issue. And the artists that did it, people like Eminem, you knew they were all through the roof because it was so exotic and so through the roof.”

Watch the full interview below.

Snoop Dogg says He's The Reincarnation of Bob Marley

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The West Coat legend also officially announces his name change to Snoop Lion and previews his upcoming Reggae project, "Reincarnated."

From Murder Was The Case to porn to competing on The Price Is Right, pigeonholing Snoop Dogg is impossible. 

The Rap legend's storied, 20-plus year career seemingly tap dances on every cultural touch point. His latest redux: the birth of Snoop Lion.

The artist formerly known as Snoop Dogg officially announced his new moniker, Snoop Lion, along with the upcoming release of his first Reggae album, Reincarnated yesterday in Manhattan's Miss Lily's restaurant. Flanked by his business partner, Ted Chung, Reincarnated's producer Diplo (of Major Lazer), Suroosh Alvi (CEO and co-founder of VICE Media), and MTV's Sway Calloway who moderated the event -- Snoop detailed the unexpected spiritual journey that incited his latest evolution. 


"I had no plans on going to Jamaica, making a Reggae record or nothing," he explained to the gaggle of media members in attendance. "The spirit called me...it told me to find something that's connected towards the Bob Marley spirit because I always thought I was Bob Marley reincarnated. It drew me to Jamaica." Snoop continued:

"It's not Snoop Dogg on a Reggae track. I want to bury Snoop Dogg and become Snoop Lion. But I didn't know that until I went to the temple. 


The high priest, when I walked in, he asked what is my name. I said, 'Snoop Dogg.' He said, 'No more...You are the light. You are the Lion.' From that moment on, I had started to understand why I was there. We hadn't even recorded one song, but I was taking all of this information and spirit."

"I didn't know what Snoop wanted," said Diplo, describing his initial reaction when first approached about Reincarnated. "I didn't know if was going to be Dancehall. But he loved the records that we were doing and he wanted to do real Reggae music. He wanted to sing and find a new voice and make good music."

Reincarnated is a three piece endeavor. In conjunction with the Reggae album, there is also a photo book shot by Los Angeles photographer Willie T on the way, and a documentary film created by VICE Media detailing Snoop's career evolution that has been accepted into this year's Toronto International Film Festival. "I thought we'd film like 20 minutes and this would be some extra online viral accents that will go along with the album whenever it comes out," said Suroosh Alvi. "After being in Jamaica for three or four days with Snoop and the whole team, I realized we're making a feature length documentary. This is amazing."

With a musical career littered with fantastic gangsta raps and unabashed pimpery, Reincarnated signals the maturation of the now 40-year old emcee. 


He's excited about being able to perform songs suitable for "kids and [his] grandparents" and spoke at length about a song entitled "No Guns Allowed," one of his personal favorites. "[This journey] helped me to tap into something that I have never been able to," he said. "I could never make a song called 'No Guns Allowed' because I'm supposed to be a gangster...But after looking at the world for what it is now, and my kids, and all the things that go on in life, I feel like there should be no guns allowed."

When asked , Snoop also reflected on the results of the Protect The West Summit he organized in 2005 in effort to quell conflict amongst West Coast emcees:

"Today as I look at it right now, that's why they hail me as the king of the West Coast; as Uncle Snoop, because of the things that I have done to Protect The West -- to make sure that we have something. To make sure that we don't kill each other and shoot each other and bad mouth each other to where the people up top don't close down the industry and say, 'Y'all can't eat in this avenue anymore.


' This is still a business. That's what I try to teach the brothers everyday. [There's] more crimes committed with us on us than anybody else. If we can change a few thoughts and make a few people wake up and say that it's ok to be cool with them years later after we had problems with them -- that's old and gone with, lets work on tomorrow -- that keeps us alive. That keeps us strong  That keeps us healthy. It keeps us one. It keeps us growing. 

We have to keep that alive for our youth; for the generations coming after us. Remember when you was a kid and you were aspiring to be someone that inspired you? We have to be that because we've been given the light. I'm behind you now, so my light will continue to shine."