JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta), Author at AllHipHop

AllHipHop.com Gets Schooled by the “Leaders of the New Cool” at CMJ Showcase

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: FeaturesOctober 26, 2011

For those that don’t know or are based outside of the New York area, the annual CMJ Music Marathon and Film festival invaded the city. With over 10,000 acts performing multiple shows over the course of four days, CMJ always guarantees a lot to take in. After 20 years, the festival has taken on an entirely new life of its own, and is now looked at as the perfect launching pad for both new and upcoming artists looking to break into the industry in a major way. All music genres are represented at CMJ, and a number of the events mix up the types of artists and genres so that more of the general audience, potential fans, and music buyers, can get a taste of all of the different musical flavors. Since its inception, CMJ has had artists like Eminem, Q-Tip, Yelawolf, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chuck D, KRS-One, Run-DMC, and more take on different roles as performers and speakers throughout the festival’s four-day run. At one of many CMJ showcases taking place at S.O.B.’s, a number of up-and-coming artists rocked short sets for a full house. The night was dubbed “The Collab,” and was being promoted through the Leaders of the New Cool and Hustlepalooza. Artists like Get Busy Committee, Nakim, Sir Michael Rocks, Iggy Azalea, Kris Kasanova, Mr. MF eXquire, Tuki Carter, Troy Ave., Skeme, and Action Bronson were all on the bill and all equally did their thing on stage. The power-packed night closed with a surprise performance from Mos Def, who was playing spectator in a more private section of the venue for a majority of the night. Among the topics discussed with most of the artists was the importance of CMJ for launching new artists’ careers, what everyone is working on music-wise, and some general thoughts about their peers and the music industry. Check out what the artists AllHipHop.com got to speak had to say that night: Nakim The Harlem native whose recent ode to Young Jeezy, “We Need Jeezy,” has been making quite the impact online, spoke on CMJ’s incorporation in other cities and what it means to him to be performing there. He also schooled those that don’t know Nakim on what they need to know about him. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFNtJWtg-sE&w=560&h=315] Get Busy Committee The Hip-Hop group consisting of rappers Ryu and Apathy and producer Scoop Deville has been making a considerable amount of noise over the past two years. While all members of the group rap on their tracks, Scoop, who has produced for the likes of Snoop Dogg, Murs, Game, and Fat Joe, handles all production duties. They recently released their new mixtape, Opening Ceremony, to help promote the new album of the same name dropping in early 2012. See what else they had to say below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcgCX1r4TXU&w=560&h=315] Tuki Carter Not only is Tuki Carter a top-notch lyricist and performer, he is also one of the most renowned tattoo artists in Hip-Hop. Over the years, Tuki has inked up Rick Ross, Wiz Khalifa, Amber Rose, and more. Among the many projects he’s a part of, his new mixtape, Atlantafornication, is set to drop sometime before the end of the year. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_But-fjXPMU&w=560&h=315] Skeme The Inglewood, Californnia rapper, whose biggest inspiration is music itself, stopped to talk about his relationship with the other artists performing that night, the differences between New York and California, and what fans can expect from him going forward. His mixtape, The Statement, is available now for download, and the follow-up, The Statement 2, is currently in the works. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bk6KlR5A47w&w=560&h=315] T. Mills Showing up for a surprise appearance during his boy Skeme’s set, Columbia Records’ Hip-Pop artist T. Mills spent a few minutes with AllHipHop.com talking about how the type of music he makes fits into the bigger Hip-Hop landscape, and more. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kObzwi076k&w=560&h=315] Troy Ave “Mr. Harry Powder” has had no problem making a name for himself as of late. The Brooklyn bred rapper is a high energy and gritty lyricist with his eyes set on the prize. His “real talk” approach to his music has helped Troy become a new staple in the re-emergence of New York Rap. Check out the video below for an interesting story about that night’s performance, his relationship with Mobb Deep member Prodigy, as well as details on what fans can expect next from his music and beyond. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhC6fGnMNXA&w=560&h=315] Action Bronson Always one to give some of the most humorous interviews, on this night, Action Bronson didn’t disappoint. The showcase headliner spoke on not really knowing what CMJ was, but said he was glad to perform at so many different shows. His Well Done album with Statik Selektah is being released on November 22, and he’s also hooked up with Asher Roth recently. Find out more below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjC9hG4hz8I&w=420&h=315] Despite hour-long lines and wall-to-wall crowds, the CMJ experience is worth the yearlong wait between festivals. A number of companies, firms, and sponsors threw their own events, such as Converse’s “True Till Def,” which featured Action Bronson, AraabMUZIK, Mr. MF eXquire, and a number of thrash metal bands. There was also the “Duck Down vs. BlackSmith” showcase that featured acts from both rosters like Talib Kweli, Kidz In the Hall, Smif-N-Wessun, Buckshot, Statik Selektah, and many more. CMJ seems to be endless, and finding “the place to be” on a particular night can turn into a small problem. But, the fact of the matter is that during CMJ, everywhere is the place to be. For more information, check out CMJ.com

Soulja Boy Signing Copies of His Movie in New York Today

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: NewsOctober 25, 2011

(AllHipHop News) At 3:00 today, rapper and actor Soulja Boy will be signing copies of his new self-titled movei at Community on 54 Clinton Street, between Rivington and Stanton, in New York City. The first 150 fans who purchase Soulja Boy: The Movie will receive an autograph. The film, which was directed by award-winner Peter Spirer, offers an “unprecedented and illuminating look at the life and career of one of the most controversial and successful music star sensations of the digital era. Directed by Academy Award™ nominated director Peter Spirer (Notorious B.I.G. Bigger than Life, Tupac Shakur: Thug Angel), the film focuses on the many fascinating and fractious facets of DeAndre Cortez Way, otherwise known worldwide as Soulja Boy Tell Em. The movie Features exclusive live performances from The DeAndre Way Tour including “Crank That,” “Turn My Swag On,” “Kiss Me Thru The Phone,” “Donk,” “Speakers Going Hammer, and more.” Plus over 45 minutes of special features, including exclusive interviews with Soulja Boy’s father as well as current and former members of S.O.D.M.G.” The movie was released last Tuesday, the same day that Soulja Boy and four other men were arrested for possession of marijuana and a firearm. Soulja Boy was later released on a $10,000 bond. Watch the movie’s trailer below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmgH3bVrbmw&w=560&h=315]

Hip-Hop Rumors: T.I. and Jeezy “Watch the Throne,” Too? “8 Mile” Sequel In Works!? GTA V!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 25, 2011

Jeezy and T.I. Collaboration Album In the Works? After performing together at the BET Hip-Hop Awards, and Tip being featured on Jeezy’s new single “F.A.M.E.,” word has begun to spread that the two Atlanta-bred artists will be linking up for a collaboration album similar to Watch the Throne. In an interview with Billboard, Jeezy said: “Me and Tip actually were together and we [talked] about it. We’ve just hit the ground running and been doing so many records that I don’t think it’s impossible. And we’ve known each other [long] enough to put something like that together, and I definitely think that the city would need it, because it would be a good look. And it would be an amazing album release party, by the way.” Jeezy also has a NEW release date for T.M. 103, which is slated to drop on December 20. Amen. Eminem Working on “8 Mile” Sequel? Not Exactly… Eminem and Sons of Anarchy creator Kurt Sutter have been shopping around the project Southpaw for quite a while now. After being dropped by Dreamworks during the summer, both Sony and MGM studios have shown interest in picking it up and starting production. Sutter recently described to Deadline how the film is a continuation of Eminem’s story and life seen in 8 Mile; however, this film would show Shady’s next chapter told through the perspective of boxing. Check it: “In a way, this is a continuation of the 8 Mile story, but rather than a literal biography, we are doing a metaphorical narrative of the second chapter of his life. He’ll play a world champion boxer who really hits a hard bottom, and has to fight to win back his life for his young daughter. At its core, this is a retelling of his struggles over the last five years of his life, using the boxing analogy. I love that the title refers to [Eminem] being a lefty, which is to boxing what a white rapper is to hip hop; dangerous, unwanted and completely unorthodox. It’s a much harder road for a southpaw than a right-handed boxer.” Maybe this time Em can get that Oscar nomination he was snubbed for back in 2003. Grand Theft Auto V!!!!!!! Some huge video game news was made today when the good folks at Rockstar Games updated their website to feature the image you see above. On November 2, they will be releasing the game’s first trailer. Expect the game to actually get released sometime next fall. Could the “V” have something to do with Vice City? Sound off! Quickies: -Sir Michael Rocks of The Cool Kids has officially joined Curren$y’s Warner Bros. imprint Jet Life Recordings as a solo artist. -Kim Kardashian will be co-starring in Tyler Perry’s next film, The Marriage Counselor. The End. -Yelawolf and B.O.B. are currently working on a collaborative project. -J. Cole is setting a tentative June 2012 release date for his sophomore album. -Lindsay Lohan will be collecting $1 million from Playboy for her “spread.” -The Black Eyed Peas are taking a break/hiatus and not “breaking up.” Hmmmmm. –Akira, one of the most famous Mangas of all time, has been greenlit as a feature film for Warner Bros with production set to start in February. Any fans? -If you haven’t heard by now, MC Hammer has created his own “relationship” search engine called WireDoo. Not a joke.

Music Review: Statik Selektah – Population Control

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: Reviews / MusicOctober 25, 2011

STATIK SELEKTAH’S MC-PACKED PROJECT RELEASES TODAY!

The Coming of Age of Diggy Simmons

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: FeaturesOctober 20, 2011

DIGGY CONTINUES THE SIMMONS FAMILY TAKEOVER! READ ABOUT HIS TOUR & MORE!

AllHipHop.com Covers the 2011 New York Comic-Con

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: LifestyleOctober 19, 2011

Comic book, movie, video game, anime, and television lovers from all over the world came together over a three-day period in New York City to celebrate their unified love and passion for all things “geek.” And, at New York Comic-Con, when you see a robot, fairy, superhero, ninja, or some other homemade-creation walk by, you do what is expected of you – take a picture. As part of AllHipHop.com’s coverage of the 2011 NY Comic-Con, which took place at the Jacob Javits Center this past weekend, I was sent into the lion’s den to partake in the one-of-a-kind experience that tens of thousands of people flock to on a annual basis. I was excited about the opportunity to participate exclusive panels, previews, giveaways, surprises, and more. The recap will be broken up into categories of Film, Comics, Video Games, and Television. Along with trailers, previews, and exclusive information, at the bottom of the recap, check out a full gallery of exclusive pictures taken from New York Comic-Con. First, let’s get right into the one of convention’s biggest panels – Marvel Studios’ The Avengers: Film: Marvel Studios’ The Avengers [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDV-t5sgDgI&w=560&h=315] I mean, what more really needs to be said? Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, Hawkeye, and Nick Fury, all on the same team and in the same movie! After Marvel Studio head Kevin Feige played the trailer for the crowd, stars Chris Evans, who plays Captain America; Tom Hiddleston, who plays Loki; Colbie Smulders, who plays S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Maria Hill; Clark Gregg, who plays Agent Coulson; and Mark Ruffalo, who plays the new Bruce Banner/Hulk, came onstage for a moderated discussion about the film. There were a ton of questions from the audience, and then Comic-Con’s biggest event, an exclusive, world-premiere preview of a scene from The Avengers. The scene found Bruce Banner hiding out in India where he is cornered and found by Black Widow, who is played by Scarlett Johanssen. Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury wants to bring Banner in to help them with a global threat. The exchange between then two characters is great, as is the slowly building tension brewing on-screen. The extra footage we saw was cut like a new trailer, with shots of the Helicarrier, dialogue between Tony Stark and Loki, and some banter between Stark and the Captain. In May, prepare for what could potentially become the biggest movie of all time to be playing at a theater near you! DC Universe Animated Movies Another one of the standout panels AllHipHop.com attended was for DC Universe’s Animated Movies. Included in the presentation was a discussion on Batman: Year One, which is now in stores, the animated short Catwoman, which was screened in its entirety for the audience who erupted in applause as the short ended, and a preview of the upcoming film, Justice League: Doom which is set for release in February of 2012. Wearing a “What Would Batman Do?” shirt, Gary Mierreanu from Warner Home Video moderated the panel, which also included a special appearance by the voice of Catwoman, Eliza Dushku (Bring It On, Dollhouse). Along with executive producer Bruce Timm and casting director Andrea Romano, the “voice of Batman,” Kevin Conroy, joined the panel-members on stage for some questions as well. Fans of the graphic novel should enjoy the film, as it does not stray from the original material at all, which to some could be a point of criticism. Decide for yourself when you see the movie and check out the trailer below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdMtMU91u0U&w=560&h=315] Red Tails For those who don’t know, Red Tails is a film about the Tuskegee Airmen that has been in the pipeline for years and was produced by Star Wars creator George Lucas. “This is a film about heroes not victims,” said Aaron McGruder, creator of The Boondocks and the screenwriter of Red Tails. This is an in your face, epic looking, emotional and action packed film for the generation of history and film lovers that feel the Airmen have not been getting their due nowadays in the classrooms. Sitting next to one of the actual Tuskeegee Airmen was the panel’s surprise guest, Aaron McGruder and actors Michael B. Jordan (The Wire, Friday Night Lights) and Leslie Odom, Jr. (CSI). The actors discussed their own experiences of boot camp, learning how to fly, their undying respect and admiration for the original airmen, and what it meant to them to be a part of a film like this. Some behind-the-scenes videos were played for the crowd, which showed the actors as they were being flown around at Top Gun-like speed. The film also stars Cuba Gooding Jr., Terrence Howard, Bryan Cranston, Method Man, and Ne-Yo. Several aerial dogfight clips from the movie were shown as well, and it looks absolutely amazing. The dogfights actually make the hairs on your back and arm rise with their realistic and stunning effects and cinematography. On January 20, 2012, make sure you are supporting this film in theaters. Check out the official film trailer below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpA6TC0T_Lw&w=560&h=315] Sony Pictures (Underworld: Awakening, Total Recall, Ghost Rider) The Con’s last film panel was for Sony Pictures upcoming slate, and although the crowd thought that it would only be seeing a sneak preview of the new Ghost Rider film Sprit of Vengeance, instead there was an exclusive world premiere trailer for the fourth film in the Underworld franchise. There was also a five-minute preview sequence from the upcoming Total Recall remake starring Colin Farrell, and a 3D preview of Ghost Rider. Yes, he actually p##### fire in the new movie! But, let me speak briefly on the first two things the crowd witnessed. If you liked the past Underworld movies, you are going to feel right at home, as it seems that the only thing different about this one, other than them filming in 3D, is the fact that there now exists a Lycan in the film that is well over 15 feet tall. Oh yeah, and Kate Beckinsale is […]

Hip-Hop Rumors: T.I. Has Album Title Crisis! Soulja Boy Says He Didn’t Do It! Obamas vs. Kardashians!?

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 19, 2011

T.I. and the Case of the Album Titles… The first of two album titles I’m debating is “Kill the King” because in all that I’ve gone through I’ve observed how people respond to my circumstances, and I always wonder ‘Why y’all coming at me like this?’ But I thought, ‘How do you expect them to act?’ Life is a game of chess and the object is to kill the king. If you anoint yourself king, you have made yourself a target. The second one is self-explanatory – “Trouble.”” This comes from a recent interview Tip did with Rolling Stone magazine that you can check out in its entirety here. Kill the King or Trouble, which one are you feeling? Obamas vs. Kardashians!? Not exactly…the First Lady recently sat down for an interview and revealed that despite not really letting their daughters watch TV or surf the internet during the week unless it’s school related, she does occasionally watch Keeping Up With the Kardashians with them to the chagrin of their father, President Barack Obama. She said, “Barack really thinks some of the Kardashians – when they watch that stuff – he doesn’t like that as much, but I sort of feel like if we’re talking about it, and I’m more concerned with how they take it in – what did you learn when you watched that. And if they’re learning the right lessons, like, that was crazy, then I’m like, okay.” Living in this digital age where everyone always has an eye on them, it’s kind of surprising that there haven’t been any attempts at an “Obama Show.” Who would win in a battle royale…the Obamas or the Kardashians? Soulja Boy Posts $10,000 Bond! After being arrested yesterday in Georgia along with four other men for possession of weed, a gun, and almost $50,000 in cash in a vehicle, Mr. Boy plead not guilty and was released after posting a $10,000 bond. Did he do it? I think sooooo. Peter Spirer, director of the movie that Soulja Boy is in that was released yesterday said, “”I’m not sure how this will affect the movie … Hopefully he gets out from this situation to get his movie out everywhere like he wanted.” If everywhere means bargain bins and shoddy entertainment sites than I’d say you’re on the right path friend!

Hip-Hop Rumors: T.I. and Howard Stern Talk Prison Fights!! Jay-Z Gets Animated! Bieber In a Cypher??!!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 18, 2011

T.I. : PRISON FIGHTS? UH-OH!

Hip-Hop Rumors: Tupac’s Unreleased Sex Tape Song Selling For $1 Million!?! Rick Ross Says Goodbye to Jet Life!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 17, 2011

Unreleased Song Featured in Tupac Sex Tape Gets Big A$$ Offer!! As TMZ first reported, an anti-hangover drink company called NOHO has offered to pay $1 million for the rights to the unreleased song Tupac was rapping along with … while he was being “tended to” by a very friendly female in the 1991 footage. Sources connected to the negotiations say the offer was big enough to catch the estate’s attention, because a rep for Pac’s people reached out to NOHO, and the two sides are trying to work out a deal. There’s only one problem… the estate doesn’t have possession of the sex tape and aren’t even sure which song is playing on it. So to clarify… $1 million is being offered for the rights to a song that no one knows what it is, or who it’s even by…they’re just “banking” on the possibility that it’s a never before heard Tupac song from a sex tape that hasn’t been released. I call bullsh*t. What about you? Rick Ross: From Jet Life to Bus Life… After the two seizures that rapper Rick Ross suffered over the weekend, good friend and producer DJ Khaled picked up his boy in Alabama where he was being hospitalized and transported him to Memphis on his luxurious tour bus, where they apparently checked out a new chicken wing spot. Their next stop is Atlanta. Stay healthy, Ross, and lay off that hot sauce!

Hip-Hop Rumors: Dre’s “Detox” Gets a Preview! Tupac Movie News!! Nicki Minaj’s 5-Year Plan?!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 13, 2011

Detox Gets A Preview and Dre Prioritizes Kendrick and Slim! [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPNiCeR-8aA&w=420&h=315] By the sound of it, the track could be called “Hey Young World.” The video was captured at Encore Studios in L.A. Keep holding your breath for a full album, though… Dre recently spoke to Global Grind and told them about his decision to focus on making music with/for Kendrick Lamar and Slim the Mobster for the next few years: “As soon as I get back to Los Angeles, I am back in the studio doing my thing. I have a couple of new artists that I am excited about, Kendrick Lamar and Slim The Mobster. These are the next two artists, and these are probably my final two artists that I am going to be working with at least for the next couple of years. I am going to devote all my attention to them and make sure their sh*t comes out the way it should be.” Geez, Dre. Spread the love (and great beats) around a little more! John Singleton to Direct Tupac Biopic? After being attached to N.W.A.’s Straight Outta Compton film, there has been recent talk that director Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, Footloose) will be taking over that gig, as John Singleton has moved on to the Tupac movie. Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) has already left the project. Singleton is no stranger to Tupac, as he directed the rapper/actor in Poetic Justice back in ’93. Should he even be worrying about bringing the lives of Hip-Hop stars to film, or more concerned with making a good movie period? (He really hasn’t since Four Brothers or Baby Boy). Nicki Minaj on Where She’ll Be in Five Years… “I’ll have hundreds of millions of dollars. I will have put out five albums and will have an Oscar and Grammys. And I will be getting married and, a couple of years after that, will have a bun in the oven.” Nothing wrong with setting goals for yourself, but an Oscar? Really, Nicki? Keep dreaming. Rumor Quickies: -Georgetown University offers a class called “Sociology of Hip-Hop: Jay-Z.” We say…teach! -Warner Bros. is in pre-production on 42, a film about the life of Jackie Robinson. -Tyler, the Creator interviewed Nas for XXL Magazine and asked him what we have all been dying to know…his favorite cheese… “Swiss. Cheddar for the most of my life. Today, it’s Swiss.” Now that we know Nas’ cheese preferences, we can all sleep at night. -Starting next week, Beats by Dre can be purchased in different colors: black, purple, silver, orange, red, and pink. -Prepare yourselves… Die Hard 5 A Good Day to Die Hard is on the way! -American Music Awards nominees for 2011 include Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, Pitbull, Chris Brown, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce, and of course…THE THRONE.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Drake Leaving Young Money?! MMG’s Newest Recruit? Avengers Assemble!!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 11, 2011

Drake Leaving Young Money After Take Care?!! Some inside sources/snitches in Drake’s camp are reporting that his time with Young Money is going to be ending soon. This is not the first time these rumors and reports have been made public, but now there seems to be some evidence to back it up. Last week, Drake announced his Club Paradise tour with Kendrick Lamar and A$AP Rocky; in other words, no Young Money brethren. On top of that, word is that Take Care is contractually Drake’s last album with Wayne’s Young Money imprint. November 15 is the new date…only time will tell. Maybach Music Group’s Newest Member is……..Emilio Rojas? [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsBswde4wcA&w=560&h=315] This would certainly be a good look for Emilio and an even better look for the growing MMG roster. Make a move, Mr. Rozay! Government Closing Tons of California Marijuana Dispensaries! Federal prosecutors said at a news conference that the crackdown is directed at the “commercial marijuana industry,” particularly operations near schools, parks and athletic fields. “We want to put to rest the notion that large marijuana businesses can shelter themselves under state law,” said U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag, the top federal prosecutor in San Francisco. Haag said the 1996 voter-approved law “has been hijacked by profiteers … using the cover to make enormous amounts of money.” In a separate statement, the U.S. attorney for the central district of California, André Birotte Jr., said: “It is important to note that for-profit, commercial marijuana operations are illegal not only under federal law, but also under California law. While California law permits collective cultivation of marijuana in limited circumstances, it does not allow commercial distribution through the store-front model we see across California.” Thoughts? What do you guys out in California think about this? Will the West Coast “medicinal weed” crowd survive? Avengers Assemble!!! Next summer brings two of the biggest movies of all time, The Avengers and The Dark Knight Rises. The trailer for The Avengers was released this morning. Check it out below and let us know what you think, and which movie you’re fiending more for! [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-84FIZ8-Ow&w=640&h=360] Illseed Quickies: -1999’s urban romantic-comedy The Best Man is getting a sequel that will feature all of the first film’s cast, including Taye Diggs, Nia Long, and Terrence Howard. -Amy Winehouse’s father will be writing a memoir on his daughter’s life. -Turtleneck sales jumped almost 100 percent following the death of Apple CEO Steve Jobs, whose biopic rights were recently purchased by Sony to turn into a feature film. -Beyonce’ will be adding J. Cole to the “Party (Remix),” which currently features Andre 3000. Video coming soon! -There has been strong word suggesting that Andre 3000 WILL be on Drake’s Take Care. -Former UFC Champion Brock Lesnar is making a return to the WWE next year. Do you care?

Yung Berg: 25 and Starting Fresh

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: FeaturesOctober 11, 2011

Over the past several years, Chicago rapper Yung Berg has released chart-topping and radio-friendly hits like “Sexy Lady,” “Do That There,” “Sexy Can I,” and “The Business.” Yet to many in Hip-Hop, those records just so happen to be by the same guy who was caught up in some of the Internet and tabloids’ biggest stories about chain-snatchings, beat downs, and arrests. Berg has had time to look back on the things that may or may not have happened as life lessons on what to not do when you’re riding high on the wave of success. More importantly, he’s learning not to let the negativity of others bring him down. Last month, on his 25th birthday, Berg officially launched Young Fly Movement Productions and announced his signing of two artists: female singer Mia Rey and rapper Driicky Graham. AllHipHop.com recently spent some time with Berg as he prepares to take the music world by storm once again. However, before letting the spotlight shine on himself as a solo artist, he’s preparing to wear the mogul hat and carve out a new path within the music industry. When all is said and done, Berg wants to put the past behind him and move forward to the next chapter of his life – making great music for himself and his new family of artists and producers. AllHipHop.com: What’s going on, Yung Berg? Yung Berg: Not much, man…just writing right now in the studio, working on some new music. AllHipHop.com: Before we get into the real topics at hand, briefly tell me a little about your first deal with DMX’s Bloodline Records. Yung Berg: Well, actually, I was like 14 years old [then], and my rap name used to be Ice Berg. I met DMX on the set of the “What These B*tches Want” music video shoot. I walked up to him and was like, “Yo, I want to spit for you, X,” and at that time I was a little little n*gga, I was like 4’4”. X was like “rap for my n*ggas, and they gon’ let me know if you can f*ck with the dog.” So his n*ggas that I ended up rapping for were two influential people in the music business right now – DJ LS One and also the legendary Swizz Beatz. I came with this super fast rap, and Swizz and everyone went crazy because they were like “damn this n*gga’s 14 and can rap this fast.” So they told me to chill and wait for X to be done with his shots for the video, and when he got to his trailer, Swizz told me to spit that same rap for X. He came back and said, “I’ma be real with you. I’m going to sign you. I want you to be on my label. It’s not gonna happen real quick, it’s not gonna happen tomorrow, but I’ma sign you.” Six months later down the line, I got that call, and I was the first artist signed to DMX’s record label off Def Jam. The rest is really history. AllHipHop.com: Do you still have any relationship with DMX or Swizz Beatz? Yung Berg: Yeah, as far as Swizz, we’re real cordial when we see each other and things of that nature. Like ultimately, my parents ended up pulling me out of my deal with DMX and shipping me off to boarding school and taking me out of that life cause I was really reckless at the time. I remember getting up with Eve – like Eve has been like a big mentor to me throughout my whole career. She’s like a big sister to me and really took me under her wing as a young artist. I was at Powerhouse Studios and battle-rapping with Cassidy and Larsiny and [Jada] Kiss and Styles and around the whole Ruff Ryder movement. So I’m cool and cordial with everybody. As far as DMX, I haven’t talked to him in like a year. He was in Arizona when I talked to him last, but when we talked, it was like no time had even passed. He was really proud of me and happy for me for doing my Yung Berg thing and wanted to get in the studio and make some music together. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fldFc756LAU&w=560&h=31] AllHipHop.com: That’s an awesome story, man, and something I’m sure a lot of people don’t even know. Now that your starting the new chapter of your life, can you tell me about your new company, Young Fly Movement Productions? Yung Berg: I was working with a couple of producers that I met and came up with and that I was able to do my hits with. Our relationships came to a strain because when I was going through personal things in my career, there were people starting to criticize me, or say different things about me. The people that I thought were in my corner and that I changed their lives and sold millions of records with, these people were no longer in my corner anymore. They thought it wasn’t a good look, and yet they were still with me, living at my house, and living off me, and I was still paying all the bills and feeding these people. But behind my back, they had their own intentions of what they wanted to do with their career and how they wanted to further it without Yung Berg being a part of it. At that point, I realized it and I moved to Miami, and I just really started focusing on myself and getting myself right. Just focusing on what I needed to do to really take things to the next level. From this I was able to sign six producers to Y.F.M., and I met them all on Twitter. So while we were making these moves behind the scenes, like we produced the record “John” for Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, we did the intro to Meek Mill’s mixtape, Dream Chasers, I was just like […]

Hip-Hop Rumors: Kanye and Russell #OccupyWallStreet! Steve Jobs’ 4-Year Plan?!

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: RumorsOctober 10, 2011

Kanye West and Russell Simmons #OccupyWallStreet! Mr. Simmons (@UncleRush) just tweeted the above photo of himself and rapper/producer Kanye West over at Liberty Plaza in NYC. No word on what his appearance means, or if there will some sort of event tonight, but head down there now to see what’s going on. Since September 17, many of the issues that Wall Street protesters have been griping over include the banks, the bailouts, income inequality, student debt, and corporations in general. For more information, visit OccupyWallSt.org Big Sean Debuts “All I Know” at Best Buy Theatre in NYC [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2u2-J5OBwY&w=560&h=315] We’re digging the rock feel. If you’re in the city, check out a special performance by Big Sean at the Hudson Hotel tonight as part of the third season of “Rising Icons.” (Wait. Didn’t he just have some legal issues? Where did that all go?) Steve Jobs Created 4-Year Plan Before Death?! There has been a stream of information coming in lately that recently deceased, former Apple CEO Steve Jobs was working on and had completed a four-year plan in the months leading up to his death. Some sources are “implying that Jobs put extra care on it, perhaps fearing that the company would steer away from his vision too soon after his death.” The Apple iPhone 4S is launching this week, so let’s keep a close eye on what happens over the next three years. Riiiiiight.

Hip-Hop Meets the House of Blues in Atlantic City: A Conversation with Jason Spencer

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: FeaturesOctober 10, 2011

Atlantic City is home to casinos, gambling, entertainment, fine dining, and the #1 House of Blues location in the United States in terms of ticket sales and the number of shows scheduled. In a place like Atlantic City, which rests in between New York City and Philadelphia, sights, sounds, and exquisite tastes are never in short supply. People should constantly be looking at Atlantic City, because as history at the House of Blues has shown, you never know when you could catch the next J. Cole, Lauryn Hill, or Wiz Khalifa performing. Ultimately, if more people were aware of the kind of talent that travels to Atlantic City, it would surely be on everyone’s radar as a “music destination.” AllHipHop.com got the chance to talk to Jason Spencer, Regional Director of Entertainment for the House of Blues, as well as a number of other lounges, clubs, and venues throughout Atlantic City. We spoke on his background, his introduction to the music industry, the process behind booking talent, and much more: AllHipHop.com: So, how exactly did you secure this position as Regional Director of Entertainment for Atlantic City? Jason Spencer: Well, I essentially went the old fashioned route, the school route. I went undergrad down at Morehouse College, majored in Marketing, went back to graduate school at NYU, and while I was there, I linked up with Reebok. I got to work on the S. Carter brand, so that was my first tie with the whole entertainment, music, marketing component, and while I was finishing up there I got recruited to go out to Vegas and work for Caesar’s Entertainment in their marketing department. Eventually because of my experiences and background and expertise, I was offered a job to come out to Atlantic City and become the Director of Marketing for the House of Blues here at Showboat, which is independent of the network. So, I was in charge of overseeing the concert venue, the Foundation Room, from a marketing perspective, and that eventually led to me being promoted to overseeing the region from an entertainment perspective, which is about four to five concert venues, multiple lounges, and a couple of night clubs. AllHipHop.com: What is the difference, in your own experience, between Las Vegas and Atlantic City? Jason Spencer: Well, it is essentially two different jobs. In Las Vegas, it was more on casino marketing and building out that brand. When I came over here to Atlantic City, it definitely transitioned to what I always wanted to do, which was leveraging entertainment as a vehicle to market something. Out here, it switched to marketing concerts and celebrity appearances; so really, two different jobs, outside the weather being different. AllHipHop.com: What goes into the process of deciding who you’re going to book, and who will perform here? Is it more of you and a team going out and securing talent, or is talent normally presented to you first? Jason Spencer: It’s a combinaton of both. I can tell you on the Hip-Hop side of things, it’s leaned a little more towards my team targeting artists. We do over a couple hundred shows, from Rock to Pop to R&B, and where a lot of those shows are part of a standard tour – which Hip-Hop also has – but we’ve set out and targeted artists. We have a formula for what we are looking for that tells us who we think is going to do well in the venue. So, it’s definitely a mix of both, but on the Hip-Hop side, I would say it’s 70 percent of us targeting and 30 percent artists coming through. AllHipHop.com: What are some of the factors in your formula that helps you decide what Hip-Hop artists to book down here? Jason Spencer: We look at a multitude of factors. Artists’ touring information, radio spins, what they have out right now, as well as multiple, different social components and the “heat” factor. That’s where that intelligence and being of the culture is the piece of it – where you know that this artist is hot. It’s that intuitiveness that the team comes together and says “this is the next one,” and we have to have all of our data that kind if supports it. But at the end of the day, you have to make that call, and use your instincts to a degree. AllHipHop.com: Is there an artist out there who has not performed at the House of Blues yet, but that you would love to book, both for yourself and for the people who visit and live in Atlantic City? Jason Spencer: It’s really just about someone making sense for a 2,500 seat venue, and we’ve always had success with that. Now, I would love to have some of the bigger artists come and play my venue, but it would not make sense financially or business-wise to have those in the venue. But I am really proud of what the team has put together and the roster of folks we’ve had come through here, from big to smaller acts. One thing that we have toyed with as well is putting together our own packages, so we created the “Legends of Hip-Hop” series where some of my favorite artists like Big Daddy Kane perform with Biz Markie and Naughty By Nature. So we’ve been trying to put together unique packages to fulfill everyone’s wants and needs, because ultimately it’s all about diversity here. AllHipHop.com: Can you tell me a little about your history with music? Jason Spencer: Yeah, I mean I grew up in a time where I consider myself part of Hip-Hop and its culture. I’m from New York, so just growing up there and then going down to Atlanta, which was great, at Morehouse where I learned. Primarily, I was East Coast before growing up, but being in Atlanta and that school, we had kids from all over the country, so that’s when you start hearing more about the music from California and Texas, and even some of the more Southern music and that whole […]

Game Reveals Dates For “The R.E.D. Album Tour”

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: NewsOctober 10, 2011

Compton rapper Game has announced U.S. tour dates for his upcoming “The R.E.D. Album Tour,” which will touch down in 24 cities over the course of the next two months. The tour will kick off at its first stop on October 4 in San Diego, CA at 4th & B, and wrap up on November 17 in the House of Blues in Dallas, Texas. Check out a full list of tour dates below. The R.E.D. Album, which released on August 23, debuted at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 chart, as well as the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts the week of its release. It features singles like “Red Nation” with Lil Wayne and “Pot of Gold” with Chris Brown. Tickets for “The R.E.D. Album Tour” are available now at Ticketmaster

Yelawolf Announces November 21st Release For Debut Album “Radioactive”

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: NewsOctober 9, 2011

(AllHipHop News) Shady Records artist Yelawolf has announced a final November 21st release date for his debut album Radioactive. The album, which was initially set to hit shelves on September 27th and later pushed back to October 24th, will be released on Ghet-O-Vision, Shady Records, and Interscope Records. When asked about the delay, Yelawolf said, “I needed to add some important finishing touches to the album, which resulted in the new release date. I have some surprises in store for the fans that have to be seen before the album comes out. It’s definitely worth the wait.” Confirmed features for the album include Lil Jon, Eminem, Gangsta Boo, Royce Da 5’9″, Kid Rock, and Fefe Dobson with production from Travis Barker, Jim Jonsin, Hydrox, and Diplo. The album’s first single, “Hard White (Up In the Club)” which features Lil Jon had a video released on September 20th that was directed by The Motion Family. Check it out below: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0rVRtXsiEo&w=560&h=315] “Radioactive” will be in stores November 21st Follow Yelawolf on Twitter (@Yelawolf)

Drake, A$AP Rocky and Kendrick Lamar Announce “Club Paradise Tour”

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: NewsOctober 7, 2011

Before rapper/singer Drake releases his sophomore album, Take Care (Young Money/Universal), on October 24, he will embark on a six-date tour with Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar and Harlem native A$AP Rocky. The current dates are listed below: 11/09/11 – Schottenstein Center [Columbus, OH] 11/10/11 – Bryce Jordan Center [University Park, PA] 11/13/11 – Assembly Hall [Champaign, IL] 11/15/11 – Fairfax, VA – Patriot Center 11/19/11 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena 11/20/11 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Coliseum For more information and to purchase tickets, visit LiveNation.

“Hiding in Hip-Hop” Author, Terrance Dean’s “Mogul”

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: AlternativesOctober 6, 2011

Right before the release of his bestselling book, Hiding in Hip-Hop: On the Downlow in the Entertainment Industry from Music to Hollywood (2008), Terrance Dean sent shivers through the industry with the fear that he was about to “out” some of Black entertainment’s most popular artists. But, cleverly, the book was full of blind items and did not name any names, prompting bloggers and readers to play guessing games. This June, Dean returns with his first novel, Mogul. Centered on the life and career of a rap mogul, Big A.T., who runs a successful label with some of biggest stars in the Hip-Hop industry, including his lover, superstar rapper, Tickman. The book is interesting and relatively realistic in it’s portrayal of the industry, Big A.T., is a character that the reader can love, hate, and love again. But, how is Mogul another blind item? Is the Hip-Hop industry ready for love scenes between men? Is Hip-Hop music and culture ready for an openly gay artist? AllHipHop.com talked to Terrance Dean about Hip-Hop and homosexuality. AllHipHop.com: What have you been doing since Hiding in Hip-Hop. Terrance Dean: I’ve written two other books, including Straight from your Gay Best Friend: The Straight-Up Truth about Relationships, Work, and Having a Fabulous Life, worked on some television and book projects. And I just finished Mogul which I am getting ready to tour with. AllHipHop.com: What was the motivation behind Mogul? Terrance Dean: Like in Hiding in Hip-Hop, which was my memoir, I really wanted to tell the story from a different perspective and a different character. I wanted to show this gay sub-culture that really does exist, that I think people are more aware of now. AllHipHop.com: Are the characters in the book based on real people? Terrance Dean: All the characters in Mogul are inspired by people that I know. Big A.T. is a combination of two people that I know. His character spoke a lot to me because I knew that character and I knew that story. I hope that when people read the book that they don’t try to match the characters with people. Look at the story, look at the plot. I really want people to think, ‘What would you do?’ We find Big A.T. caught in so many situations and challenges. He knows who he is on the inside, but there are so many outside forces that prevent him from being his true authentic self. AllHipHop.com: Do you think in any way that the book perpetuates gay stereotypes? Terrance Dean: What do you mean? AllHipHop.com: I mean gay, hypersexual guys, who are just turning out guys…lying to women? Terrance Dean: This is the entertainment industry; this is how the industry is on the inside. Look at the images of women and how they are portrayed in Hip-Hop. Hip-hop is a very hyper-sexual industry in itself. People often say that gays are so promiscuous but I think heterosexuals are far more promiscuous. This is just the industry and how it is, period. The industry perpetuates a hypersexual image. Whether hetero or homosexual. AllHipHop.com: How do we move beyond that? Terrance Dean: Conversations, books, look at Lil B, he is someone who wants to have that conversation. So many rappers are very progressive and can take the power from the word and ideology of gay. Those who are progressive in the Hip-Hop music have to be progressive enough to sit across from a gay man or woman and have that conversation about how can we grow as a community. That machisimo that hypersexuality is stifling our community. AllHipHop.com: With a character like Jasmine, (Big A.T.’s female love interest and baby momma) who finds out that the man she is in love with is gay, and not from him, and with the ideology of “down-low” men and the rise of HIV among black women, how should women react to the book? Terrance Dean: I think a lot of women are going to see themselves as Jasmine. Women who have been in a relationship with a man, and not even look at the sexuality, but are in relationships with men who are not giving themselves to them fully. I think that’s what Jasmine finds herself grappling with. She is trying to figure out who she is as well. I hope when women read her story, and I tried to be authentic to her story, I hope women find themselves thinking about finding their own identity. Jasmine is based on an actual woman. AllHipHop.com: So, who is your audience? Terrance Dean: Those who are interested in the industry as a whole. Women. I want women to be engaged. Hip-Hop has formed and shaped the mindset of so many of us. Look at our communities; we are starved, mentally and culturally. Look at magazines like Smooth and King, which keep women posed half-naked on our covers. Look at the HIV rates, black women are the most infected, why? Why is that so? Look at teen pregnancy; I want us to start these kinds of conversations. Look at down-low relationships; I want women to be able to engage in those kinds of conversations. I want the book to make people start to talk more and ask questions more. I think men need to look at this industry and understand how they may be approached in this industry; you will be approached in this industry. In the gay community we need to have these conversations. So many of us don’t identify who we are and we hide. I think African-American men we are more hidden than our Caucasian brothers. We are still hiding. AllHipHop.com: Do you think a major urban star, a Hip-Hop star, will ever come out? Terrance Dean: I think we are approaching that age. It’s obviously something that people know we can’t keep hiding and tucking in the closet. Look at Eddie Long and that whole situation, we need to have that conversation. I think a mainstream artist whom someone will never suspect will come out and […]

Knockout Nation: Butch Lewis’ Spectacular Homegoing Service

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: LifestyleOctober 6, 2011

Wilmington, Del. – “The Crew” had all assembled at Ronald E. “Butch” Lewis’ casket to pay their final respects – as TV’s Judge Joe Mathis described them, “40 Black men he connected over the years.” Lewis’ coveted “Crew” included actor Denzel Washington, actor/director Robert Townsend, comedian Michael Colyer, actor Leon, actor/comedian Darryl “Chill” Mitchell, Morehouse College President Robert M. Franklin, retired boxer Michael Spinks, singer Keith Washington, Great Debaters actor/nephew Stephen Rider, and many more Black men of stature and note. “Butch Lewis was the glue,” Rev. Al Sharpton, the eulogist of the hour, reiterated like many who paid tribute to the legendary boxing promoter, entrepreneur, and music label owner at his August 1 funeral. Referring to the Noah and the ark story in Genesis 7, Sharpton said, “Butch said his gift was to take things that didn’t seem like they belonged together, and put them together. ‘The Crew’ exemplified that.” Lewis’ was a homegoing service fit for a dignitary – so large, in fact, that it had to be held at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, the largest venue in the state of Delaware, with a viewing that started just after dawn. The celebration of life wasn’t for a politician, world leader, or Nobel Prize winner. It was for Lewis, who was known in VIP circles far and wide, yet was still considered a common man to the people in his home communities. Just as they had weeks earlier for his 65th birthday celebration, the important people came out again, to laugh, cry, and remember Lewis, who died suddenly on July 23 of natural causes at his home in Bethany Beach, Del. They all remarked that Lewis must have known he didn’t have long to live, and as Colyer said, planned a “pretranstional celebration.” They all talked about him living out the “dash” between his birth and death with hard work and passion. The incomparable Stevie Wonder was there this time, treating Lewis’ family to the one wish he hadn’t received on his birthday – a performance from Wonder himself, who roused the crowd immediately with his soulful rendition of “The Lord’s Prayer.” He followed with classics like “Overjoyed,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered [I’m Yours],” inviting audience participation in typical Stevie fashion. For this party of a different kind, the list of stars who came to pay tribute read like a Hollywood’s Who’s Who list, including retired boxers Muhammad Ali, Larry Hazzard, Mike Tyson, and Tommy Hearns. From the multimedia and literary world there was Radio One’s Cathy Hughes, BET’s Debra Lee and Bob Johnson, ESPN’s Keith “Clink” Scales, former Universal Motown president Sylvia Rhone, and author/scholar Michael Eric Dyson. Actors, athletes, and musicians came from far and wide – to name a few: Lynn Whitfield, Tim and Daphne Reid, and director John Singleton; producer Kedar Massenberg; former NBA player Magic Johnson and wife Cookie, former NBA player Charles Smith, and Five Heartbeats actor Michael Wright. Politicians such as Kweisi Mfume, Del. Governor Jack Markell, and former Congressman Mike Castle were there, too. There were also droves of regular people there – from Lewis’ nearby hometowns of Chester, Pa., and Woodbury, NJ., and from his longtime state of residence, Delaware. In Delaware, the boxing promoter had settled into a well-known rock star life at the beach, where he often played host to close friends like Denzel Washington and sometimes Michael Jordan. Lewis hadn’t needed to work in years – his payday from the classic, 90-second Tyson-Spinks fight in 1993 alone had made him a rich man. But he kept working – and networking – amassing relationships in industries far beyond boxing and sports. In his eulogy, Sharpton shared a funny story about his efforts to bring Lewis onboard his “anti N-word” campaign some years ago. Lewis, who asked if he could just write a check for the cause, wasn’t about to make the ultimate sacrifice, remarking to Sharpton, “N*gga please.” A few years later, when Lewis wanted him to cross a swamp to meet with and bless an Indian tribe in Florida, an N-word reformed Sharpton simply replied, “N*gga please.” The mourners laughed, at the joke and possibly at the irony of the unlikely friendship. Lewis was remembered as a man known for heavy cussing and Crown Royal, but who had a special, personal way with everyone he knew. “People need to mind they daggone business,” said Pastor Darrell Freeman who officiated the service. “People think they know people. He was saved…thankfully, man looks on the outside, but God looks on the inside.” The lobby outside his massive funeral was filled with photos – of Lewis with James Brown, several U.S. Presidents, icons like Quincy Jones, family and friends, and every great name known to boxing from at least the past half century. Whatever Lewis had done, he had done something right.

Former Michael Jackson Video Model Tatiana Yvonne: ‘King of My Heart’

By: JP DelaCuesta (@JPdelacuesta)Category: AlternativesOctober 6, 2011

Tatiana Yvonne has written a new book titled “King of My Heart” about her time and experience with the late great, Michael Jackson. Tatiana was a Julliard-trained ballerina and a successful cover girl model in Japan long before her “overnight success” as Michael Jackson’s leading lady in the video “The Way You Make Me Feel.” But it was the video that made her an instantly recognizable figure and inducted her into Hollywood’s inner-circle. Rumors of a blossoming romance seemed substantiated by an ongoing association between the two, even after the video as Michael invited her on The Bad Tour. Then in the next instant it all seemed to come crashing down. The origin, it would seem, was “the kiss that was seen around the world.” A unscripted, public kiss during the Bad Tour, denoting the chemistry that had began to spark between them. Though Michael did not appear to disapprove, Tatiana’s accounts, it was believed Michael’s handlers felt it was bad for his image. Even though Tatiana’s story does not contain salacious details of a torrid affair s in spite of the fact the she has numerous pictures that insinuates an obvious chemistry, Tatiana’s credibility has been challenged and she has been stigmatized from day one. Perhaps this says less about Tatiana and more about the media and public at large with regard to Michael. Even after Lisa Marie’s emotional open letter and appearance on Oprah after his death professing how profound her love was for him, or P. Diddy’s comical story about how Michael crashed his party in pursuit of Beyonce, there are still those naysayers who refuse to allow Michael to be viewed as a genuine human being capable of love and being loved. Tatiana’s is one of many stories told after the passing of the King of Pop that gives insight to the man, adding a building block to the reconstruction of his image. AllHipHop.com: You were sought after by Hollywood Royalty like Eddie Murphy, Prince and De Niro. What makes Michael the king of your heart? Tatiana: Michael was my childhood. The very first time I laid eyes on Michael I was about 3 years old and at that moment I thought he’s the one and I held on to that love and that dream of meeting him since I was a little girl. AllHipHop.com: What was the purpose of writing a second book? Tatiana: This second book goes more in depth with my story. Some of the same stories were in my last memoir but this one, I guess you can say, takes it home. And of course with his passing it kind of like took me full circle from the very first time I laid eyes on him and fell in love with him up until his passing….the world lost him. That made it bittersweet…full circle. AllHipHop.com: How did you handle that? Tatiana: Honestly…with God”s Love. I am constantly keeping my faith with God. It’s still hard. Everyday I wake up I am reminded the world is not the same as I knew it. To me there is something missing. Someone I always felt in my heart of hearts was my soul mate. So it’s not easy because sometimes I feel like I am half of something that’s no longer here. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzZ_urpj4As&w=420&h=315] AllHipHop.com: I’m sure you would agree that Michael dealt with a lot of persecution and alienation when he was alive but then a lot of repressed love came to the surface after he died and people suddenly embraced him or at least that was my perception…. Tatiana: You’re perception was absolutely correct. I saw a lot of people who we’re not Michael Jackson fans suddenly become Michael Jackson fans who had this new found idolization and admiration that he didn’t have while he was here. What I realized is people don’t always know what they have ’til it’s gone. And that’s heavy and it’s sad but it’s true. I have also seen people suddenly latch on to pieces of Michael out of new found respect and admiration. Even I felt it. I have new fans who have appreciated me more because of that. Because they learned that very same lesson. AllHipHop.com: That’s a good way to put it, a lesson. Tatiana: Yeah and it’s not a bad thing. I’ve always thought that’s what life’s about, learning lessons, sometimes the hard way. A person can only tell you so much or teach you so much. That’s what life’s about, living and learning. AllHipHop.com: How did meeting Michael change your life? Tatiana: (Hesitates)…Wow!….That’s a really good question; the fact that I always believed that anything is possible with hard work and diligence. It taught me that dreams do truly come true. Even though I believed that, that was actual proof. With all my hard work and training in ballet and believing I would meet him someday… AllHipHop.com: Anywhere in your thoughts did you ever think he would be interested or fall for you? Tatiana: No, I actually never thought that way even though I had a friend who sort of predicted that. Remember I said in the book my friend, whom I didn’t mention by name, said you should move to New York and try to meet Michael Jackson? He’d love you. (laughs) Although I didn’t think that way. My whole thing was just wanting to meet him but I never entertained the idea of us falling for one another. When I did meet him and work with him it all happened very naturally. The chemistry just happened It’s not something I foresaw or tried to make happen. It was just God. But it was the happiest time of my life; meeting him and working with him. I have never known happiness since then. Not that kind of happiness. AllHipHop.com: I would imagine that would be a tough act to follow be it professionally or emotionally. Tatiana: Also take away from that the fact that he was the greatest entertainer who ever lived. He was a guy. When we we’re falling for one another it was about two people. It wasn’t about […]