Jay-Z reflects on Amy Winehouse's music

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Jay-Z helped introduce Amy Winehouse to the American musical scene. In 2006, Winehouse released her hit single, "Rehab." The song, however, would not become a hit until 2007. During this period of time, Jay-Z signed Amy Winehouse to Def Jam, while he was serving as the head of the label.

When she officially signed to the label, her project was promoted during the summer of 2007. Once "Rehab" became an American hit, Jay-Z recorded on the remix of the song. Her debut album, Back to Black, was a tremendous success. However, the "Rehab" song would prove to tell the story of her life.

Three days ago, Amy Winehouse died, but it has not been proven exactly what happened. Many are assuming it had something to do with her drug abuse. Taking time away from the drugs, Jay-Z spoke on her recordings. Amy Winehouse was a talented artist and Jay-Z believed she could truly become one of the best artists of all-time.

Jay-Z recently reflected on his favorite Amy Winehouse song. When speaking on his favorite song from her, the Brooklyn rapper said his favorite Winehouse song was "Tears Dry on Their Own."

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Amy Winehouse found dead in London flat

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Four years ago, the world was introduced to Amy Winehouse. In her 2007 song, "Rehab," she made light out of her addictions, which eventually claimed her life. Winehouse was one of the biggest artists signed to Def Jam during Jay-Z's tenure as president and CEO of the label.

During the summer of 2007, Jay-Z introduced her to the black audience, when he provided a rap verse on the remix of "Rehab." Two years ago, Eminem also parodied Amy Winehouse in his single, "We Made You." The song made fun of many celebrities, and Eminem said Amy made rehab look so good.

It was no secret Amy Winehouse was a frequent drug user. She had been in and out of rehab throughout her career. Recently, she appeared to be handling her addicition better. Winehouse is fresh off releasing her latest album, Back to Black. Winehouse died today in London at 4:00 pm, she was last seen alive with her goddaughter, Dionne Bromfield, at the iTunes festival.

While Amy Winehouse did not perform, she begged the crowd to buy Dionne's album. Last month, the troubled singer bombed a performance in London, in which the crowd became enraged. Her team said they were going to give her as much time off as she needed. Now, her time off is permanent.

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John Legend addresses Anthony Stokes' allegations

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Through Kanye West, John Legend is one of the newest artists signed to Def Jam. Over the past few years, Def Jam has been primarily focused on their R&B talent. Adding John Legend to a roster that already included Ne-Yo and Jeremih was a major plus for them.

Being signed to Def Jam is also a major plus for John Legend. With things going so well, the only problem is the lawsuit he is facing. A young man, Anthony Stokes, is accusing John Legend of stealing his song. When Legend visited UNC in 2004, he saw Stokes perform a song he used on his 2006 album.

The song Anthony Stokes is referring to is "Maxine's Interlude," which Stokes claims is his song, "Where Are You Now?" For months, Anthony Stokes has been pushing his lawsuit. He has spoken with several magazines and websites about the situation. As much as Stokes has talked, John Legend has said nothing.

Recently, he decided to break his silence and discuss the issues. John Legend said stealing a track is something he would never do. The G.O.O.D. Music singer said Anthony Stokes is making statements he knows are not true. Until he found himself sued by Stokes, John Legend said he had never even heard of the song Anthony Stokes is referring to. John Legend said he has never done anything like this and he will fight in court to clear his name.

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Will Jeremih sign with G-Unit Records?

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Earlier this year, 50 Cent said he helped to save Jeremih's career. It was two years ago when Jeremih first made it big. Signing with Def Jam, his "Birthday Sex" single became a minor hit during the spring of 2009. But, following the success of the single, Jeremih was forgotten by most people.

However, last December he released "Down on Me" and later 50 Cent was added to the song. After 50 Cent was added to the song, it became Jeremih's biggest hit. Jeremih has replaced Joe as the hook man on most G-Unit songs. Aside from working with 50 Cent, he has also recorded with Lloyd Banks.

Throughout his career, 50 Cent has had issues with Def Jam. When he was outsold by Kanye West, 50 Cent said Def Jam purchased most of the records. 50 Cent said he would release an album every time a major Def Jam artist intended to release an album. Discrediting Jay-Z's role as CEO of Def Jam, 50 said he had the same deal with Interscope Records, minus the title.

Recently, 50 Cent said he would not do business with Def Jam because they are in financial trouble. But, over the years, artists signed to Def Jam have been interested in joining G-Unit. With 50 Cent expanding his label, with his new deal with EMI Records, he is looking for new artists. 50 Cent entered a partnership with Shawty Lo and D4L Records. Currently, he is searching for more partnerships and more artists. Due to the relationship he already has with Jeremih, could 50 Cent possibly sign Jeremih to his G Note label?

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Amerie marries Lenny Nicholson of Columbia Records

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Nine years ago, Amerie rose to fame with her hit single, "Why Can't We Fall in Love." Released during the summer of 2002, the song quickly became a hit. The song had an extended run on radio stations across the United States when Ludacris provided a verse on the remix.

For three years, Amerie was forgotten by most. However, she returned with a bang in 2005. Her single, "1 Thing," returned her to the top of pop radio stations. The song continued to have buzz during the summer of 2005. However, she failed to produce another hit single to follow things up.

After her Because I Love It album was mishandled by Columbia Records, Amerie would leave the label. In 2009, she signed a production deal with Def Jam and released her most recent album, In Love & War. The album featured collaborations from Lil Wayne, Fabolous, Trey Songz, and a few other big names.

Recently, Amerie returned to headlines with news of her marrying Lenny Nicholson, an A&R for her former label, Columbia Records.

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Jeremih enjoying Extended Ride on the Charts

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Two years ago, Def Jam introduced the world to Jeremih. Early in the spring of 2009, he released his debut single, "Birthday Sex." The song quickly became a hit on the radio, but Jeremih's follow-ups did little-to-nothing to make an impact. Before the summer of 2009, he was all but forgotten.

Despite the poor reception in 2009, Jeremih returned to the studio and he began recording his next album. The album was set for a 2010 release. He released the "Down on Me" single, but it had little traction. But, 50 Cent soon recorded verses for the song and it took off, becoming the official version.

The song was released in December and is currently one of the biggest hits of the spring season. Previously, 50 Cent took credit for saving Jeremih's career. According to the G-Unit CEO, Def Jam was going to drop Jeremih from the label if he could not come up with a hit. Seeing what was going to happen, 50 Cent decided to step up and save his career.

Regardless of what happened, Jeremih has enjoyed nearly five months of consistent radio play with only one single. With this type of staying power, imagine what the future holds for Jeremih's next single.

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L.A. Reid talks Def Jam departure

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Last month, news surfaced about L.A. Reid leaving Def Jam. He left his role with the label for a job as a host on Simon Cowell's new series, "The X Factor." In many ways, the job is much better than the job at Def Jam. Reid had been with Def Jam for nearly ten years and helped establish Ne-Yo and Rihanna, among others.

L.A. Reid has finally broken his silence about leaving Def Jam for the new Simon Cowell project. The executive said he will miss his old job, while he will love his new one. Reid said it was actually a tough decision to leave Def Jam. He had been with the label for so long and he had a hard time leaving for a new venture.

While L.A. Reid will miss Def Jam, he is very excited about judging the talent on "The X Factor." Walking out the door of Def Jam was indeed tough on him. But, "The X Factor" was an offer Reid could not refuse. Now, he is waiting in anticipation for filming to begin. Throughout his career, L.A. Reid has been around talented artists, so he is truly one to judge.

Simon Cowell went out and found the best when he decided to launch "The X Factor."

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Jay-Z launches new Lifestyle Website

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Many times, Jay-Z has stated he is not a rapper. Instead, he is a businessman who used rap to get into the game. Ever since he released his American Gangster album, Jay-Z has proven he is more than rap. Now, it is more common to find him promoting businesses than in the studio.

Ever since he left Def Jam, Jay-Z has launched a new record label and a management company. Now taking a backseat, he still dominates the radio waves. There are so many different businesses under the rapidly-growing umbrella helmed by none other than Jay-Z.

Currently, Jay-Z has a new project in the works, a lifestyle website. Many hip hop insiders have launched their own websites in order to gain more clients and to make money on the side. While Jay-Z long ago mastered hip hop, he is only a small player in the mainstream. Before the end of this year, Jay-Z plans to change this.

The new website will cover everything from music to fashion. Named after his 1999 album, the site is called Life + Times.

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Will Beyonce sign with Roc Nation?

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Throughout her career, Beyonce has been under the guidance of her father, Matthew Knowles. Once Knowles discovered the talent his dauther possessed, he gave up his corporate job in order to become a record executive. Through her success with Destiny's Child, Matthew Knowles built a small empire.

But, ever since Destiny Child's 2005 breakup, the empire has been crumbling. First, Beyonce left his Music World record label, doing direct business with Columbia Records. Next, the other members of Destiny's Child left his label. Recently, Kelly Rowland was the final Destiny's Child artist to leave Music World.

Ever since she made her relationship with Jay-Z public, there have been questions of how long it would take Beyonce to become one of his artists. Before Jay-Z left Roc-A-Fella Records, there were rumors stating Beyonce would join her boyfriend at Def Jam. But, when Jay-Z created Roc Nation and partnered with Sony for distribution, it seemed as if Beyonce would soon make a move.

Outside of simply being a record label, Roc Nation is also a management company. Through the management section of the company, Roc Nation is behind Rihanna, Ne-Yo, and many other chart-topping artists in the game. With Beyonce leaving her father's Music World Entertainment, is it possible she will soon be setting up shop with Jay-Z and his Roc Nation?

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L.A. Reid leaves Def Jam for "The X Factor"

By TV Insider
JR Staff Writer

For nearly ten years, L.A. Reid has been running the show over at famed hip hop record label, Def Jam. During his tenure, Def Jam went from a big-time rap record label to focusing on R&B. This change in direction alienated many Def Jam fans. LL Cool J stated it was one of the reasons he ended up leaving the label.

Def Jam, despite the efforts of Kanye West and Rick Ross, has been on a steady decline for some time. Jay-Z stepped down as the CEO of the label and later as an artist. His entire Roc-A-Fella roster followed suit in 2008. When Jay-Z left, most of the Def Jam roster was looking for a way out.

Last summer, 50 Cent hinted at bringing his G-Unit label over to the struggling Def Jam label. Had he signed with Def Jam, the G-Unit roster would currently be posting hits for the label. But, when he opted for more creative control at EMI Records, Def Jam was hit with another blow. Now, with Rick Ross preparing to leave the label, along with Kanye West, L.A. Reid has jumped ship.

Last week, L.A. Reid revealed he was leaving Def Jam to host the new Simon Cowell series, "The X Factor."

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Rihanna goes topless in Nivea ad

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

When she first debuted in 2005, Rihanna marketed herself as the new "it girl." She won over fans with her seductively innocent look, it was different at the time. But, as she got older, Rihanna tried to change her style. In 2006, she angered Def Jam when she cut all of her hair off.

The new hairstyle paid off for Rihanna and it helped her begin the second phase of her career. In 2007, she released A Good Girl Gone Bad. On this album, Rihanna completely changed her image and won over new fans. In the video for "Umbrella," her breakout hit, Rihanna appeared topless.

From that point on, Rihanna has been one of the biggest female sex symbols in the world. Now, more and more companies are looking to partner with Rihanna. She has always been able to land endorsements, but now her sexy look makes mature companies want to work with Rihanna. Nivea is the latest company to reach out to Rihanna.

Rihanna agreed to become a part of the Nivea ad campaign that features her nearly naked. Nivea is celebrating its 100th year in a major way. Despite already being one of the biggest stars in the world, this is a big deal for Rihanna to become the face of Nivea on such a big campaign. The first image was leaked to the internet today. However, the official campaign will begin sometime in May.

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Kimora Lee Simmons talks Nicki Minaj, says she is Really Sexy

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Before the Rihannas, Amber Roses, and Nicki Minajs, one of the sexiest women in hip hop was Kimora Lee Simmons. She was the wife of Def Jam founder, Russell Simmons. When he would make high-profile appearances, Kimora would be right by his side. Even in the spotlight, the two appeared to be deeply in love.

After making it past the five-year mark, it appeared as if Russell and Kimora would stand all of the tests. But, it was then when the two broke things off. While Russell and Kimora remained friends, both of them needed a change. Russell Simmons has continued to work in hip hop, alongside Kimora, but she has built her own name.

Last year, Kimora decided it was time for her to work on some projects without her ex-husband's help. She left Phat Farm and plans to create some of her own ventures. Outside of the business world, many people have asked Kimora about how she feels about the new women in the game. For the most part, she is very impressed, but she often reminds people she is one of the originals.

When Nicki Minaj was mentioned, Kimora Lee Simmons opened up on how she feels about the new rap sensation. She praised Nicki for her curves and she loves the fact that Nicki Minaj has maintained her individuality, despite being in a game of copycats. Kimora went on to say what Nicki Minaj is doing for music and fashion is definitely breathing new life into the game. But, when asked about Nicki's overall sexiness, Kimora gave her honest opinion, saying she thinks Nicki Minaj is really sexy.

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The-Dream envisions All-Star lineup for New Album

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Taking a page out of Jay-Z's playbook, The-Dream decided to retire upon being promoted to an executive role with Def Jam. With all of the office work, The-Dream felt he would have no time to work on music anymore. In nearly an identical fashion to Jay-Z, The-Dream abruptly announced his return to making music.

The-Dream has been a successful songwriter for years, but decided to release his own music in 2007. Following the release of "Shawty is a 10," Dream became extremely popular. His debut album, Love vs. Money, was an instant success. The-Dream helped make 2007 a very successful year for Def Jam.

Sadly, in the time since the release of his albums, Def Jam has been struggling. Most of their prime artists have either left the label or are fighting to leave the label. The-Dream, however, has returned to the artist lineup to keep Def Jam alive, releasing music alongside Ne-Yo and Rihanna. Currently, The-Dream is working on his fourth album, tentatively titled, Love IV.

On this album, The-Dream has listed his dream collaborations. Recently, hip hop has been dominated by the likes of Drake and Kanye West. The two rappers are only a few of the people The-Dream would like to have on his album. Other big names, Dream would like to work with are Lil Wayne and Jay-Z. He also intends to work with some other stars who have been out of the spotlight in recent years. Among those artists are Mary J. Blige, as The-Dream wants everyone he ever worked with on this album.

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The-Dream unretires, working on Fourth Studio Album

By The Music Scoop
JR Staff Writer

Following the release of 2010's Love King, The-Dream said he was going to retire from making music. When he released his debut album, in 2007, The-Dream did not intend to stay in the game for long. He quickly landed an executive role with Def Jam in 2009.

Soon after landing an executive job with Def Jam, The-Dream started working on Love King. The album was to be his final solo release because he needed more time to focus on the business. Before he became a major star, The-Dream was a major songwriter.

In 2007, The-Dream decided to record an album for himself and see how the fans would receive it. He found himself a bigger star than the people he was writing for. Signed to Def Jam, The-Dream was in a similar position to Ne-Yo.

With all of the controversy surrounding him, The-Dream perhaps thought it was time to step away from the spotlight. But, much like Jay-Z, he has decided he cannot stay away from recording music. While he will not leave his executive role with Def Jam, The-Dream has gotten back in the studio and started working on his fourth studio album.

The-Dream retired because he felt his fans did not appreciate him. But, he has gone back on the decision and his new album will be released later this year. The-Dream does not have a title or set release date for the album, as of yet.

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Russell Simmons explains how to be Super Rich

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

In 1984, Russell Simmons launced Def Jam and the label has become the biggest rap label of all-time. Rap music had been around for over five years, but had no place to call home. This all changed when Def Jam was launched. Russell Simmons became a legend following the success of the label.

During the 1990s, Def Jam hit tough financial times and Simmons ended up selling the label. His profits were used to launch his clothing line, Phat Farm. The line was known as one of the first clothing lines for the hip hop community. Phat Farm's success only added to his fortune.

Russell Simmons is at the point in his life where he has accomplished more than most will in an entire lifetime. He has more money than he will ever be able to spend. Now that he has reached his goals, Russell Simmons intends to help others reach their goals. The hip hop mogul has written several inspriational books. His most recent book is, "Super Rich: A Guide to Having it All."

Recently, Simmons has been on a tour promoting his book. Along the way, he has been offering small tidbits of information for those interested. He said his goal is to make people feel free instead of having people living in fear. Russell Simmons wants people to focus more on giving than receiving and he feels then the real profits will come, both monetary and spiritually. With all of those ingredients, Russell Simmons feels a person will be super rich.

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Young Jeezy was almost cast for HBO's "Entourage"

By TV Maverick
JR Staff Writer

HBO has always held a special place in the heart of the black community. While not being a network marketed as a "black network," it often featured many black programs. HBO has changed with the times, too. When hip hop became the focal point of the black community, HBO made the shift.

One program in particular, "Entourage," has become a favorite with viewers. The show works closely with the hip hop community. New York rapper, Saigon, landed a starring role on the series as himself. The rapper was having a hard time trying to release his debut album and the show kept him afloat.

Saigon's role on the show helped him gain his cult following. He partially owes the show for his hype. Saigon is definitely glad he appeared on the show with his album finally coming. While Sai is counting his blessings, the show's producer told a major secret. Saigon's lucrative deal almost did not happen because they were interested in another rapper.

Before proposing to Saigon, HBO first reached out to Young Jeezy. Because he was a relatively new rapper, Jeezy was highly interested. Had he not became a rapper, Young Jeezy would have become an actor in some capacity. He had always loved the cameras, but it was not meant to be. Def Jam heard about Jeezy being cast and they told HBO, Young Jeezy may not be the right guy. Due to his schedule, he might not have been able to be on set each time they needed him.

In a round-about way, Saigon owes a bit of his success to Def Jam. After not landing Young Jeezy, HBO heard a song with Saigon and Jay-Z and cast him to be in "Entourage."

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LL Cool J named as Golden Globe presenter

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

Early in his career, LL Cool J did not envision being where he is today. LL Cool J is credited by many as the man who made rap mainstream. If he is not credited for that, no one can deny he helped Def Jam become the powerhouse that it is today.

Even when rap music became mainstream, many people did not believe it would last. LL Cool J helped make sure the genre lasted, as he has been there most of the way. As a rapper in the mid-1980s, he was still battling in the mid-1990s.

It was in the 1990s when LL Cool J branched outside of the hip hop world and into the television screen. In 1995, he starred in the NBC sitcom, "In the House." The show went on to become a major hit for UPN.

LL Cool J's role on "In the House" showed off his acting chops on a weekly basis. In the 2000s, LL Cool J landed multiple movie roles. Soon, he was known more for his acting roles than he was for his longtime career as a rapper. Two years ago, after a dispute with Def Jam, LL Cool J decided it was time for him to move on with his career, so he retired from rap. Now, LL is a full time actor on "NCIS: Los Angeles."

The show is currently in its third season on CBS and LL Cool J is routinely nominated for awards for his performance on the show. His popularity spans far outside of rap music now and he has proven himself marketable as an actor. This has not gone unnoticed by the Golden Globe Awards as LL Cool J has been added to the list of presenters at the 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards, along with Jada Pinkett Smith.

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Chrisette Michele faces $20 million lawsuit

By Mr. Hollywood
JR Staff Writer

One of Def Jam's leading ladies, Chrisette Michele, is facing a little bit of trouble. Before her days being signed to a major label, Michele had a deal with Four Kings Productions. After she got signed, Chrisette Michele had hoped to leave the deal.

But, Four Kings Productions decided to hold her in her deal with them. Chrisette Michele used illegal activity in order to be released from the deal. Because of this, the production company is suing Chrisette Michele and Def Jam for $20 million.

Def Jam has offered to settle out of court, but the company's owner, Douglas "Biggs" Elison, refuses to do so. He wants to take all of them to court. His suit also includes Island Def Jam, Shalik Berry, and Chrisette Michele's parents.

The suit was actually started by Chrisette Michele in 2007, after she had signed with Def Jam. She claimed that Biggs was embezzling money from her contract with the label and that he harassed her. For unknown reasons, Chrisette Michele dropped the suit. But, Biggs is now claiming that his credibility was damaged once the news went public.

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The-Dream makes retirement Plans

Late in 2007, The-Dream found his way in the game with his hit single, "Shawty Is a 10." The song captured the heart of urban radio and the people could not get enough of The-Dream. It turned out, he had been around for years. Some of the more memorable R&B tracks of the 2007-2008 period were written by The-Dream.

Quickly, The-Dream became one of the more popular men in the R&B game. Soon, he found himself as the top option for rappers wanting someone to sing their hooks. Initially, Dream had hoped to release his sophomore album in 2008. But, label politics led to his album being pushed back to 2009. Upon its release, the album was extremely successful.

After Def Jam decided to remove Jermaine Dupri from the head of their Island division, they moved The-Dream into the position. To focus on the new promotion, The-Dream has decided to retire. He will continue his Love albums. His final album will be Love King and following the release of the album, he will focus solely on his new job. Currently, Dream is rising the charts, but this is his final outing.

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