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May 31, 2000 Whoa! Black Rob Arrested According to the New York Post, rapper Black Rob was arrested on Sunday on gun and drug charges stemming from an impromptu autograph signing. The rapper allegedly stopped in Manhattan to sign autographs for some fans when two undercover cops allegedly saw him hand his friend Kwamie Thomas a .22 caliber handgun to put in the vehicle. An arrest team was then called to the scene when they searched the vehicle and allegedly found the gun and tablets of the drug ecstasy. Black Rob, born Robert Ross, and Thomas were both charged with criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a controlled substance. In related news, Black Rob's gold selling debut album, Life Story, sold another 24,356 copies this week. It placed 61 on Soundscan. The album is being fueled by the hit single "Whoa!" Ving Rhames to Portray Johnnie Cochran Actor Ving Rhames has signed on to play attorney Johnnie Cochran in American Tragedy. American Tragedy is a CBS miniseries based on the O.J. Simpson Criminal trial. Rhames told Reuters that he sees some similarities in Cochran and King. He said, "Some saw King as a hero, others as a villain, and I look at Cochran in a similar way. I'll read all the testimony, the books, and interviews Cochran gave to get his perspective." Rhames won an Emmy Award for his portrayal of boxing promoter Don King in HBO's Don King: Only in America. Rhames has also signed on to portray former boxer Sonny Liston in the biopic Night Train. His film, Mission: Impossible 2, hits theatres on Wednesday and also stars Tom Cruise, Anthony Hopkins, and Thandie Newton. The film is being distributed through Paramount Pictures and is directed by John Woo. American Tragedy is still in negotiations for other cast members and may appear on the small screen as early as next year.
May 30, 2000 Diane Reeves Cancels South Carolina Performance Jazz singer Dianne Reeves has cancelled her June 3rd performance at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina. The singer is not in agreement with the recent approved bill by South Carolina's legislature to remove the flag from the State house and place it on a Confederate Memorial in the center of a busy intersection. Reaves said in a press statement, "The Spoleto festival has always been to me a celebration of diversity through art. Although I looked forward to participating, I have decided to cancel my performance until the circumstances evolve into a satisfactory resolution. "My forefathers and mothers suffered, died and fought the power that this flag represents so that our voices could be free. Like so many others, I know what this flag represents and still it is allowed to fly in place of honor. There are so many great things that could be put in this public arena that would have the power to unite and heal rather than be divisive," Reaves also stated. On Thursday, the South Carolina House and state Senate agreed to remove the Confederate flag from the state's capitol building. The flag will now be placed near the Confederate Soldier Monument in front of the Capitol. The flag will be taken down at 12 noon on July 1st. Democratic Governor Jim Hodges said that he would sign the measure and will hold a ceremony to mark the lowering and removal of the flag. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) however isn't in favor of the compromised bill. The NAACP, which embarked a tourism boycott this year to protest the flag's raising, said the flag will still be displayed in a prominent place. The NAACP will continue with the boycott. NAACP President, Kwesi Mfumi, said, "The governor and the Legislature have taken a political position. The NAACP has a principled position. To take it from the top of the dome where you had to strain to see it, and move it to a place where anyone coming down the main street will see it is an insult." Opponents of the flag claim that the new display is even more prominent. It will be located by traffic lights near one of Columbia's busiest intersections. South Carolina is the only state that still flies the Confederate flag. Supporters of the flag say it represents Confederate heritage and honors their Civil War dead. Opponents see the flag as a symbol of racism and slavery. Ray Charles Signs to InVision Ray Charles recently signed a multi album deal with InVision Records. InVision Records is a division of Falcon Entertainment Corporation. Falcon Entertainment also recently announced they were forming Independent Music Network Television (IMNTV). IMNTV will air videos by amateur and professional groups. The label has also signed rock act Saint Eve and Venezuelan band Melange. Charles was elected into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. His most recent album was 1996's Strong Love Affair. Charles's previous deal wit Quincy Jones' Qwest Records ended earlier this year. Charles' hits include "What I Say," "Georgia on My Mind," and "Hit the Road Jack."
May 29, 2000 Will Smith Agrees to Play Muhammad Ali Will Smith has officially signed on to play Muhammad Ali in the biopic about the three time former boxing heavyweight champion of the world. The film will be distributed thorough Columbia Pictures. Michael Mann is scheduled to direct the film. The braggadocio fast talking ex-champ who now suffers from Parkinson's disease also approved of Smith portraying him. The Muhammad Ali biopic is slated for a summer 2001 release. Smith was originally offered the role in 1998 but held out to film the movie The Legend of Bagger Vance. The Legend of Bagger Vance is scheduled to be released on August 4th. The film will be distributed through Dream Works Pictures and also stars Matt Damon and Jack Lemmon. The film will be directed by Robert Redford. Ruff Ryders Set to Explode Again Ruff Ryder's Ryde or Die Vol.2 is scheduled to be released on June 27th. This explosive album features appearances by Snoop, Scarface, Twista, Redman, and Method Man. The first single and video from the album is "Got it All." The track features Ruff Ryder members Jadakiss and Eve. Ruff Ryder members DMX, Sheek, Styles, Drag-On, and Yung Won are also featured on the project. The album includes production by Swizz Beatz, Teflon and Mahogany. Ruff Ryders' Ryde or Die Vol.1 spawned Eve's hit "What Ya Want" and Jay-Z's "Jigga." Here is the track listing from the Ryde or Die Vol. 2 compilation album. 1. WW III Featuring Yung Wun, Snoop Dogg, Scarface & Jadakiss
May 28, 2000 The Return of Prince The Artist Formally Known as Prince announced in a press conference yesterday that he was reverting back to his old name and doing away with the unpronounceable symbol that he has been using for the last seven years. Price said, "On December 31, 1999, my publishing contract with Warner/Chappell expired, thus emancipating the name I was given before birth, Prince, from all long-term restrictive documents. I will now go back to using my name instead of the symbol I adopted as a means to free myself from all undesirable relationships." The 41-year old star was born Prince Rogers Nelson. Prince also stated in the press conference that he was severing his ties with Arista Records due in part to the leaving of Clive Davis. He said, "I didn't have a contract with Arista. I had an agreement with Clive Davis." Prince's next album will probably be released through the Internet. He will also open his Paisley Park recording studio to the public for tours running from June 7th to June 13th. Prince will also perform on the last day of the event. For more information on events happening at Paisley Park, log on to Prince's website at npgonlineltd.com Ginger Spice Receives Therapy Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell is expected to be featured in the British film, Therapist. Halliwell will star as Amy, a young woman who has affair with her therapist. The film is scheduled to begin filming this fall and is scheduled to hit theatres in 2001. Halliwell is currently working on her second solo album since her departure from The Spice Girls. She is expected to make around $1.51 million for the film. The film is scheduled to be directed by David Green. Her solo debut Schizophonic, released in 1999, has been certified platinum.
May 26, 2000 Dr. Dre Seeks List of Napster Offenders Dr. Dre has hired U.K. independent-based software company NetPD to compile a list of Napster users that are allegedly trading the rap star's copyrighted materials. Rock group Metallica previously hired the company to compile a list of offenders. After Metallica delivered the list of 300,000 offenders, Napster blocked access to them from their service. Dr. Dre is expected to do the same thing. Napster is being accused of trading recording artists' songs without the consent of the musicians. The file sharing company has also been sued by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Napster was seeking legal protection under section 512 A of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) by claiming that its file sharing database provides a service similar to an Internet service provider. This provision would have excluded Napster from being responsible for the actions of its users. Both artists will proceed with the lawsuit despite of the block The Temptations to Release 57th Album The Temptations will release their 57th album, Ear Resistible on Tuesday. The first single, "I'm Here," was produced by R&B singer Joe. Additional production and writing is done by Gerald Levert and Narada Michael Walden. Their previous album, Phoenix Rising, was nominated for two Grammies in 1999 and became their first album to reach platinum status in their 40-year career. The five-man group has endured 19 different singers and still has preserved over 40 years. In a press release, original founding member Otis Williams said, "This group has gone through it all. Man, we've seen it all. The highs have been incredibly high, the lows incredibly low. Through it all, I've been comforted by one idea that no one man is greater than the sum total. The proof is that we're still here, forty years later, still singing pretty, still climbing the charts, still creating cutting-edge projects like Ear Resistible." Temptations classics include "My Girl," "Just My Imagination," and "Papa Was a Rolling Stone." Here is the track listing from The Temptations latest album Ear Resistible: 1. I'll Just Go Crazy
May 25, 2000 Beastie Boys Named in Sample Lawsuit The Beastie Boys were recently named in a lawsuit filed by jazz musician and classical flutist James W. Newton. The lawsuit claims that the Beastie Boys used a six second sample from his 1982 song "Choir " from the album "Axum. The song in question is the Beastie Boys track "Pass the Mic" from their album, Check Your Head. Newton's label, ECM Records, gave the Beastie Boys sample clearances but Newton claims that he holds the publishing rights to the song and not the record company. Also named in the copyright infringement suit are producer Mario Caldato, Jr, Capitol Records, Grand Royal Records, Brooklyn Dust Music and Universal Polygram International Publishing. Newton wants $150,000 for each alleged violation including remixes and videos. Brandy to Receive Recording Academy Award The Los Angeles Chapter of the Recording Academy has chosen Les Bider, Chairman/CEO of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. and recording artist Brandy as recipients of the 2000 Governors Award. Award winning producer and songwriter David Foster and film composer James Newton Howard are also recipients. The Governors Award is the highest honor bestowed by a chapter and is presented each year to Recording Academy members who have been recognized as an invaluable asset to the music community. Recipients of the Governors Award are selected in acknowledgment of the excellence and integrity embodied in their work, as well as their willingness to support and participate in programs benefiting the music community. The Los Angeles Chapter will pay tribute to the honorees at its annual Membership Awards Luncheon on June 15 at the Beverly Hills Hotel in California. Previous honorees of the Governors Award include Natalie Cole, Jewel, Quincy Jones, Smokey Robinson, and Diane Warren. The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc. (The Recording Academy) is a non-profit organization of more than 15,000 musicians, producers, and other recording professionals. Best known for the GRAMMY Awards, The Recording Academy is also responsible for numerous groundbreaking outreach programs involving education, human services, and cultural enrichment.
May 24, 2000 Penn State QB Beats Down Cop Penn State's star quarterback Rashard Casey and his friend Desmond Miller were charged with aggravated assault for allegedly punching off-duty police officer Patrick Fitzsimmons in the face. The incident occurred early Sunday morning around 2:30 a.m. at the River Street Café in a Hoboken, New Jersey.
According to the New York Daily News, Casey and Miller, who are both black, were talking to the officer's female companion, who is also black, inside the club. Upon the couple leaving, Casey and Miller punched the officer in the back of the head as he walked away because he was with a black woman. It has since been ruled a racially motivated attack.
According to reports, the five-year police veteran was knocked unconsciousness and suffered "significant" facial wounds and will have to undergo surgery. Fitzsimmons was treated and released from St. Mary's Hospital. Despite his football accolades, Casey was drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays as an outfielder. Coca-Cola's True Talent Search Rappers Beanie Sigel and Nelly along with R&B singer Dwayne Wiggins will be part of Coca-Cola's "True Talent" search seven city tour. The event will start on June 8th in Fresno, California and wrap up in Los Angeles, California. New York and Washington, D.C are also among the selected stops. Representatives from Def Jam, Farmclub.com, and Coca-Cola will be at the regional showcases to scout talent for possible recording contracts. The National Finals will be held at The House of Blues in Los Angeles, California on June 30th.
BET's Rap City host Tigga will host the regional preliminaries. Biz Markie will DJ the tour. Eve, Eightball, and DJ Jazzy Jeff are among the artist scheduled to appear as judges throughout the tour. The winners of the talent search competitions in New York on June 8th and Washington, D.C. on June 30th will receive demo deals from Def Jam and Farmclub.com. The overall finalist is slated to earn a cash prize and a possible endorsement from Coke. Here is the "True Talent" tour itinerary:
6/8 - Fresno, CA - Casablanca Hill - performance by Ask M.E.
May 23, 2000 Stevie Wonder Lends Voice to Democrats Stevie Wonder and Lenny Kravitz will perform at the Democratic National Committee to help raise money for Al Gore's presidential bid. The event will be held on May 24th at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. The event entitled, "DNC Gala 2000: The National Tribute to President Clinton," will also pay homage to the current president. Clinton and Gore are both scheduled to appear. Tickets can be obtained by logging on to www.democrats.org; after donating a minimum of $50 to the Democratic National Committee. The Democratic National Committee hopes to break the current one-day fundraising record of $12 million dollars. Comedian Robin Williams will also perform at the fundraiser N'Sync & Monica Promote Aids Awareness N'Sync and Monica recently taped HIV prevention campaigns for the LIFEbeat organization. The commercials are scheduled to begin airing this week. LIFEbeat is a national non-profit HIV/AIDS resource and awareness organization dedicated to mobilizing the talent of the music industry. One of LIFEbeat's missions is to raise money and awareness through a nationwide series of music events that benefit local AIDS service organizations. N'Sync's AIDS prevention commercial is also featured on LIFEbeat's official website. Britney Spears and Busta Rhymes are also slated to record a series of radio public service announcements for the organization this summer. LIFEbeat was co-founded in April 1992 by Bob Caviano, a respected industry manager and producer who died on September 22, 1992, due to complications caused by AIDS, and Daniel Glass, a music industry veteran. For more information on LIFEbeat and to view N'Sync's public service announcement regarding AIDS and safe sex, log on to www.lifebeat.org.
May 22, 2000 Fred Durst Cleared of Assault Charges Fifth degree assault and disorderly conduct charges were dismissed on Friday against Limp Bizkit lead singer Fred Durst. The incident stemmed from a skirmish at a July concert in Minnesota where Durst was accused of kicking security guard Pat Estes in the head. Pat Estes, reportedly suffered $30,000 in medical bills and lost wages stemming from the incident. Durst settled most of the civil suit out of court including pain and suffering and emotional distress claims. He is still in negotiations about the workers compensation claim. The court proceedings were held at Ramsey County District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota. Limp Bizkit recently came out in support of Napster after many recording artists like Dr. Dre and Metallica were suing the maker of the music sharing file company. Napster will also sponsor Limp Bizkit's free concert, which is also scheduled to feature performances by Cypress Hill. Skull & Bones,Cypress Hill's fifth album, debuted at five on Soundscan last week. Limp Bizkit is currently working on their third album tentatively titled Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water. StarMedia Sponsors Santana's Tour Carlos Santana's North American Tour will be sponsored by StarMedia Network. StarMedia Network is an Internet company for Spanish and Portuguese speaking people. Santana's North American tour will start on July 20th in West Palm Beach, Florida and wrap up in Minneapolis, Minnesota on August 22nd. Macy Gray is scheduled to open the tour until August 16th while Everlast will complete the remaining agenda. StarMedia Network also plans to launch a Santana website, which will include interviews, behind the scenes footage, and allow fans to chat directly with Santana and his bandmates. For a complete tour itinerary, log on to www.Santana.com. In related Santana news, his attorney John Branca responded to rumors about the singer leaving Arista Records, saying, "Carlos Santana has made no firm decision about his future recording plans and he is keeping his options open." BMG announced last week that Antonio "LA" Reid would take over Arista Records and replace Clive Davis on July 1st. It is rumored that several artists may walk with Davis including Whitney Houston. In the May 13th issue of Billboard Magazine, Reid said, "My position at Arista is not to give artists to other labels."
May 21, 2000 Michael Bolton Loses Appeal Michael Bolton lost his appeal when a federal judge upheld a jury's decision that he plagiarized part of the Isley Brothers' song "Love is a Wonderful Thing." Bolton released his song with the same name in 1991. In 1994, a Los Angeles, California jury ruled that the Isley Brothers' would receive 66 percent of the profits from the song and 28 percent of the album sales of Time, Love & Tenderness. Sony Music would pay $4.2 million of the judgement. Bolton was responsible for $933,000 while Andrew Goldmark, Bolton's co-writer, was liable for $221,000. Bolton claimed that he and Goldmark never heard the Isley Brothers' song. The 9th U.S. District Court of Appeals said, "In this case, the Isley Brothers undoubtedly contributed something original to 'Love Is a Wonderful Thing.'" Having found that the law was properly applied in this case, we leave the district court's decisions and the jury's credibility determinations undisturbed." Bolton's request for a new trial was declined by a 3-0 decision. The court said in its original ruling that, "It is entirely plausible that two Connecticut teenagers (Bolton and Goldmark)obsessed with rhythm and blues music could remember an Isley Brothers song that was played on the radio and television for a few weeks and subconsciously copy it 20 years later." The album, Time, Love & Tenderness, sold over 6 million copies and garnered Bolton a Pop Male Vocal Grammy Award. Ron Isley has since filed for bankruptcy as he awaits his money. Master P is Still "Bout It" N'Sync cut all challengers loose as No Strings Attached held its position at number one on Soundscan this week. Master P proved that he was still "Bout It, Bout It" as his group the 504 Boyz placed second, selling 139,012 copies of their album Goodfellas. R&B heated up this week as Sisqo and Joe's albums Unleash The Dragon and My Name is Joe, came in at three and four respectively. Toni Braxton's The Heat rounded out the top five. Carlos Santana sold another 108,234 to add to the success of his nine times platinum album Supernatural, which placed this week at sixth. Creed's Human Clay came in at seven followed by Cypress Hill's Skull & Bones at eight. Destiny's Child continued to write platinum on the wall as their album The Writing's on the Wall sold another 76,397 copies and placed ninth. Jay-Z's Life and Times of S. Carter rounded out the top ten. Backing Jay up in the hip hop category were Kid Rock, Dr. Dre, and DMX who followed behind with their albums at 11, 12, and 13.
May 19, 2000 Shyne's Hoop Dreams According to the New York Daily News, Bad Boy Records rapper Jamal "Shyne" Barrow was hit with a $6 million civil law suit stemming from charges that he assaulted a man during a pick up basketball game. Robert Steinmetz claims that Shyne threw a basketball at his face from five feet away and then begin punching him. The alleged incident occurred on July 11th at the Reebok Sports Club in Manhattan, New York. Steinmetz claims that he suffered a broken nose from the altercation and a cut above one eye that required stitches. Shyne was arrested after the scuffle and charged with assault, possession of a weapon, and harassment. The charges are all misdemeanors. Shyne's membership to the Reebok Sports Club was revoked after the incident. The altercation sparked because Steinmetz allegedly was getting the best of the 21-year-old rapper in the basketball game. Shyne was also charged with three counts of attempted murder after leaving three people wounded at Club New York in December. Bad Boy Records CEO Sean "Puffy" Combs was charged with weapons possession charges stemming from the incident. The basketball incident occurred six months before the shooting. LA Reid Still Looking for 2nd In Command Ron Shapiro has turned down Antonio "LA" Reid's offer to become his second in command at Arista Records. Since Arista Records announced last week that LA would replace Clive Davis as president of the company, he has since been building up his team. Shapiro is currently the executive vice president and general manager at Atlantic Records. He recently signed a new contract with Atlantic Records after talks with Reid. During Shapiro's tenure at Atlantic Records, he has been the force behind marketing projects for Atlantic recording artist including securing Brandy's Cover Girl and Candies Shoes advertisements. LA will officially take his post on July 1st. He is currently co-president of La Face Records with Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds. La Face Records is responsible for launching the careers of such artists as Toni Braxton, TLC, Outkast, and Usher. Shapiro chose to remain with his Atlantic team but said, "I am honored to have been considered by LA Reid and I have no doubt that he can only be successful."
May 18, 2000 MP3, Napster Buckling Under Pressure? Embattled Internet music kings MP3.com and Napster are both showing signs that their free-for-all days may be numbered. Both companies took steps today to avoid more Legel entanglements with the recording industry--for Napster, that meant making good on its promise to ban some 317,000 users who allegedly pirated songs from Metallica. And for MP3.com, it meant an all-out ban on major-label tunes while it continues settlement talks with the Recording Industry Association of America. MP3.com said it will disable access to the songs after a federal court ruled on April 28 that the company infringed on copyrights with its customizable My.MP3.com service. The court said some 45,000 CDs were copied into the system illegally. "While we disagree with the court's decision, we also want to demonstrate our good faith and strong desire to achieve an expeditious business resolution," MP3.com president Robin Richards said in a statement. "We expect to restore user access to the 'Big Five' major label groups' content if and when a settlement is reached and licenses are executed." The service allows users to listen to digital versions of CDs they've already purchased, but U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff said MP3.com used "frivolous" arguments to defend itself against copyright lawsuits. Meanwhile, reps from rogue Internet song-swapper Napster announced today they'll ban some 317,000 users who illegally traded MP3 song files by its rock 'n' roll nemesis, Metallica. The band, along with Dr.Dre and the RIAA, have sued the company for copyright infringement, and drummer Lars Ulrich delivered a massive list of the alleged pirates' screen names to the company last week. Napster responded to the request, saying Metallica actually made good "on threats to persecute MP3 enthusiasts," and those users will be blocked from using Napster. (Of course, those who feel they were wrongly targeted by Metallica can submit a "counter notification" that would allow them to reinstate their Napster accounts). "Napster has taken extraordinary steps to comply with Metallica's demands to block hundreds of thousands of its fans from using the Napster system," says Napster lawyer Laurence Pulgram in a statement. "Napster has always stated that it would act in response to notice from copyright holders, and it has lived up to that commitment in good faith." But asked whether Napster's move will lead Metallica to drop its lawsuit, the band's lawyer, Howard King, replied, "Not even close." "Unfortunately, this doesn't solve the problem," King says. "And it's unfair how Napster has tried to turn this into a battle against the fans. Having lost 90 percent of their legal defenses, they're going to turn this into an artists-versus-fans issue. It's disingenuous as hell." Toni Braxton to Perform at Sports Awards Toni Braxton will be one of the featured performers at the inaugural Laureus World Sports Awards. The awards will be held in Monte Carlo on May 25th. All Saints and Bon Jovi are also scheduled to perform. The Laureus World Sports Awards will be hosted by Ashley Judd, Jeff Bridges, and Dylan McDermott. Categories include "World Sportsman of the Year," "World Sportswoman of the Year," and "World Newcomer of the Year." Nominees include golfer Tiger Woods, tennis star Serena Williams, and skateboarder Tony Hawk. An edited version of the awards show will broadcast on June 6th at 8 p.m. EST/PST on TNT.
May 17, 2000 The Estate of Sammy Davis, Jr. Files Lawsuit The estate of Sammy Davis, Jr. has filed a lawsuit claiming breach-of contract, fraud, and failure to pay royalties against the Universal Music Group and its Polygram Records division. The suit was filed in federal court in the Southern District of New York on behalf of his widow Altovise Gore Davis. The lawsuit claims that Davis and MGM-Verve Records entered into an agreement in 1976 to re-release 35 of Davis' songs. The suit states that MGM-Verve had three years to release an album based around the songs that Davis provided. The album was never released and the original agreement stated that if the album went unreleased, the masters would be returned to Davis. The masters have never been returned either. MGM-Verve was later purchased by Polygram, who was then bought out by the Universal Music Group in 1998. The lawsuit also claims that Davis wasn't paid royalties from the licensing of these individual songs for 23 years and that royalties were recalculated at reduced rates without Davis' permission. It also claims that he wasn't provided with accounting statements. Sammy Davis, Jr. died on May 16th 1990 from cancer. The legendary performer's songs included "The Candy Man" and "Mr. Bojangles." DMX Teams with Steven Seagal DMX has been added to the cast of the upcoming film Exit Wounds. The movie will star Steven Seagal. The film's plot is based around a cop played by Seagal, who discovers a ring of corrupt officers in his precinct. Seagal goes to war against them and will be aided by DMX. DMX was also featured in Romeo Must Die and starred in Hype Williams' Belly with Nas.
May 16, 2000 Mos Def to Speak at Mumia Abu-Jamal Rally A rally supporting death row inmate Mumia Abu-Jamal was held on Sunday at Madison Square Garden in New York. Protestors rallied against his death penalty conviction and call for a new trial. Abu-Jamal has been appealing his case for 18 years. He was accused and convicted of killing a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania police officer in 1981. Abu-Jamal has proclaimed his innocence and has been fighting for a new trial since 1982. Evidence in the case points to a possible set up. Johnnie Cochran, former New York Mayor David Dinkins, and actor Ed Asner spoke at the rally. Rapper Mos Def also spoke at the rally for Mumia Abu-Jamal. Dr. Dre & Snoop to Headline EMP Grand Opening Experience Music Project (EMP), Seattle, Washington's dynamic new interactive music museum, will bring together a dazzling array of artists in a series of concerts for its weekend-long Grand Opening celebration from June 23rd through June 25th. Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Snoop Dogg will be among the headliners. Metallica, No Doubt, Matchbox Twenty, Alanis Morissette, The Eurythmics, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beck, James Brown and Bo Diddley are also among the more than 40 artists scheduled to appear at the free and ticketed concerts. EMP co-founder and executive director Jody Patton, said, "EMP's Grand Opening Celebration reflects both the diversity and mission of EMP, and will serve as a memorable launch for this incredible project. Inside and outside the museum, there'll be programs, concerts, activities and events designed to spark imagination, inspire creativity, educate the public, and let people of all ages experience the fun of music." For more information about EMP Grand Opening festivities and EMP Charter Membership, log on to www.emplive.com.
May 15, 2000 Jay-Z Takes Tape to Court Jay-Z was in Manhattan Supreme Court yesterday dropping off a tape that he hopes will clear him of assault charges. Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, was indicted on two counts of attempted assault by a Grand Jury in January after being accused of stabbing record executive Lance "Un" Rivera at the Kit Kat Club in Manhattan, New York. Murray Richman, Jay-Z's attorney, told the New York Daily News that, "It (the tape) shows Jay was not near the fight scene. He was stage left, talking to Busta Rhymes. The fight was stage right." According to Richman, before the tape went blank, it showed Jay-Z talking to Busta Rhymes while the altercation occurred. The lens then falls to the floor as the cameraman runs out of the club. "The sound coming from the tape at that point has the cameraman saying: "Jay is bookin'. He's outta here. We're right behind him." Richman asked the judge to review the videotape and order the district attorney to resubmit the tape and relevant witnesses to the grand jury. Judge Micki Scherer will give a decision on June 7th. The tape was reportedly made by a man who was trying to get Jigga to promote an act on his cable television show. FDA Approves Female Sexual Stimulant The Food and Drug Administration approved Eros CTD on Wednesday. Eros CTD will become the first prescription device on the market that is designed to help women with sexual dysfunctional problems. The device works in the same way as the vacuum pump that helps men achieve erections by pumping blood into the genital area. Eros CTD was approved after a review and study of 25 women. The study concluded that of the 15 women who suffered from sexual dysfunction, seven said the device improved the ability to have an orgasm. Twelve of the women said the Eros CTD increased their sexual satisfaction, and all 15 said that it improved their sexual sensations. For the 10 women that the researchers classified as normal, four said it helped them achieve orgasms, and four said it improved sexual feeling. According to health reports, doctors claim that 50% of U.S. women complain of having problems enjoying sex after going through menopause. Their problems generally come from decreased blood flow to their genital area.
May 14, 2000 Arson Confirmed in James Brown Fire The Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department announced on Wednesday that the fire in James Brown's office building last Friday was deliberately set. Investigators believed arson was the cause but officially announced it on Wednesday. Investigators said the fire was set in several places and found petroleum-based fire accelerants throughout the building. Memorabilia such as capes the artist wore and gold record plaques were lost in the fire. Also lost were unreleased master recordings and various memorabilia worth thousands of dollars. James Brown Enterprises has since relocated. The company handles Brown's tour itinerary and programming for his Augusta, Georgia radio station. No one was injured during the blaze. Brown was on tour when the incident occurred. Ice Cube and Dr. Dre up in Smoke The tour dates have been set for the highly anticipated "Up In Smoke" tour. The tour will feature Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem. It will kick off on June 15th in San Diego, California and wrap up on August 2nd in Tampa, Florida. The tour will also feature Warren G, Mack 10, and others. The tour will also mark the reunion of NWA performances featuring Dre, Cube, MC Ren, and Snoop. In related news, Dr. Dre continued with his multi-platinum sales as his album Dre 2001 sold another 83,072 copies and placed ninth on Soundscan this week. Eminem is scheduled to release his sophomore album, The Marshall Mathers LP on May 23rd. "The Real Slim Shady", the first single from the album pokes fun at Christina Aguilera and N'Sync. Here is the "Up in Smoke" tour itinerary: June 15- San Diego, CA - Coors Amphitheater
May 13, 2000 Johnnie Cochran Represents Police Murder Victim Famed O.J. Simpson attorney Johnnie Cochran is representing the Patrick Dorismond family. Dorismond was killed on March 16th as he was approached by undercover cops who were inquiring where to buy drugs. Dorismond angrily rejected the questions and became engaged in an argument when a struggle ensued. Several other cops joined the tussle when Officer Anthony Vasquez pulled his gun and killed Dorismond. Cochran has filed a notice of claim letting the city know that he intends to sue on behalf of the family. The suit will charge New York May Rudolph Giuliani and Police Commissioner Howard Safir for violating Dorismond's civil rights by releasing his sealed juvenile records. Several days after the shooting, Giuliani ordered that Dorismond's sealed juvenile records be released to the press. The records included minor infractions that Dorismond committed as a teenager. The suit seeks $50 million in pain and suffering and $50 million in lost services. It also claims that Giuliani and Safir "entered into a conspiracy and acted thereon to demean and destroy the name and reputation of" Dorismond. The case is currently under criminal investigation. LL Cool J to Star in Kingdom Come LL Cool J is scheduled to star in the upcoming film Kingdom Come. The film will also star Whoopi Goldberg, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Vivica A. Fox. The film will mark a reunion for Fox and Pinkett Smith working together since they costarred in Set It Off, which also featured Queen Latifah. Kingdom Come's plot centers around a family coming together to bury the patriarch and straighten out their problems. Whoopi will play LL's mother in the movie while Fox will play his wife. The film will be released through Fox Searchlight Pictures in 2001. Doug McHenry, who directed Jason's Lyric, is scheduled to direct the film. Production is scheduled to start this month. The film is based on the play, Dearly Departed, which was written by David Dean Botrell and Jessie Jones.
May 12, 2000 Tiger Woods Supports Actors Strike Golfer Tiger Woods will honor the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and The American Federation of Television & Radio Artists (AFTR) strike by not appearing in a television commercial for Nike. He had been scheduled to shoot the commercial on Tuesday at Islesworth Country Club in Orlando, Florida. The SAG and AFTR launched a strike yesterday against the National Advertisers and the American Association of Advertising Agencies. The strike was launched because the actors want a pay-per-play deal for cable network advertisements. Actors are currently paid a minimum of $478 for a day's work. They also get "pay-per-play" residuals ranging from $50 to $120 every time a commercial airs on network television. When actors shoot cable ads, however, they receive a flat fee of $1,000 or less for a 13 week run. SAG spokesman Greg Krizman said in an Associated Press wire report that, "We deeply appreciate the support of this international superstar. Woods stands together with the working class SAG and AFTRA performers who depend on a fair commercials contract to maintain a decent standard of life." The ads will be postponed until the strike is over. Also according to the AP wire report, his agent, Mark Steinberg of the International Management Group, said, "There is a strike going on and we're abiding by it." Anyone appearing in more than one commercial has to join a union. Woods recently renegotiated his deal with Nike for approximately $90 million. Wyclef Jean Smells What The Rock Is Cooking The next video from Wyclef Jean's upcoming solo album will feature a guest appearance from WWF star The Rock. Hot on the heels of his brand new clip, "Thug Angels," Jean is scheduled to shoot "It Doesn't Matter" in the Canadian cities of Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton later this month. The track also features the wrestler on guest "vocals," and will be released on June 14. The collaboration is similar to a recent track by Vancouver rappers the Rascalz, who enlisted Bret "The Hitman" Hart to appear on their album and video for "Sharpshooter (Best of the Best)." "It Doesn't Matter" will hopefully keep Wyclef Jean fans happy for another few months. His forthcoming disc, The Ecleftic, the follow-up to 1997's Carnival, was originally scheduled for release in July but has been pushed back until sometime this August.
May 11, 2000 Tarantino Teams Up With NWA Looks as if "Pulp Fiction" director Quentin Tarantino and legendary rap group NWA are collaborating on NWA's first video release in over 10 years. The rappers have reportedly asked Tarantino to direct the video for "Chin Check", the first single brought to you by the new NWA line-up: Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren and Snoop Dogg taking over from the deceased Eazy-E. "Chin Check" is also featured on the soundtrack of Ice Cube's latest film venture, "Next Friday". Ice Cube Takes a Shot at Pimping Ice Cube is in negations to portray Robert "Iceberg Slim" Beck in the movie Pimp. The movie will based on the Robert Beck/ Iceberg Slim autobiography, Pimp: The Story of My Life. A renowned pimp in Chicago during the 40s and 50s, Iceberg Slim's book detailed his underworld ties, imprisonment, and redemption as an author. Pimp will be released through Fine Line Features and is expected to start shooting this fall. Rob Weiss and Bruce Rubenstein wrote the screenplay. Bill Duke is in negotiations to direct the film. In related Ice Cube news, the rapper will also star in Ghost of Mars with rocker Courtney Love. Ghost of Mars will take place 175 years in the future with Cube and Love as part of a police squad deporting a criminal back to a Martian town. The film takes its turn when the crew of Earthlings becomes sought after by Martian ghosts. John Carpenter will direct the film. It is scheduled to start production this summer. Both films are scheduled to hit theatres in 2001.
May 10, 2000 Biggie's Murder Suspect Cleared Amir Muhammad is no longer a suspect in the 1997 slaying of the Notorious B.I.G. According to the L.A. Times, the mortgage broker is not a murder suspect. Muhammad told the paper, "The fact is the police have never talked to me. And the reason they haven't is because I had nothing to do with this horrible crime. The police didn't chase this lead because they obviously realized at some point it wasn't true." An earlier article reported by the paper in December suggested the Muhammad had disappeared after the murder.
"The story made it sound like I was some mystery assassin who committed this heinous crime and then just dropped off the face of the Earth--which is the furthest thing from the truth," said Muhammad. I live and work right here in the Southland area and have done so for many years. I belong to the same fitness club, where I work out practically every day. I play golf and tennis at the same spots every week. I'm not that difficult to find," he told the LA Times, noting that his business advertised in local publications during the period when police were purportedly on his trail.
Muhammad was also worried that the story would ruin his reputation as a stockbroker in Southern California. He was first sought as a suspect because he resembled the man in the bowtie composite sketch of the assailant and was a friend of David Mack. Mack, a former LA police officer who is now serving time for a bank robbery, was also affiliated with Death Row records. According to the paper, a jail house informant reportedly told detectives that "the rapper's killer went by a "Middle East" sounding name, possibly "Amir" or "Ashmir" and that his true name might be Abraham or Kenny or Keeky.
The LA Times also reported that the informant said the killer was a former member of the Southside Crips gang and could have belonged to a security force connected to the Nation of Islam. Muhammad said that while he is a member of the Nation of Islam, he never has been a member of any security force connected to it.
The theory circulating was that Death Row's CEO Marion "Suge" Knight and Mack hired Muhammad to have Biggie murdered. Dave Martin, The LAPD detective in charge of the case said, "We are not pursuing that theory and have not been for more than a year, however until the case is solved 'no theory can be completely discounted."
"I can't find the words to express the injustice I feel was done to me. I'm a businessman, not a gangmember and I lead a private life," Muhammad told The LA Times. The rapper born Christopher Wallace was murdered on March 9th, 1997. LA Reid Takes Over Arista Antonio "LA" Reid has officially been named president and chief executive of Arista Records. Reid will take over on July 1st when current the company founder and CEO Clive Davis' contract expires at the end of June.
Reid and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds co-founded LaFace Records in 1989, which is distributed by Arista. LaFace's roster includes such artists as Usher, Outkast, Toni Braxton, TLC, and the Goodie MOb. Their accomplishments include selling over 50-million albums worldwide, numerous production credits, and a string of number one hits. LaFace Records will keep its own imprint and remain in Atlanta though it will become part of its parent company BMG. Babyface will also start a new label that has yet to be named.
In the wake of his "retirement," Davis career is far from over. The music mogul is currently searching for a home for his new company, Davis Entertainment, which will feature record, television, and Internet resources. The proposed company plan is valued at $225 million and is being sought by such companies as BMG, Sony, and Universal. Davis, who is 66, is leaving on top with Arista's best sales year ever. The company has grossed $425 million in the first nine months of its fiscal year.
Arista Records 25th Anniversary tribute was held last month and will air on NBC on May 15th. The tribute features performances by many of the label's stars including Carlos Santana, Whitney Houston, and Sean "Puffy" Combs
May 9, 2000 NAACP Opposes South Carolina's Passing of MLK Holiday The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is protesting a bill that will now make Martin Luther King Day as an official holiday in the state of South Carolina. The uproar began when the bill was piggybacked with the Confederate Memorial Day holiday, which will be observed on May 10th. South Carolina Governor Jim Hodges signed the bill today. The passing of the bill makes South Carolina the last state to officially recognize King's birthday as a holiday. The day had previously been an optional holiday for state workers. James Gallman, president of the South Carolina State Chapter of the NAACP, said, "We're against tying the two together." Morton Brilliant, Hodges' spokesman said, the governor "would have preferred a clean bill" without the Confederate holiday. But if it's a "choice between all or nothing, he'll take something." In related South Carolina news, the state is still debating the issue of the Confederate Flag being flown over the state capitol. Opposers of the Confederate flag see the flag as a symbol of racism and slavery. Supporters claim that it honors Southern heritage. The NAACP has enacted an economic boycott against the state since January 1st until the flag is removed. The bill still remains in limbo on the state's senate floor. Warren G Discusses Mack 10 and Daz Warren G is gearing up for his summer tour alongside brother Dr. Dre and homeboy Snoop. The tour will also feature Eminem Xzibit, NWA, MC Ren, Ice Cube, Nate Dogg, and the West Side Connection. Warren talked about working with Mack 10 and the alleged beef Mack 10 has with Dre. Warren said, "I don't know nothing about that but that's something Dre and him gonna have to sit down and talk about to see what's really going on. If he feels like he dissing him, then Dre, and him are going to have to sit down and talk like men about it. And Dre can ask him if you dissing me, what do you have against me? I riding with Dre cause that's my peoples but I don't think Mack 10 was really dissing Dre." The beef in question is Mack 10's song "The Letter" off his The Recipe album, where Mack asks Dre how he could turn his back on gangsta rap. Warren also addressed Daz's statements several years back that he and Warren G contributed a lot of work to The Chronic and Doggystyle albums. The G Child said, "As far as The Chronic record, I bought in a lot of ideas. Everybody bought in ideas and we all worked together, ya know. I'm not trying to take no credit from nobody because Dre is one of the dopest motherfuckers I ever met in my life. I done a lot of work on The Chronic. I came with my ideas and I would do something and Dre would shape it. But he done it. I was involved and I helped, but that was us as a team. It ain't about one certain person doing more than the other. Everybody was doing it as a team."
May 8, 2000 James Brown's Office Building Catches Fire James Brown's office building caught on fire this past Friday. According to The Augusta Chronicle, the fire is believed to have been caused by a petroleum-based fire accelerant. The accelerant was found in several places throughout the building. Samples are being investigated to see if arson was the cause. Many of Brown's belongings destroyed were vintage materials including gold records, photographs, and other memorabilia that highlighting his 40-year career. James Brown Enterprises handles the singer's concert tour itinerary and programming for his radio station in Augusta, Georgia. The company employs more than a dozen people. No one was injured or in the building at the time of the fire. James Brown was on tour when the fire occurred. Commercial Actors Strike The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and (The American Federation of Television & Radio Artists (AFTR) launched a strike yesterday against the National Advertisers and the American Association of Advertising Agencies. The strike was launched because the actors want a pay-per-play deal for cable network advertisements. Actors are currently paid a minimum of $478 for a day's work. They also get "pay-per-play" residuals ranging from $50 to $120 every time a commercial airs on network television. When actors shoot cable ads, however, they receive a flat fee of $1,000 or less for a 13 week run. The last time the actors union went on strike was in 1988, which lasted for three weeks and cost advertisers roughly $500 million. To prepare for the strike, advertisers stocked up on commercials and said that they would use non-union actors. Scabs have been warned on SAG and AFTRA's websites that breaking the picket line could result in being blacklisted from joining their unions in the future.
May 6, 2000 JD Enlists Nas, Monica, Da Brat For "Big Momma" Atlanta mega-producer Jermaine Dupri has teamed up with Nas, Monica, Destiny's Child, and
Da Brat to record new songs for the soundtrack album to "Big Momma's House," the
upcoming Martin Lawrence film. Other hip-hop stars contributing to the JD-helmed record
include Blaque, Kurupt, Missy Elliott, Jagged Edge, Chante Moore, Xscape, Lil Jon, and
R.O.C., among others. The first single from "Big Momma's House" will be JD's
"I've Got To Have It," featuring guest spots from Nas and Monica. Former Xscape
singer Kandi Burruss steps to the forefront for her first solo offering, titled "What
I'm Gon' Do To You," the planned second single. "Big Momma's House,"
directed by Raja Gosnell ("Never Been Kissed"), follows the cross-dressing
adventures an undercover cop, portrayed by Lawrence, who is sent to Georgia to protect a
single mother and her son. While there, he adopts the identity of a Southern grandmother
known as "Big Momma." The movie "Big Momma's House" is due to hit
screens on June 2, while the accompanying soundtrack will be issued via Dupri's So So Def
label on May 30.
Toronto's Saukrates Signs With Def Jam Several rumors have been floating of late stating that Canadian rapper Saukrates was securing a deal with premier hip hop record label Def Jam Records. Rnation was told by a representative of Def Jam that it has been confirmed that the Toronto MC has signed with the label. No details have been made available yet, but this will mark the second MC coming from Up North to sign with an American label. On February March 14th, fellow Toronto rapper Choclair released his debut album Ice Cold in the US on the Priority label. Last year, Saukrates dropped the Vol. 1-Underground Tapes album through Warner Brothers LA. The self-produced album featured Xzibit, Phaorahe Monch, Common, fellow Canadian Choclair, Heltah Skeltah, Masta Ace, and O.C.
May 5, 2000 Judge Rules MP3.com Violates Copyright Laws On Friday, Judge Jed Rakoff of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York ruled that MP3.com violated copyright laws by allowing for the creation of a database where users can effectively store music and then access it via any computer connected to the Internet. The company was found liable for copyright infringement on its Instant Listening Service and Beam-It programs.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) sued MP3.com in January on the grounds that the company's customizable My.MP3.com copied 45,000 CDs onto its database without permission. MP3.com's database includes 80,000 albums from signed and unsigned acts. BMG, Universal, Sony, and Time Warner were among the companies suing MP3.com.
The company features software that allows computer users with an original copy of a recording to register that CD with the database. It then allows the user to listen to that recording from any computer without inserting the original disc. MP3.com questions the judge's decision because the service can't operate unless the user has an original copy of the copyrighted material.
Judge Rakoff is scheduled to release his written opinion in the upcoming weeks. Court proceedings to determine monetary compensation will occur after the written opinion.
MP3.com could be forced to pay fines ranging from $750 to $30,000 per copyright violation. Fines could reach more than $6 billion. The judge's ruling sent the companies stock shares to an all time low.
In the meantime, record companies will likely seek an injunction to force MP3.com to remove their music from its database. MP3.com will appeal the decision. Christina Aguilera Announces Summer Tour Dates Christiana Aguilera has announced her summer tour dates. The tour will kick off on July 31st in Kansas City, Missouri and wrap up on September 25th in West Palm Beach Florida. Destiny's Child will be the opening act for Aguilera. Destiny's Child's album, The Writing's on the Wall placed at five on Soundscan this week. Aguilera's multiplatinum self-titled debut album charted at sixth. The tour will hit most major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Canada. The tour will be sponsored by Sears and Levi's. Do Something, a charitable organization whose goal is to make the world a better place, will be awarded 50 Youth Empowerment Grants of $500 each to help fund community service projects from proceeds of the tour. Here is the tour itinerary:July 31- Bonner Springs, KS, Sandstone Amphitheatre
May 4, 2000 Mystikal Grants A Wish No Limit rapper Mystikal showed the real meaning of being a soldier as he participated in making a young lady's dream come true. The rapper born Michael Tyler, spent a day at Universal Studios theme park in Orlando, Florida on April 19th with 17-year-old Nekia, who is battling lymphoma, a life-threatening form of cancer. The request of Nekia to meet her idol and inspiration was helped granted by The Make-A-Wish Foundation. The Make-A-Wish Foundation provides cheer and hope for children with life-threatening illnesses. The Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted more than 73,000 wishes to children around the world since 1980. Mystikal presented Nekia with a dozen yellow roses and spent the day going on rides with her. Mystikal, who is scheduled to release his next effort in May. The project is a collaboration between him, Silkk The Shocker, and Master P, collectively known as the 504 Boyz. The album's first single "Wobble, Wobble" is currently running the airwaves. Cypress Hill & Jennifer Lopez Win BLM Awards Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, and Cypress Hill were among the winners at the 7th Annual Billboard Latin Music Awards. Ricky Martin was awarded "Latin Pop Track of the Year" for his hit "Livin La Vida Loca." Cypress Hill won "Rap Album of the Year" for their Spanish language album, Los Grandes Exitos En Espanol, while Enrique Iglesias won "Hot Latin Tracks Artist of the Year."The Awards program was held at The Jackie Gleason Theater in Miami Beach, Florida. The winners and nominees were selected by an artist's performances on Billboard's Hot Latin Tracks and the Latin 50 chart positions from January 30, 1999 to January 29, 2000. Other winners included Gloria Estefan and So Pra Contrariar, who won Latin Dance Maxi Single of the Year for their collaboration on "Santo Santo." Lopez and Marc Anthony also won "Hot Latin Track of the Year" by a duo for "No Me Ames." Here is a complete list of the Billboard Latin Music Awards: Pop Pop Album of the Year, Male - "Amarte Es Un Placer," Luis Miguel Tropical/Salsa Album of the Year, Male - "Pintame," Elvis Crespo Regional Mexican Album of the Year, Male - "Mi Verdad," Alejandro Fernandez Other Hot Latin Track of the Year - "Loco," Alejandro Fernandez
May 3, 2000 Kurtis Blow to Tell the History of Rap Hip hop legend, Kurtis Blow is gearing up to release the "History of Rap," a documentary of hip hop. The film will focus on the many forefathers of hip hop whose presence has been forgotten by many because they were putting it down before the first rap album was ever recorded. Unsung heroes like DJ Jones, the Disco Twins and the Mercedes Ladies will be spotlighted. The film will focus on the time period between 1972 1982 and will be shot in the Bronx and Manhattan. Blow said, "The documentary will also include a soundtrack of all new material from hip hop icons such as Afrika Bambatta, Treacherous 3 and the Fearless Four. Grandmaster Flash and DJ Hollywood will serve as associate producers of the movie." The film will also highlight the importance that breakdancing and graffiti played in the formation of the culture. After completion, Blow will shop the film and hopefully have it air on pay-per-view. Grandmaster Flash is currently featured as the music director and DJ on The Chris Rock Show. Blow's classics include "Basketball" "If I Ruled The World," "Christmas Rappin," and "The Breaks." Al Green to Write Autobiography Soul legend Al Green is gearing up to write his autobiography. The book is entitled "Take Me To The River" and is scheduled to be released in September. David Seay will co-write the book with Green. Al Green's latest project, Greatest Gospel Hits, was released last month. Seay is also responsible for writing the liner notes for Green's Greatest Gospel Hits. Green, an acclaimed R&B legend, switched primarily to recording religious music in 1978. Some of Green's popular secular tunes includes "Tired of Being Alone," "Let's Stay Together," and "Love & Happiness." Green is a current regular on the television series, Alley Mc Beal. On July 5th, he will receive the key to his hometown city of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
May 2, 2000 Q-Tip Pleads Not Guilty Former A Tribe Called Quest leader Q-Tip plead not guilty on Monday in the assault of Kenrick Miranda, which allegedly left the victim with a broken jaw. The charges pending are two counts of third degree assault and one count of attempted assault. The alleged attack occurred in March at The Virgin Mega Store in Times Square New York. According to reports, Miranda approached Q-Tip at the record store about an incident that occurred last summer. The Abstract One responded with a blow to his jaw. The alleged beef had been brewing from an argument at The Hit Factory last summer. Miranda, who is a member of aspiring rap group Slandid, was handing out promotional copies of his material at the studio when Q-Tip allegedly summoned security guards to hassle Miranda and stop them from handing out their tapes. Miranda questioned Q-Tip at The Virgin Mega Store about why he called security and states that's when the rapper struck him. Miranda claims that he required extensive surgery to fix his jaw and plans to file a civil suit to cover his $10,000 medical bill. Q-Tip is scheduled to return to Manhattan Criminal Court on May 25. In related Q-Tip news, he will be featured alongside Mary J. Blige in the film Prison Song. Q-Tip will also appear in Diasappearing Acts, an adaptation of one of author Terry McMillan's novels. Lil' Zane Makes Acting Debut Rnation previously reported, Lil' Zane, the 16 year old rapper on Priority Records, is scheduled to make his acting debut in the Columbia Pictures Film, Finding Forrester. The film is tentatively scheduled to be released in December 2000. According to upcomingmovies.com, the film will also feature F. Murray Abraham and Busta Rhymes. Sean Connery will also serve as one of the producers of the film. Gus Van Sant, whose previous work has included Good Will Hunting and Drug Store Cowboy, will direct the movie.The film's plot is based on an African-American athlete studying at an all-white prep school who has dreams of becoming a writer, and the relationship he shares with his mentor. Lil' Zane will play the best friend of the African-American student. Sean Connery will play the reclusive author. Abraham will play one of Connery's fellow college professors. Lil' Zane's debut album, Young World: The Future will be released this summer. His current single, "Money Stretch," is featured on the Next Friday soundtrack.
May 1, 2000 Puffy Pays For Wild Party Sean "Puffy" Combs plead guilty yesterday to violating a noise ordinance. He paid a $2,000 fine for hosting a wild party at his Hamptons residence last summer on the Fourth of July. Police broke up Puff's party last year after it went on a half-hour longer than the town ordinance permitted. The party also had over 700 guests at the time of the raid and only 200 people were allotted according to the agreement. Over 500 parked cars were within a quarter mile of Puff's house, also. The permit limited the number of cars to 90. The music was also reported to be at 79 decibels while the noise law is 50. The hearing lasted four minutes as Puff told Town Justice Robert Walker that he understood the charges. Puff admitted that his party had too many people, was very loud, and went on too long. Since he paid the fine, the charge of violating the Hamptons' noise ordinance was dropped. Free Concerts Compliments of Napster A brazen slap in the face to those suing Napster comes this week as Limp Bizkit, Cypress Hill, and a yet-to-be named third band head out on a free 10-city tour sponsored by the MP3-sharing company.As we have previously reported there have been a recent tide of lawsuits aimed at Napster from several artists including Metallica and Dr. Dre over copyright infringement and other charges. Metallica has already dropped Yale University, Indiana University and, most recently, the University of Southern California from its suit after they banned access to Napster for illegal use. Bizkit frontman Fred Durst contends that Napster is a useful tool for fans that want to listen to an album before they buy it. Durst also harshly criticized those in the industry who are trying to stop Napster. His pro-fan opinion toward Napster ties in nicely with the free tour for fans that will cost the company around $1.8 million. The tour will start on July 4th and close on August 6th, just in time for the August release of Limp Bizkit's third album, Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water. There will be shows in 10 cities: Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle. Official dates will be announced.
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