Drake talks Dating Rihanna and Marrying Nicki Minaj

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

The year of 2009 was one of transition for hip hop. For the past five years, rappers relied less and less on lyrics. Socially, hip hop had grown used to several couples, many of which, broke up. Chris Brown and Rihanna, while R&B and Pop artists, respectively, are a part of the hip hop community.

For two years, they had been publicly dating and appeared to be the model teenage couple. However, the two actually had an abusive relationship, which the whole world learned of. A public fight on the day of the Grammys forced Chris Brown and Rihanna to break up.

Moving on from Chris Brown, Rihanna began dating mixtape rapper, Drake. At the time, Drake was probably best-known for his role on "Degrassi." Drake was being courted by several labels and close to signing with Young Money. While his career took off, his relationship with Rihanna did not.

Drake said he would never blame what happened between them on Rihanna, but he was hurt when he realized it was not a deep relationship. Rihanna was the first famous female to pay any attention to Drake and he was drawn by that. When he began to realize what their relationship actually was, a rebound, it hurt him, but he was able to move forward. Drake said he used to see her in magazines, when he was still new to the game, and they met during a birthday party.

After moving on from Rihanna, Drake rapped about his love for Nicki Minaj on "Miss Me." Last year, the two were married for a day. Their marriage, which was a publicity stunt, is something Drake thinks could last, if tried again. Drake said Nicki Minaj is probably the only woman who understands him and who could one day love him.

Read more...

Rihanna hits back at Royce da 5'9 over Name Drop

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

In recent months, rappers have been name-dropping more than usual and it has not always been just friendly. Game, the king of name-dropping, recently was called out by Jay Electronica for mentioning his baby's mother, Erykah Badu.

During the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards, Rihanna's name was mentioned and it was not by Chris Brown. During the Shady Records' cypher, Ri was mentioned by Royce da 5'9. In his cypher, he said "hi Rihanna, bye Rihanna."

Recently, Rihanna responded to Royce da 5'9's name drop on through her Twitter account.

Check out the photo below:

Read more...

Ace Hood, Chris Brown, Tyga, and Kevin McCall's Cypher at the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards

Read more...

DJ Drama ft. J. Cole and Chris Brown - "Undercover"

"Undercover" featuring J. Cole and Chris Brown is a leak off DJ Drama's upcoming third album, Third Power.

Listen to "Undercover" by DJ Drama ft. J. Cole and Chris Brown below:
DJ Drama - Undercover feat. J Cole and Chris Brown by eOne Music

Read more...

Hottie of the Week: Wendy Chaney

By Lady Killa
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Growing up, Wendy Chaney knew she was going to become a model, as her family always encouraged her. Wendy said she has always had the "model mentality." Having the background in modeling, Wendy is trying to take things to the next level.

Wendy Chaney currently works with Atlanta-based Suga Cane Entertainment, so she is at many Atlanta events. At these events, Wendy is hoping to become known with the patrons. So far, she has done well with the company.

Despite having such a busy schedule, Wendy found the time to discuss her career, and her future plans, with Hip Hop Vibe.

Read the entire interview below:

Is modeling something you always wanted to do or something you just ended up doing?
Well, modeling was something that I always wanted to do. Growing up my family use to tell me “Wendy do ur model walk” and I use to walk around the house like a little diva hands on the hips getting my signature walk right lol. Its in my blood you can say.

In the future, do you also want to do some acting?
Most definitely, I can see myself doin a little something something. When I was sin the 8th grade, I tried out for a performance arts school for dance and acting and I got in for acting but at the end decided I didn’t want to go to the school. So if it comes around im open to it.

Where is your favorite place to do work?
Where ever im going to SHINE.

How long have you been working with Suga Cane Entertainment?
I have been with SCE from the start June of 2011. Ashley came to me one day and was letting me know of a company she started and she said she needed models that were hungry and ready to work. (She asked the right one, I was born ready).

Have you been featured in any videos?
I have been a couple videos (waiting for the big one with Chris Brown)

What has been the most-exciting part of your career, so far?
Meeting new people, we get to interact and network with a lot of people. Also getting my name out there; doing something that lov and enjoy is a blessing because its not a job to me its one of my passions.

How do you deal with all the stress that comes along with this lifestyle?
Really there is no stress AT THE MOMENT. I think I'm doing pretty good right now, juggling everything else that I have going on. I try my best to stay organized and just plan things out ahead of time (I HATE LAST MINUTE STUFF). But, once things starts getting a little more hectic, then I say its time to hire a personal assistant.

Outside of modeling, what is your favorite activity?
Hmmmm my favorite activity, I don’t think I have one, I like to get into everything when I can. TIME is important to me. you can never take it back so spending time with my loved ones is what you would find me doing outside of modeling.

If you were not modeling, what would you be doing?
This a good question. If I was not modeling I would STILL DOING MAKEUP (yes I’m a MUA also) or I would be a nurse. I know your thinking like modeling nursing MUA, those are my passions. I love it. Modeling, because I get to express myself in so many ways and some and b a DIVA lol MUA, I love the art of it and making people look and feel beautiful. And nurse, I like helping and taking care of people (that’s why one day I'm going to make a wonderful wife).

See additional photos of Wendy Chaney below:

Read more...

Album Preview: DJ Drama - "Third Power"

By The Voice
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Since releasing Gangsta Grillz: The Album, in 2007, DJ Drama released the sequel in 2009. Currently, DJ Drama is gearing up for the release of his third album. The new album is properly titled Third Power and will be released in a little less than a month.

DJ Drama has been behind the scenes, over the past two years, waiting for the right moment to come back. For his latest album, DJ Drama has teamed up with many of the big names and some newcomers. Among the big names is Fabolous and among the newcomers is Freddie Gibbs.

Third Power is set to be released on October 10.

Track listing

  1. "Oh My" ft. Fabolous, Wiz Khalifa, and Roscoe Dash
  2. "Rough" ft. Freddie Gibbs and Young Jeezy
  3. "Hand Of God" ft. Maino
  4. "Oh Baby" ft. Cam’ron, Vado, and Jaz
  5. "Never See You Again" ft. Wale and Talia Coles
  6. "Lay Low" ft. Meek Mill, Young Chris, and Freeway
  7. "Ain’t No Way Around It" ft. Future
  8. "Undercover" ft. J. Cole and Chris Brown
  9. "Everything That Glitters" ft. Pusha T and French Montana
10. "Me and My Money" ft. Gucci Mane
11. "So Paid" ft. Red Cafe and 2 Chainz
12. "Take My City" ft. B.o.B. and Crooked I
13. "Lockdown" ft. Ya Boy and Akon
14. "Oh My (remix)" ft.Trey Songz, 2 Chainz, and Big Sean

Read more...

Petey Pablo speaks on J. Cole, Timbaland, New Album, and Suge Knight

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Ten years ago, North Carolina was excited, as they were finally being placed on the hip hop map. The first rapper to represent North Carolina was Petey Pablo. Following two albums, which spawned two memorable anthems, "Raise Up" and "Freek-a-leek," Petey Pablo disappeared.

Ten years later, North Carolina is again excited, as a new rapper is coming through. J. Cole turned heads when Jay-Z signed him. In less than a week, he will release his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story. With J. Cole ready to take the world by storm, Petey Pablo is far from done.

Petey Pablo has launched his own record label and is determined to return to the forefront of the rap game. The launch of Carolina Music Group comes after his stint with Jive and Death Row Records. With J. Cole currently in the headlines and all over the television screens, Petey Pablo is proud. Last year, when J. Cole performed at A&T's Homecoming in Greensboro, North Carolina, Petey Pablo was his surprise guest, coming out in a helicopter. Petey Pablo said he was surprised the college kids remembered his "Raise Up" single from many years ago.

Aside from his performance with J. Cole, Petey Pablo said the two rappers have also discussed collaborating. Petey Pablo confirmed the two rappers are working on some classic material. Continuing to speak on J. Cole, Petey Pablo said he has paid homage to him several times, as the original rapper to put North Carolina on the map. Petey Pablo also paid his respects to J. Cole, saying he follows his movement and Jay-Z's Roc Nation movement. Currently, Petey Pablo is working with Jay-Z's "Big Pimpin'" producer, Timbaland, on his upcoming album, A&R: Anticipated Recordings?.

Early in his career, Petey Pablo worked with Timbaland. After all these years, Petey Pablo said the two stayed in contact and now Chris Brown is working with him. Petey Pablo said he wanted to do his own thing, while Timbaland continued to build his career and a family. During this time, Petey Pablo linked up with Death Row Records. Timbaland grew very concerned when Petey Pablo began working with Suge Knight and his company. Petey Pablo told him the late Pimp C advised him to leave Jive Records, but despite the lack of promotion, he still had a gold album and a hit single.

Contrary to what many believed, Petey Pablo said he was never signed to Death Row. However, he admitted to being friends with Suge Knight and hanging out with him. Aside from friendship, there was nothing going on between Death Row Records and Petey Pablo. When asked what happened between he and Suge Knight, Petey Pablo said they simply grew apart, much like between he and Timbaland a few years prior.

Read more...

Game hails Tyler, the Creator as the West Coast's Eminem

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Game has supported Tyler, the Creator and Odd Future ever since they debuted. Tyler, the Creator has had a major year, this year, with successful music and disses for both Chris Brown and Bruno Mars. During Odd Future's beef with Chris Brown, Game tried to diffuse the situation.

While the feud was not resolved, Game featured both crews on his album, The R.E.D. Album. Perhaps the most controversial track off the album is "Martians vs. Goblins." It should come as no surprise, to those familiar with Odd Future that the track features none other than Tyler, the Creator.

The song, which leaked last month, features Game rapping in a similar pattern to Tyler, the Creator. The gangsta rapper takes a gothic turn on the song, dissing Rihanna and Lil B in the opening lines of the song. Tyler, the Creator takes the second verse, dissing Chris Brown, Bruno Mars, Tyler Perry, and LeBron James. Game concludes the song going after Erykah Badu and LeBron James.

While Game is controversial, many did not expect him to say many of the things he said. Speaking on the song, Game said his lyrics were inspired by Tyler, the Creator. His reason for doing this was because "when you're on a song with Tyler, you can say whatever the fuck you want." Game admitted he is already outspoken on his songs, but Tyler takes things to another level. The Compton rapper went on to compare the newcomer to Eminem.

Eminem gained international fame in 1999 for his controversial lyrics. However, Tyler, the Creator's lyrics makes Eminem's seem conservative, at times. Game said Tyler is the Eminem of the West Coast.

Read more...

Big Sean talks repping Detroit

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

The year of 2011 has been another great year for the Detroit hip hop scene. However, for the first time since D12 last released an album, the focal point is not on Eminem. Even during D12's run, the primary focus was Eminem. Instead, Big Sean is the new voice from Detroit.

Big Sean has been signed to Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music for two years. After two years of waiting to release his album, Big Sean finally put it out this summer. The album has been fueled by his "My Last" hit single with Chris Brown.

Being from Detroit has been a badge of honor for Big Sean. When he returned to the city, after promoting his album, he was awarded the keys of the city. This reward made his grandmother, with whom he is very close with, very happy.

Big Sean said he is happy to be able to become a vessel for Detroit hip hop and to carry the legacy.

Read more...

Big Sean already preparing Sophomore Album

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

It may have taken two years for Big Sean to land a solid release date for his debut album, but it will not take as long for his next album to come out. Among 2011's breakout stars is Big Sean and it is primarily due to his Chris Brown-assisted single, "My Last."

Since "My Last" has become a major hit, Big Sean has collaborated with Kelly Rowland, among other artists. This summer, Big Sean released his long-awaited album, Finally Famous: The Album. In only a few months since the album's release, he is already back at it.

Big Sean has been working with Exile and is preparing his sophomore album. The Detroit rapper said he has a studio on his tour bus and he will record while on tour. Without giving a solid release date, Big Sean said the album will be out, hopefully, before the end of next summer.

While he only has one song, Big Sean said that one song will grow into twelve, thirteen, or possibly more songs.  Big Sean said he wants to come out with an album the people will love. Not only does he want radio singles, he wants club tracks, and music that inspires people.

Read more...

Big Sean makes Court Appearance for Sexual Assault charge

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

In the midst of all the success surrounding the long-awaited release of his Finally Famous: The Album, Big Sean picked up a sexual assault charge. The Detroit rapper was charged with third degree sexual abuse, forceful touching, and second degree unlawful imprisonment.

While he has been facing legal troubles, Big Sean has continued to skyrocket. His Chris Brown-assisted "My Last" single has had a steady stream of radio play all summer. Aside from his own music, the protege of Kanye West has also been featured on Kelly Rowland's new album.

Recently, Big Sean took a break from his schedule to appear in court over the sex scandal. A grand jury has been scheduled for the case, as it will proceed. The next court date will be October 11.

Read more...

Berner ft. Chris Brown, Wiz Khalifa, and Big K.R.I.T. - "Yoko"

Read more...

Kevin McCall ft. Chris Brown - "Hard to Get"

Kevin McCall and Chris Brown come together for yet another track. Their latest song is called "Hard to Get."

Listen to "Hard to Get" by Kevin McCall ft. Chris Brown below:

Read more...

J. Valentine ft. Pleasure P and Chris Brown - "Up (R&B remix)"

J. Valentine teams up with two of R&B's biggest names in Pleasure P and Chris Brown for the R&B remix of "Up."

Listen to "Up (R&B remix)" by J. Valentine ft. Pleasure P and Chris Brown below:

Read more...

Game and Lil Wayne to release long-awaited albums the Same Day

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Both Game and Lil Wayne had big years in 2008 and both rappers planned for even bigger 2009s. Game intended to release The R.E.D. Album and Lil Wayne Tha Carter IV. Due to their affiliates, Dr. Dre, and circumstances, Lil Wayne's prison sentence, neither album dropped, as planned.

One of the biggest hits of 2011 came right before the spring and summer season. Game and Lil Wayne created an anthem for the gang they claim in "Red Nation." Late in the spring, the controversial video was released. Having worked so closely with each other, Game is preparing to sign to Cash Money.

Despite Game's future plans, at the moment he is signed to Aftermath Entertainment. Following two years of delays, his album is finally coming on August 23, 2011. Fans of Lil Wayne have been waiting equally as long for Tha Carter IV. His release date is finally coming on the same day. While Game is giving Wayne plenty of credit, he warned his future label-mate that his album is going to be the album of the year. Fueled by his lead single, which features Lil Wayne, and his second single, "Pot of Gold," with Chris Brown, Game is ready to take the game by storm, even if it means blowing past Lil Wayne.
____________________________________________________

Check out J-Slimmm on 103 Jamz!

Read more...

Behind the Scenes: Ace Hood ft. Chris Brown - "Body to Body"

Read more...

Kevin McCall ft. Chris Brown, Diesel, and Sammie - "Jada Fire"

Kevin McCall returns the favor to Chris Brown and features him on his latest song, "Jada Fire." McCall also recruits Diesel and former superstar, Sammie.

Listen to "Jada Fire" by Kevin McCall ft. Chris Brown, Diesel, and Sammie below:

Read more...

Tyga ft. Chris Brown - "SnapBacks Back"

Read more...

Game robbed during Video Shoot

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Long ago, Game established himself as the bad boy of the rap game. When the world first learned of who Game was, he was feuding with G-Unit. At the time, 50 Cent and G-Unit were among hip hop's most popular crew and Game held his own with them.

Since moving on from the G-Unit feud, Game has been preparing his long-awaited opus, The R.E.D. Album. Originally set for a release date in 2009, the album will not come until August. But, the time he took was worth it.

Game made a strong return with his "Red Nation" single. His second official single, "Pot of Gold," features Chris Brown. Even as an R&B artist, Brown has become known for his "gangsta" persona.

However, during the video shoot for "Pot of Gold," things became "gangsta" for real. Armed robbers rushed the shoot and robbed Game of both jewelry and money. The robbers walked away with over $12,000 upon robbing Game on Tuesday. Despite being robbed, neither Game nor Chris Brown actually witnessed the robbery.

Read more...

Freddie Gibbs seeks to end "below the belt" Photos

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Long before Anthony Weiner was caught showing his to women following him on Twitter, notable men were sending "dick pics" to random women. Early this year, Chris Brown was caught sending those types of pictures to a few of his female fans. The timing of the photo leak could not have been better, his album came only days after the leak.

Many male celebrities have been caught in the nude in photographs that end up shared online. Ironically, this is usually before some type of project they are trying to release. This has led most to believe artists are having their private parts leaked in order to help them promote their music. Some have said if an artist has to do this to sell, they are in the wrong business.

Freddie Gibbs, the newest artist of Corporate Thugz, has been very outspoken about several topics. From Osama Bin Laden, to his opinion on other artists, whether positive or negative, Freddie Gibbs has had something to say. Recently, the Indiana rapper gave his opinion about the "dick pics," saying it is time for this to end. In a video interview, Freddie Gibbs said the only reason the men are doing this is because the women are letting them. Freddie Gibbs said this is an epidemic, costing men everything for the sake of a little attention.

Read more...