Virgin Megastore Closes Its Doors

Yesterday I was in Time Square after doing interviews all day with music industry elite. Well as I was walking, I notice signs in my favorite store - Virgin Megastore, that it was closing and everything is now on sale. My initial thought was that that Ashton guy was going to pop out and say I was being Punk'D, but unfortunately this was no show - this is reality.

If you don't live in a city that has a Virgin Megastore such as NYC, Boston, Miami, Denver, Chicago and Los Angeles then you won't really be able to understand the importance this store has in these cities and - even more important of an impact - to the music industry. Hell, you haven't experienced a real 'music buying experience' for that matter in my opinion! Well I did my research to find out that not only will the store in Time Square - a signature piece to the Time Square scenery - be closing by April, but it seems New York's Union Square location will be closing by May as well as another April closing happening in the San Francisco, according to The New York Times.

Now for someone who's not a 'musicee' like me, it would be hard for them to understand. 'Musicees' are those of us who still get a sense of fulfillment off being in an actual record store purchasing artist's albums (side note to the old school: the term 'album' now days means 'CD'). Going to Virgin Megastore is just one of the things I enjoyed about living in New York and was actually one of the deciding factors in my re-location here. See, only at a Virgin Megastore can you find in the bins Faith Evans first album without the sales clerk having to go back to the store registry and special order it. Only in Virgin Megastore could you chill and watch episodes of Family Guy as your browse the DVD section, or listen to that new Beyonce CD in its entirety of the tracks fully - not like when you preview at Barnes & Nobles and they only play the first five seconds. Virgin Megastore is the only place I know I can get a CD single of a song that has ten different remixes and is specially imported from Australia or Germany. It's the only music store artists in the music game do CD signings, live performances, and VH1 does live video countdowns from on Saturdays! You would never experience these things at a Best Buy or Target - it's not the same music buying experience. Virgin Megastore is the equivalent of Sizzler's or Red Lobster for 'foodies' or Foot Locker and Champs for 'shoeies.'

While I am sad to see my favorite music store leave yet another city I've relocated to (Tower Records being the first when I lived in Atlanta), I realize we live in a new age where people would rather boost music or purchase it on iTunes. And while that is fine and dandy for some, I am old school - I like the CD liners and knowing my artists took time to give me a complete creative package from the music to the CD liner. I guess it is what it is. Virgin Megastore will be missed, but my memories from the first time I stepped into the one in Chicago back in 2001 will always be with me!

Matt Cassel traded to the Chiefs

New England Patriot quarterback Matt Cassel was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs Friday as the second part of a trade that first sent new England linebacker Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs as well. In exchange, the Patriots get a second round pick in the upcoming 2009 NFL draft. This trade seems to favor the Chiefs, due to the lack of what the Patriots got back in return. The Patriots put the franchise tag on since he was an unrestricted free agent this year. The franchise tag is what a team can apply to a player scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. Thus it guaranteed that Matt Cassel would make a lot of money. Cassel had a breakout year for New England last season when the Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady went down for the season after the first game with a knee injury. Cassel threw for 3474 yards. He completed 63 percent of his passes and had 21 touchdowns. He also had a 89.4 passer rating which is good for 10th in the NFL.

Before last year, Matt Cassel was drafted by the Patriots when he didn't even play. He was a backup to Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart. His first four seasons, he was a backup to Tom Brady. Brady's knee has to be back to strength and beyond for them to trade Cassel. With Cassel gone now, there doesn't appear to be a backup which means that they will be stuck if Brady gets hurt again. Matt, its been a long time coming for you and you deserve the money that your going to get. You've never went into a training camp as a starter. You are now. Take your lumps just like Matt Schaub has in Houston and start winning. That way you stay a starter and you get to keep your money in the long run.

Marbury has been involved in the biggest soap opera probably in NBA history

Stephon Marbury has been involved in the biggest soap opera probably in NBA history. He was ceremoniously benched because the new New York Knick coach Mike Dantoni didn't want to play him, even though he was the best player at his position. He was told not to suit up for games and was asked would he take a buyout of his contract. He disagreed because as Marbury put it he put it, "I want all my money, and they're going to pay me." Marbury was instantly villafied by the media because he took money over his team. He finally reached a buyout agreeement with the Knicks and was instantly signed the defending campion Boston Celtics.

Last night Marbury played his first game with the Celtics and had 8 points and 2 assist.

"It went the way I was praying for it to go," Marbury said. He admitted that his legs were not in game shape, but felt he could contribute to the team. The Knicks are going to regret this because every time they have let a player go in his prime, he has came back and burnt them. Case in point, Bernard King, in 1987 after he suffered a knee injury with the Knicks. He was signed by the Washington Bullets in 1987 and worked his way back to 28 points a game in 1991 and an All-Star start. he capped that with a 50 point game against his Knicks. So beware Knicks, another ghost is coming back and gues what, hes healthy from not playing for 13 months thanks to you not playing him. Add to that, he started his career playing with Kevin Garnett, so he knows how to play with him and he has a great supporting cast around him and he knows his role. The Boston Celtics have gotten there mojo back and the Knicks have hell to pay.

THE GOP RETURNS TO "BIRTH OF A NATION" TACTICS

FEAR IS USED AGAINST THE FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT
BY THE CEO

Fear is back. The movie that made the watermelon famous and the first blockbuster was called, "The Birth of a Nation". The movie depicted black men as beasts and wildly savage animals that had lusted after white women and kept their stomachs full. The latest attempt of imagery is by a politician from a small town in California. The Mayor of Los Alimitos, Dean Grose, claims that he didn't know about the stereotypes of blacks and watermelons when he sent his image of a photoshopped watermelon patch in front of the White House. This mayor has since resigned, but it took alot to gather the photos of watermelons and place them meticulously on the picture of the White House.

This is the same mayor I assume who ran tirelessly on one campaign or another. The same Mayor who took the vote from the people of Los Alimitos and said that he would put it to good use. How do the people of Los Alimitos feel now that the Mayor they voted for has insulted the President of the United States? I would like to hear comments from those voters who thought they were getting gold, but instead got lead. 2009 is hear and we're trying to return to "The Birth of Nation" mentality.

The tactics of the GOP have always been simple. Use watermelons and monkey images and put a Chairman of the RNC, who likes to shuck and jive and then we'll win in 2012. The problem with this plan is that its failing horribly. NewsCorp. is experiencing backlash and had to bring the head honcho Rupert Murdoch out to grovel. The mayor who sent out the email has resigned. Something has changed since the "Birth of Nation". African-american men are not seen in the light anymore. They are seen as doctors, lawyers, artists, athletes, moguls, entreprenuers, teachers, computer technicians ,entertainers and more.

The most important factor that has changed is that the African-american male stereotype is being redefined in real-time with the election of President Obama. The black man is gradually becoming an image all too long they have fought to become. The black man's image is simply becoming an image of a man.

THEBLACKURBANTIMES.COM WELCOMES WRITER/AUTHOR NICHELLE WALKER TO THE TEAM!!

Here's some words about Ms. Walker and her site.

NWMasssMedia was formed in 2008 to partner with my publishing company NWHoodTales I wanted to find a way for my readers to keep in touch with me. I busted on the scene in 2007 with my smash debut bestselling novel Doing His Time. I instantly received rave reviews and Doing His Time was compared to the Classic Novel The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah.

I wanted NWMasssMedia to be a site that dares to be different I rarely write about gossip or made up BS. I rather write about stuff that’s on my mind and affecting our world. I plan on focusing on building up our community one day at a time. NWMasssMedia will set a new era of blogging so thanks for taking this ride with me enjoy.

GET HER BEST SELLING BOOKS HERE!!

JAIME FOXX "BLAME IT ON THE ALCOHOL" MUSIC VIDEO!! HOLLYWOOD STYLE!!

KANYE WEST SAYS "RADIOHEAD IS TRASH, GIVE CHRIS BROWN A BREAK!"

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Hip-hop star Kanye West trashed Radiohead and said the public should give Chris Brown "a break," during a recent taping of VH1's "Storytellers."

But the comments will not make it to air when the episode premieres on the lifestyle cable network on Saturday.

The taping, which took place on February 13 at Sony Studios in Los Angeles, lasted three hours. The show's producers cut it to 90 minutes, after getting network approval to expand the episode from its usual one hour.

Some of West's choicer comments ended up on the cutting room floor, but there's no political conspiracy afoot, said executive producer Bill Flanagan.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

MICHELLE OBAMA(THE FIRST LADY)'S OFFICIAL PORTRAIT RELEASED!!!

ACTRESS TARAJI P. HENSON'S OSCARS AFTERPARTY OUTFIT PANNED BY FASHION PRESS!

MSNBC'S CHRIS MATTHEWS SAYS "OH GOD" WHEN BOBBY JINDAL COME ON!

CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK

WTF?! AIRLINE TO START CHARGING PASSENGERS TO USE THE BATHROOM!

Ryanair may charge for toilet use on planes

Fri Feb 27, 4:04 am ET

LONDON (Reuters) – Irish carrier Ryanair, Europe's largest budget airline, might start charging passengers for using the toilet while flying, chief executive Michael O'Leary said on Friday.

"One thing we have looked at in the past and are looking at again is the possibility of maybe putting a coin slot on the toilet door so that people might actually have to spend a pound to spend a penny in future," he told BBC television.

He said this would not inconvenience passengers travelling without cash. "I don't think there is anybody in history that has got on board a Ryanair aircraft with less than a pound."

O'Leary has a reputation as a cost cutter, expanding Ryanair by offering low headline fares and charging extra for items such as additional luggage.

Last week, Ryanair announced it was to shut all check-in desks at airports and have passengers check in online instead.

"We're all about finding ways of raising discretionary revenue so we can keep lowering the cost of air travel," he said.

(Reporting by Tim Castle; Editing by Dan Lalor)

OBAMA SETS IRAQ WITHDRAWL DATE FOR 2010!

Obama sets firm withdrawal timetable for Iraq

By BEN FELLER, Associated Press Writer Ben Feller, Associated Press Writer 2 mins ago

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – President Barack Obama consigned the Iraq war to history Friday, declaring he will end combat operations within 18 months and open a new era of diplomacy in the Middle East.

"Let me say this as plainly as I can: By August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end," Obama told Marines who are about to deploy by the thousands to the other war front, Afghanistan.

Even so, Obama will leave the bulk of troops in place this year, contrary to hopes of Democratic leaders for a speedier pullout. And after combat forces withdraw, 35,000 to 50,000 will stay behind for an additional year and half of support and counterterrorism duties.

Just six weeks into office, Obama used blunt terms and a cast-in-stone promise to write the last chapter of a war that began six years ago. It has cost more in lives, money and national stamina than ever envisioned.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

REPO MEN AND CAR OWNERS GETTING VIOLENT!

Violence between repo men, car owners on the rise

By JAY REEVES, Associated Press Writer Jay Reeves, Associated Press Writer Fri Feb 27, 8:25 am ET

HALSELL, Ala. – Alone in his mobile home off a winding dirt road, Jimmy Tanks heard a commotion at 2:30 a.m. just outside his bedroom window: Somebody was messing with his car.

The 67-year-old railroad retiree grabbed a gun, walked out the back door and confronted not a thief but a repo man and two helpers trying to tow off the Chrysler Sebring. Shots were fired, and Tanks wound up dead, a bullet in his chest.

The man who came to repossess the car, Kenneth Alvin Smith, is awaiting trial on a murder charge in a state considered a Wild West territory even by the standards of an industry that's largely unregulated nationally. Since Tanks' death last June, two other repo men from the same company Smith worked for were shot, one fatally.

"It's gotten to where it's a crazy world out there," said Smith, 50, an ex-Marine who preaches part-time and sings gospel music. Smith said Thursday that he fired in self-defense after Tanks fired a shot.

Click here for the full story

VIDEO: Dj Drama ft Akon, Snoop, TI 'Day Dreaming' Music Video

VIDEO: ASHER ROTH TALKS ABOUT WHEN HE GOT INTO HIP HOP!

VIDEO: JUMPOFF.TV FRIDAY HIP HOP REPORT!

Redskins spend money for losers again

At midnight, the NFL Free Agency market was open to certain teams. The Washington Redskins, who always spend big, signed defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth from the Tennessee Titans for a seven year, 100 million dollar deal. This included an NFL record 41 million dollars in guarantees. This is the most a defensive lineman has received. This is the type of money reserved for a franchise player. The Redskins also signed DeAngelo Hall, who they picked up mid season last year to a six-year, 54 million dollar deal.

Daniel Snyder, you always spend big and you've always lost big as well. You done decent at best and all that you have to show for all the money that you have spent are a couple of wild card berths and early exits out of the playoffs. You've never won a NFC East championship and your team can't even beat the Giants. The biggest thing I have with paying Haynesworth this much money, he got injured towards last season. Take a lesson from the Wizards. They signed Gilbert Arenas to a similar contract. He was hurt the prior year and has yet to live up to his contract worth. Hasn't even played a game. Its now or never for you to deliver Daniel. The Yankees spend like this, but at least they have championships to show for it. When can we say the same thing about the Redskins.

RIHANNA STILL IN LOVE WITH CHRIS BROWN!!

click here for more of the story

VIDEO: NU JERZEY DEVIL TALKS ABOUT TAKING A GUN CHARGE FOR THE GAME!!

Funny Infomercial

Pimpin Curly and Uncle Pinky

It was only a matter of time before we actually got to see Clifton Powell in one of these "Pimpin Curly" episodes. These Pimpin Curly episodes are starting to get addictive. It's like I wait every week to see what 50 has up his sleeve this time around and he never fails at keeping me entertained. If anyone is a fan of Friday or Friday After Next then you should know a thing or two about Pinky (this is where 50 got his character "Curly" from). Pinky is the hot head who owned the record shop that Day Day worked at in the movie Friday. I'm hearing that MTV and even VH1 are interested in bringing this Pimpin Curly to our TV screens! I'm sure it won't be long before that happens.

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Pimpin Curly and Uncle Pinky below:



And for those of you who are not aware of Pinky....check him out below doing his thing in the movie Friday below:

J Hood Presents Letter To The Lox

Everybody these days has a letter dedicated to somebody...Jadakiss and Lil Cease with Letter To Big, Maino with Letter To Pac and now J-Hood with Letter to the Lox! I think this young brotha really put his heart into this track and I'm sure it will give you some perspective on how things went down according to J-Hood. Everybody has their version so here's J's below:

New Video by Jadakiss - Can't Stop Me

For Hip Hop News & Entertainment at DimeWars.Com

The song is hot! Let me know what you think about it.

PHAME INC. & NIGHTLIFE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS: THE PERFECT FRIDAY@DIVA LOUNGE IN MONTCLAIR,NJ 3/20/09!!!

REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS AGREE: JINDAL'S RESPONSE SUCKED!!

Republicans, Democrats criticize Jindal's speech

By BETH FOUHY, Associated Press Writer Beth Fouhy, Associated Press Writer 40 mins ago

NEW YORK – Insane. Childish. Disaster. And those were some of the kinder comments from political pundits about Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and his response to President Barack Obama's speech to Congress on Tuesday night. Jindal, 37, a Rhodes scholar and son of Indian immigrants, is considered a rising star in Republican ranks and a likely 2012 presidential candidate.

GOP leaders, looking for a fresh face for the party's image, tapped Jindal earlier this month for the high-profile task of rebutting Obama's first address to a joint session of Congress.

But in both style and substance, Jindal's speech has drawn flak from Republicans and Democrats alike.

His criticism of government spending for emergency economic relief has been widely panned, especially given his state's receipt of billions in federal assistance after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. And Jindal's voice and earnest, awkward delivery have drawn comparisons to Kenneth Parcell, the geeky page on the NBC comedy "30 Rock."

Indeed, a new Facebook group titled "Bobby Jindal is Kenneth the Page" had already attracted more than 1,800 members Wednesday afternoon.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OF THIS STORY

VIDEO & PICS: Get the first look at the cast of E! Entertainment's new Hip-Hop reality show "Candy Girls"!

L - R: Blanca, Brooke, Olivia, Terricka
E! ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION TAKES VIEWERS INSIDE THE ELITE AND GLAMOROUS WORLD OF MUSIC INDUSTRY "IT" GIRLS IN NEW DOCUSOAP "CANDY GIRLS"

New Series Debuts March 8 At 10:3pm ET/PT Following Season Three Premiere of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians"

Los Angeles, CA – Some call them video girls, some call them video royalty, but when the biggest names in music are looking for Hollywood's hottest eye candy, these are the women they call. You've seen them featured in music videos with the likes of Kanye, Outkast, Will Smith, Jay-Z and Three 6 Mafia, but don't let their supporting roles fool you – these women are anything but background players. In fact, to reach the career pinnacle of appearing in "A-list" music videos and gain access to the world of superstars, private jets and exclusive parties, you need to be able to play the game as well as you look. To add more chaos to this competitive world, the stage keeps changing. Now that every aspect of a superstar's life defines their image, the casting process goes far beyond the traditional video set. Musicians need to live their image and that includes surrounding themselves at all times with the beautiful women who are often featured in their videos. However, like runway models, these women know they need to get in early and make their money fast before time takes away the looks that make them so successful. To survive in this fleeting and mysterious world, you need to be much more than eye candy…you need to be a "Candy Girl." E! gives viewers a never-before-seen look inside the explosive and sexy world of some of the most successful and desirable hip hop video divas and uncovers just how cutthroat and competitive their lives really are. "Candy Girls" (working title) is produced by the award-winning production company Good Clean Fun ("Run's House," "Life of Ryan") in association with Coalition Media. The 30-minute, eight-episode series will premiere on Sunday, March 8 at 10:30pm ET/PT following the third season premiere of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians."


L - R: Kysha, Danielle, April
The series tracks Danielle's efforts to manage some of the most sought-after women in the industry as they navigate a harsh and highly-competitive landscape. Her talent has formed a tight crew – they are all friends first, but at the end of the day it's about getting paid and these women must balance their friendships when competing for the same opportunities. Adding to the pressure is that these women know full well that they have limited time to make a big splash in this industry before times take its toll on their looks and bodies. Featured in this revealing series are:
- Brooke, the self-proclaimed diva of the group and the ultimate hustler in the game with a resume that includes names like Kanye, Outkast and 50 Cent She is sexy and confident, and makes sure everyone knows not to mess with her. However, she understands exactly how valuable her time and beauty is and will find a way to be sure she is set for the future, possibly by one of the many men who are always chasing her.
- Terricka who is a live wire – feisty and outspoken, she is not afraid to let everyone know that she has always been destined for success in this industry. That confidence has gotten her jobs in some of the hottest videos with the likes of Keyshia Cole, Jay Z and Will Smith. She is also a single mother who will take jobs the other women won't and will even break the rules of the company to secure the money she needs.
- Olivia who is the daughter of music legend Booker T. Jones and the target of jealousy among the other girls because of her committed boyfriend, MBA classes and rich-girl background. She has proven that people don't need to be from the hood to know how to hustle in this game, having locked in jobs with superstars like Usher and Nick Cannon. As the youngest in the group, Olivia also serves as a constant reminder to the other women that life as a Candy Girl has a clock on it.
- Blanca is sweet, innocent and a little bit ditzy. She is new to Los Angeles and the industry, but don't let that first impression fool you. When it comes to her life and career she can be a loose canon, and she and Danielle almost came to blows over a recent "misunderstanding."


Clockwise from top left: Brooke, Kysha, Danielle (center), April, Olivia, Blanca, Terricka
Candy Girls official website:
http://www.eonline.com/on/shows/candygirls/index.jsp
"This series introduces E!'s entertainment-obsessed viewers to an aspect of the industry that has not previously been revealed," said Lisa Berger, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Series Development, E! Entertainment Television. "While these women may be recognized for their sexy personas, viewers will find there is much more to them than meets the eye. With cut-throat attitudes, strong opinions and an unapologetic passion for luxury goods, these music industry divas are sure to create an exciting and dramatic series."

"Candy Girls" (working title) follows Danielle, who has built her company "Bella" into one of the premiere talent agencies for the music industry's casting needs. Every woman who wants to break into this industry knows Danielle is the best in the business and holds the key to the biggest jobs. She is armed with two women in her inner circle who help keep her organized and on task: Kysha and April. Kysha is her best friend and assistant, whose newness to the industry often leads her to getting played by the game. Danielle has taken her under her wing and works overtime to teach her the system, but Kysha's new romantic relationship is starting to affect her performance at work and create problems between her and her boss. April is a professional celebrity stylist who has hustled her way to the top during her ten years in the industry, styling over 100 music videos for such big names as Snoop Dogg, Eminem and Bow-Wow. She is a single mother, raising a son she had with model Tyson Beckford and must juggle that role with her successful job in the industry. As the self-proclaimed "token white girl," she is Danielle's eyes and ears when Danielle can't be on set and keeps a close eye on the talent.
For Danielle, between negotiating deals, entertaining famous clients, stomping out fires and doing reconnaissance on her girls, her hectic, non-stop lifestyle has her on the go 24/7. This year she will be sending her talent to events like the Grammy Awards, the Super Bowl, Magic Convention, NBA All Star Weekend, album release events and music video shoots for all the major labels. Through it all, Danielle must manage the lives and attitudes of her stunningly-beautiful divas –– working overtime to keep them out of trouble and make sure they are successful on the job.

"Candy Girls" is produced by Good Clean Fun, LLC in association with Coalition Media. Jason Carbone, Leah Landon and Troy Carter serve as executive producers, and Sarah Kane is co-executive producer. Damla Dogan and Jennifer Danska are executives in charge of production for E! The series premieres on Sunday, March 8th at 10:30pm ET/PT directly following the third season premiere of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians."

VIDEO: PRESIDENT OBAMA TALKS ABOUT THE ECONOMY TO CONGRESS

Soul 4 Real On The Run

I just want to say one thing, I don't like reporting things on people I know but I couldn't pass this by because truthfully, I can't believe it. Brian Dalyrimple formerly of R&B group, Soul 4 Real, is on the run for identity theft. I, personally, know the group and really can't believe the things that I'm seeing or hearing! A friend of mine who I actually call my cousin is dating the oldest brother to the group. I will leave their names out of the article because they are my peoples. I hope Brian is ok and doesn't have anything to do with this nonsense. Bri if you're reading this, please understand that I just report the news. Nothing else! My prayers are with you. Peep what Channel 2 news had to say about this below:

Get your urban news at DimeWars.Com

And on a brighter note here are 2 throwback videos of my people's doing their thang!



Candy Rain





Every Little Thing I Do

EXCLUSIVE! BEYONCE..NIPPLE SLIP AT THE OSCARS..OOPS!! NSFW PICS!!

UH-OH HOV..THE NIPPLE WENT SASHA FIERCE!!!

Exclusive video! Music group-Richgirl working out at the gym..hot!

More Pics of Amber Rose

Thanks to Sandra Rose here are more photos of Kanye's new boo and her girlfriend. One of my readers said something that sticks to my mind and that quote was "At least she can go home to her girlfriend and Kanye can go home to his boyfriend". -_- Dead on that one!

Exclusive! Go behind the scenes with The-Dream and his "LOVE vs. MONEY" album photoshoot!(explicit language)

Mr. Radio Killa gives you an exclusive look behind his new photoshoot complete with gorgeous models, the latest Spring fashions, refined artwork and the first motorcycle that went 100 mph. *This clips contains explicit language*

The Buzz by Stefanie Newell

I was sent an email to check out a new book called "The Buzz". I was anticipating reading the book because it stated right on the front cover "When Celebrity Gossip Goes Wrong". That line right there caught my eye and I knew I had to read the book from beginning to end! Check out an editorial review from Amazon.com below:

Ebony Jenkins has exactly what most women are seeking - a good looking devoted boyfriend, a flourishing business and a beautiful little girl. But what people don't know is how she mixed hard work and deception to maintain the celebrity lifestyle she tries to emulate. Brought on by her desire to over-compensate for what she didn’t have as a child, Ebony has become an Internet addict obsessed with pop culture and their riches. Endless taunts by classmates for wearing hand me downs echoes in her mind and motivates Ebony to provide for herself and her daughter. She's determined to do better than her mom did for her. But at what cost? An insurance settlement left by her deceased father helps her to open a thriving hair salon in Chicago's Bronzeville community. While her business is successful, it’s just not enough for Ebony. At twenty-five with a business and a condo shared by her boyfriend and an impressive bank account, Ebony desires to live the lifestyle of the rich and famous by any means necessary. She dreams big and refuses to be content with what would be considered a fulfilling life for most. She fashions herself to be the baddest chick in the “Chi” and no one including her best friend Trina can share the spotlight with her. Things are going great for Ebony until she suspects her up and coming rapper boyfriend Buzz could be dating the newest R&B phenomenon Arika. Ebony’s obsession with celebrity gossip and dislike of all things popular in the media fuels her hatred for Arika and sends her on an all out Internet mission to ruin Arika’s blossoming career. But as she's swept up in exposing Arika’s flaws and maintaining her faux celebrity lifestyle, Ebony uncovers some skeletons of her own. This novel shows that attaining fame and riches is not always what it’s cracked up to be!

The book is going for $14.95 and is well worth the price. If you want to find out more about Stefanie Newell log onto her website at Stefanie Online.com.

CNN's New Video - Rotate w/Ron Browz & Busta

Check out the official new video by CNN!! One of the hottest rap duo's!!



Capone-N-Noreaga "Rotate" ft. Busta Rhymes & Ron Browz

Boogz Boogetz Video At "The Wagon"

My homies over at "The Wagon" are really doing their thang! They are even having videos shot over at their boutique! Now that's doing it big! Brooklyn big! If you are interested in shooting your one of a kind video in Brooklyn at 1214 Union Street over at "The Wagon" you can holla at Culture at 347-627-3600. I'm sure they will hook you up in style! Enjoy the video:


BOOGZ BOOGETZ-"BELIEVE IT" from 3 3 on Vimeo

Jazzy Sullivan Can Act??

Newcomer to the music scene, Jazmine Sullivan will debut her acting chops in a upcoming movie called Red Tails according to Billboard. The film will also star singer Ne-Yo. Jazmine commented on her new acting gig by saying, "I play a singer who entertains soldiers. I'm really just entertainment for them, but I kind of get a little relationship going with one of them. So that's very exciting. I used to act when I was younger, in little plays. It never was really a passion of mine. It's just something I did and I could do. Anything where I can be creative, I like to do." It also seems Jazmine has a television show in the works, but she couldn't really indulge too many details on that to the media. She is still promoting her debut album, Fearless - and as of right now is in no hurry to work on a follow up just quite yet. "I took a break (from writing). I didn't have an inspiration or anything like that for a little while. But now it's starting to come to me. I don't like to force things; as they come to me, I put the ideas down and...roll from there." That's what's up Jazmine... do your thing baby girl!

T-Lame, opps... T-Pain Gets a Death Threat

T-Lame, oops... I meant T-Pain recently cancelled a show he was going to do in Guyana for Carnival because right before he was supposed to fly down to the South American country, he received threats of being kidnapped and killed through e-mail and over the telephone according to the Associated Press. The authorities in Guyana are investigating the situation. I bet they probably heard his whack ass music and decided to off him from there!

Remember Joe Budden?

You remember Joe Budden? The Spanish Harlem rapper who dropped the single in 2003, Pump It Up? Well he has a new album that drops today - Padded Room. So check out my interview I had with him a couple a weeks ago. It's quite entertaining. For the interview, click here!

CHECK OUT THE "NEW BLACK OVERCLASS" aka NEWBOS ON CNBC W/LEE HAWKINS ON 2/26/09!!

HIS BOOK LOOKS GREAT TOO

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

Exclusive video! Juelz & Zeeky Talk Rumors of Signing Lloyd Banks Brother

Exclusive Video! The Dream - Rockin That Thang Remix - Behind the Scenes

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO AND PICS! CARNIVAL QUEEN, VIVIANE CASTRO, BODYPAINTS OBAMA'S FACE ON HER LEG -NSFW PICS!!!

click here for the NSFW PIC!!!

Beyonce's Not A Big Spender

According to Panache Report, Beyonce recently admitted that she doesn't go out and spend her multi-million dollars ($80 million to be exact... cha ching) on frivolous crap. She stated, "Honestly, I'm very frugal. I haven't bought a car since I was 16 or any diamonds since I was 17. I have a lot of property. I've invested my money and I don't have to make any more, thank God, because I'm set. I'm now able really to be free and just do things that make me happy. It's an effort to stay grounded." Maybe this explains why we see her in fashion catastrophe's such as this House of Dereon hot mess she wore to the 81st Academy Awards last night. Oh Tina Knowles... stop creating clothing, for the love of 'Louis Vuitton!'

2009 OSCARS..ANYTHING CHANGED FOR BLACK HOLLYWOOD?

HOLLYWOOD STILL HAS A FEW KINKS
BY: THE CEO
So the oscars were on again(yawn). Another blackout year for spectacular performances from Tarji Henson and Viola Davis, and what do they get..how many awards..zero. Its the same show every year. The same song and dance. Have we really come that far Black Hollywood. Cuba Gooding Jr. tried to make light of blackface?! WTF?! Its hard out here to compete with a Joker that really put his life into the role. Who's to say that Beyonce singing and dancing with Hugh"Wolverine" Jackman isn't how we're represented best at the Oscars, but this is not true. Beyonce and Jackman gave great performances singing and dancing, but I'd like to see more statues go to Black women who have put their heart and soul into roles that they lived and breathed life into for that 120 minutes.

The Oscars is the same every year, but once in a while they will let the urban audience get a gold guy. Its really a regression to the old days of "Gone with the wind". The performance in Benjamin Button, that Ms. Henson gave was amazing and Viola Davis was great in her performance. Hollywood, you have your moment to shine, with the little gold guy. What I'm waiting for is someone to come up with an awards show that will truly give credit to actors and actresses who tirelessly fight against a system that they know is unfair. Its a hard road "Black Hollywood", but we thank you for your continued efforts to CHANGE the system.

EXCLUSIVE!! BLACKURBANSATIRE: I'LL ALWAYS LOVE YOU..

Legal Disclaimer :Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living,dead, is entirely coincidental

INTRODUCING THEBLACKURBANTIMES.COM'S NEW URBAN CELEBRITY SATIRE/CARTOONIST, PATRICK HARRINGTON!!

"We are very excited to have Mr. Harrington join our team," said Mr A. Onyeani, ceo of The Black Urban Times LLC, owner of theblackurbantimes.com. "He is bringing a wealth of talent to Theblackurbantimes.com. His unique style of art is just what we needed to make us stand out amongst other blogs that claim to be news publication, but do not have a satire element. In the midst of the NY POST cartoon controversy, The Black Urban Times, is dedicated to showing cartoon satire in a tasteful light. We voted for President Obama anyway, so our satire will have a bit of a left-wing slant, if any of them involve politics."

The new column will be called, Blackurbansatire, which will concentrate mainly on urban celebrities and issues that surround urban issues and ideals, a few may deal with politics. They may be controversial at times. So please hold on to your latte!


Here's a few words from Mr. Harrington himself " I love drawing & Rock & Roll. I'm a Phila area caricaturist, cartoonist. I've also done coloring books and comic books. I plan on using this blog as an update to my website as well as other stuff. I am presently seeking publication and representation. I am available for commissions and freelance work. Harringtoons caricatures are great fun and guaranteed laughter for any and all occasions including but not limited to: Anniversaries, Award Dinners, Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs, Block Parties, Christmas Parties, Communion Parties, College Events, Company Picnics, Country Club Events, Divorce Parties, Fairs, Festivals, Fundraisers, Graduations, Grand Openings, Holiday Parties, Open Houses, Porim Parties, Porim Fairs, Post-Proms, Proms, Project Graduations, Promotional Events, Quinceaneras, Sweet 16 Parties,Trade Shows, Wedding Receptions, ANY and ALL Events and Occasions you want to be FUN! I also have the best Led Zeppelin tribute band ever- Swan Song the Led Zeppelin Experience".

GOT BABIES? OCTUPLETS FATHER SHOWS UP

"Good Morning America" has snagged an interview with a man who says he may be the father of the eight babies given birth by Nadya Suleman. The man, whose identity GMA won't reveal until their interview with him airs Monday morning, donated sperm three times to the clinic at which Suleman received her in vitro fertilization. He is unsure if the children are his, but Suleman approached him asking for sperm donations, so he believes a paternity test is at least in order.
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GOT WATER? CALIFORNIA IN BAD DROUGHT

Severe Drought Adds to Hardships in California
By JESSE McKINLEY

MENDOTA, Calif. — The country’s biggest agricultural engine, California’s sprawling Central Valley, is being battered by the recession like farmland most everywhere. But in an unlucky strike of nature, the downturn is being deepened by a severe drought that threatens to drive up joblessness, increase food prices and cripple farms and towns.
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OBAMA DAUGHTERS NOT SPOILED..STILL DO CHORES

For Obama Girls, There Is No Avoiding Chores
By RACHEL L. SWARNS

WASHINGTON

CONSIDER the perils of parenting in the White House.

There is a movie theater, a bowling alley, a horseshoe pit, a swimming pool, five full-time chefs and dozens of household staff members ready to dish up ice cream at all hours. There are trips to foreign lands, dinners with kings and celebrities, swarming paparazzi and blaring motorcades, all with the potential to transform sweet little children into bossy, self-important ones. (Or lonely, dysfunctional ones.)


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Tupac Biopic Movie Halted

According to Dime Wars and writer Helluva Dime, there won't be a biopic movie on Tupac anytime soon. Peep the article below courtesy of Helluva Dime:

This is certainly the year of rapper biopics, but Tupac may not be in that line up.

"Apparently the production company Morgan Creek is stuck in a legal battle with Tupac’s mom over the movie rights to Tupac’s life story. Morgan Creek, which has produced movies such as Get Carter and Two For The Money, is suing Tupac’s mothers company Amaru Entertainment, alleging that Amaru has backed out of an agreement to sell Tupac’s life rights for a film adaptation."
Amaru Entertainment were in talks as early as December to bring Tupac’s life story to the big screen. But after the underperformed box office January release of Notorious, contracts and negotiations broke down siting a rift between probably due to minimum guarantees and cuts of box office gross points.

So what does this mean you ask? There won't be a Tupac biopic for a minute and I'm soo disappointed. But in the meantime you can check out this film trailer from MTV about Tupac's life called "Resurrection". Enjoy folks!

Kanye West & New Girlfriend Threesome

Oh My Gosh!!! Oh My Goodness!!! The above photo is of Kanye West and apparently his new girlfriend, Amber Rose. I have to admit the girl is absolutely gorgeous. She caught my eye (no homo) when she appeared in the Ludacris and Chris Brown video "I Know What Them Girls Like". I just thought to myself....I never knew a woman could be that pretty with all her hair chopped off. But according to my peoples over at Rhymes With Snitch, Amber Rose is not that into men. Photos have been released showing the beautiful Amber Rose with her girlfriend of many years. Check them out below:





Let me know what you guys think.

The New Celebrity Apprentice

Finally an "Apprentice" show I will be watching!!! The new "Celebrity Apprentice" has a cast that I will enjoy staying in tune for. My favorite celebs who will be appearing on the show are: T-Boz of TLC, Brian McKnight, Dennis Rodman, Khloe Kardashian, Tom Green and many more!!! Where the hell has Tom Green been? Remember he once had a show on MTV? That show was hilarious!!!

The new "Celebrity Apprentice" will premiere on Sunday, March 1st on NBC. Stay tuned folks!