South American Dates Announced For Beyonce's 'I AM...' World Tour

The dates are as follows:

Thu 2/4 Florianopolis, Brazil Parque Planeta

Sat 2/6 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Maracana Stadium

Sun 2/7 Sao Paulo, Brazil Pacaembu Stadium

Wed 2/10 Salvador, Brazil Parque de Exposicoes

Fri 2/12 Buenos Aires, Argentina Hipodromo de San Isidro

Sun 2/14 Santiago, Chile Arena Movistar

Tue 2/16 Lima, Peru Explanada del Estadio Monumental

Thu 2/18 Port of Spain, Trinidad Queen's Park

Grammy Nominated Recording Artist Trey Songz Brings "Songz 4 Peace" to Brooklyn Center High School in Minnesota

On Thursday December 17, 2009 Brooklyn Center High School students in Minnesota will receive words of encouragement from Grammy Nominated recording artist Trey Songz and well known Philanthropist & Author of "Gangster With A Heart of Gold" Noonie G.

The two will lead a panel discussion along with assistance from 12 year NBA vet & CEO of Hudson Records, Troy Hudson, Songz 4 Peace sponsor Alex Tievy of LGND Entertainment, Youth Mentor/Motivational Speaker Coach Morris and Glenn Stubbs. The panel will be moderated by Trey Songz DJ and former radio personality from 106.3 in Richmond VA, DJ Foot. There will also be special prize giveaways and gift bags for students in attendance. Additional Songz 4 Peace sponsors include HipHopUCit.com and UrbanBridgez.com

GUCCI MANE HAS #1 RAP ALBUM IN THE COUNTRY

Gucci Mane's The State vs. Radric Davis is the #1 rap album in the country with 89K units sold in its first week of release, making it the #10 album overall according to Billboard's Top 200 album chart.

The album features Gucci's first single "Wasted" feat. Plies, a #1 song at urban mainstream radio, and the crossover smash "Spotlight" feat. Usher. Amongst the album's cameos is a who's-who of urban music with guest spots from Lil Wayne, Keyshia Cole, Soulja Boy, Rick Ross, Trina, Cam'ron, Nicki Minaj, E-40 and laugh out loud skits with comedian, Mike Epps.(PR)

Michael Vick Married in Philadelphia a few hours ago?

According to one of our "friends," Michael Vick just got married a few hours ago at the Ritz Carlton in Philadelphia. (story developing)

OH NO! Movie producer Tyler Perry's mother passes

ATLANTA – Movie producer Tyler Perry says his mother, Willie Maxine Perry, has died.

His mother was 64. Tyler Perry announced the news of the Tuesday death on his Web site, where he thanked fans for their prayers. He did not say where his mother died or anything about the cause.

Perry's publicist did not immediately respond to a phone call.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution quoted a 2006 interview with Perry in which he said his mother was the basis for his most popular character, Madea.

The newspaper said Maxine Perry was a preschool teacher who worked at the New Orleans Jewish Community Center for most of her life. (AP)

Woman's 911 call from Woods' home: 'Hurry up'

OCOEE, Fla. – A panicking woman calls 911 from Tiger Woods' Orlando-area mansion, telling the dispatcher that her mother had collapsed.

"Oh my God! Hurry up," the woman says as a child is heard crying in the background.

Wood's mother-in-law, Barbro Holmberg, was rushed to a hospital early Tuesday with stomach pains. Although she was released about 11 hours later and returned to the pro golfer's house, the event touched off the second media frenzy in two weeks surrounding Woods' carefully guarded private life.

In a recording of the 911 call obtained by The Associated Press, the woman says, "She
collapsed in the bathroom. What do I do?"

A few seconds later, the caller said her mother was breathing normally, talking and didn't appear to be hurt from her fall.(AP)

Shakira shakes up Oxford Union with address

LONDON – Michael Jackson and Mother Teresa. Stephen Hawking and the Dalai Lama. And now, Shakira.

The Colombian singer who is famous for hits like "Hips Don't Lie" and "Whenever, Wherever" joins a diverse group of luminaries when she addresses the Oxford Union on Monday.

The 32-year-old is also a UNICEF ambassador, and will address the union about the work of her Barefoot Foundation, which helps child victims of violence. The union is the ancient university's famous debating and social society.(AP)

Diane Sawyer says this is her last week on 'GMA'

NEW YORK – Diane Sawyer says this week is her last as co-anchor of ABC's "Good Morning America" as she prepares to replace Charles Gibson on the network's "World News."

Gibson is retiring. His last broadcast as anchor on "World News" will be Dec. 18. Sawyer starts Dec. 21.

The 63-year-old Sawyer has been on "GMA" for 10 years. She says: "I've calculated — 2,881 shows. Roughly."

Sawyer made the announcement Monday. She says she hopes "GMA" viewers will "celebrate with us this week, and laugh with us this week, and look back a little with us this week." (AP)

Beyonce racks up 10 Grammy nominations!

LOS ANGELES — Beyonce has enough Grammy nominations for her and Sasha Fierce.

The omnipresent diva garnered the most Grammy nominations on Wednesday night with 10 nods, including nominations for album of the year for "I Am ... Sasha Fierce," song of the year for her anthem "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" and record of the year for "Halo."(AP)

Keri Hilson Gets Grammy Nominations for Best New Artist & Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for 'Knock You Down' ft. Kanye West & Ne-Yo

Keri Hilson is looking to win the R&B/Soul triple crown following the announcement last night of her Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Earlier this year, Hilson was named Best New Artist at both the BET and Soul Train Awards, and now the extraordinary singer-songwriter is the only R&B/Soul artist among the Best New Artist Grammy nominees.

Hilson has also been Grammy nominated for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Knock You Down" with Kanye West and Ne-Yo, a track from her gold-certified debut album In A Perfect World... (Mosley Music Group/Zone 4/Interscope Records). (PR)

LL Cool J's New 'Best of' Album, All World 2, Features Never-Before-Compiled Hits, Favorites and Rarities

LL Cool J - the first rap teen idol, first rapper with four consecutive albums, first to earn four gold singles, first to hit No. 1 R&B, first to headline "MTV Unplugged;" a multi-talented performer, actor (currently starring in the new TV series "NCIS: Los Angeles") and entrepreneur - opened the doors for rap's mass popularity.

Today, during Def Jam Recordings' 25th anniversary, he remains the exceptional hip-hop star who has flourished for that entire run - demonstrated by a new "best of" collection, All World 2 (Def Jam/UMe), to be released December 8, 2009. This new set not only fills in the gaps from 1996's platinum All World: Greatest Hits but updates LL's career with hits and favorite tracks released since then, while reprising a few cuts from his immensely successful career. (PR)

The Black Eyed Peas Announce The E.N.D. World Tour 2010

Three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist, The Black Eyed Peas today announced dates for their 100-date headline tour. Described as the ultimate Black Eyed Peas party experience, it also marks the first time that the group - will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie - is united for a North American headline tour since their 2006 Monkey Business world tour.

The North American leg of "The E.N.D. World Tour 2010," produced by AEG Live, will kick off at Philips Arena in Atlanta on February 4, 2010, and conclude on April 11th at GM Place in Vancouver. After a short break, the tour resumes in May with shows across Europe and the UK. Special ticket pre-sales for The Black Eyed Peas' fan club members will be announced in the days ahead. National ticket on-sale dates begin December 12th. Ticket prices will carry reasonable value and will be accessible to all fans.

Feb.
4 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
6 Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
9 Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Veteran's
Memorial Arena
10 Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum
12 Nashville, TN Nashville Arena
13 Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
16 Columbus, OH Schottenstein Center
17 Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
19 Raleigh, NC RBC Center
20 Charlotte, NC Time Warner Cable Arena
23 Washington, DC Verizon Center
24 New York, NY Madison Square Garden
26 Boston, MA TD Garden

March 1 Uniondale, NY Nassau Coliseum

3 Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
4 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
6 Toronto, Ont. Air Canada Centre
9 Detroit, MI The Palace
11 Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center
13 Chicago, IL United Center
19 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
20 Tulsa, OK BOK Center
22 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
24 Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
25 Des Moines, IA Wells Fargo Arena
27 Denver, CO Pepsi Center
29 Los Angeles, CA STAPLES Center
31 Glendale, AZ Jobing.com Arena

April 2 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion

7 Sacramento, CA ARCO Arena
10 Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome
11 Vancouver, B.C. GM Place


(PR)

Nick Cannon Unites Celebrities With Teens to Celebrate Their Commitment to Service in the First-Ever TeenNick HALO Awards

TeenNick, Nickelodeon's 24-hour TV network exclusively for and about teens, unveils the first-ever TeenNick HALO Awards -- a new concept in awards shows featuring four mega-celebrities who don't receive the awards themselves -- they give them out to deserving teens in support of their philanthropic causes. LeBron James, Alicia Keys, Hayden Panettiere and Justin Timberlake join TeenNick Chairman Nick Cannon in an hour-long special presentation that recognizes and celebrates real teens who are "Helping And Leading Others" (HALO) and working to making a significant difference in the world.

The TeenNick HALO Awards premieres Friday, Dec. 11, at 8 p.m. (ET), on TeenNick, followed by an encore presentation at 9 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nick at Nite. Conceived, hosted and executive produced by Cannon, the TeenNick HALO Awards, in partnership with the Entertainment Industry Foundation, also features an exclusive personal message from First Lady Michelle Obama.(PR)

UPTOWN Magazine Holiday Issue Features Alicia Keys

Uptown Magazine celebrates the Holiday Season and December/January 2010 issue with cover girl Alicia Keys, on newsstands December 8th. "Free Spirit" gives Alicia Keys a forum to discuss her latest album "The Element of Freedom," singing her new single "Empire State of Mind" with Jay-Z at Yankee Stadium during the World Series, her new company AK Worldwide and dealing with rumors and haters. (PR)

Kelis Signs to Interscope Records; To Release Next Album Through will.i.am Music Group

Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Kelis announced today that she will release her next album through will.i.am Music Group / Interscope Records. Kelis has just given everyone a taste of what's to come with the David Guetta-produced "Acapella," which is now available on her website www.iamkelis.com. The new album features production work by some of today's most influential producers, including will.i.am, David Guetta (Black Eyed Peas), Free School, Boys Noize, Burns and DJ Ammo. (PR)

Keyshia Cole pregnancy UPDATE!

According to Necole Bitchie:

It has been officially confirmed that singer Keyshia Cole is 100% pregnant. Although I posted eyewitness accounts from folks who hit up a Turkey Drive last week, I still wasn’t 100% sure if it was true. She is expecting a boy in March of next year, according to Freddy O and Sister 2 Sister, however she has no plans of getting married just yet.

Vivica Fox to Host Gillette Fusion DC MVP Experience at Cuts Unlimited Barbersho

Actress/Producer – Ms. Vivica Fox will host the Gillette Fusion MVP Experience in Washington, DC. Gillette Fusion’s MVP Prime Time 5-city tour highlights the Gillette Fusion MVP razor by tapping into the lifestyle of key AAM consumers at local barbershops in the various markets.

This in-barbershop emersion event includes complimentary shaves, massages, and gifts. “Barbers have an important role in helping African American men achieve a well groomed appearance. African American barbershops are an ideal environment for Gillette to share its research findings and provide expert advice on reducing razor bumps” stated Munson Steed, Publisher of Rolling Out Magazine and CEO of Steed Media Group. DC’s barbershop event will be held at Cuts Unlimited in Forestville. (PR)

Giant Magazine suspends print edition!

Giant Magazine, owned by Radio One’s Interactive One subsidiary, will cease its print publication and publish only online.

Radio One acquired Giant Magazine in 2007 for $270,000. The bi-monthly lifestyle magazine covers celebrities, culture and fashion primarily for 20-something African Americans.

Radio One is moving its content GIANTlife.com, a new Web site as part of its Interactive One division.

“The economic downturn has had a tremendous impact on print media and we had to make the decision to suspend printing the publication,” said Tom Newman, president of Interactive One in a statement. “Additionally we recognize the increase in demand for real time information and see this as an opportunity to leverage our existing robust online platform to better serve Giant consumers and advertisers through our interactive medium.” (Washington Business Journal)

Alicia Keys to take 5 people on trip to Africa!

NEW YORK – Alicia Keys says her first visit to Africa was so emotional and inspiring that she is ready to take others there to experience something similar.

The Grammy-winning singer is launching a contest through her charity, Keep a Child Alive, that will give five people an opportunity to visit the continent with her. She says her initial trip to Africa "totally changed my life."

"Going to Africa was unbelievable for me," the 28-year-old said.

"I was probably like 19 or something. I was asked to come to Africa to perform, and so you think, `I'm just the girl from Harlem, I wrote a couple of songs on 137th Street, and then suddenly you want me to come to Africa? And people will know me? And people will know the songs?' It was a mind-blowing experience for me."(AP)

Seattle police kill suspect in officer slayings

SEATTLE – The man suspected of gunning down four police officers in a suburban coffee shop was shot and killed by a lone patrolman investigating a stolen car early Tuesday. Four people were arrested for allegedly helping the suspect elude authorities during a massive two-day manhunt.

Maurice Clemmons was carrying a handgun he took from one of the dead officers when a Seattle policeman recognized him near a stolen car in a working-class south Seattle neighborhood about 2:45 a.m., Assistant Police Chief Jim Pugel said.
The officer saw Clemmons and ordered him to show his hands and stop.

"He wouldn't stop," Pugel said. "The officer fired several rounds." (AP)

Our thoughts: He had what he had coming. You cannot kill someone without reprecusions. He received everything that he deserved. Rest in hell Maurice Clemmons! Although that's a harsh statement, right is right and wrong is wrong. CASE CLOSED!

See.....KEYSHIA COLE IS REALLY PREGNANT!

The rumor mill has been circling around for weeks stating that R&B singer Keyshia Cole was pregnant. At first we were reluctant to believe it (seeming that she's only been dating her boyfriend Bobbie Gibson of the Cleveland Cavaliers for less than a year). Keyshia Cole never seemed like the one to become knocked up by someone that she ONLY knew for a "minute."

Well, there's now video proof that shows Keyshia Cole is clearly pregnant! You can even hear a fan in the video say, "awwww she's pregnant." Congrats Keyshia!

MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT Coming to Blu-ray, DVD & PSP with 90 Minutes of Never-Before-Seen Bonus Features

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment offers music lovers a backstage pass to witness the King of Pop plan and create what would have been his electrifying and triumphant return to the stage when MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT debuts on Blu-ray, DVD and PSP this January 26, 2010. After breaking box office records around the world, MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT will dazzle on Blu-ray and DVD.

Directed by Kenny Ortega, the Blu-ray and DVD release will allow fans to go beyond the theatrical experience of the film Roger Ebert called "one of the most revealing music documentaries I've seen" with the two documentaries "Staging The Return: Beyond The Show" and "Staging The Return: The Adventure Begins," in which Michael Jackson is shown developing, creating and rehearsing for his sold-out This Is It tour.

Also available are a series of illuminating featurettes, including "The Gloved One," a costume themed featurette; "Memories of Michael," in which cast and crew pay moving tribute to the legacy of Michael Jackson; "Auditions: Searching for the World's Best Dancers," spotlighting the search for the show's incredibly talented backup dancers; and the film's Theatrical Trailer. (PR)

BET Networks Joins World AIDS Day Activities with Special Episode of '106 & PARK' and Rap-It-Up Initiatives

Of the more than one million people in the United States who are living with HIV/AIDS, nearly half are African American. Moreover, the HIV/AIDS infection rates in Washington, D.C. have surpassed the threshold for a severe epidemic three times over and Black women account for more than 90 percent of all women infected with the virus in the nation's capitol. On Tuesday, December 1 at 6:00 p.m.*,

World AIDS Day, BET shines a light on these alarming statistics by dedicating a full episode of the Network's hit music countdown show, 106 & PARK, to the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic. Throughout the week, BET and its Emmy Award-winning pro-social initiative Rap-It-Up will zero in on the epidemic in Washington, D.C. by partnering with The Magic Johnson Foundation, The National Medical Association, Metro Teen AIDS, radio station WPGC-FM and the D.C. campus community.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs Kicks Off the Holiday Season with HSN Debut of His Award Winning Sean John Fragrances

Interactive lifestyle network and retail destination HSN is kicking off the holiday season with two special-guest LIVE appearances from multi-talented producer, musician, actor, designer, entrepreneur and lifestyle icon Sean "Diddy" Combs as he debuts his award winning fragrances, Holiday Gift Sets and exclusive Sean John robe on HSN and www.hsn.com.

Sean "Diddy" Combs will unveil his men's fragrance collections Unforgivable and I Am King, and women's fragrance collection Unforgivable Woman during two special shows on HSN - Monday, November 30 at 11:00pm ET and Tuesday, December 1 at 1:00am ET.

"With the help of HSN, I'm going to be coming to your living room for the holidays," says Combs. "I can't wait to show HSN's viewers my lineup of Sean John Fragrances for men and women. It's the perfect time to shop for the holidays." (PR)

Keyshia Cole is Pregnant!

The rumor mills are doing overtime again, this time thankfully not churning out fake death stories, but rather ‘life’ ones. The rumor that Keyshia Cole is pregnant is spreading like wildfire over the internet. She is currently dating the handsome Cleveland Cavaliers player Daniel “Boobie” Gibson. It was common knowledge that she had moved in with him recently. The last time, rumormongers suggested that she was pregnant with Young Jeezy’s baby, with additional information that the alleged father was declaring everywhere the good news. (THEINDIAN)

R. Kelly to Host Thanksgiving Feast for Soldiers

Continuing his long tradition of supporting the country's men and women in uniform, R&B superstar R. Kelly will be hosting a special Thanksgiving dinner Wednesday evening (Nov. 25) for 200 soldiers from Walter Reed Army Medical Center and other U.S. Army facilities in the Washington, D.C., area.

The feast will be held at Washington's Constitution Hall, where the multi-platinum-selling recording artist will be performing later in the evening as part of his multi-city "Ladies Make Some Noise!" tour. Following the dinner, the troops will attend the concert as Kelly's guests.

"There's nothing worse than being away from your loved ones at the holidays," said Kelly. "This is my way of my way of saying thank you to all the brave men and women who have given up so much in order to protect us. It's their sacrifices that allow us to sleep comfortably at night and send our children off to school in the morning." (PR)

MTV JAMS HOSTS “CHICAGO DAY” ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 FEATURING VIDEOS FROM SOME OF CHICAGO’S GREATEST INCLUDING KANYE WEST, COMMON AND JENNIFER HUDSON

Chi-Town takes over MTV Jams on Friday, November 27 with “Chicago Day” featuring videos from the hottest artists including Kanye West, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Lupe Fiasco, and many more. “Chicago Day” will also focus on showcasing talent from the underground music scene. MTV Jams partnered with Fake Shore Drive, Chicago’s #1 hip hop blog, to find some of the city’s up and coming new artists including Rhymefest, GLC, Ben One, Skooda Chose, and Scheme .

“Chicago Day” on MTV Jams marks a pivotal point in Chicago hip hop history, by not only showcasing national talent, but also by giving up and coming and independent artists the chance to shine alongside of them,” says Andrew Barber, founder of Fake Shore Drive.com.
“Chicago Day” will also look inside the music of the city and focus on the

philanthropic efforts of those dedicated to making the city a safer place for inner city youth. MTV News VJ, Sway and one of hip hops finest; David Banner hit the streets to talk to the people of Chicago. David Banner also talks with Sway about his “Heal the Hood” Organization, which is dedicated to stopping the violence that is plaguing the city. Sway also sits down with George Daniels, Godfather of Chicago music to talk about how the music in the city has evolved. (PR)

Disturbing Tha Peace Records introduces R&B artist & musician Rudy Currence with the holiday EP Last Christmas

Carolina based music sensation Rudy Currence, the most recent addition to the roster at Disturbing Tha Peace (DTP) Records, will release a holiday EP titled Last Christmas on November 24, 2009. The Last Christmas EP provides a sneak peek into Rudy Currence's highly anticipated debut album with DTP. The project was created and produced under Rudy's label Mike Chek Entertainment and features five songs including the title track "Last Christmas". Just in time for the holiday season, Last Christmas is available for purchase at various online music retailers, including iTunes, Amazon and Napster for $4.95.(PR)

Oprah Winfrey to Announce End of Show on Today’s Broadcast

Nov. 20 (Bloomberg) -- Oprah Winfrey will announce the end of her TV talk show on the air today as she prepares to start a cable channel with Discovery Communications Inc.

The television host will provide further details about her plans at that time, Don Halcombe, a spokesman for Winfrey’s Chicago-based Harpo Inc., said yesterday in an interview. She will host a show and develop programs for her Oprah Winfrey Network, according to two people with knowledge of the plans.

Nicole Richie Hospitalized With Pneumonia

According to POP, Nicole Richie has been hospitalized with a touch of pneumonia, but fear not fans, she's on the mend.

Her rep tells UsMagazine.com, "Nicole has checked into Cedars-Sinai where she is being treated for pneumonia. She is doing well."

Richie alluded to being dogged by sickness in a post on Twitter this past Sunday, writing "ok cold, it's been 6 days. Lets part ways graciously & keep it moving."

Reggie Bush Puts LA Home on The Market

NFL Player and reality star Kim Kardashian's boyfriend Reggie Bush is listing his LA Viewsite Terrance home on the market for $5,099,000. The palatial pad spans out to 4,831 square feet and has 4 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. Property records indicate that Reggie bought the home back in December of 2006 for $4,700,000. Check out the detailed description of the home below:

DESCRIPTION: Explosive 360 degree jet liner views set the stage for this urban oasis. The ultimate in LA lifestyle &perfect for a celebrity, this 4 bed 5.5 bath masterpiece is sited at the end of a prime sunset strip cul-de-sac. The Incredible sexy master suite is on its own floor with his and her bathrooms, and a closet fit for a king. Elevator, 4 outdoor plasma TVs, glass pocket doors, plush state of the art Movie Theater & smart home technology is only the beginning of this 4831sf entertainers paradise.(FeverMagazine.com)

RUSSELL SIMMONS HONORS JENNA BUSH-HAGER AND BARBARA BUSH AT DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT FUND DINNER DALLAS ROCKS

Bush Twins Honored With Rising Star Empowerment Award For Volunteer Work In Africa

On Saturday, November 14th Russell Simmons hosted his annual Fundraising Gala, Dallas Rocks in Dallas, TX for his Diamond Empowerment Fund charity.

Sisters Vanessa and Angela Simmons presented Jenna Bush-Hager and Barbara Bush with the Rising Star Empowerment Award for the charitable work they’ve done in Africa. Celebrities and Dallas socialites grooved to music spun by DJ Cassidy and enjoyed a special performance by Smokey Robinson. Rev Run celebrated his 45th birthday with his family and to celebrate jumped on stage and performed for the sold out dinner. Master of ceremonies Anthony Anderson revved up the crowd by auctioning off items to raise money for the Diamond Empowerment Fund. (AP)

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND "MONICA DANGER" IS A TRANSFORMER

LOS ANGELES , CA (November 18, 2009) – Noted as the bad girl of reality TV, Monica "Danger" spawned a new found lane of opportunity for many to follow. Only after a month of her new born daughter the young starlet is in the middle of launching her own tennis shoe called "Dangerous Kicks" and a graphic T-Shirt Line entitled "Dangerous Love," all while quenching her truest heart desire on a brand new canvas as an artist. (PR)

HOUSTON HIP HOP ARTIST BUN B AND BOOST MOBILDRIVE TO BENEFIT THE HOUSTON FOOD BANK

Boost Mobile to present $5,000 donation to Bun B's charity of choice, Bethel's Place, a local community development and outreach center

WHAT:

To aid in the fight against hunger this holiday season, Boost Mobile has teamed up with Houston hip hop artist, Bun B, to host a food drive to benefit the Houston Food Bank. The event will take place at the Boost Mobile retail store in Westhill Village . Boost Mobile will also be presenting a $5,000 donation to Bun B's charity of choice, Bethel's Place, a local community development and outreach center. Houston's KBXX 97.9 The Box will be onsite broadcasting live with giveaways from 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. PR)

Shock Value II, Hotly Anticipated New Album From Super-Producer Timbaland, Now Due For Release December 8th, 2009

Multi-platinum producer, prolific hit-maker, and sonic innovator Timbaland has announced that his third solo album, entitled Timbaland Presents Shock Value II will now be released on December 8th, 2009, on Mosley Music Group/Blackground Records/Interscope Records.

The album is the follow-up to the super-producer's multi-platinum 2007 album Timbaland Presents Shock Value, which spawned three No. 1 pop singles, the Grammy-nominated "Give It To Me" (featuring Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake), "The Way I Are," (featuring Keri Hilson and D.O.E.), and a remix of OneRepublic's multi-platinum blockbuster "Apologize" (one of the best-selling singles of the decade). (PR)

50 Cent Plays Santa to Single Moms in Financial Trouble This Holiday Season With '50's Money For Moms' Contest With BET

During the next week, 50 Cent will not only be on television, on the Internet, and at a pair of retail stores promoting his new Before I Self Destruct album and film but he'll also be playing Santa this holiday season.

Amidst tough economic times, 50 Cent is implementing his own stimulus package, specifically to help single mothers. For "50's Money For Moms" contest in conjunction with BET, entrants must explain in 200 words or less why she -- or a single mother the writer knows -- deserves to win one of three grand prizes of $10,000 each from 50 Cent. Details and entries are available at www.bet.com/Site/contests_50cent.(PR)

Leona Lewis Records Theme For 'Avatar' Movie

Leona Lewis has recorded the main song for forthcoming movie 'Avatar'.

The James Cameron-directed film will hit the big screen in December, and fans will be able to hear Leona's vocals as the song 'I See You' is played during the closing credits.

Lewis worked with producers James Horner and Simon Franglen on the track, who worked on the Celine Dion 'Titanic' theme 'My Heart Will Go On'.

The singer's second album 'Echo' is released this week.

T.I. To Marry When He's Released From Jail

T.I. may be behind bars right now, but when he's released next year he'll marry his longterm girlfriend Tameka 'Tiny' Cottle.

The rapper is currently serving a year and one day sentence for illegal weapons charges stemming back to 2007. He entered jail on March 26 of this year, and will be a free man on March 26, 2010.

Although it was rumored T.I. and Takema had tied-the-knot in a secret ceremony just before his jail time began, both denied it soon after.

However, Cottle tells XXL magazine that once he's out they'll be getting wed. "Sometime [next] year," she revealed, "but we can't really give a date yet because we have to find out exactly when Tip is coming home."

"We'll have to just plan around that, but I envision a fairytale wedding." (ANGRYAPE)

Obama honors veterans at Arlington cemetery

ARLINGTON, Va. – President Barack Obama carried out the traditional Veterans Day role Wednesday, then made a surprise visit to a part of Arlington National Cemetery reserved for troops killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, walking among the grave sites and talking to mourners.

In his brief speech after a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns, Obama paid fond tribute to the determination of the U.S. military, from those who served generations ago to today's troops fighting in Afghanistan, Iraq and missions around the world.

"To all of them — to our veterans, to the fallen and to their families — there is no tribute, no commemoration, no praise that can truly match the magnitude of your service and your sacrifice," he said. (AP)

MULTI –PLATINUM PRODUCER, COMPOSER, SONGWRITER AND PIANIST - J.R. ROTEM CELEBRATES TWO NUMBER ONE SONGS THIS WEEK IN THE USA AND THE UK

Multi platinum powerhouse producer, pianist, and composer JR Rotem has had ground breaking and phenomenal success over the years, he has produced over 300 records worldwide while launching his label Beluga Heights and introducing many superstar artists to the world. JR has become one of the most red-hot and in demand producers in the game.

With deep musical roots, this versatile producer and songwriter is taking both the hip-hop and pop world by storm. He has worked with everyone in pop music from Rihanna to Britney Spears to Leona Lewis to Sean Kingston, whom he discovered and launched as an international pop star. This year, he has launched two breakout artists, Jason Derulo and Iyaz on Beluga Heights through his newly launched joint venture deal with Warner Bros records.

Not only is he breaking his own artists but most recently has had chart topping success with Rick Ross “The Boss”, Leona Lewis “Better In Time” and Plies “Bust It Baby.” He currently is in the studio with Flo-Rida, Drake, Plies,The Game and Toni Braxton just to name a few. Overseas he wrote and produced Britain’s favorite new boy band, JLS’ “Everybody In Love,” which hit number one in the UK just this week. Rotem’s magnetism, style, and endless abilities to produce hit records from scratch, combined with his musical genius, will only lead him to continued success. (FYI PR)

Swift wins 2nd straight BMI award for top song

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Taylor Swift started what could be an interesting week with her second straight song of the year award at the BMI Country Awards Tuesday, when Kris Kristofferson was honored as an icon.

Swift won for her song "Love Story" — the night before she contends for entertainer of the year at the Country Music Association Awards — Bobby Pinson won songwriter of the year and Sony/ATV Music was named publisher of the year.(AP)

Silent DC sniper mastermind Muhammad executed

JARRATT, Va. – Sniper John Allen Muhammad refused to utter any last words as he was executed, taking to the grave answers about why and how he plotted the killings of 10 people that terrorized the Washington, D.C., area for three weeks in October 2002.

The 48-year-old died by injection at 9:11 p.m. Tuesday as relatives of the victims watched from behind glass, separated from the rest of the 27 witnesses at Greensville Correctional Center, south of Richmond, Virginia. (AP)

Halle Berry to receive Sherry Lansing award!

LOS ANGELES – Halle Berry has something else in common with fellow Oscar winners Meryl Streep and Jodie Foster: The Sherry Lansing Leadership Award.

The Hollywood Reporter says Berry will receive the honor next month at the paper's 18th annual Power 100: Women in Entertainment breakfast.

The award recognizes groundbreaking contributions to the entertainment industry. Besides Streep and Foster, past recipients include Barbara Walters, Glenn Close and Lansing herself.

Hilary Swank will give the keynote address at the Power 100 breakfast, to be held Dec. 4 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. (AP)

Glamour Names First Lady Michelle Obama, Stella McCartney and Rihanna Among 2009 Women of the Year

Glamour magazine announces its annual Women of the Year tribute with 11 extraordinary and inspirational winners and one special-recognition honoree. Glamour's honorees have made unprecedented contributions to the worlds of entertainment, business, sports, fashion, science and politics. L'Oreal Paris is the title sponsor of the celebration at Carnegie Hall in New York City.(PR)

Serena Williams Teams Up with CVS/pharmacy to Launch National 'Active Lifestyle Skincare Destinations'

MISSION Skincare®, the innovative skincare company founded by tennis star Serena Williams, soccer professional Mia Hamm, and other world class athletes, will be launching "Active Lifestyle Skincare Destinations" in the beauty aisle of more than 5,000 CVS/pharmacy locations across the country beginning this week.

Stocked with innovative lip, face, body and sun care products, MISSION and CVS/pharmacy have set out to establish the latest category in the marketplace - "Active Lifestyles" - designed specifically for consumers who live an active and healthy lifestyle.(PR)

Buy Tickets Now for the 2010 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL Taking Place July 2, 3 and 4 in New Orleans!

It's time to buy your tickets for the only place to be July 4th weekend! Tickets go on sale today for the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL, which returns to New Orleans July 2, 3 and 4, 2010.

This year, the ultimate destination for entertainment, empowerment, culture and community celebrated its 15th anniversary with a record-breaking 428,000 attendees. Next year, in honor of the 40th anniversary of ESSENCE Magazine, the annual weekend of entertainment and inspiration promises to be better than ever, and will feature special weekend ticket packages ranging from $159-$3000 to commemorate the magazine's milestone year.

SEAL TO RELEASE HITS ALBUM DECEMBER 8

Burbank, CA - Grammy-winning vocalist and songwriter Seal will release a collection of his greatest songs on one CD, HITS, to be released December 8, 2009 on Warner Bros. Records. Fans can purchase a CD or CD/DVD package which includes the Seal 'Soul Live' dvd with nine amazing live performances from his worldwide hit album Soul.

Seal Hits will span the artist's 20 year career and be comprised of sixteen of Seal's biggest hit songs, along with two brand new tracks. These two new recordings, produced by David Foster, extend the concept of Seal's hugely successful 2008 covers album, Soul, which has sold more than three million units worldwide and received international critical acclaim. Seal brings his unique and exquisite vocal style to "I Am Your Man" written by Ashford & Simpson, first recorded by Bobby Taylor, and the Sly and The Family Stone classic "Thank You". Seal is currently in the studio recording a new album of original material to be released in 2010.

Celebrity Benefit for World's First Hip-Hop Museum in NYC Hosted by Chuck D and KRS One

The National Museum of Hip-Hop (NMoH) will host an exclusive celebrity fundraiser to benefit the development of the "first ever" true Hip-Hop Museum . This Red Carpet affair will take place on Feb 9, 2010 at the M2 Ultra Lounge, 530 West 28th Street, NYC.

Hosted by Chuck D and KRS One, this exclusive star-studded gala will raise funds and awareness for the construction and community initiatives of the museum. Guests will have a preview of some of the museum's building plans and programs. (PR)

Rihanna: Going back to Brown after beating 'wrong'

NEW YORK – Rihanna said Thursday that she regrets going back to ex-boyfriend Chris Brown after he left her bruised and battered during a February assault, warning other women facing domestic violence to not let themselves become blinded by love.

"It's completely normal to go back. You start lying to yourself," the 21-year-old singer said on "Good Morning America" in her first TV interview following the beating. "I'll say that to any young girl who is going through domestic violence: 'Don't react off of love.'" (AP)

Brown, 20, was arrested Feb. 8, hours after he was accused of beating Rihanna after the couple attended a pre-Grammy Awards party. He later pleaded guilty to felony assault and a judge ordered Brown and Rihanna to stay away from each other.

In the interview, Rihanna, who is no longer with Brown, said she was ashamed to go back to him after the attack. "That's embarrassing — that's the type of person I fell in love with. So far in love, so unconditional, that I went back," she said. "That's not what I want to teach people."

Chris Brown is unsure about his image

NEW YORK – Chris Brown says he is unsure about how the public perceives him since he attacked Rihanna.

Brown beat up his ex-girlfriend in February and is on probation for the assault.

In an interview with MTV News, the 20-year-old says he's "confused" about his public image. He says that he thinks his fans "love me and support me." But he acknowledges there are people "that don't want to see me do anything ... they wanna see me kind of, basically in jail."

He also says he's trying to get past the scandal and learn from his mistakes.

"Chris Brown: The Interview," premieres on Friday — the same day Rihanna's interview airs on "20/20."

The entertainer will release his third album, "Graffiti," on Dec. 8. (AP)

BeBe Winans Booted From Oprah After Brown, Domestic Controversy

BeBe Winans will not appear in forthcoming episodes of 'Oprah' as announced last month.

According to a spokesperson for the Winfrey, the "Close To You" singer will not be allowed to appear on her show until domestic violence charges filed against him are resolved.

Winans, who appeared with his sister CeCe to promote the recently released album "Still", was the subject of an online controversy stemming from Oprah's alleged banning of fellow entertainer Chris Brown.

According to Winans' ex-wife, who he allegedly pushed down during an altercation earlier this year, Oprah was wrong for allowing her husband to appear on her show and not an apologetic Chris Brown.

Speaking with TMZ, Debra Winans said she was "hurt by Oprah's decision to have Bebe on the show".

Oprah's spokesperson says Winans' taped segments, which involved a "karaoke challenge," will not air.

Winans is due in court on misdemeanor domestic assault charges January 20. (VIBE)