Mo'Nique prepares for more than the Oscars

Mo'Nique won the Golden Globe. She also picked up a SAG Award. And don't forgot about her most recent honor at the BAFTAs. So easy money says the actress will be victorious at the Academy Awards next month. Right?

"No. No," says Mo'Nique.

"See, with any of the awards, I don't never feel like I got this, 'cause I think the universe would say, 'Really? So you that special that you already know?'
"So I'm appreciative of when they do call my name and I'm appreciative if they don't call my name," said Mo'Nique in an interview from Atlanta, where she was working on a comedy tour "Spread the Love" that kicks off March 19 in New Orleans. (AP)

Winfrey's best friend says she'll miss her TV show

Oprah Winfrey fans who think of the daytime television queen as a friend aren't the only ones preparing for withdrawal when her show goes off the air next year. Winfrey's real best friend says it will be a loss for her, too.

"I said to Oprah, 'I'm having a hard time. I'm not ready,'" said Winfrey's BFF, Gayle King. "But, you know, I am ready for her. She makes the best decision for herself. I totally understand why she's doing it. That said, I can't imagine daytime TV without her." (AP)

Serena to build more schools in Africa

US tennis star Serena Williams said on Wednesday she planned to help to build one new school every year in parts of Africa where education is beyond the reach of most children.

The women's world number one has helped in the construction of schools in Kenya, Senegal and South Africa, as well as providing student grants and has joined in the fight against the killer disease, malaria, in Ghana.

"It is my goal to open many schools for thousands of children who do not have the opportunity to get good education. I plan to do one every year," said Serena, at the end of her whirlwind three-day tour of Kenya where she opened a second school in Makueni, some 150 kilometres (100 miles) southeast of Nairobi. (AFP)

R&B Singer & Songwriter Vivian Green to Release New Album "Beautiful" on April 6th, 2010

R&B singer and songwriter Vivian Green is set to release her long-awaited new album, "Beautiful" on Tuesday, April 6th, 2010 on E1 Music.

The title track, "Beautiful" was #1 most added at Urban AC radio last week with over 32 stations adding the record (beating out Mariah Carey and Chrisette Michelle). The track is just outside the Urban AC top 20 and climbing fast.

"It's the most fun I've ever had making a record," Vivian says of "Beautiful"'s birth cycle. "We worked in Anthony's studio, which is in his home, and it was a very relaxed, creative environment. If I wanted to sit down at the piano and start writing a song from scratch, like I did with 'Somewhere,' I could. The whole experience was very natural and comfortable, and I hope that you can hear that in the music."(PR)

World Bank, Shakira to help Latin America's children

The World Bank and Grammy Award-winning singer Shakira have teamed up in a $300 million joint initiative aimed at helping young children in Latin America and the Caribbean.


World Bank president Robert Zoellick and the Colombian artist, representing her ALAS Foundation, signed an agreement launching the "Early Childhood Initiative: An Investment for Life" at the bank's Washington headquarters.

The initiative is aimed at expanding development programs for children through age six to provide them adequate nutrition, health care and other positive supports. (AFP)

Barack Obama and Shakira to meet at the White House!

President Barack Obama and pop superstar Shakira are talking about U.S. policy toward children.

Obama and the Colombian entertainer met briefly Monday at the White House after she had meetings with staff from the National Security Council and the Domestic Policy Council to talk about early childhood development.

A White House official, speaking only on condition of anonymity because the meeting was not on the president's public schedule, says Shakira stopped by to say hello privately to Obama when the meetings ended.

Shakira is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has been an advocate for children in poverty. (AP)

Jennifer Lopez get's dropped from Epic Records!

Her manager Benny Medina confirmed the split this morning. "Jennifer had a wonderful relationship with the Sony Music group, and they have shared many successes together, but the time was right to make a change that best serves the direction her career as an actress and recording artist. She is grateful and appreciative to everyone Sony for all that they accomplished together." (Deadline.com)

BE Entertained Magazine & Sammie are still showing LOVE!!!!

BE Entertained Magazine (www.BE-EntertainedMag.com) is back with a special Issue XVI release featuring a BEhind-the-Scenes EXCLUSIVE Photo Shoot with this month's cover artist Sammie. Sammie has BEen turning heads for over 10 years in the music industry & is back on the black as a "grown man". Check out Prince Sammie's five page feature spread to get the scoop on his new projects, his grown man fashion, & our exclusive video one-on-one showing LOVE to his fans.

Along with Sammie, Issue XVI also features J.Holiday, Creepa (MTV's From G's to Gents Winner), Olivia (former 1st lady of G-Unit), & BE On Location w/ MC Kidd TV. We always keep a global look for who's making noise around the country & this issue's BE Up Next artists Skent Dukes (Cleveland, OH), Cold Cash (Buffalo, NY), & Party Boyz (Dallas, TX) are definitely the next to blow! (Be Entertained Magazine)

Timbaland's Back With Three Chart-Topping Singles From Shock Value II Featuring Justin Timberlake, Katy Perry & Drake

The Grammy Award-winning producer, singer and rapper currently dominates the charts and airwaves with not one, but three singles from his critically acclaimed Shock Value II, reaching an audience of millions daily. Like any great sequel, Shock Value replicates its predecessor's success but takes everything to another level and puts Timbaland back on top.

"Carry Out," featuring mega-star Justin Timberlake, sees Timbaland channeling the same vibrant and vital pop energy that made "SexyBack" a pop culture phenomenon and solidified Timberlake's star power. The song continues to climb up the Top 40, proving Timbaland's prominence once more. Blending an undeniable hook from Timberlake with Timbaland's spacey and sexy production, "Carry Out" is igniting dance floors everywhere, and the video played repeatedly outside Cowboys Stadium during All-Star Weekend. It also premiered on Vevo to massive numbers on February 18. (Interscope)

Simon & Schuster Publishing Present New Urban Teen Literary Series

In a day and age where many kids today are being raised by the viral influences around them – Facebook, You Tube, Twitter, even TMZ, there is an insatiable thirst and obsession with instant celebrity. Even with the constant shift in trends and the evolution of technology, one crucial skill is at the foundation of everything that life revolves around and that is Reading! So how do we get our kids reading again? How do we make reading cool? How do we re-introduce today’s teen generation to the beauty of literacy?

THE COME UP is an exciting new concept in teen book series and young adult literature, published by Simon & Schuster and conceived by New York Times and Essence Best seller, Lyah Beth LeFlore, and award-winning artist and creative guru, DL Warfield. LeFlore’s crisp, engaging writing powerfully captures the lives, experiences, and voices of today’s young adults, while Warfield’s fresh, hip, cool and edgy graphic art/illustrations visually compliment the storylines in each chapter. The first in a trilogy, each book showcases thirty pieces of photo-illustrated art meshed within the frenetic, contemporary stories. The first book “The World Is Mine” will connect with fans of hip-hop and popular culture and any teen looking to come up in their own way. (HELIO PR)

Beyonce Breaks More Records as Artist With the Most RIAA Certifications Over the Past Decade

According to The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), iconic superstar Beyonce, is the artist with the most total certifications over the past decade, with a total of 64. The certifications include cumulative album, digital song, master ringtone, and music video certifications. Beyonce also has the most master ringtone certifications for a female solo artist with 19 and the highest certified master ringtone for a female artist with "Irreplaceable" at 3x multi-Platinum. She received her very first Gold album award for her Grammy® Award winning debut solo album, "Dangerously in Love" on July 29, 2003. "Dangerously in Love" is currently 4x multi-platinum.

Last month, Beyonce broke the record for most Grammy® wins by a female artist in a single year taking home six awards, including "Song of the Year" (for "Single Ladies"). The wins brought her career Grammy® total up to 16 (13 as a solo artist and 3 with Destiny's Child.)(PR)

Kwanza Jones is raising awareness for GEMS one step at a time!

Los Angeles based Kwanza Jones is one of the latest artists to help bring awareness to the issue of child sex trafficking, others already involved include Beyoncé Knowles, Halle Berry, Demi Moore, Sinead O’Connor and Mary J Blige. Last month O’Connor and Blige recorded a remake of O’Connor’s prolific song “This is to Mother You” in order to bring awareness to this inhumane crisis. Singer and songwriter Kwanza Jones joined an all-star lineup including Daisy Fuentes to participate in the music video and public service announcement.

‘Girls Are Not for Sale’ is a national initiative from GEMS (Girls Educational and Mentoring Services), an anti-sex trafficking organization. The campaign aims to inspire the American public to take easy, effective actions to nurture and empower American girls who have been kidnapped and/or lured into the sex industry. This mission is to protect every girl from the dangers of commercial sexual exploitation. GEMS is using e-activism, live events, all-star artist collaborations and other initiatives to promote girl empowerment and education as a critical tool in the fight against child traffickers and pimps who victimize between 100,000 and 300,000 American children and teens each year. (Helio PR)

Sade's SOLDIER OF LOVE Debuts at #1 on Billboard's and iTunes Top Albums

Heralded as one of this year's most highly anticipated albums and garnering much critical acclaim, SOLDIER OF LOVE secures the # 1 album spot worldwide today with over 501,000 copies sold taking its rightful place among the collection of iconic Sade albums. SOLDIER OF LOVE marks Sade's second album to land at # 1 on the Billboard chart - the first was in 1986 with Promise - and is the first official album release from Sade since 2000's multi-platinum Lovers Rock which debuted with 370,000 records sold.

Not only has America welcomed Sade back with open arms after close to ten years, but worldwide, SOLDIER OF LOVE has proven to be a smash. The album is currently # 1 in ten additional countries including Canada, Switzerland, France, Italy, Dubai, Poland, Greece, Japan, Portugal and Spain.(PR)

The NEXT gospel group to watch out for: Half Mile Home!

It’s no secret the state of Ohio has deep roots in Black music. Icons such as the Ohio Players, Roger Troutman & Zapp, Tracy Chapman, Babyface, The O’Jays, Macy Gray, Lakeside, and The Deele have all made their indelible mark on the genres of funk, R&B and soul. The city of Akron itself has contributed both the incomparable Howard Hewitt and James Ingram to the canon of R&B legends.

But five distinguished gentlemen from the city are determined to cement Akron as the epicenter of a gospel explosion with their effervescent new sound. Deaken, Lil’ Bull a.k.a. Buttons, Q, Ty Traxx, and Weezie are Half Mile Home. Their individual and collective journeys down the tempestuous highways of the music industry have led them to a predestined intersection of truth, strength, and unshakeable faith.

Almost a decade later the group has emerged with a vibrant collection of songs for their latest gospel release, Change My Lyfe (Universal Records/IMG Recordings). Produced by Ty Traxx, bassist Weezie, and Buttons, Change My Lyfe is brimming with words of encouragement and indisputable musical sustenance.

Church fans can hear traditional gospel fervor in “Won’t Let Him Go,” while the buoyant lead single “This Far,” already charting on gospel and urban radio begins with an irresistible marching-band drum line, transitioning into an up-tempo R&B hook for hip hop and soul music lovers. Having already performed on Bobby Jones Gospel Network and FOX 8 Morning News in Cleveland, Half Mile Home has indeed come back to the middle with a profound sense of purpose. (Helio PR)

Usher, Alicia Keys, Shakira hit NBA All-Star game

Usher, Shakira and Alicia Keys will perform at the 2010 NBA All Star game Feb. 14 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX. The performances will take place before the largest crowd ever to attend a basketball game, according to the NBA website.

Shakira and Keys will headline the halftime show and Usher will perform during the introductions of the NBA All-Stars. Shakira is expected to perform two songs, her current single, "Give It Up To Me," and "She Wolf," the title cut of her most recent album.

Keys will sing her 2007 hit "No One, and the current chart-topper "Empire State of Mind." She also will perform "Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart," from her most recent release, "The Element of Freedom."

During the introductions of the 2010 All-Stars, Usher will perform his single "More," which the NBA has been using in a promotional spot for the game; the 2004 single "Yeah!" also is on his setlist. (LiveDaily.com)

Kardashian and Klum strut the runway in red

Celebrities including Felicity Huffman, Kim Kardashian, Robin Roberts and Joan Collins can now all say they've walked in models' shoes after participating in The Red Dress Collection runway show on Thursday night at New York Fashion Week

Well, except for swimmer Dara Torres. She did the catwalk in a stylish one-shoulder cocktail dress by Rachel Roy but carried her silver, sparkly stilettos by Brian Atwood in her hands, shrugging her shoulders and giving a "don't blame me, blame the shoes" face when she struck her pose in front of the cameras.

This show has become an annual tradition at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Bryant Park tents as part of The Heart Truth campaign to raise awareness about heart disease and women. At one point it was spearheaded by former first lady Laura Bush. (AP)

GOLDEN GLOBE WINNING & OSCAR NOMINATED ACTRESS & COMEDIANNE MO'NIQUE KICKS OFF HER HIGHLY ANTICIPATED COMEDY TOUR

Not only is Mo'Nique riding high on winning the Washington, DC, Boston, Los Angeles and New York Film Critics' Awards, a SAG Award and a Golden Globe Award, having a top-rated late night talk show on BET and most recently an Academy Award nomination, but she is also readying herself to embark upon a highly anticipated comedy tour—Spread the Love Tour 2010.

Joining Mo'Nique on this year's Spread The Love Tour will be her BET late night talk show counterpart comedian and actor Rodney Perry, comedian Tone-X, who will serve as the resident Man on the Street for the tour, and DJ Ant.

"On this tour people can expect the kind of laughter that makes the bottom of their stomach hurt," said Mo'Nique. "And the type of love you'll never forget." (PR)

The tour dates are as follows:
Mo'Nique's Spread The Love Tour 2010 dates are as follows:

March 19 New Orleans, LA Kiefer UNO Lakefront Arena
Tickets on Sale Friday, February 19th
March 20 Washington, DC DAR Constitution Hall
Tickets on Sale Friday, February 19th
March 26 St. Louis, MO Fabulous Fox Theatre
Tickets on Sale Saturday, February 20th
March 27 Detroit, MI Fox Theatre
Tickets on Sale Friday, February 19th
April 2 Los Angeles, CA Nokia Theatre – LA Live
April 3 Oakland, CA Paramount Theater
April 9 Newark, NJ Prudential Center
April 10 Augusta, GA James Brown Arena
April 16 Kansas City, MO Midland Theatre by AMC
April 17 Houston, TX Reliant Arena
April 23 Boston, MA Agganis Arena at Boston University
April 24 New York, NY Theater at Madison Square Garden
April 30 Charlotte, NC Bojangles Coliseum
May 1 Norfolk, VA Constant Convocation Center
May 7 Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
May 8 Milwaukee, WI Milwaukee Theatre
May 14 Minneapolis, MN U.S. Bank Theater at Target Center
May 15 Chicago, IL Arie Crown Theater
May 21 Philadelphia, PA Temple University – The Liacouras Center
May 22 Bridgeport, CT Arena at Harbor Yard

South Africa hails Mandela on anniversary of release

CAPE TOWN (AFP) – South Africa heaped praise on Nelson Mandela Thursday as the nation celebrated the 20th anniversary of his release from prison, an earth-shaking event which hastened the demise of apartheid.

Key figures of the anti-apartheid struggle including Archbishop Desmond Tutu paid tribute to the 91-year-old icon in a ceremony at the former Victor Verster Prison from which Mandela was released after nearly three decades in captivity.

Hundreds of people re-enacted the historic moment when the black leader, hand in hand with his then-wife Winnie, walked proudly out of the prison with his fist raised high as the world watched. (AP)

Judge to decide if Joe Jackson sees MJ's med files

LOS ANGELES – A judge is scheduled to decide whether Michael Jackson's father should receive medical records related to his superstar son's death.

Joe Jackson's attorney issued a subpoena last month seeking all his son's medical records from Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, where Michael Jackson died on June 25.

His attorney, Brian Oxman, sought the files as part of an effort to obtain a monthly stipend for the Jackson family patriarch. He says his client has a right to know more about his son's death and the records could also determine whether they pursue a
wrongful death lawsuit.

Attorneys for Michael Jackson's estate want the judge to quash the subpoenas and argue they violate privacy rights and are not relevant to the allowance request. If they win, they want Oxman and Joe Jackson to pay nearly $9,000 in legal fees. (AP)

Brilliant designer Alexander McQueen found dead

LONDON – Brilliant and controversial British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, a leading light in the fashion firmament, was found dead in his London home Thursday, his company announced. He was 40 years old.

Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.

McQueen's sudden death robbed the fashion scene of one of its most innovative and successful young designers. He made his name first in London, then wooed audiences in Paris, New York and Milan to take his place in the upper echelons of the designing
world.

His clothes were sexy and distinctive, dramatic and different, perfect for red-carpet presentations and late night rock gatherings.

Acclaim and honors came in waves to the talented, bearded man favored by celebrities like Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Naomi Campbell. He was named British Fashion Designer of the Year on four separate occasions. (AP)

Beyonce, Alicia Keys shoot music video in Rio slum

RIO DE JANEIRO – Grammy Award-winning singers Beyonce and Alicia Keys are filming a music video in Rio de Janeiro.

Sheri Ladner is a publicist with RCA Music Group, which includes Keys' label, J Records. She says the singers are shooting a video for their duet "Put It In a Love Song." The song is from Keys' recently released album "The Element of Freedom."

Brazilian television on Tuesday showed the singers performing together in front of cameras in the Morro da Conceicao shantytown. Ladner says the video will have scenes recorded at several locations across Rio.

Keys already filmed one segment in Rio's Dona Marta slum. That shantytown became renowned worldwide after Michael Jackson went there to film the 1996 video "They Don't Care About Us." (AP)

Lil Wayne sentencing postponed for dental reasons

NEW YORK – Rap star Lil Wayne has gotten a temporary reprieve from jail — for dental surgery.

The Grammy Award-winning rapper's sentencing in a New York City gun case was postponed Tuesday, because he needs to finish a string of recent surgeries before he goes to jail.

Lil Wayne, one of music's biggest sellers and rap's hottest stars, is poised to spend as much as a year in jail under a plea deal, though good behavior could shave that to as little as eight months.

Sentencing now is scheduled for March 2. Manhattan state Supreme Court Justice Charles Solomon said it wouldn't be put off any further. (AP)

DeGeneres says Cowell is `meaner than I thought'

LOS ANGELES – Ellen DeGeneres, the newest judge on "American Idol," says Simon Cowell is "meaner" than she thought.

Cowell, Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi (KEHR'-uh dee-oh-GWAR'-dee) and various guest judges kicked off the ninth season of the Fox singing competition last month. DeGeneres begins her stint Tuesday night.

In a video posted on the show's Web site, DeGeneres says Cowell is "actually meaner than I thought. It's hard to listen to him tell people things and for me not to go, `You poor thing!'" (AP)

Designer Rachel Roy and Singer/Songwriter Estelle Co-Design Limited Edition Capsule Jewelry Collection

Designer Rachel Roy partnered with Grammy award winning singer and songwriter Estelle to create a capsule jewelry collection exclusively for the Rachel Rachel Roy brand, a division of Jones Apparel Group (NYSE:JNY) . The limited edition, limited quantity collection, which was co-designed by Rachel Roy and Estelle, includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings available for sale beginning March 2010.

A mutual love of costume jewelry brought Rachel and Estelle together and the collection reflects their affinity for color and materials such as resin, hematite and yellow crystal. The collection embodies the essence of the Rachel Rachel Roy brand and includes large statement pieces balanced with a feminine edge. The collection ranges in price from $34 to $195 and will be available at select Macy's and online at www.macys.com and www.rachelroy.com.

Founder and artistic director Rachel Roy said, "Working with Estelle was a true collaboration. I love Estelle's sense of style because she takes risks and I think that to be a trendsetter you have to take as many risks as safe turns." (PR)

Sade Releases Highly Anticipated New Body of Work SOLDIER OF LOVE

Heralded as one of this year's most highly anticipated albums, Sade is back after nearly a decade with SOLDIER OF LOVE (Epic Records), in stores Tuesday, February 9th. The wait is finally over as SOLDIER OF LOVE, the first official album release from Sade since 2000's multi-platinum Lovers Rock, takes its rightful place among the collection of iconic Sade albums. The new album was recorded in England and features the stunning and powerful hit single of the same title "Soldier of Love" which has already garnered much critical acclaim from both the press as well as her loyal fans.

Entertainment Weekly featured SOLDIER OF LOVE in their "Must List," Rolling Stone wrote, "it's unimpeachably excellent," and The Boston Globe calls it, "a rich and rewarding album." But the accolades don't stop there. Associated Press raved, "like a long-ago lover not quite forgotten, Sade has returned to steal our hearts with more beautiful, uncategorizable music," Billboard was quoted as saying, "it's been 10 years since Sade released an album, but be forewarned - the giant has awoken," while People Magazine reminds us that "Sade remains the voice of comfort to the wounded heart." (PR)

Cicely Tyson To Receive ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Legend Award During the Third Annual ESSENCE Luncheon

Completing an already exciting list of honorees including Queen Latifah, Zoe Saldana, Mary J. Blige and newcomer Gabourey Sidibe, ESSENCE is excited to announce as part of its 40th Anniversary celebration Academy Award nominee Cicely Tyson as the recipient of the Legend Award at the third annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon. The event will take place during Oscar Week on Thursday, March 4, in Los Angeles at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Cicely Tyson will join past ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Legend Award honorees Ruby Dee and Diahann Carroll as pioneers who have paved the way and broken barriers for African-American actresses in Hollywood.

Star of television, film and stage, Cicely Tyson is a trailblazer for her portrayal of strong positive roles for African-American actresses. As a successful model turned actress, she has become one of America's most respected performers and has appeared with several of Hollywood's best: George C. Scott, James Earl Jones, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bill Cosby, Laurence Fishburne and Kathy Bates. (PR)

Superstar Mary J. Blige to Be Keynote Speaker at 2010 Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey

Singer/producer/actress Mary J. Blige, the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," will be the Keynote Speaker as part of the third annual Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey. The event will be held Feb. 11-14 at Walt Disney World Resort.

In partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey, Walt Disney World Resort will host 100 high school students from across the nation at this year's academy - giving them unprecedented access to the magic behind Walt Disney World Resort and creating unique, interactive seminars with a wide range of enriching and inspiration topics from "the unseen jobs of entertainment" to "the business of sports" to "the power of networking."

Blige, whose latest album "Stronger withEach Tear" hit No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts, will speak at the academy's Commencement Ceremony, a graduation of sorts for the students. Past Keynote Speakers include Judge Greg Mathis and BET Founder Bob Johnson. (PR)

Wyclef Jean In Live Online Performance for Sony make.believe on Wednesday Night, February 10, 2010

FIRST OF THREE 'LIVE SETS' CONCERTS SUPPORTED BY SONY'S NEW GLOBAL BRAND INITIATIVE

NEW YORK, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ --
Who: International Superstar and Humanitarian Wyclef Jean

What: "Live Sets" performance brought to you by Sony make.believe
(pronounced "make-dot-believe")

Where: Canal Room
285 West Broadway
New York, NY 10013

Streaming live at: Facebook.com/sony, Wyclef.com,
Crackle.com, and myplay.com

When: Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Doors - 6:30 PM
Performance - 7:30 PM

Wyclef Jean kicks off "Live Sets," a series of live online concerts brought to you by Sony's new global brand message, make.believe (pronounced "make-dot-believe"). "Live Sets" will feature the live performances of three popular artists streamed in a digital environment, providing an intimate, authentic experience for an on-site and online audience. In addition to the concert, each artist will provide exclusive interview footage and share his or her own make.believe story to inspire fans across the country with the idea that "anything you can imagine, you can make real." Footage will be available on Facebook.com/sony, Crackle.com, myplay.com and the artists' websites.

Wyclef set to perform at BET concert for Haiti aid

Sean "Diddy" Combs, Queen Latifah and Pharrell are set to host a two-hour concert and telethon to benefit earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

Wyclef Jean, Chris Brown and Lil Wayne are among the performers who will take the stage Friday night at the American Airlines Arena in Miami. Other performers include Mary J. Blige, Drake, Justin Bieber, Keri Hilson, Robin Thicke and Monica.

The concert titled "SOS Saving OurSelves — Help for Haiti" will air live on BET, MTV, VH1 and Centric at 8 p.m. EST.

The fundraisers will benefit aid agencies including Yele Haiti, CARE, Project Medishare and Children's Safe Drinking Water.

More than 80 million people tuned in to the Jan. 22 all-star "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon, which organizers say raised $66 million. (AP)

PORTER HOUSE MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS A VITAMIN E FILM: "Unbelievable": Movie Premier Concert

The phenomenal rap group Travis Porter will premier their first short film "Unbelievable," which highlights the group's road to success by sharing an intimate struggle to stardom. This cinematic experience gives fans a glimpse into the lives of Decatur natives Strap, Quez and Ali from their naive childhood dreams to their young adult industry accomplishments. Co-directors Winfield Ezell and Troy Edwards of Vitamin E Films received first hand interviews from family, friends, peers and Travis Porter to develop three separate stories into one great entity.

The journey will inspire, encourage and entertain producing a PG-13 film for all ages. In addition to the movie, the night will entail a media-friendly red carpet, never before seen viral footage and photos and a meet-and-greet directly following the program. Wait! That's not all! For their fans' pleasure, they will host a concert following the movie premier. Porter House Music Group hopes this experience will enlighten Travis Porter fans on their mission and their aspirations to be the best.The entire family will enjoy!(PR)

The play will be shown at Center Stage (1374 W. Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309) on March 6th 2010 at 6:00 P.M. General admission tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster and Publix locations starting February 8th 2010. Please be advised that tickets are only $20. Readers go get your tickets now!

Jason Derulo Will Release Self-Titled Debut Album on Beluga Heights/Warner Bros. Records on March 2nd, 2010

Red-hot pop sensation Jason Derulo — the first artist signed to Warner Bros. Records' joint venture with multi-platinum songwriter and producer J.R. Rotem's label Beluga Heights — will release his eagerly anticipated, self-titled debut album on Beluga Heights/Warner Bros. Records on March 2nd, 2010.

A gifted, genre-hopping songwriter who has created tracks for a multitude of artists such as Lil Wayne, Sean Kingston, Pitbull, P. Diddy, Danity Kane, and Iyaz (the five-week No. 1 "Replay"), Derulo's album reflects his love for all different types of music with an uncategorizable blend of pop, rock, electronic, and R&B elements that showcases this exciting newcomer's many talents. "It's definitely a music lover's album," the Miami-born 20-year-old says. "It reflects all my different influences, but it's deeply rooted in pop."(PR)

Brandy and Ray J Team Up for a Takeover on New VH1 Series, 'Brandy and Ray J: A Family Business'

Superstar siblings Brandy and Ray J Norwood are famous for their incredible vocal talent on the stage and screen. But they wouldn't be anywhere without the support and guidance of their parents - entertainment manager and mom, Sonja and talented musical father, Willie Norwood. In this new VH1 series, viewers will get a first hand glimpse into the lives of the Norwood family unit and their family business - Rn'B Productions.

Run by Sonja, Rn'B Productions features an impressive roster of musical artists including Brandy, Ray J and their father Willie, who also serves as the company's vocal coach. But with Sonja ready to take a step down, Brandy and Ray J will have to fill her shoes quickly all the while taking the family business to the next level. Will they have what it takes to continue to stay in the limelight while growing an entertainment empire? Watch as the Norwood's join forces and reach new levels of success in "Brandy and Ray J: A Family Business" premieres on VH1 Sunday, April 11 at 9:00 PM. (PR)

Nickelodeon Presents a Night of Nick Cannon With Back-to-Back Movie Premieres of School Gyrls & Drumline, Sunday, Feb. 21

TeenNick Chairman Nick Cannon takes the helm behind and in front of the camera as Nickelodeon presents two back-to-back movie premieres featuring the multi-talented entertainer, on Sunday, Feb. 21. Cannon makes his movie directorial debut with School Gyrls, a new hour-long original musical comedy, which he also penned, premiering at 7 p.m. (ET/PT) and stars in the network's premiere of the popular theatrical film Drumline, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).

"School Gyrls introduces the multi-talented Mandy Rain, Jacque and Monica to the teen audience," said Nick Cannon, Chairman, TeenNick. "The girls are triple threats -- each with their own amazing individual personalities - and Nickelodeon viewers will get an inside look at their road to fame in this movie."

School Gyrls centers on the eponymous, real-life, multi-talented teen pop group discovered by Cannon consisting of 15-year old Mandy Rain; 15-year-old Jacquelyn Rae Pyles aka Jacque Nimble; and 16-year-old Monica Parales aka Mo Money. The TV movie also features guest appearances by Justin Bieber, Cannon, Kristinia DeBarge, Reverend Run, Soulja Boy, Angie Stone and Pete Wentz. School Gyrls marks Cannon's second project for Nickelodeon and comes on the heels of the TeenNick HALO Awards, an hour-long special he created, hosted and executive produced, that recognizes and celebrates real teens who are making a significant difference in the world. (PR)

R&B Singer Jill Scott Sued by Record Label

R&B star Jill Scott was sued Wednesday by her longtime record label, which is accusing the multi-platinum songstress of skipping out halfway through a six-album contract and potentially owing millions of dollars in damages.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by L.A.-based Hidden Beach Records, claims that the label and its founder, Steve McKeever, helped launch Scott's career and nurtured her into a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter but was unceremoniously dumped in October after a 10-plus year relationship.

"Hidden Beach is shocked by her decision not only because Scott has apparently chosen to leave the Hidden Beach family," the complaint reads, "but also because Scott is contractually required to deliver three more albums to Hidden Beach."(PR)

Quincy Jones, Lionel Richie & Wyclef Jean Mark 25th Anniversary of 'We Are The World' to Benefit Haitian Relief Efforts

Producer Quincy Jones and singer/songwriter Lionel Richie, the producer and co-writer of the iconic 1985 philanthropic anthem We Are The World, have confirmed that they have teamed with producer/musician Wyclef Jean and Grammy-winning producer RedOne and producer/musical director Ricky Minor in association with Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG Live to record a contemporary version of the song to benefit the Haitian earthquake relief efforts on Monday, February 1, 2010.

The world premiere of We Are The World - 25 For Haiti will air during NBC's coverage of the Opening Ceremony of the Vancouver Winter Olympics on Friday, February 12. Following the world premiere on NBC, it will air on other networks throughout the world. This project was made possible through a contribution from Visa. (PR)

Usher, Shakira, Keys to perform at All-Star game

The Grammy winners are all set to perform during the NBA All-Star game on Feb. 14. Shakira will perform two songs from her latest CD, "She Wolf"; Keys will perform new and old hits. The divas will go on during the halftime show.

Usher will sing a new song, the dance jam "More," during the introductions of the National Basketball Association all-stars. The tune is from his upcoming album, "Raymond v. Raymond." The game, which will take place at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, will go on before the largest crowd ever to attend a basketball game, according to a statement from the NBA.(AP)

Mo'Nique: 'Baby, I am celebrating right now.'

Mo'Nique, the stand-up comic who was duly rewarded with a supporting-actress Oscar nomination for her abominably abusive mother in Precious, was heading off to do her BET talk show this morning after learning of her good news.

But just don't call it work. "I'm going to the playground," she says with an infectious laugh. "I can't call this work. I going to get made up and put on pretty clothes."

But will she find time to celebrate? She laughs again. "Baby, I am celebrating right now. With all my friends." (USA TODAY)

Lil Wayne Set to Release His Highly Anticipated New Album; Rebirth in Stores February 2nd

Cash Money/Universal Motown Grammy-winning recording artist Lil Wayne is gearing up to release his eighth album, Rebirth, on February 2nd. The album drops as Lil Wayne's new single, "On Fire," heats up radio.

The direction taken on Rebirth reflects Lil Wayne's broad musical palette, showcasing rock, reggae, and new wave sonic influences juxtaposed against Lil Wayne's savvy lyricism and quick-witted rapping style. The hottest rapper of the decade redefines retro with "On Fire," produced by Cool & Dre, who helmed five songs on Rebirth.

Other producers include Infamous, DJ Nasty, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, and Chase N. Cashe. In addition to stacking the deck with many of the hottest producers in the game, Rebirth features a highly touted collaboration with Eminem ("Drop the World"), along with guest appearances from Young Money artists Nicki Minaj and Shanell, and Cash Money rock star Kevin Rudolf. (AP)

Stars gather to cover 'We Are the World' for Haiti

LOS ANGELES – Twenty-five years after star-studded anthem "We Are the World" raised millions of dollars to aid famine relief in Africa, celebrities of a different generation were set to gather Monday night to re-record the charity tune to benefit Haiti.

Among those scheduled to perform on the revamped track the night after the Grammy Awards were Akon, Jason Mraz, Bono, Wyclef Jean, Carlos Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Usher, Toni Braxton and Lady Gaga. The session will be held at the same recording studio where the original was cut — the historic A&M complex in Hollywood.
Quincy Jones, who produced the 1985 anthem, announced last week that he planned to redo the song to benefit recovery from the deadly Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti.(AP)

Beyonce takes 6 Grammys, makes history

It's a tribute to the Grammys' success at becoming more a musical spectacle than an awards show that on the night she made history, Beyonce was just another face in the crowd.

Pop's reigning diva earned six Grammys on Sunday, more than any woman on a single night of the 52-year-old awards show. Her anthem "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" was song of the year. But she didn't come onstage to accept that — her collaborators said she was prepping for a performance — and four of her other awards came during the non-televised pre-show. (AP)

Eighth Annual Honda Battle of the Bands Included Ludacris' Performance & Michael Jackson Marching Band Tribute

Set against a colorful backdrop of dynamic performances by eight of the nation's top Historically Black College and University [HBCU] marching bands, a reverent marching band tribute to the late music icon Michael Jackson, and all the hype of a live performance from hip-hop artist, Ludacris, the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase had a crowd of more than 55,000 "shaking their bodies down to the ground."

In the end, the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands concluded with the message of unity for humanity, evident in much of the "King of Pop's" music and in several marching band dedications to the Haitian relief effort. The 1,800 student musicians and 55,000+ fans were inspired to reflect on the role they play in making the world a better place.(PR)