Football star gets his shot at the NFL after being acquitted of rape charges

It's sad that his life has been stalled for the past 10 years over a false rape charge. NY Daily News reports:

More than 10 years after being robbed of his college football dreams, Brian Banks is getting his shot at the NFL.

The former prep star from Long Beach, who was recently exonerated in a 2002 rape case, will try out for the Seattle Seahawks on June 7, the team confirmed to The Associated Press.

“THIS is what I’ve been waiting for!” he tweeted Wednesday night. “If you thought my story was crazy, it’s get crazier.”

Banks, 26, made national news earlier this month when a judge officially threw out charges against him after his accuser admitted she fabricated her claims.

He had served five years and two months in jail after a lawyer advised him to plead no contest to the charges, warning him a jury conviction could result in a lifetime behind bars.

After being released from jail, his accuser contacted him over Facebook and with the help of a private investigator, Banks recorded her confession. He then enlisted the help of the California Innocent Project to get his conviction thrown out.

The Washington Redskins, Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins have also called Banks for a tryout, but a first chance with the Seahawks may be the most symbolic for the linebacker.

Banks had verbally committed to USC when he was accused of rape. The Trojans’ coach at the time was Pete Carroll, who left the university to coach the Seahawks in 2010.

In an appearance on the “Today” show last week, Banks asked for NFL coaches to give him a shot at his dream.

“Let me show you what I can produce,” he said. “I think that any team that give me an opportunity will be really impressed with what I can do despite what I’ve been through these past 10 years.”

Banks told ESPN he was also offered an opportunity to work in the front office for the Arizona Diamondbacks, a Major League Baseball team.

“I about fell out of my seat when I read that one,” he said.

His lawyer, Justin Brooks, told AP he has been training to get into football shape.

“He has the speed and the strength,” he said. “He certainly has the heart.”

Experts warn that the way back on the field may be hard for Banks, especially after he missed key years in his football development.

Chip Smith, who trains football players in the offseason and for the NFL combine at Competive Edge Sports, warned that Banks may lack non-fitness football skills.

“I applaud him for wanting to chase his dreams, but the reality is it is hard to make the NFL if you are a college graduate who played in a Division I school last year,” he told the Daily News.

“From the training point he can probably get back into shape, it’s going to be the football skill portion that he’s going to have to spend a lot of time developing.”

But like everyone who has heard his story, Smith said he wishes the former prep star success.

“The underdog in everybody pulls for a young man like this,” he said.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/brian-banks-tryout-seahawks-redskins-chiefs-dolphins-article-1.1087382#ixzz1wToHv0Ww

Allen Iverson wants his wife arrested

It's never a good thing to hear married couples having issues, especially when one of them is a beloved figure. Allen Iverson is having issues with his wife. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Iverson filed a motion to have the mother of his children thrown in jail for ruining his house, reports TMZ.

The former NBA baller was busy hooping in China, and returned home to find his home ransacked.

According to the motion, Tawanna allegedly stole his sports memorabilia, furniture, and cash. A.I. claims to have asked for the safe return of his belongings but to no avail. As a result, he is requesting that a judge hold her in contempt of court for harassment, and throw her behind bars until she gives back the items. He also asked that she no longer be allowed to enter his home.

A judge has yet to rule on the matter, but here's hoping she didn't get her hands on those Reebok Question Mids.

Man charged with murdering roomate and eating his organs

What in the name of everything holy? Are we officially stuck in Zombieland now? This guy Alexander Kinyua has been charged with killing and eating his roomates brain. Hip Hop Wired reports:

 A black student at Morgan State University has been charged with killing and eating his victim's body parts. Alexander Kinyua, 21, was slapped with first-degree murder in the death of Kujoe Bonsafo Agyei-Kodie, after dismembering the body and eating pieces of the victim's heart and brain.

Kinyua, who shared a home with Agyei-Kodie, admitted to eating his internal organs, but was not arrested until three weeks after the victim was reported missing. According to a spokeswoman for the Harford County Sherrif's Department, police did not have enough evidence to confirm foul play.

On Tuesday (May 29), Kinyua's father informed authorities that human body parts were found in his basement. Kinyua denied that the parts were human, once questioned by his father and brother. Police later obtained a search warrant where they uncovered a human head, and hands in the house.

The accused killer has a history of bizarre behavior. He was previously charged with first-degree assault and reckless endangerment for randomly attacking a Morgan State Student in the doorway of their apartment complex.

No doubt, this news will shed an unfavorable light on the institution, which was recognized by President Obama in 2009, in honor of National HBCU Week, but sadly this is just the latest report of cannibalism in less than a week. A Florida man—apparently high on bath salts— was recently shot and killed by police this while eating another man's face.

B.G. is going to face sentencing next month

Former Cash Money Millionaire is going to face sentencing in June. Allhiphop reports:

Rapper B.G. will formally be sentenced to prison next month, for weapons possession and witness tampering.

B.G., born Christopher Dorsey, is expected to be sentenced to at least eight to 10 years in prison, over a November 2009 arrest.

B.G. and two associates were caught in a stolen car, which also had three guns inside, two of which were reported stolen.

Authorities also found two extended clips in the vehicle.

According to the Times-Picayune, B.G. will be sentenced to prison on June 13, after several sentencing delays.

The two other men in the case have already been sentenced to prison over the stolen weapons.

Both B.G. and another man named Jerod Fedison, 29, were also charged with witness tampering.

They attempted to get Demounde Pollard, 19, to take the gun charges, since his record was clean at the time.

Jerod Fedison, 29, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in the crime.

Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence that is longer than the mandatory minimum of eight to 10 years.

Pete Rock has finally responded to Lupe Fiasco's rant

The legendary producer Pete Rock has finally responded to Lupe Fiasco's rant on Sway's radio show. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Lupe Fiasco's much debated remake ("Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free)") of the Pete Rock & CL Smooth classic continues with the Mr. Vernon native commenting on the tongue lashing the Chicago rapper sent his way. Pete even offered that he over reacted when he initially slandered Lupe's song on twitter.

"At that point, my emotions were working — I'm still thinking about Heavy D and Troy is a dear friend to me, and my emotions got the best of me, and I expressed myself on Twitter," Pete Rock told MTV News. "It wasn't my intention to hurt Lupe's career or his producer's career," he said, explaining that he agreed to let the beat be reused as long as he was involved with his project. “I thought from that point I would be involved with Lupe and being in the studio, tweaking the beat, but I never heard from the record label, and then I turn on the radio, and hear it on the radio.”

Check the video:

Get More: Music News

50 Cent says he hasn't spoken to Lloyd Banks in 9 Months

This is one of those stories that you hear and don't quite know how to register it. It could be something, then again, it could be nothing. But, according to 50 Cent, he and Banks haven't spoken in 9 months. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Rumors of continued friction between 50 Cent and his G-Unit soldier Lloyd Banks seem to be at least partially true. During a visit (by phoner) to Big Boy's Neightborhood in Cali, the "Many Men" rapper revealed that he hasn't spoke to the Boy Wonder in almost a year.

"I haven't spoken to Banks in nine months," said 50. "This is not the first time this has happened. He's a baby. He's the youngest in G-Unit and he got really rich at 19."

Fif does say that the relationship hasn't soured, but that Banks tends to go off and do what he wants to do. 

Listen to the interview here:

The 5th Annual Dallas Greek Picnic

The Dallas Greek Picnic Weekend (DGP), launched in 2008, is bringing a fun filled, positive experience for attendees to network and establish new relationships while also giving back and supporting the Dallas community. The Dallas Greek Picnic, the flagship event of the weekend, will take place at William “Bill” Blair Park in Southeast Dallas on Saturday, June 2, 2012 from noon to 7 p.m. Vendors will be on hand and special celebrity guests (including Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl Defensive Tackle Jay Ratliff) have been invited to make appearances. The Dallas Greek Picnic is free and will be hosted by syndicated radio personality/entertainer Vincent “Heartbreak” Tucker (Fishbowl Radio Network) and rising R&B singer Keith Jacobs. The weekend is set to benefit Children’s Medical Center, North Texas Food Bank, and there will also be a Voter Registration Drive brought to you by Register To Speak Out.

If you are a Greek, even if you are a Non-Greek, this will be a great experience. Food, games, music for everyone in attendance. The presenting sponsor for the 5th Annual Dallas Greek Picnic Weekend 2012 is TheGreekSpace.com. Major sponsors include 97.9 The Beat (Radio One), Crowne Plaza Hotel (Downtown Dallas), Green Mountain Energy, Ever Fresh Juice Company and Reddy Ice. Remember the 5th Annual Dallas Greek Picnic will be Saturday, June 2, 2012...don’t miss it!

For more information about the 5th Annual Dallas Greek Picnic Weekend, including sponsorship, becoming a vendor, and other activities, please visit www.DallasGreekPicnic.com.

Tim Westwood's afternoon show gets canned

In hip-hop culture, for years now, if you made a stop in the United Kingdom, Tim Westwood's radio show was a must to have on your itinerary. Well, the show is apparently no more thanks to BBC. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Lauded British radio host and Hip-Hop DJ ,Tim Westwood, has been fired from his afternoon post at BBC Radio. Westwood's show has become a go-to location for the likes of Nicki Minaj, A$AP Rocky, Wale, Big Sean, and more so it's confusing why he would be let go from the gig. The 54-year-old broke the news to his more than 200,000 followers on Twitter yesterday without giving much insight into why he was booted. "I've been sacked from 1Xtra Mon-Fri 4-7pm from sept ‪#Westwoodyourfired‬," he wrote.

Even though his "drivetime" slot is no more, Westwood will remain under the employ of the BBC hosting a Sunday night program, alongside his Saturday night time slot.

I thoroughly enjoy watching the interviews on YouTube. Plus, most of the time, you always get a dope freestyle out of the deal. This may be one of the last ones. Slaughterhouse recently stopped by to show Westwood some love. Peep:

Obama's campaign trail has garnered over a billion dollars worth of support

Looks like Barack Obama's power play to garner support from the homosexual community has worked out perfectly. Hip Hop Wired reports:

President Obama is constantly in the crosshairs of the Republican party, yet despite what they'd have you believe, he still has a massive amount of supporters. Throughout his political career, Obama has raised more than$1 Billion, in campaign funds–making him the first U.S. politician to do so.

According to the Center for Responsive Politics, in the in the nine years since he kicked-off his Senate bid in 2004, Obama has raised $1,017,892,305. In comparison, over two consecutive terms, President George W. Bush raised approximately $430 million.

For his second run at the presidency, the Commander in Chief is expected to bring in roughly $300 million by November.  His funders include companies and organizations like Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, and Harvard University. Since publicly supporting same-sex marriage, Obama is also expected to see a huge financial bump from wealthy gay and lesbian supporters.

Beef may begin brewing between Pusha T and Wayne

Apparently, Pusha T's record "Exodus 23:1" has struck a chord with the Weezy. Wayne took to his twitter account to air Push out. Hip Hop Wired reports:

After countless subliminals between both Pusha T and Drake over the last year, Lil Wayne steps up to the plate in defense of his artist. "Fuk pusha t and anybody that love em," tweeted Lil Tunechi last night after Push A Ton's latest track, "Exodus 23:1," thought to contain shots at Drizzy, started making the Internet rounds.

The irony of this move by the YMCMB general is that he and the Clipse have had disagreements dating back to the We Got It For Cheap series and Hell Hath No Fury days. Who do you think "Mr. Me Too" was about people? Shouts to @GillieDaKid on the video cameo. That's a whole different story.

Pusha has claimed on numerous occasions after Wayne was released from jail in November '10 that their differences have been settled since. Personally, I never believed this to be true as a serious Clipse supporter. Since the release of Tha Carter IV August '11, Pusha found himself on the defensive for his G.O.O.D brother and CEO, Kanye West.

The source of disrespect stems from the "It's Good" record, which included direct shots at Jay-Z . Drake admitted in an interview with Funkmaster Flex during his "Take Care" promo run that he was aware of Wayne's actions and didn't have a problem with them. Depending on who you ask, Drake's opening bars on the record can be interpreted as shots as well. He recites lyrics which claim certain rappers have gotten "too comfy" in this game. It can be argued the alliance against "The Throne" was formed then. According to BET, Drake made it clear that he understood there was a competition that existed between both Wayne and Hov.

In September and December '11 respectively, Pusha stepped to the plate to address Drake via his "Dreams Money Can Buy" and "Sweet" freestyles. One of Pusha's more memorable direct subliminals was featured on the "Dreams Money Can Buy" freestyle, where he says "Rappers on their sophomores, actin' like they boss lords/Fame such a funny thing for sure when n—as start believing all those encores."

Fast forward to February 2012; Wayne took to the stage to celebrate both his and Drake's album success at his Las Vegas Cash Money Pre-Grammy event at Paramount Studios. After announcing that Christina Milian was the newest signee to YMCMB, Wayne delivered another round of shots at Jay-Z and Kanye West. He ensured those in attendance that his red bone didnt want "to watch the throne." By this time, Drake and G.O.O.D's Common were just finishing up a quick lyrical war, which was offically squashed after the two bright skin brothers met at the NBA All Star Game.

This brings us to Pusha's "Exodus 23:1" record from last night. He returned to throwing shots at the Canadian rapper with The-Dream riding shotgun. Forgive the speculation, but does anybody else find it ironic that Pusha picked The-Dream for the chorus? It is documented that the crooner has a minor issue with The Weeknd, who's connected to Drake.

Now that Wayne has stepped up and said Pusha's name with Drake somewhere penning a batch of new subliminals, it's likely this will be one of the more entertaining "wars" in recent memory if anything comes from it. There is too much history between this love triangle for nothing to happen now. We should be in store for some G.O.O.D Music.

Here's "Exodus 23:1"

Jimmy Henchman's trial brings up some big names

Jimmy Henchman's trial is a week in and already some amazing allegations have been made. Hip Hop Wired reports:

The week-long trial of business mogul and accused drug kingpin James “Jimmy Henchman” Rosemond has not gone favorably for the former manager of clients including Game, Mike Tyson, Gucci Mane and others. With exclusive in-court coverage from AllHipHop, several witnesses have come forward against Rosemond, including his alleged coke connect in Los Angeles. The biggest bombshell, however, was Rosemond's admittance that he loaned Grammy Award-winning music artist Wyclef Jean a large sum of funds that was derived from drug sales.

Yesterday (May 22) in Brooklyn Federal Court, Rosemond's affiliation with Wyclef was put forth as evidence in the case as the prosecution continues to shore up charges that Rosemond helmed a $10-million dollar per year drug operation between New York and the west coast. Prosecutors introduced an October 13 Proffer Agreement from last year in court yesterday, in where Rosemond sought to offer details of his operation in order to reach a Cooperation Agreement. During the October session, Rosemond admitted he dealt in illegal activities, including saying that 80% to 90% of his income was supported by drug sales.

Rosemond said he loaned Wyclef Jean $60,000 dollars in drug money without the Haitian-American star's knowledge of where the funds came from. Rosemond also copped to selling Wyclef's driver several kilograms of yayo. Rosemond also supported Jean's 2010 presidential run in Haiti and also helped to organize a concert last year for Haitian president Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly. The government put the pair's relationship in their sights after several checks sent to Rosemond from various business properties of Jean's amounted to around $800,000. Rosemond would also admit in the October talks with prosecutors that he used the offices of Interscope Records to deliver illegal contraband and also used rehearsal spaces in Los Angeles.

Rosemond's Cooperation Agreement was removed from consideration after Rosemond was found with a working cell phone in prison and exchanging texts with his brother Mario, a known fugitive of justice. Coupled with key witnesses who have testified in court against Rosemond in order to have their sentences reduced, the defense has said that testimony has been shaky at best and that prosecutors have been introducing evidence long thought to  have been excused from the trial. Still, Rosemond faces insurmountable odds as the case goes on.

Lupe Fiasco hasn't resolved his issues with Pete Rock over song

There was a short-lived disagreement with Lupe Fiasco and legendary producer, Pete Rock over his new track "Around My Way" which uses Rock's track "They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)". Hip Hop Wired reports:

The short lived feud between Lupe Fiasco and Pete Rock is officially over. Both parties took to social media to announce that they spoke to each other and settled their differences stemming from Lupe Fiasco's latest single, "Around My Way (Freedom Ain't Free)," wholesale sampling Pete Rock & CL Smooth's "They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)" classic.

"I just got off da phone lupe, we worked out our differences and we bout to get it in," tweeted the Chocolate Boy Wonder last night. "Gonna be epic and we gonna give Troy and hev the proper respect they deserve and make history with lupe."

As for Fiasco, he tweeted: "Shout to the Friends&Family for bringing some internal closure to this...all g on this side Pete...Big Chuck whaddup...#MyGodFoRealListen"

Yesterday, Lupe was on Chicago radio and revealed that Pete's disdain for his track took him by surprise because he (or his people) reached out to the producer for his blessing. Now that the two have actually spoken, the prospect of the pair creating a track to honor Troy "Trouble T-Roy" Dixon and Heavy D will have the Hip-Hop world anxiously waiting to hear what these two talents cook up.

***UPDATE***

Apparently, the issue hasn't been resolved. Lupe has just gone left on Pete Rock over the track for "Around My Way." In a phone conversation with Sway, Lupe aired out his grievances. This is Lupe Fiasco like you never heard him before. Peep:

Young Buck scheduled to do a little jail time

Young Buck just can't seem to catch a break. Looks like he'll be headed back to jail soon. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Just like many speculated, Young Buck is going back to jail for gun possession. TMZ reports that Buck will be serving 18 months for the charge, which stems from the police raiding his home in 2010 and finding a .40 caliber Glock 22 on the premises, which is likely the same spot he was evicted from last week. The Feds discovering the firearm in the crib might not have been so bad if the Tennessee rapper didn't happen to also be a convicted felon.

2 Chains arrested and released after a misunderstanding

It appears that 2 Chainz being arrested earlier this week was all a misunderstanding. Allhiphop reports:

Recently-signed G.O.O.D. Music rapper 2 Chainz, famed for his T.R.U. Realigion mixtape and the song “Spend It”, was arrested today (May 22) at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

According to TMZ, 2 Chainz was detained at approximately 1:45PM for allegedly carrying a set of brass knuckles.  The rapper, born Tauheed Epps,  was entering the Delta terminal for a flight to North Carolina when TSA found the weapon in his bag.

Upon finding the brass knuckles, police were called and Chainz was taken into custody for misdemeanor possession of a criminal weapon.

2 Chainz celebrated being released from custody after officials at LaGuardia Airport in New York mistakenly thought his gold 4-fingered ring were brass knuckles.

The rapper expressed his exuberance on Twitter.

“RALEIGH, NC we on da wayyyyy!!! TurnUPPP,” he said via the social network.” 2 Chainz was en route to Raleigh to join Drake and Meek Mill for the Club Paradise.

The rapper also spoke to his detractors who expressed joy that he was temporaroily locked up. “Sorry to all the negative people who wanted me out the way…kant let u have the game bak that ez…”

2 Chainz also expressed frustration that he lost other material goods from the airport, but was ultimately happy to be free.

Chris Brown was kicked out of a nightclub for fighting

Chris Brown either needs to get some new people around him or he really needs to learn how to lay low, because this has become a trend with him. Breezy was kick out of a club in Vegas. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Chris Brown killed his performance at this year's Billboard Awards, but right after the show, the singer was booted out of a local nightclub. The New York Post reported that Brown was partying at Haze inside the Aria hotel, when his temper got the best of him. 

The singer was entertaining a group of women and buying bottles of champagne, but got upset when his company moved on to another table. “Brown got visibly upset when the girls moved on to the next table,” said a witness. “Brown approached the guys in the group [at the next table] and started getting visibly agitated. Brown stood up, and looked like he was about to start a fight when club security stopped him.” He got in the guy's face and was cursing at him, and saying, ‘Are these girls with you or with me?' The guy was stunned by it. Things were close to getting extremely ugly.” 

Before things got out of hand the Virginia native was escorted out of the club. His rep insists that while there was an incident, but refused to disclose further details.

Will Smith explains why he slapped the reporter

It was about a week ago when the video footage of Will Smith slapping a reporter for trying to kiss him made it's way around the internet. Amidst all the allegations of him being homophobic, Will Smith appeared on David Letterman to explain what happened. Smith explains:

"I didn't beat up a guy! No, no. I was in Moscow and ... we're doing an interview and he says, 'Man ...,' he was a reporter and he says, 'I'm your biggest fan, can I have a hug, please?' " he said. "So I go to give this joker a hug and he tries to lean in to kiss me, you know? And ... it's just awkward."

Peep the video:

Top 5 "Must Have" Items In A Prenup

We know, we know! Divorce is a dirty word that no one wants to hear. But, bottom line is. more than half of the marriages in America end in divorce. But, here's an even dirtier word: Prenup! As in prenuptial agreement! With the divorce rate being so high, it's smart for a couple to discuss and agree on these kind of things while they are still in each other's good graces. I for one wouldn't get married without signing this document. So, as always, we are here to help you out. Here are the Top 5 Items you need to include in your prenup!

1) How the assets will be divided in the event of a divorce

This has to be the most divisive issue in divorce discussions. Who gets what? This could be something as simple as all assets are split 50/50. Or, maybe all assets acquired before the marriage are not divided, and all assets acquired during the marriage is eligible to be split. Either way, the terms are negotiable and the document shouldn't be signed until both parties agree on these terms.(example: Russell Simmons & Kimora Lee Simons; Nas & Kelis)

2) Capped amount on exit settlement in divorce

Let's face it, generally speaking, most marriages have a bread winner. Whether it be the husband or the wife. No matter who is the bread winner in the household, no one should have to part with the money they've worked so hard to get. If the husband made $10 million, and the wife stayed at home, he shouldn't get $5 million. It's simply not fair. So negotiate and come to an agreement before you say "I do". (example: Hulk & Linda Hogan; Nick Lachey & Jessica Simpson)

3) The stipulations that will make the prenup void

Some people make stipulations like, if one partner is unfaithful, hides money, doesn't have sex whenever the other wants to or moves their mother in the house without consulting the other. It can all be added into the prenup. (example: Shaquille & Shaunie O'Neal)

4) The minimum amount of time the marriage must last in order for the prenup to be valid

One year, five years, ten years...whatever you decide, it should be agreed upon that if the marriage does not last a certain period of time, then the other party does not qualify to receive any of the benefits of the marriage. This is protection in the case of someone getting married to an affluent mate for the sole purpose of getting a piece of their wealth. (example: Tiger Woods & wife; Kim K & Kris Humphrees)

5) Gag order on public/semi public discussion & disclosure of private or intimate information.

Let's face it, when people are married they share things and a side of themselves they never let anyone else see or hear about. In divorce courts, it get's ugly! A lot of these things start coming out. Especially when you're talking about a case involving public figures. So make it a stipulation in the prenup. Whatever happens in the marriage or in the divorce is not to be discussed in public. (example: Deion & Pilar Sanders)

Rocsi, Terrence J to leave "106 & Park" after 6 years

Well, this some great news depending on who you are and how you look at it. Terrence and Rocsi will be leaving their posts soon as hosts of 106 & Park. Allhiphop reports:

According to the New York Post, longtime co-host Rocsi Diaz is leaving the show to pursue an acting career.

Rocsi will reportedly be relocating to the West Coast, in an effort to pursue a career in Hollywood.

According to sources, Terrence J. is also making plans to leave the show as a host, to pursue an acting career as well.

Both have appeared in high-profile movies in the past year.

Rocsi will be featured in the movie “Soul Ties,” while Terrence J. had a starring role in Steve Harvey’s movie “Think Like a Man.”

There was no time frame for the their departure from “106 & Park.”

Terrence J. and Rocsi were the third set of hosts for “106 & Park,” since the show’s launch in 2000.

Free and AJ Calloway were the original hosts from 2000-2005, while Big Tigger and Julissa Bermudez hosted the show for one year, from 2005-2006.

Rocsi and Terrence J. held down the hosting duties from 2006 until present.

Jimmy Henchman trial update

The latest developments in the case of Jimmy Henchman reveals quite a bit of new information. Allhiphop reports:

Federal authorities claim Rosemond headed up a $10 million-per-year cocaine operation that sold hundreds of kilos each month in the New York area, and sent millions in proceeds to the West Coast.

Today in court, federal prosecutors unveiled a number of purchases Rosemond made in cash for renovations to his luxury Brooklyn condominium.

Prosecutors produced receipts showing that Rosemond had hired a Miami, Florida company to install an audio/visual system in his condominium, which totaled $153,000.

Rosemond allegedly paid for some of the renovations by handing one contractor a bag of cash totaling $21,000.

He also paid another contractor a total of over $300,000 in cash to have to his luxury condominium refurbished.

Rosemond’s lawyer Gerald Shargel did not dispute the fact that Rosemond made a number of large purchases in cash, and implied that the proceeds came from Rosemond’s legitimate business, Czar Entertainment.

Another witness was produced, named Julissa Quinones, who Rosemond used to date.

Quinones testified that in May of 2011, Rosemond gave her a large amount of cash to take to Los Angeles, where he planned to meet with her to pick up the money.

Quinones attempted to fly to Los Angeles, but was stopped by Federal agents, who questioned her about where the cash originated.

When she landed in Los Angeles, two more agents further questioned Quinones, took pictures of her holding a large bag of money, and allegedly forced her to sign a cooperation agreement.

“They [agents] said it was drug money,” Quinones testified. “But he [Jimmy] said that was not the case.”

According to Quinones, the agents coached her on what to write on a cooperation agreement.

Quinones, 25, even said agents told her to write that the proceeds were derived from illegal activities.

She then gave authorities Rosemond’s cell phone number, and authorities promptly seized the cash, which was still stuffed inside her Louis Vuitton knapsack, as well as another carry-on bag.

Uncle Luke granted permission to coach football again

Uncle Luke has always been in the spotlight over some kind of controversy. Florida courts have now given him permission to coach football again after a ban was lifted. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Luther "Uncle Luke" Campbell is no stranger to controversy brought on by his music, but more than two decades after his first 2 Live Crew album, the rapper is still getting into trouble over his lyrics. A Florida judge has approved Campbell's request to coach a football team, after the state refused him certification on the basis of his music's “raunchy lyrics,” and his “string of arrests.”

The one-time mayoral candidate, has been volunteering as an assistant coach, but officials still saw his past as reason enough to not allow him to officially work in Florida schools. Judge Robert Meale countered the officials' claims by noting that criminal charges against Campbell were dropped, with the exception of two misdemeanor crimes, committed over 25 years ago.

Campbell has tried to shake the negative reputation brought on by his explicit music, but has not always been successful. Last year, he was embroiled in a Ponzi scheme involving the University of Miami, but has denied any wrongdoing in the matter.

Mystikal checks back into jail for a short stint

 
After a short time as a free man, Mystikal has to spend a short time in jail again after violating his probation. Hip Hop Wired reports:

After violating his probation in February for a domestic abuse charge, Michael "Mystikal" Tyler officially turned himself back into prison today.  Arrested and slapped with a misdemeanor charge for domestic abuse battery, Mystikal was sentenced to 81 days back in prison after previously serving a six-year sentence.  

"Disappointed isn't the word for it -- ashamed," Mystikal tells Billboard.com  when asked how he's feeling about the new jail sentence. "It's hard to show up. If I stole your money and I gotta come face you again and you ask me about the money, it's gonna be hard for me to face you in the eye. So the proof is in the pudding. Everything I was doing, the 81 days was right there riding with me -- in the SUV, come on, who's that? My 81 days. Everywhere I went, it was keeping me in check, and it's a fight. I can tell myself all kinds of things, I can sit there and mope, or I can get out and thank those fans the way I'm supposed to, the way they deserve to be thanked. So of course I am."

The judge has already given Mystikal credit for 9 days served while he was detained following his February arrest.

Jagged Edge may be signing back with So So Def

Well, there aren't many acts keeping 90s style R&B alive. Jagged Edge is one of the few still releasing albums. They may be signing with Jermaine Dupri again. Allhiphop reports:

We are hearing rumors that Jagged Edge is allegedly ending their relationship with Slip-N-Slide Records and will be signing with Jermaine Dupri and hit songwriter Bryan Michael Cox under So So Def!

The group is also rumored to be working on J.E. Heartbreak 2, a sequel to their most successful album to date.

Chuck Brown passes away at the age of 75

You know what they say death comes in threes. The Godfather of Go-Go passed away just yeasterday. Hip Hop Wired reports:

In news that will surely rock the Nation's Capital to the core, the “Godfather of Go-Go” Chuck Brown has died today after battling complications from pneumonia. Chuck Brown's daughter confirmed the death of her father to Washington ABC affiliate WJLA news reporter Sam Ford.

Although reports are a bit scant at this time, Chuck Brown had been hospitalized with pneumonia for the past two months, leading to cancellation of shows and other public appearances as reported by the Washington Post. Rumors swirled around that Brown had passed earlier in the year, although his family and management debunked the claims.

Chuck Brown made a name for himself in the 70s with the smash hit “Bustin' Loose” and effectively birthing a new genre in Go-Go music. Largely native to the Washington Metro area, Go-Go music is a byproduct of funk and soul backed by African rhythms, call-and-response chants and dances tailored made for the music. Brown was infamous for his "Wind Me Up, Chuck" routine and his hefty baritone voice was both melodic and confident.

Chuck Brown was a favorite of Washingtonians, enjoying popularity in the city and abroad that continued on for decades. The Godfather is considered by many to be Washington musical royalty, and his loss leaves behind a legacy of hits and thousands of mourning fans who grew up with his music.

Donna Summer passes away at 63

Another great music legend has left us. The "Queen of Disco" has passed away at the age of 63. Hip Hop Wired reports:

The music world has lost yet another icon. Disco Queen Donna Summer has lost her battle with cancer. She was 63. According to TMZ, Summer was in Florida at the time of her death, and had been trying to keep the seriousness of her condition under wraps.

Despite her illness,  TMZ reports that Summer was trying to finish up a forthcoming album. The 5-time Grammy winner is best known for her hit “Last Dance.” Released in 1978 the track debuted atop the Billboard Hot Dance Play Charts, and at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The singer's death comes one day after the passing of Go-Go Godfather Chuck Brown.

Summer relocated from Los Angeles to Nashville in 1994. She is survived by her husband, daughter, and four grandchildren.

The Boondocks coming back to Adult Swim for another season

Well, it looks like I will finally have a reason to watch television again (other than sports). One of the funniest shows ever will be returning for it's fourth season. Hip Hop Wired reports:

It's been a long time coming but The Boondocks is finally about to bless your TV screens once again. Adult Swim announced via their website, that season 4 will kick-off soon, but didn't release details on the premiere date.

Creator, Aaron McGruder is infamous for taking one long hiatus after another, and it's been well over two years since the debut of season 3. Either way television has been starved of the antics of Huey, Riley, and Granddad.

50 Cent releases Gangsta Grillz mixtape, feeds the homeless and ends up in the hospital in the same week

This has been a pretty hectic week for 50 Cent. The man has dropped new music, feeds the homeless and ends up in the hospital all in the same week. First the mixtape...Here's 50 talking about the mixtape with Jack Thriller on Thisis50.com. Peep the video:



Then, 50 took time out to feed the less fortunate today. Allhiphop reports:

Inspired by his humble beginnings in Jamaica Queens, New York, starkly contrasted from his now larger than life G-Unit empire, 50 Cent has made efforts over the last few years to embrace those who are less fortunate.

From his trips to Africa, to his Street King Energy drink charity initiatives, 50 Cent has ramped up his efforts to help those in need.

50′s embrace of those in need was most recently showcased via his efforts to support City Harvest & Feeding America, where the G-Unit mogul served over 250 meals for starving homeless people.

In association with SMS Audio, 50 has also offered to donate 250 meals to Feeding America for every set of headphones that is purchased domestically on SMSAudio.com.

Peep the video:


Lastly, 50 suffered what appears to be a stomach virus and had to go to the hospital. Hip Hop Wired reports:

50 Cent's latest promo barrage got postponed, sort of, due to illness. The Queens rapper was scheduled to do a round of press to promote his upcoming Gangsta Grillz mixtape, The Lost Tape, with DJ Drama. However, it seems that Ferrari caught an unknown ailment (AllHipHop reports it was a stomach virus) that warranted hospitalization.

Nevertheless, Fif kepts fans abreast of the situation, via Twitter. "I'm in the hospital but my gangsta grillz LOST TAPE is done so it will be out on time," tweeted Fif, along with photos of himself in a hospital bed. "I don't want to go into surgery. @FloydMayweather call my phone why your phone off."

Lil Boosie has been found Not Guilty

Lil Boosie has been found not guilty on his murder trial. WAFB.com reports:

Baton Rouge rapper Lil Boosie, whose real name is Torence Hatch, has been found not guilty of murder. The jury deliberated for about an hour and a half.

Supporters are cheering outside the 19th Judicial Courthouse in Baton Rouge. Hatch and his defense team hugged and began crying once the verdict was read.

In its closing, the prosecution said the evidence speaks for itself. Prosecutor Dana Cummings said Michael Louding, known as "Marlo Mike," admitted on interrogation tape that Hatch gave him $2,800 in $20s after the murder. She said Carvis "Donkey" Webb and Hatch worked on Louding to get him to tell the "truth." According to Cummings, during phone calls to Louding, Webb told him, "Follow my lead and you coming home Marlo."

She also told the jury Hatch wrote in a letter to his mother that he might have said some things that incriminate him. Cummings said the lyrics in Hatch's songs again prove his intent. She said in the phrase "Yo Marlo" he even calls out his hit man. "That's billboard strong," Cummings said.

Hatch's lawyer said detectives called Louding the "ace in the hole." Attorney Jason Williams pointed out that's a poker saying. He said poker is a game of deceit. He added the detective testified he's skilled at deceit and that's what this case is about. He told the jury to notice investigators said they preserved computers with lyrics on them for jurors to see, but police didn't preserve 10 hours of interrogation tape for jurors to see.

"This case not about Boosie, but who's being tried first?" Williams asked. "Not the man who says he killed six people."

He went on to state there is no proof Hatch had beef with Terry Boyd. He said the task force that was created needs a big arrest to keep going and then asked, "What's bigger than a rapper going down for murder?" He told the jury no one followed up on the lead Terry Boyd's mother gave, until last year. By that time, the man she told them to talk to was dead. Officers also said they never read the Terry Boyd file, but they were investigating.

Boyd had 15 old scars on his body from bullet wounds. An old bullet was found in him. Williams posed the question, "Was someone coming back to finish what they started?" He said this all started over a letter Lee Lucas supposedly sent telling Hatch that, "Boyd was getting out of prison and he said he's going to 'jack and slap you.'"

"Where is that letter? Why didn't Lee Lucas testify?" the attorney asked.

He also stated lots of lyrics were played, but prosecutors didn't play the one that said f--- Hillar Moore. "Why?" he asked.

Prosecutors were given a chance to speak to the jury one last time and finished around 2 p.m.

The judge then gave jurors instructions and they were sent to deliberate the case around 2:30 p.m.

Defense attorneys for Hatch rested their case Thursday afternoon without calling any witnesses.

Attorney Jason Williams told jurors Thursday the defense was resting its case based on the fact the burden of proof lies with the state and based on the testimony of the state's witnesses.

The prosecution had rested its case around 2:44 p.m. after six days of testimony from 27 witnesses.

Prosecutors contend Hatch hired Michael "Marlo Mike" Louding to kill Terry Boyd, 35, who was shot to death through a window while inside his home in 2009.

Hatch is currently serving an 8-year prison term on drug charges and is being held in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola.

The trial of Lil Boosie is now left in the hands of the jury

Well it seems that we will soon know the verdict in the case of Lil Boosie's murder trial, as the end of deliberations are upon us. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Lil Boosie's fate now  lies in the hands of a Louisiana jury. Both the prosecution and the defense concluded their cases in the rapper's murder trial Thursday (May 10). Over the six-day trial, prosecutors called a total of 27 witnesses to the stand, while Boosie's defense team rested their case without calling a witness.  “Based upon the burden of proof lying with the state, the defense rests with the witnesses the state has put on,” said Boosie's attorney Jason Williams.

Jurors opted to recess rather than go straight into deliberations, and will return Friday (May 10) morning to hear closing arguments. Earlier in the week the man accused of carrying out Boosie's murder-for-hire, Mike “Marlo Mike” Louding, recanted his alleged murder confession maintaining that he never admitted to police that he shot and killed victim, Terry Boyd. According to Louding, he was with Boosie's at his house, alongside accused getaway driver, Adrienne Pittman.

The prosecution also played the lyrics to the 29-year-old's song “187” which they attest, proves that he paid Louding $2,800 to commit the crime. “Yo Marlo/He drive a Monte Carlo/That Itchbay gray, I want that N***a dead today,” Boosie raps on the track. Forensic specialist also investigated Boosie's hard drive and concluded that he recorded the song one hour before the shooting took place. Also damaging to the image that his lawyers are trying to paint, is the fact that the Louisiana native has an AK-47 inked on his stomach with the words, Yo Boosie Who's Next?

Barack Obama's takes a stand for same-sex marriages

  

Well it's been all over the news and all over the internet that President Obama has gone on record in supporting same-sex marriages. Hip Hop Wired reports:

President Obama made a landmark decision earlier today, in publicly declaring his support for gay marriage. In an interview with ABC News, Obama made his position on the controversial matter abundantly clear. “I have to tell you that over the course of several years as I have talked to friends and family and neighbors,” he said of what helped shape his thoughts. 

“When I think about members of my own staff who are in incredibly committed monogamous relationships, same-sex relationships, who are raising kids together, when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained, even now that Don't Ask Don't Tell is gone, because they are not able to commit themselves in a marriage, at a certain point I've just concluded that for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.” 

Speculation over the timing of Obama's solid stance on same-sex unions comes days after Vice President Joe Biden vocalized his support of gay marriage. With his re-election campaign in full swing, supporting said cause may prove detrimental for the Commander in Chief in trying to win over “red states,” which are known to staunchly oppose gay marriage. Not surprisingly, Republicans have also attacked Obama over the issue; with well-known right-wing racist, Anne Coulter theorizing that were it not for the color of his skin, his views would not be accepted. “Could any non-black (not even 1/2 black) democrat come out for gay marriage and win re-election?” she tweeted. 

Since heading out on the road to drum up votes, Obama has also become a target of death threats. Last week, a Virginia man was arrested for sending an email promising to blow up the White House and kill the president.

New York courts decide viewing child pornography online isn't a crime

This is honestly just disturbing. Apparently someone in New York doesn't think it should be illegal to view child pornography. MSNBC.com reports:

Viewing child pornography online isn't a crime, the New York Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday in the case of a college professor whose work computer was found to have stored more than a hundred illegal images in its Web cache.

The court dismissed one of the two counts of promoting a sexual performance of a child and one of the dozens of counts of possession of child pornography on which James D. Kent was convicted. The court upheld the other counts against Kent, an assistant professor of public administration at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Kent — who said at his sentencing that he "abhorred" child pornography and argued that someone else at Marist must have placed the images on his computer — was sentenced to one to three years in state prison in August 2009.

The decision rests on whether accessing and viewing something on the Internet is the same as possessing it, and whether possessing it means you had to procure it. In essence, the court said no to the first question and yes to the second.

"Merely viewing Web images of child pornography does not, absent other proof, constitute either possession or procurement within the meaning of our Penal Law," Senior Judge Carmen Beauchamp Ciparick wrote for a majority of four of the six judges. 

"Rather, some affirmative act is required (printing, saving, downloading, etc.) to show that defendant in fact exercised dominion and control over the images that were on his screen," Ciparick wrote. "To hold otherwise, would extend the reach of (state law) to conduct — viewing — that our Legislature has not deemed criminal."

In other words, "the purposeful viewing of child pornography on the internet is now legal in New York," Judge Victoria A. Graffeo wrote in one of two concurring opinions that agreed with the result but not with the majority's reasoning.

Kent's attorney, Nathan Z. Dershowitz, told msnbc.com that he hadn't yet had a chance to talk to his client, so he couldn't discuss what they would do next. But he agreed with Graffeo that the ruling means that "in New York, there is no crime" in simply viewing child pornography. 

All of the judges agreed that child pornography is an abomination, but they disagreed whether it was necessary to "criminalize all use of child pornography to the maximum extent possible," as Ciparick wrote in the majority opinion. The majority said that was up to the Legislature, not the courts, to decide.

Beastie Boys face a lawsuit despite the recent passing of MCA

The timing of this is just terrible. I not even a week after the passing death of MCA, the Beastie Boys will have to face a lawsuit. Hip Hop Wired reports:

As the remaining two members of the Beastie Boys mourn the loss of Adam “MCA” Yauch, a new lawsuit has been brought to light. All Hip Hop is reporting that, one day after Yauch's death, Tuf America filed a copyright infringement suit against the trio and their label, Capitol Records, over the unlawful use of music on a total of four songs.  The group is accused of illegally using two-track on their 1986 debut, Licensed to Ill, and 1989's, Paul's Boutique.

According to the suit, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, the Beastie Boys illegally used the records “Say What” and “Drop the Bomb,” from R&B funk band Trouble Funk. Although they licensed a portion of Trouble Funk's music for “Drop the Bomb,” Tuf America alleges that they used more songs than they paid for. Tuf America also claims that both the Beastie Boys and Capitol Records are still reaping financial benefits from the music, which will likely increase since Yauch's passing. The 47-year-old lost his battle with cancer on May 4 , prompting many in the music industry to publicly send their condolences.

Tuf America is potentially seeking punitive and exemplary damages and has requested that trial date be set in the matter.

Common defends Nas' "Daughters" track

After Carmen Bryan came out and expressed her disapproval of Nas' decision to put his disappointment with some of his daughter's choices in his latest single, Common comes out to support his decision. Hip Hop Wired reports:

A father to a daughter himself, Common can relate to the trails and tribulations of raising a teenager. The Chicago native, praised Nas' honesty on the No I.D.-produced single, off his forthcoming Life is Good album.

“I feel like in art you gotta be free to express what you need to say,” he told XXL. “That's our job. That's what we do. When you an artist, you can pour out your soul. Sometimes that's the way to get it out. I don't think it's different than what Marvin Gaye was doin', it's the same mentality. Marvin Gaye did an album called Here, My Dear. The judge said he had to give all the proceeds from one of his next albums to his ex-wife that he was divorcing. So he wrote all the songs about they relationship.

“I think in music, you should be able to be very personal. I know it's tough on the people that may be in the experience with you. I've definitely had the mother of my child be like, ‘Yo, why you keep puttin' our business out there.' Like, when I did ‘Retrospect for Life' about abortion. It's necessary sometimes and honestly, not only is it a way for me to express myself, but it may inspire somebody else to do something good.”

G. Dep sentenced to 15 years in prison

In the latest news regarding former Bad Boy artist G. Dep, he's looking at a 15 year stint for murder. It's never a good thing to see, but Dep is the latest name to be added to the unfortunate list of former Bad Boy artists not doing well. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Nearly two years after confessing to murder, rapper G-Dep has learned how long he will spend behind bars for the act. A judge sentenced the former Bad Boy artist to 15 years to life for his role in the 1993 shooting of a Harlem man. Dep was given the minimum sentence, which may or may not have been due to his confession.  In December of 2010 the father of three walked into a New York police station and admitted to robbing and shooting a man, which investigators were able to link to the then unsolved murder of John Henkel.

While in prison Dep attempted to recant his story claiming that he did not shoot Henkel, but another victim. He also maintains that he was unaware that the victim had died after the shooting. "My hope is that Trevell never wavers from his decision,” said Dep's lawyer, Anthony Ricco. "Fifteen years is a long time. Fifteen years in the penitentiary for putting yourself there is an even longer time."

As he preps to spend a good chunk of his life behind bars, Dep has stated working on a book about his life. "It's one of those things where I'm not trying to explain or justify anything," he said during an interview from prison. "It's just I'm trying to just give people my last option. Obviously I can't record. I don't know if people are wondering what's going on or even care, but this is something from an artistic point of view that will kind of close out what I was doing, for now. It might kinda answer some people's questions."

Back in 1998 Dep was signed to Bad Boy under a five-album deal.

Hold your head Dep!

DMX dropping a free EP a month before his 7th studio album

I've been waiting on some new music from the dog for years. Now, I'm finally going to get it. DMX is dropping two projects in as many months. Allhiphop reports:

On May 15, a little over a month before DMX delivers his seventh studio album, Undisputed, the rapper will release a 10-track EP titled The Weigh In.

The Weigh In EP has features from artists such as Snoop Dogg and Tyrese and also includes an interlude featuring Lil Wayne.

At press time, confirmed production on the project comes from Fredwreck Moog, Rich Kidd, and X’s longtime collaborator, Dame Grease.

The EP marks one of the first projects from X since his last album, Year Of the Dog…Again, was released more than five years ago in 2006.

As was reported last week, DMX’s new album, Undisputed, is set for release on June 26, while a visual for the album’s first single, “I Don’t Dance” featuring Machine Gun Kelly is reportedly dropping shortly. The next single from Undisputed is said to include an appearance from the late, great Notorious B.I.G.

Scarface set to perform in NYC

It's always nice to see legends in the game come out and do their thing. H-Town legend Scarface is set to return to the microphone, and the stage. Allhiphop reports:

Southern Hip-Hop legend, Scarface recently announced that he will be performing on June 28 at S.O.B.’s in Manhattan, New York.

The show, which is being sponsored by AllHipHop.com, The Source Magazine, Ballers Eve Radio, Noizy Cricket!! and OGPR, is Scarface’s first performance in New York City in over a decade.

It’s also Scarface’s first solo performance in New York ever.

The announcement comes on the heels of Scarface announcing the title of his highly anticipated 12th solo album, Rooted, in addition to a joint LP with Philly based rapper Beanie Sigel.

“Performing at S.O.B.’s, it’s an honor man to be able to do it, you know? I just know how tough that New York crowd is man, but when I come down I get so much f**kin love in that city dude, I can’t wait to do it,” Scarface explained to AllHipHop.com in an exclusive interview.

For those fans wondering what Scarface has been up to recently, they can rest assured that he has been diligently working on new material and has several songs already completed for his new solo release.

“I can tell you this, I got some of the biggest records of my career,” Scarface told AllHipHop.com.

Scarface said that he will be releasing visuals to go along with his upcoming project, which is set to debut early this summer.

S.O.B.’s is located at 204 Varick Street. For details and tickets to the show visit SOB’s official website.

Triplets graduating from Lancaster High School all ranking Top 10 in their class

You know, there is so much negativity to report on I feel like I never really get the opportunity to report on something positive. Here we go! Here are a set of triplets, graduating from Lancaster High School this year and all of them ranking at the top of their class. Fox 4 reports:

These triplets at Lancaster High School will graduate ranked 1,2 & 8. 

Brandon Thomas is Valedictorian & will study law, his brother Jeremy is Salutatorian & will focus on music, their sister Lauren will graduate 8th in the class & has an athletic scholarship. 

Their proud parents say a lot of prayer & faith made this possible.

Lupe Fiasco ready to release Food & Liquor 2

Seeing as how Lupe is on a very short list of rappers I faithfully listen to these days, this is great news for me. According to Lupe, we will be getting Food & Liquor 2 here pretty soon. Hopefully, it doesn't turn out to be a sequel to Lasers. Allhiphop reports:

Grammy Award-winning artist Lupe Fiasco has announced that his next album, the highly-anticipated sequel to his 2006 debut Food & Liquor, Food & Liquor 2, will also be a double album release.

While speaking to FUSE at the Beale StreetMusic Festival, which took place this past weekend in Memphis, Tennesee, Lupe revealed the news regarding Food & Liquor 2 and also suggested that fans should mark their calendars for May 22. That is the date that the rapper behind two of the most acclaimed Hip-Hop albums of the past decade, may premiere the new album’s currently untitled first single.

Lupe told FUSE, “This is my fourth album, and this is actually a part one and part two, it’s a double album. With this record, I wanted to go back to the essence of what made that record so special, the frame of mind I was in when I did Food & Liquor the first time.”

This is not the first that the public has heard of Lupe’s double album plan. At a concert in Portland, Oregon last March, Lupe announced this news, as well as the revelation that he would no longer be releasing mixtapes.

“It’s the Lupe Fiasco I want to be, without the industry constraints, without the trying to please the hardcore fans or get the new fans,” said Lupe. “It’s just what I would do for myself if nobody ever heard it. This is the kind of music I would make. It’s a masterpiece. It’s really f*cking good.”

Peep the video: