Part 2 of The Urban Advocate exclusive conversation with Derek Minor

Last week, we released Part 1 of our interview with 116 Clique member, Derek Minor. Mr. Minor opened up to us about who his music and the Unashamed Tour. This week, we bring to you the second half of the interview.

In Part 2 of our exclusive conversation with Derek Minor, we get an opportunity to pick Mr. Minor's brain about things like reality TV, his thoughts on the misrepresentation of Christianity, and how he feels about the label "Christian" rap.



Be on the look out for Derek Minor who will be making a couple of stops in Tennessee as well as taking part in the upcoming Winter Jam 2014. Visit derekminor.com for more details.

Exclusive interview with Derek Minor of Reach Records

Recently, the popularity of Christian Rap has been on a rise. A large part of the reason for the interest in a more inspirational brand of rap; Reach Records. Headed by Grammy award winning rapper, Lecrae, Reach Records has been able to 'reach' a wide audience and take the Gospel across barriers that it has never been before. With the release of Lecrae's new mixtape, Church Clothes 2 and the recent Unashamed Tour V, Reach Records is showing no signs of slowing down soon.

Another artists responsible for Reach Records soldiering forward into 2014 is the "Mayor of Minorville", Derek Minor. Fresh off the heels of his most recent album, Minorville, a few stellar features (including a verse on the aforementioned Church Clothes 2), Derek Minor has been hard at work as apart of the Unashamed Tour V.

As the tour made a recent stop in Dallas, The Urban Advocate got the opportunity to catch up with Derek Minor. In this two part interview, Mr. Minor opens up about everything from his music, what it's like being on the Unashamed Tour V and why he believes Christian Rap has been able to reach such a wide audience. Check out Part 1 of The Urban Advocate exclusive conversation with the one and only, Derek Minor!

Nas on Nelson Medela: "He's a great inspiration and he'll be remembered forever..."

Nelson Mandela is undoubtedly the face of a nation. When we reported on his hospitalization earlier this year, we kind of figured it was only a matter of time before we would hear of his passing. He lived a full and complete life, and now he can rest well. Nas recently spoke on the freedom fighter's death. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Nelson Mandela lived a fruitful life over the last 95 years.

South Africa's most revered freedom fighter became a symbol of the country's fight for racial equality, but over the years Mandela's reach transcended that of apartheid.

The man born, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, is best known for serving 27 years in prison on charges that he attempted to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life in prison in 1964, and was able to look at his imprisonment as an opportunity to usher in change, as he said in 1994:

"I realized the role I could play and the possibility before me as a defendant. I was the symbol of justice in the court of the oppressor. The representative of the great ideals of freedom, fairness and democracy in a society that dishonored those virtues. I realized then and there that I could carry on the flight even in the fortress of the enemy."

Mandela passed away today (Dec. 5) leaving behind a legacy as one of the globe's most influential figures in modern history, one that touched the Hip-Hop world.

Nasir Jones was the first rappers to pay his 140-character respects for the whole world to view and The305.com recently caught up with the Hip-Hop legend at the Art Basel 2013, sponsored by Hennessy and The FADER to discuss the passing of another legend.

The Grammy Award-nominated artist recalled the first time he witnessed the late freedom fighter in person. He just happened to be with another fallen angel that touched his life. His mother.

"I went to see Nelson Mandela at Yankee Stadium when he got released from prison and he came to the United States. My mom took me with her. That was a big moment in my life," he remembered.

Nas has been globetrotting across the country as of late. He recently opened up a sneaker store in Las Vegas and celebrated his birthday and was honored by Harvard University with a fellowship in his name.

"So much in his life and times...it can't be measured," Nas continued. "He's a great inspiration and he'll be remembered forever as he chills with the ancestors.

Vin Diesel opens up about the loss of Paul Walker

The entertainment world was left stunned when news of Fast and Furious star Paul Walker passed away in a car accident. No one expected the star to pass away in that manner especially since Walker become an international superstar from the racing movie. In the week following his untimely passing co-stars, family and friends have all expressed their feelings on the impact of his death, including Vin Diesel. E! Online has more on this story:

It's clear that Paul Walker's sudden death has dramatically affected many, many people, from his family to friends to colleagues to fans. And one person who was especially close to the actor and has been open about the tragic loss, is his Fast & Furious costar Vin Diesel.

The actor took to Facebook today to share with fans that he paid a visit to Walker's mom after the news of what happened broke and shared a part of their conversation that just makes us want to cry.

"When I heard, I immediately flew back to California, and went directly from the plane to his mother's house...," Diesel wrote. "I thought they needed my strength, but realized when I got there and broke down before his family, that it was I who needed theirs."

He continued, "His mother hugged me and said I am so sorry... I said sorry? You're the mother who lost a son?... She said yes, but you lost your other half..."

Aren't you glad you grabbed that tissue now? We told you.

"To live in the hearts we leave behind, is not to die," the actor quoted Thomas Campbell on his Facebook page in speaking out for the first time about the death of his longtime friend.

"Pablo, I wish you could see the world right now... and the profound impact, your full life has had on it, on Us... on me...I will always love you Brian, as the brother you were... on and off screen."

For more on this story please visit, E! Online.

Dee-1 signs to RCA Inspiration

It makes me feel good when an artist that has been featured on The Urban Advocate go on to do big things. Salute to the 2011 TUA Honors Recording Artist of the Year, Dee-1 who has just signed to RCA Inspiration.

Underground star turned viral success story, rapper Dee-1 has inked a deal with RCA Inspiration, the label announced today. A New Orleans native, Dee-1 burst onto the national scene with the mix tape "I Hope They Hear Me Vol 2", which featured the wildly popular single "Jay, 50, Weezy". The record proved to be a viral juggernaut spawning a YouTube video that to-date has over 600,000 total views, spins on MTV Jams and radio airplay.

"We are truly excited about Dee-1 joining the RCA Inspiration family," says General Manager, Geo Bivins. "In the current marketplace, where people are listening much closer to artists and seeking music that is authentic with a 'real' message, we believe Dee-1's music will resonate with today's diverse Hip Hop and Inspirational music consumers and beyond."

"Signing with RCA is a life-changing partnership that I'm excited to be a part of. I know we're about to make history together so I'm motivated to work harder than ever. Coming from New Orleans, I realize that my success is bigger than me. It's a symbol of hope for others who want to chase their dreams and make a difference in life. So I'm going to make sure that together we all win. #MissionVision," said Dee-1.

Dee-1 is currently in the studio working on his new album, due in 2014 under the RCA Inspiration imprint.

Your Guide to the Observer Awards

It’s that time of year again! Assuming you aren’t from Dallas, or you are from Dallas but have no clue what I am talking about; it’s time to cast your vote for the Dallas Observer Music Awards!   

Every year the Dallas Observer pieces together a ballot of honorees ranging across the eclectic Dallas music scene. With that being said, I think it is only right for the folks here at The Urban Advocate to put together a little cheat sheet. This is not a category-by-category guide, but this will get most of it filled in for you. 

Keep in mind that you can vote daily for whomever you please, but when have we ever steered you wrong?

Vote once daily until November 2nd at 2am!!!

Click here to vote

Best Group Act

RTB2

Best Solo Act

-topic

Best Song

"America's Son" by Air Review  

Best Live Act

The Effinays  

Best Vocalist

Sarah Jaffe  

Best Guitarist

Jason "Shaggy" Kerr

Best Country Act

Tejas Brothers

	Best Alt-Country Act
	Quaker City Nighthawks

Best Americana Act

Oil Boom  

Best Electronic Act

Ishi  

Best Funk/R&B Act

Larry G(ee)

Best Jazz Act

Snarky Puppy  

	Best Punk Act
	The Phuss

Best Rock Act

We'rewolves  

Best Rap/Hip-Hop Act

A.Dd+  

Best DJ

Fishr Pryce  

Best Producer

Booty Fade

Best Radio Show/Podcast

Ghost of Blind Lemon on Deep Ellum Radio  

Best Festival

Homegrown Festival  

Best Music Blog

Central Track 

Woman shot to death outside of the White House

Man, the secret service don't play no games! A woman was shot do death this afternoon after ramming into the gate outside White House. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Reuters, the New York Daily News and several other outlets have been covering the story of the unidentified woman from the city of Stamford; ABC News has discovered she was a 34-year-old dental hygienist. The toddler inside the vehicle, who also remains unidentified, was unhurt say officials.

The harrowing ordeal began around 2:20 p.m. in the Nation's Capital, all while Congress remains in a gridlock over government shutdown and the rolling out of Obamacare.

From Reuters:

The identity and condition of the driver - a woman - was not released. One U.S. official said she had been killed, but later a police official said he did not know her condition.

Driving a black sedan, the suspect rammed security barricades near the White House. Then the car, apparently carrying a child, raced up Pennsylvania Avenue toward the Capitol where Congress was in session.

Police gave chase and fired at the car. It finally came to a halt at 2nd Street and Constitution Avenue.

The incident rattled Washington just three weeks after a government contractor opened fire at the Washington Navy Yard, about 1.5 miles from the Capitol, killing 12 people and wounding three others before he was shot to death by police.

It was later confirmed that the suspect was shot dead, although conflicting reports still continue to swirl about. As noted above, the region is still reeling from assault unleashed at the Washington Navy Yard by Aaron Alexis, amid other growing tensions around the state of the nation politically.

One Secret Service agent was injured after the woman rammed him with her car. His condition has not been released but the Daily News reports authorities have confirmed the agent is stable.

This story is developing.

The Vincent Tucker Radio Show nominated for Show of the Year

DALLAS (October 3, 2013) – CWC Entertainment Group L.L.C. announced today that award-winning broadcast The Vincent Tucker Radio Show has been nominated for nine awards collectively including Show of the Year in the 2013 Fishbowl Radio Network Internet Sharkey Awards.  In its 3^rd year of existence, the annual award show highlights and recognizes Fishbowl Radio Network’s Staff, Hosts and supporters over the previous 12 months, with awards covering 30 categories. Nominees and Winners are picked by the staff of network, ten radio program directors across the country and listeners.

Other nominations for the award-winning broadcast are: Best Team Show, Biggest Celebrity Interviews, Best  use of Social Media, Best Website, and Best Use of Multi-Media. Host & Executive Producer Vincent “Heartbreak” Tucker picked up 2 solo nominations (Male Host of the Year and Community Active Host of the Year) while co-Executive Producer Aaron “Yellostar” Channell was nominated for Show Producer of the Year. This is the second year in the row that the syndicated program has led all nominees with 9 nominations.

Gucci Mane sentenced to 6 months behind bars

Can't say I'm really all that surprised by this. With the tear Gucci has been on lately it was only a matter of time before he ended up behind bars again. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Gucci Mane is in for another extended stay at his favorite resort; jail. The troubled rapper has been sentenced to six months in jail to a probation violation.

Guwop was arrested on September 14 after he allegedly cursed at a police officer, and a firearm and weed was found on his person after he was searched. Court documents show that Gucci La Flare was charged with firearm possession by a convicted felon, disorderly conduct, carry a concealed weapon and marijuana possession. Needless to say, all of the aforementioned are probation violations.

The Atlanta rapper will now be serving 183 days in the bing. This is just the last in bad news for Gucci.

According to XXL, he was dropped from Atlantic Records earlier this month due to his bizarre behavior and legal troubles. Rocko recently detailed going to Gucci's home to speak to him shortly after being slandered in one of the "Lemonade" rapper's Twitter tirades. Said Rocko: "Pray for homie."

Government shutsdown as many Americans panic

So all night and all morning I've been having to hear about this government shutdown. Everyone is panicking about what this means for unemployment benefits, VA benefits and so much more. Hip Hop Wired has more:

A deal to approve a short-term measure to keep the U.S. government funded into the next fiscal year was not reached, prompting the first shutdown of the government in 17 years. Congress was still in session as the 12:01 a.m. deadline passed early Tuesday (Oct. 1) morning, with debates and votes still to come in the GOP-led House of Representatives.

Dozens of outlets have been live blogging and streaming the heated debates between the major bodies of Congress, which is haggling over the funding bill and parts of the Affordable Care Act.

After the House demanded a year-long delay of Obamacare over the weekend in order to fund the government, the extreme Conservative demands of Sen. Ted. Cruz and other GOP hardliners pushed Speaker John Boehner to side with the vocal Tea Party faction within his party.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has already rejected the House demands to hold a bipartisan conference of lawmakers from both chambers of Congress. Reid said shortly before the midnight deadline, “We will not go to conference with a gun to our heads.”

The House also proposed a similar committee of mixed groups of lawmakers to debate the finer points of the Senate's so-called “clean” government funding bill and the House's latest proposal to delay key portions of Obamacare and cut healthcare subsidies for Hill staffers. It has been speculated that the Republican majority of the House knew the Democrat-led Senate would not agree to the conference or committee talks, thus making shutdown inevitable.

The House measure would have funded the government until mid-December, but the Senate voted along party lines to send the bill back with hopes that an agreement would be made and federal shutdown would have been averted.

The federal government has begun the shutdown process, and agencies nationwide are carrying out their respective plans according to procedure from the Office of Management and Budget. Sen. Reid said the Senate will reconvene later in the morning.

This story is developing.

Dame Dash Jr. arrested in New York

Dag Boogie. As a Roc-a-fella enthusiast, I watched this kid grow up from a far, and this is not the type of news I hoped to hear. Dame Dash son has apparently been arrested for allegedly choking his girlfriend. Hip Hop Wired reports:

Roc-a-fella Records founder Damon Dash's son and 22-year-old namesake was arrested this past Tuesday (Sept. 24) for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend.

Putting hands on a female is bad enough, but the details surrounding this incident are even more damning. According the the New York Post, the younger Dash, Damon Dash II, choked out his girlfriend, Chelsea, on Sept. 22 after getting into a dispute with her over sex in his West 16th Street pad.

The authorities have charged Dash Jr. with misdemeanor assault and strangulation for allegedly squeezing his girlfriend's neck as they argued in his West 16th Street apartment.

"They had an apparent dispute over sex," a source in law enforcement told The Post "She was visiting him at his apartment, he got violent with her, starts to punch her, slap her and shove her onto the bed, got on top of her, he grabs her by the throat and chokes her."

Here's where things get weirder. Apparently the couple reconciled but then had another argument, at which point she called authorities.

According to the complaint, Dash choked her hard enough where she had difficulty breathing. The source also claims that she suffered a cut lip, bruises and a black eye. Dash Jr. aka "Boogie" was arraigned on Wednesday, Sept. 25, has been barred from having any contact with Chelsea and was released on his own recognizance.

Family kicked out of Applebee's in Texas for disturbing children

Let this be a warning to people with rowdy kids; you may want to stay away from Applebee's because they have no quarrels about putting you out of their establishment. Huffington Post reports:


A family of four in Katy, Texas went to Applebee's for dinner on a Sunday night. The 3-year-old and 1-year-old boys were apparently too "active" to be at the restaurant, though.

The oldest boy wandered away from the table, prompting Eli Gau, the boy's father, to grab him. As Gau was doing so, a manager approached him, claiming the children were making too much noise, according to CBS affiliate KHOU 11 of Houston Texas.
The manager kicked the family out of the restaurant and called the authorities. As the family walked outside, they were met by a Harris County Sheriff's Deputy, who gave them a notice warning them of criminal trespassing.

“I feel disrespected,” wife and mother Lillian Maliti told KHOU 11.

Consumerist clarifies that not only did the restaurant phone the police, but the family did as well, saying they felt threatened by the manager's actions. The police emphasized that no arrests or warnings were made, and that the paper given to the family was not a warning but rather an information card that provides a reference number for the case.

Gau emphasized that his kids' behavior is normal for their ages. “They act like children. They're not adults," he told KHOU 11. And according to this funny infographic about dining out with kids, he's right.

An Applebee's spokesperson apologized for the incident and offered the family a free dinner. The company issued an official statement, explaining that the franchise owner-operator has apologized to the guests and that the franchisee is "using this instance as a teaching moment to better manage future disruptions in their restaurants."

Virginia judge rules mother went too far in disciplining her 6 year old

A Virginia dentist finds out the hard way that there is a such thing as going too far in spanking your children. CBS reports:

A note sent home from a six-year-old’s kindergarten teacher is what a prosecutor in Stafford County says sparked a beating incident.

Prosecutor Tara Mooney said Dr. Felicia Kimble-Tanks crossed the line from discipline to abuse several months ago when she spanked her child, using a leather belt.

The case was settled this week in Stafford Circuit Court.

Kimble-Tanks’ case is causing some parents to think just how far they would go to discipline their child?

Kimble-Tanks found herself in legal trouble when a spanking with a belt left bruises on her 6 year old daughter.

Mooney believes it’s a case of abuse while the mom’s attorney said she was disciplining the girl for bad behavior at home and at school.

Kari Jackson has mixed feelings about the case, but pointed out that “you can discipline your child without bruising.”

The six-year old girl’s father, who didn’t live in the home, spotted multiple bruises two days after the girl was hit with the belt.

Mooney said the girl was even told by her mother not to tell anyone she had been spanked in that way. The dad contacted authorities.

This week Dr. Kimble-Tanks pled guilty to a lesser misdemeanor charge of assault and battery on a family member.

The judge is mandating that she refrain from spanking her daughter for two years.

A 3 year old among the 23 people wounded in latest shooting spree in Chicago

This is no surprise seeing as how is was just a reports was just released this past week from the FBI that Chicago topped the list of "Cities with the most Homicides in 2012". Others on the list included Detroit, Philly, Dallas and New Orleans. But in this shooting in Chicago a 3 year old was wounded with a shot to his face. Washington Post reports:

Three people were killed and 23 wounded in the latest spate of violence to hit Chicago.

The wounded include 3-year-old Deonta "Tay-man" Howard, and two teens, among 13 people shot in an apparent gang-related attack in Chicago's South Side Cornell Square Park.

Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy said an assault-style rifle with a high-capacity magazine was used in the shootings.

"They almost shot his whole face off,' McCarthy said, noting it was a "miracle" that no one had died in the attacks.

Others in the violence-plagued city weren't so lucky. At least 10 others were shot in other incidents late Thursday and early Friday. Three were murdered, including Johnny Tinsey, 36, Rubin Austin, 25, and an unidentified 29-year-old woman.

Win a trip for two to Hawaii with Urbyn Loft's "Skybox Pro Picks"

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Vincent Tucker featured on the cover of new AMPS magazine

Rising multi-faceted entertainer, humanitarian & entrepreneur Vincent “Heartbreak” Tucker graces the cover of AMPS magazine and gives his most in-depth personal interview to date.

In the cover story, the 30-year-old syndicated radio personality tugs on the heart strings of readers as he opens up about his heartbreaking childhood growing up which included surviving a 5-alarm house fire that claimed the lives of three (his grandparents & 7-year-old sister) when he was 9-years-old, dealing with his parents drug abuse and their abandoning him at the age of thirteen and much more.

“I’m not Heartbreak because I’m breaking the hearts of women, I’m Heartbreak because I came from the bottom, went through the trials and tribulations and I’m still here. Very few people alive have ever witnessed struggles that I’ve survived as a kid…God has special plans for me and I’m a living example of what God can deliver you from.” Vincent told AMPS.

“The Next American Feel Good Story in the making” also gave his insight on various topics including being a role model for the current generation & at-risk youths everywhere, men pulling their pants up, the business ventures that he’s apart of & the importance of giving back to the community.

The newest issue of AMPS also features Actor/Singer Terrell Carter (Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Class Reunion & Tyler Perry’s Meet The Browns), Model/Actress Kamila Onikosi, Author Dee Harris and Veteran Broadcaster Holiday Sparkx.

Volume 2, Issue 5 of AMPS MAGAZINE featuring Vincent “Heartbreak” Tucker on the cover is available right now at www.AMPSDallas.com.

Behind the scenes of "Jordans Under Dickies (Remix)", Dirty Rotten Skoundrelz featuring Bun B of UGK

On Saturday, August 31, 2013 the Dirty Rotten Skoundrelz (Big Suave and Don Claude) of Zu Nation Media Group joined forces with Bun B, the surviving member of the legendary UGK to shoot the video for their single, "Jordans Under Dickies (Remix)". And of course, The Urban Advocate was on the set getting all the behind the scenes footage. The original version of the video, which was shot and directed by Shun Atkins of Ovid Media, was released in 2010.

Adding Bun B to the song and shooting a new video, with a new story line has given this song new life. This time around the video was shot at Centre, an exclusive streetwear store at Mockingbird Station in Dallas, TX. The Dirty Rotten Skoundrelz were joined by other members of the Zu Nation Media Group including Earl Ray Da Ogre and Pharoah Da Don, who appeared on the original version of the song, as well as C.G. (the song's producer) and Chad DJ Chad. Dallas showed up in a major way to show their support for their favorite sons. Among the names that were seen on the set for the video, Hezeleo (UGK Records), Elipse Darkness (rapper), Vincent "Heartbreak" Tucker (The Vincent Tucker Radio Show), Go DJ Dirty Rae (Go DJs), Sandy Colman (Don Colman Clothing), Ernest "Logik" Jabati (Urban Testament Clothing), Ra'koo Harris (Ra'koo Nation) and many others.  The video was shot and directed by Jason Robbins and Jonathan Scott, respectively. As far as Bun B, well, he lived up to his legendary status. Performing with the keen sensibilities of a true veteran and graciously posing for every picture request.

The Dirty Rotten Skoundrelz have been fairly busy this summer. Aside from shooting this video, the duo was also seen performing at Kixpo 2013 at the Irving Convention Center this past August. If this is any indication of the year coming up for Zu Nation Media Group, this may mean a changing of the tide. Stay tuned to The Urban Advocate...in an upcoming installment of The Underground Access, we will bring you some of the action that went on behind the scenes.

Tami Roman of Basketball Wives appears on The Vincent Tucker Radio Show

This Saturday!!! It's Season 7 Premiere of The Vincent Tucker Radio Show powered by fbrn.us - Episode #238 (9/7/2013)

Log on Saturday, September 7 at 10 am / 9 am central on www.fbrn.us (Talk Bowl) or www.VTRSOnline.com to listen to the syndicated, award-winning & critically-acclaimed broadcast known professionally around the world as The Vincent Tucker Radio Show. Join Vincent “Heartbreak” Tucker, Myskenna, Yellostar, J.B. & Comedian Savel Rhines as they cover the latest and greatest in news, sports, politics, music & entertainment.

As we celebrate our season 7 premiere, our feature guest this week Tami Roman - VH1 Reality Star of the #1 Hit Show “Basketball Wives.” We're talking Season 5 of Basketball Wives, her entertainment career, leaving a legacy for her daughters and much more! If you THOUGHT you knew Tami Roman before this interview, you Don’t!

Log on! September 7. 9am - 11am CST. Tune in. fbrn.us (Talk Bowl)

Syndicated, Award-Winning & Critically-Acclaimed… “The New Home for Black Star Power”… It’s The Vincent Tucker Radio Show!

Want to Advertise/Sponsor on our Syndicated Show?: Business Owners, You do know that their is branding power when you team up with The Vincent Tucker Radio Show right? If you have a business, product, service etc that you need advertising for, please contact Arkenna Darensburg today at 877-998-4623! Or Click Here to get started now!

2013 © CWC Entertainment Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Win a trip for two to Hawaii with Urbyn Loft's "Skybox Pro Picks"

So you think you know Pro Football? Put your knowledge to the test and win a Trip for 2 To Hawaii! (AD) 

NFL Fans… Did you know this season that you can Win a Trip for 2 to Hawaii, 50” Smart TV, $500 Amazon Gift Card and more by participating in the Urbyn Loft Skybox Pro Picks game for FREE?

Yes you read that right. You could win one of those prizes and more by correctly picking the winners of NFL Games each week FOR FREE!

So Put your knowledge to the test and enter the FREE Urbyn Loft SkyBox Pro Picks contest by clicking here!

Drama Tha King takes aim at fellow Dallas MC, Slim of A.Dd+

First of all, let me start by saying this, I have respect for everyone involved. Drama tha King has been one of my favorite artists in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area since I first heard him spit on stage at The Green Elephant back in 2008. And I remember way back before selling out the Granada Theather, getting an email from A.Dd+ camp to feature their song "Howdy Do" on THEURBANADVOCATE.COM. So from a far, I've been able to watch the growth and development of both over the years. But, now apparently there may be some problems brewing between the two.

Inspired by Kendrick Lamar's verse on Big Sean's "Control", Drama tha King of Elite Representatives took the studio to air out his frustrations with Slim Gravy of A.Dd+. In this scathing freestyle, Drama calls out Slim for his perceived disrespect. Not sure exactly what sparked it, but the result is this 2 minute diss track. Oh boy did Drama go off on this one! And THEURBANADVOCATE.COM has the exclusive! Click here to check it out!

Drama tha King- Control (Freestyle)

The Underground Access featuring Janelle Monae

On August 19, 2013, The Urban Advocate was invited to attend a special listening party for Janelle Monae's new album, Electric Lady. While there, we got a opportunity to catch up with Ms. Monae to find out a little bit about the new album and why it's so important to give people an "experience". Check it out!

Lee Thompson Young passes away at 29

Death is never easy to accept...especially when the cause of death is suicide. Lord knows what this young man had going on in his life. TMZ.com has the story:

Lee Thompson Young -- who played the main character on Disney's "The Famous Jett Jackson" -- has committed suicide, TMZ has learned.  He was 29.

Young's body was discovered inside his North Hollywood home Monday with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to sources. It's unclear why Young took his own life.

Lee's publicist said, "It is with great sadness that I announce that Lee Thompson Young tragically took his own life this morning ... Lee was more than just a brilliant young actor, he was a wonderful and gentle soul who will be truly missed."

Young currently appears in the TNT show "Rizzoli & Isles" -- and we're told when he didn't show up to work Monday morning, staffers called Young's landlord to check up on the actor. That's when the landlord found him.

The executive producer of "Rizzoli & Isles" tells us, "Everyone at [the show] is devastated by the news of the passing of Lee Thompson Young."

She adds, "We are beyond heartbroken at the loss of this sweet, gentle, good-hearted, intelligent man. He was truly a member of our family. Lee will be cherished and remembered by all who knew and loved him, both on- and offscreen, for his positive energy, infectious smile and soulful grace. We send our deepest condolences and thoughts to his family, to his friends and, most especially, to his beloved mother."

Mama Wes, mother of Pimp C passes away at 66

This one kind of hits a little close to home. I had a chance to chop it up a bit with Mama Wes when her and Hezeleo called in to an episode of Dirty Rotten Radio in late 2009. So I have to give a huge R.I.P. shout out to Ms. Wesley Monroe! Vibe.com has more on the story:

Weslyn "Mama Wes" Monroe, the mother of the late rapper Pimp C, passed away in his hometown Port Arthur, Texas, allegedly due to serious illness Monday morning (August 19), the Houston Press reports. She was 66.

Bun B, who comprised UGK alongside Pimp C, announced the unfortunate news on Instagram.

"Thanks to everyone that has sent prayers and condolences," said Bun. "She was a great woman. Nurture us from boys to men and made us strong enough to handle this industry. She was the one that kept us going when we didn't wanna go anymore. She was the backbone of UGK, the definition of loyalty, the personification of unconditional love and the essence of what being Trill really meant. She's finally reunited with her son. God bless you both. RIP Mama Wes. You gave everything to make us Underground Kings."

The Fights at Fair Park II, this Saturday Aug. 10

This Saturday come down to Fair Park Coliseum and catch "The Fights at Fair Park II" featuring Texas Super Middleweight Champion Tony Mack:

J&G Boxing Promotions Present: "The Fights at Fair Park II"
1438 Coliseum Drive Dallas, TX
7 Exciting Boxing Bouts
at Fair Park Coliseum with doors opening at 6:00P.M.
Featured on the Card-Pro Boxing Texas Super Middle Weight Champ, TONY MACK.

Also on the card: Chris Jones, Corey Richards, Kenny Grammer, Ryan Mar, Juan Carlos De Leon, Chris Faz.

Portion of Proceeds Benefit The Military Justice League and The Wounded Warrior Project.

General Admission: $10
Reserved Floor Seats: $25 and $50
Ring Side: $100

For Tickets, Sponsorship, or Media Inquiries-Contact Krista Kelley PR: 972-953-8846 (call or text) email- info@KristaKelleyPR.com.

Catch the Zu Nation hitting the stage this Saturday at Kixpo

Zu Nation artists Big Suave and Don Claude aka as the Dirty Rotten Skoundrelz are set to perform at the upcoming Kixpo event taking place August 10th 2013 at the Irving Convention Center in Irving, TX from 2:00pm-7:00pm.

The largest sneaker and streetwear expo in the world. Kixpo is returning for it’s seventh annual event sponsored by Central Kia this year the event will be held at the brand new Irving Convention Center. Over 50,000 square feet of sneaker and street wear culture under one roof. Do not miss out on the hottest event in Dallas-Fort Worth this summer with special guest Ronnie Fieg!

• All ages welcome
• Come Buy, Sell and Trade Sneakers, Clothing, and Accessories!
• Come see sneaker displays from some of the biggest collectors in the game!
• Visit one time only pop up shops from local and national brands and boutiques
• Plus: Live music, raffles, giveaways, sneaker customizers, celebrity guest appearances, workshops and MUCH, MUCH, MORE!

Time Warner customers in 3 huge markets lose CBS

I used to be a Time Warner customer and I absolutely hated it. But, even though I hate Time Warner Cable with a passion, I'm not sure that CBS can afford not to go through with this deal and lose Dallas, New York and Los Angeles customers especially with football season being weeks away. I guess we'll have to stay tuned for new developments in this story. But for now, Yahoo! Finance has the latest:

The war between CBS and Time Warner Cable intensified Friday afternoon when the cable company pulled the CBS stations in the New York, Los Angeles and Dallas markets.

CBS suspended the service around 5 p.m. Eastern time. Both sides then issued statements blaming the other for being unreasonable in the negotiations, which were extended from Monday.

The decision means that viewers in those cities that subscribe to Time Warner Cable will not be able to watch CBS programming until a deal is reached. In the past, subscribers have reacted with anger at such suspensions, but generally because they have missed specific programs. In this case, the summer programming roster does not contain many highly popular shows that may drive a settlement. CBS’s biggest appeal this summer is from the show “Under the Dome,” which will not have a new episode until Monday.

But the network does have the PGA golf championship coming in a week. Further down the road is the NFL season, which would surely stir outrage if viewers were denied access to the games.
CBS called the action “ill-advised” and “injurious not only to our many affected viewers, but also to Time Warner Cable itself.”

Time Warner Cable followed with its own statement, saying, “CBS has refused to have a productive discussion. It’s become clear that no matter how much time we give them, they’re not willing to come to reasonable terms.”

CBS also used tough language in its statement, saying the cable company had “conducted negotiations in a combative and nonproductive spirit, indulging in pointless brinkmanship and distorted public positioning.” CBS labeled Time Warner Cable’s charge that CBS was seeking a 600 percent fee increase as “fictional and ridiculous.”

Florida woman sentenced in bizzare tax fraud case

Dead people don't file taxes. So how Tania Henderson figured using identities of deceased people wouldn't catch up to her eventually, is beyond me. Hip Hop Wired reports:

A Florida woman received a 12-year jail sentence for tax fraud Tuesday (July 30). Tania Henderson, 28, previously pleaded guilty to stealing over $1 million from the government via identify theft.

Officials were able to intercept approximately $1.5 million of what was taken. She jacked the identities of 400 victims, many of whom were deceased, and was sentenced alongside two cohorts, Betty Kirkendoll and Jason Bibbs.

With the help of friends and family (to cash the checks), Henderson filed 236 fraudulent tax returns between August and November 2012. Authorities caught on to her scheme when an alleged accomplice, Patrina Taylor, tried to deposits a fake $7,500 IRS check.

Henderson is formerly of St. Louis, but her last known location was Wesley Chapel, Fla. "Stealing identities and filing false tax returns is a serious crime that hurts innocent taxpayers," said Sybil Smith, special IRS agent in charge of criminal investigation. "Today's sentence should serve as a strong warning to those who are considering similar conduct."

In addition to the sentence she's been ordered to pay the IRS $836,000. Her husband, Dwayne Denard Johnson, has been indicted on aggravated identity theft, and theft of government funds. He too is a Florida resident, and awaiting trial in Missouri.

Henderson isn't the only Florida woman to go down for tax issues as of late. Rashia Wilson, of Tampa, was sentenced to 21 years for a $20 million tax scheme which she boasted about on Facebook:

"I'm Rashia, the queen of IRS tax fraud,' the post stated. 'I'm a millionaire for the record, so if U think indicting me will B easy it won't, I promise you! U need more than black and white to hold me down N that's to da rat who went N told, as if 1st lady don't have da TPD under her spell. I run Tampa right now.'

Wilson, a mother of three, admitted to stealing $3 million. During her trial a psychologist argued that the Facebook post was a sign of bi-poliar disorder, an excuse that didn't fly with the judge. "She knew what she was doing was wrong. She reveled in the fact that it was wrong," Judge U.S. District Judge James. S. Moody Jr.

According to the Daily Mail, police "were alerted to the fraud in 2010 when they noticed a drop in drug dealing in the area."

Virginia mother arrested after her 4 year old dips into her cocaine stash

Ladies and gentlemen, drugs are bad for you. And they are even worse for your children. If there is ever any reason to stop using drugs, having a young child to raise is one of the best. Hip Hop Wired has a story about a woman whose child dipped into her cocaine stash:

Carrie Ann Billups' neglect of her 4-year-old son (and cocaine supply) resulted in a five-year prison sentence for child abuse, Monday (July 30). The Chesapeake, Va. mother will actually spend roughly 12 months behind bars, because four years of her sentence was suspended.

Billups, 26, pleaded guilty to a single felony child abuse charge in April, and also received credit for five months of time served.

At her sentencing, Chesapeake Circuit Court Judge Marjorie Arrington blamed the incident on Billups' careless mothering. "I don't think a 4-year-old would know how to snort cocaine unless he's seen it done somewhere," Arrington scolded. "The court is concerned about what's going to happen to this child when you are release if you continue to use cocaine."

Deputy Public Defender A. Robinson Winn represented the mom, and was said to be content with the court ruling.

Police arrested Billups last November, days after her young son got his nose into a $10 cocaine stash hidden under a bedroom lamp. She woke up the next morning and found the boy snorting the drug, but didn't take him to the hospital for fear of legal trouble.

Bad idea.

The child eventually started vomiting, and was treated at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughter. A unrine test revealed the presence of the drug in his system. He was released the next day.

"You Brought This On Yourself" Twain Gotti

This weeks "You Brought This On Yourself" goes to a young rapper by the name of Twain Gotti. Now apparently he didn't get the memo that your words can and will be used against you in the court of law...even if they are lyrics to one of your songs. The Virginia representative apparently murdered someone a few years back and decided to detail it in one of his songs. Hip Hop Wired reports:

A Newport News, Va. rapper who goes by the name Twain Gotti (born Antwain Steward) has been charged with a double homicide that dates back to 2007.

The Daily Press reports:

Lyrics in a rap song aided police in charging a Newport News man with killing two people on a spring afternoon in 2007, court records show.

Antwain Steward, 22, is charged with two counts of murder, malicious wounding and firearms charges in the deaths of Brian Dean, 20, and Christopher Horton, 16. The two were gunned down May 10, 2007, at 23rd Street and Orcutt Avenue. Steward was charged with murder July 9, according to court documents.

Steward is a local rapper who goes by the rap name Twain Gotti. Police believe that Steward referenced the double homicides in one of his songs, according to an affidavit for search warrant filed in Newport News Circuit Court. An excerpt from Steward's rap song was included in the affidavit.

"Everybody saw when I [expletive] choked him. But nobody saw when I [expletive] smoked him, roped him, sharpened up the shank then I poked him…had me crackin up so I joked him, it is betweezy six feet ova, told ya [expletive] with my money I'll roast ya," the affidavit states.

Besides the lyrics, there are witnesses that say Steward fought with the two men prior to their deaths.

Last year, a judge allowed Lil Boosie's lyrics to be used against him in a court of law. Steward is currently being held in Newport News City Jail without bond and his first hearing is schedule for October 2.

The song being referenced by authorities is no longer available but you can watch another of Twain Gotti's videos, for a song called "Hip Full Of Gun," on the flip.

So Mr. Gotti, this is for you:

Riley Cooper sent to sensitivity training for use of the N-word

Sensitivity training?! For an adult?! For a professional football player?! C'mon son, you have got to be kidding me. When did this world get so sensitive? I expect children to get upset if someone calls them a name, but grown ups? Get over it! Be forewarned, this may be the last time you see a story like this on this blog because I honestly couldn't care less who uses the N-word. Anyway, USA Today has the latest on this story:

PHILADELPHIA -- Now that he has been fined an undisclosed amount and made his apologies, Philadelphia Eagles receiver Riley Cooper is being sent for sensitivity training and counseling, the team announced Thursday.

In a statement, the team said: "In meeting with Riley yesterday, we decided together that his next step will be to seek outside assistance to help him fully understand the impact of his words and actions. He needs to reflect. As an organization, we will provide the resources he needs to do so."

On a video published Wednesday on CrossingBroad.com, Cooper was caught using a racial slur in a confrontation with an African-American security guard at a Kenny Chesney concert in June.
In a video that has gone viral, Cooper said, "I will jump that fence and fight every (N-word) here, bro."

Cooper apologized on Twitter, then to the media, then to teammates on Wednesday.

"There was a confrontation and I handled it extremely, extremely poorly,'' Cooper said to reporters and local television cameras. "This is kind of the lowest of lows. This isn't the type of person I want to be portrayed as. This isn't the type of person that I am.

"I know no one in Philadelphia is happy with me right now. I accept that. I just hope they see the true me. And accept my apology.''

Later, quarterback Michael Vick said he accepted Cooper's apology, made one-on-one, to him.

"We understand the magnitude of this situation, we understand a lot of people may be hurt and offended,'' Vick said. "But I know Riley Cooper. I've been with him for three years and I know what type of person he is. That's what makes it easy, at the same time hard to understand the situation. I forgave him.''

Other teammates also said they had forgiven Cooper, who addressed the entire team after a Wednesday night practice.

"Riley Cooper made a mistake and life goes on,'' linebacker Brandon Graham told USA TODAY Sports via text Thursday. "Nobody is perfect. We all mess up sometimes. I forgive him and the team does, too. I think he will be good to go with us.''

Forgiveness might take time with other teammates who are still processing the racial epithet.

Receiver Jason Avant indicated he will take a wait-and-see approach after Cooper broke a bond among teammates with his incendiary comments.

"Does it hurt? Yes, it does,'' Avant said. "But I still will deal with it as a Christian, and I will always err on the side of mercy.''

Team owner Jeffrey Lurie, who gave Vick a second chance after the former Atlanta Falcons star was incarcerated 21 months for his role in an illegal dogfighting ring, said in a Wednesday night statement:

"We are shocked and appalled by Riley Cooper's words. This sort of behavior or attitude has no place in a civil society. He has accepted responsibility for his words and his actions. He has been fined for this incident.''

The NFL isn't expected to take any disciplinary action.

George Zimmerman pulled over in North Texas

This story sickens me for a different reason than it does everyone else. I live in North Texas. And I distinctively remember a bunch of people here talking all slick about the guy a few weeks ago. Now he's in your backyard and I see people on Facebook talking about, "Hide your sons!!!" Seriously?! What happened to all that tough, revolution talk you was talking after the verdict. He's here. Anyways...CBS News has the story:

(CBS) FORNEY, Texas - George Zimmerman, the former Florida neighborhood watch leader cleared of all charges in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, was pulled over for speeding in North Texas on Sunday, CBS DFW reports.

According to the station, Zimmerman was armed when officers pulled him over on Highway 80 in Forney, east of Dallas.

The officer reportedly did not recognize Zimmerman, who was driving a Honda pickup. Zimmerman told the officer he was armed and was then told to put the weapon in his glove compartment, according to the station. The officer then told Zimmerman he could go on his way if he had no criminal issues.

The incident was captured on the officer's dashcam.

At some point during the traffic stop, Zimmerman asked the officer whether he recognized him from television and the officer said he did not, the station reports.

When asked where he was going, the 29-year-old Zimmerman reportedly told the officer, no place in particular. He was released on a warning.

Zimmerman had been charged with second-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin. His acquittal prompted rallies nationwide calling for a civil rights probe, and the case has sparked debate about race and self-defense laws.