Tuesday, December 4, 2007

THAT GRAPE JUICE


Tuesday, December 4, 2007
That Grape Juice Interview: Mario
posted by Sam at 1:15 PM
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I was fortunate enough to conduct a phone interview with R&B star Mario this past November. Now on the verge releasing his third studio album 'Go!', the singer spoke frankly on a number of topics including his mother's cocaine addicition, record label drama and comparions to other R&B artists. It's a long, yet great read. Enjoy. {Drop a comment and let me know what you think} :)
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Sam: Hey Mario, how are you doing?

Mario: I’m good. How are you?

Sam: I’m great. Just got this interview here I wanted to get done with you.

Mario: For sure, I’m glad we’re able to do it.

Sam: It’s great to finally be able to catch up with you.

Mario: Thank you. I’m currently on the East Coast at the moment. I’ll actually be back in Europe next month (December).

Sam: Cool. So let’s crack on. Having signed your first deal at the tender age of fourteen with the legendary Clive Davis; how does it feel to still have your records anticipated – especially in light of the ever-changing nature of the music industry?

Mario: I mean, I think it’s about making classic records; and I think it’s because I’ve made great records that people are, definitely, anticipating more success and great music - as they should, because I’m going to give it to them. But it feels good; this is a dream of mine. When I go and sit down and talk to Clive and look at the pictures he has with some damn near early 70’s/late 60’s (artists), it hits me how he has been in the game for so long. To be signed with him and to be on his label, it’s great. So we’re gonna keep making some great records.

Sam: Your new album ‘Go!’ sees you embrace a much more ‘adult’ sound compared to your past efforts, for example ‘Lay In Bed’ and the CD’s title track. Was there a particular reason for this? Did you have any doubts considering your fan-base?

Mario: To be honest with you, I’m 21 now, so a lot of the fans that were coming to my shows then are 21 or possibly older now; in general, I think I have a wide fan-base. I feel this record shows natural growth. It’s not talking about literally bending a chick over or doing all that (laughs). It does hint at that intimacy and shit that we go though everyday. Even a record like ‘Go’. (‘Go’) is a very assertive record; talking about just really having fun and being young and not being one of them cats always trying to ‘game’ chicks or play games with them – just really letting them know what it is. I’m letting people know how I feel about what I’m seeing. It’s all fun. It’s music; we create music for entertainment, yet at the same time we also give a hint of who we are as well.

Sam: Let’s talk delays. ‘Go!’ has experienced several changes in its release date, having initially been set to drop back in 2006. Why has it taken so long to release the record?

Mario: Well, first of all, the initial date for the album was the label’s date. I wasn’t ready. You know, the album wasn’t done; it took an additional three to four months to get certain records done. Then we just kept finding great records as the album got close(r) to release. It’s a fight that the artist has with the label. I’m not asking people to understand the politics of the game; but, it’s some shit that we deal with. It hurts. To be honest with you, it hurts me more than it hurts my fans because I am disappointing some of my fans and I really don’t like to disappoint them. It’s the nature of the business, you know. But the album is coming out December 11th and that’s the final date, so I’m very excited about that. {Click to listen to Mario's response}

Sam: That’s great. What producers and guest features can we expect to hear on the album?

Mario: As of right now, I’ve got Rich Boy, Juelz Santana on the project. I’ve got a lot of producers that I’ve worked with on the project; from Pharrell to Timbaland to Polow Da Don – who we have the single out right now ‘Crying Out For Me’ – Akon and my production team the Knightwritaz.

Sam: Yes, I’ve heard about Knightwritaz. Could you tell me a little about the Knightwritaz?

Mario: For sure. We got two records on this project. We’ve been working together for about a year now. Knightwritaz is a team that when I met them, I just jumped into partnership with them and started helping them write. I just like the vibe that they’ve got going on. Everyone is real young and hungry; Sterling (Simms) is an artist and Marsha Ambrosius (of Floetry) is an artist. Just a very talented group of people. Like I said before, I came in a little later; they all knew each other and were a collective already. I came and started working with them – the chemistry has been pretty good since.

Sam: Are there particular moments that stick in your mind about the recording process (i.e. funny, emotional etc)

Mario: Probably recording ‘Go’ because that record kinda came about in a real life type of way. We were in the studio on South Beach- me and Pharrell- coming up with the idea of how we wanted the track to be. We look out the window and we can see chicks running down the street and everybody getting crazy. We, then, decided to take a break from the studio; the song’s hook had been done already. So we went on South Beach and chilled, partied it up. It kinda gave us a different vibe to go back into the studio with to make the record and it just came out dope. That was just real fun, because a lot of the time when you go into the studio, you don’t have that vibe, it’s real quiet and has a studio atmosphere. But not on South Beach, with everything going on. It was real cool.

Sam: Your current single ‘Crying Out For Me’ has been a fan favourite since surfacing last year. Which track(s) from the album are your personal favourites and why?

Mario: Ah man, ‘Crying Out…’ is definitely one of my favourite records - it’s a very passionate record. I always make passionate records, but ‘Crying Out…’ has that edge to it, a little more swagger to it. It’s not your regular Stargate ‘radio-sounding’ record; it’s more hard-hitting, more musical, different instruments, different sounds. Very entertaining to the ear.

Sam: Can I ask you something? Stargate produced ‘How Do I Breathe’, was it your choice for it to be the album’s first single or would you have preferred, perhaps, something like ‘Crying Out…’ instead.

Mario: I definitely wasn’t on board with ‘How Do I Breathe’. That was a Clive Davis call.

Sam: In terms of future singles, what can we look forward too?

Mario: Yeah, ‘Music For Love’ and ‘Skippin’’. It may change, but as of right now..

Sam: Moving on, many were surprised to learn of your mother’s 20 year addiction to heroin during your recent MTV special ‘I Won’t Love You to Death’.
- How do you feel that has affected you growing up and development into a man now?

Mario: It’s had its negatives and had it’s positives in terms of just being responsible, making good decisions and staying away from drugs. I saw it firsthand, so it was always something I wasn’t interested in.

Sam: Did you have any reservations about coming open with the situation?

Mario: I did, but at the same time I didn’t because it was already out there – people just didn’t talk about it much. To me you can’t be ashamed of where you come from. Where you come from and what you’ve been through is what makes you. No one can tell ‘your’ story better than you. It’s not a reality show, its real talk, real shit. 87% of the households in America, be it upper class, middle or lower, are suffering from substance abuse. {Click here to listen to Mario's response}

Sam: How is your mother doing now?

Mario: She’s doing great. She can tell you herself; she’s writing a book.

Sam: That’s great.

Mario : Yep

Sam: What do you think separates you and your music from that of other male R&B artists out there?

Mario: What separates me, (is that) I am who I am. Nobody could ever be me and I can’t be anyone else. I hate when people ask me that question…

Sam: (laughs)

Mario: …what do you mean “what separates me”. Many couldn’t walk in my shoes. Don’t even let me get started. I can’t be compared to other artists. Musically, I just feel like a lot of the music I make is timeless, whereas a lot of other artists have ‘right now’ songs. My music is timeless. I make timeless records. When you hear my records, you know it’s me right off the bat. Whereas with someone else, you might sit there wondering who it is for a second. With me, you know my records, you hear that passion, that drive. Also, the way I do my records, the way I do my songs, the way they feel. Vocally, they’re very creative. It’s a lot of things a lot of detailed things.

Sam: With a significant number of tracks from your album having hit the net already, what’s your take on the internet and its effect on the music industry?

Mario: To be honest with you, the first time I saw one of my songs on the internet, I was very upset. I wanted to fire somebody, I wanted kick somebody’s ass, break some fucking walls and windows. What you’ve got to realize is that there’s a whole other world out there. That’s my take on it. I can go on the internet in my hotel room and stay on that shit for hours. I even go on there to listen to new music sometimes, but I still go out and buy the albums. So I think that it creates the awareness of what’s out there, what he/she is doing. I can do something right now and, if I want people to hear it, put it up on the internet.

Sam: So would you say its impact has been more positive or negative?

Mario: I think it’s an even cut. It’s just as positive as it is negative.

Sam: Having already stared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Freedom Writers’, as well as dance flick ‘Step Up’, do you have plans to do more movies?

Mario: Yeah I have a lot more plans. I’m just working towards them and wielding through the all projects to find that one project for you and the project that they want you in. It has to be a mutual thing between me and the studio making the movie.

Sam: Ok, several of our female readers wanted to know if you currently have anyone special in your life. Do you?

Mario: Well, I don’t have a girlfriend, but I do date. (I’m) just finding time to do the personal thing.

Sam: Apart from ThatGrapeJuice.net (laughs), do you log onto other music blogs, forums etc?

Mario: ThatGrapeJuice.net that’s where it is! I go to Youtube, Concrete Loop and Google is one of my favourite sites.

A few quick random questions:

Sam: What’s on your iPod right now/ what are you listening to right now?

Mario: I’m listening to Jay-Z’s new album (‘American Gangster’), The Beatles, the Bee Gees, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder…

Sam: Any Michael Jackson?

Mario: Absolutely. (You can hear) Michael is definitely on the album (laughs).

Sam: Who would you want to work with on a dream collaboration?

Mario: I want to do a record with Kanye. I’ve got a record that I want Jay-Z to get on called ‘Give It To Me’, its not on this album though. Beyonce also; I’d like to do a duet with her. Quincy Jones too.

Sam: So on an ‘off-day’, what do you do to relax?

Mario: Probably, surf the internet.

Wrap Up:

Sam: Describe ‘Go!’ in three words?

Mario: Eclectic, soulful and… fly!

Sam: Do you plan on touring with the album? I know heard something about you touring with Kelly Rowland.

Mario: We’re not going to get into that. She, erm…(long pause). It was supposed to happen…

Sam: (laughs)

Mario: I’ll be touring Europe and Australia through December and coming back to the States in February.

Sam: Any message for the fans?

Mario: Act out of choice, rather than out of habit. Go buy my album December 11!

Sam: Thanks very much for your time. Best of luck with the album.

Mario: Thank you.
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Be sure to pick up 'Go!' when it hits stores on December 10th (Europe) / December 11th (US)

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What do you think of the interview?

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10 comments
Breaking: Rapper Pimp C Found Dead
posted by Sam at 1:14 PM
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Story via Contact Music:
Rapper PIMP C has been found dead in a Hollywood hotel room. He was 33. The UGK member was discovered in bed by paramedics answering an emergency call at the Mondrian Hotel on Sunset Boulevard on Tuesday (04Dec07) morning. Pimp C - real name Chad Butler - was one-half of rap duo UGK.
R.I.P.

Your thoughts?

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0 comments
Amy Winehouse Has Lost It...Completely
posted by Sam at 4:57 AM
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This is beyond a joke now, she needs help - fast:
If Amy Winehouse’s fans were hoping she might be trying to get her act together, these pictures will not provide much reassurance.

Barefoot, and clad only in her bra and jeans, the troubled singer emerged from a friend’s house in Bow at 5.45am on Sunday looking distressed and agitated - as her mother-in-law says she taking more drugs than ever.

Onlookers said she appeared disorientated as she wandered around on the pavement for several minutes in the freezing cold before disappearing back inside.

Quite why she came outside only half dressed in the early hours is unclear. One onlooker said she looked up and down the road as if she was waiting for someone, but no one arrived at the house.

“She came out of the house, walked down the drive and wandered around on the pavement for a bit.

“She looked upset and agitated but there was no obvious reason for her to have come outside. It was weird.”
{Source}
SMH...

Any thoughts?

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4 comments
Amerie Update
posted by Sam at 4:12 AM
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Although Amerie's third album 'Because I Love It' has seen it's release here in Europe several months ago and spawned 2 top 10 singles, fans in the US have yet to get their hands on the album (legally, that is).

Things, however, seem to be on the up for the 'Take Control' singer. Word has it that her label in the US, Sony BMG, are working overtime -behind the scenes - to make sure the album is a success. Yet the fact that much of it is available online has meant that instead of releasing the European version in the US, select tracks from it will be kept and newer recorded tracks will be added. It has been said that Amerie will be heading into the studio with Pharrell of the Neptunes shortly.

Meanwhile, 'Crush' is still on-course for release here in the UK early next year. The video has been shot already and was directed by Scott Franklin.

Amerie fans: Which tracks would you keep on the US version?

Your thoughts?

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9 comments
Jennifer Lopez - 'Hold It Don't Drop It' Video
posted by Sam at 2:59 AM
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The video for Jennifer Lopez's new single 'Hold It, Don't Drop It' premiered exclusively on MTV yesterday. Directed by Melina (who also directed many of the vids from the 'B' Day Anthology'), the video actually turned out pretty good. Considering she is several months pregnant, I didn't expect to see her moving like that. Having said that, the song is still garbage and, without sounding too fatalistic, I don't really it rescuing the album's ('Brave') terrible sales.

What do you think of the video?

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6 comments
Monday, December 3, 2007
Mutya Buena - 'B Boy Baby' (ft. Amy Winehouse) Video
posted by Sam at 10:38 AM
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Ex-Sugababes singer Mutya Buena teams up with Amy Winehouse for the latest single to be lifted from her 'Real Girl' album 'B Boy Baby'. Having heard the song earlier this year, it stood out to me as one of the better cuts from Buena's LP. The video, on the other hand, barely just serves it's purpose. Amy Winehouse's absence in the vid need not be explained. Still, despite the video's shortcomings. Mutya may be onto a hit with this one.

What do you think of the video?

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3 comments
Sunday, December 2, 2007
New Song: Jaheim - 'I've Changed'(ft. Keyshia Cole)
posted by Sam at 2:21 PM
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Having recently signed with Atlantic Records, R&B crooner Jaheim is set to release his latest album 'The Makings of A Man' on December 18th. This new track 'I've Changed' (ft. Keyshia Cole) features on the set. I liked the song upon first listen; both Jaheim and Keyshia ride the beat with ease and great delivery. What's more the song is lyrically engaging. Check it out...

Hit or Miss?

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1 comments
Danity Kane & Co At Diddy's Party
posted by Sam at 1:45 PM
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Making The Band 3 winners Danity Kane were spotted Friday night at a Diddy-thrown party at Mansion Night Club in Miami. I'm feeling some of the girls' new looks; Shannon actually looks like she has a personality now and Dawn's darker do suits her. D.Woods has had better days lol....

The group are currently in the studio recording their sophomore effort (due next year). Word has it that the girls will be featured in a joint season of Making The Band with season 4 winners (pictured at the party, below).

What do you think of the pics?

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4 comments
From The Vault: Joe - 'All The Things (Your Man Won't Do)'
posted by Sam at 12:22 PM
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The 'From The Vault' video chosen for this week's installment is Joe's 'All The Things (Your Man Won't Do)'. Lifted from the singer's 1997 album 'All That I Am' (which also featured the hits 'Good Girls' and 'Don't Wanna Be A Player') , the song has long stood as one of my all-time favourite R&B tracks. Check it out:

"Ooh, I got a jones in my bones for you..." Love this track. It's hard to believe that after so long in the industry, Joe is still so underrated. Still, for those who are 'in the know' about his immense talent, his music has and continues to leave its mark.

Your thoughts?

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4 comments
Whitney Shines At 'Comeback' Show
posted by Sam at 6:00 AM
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Singing legend Whitney Houston kick-started her 'comeback' campaign in front of a 10,000 strong crowd at Malaysia's Live & Loud music festival yesterday (December 1st). Reviews of the 44-year old star's set have been generally very positive. You can listen to some of her set below and make your own judgments. I, personally, thought she did very well considering the circumstances, which has me optimistic about her new album.

How do you think Whitney did?

LISTEN:

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7 comments
Rihanna Lines Up 'Dishes' As Next Single
posted by Sam at 4:09 AM
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Def Jam's Rihanna continues to crank out singles from her current effort 'Good Girl Gone Bad'. According to Billboard, the 5th confirmed song to be lifted from the album is fan-favourite 'Breakin' Dishes'. It's unknown, at present, if a video will be shot for the release, however the track has already impacted on the Hot Dance Club Play chart at #40. To date, Rihanna has scored 7 #1 songs on that chart.

Having initially not understood the hype around the song, I've actually grown to like it. Yet I can't help but think that it may have lost much of its appeal, as she went ahead and released several sub-par songs before it. Anyway, it seems her label are going to milk everything they can get out of this album - which has yet to sell as many copies as its 'platinum' status would have you believe.

What do you think of the single choice?

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16 comments
Cassie Talks New Album
posted by Sam at 3:45 AM
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'Me & U' singer Cassie recently sat down with the team over at AllHipHop.com to discuss her forthcoming sophomore album. As well as revealing that she is working with hit-makers Brian Michael-Cox, Danja and Kanye West, she had the following to say of the new CD:
AHHA: Let’s get into the new album. What do you want people to feel once they have heard it?

Cassie: It’s a more vulnerable album; it’s a little bit stripped down as far as vocally and the content in the songs. Like I did a song last night called “That’s Not What Love Is” and it’s about a very, very real situation that a lot of people can relate to. It has a lot of emotion behind it. I really hope people get it and they see me in a different light – without the makeup, the hair and the clothes…just me, by myself. My album artwork is going to be really intimate. I want people to see me, how my boyfriend would, if I had a boyfriend that is. The way the music is coming together; I sound like I feel it.

Cassie seems like a nice girl, but it's things like this that annoy me slightly. "It’s a little bit stripped down as far as vocally..." I didn't think her voice could be any more stripped down than it was on her last album. Will she literally be talking her way through the tracks this time? SMH...

Your thoughts?

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4 comments
Saturday, December 1, 2007
New Song: Kelly Rowland - 'Daylight' (ft. Travis McCoy)
posted by Sam at 5:52 PM
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As reported back in October, Kelly Rowland recorded a track with Gym Class Heroes front man Travis McCoy. The full song, titled 'Daylight' (a Bobby Womack cover), surfaced today and I am pleasantly surprised. Upon hearing the snippet earlier this month I wasn't too optimistic, but listening to the mid-tempo track in its entirety has made me like it more.

'Daylight' is to feature on the soundtrack of French film 'Asterix'. What's unknown, at present, is whether the song will be on (or be the first single) from the previously announced 'Ms. Kelly' re-release - due early next year. A tidbit: 'Work' has been re-scheduled for release in the UK on 28th January 2008 meaning the long-awaited video should be premiering soon. Anyway, 'Daylight'...

Hit or Miss?

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26 comments
Preview Ashanti's 2nd Single - 'The Way That I Love You'
posted by Sam at 4:01 AM
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With Ashanti prepping her 4th studio album 'The Declaration' for an early 2008 release, you can now listen to a lengthy preview of the set's alleged 2nd single. The R&B star performed the track, the Babyface LT Hutton produced 'The Way That I Love You', during a recent concert at New York's Nokia Theatre. I really think she's struck gold with this one; though the album's first single 'Hey Baby' is strong (stronger than many think IMO), this would have been a better choice for a lead single. A swap, perhaps? Anyway, you can listen to the track below...

Hit or Miss?

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19 comments
Mary J. Blige Covers Billboard Magazine
posted by Sam at 3:40 AM
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{Credit: MaryLuvs.com}
R&B star Mary J. Blige features on the cover of the latest issue of Billboard Magazine. She looks great. I'm guessing we'll be seeing Mary everywhere in the coming weeks - as the release of her new CD 'Growing Pains' draws nearer (December 18th).

What do you think of the cover?

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4 comments
Friday, November 30, 2007
'Single Black Female' Trailer Starring Farrah Franklin
posted by Sam at 12:21 PM
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Check out this trailer for the movie 'Single Black Female' which stars former Destiny's Child member Farrah Franklin (you remember her, right?):

Where do I begin?! Aside from being one of cheapest looking movies I've seen in...well...a long time, the storyline had to be a joke. I can't even lie; I don't even know what the film is about as I type - all I know is that that budget zombie nonsense was a mess. Hold on...

Ok, I just watched it back again and am in hysterics. This can't be for real, can it?

Will you be going to see 'Single Black Female'?

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9 comments
Your Top 5 Songs Of The Moment?
posted by Sam at 7:24 AM
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I first spotted this idea at our friends over at A Hot Mess Blog. So credit to them.

Kinda random, I know, but I wanted to see what you guys are listening to. So saying that, what 5 tracks have you got on constant rotation at the moment? Doesn't have to be limited to urban music, could be something new, throwback etc. Drop a comment in the comments section. Mine are:

1) Almost - Tamia
2) We've Had Enough - Michael Jackson
3) Music For Love - Mario
4) Take A Bow - Leona Lewis
5) Fly Like A Bird - Mariah Carey

What are your 'Top 5 Songs Of The Moment'?
55 comments
'Ms. Kelly' Tour Footage
posted by Sam at 6:15 AM
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As reported, Kelly Rowland has hit the road for select dates to support her sophomore effort 'Ms. Kelly'. Check out videos from her Atlantic city tour stop last week:
Destiny's Child Medley


Like This

She was getting it - especially on the Destiny's Child Medley ("Haters can't stop me now"). Great stuff.

What do you think of the performances?

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14 comments
Akon Charged In Fan-Tossing Incident
posted by Sam at 6:06 AM
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R&B singer Akon is set to be charged in connecton to the much-publicized fan-tossing incident back in June. Check out the report via PEOPLE magazine:
The YouTube clip of Akon tossing a 15-year-old fan into the crowd of a concert has come back to haunt him: Police are slapping the hip-hop star with criminal charges after a fan said she suffered a concussion in the incident.

Akon is due in a Fishkill, N.Y., courtroom Monday to be arraigned on misdemeanor charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and second-degree harassment, the Associated Press reports.

During the June concert, Akon threw the audience member from the stage into the crowd. According to AP, the boy landed on another fan, Abby Rosa, who told the Poughkeepsie Journal that she suffered a concussion.

There was no immediate comment from Akon's camp.
I'm glad. It's about time some of these artists started taking responsibility for their actions and, by that, I don't mean making wack 'Sorry' songs.
Any thoughts?

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2 comments
New Song: Mario - 'City' (ft. Akon)
posted by Sam at 3:08 AM
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Check out this new track from R&B singer Mario. 'City', which features Akon, was recorded for Mario's forthcoming album 'Go!', however ended up being left off the final track listing. Though I like the overall vibe of the song, I can see why it didn't make the final cut; the album's material is simply alot stronger than this. Still worth a listen, though. {Our interview with Mario will be up on Monday next week}

Hit or Miss?

LISTEN: City (ft. Akon)

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1 comments
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tamia - 'Almost' Video
posted by Sam at 6:15 AM
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R&B songstress Tamia premiered the video for her latest single 'Almost' on her MySpace page yesterday. The song (as well as Tamia's whole album 'Between Friends') stands as one of my favourites this year and I'm glad it got the single treatment. I was going to write about how sad it is that she is still so underrated, however putting out such timeless music, in an age when quality doesn't necessarily equal good sales, is an achievement in itself. For those who have yet to pick up 'Between Friends', I highly recommend it.

What do you think of the video?

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5 comments
Snoop Dogg - 'Sensual Seduction' Video
posted by Sam at 5:51 AM
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The video for Snoop Dogg's latest video 'Sensual Seduction' made its debut yesterday. I'm kinda shocked that Snoop went through with the concept of the vid, but must say that it worked. Hilarious. It's actually made me like the song a little better now. The track is the first to be lifted from his 9th studio album 'Ego Trippin' (due early 2008).

What do you think of the video?

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4 comments
Bobbi Kristina Lighting It Up...
posted by Sam at 5:18 AM
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Check out this pic of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown's daughter Bobbi Kristina smoking...well...something. Not trying to be on some moral high ground or whatever, but at 14 years old, this just isn't cutting it. SMH...

Any thoughts?

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6 comments
Cheri Dennis - 'Portrait Of Love' Video
posted by Sam at 5:05 AM
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The video for Cheri Dennis' new single 'Portrait of Love' kinda premiered yesterday. I say 'kinda', as I actually managed to catch the vid last week (thanks Kevin!), however Atlantic Records took it down and kept it on lock and key until the official premiere last night. Anyway, enough with the rambling...

About the video, it's awesome! After some ten or so years of Cheri being on Bad Boy Diddy finally hooked her up - everything from the video's budget to it's concept to the choreography was on point. Great stuff.

Cheri's debut album 'In And Out Of Love' (a very solid effort) is available now on iTunes. The physical version of the LP - which may feature newer tracks - will hit stores in February of next year.

What do you think of the video?

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4 comments
Usher's Mom: "New Baby Is A Blessing"
posted by Sam at 4:51 AM
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It appears the controversy surrounding the women in Usher's life has simmered following the birth of his son earlier this week. News of spats between his mom Jonnetta Patton and wife Tameka Foster has rampant for months, however Patton had nothing but good things to say when speaking to PEOPLE magazine about the new addition to the family:
I'm extremely excited and filled with joy about the birth of my grandson, Usher Raymond V," Patton says. "He is beautiful, precious, healthy and such a blessing. I'm very happy for my son and his wife. God has truly blessed them with a special gift. This will be an amazing holiday season for all of us."
The jokes kinda write themselves here lol, I mean with Tameka being 'sorted' for life now; but for real, I'm happy for them. Hopefully Usher can concentrate on dropping that long-awaited album now.

Your thoughts?

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1 comments
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Janet Album Set For February Release
posted by Sam at 3:43 PM
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According to Billboard, Janet Jackson's as-yet-untitled Def Jam debut has been confirmed for a February 2008 release. Jackson is also said to be prepping a worldwide tour in support of the album - the follow-up to 2006's Platinum certified '20 Y.O'. As previously reported, label honcho L.A. Reid will be at the helm of the project, as opposed to boyfriend Jermaine Dupri.

All this comes on the heels of the news that the 'Rhythm Nation' singer has signed a lucrative deal with powerhouse PR firm William Morris for representation in all areas ('including film, touring, licensing and merchandising, television, theater, publishing and new technology').

It's good to see things falling into place for what will be a very important album for Janet (in terms of her selling power). With Janet's label mate Mariah Carey set to drop her album in the same period, it'll be interesting to see how things are handled with both projects.

Do you think Janet can hit it big again?

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Alicia Keys Appears On The Tyra Show
posted by Sam at 4:11 AM
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Chart topper Alicia Keys' appearance on the Tyra Show aired yesterday (November 26th). The singer discussed, among other things, the pressures of non-stop work and being near depression as well as how she found herself again. It was a really good interview. Alicia also gave great performances of the first two singles from the album 'No One' and 'Like You'll Never See Me Again'. Check out the performances below:

No One


Like You'll Never See Me Again

What do you think of the interview/performances?

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'N*gger' Pushed Back To Black History Month
posted by Sam at 4:10 AM
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According to MTV News, Nas' controversial forthcoming album 'N*gger' has been pushed back from it's December release and will now hit stores in February next year - Black History Month in the US. Check out the report:

Nas had originally planned to put the project out next month, but according to his camp, the album has been pushed to February: Black History Month. Nas told MTV News the first single will drop sometime in January.
{Source}

I can see that he's trying to drive his point home, but this has potential to have even more of a backlash than it already has. I'm not so sure it's a wise move on Nas' part.

Will you be checking for Nas' 'N*gger' album?

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Monday, November 26, 2007
Jackson 5 To Reunite For Tour In 2008
posted by Sam at 3:14 PM
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Following the news earlier this month that the legendary Jackson 5 would possibly be reforming for a tour, Jermaine Jackson has gone on record to confirm that the brothers are set to hit the road in 2008 - with Michael. Check out the report via Yahoo Music:
The Jackson 5 will tour in 2008 with Michael Jackson, according to his brother Jermaine.

Rumours about a possible reunion of the pop legends has been rife for some time, culminating in claims from promoter Leonard Rowe recently that live dates were being planned.

Jermaine Jackson has now given the clearest indication yet that the comeback is on and will take place next year, featuring their most famous member.

"Michael will be involved. We want to tour. We want to touch the lives of everybody who's bought our records and supported us.

"It will probably start here first, but it will be sometime in 2008. That's our plan", he told the BBC in a new interview.

Discussing Michael's acquittal on child sex offences in 2005, Jermaine said the five-piece are now "stronger than ever" and "owe" the fans who have supported them through thick and thin.
I'm really looking forward to this. Here's hoping something eventually comes from all the 'talking about a reunion'.

Do you think a Jackson 5 comeback tour would work?

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Jill Scott: "I Was Called A N*gger"
posted by Sam at 2:23 PM
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In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald soulful singer Jill Scott detailed a recent incident where she was called a 'n*gger' and how she dealt with it:

“I was waiting outside for the valet to bring the car round, and these … I say kids, but they must have been 25, looking wealthy, five-o’clock-in-the-morning wasted. And this guy’s saying, ‘Step back nigger, step back nigger.’ He’s saying it like it’s a song, but there’s nobody out there but me. I was taken aback, and I said, ‘Excuse me?’

And he said, ‘Shut your mouth and don’t say a word when a white man is talking.’

“I’m not kidding. I started laughing, and I followed him and his cohorts through the parking lot laughing hysterically, and they became more and more uncomfortable. It was one of the best moments of outrageous laughter I’ve had. To think for one moment I could possibly fit into that box … I am so far from that word that it is funny. They looked so uncomfortable; I wanted to emasculate him, to make sure he was getting no nookie that night. The girls sobered up and were looking scared. It was something else - the first time in my life I’ve been called that. Wow. But I enjoyed it. You must fight back; it’s imperative. I like the fight in me now.”

I agree with her 'fight back' conclusion. It's baffling that even in today's society, racial discrimination still exists. SMH...

Any thoughts?

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New Song: Mya - 'Shake It (Like A Dog)
posted by Sam at 1:40 PM
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A new Mya track has surfaced from her ill-fated (unreleased) 2005 album 'Control Freak'. The interestingly titled track 'Shake It (Like A Dog), features rapper Jim Jones. I’m feeling the song a lot; Mya’s ‘in your face delivery’ as well as the production are on-point. However, it’s the song’s lyrics that let it down IMO. There’s something not quite right about her likening herself to a dog?? Still, lyrics aside, it’s a good track (better than much of ‘Liberation’) and it makes me wonder what other hidden gems were shelved when the album was scrapped.

Hit or Miss?

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Sunday, November 25, 2007
From The Vault: En Vogue - 'Don't Let Go'
posted by Sam at 2:24 PM
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This week's 'From The Vault' video is En Vogue's 1996 mega-hit 'Dont' Let Go'. Arguably one of group's career defining songs, the video also marked the last time the girls would appear as a quartet. Lead singer Dawn Robinson left shortly after the track was released in 1997 due to negotiations to keep her place as a member - whilst embarking on a solo career - falling through:

Timeless. The track's powerful lyrics and even better delivery made this a classic for me. It's a shame Dawn left when she did, as neither she or the group managed to reach the same level of success (or anywhere near) again. Who knows how much further their legacy would have carried on to?

Bonus: 'Don't Let Go' (w/o Dawn) (Live On Saturday Night Live)

Your thoughts?

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Saturday, November 24, 2007
Kelly Rowland: "I Nearly Quit Music"
posted by Sam at 3:50 PM
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After much uncertainty, Kelly Rowland has embarked on a North American tour in support of her 'Ms. Kelly' album. That Grape Juice reader Brice attended the Philadelphia show at the House of Blues; check out their review of the show:

Kelly Killed it............It was a little short but Kelly worked it out. She did a mix of songs from Work, Stole, Cant Nobody, Comeback, This Is Love, Like This, Bad Habit, and DC3 stuff like Say My Name, Survivor, Bug A Boo, Soldier and Bootylicious. The show was wonderful (and) during the song This Is Love Kelly broke down a little and told us that she was thankful for having a loving crowd like us and that for a while recently she didn’t know if she wanted to sing anymore and that her love for the music was burning again.
It's good to know that Kelly is pressing on and isn't letting the negativity force her out of the limelight. Saying that, it's times like this that make me wonder how genuine talent like Kelly can be so overlooked in favour of some of the mediocre artists that populate the music scene at the moment. Hopefully things look up for Kelly soon....

{Click pics to enlarge}

Any thoughts?

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World Music Awards 2007: Ciara & Rihanna Performances
posted by Sam at 5:31 AM
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The 2007 World Music Awards were held earlier this month in Monte Carlo. R&B stars Ciara and Rihanna performed at the event. Check out their performances below:

Ciara (ft. 50 Cent) - 'Can't Leave Em' Alone'



Rihanna - 'Umbrella'



I actually enjoyed both performances. Ciara's vocals were on-point throughout and Rihanna did her thing too.

What do you think of the performances?

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Alicia Keys Covers Entertainment Weekly
posted by Sam at 5:10 AM
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{Spotted at: Fadedyouthblog.com}
R&B star Alicia Keys features on the cover of the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly. With the news of her record-breaking first week numbers, there really seems to be no stopping Alicia. more power to her...

What do you think of the cover?

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Amerie Speaks On Label Drama
posted by Sam at 4:58 AM
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In a recent interview with popular UK urban magazine RWD, Amerie spoke candidly on her current label situation/frustrations. Check out the extract below {Thanks Adrian}:
How has your label treated you?
Er, you probably don’t even want to ask me that right now. That’s how I feel abut it. I personally love some of the people that work here in the UK; my publicist Shoshanna and Simon... but I really don’t want to talk about it cos I want to keep it all positive, you feel me?

Well, it seems the album didn’t really perform as well as it should have?
Cos they’re not pushing it like they should.

Why aren’t they?
We want to release Crush, but they feel there’s a lot going on. This is my thing; I’m an artist and this is not rocket science. Take Control was going good, so we knew we had to schedule the video for Gotta Work. But you need money to do a video, and by the time we got it cleared, it was late. They didn’t feel like that, but anybody with half a brain could see it was late. So then Gotta Work was going up, but it peaked and rapidly started coming down, so we knew we needed to do Crush. They said ‘Wait.’ I love the business and I studied the business and I told them we needed to do the other video, because you need to have another single when your other track is peaking. They’re talking about doing it next year, but I’m not doing it next year! So I don’t know what to tell you. I get that everyone’s filled with good intentions, but the road to perdition is filled with good intentions. There should have been no gaps.
I'm kinda surprised (yet pleased) she was so open about the whole thing. I guess, one can only be dragged through the dirt for so long. It's a shame too as 'Because I Love It' is a really solid record - one of my favourites from this year.

Your thoughts?

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Friday, November 23, 2007
Kelly Rowland 'Clash Of The Choirs' Commercial
posted by Sam at 6:46 AM
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R&B singer Kelly Rowland is set to star in NBC's 'Clash of The Choirs' special airing throughout the holiday season. The show pits Rowland against stars such as Patti Labelle and Michael Bolton to create a choir that will go head to head with the other choirs led by artists on the show. It looks pretty interesting and it's good to see Kelly still keeping her name out there.

Will you be tuning into 'Clash of the Choirs'?

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Thursday, November 22, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving From That Grape Juice
posted by Sam at 5:39 PM
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ThatGrapeJuice.net wishes all of our US visitors a very Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you're enjoying the day with your family and friends - stuffing yourselves too!

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Drop a comment in the comments section....
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Ashanti Performs 'The Star Spangled Banner'
posted by Sam at 5:31 PM
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Ashanti performed the US national anthem 'The Star Spangled Banner' earlier today at the NFL Thanksgiving Game (The Dallas Cowboys vs. The New York Jets). For the record, I like Ashanti and know she can sing, but that was a mess. Just horrible. Aside from the fact that it was real pitchy, that last high note...what the hell? Here's hoping she steps up her live performing game by the time she drops her new album 'The Declaration' (due early next year).

What do you think of Ashanti's performance?

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Mariah Carey Appears On Ellen Show
posted by Sam at 5:19 PM
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Part 2 // Part 3

Superstar songstress Mariah Carey stopped by The Ellen Degeneres Show on Wednesday to promote her new fragrance 'M By Mariah Carey'. She also briefly touched upon her forthcoming album which is due out 'at the top of next year'. Mariah's always entertaining to watch and came across well.

Any thoughts?

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Tyra's Behind The Scenes Look At 'The Beyonce Experience'
posted by Sam at 4:59 PM
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Supermodel-turned talk show queen Tyra Banks took an exclusive behind the scenes look at 'The Beyonce Experience'. The special, which aired yesterday, was filmed at the Philadelphia stop on the tour. Tyra and the 'Deja Vu' singer spoke on everything from pre-show rituals to costumes (including the now infamous 'Ring The Alarm' fall outfit). Tyra had me in hysterics with her wacky ways and it was good to see Beyonce show more of her character outside being a 'superstar'. Tidbit: you can't knock the Knowles' hustle factor - Matthew was selling them items hard at the end.

Your thoughts?

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5 comments
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Mary J. Blige iPod Commercial
posted by Sam at 3:53 PM
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Check out the new iPod commercial featuring Mary J. Blige. 'Work That' is playing in the background. The track will apparently serve as her next single.

What do you think of the commercial?

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