GRAMMY NOMINATED SINGER/SONGWRITER KENNY LATTIMORE BEGINS U.S. SUMMER TOUR WITH DAVE KOZ...

(New York, NY – July 15, 2015) -- Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Kenny Lattimore announces tour dates this summer.  As a result of the success of his new album, Anatomy of a Love Song, Lattimore was asked by jazz favorite Dave Koz to join his Summer Tour as a special guest, alongside Rick Braun.  Full dates are below.
 

Watch Kenny Lattimore, Dave Koz & Rick Braun here

Lattimore’s current single, “Love Me Back” has reached top 10 at Urban AC radio. Listen to the track here and watch the video here. "Love Me Back" is featured on Anatomy of a Love Song, which can be purchased here. 

Additionally, Kenny will be signing copies of his album at the Best Buy Wedding Registry Blogger event tomorrow, where he will be the featured Celebrity Guest. The event is the single largest annual gathering of female bloggers and social media influencers in America.  For more details, click here.  Lattimore’s music reflects the best of all worlds as it combines the timeless sounds of traditional R&B with a unique contemporary flair to create a universal sound that transcends boundaries and appeals to audiences of all ages, races and genres. His body of work, which includes hits such as “Never Too Busy” and the Grammy nominated “For You,” has garnered two Gold-selling albums, the NAACP Image Award for Best New Artist, and nominations for Soul Train Awards and Stellar Awards.
 
In addition to Kanye West sampling Lattimore’s “Lately” in his song “I’m In It,” from his #1 album Yeezus, a diverse array of artists including Musiq Soulchild, Rachelle Ferrell, Ray J, Nancy Wilson, Heather B, Michael Lington and Brian Culbertson, have sought out his talents for their own projects. He performed the duet “Love Will Find A Way” with Heather Headley for Disney’s The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride. He and singer Chante Moore recorded the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell duet “You’re All I Need To Get By,” which was selected as the theme song for the BET show The Family Crews.
  

Summer Tour with Dave Koz:

July 18 -  Apple Valley, MN - Zoo Amp

July 19 - Winter Park, CO - Winter Park Jazz Festival

July 24 - Atlanta, GA - Cobb Energy PAC

July 25 - Hammond, IN - Horseshoe Casino

August 5 - New York, NY - Infinity Cruise

August 7 - Kansas City, MO - Music Hall

August 8 Kettering, OH - Fraze Pavillion

August 15 - Sparks, NV - John Ascuaga's Nugget Hotel & Casino

August 21 - Sacramento, CA - Red Lion Hotel

August 22 - Las Vegas, NV - Alliante Casino

August 23 - Los Angeles, CA - Hollywood Bowl

August 28 - Austin, TX - One World Theater

August 29 - Hoston, TX - Bayou Music Theater

August 30 - Dallas, TX - Music Hall

September 5 - Cancun, MX - Cancun Jazz Festival 

September 11 - Saratoga, CA - Villa Montalvo

September 12 - Guerneville, CA - Johnson's Beach

September 18 - Seattle, WA - Redhook Concert For Cancer (solo date)

September 25 - San Diego, CA - Humphrey's

Lil' Wayne Releases 'Free Weezy Album" Via Tidal....

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Lil' Wayne has resurfaced from a short obscurity to release "Free Weezy Album" via the Tidal streaming service. Check out our review of the album by clicking here!

Dr. Dre Launches 'The Pharmacy' on Beats 1 Radio via Apple Music...

As one who has continuously defied the odds and pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, music mogul Dr. Dre continues to change the game in ways unseen. Dre has launched a new radio show called "The Pharmacy", and will debut on Beats Radio via the new Apple Music format today. 

The bi-weekly show will focus primarily on West Coast hip-hop. It's is the second exclusive from Dr. Dre this week. Just days ago, he made his debut album, The Chronic, available for streaming via Apple Music. At this point, there's no confirmation whether The Pharmacy will be a full station, or if it is just to be a standalone show. 

For more information, visit www.beats1radio.com, and be sure to tune in at 6pm EST. 

SHADY RECORDS TO RELEASE SOUNDTRACK FOR "SOUTHPAW"...

July 1, 2015 -- Southpaw (Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture), the soundtrack to The Weinstein Company motion picture Southpaw, will be released on July 24th -- the same day the film hits theaters -- via Shady Records/Interscope Records. Eminem serves as Executive Producer of the album, which includes two tracks from the multi-platinum rapper: the first single, "Phenomenal," and "Kings Never Die," featuring Gwen Stefani.  Eminem also appears on two songs from his side project with Royce Da 5'9", Bad Meets Evil. In addition, the soundtrack includes music from 50 Cent, The Weeknd, Action Bronson & Joey Bada$$, Slaughterhouse and more. In addition, the soundtrack includes two arrangements from the late James Horner, the Academy Award-winning composer (Titanic, Avatar) who scored the film and tragically passed away earlier this week.  The complete track-listing for the soundtrack is below.

The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) and written by Kurt Sutter (Sons of Anarchy, The Shield), is the riveting story of Billy "The Great" Hope, the reigning light heavyweight boxing champion of the world (played by Academy Award nominee Gyllenhaal). Hope seemingly has it all, with an impressive career, a beautiful and loving wife (Rachel McAdams), an adorable daughter (Oona Laurence) and a lavish lifestyle.  When tragedy strikes and his lifelong manager and friend (Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson) leaves him behind, Hope hits bottom, and turns to an unlikely savior at a local gym, Tick Willis (Forest Whitaker), a retired fighter and trainer to the city's toughest amateur boxers. With his future riding on Tick's guidance and tenacity, Billy enters the hardest battle of his life as he struggles with redemption and to win back the trust of those he loves.

Check out the Southpaw trailer HERE. 
Check out the Beats By Dr. Dre spot featuring "Phenomenal" HERE

The track-listing for Southpaw (Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture) is as follows: 

"Cry For Help (Part 1)" — James Horner 
"Kings Never Die" — Eminem feat. Gwen Stefani 
"Beast (Southpaw Remix)" — Rob Bailey & The Hustle Standard feat. Busta Rhymes, KXNG Crooked & Tech N9ne 
"This Corner" — Denaun 
"What About The Rest Of Us" — Action Bronson & Joey Bada$$ feat. Rico Love 
"Raw" — Bad Meets Evil 
"R.N.S." — "Slaughterhouse" 
"Wicked Games" — The Weeknd 
"All I Think About" — Bad Meets Evil 
"Mode" — Prhyme feat. Logic 
"Notorious Thugs" — The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Bone Thugs N Harmony 
"Phenomenal" — Eminem 
"Cry For Help (Part 2)" — James Horner

Source: Interscope Records

@BILAL PREMIERES MUSIC VIDEO "MONEY OVER LOVE" FT. KENDRICK LAMAR, NEW ALBUM IN STORES NOW...

(July 1, 2015 - New York, NY) --Today, Grammy-nominated artist BILAL premiered his long anticipated music video, "Money Over Love" featuring Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar on TheFader.com. With BILAL's soulful voice, Adrian Younge's vintage production, and Lamar's explosive verse, "Money Over Love" becomes one of the most thrilling records on BILAL's new album, In Another Life, available now. 

Prior to the album's release, BILAL spoke with several outlets including NPR, NYLON, Ebony, and Mass Appeal about the new direction of his album and how the music is a reflection of someone else's life. The Hans Elder-directed video depicts a disturbing interracial love story that is tarnished by poverty and greed. "Money Over Love" is the record that breathes a new feeling into In Another Life.

Receiving rave reviews from Pitchfork, YouKnowIGot Soul, Soul Tracks and more, In Another Life is yet another reminder of BILAL's undeniable talent and standing in soul alternative music. 

Take a peek at Bilal's new video below!​

Bilal's will also be embarking on A small tour in select U.S. markets before heading to Europe.   Dates are listed below:  

July 1 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom

July 2 - Baltimore, MD - Jazzy Summer Nights @ Horse Shoe Casino

July 3 - Alexandria, VA - Birchmere

July 4 - New Orleans, CA - Essence Festival

July 18 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Theater

July 21 - London, UK - Under The Bridge

July 23 - Dublin, Ireland - The Sugar Club

July 28 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - North Sea Jazz Club

July 30 - Paris, France - New Morning

July 31 - Stockholm, Sweden - Club Fasching

September 12 - Detroit, MI - Detroit Opera House

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@BILAL PREMIERES MUSIC VIDEO "MONEY OVER LOVE" FT. KENDRICK LAMAR, NEW ALBUM IN STORES NOW...

(July 1, 2015 - New York, NY) --Today, Grammy-nominated artist BILAL premiered his long anticipated music video, "Money Over Love" featuring Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar on TheFader.com. With BILAL's soulful voice, Adrian Younge's vintage production, and Lamar's explosive verse, "Money Over Love" becomes one of the most thrilling records on BILAL's new album, In Another Life, available now. 

Prior to the album's release, BILAL spoke with several outlets including NPR, NYLON, Ebony, and Mass Appeal about the new direction of his album and how the music is a reflection of someone else's life. The Hans Elder-directed video depicts a disturbing interracial love story that is tarnished by poverty and greed. "Money Over Love" is the record that breathes a new feeling into In Another Life.

Receiving rave reviews from Pitchfork, YouKnowIGot Soul, Soul Tracks and more, In Another Life is yet another reminder of BILAL's undeniable talent and standing in soul alternative music. 

Take a peek at Bilal's new video below!​

Bilal's will also be embarking on A small tour in select U.S. markets before heading to Europe.   Dates are listed below:  

July 1 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom

July 2 - Baltimore, MD - Jazzy Summer Nights @ Horse Shoe Casino

July 3 - Alexandria, VA - Birchmere

July 4 - New Orleans, CA - Essence Festival

July 18 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Theater

July 21 - London, UK - Under The Bridge

July 23 - Dublin, Ireland - The Sugar Club

July 28 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - North Sea Jazz Club

July 30 - Paris, France - New Morning

July 31 - Stockholm, Sweden - Club Fasching

September 12 - Detroit, MI - Detroit Opera House

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VIDEO: @BigSean : Play No Games feat. @ChrisBrown & @tydollasign

The latest single from Big Sean, Play No Games, which features Chris Brown & Ty Dolla $ign, has been trending all over the Internet! We've got the video for your viewing pleasure, right here at Urban Grandstand Digital! 

Check it out below!

VIDEO: Kore Stacks ... Hate or Love...

Check out the new video from Kore Stacks, titled Love or Hate ...  

POP STAR JILLY ANAIS CALLS ON NICKI MINAJ’S COMPOSER IN NEW VIDEO...

LOS ANGELES, CA – Urban pop music has a new face and a new voice and she goes by the name Jilly Anais. At just nineteen years old, Anais took the music industry by storm in February of 2015 with the release of her debut EP “The Juice”. The project was an instant success on soundcloud and also got the attention of major media outlets and mega music producers all over the world.

Following the success of the EP Anais released her hit single “Afterparty”. The song has been a fan favorite both on the radio and in the clubs. “Afterparty” combines gritty pop lyrics with a fun upbeat sound and after just a few weeks and thousands and thousands of plays, Jilly Anais has just released a music video for “Afterparty”.

Some of the song’s success is because of the all-star cast that collaborated to make this epic track. 

It was co-written by industry veteran Troi Irons, whose credits include Lupe Fiasco, Timbaland, and Rita Ora. Perhaps the biggest person to mention is the producer of the song, music mogul Irvin Whitlow. He is part of the production duo ThaAristocrats, who are known for their work with Christina Milian and Nicki Minaj.

The “Afterparty” music video dropped June 16th on Anais’ official Vevo channel. For more on Jilly Anais and to listen and download her music visit www.JillyAnais.com

About Jilly Anais

Nineteen-year-old Jillyan Anais Moor is on course to be on top of the pop charts. The Houston, Texas native hung up her cowgirl boots and stepped out in faith to launch an entertainment career in Los Angeles. As a winner of the prestigious Miss Teen Houston Pageant in 2011, Anais’ resume also includes modeling, acting, competitive dance, competitive cheer and she is now carving her own path in the music industry.

​

Where Hip Hop Lives™: Hot 97 and Power 106 Launch Mobile App...

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New York City, NY, June 10, 2015  -- The two most powerful brands in hip hop, Hot97 and Power 106, have joined forces to launch a new mobile app, Where Hip Hop Lives, a must-have for true Hip Hop fans. 

Where Hip Hop Lives aggregates music, news and social media, curated not by technology but by music trendsetters. 

The free app, available now for download for iPhone and Android devices, is a one stop shop for up-to-the-minute entertainment news, Instagram photos and video feeds from Hot97 and Power 106 on-air talent and relevant Hip Hop Artists. 

A subscription-based model is available for a monthly fee of $3.99 which grants access to commercial-free Hot 97 and Power 106 online radio, along with an exclusive channel dedicated to breaking new Hip Hop music, "New At 2," an extension of both Hot97 and Power106's terrestrial broadcast daily 2 pm feature hour dedicated to new music. 

New At 2 on the Where Hip Hop Lives app delivers 24 hours of uncensored new music curated by the DJ's closest to emerging music. New At 2 will allow Hot97 and Power 106 DJs to break music online prior to breaking it on radio.  

"Hot97 and Power106 personalities are the authentic curators of the hip hop lifestyle," said Jeff Smulyan, Chairman and CEO of Emmis Communications (Nasdaq:  EMMS), parent company of Hot 97 and Power 106.  "The Where Hip Hop Lives app provides Hip Hop fans worldwide access to everything Hip Hop straight from the DJs in New York and Los Angeles that set the lifestyle and cultivates the next generation of superstars.  From news and images to hip hop radio like you've never heard it before, Where Hip Hop Lives promises to deliver an experience unlike other music apps."  

"We have been breaking the hottest new artists in hip hop for years," Ebro Darden, Hot97 Morning Show Host. "In today's crowded online music landscape we wanted to create a step between what is hot in the clubs, online, and radio.  The New At 2 channel allows us to deliver new music in a 24 hour experience curated by the DJ's in clubs not a computer algorithm."  

"Where Hip Hop Lives connects our authentic east coast and west coast hip hop authorities to a global audience," Funk Flex HOT97 DJ and digital trailblazer. "As I've shown with In Flex We Trust on the web and mobile, the digital and mobile universe for hip hop is limitless and Where Hip Hop Lives is the key to reaching the next stage of breaking the biggest artists, best club DJs and spreading the hip hop lifestyle worldwide." 

"Like so many things in the tech landscape, people want everything at the tip of their fingers, especially music," said Felli Fel, afternoon drive on Power 106 and New At 2 mixer.  "This app will allow the consumer to access the newest most cutting-edge Hip Hop. As a DJ, we see and hear the reaction of the consumer when we are out and about in the clubs. We also have access to info the average consumer does not have. Most importantly, all we do is look for what the consumer is going to love, it's our job to do this every day."

About Emmis Communications
Emmis Communications Corporation is a diversified media company, principally focused on radio broadcasting.  Emmis operates the 9th largest radio portfolio in the United States based on total listeners. Emmis owns 19 FM and 4 AM radio stations in New York, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Austin (Emmis has a 50.1% controlling interest in Emmis' radio stations located there), Indianapolis and Terre Haute, IN.

About WQHT HOT 97 FM
WQHT HOT 97 FM is the world's first all Hip Hop station and has held the dominant position in New York for over ten years.  HOT 97 is best known for its celebrity on air talent, such as Funk Flex (television host, multiple gold records) and Miss Info (renowned journalist, television personality), as well as being the world's premier source for Hip Hop music culture. HOT 97 TV is an online and mobile destination for original web series, celebrity content, concerts and music videos.  For more information, please visit www.HOT97.com, facebook.com/HOT97official, or twitter.com/HOT97

Chris Brown Announces "One Hell of A Nite" Tour...

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LOS ANGELES, June 10, 2015  -- Multi-platinum selling artist Chris Brown today announced a headlining summer amphitheatre tour. Produced by Live Nation and Haymon Events, the ONE HELL OF A NITE TOUR kicks off on August 12 at Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo. and will take the acclaimed performer to 25 cities throughout the U.S. including shows in Chicago, Detroit, Boston, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas and San Diego. Kid Ink, Omarion, Fetty Wap and Teyana Taylor will join Chris on the summer tour as special guests. A full list of tour dates is below. 

A Citi® cardmember pre-sale began yesterday, June 9, through Citi's Private Pass® Program. For complete pre-sale details, visit www.citiprivatepass.com. Tickets for the general public go on sale starting Friday, June 12 at www.livenation.com. 

GRAMMY Award®-winning singer/songwriter Chris Brown made his sixth #1 album entry on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart with his latest release X (RCAS Records). The album also debuted at #2 on Billboard's Top Albums chart, marking his sixth album debut within the Top Ten. X sold over 140,000 units in its first week while Spotify streams of the album continue to rise. Earlier this year, Brown released his first collaborate studio album, Fan of a Fan: The Album, with Tyga.  The album debuted in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200. With the continued release of chart-topping albums and singles, there's no question why the talented Chris remains one of today's most influential entertainers. 

ONE HELL OF A NITE TOUR

All dates and venues below subject to change. 

Wednesday, August 12

Kansas City, MO

Sprint Center

Thursday, August 13

St. Louis, MO

Scottrade Center

Friday, August 14

Chicago, IL

First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre

Saturday, August 15

Indianapolis, IN

Klipsch Music Center

Sunday, August 16

Detroit, MI

DTE Energy Music Theatre

Tuesday, August 18

Cleveland, OH

Blossom Music Center

Wednesday, August 19

Darien Lake, NY

Darien Lake Performing Arts Center (on sale June 13)

Friday, August 21

Camden, NJ

Susquehanna Bank Center (on sale June 19)

Saturday, August 22

Bristow, VA

Jiffy Lube Live

Sunday, August 23

Bridgeport, CT

Webster Bank Arena* (on sale June 19)

Wednesday, August 26

Holmdel, NJ

PNC Bank Arts Center (on sale June 13)

Friday, August 28

Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (on sale June 13)

Saturday, August 29

Boston, MA

Xfinity Center

Sunday, August 30

Wantagh, NY

Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre (on sale June 13)

Tuesday, September 1

Birmingham, AL

Oak Mountain Amphitheatre

Thursday, September 3

Miami, FL

American Airlines Arena

Friday, September 4

Tampa, FL

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

Saturday, September 5

Atlanta, GA

Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood

Wednesday, September 9

Austin, TX

Austin360 Amphitheater

Thursday, September 10

Dallas, TX

Gexa Energy Pavilion

Saturday, September 12

Albuquerque, NM

Isleta Amphitheater

Tuesday, September 15

Phoenix, AZ

US Airways Center

Thursday, September 17

San Diego, CA

Sleep Train Amphitheatre

Friday, September 18

Anaheim, CA

Honda Center

Saturday, September 19

Concord, CA

Concord Pavilion* (on sale June 19)

* - Citi® cardmember pre-sale starts June 16

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About Live Nation Entertainment 
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE:  LYV) is the world's leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship and Artist Nation Management. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

ATL Rapper Ke Turner Here to Show Vitality of Hip-Hop with New Single....

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ATLANTA, June 9, 2015  -- There's a new hip hop artist in town as Ke Turner releases her single "Slick" and a new extended EP later this year. The single is dedicated to Grammy-nominated rapper Ricky "Slick Rick" Walters.

"When other girls my age were playing with Barbie dolls, I began sharpening my ear for music when I used to make impromptu songs to my father's guitar playing. Today I want to speak about real life or spiritual matters that many can relate to with only one goal - to inspire people," Ke Turner said. 

Influenced by past emcees like Roxanne Shante and Nikki D and artists like En Vouge, Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige, not only is Ke Turner an emcee and singer but she is also a songwriter. Atlanta-based Ke Turner has previously, between 1997 - 2003, been a part of an all female hip hop group  "Gypcees." With all of the diversified influence she has had its a no brainer why her music has such a culturally rich unique sound & vibe.

The single "Slick" and the upcoming EP are produced by Maseed Productions. 

Listen to Song at Music City's online music store: http://bestwaytodownloadmusic.com/slick

Sean "Diddy" Combs To Be Joined By All-Star Lineup Of Industry Innovators At 2015 REVOLT Music Conference Including Scooter Braun, Vania Schlogel, NO I.D., Troy Carter, Jay Brown, And More....

NEW YORK, June 8, 2015 -- Today, REVOLT announced the return of the highly anticipated, one-of-a-kind, second annual REVOLT Music Conference (RMC) to the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, October 15–18, 2015. Themed, "The Merging of Music, Technology and Innovation", RMC 2015 will provide attendees with an interactive experience that explores how technology influences the music industry, executives, recording artists, and fans. Returning to Miami, after an extremely successful inaugural year, event planners are taking the 2015 REVOLT Music Conference to the next level with more music, more stages and heightened new experiences.

"REVOLT is leading a revolution. Last year, RMC brought together the hottest acts and the most influential leaders and speakers in entertainment, media, and digital to start a new conversation about the future of music," said REVOLT Chairman Sean "Diddy" Combs. "This year with the new lineup of speakers we will bring the conversation to the next level, as we explore new ideas and important innovations that will further engage new audiences and open up new frontiers of success."

The three day event will provide attendees with the opportunity to personally interact with leaders from both the music and technology industry, hear keynotes from industry trailblazers, and enjoy exclusive performances from some of the largest names in music.  Andre Harrell, REVOLT Music Conference Chair, tapped the following industry innovators to join Sean "Diddy" Combs, REVOLT Chairman, for this year's conference as panelist:  Scooter Braun, Founder and CEO of SB Projects; Jay Brown, Co-Founder and CEO of Roc Nation; Abe Burns, Digital Operations at Maverick; Troy Carter, Chairman and CEO of Atom Factory; Jeff Harleston, General Counsel and EVP, N. America; NO I.D., EVP of Def Jam; Charles King, CEO and Founder of Macro; Anthony Saleh, CEO at Emagen Entertainment; Vania Schlogel, CIO of TIDAL; and Sickamore, Vice President, A&R and Creative Development at Epic Records; with additional names to be announced. 

"The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is delighted to welcome the return of REVOLT Music Conference to Greater Miami and The Beaches," said GMCVB President & CEO William D. Talbert, III, CDME.  "Our dynamic and diverse multicultural community looks forward to sharing our spectacular state of the art music venues, beautiful beaches and world-class amenities with the many fans of this extraordinary event."

"As the music business continues to evolve, technology and innovation are at the forefront of how we listen to music, stream content, and do business. RMC will focus on the intersection of music with the business of content while building brands, creating culture, and inspiring the next generation of leaders," added REVOLT CEO Keith Clinkscales. "After an incredible inaugural year, we couldn't be more excited to bring this unique conference back to Miami Beach to focus on the power of music and to experience the true power of innovation and collaboration."

For more on the 2015 REVOLT Music Conference and to purchase early-bird ticket packages, available for a limited time and starting at $199.00, visit WWW.REVOLT.tv/RMC. Join the #RMC2015 conversation on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @REVOLTtv. 

ABOUT REVOLT MEDIA & TV  
REVOLT is the new #1 name in music. Focused on expertly curating the best of the best in music and engaging youth in social conversation, the multi-genre, multi-platform network offers breaking music news, videos, artist interviews, exclusive performances, and original programming. Attracting over 50 million young adults through television, digital properties, social and mobile, REVOLT is accessible 24/7 – anytime, anywhere, any screen. Launched in broadcast on October 2013, REVOLT is available on Time Warner Cable, Comcast, Verizon FiOS, CenturyLink and Suddenlink in 46 of the top 50 U.S. markets including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Miami, Boston, Atlanta, and DC.  

Slum Village Back With New Single, "Right Back"...

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Detroit rap group Slum Village have returned with their new single, "Right Back", and it's definitely getting a pretty good buzz. The single features De la Soul. It's definitely good to see Slum Village back, brining us that good music! Check the new single, Right Back", out below, and post a comments about the track below!

Voice Contestant Anthony Riley Dead at 28

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In shocking news, The Voice contestant Anthony Riley has passed away from what is being reported as being reported as a suspected suicide. He was 28.

Riley immediately wowed judges, becoming known for having all 4 judges turn their chairs around the fastest. His blind audition featured his rendition of the James Brown classic "I Got You (I Feel Good)". That audition can be seen below. 

Without hesitation, he selected Pharrell Williams as his coach. After winning his first round, he abruptly left the show, initially citing "personal" issues. It was later revealed through an interview with Philly.com that he was battling substance abuse addiction, and had left to enter a rehabilitation facility. He was quoted as saying "The Voice wasn't working for me, and I felt like I needed to go, instead of taking on more responsibility than I can handle". 

Report suggest that Riley passed away Tuesday, but was not found until Friday. Continue to check back for additional details as the story develops.

Anthony Riley strikes pay dirt in his blind audition with his take on James Brown's "I Got You (I Feel Good)."

R&B Superstar Syleena Johnson Graduates with College Degree....

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Photo Credit: Syleena Johnson (Official) (facebook)

R&B superstar Syleena Johnson has ample reason to be celebrating this weekend! Yesterday, she strut across the stage, graduating with her college degree from Kaplan University. 

Johnson, who has released 8 studio albums throughout her career, enrolled Drake University 21 years ago. Her career would take her in a different direction when she signed her first recording contract in 1997. As she posted on social media this weekend, she's finally finished what she started, proving that all things are possible through Christ, and that it's never too late to get your education. With all A's, Johnson graduated Summa Cum Laude. 

Join us in congratulating Syleena Johnson on a job well done!

MGK: Till I Die, Pt. 2 feat Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, French Montana, Yo Gotti, & Ray Cash

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Cleveland rapper MFK is back with Till I Die Pt. 2 Check that out below! Also check out the video!

Directed by Machine Gun Kelly & Casey McPerry. 2nd Album Season Has Begun. See Machine Gun Kelly at a city near you this summer www.machinegunkelly.com/tour Download Machine Gun Kelly's single "A Little More" here on iTunes: http://smarturl.it/MGKALittleMore. EST 19XX / Bad Boy Entertainment / Intersope

ANTHONY ANDERSON AND TRACEE ELLIS ROSS TO HOST “BET AWARDS” 2015

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New York, NY (June 4, 2015) – BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), today revealed Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross as hosts for this year’s "BET Awards" 2015 airing live on Sunday, June 28 at 8pm/ET on BET from the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, CA.

“I look forward to the BET Awards every year! Tracee and I are going to have so much fun this year celebrating 15 years in black entertainment television,” said Anthony Anderson. “I can’t wait to see all of my peers and the amazing performances that evening.  We may even have a few surprises up our sleeves!”

“I’m thrilled to be hosting the 15th annual BET Awards alongside my on-screen husband Anthony, and am so honored to also be a nominee!  The BET Awards always deliver an epic evening with the best of the best across movies, sports, TV and music,” said Tracee Ellis Ross.

“We can’t think of a better way to ring in 15 years of BET Awards than with the talented on-screen duo of Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross as our hosts,” said Stephen Hill, BET’s President of Programming. “They are both comedic geniuses and we are ready for them to unleash the laughter and good times on June 28. It will be a night to remember!”

Actor, writer and Los Angeles native, Anthony Anderson is currently starring and Executive Producer of ABC's new comedy Black-ish alongside actress Tracee Ellis Ross and host on Food Network's Eating America.  He is known for leading roles on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning drama Law & Order where he played Detective Kevin Bernard opposite Jeremy Sisto as Detective Cyrus Lupo, as well as the shows K-Ville and The Shield. Anderson also brought his talent and humor to the small screen in his own WB sitcom All About the Andersons, which was loosely based on his life. Anderson has appeared in over 20 films, and his performance on Law & Order earned him his second consecutive NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series for the 2008 season. He also displayed his bountiful talent in the DreamWorks’ blockbuster Transformers directed by Michael Bay; as well as in Martin Scorsese’s Oscar winning feature, The Departed, alongside a stellar cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon and Jack Nicholson. Anderson first gained attention as one of Jim Carrey’s sons in Me, Myself, and Irene, and has subsequently appeared in such films as Scary Movie 3, Barbershop, Kangaroo Jack, Exit Wounds, Cradle 2 the Grave, Two Can Play That Game, and Malibu’s Most Wanted.
Actress, model, comedian, producer and television host, Tracee Ellis Ross began her career acting in independent films, variety series and hosted the pop-culture magazine The Dish on Lifetime. She is best known for her lead role as Joan Clayton on the UPN/CW comedy series, Girlfriends. She starred in the show from 2000 to 2008. In 2007, Ross also starred with her brother Evan Ross and Queen Latifah in the HBO film Life Support. That same year, she appeared in the Tyler Perry theatrical movie,Daddy's Little Girls and in 2011 had a leading role as Dr. Carla Reed on the BET sitcom Reed Between the Lines. She won a third NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series in 2012 for her performance in the series. In 2012, the fashion influencer expanded her vast digital influence by launching her official website Traceeellisross.com. The lifestyle site utilizes Ross' unique cross-cultural and joyful point of view to inspire the soul, body and mind of her followers. In 2014, Ross began starring as Dr. Rainbow Johnson in the hit ABC comedy series, Black-ish, which will return in September 2015. For her role, Ross won the 2015 NAACP Image Award for “Best Actress in a Comedy Series”. This past April, Ross returned to the BET Network to co-host the popular award show, “Black Girls Rock,” with Regina King for the fourth televised installment. In May, Ross was awarded an honorary doctorate of fine art (honoris causa) by Brown University. She is nominated in the Best Actress category for the “BET Awards” 2015.

BET Networks recognizes artists, entertainers, and athletes across 20 categories with the "BET Awards" 2015 nominations. The nominations are selected by BET’s Voting Academy, which is comprised of fans and an esteemed group of entertainment professionals in the fields of television, film, music, social media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and the creative arts.

BET Experience VIP Package offers the only way to purchase a “BET Awards: ticket, great seats to 3 nights of concerts at the Staples Center, and exclusive access to events at the free Fan Fest. For more information, including exclusive hotel rates, and to purchase tickets, go to BET.com/BETX.

The list of nominees are as follows:

BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST
BEYONCÉ
CIARA
JANELLE MONÁE
JHENÉ AIKO
K. MICHELLE
RIHANNA

BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST
AUGUST ALSINA
CHRIS BROWN
JOHN LEGEND
THE WEEKND
TREY SONGZ
USHER

BEST GROUP
A$AP MOB
JODECI
MIGOS
RAE SREMMURD
RICH GANG
YOUNG MONEY

BEST COLLABORATION
AUGUST ALSINA F/ NICKI MINAJ – NO LOVE (REMIX)
BIG SEAN F/ E-40 - IDFWU
CHRIS BROWN F/ LIL WAYNE & TYGA - LOYAL
CHRIS BROWN F/ USHER & RICK ROSS - NEW FLAME
COMMON & JOHN LEGEND - GLORY (FROM THE MOTION PICTURE "SELMA")
MARK RONSON F/ BRUNO MARS – UPTOWN FUNK

BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
BIG SEAN
COMMON
DRAKE
J. COLE
KENDRICK LAMAR
WALE

BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
AZEALIA BANKS
DEJ LOAF
IGGY AZALEA
NICKI MINAJ
TINK
TRINA

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
BEYONCÉ - 7/11
BIG SEAN F/ E-40 - IDFWU
CHRIS BROWN F/ LIL WAYNE & TYGA - LOYAL
CHRIS BROWN F/ USHER & RICK ROSS - NEW FLAME
COMMON & JOHN LEGEND - GLORY (FROM THE MOTION PICTURE "SELMA")
NICKI MINAJ - ANACONDA

VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
BENNY BOOM
BEYONCÉ, ED BURKE & TODD TOURSO
CHRIS ROBINSON
FATIMA ROBINSON
HYPE WILLIAMS

BEST NEW ARTIST
BOBBY SHMURDA
DEJ LOAF
FETTY WAP
RAE SREMMURD
SAM SMITH
TINASHE

BEST GOSPEL ARTIST
DEITRICK HADDON
ERICA CAMPBELL
FRED HAMMOND
LECRAE
MALI MUSIC
MICHELLE WILLIAMS

BEST ACTRESS
GABRIELLE UNION
KERRY WASHINGTON
TARAJI P. HENSON
TRACEE ELLIS ROSS
VIOLA DAVIS

BEST ACTOR
ANTHONY ANDERSON
IDRIS ELBA
JUSSIE SMOLLETT
KEVIN HART
TERRENCE HOWARD

YOUNGSTARS AWARD
JACOB LATIMORE
JADEN SMITH
MO'NE DAVIS
QUVENZHANÉ WALLIS
ZENDAYA

BEST MOVIE
ANNIE
BEYOND THE LIGHTS
SELMA
THINK LIKE A MAN TOO
TOP FIVE

SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
BRITTNEY GRINER
CANDACE PARKER
SERENA WILLIAMS
SKYLAR DIGGINS
VENUS WILLIAMS

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
CHRIS PAUL
FLOYD MAYWEATHER, JR.
LEBRON JAMES
MARSHAWN LYNCH
STEPHEN CURRY

COCA-COLA VIEWERS’ CHOICE AWARD
BEYONCÉ – 7/11
DEJ LOAF – TRY ME
KENDRICK LAMAR – i
NICKI MINAJ F/ DRAKE, LIL WAYNE & CHRIS BROWN - ONLY
RAE SREMMURD F/ NICKI MINAJ & YOUNG THUG – THROW SUM MO
THE WEEKND – EARNED IT (FROM THE “FIFTY SHADES OF GREY” SOUNDTRACK)

CENTRIC AWARD
AVERY SUNSHINE – CALL MY NAME
JAZMINE SULLIVAN F/ MEEK MILL – DUMB
MARK RONSON F/ BRUNO MARS – UPTOWN FUNK
SAM SMITH F/ MARY J. BLIGE – STAY WITH ME
THE WEEKND - EARNED IT (FROM THE “FIFTY SHADES OF GREY” SOUNDTRACK)

BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT: AFRICA
AKA (SOUTH AFRICA)
FALLY IPUPA (DR CONGO)
SARKODIE (GHANA)
SAUTI SOL (KENYA)
STONEBWOY (GHANA)
THE SOIL (SOUTH AFRICA)
WIZKID (NIGERIA)
YEMI ALADE (NIGERIA)
         
BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT: UK
FKA TWIGS
FUSE ODG
LETHAL BIZZLE
LITTLE SIMZ
MNEK
STORMZY

The “BET Awards” 2015 will premiere around the world on BET’s international network at 8:00pm GMT (check local listings)

Album Review: Janine and the Mixtape: XXEP

With such a beautiful voice, good, relevant lyrics, and hot production, Janine and the Mixtape is definitely that next big thing to hit the music scene. She gave us Dark Mind in 2013, and that was then re-issued last year. Now, she’s surfaced again, this time with XXEP, a 6-song EP offering what I consider to be some of her best music to date.

The mood is still dark with this album, and the tracks are mostly filled with pain and heartache. I’ve said before that she reminded me a little of Aaliyah, and I hear it more in her style and delivery with XXEP, but it’s honestly a good thing. It definitely isn’t at a level where you feel she’s trying to emulate. It’s evident that there’s a lot of influence in general, and it comes out in the music.

Nevertheless, Janine and the Mixtape is an artist all her own, and is destined for great things. She's a much-needed breath of fresh air in an industry that has become inundated with copycats and downright theft. I, for one, am eager to hear more from her. 

POSTHUMOUS ALBUM RELEASE BY CHINX SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 14, 2015

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(June 2, 2015 -- New York, NY) – eOne Music and Four Kings Management have announced the posthumous release of hip hop artist Chinx's nearly-completed debut album, Welcome to J.F.K., on August 14, 2015. A new single from the album, “On Your Body,” was released today.  Listen to "On Your Body" here and purchase here.
 
As widely reported, the untimely and tragic death of the Queens, NY native earlier this month sent shockwaves throughout the hip hop community and his hometown of New York City.  
 
Chinx, an affiliate of French Montana’s Coke Boys, signed to eOne Music in February 2015, and had been working on his debut album, initially slated for a late 2015 release.  The record is produced by Lee on the Beats and B Korn of the Amazinz.  Chinx recently said about the album, “I’m in a great space creatively, and it’s time to really play.

Doug "Biggs" Ellison, Chinx’s manager, says, "Watching and helping Chinx develop as an artist over the last few years has been an amazing experience. He had finally come into his own, musically.  This new body of work, Welcome to J.F.K., is a 1 of 1 creation.  We took the raw emotions of an artist on the rise, and created a lane that will absolutely establish Chinx as a pioneer in the game.  That may be a bold statement for some, but this kid was ahead of his time.  His work ethic was 2nd to none. I'm looking forward to the release of his best work yet.  I promise, you will be able to press play and ride out to this one! I dare you to live with it and tell me he wasn't on to something special.  Spread the word and support good music!"
 
Gabrielle Peluso, VP Urban Music of eOne Music, adds, “I first knew of Chinx when he was in a rap group called Riot Squad back in early 2000. His group member and close friend Stack Bundles (who was also murdered in 2007), was signed to my husband’s label, Desert Storm, in 2005, so signing Chinx to eOne was very personal to me because of this connection. He was the most humble, down to earth GENTLEMAN I have ever met in my entire career.  The music industry lost a true talent. However, I am grateful that we were able to complete his album before he passed.  His wife and children will be able to witness him grow into a household name, as bitter sweet as that may be.”
 
Fans will be able to preorder Welcome to J.F.K. on iTunes on July 17, 2015.