DC CARNIVAL 'STREET EDITION :::: Video

Reggae Artist Buju Banton Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison

Reggae singer Buju Banton faced the music in court on Thursday (June 24), receiving a 10 year prison sentence for cocaine trafficking, stemming from a 2009 arrest. Buju (real name: Mark Anthony Myrie) was busted by DEA agents in December 2009, after he allegedly attempted to buy over five kilos of cocaine from an undercover officer in Sarasota, Florida. He was hit with charges of possession and intent to distribute. Buju pleaded not guilty in early 2010, and a mistrial was declared last September, leaving the reggae singer off the hook on attempted possession with the intent to distribute charge he was facing, but guilty of three other charges. His lawyers, David Oscar Markus and David Seitles, have focused their defense on claims that he was set-up by law enforcement. According to paperwork released by his council, Banton was merely a pawn in an entrapment scheme, set forth by the DEA. "The facts and circumstances of the confidential sources' contacts with Mr. Myrie display a deliberate effort by a paid informant to ensnare a perfect stranger, who happened to be sitting next to him on an international flight, into committing a crime, thereby ensuring the informant more money," said his lawyers. "The confidential source is a paid government informant. In addition to refusing to disclose the identity, the government has refused to identify the prior cases in which he has been involved, the outcomes of those cases, the amount of money he has earned making cases for the government, or even the amount he has been paid (or expects to be paid) in this case." Buju Banton originally faced up to 20 years behind bars.

Missy Elliott Reveals Battle With Graves' Disease

It's been quite a few years since Missy Elliott has been front and center on the scene, making an impact. But apparently, one of the reasons for her absence is a disease she was diagnosed with nearly four years ago.
The 39-year-old announced this week that she is suffering from Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to over-activity of the thyroid gland.
Elliott revealed to People that she was diagnosed with the disease in 2008, when she first began showing signs of the disease.
"I was [driving and] trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn't keep the brake down and almost crashed," Elliott told the mag. "I couldn't write because my nervous system was so bad -- I couldn't even use a pen."
Since Elliott found out, she's been receiving radiation treatment to help alleviate symptoms -- including dizzy spells, lumps in her throat, mood swings, hair loss, and bulging eyes.
According to Missy, the radiation helped, but other medication made her pack on the pounds, which she's tried to counter via exercise.
The disease isn't fatal, but after treatment, Missy says things are much better.
"My thyroid is functioning, so I haven't had to take medication in about nine months," she said.
The rapper will talk about her condition more, and even open up about childhood sexual abuse in an upcoming VH1 "Behind The Music" special, set to air on June 29.
"Missy was great and very candid. She talked for the first time about her [near fatal bout with] Graves disease, which she’s been battling for the last few years, and spoke in detail about the sexual abuse she experienced as a child," executive producer Brad Abramson told Vibe.com.

Sean Kingston Released From Hospital Following Jet Ski Crash

Days after he tweeted a photo of himself saying, "I'm feeling a lot better," Sean Kingston is finally back home after being injured in a jet ski crash late last month.
A rep for Kingston confirmed to MTV.com that the 21-year-old singer was released from the hospital on Tuesday (June 21), three weeks after his crash in Miami.
Kingston was hospitalized over Memorial Day Weekend, and listed as critical, after he crashed a Sea Doo jet ski into a bridge in Miami.
A female passenger, later identified as Cassandra Sanchez, said the singer lost control of the jet ski because he was going too fast. He crashed, and was badly injured.
A passerby in a boat helped the two out of the water and to safety. Kingston was quickly carted to a nearby hospital, where he had been up until this week.
He suffered from a broken jaw, fractured wrist, and water in his lungs. He's expected to make a full recovery.
On Sunday (June 19), Kingston looked healthy in a photo he tweeted to his Twitter followers, which included the message: "Feeling alot better! GOD IS GREAT! Thanks for all the prayers and support! Love you ALL!"

Thrasher Magazine Co-Founder Commits Suicide In Front Of SF Police Station

A man put a gun to his head and committed suicide in front of the Mission Police Station in San Francisco on Monday morning (June 20). Now, he's been identified as Eric Swenson, the co-founder of iconic skateboarding magazine Thrasher.
According to the San Francisco Examiner, the incident took place at around 8:30 a.m. at local station, located at 17th and Valencia streets. He used a high-caliber handgun and shot himself right in front of the station's front doors.
A woman who witnessed the shocking suicide called cops. Swenson did not go inside the police station before committing suicide, police Lt. Troy Dangerfield said.
Police covered up the body quickly, and close off the sidewalk with yellow tape, following the shooting.
He was 64 years old.
While the circumstances surround Swenson's death was unknown, loved ones told the paper that they believe that his longtime struggle with decades of physical pain led to the suicide.
Described by family and friends as a "very private person." Why he did it in front of the station, people believe to spare his family from from finding him, said Gwynn Vitello, Thrasher's publisher and wife of Swenson's business partner, the late Fausto Vitello.
"Eric was not a person who wanted to burden anybody," Vitello said. "In my mind, this was the most unselfish way he could do what he had to do."
While the skateboarding community celebrated its annual Go Skateboarding Day, it also mourned one of the death of Swenson, 63, passed away on June 20.
This is a message posted by the Thrasher's official website:

Ideas come a dime a dozen. People talk, but seldom act. Eric Swenson got things done. Never one to clamor for the spotlight, he preferred the hard work, orchestrating the show from behind the scenes. It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of a dear friend and one of our founders. His mark on skateboarding is extraordinary. Without him there would be no Thrasher Magazine, Independent trucks, or Spitfire wheels, to name a few. He leaves behind his wife Linda and sister Rebekah, along with a tremendous number of admirers.

Our thoughts are with Swenson's family, friends, and the Thrasher team.
Legendary Dog Town skater and budding photographer, Pep Williams, posted the following message on his Facebook page: "Lost another brother. Thanks for everything over the past 25 years. You were always cool. RIP Mr Swenson."
Thrasher was launched in 1981, and helped the establish skateboarding as a subculture at a time when it still wasn't accepted by the mainstream.
Eben Sterling, advertising director for Thrasher and Slap, spoke to the Examiner about the mag's impact and Swenson's role.
"Before Thrasher skateboarding was just another trend like yo-yos, rollerblades and Hula Hoops. But now it had its own music, dialect and it's own fashion style," Sterling said, before describing Swenson as a behind the scenes workhorse. "He wasn't into the glory or being in the spotlight. He was extremely successful, but was a humble guy that didn't flaunt his wealth. He basically got up in the morning and went to work, and that was his passion."
Rest in peace, Eric Swenson.

Good Wood NYC Drops Introductory Pair Of Custom Shades

Good Wood NYC, who is most known for their custom wooden jewelry, announced recently the upcoming release of their introductory pair of shades.
Dubbed the "419", the shades are handcrafted in Brooklyn with "the highest quality components available," said the company. And, features walnut construction, UV protected lenses, and Italian hardware.
The whole collection comes encased in a custom "419" wooden box, and a custom Good Wood drawstring microfiber pouch.

The shades are retailing for $99.
While the Good Wood shades will not ship until July 5, pre-orders began this week. For further info, visit GoodWoodNYC.com.

Jimmy Henchman Apprehended In New York For Running National Drug Ring

Notorious hip-hop executive Jimmy "Henchman" Rosemond, who has been on the run since mid-May, was picked up in New York on Tuesday morning (June 21) by federal agents who claim he is the head of a national cocaine distribution ring.
The hip-hop impresario has made national headlines over the past month for not only his legal problems, as well as rumors that he set up Tupac in 1994.
In mid-May Rosemond was accused and indicted for his alleged involvement in a national drug-trafficking ring, which distributed cocaine in large quantities from New York to Los Angeles, and back.
A warrant was issued for his arrest.
Although Rosemond denied the claims, brushing them off as "unconstitutional," and revealed plans to turn himself in, he's been on the run ever since. But, authorities finally caught up with him.
Rosemond, known within hip-hop circles as Jimmy Henchman, was picked up after a foot chase near Park Avenue and 21st St., a federal official told the  Weekly. He had been hiding out at the W Hotel, blocks away from where he was apprehended.
A federal affidavit, supporting his arrest warrant, alleges Rosemond conspired to distribute at least five kilos of cocaine. Federal agents believe he shipped cocaine from L.A. to New York, via FedEx and UPS, and then sent mustard-covered cash -- to throw contraband-sniffing canines off -- back to L.A. ... and have been doing so since 2008.
Rosemond was due in federal court in New York this afternoon to face charges.
In addition to the federal indictment, he was also named as the man behind the infamous Quad Studios shooting of Tupac Shakur in 1994, which would go on to spark the highly publicized east/west rap war between Death Row Records and Bad Boy Records.
Former Rosemond associate Dexter Isaac, who is currently serving life in prison, confessed to being the shooter that evening in hip-hop history, which left Tupac shot five times. Isaac claims Rosemond paid him $2,500 to rob the rapper.
His lawyer responded a day later, calling the incarcerated man's claims a "flat-out lie."

Rick Ross Tatts Cazal Sunglasses Logo On His Face

Rick Ross continues to the growing trend of face tattoos among rappers with the addition of new ink to his cheek.
An image of the Miami rapper popped up on the Internet this week, in which Ross pays homage to one of his favorite sunglasses company by branding the logo vintage shades company Cazal on his left cheek.
Cazal sunglasses were designed by Cari Zalloni in 1975, and made popular among hip-hop artists by DMC of Run-DMC in the 1980s. Its name from the first two syllables of its designer's name, and features signature colorways, and 24K tri-layered gold plating.
Now, Ross is making the luxury sunglasses brand a fixture.
The rapper is said to have a an extensive vintage shades collection, many of which are Cazal's.

Chris Brown Sending Photos To Rihanna? DM Tweeted Publicly?

Chris Brown and Rihanna exchanging pics? That's the word spreading around the Internet, after Brown accidentally sent an "@" message for Rihanna on his public timeline many believed was meant for a private DM (Direct Message). Over the weekend, Breezy send this message to RiRi: "You got that pic I sent you?"
Once he realized it was sent publicly, the singer quickly deleted the post, but fans grabbed a screenshot of it ... fast, and it was re-posted to notorious gossip website.
What kind of picture Brown sent off to Rihanna was unknown. However, both have been known to send sexy pictures over their phones in the past.
Since the alleged message, both Brown and Rihanna denied it ever happened.
"poeple, dont listen to the blogs. i never @'d @rihanna. stop tryna make a story out of nothing," Brown tweeted (@ChrisBrown).
Rihanna sent this message (@Rihanna) to a fan after they expressed their disappointment over her communication with her abusive ex: "some women never learn that blogs are not encyclopedias."
Last month, RiRi fans went bonkers when she began following Chris Brown on Twitter. She, however, felt it was no big deal.
"Its f***in twitter, not the alter! calm down," Rihanna responded to the backlash.

Lupe Fiasco Discusses Obama 'Terrorist' Comment On 'The O'Reilly Factor'

Around two weeks ago, Lupe Fiasco made headlines following a CBS News Interview in which he called President Obama -- and the U.S. government -- the "biggest terrorist" in the world.
After the news spread, political pundit Bill O'Reilly commented on the Chicago rapper's statements, calling him "a pinhead", via his Fox News show "The O'Reilly Factor". But, he's since given Lupe a chance to explain himself, inviting the rapper on his show to discuss and further explain his comments.
What do you think of Lupe's comments?

The Seventh Letter Drops 2011 Summer Tee Collection

Los Angeles-based clothing brand, The Seventh Letter, have been dropping gear for over a decade ... and over the past week, unleashed their 2011 Summer tee drop on their website.
The summer t-shirt collection consists of at least 12 new graphic tees, with a few designs in two colorways.
A few of our faves are the "Stairway to Heaven" tee, which features a graff artist scaling a fire escape to hit a rooftop; the "Survival Of The Fittest" tee, featuring the 7th Letter logo atop a pyramid with the all-seeing eye sitting on top; and the simple "Fear" tee with the bold phrase "FEAR NO ART." printed on the front.

The tees sell for $25 a pop, and are available now at TheSeventhLetter.com.
The Seventh Letter was founded in 2000 by Casey "Eklips" Zoltan, acting as a platform for the crew's artists to showcase their work in the form of apparel, art exhibitions and other special projects. Members under the Seventh Letter umbrella include Revok, Retna, Saber, Push, Rime and Zes.

'Jackass' Star Ryan Dunn Dies In Fatal Car Crash

"Jackass" star Ryan Dunn was killed in a fatal car crash earlier Monday morning (June 20) in West Chester, Penn., following a evening of drinking, said reports.
Dunn lost control of his 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 during the early morning hours of Monday,  careening off the highway and through a metal guardrail, and sometime after, burst into flames.
By the time police found the wreckage, it was "fully engulfed in flames". The West Goshen Township Police Department says officers found Dunn's vehicle "off the road and in the woods."
Reports said both Dunn and a passenger "died as a result of injuries sustained in the accident."
Since initial reports, new info has emerged, which revealed that Dunn spent four hours in a Philadelphia-area bar before he got behind the wheel and drove home.
The exact amount of alcohol he consumed that evening isn't clear, but it was at least three beers and three shots, a friend. He drank three Miller Lites and three "girly shots" between 10:30 PM and 2:10 AM, but he was "not too drunk to drive," the friend added.
Another person who was at the same bar told TMZ that Dunn was "wasted".
Dunn tweeted a photo of himself drinking with friends hours before the accident.
Cops say "speed may have been a contributing factor to the accident." An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
He was just 34 years old.
"Jackass" co-star and longtime friend, Johnny Knoxville, just took to Twitter to express his feelings over the loss, saying "Today I lost my brother Ryan Dunn. My heart goes out to his family and his beloved Angie."

Sean Kingston Says He's 'Feeling A Lot Better', Tweets Picture From Hospital

It's been over three weeks since Sean Kingston was critically injured in a jet ski crash in Miami, but he seems to be recovering very well.
He popped up on Twitter on Sunday (June 19), sending fans a message and a picture of himself in the hospital.
"Feeling alot better! GOD IS GREAT! Thanks for all the prayers and support! Love you ALL," Kingston wrote (@SeanKingston).
Kingston was severely injured in a jet ski accident over Memorial Day Weekend in Miami, after crashing into a bridge with a female passenger. He's since been hospitalized, and is expected to fully recover.
We're glad to see the young musician is doing well. Get well soon Sean.

Rapper Tone Loc Arrested For Domestic Violence

Veteran rapper Tone Loc spent his Father's Day Weekend behind bars, after he was arrested for domestic violence charge Saturday (June 19) afternoon.The rapper (real name: Anthony Terrell Smith) got into a heated argument with the mother of his child, which escalated into a physical altercation.
Details, however, were unknown at press time.
What we do know is that Tone was arrested around 2:45 p.m. at an apartment complex in Burbank, Calif. He was taken into custody without incident and booked into jail a few hours later.
Tone is currently being held on $50,000 -- and, as of this posting, has yet to be released, said TMZ.
Tone Loc rose to fame in the 1980s, and is best known for his iconic hit singles, "Funky Cold Medina" and "Wild Thing."

Nivea Arrested On DUI Charge In ATL, Singer Denies Reports

Singer Nivea was reportedly arrested on a DUI charge on Saturday (June 18) in Atlanta, after she crashed her ride into a tree early in the morning.Tthe 29-year-old ex of rap superstar Lil Wayne and R&B singer The-Dream was driving at around 1 a.m., when she lost control and crash her BMW X6 into a tree.
The singer was driving with a baby in the car when she crashed. Fortunately, she, nor the baby, were injured in the crash.
Reports also claim that Nivea got testy with the arresting officer, belligerently yelling: "Bitch, I could buy your job hoe!"
She was carted off to Fulton County correctional facility, and booked for driving under the influence.
While Nivea confirmed that she crashed, she denied that she was drunk and/or belligerent toward the officer on the scene.
"Thank You 2 all that were concerned, I'm doing fine! I NEVER said what ppl r saying I said to/about the cop by the way," Nivea tweeted (@ThisIsNivea). "And one more thing, I WAS NOT DRINKING AND DRIVING, the accident was Not due to me being intoxicated. Just wanted to clear that.
"Ppl who start/assist rumors should go get their mom and tell her to SLAP THE URINE OUTTA THEM! #thatisall Aaaaaaaaaannnnnnnd I'm out :)," she concluded.
Nivea is the mother of one of Lil Wayne's children, and also has three others with singer The-Dream, whom she was married to, but divorced back in 2007.
The Georgia native became popular in 2001, thanks to her hit single, "Don't Mess With My Man."

Chris Brown, Odd Future's Frank Ocean Exchange Disses On Twitter

The feud between Chris Brown and popular Los Angeles collective, Odd Future, continues.
After going at it with OFWGKTA leader, Tyler The Creator weeks before, Breezy and singer Frank Ocean exchanged words in a series of Twitter messages Friday afternoon (June 17).
Brown sparked the exchange, when he sent out a tweet comparing the Odd Future crooner to songwriters, James Fauntleroy and Kevin Cossom.
"I f*** wit Frank Ocean! Reminds me of a young James Fauntleroy or Kevin Cossum," he wrote (@ChrisBrown).
Ocean, who recently dropped the official music video for his single "Novacane", responded with a similar tweet (@Frank_Ocean): "i f***s wit chris brown, reminds me of a young sisqo or ike turner," adding, "i just dont like underhanded comments. thats all im saying."
From there, Breezy went off the deep end, tweeting a series of heated comments, explaining that he was trying to big-up Ocean, and instead, was met with insults.
"@frank_ocean, it was a compliment you bitch ass n****," Brown began. "Everybody claim to be the devil till they meet him."
To make things worse, Breezy continued, sending out a big "f*** you" to not only Ocean, but also Tyler and the entire OFWGKTA crew.
"I was tryna help yo sales n****. You f***in clown! You and @f***tyler would be casted great for planet of the apes," he wrote, also adding, "f*** odd future! Make sure y'all smalltime n****s stick yo chess out when u speak to me, Ain't no battery in my back! U just getting on ass n****s! Don't let them pills go to yo head!"
Tyler, then, decided to chime in with his two cents, which seemed to further infuriate Brown.
"What's Wrong Christopher? Amber Rose Stole Your Style Bro Bro?" Tyler wrote (@f***tyler). "Why Are You Mad Tho? Like Really, You're Bigger Than Us Christopher. You Act Like You Like To Eat Soup, Aren't You A Role Model?"
An angry Chris Brown then directed his words at Tyler, saying how he ran into the Odd Future crew on Fairfax Blvd. in Los Angeles days earlier, and no one said anything.
"I was on fairfax yesterday and your so called posse was super quiet. Get better soldiers," Brown tweeted. "@f***tyler thats what they told you? All that tells me is that u hangwit busters. It was 10 of them. No security.me and 2 relatives lol"
Compton rapper Game, who no stranger to beef himself, offered his advice to both parties as he witnessed the back-n-forth, explaining that the end result of beef equals the loss of money.
"@fucktyler the homie & @frankocean just starting what can be a long successful career.. Don't f*** it up by beefin'. FOCUS n****s, FOCUS !!!" he said, telling Chris, "focus on 'YOU' blood. BEEF aint gettin n!ggas nowhere these days. All you do is LOSE, endorsements, appearances & oppurtunities."

Drake Honored With Songwriter's Hall Of Fame Award

Drake became the first hip hop artist to be presented with the Hal David Starlight Award at the 42nd Songwriter's Hall of Fame Awards Gala on Thursday (June 16) at a ceremony in New York City.
The rapper was honored alongside other iconic musicians, such as Chaka Khan, Garth Brooks, and Allen Toussaint.
Before presenting Drake with the honor, Jimmy Jam praised the rapper not only for his songwriting, but for his ability to blend both singing and rapping.
Drake, who arrived at the ceremony with his mother, dedicating the award to her during his acceptance speech.
He later tweeted (@drakkardnoir): "Just won the most incredible award and performed for my mother ... a year ago today she was being wheeled into a surgery room ... I love you."
The Hal David Starlight Award is given to gifted songwriters, who have made a significant impact in the music industry with original songs. The Songwriter's Hall of Fame has stated that Drake is one of music's brightest new stars, lauded for his songwriting prowess, melodious hooks and emotionally transparent performances.
Before being presented his award by producer Jimmy Jam, Drake performed "The Calm" (from his breakout mixtape, So Far Gone) for the first time at an award show or event, in honor of John Bettis.

Snoop Dogg To Be Involved In Freeway Rick Ross' Upcoming Biopic

Legendary Los Angeles drug kingpin, "Freeway" Ricky Ross, has been hard at work, behind the scenes, preparing his upcoming biopic ... and now, he's one step further. Ross is currently discussing the possibility of tapping Snoop Dogg to be involved in the upcoming film, and also score the soundtrack. The lead however, is still undecided.
In a video recorded during a recent studio session, and posted his his website (FreewayEnterprise.com), Snoop and the notorious drug trafficker are seen discussing the rapper's possible involvement in the film, which will reportedly be written by "Blow" director Nick Cassavetes.
"Y'all heard what the Dogg said," Ross says in the clip. "Y'all didn't think it was gonna happen, now the Dogg said he gonna run the soundtrack!"
After Ross reveals the news, Snoop chimes in, saying that after he heard about the film, he knew he had to be involved.
"I told my O.G. before he got home, I wanted to get down with him, and I love him to death and everything he stand for, and I'm part of telling his story," said Snoop.
Details about the film are still scarce. However, Snoop said he wants to score the film to make sure the sounds and music goes along with the story being told.
"I also want to be a part of the soundtrack to make the scope of the music right, to make sure the scoring's right, to represent the era and the time period where we were going through on the West," Snoop explained. "I want to make sure the music represents what we were listening to out here... When it gets to those certain time periods, I want to be the one who makes sure that the music feels good while you're watching the movie."
At press time, it's unclear if Snoop's involvement is official, or if they are currently in talks. A timeline of production for the bio was unknown as well.
For more info, visit Freeway Rick's official website at FreewayEnterprise.com.

Lil Mama Accuses Nicki Minaj Of Stealing Her Hairstyle

Nicki Minaj is getting it from all sides lately.
Ice-T's wife Coco recently told PerezHilton.com that the rap superstar's backside was "fake," and now, rapper/ABDC host Lil Mama is saying the Young Money First Lady copied her style ... hairstyle that is.
Mama, who shot to fame for her hit "Lip Gloss", showed up at the 2011 MTV Movie Awards rocking Nicki's trademark haircut. When asked about the similarities to Nicki Minaj's style, the rapper/TV host said that the rap Barbie took it from her first.
In an interview with VIBE.com, she explained.
"My cut is blunt and futuristic and Nicki Minaj started wearing that bob on her head after she came to my show, so at the end of the day, I know what I do and I know what I possess and I know who I am. I'm a trendsetter," said Lil Mama.
"The biggest form of flattery is imitation, so I'm flattered. I understand the universal law. I'm not confused, I don't feel like a follower. I started so many things that new artists are doing now anyway -- my style, the way I'm aggressive on a track, the way I come through, the way my beat bangs. There are so many things that were borrowed, that I influenced that's happening in music right, so I'm far from discouraged.”
As she continued to explain her claim that Nicki stole her style, Lil Mama said Nicki saw her haircut during a guest appearance on "America's Best Dance Crew" and ran with it.
"She was a guest on 'America's Best Dance Crew' and immediately afterwards, everywhere she went, she was wearing the haircut, the same exact way," explained the rapper. "But that doesn't make me feel like, 'Oh she's trying to be down', like how I said about our culture. I'm actually flattered because she imitated me and it felt like something that I was doing was cute, and in time for the fashion and for the season, so it's like let's live, let's do it."

Bizzy Bone Accused Of Attacking Two Fans On Tour Bus

Bone Thugs-n-Harmony rapper, Bizzy Bone, is currently under investigation in Chicago for an allegedly assault on two fans following a concert last week.
the rapper (real name: Bryon Anthony McCane) flipped on two fans, who police say, paid $80 each for a meet-and-greet with the members of the group on their tour bus last Thursday night (June 9).
But when the two men entered the bus, Bizzy flipped out.
One fan tells cops that a screaming match took place, which quickly escalated ... and Bizzy began throwing punches.
The rapper allegedly hit both men until another member of the group stepped in and broke things up.
While police didn't see any serious injury, aside from bruises, one of the men claims he suffered a broken nose.
One of the men filed a police report against Bizzy the following day.
At press time, Bizzy had not spoken to police, but they are investigating the matter.
Bizzy's camp has not commented.

Former Jimmy Henchman Associate Admits To 1994 Shooting Of Tupac

A man came forward this week, admitting to the 1994 Quad Studios shooting of Tupac Shakur, which he claims was planned and paid for by Jimmy "Henchmen" Rosemond, who has been rumored to have been behind the incident for years.
Former Rosemond associate, Dexter Isaac, wrote  Wednesday (June 15) -- from behind bars, where he's serving a life sentence -- confessing to the nearly 17-year-old shooting on what would be the eve of Tupac's 40th birthday.
He claims that after keeping the secret for so long, he chose to bring it to the light only after Rosemond publicly fingered him as an government informant, in the wake of his drug-trafficking indictment.
"I want to apologize to his family [Tupac Shakur] and for the mistake I did for that sucker [Jimmy Henchman]," Isaac told AHH. "I am trying to clean it up to give [Tupac and Biggie's] mothers some closure."
Isaac says Rosemond paid him $2,500 to rob Tupac during an evening in November 1994. Additionally, he was told he could keep all the jewelry he took from the rap superstar, which included two diamond rings and a chain. While Rosemond opted to keep the larger of the two rings, Isaac says he kept the chain as proof of what took place that evening.
Why would he confess to the crime now, you ask? Well, Isaac says that due to the expiration on the statute of limitations, no one can be prosecuted for the robbery/shooting.
Rosemond is currently on the run, dodging a federal indictment for his alleged involvement in a national drug distribution ring. Since the indictment was reported, he has come forward denying the accusations and calling the entire situation "unconstitutional."
He was expected to turn himself in last month, but apparently, that didn't happen. Rosemond remains at large.
Isaac was indicted in 1998, and was subsequently sentenced to life in prison for an array of charges, including murder, robbery, fraud, and witness intimidation charges.
At this point, Isaac says he has nothing to gain from confessing to the dated hip-hop mystery. He says he's just "plain tired of listening to [Rosemond's] lies."
At the end of the letter, Isaac even hints at the possible involvement of Diddy, but doesn't elaborate what he means by it. However, he points at the possibility that Rosemond could "flip on Puffy" to save his own skin, that is, once the Feds catch up to him.
"Jimmy, you and Puffy like to come off all innocent-like, but as the saying goes: you can fool some of the people some of the time, but you cannot foll all the people all of the time," Issac said.
"Are you going to flip on Puffy when you Feds get you?" he continued. "To save yourself like you have done in the past? Because that's what a rat does. So in closing, we shall see who the rat is, in the near future."

Injured Mavs Player, Caron Butler, Proud Of Team's Championship Win

Although he was sitting on the bench with an injury during the Dallas Mavericks playoff run that led to the 2011 NBA championship, it's without a doubt, Caron Butler helped bring the team to that point.
He's proud of his team, and is happily soaking up the moment, one that comes nine years into his celebrated career.
"I'm trying to take it all in stride," said Butler. All your life you want to be a champion. You always carry yourself like that, and represent your family the right way. To reach this height is so rewarding. So many great players always fall short of this goal. It is a very humbling experience."
Butler, who went down halfway through the year with a season ending torn patella injury, says he was, in fact, just days from being cleared for a return by the Mavericks. He had been playing 1-on-1 and 2-on-2 in practice, and was participating in shoot around.
The team even brought his uniform to Miami, just in case he was cleared. Although he was not on the court when the team won, fellow players dedicated the playoff run to Butler, one that ultimately gave him, the entire team and the city of Dallas their first ever NBA Championship.
"It took me nine years to get here. I was playing some of the best ball of my career, and life threw something at me," he said. "I kept moving forward, and that was our team's identity. Coach said we're going to continue to move forward because that's what you did. I was less than a week out from being cleared. I was so close to coming back. This team inspired me, the same amount that I inspired them. It was more and more a breath of fresh air. And together we made beautiful music.
"Jason Kidd and Jason Terry saying they were going to dedicate the playoffs to me, that was really special," Butler continued. "For Kidd, a future Hall of Famer, and Terry, whose jersey will probably hang in the rafters in Dallas one day, to say that, let me know that they respect me as basketball player, but more than that, they respect me as a person. In a sense, I felt like I was more a part of the win this way, than if I was out there myself."
Next season, Butler will be a free agent. Although there will be some interest from NBA teams around the league, Butler has high expectations for what a return to Dallas could produce.
"This is the first time in my career that I'm a free agent, and a lot of teams will be calling," said Butler. "But I think it would be great to be back in Dallas. The thing about success, you want to stay there, and continue at that level. The window of opportunity for this team is definitely there. Either way, I'm going to attack this off season like I never have. I'll have a season and half worth of energy in me come next year. Tuff Juice just got tougher."
Butler will be participating in the Dallas Mavericks' team celebration and parade in Dallas on Thursday (June 16).

Soulja Boy Denies Facebook Comments, Says He Was Hacked

Over the weekend, some disturbing comments made their way to Soulja Boy's Facebook page, which caused an uproar among his fans, some of whom called him "racist" and "homophobic."
The rapper has since come forward, claiming his page was hacked.
The rant -- aimed at "haters" who posted negative comments on the Soulja's Facebook page -- included the lines, "IM TIRED OF WHITE PEOPLE DOING US LIKE THIS MAN!! THEY TREAT US SO WRONG!! f*** THEM."
It continued, "I'm gonna keep talking sh** to these white f*ggots until they unlike my page. f***ing weirdo stalkers!"
Soulja denies thoes were his words: "I wanted to clear the air and let everyone know that my Facebook got hacked.
"I had administrators on my account that no longer work with me. The hackers used these old accounts to post hateful messages," he continued. "This was not done by me or anyone on my team and I'm upset that I am being labeled as a racist and homophobic person."

Erykah Badu To Headline Tupac's 40th B-Day Celebration In Atlanta

Afeni Shakur and the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation announce details, last week, for the 2PAC 40th Birthday Celebration Concert, set for Thursday (June 16) in Atlanta.
Hosted by comedian/actor Mike Epps, the birthday celebration will be headlined by Erykah Badu, and include performances by the likes of Roy Ayers, Eric Roberson, Too $hort, Bun B, and 8 Ball & MJG.
"I am deeply honored to have been invited by Afeni Shakur to celebrate her son's remarkable life," said Badu. "I don't take this distinction for granted."
The event goes down at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. Proceeds from the event benefit the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation.
Since 2009, presenters, Mike Epps and Afeni Shakur have drawn thousands of Tupac fans from around the globe to Atlanta for an annual day of music, art and culture, in recognition of the icon's lasting impact and influence.
The event "aims to not only revive Tupac's spirit through art, but offer a prophetic representation of the late artist at age 40," says a press release. The day will be complete with a musical soundtrack that spans the soulful jazz sounds of Roy Ayers and to West Coast rap contemporaries such as Too $hort.
"With this event, we help keep Tupac's legacy alive," says Epps, "not only by bringing together the fans that know and love his music, but also by supporting his organization, and the causes he worked so hard for during his lifetime."
Past celebrations have included performances by Rick Ross, Wacka Flocka, Lil Scrappy, M1 of Dead Prez and more. At last year's concert, Dekalb County officials presented Afeni Shakur and Mike Epps with a proclamation officially naming June 16th as "Tupac Day."
This June 16 will mark the 40th birthday of Tupac Shakur, a man whose impact on culture worldwide through his art, activism and passion is felt to this day. This year, fans, family, artists and performers alike will gather at the Atlanta Symphony Hall to both celebrate the life and further the cause of this remarkable individual.
Tickets are priced at $45-150.00, and are available exclusively at 16thofJune.com.

Birdman Loses $2 Million On NBA Finals Bet

When you bet big, there's always a chance you'll lose big.
While Cash Money Records CEO, Birdman, may have won a $1 million cash bet during the Super Bowl earlier this year, his supposed bet on the NBA Finals made him take an "L."
The record label owner/rapper previously revealed that he had placed a $2 million bet on the Miami Heat to take the Finals series.
However, on Sunday night (June 12), his winning hopes went out the window.
For the first time in franchise history, the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Championship, beating the Heat 105-95 in Game Six. The game reached the highest television ratings for a Game Six in 11 years.
During the game, Birdman seemed confident that his team would win, tweeting (@Birdman5Star): "Don't panic real n****z know tha rules stay focus.miami heat YMCMBusiness.2million gone turn 2. 4m."
In the end, the Heat lost. Despite the loss, Birdman headed out to LIV nightclub in Miami, where he partied the night away, alongside Lil Wayne and the Dallas Mavericks.
$2 million shouldn't hurt Birdman's pockets much. Back in March, Forbes ranked him in the top 5 of their "Wealthiest Hip-Hop Artists" list, worth an estimated net worth of $100 million. Despite the staggering number, the hip-hop mogul insisted -- in an interview shortly after -- that the estimated number was "low for a n****" like him.

Mavs Win the N.B.A. Championship

Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesDwyane Wade drove through the Mavericks defense in the first half.

Year one of the Superstar Experiment came to a crashing halt, as Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Terry and the Dallas Mavericks were able to capture the franchise’s first N.B.A. championship with a 105-95 win over the Miami Heat in game 6.
Terry had 27 points, 19 of which came in the first half on an 8-10 effort from the field.
After a slow start exacerbated by poor shooting and foul trouble, Nowitzki did what he needed to do in the second half, much like he’s done through the series and throughout the playoffs. He finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds.
After a great start that included three made jump-shots in the first quarter, LeBron James once again fell apart, loosing his confidence and deferring to teammates. The Heat’s best runs came with LeBron on the bench, and his only sense of urgency appeared with less that two minutes to go in the game. The Heat were minus 24 with LeBron on the floor. He finished with 21 points and just four rebounds.
Dwyane Wade did what he could do with clogged driving lanes and finished with 17 points. Chris Bosh had a quiet 19 on only 9 shots.

Jennifer Hudson Hospitalized For Food Poisoning, Cancels Morning Show Gig

Singer Jennifer Hudson was hospitalized early Friday morning (June 10), moments before she was scheduled to hit the stage for a live performance for CBS' "The Early Show" Outdoor Concert Series.
The singer canceled the show after experiencing "severe abdominal pain,"
A rep for the sick singer told photographers and eager fans waiting for the show that Hudson was "unable to perform" and had been taken to hospital to seek treatment for stomach issues.
A rep for Hudson announced later Friday that she "was treated for food poisoning and released."
Earlier that same morning, before her CBS gig, Hudson took to the stage as scheduled for "Good Morning America's" Summer Concert Series.
After the Central Park show, she was on her way across Manhattan to CBS studios for her next performance when she fell ill and had to detour to a hospital.

Kreayshawn Discusses Feelings About Nicki Minaj, Says She Didn't Diss Her

There's a line on Kreayshawn's viral hit, "Gucci Gucci," that many have speculated was a jab at pop superstar Nicki Minaj... was it?
We're unsure, but in an interview with Complex.com, the young Oakland rapper explained -- when asked about her influences -- that while she respects Nicki's talent, she thinks her image and message isn't the best thing for today's young girls.
"No disrespect to [Nicki Minaj] because she's got talent, she's got an image. But when it comes to inspiring young women, her message is to be a Barbie -- to be plastic, to be fake, to all have blonde hair," said Kreayshawn.

Clarice Taylor, “The Cosby Show’s” Anna Huxtable, Dies

Actress Clarice Taylor, who is perhaps best known for playing Bill Cosby’s on-screen mom, Anna Huxtable, on the ’80s sitcom The Cosby Show, has died.


Taylor was 93 when she succumbed heart failure on Monday. Clarice began her acting career in the New York City theater over sixty years ago. She moved to TV and film in the 1960s, auditioning by day and working at the Post Office at night until she landed her big break; the role of Harriet on the children’s public television classic Sesame Street. Some of her TV credits include Sanford and Son, Play Misty for Me, and Tell Me That You Love Me, Junie Moon. The actress also accompanied Michael Jackson and Diana Ross in the movie musical The Wiz. (Clarice played “The Good Witch,” for those not in-the-know…)
Taylor’s portrayal of Anna Huxtable, earned her an Emmy nomination in 1986. She is survived by two children and five grandchildren.

Miami Rapper Rick Ross at GQ Magazine Shoot – See the Video Inside

Yep, if we didn’t have the video, we wouldn’t have believed it either. Either way, you have to give the man his props. From scoring the cover of Vibe’s “Sexy Issue” to now being summoned by the Style vets at GQ, Rick Ross is definitely climbing up the mainstream totem pole in a major way. Enough with the editorializing, check out the video for yourselves. He does come across pretty ‘hood though – note the shot of him in the video smoking a blunt while he’s getting a haircut. #Nowthat’sHood!
Parting Question: StyleBlazers – at this moment, is Rick Ross the biggest thing moving in Rap Music?

Rashard Lewis Speaks On Rumors He Slept With Lebron’s Girlfriend

J-Hud Hospitalized For Food Poisoning

Poor J-Hud:

Jennifer Hudson briefly checked into an NYC hospital on Friday after a live performance on Good Morning America. The singer, Oscar-winning actress and mom, 29, was suffering “severe abdominal pains,” her rep told Just Jared. “She was treated for food poisoning and released.”
Hudson’s illness forced her to cancel an additional appearance on CBS’ The Early Show.

Get well, soon.

Capone-N-Noreaga Parts Ways After 15 Years As A Duo

After 15 years together, the duo known as C-N-N (Capone-N-Noreaga) has announced that they are officially splitting up to focus on their respective solo careers.
N.O.R.E. took to Twitter on Wednesday morning (June 8), reveal the news to fans.
"I'm not making another war report album or another N.O.R.E ALBUM IMMA MAKE THE 1st S.U.P.E.R.T.H.U.G album cause that what's good for now," he wrote (@Noreaga).
"CNN was a great group. Time has changed I must move on. Doesn't it hurt to watch a boxer still box when he's heart isn't in it, that's what the group feels like right now."
Despite the break-up, N.O.R.E. made it clear that there's no issues with Capone. In fact, he says their friendship remains intact.
"We still homeys brothers family just we both need to do something different musically!!!" he wrote.
Capone and N.O.R.E. met in 1992, while on kitchen duty at Collins Correctional Facility in New York. After they were both released, they began performing in local venues, and eventually earned themselves a spot in The Source magazine's Unsigned Hype column.
In 1996, they dropped their debut album, The War Report, in spite of Capone's imprisonment for parole violation ... and they've been considered hip-hop vets ever since.
While N.O.R.E. is focusing on his solo career, Capone is following suit and, according to his Twitter bio, is also working on a solo release.

Fat Joe Sheds 88 Pounds With Diet & Exercise

If you've seen Fat Joe's latest music video for his song, "Drop A Body," you'll notice how slim he looks. Well, that's because he's lost quite a bit of weight.
When the video dropped, it drew a lot of people's attention, but no one knew how or what Joe decided to drop all the weight.
Joey Crack explained that the loss of several friends from heart attacks last year, motivated him to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
"What's the difference between me and them? Health doesn't discriminate just because I'm famous," Joe explained.
He tells the paper that he started eating a more balanced diet. Instead of half-chickens and pasta plates, he not eats six small daily meals of fruit, veggies, whole grains and lean meats. This, combined a two-hour workout regimen, helped him shed 88 pounds.
"I was always LL Cool J in a fat guy's body," he joked.
However, all joking aside, the rapper wants to be here for his daughter ... and well, he's got a lot to live for.
"I can't leave my daughter behind. I want to be here for her; I don't want to die on her."
Fat Joe once topped the scales at 425 pounds, but now hovers in the 265-pound range. While he's lost weight in the past, weighing around 350 pounds in the past few years, he says he's always piled back on because he "wasn't focused."
"I'm addicted to food; I love food," he admits. "It's like a crack addict -- he hits rock bottom and he says, 'All right, forget it. I'm not going to get high anymore.'"