new

Beyoncé’s homemade ‘kintsugi Lemonade’

During a brief moment in her brilliant ode to triumph over adversity, Beyoncé’s Lemonade visual album features a kintsugi piece. No, not the latest Grammy-nominated

Illinois’ new laws for 2015

Every new year brings a lot with it, including a new set of laws for citizens to follow. Check below for a few of Illinois’ highlights.

Jay Z’s 40/40 beverage hits Duane Reade and Walgreens

Rapper/business mogul Jay Z has released his new “40/40” drink in Duane Reade and Walgreens stores across the U.S. Named after his famous nightclub, the beverage is listed as retailing for $1.99 and is sports-themed drink with an Arnold Palmer-ish flavor.

Tyler Perry’s latest play: ‘Madea’s Neighbors From Hell’

The recently-released “Madea’s Neighbors From Hell” is the latest stageplay from Tyler Perry. Featuring Wess Morgan and Cassi Davis, the play features Perry’s trademark spiritually-uplifting messages and high-energy gospel music.

Missy Elliott breaks her silence, says she’s working with Faith

Hip-hop star Missy Elliott hasn’t released an album in nine years, and the chart-topping rapper, singer, songwriter and producer has largely stayed away from the spotlight during that time. In a recent interview with Yahoo!, the former “Misdemeanor” Elliott spoke about her lengthy hiatus, and she revealed that her silence has been due to her perfectionism more than anything.

Timbaland says he’s working on Jodeci comeback album

The superproducer has announced that he will be involved in an upcoming Jodeci comeback album. MTV News reports that Timbo has confirmed his involvement in a project. Timbaland shared the news via a Hang With video chat from his tour bus.

Lyor Cohen explains why his new label is partnering with Twitter

Cohen has now announced that 300 will be partnering with popular social media platform Twitter, in what Cohen hopes will help provide artists with development tools that can only be gleaned from understanding social media; as well as using the site to help find new talent.

Waka Flocka Flame preparing to join ‘Love & Hip Hop Atlanta’

Rapper Waka Flocka Flame has been added to the upcoming season of “Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta.” According to various reports, Waka has signed on to join the cast of VH1’s popular reality show, along with his fiance Tammy Rivera. No wedding date has been set for the couple, but Waka has admitted that he plans to get married very soon.

Big Boi and André 3000 reportedly working on new solo albums

Andre 3000 and Big Boi may not be immediately working on new material as OutKast, but the famed emcees are apparently prepping new music for new individual projects. According to Mr. DJ, OutKast’s longtime DJ and co-producer, 3000 and Big Boi are hard at work on new solo material. Big Boi has already released two solo albums, and Mr. DJ says he believes 3000 will release his solo debut sometime this year.

Kid Cudi apologizes to his fans for not releasing new music

The Ohio native made headlines last spring when it was announced that he was departing Kanye West’s G.O.O.D.. Music after becoming one of the bigger names on the label. But since then, Cudi hasn’t been making many waves–or much music. The rapper took to Twitter this weekend and apologized for his extended silence and promised new music in the form of an EP due in February.

Karrine Steffans planning ‘Confessions’ TV show

Former video vixen-turned-bestselling author Karrine Steffans has revealed that she’s planning to launch a scripted TV series for FOX. Steffans, who became a household name when she published Confessions of a Video Vixen, which revealed sordid backstage antics between her and several celebrities, told KMEL’s Shay Diddy that a show is now in the works.

Lauryn Hill pays homage to the Fugees during her NYC show

Lauryn Hill re-emerged this week at the Bowery Ballroom on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, and the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter-rapper made it clear that, despite all that she’s been through, she’s still one of the most captivating performers of her generation.

Marvin Sapp mixes urban contemporary and gospel on new release

Marvin Sapp is one of the most celebrated artists in contemporary gospel. The superstar pastor and singer is stepping into a new phase of his career with the release of his first holiday-themed project, Christmas Card. While many may expect Sapp to take a “traditional” route with the seasonal album, he says that he decided to go in the complete opposite direction.

Yo Gotti talks about his new album ‘I Am,’ and explains Juicy J ‘diss’

Yo Gotti is having a very good year. The Memphis-based rapper inked a new deal with Epic Records earlier this year, after an extended period of uncertainty regarding his career. Not only did it give him a new label home, but it also provided a launchpad for his CMG (Cocaine Muzik Group) imprint. With the deal in place, Gotti set to work on his sixth studio album. With I Am set to hit the streets this week, Gotti sat down with RO and reflected on where he is and what he’s been through.

Dee-1 explains why he chose to sign with RCA over YMCMB

Louisiana native Dee-1 is in a great mood. And why shouldn’t he be? The rhymer just inked a brand new deal with RCA, and he sat down with RO to explain why he decided to make the leap from indie sensation to major label star, and why RCA was where he decided to set up shop.