NEW MUSIC: "X-Ray"- Rezonate feat. Jhyve

New music! In collaboration with Toronto producer Rezonate,  singer Jhyve has released a new track entitled, "X-Ray!"

The singer speaks on his ex trying to come back into his life out of nowhere (how many times has that happened to us all?!). "Now you hitting me up like 'What's going on?'" he sings on the pre-chorus. "You must have forgot how you did me wrong..." In spite of this ex trying to talk to him again, he has the "x-ray" vision to see right through it!

Since the song's release, "X-Ray” has climbed to 38 on Spotify’s “Canada Viral Top 50” and has earned over 250,000 views on YouTube! The song and production is definitely hot, so I wanted to be sure to share with y'all!

Check out the track below!

RECAP: "O Romeo, Romeo"- Growing Up Hip Hop S1, E4

I am LOVING Growing Up Hip Hop! Picking up from last week, Angela chases after Kristinia, who walked away from their discussion about her cancellation at Angela's showcase. Kristinia explains the entire situation about her father, and breaks down in tears, apologizing. Angela didn't know, but insists she'll be there for her through this. They make up, and promise to have a good time at the Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival later.

Later, at the music festival, Angela goes to see TJ behind the scenes. 80,000 people have come out, and, of course, TJ is nervous. As Run-DMC performs, they pay tribute to Jam Master Jay, and bring out TJ to spin a little bit. When TJ gets on the ones and twos, he feels like he has an out-of-body experience, sharing this moment with his father up above. He kills it, and everyone congratulates him. TJ definitely made his dad proud! Everyone was really moved, especially Kristinia. So inspired, in fact, that, as soon as she gets back to LA, she decides to really focus on finding her dad and rebuilding their relationship.

MUSIC VIDEO: "Hymn for the Weekend"-Coldplay feat. Beyoncé

Coldplay has officially released their music video for "Hymn for the Weekend," featuring Beyoncé!

Shot on location in India and directed by Ben Mor, the video features the beautiful citizens, buildings, and clothing. It's very vivid and gorgeous to watch. And, of course, my fave Bey looks flawless! I really like the song too! It's very soothing and chill to me. Plus this makes me even more excited for their performance together at the Super Bowl!

Check out the video below!

Dawn Richard Reveals New Single, Tour Dates

Dawn Richard has released her second single, "Not Above That," from her upcoming third solo album, RED*emp*tion!

According to Rolling Stone, the electronic, upbeat track was produced by Machinedrum and written by Dawn and Maya Vik, Dawn's distinctive, sexy vocals stand out on the track. "If I beg for it, will you get me off?" she asks. "I want it all." RED*emp*tion is the final album of her trilogy, which includes Goldenheart and Blackheart.

Check out the track below!

RECAP: "Out For Blood"-The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines Episode 10

The Challenge of the Bloodlines was definitely eventful last night! Picking up from last week's episode, five team remain and it's a family reunion! As TJ announced last week, everyone is now back with their bloodlines. As everyone relaxes for the night, TJ sends a text saying, "Tomorrow's challenge will show which one of you will weigh your teammate down!" It definitely sounds like this will be a challenge testing endurance, and now that everyone is with their individual bloodlines, who knows what will happen!

The next day, TJ announces that this challenge will be no joke. In fact, this is going to show who will be able to make it through the Final! In the challenge "Weight for Me," the teams will race up a mountain, complete various checkpoints along the way. The major catch is one person will have to carry a heavy bag (40 lbs for the girls, 70 lbs for the guys), and the other person will have to complete the checkpoint. They will switch tasks after every checkpoint. The team to complete all of the checkpoints first will win, and the last team to finish will be automatically going to The Pit. With the game THIS close to the end, every team needs to dig deep to guarantee their spot in the Final!

Tyra Banks Welcomes Son with Boyfriend Erik Asla

Wait, WHAT?! Tyra Banks is a mom, y'all!

The legendary model and businesswoman announced that she and her boyfriend, Swedish photographer Erik Asla, welcomed a baby boy via surrogate on Wednesday, January 27! She confirmed the news and the baby's name to PEOPLE.

Matthew McConaughey and Charlize Theron Set to Make Animated Film Debut

Matthew McConaughey and Charlize Theron are shifting gears as they appear in the upcoming film Kubo and the Two Strings! This is the duo's first step away from live-action film making, making their first official animated debut in the movie.

The duo decided to do the film because it is something that their kids can watch. Matthew tells PEOPLE that he would read to his three children a little section each night. McConaughey made the story apart of his family by connecting with children first. Charlize shared an adjacent story as she also shared the story with her children.

RECAP: "Woulda, Coulda, Almost, What?"- Zoe Ever After S1, E4

Zoe Ever After is turning out to be a pretty decent show! Picking up from last week, Zoe goes out with a guy named Stephen, who she used to have a thing in college. Things are actually looking pretty good between them. As they talk, a random guy approaches Zoe trying to talk to her. Stephen confronts him, though not violently. However, Zoe goes further, threatening to hurt the guy with her Louboutins! Later, Stephen and Zoe make out in the elevator on the way up to Zoe's place, missing their stop several times! Stephen tells her that if she hadn't dropped out of school to marry Gemini, they could've had something happen sooner between them. This is true! Stephen seems like a good guy for her. They flirt a little more, and end up making out half of the night!

NEW MUSIC: "Work"-Rihanna feat. Drake (Plus ANTI Track List!)

Rihanna has officially released her newest single, "Work," featuring Drake! Plus, Tidal leaks her track list for upcoming album ANTI!

TV PREVIEW: Preachers in Atlanta

The Preachers franchise has expanded and finally reached Atlanta, Georgia. Preachers of Atlanta will be airing on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 on Oxygen at 8:00 p.m. EST/9 p.m. CST. The show has not aired and is getting a lot of attention already. The official trailer has been released by the network for viewers!

Pastor Le' Andria Johnson states in the trailer, "I take it to the streets. I pass out cigarettes, and condoms, I do all of that, but at the end of the day, when God tells me to do something, I do it." Pastor Johnson along with the other Pastors on the show take a different approach to preaching and reaching out to the youth and congregation. Pastor Canton Jones raps about God to get his youth to listen. Pastor Kimberly Jones-Pothier says, "I preach in tutus and my heels because I preach better when I'm me."

NEW EP: Animor - LSTNYT

Back in December, we featured singer LSTNYT's (pronounced "last night) cover of "HDIYL (How Deep Is Your Love) on the site. Well, the artist has officially dropped his debut project titled Animor, a great project you guys should listen to!

Check out the full project below!

RECAP: "Run To Miami"- Growing Up Hip Hop S1, E3

How are you guys liking Growing Up Hip Hop? Picking up from last week, Romeo insists that he didn't send flowers to Angela at her workout with Toneata, and Angela now believes they came from the stalker. Romeo had no idea about this person, and is upset. He tells Angela that she needs to take this seriously and go to the cops. Angela, not really wanting to be lectured about it, gets up and leave, and, by the look on his face, Romeo is clearly worried.

Meanwhile, on Skid Row in downtown LA, Kristinia goes to a rescue mission to meet with an addiction specialist, Pastor Jonathan Russell. She opens about her father's addiction and the fact that he's missing, looking for guidance. Pastor Russell explains that, for a lot of people coming out of jail, they feel very alone.. However, it takes them time to get to the point of wanting to contact others. Kristinia understands, but she wants to reconnect and help her father get to a better place. Pastor Russell also lets her know that there is only so much she herself can do. James will have to want to change himself. All Kristinia can do is wait, which is heartbreaking. This is her father, and she has no idea where he could be or if he's even alive. Devastating.

NEW MUSIC: "Amen"-Anthony Hamilton

PRAISE! Anthony Hamilton has released his latest single from his forthcoming fifth studio album entitled,"Amen!"

Produced by Salaam Remi and James Poyser, the track features Anthony's soulful, distinctive vocals as he gives testimony about the special woman that has brought so much joy, happiness and love in his life. "If I had to testify after all these years, here's the truth," Anthony croons. "It's like prayers went up and sent me you!" 

Anthony said about the new single and his upcoming album, "I made this album to be refreshing, uplifting and healing for everyone out there dealing with life’s day-to-day struggles. "Amen" is a show of appreciation for all the good women who make life beautiful and full of love for us men. Now let the folk say Amen and Amen!”

Definitely loving this song! Check it out below!

RECAP: "Blood Versus Love"-The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines Episode 9

The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines is always throwing us all for a loop! Picking up from last week, the house has another fun night out. In a confessional, Johnny admits he doesn't want to go against Abram because the guy is crazy. Abram himself still wants to get rid of John still, though impressed by his tactics.

The next day, the cast has their next challenge, "Air Pockets!" There's is a giant boat way out to sea, with a flag 150 feet away from the boat. Each player has to swim to the flag...underwater!  There are six air pockets (small cases where the players can get air really quick), and each one only has enough room for two people. Each person will have to catch their breath to get to the next air pocket, having to keep moving forward to keep making room for other team members. If you come back up for air, you're disqualified. The team who gets the most people across to the flag the fastest will win. And, since this is a guy's elimination day, each team will have to vote in a guy from the losing team for elimination! With the game being so close to the end, you definitely don't want to have to go in now!

RECAP: "The Smoke Alarm Always Rings Twice"- Zoe Ever After S1, E3

Zoe Ever After is turning out to be a pretty good sitcom for BET! Picking up from last week, Zoe has a date with this dumb but fine guy Darius. However, after seeing him picking his nose on the video intercom, she quickly cancels! Who could blame her?!

At work the next day, Zoe tries to balance a million and one things! addition to all of the work and meetings she has for Zoe Moon Cosmetics, she has to have a meeting with some of the moms at Xavier's school about a fundraiser auction. The goal is to raise money for X's class to go on a special school trip to study astronomy. All the while, she is trying so hard to separate herself from Gemini in terms of business as well (turns out some of her products have boxing references).

In The Spotlight: Artist & Producer Maxxamillion

Another great spotlight to start the week! As always, if you are or represent an upcoming artist, designer, etc., who is interested in a feature on The Spotlight, please visit our Features/Submissions page for more information.

Today, we have artist and producer Maxxamillion! Born and raised in Virginia Beach, VA, Maxx grew up playing sports mostly. However, “at the age of 12, I took an interest in hip-hop and was really fascinated with the beats,” he said. After a friend showed him how to create a beat on the keyboard, he created a makeshift home studio, and began working on beats almost every day. In his senior year of high school, he had the opportunity to work with Grammy award-winning producer Teddy Riley. “I knew I seriously wanted to pursue music by getting the chance to be around Teddy and all the other producers and artists that came through [Teddy’s studio] Future [Recording] Studios,” Maxx said. “It impacted me and from then, [it] became my lifelong goal to do music. Not only do it, but be successful at it.”

RECAP: "The Struggle Is Real"- Growing Up Hip Hop S1, E2

Growing Up Hip Hop is getting good! Picking up from the series premiere, Angela runs out of TJ's party after seeing a girl who she thinks might be her stalker! Turns out that this girl writes on her page every day, and Angela is all freaked out! As Angela sits in the car, the girl actually walks out, and Angela has the car take off. Damon Dash calls the girl out, but she's really just a super fan. Yeah she can probably be a little extra, but the girl clearly doesn't mean Angela any harm. She promises to change her approach.

At Kanayo's apartment, Angela talks about her superfan, with Kanayo admitting that she doesn't think that the girl was really stalking her. She tells Angela to hire security and not become a prisoner to this person. Though Kanayo thinks she's overreacting, Angela is truly scared. I understand her paranoia! If you have some person out there who is following your every move, of course, you would be afraid like that.

MUSIC VIDEO: "I'm The Man"-Mosliano

Last year, we featured rapper Mosliano on The Spotlight! The rapper is busy creating new visuals, and has released a new music video for his track, "I'm The Man." On the track, Mosliano talks heavy about what he brings to the table as a rapper and a man in general. 

Check out the video below!

RECAP: "Blood Is Thicker Than Mud"- The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines, Episode 8

The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines has been going by so quickly...we're already on the eighth episode! Picking up from last week, Bananas confronts KellyAnne about the Red Team planning to throw the next challenge, so that she and her bloodline Anthony aren't nominated for The Pit. In fact, they want to throw in Cara Maria to go up against Brianna or Rianna. KellyAnne doesn't know what she wants to do, on the fence about playing the game dirty, even though Johnny tells her to stop thinking with her emotions. Anthony manages to convince her to do things their way in order to make it to the final. Everyone plays a little dirty on these challenges...it's just the way of the game. However, Jamie peeps KellyAnne and Anthony's alliance with Johnny, and wants to work to send them home.

The 2016 Oscar Nominees are Revealed!

The 2016 Oscar nominations were held live this morning, with everyone either streaming or scrolling down the Academy's Twitter to see who received a nod!

A first set of nominees were announced by directors Guillermo del Toro and Ang Lee, while the remaining categories were announced by Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs and actor John Krasinski.

This year's Oscars will be hosted by Chris Rock, and held on February 28 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood at 7 p.m EST/4 p.m. PST. Check out the nominees for the major categories below!

MUSIC VIDEO: "Love In The 90z" - Mack Wilds

One of my favorite young R&B artists, Mack Wilds (aka Michael from The Wire,), recently released the video for his new single "Love In The 90z" off of his upcoming second album. Inspired by Spike Lee, the visual was shot by famed video director Benny Boom in the same area as Spike's classic film, Do The Right Thing.

Check the video out below!

RECAP: "The Third Wheel Gets Slapped"-Zoe Ever After S1, E2

How are you guys liking Zoe Ever After? I think it's a pretty cool show to watch with a great plot! Picking up from last week, Zoe goes to an art exhibit and trashes a piece while, unknowingly, talking to the artist! The guy's name is Jordan, and, after Zoe apologizes, the two seem to hit it off.

The next day, Gemini arrives to take Xavier camping, and Zoe warns him to keep Xavier safe and free of ticks! At the office, Zoe tells Valente and Pearl that she plans to LIVE this weekend, being single and fabulous! Meanwhile, Pearl expresses her serious struggle in the dating pool. She's hellbent on her wedding date in five months, but that's going to be difficult since she has no groom yet! Pearl did manage to snag a new date, and wants Zoe and Valente to come with her as parachutes in case she needs to be rescued. However, Zoe has a date that night herself with Jordan!

REPORT: Priyanka Chopra in Talks to Star in Upcoming Baywatch Film

Priyanka Chopra may be getting her red swimsuit ready!

According to Entertainment Weekly, the Quantico star is in talks to star in a movie remake of the 90s hit TV show! The film will also star Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron, as well as Kelly Rohrbach and Alexandra Daddario.

NEW MUSIC: "The Glory" - L-Dro

In honor of his birthday on January 7, artist L-Dro dropped a new track "The Glory!"

Produced by The Olympicks, the rapper recounts the harsh reality of growing up in our hometown of Akron, OH and making it to the top of the rap game.

Be on the lookout for L-Dro's new project Higher Education coming soon, and check out "The Glory" below!

NEW MUSIC: "Real Friends" - Kanye West feat. Ty Dolla $ign/"No More Parties In L.A." (Snippet) feat. Kendrick Lamar

After Kim Kardashian teased us that a new Kanye West track was coming today and that Kanye's "G.O.O.D. Fridays" will be coming back, Kanye has blessed us with a new track "Real Friends" feat. Ty Dolla $ign! Along with that track, the rapper also serves us a snippet of another song "No More Parties In L.A." feat. Kendrick Lamar at the end of the track.

Check out the track below and check out Genius' break down of the lyrics on their site!

REPORT: Beyoncé to Join Coldplay for Super Bowl 50 Halftime Show

Beyoncé is reportedly making her Super Bowl performance return on February 7th, 2016 for Super Bowl 50! 

RECAP: "The Master Plan" -Growing Up Hip Hop Series Premiere

They were born with the name...now they gotta earn the fame! weTV's new series, Growing Up Hip Hop, chronicles the lives of hip hop royalty: Romeo Miller (son of Master P), Angela Simmons (daughter of Rev Run), Kristinia DeBarge (daughter of James DeBarge), Egypt Criss (daughter of Pepa of Salt-n-Pepa), TJ Mizell (son of Jam Master Jay), and Boogie Dash (son of Damon Dash). These six young adults are busy making their own individual empires, not wanting to rely on their parents' names to make it!

The first episode of the six-part series gave us a sneak peek into each of their lives, who they are and what they do. From the looks of things, it's definitely going to be an interesting show!

Check out my recap below!

RECAP: "Blood Brothers"-The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines Episode 7

The Challenge: Battle of the Bloodlines was too psychotic last night! Picking up from last week's back to back episode 5 and episode 6, there are eight teams left in the house. Johnny talks with Vince about breaking up the rookie alliance by revealing the truth about Cara Maria's flirtation with Thomas to Abram! That will absolutely shake things up in the house! It's a diabolical plan, because EVERYONE knows that Abram is straight up crazy and unstable! Vince eventually tells Abram that Cara and Thomas have been spending time together, going beyond flirting, but Abram wants to get the facts first. He doesn't trust Johnny and Vince since they haven't really talked this entire time. However, that seed is planted in Abram's head, and he's the type to let that news sit until he goes off!

NEW MUSIC: "Beggin' & Pleadin'"-Brandy

Looks like Brandy really is getting "back in the swing of things" on all fronts! After the premiere of her new BET series Zoe Ever After, she went on Twitter to announce the release of new music!

Check out Brandy's new track  "Beggin' & Pleadin'" below!

RECAP: "Zoe and Fan Dude"-Zoe Ever After Series Premiere

After the end of hit show The Game, Brandy is back on BET with her new show, Zoe Ever After! Brandy stars as Zoe Moon, the owner of Zoe Moon Cosmetics, who is getting back into the swing of things trying to move on from her soon-to-be ex-husband, celebrity boxer Gemini Moon (Dorian Missick)! Gemini cheated on her, so she chose to move on to focus on herself and her own happiness. Balancing co-parenting, dating, and a business will be challenging for Zoe, but I'm definitely interested  to see how this show unfolds. I'll be watching and recapping all season!

Check out my recap of the premiere below!

Ryan Coogler Confirmed As Director Of Marvel's Black Panther

Marvel's Black Panther officially has a director!

According to Screen Rant,  the chosen one to take on the movie is director Ryan Coogler!  The 29-year-old director has already directed successful films Fruitvale Station and Creed, which both starred and have helped build the resume of Michael B. Jordan.

Justin Timberlake Set to Serve as Executive Music Producer for Trolls

Justin Timberlake is set to serve as executive producer for the music for upcoming DreamWorks Animation comedy, Trolls!

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the singer/songwriter will write and perform original songs for the movie, as well as oversee creative direction for the film's music. In addition, he will also voice one of the characters, named Branch, who is described as an "hilariously hardcore survivalist who hides his surprising true colors."

NEW MIXTAPE: Stages-Chris Buxton

Hip hop artist Chris Buxton has released his latest project Stages for listeners! Stages features production from Canis Major, Ryan Brammier and Quinzy Sousa, among others. Having built up great online buzz as well as a solid fan base, Chris brings a great, well-rounded mixtape with a variety of topics that listeners will be able to connect with! 

Check out the tape below!

In The Spotlight: Singer/Songwriter Kristinia DeBarge

We have another great spotlight today, our first feature of 2016! As always, if you or your client is interested in being featured, please visit our Features/Submissions page for more info! 

Today, we have singer/songwriter, actress, AND model, Kristinia DeBarge! The star opened up to us about her start in music as a part of the famous DeBarge clan, her own aspirations for her career, and her new upcoming show on weTV, Growing Up Hip Hop!

Jaden Smith Announced as the New Face of Louis Vuitton

Jaden Smith has been announced as the newest face of Louis Vuitton!

According to PEOPLE, the brand's creative director, Nicholas Ghesquiere, shared his latest ad campaign for LV's Spring/Summer 2016 collections, which featured Jaden rocking women wear!

Check out the official ad below!

NEW MUSIC: "Pain Killers"-Terryl Lee

Happy New Year everyone! Thank you all for your continued support of the blog...so excited for what 2016 will bring! Definitely wanting to feature more work from artists, designers, and more

Independent R&B/hip hop soul singer Terryl Lee has released his latest track, "Pain Killers!" Produced by Mantra, the chilling track shows Terryl trying to cope with the bitter end of a relationship. "What about our family... promises you made to me?" he asks sadly. The singer wrote and arranged the track himself, giving listeners a vulnerable, honest track that some may be able to directly relate to.

Check out the track below!