In a pretty odd happening, Danity Kane performed on Country music’s version of American Idol, Nashville Star last night. Yes, I have no idea why they were booked to perform there either. Anyway, about the performance, it was pretty good. The ladies have definitely had better live vocal showings, however their stage presence compensated for that 100%, they really worked the stage like the seasoned performers they’ve become.

What do you think of the performance?

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I really enjoyed the performance. Though I’ve seen Estelle offer more polished live showings of the song, having Kanye on stage as well as the 30, 000 strong crowd really made for an awesome atmosphere.

‘American Boy’ is lifted from Estelle’s fantastic new album ‘Shine’ which is in stores now.

What do you think of the performance?

An unreleased Day26 track, which is believed to be a left-over from their debut album, surfaced recently. Produced by Bryan Michael Cox, it’s pretty evident why ‘Must Be Love’ wasn’t included on their record – it’s a real run-of-the-mill, uninspired slow-jam. Fortunately, Cox and the Bad Boy five-piece fare better on their other joint efforts such as ‘Are We In This Together’.

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In a recent entry on his official blog, Kanye West took up for Soulja Boy in his escalating ‘beef’ with rapper/actor Ice T. Here’s what Kanye had to say on the issue:

Soulja boy is fresh ass hell and is actually the true meaning of what hip hop is sposed to be. He came from the hood, made his own beats, made up a new saying, new sound and a new dance with one song. He had all of America rapping this summer. If that ain’t Hip Hop then what is? A bunch of wannabe keep it real rappers that ain’t even relevant, recycling samples trying to act like it’s 96 again and all they do is hate on new shit? Niggas always talk about the golden age but for a 13 year old kid, this is the golden age!!! That song was so dope cause everything he said had a hidden meaning… that’s Nas level shit… he just put it over some steel drums which is also some Nas shit if you had the 2nd album cassette with the bonus track “Silent Murder” on it. In closing… new niggas get ya money$$$$$$$$$$ Keep this shit fresh and original…. ain’t no fuckin’ rules to this shit and that’s what real hip hop is to me.

– Kanye West

Interesting…lol. In other news, Ice T has responded to Soulja Boy’s response (if that makes any sense lol):

It’s increasing seeming like an Old Skool vs New Skool situation…

Your thoughts?

The video for Part 2 (Freemasons Mix) of Solange’s new single ‘I Decided’ premiered today. Largely the same, this video will be serviced to the European market as the first release from her forthcoming LP ‘Sol-Angel & The Hadley Street Dreams’ (due August 26th).

I must say that I’m really feeling this version of the song (peep the That Grape Juice chart on the right) and feel as though it has the better chance of making an impact.

Your thoughts?

It has been confirmed that following his departure from Sony earlier this year, R&B singer Omarion has signed with hit-maker Timbaland’s record label – Mosley Music Group – an off-shoot of Interscope Records.

“I’m really excited about this project. Timbaland is like family to me, so it’s always great to work with family and I think this is going to be my best album yet. I’m happy to call Mosley Music Group my new home.” {Source}

Here’s hoping things work out for the better this go round. I’ve never doubted Omarion’s talent; I do, however, wonder if he has what it takes to stand out among the Chris Brown’s and Usher’s that dominate his field.

Your thoughts?

I’ve said it several times already, yet it’s worth mentioning again as the masses are now seeing it for themselves. Michelle’s personality is real easy to gravitate to; hence allowing her to sell both herself as well as her project to full effect, which is what she done really well here IMO.

In other Michelle news, she will be appearing on BET this week also.

Your thoughts?

Adulthood catches up with Sam (Noel Clarke) upon his release from jail, having served 6 years for the manslaughter of rival Trife. The film follows his journey over 24 hours as he is forced to confront the people he has hurt, and see first-hand the effects of his actions all those years ago. Some have moved on, others are stuck with the repercussions of that night, but one thing’s for certain – everyone has been forced to grow up.

As Sam struggles to deal with his guilt and adjust to the outside world, he also has to deal with those seeking revenge for Trife’s death. As he is pursued through the streets of West London, he wonders if a new cycle of violence has started and if there is any way to bring an end to it as things start to escalate beyond his control.

That Grape Juice were fortunate enough to be invited to an early press screening of the film last week. As one who has always been rather scepitcal about the UK film industry – most especially the Urban branch – I was highly impressed with ‘Adulthood’. From the plot, to the acting, to the capturing of London life, the film really shines.

‘Adulthood’ Hits Cinema’s June 20th

Damn. Whoever leaked that to the net was wrong for doing so; it’s really not a good look for Buck whichever way this mess turns out in the end. Still, saying that, it really drives home the shadiness that goes on behind the scenes; all the constant flaunting rappers like Buck do of a lifestyle they in reality don’t lead is made all the more evident here.

Your thoughts?