The world's most entertaining and controversial reality show has made a successful return to the television screens of many drama thirsty individuals, including myself. In fact, the reality phenomenon has created a buzz like no other with the recent additions to the cast.

To avoid giving out spoilers on the show, I will only discuss the new additions to the show and the juicy drama that has transpired thus far. To begin, let discuss the new cast...

Let's begin with Bambi, her most notable mention is comes from Basketball wives LA. She was the quite party girl who knew how to push the buttons of her cast mates. However, on Love and Hip Hop she expresses her deep love for rapper Scrappy. However, rapper scrappy isn't to fond of being with one woman. Furthermore, the media just found out about Bambi being pregnant with his child. Unfortunately, Scrappy has stated many times that he isn't in love with Bambi, but will make it work out for the bun in the oven.  It would seem that her story line will revolve around Scrappy and his antiques with multiple women. Check out Scrappy's confession to fellow cast member Kirk.

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Next, we have Tammy Rivera. Tammy is the fiancé of rapper, Waka Flocka Flame. They have had a tremulous 3 year relationship, however, they have finally decided to walk down the aisle. Rivera, is a business women with a very successful line of clothes for women. She is also a stylist and fashonista too the stars.

She brings a more humble, relaxed, and educated appeal to the show. However, the recent previews have shown trouble brewing with Rivera and cast member Joseline Hernandez. Check out a video about her high end fashion line.

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Then, we have the secret addition to the show. Kaleena Harper (Spoiler alert) , who is the secret cast member that will be introduced very soon. Unfortunately, the drama just began and she hasn't stepped onto the show yet. However, for those who do not know who she is, Harper, was the third member of the highly successful group Dirty Money. After their disbandment, she has been working hard to become the solo artist she was born to be.

Last but not least, we have rapper Young Joc, who has officially joined the cast. The Atlanta recording artist is known for hit songs like "Its Going Down" which garnished him major success in the early 200s. Now, he is back in the limelight and has the heart of the infamous Karlie Redd. Their relationship constantly changes with the day. In fact check out the clip below to see Joc's reaction when Karlie is caught red handed flirting with R&B singer, Jeremih.

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The show continues to gain a tremendous following. Especially after the infamous sex tape of cast member Nikko and Mimi Faust. Let's just say that the show is maintaining it's audience and racking up money for media moguls in VH1.

Stay tuned for the drama every Monday at 8:30pm/eastern time.

Ladies and gentlemen, I'm back with a brand new Destiny's Child edition of new music releases!!! These lovely ladies have been on FIRE on this past year!!! The only thing better would be a complete DC reunion. Billboard named Destiny's Child ranked them as one of the greatest trio's of all time, the ninth most successful artist/band in the 2000s, and finally they rank number 68 in its All-time Hot 100 artists in 2008. So without further a due I give you new singles from the ladies of DC!!!


Beyonce:

(Courtesy of cdn.theatlantic.com)

She is the most successful and well known member of the group after their separation in 2005. She has starred in movies such as "Austin Powers: Goldmember", "The Fighting Temptations", "Dreamgirls" and "Obsessed". Her first album "Dangerously in love" was released in 2003. Since then she has released four other albums including her self-titled surprise album that was just released earlier this year.  Her new song partition is absolutely amazing!!! Between her vocals and the bass in this song it is sure to be a song at party this summer!! Check it out below:

(Courtesy of Vevo/YouTube.com)

Kelly Rowland:

(Courtesy of ynaija.com)

Since the disbandment, Kelly has also appeared in movies such as, "Freddy vs. Jason", "The seat filler" and "Think like a man". She released her debut album, "Simply deep" in 2002. Along with rapper Nelly, she produced a worldwide #1 single "Dilemma". In 2007 she released her second album, "Ms. Kelly" and in 2011 her third album, "Here I am". Rowland was one of the four judges on this past season of the X-Factor. Her fourth album "Talk a good game" was released earlier in 2013, with the hit single "kisses down low". One of her favorite songs off her new album is "I remember". It has a great beat and her vocals are absolutely amazing. I say work Ms. Rowland work!!! Check it out below.

(Courtesy of Vevo/YouTube.com)

Michelle Williams:

(Courtesy of blackcelebritygiving)

She is a singer/songwriter, model, record producer, actress and now owns the WNBA team Chicago Sky. Williams released her first album, "Heart to yours" which became the top selling gospel release of 2002. In 2004, she released her second gospel album "Do you know". After Destiny's Child disbanded in 2005, she released her first pop album, "Unexpected" in 2008. Currently, she is making a return to inspirational music with her up and coming album "Journey to freedom". The lead single of this album, "If we had your eyes" features Fantasia. I don't think I can think of a better single to lead off her album. Both women do a fantastic job with this uplifting, inspirational song. Check it out below!

(Courtesy of Vevo/YouTube.com)

In my only hope for a Destiny's Child reunion, I give you a bonus song!!! Beyonce and Michelle joined Kelly in the studio and recorded "You changed" to be apart of Kelly's album "Talk a good game". So without further a due, here it is ladies and gentleman;

(Courtesy of Vevo/YouTube.com)

"Music is a powerful thing. A song can change your mood. Make a memory. One song can change your whole life".

Have you ever sat back and thought how influential music really is? Have you ever listened to a song that made you change your mood, whether in a good way or bad way? Do you even notice that it affects you? The real question is how do lyrics affect our behavior, mostly in our younger generation?

When I was younger I listened to mostly pop. My first hip hop cd was "Country Grammar" by Nelly. I remember one or two students had the parental advisory versions, however I only had the edited version.

(Courtesy of Amazon.com)

I always wondered why I had to be the one that couldn't hear the actual lyrics to the songs. Now looking back I can understand why. For a kid in the fifth grade a lot of the actual material and even words were not appropriate for a child my age.


Many studies have been done about how the different genres of music affect our behavior especially in teenagers. "Rap and heavy metal have especially been characterized as having a negative effect on teens". After truly thinking about it I can see why. Rap lyrics when looked at closely deal a lot with sex, drugs, alcohol and violence. Heavy metal lyrics also have a lot of these similar topics. But let's take this to a whole other level. Yes, rap has been talking about some of these topics for years sex, money, alcohol, violence, the urban lifestyle. Some of today's artists are glorifying these topics.

(Courtesy of Api.Ning.com)

What's even crazier is that in just the last 30 years is violent juvenile behavior crime has jumped by more than five hundred. Teen suicide has tripled and unwed teen pregnancy has increased immensely (United States Senate, Committee on Governmental Affairs, 1998). Now this is not just music, it is the media as a whole in general. However, today's teenagers spend about four or five hours listening to music and/or watching it on television and online. So it would be hard to believe that music is not a big influence in children's behavior.

I don't really believe that some artists realize how much of an impact their songs have on the younger generation. However, rapper Kid Cudi has recently come out and addressed this issue and he's making a very good point.

"I think the braggadocio, 'money, cash, hoes' thing need to be deaded. If your gonna be an artist, there's a time where you just have to embrace the responsibility and understand that the power of music is something so special. And to be able to do it on this magnitude where you reach millions of people. It's like why not use that for good? Why not tell kids something that they can connect with and use in their lives?" Cudi said on a recent episode of the Arsenio Hall Show.

Whether Cudi's statement will have an affect on other rappers and artists in general, only time will tell. Until then we can only attempt to monitor what our children listen to and try to explain to them that the meaning of these lyrics are not always positive or right.



References:

http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/type-music-child-listened-affect-way-behave-19821.html

http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/certain-music-genres-affect-teens-17466.html

http://www.positivemusicassociation.com/resources/article_lijequist1.htm

http://www.policymic.com/articles/85497/kid-cudi-thinks-hip-hop-could-save-kids-lives-if-only-rappers-took-this-advice

I know it's been awhile since you've had some new music in your life, but have no fear I am back with another installment!! This week we have some very talented artists in our lineup. Most are up and coming artists and one is a very popular well known figure. All three artist's songs will have you jammin' while you try and get through the very last of this winter season.

Jennifer Hudson:
This singer, actress and spokesperson is back in action with her new single featuring T.I. Hudson was a finalist on American Idol in 2004, finishing in seventh place. This was one of the most shocking moments when she was surprisingly eliminated. In 2006, she made her acting debut in the movie "Dreamgirls. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for best supporting actress, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA award, the NAACP image award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. In 2008, she won a Grammy for her debut album "Jennifer Hudson". Later in 2008, Hudson stepped out of the public eye for three months after her mother, brother and nephew were all killed in a shooting. She released her second album "I remember me" in 2011. She recentley cut ties with weight watchers after losing 80lbs. Now she is back with her brand new single featuring TI, "I can't describe (the way i feel)". This song is sure to put you in a good mood. It will sure to be the perfect summer jam for you and your boo. Check it out below:

Mateo:
Iman Jordan also known as Mateo is a pop/R&B singer/songwriter from Cincinnati, OH. He was originally signed with myspace records before departing with them in 2010. He is now signed to the Krucial Noise imprint of Interscope Records. He is under the Alicia Keys imprint, who along with her husband swizz beatz have been featured on one of his songs. Since 2009 Mateo has released five mixtapes and one EP. His latest mixtape "suite 823" was released in 2012. His track "Carry on" has to be one of my favorites. The mix between the catching and interesting beat and his soothing, unique voice, makes the perfect combination for a great song. He is sure to become one of the next superstars, just wait in see. Check out "Carry On' below:

The Kid Ryan:
Ryan J. Garcia also known as The Kid Ryan, was born in Fresno, California. At 10 years old he started singing for his church youth group. It was there where he learned how to sing, play the drums, guitar and the piano. In high school he started to pick up rapping as a hobby. However, it wasn't until after high school that he started to pursue music professionally. At the age of 22, he signed his first record deal. Now on the verge of releasing his debut project earlier this year. His debut single "Run that" is pure fire and when I say that I mean it. His smooth rap skills are highly impressive and I can't wait to hear more from him. To hear "Run that" check it out below:

Don't forget to check back soon to see more new releases!!!!

(Courtesy of Billboard.com)

Beyonce' is one of the most recognizable female pop artist of our generation. However, the focus of today's topic will highlight her business side. I will illustrate the top four smartest digital marketing moves made by Beyonce'. These moves will focus on the recent release of her self-titled new album, "Beyonce."

(Courtesy of spin.com)

Just for fun, we will illustrate her remarkable digital marketing achievements by using some of her most memorable musical titles.

(Courtesy of Healthshire.com)

 "Crazy In Love"

Fan's are "Crazy in Love" with Beyonce and she know's it. She completely understands her influence on her fans, but more importantly, she knows her target audience. With the industry trends constantly changing to a more digital platform, Beyonce did something that had not been dared before. She literally released a whole album with solely the help of digital marketing. She revolutionized the music industry by taking advantage of the technology and the current media trends.

(Courtesy of Vimeo)

"Upgrade You"

Beyonce spent years "Upgrading" her online visibility. She utilized every single social media network to push her image, brand, and music. Her social network connection created a unique experience  with fans and allowed her to personally engage her fans on a different level. Not to mention her sold out world-wide tour, documentary, and popular music snippets played a significant role. 

(Courtesy of Alothmanblog.com)

"Run the World"

Beyonce's exclusive deal with iTunes controlled distribution and created a sense of urgency. Think about it, how many artist can say they caused a world-wide shock simply by releasing their album? Beyonce can! Let me tell you why! Beyonce's album was released strictly on iTunes first. In fact, to get the new content on her album, the consumer had to buy the exclusive videos that came with the music.  Furthermore, with the album only being sold through iTunes, fans could only go to one place to buy her exclusive released content. With iTunes being accessible from any smartphone, laptop, or computer, fans could  literally buy the album and watch the videos that came with the music instantly. She literally controlled the way the "World" received her new content. 

(Courtesy of Thecouchsessions.com)

"Drunk in Love"

Last, but not least,  moving visuals are more appealing then ads. This important lesson was the key to Beyonce's success. She had fans" Drunk in Love" simply by mesmerizing them with her own visual digital promotion. Literally she created a buzz on social networks by the exclusive promotional video she released on her Instagram. Check it out below...

Beyonce literally announced her music via Instagram and caused a riot on all the blogs, social networks, and television shows. She literally revolutionized the way music and cd's are now being released.

So, the lesson you can learn from the Queen B goes as followed...

1. Know your Target Audience
2. Upgrade all major Social Networks
3. Create Urgency and control Distribution
4. Captivate Your Audience with Visual Appeal

These top 4 lessons are the new digital marketing rules for musical artist.

References:
http://simplymeasured.com/blog/2013/12/17/5-things-brands-can-learn-from-beyonce/

http://blogs.gartner.com/jennifer-polk/the-media-the-medium-and-visual-storytelling-what-digital-marketers-can-learn-from-beyonce/

http://instagram.com/p/h2YFO6Pw1d

Hey everyone!!! I know it's been awhile since you've had some new music in your lives, but have no fear we are back in gear. This week we have some up and coming names with hits that are sure to get your speakers bumping.

Childish Gambino

This American actor, writer, comedian and hip hop recording artist also known as Childish Gambino is from Stone Mountain, Georgia. He was a writer for NBC's comedy series "30 Rock". However, he is best known for his role as college student Troy Barnes on NBC's "Community". In 2011 Gambino was signed to Glassmate records and released several albums and mixtapes on his own. In November of 2011 he released his first album "Camp". His second album "Because the Internet" was actually just released a couple of days ago. Gambino is sure to be star in 2014! Check out his latest single 3005!!!

August Alsina
Alsina is a hip hop singer from New Orleans. His family had no musical talent, however at a young age he was inspired by Lauryn Hill in the movie "Sister Act 2". He started uploading videos to YouTube at the age of 14. He was signed to Def Jam recordings. In April 2012, Alsina released his first mixtape called "The Product". In January of 2013 he released his first single "I Luv this Sh*t" (ft. Trinidad James).  His new single "ghetto" is an awesome song however, for this week's new release I chose to go with one of his songs off of his mixtape "The Product 2" called "work". I can't stop playing this song between the catchy hook and the beat it is a sure fire hit. Check it out below!!!

Drew32

Andrew Parks better known as Drew32 is a Greek-American rapper, record producer and songwriter from Michigan. He is reported to be an emerging influence in hip hop. At the age of 13 Drew started producing, rapping, writing and recording music. In early 2010, he gained his 1st national notoriety when his music video for "Beyond Me" was added to FuseTV and Comcast Ondemand. In 2012, he was one of 18 artists who were selected to compete in the 2012 Billboard Music Awards Battle of the Bands by Billboard Magazine. Since 2007 he has released 10 mixtapes including his new one released this year, "The Batch vol. 1". This mixtape is absolutely amazing and is a must listen to!!! His new single "True Colors" is sure to be a hit!!!

I hope you enjoy these new music releases!!! Until next time, enjoy these soon to be hits!!!!

Who's ready for the all lady's edition of New Music Releases? This week we have one artist who has been in the music scene for a while and who is back for the first time in a couple of years. An up and coming artist who has made a name for herself by being a feature on some of today's top artists songs. Finally, we have a new artist who is just starting to gain fame. Ladies and gentlemen the wait is over, let's begin.

Ledisi

This 8 time Grammy nominated singer- songwriter, actress is known for her jazz influenced vocals. In 1995 she formed a group called Anibade and was unsuccessful in getting them signed to a major label. She then created LeSun records with Sundra Manning and released an album along with Anibade. In 2000 Ledisi released her first studio album entitled, "Soulsinger: The Revival". Since then she has released three other studio albums, the last one being in 2009. Her new single "I blame U" is truly a piece of art. With her soothing her vocals combined with a relaxing yet rocking beat makes you want to get up and dance. This truly takes me back to when R&B was so much more soulful. "I blame U" is a song you must listen:

Skylar Grey

Skylar Grey is an American multi-instrumental, singer-songwriter. She was initially signed in 2006 and released her first album under the name Holly Brooks. She has been featured on several tracks including Fort Minors "where'd ya go", Diddy-dirty Money's "Coming home", Dr Dre's "I need a Doctor", Lupe Fiasco's "Words I never said" and Chris Brown's "She ain't you". Grey also co-wrote the three versions of "Love the way you lie" (Eminem and Rihanna). She released her first major label debut album, "Don't Look Down" in July of this year. "Final warning" is an awesome song especially with Skylar's wonderful vocals. I hope you enjoy, check it out below:

Justine Skye

Justine Skye rose to fame by being herself and by letting her talent shine. In 2010, Skye covered Drake's "Headlines" and racked up nearly 2 million views on Youtube. She then attended a BMI musical panel and wowed them with her incredible vocals. Since then she has taken singing lessons, and wrote songs about everyday life. Her seven track EP helped her get signed to Atlantic Records. Skye combines traditional 90s soul, but also adds elements of hip hop and alternative and dubstep to create a unique sound unlike any other that you hear today. Check out her new single "Everyday Living" below:

Until next time, rock out to these lovely ladies!!!!

This week we have new releases from a hip hop artist who speaks his view in his raps, a true, underrated R&B artist and finally a up and coming R&B artist who is slowly starting to make waves in the industry. So ready or not let's get started!!!

Lupe Fiasco
This American rapper, producer, and entrepreneur is back with a brand new hit featuring Ed Sheeran. Fiasco first became famous after his debut album, "Lupe Fiasco: Food and Liquor" in 2006. Since then he has released three other albums including "The cool" (2007), "Lasers" (2011), and "Food and Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album pt:1" (2012). Fiasco is also the lead in a rock band, Japanese Cartoon under his real name Wasalu Muhammad Jaco. Lupe is also known for his anti-establishment views which can be heard in his music and interviews. His new single "Old school love" has a smooth hook which is sung by Ed Sheeran. It's so smooth and I will be rocking out to this song in my car for sure!!! Check it out below:

Donell Jones

Jones first hit the music scene in 1996 but his first album didn't receive much success. It wasn't until the release of his second album "Where I wanna be" in 1999 did he receive the recognition he deserved. "Where I wanna be" went certified platinum. Most will recognize some of his songs from movies including "I'll Go" (Love and Basketball), and "U know whats up" featuring Lisa "Left Eye" Lopez (Save the Last Dance). Jones is a true R&B artist and in my opinion one of the most underrated artists today. His soulful smooth voice is a great example of what true R&B is. He recently just release his new album "forever" earlier this year (watch out for this album review). His single "Forever" is so smooth and an instant slow jam!! If you want to hear a true artist check out Donell's new single below:

B-Smooth

He is an up and coming R&B phenomenon from the metro Detroit Area. He's also the hype man for Detroit hip hop artist Drew 32. He's been quoted as being inspired by a large range of R&B legends including Alexander O'Neal, Usher, Rahem Devaughn and Tank. His catchy hooks and relatable lyrical content provides him with his own original style of artistry. In August of 2012 he released his own debut solo project, "The Soundcheck E.P". This project was extremely successful on the underground R&B circuit. Since then he has been featured on several singles including "I'm On" with label mate Drew 32. All of his music can be found at http://bsmooth.bandcamp.com or http://quartertoinfinity.com. His single "decisions" is a great mix of old school and new school R&B. Check out B-Smooth's hit now!!!

Who's ready for another installment of new releases?!! This week we have some very talented ladies and a new up and coming male artist. It has been awhile since we have heard from Marsha a

Ambrosius and Dawn Richard. Elijah Blake is sure to make it big in the coming years. So without further ado I give you this weeks new music releases!!!

Marsha Ambrosius

This English singer-songwriter and former member of the group Floetry, is back at it again. Ambrosius released her first solo album in March of 2011. With hit singles "I hope she cheats on you with a basketball player" and "far away" her album debuted at #1 on US Billboard hot R&B charts. Ever since "Late Nights and Early Mornings" I've been waiting for more music from this wonderful singer. Well the wait is finally over with her new single "Without you". Check it out below:

Dawn Richard
This former member of Danity Kane and Diddy-Dirty Money is back with a new hit. Richard has released two solo EP's, and is currently waiting on her release of her second studio album this month. This is the last installment of The Heart Trilogy. She is currently back in the studio with Danity Kane, who announced their reunion at the 2013 VMA's (Without D. Woods). Not only am I excited about the reunion, I am also excited about her single Valkyrie!! Don't be afraid to check it out below:

Elijah Blake

This 22 year old, up and coming artist is sure be making a hit on the charts very soon. Born in the Dominican Republic, Blake has worked with such artists as Ciara, Kayne West, Kelly Rowland, Keyisha Cole. Along with Usher he co-wrote Usher's hit "Climax". His other songwriting accolades include "Jupiter Love" and "Sex ain't better than love" by Trey Songz. In January of 2012, he started working on his debut album. His new single "X.O.X." is bound to be a hit soon! check it out below:

Tune in next week for another installment of new music...until then keep bumping.

If you are looking for some R&B greatness from some phenomenal male vocalist, than the Three Kings album is for you. The album takes you back to what the entertainment industry is missing today, pure talent!

The Three Kings album was created by the new trio TGT, which was assembled with three very well known R&B soloist who came together in 2007 to make an exciting new male group. The group includes Tyrese, Ginuwine, and Tank. All three men have had tremendous success as solo artist, but now they have come together to bring R&B back.

However, if you are unfamiliar with the three legendary R&B singers of the 90s, let me update you.

To begin, lets start with artist, Tyrese Gibson.

The Texas native started his career modeling for major designers such as Tommy Hilfiger and Guess. Fortunately, his passion for music led him to catching the eye of RCA Records who signed the artist in 1998. Since 1998, Tyrese has been on a roll. He has created six albums and has made it to Platinum Success. He currently is very active in film. In fact, his most notable movie performance is his signature character Rome, from the Fast and Furious franchise.

Tyrese continues to make waves with his music, acting, modeling, and now his new group TGT. Check out some of his well known hit songs such as "Sweet Lady" "How You Going to Act Like That", and "Signs of Love Making."

Next, we have Ginuwine.

The D.C. Native to date is one of the 90s Top R&B male singers. His success came from a multitude of hit songs one after the other. His most notable accomplishments came from songs such as "Pony,""So Anxious," "So Different," and "In Those Jeans." His first single "Pony" put the artist on a fast track to success. He has worked with artist such as Missy Elliot, Aaliyah, and Timberland just to name a few. He currently produces and has found his voice in the new TGT group.

Last but not least, we have Tank.

Tank is not only an accomplished singer but a well respect songwriter. His pen has created hits for his fellow group members and other artists such as Aaliyah, Marques Houston, Monica, Dave Hollister, Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, and a lot of other phenomenal R&B talents. He has released five solo albums, two would become certified Gold. His most notable song which landed him in the Top 10 on the billboard charts was his 90s powerhouse song, "Maybe I Deserve."Tank definitely brings the strong vocals to the TGT album with his captivating fast riffs and runs.

Now that we are up to date with the members of the group, lets talk more about this Three Kings Album. The CD has 17 tracks filled with ballads, mid tempo melodies, and catchy songs. The one thing the CD does lack is upbeat songs. However, with the high sexualized lyrics and smooth harmonies, the CD is sure to make female listeners weak in the knees. The CD will even give some guys pointers in the love department. Their lead singles are "Sex Never Felt Better" and "I Need" which gives that throwback R&B feel. The CD is a definite necessity if you need to get a date into the bedroom.

Strengths
Vocals are amazing, pure R&B, and a very smooth type of CD.

Weaknesses 
The songs start sounding very similar after hearing the CD for a while. The CD's focus is mostly on sex & love. The CD needs to have more of a diverse sound. An upbeat song every now and then would help carry a stronger cd.

Favorite Songs on the Album
1.Take it Wrong
4. I Need
11.Explode
13.OMG

The CD is a must buy and I give the CD a 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.

Check out their lead single "Sex Never Felt Better." Also preview the album here.