Dec 31, 2007
posted by Sam at 9:46 AM
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Following the casting of thousands of your votes, the polls have been tallied and below are the winners of the 1st Annual That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards:

Single Of The Year:


Alicia Keys - No One (32%)

Runner Up:

Rihanna - Umbrella (29%)


Album Of The Year:

Alicia Keys - As I Am (26%)

Runner Up:

Kanye West - Graduation (23%)


Best Video:

Beyonce - Get Me Bodied (45%)

Runner Up:

Ciara - Like A Boy (26%)

Best Collaboration:

Kelly Rowland & Eve - Like This (32%)

Runner Up:

Chris Brown & T-Pain - Kiss Kiss (27%)


Best New Artist:

J. Holiday (38%)

Runner Up:

Amy Winehouse* (37%)


Best Female Artist:

Alicia Keys (31%)

Runner Up:

Beyonce (30%)


Best Male Artist:

Kanye West (38%)

Runner Up:

Chris Brown (30%)


The Kelly Rowland Underrated Artist Of The Year Award:

Tamia (38%)

Runner Up:

Mario (22%)


The Please Go Sitdown Somewhere Award:

50 Cent (26%)

Runner Up:

Rihanna (25%)


Most Overrated Artist:

Rihanna (48%)

Runner Up:

Akon (30%)


Worst Single Of The Year:

Nicole Scherzinger - Baby Love (53%)

Runner Up:

Soulja Boy - Crank That (30%)


Flop Of The Year:

Jennifer Lopez (50%)

Runner Up:

Kelly Rowland (26%)

Most Shocking Event Of 2007:

Britney's Shambolic VMA Performance / Going Crazy (61%)

Runner Up:

Beyonce Falling Down Stairs (25%)


Best Reality TV Show:

Keyshia Cole - The Way It is (32%)

Runner Up:

Runs House (30%)


Best TV Show:

The Game (35%)

Runner Up:

Girlfriends (26%)

Many thanks to the thousands of you who voted. Feel free to drop a comment in the 'comments' section about your thoughts on this year's awards, suggestions for next year's etc.
 
posted by Sam at 9:31 AM
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Thanks all those who entered the Mary J. Blige 'Growing Pains' + iMaingo give-away. The correct answer to the question:

Which of the following isn't the name of a Mary J. Blige album?

c) Mary J.


The winner (who has also been notified via email) is....


Darryn Kinney (Age 14) - Carson, California

Congratulations.

Remember to keep it locked on That Grape Juice for upcoming competitions...

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posted by Sam at 8:32 AM
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Jay-Z Opens 40/40 Club in Vegas Jay-Z was joined by a host of stars to celebrate the opening of the Las Vegas arm of his 40/40 nightclub. Attendee's included Beyonce, of course, Solange, Mary J. Blige, Tichina Arnold, Al Sharpton, Joe Jackson and Robin Thicke. Check out pics from the event below:

Beyonce

{Click pics to enlarge}

Beyonce & Solange Mary J. Blige & Al SharptonTichina Arnold Joe Jackson

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posted by Sam at 3:42 AM
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Janet Jackson on the cover of Prestige Hong Kong MagazineJanet Jackson has hit the promo trail in support of her forthcoming album 'Discipline' (due February 26th 2008); the pop superstar features in upscale magazine Prestige Hong Kong. Check out pics from the the great Mark Liddell shoot below. You can read Janet's interview - in which she speaks on growing up a Jackson, life offstage with boyfriend Jermaine Dupri, her new album and more - by clicking here.

Janet Jackson - Prestige Hong Kong Janet Jackson - Prestige Hong Kong
Janet Jackson - Prestige Hong Kong Janet Jackson - Prestige Hong Kong
Janet Jackson - Prestige Hong Kong

What do you think of the cover /pics?

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Dec 30, 2007
posted by Sam at 10:53 AM
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Trina On The Set Of 'Single Again' Rapper Trina shot the video for her new single 'Single Again' this past Friday at a mansion Coconut Grove, Florida . Expect the vid to consist of various scenes; including a wedding, pool and club. It appears there's truth to the stories of Trina's new deal with EMI (in partnership with Slip-N-Slide) being worth a lot of money; the vid (and it's budget) looks to be Trina's best yet. 'Single Again' will be the first single to be lifted from Trina's forthcoming album 'Still Da Baddest' - due February 12th 2008.

Trina On The Set Of 'Single Again'
You can see more pics from the shoot by clicking here.

Be on the lookout for That Grape Juice's great (if i must say so myself lol) interview with Trina in the weeks ahead.

What do you think of the pics?

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posted by Sam at 10:29 AM
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Surprisingly Jennifer Lopez is to release yet another single from her certified flop album 'Brave'. The album's title track will serve as the CD's third official single, with the video - directed by Michael Haussman - having been filmed already. Considering the huge losses her label have undoubtedly made off the album, I can't understand why they are allowing her to churn out more singles - especially when the album sucks.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 10:17 AM
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It seems Akon isn't the only one ready to fight audience members at his shows; R&B singer Trey Songz brawled with a man who threw ice at him during his set at Club Ultra. Trey had me rolling with the way he jumped back on stage and launched straight into 'Can't Help But Wait'. See the clip below:

I know the guy in the crowd was wrong, but come on now. Trey ain't but 100 pounds lol. One of these days one of these artists is gonna get their a**es kicked in a situation like this. I can see a lawsuit coming on from this one.

Your thoughts?

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Dec 29, 2007
posted by Sam at 12:12 PM
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Usher and the King Of Pop Michael JacksonIn a recent interview with the Atlanta-Journal Constitution, R&B star Usher detailed plans he has for a collaboration between himself, T-Pain and the King of Pop Michael Jackson. Speaking of the song, the 'Yeah' singer said:
“It’s been created, but it’s not recorded," Usher explained to the newspaper. "And as long as Michael is open to it, hey, anything goes.”
Elaborating more his forthcoming album, he added:
I’ve been diligently working on creating a masterpiece," he said of the project. "It’s going to be out first or maybe the second quarter. I see the second quarter of next year. And there will be a video and single out at the top of the year. … I think [Atlanta producer] Polow Da Don is going to have the first one. I think that’s going to be the single 'Love In The Club.'”
An Usher - MJ collaboration sounds like an interesting concept. Why T-Pain is being thrown into the mix is beyond me. Yes, he's the 'it' artist of the moment, but for how long will that be? Anyway, you can hear a snippet of the single likely to be the first from Usher's album, by clicking here. Sounds pretty good to me.

Do you think an Usher - MJ collabo would work?

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posted by Sam at 5:31 AM
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Brandy Following a tumultuous year for Brandy, it was confirmed yesterday that the R&B star will not have to face charges regarding the crash she was involved in that a killed another driver. The singer's high-powered attorney Blair Berk released the following statement to TMZ after the news was announced:
“We are extremely pleased that after a more thorough and extensive investigation by authorities, the Los Angeles City Attorney has determined that Brandy Norwood should not be charged with any crime whatsoever relating to the accident back in 2006.”

She continued, “These past 12 months have posed an extraordinary hardship for Brandy and her family, who have been unfairly forced to live under a cloud of suspicion initially caused by the ill-advised and premature press release sent out by the California Highway Patrol accusing Brandy of wrongdoing before the police investigation was even finished. However, Brandy continues to be mindful that she was so fortunate to be uninjured in this accident and there was a life lost that should be remembered.”
I'm glad this whole mess is over with. Now she can move on with her life.

Any thoughts?

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Dec 27, 2007
posted by Sam at 5:19 PM
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As well as Ciara (whose performance was posted earlier), gospel singer Yolanda Adams performed at the Kennedy Honors tribute to Diana Ross. Adams performed 'Reach Out & Touch'. Check out the performance below:

Whoa! She nailed it. The song is one of my all-time favourite Diana Ross tracks and Yolanda really brought the house down with it. Great stuff.

What do you think of the performance?

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posted by Sam at 4:50 PM
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LeToya LuckettR&B star LeToya's sophomore album has been confirmed for a June 10th 2008 release. The news may come as somewhat of a disappointment to her fans, as the singer has been quoted as saying that the album was set to drop at the start of 2008. Interestingly the album is listed as being released under Virgin Records; however it's doubtful there's much to that as LeToya's label Capitol and Virgin recently merged. {Source}

Though I'm all for LeToya and the label making sure the album is 'right' (I'm assuming this is the reason for the delay), it is kinda risky for her to be out of the limelight for so long.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 1:52 PM
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Mary J. Blige Mary J. Blige made a huge impact on the Billboard 200 album chart with her eighth studio album 'Growing Pains'. The Queen of Hip-Hop/Soul sold through an impressive 629,000 copies of the LP - the follow-up to her 2005 multi platinum effort 'The Breakthrough'. Despite this, Blige charted at #2 - unable to oust Josh Groban's 'Noel' album from the top spot (which sold 757,000 in it's third week of release).

In other album news, Alicia Keys' 'As I Am', currently #3 on the chart, enjoys a 62% sales increase with 474,000 copies sold. Chris Brown continues to sell consistently with 'Exclusive', selling 176,000. Jaheim's 'Making Of A Man' enters at #11 with 176,000 units shifted, whilst Lupe Fiasco's 'The Cool' occupies the #15 spot with 143,000 copies sold.

Lower down the chart, Bow Wow and Omarion's 'Face Off' takes a tumble - dropping 11-29 with 89,000 sold. In what must be an embarrassment for Disturbing The Peace star Chingy, the rapper's latest LP 'Hate It Or Love It' came in at a dismal #84, having sold just 31, 517 copies. Ouch.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 1:20 PM
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Just a reminder, the polls for the 1st Annual That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards are now open. Voting is unlimited, so you can cast your votes as many times as you like. Polls close on December 30th, with winners being announced the day after.
 
posted by Sam at 4:52 AM
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Ok, so is this some bogusness or what? Following the hysteria that ensued after former B2K member Raz-B came forward alleging his cousin, the group's former manager, Chris Stokes molested him, the claim has now been taken back. In the video below, Raz-B denies there being any truth to the allegations he made just two days ago. Check it out:

The way I see it, either he's a complete idiot or there's more to it (e.g. money, threats etc). Did you notice how he doesn't look into the camera. Whatever the case, the damage seems to have been done; his claims have verified the rumors that have been swirling around since the group were still together. It'll be interesting to see where this whole saga ends up at.

*Update*

MTV.com have just posted the following update regarding the story:

The truce between Raz and Stokes doesn’t appear to have been extended to Ricardo. After MTV reported on the apology, Ricardo told MTV News that he stands by all the original allegations and is not recanting his story. He said he hasn’t spoken to his younger brother in more than a day — which he said was unusual for the siblings and predicted that Raz will “come back around,” suggesting that the apology might not have been his brother’s idea.

Somehow, I don't think this is the last we'll hear in this saga.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 3:25 AM
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R&B star Ciara was among those who performed in honor of Diana Ross at the Kennedy Center Honors show which aired yesterday on CBS. The 22 year old singer performed a medley of Ross' classics 'I'm Coming Out' and 'Upside Down'. Not an obvious choice for the tribute, I thought Ciara did pretty well.

What do you think of the performance?

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posted by Sam at 3:11 AM
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In light of the controversy surrounding Chris Stokes in the last couple of days, R&B singer Omarion - who is managed by Stokes - has released a statement, via his publicist, condemning the claims. Check it out below:

"I want to be on the record as saying that "Raz B" Thorton and Ricardo Thorton are lying regarding Chris Stokes. Chris is a father figure to myself, and many others in the industry. He's guided us, helped raised us and is nothing more than an inspiration and someone I respect to and look up to. I have spent countless hours, days, weeks and months with the man since the age of 5 and have never once seen him behave inappropriately. He's married to my aunt and I know this man very well. I stand behind him with no question whatsoever.

I have grown up around Chris and this is crazy to me. These people have damaged me, and my reputation and I won't stand silent and will do all within my means to speak the truth about this matter".

This whole situation seems to be escalating by the day. It's not surprising to see Omarion defend Chris. For what reason though; does he genuinely believe he is innocent or is he trying save face?

Any thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 3:06 AM
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Yawn. Sorry, but nothing John Legend has put out from his sleep-inducing sophomore album 'Once Again' has managed to keep my attention long enough. Case example, this his latest video for new single 'Show Me'. I must say that the vid, which was filmed in Tanzania back in October, is kinda different - yet it's still a bore to me.

What do you think of the video?

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posted by Sam at 2:48 AM
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Danity Kane member Dawn Richard posted a blog on her official site recently, updating fans on the status of the group's new project(s):
I'm home guys!!!!!! just finished the show........and the album...It is soooooo sick....You guys will be surprised at how much DK has grown....The show is gonna be something!!!!!! It's a making the band you have never seen before! so stay tuned!

DK IS BACK BABY
2008 IS GONNA BE OURS FOR THE TAKING!
As previously reported, the girls will be starring in the new season of Making The Band, with the guys from the last season (including Donnie - apparently). It'll be interesting to see how the show will work this time around.

Your thoughts?

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Dec 26, 2007
posted by Sam at 4:33 PM
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Things seem to be taking an unexpected turn in the Brandy-car accident episode. According to TMZ, Brandy may actually be a victim and not the one in the wrong. Check out their report below:

TMZ has learned the hang-up in deciding whether to file vehicular manslaughter charges against Brandy is that Brandy may have been a victim, not a culprit.

A CHP source tells TMZ the woman who died in the car accident involving Brandy actually struck the vehicle in front of her before Brandy made any contact. The law enforcement source says Awatef Aboudihaj, the woman who died, struck the car in front of her -- which was going 65 mph, and then slammed on her brakes. We're told the sudden stop caused Brandy to hit the dead woman's car.

What's more, L.A. County Coroner spokesperson Captain Ed Winter tells TMZ that toxicology reports show Aboudihaj had "slight traces" of marijuana in her system at the time of the crash.

The L.A. City Attorney has until the end of the business day on Friday to decide whether to file criminal charges against Brandy -- that's when the one-year statute of limitations runs out. Sources tell TMZ there is significant division in the City Attorney's office, and a decision still has not been made. The problem for the City Attorney: if they file manslaughter charges, they have to prove Brandy did something negligent -- and we're told that could be difficult if not impossible.

I've always felt the whole situation was an unfortunate one. Saying that, the way Brandy has been crucified was uncalled for. Here's hoping the matter resolves itself soon; I been waiting on that new Brandy album for a minute already.

Any thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 4:07 PM
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After a disappointing debut on the charts last week (#11 with 107,146 copies sold), 'Face Off' - the collaborative album by Bow Wow and Omarion - doesn't look to be doing all that great. Still, a second single in the form of 'Hey Baby (Jump Off) has been released - the video for which premiered today. Put simply, neither the song or the video are anything other than 'ok'. If anything, this is a step-back from their decent-yet-forgettable 'Girlfriend' release IMO.

What do you think of the video?

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Dec 25, 2007
posted by Sam at 6:39 AM
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Our friend DJB over at BBC 1Xtra - one of the UK's premier Urban radio stations - recently caught up with R&B star Kelly Rowland. The 'Like This' singer spoke in detail on a number of things including the 'Ms. Kelly' re-release, the initial lack of support her label gave her, working with Gym Class Heroes and her 2008 tour plans. It was a great interview and should kinda come as good news for Kelly fans; the label really seem to be behind the project this time around.

LISTEN: Kelly Rowland 1Xtra Interview

What better time to announce than now; DJB will be joining the That Grape Juice team early 2008 as a contributor. Keep it locked on That Grape Juice for that in the weeks ahead.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 5:23 AM
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That Grape Juice wishes you all a very Merry Christmas! I hope you're enjoying the day with your nearest and dearest...I know I will be.

With the year having gone by so quickly, it's only just now that I realized this is the first Christmas to come by since the site opened; and I'm real grateful to be able to celebrate it with the thousands of readers the site has accumulated since opening - you are ALL very much appreciated. Here's to celebrating many many more Christmas together :)
 
posted by Sam at 4:22 AM
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Revelations, revelations, revelations. This video has been doing the rounds on the blog scene for the last few days. Former B2K member Raz-B has come forward accusing his cousin and former manager Chris Stokes of molestation. Somehow Marques Houston works into the equation too. See the shocking video below:

There's more; Raz-B's brother Ricky Romance has also accused Stokes, claiming that he forced them to take showers with other boys and molested him too. Stokes is also accused of 'unfair business and personal practices' for requesting sexual favours from them. Check out the vid below:

Chris Stokes has since issued a press release denying the claims levelled against him:

“The accusations that Demario “Raz B” Thorton and Ricardo Thorton have made are vehemently false and hold no merit. I have recently stopped financially supporting both individuals along with assisting them with their criminal and legal matters which leads me to believe they are resentful and looking to benefit financially from this. My family is my first priority and the reason why I have been so supportive of them. In bringing these false claims, they have not only slandered me, they have also put me in a position to ensure that the truth is known and I will take all legal routes to protect myself, my family and my four children," said Chris Stokes, CEO of The Ultimate Group.

"It’s also quite ironic that these statements were made only 2 weeks after they were denied admittance by a venue for an event I hosted in Beverly Hills," added Stokes.

Only those involved can know what truthfully went down; still I always knew something BOGUS was up with Chris Stokes etc.

Any thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 4:00 AM
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As of January 1st, Def Jam will longer be presided over by Jay-Z; the rapper confirmed that he will be stepping down from his President role at the label. Check out the rapper's statement below:

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have served as President of such a culturally-defining label as Def Jam over the last three years,” Jay-Z said in a statement. “During that time, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many of the world’s most dynamic artists and many of the most dedicated and talented executives in the music business today, including Antonio “L.A.” Reid. But now it’s time for me to take on new challenges.”

Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, took over as President of Def Jam in 2005. Under his guidance, the rapper signed his former rival Nas to Def Jam and oversaw the release of hit records by Kanye West, Rihanna and Ne-Yo.

Island Def Jam Music Group Chairman Antonio “L.A.” Reid said that Jay-Z felt it was time to take on “different challenges in his life.”

Jay-Z will continue running and recording for his Roc-A-Fella imprint, which is distributed by the Island Def Jam Music Group. The mogul is rumored to be making a transition to the urban division of Sony Records with Rick Rubin. {Read full article}

Oh well. I can't say any of this comes as a surprise. The stories of conflict between Jay and the upper management over at Def Jam have more or less proven true; IMO they just allowed him to save face by saying he 'resigned'. It'll be interesting to see how things pan out from here on out; there have been whispers that Jermaine Dupri will take on the now vacant role.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 3:57 AM
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Ciara premiered the video for her new single 'That's Right' today as a special Christmas gift to her fans. Can't say I'm a fan of the song, but the video turned out pretty good. Monica makes a cameo in the vid too.

What do you think of the video?

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Dec 23, 2007
posted by Sam at 1:53 PM
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The voting polls for the 1st Annual That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards are open NOW....

Click here to vote!
*Updated with Best Male & Female Awards*



Winners will be announced on December 31st



 
posted by Sam at 1:42 PM
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Sorry for the lack of updates people. The time of year has been a busy one for me, as I'm sure you can identify with. Anyway, check out the video for Ne-Yo's latest single 'Go On Girl', which premiered recently:

Irrespective of how good the song/video is (neither are all that great IMO), I can't help but feel that the handling of Ne-Yo's second album has been a mess. After the success of the single 'Because of You', none of the chosen singles have made much sense to me. 'Make It Work' has 'single' written all over it, yet it seems to have been shafted in favor of lesser songs - considering 'Go On Girl' is likely the last single to be released from the album. Saying this...

What do you think of the song / video?

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Dec 21, 2007
posted by Sam at 4:37 PM
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In order to ensure the process for voting goes smoothly, voting for the 1st Annual That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards will begin this coming Monday (December 24th). To clarify, voting will be done via polls.

Prior to then, you can express your view on the current nominees list by clicking here.
 
posted by Sam at 10:37 AM
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{Picture credit: PerezHilton.com}
Check out this pic of Janet Jackson on the set of the video for her brand new single 'Feedback'. Interesting. I'm guessing they're going for a dark futuristic theme. Be on the lookout for the video's premiere on January 1st on BET.

What do you think of the pic?

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Dec 20, 2007
posted by Sam at 11:27 AM
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With Mary J. Blige on course to sell over 600,000 copies of her new album 'Growing Pains' in it's first week on sale, there's no denying the 'Queen of Hip-Hop/Soul is onto a smash with her eighth studio effort.

Saying that, what do you think of 'Growing Pains'? Which tracks are you feeling / dislike? Do you think Mary rose to the task of topping her 2005 mega-successful 'Breakthrough'? Drop your views in the comment section.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 10:31 AM
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The video for Chrisette Michelle's latest single 'Be OK' premiered recently. I was kinda surprised to see this, as I was under the impression that Chrisette's project had all but been abandoned. Considering 'Be OK' is one of the standout tracks from her 'I Am' album (IMO), I'm glad it got the single treatment. About the video, director Little X did a pretty good job; the vid is pretty simplistic, yet works all the same.

What do you think of the video?

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posted by Sam at 10:10 AM
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It has been confirmed that R&B crooner Ruben Studdard, winner of season 2 of American Idol, has been dropped by his label J Records. Check out the report below via our friends over at SOHH:
After a promising start as winner of the second season of "American Idol," Studdard seems to have fallen short of expectations and has been dropped from J. A rep from his label has confirmed the artist's departure to SOHH.

Studdard's first J Record release Soulful, released in 2003, is RIAA certified platinum. His 2004 gospel follow up, I Need An Angel also fared well - reaching gold status. However sales of his 2006 project The Return have been unable to match his previous success, moving barely 235,000 copies.

Can't say I've been moved by Ruben's music; that 'Change Me' track was my song for a minute though. Amid less than stellar sales from top artists, record labels all over are making cuts left, right and centre as the year closes out. Don't be surprised if Ruben isn't the only artist left looking for a new label in the weeks and months ahead.

Any thoughts?

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Dec 19, 2007
posted by Sam at 7:14 AM
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The video for Fat Joe's new single 'I Won't Tell' made its debut yesterday on the rapper's official MySpace page. Featuring 2007 breakout star J. Holiday, the song is the 2nd single to be lifted from Joe's forthcoming album 'The Elephant In The Room' (due March 11th 2008). I'm feeling the song and the video is pretty good too. See if you can spot cameos by, among others, LeToya, Bow Wow, Christina Milian and Scott Storch. With his post-'Lean Back' efforts pretty much tanking, I'm sure Joe is hoping this puts him back on the map.

What do you think of the song / video?

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Dec 18, 2007
posted by Sam at 2:29 PM
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Going back to 2001, this week's 'From The Vault' video is the late Aaliyah's 'Rock The Boat'. As I'm sure you know, the video was filmed just hours before the R&B star tragically died in a airplane crash, along with several in her entourage. Arguably one of her best efforts, this video gave us all a glimpse at the makings of a superstar.

Gone, but never forgotten, Aaliyah's legacy lives on through the great music her undeniable talent graced us with over the years.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 10:19 AM
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Amazingly, Nicole Scherzinger is set to release the third single from her serially delayed LP 'Her Name Is Nicole' - without a release date for the album in sight. Titled 'Puakenikeni' (a word in her native Hawaiian tongue), the Akon produced single was voted to be the next single by fans on Nicole's official website. I will say, for the record, that the song has the most substance to it when compared to the two abysmal efforts before it. However, three singles deep, the chances of Nicole's album being anything less than terrible are unlikely IMO. Nicole does have a place in the industry, though - as part of the Pussycat Dolls. It's not too late to go back.

Hit or Miss?

LISTEN: 'Puakenikeni'

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posted by Sam at 5:01 AM
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Mary J. Blige kicked off her week long stay on BET's 106 & Park yesterday, performing current single 'Just Fine'. Great energy, great vocals, great performance. As reported Mary's eighth studio album 'Growing Pains' hits a store near you today.

What do you think of the performance?

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posted by Sam at 4:29 AM
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Today sees the release of a number of R&B/Hip-Hop efforts. The Queen of Hip-Hop/Soul Mary J. Blige drops her long-awaited 'Growing Pains' LP today. Also Chingy releases 'Hate It Or Love It', his first album since re-grouping with Disturbing The Peace over at Def Jam. Not to be forgotten is Atlantic Records star Lupe Fiasco, who releases 'The Cool' - the much-anticipated follow-up to 2006's critically acclaimed 'Food & Liquor'. So...

Which album(s) will you be buying this week?
 
Dec 17, 2007
posted by Sam at 3:08 PM
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With 2007 rapidly coming to end, I felt it beffiting to acknowledge the releases, events etc that have made the last 12 months as memorable as they have been. What better way to mark this than to host the 1st Annual That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards.

Voted for entirely by yourselves, the winners will be announced on December 30th. Below is the preliminary list of nominees. Please drop any changes, suggestions etc you have in the comments section. The final list will then be posted this Friday (December 21st) , when voting starts.

End Of Year Awards: The Nominees

Album of the Year

Alicia Keys - As I Am
Kanye West - Graduation
Mario – Go!
Mary J. Blige – Growing Pains
Amy Winehouse – Back to Black
Kelly Rowland – Ms. Kelly

Single of the Year

Fantasia – When I See You
Alicia Keys – No One
Keyshia Cole – Let It Go
Rihanna – Umbrella
J. Holiday – Bed
Kanye West - Stronger

Best Video:

Kanye West - Good Life
Ciara - Like A Boy
Beyonce - Get Me Bodied
R. Kelly – Same Girl (ft. Usher)

Best Collaboration:

Chris Brown & T-Pain- Kiss Kiss
Kelly Rowland & Eve - Like This
50 Cent & Justin Timberlake Ayo Technology
Timbaland & Keri Hilson – The Way I Are
R. Kelly & Usher – ‘Same Girl’

Best New Artist:

Amy Winehouse
J. Holiday
Tiffany Evans
The Dream

Best Female Artist:

Alicia Keys
Mary J Blige
Keyshia Cole
Kelly Rowland

Best Male Artist

Chris Brown
Kanye West
Mario
J. Holiday
Jay-Z

The Kelly Rowland Underrated Artist Of The Year Award

Amerie
Mario
Tamia
Trey Songz

The Please Go Sit Down Somewhere Award

Rihanna
Nicole Scherzinger
50 Cent
Souljah Boy

Most Overrated Artist:

Rihanna
Beyonce
Fergie

Worst Single Of The Year:

Chris Brown - Wall to Wall
Nicole Scherzinger - Baby Love
Souljah Boy - Crank That

Flop of the Year:

Kelly Rowland
Jennifer Lopez
Will.i.am

Most Shocking Event of 2007:

Bobby and Whitney Divorcing
Beyonce Falling Down Stairs
Britney’s Shambolic VMA Performance/Going Crazy

Best Reality TV Show:

Making the Band 4
Runs House
Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is
I Love New York 2

Best TV Show:

Girlfriends
Everybody Hates Chris
The Boondocks
The Game

What do you think of the nominee list?

 
posted by Sam at 2:46 PM
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US visitors: NBC is set to screen the first of a week long music special called 'Clash of The Choirs' tonight at 7pm/8pm. The show sees well-known artists travel back to their home towns with the task of forming a choir - which will 'battle' against those formed by the other stars. R&B singer Kelly Rowland as well as legend Patti Labelle are two of featured celebrities; check out clips from both of the auditions they held:

Kelly Rowland



Patti Labelle

The show looks real interesting. I'm hoping Kelly's choir isn't full of singers like the woman featured; as bad I felt for her, there's no denying that she butchered 'Survivor'.

Will you be tuning into 'Clash of The Choirs'?

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posted by Sam at 6:56 AM
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Producer/rapper Timbaland premiered pop star Madonna's new single during his set at the radio station z100's Jingle Ball yesterday (December 16th) in Philadelphia. Titled '4 Minutes To Save The World', the track features the producer himself as well as Justin Timberlake. I'm all for unconventional pairings and this one seems to have worked; the song, from what I can hear, sounds great. Timbaland is executive producing her as-yet-untitled album, so it'll be interesting to see what they come up with.

What do you think of the song?

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posted by Sam at 6:35 AM
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Following reports several months ago that 2007 mega-hit 'Umbrella' was first offered to R&B star Mary J. Blige, the 36 year old singer has recently claimed she is "glad" she didn't release the song - deeming it "too mainstream". Speaking to WENN, Blige added:

"I'm not going to chase what [mainstream] fans like. It might work for a Mariah. It might work for a Beyonce. But Mary J. Blige is looked at as some sort of organic thing." {Source}

Interesting...

Your thoughts?

*Don't forget to enter our Mary J. Blige 'Growing Pains' give-away! Click here to enter*

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posted by Sam at 6:27 AM
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The video for Johnta Austin's new single 'The One That Got Away' has recently surfaced. Featuring a cameo by Spice Girl Melanie B, the video/single serves as the latest release to be lifted from Austin's much-delayed 'Ocean Drive' album (for which there still is no definitive release date). With the video being the best he's dropped so far IMO, I'm really hoping this is the song that catapults Austin (writer of mega-hits 'We Belong Together' and 'Be Without You') to the level of stardom his talent calls for.

What do you think of the video?

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posted by Sam at 6:10 AM
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Judging by this stage outfit, it seems Rihanna has let loose her inner-stripper. The 'Umbrella' singer is currently on tour here in the UK in support of her current album 'Good Girl Gone Bad'. As sexy as she may look, one has to wonder if it's all a bit much. I mean, it comes across kinda desperate to me.

What do you think of the pic?

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Dec 16, 2007
posted by Sam at 1:49 PM
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Check out the third preview of B2K's forthcoming reality show:

Watching this back really reminded me of how badly Chris Stokes screwed them over; Omarion comes across kinda wrong too. I'm actually hoping these guys make something of themselves with this comeback - if only just show that you can't hold people down with such shady tactics.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 1:23 PM
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Will Smith's latest film, post-apocalyptic thriller 'I Am Legend', has grossed a whopping $76 million at the US box-office during it's opening weekend. Exceeding initial estimates of $25 million, the film's huge debut has earned its place as the highest December opening of all time. {Source}

It's an understatement to say that Will has come a long way. Following a string of big screen hits including 2004's 'I Robot', he really has established himself as one of Hollywood's biggest draws. More power to him.

Your thoughts on the story, film etc?

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Dec 15, 2007
posted by Sam at 12:41 PM
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The beef between female rappers Lil' Kim and Remy Ma continues to escalate; pint-sized Kim hits back at the former Terror Squad on this track -which samples Lauryn Hill's 'Lost Ones'. It's getting kinda messy...

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 8:21 AM
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Check out this acoustic version of Rihanna's mega-hit 'Umbrella'. I'm not sure when this was recorded, but it's only just recently surfaced. I have to say this is the best vocal performance I've heard from the Bajan star. Really, her delivery flows very well with the stripped down instrumentation.

What do you think of this version?

LISTEN: 'Umbrella' (Acoustic Version)

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posted by Sam at 1:24 AM
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To celebrate the release of Mary J. Blige's fantastic new album 'Growing Pains' (due December 18th), That Grape Juice are giving you the chance to win a copy of the album. That's not all; in light of the festive season, we are throwing in a iMaingo too!

'Growing Pains' is Mary's J. Blige's eight studio album. As well as featuring current single 'Just Fine', the CD includes great new songs such 'Stay Down', Roses' and forthcoming single 'Work That'. Hit-makers Pharrell Williams, Tricky Stewart, Bryan Michael Cox and Polow Da Don are among those who contributed to the album.

iPod lovers; the iMaingo is the speaker-case combo that will solve all your portable needs. With it's superb sound quality, compatibility with all iPod models and easy-on-the-eye appeal, the iMaingo is a must have.

For your chance to win this great combo, please answer the this question:

Which of the following isn't the name of a Mary J. Blige album?


a) Love & Life

b) What's The 411?

c) Mary J.

Email your answer as well as your full name, age, and address to competitions@thatgrapejuice.net. Please be sure to put 'Mary J Comp' as the subject. Winners will be selected randomly from all correct answers. Competition ends Thursday 20th December. Good luck!

*Please note that the album will not be dispatched until after release*

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posted by Sam at 1:11 AM
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Mario's heartfelt video for the song 'Do Right' premiered yesterday on BET. I'm glad he's releasing the Akon produced song in some capacity, as it's lyrics have great meaning.

It has been confirmed that 'Music For Love' will be the third official single to be lifted from Mario's awesome new album 'Go! (which I highly recommend buying). Expect to see a video come January.

What do you think of the song / video?

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posted by Sam at 12:42 AM
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The surprise premiere of Janet Jackson's new single 'Feedback' on Wednesday left fans and critics in anticipation of more information about her new LP. It has since been announced that the album, the star's Island Def Jam debut, is titled 'Discipline' and will hit stores on February 26th.

Boasting production from the likes of Stargate ('Irreplaceable'), Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins (' You Rock My World') and Jermaine Dupri ('We Belong Together'), 'Discipline' will also feature The Dream & Tricky Stewart ('Umbrella') and Ne-Yo on the writing credits. Label head LA Reid will serve as the album's executive producer.

I keep saying this, but Janet and her team are not playing this time around! Since 'surfacing', 'Feedback' has been tearing up the airwaves Stateside; I doubt Def Jam could have asked for a better public response. I really do foresee big things for Janet in 2008 - showing these young ones how it's meant to be done.

Any thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 12:32 AM
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R&B quartet Cherish are back on the music scene with new single 'Killa'. Set to feature on the soundtrack for dance flick 'Step Up 2', the track will also serve as the girl's first single from their forthcoming album 'The Truth'. To be honest, neither the song or video are hold my attention for long. Still, having heard some of their new material, I'm optimistic about the rest of the album.

What do you think of the video?

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Dec 14, 2007
posted by Sam at 11:59 PM
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Following the death of musician Ike Turner this week at the age of 76 (click here to read more), many have been anticipating Tina Tuner's response to the passing of her controversial ex-husband. However, the 'What's Love Got To Do With It' singer's spokesperson offered the following statement on her behalf:
Tina hasn’t had any contact with Ike for more than 35 years. No further comment will be made.”

It's a shame Tina didn't offer a more direct response. As cut-throat as it may sound, Ike is - and will forever- be a part of her story, so her take on the recent events are of interest to the public.

Your thoughts?

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posted by Sam at 7:12 PM
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Despite Britney Spears much-publicized personal issues, the singer has pressed ahead with the release of new single 'Piece of Me' - the video for which premiered today. I must say that the vid is a marked improvement over the atrocity that was the 'Gimme More' clip. By no means anything to scream about, the video manages to serve its purpose well.

What do you think of the video?

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posted by Sam at 2:36 PM
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Apologies for the lack of updates over the this week, other (major) commitments and whatnot. Anyway, things should be getting back to normal - and better - as from now. Bare with me as I play catch up...

Be on the lookout for the Chingy interview, as well as some exciting new features. With the Christmas season now upon us, That Grape Juice is looking to fill your Xmas stockings...(hint: competitions), so be sure to keep it locked right here!

Remember if there's anything you want to ask, suggest etc, just drop me an email at: sam@thatgrapejuice.net
 
Dec 12, 2007
posted by Sam at 1:45 PM
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It appears Janet Jackson and her new team over at Island Def Jam are not playing this time around. Seemingly out of nowhere, the 41 year old superstar's new single 'Feedback' has surfaced. The Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins produced song is an uptempo dance track that sees Janet re-embrace her mainstream pop sound, whilst incorporating the urban feel that her last couple of albums featured. I'm really liking the track and feeling her swagger on the delivery of the verses. This has me anticipating her new as-yet untitled album, set to drop on February 26th, all the more. Word has it the video for the song is being shot this week! {Thanks all those who sent the track in}

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Dec 11, 2007
posted by Sam at 3:10 AM
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A number of R&B/Hip-Hop releases drop today, most notably Bow Wow & Omarion's joint effort 'Face Off', Mario's long-awaited 'Go!' and singer/songwriter The Dream's 'Hate It Or Love It'. So which, if any, will you be picking up this week?

Your thoughts?