With a flopping album to promote, Soulja Boy has taken a leaf out of 50 Cent's book and making controversial comments about other artists. Peep what the teen 'star' had to say about Nas above. SMH...

Your thoughts?

Labels: Nas, Soulja Boy

There is mounting speculation that Jennifer Lopez and husband Marc Anthony are set to call it quits on their 4 year marriage:

Rumours JENNIFER LOPEZ and MARC ANTHONY's marriage is on the rocks refuse to go away - a new report predicts the pair will split shortly after Valentine's Day (14Feb09).

The singer/actress sparked speculation of a pending divorce after she was photographed without her wedding ring at a film premiere in December (08) - weeks after the couple renewed their wedding vows in a secret Las Vegas ceremony in October (08).

And although the couple's spokesperson recently declared the pair are "doing great" in an official statement, the New York Daily News has reported a split announcement is imminent.

A source tells the publication, "Marc and Jennifer are planning on announcing their divorce right after Marc's show at Madison Square Garden on February 14.

"Jennifer is planning on joining Marc onstage for a surprise duet. Things haven't been right for a while now, and they thought it would be a bittersweet farewell... They're definitely planning a clean break in February."

Lopez and Anthony, the parents of 10-month-old twins Max and Emme, wed in a private home wedding in June of 2004. {Source}

Ouch. For ol' Jenny's sake, I hope this isn't true. Seems as if she can never be in a relationship too long (See: Diddy, Chris Judd, Ben Affleck etc).

Your thoughts?

Labels: Jennifer Lopez

Keeping the momentum going in the run-up to the release of her new 'Fantasy Ride' project, Ciara has interestingly enough put her own unique spin on Beyonce's 'Diva'. Put simply, the cut, which is featured on Ciara's 'Fantasy Ride' mixtape, sounds great. Similar to her take on Janet's 'Feedback', Ci's slant on the track injects new life into the already hot club banger. Bring on Ciara's new album! Her official first single 'Never Ever' is set to debut within the next few days.

Hit or Miss?

Labels: Ciara

R&B songstress Ashanti performed 'Shine' on Good Morning NY earlier this week. The song, which is a cut from her criminally underrated 'The Declaration' LP, features on the soundtrack for Will Smith's latest movie 'Seven Pounds'.

About the performance, I quite enjoyed this one. It goes without saying that Ashanti has come leaps and bounds with her live performance game this go round. It's just a shame that she doesn't receive as much recognition for that as she should.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: Ashanti

X Factor standout winners Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke performed on today's Christmas episode of Top of The Pops. Peep Leona's spine-tingling showing of 'Run' above, while you can view Alexandra's performance of Christmas #1 'Hallelujah' below:

Great performances! I know some will disagree, but I'm really feeling they are the new Mariah and Whitney. Very excited to see where the future takes these two.

What do you think of these performances?

Labels: Alexandra Burke, Leona Lewis

Review up in a bit...

In the meanwhile...

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Beyonce

The video for 'Diva', one of Beyonce's two new singles, premiered a few hours ago. Directed by Melina, the video is both a hit and miss affair IMO. Raw, gritty and edgy, the clip really captures the essence of the song. However, having seen Sasha step her game up on the choreography tip with 'Single Ladies' (and start a dance craze in the process), the choreography in this kinda left me a little salty. The word 'lacking' immediately came to mind when watching her bust moves which looked as if she made them up there and then. Still, a good video all the same. The black and white concept was pushed a little further with the colour contrasts i.e. the fire explosion etc. Like most things Beyonce, I'm sure this one will be big - it's already taking off at radio. {Thanks Jonelle!}

Be on the look out for the 2nd of Beyonce's videos 'Halo' later today.

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Beyonce

We reported a few months back that R&B songstress Toni Braxton had signed a new deal with Atlantic Records and was set to drop her first single 'Get Loose' toward the end of the year. Indeed with just a few days to go before the year is out, the song has surfaced. Produced by Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins, the uptempo song unsurprisingly has a very Darkchild 2008 sound. By that I mean it has elements similar to cuts such Brandy's 'Right Here (Departed)' and Beyonce's 'Scared of Lonely'.

As I type and listen to the song over again, I'm still on the fence about this one. It's decent enough on first listen, however in terms of a 'comeback' single and chart prospects, just doesn't really cut it for me. A grower? Perhaps. A miss? Perhaps. {Thanks Devonte!}

Hit or Miss?

Labels: Toni Braxton

Following reports yesterday alleging that Michael Jackson is gravely ill, the King of Pop's spokesman has issued a press release shooting down the claims:

Michael Jackson's spokesperson is denying a report that the artist is ill with a serious lung disease, calling the claim "a total fabrication."

In a recent interview with In Touch, author Ian Halperin said Jackson, 50, is suffering from Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, which can be fatal. Halperin is the author of a forthcoming unauthorized biography of Jackson.

"Concerning this author's allegations, we would hope in the future that legitimate media will not continue to be exploited by such an obvious attempt to promote this unauthorized 'biography,'" said Dr. Tohme Tohme, described in a statement as Jackson's "official and sole spokesperson."

"The writer's wild allegations concerning Mr. Jackson's health are a total fabrication," Tohme added.

The statement concludes with word that Jackson is "in fine health" and is "finalizing negotiations with a major entertainment company and television network for both a world tour and a series of specials and appearances." {Source}

It's great to hear that Michael isn't being idle and is cooking up something special for the fans. It is even better to know that he is in good health; the lengths some people will go to sell something. SMH...

Your thoughts?

Labels: Michael Jackson

Just a bit of a heads up; Beyonce's latest videos - 'Diva' & 'Halo' - will be making their simultaneous debuts tomorrow on iTunes, but you know where to keep it locked to catch them too...That Grape Juice!

Labels: Beyonce

Not content with milking her break-through album 'Good Girl Gone Bad' within an inch of its life, Rihanna is set to release the LP for the third time (yes, the THIRD time!) next month.

'Good Girl Gone Bad: The Remixes' (due January 27th) features remixed versions of 12 tracks from the album's first and second releases including 'Disturbia', 'Take A Bow' and 'Umbrella'.

Oh joy! I guess Ms. Fenty's team just couldn't allow 09 to run its course without another album from her - after the 'singer' (sheep-bleater), herself, confirmed that her fourth studio LP wouldn't be hitting stores next year. {Source}

For all her 'It Girl' status, she doesn't sell anywhere near as many albums (where the real profit is made) as the label treatment she receives would have you think. So why so much money is being pumped into her is beyond me. I'd much rather see her prove her true worth, by churning out a well-selling album that is actually somewhat good this time.

Your thoughts?

Labels: Rihanna

Once again, it's a Friday and no surprises it's been a slow news day. The voting for the That Grape Juice: End of Year Awards 2008 were to go live today, but technical difficulties have delayed this until Monday 22nd December.

Labels: RandomNess

X Factor victor Alexandra Burke is everywhere here in the UK at the moment. The 20 year old performed 'Hero' sans the rest of the final 12 X Factor finalists - whose collective version recently topped the Official UK chart - at The Millies, an event to honor the nations bravest.

Granted her rendition wasn't flawless, it definitely has me even more proud that she won. The richness of her tone is reminiscent to that of a certain Ms. Houston, something I couldn't have ever imagined saying about a British talent show contestant (sad, but true). With there being increasing talk of Simon Cowell prepping Alex for International stardom, it wouldn't surprise me if by this time next year she's a star on both sides of the Atlantic.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: Alexandra Burke

Ten years after Brandy & Monica's smash 'The Boy Is Mine' set alight the charts, the R&B stars reunited on stage to sing the song recently at Brandy's showcase for Atlanta's V103 radio station event. While it was a great for the nostalgia and what not, it kinda irked me as a) I would have preferred it be on a bigger platform - i.e. something televised and not some dingy club b) Monica's ad-libbing (which I usually like) and over singing were borderline painful. Still, it's wonderful seeing these two onstage together once again. Watching this takes me back to a time when the R&B scene was populated by actual talented artists.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: Brandy, Monica

This week ushered in the release of Keyshia Cole's third studio album 'A Different Me'. With early estimates showing the album to be on course to sell over 300,000 copies in it's first week, Cole's looks set to further cement her place in the industry.

Labels: Keyshia Cole

Rihanna - Take A Bow



Pussycat Dolls - Medley

Leona nailed it! I really have not seen the hype surrounding the song, which is currently #1 on the UK chart until now. Awesome performance.

It may come as a surprise to some, but Rihanna's sheep-like bleating wasn't half as annoying as usual. Dare I say, she actually turned in a solid showing.

Pussycat Dolls served up more of the same. Take from that what you will.

What do you think of the performances?

Labels: Leona Lewis, Pussycat Dolls, Rihanna

Christina Milian features on the cover of the Winter 08 /09 issue of Rap-Up magazine. In her interview, the singer speaks on former boyfriend Nick Cannon's surprise wedding to Mariah Carey, getting dropped from Def Jam and what inspired her to return to the industry. Check out quotes from her piece below:

On the reason why she was dropped:

“It was a budget cut, I believe. [Def Jam] probably got rid of projects like mine to spend the money on [Rihanna].”

On who inspired her to get back into music:

“I bumped into Janet Jackson at a club. We talked for an hour and I was telling her I don’t know if I’m gonna do this, and she was like, ‘Girl, do not let them stop you. I’m a fan and you make good music.’ She’s a person I actually looked up to growing up, so her telling me that really was the day I was like, ‘I’m not gonna let these people hold me down. It’s time.’”

On Nick Cannon marrying Mariah Carey:

“I was surprised like everyone else. I was like, ‘Really?’ It just seemed like a weird match, but I was happy for him. I always feel Nick works hard to get what he wants, whether that be women—that’s how he got me.”

Interesting, no doubt. She seemed kinda salty with that Rihanna comment - and rightfully so IMO (no shade on Rihanna, personally). Pretty, talented and oozing with cross-over appeal, had she had the kind of backing Rihanna got (and continues to get), Christina could easily have been what and who Rihanna is today.

Tidbit: Janet, a Christina Milian fan? Things that make you go 'hmmm'...

Your thoughts?

Labels: Christina Milian

Entertainment Tonight last night ran a feature on Beyonce's latest foray into the acting world - 'Obsessed', which also stars Brit Idris Elba and that woman from 'Heroes' (LOL). The movie, which hits theatres in April 2009, looks really good judging by the clip above.

I'm admittedly a bit cynical when it comes to Beyonce and her acting ('Dreamgirls' being her best movie showing to date), so I'll definitely be paying close attention to this one, as it's her first non-musical role.

Will you be going to see 'Obsessed'?

Labels: Beyonce

Hot on the promotional trail for his new album 'Intuition', Jamie Foxx performed current single 'Just Like Me' on Good Morning America yesterday. Pretty good live showing. I'm really warming to the song a lot more now.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: Jamie Foxx

LOL. I guess someone has an album to plug. This PR/marketing stunt is so transparent it's a joke. Baring in mind he is still in 'one-hit wonder' territory, it makes me wonder who these supposed 'fans' are. I mean, does anyone still even do the 'Crank That'?

That said, maybe I should stop going in on the boy; label-influenced or not, more 'positive' message music is always a welcome contribution to the industry...

Or maybe not LOL...

Your thoughts?

Labels: Soulja Boy

Remember that video of Akon throwing a fan into the crowd last year? Well it seems it's gotten the Senegalese singer into a spot of trouble - not as much as it could have, however. Check out the report below via Billboard.com:

Hip-hop star Akon is pleading guilty to harassment after he tossed a fan off stage at a concert last summer. He will serve no jail time as long he performs 65 hours of community service and pays a $250 fine.

Akon declined comment as he left court in Fishkill, N.Y.

The Senegalese-American singer, born Aliaune Thiam, was accused of picking up a teenage boy and throwing him off the stage during a June 2007 concert at a minor league baseball stadium near Poughkeepsie. Another concertgoer said she suffered a concussion when the teen landed on her.

With teen-grinding and fan-tossing being just a few of the controversies Akon has been able to escape(ish), here's hoping he uses his brain a bit more. SMH...

Any thoughts?

Labels: Akon

After three film hiatus, Tyler Perry once again dons his Madea get up in the latest movie adaptation in the Madea series - 'Madea Goes To Jail'. You can watch the extended official trailer for the movie, which comes out in the US in February 2009, above. Definitely looks like it'll be worth a look-see.

Randomness: UK'ers, did you know - true story - that the reason films like Madea often never are released in Cinemas on this side of the globe is because, according to the big film companies, 'there isn't a large enough market for them' here. SMH...

Will you be going to see 'Madea Goes To Jail'?

Labels: Tyler Perry

R&B crooner dropped his new album 'Intuition' this week. One of his promotional stops a few days back was The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. Foxx spoke on Obama, Diddy, his Bond ambitions and a whole lot more. Very funny, I must say. Tidbit: A performance of Jamie's new single 'Just Like Me' is also included.

Randomness: For those who have listened to 'Intuition', what do you think of it?

Your thoughts?

Labels: Jamie Foxx

Our friends over at Rap-Up.com are reporting that former Destiny's Child star LeToya Luckett is set to release her sophomore effort 'Lady Love' on March 24th next year.

Luckett has been working with Chris Brown, Missy Elliott, Ne-Yo and more on the follow-up to her 2006 Platinum certified (self titled) debut. It's being said that a track written by Mr Irreplaceable himself (Ne-Yo) is a strong contender for first single.

I've said this many a time, but LeToya's first album stands as one of the most solid and consistent R&B efforts in recent times IMO, so I sure anything am looking forward to this new record.

Are you checking for LeToya's new album?

Labels: LeToya

Liking this one a little more. Still nothing album worthy here IMO.

With label drama sinking Janet's latest effort 'Discipline', I'm still itching for new material from her - successful new material. If Madonna can still go out there and thrust her waist and crank out hits - there sure ain't any reason why Janet can't. Everything just needs to be right; here's hoping it works out next go round.

Hit(s) or Miss(es)?

Labels: Janet Jackson

For those of you still trying to get tickets to Beyonce's London stop on her hotly anticipated 'I Am...' tour, you will be pleased to know that ol' Bouncy has added another date to the mix in the nation's capital - May 26th 2009, at The 02 Arena. Tickets are on sale now!

Click here to purchase tickets

The added date comes on the heels of Beyonce's recent appearance on the X-Factor, when 18 million people watched her duet with Alexandra Burke on 'Listen' - a duet which many believe sealed Burke's subsequent victory. What's more, Beyonce's 'Listen' is also enjoying a resurgence on the UK charts as a result - the track is currently sitting at #6 on the iTunes chart, which is a major indicator of where she'll end up on Sunday's final tally. A win/win for all no doubt.

Your thoughts?

Labels: Beyonce

Britney Spears is currently in Japan promoting her chart-topping comeback LP 'Circus' - stopping by the show Hey, Hey, Hey to perform her smash 'Womanizer' today.

Just like her other performances of the song, this was rubbish. That spark, that certain something just doesn't seem to be there anymore. Whether it's the crappy choreography/choreographer, Britney herself or whatever, she just isn't selling her true value in the way she once did. I mean does she not watch herself back? There are only so many times one can say 'I hope she gets her act together'. For her sake, she needs to and needs to do so fast.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: Britney Spears

The official video for X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke's debut single 'Hallelujah' made its debut today. Put simply, it's pretty much standard-fare in terms X-Factor winner's first single video - i.e. interwoven clips from the show and a simple concept. Alex does look great though.

Update: Alex's version of 'Hallelujah' has become the fasting selling European single of all-time - in just 3 days. Congrats!

What do you think of the video?

Labels: Alexandra Burke

A brand new cut, said to be from Ciara's 'Fantasy Ride' LP (due early 2009), surfaced today - a collaboration with singer/song-writer The Dream titled 'Keep Dancing'.

The airy, laidback feel of the song is a real juxtaposition to the song's title- which suggests something more uptempo and hard-hitting. For what it is - a decent R&B slower paced effort - it's works. Though, I sure hope Ms. Harris is cooking up something of a higher caliber than this, as much of the material I've heard thus far sounds very hit or miss.

Hit or Miss?

Labels: Ciara

Madonna took a tumble during her recent concert in Brazil's Rio De Janeiro. Peep the clip above

By all means funny stuff, but the Pop superstar is likely to be the last one laughing; her Sticky & Sweet tour continues to break records across the globe, already amassing a whopping $213 Million for the singer already.

Randomness: I really wish Michael and Janet would take note. Record sales may not be what they once were (even for ol' Madge), but hitting the road is increasingly becoming 'the' way to go. One can only hope...

Your thoughts?

Labels: Madonna

Hollywood's top earning star Will Smith is set to star in sequels to two of his more recent box office smashes - 'Hancock' & 'I Am Legend':

WILL Smith has sequel fever. The box-office magnet is in talks to finalize follow-ups to both “Hancock” and “I Am Legend.” A Hollywood insider said, “He is ready to do both. Producers are just trying to get Charlize Theron to sign on for the ‘Hancock’ sequel.” As for “I Am Legend,” it will be more of a prequel as Smith’s character died at the end of the zombies-take-Manhattan movie. “It will be about how the disease spreads and the fall of the last great American city. It will also develop the relationship between Will’s character and his wife.” A rep for Smith said, “There have been talks about both of these projects.” {Source}

Having really enjoyed the originals of both films, I'd definitely be checking for the sequels.

Will you be checking for the new 'Hancock' and / or 'I Am Legend'?

Labels: Will Smith

Labels: Christina Milian

Following her triumphant victory on last night's nail-biting X-Factor finale, Alexandra Burke's debut single 'Hallelujah' hit the net (legally of course). You can listen to the 20 year old's emotive version of the Leonard Cohen classic, which is tipped to hit #1 next week (and possibly sell a million copies first week), below:

Flawless vocal. A winner if there ever was one.

You can check out new promo pics of Alex below, as well as above:

Labels: Alexandra Burke

Just a quick reminder to let you all know that you can still give your 2 cents/ as to who should be nominated in the That Grape Juice: End Of Year Awards 2008 by clicking here.

The final of X Factor 2008 live shows aired tonight here in the UK. Check out my 2 Pence on the show below:

{For those unfamiliar with the show; The X Factor is the UK's version of American Idol - with a twist in that groups and over 25's are eligible to enter. The show also birthed the career of a certain Leona Lewis}

I must begin by congratulating my girl Alexandra for winning tonight! It definitely makes me proud to live in a country that has been able to produce such a talent. A talent I believe is very much a world class act. Week in and week out, Alexandra has delivered the goods and then some. Very proud of her. Very.

My phone has been going off non-stop about Alex's show stopping performance of 'Listen' with none other than Beyonce (special 'hey' to Sean, Kwame, Jonelle, Sandra, Nathan, Jamell 'Mr Damaje', Leon and co!). You can also check out Alex's performances of 'Silent Night' below (the other performances will be added as they become available):

Alexandra & Beyonce - Listen



Alexandra - Silent Night

Alexandra - Hallelujah (Winner's Song - 1st Performance)

Your thoughts?

Labels: X Factor

It's Friday, it's been a slow news day thus far, so I'll throw it back to you guys to express yourselves as you wish. Always an entertaining read, I must say...

As per the title of this post, feel free to drop anything and 'errrrrthing' in the comments section.

So, anything from your thoughts on the site, to random ramblings, particular views on any story (music, politcs, sports etc), share a story/new song, shameless promotion of your own site/material lol...not to be limited to music alone...a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g!

It's your shout....

Labels: RandomNess

After the worldwide success of Estelle's 'American Boy' and the critical acclaim her 'Shine' LP received, it has been revealed that the Londoner is readying her third studio album. Speaking on the record, which has a tentative 2009 release date, she expressed her desire to work with fellow Brit Adele:

Grammy-nominated Brit female stars ADELE and ESTELLE look set to collaborate on a track.

Both have expressed an interest in working together — and now Estelle has told how a duet with Chasing Pavements star Adele would be “dope”.

The pair are now settling down to finalise their new albums with each other’s names at the top of their collaborations wish lists — so expect a tune from the talented pair next year.

Estelle started work on her new collection this month.

She said: “I’m really excited to start working on my next album.

“I’m going to go totally left field and surprise a lot of people.

“I’m going to hit it out the ball park with this one. I’m thinking a mix of COLDPLAY and MARVIN GAYE.” {Source}

Considering Estelle turned in such a stellar effort with 'Shine', I'm really anticipating what her next release will be serving up. The Adele collabo seems like a good look too.

Your thoughts?

Labels: Estelle

According to People.com, Usher's wife of a year Tameka Foster gave birth to a bouncing baby boy last night:

Sources confirm to PEOPLE that Usher and his wife Tameka have a new addition to the family: a baby boy born on Wednesday.

The new Raymond (whose name has not yet been released) joins older brother Usher Raymond V, who turned 1 on Nov. 26. The couple married in 2007. Tameka, 37, also has three sons from a previous relationship.

A source says Usher was at his wife's side during the delivery.

Last month, he told Access Hollywood that his soon-to-arrive baby was "one of the best Christmas gifts there is to have."

"I'm so proud to be a father by the time I'm 30," Usher (who hit the big 3-0 in October) told PEOPLE back in August. "I'd hate to be 80 years old and not be able to run with my kids. I need to still be able to do flips when they're in high school!"

Major congratulations to the Raymond's!

I must say I've warmed to the Usher/Tameka union a lot more since they decided to stop being so 'in-your-face' with it all.

Labels: Usher

For the last year, Lady GaGa, who is signed to Akon's Kon Live/Interscope imprint, has been creating quite a buzz within the industry. Indeed, her first single 'Just Dance', which made its debut back in May, has been making a steady ascent up the Billboard Hot 100 and currently sits at #3. Her debut album 'The Fame' was released in October.

With a sound that is an eklectic fusion of Electronica, Pop, Rock and Hip-Hop/R&B, this New York native is definitely a breath of fresh air in an increasingly 'samey' industry; you'll be seeing alot more of her here on That Grape Juice. Check out the video for her current smash 'Just Dance' above, as well as a live rendition of the track below:

Are you checking for Lady GaGa?

Labels: Lady GaGa

After taking the charts by storm with her 3rd studio album 'I Am...Sasha Fierce', Beyonce is embarking on a world tour in support of the record. Her camp released the first set of dates for the trek today - which happen to be for the European leg of the tour. Check out the cities, dates, and on-sale dates below:

DAY DATE CITY VENUE ON SALE
Sun 26-Apr Zagreb, Croatia Arena 15-Dec
Tue 28-Apr Vienna, Austria Stadthalle 17-Dec
Wed 29-Apr Budapest, Hungary Arena TBC
Thu 30-Apr Prague, Czech Republic O2 20-Dec

Sat 2-May Rotterdam, Holland Ahoy 20-Dec
Tue 5-May Paris, France Bercy 17-Dec
Wed 6-May Strasbourg, France Zenith 17-Dec
Thu 7-May Antwerp, Belgium Sportpalais 19-Dec
Fri 8-May Berlin, Germany 02 TBC
Sun 10-May Herning, Denmark MCH Arena TBC
Mon 11-May Gothenburg, Sweden Scandinavium 17-Dec
Wed 13-May Stockholm, Sweden Globen 17-Dec
Fri 15-May Koln, Germany Arena 19-Dec
Sat 16-May Zurich, Switzerland Hallenstadion 19-Dec
Mon 18-May Lisbon, Portugal Atlantico 12-Dec
Tue 19-May Madrid, Spain Palacio Desportes 16-Dec
Wed 20-May Barcelona, Spain Palau St Jordi 16-Dec
Sat 23-May Birmingham, UK NIA 12-Dec
Mon 25-May London, UK 02 12-Dec
Wed 27-May Manchester, UK MEN 12-Dec
Fri 29-May Dublin, Ireland The O2 17-Dec
Sun 31-May Belfast, UK Odyssey Arena 17-Dec

To purchase tickets, it's best to hit up your native Ticketmaster (UK folk: click here to purchase tickets).

Anyone who has seen Bouncy live knows she delivers one hell of a show. Be sure not to miss out on what I'm sure will be a great tour.

Will you be going to Beyonce's 'I Am...' tour?

Labels: Beyonce

Labels: Chris Brown

Life & Style magazine is reporting in their latest issue that Pop superstar Janet Jackson is indeed expecting her first child with long-time partner Jermaine Dupri. This comes after the couple denied the rumors just last week. Hmm...

Labels: Janet Jackson

Yesterday, we posted Brandy's awesome performances from her recent stop on The Tyra Banks Show. Ms. Norwood was also interviewed by the supermodel turned talk show host and opened up about many a topic, including her fake marriage, 'that' fatal car accident, her brother Ray J's sex tape and a whole lot more. Part 1 is above, with the rest watchable below:

Great interview!

Any thoughts?

Labels: Brandy

Pop superstar Britney Spears has more cause for celebration this week, as her 'comeback' LP 'Circus' has shot straight to the top of the US album charts. The set, Spears' 5th studio album, sold more than 500,000 copies guaranteeing a #1 opening on the Billboard 200 chart as well as a Gold certification straight out of the gate. {Source}

Labels: Britney Spears

Akon stopped by E!'s Chelsea Lately Show this week to promote his latest effort 'Freedom'. The 'Smack That' singer lived up to the song's name by erm...(you'll see) during the interview. He also shed an interesting light on his relationship status, working with Michael Jackson and more. Good stuff.

Your thoughts?

Labels: Akon

Word has it Mariah and Nick Cannon may be expecting their first child...for real this time:

MARIAH Carey's wish may finally be coming true. Spies in LA saw the songbird coming out of a well-known ob/gyn's office on North Crescent Boulevard, "clutching what looked like a sonogram and being greeted by her entourage with cheers. She was ebullient." It was the same type of paper that Minnie Driver was holding when she found out she was pregnant at the same doctor's office. Carey, who wed Nick Cannon this year in a quickie Bahamas ceremony, has made no bones about wanting a child. {Source}

If true, congratulations to them. After initially being thrown by their sudden marriage (thinking it was a publicity stunt), I'd be real glad for them as their union seems very genuine.

Your thoughts?

Labels: Mariah Carey

As this year draws nearer to its close, we will be acknowledging the releases, events, surprising moments etc that have made the last 12 months as memorable as they have been with our 2nd annual That Grape Juice: End of Year Awards 2008.

Shaking things up a bit from last year, we will be giving you the chance to decide who will be shortlisted for nomination in each of the categories - something you can do via the comments section below. There are no limits on the number of recommendations you can make per category.

Nominee suggestions must be in by December 15th. The final list of nominee will be announced on December 16th, also the day in which voting starts. Winners will be announced on December 23rd.

Album of the Year

Single of the Year

Best Video:

Best Collaboration

Best New Artist

Best Female Artist

Best Male Artist

The Kelly Rowland Underrated Artist Of The Year Award

The Please Go Sit Down Somewhere Award

Worst Single Of The Year

Worst Album Of The Year

(You) Slippin' / Step Your Game Up Award

Best Reality TV Show

Most Shocking Event of 2008

Your nominations?

Hot on the promotional trail for her latest effort 'Human', Brandy filmed an episode of The Tyra Banks Show which aired yesterday. The interview has yet to hit the 'net, however her performances of 'Right Here (Departed)' and 'Long Distance' can be seen above (RH) and below (LD):

Wow! That has to be the best performance I've seen to date of 'Right Here'. From the ad libs and runs, her swagger, everything was on-point. after seeing this, I hope she leaves the band at home for future performances of the song, as the original arrangement/backing track trumps the band version. Her rendition of 'Long Distance' was great too.

'Human' is on stores today!....

What do you think of the performances?

Will you be buying 'Human'?

Labels: Brandy

X Factor firm favourite, Alexandra Burke, performed at a special 'homecoming' gig at London's KoKo venue last night. With the final just days away, Burke, 20, gave near flawless renditions of some of her best performed songs during her time on the show - including an acapella version of 'Listen', which you can watch above.

Put simply, she must win! Awesome performance.

In other Alex news, word has it she and Beyonce will be performing 'Irreplaceable' together on Saturday's final.

What do you think of the performance?

Labels: X Factor