DIDDY GIVES JUSTIN BIEBER A LAMBO AS GIFT

Justin Bieber called hip-hop mogulSean Diddy Combs bluff when he promised to give the pop star the keys to his white Lamborghini on Bieber's 16th birthday. Back in March, the blond-haired singer told 'People' Magazine, "He [Diddy] said when I turn 16 he was going to give me his Lamborghini. But we all know Diddy's not gonna give me his Lamborghini. He's all talk." But Diddy, known for shelling out extravagant gifts, made good on his promise. Bieber was spotted in L.A. this week driving the white Lamborghini Spyder with friend Sean Kingston riding shot gun. While out cruising the streets, the young duo stopped byPink Berry, a popular frozen yogurt shop, hours before Bieber's concert at the Nokia Theatre that evening. Bieber is the second teenager that the Bad Boy CEO has given a flashy ride to this year. In January, he gave his son, Justin Dior, a $360K Maybach for his 16th birthday. Justin's mentor, Usher, also bought him a black Range Rover in March for his birthday.

RIHANNA ADMITS DODGERS' MATT KEMP IS HER BOYFIE

After the paparazzi started seeing them together early this year, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp was named Rihanna's new boyfriend. However both had yet to confirm their relationship.

The couple seemed to want keep things under wraps. The singer even told Ellen DeGeneres, when appearing on her show, that she was single.

But now, months later, Rihanna is confirming the rumors. According to a Rap-Up.comreport, she admitted that the two are an item in an interview with LA's KIIS FM radio station.

"He's my boyfriend," Rihanna said. "It's new and it's fun and it's nothing too serious. I don't want anything that's gonna take up so much of my energy and time right now in a bad way. I just wanna have fun and that's what it's about."

Riri and Kemp were photographed getting pretty cozy in Mexico around New Year's time. In the pics, which were posted all around the web, the couple are seen kissing and in a few, Kemp is shown feeling on Rihanna's booty.

During the interview, the singer was asked if Kemp would accompany her on her upcoming tour. She says no ... because, well, he has a job.

"No, he actually has a job like me," Rihanna said.

So there you have it folks. Rihanna is officially off the market ... for now.

James Brown's Body Missing?!

According to James Brown’s reported love child, the Hardest Working Man in Show Business’ body has been stolen. LaRhonda Pettit told NME that his corpse has gone missing.

The soul legend’s body was placed in a crypt following his death on Christmas of 2006. Since that time, Brown has been reportedly kept at his daughter’s Deanna’s house in South Carolina while a public mausoleum was being built for the music legend.

Pettit, who had been denied the opportunity to carry out an autopsy to determine Brown’s cause of death, says she has no idea where her father is being kept. "My daddy's body has disappeared. I have no clue where it was taken, but I need to know where. I'm convinced his death was suspicious and I want the people responsible brought to justice. The only way to do that is to exhume his body and have an autopsy. I cannot understand why one was never conducted."

Brown, easily the most influential soul and R&B artist of all time, died in Emory Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta of congestive heart failure and pneumonia. Pettit was one of several individuals to come forward after the Godfather of Soul’s death, claiming to be his love child. She was not named as a beneficiary in his will.

ALLEN IVERSONS TROUBLES CONTINUES, now its alchohol and gambling-report says

While personal issues have forced Allen Iverson to take off the remainder of the current NBA season, a new report indicates that more may be going on behind the scenes with the once-unstoppable NBA superstar.

In a recent column, published by thePhiladelphia Inquirer and penned former ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, some of Iverson's trainwreck personal life is revealed ... and it seems as though he's headed down a path to self-destruction.

In addition to his wife Tawana filing for divorce last week -- in which she's seeking full custody of their five children, child support and alimony -- Smith says Iverson also has a major alcohol and gambling problems.

His gambling problems are pretty serious too. So far, he's been banned from multiple casinos in Detroit and Atlantic City. It's so bad, Smith says multiple sources close to the NBA superstar says he'll "either drink himself into oblivion or gamble his life away."

The column suggests that if Iverson's inner circle doesn't so something soon, his post-basketball well-being may be in jeopardy.

The revelations seem to echo Twitter messages the NBA star posted on Twitter Monday night (March 8), where in multiple tweets, he admitted to going through "rough times."

"To my fans: You all know that my life isn't perfect. I am going through some very tough times right now, like I am sure that we all do from time to time," Iverson wrote. "However, I will stand tall like always with 'rhino' thick skin."

As he continued tweeting, he did, however, indirectly deny Smith's claims, or at least some of the speculation surrounding the column.

"Even though I have become used to hearing people say things about me that aren't true, it still hurts," he wrote. "I encourage you to continue your ongoing support and I want you to trust that this is another obstacle in my life that, with God's help I will overcome. God Bless You All."

In Smith's column, he suggests that A.I. is in need of someone with "the ideal combination of compassion and toughness" in his life. That is John Thompson, Iverson's former college coach at Georgetown, former Temple coach John Chaney tells Smith.

"[Thompson] is the one guy who'll have a chance of slowing this train wreck down, who could wrap his arms around Iverson and have an impact, because clearly it has not been done," Chaney said. "But there's still this one question: Will [Iverson] listen?"

Iverson has gone through several teams since leaving the Philly 76ers in 2006. He played with the Denver Nuggets through 2008, before being dealt to the Detroit Pistons. At the start of this season, he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies, but only played three games, amid disagreements over playing time, before announcing a short-lived retirement.

He signed with the 76ers as a free agent in December, making a tearful return to the city where he spent his first 10 1/2 seasons. Then, just last week, the Sixers announced that Iverson would not return for the rest of the season after he was given an indefinite leave to deal with a personal issue related to the health of his 4-year-old daughter.

It's still unclear if he'll return next season. But, by the sound of things, it's probably the last thing he should focus on. It's a shame to see a talent like Iverson fall so hard after such a incredible NBA career.

Lil Wayne Gets Special Escort in Jail

After finally reporting to jail for a gun-possession conviction, Lil Wayne is going to have to adjust to the humble lifestyle New York’s infamous Rikers Island has to offer.

Sources tell VIBEARENA that contrary to some reports, Lil Wayne’s attorney requested protective custody for the rapper. However, there is technically no such thing at Rikers. In order to accommodate Weezy, he will be housed in general population at the Eric M. Taylor Center alongside inmates with similar safety risks. He'll be shadowed with an escort wherever he goes.

“If he leaves for a haircut, the law library or play in the yard he will be escorted by a captain with a panic button on his belt to call for back up if Wayne gets attacked,” says a Rikers Island insider.

Every hour, Wayne will have the option to roam the quarters with his escort in tow, or be securely locked in his cell. The corridor where he is housed is currently holding 18 other inmates with a day room with a TV on one end.

His cell is 10x6 and like all sentenced inmates he is required to wear a dark green work shirt, pants and slip on sneakers. All contact with the outside is limited to two phone calls a week, which will be recorded, and two visits with up to three people at a time.

“He could be out in as little as eight months with good behavior,” says the source.

For his first night in the slammer, Wayne reportedly dined on noodles with sausage and marina sauce, stemmed greens, salad and whole wheat bread.

Tomorrow’s breakfast will be fresh fruit, Wheatena and coffee or tea. Lunch: Meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

D’Angelo Busted For Soliciting Sex; Manager Speaks

It wasn’t a good day for D’Angelo. The R&B singer-songwriter was arrested yesterday (March 6) in New York for soliciting an undercover policewoman $40 for oral sex.

According to reports, the 36-year-old artist who released the critically acclaimed platinum albums Brown Sugar and Voodoo, was cruising the West Village in his Range Rover when he spotted a woman he thought to be a prostitute.

After offering money to an undercover officer at about 2:30 a.m., the Grammy-Award winner was busted as authorities found $12,000 stashed in his SUV.

When VIBE contacted D’Angelo’s manager Lindsay Guion about the incident, he said: “It’s a legal matter and I can’t comment until we get all the facts.”

This is not D’Angelo’s first brush with the law. The "Untitled” star, who has been working on a long-awaited comeback album, was arrested on charges of drunk driving and cocaine and marijuana possession near his hometown of Richmond in January of 2005. D’Angelo later plead guilty to the charges.

In November 2002, a woman claimed that the artist cut her off in a lane leading to a shopping mall and then allegedly cursed and spit on her. When cops showed up to his Richmond home, D’Angelo was reportedly pepper sprayed after resisting arrest

BEEF, BEEF AND STILL MORE BEEF

It all started with prezzo and jaguar, then there was Abbas and chiwawa, now beef is brewing between kisumu based disk jockey and his co founders of the AIRMAXX INTERNATIONAL event company. Vibesarena learnt that the co founder held a gig in kisumu without consulting Davy ranks. this is what davy had to say:

"some body is TRYING to take the company that i started in november 16 2008..after making him the C.E.O OF THE COMPANY WITH DJ Raj in a meeting IN MARCH 22 2009 now he has forgoten all this n trying to fuck up with us guyz..man this is BIG..HOW CAN YOU DO A GIG WITHOUT CONSAULTING THE FOUNDER N THE CREATOR OF AIRMAXX INTERNATIONAL.DUDE JUST BE REAL!!"

still on beef, the on going Pilsner Mfalme djing competition which hit the semi finals yesterday at M2 nakuru is now being mared by controversy. DJ briggy of the gospel out fit scratch hood djs claims that DJ space of M.O.B who is a judge at the ongoing competition ruled against him unfairly because he left M.O.B DEJAYS. when contacted this is what he said:

"Fuck dj space of m.o.b deejays.is it because i left ur crew made u disqualif'y me in mfalme or what?what goes around comes ..and if u thnk this is end of me, umejidanganya.GOD has btter plans 4me,i jus pray u live long to see how big he will bless me.get the truth frm me>I WNT GIVE UP COZ I REFUSE TO LOOSE AM A MIRACLE MAN."

Well it seem the beef season is definately back with a bang, whose next? keep it vibesarena

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JAY Z, BEYONCE VISITS WHITE HOUSE WHILE IN D.C FOR TOUR STOP

Hip-hop's first couple, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, finally made it to the White House ... only for a visit that is.

Jay and B visited the nation's First Family at the White house on Wednesday (March 3) while in town during a stop on the "BP3" tour, where he performed at the city's Verizon Center.

A White House official said the rapper -- alongside his wife/singer Beyonce, her mother Tina Knowles, singer Trey Songz, and industry veteran Kevin Liles -- toured the residence.

Then later, Jay actually had a quick, unscheduled visit with President Obama, said the Washington Post.

The hip-hop superstar shared news of the visit with fans during his show that evening, before wishing a White House staffer's child happy birthday.

"I don't know where you are, but happy birthday. I just came from the White House. And your pop works there. He said, 'Happy Birthday,' " Jay said.

In an interview with Interview magazine last month, Jay reflected on his rise from the streets all the way to the White House, saying it "was crazy" that he could even meet with these powerful people.

"For me, being with [President] Obama or having dinner with Bill Clinton ... It's crazy," he said. "It's mind-blowing, because where I come from is just another world. We were just ignored by politicians -- by America in general."

ESTHER ARUNGA MARRIES QUINCY TIMBERLAKE

She claims she has obtained a certificate and has officially changed her name to Esther Adongo Timberlake.

''I am so much in love with Quincy and that’s why have officially married him,'' she said at a press conference in Jazz Maestro Joseph Hellon’s house in Runda... Quincy however, is still in police custody. When asked about it, Esther says it is allowed for someone to conduct a marriage even with a partner who is convicted in prison or jail.

Esther meanwhile adds that she’s planning to sue a renown psychiatrist who sedated her against her will and kept her incarcerated for five days yet she was not insane.

She said she is seeking Sh300 million in damages and stated that she will also sue her parents for taking her there.

The former TV presenter has also vowed to seek Sh30 million from respective media houses that she claims ‘defamed’ her.

She has now obtained court orders restraining her parents from interfering with her life.

Elsewhere, the government is expected to shed light on the controversial Finger of God Church and Arunga’s arrest next Thursday.

Imenti Central MP Gitobu Imanyara raised the issue in Parliament and demanded that the Internal Security Ministry issue a statement on the regulation of churches in the country.

Gitobu further wants clarity the circumstances under which the police arrested Arunga and church founder Hellon.

Pastor Hellon and others associated with the church have since been charged with belonging to an unlawful society.

courtesy of capitalfm.co.ke

GAZA VS. GULLY WAR INTENSIFIES

It is no longer music, its gangster!

The latest news is that the apartment of former gaza member Blaak Ryno was fire bombed early this morning.

All this comes after the deejay left the Portmore Empire led by dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel and released a song dubbed Mi Lef which gives a brief description as to why he had to flee from the Gaza.

Music News understands that Blaak Ryno wasn’t at his Winchester Courts apartment during the time of the fire bombed at about minutes after one this morning.

Electrical supplies, clothing, shoes and some furniture were destroyed in the blaze. However, the other apartments on the complex were speared.

The Half Way Tree police are investigating.

Subsequent to Blaak Ryno leaving the Vybz Kartel led Portmore Empire, the deejay’s family’s home in Waterford was shot up. Black Ryno has since moved his family out of the area.

Meanwhile, since Blaak Ryno’s departure Vybz Kartel has said according to reports in the Star, "Ryno is, in my analysis, a confused individual going through some sort of post-adolescence trauma where, in his pursuit to find himself, is getting his priorities mixed up and, as a result, is making decisions in a subconscious, bewildered state of mind."

In relating news, it has been reported that Big Yard, which is said to be a tenement yard on Mannings Hill Road, that has a studio and is a Gaza ends was shot up. According to police reports, the shooting took late last night.

LeBROWN SWITCHING FROM #23 TO #6 NEXT SEASON

LeBron James may get a new jersey number next season, but whether or not, the number will appear on a Cleveland uniform is yet to be seen.

According to ESPN, the NBA superstar recently filed paperwork to switch his jersey number from #23 to #6 next year, as a tribute to NBA legend Michael Jordan.

Last November, James announced the change, explaining that with all that Jordan has done for the game of basketball, he doesn't feel any player in the entire league should be fit to wear the iconic #23 on their jersey.

He added that he planned to start a petition to retire the number from the league, and planned to get everyone in the NBA to sign it.

"There would be no LeBron James, no Kobe Bryant, no Dwyane Wade if there wasn't Michael Jordan first," LeBron said last year. "He can't get the logo [Hall of Famer Jerry West's silhouette adorns the NBA's logo], and if he can't, something has to be done. I feel like no NBA player should wear 23."

Just this week, James beat the deadline to file for a number change, revealing that he would official wear the #6 next season.

"I already sent it in. I'm going to be #6," he said.

Despite his request for change, the NBA doesn't have to grant it, said reports. However, if he switches teams next year, since he'll be a free agent, he can choose any number he wishes.

James, along with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, will be among the 2010 free agent class.

According to ESPN, both the Chicago Bulls and the New York Knicks are setting themselves up to make competitive offers to the superstar. But, Cleveland can sign James to a longer, more lucrative deal.

ESTHER ARUNGA HAD AN AFFAIR WITH CHIWAWA

One thing every body likes about Abbas kubaff a.k.a Dobeez is that he always keeps his word. He promised you that he was unleashing an album, he delivered it. Promised that he tying the knot, he did it. His latest promise was war on chiwawa and belive you me, he is on chiwawas neck according to Abass, chiwawa had an affair with Esther Arunga! This morning, heres what Abbas sayed about it on face book " just found out that nigga chiwawa also had an affair with esther arunga while she was having a relationship with her x fiancee... ako kadoggy kadogo madame wanampatia juu ya nini na wana machali? ama madame wakenya mume amua kuwa hivi joh? ebu niambieni....."
wwWe are still trying to establish if its true because our attempts to reach chiwawa to comment on the matter has been frutile. keep it vibesarena.

BEBE COOL’S HUMMER FINALLY IN TOWN

Superstar Bebe Cool’s much hyped state-of-the-art Hummer car is finally in town after years of waitingl. The monster H2 Hybrid 2004 model arrived at the Bogolako star’s Ntinda home at 2:00pm yesterday to the excitement of the singer and his family.

The singer revealed that he bought the vehicle from Canada. A few hours after its arrival, it was driven to Tadashi Bond in Nakawa for valuation and taxation. A close pal told us that the singer bought the car at a staggering USD42,000 before taxes.

For years, Gagamel Crew president Bebe Cool (real name Moses Ssali) has always wanted to own a Hummer. “This is a dream come true now that he has acquired it,” a pal told us. We are told he wants to customise it with personalised registration plates ‘BIG SIZE’. His DMC Range Rover is customised as BAFFUDDE.

The first time Bebe Cool tried to buy a Hummer, the fella, one Stabbo, that was supposed to bring it in disappeared with the dime the singer had paid. Late last year, he bought his wife and mom of two, Zuena Kirema a simple car. We are told he wants to buy her an Escalade.

Top singers Dr Jose Chameleone and Bobi Wine own one each. Currently the star singer is bound in a wheelchair following shooting that he suffered at the hands of a police officer, Alfred Achikan in January. The acquisition of the big-money Hummer will certainly cement Bebe Cool’s place among the very top artistes in Uganda. And this will certainly reignite his biff with big-headed Goodlyfe singers Mozey Radio and Weasel TV.

RON BROWZ KILLED AUTO-TUNE BEFORE JAY Z

Though Ron Browz’s new collabo with Foxy Brown, “Ride Ya Bike (She’s A Biker),” is his first Auto-Tune-free single, the Harlem producer and rapper claims he had plans of going au natural long before Jay-Z pulled the trigger with “D.O.A. (Death Of Auto-Tune).”
“What’s weird was that before ‘D.O.A.,’ I had started recording songs without Auto-Tune. People don’t know that,” Browz recently explained to VIBE. “[Ether Boy] was going to be half-and-half. So when he came out with ‘D.O.A.,’ I was like ‘Wow.’ And it was just time for me to show people I can rap.
“But you can’t just give Auto-Tune to your mother and be like ‘Hey Ma, go on Auto-Tune, you’re going to make a smash.’,” the rapping producer continued. “No. I still had to write lyrics that people could sing along with. So I’ve just been recording songs with and without it.”
That said, Browz’s 2010 mantra—the simpler, the stickier—won’t veer too left from his past formula. “What I did for [“Ride Ya Bike (She’s A Biker)”] is like all my previous songs. I just play the beat, put my headphones on and say whatever comes to mind,” he reveals of his songwriting process. “I don’t care how dumb or how silly you think it sounds, because I know the catchiest songs end up being big records. And in this industry, hooks are the most important part of the song.”
Having mastered the craft of creating mindless melodies that catch on—think “Arab Money,” “Pop Champagne,” and “Jumpin’ Out The Window”—Browz was stumped when rumors bubbled last October that he'd been dropped from his label, Universal Motown.
“When I was up there, I had the Drake momentum. I had all these big records' and then for some odd reason they felt like [my album] shouldn’t come out,” he said. “The album was dope, features from Diddy to Keri to Lloyd Banks to Amerie and I’m like ‘What’s going on?’
“I don’t know if it was ‘D.O.A,' I had no idea what the hold up was,” he continued. “[I knew] the people wanted it ’cause I’m on the road every weekend. Then when ‘Gimme 20 Dollars’ came out and they didn’t get behind the record, I was like ‘I gotta go.’ So I took the initiative and told Universal I wanted to leave. I didn’t get dropped; it was a mutual understanding."

50 SUED OVER SEX TAPE

The mother of Rick Ross’ daughter is suing 50 Cent for disseminating her private sex tape over the Internet last year.
Lastonia Leviston processed her complaint yesterday (Feb. 24) in Manhattan, alleging that 50 Cent used the tape without her permission and has caused her to suffer “emotional distress.”
In March 2009, 50 Cent posted the video on his affiliate site www.boobootv.com as a form of psychological warfare with then rival Rick Ross.
The Queens mogul edited the 13-minute sex tape to include himself under his short-lived Pimpin’ Curly persona. As Curly, he hurled insults at Ross and Leviston, identified in the clip as “Brooke.”
“Double R? Does that stand for Rick Ross in the middle of her motherfuckin’ chest man?! Oh this is cold blooded man. I told n***as I was the beast from the east man. They thought I was bullsh***ing. I ain’t bullshitting no more man. 1 minute and 30 seconds n***a. You see the tape. It only been on for 1 minute and 30 seconds,” Curly ridiculed. I want you to watch this on your tour bus Ricky. I want you to watch this on your motherf***ing tour bus Ricky. Now how the f**k you gonna say you a boss and you run a motherf**king crew and can’t even control your b**ches. Is this n***a licking on the Rick Ross tattoo? The n***a licking on the Ricky tattoo. Oooh s**t. Oooh man. Somebody need to make an announcement!”
The male participant’s face in the clip is blurred out and has never been identified. According to Leviston’s lawsuit, the tape was made in 2008.
Rick Ross' other child's mother, Tia Kemp, aligned herself with 50 Cent last year. She released a tell-all book and appeared in several viral clips, including one where the Queens emcee took her on a shopping spree.
Several months ago, Kemp brought Ross' son to Floyd Mayweather's mansion to take pictures with 50 Cent and the boxer.
Ross released his third studio album, Deeper Than Rap, in the midst of the feud in April 2009. To date, it has sold over 400,000 copies.
50 Cent’s 4th LP, Before I Self-Destruct, was released last November and is certified gold.

BEEF, BEEF AND MORE BEEF

If you thought that the beef between ABBAS KUBAF and his long time friend and best man CHIWAWA was just a hear say, think twice, this shit is real! Abass is on a war path against chiwawa. Earlier reports claimed that chiwawa was the one who led to BABY G and ABBAS to break up reports that chiwawa has refuted. Last week, on his facebook status, ABBAS lashed chiwawa with this:"That stupid ball-less puppy named "chiwawa" is gonna get the wrath of my lyrical blowz!!...tell that rabbid flea-bag im on to his neck". Well this morning, he had his status read this ".....this is a chiwawa i used to have...heard he's all over town humping my girl-friends' legs and its annoying!...if u see the poor t little thing call me on my mobile land-line!" and added a photo of a chiwawa dog in a purple dress(picture above. Keep it VibesArena for how chiwawa chiwawa is going to respond coz beef is on!

MALCOM PUGA a.k.a MALCOM P: REST IN PEACE

First it was the coastal showbizz queen BEYONCE who got involved in an accident that resulted to 3 cracks in her pelvic bone and now anothersoldier is down and out. Malcom Puga a.k.a MALCOM P famous for the hit song Tukatane tour which he did with the tanzanian boy group T.M.K was involved in a roadaccident last saturday en route to his Birthday bash in mombasa when the accident occured. The star eho has been nominated in the coast music awards was hospitalised at Jocham hospital and when VIBESARENA visited him in hospital, he seemed to be recovering from the neck and arm injuries he sustained Mombasa peeps are still shocked by the death because every one who saw him was sure that he wasnt going to loose the fight. VIBESARENA joins the family, friends, fans and well wishers in prayers. May the lord rest his soul in peace

ESTHER ARUNGA ARRESTED

Esther Arunga was arresterd earlier this morning(Sunday 21/2/2o1o) for being part of an illegal group, Esther, Hellon Joseph, and Quincy Timberlake were arrested alongside 8 other when police raided Hellon's home in Runda estate, Nairobi

They were grilled by the C.I.D and while Esther was held in Muthaiga police station with two high school students from their Finger of God church the rest were held at Gigiri police station

They were arrested for paricipating in the activities of an illegal group but their lawyer, Harun Ndubi insisted that the church was registered. Police spokes man Erick Kiraithe added that detectives were investigating "serious allegations". The drama continues, keep it VIBESARENA

BEEF SEASON: ABBAS VS. CHIWAWA

Seams that the beef season is back ! Just days after Jaguar lashed back Prezzo in responce to their on going fued over whos the real king of bling, Abass and Chiwawa are on the ring now. Reason, Baby G and Abass divorce. Reports reveal that in fact it was Chiwawa who introduced Abass to Baby Gangsta and infact Chiwawa who has been a very close buddy of Abass was the bestman at their wedding. But if you read Abass facebook status which read this "That stupid ball-less puppy named "chiwawa" is gonna get the wrath of my lyrical blowz!!...tell that rabbid flea-bag im on to his neck" Definately you know all is not well between this lyricists. keep it vibesArena as the beef unfolds

CASH MONEY'S OIL BUSSINES QUESTIONED BY BLOOMERG

The company was actually formed by the brothers years ago. But, the news caught the eye of several entertainment-related websites, and a few major financial publications such as Bloomberg.

While Birdman claimed in a recent interview with Ozone magazine that he already had oil pumps producing and was pulling in money on a monthly basis from his energy business, a recent report from Bloombergquestioned whether or not the company was even doing any real energy business at all.

"Right now I'm active; I got pumps and sh** that are getting money monthly. I like that oil sh**. I'm gonna put some more time into it," he told Ozone recently.

Bronald's mission statement says they are focused on the "exploration, production and development of oil and gas reserves" in several U.S. Gulf Coast states including Oklahoma's Osage County.

Well, Bloomberg contacted Oklahoma City-based Chaparral Energy Inc., who operates about 40% of the wells in Osage County. They said they've never heard of Bronald or been contacted by the company.

Also, when attempting to dig deeper into the music moguls' forray into the energy business, the publication found that "regulators that handle oil and gas permits and operator licenses in Texas and Louisiana didn't have records of Bronald's existence; nor did Secretary of State offices in Texas and Florida."

However, Dan Pickering, president of Tudor Pickering Holt (an energy investment and merchant banking boutique), told Bloomberg that it's likey that the Williams brothers would be non-operating partner in drilling projects since both oil and gas wells are very expensive. So, they could very well be doing business after all, just not hands on.

Other inconsistencies included unlisted phone numbers, or numbers listed to the residences of either Birdman or Slim, and the pair being the other individuals listed under management and director headings on the Bronald website.

While Birdman may have fabricated his statements about actually owning oil pumps that are drilling currently, it's very likely that the music moguls have a real interest in diversifying their portfolios into energy, but are still in the early stages of reeling in investors to drill.

The Cash Money camp had yet to respond at press time.

President Obama Tells Jay-Z He Loves BP3

First it was that he wanted some one to manage his Facebook and tweeter accounts now he is listening to the BLUEPRINT 3 BY JAY Z.....

Jay-Z’s Blueprint 3 album has received its biggest endorsement via PresidentBarack Obama. In a recent interview with BBC One, Jay-Z disclosed that the President loved the LP and was playing it during their recent phone conversation.

“Barack loves hip-hop, when I called him he was playing Blueprint in the gym,” he explained. “I've been invited to the White House a couple of times. Hopefully we'll keep him in for 8 years so I'll have time to get there."

Obama has been a self-admitted hip-hop fan for years, and first met Jay-Z in 2008 as part of his goal to help emcees use their art to spark critical thinking and bridge generational rifts.

Also, the then U.S. senator was hopeful to see hip-hop artists as a whole move away from the misogyny and materialistic slant that’s gripped the art form’s mainstream in recent years.

“I've met with Jay-Z, I've met with Kanye [West]. And I've talked to other artists about how potentially to bridge that gap. I think the potential for them to deliver a message of extraordinary power that gets people thinking [is great]," Obama told BET on the special What’s In It For Us? “There are times, even on the artists I've named, the artists that I love, that there is a message that's sometimes degrading to women, uses the N-word a little too frequently. But also something that I'm really concerned about is they're always talking about material things about how I can get something; more money, more cars.”

Jay-Z acknowledged the hip-hop nation’s potential political power, but rejected the notion that artists should tone down their messages. Instead, he insisted that artists have a responsibility to speak on the uncomfortable truths of society, and not relegate their art to propaganda.

"Sometimes there are hard truths in rap, they're not packaged with pretty ribbons. Sometimes the realities of the situations are harsh and they need to be told,” Jay reasoned to the BBC. “We're the poets of our generation! Those truths and those honesties need to be told and sometimes that will rub people the wrong way but that don't mean you don't tell them. I think when rap is done brilliantly it can inform you of a problem, things that are going on."

Even as the pro-Obama hip-hop songs slowed following the President’s January 2009 inauguration, Jay-Z has remained one of his strongest supporters.

The Brooklyn native spoke favorably of Obama throughout Blueprint 3, including the songs “What We Talkin’ About,” “On to the Next One,” and “Reminder.”

Today (Feb. 19), President Obama will hold a town hall meeting at Nevada’s Henderson high school, followed by speaking engagements at the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

THE DRAMA CONTINUES: ESTHER vs. THE MEDIA

Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi on Thursday afternoon, Esther condemned the media for ‘digging’ into her private life and exposing her affairs and yet there was no scandal.

Referring to media reports that she was coerced into not wedding her fiancé because he was allegedly a free mason, Esther said it was ‘none of anyone’s business who she dates’.

“I have served this country with integrity and honesty... There’s not a single scandal attached to my name. I’ve been doing my job and doing it well. I have resisted splashing my personal details in media. I didn’t think it was public information who I’m dating or who I’m seeing, and so when I broke up with Wilson Malaba, I did not go to the press!” she revealed.

Unconfirmed reports allege that Esther had left KTN and joined a ‘cult’ that is said to be run by a well known musician, Joseph Hellon, who was also present at the press conference, in the company of his wife.

Arunga also dispelled the notion that she is heavy with child.

“Since last year, about 12 months ago, there’s been rumours that I was pregnant. I just hear it on the street and I get very amused. No, I am not pregnant,” she stressed.

The buck does not stop there. As they were concluding the press conference, Hellon announced that he will be vying for Kenya’s top seat in 2012 (yes the presidency), with Esther as his running mate.

“It might not be the appropriate place to make this announcement, but I will… Ladies and gentlemen of the 4th estate, Come 2012, I Joseph Hellon is vying for president of Kenya. And Esther Arunga is my running mate…”

As journalists guffawed and asked for a clarification, Arunga said; “He just told you I’m his running mate, for 2012! Yes...”
"Keep it vibesArena as the drama unveils

ESTHER ARUNGA JOINS CULT!

She's a TV star in Kenya, studied law, has worn awards, she's beautiful and famous but she has just been hypnotized by a weird jazz musician called Hellon (real name Ekkaleo Joesph Hellon) who has a church in Runda.

Step forward Esther Arunga. So why did this cute and well educated lawyer leave her high flying job to join some dubious character who was also a judge in the recently concluded Tusker Project Fame? According to well placed sources, Esther who was engaged and set to get married was convinced by "pastor" Hellon to dump his man after she had joined his Runda church.

Now family and friends have not heard from her because she's sulking and refusing to answer her phone having being mesmerized in her new church's activities! Apparently Hellon's "church" is said to have many cute ladies some who reside there "helping" in divine chores.
The church is weirdly named Finger of God.

Come on Esther...go home for "heaven" sake!.....My verdict: Beauty without brains. Keep it vibes Arena as the saga unveils.

S.T.Ls song as American Next Top Model Promo song

Guys dint I tell you that she is the Queen of Swagg? Well if you doubted, the dig this. VibeArena has just got wind of info that stella Mwangi a.k.a S.T.L a.k.a the queen of swag's song,"GO GETTA" will be used as Americas next top model cycle 14 promo song! This comes only days after S.T.L's Las Vegas tour was cancelled due to reasons VibesArena is yet to establish. This is what S.T.L had to say: "As y'all know, I've been pretty sad about missing out my Las Vegas show. But I just received some really good news!

My song Go Getta from my debut album Living For Music, is used as American Next Top Model cycle 14 promo song!!!

Now That was a nice bounce up!

I've always been a big fan of Tyra Banks and Top Model so just hearing my song play on their cycle 14 promo-premiere is a big W-O-W!!!

I'm so grateful for this. It gave me a lot of inspiration to keep on with what I know best.

Big hugs and kisses to you all". Her songs have also featured in films like save the last dance, AMERICAN PIE, REDLINE and series like, CSI(New York), LAS VEGAS, GHOST WISPERER, SCRUBS and ARMY WIVES to name a few. keep it vibes arena as the SWAGG QUEEN takes over

BEEF! SEASON 2....OR IS IT 3?

The beef season is back! Bigger and better! Whos on the ring? This time round Jaguar picks on Prezzo! Word is that Jaguar said that Prezz flossing days with bling brought by her Moms cash are over and that he (Jaguar) is officially the king of bling! The beef got its way to radio and when the Queen of radio Eve D'souza of capital fm called the two artistes Prezzo said that he has never heard of jaguar and he doesnt know even if he is a politician, comedian or musician. He also added that he thinks jaguars thong is tight and he needs to adjust em! Ouch! jaguar on the other hand said that he meant that he is better than Prezz musicaly. Ill let you do the judging on who worn. keep it vibes arena as the beef unfolds

The Goods: Have What It Takes to Tweet For President Obama?

Out of a job? Love Twitter? Riding for President Barack Obama? Then you're in luck. Late last week, the President announced that he's currently looking for a "Social Networks Manager" immediately. Your job, if you should choose to accept it: Help update President Obama's Twitter, Facebook and MySpace pages (and, um, convince him that MySpace is so 2006). Though Obama's gotten props for using all forms of social media both before and during his presidency, he admitted late last year that he doesn't actually tweet or write his own Facebook status updates. So the gig includes coming up with grassroots campaigns on the various social networks. But as the ad for it points out, the right candidate needs to be "ready to work hard; this isn't a 9-to-5 sort of job."

Birdman calls time working with R. Kelly his worst investment

Cash Money CEO Birdman, also known as Baby, has made a lot of money in a lot of different places ... but he's best known for the wise decisions made in music.

However, if you ask him, there's a few places his Cash Money Records company is lacking and that's the R&B world.

While he's found a star in Jay Sean, Baby did have plans to do a joint album with R&B star R. Kelly. That never panned out, and according to the music mogul, it was a waste of time.

In a recent interview with Ozone Magazine, Birdman said working with Kellz was his worst investment.

"Probably the worst investment I did was f***in' with R. Kelly," he explained. "That was a waste of my time. I could've made money if I wasn't f***in' with that clown-a** n****."

In 2003, the pair were to record a Best Of Both Worlds 2 album, but it never saw the light of day.

Also in the interview, Birdman discusses his plans for expansion in music, his success in the oil biz, his flagship artist Lil Wayne, and the new crop of Cash Money artists next in line.

Here's a snippet:

You seem to find money no matter where it is, from the Lugz shoes, to videogames, to music...
I'm trying to buy some of the [Miami] Dolphins next.

How did you become so business savvy?
I was just born with that sh**, brah. When you have a business you need to know to budget, spend, and manage. I think those are the three hardest things to do in business. If you don't do those things, your business is gonna go under. I was just blessed to know how to do those things [as well as] hustle. Honestly, you gotta hustle and know how to flip money. And to flip money, you've got to always get new money. Niggas be trying to hold on to old money and they don't spend it, but you've gotta keep flipping that sh**.

I heard the tattoo on your head represents an oil rig. Is it true you're an aspiring oil tycoon?
I've been in the oil business about 4 or 5 years now. That's something me and my brother decided to do outside of music. I read about oil a lot and I was able to get in business. [My company] is called Browner Oil, and I'm making good money off that; that's something for my kids and my kids' kids. They can live off that money forever.

Not to get in your pockets too much, but I heard you've made over $100 million off oil.
I did a few different deals. That was just one of them. When you're dealing with oil, you buy in different areas. Right now I'm active; I got pumps and sh** that are getting money monthly. I like that oil sh**. I'm gonna put some more time into it.

Check out the full interview at OzoneMag.com.

Dr. Dre Files Lawsuit Over The Chronic Royalties

Dr. Dre has filed a lawsuit against Death Row Records, the legendary record label he co-founded with Suge Knight.
Dre, born Andre Young, filed a federal lawsuit against the company that purchased Death Row out of bankruptcy, WideAwake-Death Row LLC.
According to the lawsuit, Dr. Dre has not seen any royalties from his groundbreaking hit album The Chronic since 1996, the year he left the label due to a strained relationship with Knight.
Death Row Records was put up for sale, when Knight lost a $107 million dollars default judgment to Michael and Lydia Harris.
The Harris’ claimed they invested $1 million dollars, but were cut out of profits by Knight.
WideAwake-Death Row Records LLC purchased the storied gangsta rap label and all of its assets for $18 million dollars during a sale in 2008.
Dre claims the new owners, who have issued releases and reissues by Snoop Dogg and Kurupt, are selling digital, remastered copies of The Chronic and The Chronic Re-Lit, both without his permission.
Ownership of the label is still in question.
In November of 2009, Laura Lavi, who claims to be the sole CEO of Wideawake-Death Row LLC., accused co-owners New Solutions Financials of diverting funds and assets illegally.

Samsung Is The Latest Company To Capitalize On MJ's Death

Sigh. Another day, another way for a major corporation to make a buck off the deceased Michael Jackson. On the same day the King of Pop’s former doctor pled not guilty to a manslaughter charge stemming from MJ’s death, Samsung announced that they’re planning to release a limited-edition Michael Jackson This Is It hard drive that comes preloaded with his final documentary, This Is It, that was released recently. The hard drive comes equipped with 500GB of space and a DRM-protected copy of This Is It on it. If you’re collecting Michael memorabilia, this might be a nice pickup. But at this rate, don’t expect the MJ goods to dry up anytime soon. Check for it here on Feb 24, for a retail of $123

GODFATHER: RELEASE DATE PUSHED

Just like promised by the godfather himself Nonini that the godfather album will be off the hook, the album is already outsold before the release date! Due to the high demand of the master piece album, the release date has been pushed to 11/2/2010 from the original release date of 9/2/2010. The godfather said: "Due to the high demand of the Godfather album,Management has decided to push the release date to Thursday 11/2/2010! Initially they had run 100,000 copies now they are running 500,000 copies. Pole for the slight delay people. THANKS FOR UR SUPPORT ALWAYS...." nonini is also set for a country wide tour for the album launch. keep it vibesarena for the tour dates.

Lil Wayne’s Feature Film Debut Goes Straight-to-DV

There’s good and bad news for fans waiting to see Lil Wayne in his feature film debut, Hurricane Season. The bad news is that the film, originally set for theatrical release in 2009 won’t hit theaters at all. The good news, though, is that the wait is over. The film has been slated for a straight-to-DVD release and will be available for purchase as soon as tomorrow (Feb. 9).

Starring Forest Whitaker, Isaiah Washington, Taraji P. Henson, and fellow Young Money rapper Bow Wow, the drama is based on a true story about rival high school basketball players from five different schools who came together as one team in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The movie follows the players and their coach (played by Whitaker) from before the disaster and all the way to their road to the state championships.

Filmed between April and June 2008 in Weezy’s hometown of New Orleans, Hurricane Season has seen its theatrical release date postponed numerous times due to the financial troubles of the film’s distributing company, which ultimately led to the straight-to-DVD release.

The DVD’s release date coincides with the New Orleans MC’s real life drama, as he’s set to go behind bars over weapons charges for a one-year jail bid tomorrow as well.

THE GODFATHER OF GENGE.

The godfather himself Nonini has done it again! the probably most anticipated album in e.a will be hitting the shelves on 9/2/2010! As promised by the godfather, the album which can also be purchased on itunes, noninimusic.com and reverbnation will retail at KSH.499 and will be available country wide. keep it vibesarena for tour dates and launch party

WE DONT CARE IF BEBE DIES -RADIO & WEASEL

Goodlyfe Slaughters A Goat To Celebrate Bebe Cool Shooting

Good Lyfe stars Weasel TV and Mowzey Radio say they are unbothered by Bebe Cool shooting and actually say they don’t give a damn if the super star dies, this is an OMG shocker. Ever since Bebe was shot last weekend, he has been bedridden and bleeding profusely. While other artistes including enemies like Bobi Wine and Mega Dee teamed up under the Uganda Musicians Federation, an umbrella that governs the musicians in Uganda, to show support to their ailing colleague Moses Ssali a.k.a Bebe Cool, who was shot over the weekend at Centenary Park, Radio and TV do not happen to share similar sentiments.

They have adamantly refused to make an appearance at Nsambya hospital where Bebe is admitted nursing his gun wounds. Efforts by fellow musicians to have the two stars visit Bebe have been futile. Singers Silver Kyagulanyi, Bobi Wine, Isaac Rucci and Ronald Mayinja met Radio on Tuesday at Emerald Hotel on Bombo Road to try and convince him to visit Bebe. He adamantly refused assuring them that they (Goodlyfe) will never visit Bebe Cool.

“In fact we don’t give a f*** if he even dies,” Radio allegedly told off the artistes before driving off. The morning of Bebe’s shooting; Goodlyfe slaughtered a he- goat to celebrate.

Wanted by Police
Following the shootout, Radio and Weasel, who have been linked to the shooting that night are said to have taken off to Rwanda, which many interpreted as an effort to run away from the arm of the law. Insiders said that Radio and Weasel skipped to Rwanda for fear that they would be pulled into the mess. They however claim that they had been booked for this concert earlier before the shootout. They say they couldn’t overturn their earlier appointments just because Bebe Cool got himself shot.

Efendys incident
The night Bebe Cool was shot; he had a run in with the Goodlyfe boys. He had showed up at Efendys to apparently promote his new hit Kasepiki at Efendys on Friday night which happens to be the Goodlyfe Nite. His presence was not exactly welcome and incensed Mowzey Radio and Weasel asked the management to throw him out. Bebe was asked to leave but he apparently refused which threatened to cause a scuffle and forced management to call Police Patrol to escort him out of the club. The shooting happened between Nakumatt and Centenary Park shortly after the scuffle at Efendys

Bebe had it coming
The pair who just returned from their trip to Rwanda, we are told, was on Tuesday evening summoned to Emrald Hotel by Bobi Wine, Ronald Mayinja, Mesach Ssemakula and Silver Kyagulanyi, a night before the press conference (called by Uganda Musicians Federation which took place on Wednesday.) The meeting was intended to convince them to join the rest of the music fraternity in a show of solidarity for their colleague who is in great pain. Radio turned up for the meeting at Emerald at around 11pm and in no uncertain terms asked them for a good reason as to why they should feel sorry for Bebe Cool. He branded Uganda Music Federation hypocrites.

“When Bebe was thumping us, no one cared, why should we go see him or support him for that matter?” Among the things he said was that Bebe Cool had what happened to him coming. ‘He always thumped us like we were kids and time had come for him to pay for his sins.’ They said the most recent atrocity against them was at Imperial Resort Beach where the ‘bogolako’ singer interfered with their show and went on to beat them up with his goons from Gagamel yet the federation did nothing to show solidarity. ‘The guy has always disrespected us and there is no way we can respect him when he is in pain. This is the best thing that could have happened to him,’ they said.

New 50 Cent Movie Goes for $2 Mil at Sundance

Twelve, the new Joel Schumacher movie starring 50 Cent, was recently bought at the Sundance Film Festival.

The New York Times reports that the film unit of Hannover House, an independent publisher and media company, purchased the drama for $2 million.

As previously reported, the flick, which is based on the 2002 novel of the same name, finds Fif portraying a Harlem drug-dealer named Lionel. 50’s character provides Gossip Girl heartthrob Chace Crawford with drugs to sell to his rich friends on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

The G-Unit general has several other film projects in the works. He is currently filming Gun with Val Kilmer and Jekyll and Hyde—a remake of the horror classic that he will co-star in with Forest Whitaker—is in pre-production according to imdb.com

Eve Named in Federal Money Laundering Case

Eve has been fingered in a massive money-laundering scheme, involving her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Teodorin Nguema Obiang.

According to ABC News, Obaing—who is the son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea—is being accused of laundering millions of illegal funds in shell companies in the U.S.

A government report released yesterday (February 3) says that Obaing had Eve set up a fake company called “Sweet Pink, Inc.” in 2005 that may have been used to legitimize his money.

Obaing was known for flaunting his cash. In one instance he reportedly paid $700,000 to rent Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen’s 300-foot yacht to take Eve on a cruise around St. Barts.

Eve took to her twitter account earlier today to address the reports. “None of that is true,” she wrote. “Please don’t believe everything you read on the Internet. It’s negative and I don’t fuck with negativity. People tryna test me.”

stay tuned to vibesarena as the story developes

FOXXY BROWN NAME CHECKING

A new track by Brooklyn rapper Foxy Brown hit the Internet today (Feb. 4).
The song, titled “Let Em Know” is the latest release from Foxy Brown and features M.O.P. group member Lil Fame and rapper BAM.
The 4 minute and five second track, which was produced by Easy Mo Bee, features Foxy name-checking a number of rappers during her verse.
Brown drops lines about Jay-Z, former boyfriend Rick Ross, Eve, Miami rapper Trina and longtime nemesis, Lil Kim.
A number of lines are aimed at some of the more popular female rappers of the day, but most seem to be directed at Lil Kim.
“I’d rather be in the club at the bar/then to disrespect my hood on Dancing With the Stars/Nah I’m in the hood taking chances with the Gods..”
Later Brown gets more aggressive with the lyrics, adding Eve to the list of names called out on the track.
"Slam a b**ch on her back like I’m John Cena/F**k that I aint Eve, I aint Kim, I aint Trina/BK’s own Diva/I give the whole hood face lifts/Go on and fix your face b***h/"
Foxy Brown’s last full length album was titled Brooklyn’s Don Diva and was released by Koch Records in May of 2008.

K KREW LOSES EQUIPMENTS

The crossover101 gospel showcould not be aired last Sunday all thanx to robbers who robbed the K KREW who happened to be the hosts of the award winning t.v show. the thugs went away with the gospels dj unit equipments just before the show was about to start. This is the second time the unit who started from a humble background to being the most hyped gospel djing unit have been robbed off their equipments. the matter was reported to the police and investigations are being done. We at vibesarena join them in prayers

MORE GRAMMY PERFORMERS, PRESENTERS ANNOUNCED

(For a complete list of 52nd GRAMMY Award nominees, please click here.)

Current GRAMMY nominees Jamie Foxx and T-Pain with Slash and Doug E. Fresh; nominees Drake, Eminem, and Lil Wayne with Travis Barker; a special tribute to guitar virtuoso Les Paul featuring Jeff Beck and Imelda May; the cast of "American Idiot" appearing with Green Day; four-time GRAMMY winner Roberta Flack; five-time GRAMMY winner Elton John; and three-time GRAMMY winner Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland are the latest performers announced for the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards.

Actor Simon Baker ("The Mentalist"), comedian and TV host Stephen Colbert, rock legend Alice Cooper, nine-time GRAMMY winner Sheryl Crow, actress Kaley Cuoco ("The Big Bang Theory"), seven-time GRAMMY and three-time Latin GRAMMY winner Plácido Domingo, actor Robert Downey Jr., three-time GRAMMY winner Wyclef Jean, GRAMMY and 17-time Latin GRAMMY winner Juanes, country artist Miranda Lambert, six-time GRAMMY winner John Legend, actress/singer Jennifer Lopez, actress/singer Lea Michelle ("Glee"), actor Chris O'Donnell ("NCIS: Los Angeles"), pop singer Katy Perry, four-time GRAMMY winner Lionel Richie, TV and radio host Ryan Seacrest, four-time GRAMMY winner Seal, Academy Award-winning writer/director Quentin Tarantino, and two-time GRAMMY winner Keith Urban are the latest presenters announced for Music's Biggest Night.

Previously announced performers include Beyoncé; the Black Eyed Peas; Bon Jovi; the Dave Matthews Band; Green Day; Lady Antebellum; Lady Gaga; Maxwell; Pink; Taylor Swift; the Zac Brown Band; Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, Smokey Robinson, Carrie Underwood, and Usher in a special 3-D GRAMMY tribute to Michael Jackson; and Mary J. Blige and Andrea Bocelli in a special fund-raising segment for Haitian relief.

Previously announced presenters include actress Kristen Bell, pop/R&B singer Justin Bieber, actor Jeff Bridges, pop singer and actress Miley Cyrus, actor Josh Duhamel, pop sensation the Jonas Brothers, nine-time GRAMMY winner Norah Jones, pop singer/songwriter Ke$ha, two-time GRAMMY winner LL Cool J, GRAMMY winner and three-time Latin GRAMMY winner Ricky Martin, 10-time GRAMMY and three-time Latin GRAMMY winner Carlos Santana, and nine-time GRAMMY winner Ringo Starr.

T-Pain and Urban each have four nominations: T-Pain with Best R&B Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals for "Blame It" (with Jamie Foxx), Best R&B Song for "Blame It" (with James T. Brown, John Conte Jr., Jamie Foxx, Christopher Henderson, Brandon R. Melanchon, Breyon Prescott & Nathan L. Walker), Best Contemporary R&B Album for Thr33 Ringz, and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "I'm On A Boat" (with the Lonely Island); and Urban with Best Male Country Vocal Performance for "Sweet Thing," Best Country Collaboration With Vocals for "Start A Band" (with Brad Paisley), Best Country Album for Defying Gravity, and Best Long Form Music Video for Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy World Tour Live.

Foxx and nine-time GRAMMY winner Eminem are each up for three awards: In addition to those mentioned above, Foxx has a Best Contemporary R&B Album nomination for Intuition. Eminem's nominations are Best Rap Solo Performance for "Beautiful," Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for "Crack A Bottle" (with Dr. Dre & 50 Cent), and Best Rap Album for Relapse.

Drake has two nods: Best Rap Solo Performance and Best Rap Song for "Best I Ever Had" (the latter nomination with D. Hamilton & M. Samuels).

Four-time GRAMMY winner Beck, Colbert, Perry, and Seal are each nominated: Beck for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for "A Day In The Life," Colbert for Best Comedy Album for A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift Of All!, Perry for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for "Hot N Cold," and Seal for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for "If You Don't Know Me By Now."

So that viewers at home can enjoy the unique 3-D tribute to Jackson, CBS and Target have partnered to provide millions of free 3-D GRAMMY Glasses. From Sunday, Jan. 24 through Sunday, Jan. 31, Target stores nationwide will exclusively offer these 3-D GRAMMY Glasses so that fans have the opportunity to see the film that was very personal to Jackson. Additionally, the audience at Staples Center will share the 3-D experience, wearing the same glasses as those being worn by viewers at home.

Blige's and Bocelli's performance (audio and video) of the Simon & Garfunkel classic "Bridge Over Troubled Water" will be made available for download at iTunes.com/Target following the telecast, and all proceeds will go to the American Red Cross, benefiting ongoing earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. This year marks the 40th anniversary of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" receiving GRAMMY Awards for Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, and Song Of The Year, and the song will provide a moving tribute to the survivors of the tragic events in Haiti.

As part of Bon Jovi's performance on the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards, fans will have an opportunity to decide which Bon Jovi hit the band will perform. For this "You Pick It, They Play It!" special segment, viewers can log on to CBS.com now and vote in the final round for one out of three of their favorite hit Bon Jovi songs: "Always," "It's My Life," and "Livin' On A Prayer." There is no registration to vote, and fans may vote as often as they wish. Additionally, a 30-second clip of each song may be viewed. Voting will continue until Bon Jovi's performance on Jan. 31, when the song with the most votes is revealed live during their segment.

Additionally, the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards Pre-Telecast ceremony will take place from 1–4 p.m. PT at the Los Angeles Convention Center and will be streamed live internationally on GRAMMY.com beginning at 1 p.m. PT.

Well-attended by nominees and industry VIPs, current GRAMMY nominees Tia Carrere and Kurt Elling will host the star-studded ceremony, which will feature performances by nominees including Montreal-based duo Beast (vocalist Betty Bonifassi and drummer/composer Jean-Phi Goncalves); jazz vocalist Elling; contemporary R&B singer Lalah Hathaway; classical guitarist Sharon Isbin; and R&B singer Charlie Wilson as well as a special bluegrass performance by nine-time GRAMMY-winning singer Ray Benson, country instrumentalist Alison Brown, two-time GRAMMY winner Jim Lauderdale, singer/songwriter Michael Martin Murphey, three-time GRAMMY winner Bryan Sutton and singer/fiddle player Gabe Witcher. Presenting GRAMMY Awards in 99 categories will be current nominees Colbie Caillat, Mick Fleetwood, LMFAO, and Tonex as well as percussionist Sheila E., Flack, and five-time GRAMMY-winning producer/songwriter and Recording Academy Chair Emeritus Jimmy Jam. The live stream of the Pre-Telecast will remain on GRAMMY.com as video on demand for 30 days following the event.

The 52nd GRAMMY Awards will take place live on Sunday, Jan. 31 at Staples Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in HDTV and 5.1 Surround Sound on the CBS Television Network from 8–11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio via Westwood One worldwide, and covered online at GRAMMY.com and CBS.com, and on YouTube. Additional performers, presenters and special segments will be announced soon. For GRAMMY coverage, updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy's social networks on Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.

The 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by John Cossette Productions and AEG Ehrlich Ventures for The Recording Academy. Ken Ehrlich and John Cossette are executive producers, Louis J. Horvitz is director.