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Janelle Monae will be performing at the Apple Store at 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road in Atlanta on June 9 at 7:00 PM.
Via Singersroom.com.
From the Boston Globe:
Among Leslie's contributions so far: a bona fide hit for model-turned-singer Cassie (the pop-funk bauble "Me & U"), a near-hit for himself ("Diamond Girl," the synth-driven first single from his forthcoming solo debut, due out in late August), and production work for everyone from Britney and Beyoncé to Usher and Danity Kane. He's signed as an artist to Universal and as everything else to Sean "Diddy" Combs's Bad Boy Entertainment. Combs heard "Me & U" while partying at New York's Bungalow 8 and shortly after made Leslie an offer he couldn't refuse: a joint artist deal for Cassie and a distribution deal for Leslie's label/production/media/marketing company, NextSelection Lifestyle Group.
You can listen to this track in our audio player.
Soundslam has an interview with Donnie Klang.
You've spen the last few years of your life being filmed 24/7. Do you ever miss the cameras when they're not around?
Eh... It's half and half. Sometimes it's at the point where I just want to go to sleep but they're right in my face all the time, but at the same time it's really good training. You could get off a plane at 3 AM and you're exhausted and you've just done a whole week of radio and TV and club shows, but you'll get a fan that comes up and wants to get an autograph and take pictures. You can't be nasty to that fan because this is a once in a lifetime chance for them to meet you, and being on camera all the time teaches you to stay ready.
At the start of May, we sent several Bad Boy Blog readers to Janelle Monae's show at The Key Club in West Hollywood, CA on May 6. One of those readers took some pictures from that night and sent them in to us. Check them out below. The last one is my favorite.
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From the press release:
... Burger King Corp. (NYSE:BKC) announced today that beginning June 5, 2008, U.S. restaurants will be open until 2 a.m. or later Thursday – Saturday. To support the extended hours announcement, BKC launches the next phase of its partnership with music and fashion mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, via a new television advertising spot, “Diddy’s Way.” Directed by acclaimed director, producer and actor Spike Lee, the spot begins airing today.
The ad features Diddy discussing the late night strategy with an actor playing BKC’s CEO. Upon Diddy’s announcement, “BK® is open Late,” crowds of guests rush to BURGER KING® restaurants for late night dining.
“Further extending our late night hours allows us to meet strong consumer demand and deliver on the HAVE IT YOUR WAY® brand promise,” said Russ Klein, president, global strategy, marketing and innovation, Burger King Corp. “Diddy is synonymous with late night and is a natural fit for his role as our ‘Late Night Ambassador.’”
“Last year’s campaign was a huge success and this year, I wanted to do something bigger and better. Everyone knows I own the night, as ‘Late Night Ambassador’ it’s my goal to get everyone involved, whether they’re leaving a club, concert, or studio session, BK® is the only place that does late night right,” remarked Sean Combs.
BKC first announced its partnership with Diddy in October 2006 as part of a multi-year campaign.
I'm generally pretty skeptical of the stories reported by The Mirror, but this one seems genuine. I'd still take it with a grain of salt, though.
"I want that girl on my next album," he says. "I'm a huge fan. Not only is she so, so beautiful, she has a great voice. She is extremely talented, and it's great she's from England.
"She has one of the best voices I've heard. I'm already thinking about my next album and definitely want to make it work, so she's on it. I had Christina Aguilera on my last album, but it's all about Leona Lewis on my next."
In the article, he also praises Lewis Hamilton and talks about wanting to work with David Beckham on fashion.
Or I think it features Donnie Klang, anyway. You can listen to it on Seven's MySpace.
From HipHopDX.com:
Having already gotten the lowdown from Kurupt on the new projects he’s working on solo and as one-half of Tha Dogg Pound [click to read], HipHopDX recently caught up with his partner-in-rhyme Daz Dillinger to discuss what he’s got on his plate for the remainder of ’08, as well as his thoughts on two of his former label bosses.
“Wouldn’t nobody put me in no movies so I went and made my own,” Daz confessed to DX about his forthcoming DVD Make It Rain. Due later this year, the film features cameos from a bevy of Hip Hop notables including Alfamega and Big Kuntry King from T.I.’s Grand Hustle camp, Duke from Boyz N Da Hood, Khujo Goodie and video star turned Cash Money artist Lil Chuckie. The movie dramatizes the commissioner of Atlanta’s attempts to shut down area strip clubs.
whudat reports that Aubrey is on the cover of (what must be) the new issue of J'Adore Magazine.
The Billboard 200
86. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" by Danity Kane (down from 64).
199. "Day26" by Day26 (down from 165).
Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
31. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" (down from 21).
41. "Day26" by Day26 (up from 36).
90. "Greatest Hits" by The Notorious B.I.G. (up from 100).
Top Reggae Albums
6. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (down from 5).
The Billboard Hot 100
11. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (down from 10).
Pop 100
9. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (same as last week).
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
78. "Juice Box" by Gorilla Zoe (a new high, up from 91).
Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles
1. "Since You've Been Gone" by Day26 (a new high, up from 4).
13. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 19).
Billboard reports that Diddy will helm a new Making the Band spin-off titled, aptly enough, Making the Rock Band.
From thefutoncritic.com:
I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY -- PREMIERES AUGUST 4 AT 9PM*
"I Want To Work For Diddy" will track 13 finalists as they compete to land the job of a lifetime: assistant to hip hop music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. Finalists will go through the ultimate job interview as each of the applicants will be challenged emotionally, physically and mentally to earn the coveted position. Whether they call him Diddy, Puffy or Mr. Combs, one lucky person will call this legend of hip-hop ... "My Boss." Series premieres in August 2008 on VH1.
Newsday spoke, briefly, with Donnie Klang.
"That's a dream come true," says Klang, taking a break from rehearsals for "Making the Band 4: The Tour," which kicked off last night at the Hammerstein Ballroom and runs through July. "Even in the old groups I used to sing in, we used to say 'Bad Boy' on our tracks. We used to try to find a capellas of Diddy so we could have him rap on our songs. Now, I'm signed to Bad Boy."
Listen below for the full version of LOS' "Rep My City" featuring Kal.
From STLtoday:
VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATER
V.I.C. is the final act announced for the Super Jam concert June 21. The full lineup is T.I., Keyshia Cole, Webbie, Chingy, Murphy Lee, Bun B., One Chance, Gorilla Zoe, Karina Pasian, Dolla, Jibbs, Yo Gotti, Nite Owl, Vic Damone, Joka, Hakeem tha Dream, Jus Bleezy and Cat Fight. Tickets are $20-$75. Ticketmaster.
Earlier this month, Nikita recapped the exhaustive coverage that Diddy received in the May 2 issue of the Daily Variety. I also briefly mentioned all of the "congratulations" advertisements featured in the publication. But, now that I finally have my hands on a copy, I'm able to go into a little detail. Unless otherwise noted, the ads I mention are full page ads.
The front cover of the magazine features a message from Sean John. "You have always been a star to us, now the world knows just how brightly you shine... The SJ Family." Inside that cover is a message from BET Networks. "Music maker to music mogul. Star of stage and screen to his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. We salute our billion dollar entrepreneur. Congratulations from your friends and family at BET Networks."
Page 7 features a message from MTV. They have a picture of Diddy with a star over it that has the words "Super. Star." inside of it. Then, below, "Congratulations on your star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame." Moving to page 9, there is a row of 5 stars. One each for Sean Combs, Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy and Diddy. "Congratulations to all of you from your friend, Antonio "LA" Reid and the entire Island Def Jam family."
Page 13 has a note from the William Morris Agency. "We proudly congratulate our client, Sean Combs, 2008 Hollywood Walk of Fame honoree." Jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz has a half page ad on page 14. "Dear Puff, You have the Midas touch... Whenever you do something you take it to the top. Enjoy your star! You deserve it."
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Updating a previous story, Elephant Man is slated to attend the NYC kickoff of Raggae Sumfest on June 4 in NYC. It's going to be held in Negril Village in Lower Manhattan.
Update: According to a press rep, Elephant Man is slated to attend the NYC event, as well.
According to CaribWorldNews.com, Elephant Man will be performing at Raggae Sumfest in Montego Bay, Jamaica, this July.
They are doing an NYC kickoff on June 4, but it is unclear as to if Elephant Man will be participating. I've reached out to them to find out.
Reuters has some quotes from Diddy in Cannes, France for the Cannes film festival.
"I studied the great ones. I observed them as they walked the red carpet and dealt with interviews, you know like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, and Clint Eastwood and Gwyneth Paltrow."...
Asked what he had learned from the stars, Combs replied: "To really take your time. When you observe all of the legendary movie stars they take their time. When they are on the red carpet ... they're not rushing."
You can listen to the full version of this track in the Block Enterprises audio player.
Watch below for the video to "Lookin' Boy" from Hot Stylz, the first act signed to Yung Joc's Swagg Team Entertainment imprint. Farther down, check out some photos on the set of the video.
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Our old friend Roger Friedman has this:
... Canadian Steven Nowack presented his SOS Records to the international press. He has a unique idea: free downloading supported by ad revenue.
The first artists on his Web site include R&B star Mario Winans, Billboard magazine-anointed hot singer Naomi Striemer and Senegalese sensation Idrissa Diop, a protégé of Carlos Santana. Striemer and Diop gave walloping live performances at the press conference, with Diop doing a song about Nelson Mandela called "Nobel Prize." Tutu got into the groove and danced along.
In weeks to come, Nowack says, a huge amount of content will be added as deals are worked out with established artists who don’t have connections to major labels.
But the more interesting part of SOS Records’ site will be a forum for unsigned new artists. They’ll be able to work with famous producers, such as Winans, in an unprecedented interactive showcase. Singers, songwriters and producers will be able to upload their music onto the site and collaborate with mentors. It’s a unique idea, and one that should catch on quickly.
Check out Mario's section on the site. They seem to be Mario Winans produced tracks as there is no vocals on them. They are titled "In The Moment," "Now," "Equilibrium," "I Am Now" and "Running".
The News & Observer interviewed Erykah Badu. Janelle Monae got a mention:
Q: Are there any new artists that you really like?
A: Janelle Monáe. She's featured on the Outkast album "Idlewild." She has her own solo project. She's pretty creative and theatrical in her approach to the music business, and she also has her own ideals and political opinions. And then there's also this chick named Kimya Dawson. You can hear Kimya's music in the "Juno" film. Kimya is totally free to me. I love it. I'm encouraged. She's totally inspiring to me. I've never met either of these people, but I'm a fan.
According to this feature from The Jamaican Observer, Elephant Man is slated for a guest feature on the upcoming album from dancehall artist, Leftside.
The many sides of Craig Parkes will play out on his upcoming album Split Personality (via New York-based Ultra Records), which is scheduled to drop in late August and boasts an all-star lineup, including Sean Paul, Elephant Man, Aidonia and newcomer Tash Simmonds. It's a lyrical sparring between the always-dapper brother we know as Leftside and his mischievously comical flip side Mr Evil, a name he doesn't want to be interpreted the wrong way.
From CaribWorldNews.com:
Jamaican dancehall stars are set to make it a memorable weekend in New York as the annual Celebrity Soccer Match takes over Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY.
The Irie Jam and Irie TV event is set to feature a number of stars, including the Doctor Beenieman, his estranged wife D'Angel, Barbee, Shabba and Ninjaman. Match time is noon on Memorial Day – May 26th.
Other musicians include Machel Montano, Elephant Man, Ninjaman, Cobra, Mr. Lexx, Mr. Vegas, Tony Matterhorn, Assasin, Wayne Marshall, Voicemail, Bugle, Serani, Mr. Vegas, Anthony B and a host of other celebrities who will represent the Artist All Star team.
"Killa" by Cherish featuring Yung Joc is featured on the "Now, Vol. 28" compilation, set for a June 3 release.
Via press release.
"Ridin'", a track by rapper Belly that features Mario Winans, has collected five nominations in the MuchMusic Video Awards 2008. The track is nominated in the "Best Video," "Best Cinematography," "Best Director," "MuchVIBE Best Rap Video" and "People's Choice: Favourite Canadian Artist" categories.
For the last one, you are able to vote online.
Via press release.
Earlier this month, a cache of unreleased Dream songs were released to the public along with most of their shelved sophomore effort, "Reality". In sifting through all of this material (yes, I listened to all of it), a number of questions came up in my mind. I spoke with Debbie Hammond, CEO of Dream's former co-label, ClockWork Entertainment, for some answers.
When I listened to "I Go" (which, in the track info, is labeled as being produced by The Neptunes), it immediately jumped out to me that it was very close to the beat from "Change Clothes" by Jay-Z, which was also produced by The Neptunes. Apparently, Dream was in the studio with Pharrell and they worked on this track, but ultimately passed on it.
Although Bow Wow was mentioned as being included in this mix of songs, after listening to them, I found that he wasn't. The single version of "In My Dreams", from Dream's first album, featured Bow Wow and it was meant to be included. But, unfortunately, it is being held back by Sony, despite the fact that it was already paid for, according to Hammond. It's being looked into and they still hope to release it.
"Keep On Dancing" features a prominent sample of Pink Floyd's "We Don't Need No Education". This song was just something that they had been playing around with and hadn't even been submitted to Bad Boy for approval. It features ad libs from Diddy that, when I first listened to them, sounded just a little generic and flat, even though I liked the track. Apparently, these were old ad libs that the producers or mixers working on the song had added onto it just to show that they could do it.
"Pappi" was a track by a rapper named Manolo that features one of the Dream girls, Diana, on the hook. The finished version of "Controlled" was labeled as "Come and Get It" when the songs were first uploaded, as I had guessed. There are no vocals on "Boyfriend Problem Interlude".
Finally, there were four additional Dream tracks released after I made the post announcing the release. They are "What's It Gonna Be?," "She's Looking Down," "Come to Me" and "Bye Bye" (featuring Heat). They can be purchased on Amazon.com (on the "Feel The Heat" and "Come to Me" albums).
The Screamfest website now has a header image beaturing B5 with the caption: "Can These Bad Boys Make a Scream'n Comeback?" This appears to mean that the group is being considered for the lineup of this year's iteration of Screamfest. I've got an e-mail into what I hope is the press rep for the tour and hope to hear back with more details.
We've moved our audio player out of our main design and onto it's own page. This should make it easier to reference, it can be found at http://www.badboyblog.com/audioplayer.php. Thanks.
We have the full version of Gorilla Zoe's "Dope Boy" in our audio player on the right side of this page (scroll down a little bit).
Check out Tone Tone's MySpace to listen to "Jockin'" featuring Gorilla Zoe. It contains a sample of "Hood Figga" for the chorus.
His MySpace also says that his upcoming album, "D-Boy Fresh", due out August 28, will feature Yung Joc.
There was a story floating around that Diddy and Tracey Edmonds were dating and that she said he was the man for her and he was funnier than Eddie Murphy. We skipped that story in difference to it's legitimacy. People spoke to reps for both Combs and Edmonds and they denied that their clients were dating. Edmonds rep called the story "a complete fabrication" while Combs' said that Diddy is single, but that he and Edmonds have known one another for over 10 years.
Apparently due to reports like this one, Bad Boy issued a press release this afternoon:
SEAN “DIDDY” COMBS SAYS NO TO CHAMPAGNE AND TEQUILA
NEW YORK, N.Y (May 23, 2008) — Entertainment powerhouse, Sean “Diddy” Combs, today announced that he has given up champagne and tequila. "When I reach for a drink, I reach for Ciroc Vodka". Combs said.
Combs, credited with raising the profile of hip hop culture in mainstream America, continues to profess his loyalty and love of his betrothed Cîroc Vodka, the ultimate premium vodka. False reports have been circulating that Combs was reveling with other brands.
“Cîroc Vodka and Diddy are a match made in party heaven. We are both at the top of our game and bring only the best to whatever we do. Nobody rocks a party like Diddy and there isn’t a better tasting vodka on the market – why drink anything else?” remarks Sean Combs.
The world renowned business entrepreneur, fashion designer, actor and music artist joined forces with Diageo, the world’s leading, spirits, wine and beer company early last year to create a groundbreaking alliance where he oversees all brand management decisions for Cîroc Vodka.
As a lifestyle and entertainment icon, Combs embodies the brand’s “Art of celebration” concept both personally and professionally and is committed to promoting responsible decision making when it comes to drinking.
MTV Movie News has more information on the upcoming Biggie biopic, "Notorious." They visited the Hammerstein Ballroom where they were shooting a scene with Gravy, as Biggie, performing on stage.
Naturi Naughton from 3LW is playing Lil' Kim. And D-Dot talked a bit about the movie soundtrack:
"The music is gonna be Notorious B.I.G. music," says D-Dot. "It's gonna be a lot of period music. Notorious B.I.G. loved hip-hop — we all did. So a lot of '80s hip-hop, '90s R&B. You'll possibly hear Wu-Tang [Clan] songs, Mobb Deep songs and M.O.P. songs. Leaders of the New School. Just period pieces. Things for the time."
Check out the accompanying video below.
Check out a MySpace interview with Janelle Monae below. It features some footage from her recent performance in Los Angeles.
I've confirmed with Bad Boy that Donnie Klang's album title is "Just a Rolling Stone". This is interesting, considering that Seven Aurelius announced that he was keeping the song "Rolling Stone" for himself.
I just caught this press release:
New York, NY, May 21, 2008 --(PR.com)-- Harlem Hip-Hop (H3) Tours is gearing up to launch The Hip-Hop On. Hip-Hop Off.(TM) on May 15, 2008. H3 Tours has created an unprecedented experience - a hip-hop theater production on wheels that immerses guests in Harlem and hip-hop culture. H3 Tours is geared to provide excitement and fun with its guided tours of Harlem and New York City's hip-hop industry.
Tour guests will travel through Harlem and mid-town Manhattan via the Harlem Hip-Hop Tours motor coach while enjoying an authentic hip-hop party complete with a live DJ and MC to describe the sights and history of New York. Each tour lasts three hours and takes guests from Times Square up to 155th Street to experience sites important to hip-hop and Harlem history such as: MTV's TRL, The Apollo Theater, Def Jam Records, The Cotton Club, Roc-a-fella Records, The Graffiti Hall of Fame, Bad Boy Records, and Rucker's Park.
In addition to viewing these and other amazing sites, tour guests will also receive complimentary giveaways along with a 15-minute shopping stop at a world renowned clothing store! The Hip-Hop On. Hip-Hop Off.(TM) tour operates on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 9AM, 1PM, and 5PM. The cost of the tour for adults is $47.00 or a discounted $42.00 if purchased online. The cost for children ages 3-11 is $42.00 or $37.00 with the online discount.
Check out their website for more.
Bad Boy songwriter Jack Knight took home two awards from the 2008 SESAC Awards for his work on Diddy's "Last Night" and Keyshia Cole's "Let It Go".
From the Mirror:
Sharon Stone, who donated her 1976 vintage Porsche, and pledged money, took on the role of auctioneer and made a beeline for rapper P Diddy, who offered a willing bidder the opportunity to spend 24 hours with him – the bid sold for $314,000 (£157,000).
The Billboard 200
64. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" by Danity Kane (down from 62).
165. "Day26" by Day26 (down from 133).
Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
21. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" (down from 17).
36. "Day26" by Day26 (up from 25).
100. "Greatest Hits" by The Notorious B.I.G. (same as last week).
Top Reggae Albums
5. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (down from 2).
The Billboard Hot 100
10. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (same as last week).
Pop 100
9. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (same as last week).
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
91. "Juice Box" by Gorilla Zoe (up from 100).
100. "Got Me Going" by Day26 (down from 73).
Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles
4. "Since You've Been Gone" by Day26 (debut).
19. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (debut).
LOS now has a YouTube channel. There are a number of freestyles posted, some of which we've mentioned before. But, some of them I cannot recall being posted on his MySpace and I am going to share those below. They were featured on his "G5 Certified Fly" mixtape.
"It's Me B****** (Freestyle)"
"Get Em"
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According to Janelle Monae's MySpace, she will be performing with Gnarls Barkley in NYC on June 8. The venue is to be determined - it's a MySpace Secret Show and you must have that profile as a friend to get the info.
If you watch the beginning of the clip below (before Jordan comes in with the dog), you can see a small part of the trailer for "Good Girl/Bad Boy" that I previewed a few days ago.
Sean John's website is now offerin four different styles of limited edition Sean John t-shirts featuring the text in foil.
Grind Music has launched a blog. Grind Music is composed of Hitmen producers Sean C and LV.
Diddy's step son, Quincy Brown, was featured on MTV's "My Super Sweet 16" last night. You can watch it online now. Gives you a little different look at Diddy.
You can also check out some extra footage with interviews and more.
LiveDaily reports that, according to organizers, scheduling conflicts are to blame for the cancellation of the Making the Band 4 tour dates last week.
LiveDaily reports that Donnie Klang's album has been pushed back to August 19. They are report that the album title is "Just a Rolling Stone" - that part, I'm not so sure about, but I'm trying to find out.
The Dream MySpace has a couple of new tracks in it's music player that are alternate takes to songs that you may already be familiar with. Bow Wow was slated to be featured on the single version of "In My Dreams," from Dream's debut album, which was meant to be the third single, but was cancelled.
"Crazy" featuring Loon was the first single from Dream's eventually shelved second album, but before Loon was on it, Eve was on "Krazy". From what I heard from one person close to the situation, her label wouldn't clear it and Loon was inserted.
After watching this video, I was so inspired by Diddy's passion while talking about Kanye West's "Glow In the Dark Tour", I purchased tickets last night. Watch the video below to see exactly what I'm talking about.
This afternoon I received an exclusive, private first look at the initial trailer for Jordan McCoy's reality show, "Good Girl/Bad Boy". The show has not yet been shopped to networks, but that could be happening soon. The trailer is 2:19 long and features a dramatic announcer that takes you through the various segments of the footage. I'm going to include everything that he says as I feel it gives you a good insight into the show. The announcer's quotes are in bold.
"From the producers of Making the Band, Run's House and Meet The Barkers comes a story of a small town girl's big time adventure. Jordan McCoy is just like any other teenage girl with dreams of making it."
After a pause, "she plays acoustic guitar decently enough." We see Jordan playing a guitar and sighing in apparent frustration. "She sings about relationships she hasn't even had yet." After Jordan jumps on a trampoline for a moment, the trailer screeches to a halt.
"But, Jordan's story has one major difference." Cue footage of Diddy in the office ( "This guy."), with a part of his verse from "P.E. 2000" backing. This is followed by a clip from Making the Band 2 where Diddy is telling the band mates that his cheesecake better be on point or they are going back. Jordan gets a call and is headed to New York. She gets on a flight and arrives at her hotel.
"In a tale of what can happen when a small town girl from the Midwest ends up on the baddest hip hop label in the land. One rambunctious, strong willed girl is gonna give Bad Boy all they can handle."
Next, we have a clearly staged, but still funny and well played scene where Jordan enters a studio session (at Daddy's House, most likely) where a rap artist is supposedly recording while former Bad Boy Senior Director of A&R, Conrad Dimanche, and four others are working and bobbing their heads. She interrupts them, introduces herself and says she has a meeting with Diddy.
Dimanche asks her how she got in the building and she says she's signed here. "You're signed to Bad Boy?," he says. She confirms this and the guys look on in mock confusion. Funny stuff.
"And with a little guidance from her new boss, she's about to take the world by storm."
Diddy is leaving the building and he gets in his car, but Jordan runs after him, guitar on her back, and taps the glass. He tells her to get in. "Take us downtown," Diddy tells his driver.
"And turn Bad Boy upside down."
"We believe in you, as a recording artist," Diddy tells her. "We believe you've got the goods to really be that next superstar. So, I want you to go start working on your album." She pinkie promises and Diddy welcomes her to Bad Boy. (Definitely a TV moment, since Jordan's been signed to Bad Boy for a long time and they've met in person before this, of course).
"Just Watch Me" plays the clip out as we see Jordan walking around NYC and talking to and hugging a boy as the announcer finishes his part with "Nothing's going to stop her from making her dreams a reality."
The trailer closes with a fading shot of Diddy's Sean John billboard in NYC, as Jordan walks toward it, with the name of the show displayed.
More great news for Danity Kane this week, they have been nominated for a BET Award for Best Group. Their competition includes labelmates Day26, as well as UGK, Gnarls Barkley and Playaz Circle. For more information on the BET Awards click here.
The second album from former Bad Boy girl group Dream, "Reality," was finally released today in the U.S. after having been shelved in 2003 and subsequently released in France. Well, it was sort of released, anyway.
In a blog post on the ClockWork Entertainment MySpace (Dream's former management company), they say that Diddy approved the release and it should be on iTunes in July. There is a Snocap store embedded into the post, in the mean time, that has "Reality" in two parts, totalling 14 tracks. But, the album released on the French site was 17 songs long.
The ones that are missing are "It Could Happen," "Promise Me" and "Controlled". "Controlled" appears to have been released as part of the material that was released last Sunday. It was labeled as "Come and Get It", but upon listening, the word "controlled" is featured heavily in the chorus. There was also an alternate version of the song included in the unreleased material.
Debbie Hammond, who discovered the group and brought them to Bad Boy, confirmed to me that the reason for "Promise Me" was not included was because Jordan McCoy had recorded it. We reported that she had added it to her MySpace last October. It has since been removed. Similarly, "It Could Happen" is also being held back for consideration to be a part of McCoy's project.
Producer Seven Aurelius has elected to keep "Rolling Stone", a track that he had been working with Donnie Klang on, during the most recent season of Making the Band 4.
The track will be the first single from his upcoming album and will feature Klang. He says that a video will be shot in June.
Rap-Up.com reports that Diddy's step son, Quincy Combs (who Kim Porter had with singer Al B. Sure), will be featured on MTV's "My Super Sweet 16" on Monday at 10:00 PM ET. We reported on this party back in December.
Rap-Up.com says that, as part of the party, Quincy will be recording a single with a top rap artist, judging a $5,000 dance contest and having a concert that will, according to the article, be one of the best in the history of the show. They have a preview, which you can watch below.
Should be a fun show.
Updating Nikita's report from earlier today, a person at the label confirmed to me that the four tour dates (Orlando, Pompano Beach, Detroit and Phoenix) have been cancelled, but said the remaining six dates remain. The tour will begin in New York on May 28. No reason was given for the cancellations.
Internet DJ reports that the upcoming album from Sharam, "Sidedish," will feature a collaboration with Diddy. Sharam is one half of the production duo known as Deep Dish. Previously, they produced a remix of Diddy's dance music foray, "Let's Get Ill".
Danity Kane will be performing in Essex Junction, Vermont on August 25 at 7:00 PM as part of the Champlain Valley Fair. Tickets will be going on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM. You can buy them online.
According to Ticketmaster and The Arizona Republic, the following dates have been cancelled:
Orlando, FL
Pompano Beach, FL
Phoenix, AZ
Detroit, MI
A request for comment sent to Bad Boy Records regarding these cancellations was not immediately returned. Please continue to check back for further updates.
"Damaged" is officially a top 10 hit as it has reached a new high of 10 on the newly released Hot 100 chart. Here is the full rundown:
The Billboard 200
62. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" by Danity Kane (down from 42).
133. "Day26" by Day26 (down from 93).
Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
17. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" (down from 16).
25. "Day26" by Day26 (up from 17).
94. "Welcome to the Zoo" by Gorilla Zoe (re-entry).
100. "Greatest Hits" by The Notorious B.I.G. (re-entry).
Top Reggae Albums
2. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (up from 3).
The Billboard Hot 100
10. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 11).
Pop 100
9. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 10).
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
73. "Got Me Going" by Day26 (down from 49).
100. "Juice Box" by Gorilla Zoe (re-entry).
Watch below for a video blog update from Cassie. There are two newsworthy points. The first is that she has shot another cover for Complex magazine. The second is that the single version of "Official Girl" will feature rapper Lil' Wayne.
Watch below for a Diddy of various celebrities, music industry people and others congratulating Diddy on his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It includes well wishes from Bono, Donald Trump, Ellen DeGeneres, Gorilla Zoe, Jody Breeze, Bow Wow, Usher, his kids, Kim Porter, Ashton Kutcher, Andre Harrell, Q-Tip, Russell Simmons, Phylicia Rashad, Danielle Smith (Editor-in-Chief, Vibe Magazine), Harve Pierre, Star Jones, Sean C., LV, Kevin Liles, Mike Kyser, Julie Greenwald, Derek Luke, Cassie and more.
It's a cool video, but the name jokes, imitations, etc. get a little old after awhile.
There are a couple of new tracks available on the LOS MySpace. They are "A Millie (Remix)" and "Music For Love", which is a track by Mario that Los has added a rap to. Both tracks are downloadable.
Danity Kane will be appearing at Home on 542 West 27th Street in NYC on May 14. The doors open at 11:00 PM. The dress code is neat and trendy. No hats or hoodies. The Game will also be there, along with DJ Clue.
Janelle Monae will be performing at Highline Ballroom in NYC on May 15. It's located at 431 West 16th Street. The doors open at 6:30 PM. It's a free show.
"A Raisin in the Sun" is out on DVD today. You can pick it up at Amazon.com.
Janelle Monae's performance in Miami on May 15 has been cancelled. She'll have a showcase in New York. No date, yet.
Update: This has been cancelled.
Janelle Monae will be performing in Miami Beach at Gansevoort South on May 15 at 7:00 PM ET. It's located at 2377 Collins Avenue.
You can check out the video for David Banner's new single, "Get Like Me," featuring Chris Brown and Yung Joc, on the Loud.com website. You have to register for a free account to access it.
Via Theo in the forums.
SOHH.com talks with SRC's marketing chief, James Cruz. Cruz, the former National Promotions Director at Bad Boy (according to the article), shared some stories from working with Diddy.
ClockWork Entertainment, the management company behind former Bad Boy act Dream, has released a treasure trove of unreleased material, including demos and alternate versions, spanning the group's entire career. They have been made available through 7 albums released on Snocap that can be purchased through the ClockWork MySpace. Here is now the 7 albums break down:
1. "Back To You" by Dream
2. "One Wish" by Dream
3. "Ooh Boy" by Dream
4. "Angel" by Dream
5. "Always Be There" by Dream (produced by The Underdogs)
6. "Love As You Know It" by Dream
7. "Save Me" by Allie Madrid
1. "I'll Be All Right" by Allie Madrid
2. "Ladies Night Out" by Ashley Poole and Allie Madrid
3. "Only U" by Ashley Poole
4. "Boyfriend Problem Interlude" by Dream
5. "Could It Be" by Dream
6. "Dream Talk About Fight With Boyfriend While Recording" by Dream
7. "I'm Not A Fan" by Dream
1. "Baby" by Dream
2. "Find My Way (Mid)" by Dream
3. "Let's Go" by Dream
4. "Say You Love Me" by Dream (produced by Diane Warren)
5. "Setting Sun" by Dream
6. "Sometimes" by Allie Madrid
7. "Save Me" by Allie Madrid
1. "Sometimes" by Allie Madrid
2. "Controlled (Different Version)" by Dream
3. "Doesn't Matter" by Dream
4. "First Place" by Dream (produced by Rodney Jerkins)
5. "Go And Get It" by Dream
6. "Love This Real" by Dream
7. "I'm Worth It" by Dream
1. "Daddy's Little Girl" by Dream
2. "This Game" by Ashley Poole
3. "U Got Me" by Dream
4. "So Easy" by Ashley Poole
5. "Sorry" by Ashley Poole
6. "Always" by Dream
7. "Help Me Understand" by Dream
1. "I Go" by Dream (produced by The Neptunes)
2. "Come Party With Us" by Dream
3. "Come And Get It" by Dream
4. "Keep On Dancing" by Dream
5. "Here I Am" by Dream
6. "Out Of The Picture" by Dream
7. "Pappi" by Dream featuring Manolo
1. "Krazy" by Dream featuring Eve (produced by Scott Storch)
2. "Makes You Xtra (Demo)" by Dream
3. "Neverland" by Dream
4. "So Good To Me" by Dream
5. "The Way You Make Me Feel" by Dream
6. "What's Real" by Dream
7. "Into Your Arms" by Dream
Random notes: On the sixth album, if you look at Snocap, there is a track called "Let's Go", but it's incorrectly labeled. It's actually "Here I Am". "Save Me" and "Sometimes" are both included twice and appear to be the same track in each of the instances.
Ashley Poole was one of the members of Dream and it appears that some solo tracks of her are included here. I don't know who Allie Madrid is. I hope to have more details on this soon. I'm also working on placing some of these tracks into a time line to get a sense for when they were all recorded. Hopefully, I'll be able to get more production details, as well.
Gorilla Zoe has two new snippets on his MySpace, both of which are labeled as being from his upcoming sophomore effort, "Don't Feed the Animals." They are called "Dope Boy" and "I'm Dumb". "Dope Boy" features Zoe singing, T-Pain style, with an Auto-Tune like effect.
Watch video below from the Cassie hosted Evenings in Vogue event.
The wronfgul-death lawsuit brought by family members of The Notorious B.I.G. has been reinstated. Read more here.
The full version of "Rolling Stone" by Donnie Klang has been posted on Seven's MySpace.
Watch below for Diddy's appearance on Ellen on May 5.
The Billboard 200
42. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" by Danity Kane (down from 25).
93. "Day26" by Day26 (down from 52).
Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
16. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" (down from 14).
17. "Day26" by Day26 (up from 15).
Top Reggae Albums
3. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (down from 1).
The Billboard Hot 100
11. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 15).
Pop 100
10. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 13).
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
49. "Got Me Going" by Day26 (down from 44).
After purchasing the Bad Boy Dance Mixes, Volumes 1 through 4, I have discovered a glitch. The track labeled as "Long Way 2 Go (Maurice Joshua Club Mix)" on volumes 1 and 4 is actually "Just Watch Me (Solitaire Club Mix)" which is featured on volume 1, as well. I have requested comment from someone at Bad Boy to see what, if anything, they plan to do.
Update: There is a glitch on volumes 1 and 4. In both cases, the track labeled as "Long Way 2 Go (Maurice Joshua Club Mix)" is actually "Just Watch Me (Solitaire Club Mix)" by Jordan McCoy.
Out of the blue today, with no advance warning, Bad Boy released "Bad Boy Dance Mixes" volumes 1-4 online, on iTunes and Amazon.com. Be advised, though, that volume 4 is all tracks from the other three volumes except for one.
Here are the tracklistings:
Volume 1:
1. "Me & U (Tyler Nelson Dark Club Mix)" by Cassie.
2. "Come to Me (E-Smoove House Mix)" by Diddy featuring Nicole Scherzinger.
3. "Just Watch Me (Solitaire Club Mix)" by Jordan McCoy.
4. "Long Way 2 Go (Maurice Joshua Club Mix)" by Cassie.
Volume 2:
1. "Just Watch Me (Brutal Bill Mix)" by Jordan McCoy.
2. "Show Stopper" (Ford & Vidal Club Mix)" by Danity Kane.
3. "Me & U (Roc & Soul Club Mix)" by Cassie.
4. "Ride for You (Brutal Bill Mix)" by Danity Kane.
Volume 3:
1. "Come to Me (ATFC Club Mix)" by Diddy featuring Nicole Scherzinger.
2. "Ride for You (Josh Harris Club Mix)" by Danity Kane.
3. "Long Way 2 Go (Friscia & Lamboy Club Mix)" by Cassie.
4. "Long Way 2 Go (Matteo Esse & Saint Club Mix)" by Cassie.
Volume 4:
1. "Me & U (Tyler Nelson Dark Club Mix)" by Cassie (included on volume 1).
2. "Me & U (Roc & Soul Club Mix)" by Cassie (included on volume 2).
3. "Me & U (Tyler Nelson Private Mix)" by Cassie.
4. "Come to Me (E-Smoove House Mix)" by Diddy featuring Nicole Scherzinger (included on volume 1).
5. "Come to Me (ATFC Mix)" by Diddy featuring Nicole Scherzinger (included on volume 3, though this one is 4 seconds shorter).
6. "Show Stopper (Ford & Vidal Club Mix)" by Danity Kane (included on volume 2).
7. "Ride for You (Brutal Bill Mix)" by Danity Kane (included on volume 2).
8. "Ride for You (Josh Harris Club Mix)" by Danity Kane (included on volume 3).
9. "Long Way 2 Go (Maurice Joshua Club Mix)" by Cassie (included on volume 1).
10. "Long Way 2 Go (Matteo Esse & Saint Club Mix)" by Cassie (included on volume 3).
11. "Long Way 2 Go (Friscia & Lamboy Club)" by Cassie (included on volume 3).
Regardless of what it says on iTunes and Amazon.com, Yung Joc and Diddy are not featured on any of the mixes of "Me & U".
Back in February of last year, I reported that Bad Boy had released a dance mixes promo CD. All of these tracks were featured on that CD, except for the two "Just Watch Me" mixes and the two "Ride for You" mixes. Also included on that CD was the "Dave Aude Club Mix" of "Show Stopper", which was not included here. It's a shame that they didn't include dance remixes for "Last Night", especially when there had been two made available.
Finally, I spoke with someone at Bad Boy who confirmed to me that this is an online only release. So, you won't be able to pick it up at any brick and mortars.
Thanks Bryant for the tip.
MTV spoke with Diddy and D-Dot on the upcoming Biggie biopic, Notorious.
"It's rare that you get a movie made about you when you're still relevant, but [they] took on the challenge," Combs said of the cast, adding that he was especially impressed with actor Derek Luke, who is playing Diddy. "People asked me years ago who you'd want to play me, and I said Derek Luke ... so it was just destined. I got to see him do his thing, and it was scary for me. I had to leave, 'cause he was acting just like me." ...
"[Gravy as B.I.G. is a] little creepy," echoed the flick's music supervisor, Deric "D-Dot" Angelettie. "You know he's not B.I.G., and we accepted that, [but all of] B.I.G.'s people ... looked to Gravy and said, 'You can play B.I.G. You could do it!' I believe that Gravy has studied hard enough; I think he got enough battle scars from the streets that he could pull it off. We're very happy that he's a part of it."
Watch below for a clip from the interview with Diddy.
Back in February, we reported that Warner Music Group, which Bad Boy is a part of, was the lead bidder for the remaining assets of Death Row Records.
The May 10 issue of Billboard reports that they have withdrew their bid. Entertainment One, the parent company of Koch, is now the lead bidder, bidding $23 million, which was $2 million less than Warner had planned to offer.
Janelle Monae is mentioned in two parts of the May 10 issue of Billboard magazine. The first is on page 6 where she is pictured with Eric Levin of Criminal Records, an Atlanta-based record shop. Mr. Levin wrote this month's "Opinion" article, featuring his reflections on Record Store Day, which took place on April 19.
The second mention is on page 86 where she is mentioned as a performer in Big Boi's balet production, "big".
The release of Janelle Monae's Bad Boy EP debut, "Metropolis Suite" has been pushed back from June 24 to July 29.
RapGodfathers.com is reporting that Yung Joc has signed a deal with Jive Records to release an album by Hotstylz from his Swagg Team Entertainment imprint.
You may recall that Joc appeared on a track they made called "Lookin Boy". We wrote about it in February.
DJ Hershey introduced the group to Joc and gave them a copy of the record. “He gave me a copy of it,” recounts the Block Entertainment/Bad Boy South artist. "My assistant got on the internet, she found them, got in touch with them, flew 'em down three days after that," Joc told RapGodfathers.com. "I talked to them, we re-did the record. Three days after we re-did the record, we had a deal on the table from Jive."
The President at Urban Music for Jive/Zomba is Mark Pitts, former manager to Biggie and friend to Diddy.
As an aside, the article also says that Joc is working with his father to independently release a line of sunglasses under the brand name of Claudio St. James.
Via Theo in the forums.
MTV News spoke with Diddy on his recent Hollywood star unveiling and the Making the Band 4 tour. He says that, at some of the shows, he'll appear.
"In some cities and states, I'm gonna make a guest appearance," Diddy told them. "Do a light 15 hits. I'm not gonna bore you with, like, 40. I'mma just hit you with 15 real quick verses to really get the place rocking."
There is also video of the interview, but it's not working for me. I'm going to include it below, anyway.
On May 1, Nikita profiled Variety's comprehensive coverage of Diddy in honor of him receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
SFGate reports that this issue of Variety also featured 17 full page ads paying tribute to Combs, from groups and individuals ranging from MTV and BET to Aretha Franklin and Dallas Austin. In talking with someone at Variety, this would seem to be the Friday, May 2 issue of the Daily Variety.
Wayne Barrow, who I did a quick interview with last year, is blogging at notoriousblog.net.
The latest entry features a video from the set, featuring some of the cast and crew introducing themselves.
On May 1, we reported on Diddy's party ("Diddy's Den") at the opening celebration of the MGM Grand at Foxwoods in Meshantucket, CT.
The Hartford Courant has an interview with Barton G. Weiss, a party planner who will be putting the event together.
Q: Will there be any of your famous nitrogen martinis, macaws, feathers or Asian duck-filled pancakes?
A: Well, there will be no nitrogen martinis, and as far as the pancakes, I'm not in charge of the food, just the visual. Our main area will be the ballroom, and we will be transforming that into " P. Diddy's Den," the ultimate lounge for the after-party he will be attending. It will be done in gold and plum and teals, fun yet not outlandish. I want to create a most memorable evening so that people will always remember the opening of Diddy's Den.
Janelle Monae was featured on CNN due to her work with the Songs for Kids Foundation, a group that brings music to kids in hospitals. Great cause. CNN.com has video segment, shorter than the one that aired on TV, according to her MySpace.
If you are in the Los Angeles area and would like to attend her show on May 6 for free, we have some tickets to give away. The deadline to e-mail in is 9:00 AM ET tomorrow, May 5. You must include your first and last name. To find out the details, check out this post.
People has a quick interview with Diddy, mostly covering acting and L.A. life.
To further fit in with his new Hollywood crowd, he’s even revamping his party style to sync up in with the West Coast curfew: "Everybody stops working at like six o'clock and the clubs close at two. Everything is on a strict schedule and you have to respect that."
Yesterday, Diddy received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The AP has a great report (there is a video from the event, below, as well).
"This is big. This is legendary," [Jamie] Foxx told the music label intern-turned-entertainment mogul. "And they will never be able to take this away from you."
Combs, wearing a white suit, slapped hands with Foxx and told the crowd: "Today is proof that if you believe, all your dreams can come true. I've gone from Harlem to Hollywood." He lay down on the red carpet next to his star to pose for photographers. ...
"So if the music industry's getting cannibalized by the Internet, I figure out how to work with it, I figure out how to survive. You throw me in the jungle butt-naked, I come out with a lion's head, some bearskins and a bunch of food. I may be driving a Maybach."
This isn't super new, but we haven't mentioned it before, so I wanted to be sure to do so. Gorilla Zoe is featured on a song by Roccett. You can listen to it on DJbooth.net.
Last November, Diddy picked an assistant from his YouTube search. Her name was Heather.
Well, on last night's appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Diddy mentioned that she is no longer working for him, that she "took a job abroad." He mentioned that the VH1 reality series for a show called "I Want to Work for Diddy" is moving forward. He called it "uplifting", saying "it's not as corny as it sounds." The contestants will be working with ex-assistants of his as well as high level executives.
Kim Porter is featured in the May 12 issue of Jet Magazine, along with the kids that she and Diddy share. It looks like an interesting feature talking about Porter's life after breaking up with Diddy, her career aspirations, the kids, her relation with Combs, etc. Diddy is even quoted in the article, taling about Porter's mothering skills and their relationship.
Via Celebrity Baby Blog.
Diddy is set to receive his prestigious “star” on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame tomorrow at 11:30 am. The stars will turn out to help Diddy celebrate this tremendous honor, in recognition of his multi-faceted career in the entertainment business. In light of this huge feat, Variety decided to do 7 different stories on the man they call Diddy. Here’s a little recap of them.
The first story, titled “Combs is the Leader of the Brand” takes a small look at Diddy’s career. As a young boy, he lied about his age in order to work a paper route making about $600 a week. It’s that kind of drive that has lead him into grossing just about $525 million annually with music, fragrance and fashion empire.
Diddy’s star is well deserved and is a great honor.
Contrary to popular belief, Diddy is very serious about his new acting career, as he spoke about this in “Combs Gets the Acting Bug”. He hired the same acting coach that helped the likes of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. Although very skeptical at first, Susan Batson accepted his offer. Diddy made a good first impression on her, stating, "Don't stay if I can't do this. If I don't do well, I can take it, just tell me. Because it's my intention to try to make history, to really, really contribute." Realizing his talent and effort, she helped to prepare him for his role in “A Raisin in the Sun” - both the Broadway and television versions. Diddy has decided to take on his acting career full speed, delegating his other duties to his employees. But Diddy’s music fans should not worry, "You'll still get an album outta me," says Diddy.
Next, “Combs Brand Rolls the Merchandise” talks about the many business ventures that he’s a part of. He launched his Sean John brand back in 1998, which has now transitioned into the third-largest menswear company, after Polo and Tommy Hilfiger. Diddy also teamed up with Estee Lauder for his fragrance “Unforgivable” earning about $80 million in 2006. No matter what business venture, Diddy is completely hands on with every aspect of his products. MTV’s “If I Were King” showed Sean John’s return to New York City’s fashion week and the blood, sweat and tears that went into the show.
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Last August, we reported on Diddy's appearance at a Screamfest tour stop where he came on stage during T.I.'s set and was joined by an all-star cast. This group included Jay-Z, Kanye West, Swizz Beats and 50 Cent. Scream Star has made about 10 minutes of good footage available.
Via SOHH.com.
Here are some upcoming Elephant Man shows:
May 14 at De Real Ting Cafe in Jacksonville, Florida.
May 15 at Club City Limit in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
May 30 at Club Lido in Revere, Massachusetts.
May 31 at The Water Street Music Hall in Rochester, New York.
The Billboard 200
25. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" by Danity Kane (down from 14).
52. "Day26" by Day26 (down from 21).
Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
14. "Welcome to the Dollhouse" (down from 8).
15. "Day26" by Day26 (up from 3).
89. "Greatest Hits" by The Notorious B.I.G. (down from 87).
91. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (down from 51).
94. "Welcome to the Zoo" by Gorilla Zoe (re-entry).
Top Reggae Albums
1. "Let's Get Physical" by Elephant Man (up from 2).
The Billboard Hot 100
15. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (down from 14).
Pop 100
13. "Damaged" by Danity Kane (a new high, up from 14).
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
44. "Got Me Going" by Day26 (down from 30).
Janelle Monae's first Bad Boy single is "Many Moons". Listen here: Windows and Real Player. You can also see the cover below.
You can listen to the "DJ Excel NYC Remix" of Day26's "Got Me Going" in our audio player now.
The MGM Grand at Foxwoods hotel and casino in Meshantucket, CT will be opening on May 17. The Boston Herald reports that Diddy will host a party as part of their opening weekend celebration.
And what would a high-rollin’ time be without Sean “P Diddy” Combs? The renaissance man will host an ultra-exclusive, late night “Diddy’s Den” party at Shine, Ed Kane’s new nightclub, where DJ AM will spin.
Cheri Dennis will be hosting a party at Runway at 4 E 28th Street in NYC on May 4. See the flier below.
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