Teairra Mari Performs "Built For This" On World Star Hip-Hop

Teairra Mari continues to roll out the World Star Hip-Hop exclusives with this performance of "Built For This," a track off her upcoming album At That Point (April 7th). I actually quite like this song, & I've been warming up to her leaked material more & more lately, so I hope her album stays on track for release.

Baby Bash ft. Mario & Lil' Jon "That's How I Go" Video Premiere

Here's the video for "That's How I Go," the new single from Baby Bash that features Mario & Lil' Jon. Of course, I'm posting this for Mario, who sounds good on the song. Otherwise, the whole thing is rubbish.

Busta Rhymes "Arab Money (Remix Part 2)" Video Premiere

This time, Busta Rhymes is joined by Ron Browz, Rick Ross, Spliff Star, N.O.R.E., & Red Cafe for the second part of the "Arab Money" remix. It's not even that great of a song. Busta's new album Back On My B.S. hits stores on March 24th.

Jennifer Hudson On Oprah + More

Jennifer Hudson made an appearance on Oprah today for a quick interview & to perform the second single "If This Isn't Love" off her self-titled debut album. I'm so indescribably happy that Jennifer is back to doing what she does best, both for her sake & ours.

In related news, a deluxe edition of Jennifer's debut album was released to iTunes this week. The material added to the set includes:

- "All Dressed In Love"
- "Spotlight, Pt. 2" (ft. Young Jeezy)
- "Spotlight" music video
- "The Star-Spangled Banner" (as performed at Super Bowl XLIII)
- "You Pulled Me Through" (as performed at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards)
- "If This Isn't Love" (Stonebridge Remix Radio Edit)
- "Spotlight" (Moto Blanco Radio Remix)

To purchase the 20-track package, click HERE. Lastly, the single cover for Jennifer's third single, the Ludacris-assisted "Pocketbook," is below:

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Kelly Clarkson On The Paul O'Grady Show

"My Life Would Suck Without You"

Interview

Kelly Clarkson performed "My Life Would Suck Without You," the first single off her upcoming fourth album All I Ever Wanted (March 10th), & sat down for an interview on The Paul O'Grady Show across the pond. If you ask me, American Idol can just stop looking for any more white girls because they just aren't gonna find one who can touch Kelly.

India.Arie "Jet" Magazine Cover

India.Arie graces the cover of Jet magazine's latest issue. Her new album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics is out now.

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Solange Performs On The Bridge

Cosmic Journey

Destiny (Zero 7 Cover)

T.O.N.Y.

Sandcastle Disco

Solange performed an assortment of songs mostly from her latest album SoL-AngeL & The Hadley St. Dreams for The Bridge at AOL Black Voices. These ain't your average sessions. Chick's got style! She did an excellent job.

Day26 Discuss Sophomore Album

In this recent interview with MTV News, Day26 talk about their forthcoming sophomore album, supposedly titled Forever In A Day, which they hope will be more uptempo than their debut. Songs previewed in the clip are "Beauty's A B****" & "Remix." While one song from the album, "Stadium Music," has been released to iTunes (click HERE to purchase), the first single is apparently "Imma Put It On Her," which is set to feature Diddy & Yung Joc. (Click HERE to listen to the Day26-only version.) Forever In A Day drops April 14th.

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David Archuleta's Do Something Commercial

David Archuleta is encouraging you to help out with disaster relief in the latest ad campaign from Do Something. He is one cool guy. David's self-titled debut album is available now.

Idol Review: Top 36 Group 2

The second week of the Top 36 was a slight improvement, with the results show giving me hope about the season ahead. There still were no stellar song choices, but at least some of the performances were decent. My picks to go through amazingly resembled the actual results fairly well, as they are definitely Adam Lambert (his song was ok, but his talent is phenomenal), Kris Allen, & Jasmine Murray (completely based on talent & NOT that horrid performance). A couple other girls did alright though: Mishovanna Henson & Megan Corkrey. Mishovanna just has nothing interesting to bring to the table, & though Megan does, she is really too unique for this show & wouldn't do very well with the different themes. Anyway, joining Adam & Kris in the Top 12 this week was the terrible Allison Iraheta. Hopefully next week, with the last group of 12 & the wildcard show, Idol can continue its upward trend.

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Beyonce Does Ebony Magazine

Beyonce's latest cover is that of Ebony magazine's April issue. Sporting curly hair again, Beyonce's shoot from inside is below. I think it's pretty cool that she changed it up for this one. Beyonce's new album I Am... Sasha Fierce is out now!

Kelly Clarkson Performs On Radio 1's Live Lounge

My Life Would Suck Without You

Since U Been Gone

Kelly Clarkson put in a couple more performances on her UK promo tour when she stopped by Radio 1's Live Lounge, where she sang her latest #1 "My Life Would Suck Without You" & previous hit "Since U Been Gone." Once again, Kelly sounded amazing. Kelly's new album All I Ever Wanted drops March 10th.

Billboard Update

^This week's #1 album on the Billboard 200 chart

This week's #1 single on the Hot 100 chart^

See full charts HERE.

Same as last week... #1 album: Taylor Swift Fearless & #1 single: Flo Rida "Right Round." Over on the Hot 100 singles chart, Ciara debuts at #96 with her Young Jeezy-assisted "Never Ever" & The Pussycat Dolls' "Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)" debuts at #100.

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Kelly Clarkson On National Lottery

"My Life Would Suck Without You"

Interview

Check out Kelly Clarkson's first televised performance of "My Life Would Suck Without You," the first single off her upcoming fourth album All I Ever Wanted (March 10th), which she did during a stint of UK promotion on the National Lottery. Kelly is so ridiculously talented. She did an outstanding job. Though she is briefly interviewed in the bottom clip, most of it is just silliness, however if you're patient enough ... you can watch Kelly push a button!

Keri Hilson "In A Perfect World..." Tracklisting

On March 24th, pigs will fly because Keri Hilson's debut album In A Perfect World... is finally going to see the light of day! Unfortunately, it will be with the cover you see to your left. I am ecstatic, however, to finally bring you the set's official tracklisting:

1. Intro
2. Turnin' Me On (ft. Lil' Wayne)
3. Get Your Money Up (ft. Keyshia Cole & Trina)
4. Return The Favor (ft. Timbaland)
5. Knock You Down (ft. Ne-Yo)
6. Slow Dance
7. Make Love
8. Intuition
9. How Does It Feel
10. Hey Girl (ft. T-Pain & Lil' Jon)
11. Alienated
12. Tell Him The Truth
13. Change Me (ft. Akon)
14. Energy
15. Where Did He Go

So, a few songs we haven't heard yet. A Keyshia Cole collabo? I like! I'm definitely looking forward to finally getting my hands on this thing.

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Busta Rhymes "Arab Money (Remix)" Video Premiere

Busta Rhymes is joined by the likes of Diddy, Ron Browz, Swizz Beatz, Akon, & Lil' Wayne for the remix to the lead single "Arab Money" off his upcoming album Back On My B.S. (March 24th). The clip also features cameos from T.I. & Cedric The Entertainer. I'm not particularly a fan of Busta's tendency to count on a star-studded remix to boost his record sales. I'd much rather he just put out one of his signature hot records.

Cherish Twins Form Duo

Somehow, the four sisters that make up Cherish have split up professionally, allowing twins Fallon & Felisha to form their own duo. Their first single, "Infected," can be heard HERE. Considering the lackluster performance of Cherish's sophomore album The Truth, it comes as no surprise that the group is no more. However, I'm not sure what these two are expecting, considering their sound isn't exactly anything different. I, for one, have always liked these girls though & will continue to support them.

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The Pussycat Dolls On This Morning

"Whatcha Think About That"

Interview

The Pussycat Dolls performed their latest UK single "Whatcha Think About That" & participated in an interview on This Morning. It's too bad the song didn't do so well over here because I quite like it. I also have a newfound respect for Nicole after seeing her perform (& hit those notes!) in that corset they discussed. PCD's sophomore album Doll Domination is out now.

JoJo Performs "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" Acapella On MySpace

JoJo has done an acapella cover of D'Angelo's "Untitled (How Does It Feel)," which she posted on MySpace recently. I love that she went all out with the setting & everything. All jokes aside, JoJo sounds as great as ever & I can't wait for her third album All I Want Is Everything to be released.

Britney Spears "For The Record" DVD Details

On April 7th, Britney Spears' documentary "For The Record" will be released on DVD (see: cover art above). Also included will be rare scenes that didn't air on MTV as well as six remixes of Britney's latest singles "Womanizer" & "Circus," which happen to come from her newest album Circus. I loved this & will definitely be picking it up!

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The Pussycat Dolls Record Oscar-Winning "Jai Ho"

The Pussycat Dolls have put their own spin on the winner for Best Original Song at last night's Academy Awards, "Jai Ho." Along with A.R. Rahman, the man behind the music of this year's Best Picture winner, "Slumdog Millionaire," The Pussycat Dolls have recorded "Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)," with Nicole Scherzinger's lead vocals being produced by Ron Fair. The track can be purchased on iTunes HERE, but you can stream it HERE. This definitely makes the song bearable to say the least! Don't forget that PCD's latest album Doll Domination is available now.

Brick & Lace "Bad To Di Bone" Video Premiere

"Bad To Di Bone" is most likely the lead single off Brick & Lace's sophomore album, which will follow up the duo's debut Love Is Wicked, which remains unreleased here in the US. I really like Brick & Lace's style, & though this isn't my favorite song from them, it stays in line with who they are. The video, however, is fairly low budget &, well, just say no to pink wigs!

The 2009 Academy Awards Recap

"WALL-E" was victorious in the Animated Feature Film category at this year's Academy Awards. Congrats to Andrew Stanton & the rest of the Pixar team on this win! Other winners at this year's Oscars, which include the late Heath Ledger, can be viewed HERE (though I wouldn't recommend it). Beyonce came through with that surprise performance during the ceremony, which was a salute to musicals that also included host Hugh Jackman, "Mamma Mia'"s Amanda Seyfried, & "High School Musical'"s Zac Efron & Vanessa Hudgens:

David Archuleta Performs "Angels" Acapella On B97

At a recent meet & greet for New Orleans radio station B97, David Archuleta performed an amazing acapella version of the song "Angels," which is featured on his self-titled debut album.

Brandy Performs On Pistons Vs. Grizzlies Game Halftime Show

Long Distance

Right Here (Departed)

Brandy performed the first two singles "Right Here (Departed)" & "Long Distance" off her latest album Human during halftime at the same Martin Luther King, Jr. Day basketball game where she sang the national anthem. Once again, absolutely incredible. This proves my point that Brandy is the most intelligent artist out there.

George Huff Album Update

American Idol alumni George Huff will release his gospel-flavored self-titled album on April 7th. The album, which will include such tracks as "Don't Let Go" & "Turn It Around," can be described by the Hurricane Katrina survivor as:

"The CD is reflective of the times we are living in & the hardships I've endured in my own life. My music tells the story but also encourages you to hold on, turn your situation around, & have some fun."

I'm a fan of George, so I look forward to his new project & wish him the best of luck with it.

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Teairra Mari & Pleasure P Perform "Hunt 4 You" On World Star Hip-Hop

Teairra Mari has partnered up with World Star Hip-Hop to promote her forthcoming sophomore album At That Point (April 7th). She is joined here by Pleasure P for a performance of her first single "Hunt 4 You." I'm still not jumping out of my chair, but this is considerably better than the other day.

Kelly Rowland To Host "The Fashion Show"

Kelly Rowland has been tapped to host Bravo's upcoming reality series The Fashion Show. The show, which will be co-hosted by Isaac Mizrahi, is set to premiere later this year. This should be some good exposure for Kelly & might give her the boost she needs come time for the release of her third album.

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New Ruben Studdard Promo Pic + More

Ruben Studdard is back! Fresh off signing a new deal with Hickory Records, Ruben has announced May 19th as the release date for his fourth album Love Is. The first single off the new project is "Together," which you can stream HERE. "Together" will be released digitally March 17th. I like the song & I wish Ruben got more credit, considering we live in a time that male R&B singers supposedly include T-Pain & Kanye West.

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India.Arie Performs "Pearls" On VH1 SoulStage

India.Arie performed "Pearls," a Sade cover that can be found on her fourth album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics, on VH1 SoulStage recently. Good stuff.

Idol Review: Top 36 Group 1

Now that season eight has officially begun, so have my Idol Reviews again! First up, season seven's Carly Smithson & Michael Johns performed "The Letter" together again on last night's results show. I love Carly & she showed this year's contestants how it's done ... cause do they ever need to be taught! This week, the first group of 12 hit the stage & not a single one made a good song choice. In fact, I'm really not jumping for joy at the talent overall this season, but I'll wait until the Top 36 is over to really get a feel for it. If I had to choose three people to advance this week (based on talent as well as their performances), I'd give it to Ann Marie Boskovich, Ricky Braddy, & Anoop Desai. I know those choices sound desperate ... & that's because they are; all of these contestants feel like second-rate versions of people from past seasons of the show. Nonetheless, my hope for this season dwindled even more when it was announced that Alexis Grace, Michael Sarver, & Danny Gokey had advanced to the Top 12. Let's just hope the next two weeks bring us some better talent (Adam Lambert, Lil Rounds, anyone?)

Billboard Update

^This week's #1 album on the Billboard 200 chart
This week's #1 single on the Hot 100 chart^

See full charts HERE.

The album that won't die, Taylor Swift's Fearless, has returned to the top of this week's Billboard 200 album chart. India.Arie was the Hot Shot Debut at #3 with 76,000 copies sold of Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics, while Lily Allen's It's Not Me, It's You started out at #5 by selling 70,000 copies & Ryan Leslie's self-titled debut album sold 24,000 copies, good enough for #35. Over on the Hot 100 singles chart, Flo Rida soars to #1 with "Right Round."

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(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Brandy Performs National Anthem On Pistons Vs. Grizzlies Game

HQ video has finally surfaced of Brandy performing "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day basketball game between the Detroit Pistons & the Memphis Grizzlies. Brandy's deceivingly simple take on the song is absolutely brilliant! Her new album Human, which is amazing, is out now.

*UPDATED* Ciara "Fantasy Ride" Update

Ciara is hooking up with Justin Timberlake for the third single off her upcoming third album Fantasy Ride (April 7th). Their collaboration will be called "Love & Sex & Magic." I have a good feeling this will be the hit CiCi needs. That said, I'm still mad at Ciara's label for the mishandling of her most recent single "Never Ever." Because they didn't have her single cover displayed on the main page of iTunes when it was released, "Never Ever" barely made the top 100 before slipping right off. It's so simple to sell downloads on iTunes: just let the public know you've made the song available! Because "Never Ever" sold some copies, it proves that the public was interested. Therefore, the failure of "Never Ever" is the label's fault & they'd better not let Ciara take the fall for it.

UPDATE: Listen to "Love & Sex & Magic" below--

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Estelle Performs With The Ting Tings On The 2009 BRIT Awards + More

Estelle sang her hit "American Boy" to the tune of "Shut Up & Let Me Go" by The Ting Tings, who then dueted with Estelle on their song "That's Not My Name," at the 2009 BRIT Awards earlier this week. I really enjoyed this one; they make a unique pairing. Kanye West was lucky enough to walk away with the International Male Solo Artist award as well. All the winners can be seen HERE.

Nickelback "I'd Come For You" Video Premiere

"I'd Come For You" is the second single taken from Nickelback's latest album Dark Horse. This one's pretty much generic all around. I would've much preferred for "Never Gonna Be Alone" to have received the single treatment.

Mariah Carey Album Update

I just have to stress how awkward it feels to type this article already. The-Dream recently revealed that he is working on Mariah Carey's next album, which will serve as the follow-up to last year's E=MC². Tentatively titled MC3 (& let us hope it stays tentative), the album already has seven potential tracks completed by production team The-Dream & Tricky Stewart in the last two weeks. The "Touch My Body" duo will likely produce the upcoming album's first single, which The-Dream hints could drop in the next few months. Maybe I'm in the minority, but I don't see how MC3 could top the hotness that was E=MC², especially if Mariah has only worked with these two. That said, I'm always open to new material from The Voice.

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Melinda Doolittle "It's Your Love" Video Premiere

"It's Your Love" is the first single off Melinda Doolittle's debut album Coming Back To You. I had lost all hope of receiving a video, so I'm grateful to have something. That said, they couldn't have spent less on it ... but it's the music that truly counts.

Jazmine Sullivan Looks Into Acting

Following a disappointing Grammy night, Jazmine Sullivan has set her sights on doing some acting. Alongside current touring partner Ne-Yo, Jazmine will play a singer who falls in love in the war movie "Red Tails," which begins filming in Prague in April. While she also has a TBA TV project in the works, that's not to say Jazmine is finished with music just yet. Although there are no release plans yet, she has started writing for her sophomore album. I guess I won't judge till we see it, but I'm not really checking for Jazmine on the acting side of things. Do support Jazmine though by purchasing her debut album Fearless today!

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Lily Allen Performs On Ellen

The Fear

Womanizer (Bathroom Concert Series)

Lily Allen continued her US promo tour with a stop on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which consisted of a performance of her single "The Fear" & singing Britney Spears' "Womanizer" with Ellen in the bathroom. Yay for the Bathroom Concert Series! Lily's second album It's Not Me, It's You is available now.

India.Arie Performs "Therapy" On GMA + More

Following a short interview, India.Arie performed her single "Therapy" on Good Morning America with special guest Gramps Morgan. It's stuff like this that just makes my day. This is what music should sound like! Also, India.Arie performed the song "A Beautiful Day" that she wrote with GMA's own Robin Roberts & that can be found HERE (as can her original appearance when they wrote the song). Both songs are available on India.Arie's new album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics.

The Black-Eyed Peas "The END" Update

The Black-Eyed Peas are set to phunk us up once again with the release of their next album The END, or The Energy Never Dies, on June 9th. The project will be led by first single "Boom Boom Pow." As for the sound of the album, expect something along the lines of "electric static funk," according to the always creative will.i.am. Summer is the absolute perfect time for a new album from the Peas. I'm really excited to hear what they're bringing to the table this time around.

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Kanye West ft. Kid Cudi "Welcome To Heartbreak" Video Premiere

"Welcome To Heartbreak," featuring Kid Cudi, is the next single off Kanye West's latest album 808s & Heartbreak. I like the concept of the video & most of the visual aspects, but some of it's all just a bit overboard & a little too hard to watch. I wanted to say that I remember giving 808s & Heartbreak a so-so response initially, but I've grown more of a liking to the album as of late.

Christina Milian Signs With Radio Killa Records

It looks like Christina Milian wasn't kidding around when she said she was working with The-Dream because she has signed with his Radio Killa Records label. This means that Christina's forthcoming album Dream In Color, which is due in the spring, will be released as a joint venture between MySpace Records, Interscope, & Radio Killa. I sure do hope they can get their stuff together cause I'd love for Christina to have some well-deserved success with this new project.

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The Veronicas Perform "Burnin' Up" Cover On Pepsi Smash

The Veronicas have covered the Jonas Brothers' "Burnin' Up" for Yahoo! Music's Pepsi Smash Cover Art. It's obviously a better version, but it still makes me ill to listen to the song. The Veronicas' sophomore album Hook Me Up is out now.

*UPDATED* Katharine McPhee To Star In "Wedlocked"

Katharine McPhee has been cast in the upcoming romantic comedy
"Wedlocked." She will star opposite Dave Annable of Brothers & Sisters fame. Though nothing else is known regarding Katharine's role yet, I'd definitely be open to seeing her in a movie like this.

UPDATE: Katharine has also booked a guest-starring role on an April episode of CSI: NY, where she will play a singer. Go figure.

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Lily Allen Performs "The Fear" On Leno

Lily Allen performed first single "The Fear" off her new album It's Not Me, It's You recently on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. To say the least, I found her glamorous (no doubt American) look quite interesting.

Teairra Mari Performs On Good Day New York

"Hunt 4 You" (ft. Pleasure P)

"Finding My Way Back"

Teairra Mari kicked off some promo for her forthcoming sophomore album At That Point (April 7th) with a pair of performances on Good Day New York. Basically, both showings were a mess. Though Teairra is talented, she was pitchy in the first clip & just downright out of tune in the second. It wasn't all her fault though; what kind of 21st century TV production makes a singer perform with a microphone that has a cord? Anyway, I'm really not seeing Teairra going anywhere fast, but I believe she deserves to.

David Archuleta Performs "ALTNOY" On Crush Night

David Archuleta returned to Nickelodeon this past weekend for another "Crush Night" & performed his latest single "A Little Too Not Over You" off his self-titled debut album. Despite the fact that he's better than his demographic, I'm glad to see him out there displaying his talent. Love this song.

Album Review: India.Arie "Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics"

Three years have passed since we were treated to the first volume of India.Arie's Testimony series, so it's finally time for her to offer up Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics. I fell in love with India.Arie when she dropped her last album & there are very few albums I have connected with to the extent that I did with Testimony: Vol. 1. Obviously excited about this new volume, I was pleased with what I heard on first listen & have given myself the opportunity to connect with the music even more. There's just nothing quite like the experience of listening to an India.Arie album.

The spiritual intro, two interludes, & outro, all dubbed "Grains," are wonderful inclusions to this project. They really fit in well with the Testimony series. The upbeat, Gramps Morgan-assisted "Therapy" is an excellent way to really kickoff the album. "Ghetto" is the first 'political' offering on Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics, which I must admit is my least favorite of the two subjects. Lead single "Chocolate High," which features Musiq Soulchild, is a much nicer listen & brings that signature smooth quality that I love from India.Arie.

Another signature sound from this 'acoustic soul' can be found in "He Heals Me," which is beautiful. I love having a good balance of stripped down & bigger sounding music on an India.Arie record. I've become quite the fan of "Pearls," which sees Dobet Gnahore adding some great African-influenced ad-libs to the track. More acoustic goodness comes with the gorgeous "River Rise," while Terrell Carter assists on the pleasant "Yellow." "Better Way," which features Keb Mo, at least keeps up with the album's incomparable vibe.

My absolute favorite song on Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics is "Long Goodbye." This is a powerful & emotional one that shows India.Arie stepping out of her comfort zone vocally for something very special. MC Lyte makes an interesting appearance on "Psalms 23," which ends up being a surprisingly delightful collaboration. More politics shows up on the album's closer "The Cure," which features Sezen Aksu & unfortunately doesn't quite do it for me; these tracks just aren't as well-written as the others. The bonus track "A Beautiful Day" picks up the slack however, as it leaves the listener in the perfect place to end up.

Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics is no doubt another brilliant work from India.Arie. While I did prefer the 'love' aspect to the disc, the mood of the project as a whole is very addictive. We even get to witness some growth India.Arie has gone through as an artist here. This is simply one talent you can't pass up.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Mandisa "Freedom" Cover + More

On March 24th, former American Idol contestant Mandisa will release her second album Freedom, cover art for which is featured above. I like it. The album will include the first single "My Deliverer," which you can listen to HERE. It sure sounds like she's headed the right direction with this one!

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Lily Allen On Album Chart Show

"22"

"Who'd Have Known"

"The Fear"

"Smile"

Interview (Pt. 1)

Interview (Pt. 2)

Lily Allen had an entire special Album Chart Show on the UK's T4 music channel dedicated to her recently for the release of her sophomore album It's Not Me, It's You. She performed the songs "22" & "Who'd Have Known," as well as first single "The Fear," from the album, & her hit "Smile." Lily also participated in a two-part interview. She's always such a delight to listen to, musically or not. I'm really digging songs like "Who'd Have Known" & "22" from her new album.

Jordin Sparks Performs National Anthem On 2009 NBA All-Star Game

Jordin Sparks sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" for the second time in the last month at this year's NBA All-Star Game. It's simply effortless for her anymore & I love it!

The-Dream "Love Vs. Money" Cover

Here's the cover art for The-Dream's upcoming sophomore album Love Vs. Money (March 10th). ... Ya.

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Lil' Mama ft. Peter Toh "Truly In Love" Video Premiere

"Truly In Love," featuring Peter Toh, is the latest single off Lil' Mama's debut album VYP: Voice Of The Young People. It shocks me that after lackluster sales, Jive is still pushing this album. I really can't complain though, as it is a rare gift. Lil' Mama is a talented gal & it shows in this cool new video, which features cameos from Fanny Pak (of America's Best Dance Crew fame) & Mark Kanemura (from So You Think You Can Dance). The song probably wouldn't have been my choice for a single (see: "Swim"), but it definitely could've done without the featured artist.

The 2009 NAACP Image Awards Recap

Beyonce "Halo"

Jennifer Hudson "The Impossible Dream"

Last Friday, this year's NAACP Image Awards celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the NAACP as well as the inauguration of President Barack Obama. Beyonce opened the show with a first-ever performance of her new single "Halo," which was quite an incredible showing. She sure blew me away, which is typical for her. Beyonce also picked up the award for Outstanding Female Artist. Jennifer Hudson sang "The Impossible Dream" during a tribute to Muhammad Ali. The Oscar- & Grammy-winner, who sounded great, was also awarded Outstanding New Artist, Outstanding Album, Outstanding Duo, Group, or Collaboration (with Fantasia for "I'm His Only Woman"), &, with her fellow castmates, Outstanding Motion Picture for "The Secret Life Of Bees." (You can see the full list of winners HERE.) Though the night was (somewhat understandably) overloaded with sentimental moments, I found the show leaps & bounds better than the recent Grammys.

Lily Allen "It's Not Me, It's You" EPK + Note

Check out this video of Lily Allen discussing her new album It's Not Me, It's You, which just might be the #1 album in the country next week. You just gotta love Lily & her music.

Note: Updates will slow in the next couple days, but they will return no later than Monday!

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David Archuleta Appears On GMA

David Archuleta was in Orlando this morning for the opening of the "American Idol Experience" attraction & sang a little karaoke with some fans on Good Morning America. It's a cool little clip. David Archuleta's self-titled album is in stores now.

Billboard Update

^This week's #1 album on the Billboard 200 chart
This week's #1 single on the Hot 100 chart^

See full charts HERE.

The Fray's self-titled album debuts at the top of this week's Billboard 200 album chart. Melinda Doolittle comes in at #58 with her debut album Coming Back To You. Leona Lewis' Spirit: The Deluxe Edition release was only able to give her a 55-42 jump this week. Over on the Hot 100 singles chart, Eminem's new single with Dr. Dre & 50 Cent, "Crack A Bottle," takes the #1 spot.

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Estelle "Superstition" Song Premiere

Estelle has covered the Stevie Wonder classic "Superstition" for the new compilation album Heroes from War Child, an organization that aids children affected by war. You can find out more about the February 24th release HERE. Good stuff. Estelle's latest album Shine is out now.

Enrique Iglesias ft. Ciara "Takin' Back My Love" Video Premiere

"Takin' Back My Love," featuring Ciara, is the second single taken from Enrique Iglesias' greatest hits album. This is a steamy one! Director Ray Kay brought us another hot video, which has CiCi & Enrique destroying everything in their path until the two find themselves ... in quite a situation. If you ask me, Ciara sure is doing her thing right now.

Jennifer Hudson "If This Isn't Love" Video Premiere

"If This Isn't Love" is the second single off Jennifer Hudson's self-titled debut album. I'm so happy to finally post this! Jennifer looks absolutely gorgeous in the Diane Martel-directed clip. This is also my favorite song on J-Hud's album. She's been doing big things lately, so I hope "If This Isn't Love" brings her much (well-deserved) success.

David Archuleta "Let's Talk About Love" Video Premiere + More

David Archuleta has recorded a song titled "Let's Talk About Love" for Build-A-Bear Workshop. This video features behind-the-scenes footage of the making of the charity single, which can be downloaded HERE beginning on Valentine's Day. Ya know, because we needed another reason to love him. David Archuleta's self-titled debut album is available now.

Melinda Doolittle On Ellen

"It's Your Love"

Interview

Melinda Doolittle did some promotion for her debut album Coming Back To You by performing her first single "It's Your Love" & doing an interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. I love it! Ellen's the best (as if she wasn't already) for having Melinda.

The 2009 BET Honors Performance Highlights

Watch The 2009 BET Honors HERE

During this year's BET Honors, Monica honored Mary J. Blige with her rendition of "Not Gon Cry" (see: above). She also participated in the all-star finale performance. In addition, Keyshia Cole sang her new single "You Complete Me." Both ladies did an incredible job, so head over & check their performances out.

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Rihanna Assaulted By Chris Brown

As many of you have undoubtedly heard, Rihanna was the victim of an attack by boyfriend Chris Brown shortly after the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Party (see: left) late Saturday. Details have begun surfacing regarding the current state of Rihanna, who has kept a very low profile since the assault. She reportedly suffered a black eye, was badly swollen, & even lost consciousness at one point, though the reason for it all is, at this point, pure speculation. I just wanted to put out there what is known & wish Rihanna a swift recovery. You're in our thoughts, RiRi.

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Happy Birthday, Brandy!

Today is Brandy's 30th birthday & after the amazing gift she gave us at the end of last year, the least we can do is wish her the best birthday ever! I might as well take this opportunity to direct you HERE to read Brandy's interview with That Grape Juice--which includes a beautiful acapella snippet of "Long Distance"-- if you haven't already (it's a great one!) Finally, won't you consider buying a(n additional) copy of Brandy's latest album Human on this most special of days?

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Kelly Clarkson "All I Ever Wanted" Tracklisting + More

We finally have the tracklisting for one of the most highly anticipated albums of this side of 2009, Kelly Clarkson's All I Ever Wanted (March 10th). Check it out below:

1. My Life Would Suck Without You
2. I Do Not Hook Up
3. Cry
4. Don’t Let Me Stop You
5. All I Ever Wanted
6. Already Gone
7. If I Can’t Have You
8. Save You
9. Whyyawannabringmedown
10. Long Shot
11. Impossible
12. Ready
13. I Want You
14. If No One Will Listen

If you plan on purchasing the deluxe edition of All I Ever Wanted, you can add "Tip Of My Tongue" & "The Day We Fell Apart," in addition to the information previously provided, to that. Get excited!

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Lily Allen On Le Grand Journal

"The Fear"

Q&A

Lily Allen recently performed first single "The Fear" off her sophomore album It's Not You, It's Me on Le Grand Journal in France, where she also participated in a brief Q&A session. Gotta love the complete absence of censorship!

Jennifer Hudson "If This Isn't Love": Behind-The-Scenes

Check out our first look at Jennifer Hudson's video for "If This Isn't Love," the second single off her self-titled debut album. She looks gorgeous & I'm loving the return of the long hair. The video is set to premiere ... wait for it ... tomorrow, so I can't wait!

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Christina Milian "King" Magazine Cover

Christina Milian sizzles on the cover of King magazine's 50th issue. I love it! Christina's new album Dream In Color is coming soon.

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New India.Arie Promo Pics

A new batch of promotional photos have surfaced of India.Arie, as her new album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics hit stores today. These are as lovely as, well, her music!

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The-Dream "Rockin' That Thang" Video Premiere

"Rockin' That Thang" is the first single taken from The-Dream's upcoming second album Love Vs. Money (March 10th). Director Ray Kay gave this one a great look, which has me that much closer to liking the song.

Note: I'd like to mention that the short ad for Fox's new series Dollhouse that plays before the video is worth a glance. I can't wait to see the show!

New Ryan Leslie Promo Pic

Here's a new promotional photo of Ryan Leslie, who released his self-titled debut album today. Personally, I was slightly disappointed with the album as a whole, but that's not to say it wasn't worth a listen. The last track "Gibberish" is particularly intriguing.

Lily Allen Performs "The Fear" On Today

Following a short interview, Lily Allen performed the first single "The Fear" off her sophomore album It's Not Me, It's You, which is out today, this morning on Today. Welcome back to the US, Lily!

New Music Tuesday: India.Arie "Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics"

^Click To Purchase^

As I'm sure my readers know by now, India.Arie's fourth album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics is out today. The album, which I love, includes the singles "Chocolate High," featuring Musiq Soulchild, & the Gramps Morgan-assisted "Therapy," & I plan on reviewing it very soon.

The Pussycat Dolls "Bad Girl" Song Premiere

Off the "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" soundtrack comes "Bad Girl," a new song from The Pussycat Dolls. If it sounds familiar, it's because Rihanna's version (which, ironically enough, features Chris Brown) leaked recently. While I like both versions, I have to give the edge to PCD & my girl Nicole. The Dolls' sophomore album Doll Domination is in stores now.

Janet Jackson Working With Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis

In this new interview, Jimmy Jam confirms he & his longtime producing partner Terry Lewis have begun working on Janet Jackson's next album. Seeing as how Janet is currently without a label, I'm not sure when we can expect said project, however I would definitely welcome some new material from the same team behind Ms. Jackson's All For You album ... & hopefully Janet can find some success similar to what that album brought her as well.