Entertainment Icon Snoop Dogg is the “I Am Hip Hop” Award Recipient
Confirmed Performances by T.I., Gucci Mane, Travis Scott, Young Thug, Desiigner, Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Yachty, 21 Savage, Big Baby D.R.A.M., Dae Dae and More
The BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2016 is Hosted by DJ Khaled and Taping at a New Venue, The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA Premieres Tuesday, October 4th at 8:00 P.M.*
#HipHopAwards
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” has remained the most prominent hip hop showcase on television for ten years with its powerful performances, iconic hip hop honorees and much-anticipated cyphers. Multi-platinum artist, mega-producer and ‘Anthem King’ DJ Khaled will take the reins as host of the BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2016.
The “I Am Hip Hop” Award returns to honor entertainment icon and legendary rapper Snoop Dogg. Highly respected with more than 20 years in the industry, Snoop continues to set trends and pave the way for both new and established artists. Snoop defines hip-hop history. He is undoubtedly one of the most recognized and respected entertainers of all time. Hailing from Long Beach, CA, Snoop began his career under the guidance of Dr. Dre and became a multi-platinum artist who set records with his seminal album Doggystyle, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 800,000 copies in the first week. Throughout his career, Snoop’s produced chart-topping hits including “Gin & Juice,” “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Next Episode,” “Beautiful,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Signs,” “Sensual Seduction” and “I Wanna Rock.” He garnered chart topping success with his first album, Doggystyle (1993), which climbed its way to the No. 1 spot on Billboard's hip-hop and Top 200 charts. His sophomore album, Tha Doggfather (1996), also achieved chart topping success. He continued to top the hip-hop charts with his next two albums: Da Game Is To Be Sold, Not To Be Told (1998) and No Limit Top Dogg (1999). Most recently, the West Coast Rapper released his 14th studio album COOLAID, featuring the hit single “Kush Ups” with Wiz Khalifa. Snoop’s career has transcended industry lines with award-winning and multi-platinum albums and songs, as well as critically acclaimed films and television shows, including his weekly “GGN News” series on his WestFestTV YouTube channel. His philanthropic efforts are also well documented and his pioneering ventures, “Leafs by Snoop,” a cannabis product line and MERRYJANE.COM, a media platform, are already business and tech industry leaders.
And the hottest night in Hip Hop is only getting started as the “King of the South” T.I. is confirmed to perform; Atlanta’s own Gucci Mane marks his long awaited return to the stage; Travis Scott will bring another hot performance; as well as performances by Young Thug and Desiigner. The list of confirmed performers doesn’t stop there; also bringing the heat for this year’s BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” is Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Yachty, 21 Savage, Dae Dae, Big Baby D.R.A.M. and Isaiah Rashad. Presenters for the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2016 include the star of Empire and BET’s The New Edition Story, Bryshere Y. Gray and rapper and actor Shameik Moore.
The BET “Hip Hop Awards” will be night of electrifying cyphers, powerful performances and legendary tributes! The BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2016 will tape on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at its new venue, The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA, and will premiere on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, will serve as Executive Producer of The BET Hip Hop Awards along with Stephen G. Hill, BET’s President of Programming, Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music and Specials and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials.
BET.com/HipHopAwards is the official site for the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2016 where fans can visit to get up-to-date info on this year's show and take a look back on past BET Hip Hop Awards. In the coming weeks, BET.com will launch a series of interactive timelines; exclusive video content games and quizzes leading up to the show.
BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” is fresh, legendary and, as always, a memorable night that you don’t want to miss!
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:
On BET.com: http://www.bet.com/shows/hip-hop-awards.html
On Twitter by using hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET
On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards
Follow DJ Khaled on social media:
Twitter @DJKhaled
Instagram @DJKhaled
Snapchat @DJKhaled305
Facebook.com/OfficialDJKhaled
YouTube.com/DJKhaledVEVO
VEVO.com/artist/dj-khaled
*Note: BET “Hip Hop Awards” is a private event and tickets are not available for purchase to the public. Talent tickets are reserved for BET “Hip Hop Awards” show talent and nominees.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS”:
BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET Networks delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.
ABOUT SNOOP DOGG:
Snoop Dogg has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, and has reigned for more than two decades as an unparalleled musical force who has raised the bar as an entertainer and globally recognized innovator. Since 1993, he has released fourteen albums and collaborated with artists across all genres of music. Snoop defines hip-hop history. As a trendsetter of pop culture, Snoop’s ventures include: (a) multiple music/film/TV deals, (b) his WestFestTV YouTube channel, where his wildly popular "GGN News" series appears weekly and (c), most recently, being at the forefront of the global cannabis revolution with businesses such as the 'Leafs By Snoop' product line, MERRYJANE.COM, and Casa Verde Capital.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins, the company’s CEO, has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, BET Honors, The UNCF Evening of Stars and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins currently Exec. Produces “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” (now going into its 4th hit season) alongside industry Icons Stan Lathan and Ralph Farquhar; and has worked with superstar talent such as Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince, Mariah Carey and many more.
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Showing posts with label Snoop Dogg. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Snoop Dogg. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Thursday, June 16, 2016
BET Announces Premieres of "Music Moguls" and "F in Fabulous"
BET Networks Premieres Two New Series “Music Moguls” and “F in Fabulous” on Tuesday, June 28 Beginning at 9:00 PM ET/PT
“Music Moguls” Premieres Tuesday, June 28 at 9 PM ET/PT on BET
#MusicMogulsBET
“Music Moguls” Super Trailer
“F in Fabulous” Premieres Directly Following with Back-to-Back Episodes Beginning at 10 PM ET/PT on BET
#FInFabulousBET
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announces the summer premiere of two new series, “Music Moguls” and “F in Fabulous.” “Music Moguls” stars rapper and Cash Money CEO Bryan “Birdman” Williams; rapper, actor and philanthropist Snoop Dogg; Grammy© award winning producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri; and music executive, TV and film producer and fashion designer Damon Dash. “Music Moguls” gives viewers a raw, never-before-seen look at the boardroom hustle and infamous lives of these four music impresarios who have launched the careers of some of the biggest artists in the game.
“F in Fabulous” features model, actress and former Miss Teen USA Kamie Crawford; celebrity brand strategist Eny Oh; aspiring fashion designer Steph Mendoza; and rising singer/actress Savannah Lynx. “F in Fabulous” follows the four fab, millennial friends as they navigate their way through business, love and life in the big city. “Music Moguls” premieres on Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at 9PM ET/PT directly followed by “F in Fabulous” with two back-to-back episodes beginning at 10PM ET/PT on BET.
“Music Moguls” showcases the lives of some of the most recognized moguls in the industry on their endless rise to the top. As artists themselves, Birdman, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine Dupri, and Damon Dash bring their unique blend of smarts and creativity to the stage, to the boardroom, and the streets, as they try to balance the concerns and obligations of family with the never-ending demands of the music business. From grooming new talent to building new empires these moguls dare to do whatever they need to do to stay at the top of the game.
Bryan “Birdman” Williams is the co-founder of Cash Money Records that today is home to rap and hip hop’s biggest names, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Drake. Williams has also ventured outside of the music industry with deals in liquor, apparel and book publishing. Birdman continues to build Empire by cultivating new talent to be not only artists but moguls.
Snoop Dogg is one of the most recognized music moguls in the world, beginning his career under the guidance of Dr. Dre and going on to become a multi-platinum winning artist and producer. Snoop is also an entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of merging technology and cannabis with his lifestyle media site that focuses on cannabis culture, “Merry Jane.”
Jermaine Dupri has been a record producer and rapper for some of the biggest names in R & B and rap, working with artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher and Bow Wow. He established his record label So So Def Recordings at a young age with success breaking artists such as Kriss Kross and Da Brat. Dupri continues to build on his empire with involvement in App development and TV production.
Damon Dash co-founded Roc- A- fella Records with Jay Z and Kareem “Biggs” Burke in 1995. He has since begun Damon Dash Music Group and his production company Dame Dash Studios. Dash continues to show the world he isn’t slowing down his domination of the entertainment industry with his ventures in music, production, apparel and alcohol brands.
Music Moguls is produced by L. Plummer Media (“The Westbrooks,” “Preachers of LA,” and “Living with Funny”) with Lemuel Plummer, Ray J, Bryan “Birdman” Williams, Snoop Dogg and Chad Greulach serving as Executive Producers.
“F in Fabulous” follows the fabulous lives of Kamie Crawford, Eny Oh, Steph Mendoza and Savannah Lynx as they embark on careers in entertainment and fashion to make a name for themselves in the Big Apple while grappling with their newfound adulthood. Whether walking the runway at Fashion Week, rubbing elbows at the city’s hottest events or working with top industry professionals, these lifelong friends continue to prove they are forces to be reckoned with in the world of fab.
“F in Fabulous” is produced by Leepson Bounds Entertainment. Executive producers are David Leepson (“#RichKids of Beverly Hills”) and Doron Ofir (“#RichKids of Beverly Hills”).
For more information on “MUSIC MOGULS” and “F IN FABULOUS” log on to BET.com. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms by using the hashtag #MusicMogulsBET and #FInFabulousBET and following us @BET.
Follow BET on Twitter: @BET_PR
About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
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“Music Moguls” Premieres Tuesday, June 28 at 9 PM ET/PT on BET
#MusicMogulsBET
“Music Moguls” Super Trailer
“F in Fabulous” Premieres Directly Following with Back-to-Back Episodes Beginning at 10 PM ET/PT on BET
#FInFabulousBET
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announces the summer premiere of two new series, “Music Moguls” and “F in Fabulous.” “Music Moguls” stars rapper and Cash Money CEO Bryan “Birdman” Williams; rapper, actor and philanthropist Snoop Dogg; Grammy© award winning producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri; and music executive, TV and film producer and fashion designer Damon Dash. “Music Moguls” gives viewers a raw, never-before-seen look at the boardroom hustle and infamous lives of these four music impresarios who have launched the careers of some of the biggest artists in the game.
“F in Fabulous” features model, actress and former Miss Teen USA Kamie Crawford; celebrity brand strategist Eny Oh; aspiring fashion designer Steph Mendoza; and rising singer/actress Savannah Lynx. “F in Fabulous” follows the four fab, millennial friends as they navigate their way through business, love and life in the big city. “Music Moguls” premieres on Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at 9PM ET/PT directly followed by “F in Fabulous” with two back-to-back episodes beginning at 10PM ET/PT on BET.
“Music Moguls” showcases the lives of some of the most recognized moguls in the industry on their endless rise to the top. As artists themselves, Birdman, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine Dupri, and Damon Dash bring their unique blend of smarts and creativity to the stage, to the boardroom, and the streets, as they try to balance the concerns and obligations of family with the never-ending demands of the music business. From grooming new talent to building new empires these moguls dare to do whatever they need to do to stay at the top of the game.
Bryan “Birdman” Williams is the co-founder of Cash Money Records that today is home to rap and hip hop’s biggest names, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Drake. Williams has also ventured outside of the music industry with deals in liquor, apparel and book publishing. Birdman continues to build Empire by cultivating new talent to be not only artists but moguls.
Snoop Dogg is one of the most recognized music moguls in the world, beginning his career under the guidance of Dr. Dre and going on to become a multi-platinum winning artist and producer. Snoop is also an entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of merging technology and cannabis with his lifestyle media site that focuses on cannabis culture, “Merry Jane.”
Jermaine Dupri has been a record producer and rapper for some of the biggest names in R & B and rap, working with artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher and Bow Wow. He established his record label So So Def Recordings at a young age with success breaking artists such as Kriss Kross and Da Brat. Dupri continues to build on his empire with involvement in App development and TV production.
Damon Dash co-founded Roc- A- fella Records with Jay Z and Kareem “Biggs” Burke in 1995. He has since begun Damon Dash Music Group and his production company Dame Dash Studios. Dash continues to show the world he isn’t slowing down his domination of the entertainment industry with his ventures in music, production, apparel and alcohol brands.
Music Moguls is produced by L. Plummer Media (“The Westbrooks,” “Preachers of LA,” and “Living with Funny”) with Lemuel Plummer, Ray J, Bryan “Birdman” Williams, Snoop Dogg and Chad Greulach serving as Executive Producers.
“F in Fabulous” follows the fabulous lives of Kamie Crawford, Eny Oh, Steph Mendoza and Savannah Lynx as they embark on careers in entertainment and fashion to make a name for themselves in the Big Apple while grappling with their newfound adulthood. Whether walking the runway at Fashion Week, rubbing elbows at the city’s hottest events or working with top industry professionals, these lifelong friends continue to prove they are forces to be reckoned with in the world of fab.
“F in Fabulous” is produced by Leepson Bounds Entertainment. Executive producers are David Leepson (“#RichKids of Beverly Hills”) and Doron Ofir (“#RichKids of Beverly Hills”).
For more information on “MUSIC MOGULS” and “F IN FABULOUS” log on to BET.com. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms by using the hashtag #MusicMogulsBET and #FInFabulousBET and following us @BET.
Follow BET on Twitter: @BET_PR
About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
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Usher, Maxwell, The Roots Head Special Prince Celebration at 2016 BET Awards
Usher, Future and Bryson Tiller Join Alicia Keys, Maxwell and Special Prince Celebration Performers, Sheila E., D’Angelo, The Roots and Janelle Monae at the 2016 “BET Awards”
DJ Khaled, Gabrielle Union, Tinashe, Fantasia, Regina Hall, Nate Parker and More Announced as Presenters
Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross to Host 2016 “BET Awards” Airing Live on Sunday, June 26 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA at 8 P.M. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 23-26, 2016
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks revealed that Usher, Future, and Bryson Tiller will join the ultra-talented line-up of performers at the 16th annual “BET Awards” 2016 on Sunday, June 26, 2016. Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the “BET Awards” will also include previously announced performances by Alicia Keys and Maxwell. As revealed last week, Sheila E., The Roots, D’Angelo, and Janelle Monae are also slated as the first artists to be part of the special celebration paying homage to the creative genius of Prince.
DJ Khaled, Gabrielle Union, Tinashe, Fantasia, Regina Hall, BET’s “Music Moguls” (Damon Dash, Birdman, Jermaine Dupri and Snoop Dog,) Aja Naomi King, Nate Parker, Terrence J, Morris Chestnut, J.B. Smoove, Kimberly Elise, Omar Epps, the cast of BET's New Edition Biopic (Bryshere Y. Gray, Elijah Kelley, Luke James, Algee Smith, Keith Powers and Woody McClain) and BET’s “F in Fabulous” cast (Kamie Crawford, Eny Oh, Stephon Mendoza and Savannah Lynx) were also announced today as presenters for the annual highly-anticipated televised event.
A full list of the 2016 “BET Awards” nominees is now available here.
In addition to this exciting line-up, “BET Awards” has a secret performer! Find out who it is by using the hashtag #BETAwardsReveal on Twitter and Facebook. Once the hashtag is used, your social avatar paired with thousands of other BET Awards fans will reveal a photo of the must-see performer.
The “BET Awards” 2016 will premiere around the world on BET’s international network. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 28th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 28th at 7:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 29th at 9:00pm CEST.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Stephen G. Hill, BET’s President of Programming; Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music; and Specials and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials serve as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 23-26, 2016. BET.com is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the BET Experience weekend are now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for the STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. The 1,000+ VIP Packages sold out in 2015, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the leading world’s leading sports and live entertainment companies and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 23 - 26, 2016 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music and comedy concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; FREE BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 26, 2016 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
AEG is the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Anschutz Corporation, owns, operates or consults with a collection of companies including over 100 of the world’s preeminent facilities such as STAPLES Center (Los Angeles, CA), StubHub Center (Carson, CA), PlayStation Theater (Times Square, New York), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Shanghai, China), Qudos Bank Arena (Sydney, Australia), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Berlin, Germany), and The O2 arena and entertainment district (London, England). Developed by AEG, L.A. LIVE is a 4 million square foot / $2.5 billion downtown Los Angeles sports, & entertainment district featuring Microsoft Theater and a 54-story, 1001-room convention "headquarters" destination. In addition to overseeing privately held management shares of the Los Angeles Lakers, assets of AEG Sports include franchises such as the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and the Amgen Tour of California cycling stage race. Along with AEG Facilities, other global divisions include AEG Live, the world’s second largest concert promotion and touring companies comprised of touring, festival, exhibition, broadcast, merchandise and special event divisions and AEG Global Partnerships, responsible for worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships, naming rights and other strategic partnerships. In 2010, AEG launched its AEG 1EARTH environmental program featuring the industry's first sustainability report while in 2011, AEG introduced AXS a comprehensive entertainment platform serving as the company’s primary consumer brand including AXS Ticketing which provides fans the opportunity to purchase tickets directly from their favorite venues via a user-friendly ticketing interface, Examiner.com and the AXS TV network, a linear cable channel focusing on live entertainment and lifestyle programming available in nearly 40 million homes. AEG’s European headquarters are located in London. Global headquarters are in Los Angeles. For more information, visit: www.aegworldwide.com
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins is an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and the upcoming original miniseries based on the iconic music group New Edition that will debut on BET in 2017. He has worked with a myriad of superstar talent including Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow BET @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
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DJ Khaled, Gabrielle Union, Tinashe, Fantasia, Regina Hall, Nate Parker and More Announced as Presenters
Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross to Host 2016 “BET Awards” Airing Live on Sunday, June 26 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA at 8 P.M. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 23-26, 2016
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks revealed that Usher, Future, and Bryson Tiller will join the ultra-talented line-up of performers at the 16th annual “BET Awards” 2016 on Sunday, June 26, 2016. Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the “BET Awards” will also include previously announced performances by Alicia Keys and Maxwell. As revealed last week, Sheila E., The Roots, D’Angelo, and Janelle Monae are also slated as the first artists to be part of the special celebration paying homage to the creative genius of Prince.
DJ Khaled, Gabrielle Union, Tinashe, Fantasia, Regina Hall, BET’s “Music Moguls” (Damon Dash, Birdman, Jermaine Dupri and Snoop Dog,) Aja Naomi King, Nate Parker, Terrence J, Morris Chestnut, J.B. Smoove, Kimberly Elise, Omar Epps, the cast of BET's New Edition Biopic (Bryshere Y. Gray, Elijah Kelley, Luke James, Algee Smith, Keith Powers and Woody McClain) and BET’s “F in Fabulous” cast (Kamie Crawford, Eny Oh, Stephon Mendoza and Savannah Lynx) were also announced today as presenters for the annual highly-anticipated televised event.
A full list of the 2016 “BET Awards” nominees is now available here.
In addition to this exciting line-up, “BET Awards” has a secret performer! Find out who it is by using the hashtag #BETAwardsReveal on Twitter and Facebook. Once the hashtag is used, your social avatar paired with thousands of other BET Awards fans will reveal a photo of the must-see performer.
The “BET Awards” 2016 will premiere around the world on BET’s international network. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 28th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 28th at 7:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 29th at 9:00pm CEST.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Stephen G. Hill, BET’s President of Programming; Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music; and Specials and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials serve as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 23-26, 2016. BET.com is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the BET Experience weekend are now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for the STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. The 1,000+ VIP Packages sold out in 2015, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the leading world’s leading sports and live entertainment companies and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 23 - 26, 2016 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music and comedy concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; FREE BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 26, 2016 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
AEG is the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Anschutz Corporation, owns, operates or consults with a collection of companies including over 100 of the world’s preeminent facilities such as STAPLES Center (Los Angeles, CA), StubHub Center (Carson, CA), PlayStation Theater (Times Square, New York), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Shanghai, China), Qudos Bank Arena (Sydney, Australia), Mercedes-Benz Arena (Berlin, Germany), and The O2 arena and entertainment district (London, England). Developed by AEG, L.A. LIVE is a 4 million square foot / $2.5 billion downtown Los Angeles sports, & entertainment district featuring Microsoft Theater and a 54-story, 1001-room convention "headquarters" destination. In addition to overseeing privately held management shares of the Los Angeles Lakers, assets of AEG Sports include franchises such as the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and the Amgen Tour of California cycling stage race. Along with AEG Facilities, other global divisions include AEG Live, the world’s second largest concert promotion and touring companies comprised of touring, festival, exhibition, broadcast, merchandise and special event divisions and AEG Global Partnerships, responsible for worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships, naming rights and other strategic partnerships. In 2010, AEG launched its AEG 1EARTH environmental program featuring the industry's first sustainability report while in 2011, AEG introduced AXS a comprehensive entertainment platform serving as the company’s primary consumer brand including AXS Ticketing which provides fans the opportunity to purchase tickets directly from their favorite venues via a user-friendly ticketing interface, Examiner.com and the AXS TV network, a linear cable channel focusing on live entertainment and lifestyle programming available in nearly 40 million homes. AEG’s European headquarters are located in London. Global headquarters are in Los Angeles. For more information, visit: www.aegworldwide.com
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins is an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and the upcoming original miniseries based on the iconic music group New Edition that will debut on BET in 2017. He has worked with a myriad of superstar talent including Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow BET @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
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Thursday, October 15, 2015
2015 BET "Hip Hop Awards" Winners Announced
Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Big Sean Are the Big Winners of the Night as They Tie with Three Wins at the 2015 BET “Hip Hop Awards”
J. Cole Wins “Album of the Year” and “Best Live Performer”
“I Am Hip Hop” Icon Award Recipient Scarface is Speechless as He Recieves the Biggest Honor of the Night
#HipHopAwards
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hosted by none other than Uncle Snoop at the Boisfeuillet Jones Civic Center in Atlanta, Georgia, the BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2015 delivered yet another notable year of celebrating hip hop’s most influential artists as well as featured performances by some of the hottest names in hip hop.
Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Big Sean tie with three wins each – Drake wins “MVP of the Year”, “Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse” and “People’s Champ Award” for “Blessings”; Kendrick Lamar wins “Best Hip Hop Video”, “Lyricist of the Year” and “Impact Track”; Big Sean wins “Best Collabo, Duo or Group”, “Best Club Banger” and “People’s Champ Award” for “Blessings,” while J. Cole wins big for “Album of the Year” and “Best Live Performer.” Viewers were treated to show-stopping performances throughout the night by Future, Sean “Diddy” Combs aka Puff Daddy, Lil Kim, T.I., Young Dro, Dej Loaf, Kid Ink, Rich Homie Quan, iHeartMemphis and Travis Scott closing out the show.
Ludacris presented the “I Am Hip Hop” Award, which recognizes legends in hip hop music, to legendary rapper Scarface. And the highly anticipated BET “Hip Hop Awards” cyphers brought the heat with cyphers featuring Redman, Erick Sermon, Keith Murray, Doug E. Fresh, Rahzel, Black Thought, Vince Staples, Casey Veggies, Tink and more, as well as return of the live cypher performance on stage featuring Charlie Clips, Rain 910, K-Shine, DNA and T-Top.
The 2015 complete list of BET “Hip Hop Awards” winners are:
Best Hip Hop Video
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
Best Collabo, Duo or Group
Big Sean f/ Drake & Kanye West – “Blessings”
Best Live Performer
J. Cole
Lyricist of the Year
Kendrick Lamar
Video Director of the Year
Benny Boom
DJ of the Year
DJ Mustard
Producer of the Year
DJ Mustard
MVP of the Year
Drake
Track of the Year
“Trap Queen” – Produced By Tony Fadd (Fetty Wap)
Album of the Year
J. Cole – “2014 Forest Hills Drive”
Who Blew Up Award
Fetty Wap
Hustler of the Year
Dr. Dre
Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)
Dej Loaf
Best Hip Hop Online Site
Worldstarhiphop.com
Best Club Banger
Big Sean f/ E-40 – “IDFWU”
Best Mix Tape
Future – “56 Nights”
Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse
Drake – “My Way Remix” (Fetty Wap f/ Drake)
Impact Track
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
People’s Champ Award
Big Sean f/ Drake & Kanye West – “Blessings”
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment will serve as Executive Producer of The BET Hip Hop Awards along with Stephen G. Hill, BET’s President of Programming, Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music and Specials and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials.
Taping of the awards show took place at Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA on Friday, October 9, 2015 at 9:00 p.m. ET and premiered on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
BET.com/HipHopAwards is the official site for the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 where fans can visit to get up-to-date info on this year's show and take a look back on past BET Hip Hop Awards. In the coming weeks, BET.com will launch a series of interactive timelines, exclusive video content, games and quizzes leading up to the show.
BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” is fresh, legendary and, as always, a memorable night that you don’t want to miss!
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:
On BET.com: http://www.bet.com/shows/hip-hop-awards.html
On Twitter by using hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET
On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards
Follow Snoop Dogg on Twitter (@SnoopDogg), Instagram (@SnoopDogg), Facebook.com/SnoopDogg, YouTube.com/WestFestTV and SnoopDogg.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS”:
BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET Networks delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins, the company’s CEO, has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, BET Honors, The UNCF Evening of Stars and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins currently Exec. Produces “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” (now going into its 4th hit season) alongside industry Icons Stan Lathan and Ralph Farquhar; and has worked with superstar talent such as Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince, Mariah Carey and many more.
ABOUT SNOOP DOGG AKA UNCLE SNOOP:
An entertainment icon and with more than 20 years in the business, Snoop continues to pave the way in the hip-hop industry, serving as a mentor to many new and established artists. Snoop stands at the forefront of popular culture with award-winning and multi-platinum albums and songs, critically acclaimed films and television shows, lifestyle products, philanthropic efforts and tech and digital ventures, including his YouTube original series “GGN News,” and his best-selling app, Snoopify. Snoop defines hip-hop history. He’s set records with his seminal album Doggystyle, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 800,000 copies in the first week. Throughout his career, Snoop’s produced chart-topping hits including “Gin & Juice,” “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Next Episode,” “Beautiful,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Signs,” “Sensual Seduction” and “I Wanna Rock.” BUSH, Snoop’s latest album via Columbia Records and executive produced by Pharrell Williams, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album Chart, marking Snoop’s sixth chart topping hit. Snoop’s non-profit work in the community is commendable, as he established the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) in 2005 to give children between the ages of five and 13 the opportunity to participate in youth football and cheer. SYFL teaches them the values of teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline, and academics.
------------------------
J. Cole Wins “Album of the Year” and “Best Live Performer”
“I Am Hip Hop” Icon Award Recipient Scarface is Speechless as He Recieves the Biggest Honor of the Night
#HipHopAwards
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hosted by none other than Uncle Snoop at the Boisfeuillet Jones Civic Center in Atlanta, Georgia, the BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2015 delivered yet another notable year of celebrating hip hop’s most influential artists as well as featured performances by some of the hottest names in hip hop.
Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Big Sean tie with three wins each – Drake wins “MVP of the Year”, “Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse” and “People’s Champ Award” for “Blessings”; Kendrick Lamar wins “Best Hip Hop Video”, “Lyricist of the Year” and “Impact Track”; Big Sean wins “Best Collabo, Duo or Group”, “Best Club Banger” and “People’s Champ Award” for “Blessings,” while J. Cole wins big for “Album of the Year” and “Best Live Performer.” Viewers were treated to show-stopping performances throughout the night by Future, Sean “Diddy” Combs aka Puff Daddy, Lil Kim, T.I., Young Dro, Dej Loaf, Kid Ink, Rich Homie Quan, iHeartMemphis and Travis Scott closing out the show.
Ludacris presented the “I Am Hip Hop” Award, which recognizes legends in hip hop music, to legendary rapper Scarface. And the highly anticipated BET “Hip Hop Awards” cyphers brought the heat with cyphers featuring Redman, Erick Sermon, Keith Murray, Doug E. Fresh, Rahzel, Black Thought, Vince Staples, Casey Veggies, Tink and more, as well as return of the live cypher performance on stage featuring Charlie Clips, Rain 910, K-Shine, DNA and T-Top.
The 2015 complete list of BET “Hip Hop Awards” winners are:
Best Hip Hop Video
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
Best Collabo, Duo or Group
Big Sean f/ Drake & Kanye West – “Blessings”
Best Live Performer
J. Cole
Lyricist of the Year
Kendrick Lamar
Video Director of the Year
Benny Boom
DJ of the Year
DJ Mustard
Producer of the Year
DJ Mustard
MVP of the Year
Drake
Track of the Year
“Trap Queen” – Produced By Tony Fadd (Fetty Wap)
Album of the Year
J. Cole – “2014 Forest Hills Drive”
Who Blew Up Award
Fetty Wap
Hustler of the Year
Dr. Dre
Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)
Dej Loaf
Best Hip Hop Online Site
Worldstarhiphop.com
Best Club Banger
Big Sean f/ E-40 – “IDFWU”
Best Mix Tape
Future – “56 Nights”
Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse
Drake – “My Way Remix” (Fetty Wap f/ Drake)
Impact Track
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
People’s Champ Award
Big Sean f/ Drake & Kanye West – “Blessings”
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment will serve as Executive Producer of The BET Hip Hop Awards along with Stephen G. Hill, BET’s President of Programming, Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music and Specials and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials.
Taping of the awards show took place at Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA on Friday, October 9, 2015 at 9:00 p.m. ET and premiered on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
BET.com/HipHopAwards is the official site for the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 where fans can visit to get up-to-date info on this year's show and take a look back on past BET Hip Hop Awards. In the coming weeks, BET.com will launch a series of interactive timelines, exclusive video content, games and quizzes leading up to the show.
BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” is fresh, legendary and, as always, a memorable night that you don’t want to miss!
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:
On BET.com: http://www.bet.com/shows/hip-hop-awards.html
On Twitter by using hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET
On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards
Follow Snoop Dogg on Twitter (@SnoopDogg), Instagram (@SnoopDogg), Facebook.com/SnoopDogg, YouTube.com/WestFestTV and SnoopDogg.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS”:
BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET Networks delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins, the company’s CEO, has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, BET Honors, The UNCF Evening of Stars and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins currently Exec. Produces “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” (now going into its 4th hit season) alongside industry Icons Stan Lathan and Ralph Farquhar; and has worked with superstar talent such as Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince, Mariah Carey and many more.
ABOUT SNOOP DOGG AKA UNCLE SNOOP:
An entertainment icon and with more than 20 years in the business, Snoop continues to pave the way in the hip-hop industry, serving as a mentor to many new and established artists. Snoop stands at the forefront of popular culture with award-winning and multi-platinum albums and songs, critically acclaimed films and television shows, lifestyle products, philanthropic efforts and tech and digital ventures, including his YouTube original series “GGN News,” and his best-selling app, Snoopify. Snoop defines hip-hop history. He’s set records with his seminal album Doggystyle, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 800,000 copies in the first week. Throughout his career, Snoop’s produced chart-topping hits including “Gin & Juice,” “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Next Episode,” “Beautiful,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Signs,” “Sensual Seduction” and “I Wanna Rock.” BUSH, Snoop’s latest album via Columbia Records and executive produced by Pharrell Williams, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album Chart, marking Snoop’s sixth chart topping hit. Snoop’s non-profit work in the community is commendable, as he established the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) in 2005 to give children between the ages of five and 13 the opportunity to participate in youth football and cheer. SYFL teaches them the values of teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline, and academics.
------------------------
Thursday, May 15, 2014
BET Chronicles Hip Hop in "The Message" 4-Part Documentary
BET Networks Celebrates Black Music Month with the Launch of “The Message,” a Four Part Hip Hop Documentary Exploring the Evolution of Hip Hop Culture and Music over the Past 40 Years
Features Hip Hop Heavyweights Including Russell Simmons, Ice Cube, Birdman, Pharrell, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, MC Lyte, Master P and More
Premieres June 4 at 10PM ET
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks launches “THE MESSAGE,” a provocative documentary showcasing the influence of Hip Hop and how its sheer power has changed the sociopolitical landscape of America as well as the world. The four part narrative explores the factors behind its longevity and covers more than 40 years of this uniquely urban voice born in the streets of the South Bronx. “THE MESSAGE” examines the digital boom that transformed the sound, face and business of Hip Hop over the last 15 years and explores the expansion of the genre throughout the U.S, and the impact each region had on its collective voice. “THE MESSAGE” premieres on BET Networks on Wednesday, June 4 at 10:00 pm ET, followed by new episodes every Wednesday throughout the month of June.
“Hip Hop is a seed planted and nourished amongst the “broken glass everywhere”
“Hip Hop is a seed planted and nourished amongst the “broken glass everywhere” of mid-seventies New York. It has grown to be a worldwide phenomenon and the dominant culture of at least one generation. This exciting series examines the origin and the path of the music and message taking care to objectively analyze its factions and movements,” said Stephen Hill, President of Music Programing and Specials, BET Networks.
“THE MESSAGE” features intimate first person testimonies from Hip Hop’s most influential contributors including Russell Simmons, Ice Cube, Birdman, Pharrell, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, MC Lyte, Master P, LL Cool J, Big Boi, Bun B, 2 Chainz, Eve, Angie Martinez, Funkmaster Flex, Luther Campbell, Clive Davis, Mona Scott-Young, Questlove, A$AP Rocky, E-40, David Banner, Fab Five Freddy, Nelson George, Big Tigger, Sway and many more including Chris Lighty’s final on-air interview.
“THE MESSAGE” will be broken down into four, one hour episodes:
Episode 1 – The Birth and Proliferation of Hip Hop – The premiere episode traces the roots of Hip Hop from its birth in New York and spread to California with limited support from the mainstream media. Watch your favorite rappers reminisce on the first time they heard Hip Hop and be transported to the block parties, DJ Kool Herc’s sound system and the infectious rhymes of the Universal Zulu Nation and Grandmaster Flash. Premieres June 4 at 10:00 pm
Episode 2 – Trials and Tribulations – Will Hip Hop be able to grow up in a world that is no longer just about peace, love, unity and having fun? Hip Hop faces its first roadblocks with violent realities and extreme opposition from those who disagree with its messaging. Meanwhile, a new voice begins to form. Premieres June 11 at 10:00 pm
Episode 3 – Women, Cash, Clothes - Hip Hop explores a new reality of lasciviousness, wealth and entrepreneurship characterized by fast cars, big jewelry, the birth of the video vixen and the start of popular clothing lines including Rocawear, Sean Jean and Wu Wear. Premieres June 18 at 10:00 pm
Episode 4 – The Digital Revolution – The Internet creates new opportunities for Hip Hop to change the face of America. From the rise of the first major Internet superstar rapper Soulja Boy to the infamous 360 deals, this episode explores the future of Hip Hop. Premieres June 25 at 10:00 pm
Narrated by Joe Budden, “THE MESSAGE” is produced by Sam Walker II, Director of Music Specials and Productions, BET Networks, Keith Clinkscales and The Shadow League Media. For more information, visit www.bet.com/themessage and join the conversation on social media with #TheMessage.
About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA, VIAB), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
Follow us on @BET_PR
----------------------
Features Hip Hop Heavyweights Including Russell Simmons, Ice Cube, Birdman, Pharrell, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, MC Lyte, Master P and More
Premieres June 4 at 10PM ET
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks launches “THE MESSAGE,” a provocative documentary showcasing the influence of Hip Hop and how its sheer power has changed the sociopolitical landscape of America as well as the world. The four part narrative explores the factors behind its longevity and covers more than 40 years of this uniquely urban voice born in the streets of the South Bronx. “THE MESSAGE” examines the digital boom that transformed the sound, face and business of Hip Hop over the last 15 years and explores the expansion of the genre throughout the U.S, and the impact each region had on its collective voice. “THE MESSAGE” premieres on BET Networks on Wednesday, June 4 at 10:00 pm ET, followed by new episodes every Wednesday throughout the month of June.
“Hip Hop is a seed planted and nourished amongst the “broken glass everywhere”
“Hip Hop is a seed planted and nourished amongst the “broken glass everywhere” of mid-seventies New York. It has grown to be a worldwide phenomenon and the dominant culture of at least one generation. This exciting series examines the origin and the path of the music and message taking care to objectively analyze its factions and movements,” said Stephen Hill, President of Music Programing and Specials, BET Networks.
“THE MESSAGE” features intimate first person testimonies from Hip Hop’s most influential contributors including Russell Simmons, Ice Cube, Birdman, Pharrell, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, MC Lyte, Master P, LL Cool J, Big Boi, Bun B, 2 Chainz, Eve, Angie Martinez, Funkmaster Flex, Luther Campbell, Clive Davis, Mona Scott-Young, Questlove, A$AP Rocky, E-40, David Banner, Fab Five Freddy, Nelson George, Big Tigger, Sway and many more including Chris Lighty’s final on-air interview.
“THE MESSAGE” will be broken down into four, one hour episodes:
Episode 1 – The Birth and Proliferation of Hip Hop – The premiere episode traces the roots of Hip Hop from its birth in New York and spread to California with limited support from the mainstream media. Watch your favorite rappers reminisce on the first time they heard Hip Hop and be transported to the block parties, DJ Kool Herc’s sound system and the infectious rhymes of the Universal Zulu Nation and Grandmaster Flash. Premieres June 4 at 10:00 pm
Episode 2 – Trials and Tribulations – Will Hip Hop be able to grow up in a world that is no longer just about peace, love, unity and having fun? Hip Hop faces its first roadblocks with violent realities and extreme opposition from those who disagree with its messaging. Meanwhile, a new voice begins to form. Premieres June 11 at 10:00 pm
Episode 3 – Women, Cash, Clothes - Hip Hop explores a new reality of lasciviousness, wealth and entrepreneurship characterized by fast cars, big jewelry, the birth of the video vixen and the start of popular clothing lines including Rocawear, Sean Jean and Wu Wear. Premieres June 18 at 10:00 pm
Episode 4 – The Digital Revolution – The Internet creates new opportunities for Hip Hop to change the face of America. From the rise of the first major Internet superstar rapper Soulja Boy to the infamous 360 deals, this episode explores the future of Hip Hop. Premieres June 25 at 10:00 pm
Narrated by Joe Budden, “THE MESSAGE” is produced by Sam Walker II, Director of Music Specials and Productions, BET Networks, Keith Clinkscales and The Shadow League Media. For more information, visit www.bet.com/themessage and join the conversation on social media with #TheMessage.
About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA, VIAB), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
Follow us on @BET_PR
----------------------
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Review: "Turbo" is Fast and Sweetly Furious
Turbo (2013)
Running time: 96 minutes (1 hour, 36 minutes)
MPAA – PG for some mild action and thematic elements
DIRECTOR: David Soren
WRITERS: Darren Lemke, Robert D. Siegel, and David Soren
PRODUCER: Lisa Stewart
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Chris Stover
EDITOR: James Ryan
COMPOSER: Henry Jackman
ANIMATION/FANTASY/ACTION/COMEDY
Starring: (voices) Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Michael Pena, Samuel L. Jackson, Luis Guzman, Bill Hader, Snoop Dogg, Maya Rudolph, Ben Schwartz, Richard Jenkins, Ken Jeong, Michelle Rodriguez, Michael Patrick Bell, Aidan Andrews, Aaron Berger, Mario Andretti, Paul Page, Chris Parnell, and Kurtwood Smith
Turbo is a 2013 computer-animated family comedy and racing film from DreamWorks Animation. Theatrically presented in 3D, the film is directed by David Soren, who first conceived the idea for the film several years prior to its eventual production and release. Turbo follows an ordinary garden snail that wants to win the Indy 500 and may be able to do so because of a freak accident.
Turbo introduces Theo (Ryan Reynolds), a snail who lives in a suburban San Fernando Valley garden in a snail community that is wary of change. Theo dreams of becoming the greatest race car driver in the world, just like his human hero, Guy Gagné (Bill Hader), five-time Indianapolis 500 champion. Theo even gives himself the nickname, “Turbo.” His obsession with speed and car racing makes Theo an oddity and embarrasses his cautious older brother, Chet (Paul Giamatti).
After causing a near-disaster in the garden, Theo wanders from the village, his mind focused on his wish of becoming fast. By chance, an accident involving drag racing and nitrous oxide imbues Theo with high-octane speed. Suddenly, his dreams of racing in the Indianapolis 500 might come true, but Theo/Turbo will learn that his dreams cannot come true without help from friends and family.
I like Turbo. I thought that I would like it when I first staring seeing commercials for the film on television, although I must admit that I found its concept a little silly, if not ridiculous. However, there is something likeable about this little can-do snail who goes by the moniker, Turbo. It is like the little engine that could, except this little engine is blazing fast and fun to watch.
Surprisingly, Turbo is not as inventive as its concept might suggest. The characters are pedestrian, especially the humans, upon which this film spends entirely too much time. The humans have very little character, actually, and are little more than the kind of stereotypes that run of the mill TV sitcoms offer.
The other snail characters are interesting and fun, but are wasted because human characters get more screen time than them. As Turbo’s brother, Chet, actor Paul Giamatti does his best to bring color and range to a character that is simply a variation on the older brother-type who doubts his younger brother. Samuel L. Jackson makes the most of his scenes as the voice of Whiplash, the leader of the Starlight Plaza Snail crew. The presence and fury that Jackson has as a live-action actor, he brings to his voice acting performance. Jackson’s performance made me wish that Whiplash had a much bigger role in this movie.
I don’t know if Turbo could have been a great animated film, the kind that becomes a classic. I think that Turbo certainly needed some rewriting and re-conceptualizing, but the film is good and has an endearing quality. Turbo is one of the few animated films that I do not consider exceptional, but of which I would still like to see a sequel.
6 of 10
B
Monday, January 06, 2014
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Sunday, October 20, 2013
Review: "Starsky and Hutch" is Average Entertainment (Happy B'day, Snoop Dogg)
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 27 (of 2004) by Leroy Douresseaux
Starsky & Hutch (2004)
Running time: 101 minutes (1 hour, 41 minutes)
MPAA – PR-13 for drug content, sexual situations, partial nudity, language and some violence
DIRECTOR: Todd Phillips
WRITERS: John O’Brien, Scot Armstrong and Todd Phillips, from a story Steve Long and John O’Brien (based upon characters created by William Blinn)
PRODUCERS: William Blinn, Stuart Cornfeld, Akiva Goldsman, Tony Ludwig, and Alan Riche
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Barry Peterson (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Leslie Jones
COMPOSER: Theodore Shapiro
COMEDY/CRIME with some elements of action
Starring: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Snoop Dogg, Fred Williamson, Vince Vaughn, Juliette Lewis, Jason Bateman, Amy Smart, Carmen Electra, George Cheung, Chris Penn, Patton Oswalt, Jenard Burks, The Bishop Don Magic Juan, and Paul Michael Glaser and David Soul
The subject of this movie review is Starsky & Hutch, a 2004 crime comedy from director Todd Phillips. The film is based on the 1970s television series, Starsky & Hutch, a police drama-thriller that was created by William Blinn and was originally broadcast on the ABC television network from 1975 to 1979. The film is a kind of prequel to the original television series. Starsky & Hutch the movie follows two streetwise cops who fight crime in their red-and-white Ford Torino.
With my refined tastes, I should technically be repulsed by film remakes of 70’s television programs, but repulsed or otherwise, I’ll generally see them. Still, I’d planned on seeing the controversial Mel Gibson Jesus movie, but it was sold out, and there was the poster for Starsky & Hutch staring me in the face. Though I had to settle on something I hadn’t planned on seeing at the time, it didn’t really affect my enjoyment of Starsky and Hutch. It’s a fairly funny film, but you wouldn’t have missed a cinematic event that must be seen on the big screen if you’d waited for home video or TV.
Set in a sort of anachronistic version of the 1970’s, S&H is the story of two streetwise detectives who form an unlikely partnership. David Starsky (Ben Stiller) is an anal by-the-books guy, who actually does nothing but screw up, despite his attention to rules. Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson (Owen Wilson) is a genial kind of guy, always hanging loose, but he is also the kind of cop who breaks the law when it suits him. Hutch robs bookies for their loot, and he uses illegal drugs. The mismatched pair gets on the nerves of their boss, Captain Dobey (Fred Williamson), relies on tips from an omniscient street informer, Huggy Bear (Snoop Dogg), and busts crime in Starksy’s 1974 red-and-white, souped-up Ford Torino. Their first big case together involves a respectable businessman, Reese Feldman (Vince Vaughn), who may be a big time cocaine dealer. However, Starsky and Hutch’s bumbling and lack of hard evidence dog their case every step of the way.
Starsky & Hutch has some extremely hilarious moments, not as many as, say, Scary Movie 3. S&H is structured like SM3 in that S&H’s plot, story, and script are basically an elaborate, but dumb, blueprint to layout jokes. S&H’s script is, however, nothing like the disaster of that was SM3’s script. S&H also reminds me of another of director Todd Phillip’s hits, Old School (2003): lots of funny scenes, but ultimately a lame, by-the-book, Hollywood yuck fest that plays it way too safe.
This is also one of the times that Ben Stiller’s shtick, that of the angry, quick-tempered nerd, works for the film. Owen Wilson is a great screen presence; the camera loves him, and the role of the amiable Hutch easily fits Owen’s usually warm and generous film persona.
I generally enjoyed this film’s deep tongue in the tongue-in-cheek mode. Starsky and Hutch is not to be taken seriously, nor does the film try to make you do so. The quasi-70’s setting is a hoot, at least early on, but the film’s period atmosphere eventually dissolves into mere background noise. There should have been much more Snoop Dogg because he surprisingly has good screen presence. Also, Will Ferrell’s (who doesn’t get a screen credit) riotous turn as Big Earl, a man in the county lockup with serious man crush issues, is certainly a reason to see this film, at home or in a theatre.
5 of 10
B-
NOTES:
2005 Razzie Awards: 2 nominations: “Worst Actor” (Ben Stiller) and “Worst Supporting Actress” (Carmen Electra)
Updated: Sunday, October 20, 2013
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Monday, April 22, 2013
Review: "Malibu’s Most Wanted" Still Funny
Malibu’s Most Wanted (2003)
Running time: 86 minutes (1 hour, 26 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for sexual humor, language and violence
DIRECTOR: John Whitesell
WRITERS: Fax Bahr, Adam Small, Jamie Kennedy, and Nick Swardson
PRODUCERS: Fax Bahr, Mike Karz, and Adam Small
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Mark Irwin
EDITOR: Cara Silverman
COMPOSER: John Van Tongeren
COMEDY
Starring: Jamie Kennedy, Taye Diggs, Anthony Anderson, Regina Hall, Blair Underwood, Damien Dante Wayans, Ryan O’Neal, Bo Derek, Jeffrey Tambor, and Snoop Dogg (voice)
The subject of this movie review is Malibu’s Most Wanted, a 2003 comedy co-written by and starring Jamie Kennedy. The film focuses on the character “B-Rad,” which Kennedy initially used in his stand-up comedy act and later featured on his hidden camera television series, “JKX: The Jamie Kennedy Experiment.”
Brad Gluckman (Jamie Kennedy) is B-Rad, a white Jewish boy from Malibu who is a wannabe rap star and “acts like he’s from the ‘hood.” The problem is that his father Bill (Ryan O’Neal) is a California gubernatorial candidate, and B-Rad’s thuggish behavior might cost him the election.
Tom Gibbons (Blair Underwood), his father’s campaign manager, hires two actors to scare the black out of B-Rad. If Julliard-trained Sean (Taye Diggs) and Pasadena Playhouse thespian P.J. (Anthony Anderson) can convince B-Rad that they’re carjackers, they just might put the white back in Brad’s act. However, B-Rad ain’t having it; before long he’s in love with Sean and P.J.’s accomplice Shondra (Regina Hall), an ambitious young woman with business dreams.
First, let me say that Malibu’s Most Wanted is simply hilarious. I laughed as much as I did at any other recent film including Bringing Down the House. Malibu Most Wanted, like the latter film, involves a traditionally, but especially of late, touchy subject: the portrayal of African-American (or just plain black folks) and black culture in Hollywood films. The film allegedly pokes fun at white kids who embrace hip hop culture, but who also embrace it with such relish that they try to “act black.”
However, the film makes a point of differentiating between poseurs and whites who are really into that chocolate flava. A friend of mine called white poseurs, “Negro lite” – all the style and coolness without the persecution of being black. When it comes down to it, there’s nothing wrong with white people embracing hip hop culture or black language, style, fashion, attitude, and lifestyle. People of different backgrounds and cultures cross pollinate; the Romans certainly enjoyed copying the Greeks.
Some people seem to think that it was beneath African-American actors to participate in movies like Malibu's Most Wanted and Brining Down the House. Black actors just go where the work is. Lord knows that Taye Diggs, handsome, talented, and possessing a deft comic touch, should be a leading man fighting off producers who constantly beat at his door to have him be the star of their next film. That’s not happening. And Anthony Anderson is no less funny than Seann William Scott (American Pie and Dude, Where’s My Car?), so he should also have many comic vehicles coming his way, shouldn’t he?
Regina Hall is sexy and beautiful, capable of being more than just the black girl with an attitude. After seeing her in Malibu's Most Wanted, I left the theatre wondering why I haven’t seen more of her; then, I pass by a poster for the overexposed Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde 2: Red, White, and a Ho. Oh, nothing on Reese. I love her, and all things being equal, Regina came into the world with the exact same chance for opportunity as Reese, right? So they go where the work is. Besides, I love the subtle, sly, and wink-wink/nudge-nudge performances by Diggs, Anderson, and Blair Underwood.
Jamie Kennedy, his writers and the director, John Whitesell (a veteran director of various episodes of many television programs) do a good job with what could have been a one-note joke that dies quickly. The script is pedestrian in a number of ways, but especially in the story’s resolution. B-Rad justifies himself and his interest in hip hop, connects with the black folk, and makes up with his dad, but there are also lots of nice touches. Hell, he even gets the black woman, which I thought the filmmakers would avoid like the plague. Even the predictable material has a nice, funny spin on it. The main point of this movie is to be funny, and it’s damn funny. Its secondary nature is to make a lot of good points, and despite Malibu Most Wanted’s often tactless script, it does that, too. When all is said and done, Malibu’s Most Wanted is funny, and in the long term, it’ll be an important work in the canon of films about black culture.
How many people notice that for all the parody of hip hop that is done in this film, B-Rad is absolutely and honestly in love with hip hop? For all the whining that many people do about how “black culture” is ignored, they should notice the adoration, even when it is disguised as a sow’s ear.
6 of 10
B
Friday, August 24, 2012
Review: "Half Baked" is All Good (Happy B'day, Dave Chappelle)
Half Baked (1998)
Running time: 83 minutes (1 hour, 23 minutes)
MPAA – R for pervasive drug content, language, nudity, and sexual material
DIRECTOR: Tamra Davis
WRITERS: Dave Chappelle and Neal Brennan
PRODUCER: Robert Simonds
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Steven Bernstein
EDITOR: Don Zimmerman, A.C.E.
COMEDY
Starring: Dave Chappelle, Jim Breuer, Harland Williams, Guillermo Diaz, Rachel True. Laura Silverman, and Clarence Williams III, Tommy Chong, Rick Demas, Snoop Dogg, Jon Stewart, Stephen Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Willie Nelson, Jason Blicker, Dave Nichols with (uncredited) Janeane Garofalo, Bob Saget, and Steven Wright
Before Dave Chappelle and Neal Brennan created the popular “Chappelle’s Show” for the Comedy Central cable network in 2003, the duo collaborated on the script for the hilarious pro-marijuana comedy, Half Baked. Although it appeared a good four years before the Chappelle Show likely began production, the film was an introduction to some of the kind of humor that Dave and Neal would feature on the show.
Dave is Thurgood Jenkins, a pot smoker since he was 15-years old. He lives with his three friends Scarface (Guillermo DÃaz), Brian (Jim Breuer), and Kenny Davis (Harland Williams), with whom he was introduced to weed, in a ratty apartment in which the boys spend their non-working hours puffin.’ However, when Kenny is arrested for (accidentally) killing a police officer (a diabetic horse he overstuffed with junk food), the trio has to find a way to raise Kenny’s enormous bail so that the can get out of prison before someone invades the sanctity of his virgin butthole, i.e. save him from the trauma of homosexual rape.
Thurgood comes across a scheme to sell high-quality cannabis he steals from a pharmaceutical research lab, and he, Scarface, and Brian do quite well in their little enterprise. However, they earn the ire of Samson Simpson (Clarence Williams III), a drug dealer who wants a cut of their take. Thurgood must also keep his bud-selling enterprise a secret from his new girl friend, Mary Jane Potman (Rachel True), a young woman who hates drug dealers because her father was one and is currently in prison. Can Thurgood keep his new sweetie off the trail of smoke, and can he and his buddies save Kenny’s ass?
Half Baked is simply flat out funny. I liked everyone in the sometimes droll and often vulgar laid back comedy. In fact, Chappelle actually does not steal the show from his cast, especially the hilarious and talented trio of DÃaz, Breuer, and Williams. Clarence Williams also shines in a very small part, one of the few times his versatile comedy skit talent comes to life on screen.
Half Baked also features several amusing cameos, but even without them, this movie is… dope and doped up. The film deserves its “R” rating, as it’s actually a “hard” R because of the frequent drug references and a prison shower scene featuring several fully nude men and the threat of prison rape. Still, that should not dissuade mature audiences looking for grown up juvenile comedy, and it might actually attract some folks.
8 of 10
A
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Sunday, April 22, 2012
Kevin Hart Shameless in Shameless "Soul Plane"
Soul Plane (2004)
Running time: 86 minutes (1 hour, 26 minutes)
MPAA – R for strong sexual content, language and some drug use
DIRECTOR: Jessy Terrero
WRITERS: Bo Zenga and Chuck Wilson
PRODUCERS: David Scott Rubin and Jessy Terrero
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Jonathan Sela
EDITOR: Michael R. Miller
COMPOSERS: Christopher Lennertz and RZA
COMEDY
Starring: Tom Arnold, Kevin Hart, Method Man, Snoop Dogg, K.D. Aubert, Godfrey, Brian Hooks, D.L. Hughley, Arielle Kebbel, Mo’Nique, Ryan Pinkston, Missi Pyle, Sofia Vergara, Gary Anthony Williams, Karl Malone, Li’l John, and John Witherspoon
The subject of this movie review is Soul Plane, a 2004 jiggaboo comedy. Kevin Hart stars as a young man who starts his own Black-centric airline, and the story focuses on the maiden voyage of the sole plane in his non-existent fleet.
That white writers (usually from upper middle class backgrounds) wrote sketch comedy making fun of black culture used to piss me off. Why the hell couldn’t Hollywood just hire black writers, I rhetorically asked, to write about blacks since white film and TV executives felt that only whites could write about whites. Well, if the best that black writers and filmmakers can do is Soul Plane, never let a nigga touch another sheet of paper.
When Nashawn Wade (Kevin Hart) wins a $100 million settlement for negligence from an airline, he decides to start his own airline: NWA. Lest you confuse yourself, this NWA is not that N.W.A.; for the sake of this movie the acronym stands for “Nashawn Wade Airline.” In flight meals can be anything from Cristal and filet mignon to Colt .45 and Popeye’s fried chicken. The airline’s one plane is purple and rolls on dubs, and the stewardesses are big booty ho’s in Daisy Dukes. When his cousin (badly played by rapper Method Man) hires an ex-con (Snoop Dogg) to fly the plane, you know there’s going to be trouble and hilarity ensues.
Soul Plane is a poorly made collection of stereotypes, blaxtiploitation, riffs on hip hop culture, deplorable acting, and feeble musical tracks. Except for a few moments, the film is painfully unfunny. In fact, 9.5 of every ten minutes of this film is not funny, although the few good scenes are both shocking, painfully embarrassing, and outrageously hilarious – kind of like Scary Movie 3, but with way fewer yucks. Frankly, it’s more saddening than bad.
The cast is either extraordinarily untalented or just misused. Kevin Hart is a Sambo version of Chris Tucker, and his performance is like a frantic and desperate crackhead trying to be funny. Mo’Nique isn’t in the movie enough, and Tom Arnold (practically the lone salvation of this film) may have his name at the front of the credits, but this is (quite unfortunately) not his film.
1 of 10
D-
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Review: A Bag of "Bones" (Happy B'day, Snoop Dogg)
Bones (2001)
Running time: 96 minutes (1 hour, 36 minutes)
MPAA – R for violence/gore, language, sexuality and drugs
DIRECTOR: Ernest Dickerson
WRITERS: Adam Simon and Tim Metcalfe
PRODUCERS: Rupert Harvey, Peter Heller, and Lloyd Segan
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Flavio Labiano (D.o.P.)
EDITORS: Michael N. Knue and Stephen Lovejoy
COMPOSER: Elia Cmiral
Black Reel Awards nominee
HORROR with elements of fantasy
Starring: Snoop Dogg, Pam Grier, Michael T. Weiss, Clifton Powell, Ricky Harris, Bianca Lawson, and Khalil Kain
I held out no hope for rapper Snoop Dogg’s horror film vehicle, Bones. It was released in 2001, but I didn’t see it until two years later. When I finally saw it, I found Bones surprisingly entertaining, if a bit hokey and poorly written.
I also learned that Ernest Dickerson directed the film. Dickerson came to prominence in the late 80’s and 90’s as Spike Lee’s cinematographer on Lee’s first five full-length features including Do The Right Thing and Malcolm X. He made his directorial debut with the fairly well received urban drama Juice, about a group of friends and their trouble with a pistol. Dickerson later showed a deft touch for horror films with the delightful Demon Knight, a film version of the HBO series “Tales from the Crypt.” Sadly, Bones, although mildly entertaining, lacks Demon Knight’s sense of mad glee and hilariously evil hijinx.
Snoop plays Jimmy Bones, a low-key gangster, pimp type, and godfather of an inner city neighborhood in 1979. When he refuses an offer to join the drug trade, the dealers shoot him and force his associates and baby mama to participate in the killing. 22 years later, his angry spirit returns after some suburban kids buy his playa mansion and turn it into a club.
Bones isn’t that bad, but it isn’t too good. It’s lost somewhere in the middle of mediocrity. The characters all have potential, especially in regards to their socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds, but the filmmakers sacrifice them to violence and trite special effects, many of the effects old when Clive Barker used that kind of SFX in his early Hellraiser films.
Snoop does most of acting with a perpetual scowl etched across his face. Still, he has excellent screen presence, and makes a good bad guy when he’s given (I don’t know, maybe) depth and subtext. It really would have been nice had Dickerson approached this film with the same sense of fun and funny mayhem that made Demon Knight such a charmingly trashy fright flick.
4 of 10
C
NOTES:
2002 Black Reel Awards: 1 nomination: “Theatrical - Best Actress” (Pam Grier)
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Sunday, July 11, 2010
Review: Denzel Washington Blew Minds with "Training Day"
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 12 (of 2001) by Leroy Douresseaux
Training Day (2001)
Running time: 122 minutes (2 hours, 2 minutes)
MPAA – R for brutal violence, pervasive language, drug content and brief nudity
DIRECTOR: Antoine Fuqua
WRITER: David Ayer
PRODUCERS: Bobby Newmyer and Jeffrey Silver
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Mauro Fiore (director of photography)
EDITOR: Conrad Buff
Academy Award winner
DRAMA/CRIME/THRILLER
Starring: Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn, Tom Berenger, Harris Yulin, Raymond J. Barry, Cliff Curtis, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Macy Gray, Charlotte Ayanna, and Eva Mendes
After not winning the Oscar for Best Actor 1999 for his portrayal of the noble but controversial Rubin “Hurricane” Carter (to the worthy Kevin Spacey), Denzel Washington may likely not earn even an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of the thoroughly evil and corrupted L.A. cop Alonzo Harris in Training Day. [Actually, after I wrote this, Washington did earn both an Oscar nomination and a win for his portrayal of Harris – Leroy 2010/7/10.]
Training Day begins with Jake Hoyt (Ethan Hawke), a young cop of 19 months, earns an assignment to the narcotics division under the tutelage of Harris. From the get go, Harris is rude and crude to Hoyt, and before long Harris takes Hoyt on a whirlwind tour of the seamy underbelly of L.A. County: gang neighborhoods, slums, drug dealing, and police corruption. But a recent miscue haunts Harris, and his attempt to get from under the cloud his carelessness has earned him brings the movie to its abrupt, brutal, and violent end. All the while, Hoyt struggles to maintain his law-abiding nature.
Washington is shocking, brilliant and intense as the dirty cop Harris. Known for playing clean policemen, upright detectives, and uplifting African-American heroes, Washington’s turn as a villain will wake people up to this artistic diverse resume. That he is one of the great actors of the last 15 years in not debatable. The passion that he brought to his role in The Hurricane, he brings here, and one can see passion in his eyes, in his gestures, and in the way he carries himself. It is the most invigorating character Washington has played since The Hurricane.
Hawke remains a player of mostly melancholy characters for which one can feel the deepest sympathy. He is an everyman with matinee idol good looks and charm, although it’s hard to accept his character late in the movie as Hoyt vengefully stalks Harris. He isn’t miscast; the movie just goes slightly awry, focusing on Harris’s evil rather than Hoyt’s coming of age as a policeman.
Antoine Fuqua (the director of the clumsy The Replacement Killers) brings the eye he used as a director of music videos to the film, but with the sensibility to follow a longer, more coherent story than is usually found in videos. Training Day’s pace is steady and breezy, and doesn’t start to stumble until the last quarter.
This isn’t entirely his fault. David Ayer, a rising screen writing star (U-571, The Fast and the Furious) convinces us until the last fifteen minutes or so of this film that Harris will get away with it. Harris’s ideology isn’t entirely unacceptable to mainstream audiences. If his believe system works and keeps the streets clean, most citizens would be happy as long as the could keep their hands clean and the truth buried so that they never have to deal with him and look the other way. It must be Ayers’s goody-two shoes nature that resolves things in the direction in which he does. It is sometimes nice when a movie eschews a happy ending, and the happy ending is usually positive, even when negative would have been more believable. This time the happy ending would have been the ugly truth, and this movie deserved a happy ending.
Not to reveal too many things, but with a deadline looming to save his life, Harris wouldn’t have stopped for a dalliance.
An entertaining cop flick, Training Day is good look at excellent work from a very talented actor, Washington. It may come across as harsh for those who like him as a romantic, good guy leading man, but it’s great for those who want a tour de force from a screen artist.
7 of 10
A-
NOTES:
2002 Academy Awards: 1 win: “Best Actor in a Leading Role” (Denzel Washington); 1 nomination: “Best Actor in a Supporting Role” (Ethan Hawke)
2002 Golden Globes: 1 nomination: “Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama” (Denzel Washington)
2002 Black Reel Awards: 3 wins: “Black Reel Theatrical - Best Actor” (Denzel Washington), “Theatrical - Best Director” (Antoine Fuqua), and “Theatrical - Best Film;” 1 nominations: “Best Song” (Nelly for the song "#1")
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Friday, April 2, 2010
Review: John Singleton's "Baby Boy" Returns to Singleton's Cinematic Roots
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 23 (of 2001) by Leroy Douresseaux
Baby Boy (2001)
Running time: 130 minutes (2 hours, 10 minutes)
Baby Boy (2001)
Running time: 130 minutes (2 hours, 10 minutes)
MPAA – R for strong sexuality, language, violence and some drug use
WRITER/PRODUCER/DIRECTOR: John Singleton
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Charles E. Mills (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Bruce Cannon
DRAMA with elements of crime and romance
Starring: Tyrese, Taraji P. Henson, Omar Gooding, Tamara LeSeon Bass, Candy Ann Brown, A.J. Johnson, Ving Rhames, Snoop Dogg, Mo’Nique, Angell Conwell, Kareem J. Grimes, Kaylan Bolton and Kylan Bolton
Jody (Tyrese Gibson) is a 20-year-old black man living with his mother (Candy Ann Brown). He is the father of two children by two different women. The relationship with one of the baby mama’s, Yvette (Taraji P. Henson) is the romantic focus of the film. Jody’s mother has an openly sexual relationship with Melvin (Ving Rhames), himself a former banger; he is a muscular Mandingo and Jody’s mother doesn’t have to call Tyrone when she needs some good, strong lovin.’ B’leive ‘dat!
Jody’s homey, Sweet Pea (Omar Gooding) is lost and also unemployed; he is desperate for meaning in and a purpose for his life. As he relationship with Yvette deteriorates, her old flame, a recently released convict named Rodney (rapper Snoop Dogg) shows up, literally gunning for Jody’s life.
Directed by John Singleton (Shaft), Baby Boy is more a slice of social studies than entertainment. It belongs to Singleton’s South Central Los Angeles milieu that he introduced in Boyz N the Hood, but it is thematically similar to the Boyz follow up, Poetic Justice.
The film opens with Jody dreaming that he’s an adult still in the womb; it is a visually jarring set piece that conveys the troubled state of Jody’s mind. It’s not long before we also realize that Jody’s life is frozen. He going nowhere, spending his days hustling, watching television, and involved in sexual escapades with many women.
He resents his mother’s relationship with Melvin, but Melvin is very familiar with the type of “li’l nigga” that Jody is because Melvin was himself once of a similar type. Jody has a twisted view of his relationship with his baby mamas. He tells Yvette that he lies to her about his philandering because he loves her too much to hurt her with the truth that he is a man whore. He uses the other women for sex because they’re, in his words, “tricks,” but he really loves Yvette because she is the mother of his son. His other baby mama, Peanut (Tamara LaSeon Bass), a girl whose own mother seems to be well to do, is less tolerant of Jody and dismisses him. In fact, when his relationship with Yvette collapses, Jody tries to seduce Peanut, but she quickly lets him know that she intends on treating him like an on-call sex toy. For Jody, Peanut treating him like an object jars Jody.
The film has only two characters as fathers – Jody and Melvin; in fact, fathers are conspicuously absent from this film. Melvin is estranged from his own children; his eldest son informs Jody off screen that Melvin beat his mother. Jody isn’t much better; his children are merely vestiges of his fornicating rather than the result of some kind of manhood. Jody’s own father is rarely spoken of, and Jody could have been hatched from an egg for all the knowledge of being a human father he obviously does not possess.
WRITER/PRODUCER/DIRECTOR: John Singleton
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Charles E. Mills (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Bruce Cannon
DRAMA with elements of crime and romance
Starring: Tyrese, Taraji P. Henson, Omar Gooding, Tamara LeSeon Bass, Candy Ann Brown, A.J. Johnson, Ving Rhames, Snoop Dogg, Mo’Nique, Angell Conwell, Kareem J. Grimes, Kaylan Bolton and Kylan Bolton
Jody (Tyrese Gibson) is a 20-year-old black man living with his mother (Candy Ann Brown). He is the father of two children by two different women. The relationship with one of the baby mama’s, Yvette (Taraji P. Henson) is the romantic focus of the film. Jody’s mother has an openly sexual relationship with Melvin (Ving Rhames), himself a former banger; he is a muscular Mandingo and Jody’s mother doesn’t have to call Tyrone when she needs some good, strong lovin.’ B’leive ‘dat!
Jody’s homey, Sweet Pea (Omar Gooding) is lost and also unemployed; he is desperate for meaning in and a purpose for his life. As he relationship with Yvette deteriorates, her old flame, a recently released convict named Rodney (rapper Snoop Dogg) shows up, literally gunning for Jody’s life.
Directed by John Singleton (Shaft), Baby Boy is more a slice of social studies than entertainment. It belongs to Singleton’s South Central Los Angeles milieu that he introduced in Boyz N the Hood, but it is thematically similar to the Boyz follow up, Poetic Justice.
The film opens with Jody dreaming that he’s an adult still in the womb; it is a visually jarring set piece that conveys the troubled state of Jody’s mind. It’s not long before we also realize that Jody’s life is frozen. He going nowhere, spending his days hustling, watching television, and involved in sexual escapades with many women.
He resents his mother’s relationship with Melvin, but Melvin is very familiar with the type of “li’l nigga” that Jody is because Melvin was himself once of a similar type. Jody has a twisted view of his relationship with his baby mamas. He tells Yvette that he lies to her about his philandering because he loves her too much to hurt her with the truth that he is a man whore. He uses the other women for sex because they’re, in his words, “tricks,” but he really loves Yvette because she is the mother of his son. His other baby mama, Peanut (Tamara LaSeon Bass), a girl whose own mother seems to be well to do, is less tolerant of Jody and dismisses him. In fact, when his relationship with Yvette collapses, Jody tries to seduce Peanut, but she quickly lets him know that she intends on treating him like an on-call sex toy. For Jody, Peanut treating him like an object jars Jody.
The film has only two characters as fathers – Jody and Melvin; in fact, fathers are conspicuously absent from this film. Melvin is estranged from his own children; his eldest son informs Jody off screen that Melvin beat his mother. Jody isn’t much better; his children are merely vestiges of his fornicating rather than the result of some kind of manhood. Jody’s own father is rarely spoken of, and Jody could have been hatched from an egg for all the knowledge of being a human father he obviously does not possess.
One of the themes here seems imply that Jody can’t be a father because he never had one to show him what it means to be a father and a man. That was Singleton’s dominant theme in Boyz, much to the delight of conservative i.e. Republican critics and fans of the movie. However, if a boy who did not know his own father himself grows to be a bad father, the reason is not necessarily because he didn’t have a dad.
Jody is selfish, spoiled, and manipulative. It’s difficult to tell what part his mother played in his personality, as there isn’t much back-story to her other than that she threw Jody’s older brother out of the house. Someone killed him, and Jody believes his mother throwing the brother out led to that. We also learn that mom has had lots of boyfriends.
As stated earlier, this film is more social studies than entertainment. Singleton seems to be saying to his audience, see how these people are. Or it may be that it is easy for him to make a movie about a subject with which he is very familiar. The film aims at making some kind of point, but Singleton stumbles to a tacked on and predictable ending. Maybe, the film’s resolution is “real” or “how it is on the streets,” but this is drama and it demands some kind of structure and purpose.
Singleton doesn’t have to provide pat answers to solve social “problems.” There are no easy answers to social issues, but the demand for resolutions comes with the territory of making socially relevant films. Singleton overly relies on the visceral impact of profanity-laden dialogue and animalistic, confrontational sex. He’s onto something, having tackled an important issue, but he reduces his movie to a series of blunt, angry scenes. Maybe, he doesn’t know the power and danger of the subject with which he plays. He certainly doesn’t realize the dramatic potential of his subject. He wastes Snoop Dogg’s Rodney character, not to speak of under utilized Ving Rhames.
Boyz in the Hood had a good story that was universal in both its appeals and its themes. Singleton hasn’t been able to duplicate that quality of story since then. He has an idea of how to make really good films, but it’s a shame we have to keep waiting for his arrival as a really good filmmaker. He’ll become one when he takes a social issue and makes a film with a good story that clearly conveys its message to the audience.
Powerful and forceful, Baby boy is a diamond in the rough despite it structural shortcomings. There is enough good there that makes it worthy of considerable critical analysis. It’s a bold, brazen, adventurous movie. While stopping short of being great, it has more substance than most films today, so Baby Boy is worth your time.
6 of 10
B
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