WANTED IS BACK

Sorry for leaving the scene for a long lull now. We are back and ready to take a long shot at it again.

MTRILL TERIA, Na Wah ooooooooooooooo

Guys you can't help but notice this guy, a new kid on the block. Did I say new, no not that new like that but the guy is set to release his album very soon. I'm talking about MTRILL TERIA. This guy is just the bomb in phcity @ the moment with hit songs "Bounce" and "Where You Dey Girl" banging the airways of popular radio stations in that area. The guy is currently produced by Grafton Entertainment formerly with de Indispensibles a musical duo based in ph city as well. Let me go into his nitty gritty and tell you guys all about Mtrill, enjoy!!!! If skill could personalize its name…one of its names would be M.Trill. Since the first air play of his debut single "Bounce", we knew we would never be safe from the mastery that M.Trill possesses. The song "Bounce" burned up the radio and charts in the south-south region of Nigeria , being number one on Cosmos Fm in Enugu for weeks on end and being the most played Naija song on Rhythm 93.7 Fm in Port Harcourt all in 2004. This earned him more than just the usual accolades that accompany that kind of success, and before long pirates couldn't keep their hands off the club friendly jam, and in that same year 2004, he signed a record deal with Xcel music (also based in Port Harcourt) that should have seen him unleash his expertise upon us some where along the line it fell through and the album was held back. A gold fish, they say has no hiding place so it didn't come as a surprise that as soon as word got round that "Trill" (as he is fondly called) was leaving xcel music. Offers were coming from all quarters in and out of the state and country. It didn't take up to a month from his leaving xcel music mid 2005 that his story landed on the table of Big T the CEO of Grafton Entertainment, who's label is run both in the U.k and Nigeria.They say ''Game recognise game'' and Mtrill signed a record deal with U.K and Nigerian based music label Grafton records. M.trill (M meaning mayjah, pronounced major) was born on the 18 th of May in Nigeria .The fifth of all his siblings, they decide to name him "Teria". He did his primary schooling at Air Force Primary School, Ikeja in Lagos . He also did his Secondary education at Federal Government College Warri, Delta state and later Federal Government College Odogbolu, Ogun state where he finished up. His tertiary education was done at the University of Port Harcourt , Rivers State where he studied Geology. He graduated in 2004 and immediately sought a career in music with record deals at his disposal. To him, talent is worth exploring and so he's bent on showing the world what he has to offer. Apart from, being the hottest rap artist in Port Harcourt . M.trill has got such good "school boy" looks that have the girls constantly on his case. Armed with a humble nature and a very strong Christian background, M.trill has an in-depth knowledge of hip-hop that he believes gives him the edge over most other Naija rappers. He has been likened to be a cross between rappers, Mase and Kanye west, this he abhors because he feels that it is wrong to compare him with other rappers, believing every man is his own king. Apart from the usual being on the charts, M.trill has also lent credence to a couple of well known Port Harcourt based artistes, being on "specimen A, De indispensables and Ebiere's albums that all have national recognition.

Nas, Freshlyground storm Nigeria for Soundcity Music Video Awards on April 11

Guys you'll never wonder what I stumbled on today, happy reading!!!!! Popular American rapgster, Nas is set to arrive Nigeria for the inaugural Soundcity Music Video Awards. The reputable crooner will be supported by South Africa’s wave-making Freshlyground and Ghana’s Tic Tac; and together, they would help fulfill Soundcity’s reputation of adding value to life with the power of music by staging an exceptional, potentially incomparable Soundcity Music Video Awards. Already, D’Banj, Asa, P Square, Faze, Jimmy Jatt are amongst the leading contenders for laurels at the SMVA 2008, with the highest number of six nominations recorded to DJ Jimmy Jatt, and five each to the trio of Asa, Faze and D’Banj. The Nominees list shows the viewing preferences of Nigerians from the previous year till date; and the entries were adjudged on the criteria of: originality, style, creativity, expression, and graphic quality. According to the chairperson of the Awards Screening Committee, Mr. Jacob Akinyemi Johnson, also Head, Creative and Research of the Silverbird Group, the fourteen categories to be recognized and rewarded include the Best Male Video; the Best Female Video; the Best Duo/Group Video; the Best R&B/Pop Video; the Best Hip Hop Video; the Best New Artiste; the Best Video Direction; the Best Special Effects/Editing; the Best Cinematography; the Best Choreography; the African Video of the Year; the Soundcity Fresh Video; Soundcity’s Viewers’ Choice; and the Best Overall Video. JAJ said the categories of the Awards extend to every popular genre of music as appreciated all over Nigeria and indeed across Africa. It also will reward the producers and directors, who work behind the scenes to produce the videos that have put Nigeria on the global front. “Soundcity is reputed to produce the best music and music-related events in Nigeria, and the Soundcity Music Video Awards will be no exception, with the best of recognition, reward, and first-class entertainment. Indeed, the SMVA will be the exceptional music video awards in Nigeria to recognize the efforts of artistes and video producers and directors whose strengths and abilities have been able to put Nigerian and African music videos on a global pedestal”, said Mr. Tajuddeen Adepetu, Chief Executive Officer of CMA, Soundcity’s parent company, and Executive Producer of the Awards. “As you very well know, Soundcity is your 24-hour urban lifestyle channel, dedicated all the time with music videos, lifestyle content and interactive programming that is influenced by the viewers; and it is a medium that represents a repertoire of encompassing music videos - as far as it is music and it is good to someone’s eyes as it is to the ears; and we’re evidently the most qualified to stage this kind of Awards in compliance with the international best practices we’ve established for our brand over time”, he added. Giants of the World’s Corporate landscape, MTN, Unilever, Guinness and Virgin Atlantic are amongst the supporting the Soundcity Music Video Awards, and have consequently put their brands, MTN XTRACOOL, Guinness Extra Smooth, Unilever's Close Up toothpaste behind the talk-of-the-town Awards. According to Miss Shileola Obisesan, Senior Brand Manager of the Consolidated Media Associates, and Awards Sponsorship & Marketing Director, “this will possibly be the biggest entertainment event to be held in Nigeria in 2008; it will be one Awards in the history of Nigerian entertainment that nobody will wish to forget in a hurry; and we can never be grateful enough for the sponsorship consideration we are getting from MTN, Unilever, Guinness, Virgin Atlantic, and indeed other behind-the-scene supporters on this project.” “Evidently, Soundcity, Nigeria’s first and foremost 24-hour music, entertainment and lifestyle channel has become Nigeria’s most-watched, most-admired, and perhaps most-copied music television channel in Nigeria, and we’re delighted to be taking it all a step further with the support of our esteemed sponsors”, she added. The much-discussed Soundcity Music Video Award ceremony holds at the Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre from 4:00p.m., non-African time on April 11, 2008, and is expected to have all the glitz, glamour and quality entertainment synonymous with Soundcity. The ceremony will also feature a one-of-a-kind Red Carpet event, as part of the Awards which will be hosted by the delectable duo of D’Banj and Ashionye, and transmitted across Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, and indeed to some parts of Europe. The crème of the increasingly fledging Nigerian Music industry is united in ensuring ample entertainment, as never before witnessed in any Awards ceremony, even if as far as Nigeria is concerned. Already, the Mo’Hits Crew, the Storm All Stars, P Square, Plantashun Boiz, QuestionMark All Stars and the MUSON Philharmonic Orchestra have been confirmed amongst the groups performing alongside Nas, Freshlyground and Tic Tac. The Soundcity Music Video Awards is the fourth of the exceptionally different events promised the stakeholders last year, in addition to the Soundcity Campus Blast, the Soundcity Annual Blast Party, and the Soundcity Club Blast – all three of which have already been successfully delivered.

Happy Easter

Jesus is the reason for this season!!! Happy easter guys

Thierry Henry Meets Fans at Tommy Hillfiger Store

Thierry Henry greeted fans at Tommy Hilfiger's Paseo de Gracia store in Paris after charity competition. The footballer was at the store on Friday to talk about his charitable institution, ‘THe One 4 All Foundation’, and personally greet the winners of Tommy Hilfiger’s European ’14 Hours in the Footsteps of Thierry Henry’ competition. The competition, which kicked off at the end of September 2007, invited Tommy Hilfiger customers who have purchased the new Men’s Underwear Collection in selected retailers across Europe, to share the 14 things they would most like to do in Barcelona – a number that makes playful reference to Thierry’s number 14 soccer shirt. he winners of the competition received a once-in-a-lifetime tour of Barcelona’s hottest destinations, as chosen by Thierry. They were also given a unique opportunity to personally meet Thierry at the Paseo De Gracia store. The launch of this competition is one in a series of initiatives undertaken by Tommy Hilfiger and Thierry Henry. In December 2006, Tommy Hilfiger signed Thierry Henry, one of the world’s most successful and iconic sportsmen, to be an international brand ambassador in an endorsement agreement for Tommy Hilfiger men’s formal wear and underwear. “I am delighted to have partnered with Tommy Hilfiger,” said Thierry Henry. “It’s always great to have the chance to mix with the Barcelona fans who made me feel so welcome here and meet the competition winners.” “My designs were influenced by the grace and charisma of Thierry Henry, a supreme athlete and an amazing man – each garment in his Capsule Collection captures a little of his spirit,” said Tommy Hilfiger. “I am especially delighted that all profits from the Collection will be donated to Thierry’s charitable institution, ‘THe One 4 All Foundation’, helping him in his fight against racism and social inequality.” Thierry Henry also became the face of a Tommy Hilfiger advertising campaign for Spring and Fall ’07, which debuted in Europe, the United States, Asia and South America. Shot by renowned fashion photographer Nathaniel Goldberg, the campaign captured the relaxed elegance and debonair of the famed French forward and the Thierry Henry Capsule Collection he inspired – a limited edition Collection of tailoring, menswear, formal footwear and underwear geared toward discerning, fashion-conscious men. All sales profits are donated to Thierry’s charitable initiative, ‘THe One 4 All Foundation’. Our very own Kanu Nwankwo has his Kanu Heart Foundation, he and Thierry share a thing with charity and the leather ball. We are calling on more of our international stars to go into charity and help support the underprivileged few. They could do the same thing as Henry has done, that is promoting fashion as well as charity-killing 2 birds with one stone. Their care and support would go a long way.

chic Cyprus

I was browsing the net, and thought I should share this for all would be travellers. Enjoy this piece! Why Cyprus? There’s more to Cyprus than Ayia Napa, R&B and house music. In fact, Cyprus has so much more to offer than a summer of love that it’s difficult to know where to begin. Well, you could start off by visiting the most chic of Cyprus’s options: Pathos and Limassol. People enjoy coming to Pathos all year round because of its traditional villages and also for the appealing temperatures. In the summer it has the lowest climes, and the highest in the winter. Because it is part of the Mediterranean, between May and October the sea temperatures are higher. Cyprus has an ever-changing climate, and within just one hour of driving the temperature can drop by around 5–6°C (10°F).Pathos is an area for people who like a bit of tradition and history mixed in with the mythological adventure that is connected to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. What about the food? Sample the delights of halloumi, which is grilled traditional Cypriot cheese. It is typically served with watermelon as a popular Cypriot snack during the summer, offering a sweet and salty taste. Cyprus is a haven for fish lovers. If you’re taking a trip to the Aphrodite baths, be sure to stop off at Pollis in Latchi for a fish meze. The meze consists of fresh, succulent fish including sea bass and swordfish, but the more adventurous can try calamari or octopus. To accompany the fish there’s chips, olives and bread made with garlic and herbs. And, of course, a traditional salad of lettuce, tomato and olives provides the perfect accompaniment. As a lunchtime treat in Limassol be sure to head to the trendy Artima restaurant. It makes the perfect stop after visiting the castle nearby.A dining experience not to be missed is an evening at Aliada, also in Limassol. Don’t be deceived by its average-looking exterior: once inside, it’s transformed into a classy restaurant. The sumptuous food comes complete with pianist and chandeliers. Where to stay For the first part of our five-day trip, we stayed at the exclusive Thalassa Hotel in Pathos (right) which is two hours’ drive from Larnaka airport. The five-star hotel is divided into three parts: families, no kids, and everyone. At night, everyone comes together at the nightclub, which has theme nights. The Thalassa, which prides itself on flexibility, is a popular marital spot, hosting about 300 weddings a year. Another fact worth noting is that it was the first hotel to launch a holistic spa. It offers an array of therapies to treat the mind, body and soul. Each guest can receive a lifestyle consultation. The spa features Ancient Greek specialities using locally produced ingredients with classic therapies inspired by Asian and European techniques. They offer services including pilates, reiki, yoga and life-coaching. The spa also offers saunas and a unisex steam room. There’s an indoor pool and two tranquil relaxation areas where you can sip nutritious fruit juice prepared at the juice bar. Treatments include the Trahana Body Wrap, which is made with domestic oats, goat’s yoghurt, fresh herbs and lavender, mashed together and applied to the body in circular motions as a gentle exfoliant, before you are cocooned in a comforting body wrap, allowing the mixture to nourish and cleanse the skin while your scalp is massaged to relieve stress. For the second half of our trip we stayed at the newly refurbished and beautifully designed Londa, which has an air of sophisticated cool to it. By day, the five-star hotel is a lady, where you can sip afternoon tea as you take in the spectacular views. By night, the Londa puts on its lipstick and dresses up. At the bar you can relax to chilled lounge music as you sip a cocktail and take in the amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea. After my treatments at the luxurious Thalassa Boutique hotel and design-led Londa hotel, I felt like a newborn baby – from the body wrap and head massage, to my rejuvenating pedicure and back massage. Nothing more was needed to repair my overworked body and help me feel and look like a sophisticated woman again. What is worth doing? You can’t visit Cyprus without taking a trip to the Baths of Aphrodite (below). It is 150m (almost 500ft) above sea level and looks like a giant, natural shower. The myth goes like this. Aphrodite was married to an old, ugly crippled man, which was her excuse for being unfaithful to him. After her daily swim in the sea, she would shower here, believing that doing so would bring back her virginity. This is where Adonis fell in love with her and where their love story began. Cyprus was the island of love and beauty in ancient times because of Adonis and Aphrodite. Her birthplace and the bath is an area that the Cypriots want to preserve. Up until three years ago, visitors were allowed to bathe in the pool, but that is no longer permitted. The ramblers among you, though, may take a walk along the Aphrodite Trail. It takes around four to five hours but is not recommended in the summer – unless you go early in the morning – because of the intense heat. While in Limassol you can take a trip to the nearby wine museum. It is based in a renovated house in the western district, where they grow the best grapes. This is southwest of the Troodos Mountains, which receives the most sun. The museum offers the chance to sample the delights of Cyprus’s best wines and 20-year-old brandy. As an appetizer, Cypriots serve zivania, which is good for colds. It tends to be served with nuts. After the meal they drink commandaria, a sweet dessert wine. After the wine tasting, it is hard to resist picking up some treats to take back home! Book flights to Cyprus via Cyprus Airways (www.cyprusairways.com). Stay at the Londa (www.londahotel.com) or the Thalassa (www.thalassa.com.cy).

Georgie

Ebony beauty Georgie is turning heads wherever she goes. From the West African nation of Burkina Faso, the statuesque stunner and Miss Africa of 2005 can be seen in the Moschino campaign, shot by Peter Lindbergh, and recently posed for Russian Vogue and MAC. In her spare time, which has to be very spare, she cooks up tasty African dishes. Can you beat that for a really busy young woman? We need such representatives like this from Nigeria too. Models where una dey ooooooooooooooooooooooooo?

MUSIC AND POLITICS, DO THEY NOW MIX

Do you have what it takes to become a top model?

Whether you're a male model or a female model or you're considering whether you should be a model, there are a few factors that need to be considered. There are the physical requirements of modeling which go beyond mere measurements. The personality of top models is also incredibly important and becomes a major factor when you consider the time you will be spending with such professionals as photographers, hair stylists, make up artists, and art directors. Also, you need to be able to market yourself. You may have the look, the talent, and the personality but if nobody knows you exist you won't be getting top model jobs. Essentially, as a model you are a commodity. Having the right look and the talent is what makes a true super model. The physical requirements definitely mean that you must be tall, thin, and beautiful (for the most part) but you must also have an incredible work ethic and an ability to work in a high stress environment. Most top models at one time or another will find their jobs grueling so when modeling agencies are looking for new talent, they are also looking for new models who they feel will be able to undertake all the physical demands of modeling. There is a lot of traveling for successful models along with very busy schedules and sometimes long working hours. If you're asking yourself how to become a model some of the key ingredients include persistence and perseverance. Almost all reputable model agencies will also be looking for somebody with the right personality. You must be able to adapt to different environments, cultures, and individual personalities. Ultimately, the best super models are highly adept at quickly forming effective working relationships with a variety of professionals. You must be able to understand exactly what your photographer expects from you – how should you pose, what about your facial expressions, where should you look. To be successful in modeling you need to have many of the skills necessary for being successful in an office. At any given point you may be working with a hundred or more people trying to ensure a flawless runway show or bikini model shoot. If you are difficult to work with you'll probably cost companies both time and money. Having a poor reputation in the modeling industry will spread quickly and will ultimately prevent you from working. Finally, in order to be a successful model requires that you market yourself. You need to build not only a portfolio but a reputation in the industry. Your name is your brand and the top super models are successful because they are good at what they do but also because everybody knows their name. Never underestimate the power of recognition. In the beginning you will have to be crafty to come up with ways to get yourself on the map. Signing with a modeling agency is paramount but building and maintaining notoriety is one of the most important factors in your success.

The Most Expensive Book in the World Costs 153 Million EUR + Sade Okoya

I thought this would be worth the while to share with you guys, happy reading. The Most Expensive Book in the World Costs 153 Million EUR ZURICH, January 24/PRNewswire/ -- - Indication: Picture downloadable for free under: http://www.presseportal.ch/de/pm/100014150 The so far internationally unknown author Tomas Alexander Hartmann has entered the hitherto most expensive book in the world into the register of German Books in Print (VLB). According to that list, the book with the title "The Task" (ISBN: 978-3-00-023396-8) has 13 pages and is listed at a price of 153 Million EUR. However, there will only ever be a single copy of the by far most expensive book in the world. The book will appear for the first time in public on the Book Expo America 2008 Fair in Los Angeles from 29th May to 1st June 2008 as well as on the Buch Wien Fair. Hartmann, who sees himself as the greatest philosopher of all time, is certainly the most expensive one. The other day, the Times compared the prices of Hartmann and Harry Potter's Author Rowling and worked out that a single page of "The Task" will demand the staggering price of 9 million pounds. Asked how he arrived at such a price, Hartmann said he needed more than thirty years to write the 13 pages of "The Task" and generally speaking the price of something is only then truly driven by supply and demand, if looked at without any enforcement. In April Tomas Alexander Hartmann will introduce his philosophical poems at the Linz international book fair (23rd to 27th). However, although that edition limited to a thousand copies is comparatively cost-effective at 1530 EUR each, Hartmann has already announced a possible cost increase. If Hartmann was to win a literary award, the book will go up to 1.53 Million EUR. Internet: http://www.presseportal.ch Tomas Alexander Hartmann E-Mail: tah@tah.ch Phone: +49-17-628-33-56-85 Source: Xite GmbH Tomas Alexander Hartmann, E-Mail: tah@tah.ch, Phone: +49-17-628-33-56-85 BILLIONAIRE business mogul, Alhaji Rasaq Akanni Okoya's youngest wife, Sade, has broken her silence on why her talk-of-the-town 30th birthday party, earlier slated for Saturday, April 28, 2007, was postponed. Speaking with us in the afternoon of Friday, May 16, 2007, at one of their factories in Ajah, Lagos, the svelte and pretty mother of four explained that the party couldn't go on as planned because she was a little under the weather. “I was down with a slight fever.” Not any strange ailment, like rumour mongers are peddling.” Adding, “I don't know why people say a lot of nasty things about me without bothering finding out the truth. It's better they call to find out the truth…” Attired in a yellow kaftan, with gold trimmings and a cream hijab, Sade was looking as beautiful as ever. Educated at the University of Lagos, where she read Sociology and graduated in 2006, she divulged to us that the postponed gig 'will now hold in the first week of June, Insha Allah.'

Ibinabo Fiberesima delivers baby girl for fred amata!

After months of enjoying a whirlwind romance with actor Fred Amata,my sources reveal that the ex-miss wonderland queen has just brought to bed a baby girl in London on the morning of Tuesday January 29,2008. According to the source''both mother and child are doing well and they will be in Nigeria soon.'' This is coming after many months of rumoured speculation that the actress was pregnant,a claim which she vigorously denied as a baseless rumour,and took off to london before it was visible that she was indeed pregnant. Sources also reveal that on the day the babygirl arrived,Fred in a joyous mood,sent sms to trusted friends and colleagues to meet him up for a celebration later that day.According to sources'' the guy is estatic that everything went well because Ib was in labour for 18hours. Booze and food was abundant at fred amatas surulere residence and it was a full house''. The couple who are both of Nollywood's known faces began dating in 2007 and in no way hid the face that they were smitten with each other,a few months into dating, Ibinabo took in and the rest is history. Fred Amata's marraige to talk show hostess Agatha developed hiccups in 2004 with both parties throwing allegations of infidelity at each other(the resulting effect which also led to the crash of the other accused persons' marriage),though both live apart, sources reveal that both are in friendly terms ''for the sake of their children'' In the heat of their relationship Ibinabo was rumoured to have shown friends an engagement ring from Fred but sources reveal that''its not possible as fred is still married to agatha and none of them have filed for divorce!'' Ibinabo who used to run a night club stayed in the limelight by diverting into Nollywood as an actress. This is her third child,her first son's father' identitiy is shrouded in secrecy while her second son is as a result of her brief marriage to photographer Phillip Trimnell(the marriage ended and both parties claimed irreconcilable diferences)who has since remarried. congrats to them both!...na real wah.

4 YOUR EYES ONLY

2face attacked again by Armed Robbers

Reports has it today that high profile Nigerian musical star 2face Idibia was robbed again yesterday and his customized Jeep taken away. The incident occurred at about 10.30p m. yesterday, around Anthony Village opposite GTB Bank. He was coming from one of his 'wives’ house when he was attacked by robbers and his driver was taken along with the vehicle. It would be reported that It is believed that 2face impregnated the three of them @ the same time. Really disgusting!!!!!! He bi like say he get one pact we dey between 2face and robbers. Abi na only him, be musician wey dey for Naija. Haba!!!!

Welcome to The 50th Edition of the Grammies

Academy, In Style launch Salute To Fashion event featuring collections from recording artists-turned-designers. (For a complete list of 50th GRAMMY Award nominees, please click here.) The intersection of fashion and music will be celebrated on Feb. 7, when In Style and The Recording Academy present the first ever GRAMMY Salute to Fashion. The event will be hosted by Recording Academy Chair and four-time GRAMMY-winning producer Jimmy Jam, and will include a special performance by current four-time GRAMMY nominee Rihanna. Curated by In Style's fashion director Hal Rubenstein, the fashion show will feature spring collections from Beyoncé and Tina Knowles' House of Deréon, Sean Combs' Sean John Women's, Jay-Z's Rocawear, Jennifer Lopez' justsweet, Jessica Simpson's Jessica Simpson Collection, and Justin Timberlake's William Rast. Also showcased will be The Recording Academy's fashion line, GRAMMY Brand. "There has always been an exciting synergy between music and fashion, and no other red carpet event is better at reflecting this connection than the GRAMMY Awards," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "GRAMMY Salute to Fashion will pay homage to the stylish musicians that have successfully branched out into the world of fashion design. What better way to display their passion for music and fashion than with a live fashion show featuring their respective collections." GRAMMY Brand is a high-end, fashion-forward clothing and accessories collection celebrating the unique intersection of fashion and music. Inspired by the energy and emotion of the GRAMMY Awards, GRAMMY Brand is comprised of original hand-painted tees and blazers by Michael Eaton; luxury eyewear by Franco; high-quality casual wear such as organic tees and hoodies from JEM/Awake Sportswear; and dresses and leather handbags and belts from Latino Royalty. GRAMMY Brand is available at luxury boutique retailers nationwide and a good portion of proceeds from sales benefit The Recording Academy's charities, the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. Beyoncé's House of Deréon is a clothing line that launched during the holiday season of 2005 by famed singer and actress Beyoncé and her mother, designer and celebrity stylist Tina Knowles. This initial collection of House of Deréon dresses for spring 2008 consists of styles for cocktail and evening, incorporating fabrics such as silk. Sean John, a privately held company, was created by music icon and producer Sean "Diddy" Combs and made its fashion debut with a men's sportswear collection for the spring 1999 season. The company has annual retail sales in the United States of more than $525 million. Rapper and media mogul Sean "Jay-Z" Carter launched the multi-million dollar clothing line Rocawear in 1999. With annual retail sales more than $700 million, Rocawear has expanded its brand through licensing pacts to develop lines for children, juniors, leather suede and fur outerwear, handbags and belts, loungewear and big & tall, headwear, jewelry, and sunglasses; as well as co-branded product with Pro-Keds. Multi-platinum recording artist/actress Jennifer Lopez heads her own successful clothing lines — Sweetface and justsweet — and was awarded with the ACE icon award in 2006 for her contributions to the accessories and fashion industry. Justsweet reflects Lopez's personal style and culture, which adds a richness and wearability to the collections. Singer/actress Jessica Simpson launched the Jessica Simpson Collection in fall of 2005. Her popular lifestyle brand consists of footwear, handbags, swimwear, lingerie, outerwear, jewelry, sunglasses and a soon to be released fragrance and celebrates her iconic, American image. With William Rast, pop music icon/actor Justin Timberlake and his best friend, Trace Ayala, infuse the soul of authentic Southern heritage with the energy of contemporary Hollywood. In collaboration with Johan and Marcella Lindeberg, a full men and women's collection will debut in the fall of 2008. Elizabeth Stewart will serve as the show's stylist, makeup artistry will be provided by CoverGirl, hair styling will be courtesy of Paul Mitchell, with a jewelry showcase by Le Vian and shoes by Steve Madden. The 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards will take place live on Sunday, Feb. 10 at Staples Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in HDTV and 5.1 Surround Sound on the CBS Television Network from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio via Westwood One worldwide and XM Satellite Radio, and covered online at GRAMMY.com.

Dos and Don'ts for 'Idol' Hopefuls

A handy checklist for what to do (and what not to do) if you want a shot at winning the show By Larry Carroll Special to MSN Entertainment Every new year brings with it hope. The hope of world peace, of good health for friends and family and, naturally, renewed hope for thousands that they'll make it through the nationwide auditions to become the next "American Idol." This year's process has already begun, and Season 7 launched Jan. 15. But, if you're among the few and the chosen, are you really ready for prime time? Based on the fact that the same judges, and the same die-hard millions who've powered "Idol" in the past, will be returning once again, the time has come to start looking for patterns. Gallery: See photos of "Idol" hopefuls So sit back, rest those vocal cords with some herbal tea, and read on. Because if you're going to become Season 7's big winner, you'll definitely want to hit these notes. Don't Dance Every season, a few early wannabes attempt to augment their performance with dancing. Most are dismissed immediately, and for good reason: If you feel the need to dance, then you must know you can't sing. America learned that the hard way with Britney Spears, so why should they have to do it all over again with you? Occasionally, once a contestant like Taylor Hicks has established the power of his pipes, he'll dance and get away with it. Other times, a Joshua Gracin or Jon Peter Lewis kicks up his heels and quickly gets the boot. Either way, it's just not a safe bet, folks. If you want to dance, go on that Marie Osmond show. Dog Is Your Co-Pilot America loves an underdog. So, if you're ugly, overweight, got picked on as a kid, or simply suffer from the occasional zit, play up your perceived handicap. As your singing skills get asserted, you can evolve into a more photogenic version of yourself (Hi, Clay Aiken. Hi, Elliott Yamin!), and the fans will rally behind you. Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself Embrace the point above, but just beware that if your underdog gets too big for its collar, the voters won't hesitate to send you to the doghouse. Everybody loved Chris Daughtry -- until he started getting cocky. And don't snap back at the judges, a la Justin Guarini, Julia DeMato or Brenna Gethers -- it'll just make you look like the over-egoed second act in a bad musical biopic. Believe it or not, the audience really does like Simon, Paula, and Randy, and have come to regard them like family -- so, if you get too big for your britches, you'll be booted out like a drunken uncle at Christmas. The South Shall Rise Again If you're from the South, get thyself to an "AI" audition, post-haste. Don't laugh: It worked for winners Kelly Clarkson (Texas), Ruben Studdard (Alabama), Fantasia Barrino (North Carolina), Carrie Underwood (near the Oklahoma and Arkansas border), and Hicks (Alabama), as well as runners-up like Clay Aiken (North Carolina), Diana DeGarmo (Georgia) and Bo Bice (Alabama). There seems to be several reasons why people from Los Angeles and New York never win: they're too polished, they lack Southern charm, maybe they just don't appeal to the Wal-Mart crowd. Regardless of whether any are true, the trend is clear: Start talking like Andy Griffith, or just stay home. Pick Popular Songs Just because you're from the South, doesn't mean you should perform country music -- and, no matter where you're from, don't dare sing a showtune. Showtunes sank the likes of Lisa Tucker and Mikalah Gordon. And Kellie Pickler and Bucky Covington's love of country didn't put them over the top, either. The judges seem to fall for rock music more increasingly with each passing year -- hence Daughtry, Bice and Gina Glocksen -- so, when it comes to the all-important job of picking your songs, skip Streisand and instead go for some Steve Miller. Don't Be a Freak Every season, America has an ill-advised one-night stand with Sanjaya and his mohawk, William Hung and his bangs, or Blake Lewis and his beatbox. If your plan is to rely on a fad, you're just trading 15 minutes of fame for a lifetime of mockery. If you really feel the need to go down that road, do like so many before you and simply make a sex tape with Paris Hilton. Don't Be a Skank While we're on that topic, short skirts, hot bodies and flirting with the bosses will only get you so far on "American Idol" (unlike in the real world, where it gets you a corner office and an expense account ). Over the years, we've watched Haley Scarnato ineffectively show her skin, and let's not even get started on Jessica Sierra. Frenchie Davis' dirty pictures got her the boot, and Antonella Barba similarly blew her chances. When Corey Clark (allegedly) took flirting to the next level with Paula, it still didn't take him to the top. Learn from the past: Sleeping with Paula didn't do wonders for Emilio Estevez's career, and it won't help yours, either. Don't Ring in the New Year Like it or not, America is more likely to fall in love with you when you're single and ready to swing. Performers like Scarnato started the process with a significant other, then shed the baggage as time went on. If you happen to be wearing an engagement ring, it might be a good idea to hide that rock, and hope it puts you on a roll. Gain a Few Pounds Typically, traditionally good-looking people are lucky if they make it beyond the top 12. Underwood is the only "AI" winner who could possibly make it as a model, and both she and Clarkson were still burdened by a lot of baby fat when they took home the title. Once again, it proves that people like the underdog, and our supersized nation wants to see its own reflection in an Idol. So, don't look as though you could make it without the world's most famous reality show, or you just might have to. If You Haven't Got the Talent, Stay Home The bottom line is, the cream rises to the top, and this show carries on for so many weeks, in front of so many millions, that it always screens out the weaker members of the herd. So either bring your A-game, or sit home on the couch with a lap full of nachos, and join the rest of us in a state that's truly American: idle.

What Made Eddie And Tracy say "wow let's just be friends"

For Eddie Murphy and Tracey Edmonds, there was no middle ground to be found between two weeks and "until death do us part." On Wednesday, the not-yet-legally bound newlyweds stopped just short of confirming a People report that they had decided to part ways after pledging their eternal troth in an extravagant if "symbolic" ceremony in Bora Bora on Jan. 1. So, what prompted Murphy and Edmonds, who began dating in October 2006 and became engaged in July 2007, to nix their planned domestic (and binding) nuptials in favor of remaining, as they put it, "friends"? Access Hollywood Video: What made Eddie and Tracey say 'I don't?' According to the magazine, cracks started forming shortly after they swapped vows beneath a gazebo decorated with 6,000 seashells. "Eddie started yelling at Tracey in front of people," blabs one of the bride's wedding guests. "He did it on a few occasions and it was very embarrassing." In Touch, meanwhile, believes tensions hit critical mass earlier this week when they had a "big blowout." "It was ugly," purports a "pal close to the couple." The insider blames Murphy's "controlling" behavior for the rift, alleging he "insisted" that Edmonds take his name, something she supposedly didn't want to do because she shares the surname with her two sons (with ex-husband Babyface). Hard to believe that it was just one People issue ago that the Scary Spice-ditching star was swooning over how lucky in love he was. "She's not lacking one good thing," he gushed of Edmonds. "She's the whole package." Eddie even admitted to tearing up as she walked down the aisle, a journey she made barefoot and surrounded by tiki torches. Rhapsodized Murphy, "She was so beautiful -- I was crying, and I'm not a crier!" No word on whether Edmonds will keep the 13.69-carat yellow diamond engagement ring that until recently was weighing down her finger.

Opportunities Off the Runways

I finally brought myself to do some blogging this year, before I go on let me start by wishing all my esteemed readers a Happy Prosperous New Year. I sent in a head-shot of a model hopeful for evaluation but unfortunately she didn't make the requirements which included striking facial features. Very few modeling hopefuls will ever rise to the super-model level. But here’s a not-so-well-kept beauty secret: They find a glamour spot anyway, through the many career opportunities that make the fashion industry tick. As I study about the career, two statistics nag in my mind. The first is that only about 1 in 10,000 girls will actually approach super model status, and the second is that only about 1 in 1,000 will have all the requirements for a successful modeling career. What else is there? Print work and other categories of modeling are excellent options, but if these alternatives are not appealing or are also too elusive, other opportunities remain for young men and women who want to play vital roles in the industry. After extensive research related to aspects of the business that offer lucrative careers, my advice to young men and women who are unhappy with their attempts to become successful fashion models is to find their niche in other areas that will still keep them in the forefront of the fashion world. I have studied several models in Nigeria who had reached the pinnacle of success as fashion models, but who, for one reason or another, had changed direction and found great fulfillment as model agents, bookers, stylists, photographers, makeup artists, writers, and television presenters. They demonstrate that some wonderful career options can offer the glamour and excitement of modeling without the demands and potential stress of a super model. A good example is Linda Ikeji of Dove Communications in Lagos. She's becoming a very good friend of this blog and me. You can get more information about Linda on http://lindaikeji.blogspot.com/