Author: JD
Kim Kardashian Goes Blonde for June 2015 Issue of ‘Vogue’ Brazil
Upon just recently releasing her anticipated selfie book, Selfish, Kim Kardashian lands her latest cover, gracing the June 2015 issue of VogueBrazil. Kanye West’s better half channels her inner Marilyn Monroe, going with a blonde look for the publication. The images were captured by Ellen Von Unwerth, and while the cover shot notes Kim donning a crop top, other imagery within the spread features the reality TV star topless. Keep an eye out for the June edition to land on newsstands.
Jermaine Dupri visits DJ CO1 at 98.5 KLUC – Vegas
https://soundcloud.com/djco1/jermaine-dupri-visits-dj-co1-at-985-kluc-vegas
CMG RESOLVES QUALITY CONTROL ISSUE
Capitol Music Group, in tandem with its Motown label, has cut a joint-venture label deal with Atlanta-based hip-hop indie Quality Control, wherein QCM artists will be worked by Motown and other divisions within CMG. The deal was jointly announced this morning by QCM CEO Pierre “Pee” Thomas, COO Kevin “Coach K” Lee, and CMG ruler Steve Barnett. The deal was brought to CMG and signed by Motown President Ethiopia Habtemariam, who will oversee the companies’ partnership in conjunction with CMG EVP Scott Greer. “Quality Control Music has ascended to become one of the most influential independent labels in hip-hop music,” said Habtemariam. “Pee and Coach K have developed an exciting brand in Quality Control, and like Motown, the goals are aligned in moving urban culture forward with music and talent that connect around the world. We¹re all on the same page, and are going to make major waves.” Speaking on behalf of the QCM team, Thomas expressed his appreciation to Barnett, Habtemariam, Greer, EVP Michelle Jubelirer, et al, “for believing in our vision to take Quality Control to the next level. We believe that this partnership will help us expand our brand globally. As the saying goes, ‘When you work hard, it pays off.’” Added Lee, “We’re excited about this partnership and believe in Motown and CMG’s commitment to hip-hop and its role in the company’s urban music profile,” Lee offered. “The people there are really good at what they do, and we’ll be providing them with great music and artist development to enhance their growth. Teaming together should bring awesome results for everyone.” The first QCM/Motown release, slated for Q4, will be from Atlanta-based rapper OG Maco, who’s come on the radar by way of a series of EPs and mixtapes and his 2014 hit “U Guessed It.” Releases will be handled through either Universal Music Distributionor Caroline on a case-by-case basis. Thomas and Lee, who formed QCM formed in March 2013, have developed a select roster of talent from the longtime rap hotbed of Atlanta. The company has its own promo staff, as well as publishing and management divisions.
Prolific Bassist Louis Johnson, of the Brothers Johnson, Dies at 60
Funk and R&B bassist Louis Johnson died at age 60 on Thursday. His death was confirmed by his nephew Troy on Instagram, though no official statement has been made by his estate. Johnson was a founding member of the Brothers Johnson and a longtime collaborator of Quincy Jones‘. He worked with the legendary producer on albums like Michael Jackson‘s Thriller and Off the Wall, as well as Jones’ own Mellow Madness. Quincy Jones Recalls ‘Freaking Out’ at Michael Jackson’s Death and His Private Nickname for the Pop Star With the Brothers Johnson, the bassist would top the Hot R&B Charts three times with 1976’s “I’ll Be Good to You,” 1977’s “Strawberry Letter 23” and 1980’s “Stomp!” Their highly successful 1976 debut Look Out for #1 was produced by Jones, and by the group’s fourth album (also their fourth to go platinum) Light Up the Night, they counted the King of Pop as one of their backup singers “Thunder Thumbs,” as he came to be called, was also one of the pioneers of slap bass, making him an in-demand session player for everyone from Stanley Clarketo Donna Summer. Many of his classic grooves for artists like George Duke and Michael McDonald have also received a second life as some of hip-hop’s most popular samples. Gone But Not Forgotten: Music Stars In Memoriam 2015 Celebrity tributes have been pouring in as everyone from Questlove to fellow bass legend Bootsy Collins pay their respects to the artist. “He was a dear and beloved friend and brother,” Jones told Rolling Stone, “and I will miss his presence and joy of life every day.”