Beyonce's "Beyonce"

Beyonce beat the system with the unexpected drop of her fifth, self titled album, which shocked the internet, the media and music fans alike. Although B's team had recently told us to expect an album soon, (Ne-Yo almost ruined the surprise as well), no one suspected it would happen this soon. Her unconventional marketing strategy was executed to perfection, and she successfully dodged a leak, which is rare if not impossible these days.

This record breaks numerous barriers. Bey has dubbed it a "visual album", first of all. For a clearer understanding of her offering, watching the 17 videos is a necessity, which have the effect of a short art film when viewed in sequence. It's crazy to think of the amount of effort this must've required.

Full of high-res, picturesque visuals, Beyonce's perfectionist nature is certainly clear, each frame unfolding with beautiful intricacy. Her acting skills are versatile - on "Pretty Hurts", she channels TLC while playing a beauty pageant contestant struggling with the pressure. This is completely contrasted by the anthemic "***Flawless", whereupon Bey's edgy, wild attitude is accentuated by monochrome visuals. She changes up the feel on each song, taking the concept of a "music video" to the next level with this artistic feast for the eyes.

The videos are accompanied by a new, unexpected sound. Bey has progressed by leaps and bounds, having developed a contemporary R&B sound all her own. This is not our typical Bey, and the album will no doubt remain an anomaly in her discography.

Beyonce's choice taste in featured artists is on-point as well. Including Drake and Frank Ocean on this record shows a deliberate effort to make an impact on a new and upcoming generation of music. 

You do not have to check the credits to know that Pharrell helped write the funky track "Blow". The same goes for the sounds of Drake's friend and go-to producer Noah "40" Shebib on the amazing track "Mine". Also included on this talented list is Justin Timberlake , James Fauntelroy, Sia, The Dream, Miguel and more.

Beyonce’s sound is much more mature than her previous work. This is obvious not only through the bonus visual of “Grown Woman” and hearing flashbacks to her childhood, but also through showing a more sexual side. B has never been so risqué and has often played it safe. Tracks such as “Partition” show this with lyrics such as “Oh he so horny, yea he want to fuck/He popped all my buttons, and he ripped my blouse He Monica Lewinsky-ed all on my gown”. She turns it up more than a notch, and completely owns it.

You'd never think that a superstar like Beyonce has insecurities. But tracks such as "Jealous" and "Pretty Hurts" make her relatable in so many ways, as she admits that "perfection is the disease of a nation". This is contrasted by her pride as a mother on "Blue", dedicated to her daughter, and her pride of her success, owning the females in R&B as she tells them "bow down, bitches". On "****Flawless", Mrs. Carter exposes sides of her we've never seen before.

This project proves that Beyonce remains an unstoppable force in R&B music, and perhaps in music in general. It's bursting with creativity, and the all encompassing visuals are an extraordinary move in a time when audio is often more important than video.

She's developed a progressive new sound of her own, and you will grow to love it more and more after repeated listens.

It goes without saying that Queen B has produced one of the best albums of her career here.

Babe Cool Compensated Over Centenary Park Shooting

Kampala High Court awards renowned artist Moses Ssali alias Bebe Cool damages amounting to UGX 380 million following his shooting three years ago by a police officer.

The award is to cover up general damages that he suffered when he was shot at by Anthony Achikan.

Initially, Bebe Cool who sustained serious broken limbs demanded for UGX 800 million to cover loss of income for a period of 9 to 12 months when he claimed he was hospitalized and later confined to a wheel chair. He says during the period, he was forced to cancel concerts which would have earned him that much.

He also claimed that he was engaged in promoting companies like MTN (U), Century Bottling Co Ltd and that he would earn UGX 2 million per week from the activity.

Further, the reggae star claimed that at the time of the shooting, he was to produce 16 songs in preparation for his album launch and that this album was expected to earn him between UGX 1.8 billion and UGX 2.5 billion.

However in his judgment, Justice Benjamin Kabiito noted that Bebe Cool did not adduce any evidence in court to show that he lost such an income. He however awarded him UGX 380 million as general damages for the personal injuries he suffered.

Kelly Rowland confirms that she's engaged

While the rumors have been circulating, it’s been confirmed by Kelly Rowland herself, that she is engaged!

Kelly confirmed her new engagement while being a guest on "The Queen Latifah Show" Monday afternoon. The lucky man in her life is her manager and best friend Tim Witherspoon. When asked, Kelly admitted “He put a ring on it".

Many people didn't even know she was dating, let alone getting engaged. The 32- year old singer has kept her relationship very private for years. “We’ve kept it very, very low—for years, to be completely honest.”

The two decided it was the right time while skyping on the internet. She was in Bulgaria when Tim popped the question on Skype. “He asked me first on Skype and I was like, ‘We’re so far away from each other,’” said Kelly.

“But it was so late, I remember we were both just kinda like, honestly, just staring at each other. And he asked me, and it was just that simple to say yes. I was like, ‘I got my best friend to ride through life with.’ He really is my best friend.”

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug tops US box offic

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug has
topped the US box office, taking $73.7m
(£45m), according to initial estimates.
But it was down on the first Hobbit instalment,
which took $84.6m (£51m) in its opening
weekend last year.
Dan Fellman, president of domestic
distribution at Warner Bros admitted the
takings "could have been a little better".
He said bad weather in the east of the country
"probably took a couple million dollars out of
my pocket".
"But our box office will survive. We are right
on target to do very similar numbers to the
last Hobbit, which grossed $1bn (£613m)
worldwide [overall]," he said.
Disney animation Frozen moved down into
second place taking $22.2m (£13m) in its third
weekend. The film has made $164.4m (£100m)
in the US since its release.
Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas came in third
place with $16.2m (£9.9m). Box-office analyst
Paul Dergarabedian said he thought bad
weather would also have affected the film's
takings as Perry's films normally open in the
$20m (£12m) range.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, was in
fourth place with $13.2m (£8m).
Catching Fire has now grossed $739.9m
(£453m), surpassing the box office total for
the first film which took $691m (£423m).
Thor: The Dark World remained in the top five
with $2.7m (£1.6m), bringing its US domestic
haul to $198.1m (£121m).
In sixth place was Out of the Furnace, starring
Christian Bale and Casey Affleck, taking $2.3m
(£1.4m) in its second weekend.
Disney comedy Delivery Man, starring Vince
Vaughn, was at seven in its fourth weekend,
with Philomena at eight ahead of The Book
Thief.
Homefront, starring Jason Statham and James
Franco, rounded out the top 10.
David O Russell's American Hustle opened in
just six locations but took $690,000
(£422,000). It will be on general release in the
US on 1 January.
As the year draws to a close Dergarabedian
said the yearly box office total looked like it
will eclipse 2012's $10.8bn (£6.6bn) box
office record.
NORTH AMERICAN BOX OFFICE
1. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug -
$73.7m
2. Frozen - $22.2m
3. Tyler Perry's a Madea Christmas - $16.2m
4. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire - $13.2m
5. Thor: The Dark World - $2.7m
Source: Rentrak

Willy Paul Reacts After Gospel DJs & Presenters Vow Never to Play His New Song on Blasphemy Accusations

Recently, Gospel singer, Willy Paul released
a song that could just be the most
controversial Gospel song that even Gospel
radio presenters and DJs vowed never to
play; and if you haven’t heard it, now you
know why. According to the radio presenters
and DJs, the song mocks God especially in
its first verse.
Despite being released in November, the
song has been so unpopular and only
attracted resentment from fans. For this
matter, Willy Paul has decided to re-do the
song omitting the controversial lines that
had everyone up in arms.
According to Willy Paul, he has already re-
recorded the entire verse one and as well as
shoot a complete new video after it emerged
that the first video was allegedly shot in a
pub. As such, the audio will be unveiled
tonight while the video on Tuesday at Willy
M Tuva’s “Wakilisha East Africa” at Tribeka.
Today at seven pm my latest track missi
reloaded will be live, new video, new
verse.... its big doing it for jesus christ my
savior. Thank you for the support. The
official video launch is tomorrow with mzazi
willy m tuva.
Meanwhile, ‘Mzazi’ Willy Tuva spoke to the
producer of the song, Bizi B who revealed
that after the backlash received he directed
Willy Paul to redo the song.

Chameleone, Goodlyfe Reunite

As the saying goes, East west home is best, the Goodlyfe singing duo weasel and Radio have finally settled their issues with their mentor Jose Chameleone and as we talk, they are sailing in the same boat.

This was revealed last week at the battle of Champions when Jose Chameleone stormed Kyadomdo Rugby grounds to support the Goodlyfe boys.

The Goodlyfe then spent a lot of time chatting and laughing while relaxing at the Venom beach bar in Kabalagala.

Chameleone thanked the singing duo for having grown up musically.

He further said that he believed in radio and weasel before the world accepted their talent.

Lupita Nyong’o Clinches Yet another Prestigious Award

And the awards keep coming...The Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) has named Lupita Nyong'o Best Supporting Actress for her role, Patsey, in Steve McQueen’s harrowing slavery drama, 12 Years a Slave .

Founded in 1975, The Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) is comprised of Los Angeles-based, professional film critics working in the Los Angeles print and electronic media.

Meanwhile, Lupita will receive the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala Jan. 4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

In February she will co-star with Liam Neeson, Michelle Dockery and Julianne Moore in the Universal Pictures thriller “Non-Stop.”

Film Festival Chairman Harold Matzner called her film debut. “outstanding. “She delivers a raw and deeply moving performance that serves as the fulcrum for the film’s message of the inhumanity of slavery,” he said.

Congratulations are in order for this screen goddess.

American rapper, Wale reunites with Nigerian family

It was homecoming for US based Nigerian
rapper, Wale Akintimehin last weekend when
he set foot on the soil of his fatherland,
Nigeria for the first time in his life.
He was in the country to perform at the
unveiling of Johnnie Walker’s Step Up to the
VIP Lifestyle campaign, which held amid fun
fare in Lagos. Wale seized the opportunity
offered by his august visit to get in touch with
his family.
His excited father, Mr. Akintimehin was one of
the hundreds of guests who thronged the
Orinetal Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, venue of
the event to watch his son entertain his
Nigerian fans with his electrifying
performance.
Noticing the presence of his father who
watched the show from the backstage longside
his uncle, Bayo and Storm Records president,
Obi Asika,Wale took time to give a shout out to
his dad. “I promise to keep coming back. If
you all will have me, I’ll keep coming back.
Shout out to my dad, Mr. Akintimehin do you
want to take a bow for these people now? ”
Wale said, in between performances.
Overwhelmed by his homecoming, Wale rated
Nigerian musicians high, saying “the country
has great musicians.” He disclosed that he’s
presently collaborating with some local artistes
to make an impact on the nation’s music
scene.
The glamorous event which has selected
audience, showcased the luxurious lifestyle the
Johnnie Walker brand is famous for as some
guests had an opportunity for a “Drive of a
Lifetime Experience” with Mika in the Caparo
Supercar, at an exhibition drive held also at
The Palms Mall, Lekki.
The exhibition drive turned out to be a
spectacular show from the F1 legend, who
displayed a combination of raw power and
breathtaking control. The stunning Caparo T1
gave the crowd and lucky passengers an insight
into the technology and skill required in top
level motorsports.
It was witnessed by celebrities including M.I,
ace photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi, BBA
Winner Uti Nwachukwu among others. Also,
world’s two time Formula One champion,
Mika Häkkinen was on hand to give the
selected guests an experience if a lifetime.
In his remark, Mr. Seni Adetu, Managing
Director and Chief Executive, Guinness Nigeria
Plc, said Johnnie Walker will continue to
celebrate the discerning and contemporary
consumers who appreciates the luxury brand.

Battle Of Champions: Chameleone Salutes Goodlyfe

Self proclaimed music doctor Jose
Chameloene praised Radio and Weasel for the excellent performance while taking on Bebe Cool at the battle of champions.

The show successfully took place Friday night at Kyadondo Rugby grounds.

“I am proud to be part of the Radio and weasel team, I had a blast at the battle. I was the biggest believer before the world accepted their talent!.Even when they fail, they are a winners to me,” Chameleone happily said shortly after the show.

The Goodlyfe performed most of their club hit songs and were so impressive and consistent but Bebe cool still showed maturity and proved to them that he is indeed Big size and experienced.

Nelson Mandela death: Entertainment world pays tribute to Mandela

The news of the death of Nelson Mandela
broke during a royal gala screening of the
biographical film Long Walk to Freedom in
London.
The screening was attended by Prince William
and the Duchess of Cambridge, as well as two
of Mandela's daughters.
Idris Elba, who plays the former leader in the
film, called it an "honour to step into the
shoes of Nelson Mandela".
Prince William, who attended the screening,
said the news was "extremely sad and tragic".
The film is based on Mandela's autobiography,
published in 1995, and recounts his life from
his childhood, through his 27 years behind
bars, mostly in Robben Island prison, to
becoming South Africa's first black president in
1994.
Two of Mandela's daughters - Zindzi and
Zenani - were at the screening at the Odeon in
Leicester Square when they were told of the
death of their father.
Although they left the cinema, they insisted
that the film continue. Producer Anant Singh,
who Mandela personally awarded the book
rights to, announced the death at the end of
the screening, and asked for a moment of
silence.
British actor Elba later said: "What an honour
it was to step into the shoes of Nelson
Mandela and portray a man who defied odds,
broke down barriers, and championed human
rights before the eyes of the world. My
thoughts and prayers are with his family.''
Also at the screening was Hollywood producer
Harvey Weinstein, whose film company is
behind the movie. "We count ourselves
unspeakably fortunate to have been immersed
in Nelson Mandela's story and legacy," he said.
"It's been an honour to have been granted
such proximity to a man who will go down as
one of the history's greatest freedom fighters
and advocates for justice.
"I have had the privilege of spending time with
President Mandela and I can say his sense of
humour was as great as his optimism.''
'Saint'
Morgan Freeman, who played Mandela in
Invictus, joined in the mass of tributes from
the entertainment world: "Today the world lost
one of the true giants of the past century,"
said Freeman.
"Nelson Mandela was a man of incomparable
honour, unconquerable strength, and
unyielding resolve - a saint to many, a hero to
all who treasure liberty, freedom and the
dignity of humankind."
American actor Dennis Haysbert portrayed
Mandela in 2007's Goodbye Bafana, about the
relationship between Mandela and his prison
officer.
Haysbert said: "Portraying Nelson Mandela...
was a defining moment in my life and my
career. We as a society, have been blessed to
live in a time that Nelson Mandela has lived,
loved, and led.
"What he has done for his country, his
countrymen, and everyone on this planet may
not be achieved again. Ever. I will always
honour him as a saint.''
Music producer Quincy Jones said: "Today, as
it did while he inhabited our planet, Nelson
Mandela's spirit truly soars with the angels.
"It was a spirit born of a generosity, love,
compassion and hope for mankind that may
never exist at such a heightened level in any
single human being again. One of the most
profound honours that I have had in my life
was to be able to call Madiba my friend and
brother."
And singer Aretha Franklin said "a great man
has passed on and moved on up a little
higher".
She added: "Most extraordinarily was how he
rose above his being imprisoned and exalted
himself above apartheid and hatred to unite
the country - an unbelievable example of
humanitarianism and courage."
Jerry Dammers of The Specials fame wrote the
song Free Nelson Mandela in 1984, under The
Special AKA moniker, as a protest at Mandela's
incarceration.
Dammers said: "I met him very briefly twice. I
found myself part of the mob that surrounded
him, wherever he went after his release from
prison, which must have been quite hard for
him, but his endless positivity meant he always
remained incredibly good-natured, friendly
and smiling
"One thing that inspired me to write the song
Free Nelson Mandela was his statement, that
any attempt to get rid of apartheid was
welcome.
"In other words, whether your actions appear
to have any instant effect or not, every little
bit helps.
U2 frontman Bono collaborated with Mandela
on charity issues including poverty in South
Africa, as well being a vocal campaigner for his
release from prison.
He said: "It was as if he was born to teach the
age a lesson in humility, in humour and above
all else in patience.
"In the end, Nelson Mandela showed us how to
love rather than hate, not because he had
never surrendered to rage or violence, but
because he learnt that love would do a better
job.
"Mandela played with the highest stakes. He
put his family, his country, his time, his life
on the line, and he won most of these
contests.
"Our eyes were opened to so much because of
him."

50 Cent Announces "Animal Ambition"

50 Cent has announced "Animal Ambition," which appears to be a new track from the rapper.

50 cent is still yet to deliver on the promise of Street King Immortal, but we may be seeing some new music from the NY rapper either way.

In a post to his Instagram earlier today, Curtis revealed some new artwork for what appears to be a new song called "Animal Ambition". The caption for the graphic reads "You Rap niggas in trouble lol," further evidence that new music is on the way.

Take a look at the artwork below. "Animal Ambition" coming soon.