It looks like T.I.P’s cover story won’t be the traditional, “Howdoesitfeelknowingurgoingtojailoversomedumbsh*t” feature, but more so, how exactly the logistics of his groundbreaking plea deal were actually worked out. Some deemed him a snitch, others labeled him one of the luckiest bast*rds to walk the face of this earth. Me personally, I believe GOD had something to do with that.

Says VIBE magazine of their groundbreaking April Issue…….

“In an extensive report titled “Cell Therapy,” VIBE Senior Editor Benjamin Meadows-Ingram chronicles the superstar’s history-making legal battle and gut-wrenching journey since his 2007 arrest for attempting to collect three unregistered machine guns and two silencers following his BET Hip Hop Awards performance rehearsal.

In the thought-provoking feature, Meadows-Ingram meets with the rapper/actor in Washington, D.C., on the eve of President Barack Obama’s inauguration, where T.I. accepted an award from the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network for his work with the “Respect My Vote” campaign. VIBE follows the rapper during some of his court-mandated speaking engagements and the filming of his MTV show, T.I’s Road to Redemption, where the newly minted role model motivates and inspires at-risk youths. VIBE’s feature story showcases remarkable photos of T.I. reenacting poses made famous by legendary cultural icons Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg.”

It’s the question that’s been the elephant in every room T.I.’s sat in since he received the plea deal, so I’ll have to ask it here as well; How much will T.I.’s career suffer during the duration of his government retreat? Does he have enough ammunition (oops) to last him that long? Will the Grand Hustle fold FOLD without him??? I know you’re dying to tell me your perspective, so GO HEAD!!!!

Sincerely

Low “Hold ya head, TIP” Key

Regardless of how many times I get harassed or threatened, I can definitely tell you I always end up having a great time by night’s end. Though I did get a chance to attend last year’s Rip The Runway, I didn’t have the pleasure of ripping and running backstage. See, at this particular event last year, I had JUST received my offer letter to join the BET fold the same night, so I wasn’t officially on staff yet.

Oh, but trust and believe, my behind the scenes antics made up for last year’s lost efforts. From chopping it up with Bobby V; flirting with newcomer, Natasha; cracking jokes with Lil Duval; showcasing SBreezy’s Louis V bag with Maino; getting liquor threats from my superior RC and finally getting to the bottom of the infamous “Stanky Legg” epidemic, I must say 2009’s, Rip The Runway was an eventful one. Not convinced? No worries, the Rip The Runway Diaries will have no problem conveying that message for you. ENJOY!

Sincerely,

Low “Uh-Ohhh, Spring Bling’s right around the corner” Key

Rip The Runway ‘09 Behind The Scenes Part 1
Uploaded by Nadah8r

Rip The Runway Diaries Pt. 1

Rip The Runway ‘09 Behind The Scenes Stanky Leg Edition
Uploaded by Nadah8r

Rip The Runway Diaries: The Stanky Legg Edition

The King of All Fashion Shows Is Here!

Since Fashion Week has come to an official close, it’s only right that we (BET) end it off with an impeccable amount of Black Star Power. I can’t reveal too much about the show because of the powers that be hovering over my fitted cap, but I can tell you T.I., The Dream, Fabolous, Mavado, Keri Hilson, Busta Rhymes, Ron Browz made this year’s show unforgettable.

I really hate doing blogs where I can’t reveal too much information about the show I actually attended, but have no fear, I got some incredible backstage footage/interviews with Bobby V, Young Steff, Pleasure P, Maino, Young Dro, L.A., Ron Browz, Natasha and Mavado, so make sure you check back later this week for the clips. Oh, and if you attended BET’s Rip The Runway, hit up the comments section and tell me your favorite part of the show.

Rip The Runway takes off March 2nd at 9pm on BET. TUNE IN!

Sincerely

Low “I think I have what it takes to make it as a model, lol” Key

Bobby V backstage during BET’s, Rip The Runway

Allhiphop.Com founder, Chuck Creekmur and Danity Kane’s, Dawn Richard kick it backstage during BET’s, Rip The Runway.

Atlanta songbird, Keri Hilson, gets caught by the flashing lights before performing at BET’s, Rip The Runway.

Choreographer, Lorianne Gibson and music producer, Michael Bivins share a couple laughs during BET’s, Rip The Runway.

Don’t ask me where this came from, who’s album it’s going to be on and when it’s officially coming out, just know, LowKey’s got you covered. Oh and yes, that is Dr. Dre on the beat. HA! Happy Friday!

T.I. ft. Kobe- I Am Hip Hop |Produced By Dr. Dre|

Like it, Love it or Leave it??????

Sincerely

Low “I can see those label executives pulling their hair out” now Key

Anyway, if you frequent these parts, then you’re pretty familiar with my magazine game; I GETZ THEM EARLY, LOL! This time, I didn’t hit my secret newsstand, I actually swiped it from an associate at an event several days ago. Since this issue doesn’t hit stores until February 17, I think I’m WAAAY ahead of the game with this issue. Others may have it (VIBE employees), but like always, your exclusive preview is available here……..FIRST!

Looks like VIBE is on that fresh sh*t because all the contents in this issue are geared towards the fresh and the FRESH ONLY. The Evolution of Andre Benjamin: FRESH! The White Tee: ReFRESHing! The Tattoo: SEXY FRESH! Terrence Dean breaks down The J-Sette (the dance routine seen in Beyonce’s, “Single Ladies” visual), while Memsor Kamarake rebirths and re-styles “The Black Model”.

Of course, an issue on Style wouldn’t be complete without the 31 Most Stylish individuals in the game. And since I’m not THAT much into the style realm, I’m not sure how valid these rankings are. Now I could sit here and reveal the entire list, but that would probably piss off B.W., D.Smith and the homey J.Cummings, so I’ll just list a couple names sans their rankings. Also, this list isn’t in any particular order, I’m just randomly naming the participants involved; Troy Polamalu (Pittsburgh Steelers), Kanye West, Alain “A-Trak” Macklovitch, Yung Dro, Vashti Kola (IM GOING TO MARRY HER), Wale, Solange, Lil Wayne, Rihanna, Travis McCoy, Keri Hilson, Estelle, Neyo, MIA, and many more!

Oh, and I can’t forget the cover girl herself, Keyshia Cole. This isn’t one those interviews (where’s your life at now, how is Young Jeezy doing, is your show scripted), this is a FRESH interview. Keyshia discusses the evolution of her style, the influences that make up her style and where she’s headed (style wise). Check out what she had to say……

Keyshia Cole on developing into the person she is now….

“I used to be real passive, no matter what it was–my performing, everyday living, a man, family. Now, it’s like I’ve got to put my foot down. I’ve come too far to keep accepting a lot of anything. I’m comfortable with myself.”

Keyshia Cole on her mother influencing her style…..

“Not necessarily, because my mom…..it depends. [My adoptive mother]Yvonne Cole, definitely. Definitely more than my biological mother because while I was around my mother my entire life, she was really gone. I’d see her, I would find her and in the next 10 minutes she would be gone. She was constantly moving. But Yvonne taught me everything about being a woman that I need to know. Everything. Don’t go to church without a slip. All of that.”

Think you feel fresh now, wait until you devour the entire issue. Once again, VIBE Magazine proves why they’re always one step ahead. (WHAD UP DANNY?).

Sincerely

Low “I’m So Dope Boy Fresh…I Think” Key  

I’m pretty sure a majority of you reading this are either partaking in the inaugural festivities as we speak, making the journey to DC at the current moment or posted up in your residence following every tidbit available for viewing. Though this is list isn’t for the latter, I would like for ALL parties participating this weekend to PLEASE take heed to the list I’m about to deliver. The world is watching; DON’T BLOW IT!

Without further ado, I present to you, Top Ten: The Ten Things You BETTER NOT Do In Washington D.C.

10. Ask for any sort of discount at ANY establishment. Remember, everyone’s President is black now, so the privileges you think you’re entitled to, jump in line….you’re not the only one. “That’ll be $15.75, sir” “Come one, haven’t you heard the news, my President is black”.

9. Please don’t give the MPD (Metropolitan Police Department) any reason to send 950,000 volts in your tushi. The last thing Barack Obama needs to be worried about is whether or not the cop on duty had a reason to defend himself. Act right, folks.

8. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT yell “GOTCHA” to anyone outside of the African-American culture. This is in no way a “GOTCHA” moment. Rubbing Obama’s victory in with boisterous banter while 80,000 other folks surrounding you consistently yell, “My President Is Black, My Lambo Is Blue” will sure ignite some tension.

7. Remember, this is a political atmosphere…treat this event like it needs to be treated. Treating the inauguration like its All-Star, Superbowl, Freak-Nik, or Spring Break weekend will only enhance the chances of #9.

6. Do not crash any parties/functions/gala/or balls. Yes, Jay-Z is having a party at Club Love. Yes, TI, Jeezy, Nas and Akon will be performing at the BET Inauguration, but that damn sure doesn’t give you any reason to act ignorant at the door because your favorite artists is inside singing your favorite tune. Be cordial. If they say “Keep it moving”, please do so in a timely fashion.

5. During the day of the inauguration, keep your heads, bodies and arms inside your vehicles. This is a different type of victory, celebrate it in a professional manner.

4. Do not head down to DC with the mentality of “I can’t wait to hit Jay-Z’s concert”. Our 44th President, whom is black might I add, is on the verge of getting sworn in, educate yourselves…somehow…someway. And if you wake up with a hangover after a night of partying, that ass better get up and educate yourselves just as hard. This is the wrong time to “Blame It On The Alcohol”.

3. I know it’s already occurring, but DO NOT go down there with the hustlers mentality. Leave all your “OBAMA” paraphernalia at home. Have some respect for Obama, I mean seriously. I know the economy is in shambles right now, but if you’re down there already, your financial status isn’t THAT bad.

2. Do not ask anyone of a different creed, culture or race, “Hey, how does it feel to have a Black President?”. You’re only setting yourself up for an insane amount of disrespectful responses which might include…..well, you’re not naive, just don’t DO IT!

1. If you happen to see or catch a glimpse of Barack Obama…PLEASE, I REPEAT, PLEASE, whatever you do……DO NOT YELL, “Barack, what up my N*GGA?” That sentiment right there will basically cancel out everything Barack’s accomplished thus far. Think I’m lying, take a quick glance right after you blurt out the moronic gesture…YOU’LL SEE!

Alright, I’m done. Be safe, have fun and remember…this is Barack’s Week…NOT YOURS!

Sincerely

Low “Congratulations Barack, we’re soooooooo proud of ya” Key

With MTV coining B.O.B. as one of the hip hop’s top contenders to watch in 2009 and XXL giving him a slot in their ” Class of 2009″ issue several months prior, B.O.B.’s plan is right on schedule. His new video, “I’ll Be In The Sky” hit the internets earlier today, but Atlantic Records decided to throw a hissy fit about the leak, so you’ll have to wait until Wednesday to see the official version around these parts.

In the meantime, let me catch you guys up to speed. Below, you’ll find two DOPE tunes from B.O.B. as well as several links leading you to more greatness from ’09’s Rookie of the Year. ENJOY!

B.O.B- I’m Dat Ni**a

B.O.B.- Generation Lost  

B.O.B links via OnSmash.Com

MTV.com’s thoughts on B.O.B.

Now that you’ve been introduced to B.O.B., what are your thoughts so far????????

Sincerely

Low “Hip hop in 2009 is looking pretty good” Key

Lists’ like these are always difficult to construct. On one hand, you’re attempting to remember every song that was forced down your throat and actually considered “hot”. But then, on the other hand, I’m trying to keep in mind that just because I liked that song, doesn’t mean the entire universe had to fall in line with my opinion.

Either or, these songs held a significant amount of weight in 2008. Whether it was the impromptu love for the hook, the infectious beat or the illegitimate lyrics that made not 1/3 bit of sense, but you just HAD to recite them, these songs will be known as 2008’s Top Tunes. Oh, and if I’m missing any, don’t be shy…go head and add them in the comments section. ENJOY

10. T-Pain ft. Lil Wayne- Can’t Believe It

This track not only forged a BFF alliance between the two, but it EASILY took over radio DIRECTLY after its release. Soon after, the dread headed twins conceived “Got Money” and their highly anticipated joint Lp, He Raps, He Sings. I can’t believe it….no seriously…I CAN’T!

9. T.I.- Whatever You Like (Produced By Jim Jonsin)

“Whatever You Like” did some extraordinary damage on the Billboard charts thanks to a little help from “Lollipop” producer, Jim Jonsin. And thanks to T.I., every tender roni I encounter thinks she can have whatever she likes. Sorry ladies, keep that sentiment to yourself.

8. MIA- Paper Planes (Produced By M.I.A., Diplo and Stitch)

Though 2007 marked it’s official crash landing on earth and February 12 marked its official US iTunes release, “Paper Planes” didn’t gain official commercial and U.S. acceptance until it’s appearance in the movie trailer for “Pineapple Express” back in June. Shortly after, pretty much EVERY rapper and their sidekicks tried their hand at remixing the catchy tune. Oh, did I mention it snatched a Grammy nod for Record of the Year?

7. Alicia Keys- Superwoman (Produced By Alicia Keys)

A song dedicated to EVERY strong female in the world? Hell yeah it’s on here as well the list of nominees for the 51st Annual Grammy Awards (Best Female R&B Vocal Performance). I bet you Barack hears this song every time he glances at Michelle…

6. Neyo- Miss Independent (Produced By Stargate)

Neyo gained so many brownie points from the females because of the songs context and he ALSO gained an EXTREME amount of cool points from the fellas because of the bulky amount of eye candy trotting through the visual. It also didn’t hurt that he invited Jamie Foxx and Fabolous along for the remix. Only sad thing about this is every female with a debit card thinks she can claim independence….it’s ok to ask for help babygirl, we got you.

5. T.I. ft. Kanye West, Jay-Z & Lil Wayne- Swagger Like Us (Produced By Kanye West)

Only reason why this isn’t further down on the list is because A.) It was a late bloomer and B.) It wasn’t officially pegged as a single from T.I.’s project but played through every club, radio and ipod speaker on God’s green earth. Sidebar: Since “Swagger” is a word I sincerely hate right now, A HUGE thank you is in order for Kanye West and MIA.

4. Usher ft. Young Jeezy- Love In This Club (Produced By Polow Da Don)

First time I heard this lil ditty, I was hooked. I even thought Usher was heading in the direction of Confessions, but of course, I was let down to 8th degree. Regardless, Jeezy came correct, Polow did his thing, and Keri Hilson will FOREVER be my mistress of choice…sorry future Mrs. LowKey!

3. Beyonce- Single Ladies (Produced By Tricky Stewart)

It’s an amazing sight to witness when you’re standing by the bar, the first 12 seconds of this record comes on and you see EVERY female (Bartenders, waitresses, female janitors and female security guards included) go APE sh*t, gyrating in every way possible known to mankind. True story, I once saw a married woman secretly take off her wedding ring for 3:13 JUST to call herself a single lady and then put it back on as if the song never existed. DAMN YOU, BEYONCE

2 . Young Jeezy ft. Kanye West- Put On (Produced By Drumma Boy)

Everyone…and I mean EVERYONE (yup, even her) thought they were from Atlanta when Jeezy unleashed this massive hit to the public. It gave you the sense of urgency to rep WHEREVER you were from (yup, even her again) whenever this song tickled your ear drum. This was also the first time we heard Kanye exercise his right on T-Pain’s golden apparatus. I PUTTTTTTTT ONNNNNNNNNNN!

1. Lil Wayne- A Milli (Produced By Bangladesh)

1. Lil Wayne- Lollipop (Produced By Jim Jonsin)

Really…..do I NEED to explain myself on either of these?????

Sincerely

Low “At least ONE of these songs gets some kind of burn in my day to day operations” Key

2008 was by far one of our most troublesome 365 days experienced in a long time. The economy was side swiped, houses we’re being snatched left and right and employment…well you already know the verdict in that lane.

Since we’re about 48 hours and one second left until 2009 relieves us of this treacherous year and I thought it would be dope to compile a list of the Ten Worst Music Moments in 2008.

I might have missed one or two, but this is a list I THOUGHT of so if you disagree, hit that comments section and spill the beans on a moment that should’ve made the list. ENJOY!

10. Angel Lola
Winning Eye Candy of the Year in 2007 does NOT grant you the right to rap. Act, start a business, go back to school……DO NOT RAP. Its bad enough we don’t believe your ASSets are real but what makes you think we’re going to believe you have the ability to write a decent verse? Sorry sweetie….NEXT!
http://candykoatedsuga.blogspot.com/2008/12/angel-lola-luv-serious-about-rapping.html

9. Anything DMX Related
I don’t know what’s worse; DMX releasing a hip hop/gospel album, being arrested 556653653 times in 6 months or being detained at Scott Storch’s residence? Well, at least he didn’t shoot a sequel for Cradle to the Grave.
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/gee-what-a-coincidence/

8. Brawling @ The 2008 Ozone Awards
Seriously, did we really need to see Trae and Mike Jones duke it out backstage? That’s like watching two trophy girls duke it out to see who presents Shawty Lo the Ringtone of the Year Award; NO ONE CARES!
http://www.bet.com/Music/News/musicnews_jonestalksozone_08.13.08.htm

7. Soulja Boy Vs. Ice T
How in the hell can someone making so much GUAP on a show that airs on NBC give a rat’s ass about a kid who once had a chain made STRICTLY out of rubber bands? Not only that, but the OG prompted SBeezy and his goons-in-training to make a 10 minute vlog (video blog) about how old Ice-T is….*DEAD*.
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/soulja-boy-vs-ice-t/

6. Brawling @ The Dirty Awards
T.I.+ Shawty Lo + Alfamega + Disgruntled Shawty Lo employees + absurd award show title= Foolery to the 15^th degree. Lesson learned: Wait until T.I.’s incarcerated to invite Shawty Lo to an awards ceremony.
http://www.bet.com/Music/News/musicnews_tiandshawtylofight_11.25.08.htm

5. Usher’s, Here I Stand
Dear Usher, We’re extremely elated you found marital bliss. We’re even happier you now have a tribe of lil Ursher’s running around the palace, but PLEASE, spare us your happiness. Remember that thing called Confessions; I think it sold about 10 MILLION EFFIN COPIES? Well, we want that. So, cheat on Tameka, reveal your love child with Chilli and tell Chris Brown he’ll never be as good as you. Patiently Waiting, LowKey
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/usher-making-a-return-but-is-it-tooooo-late/

4. Auto Tune
I can’t fault T-Pain for sensationalizing the device; it made him enormously famous. But Ron Browz, Baby, Yung Berg, Baby, Lil Wayne, Shawty Lo, The Dream, R.Kelly, Usher, Swizz Beatz, Ludacris, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg and whoever thought it would be a good idea, WHAT HAS IT DONE FOR YOU???? (Is it bad I’m writing this entry in Auto-Tune?).
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/t-pain-retiring-auto-tune/

3. Kanye and Don C Pouncing On The Paparazzi
I’m assuming Mr. West was just having a bad day. I mean why else would he be wearing a hoody in a PUBLIC airport with his head down signaling the photographer NOT to snap his picture? What’s even more hilarious is the media pegged Don C as Kanye’s security, when clearly, the photographer was bigger than him.
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/kanye-hates-flashing-lights/

2. Yung Berg’s Physical Altercations
Aside from selling a petite 19,000 albums in seven days, the Chicago native caught the hand of god, TWICE, for aiming disrespectful banter towards Maino and Detroit rappers AND got relieved of some pricey merchandise…that’s DEFINITLEY not sexy (pause).
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/oh-young-berg/

1. Young Buck Crying To 50 Cent
Really, crying though, homey? He went from being the toughest solider in the click to needing a blanky after a shot of Hennessey. Every man should be granted an occasional occurrence of letting the tears run, but homey should’ve known better to do it over the phone. Dah well, it only cost him his career, dignity and any tough talking in the near future.
http://blogs.bet.com/music/soundOff/you-brought-it-on-yourself/

Honorable Mention
1. Busta Ryhmes’, “Arab Money”

2. T.I. going to jail again.

3. Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon getting married.

4. The Game.

5. WorldStarHipHop.

6. K-Ci and Jo Jo’s infamous concert incident.

7. DJ Khaled terminology

8. Damn it Beyonce, I was trying to keep you off this list, but you HAD to go and say THIS!

Sincerely

Low “2009, YOU BETTER NOT LET ME DOWN!” Key

Saturday, Angie Martinez, DJ Enuff and Cipha Sounds hosted Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum in Long Island with performances from Nina Sky, Ryan Leslie, Jim Jones, Kid Cudi, Juelz Santana, Ludacris, Young Jeezy, Busta Rhymes, Ron Browz and T.I.

Though I’ve seen each artist perform at least 3 times since taking this job, I can tell you standing 3 feet away from the stage gives you a COMPLETELY different vibe (I.E. getting water thrown on your camera, having fire sparks fly 2 inches past your upper lip). BIG BIG BIG shouts are in order for Lesley Hope from N’Somniatic Entertainment Group and Big League Entertainment, who produced the show!

And you know what the best part about all of this is, I don’t have to talk you to death about who performed (I’ll save that for the other side of town, lol), I can easily show you, below. ENJOY!

Sincerely

Low “A pretty good ending to a not so good year, lol”Key

Juelz Santana performs “There It Go” during Hot 97’s Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27. Jim Jones and Kid Cudi perform “Day-N-Nite” during Hot 97’s Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27. Ludacris performs “Last of a Dying Breed” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27 Busta Rhymes performs “Scenario” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27.
Young Jeezy performs, “Who Dat” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27. Young Jeezy performs, “Put On” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27. Young Jeezy performs, “My President” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27.

T.I. performs, “56 Barz” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27. T.I. performs, “Swing Ya Rag” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27.
T.I. performs, “You Don’t Know Me” during Hot 97’s, Holiday Bash at Nassau Coliseum on December 27.