THE SCOOP: Missy Elliott, Lyfe Jennings, and KRS-One

THE SCOOP: Missy Elliott, Lyfe Jennings, and KRS-One
Contributed by: Sia Tiambi Barnes Source: bet.com Posted on: January 23, 2008 09:16 PST Filed under: Rap

Rapper/singer/producer Missy Elliott is reportedly back in the studio, this time preparing her seventh studio album. Her last studio album was 2005’s The Cookbook (in the interim, she released a greatest hits album, Respect M.E. and participated in the popular Doritos campaign). According to Reuters.com, the as-yet-untitled work is expected in May with plans to include long-time collaborator and childhood friend, producer Timbaland (whose production was not a major factor in The Cookbook). So far, she’s already teamed up with him for the single “Shake Your Pom Pom” for the Step Up 2: The Streets soundtrack along with another one of her songs, “Ching-A-Ling.” Both are already in rotation. The Step Up 2: The Streets soundtrack will be released on Feb. 5.

Musician/singer Lyfe Jennings is also releasing an album. This next one will be his third. The platinum-selling artist told EURWeb.com that he will continue to speak upon life – good and bad – that he’s experienced. “It’s sort of autobiographical,” Jennings said about his new album, titled Changes. “I don’t just want to talk about everything that happens in the bad times, but in the good times as well. I like to talk about some of the things that I’ve changed, and some of them that I haven’t changed. I’m talking about some of things that I have to do to get to that change.” Changes is expected to release in March and will feature collaborations with Talib Kweli, Snoop Dogg and Wyclef Jean.

In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, rapper KRS-One announced his enlistment of Martin Luther King III in his revitalized Stop The Violence Movement. As previously reported, last year a slew of popular hip-hop artists (including Busta Rhymes, Cassidy, and Lil’ Wayne) recorded anti-violence drops for his organization that first began in the 80’s. “KRS-One's revitalization of this movement comes at a time when it is direly needed. He, along with the other exceptional artists involved, demonstrates that hip-hop is a part of the solution,” Martin Luther King III said in a statement. “I stand behind STVM’s mission to execute programs that will create awareness while producing positive results in our communities.” The non-profit will soon launch its website, STVMovement.org, to promote planned CD releases, workshops and media partnerships. “We are in a state of emergency – school shootings, nooses being hung from trees, domestic violence, gang violence, police brutality and war,” KRS-One said. “In the midst of mass turmoil we cannot afford to stand still. It is most appropriate that I announce the revitalization of the Stop The Violence Movement as we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 79th birthday. We will carry the torch of his powerful nonviolent actions toward peace and unity."

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