andPOP » T.I.

T.I. Out of Jail but on Probation

andPOP Staff — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 16:13:48 +0000

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It has been a long road of redemption for the rapper but T.I. (real name Clifford Joseph Harris) is out of jail, according to MTV. His incarceration stemmed from a 2007 arrest where he attempted to buy firearms illegally.

The rapper was originally sentenced to 366 days in prison, however in December he was placed at a halfway house. Earlier this month he was allowed to return home to finish the remainder of his sentence.

However T.I. still has some of his debt to repay to society. According to TMZ, his lawyer says that he will be placed under “supervised release” for 23 days. What this means is T.I. must be home by 11 p.m. unless he’s performing, in which case his curfew is extended until 1 a.m.

Additionally Harris must complete 400 hours of community service and remain on probation for three years.

T.I. to be Released from Prison This Month

Angelina Irinici — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:21:21 +0000

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After 10 months, rapper T.I.’s lawyer confirmed that he will be released from prison at the end of this month, reports MTV News. T.I. also announced his new single “I’m Back” through a promotional Twitter account, and the Federal Bureau of Prison records list the rapper’s release date as March 26.

“That date is correct,” lawyer Steve Sadow said via e-mail to MTV News. “T.I. is now serving the remainder of his sentence in home confinement under the supervision of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.”

In late December the 29-year-old, whose real name is Clifford Joseph Harris, Jr., was transferred to a halfway house. However, T.I.P. is not off the hook; after his release from Dismas Charities Atlanta West later this month, he’s expected to complete 20 to 60 additional days of home confinement after an arrangement he made with prosecutors before his sentence began.

The rapper was originally required to complete 1,500 hours of community service and finish 1,000 of those hours within a year before he would be formally sentenced. T.I. got lucky however, because he received a reduced jail sentence of one year and one day in prison. Legal experts say that the length was significant because it allowed the rapper the chance of getting released early. If he had been sentenced to one year, his opportunities were not as good.

T.I. filmed a reality show that was shown on MTV, called T.I.’s Road To Redemption, which followed him 45 days before his sentencing. He confronted his mistakes and attempted to show seven troubled teens that there is “another way.”

The rapper recorded well over 1,00 hours of speeches to troubled youths, but still needs to complete the remaining hours to reach the 1,500 mark. The rapper must also attend drug counseling and financial audits, as well as maintain a curfew during the home-confinement period.

Once all is complete, he is free to do as he pleases, which will perhaps include finishing a new album. T.I. also has a clothing line called Akoo and is the founder and CEO of Grand Hustle Records, a label that is distributed by Atlanta Records.

In total, the rap star will have served 10 months of a 366-day sentence that started in May.

T.I. Sued

Sara Harowitz — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:07:26 +0000

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As if he wasn’t going through enough drama this year, T.I. now has one more thing to add to his list.

The rapper, who is currently in a halfway house after doing time in jail for weapons possession, is being sued for copyright infringement, reports perezhilton.com.

Rapper Motoe Blizzid is claiming that T.I. used part of is 2004 song “Reverence” in T.I.’s hit song “What You Know.”

Blizzid is suggesting that T.I.’s 2006 track has the “same rate of harmonic range” and that they have “nearly identical instrumental melodic lines in terms of pitch, shape, and rhythm.” Blizzid is seeking damages and profits received from “What You Know.”

T.I. to Finish Sentence at Halfway House

Sara Harowitz — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 18:10:24 +0000

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Rapper T.I., who is serving a 366-day sentence after pleading guilty to gun charges in March, has reportedly been transferred to a halfway house in Atlanta from Arkansas’ low-security Forrest City facility he was previously in, according to rollingstone.com.

T.I. will spend the remainder of his sentence – currently due to end on March 26, 2010 – at Dismas Charities Atlanta West, where the rap star will be allowed more contact with his family and even possibly have the opportunity to leave the house during regular work hours.

“They decided that three months in a halfway house would assist him with reentering society,” the rapper’s attorney Steve Sadow said.

After finishing his sentence, T.I., real name Clifford Harris, will have to complete 500 hours of community service and about 23 days of home confinement. T.I. reached a plea bargain after being charged with owning three machine guns and two silencers, which made up a significant violation of parole. The rapper was arrested the night of October, 2007′s BET Awards and was placed under house arrest. While on house arrest, T.I. wrote songs for his latest and successful album Paper Trail, which featured the hit song ”Dead and Gone” with Justin Timberlake.

Jay-Z Wraps Up Hottest MC list

Stephen Baldwin — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:53:50 +0000

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Last night MTV’s expert panel capped off their top ten “Hottest MC’s” with long-time heavyweight Jay-Z coming out on top. The controversial list was compiled by Hip Hop critics and enthusiasts, and for the first time included the opinion of fans across North America. The criteria: lyrics, flow, impact, buzz, sales and intangibles.

The final list: 1. Jay-Z, 2. Lil Wayne, 3. Drake, 4. Kanye West, 5. Rick Ross, 6. Gucci Mane, 7. Young Jeezy, 8. Fabolous, 9. 50 cent, 10. Raekwon

A few names are mysteriously absent from the list, most notably, Eminem. The rapper should not only have appeared on the list, he should have been in the top five. His recent album wasn’t his best of all time but its popularity continues to grow, and his verse on Drake’s new ‘Forever’ remix was the best on the track.

Kid Cudi’s name has spread like wildfire in the music industry, and TI continues to maintain his popularity; yet neither of them appear on the list.

Canadians may be excited, though, to see young Toronto native Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham crack the top three. The MC has been one of the busiest in the music industry this year, quickly building relationships with the most powerful names in Hip Hop. Names like Lil Wayne, Kanye West and most notably Jay-Z.

While his new album, The Blueprint III, isn’t considered by Jay-Z fans as his strongest album, his ranking at the top of Hip Hop is long overdue. He was even given a stamp of approval from New York Governor David Paterson: “I can personally attest to his commitment to New York and the impact he has on New Yorkers of all ages,” he said.

If the list surprises – or angers – you, you’re not alone. Comments on the MTV website aren’t very supportive of the compiled list, and a few fans were especially vocal on omission of Eminem. While the MCs that made the list are deserving of recognition at this point, expect the list to be drastically different next year.

Raekwon and 50 Cent Kick of Hip Hop Top 10

Stephen Baldwin — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:09:02 +0000

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MTV has compiled their list of the top ten, “Hottest MC’s in the Game,” and they’re releasing each name one by one.
The criteria for the top 10 list are: lyrics, flow, impact, buzz, sales and intangibles. MTV has put together an expert panel of their most educated hip hop critics to rate the current talent and success of today’s top hip hop artists.
Number 10 on the list is Wu-tang Clan member Raekwon (aka Raekwon the chef). While Raekwon’s public exposure has never been particularly high, he is one of the most talented artists in the music industry. His album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.. Part II, released September 8, 2009, was critically acclaimed by all major music and hip hop outlets; debuting at number four on the Billboard 200. This was his fourth solo album along with the numerous Wu Tang albums to which he was an integral asset. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Part II reaches back to those Wu tang roots with raw hip hop verses and classic beats (produced by hip-hop giants RZA, Dr Dre, The Alchemist and Eric Sermon and many others).

Number 9 on the list was hip-hop heavyweight 50 cent. While he hasn’t released an official album since Curtis in 2007, 50 released one of the most impressive mix-tapes of the year, War Angel. The mix-tape showed fans that 50 is still first and foremost dedicated to his musical craft. Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson is in the process right now of completing his fourth studio album, “Before I Self Destruct”. The album was scheduled to be released in late 2008, but instead was re-worked and improved for the new release date of November 17. Like Raekwon, Jackson has the top producers in the music industry working on his album including Dr Dre, Timbaland and Eminem, to name a few.If the recently released track Flight 187 is any indicator of the style of this new album, Jackson’s fans will be pleased. The song has a classic 50 cent flow with a relaxed yet cold-blooded tone.

A few of the MTV panellists disagreed with 50 cent’s spot in the top 10, citing his lack of recent albums and inactivity in the industry this year. Other’s were quick to defend his mix-tapes, current hype of his upcoming album defended by over one million Youtube hits on the Flight 187 music video, and intangibles like numerous public appearances and fan recognition.

After 50 cent and Raekwon’s ranking, the anticipation is building as to who will complete the top 10 list. The video of the panel discussion includes glimpses of Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, TI and most notably for Canadians, rapper/singer Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham. Tune in to MTV October 4th at 10 p.m. for the “Hottest MC’s in the Game” top five.

Rant ‘N Rave: Best/Worst of March

Irene Ogrodnik — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:13:46 +0000

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When it comes to Hollywood, as the old and overused saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad press.

But we know that’s just bull. Such a line is used for people who, let’s face it, crave bad publicity because they realize others have finally caught onto their uselessness and lack of talent.

Lindsay Lohan, I’m looking at you.

Yet somehow, the month of March barely gave us any of these headliners. Quite impressive considering Tinseltown is full of train wrecks and yesterday’s news.

So, as usual, here are the best and worst moments in entertainment, music, and everything else pop culture that this month had to offer.

BEST:

5) Jessica Simpson’s “New” Bod: I actually wasn’t sure if this headline was a good one or a bad one. But it’s sad when a size two Jessica Simpson is classified as “huge” by various media outlets. Mind you, this is the same media that, one minute later, will question why young Hollywood’s caloric intake consists solely of air and water (it’s not as appetizing as it sounds. Seriously). Either way, recent photos show the country singer has slimmed down—and still maintained her curvy figure—proving that she still can have junk and look hot.

4) Aniston takes out the trash. Again: Apparently Mayer’s tweeting ways really pissed off Aniston to the point that she dumped the fame-whore. Yet Mayer claims he is not addicted to Twitter. However, this is the guy who practically runs after paparazzi/TMZ just to get THEIR attention. Yeah, I don’t buy it.

3) Desperate Housewife Gets Shocked: I still love Desperate Housewives. Even if it’s somewhat predictable. And while Nicollette Sheridan’s character should’ve died about three times already on the show, her recent accident may just be the end for her. Then again, she may “shock” us and come back. I mean, this is the woman who survived horrible relationships and an accidental attempted suicide. She’s a fighter.

2) Earth Hour: If you turned off your lights for one hour during Earth Hour, you are pretty cool. This moment is quite the cultural movement as it requires millions of people around the world to commit one act simultaneously—in hopes of making the world a better place. But if you are one of those few who threw an “anti-Earth Hour” party and turned on ALL your lights just to spite your neighbours, in the words of Red Foreman, “thanks dumbass.”

1) FNL is back: Today, I found out that the best show on television is back for another two seasons. Only bad news? Some of the most beloved cast members may not be back including the characters Matt Saracen, Tim Riggins and Lyla Garrity. FML.

WORST:

5) Junos. They suck: Did anyone actually watch these awards this year? Wait; does anyone ever watch this show? I tried my best to follow (really I did) but even Russell Peters couldn’t save this lame excuse that claims it celebrates “real Canadian talent.”

4) T.I. Goes to the Slammer: Is there any point of sending celebrities to prison? Really? We all know that most, if not all, serve less time (or no time at all) than regular folks anyway. And even if T.I does spend a year (or less) in prison, we all know his music career is far from being “Dead and Gone.” Oh come on, you saw that one coming.

3) Madonna finds Jesus, only to lose him. Again: Even though the Church doesn’t like her, Madonna somehow managed to proclaim “Hallelujah” once again after finding Jesus. Or did Jesus find her? Whatever. The point is, according to rumours, the cross burner songstress must’ve lost her faith because she dumped Jesus. Hmm, this is not what the Bible taught me…

2) Sienna Miller dreams the impossible: Miller needs to grab onto Madonna’s heavenly leftovers or pray really hard if she really wants the unfeasible to happen. After her much-publicized affair with Balthazar Getty, this actress now wants to mend bridges and bring back her good girl image. Ooh suggestion? Quit acting. You’re not that good anyway.

1) Richardson’s death: The news of Natasha Richardson’s death was tragic and heartbreaking, but people really need to stop reporting on how this actress could’ve still been alive if, among many other things, she accepted medical care in the first place. Let it be.

T.I. Addresses His Upcoming Stint In Prison

Joelle Tomlinson — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 17:10:15 +0000

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Moments after a Northern Georgia District judge sentenced T.I. to one year and one day in prison on Friday (March 27), the rapper discussed his sentence at a press conference.

His sentence was in connection with felony weapons charges stemming from his October 2007 arrest on the eve of the BET Hip-Hop Awards, reports mtvnews.com.

“It brings me great pleasure and honor to say to you today that I have begun to close this chapter in my life with, of course, the help and blessings of the U.S. attorneys and the courts of the U.S. government.”

T.I. continued to the crowd of assembled media, “I would like to thank all who have helped me throughout my journeys, along my journey, including my attorneys, all of the foundations and all of the organizations who have helped me align myself with people who see to it that I seek out my wishes and intentions to the best of my ability.”

Although T.I. maintained a positive message throughout the press conference and seemed genuinely content with the outcome, he did address the sobering fact that he will be in jail for the next year and a day.

“Although I am not thrilled about my next year and a day, I am pleased that I am beginning the process of putting this all behind me. Thank you and I apologize to my family, to the young men, young women that I mentor. I hope that I can keep at least one, if not a million or more, from going down a similar path. I just want to say thank you.”

Radiohead Joins Grammy Performers List

Ilan Mester — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:55:46 +0000

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It was announced on Monday (January 26) that Radiohead would perform on the Grammy Awards show taking place on February 8. The band is up for five Grammys.

The performance at this year’s 51st annual Grammy Awards will mark Radiohead’s first live TV performance in the U.S. since 2000, not to mention the first time the band plays on the award show.

With Radiohead added to the list, three nominees for Album of the Year are set to perform at the award show. However, both Robert Plant and Alison Krauss who are nominated for their collaboration “Raising Sand,” and Ne-Yo have not been confirmed as performers.

Justin Timberlake and T.I. will also be performing at the awards. T.I. will be joining Jay-Z, Lil Wayne and Kanye West to perform their hit “Swagga Like Us.”

Other acts for the night include Katy Perry – who lends her song “I Kissed A Girl” for this year’s My Grammy Moment – Coldplay, Jennifer Hudson, the Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne, Carrie Underwood, among other performers.

T.I. Signs Three-Movie Deal

Eva Lam — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 17:10:14 +0000

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T.I. isn’t letting legal troubles – including an upcoming one-year stint in jail – interrupt his acting career.

The rapper, whose real name is Tip Harris, has signed a three-picture deal with Screen Gems that will kick off with the crime drama “Bone Deep.”

The movie, also starring Matt Dillon and British actor-musician Idris Elba, follows a group of bank robbers attempting to pull off a $20 million heist, while dodging the pursuits of a hardened Manhattan cop (Dillon).

T.I.’s second movie for Screen Gems will be a drama called “Boulevard;” the third movie has yet to be determined.

The rapper, whose past acting credits include “American Gangster” and “ATL,” will have to schedule his newest projects around his recent legal woes. He was sentenced in April to 1,000 hours of community service and will head to jail in early 2009 on charges of weapons possession.

Around that time, MTV will air an eight-episode reality show following T.I. through his community service this summer.

T.I.’s new album, “Paper Trails,” is due in stores Aug. 12.

T.I Released From Jail, Confined to House

andPOP Staff — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 16:11:31 +0000

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T.I and his alter-ego T.I.P will definitely have some alone-time to work out their differences.

An Atlanta judged ruled in favour of releasing the 27-year-old rapper from jail on $3 million bail but ordered the star be placed under strict house arrest.

T.I (whose real name is Clifford Harris) will be restricted to a suburban home and his movements will be tracked 24 hours a day by a private monitoring service, paid for by the Grammy winner himself. He will only be allowed to leave for hearings and court-approved medical appointments.

T.I. was arrested earlier this month for attempting to purchase three machine guns, two silencers and a pistol.

The self-proclaimed King of the South is no stranger to breaking the law and holds previous convictions on drug charges, as well as several probation violations.

As a convicted felon, it’s a federal offense for the emcee to possess any firearms.

T.I. Hit By Cup At Gig, Throws Out Fan

andPOP Staff — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:19:37 +0000

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Rapper T.I. halted an exclusive performance at a Hollywood hotel on Tuesday night to confront a fan who threw a cup at him.

The hip-hop star – real name Clifford Harris – was playing to a crowd of celebrities, including Hilary Duff and socialite Brody Jenner, at the Roosevelt Hotel when the incident took place.

T.I. immediately stopped his set, jumped offstage and worked his way through the audience to the guilty fan, who he then reportedly struck with his microphone.

The fan was then ejected from the venue, reports website TMZ.com.

T.I Almost Quit Music

andPOP Staff — Fri, 04 May 2007 15:37:52 +0000

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Rapper T.I almost quit music following the deaths of his newborn daughter and personal assistant last year.

The musician, real name Clifford Harris, says the double tragedy made him re-evaluate his life and career.

He says, “This is my life, this is the struggle I had to go through to bring myself to release another album.

“After all the stuff I went through following the success of King (last album), it took a lot to even muster the effort or even care enough about the world outside my circle to even care about doing another album.”

Ridley Scott Gets His Hip Hop On

andPOP Staff — Tue, 22 Aug 2006 11:43:45 +0000

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The cast of Ridley Scott’s new film is getting a little help from the world of hip hop.

Variety reports that rappers Common, TI, and RZA will star alongside Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe in the director’s crime drama “American Gangster.”

The film centres around Washington, who plays a Harlem crime leader who smuggled heroin into the U.S. via the coffins of soldiers killed in Vietnam.

Crowe plays the role of lead investigator into the incident.

The film’s script was penned by Steven Zaillian, know for his writing credits on movies like “Gangs of New York” and “Schindler’s List.”

The film, which has no set release date yet, will be co-produced by Scott and Brian Grazer.