Air Jordan Prime V (5) – ‘Laser’

A mix of the Air Jordan 1 Alpha with the iconic, Air Jordan V, the Air Jordan Prime V is set to drop in a ‘Laser’ colorway. A black upper, etched with a laser print thoughout the upper, with a varsity red on the outsole, inner linning and Jumpman on the heel and 3m tongue. Now these are available at Size?, so keep your eyes peel for these might be hitting a store near you. Via Sneakerfiles

PF Flyers - Center Hi & Cousy Lo - "Hickory Stripe"

One of the oldest basketball sneaker brands in existance, PF Flyers is cranking out new looks of two of their most popular archival models. Using the Center and Hall of Famer Bob Cousy's pro model as a canvas, PF has draped each shoe in a hickory stripe cloth material. Off-white rubber is used for the soles and toecaps, including the ribbed variation on the Center Hi. Minimal hits of red take care of branding and subtle detailing on each style. Via Sole Collector

Air Jordan Bin 23 Retro 5 Premio - New Images

Though an official release date hasn't been announced for the Premio Air Jordan Retro 5, the recent influx of online retailers receiving their shipments is an indication that we're not too far away. The last time we saw the Premio 5, a couple of the design cues had been changed to fit the more traditional Air Jordan 5 look.

Once again we'll take a look at the premium black leather shoe, which now sports the customary metallic silver 3M reflective tongue. Silver also works detailing on the midsole and the red Bin23 wax stamp is centered on the heel. A set of white laces pull things together on top, while a translucent outsole finishes things below.

You can pick up the Bin23 Retro 5 Premio with original box, bags and shoe trees early from Kicks-Crew. Via Sole Collector

Hip-Hop's Founding Father Kool Herc Hospitalized, In Need Of Financial Assistance

(AllHipHop News) Hip-Hop pioneer DJ Kool Herc is currently in the hospital suffering from an unknown health condition.

According to Gangstarr's DJ Premier, Kool Herc's health is deteriorating and he is in need of financial assistance, because he reportedly doesn't have health insurance.

"Kool Herc is very sick," DJ Premier revealed on his XM Satellite radio show Live From Headqcourterz. "For those that know about Hip-Hop, who we call the father of Hip-Hop, Kool Herc, is not doing well. It's funny how we have a father of a culture that still lives, where as in some cultures they are dead and gone even though they may still be worshipped or reflected on in some kind of way."

According to DJ Premier, he spoke to Herc, who revealed that he was in need of financial assistance because he didn't have medical coverage.

Kool Herc, 55, is recognized by music historians as the Founding Father of Hip-Hop for his style of "Break" DJ'ing, which isolates the rhythm of a particular portion of a record.

He is credited for laying the foundation for the most popular genre of music in the world, after a party he hosted at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, in the South Bronx.

DJ Kool Herc is also a community activist who led a multi-year effort to prevent the sale of 1520 Sedgwick to greedy real estate speculators.

In September of 2010, the building received a $5.6 million dollar federal loan that halted the sale of the building, allowing hundreds of tenants to keep their homes.

Additionally, the building has officially been recognized as the place Hip-Hop music during the party, which took place on August 11th, 1973.

"Being as though he is the man that set this whole culture off, y'all [the fans] should be willing any type of way you can." Via All Hip Hop

Nike Dunk High Supreme – Black – Sail – Pinstripe | Available on eBay

The first time Sneaker News showed you a sample pair of this Nike Dunk High Supreme, it came during the 2010 World Cup, and we couldn’t help but poke fun at the infamous Zidane head-butt incident from the 2006 World Cup. Of course these have no connection to football, but the French connection these Dunk Highs have just gave us another reason to recall one of the funniest moments in sports history. All jokes aside, this Zoom-cushioned Dunk High Supreme offers a level of luxury rarely seen in the retro-friendly Dunk High, using a pinstriped canvas upper and red/white/blue tab at the heel. These recently dropped at Nike Sportswear accounts so you can find them in stores now, but save yourself the trouble by picking up a pair from 95soleman on eBay. Via Sneaker News

Nike Air Max Penny 1 – Black – Varsity Royal – White | 2011 Retro

The Nike Air Max Penny 1 is undoubtedly one of the best ‘debut’ signature shoes in Nike history. A fat, juicy Max Air bubble on the heel, the enlarged jeweled swoosh, the pinstriped tongue – it was a beauty of a creation fitting for the most exciting and marketable player in the game that wasn’t named Michael Jordan. The Nike Air Max Penny 1 was confirmed for a 2011 release by Sneaker News last year, so here’s a look at the version set to drop in the coming months; not much has changed, and that’s clearly a good thing because the Penny 1 was a near-flawless shoe. Check out these new detailed images below and stick with Sneaker News for more information regarding this Air Max Penny 1 release. via Kinetics & Sneaker News

Lil Wayne is “Highly Focused” on Tha Carter IV, David Banner Says

Lil Wayne once titled a track after Kobe Bryant. He’s now drawing comparisons to the NBA superstar. David Banner, who spun Tha Carter III standout “La La,” described the Young Money star to XXLMag.com as “highly focused,” right now on his follow up album.

“Wayne is like Kobe Bryant right now,” Banner told XXL. “You know, as Kobe gets older all he cares about is championships. Wayne is in that zone. He’s highly focused and very sharp right now.”

Young Money General Mack Maine told XXLMag.com yesterday (January 27) that Wayne is almost finished with the eagerly awaited Carter IV LP. “I was in the studio all night workin’ on this Carter IV,” he told XXL. “We got David Banner coming in tonight, so hopefully he’ll come with somethin’. We try to make sure — he kind of makes every album. He made Tha Carter III, and made [We Are Young Money].”

The Mississippi sound architect wouldn’t confirm his collaboration with Weezy last night.
Aside from Banner, other producers reportedly on board for Tha Carter IV include Swizz Beatz, Detail, Boi-1da, and Kanye West. Carter IV is tentatively slated for April 2011. — Henry Adaso for XXL

Chris Brown Asks Judge to Remove Restraining Order Against Rihanna

Nearly two years after his assault on Rihanna, Chris Brown appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom Friday (Jan. 28) for a progress report where his attorney requested the removal of the restraining order against his client.

The “Yeah 3X” singer, dressed in a shawl sweater, button-up shirt, and tie, sat before Judge Patricia Schnegg with his lawyer Mark Geragos. After telling the judge that his client had completed his 52-week domestic violence counseling, Geragos asked that she remove the existing restraining order against Brown, reports RadarOnline.com.

“It makes it difficult at award shows and such,” said Geragos.

Before the request can be granted, Rihanna’s attorney must approve of the modification from a “stay away” order to a “do not annoy.” Brown is scheduled to remain on probation until 2014.

Despite his three nominations, the 21-year-old star’s rep recently told the AP that he was not currently scheduled to attend next month’s Grammy Awards. Via This Is 50

Air Jordan XIII (13) Low Black/ Chutney Sales Sample

By February 26, 2011 all OG colorways of the Air Jordan XIII will have made a retro appearance with the exception of the two OG low tops. Personally, I wish they would retro the low version in the Black/Navy Blue & Black/Chutney CW’s instead of releasing a re-retro of the ‘Taxi’ AJXII Low.

Check out these Sales Samples of what could have been with the OG ‘Chutney’ XIII Lows. Everything remains the same from the retailed version with the exception of the tongue. The OG had a black suede tongue that’s been seen on the ‘Bred’ AJXIII; these samples have a chutney mesh tongue giving it an extremely interesting look. Via Sneakerfiles

Nation Of Hardwear: Gotta Tee

And now a few words from Nation Of Hardwear: Our first drop of 2011 is the "GOTTA" tee! OK, there's a lot of "stuff" going on here and I'm sure you can figure MOST of it out BUT if not there is an explaination ... it's currently AVAILABLE for MENS PRE-ORDER this ones LIMITED to only 13 made of each size (Small - 3x) there's also a reason for that too, can you figure it out ... SHIPPING FEB 1ST!

Nation Of Hardwear Website Updates!

Head over to Nation Of Hardwear and check out the updates they've made to their page, new look, new year and oh yeah new stuff!

Fabolous & Ne-Yo Working On Collabo LP

Not only is Loso giving us a new mixtape, but he revealed to XXL that he and Ne-Yo are working on a joint album. The project is rumored to be produced in it’s entirety by Ryan Leslie. Welcome to the best of both worlds.

“I think this year too I might be doing this project with Ne-Yo finally,” he told XXL. “We’ve been in talks for a minute. It’s really sounding like it’s gonna get done. Ne-Yo is really hyped about it. I just fell back on it, but now I see the wheels are turning a little bit. I think we need that for the game. Some of the allure from the game is gone. You see people doing less numbers, so now let’s do some vanity projects where people are collaborating together.” Via This Is 50

Air Jordan IX (9) – ‘Olive’ – Original Samples

First released back in 1993 the Air Jordan IX ‘Olive’ was as instant classic, the shoe also sold out quickly when it was retroed back in 2002. While some may have not seen a original pair of ‘Olives’ yet, the people at Footlocker have brought us images of not only originals, but samples of the originals. Yes, original samples of an infamous Air Jordan colorway. Continue reading to see more images of the shoe and that no details have changed from the samples and the og pairs that released. via Footlockerunlocked. Via Sneakerfiles

Picture Of The Day: 01.28.11

Is This The New Nike SB Box?

Big news: Fans to pick the Skills Challenge participants

Do you like watching players dribble through cones? What about uncontested jumpers from the top of the key? And seeing guys try to make bounce passes into peach baskets? You'd be a fool if you didn't answer yes to all three questions, and that's why the Taco Bell Skills Challenge is perhaps the most popular of All-Star Weekend events.

But it sometimes seems a little stuffy, in large part because the league picks the participants. That's why, this year, Taco Bell is putting the vote in the hands of the fans. Let's all celebrate with a Five Buck Box! It rocks, it rocks!

Chris Paul has already been named to the competition, but here are your choices for his four challengers: Baron Davis, Tyreke Evans, Derek Fisher, Tony Parker, Stephen Curry, Derrick Rose, John Wall, and Russell Westbrook. How could you possibly narrow that list down?

Everyone here is an established star or up-and-comer with the notable exceptions of Baron Davis and Derek Fisher. Those two are likely only included because the festivities are being held at Staples Center. Or maybe they changed the rules this year and ill-advised jumpers are part of the obstacle course. I also heard that Fisher lobbied to start a Most Impressive Yet Ineffective Defensive Stance Challenge, but no one else wanted to participate.

It's hard to pick just four players when everyone involved is so deserving, but here's my attempt (in order of preference): Wall, Westbrook, Rose, and Evans. It's always fun to see youngsters try their hand at the course against a wily veteran like CP3. You might have thought that there wasn't room for any more exciting subplots in the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, but you were wrong. Via Ball Don't Lie

Q-Tip, Slum Village to Perform at J Dilla Benefit Show

The J. Dilla Foundation, in association with XXL magazine, is proud to present the “One Won’t Do Pt. 2: A J Dilla Tribute and Fundraiser” at DROM Nightclub in New York City.

The tribute/fundraiser will feature live performances by Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest alongside Slum Village, Illa J and music by Mick Boogie & DJ Metaphysic.

The mission of The J Dilla Foundation is to help inner city music programs. The foundation was started by Maureen Yancey; the mother of the late Grammy-award winning record producer James “J Dilla” Yancey. Dilla passed away in 2006 after a struggle with Lupus.

In an interview with DromNYC Maureen said, “One of the things he wanted me to do with his legacy was to use it to help others – kids who were musically gifted but had little hope due to poverty. It is the foundation’s hope that by funding and encouraging such progressive music curricula, young prodigies, and music enthusiast alike will have the tools and support they need to flourish and become successful within the entertainment industry.”

The show is set for Thursday, February 3. Doors open at 8 p.m. EST and the show starts at 9. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door you can purchase them at www.dromnyc.com. —Michael Naclerio for XXL

Supra Stacks – Spring 2011 Colorways

Terry Kennedy just received an unprecedented third signature sneaker from Supra in the form of the Society Mid, but we can’t forget about the second. The Supra Stacks was designed as a contrast to the ultra-high TK Society, its simple design a breath of fresh air as compared to the Society High’s ostentatious strap setup. There are a ton of new colorways on tap for spring, all of which are simply blocked but add some personality thanks to clever contrast hits. Pretty much every pair keeps it to three colors or less, with highlights including a black suede and canvas pair with teal and red plus a grey pair with the same upper material blocking that features the first translucent sole we’ve seen from the Crown brand. Grab these directly from Supra. Via Sneaker News

Air Jordan III GS – White – Light Grey – Red | April 2011

2011 is the Year of the Air Jordan III, with a number of releases already confirmed and scheduled for the twenty-sixth year of the Air Jordan. With Jordan Brand making more of a concerted effort to appeal to the generation of young girls, this Girls-only Air Jordan III, set for an April 2011 release, should further stamp the Jumpman brand into girls’ footwear repertoire. This upcoming Air Jordan III for girls features a Bulls-friendly combination of white, light grey, and red, which may remind you of an original colorway that never released (think White/Cement III with a red heel bumper instead of black). Via ruvilla & Sneaker News

Air Jordan III – ‘True Blue’ 2011 Retro | Available Early on eBay

If you haven’t realized it yet, 2011 will be a great year for AJ3 enthusiasts. Three of the four original colorways will have released by year’s end, one of which is the ‘True Blue’ colorway that is slated for a June 2011 release. The question is: Will the Air Jordan III True Blue 2011 Retro release with the special box inspired by the original? Whether or not the OG-inspired elephant print box was a one-time deal or a standard for all Air Jordan III releases, but it appears that even the Air Jordan III ‘Black History Month’ will come with the elephant print box. Going back to the True Blue III, it will be another five months until a release, but one pair just because available at a fair price considering how much earlier you’ll get them in your hands. Take a look at these new images of the 2011 Retro of the Air Jordan III ‘True Blue’ and pick up this size 10 pair from chrome-knight on eBay. Via Sneaker News

NEW ERA JAPAN「Drinks Logo」59Fifty Fitted Caps

Looks like NEW ERA JAPAN got with a bunch of different beverage companies to drop some fitteds of vintage and current drink labels. Soon you’ll be able to rep the drink you like the most and reveal that sweet tooth you got. I know I’ll be all over the Dr. Pepper cap when it drops. No known release date yet. Via Strictly Fitteds

Picture Of The Day: 01.27.11

BRRRR?

Diddy to Play Cop on Hawaii Five-0

CBS’s new hit “Hawaii Five-0″ seems to be taking a liking to rappers.

According to Yahoo! News, Diddy will appear on an upcoming episode of the crime/drama show, playing and NYPD Detective who heads to Honolulu in search of a group of men who committed a crime against his family. In addition to appearing in the show himself, a collection of Diddy’s songs will also be featured in the episode, according to CBS.

In November, Nas appeared on the show in a brief role as a suspect in an investigation.

Last year, Puff appeared in the Russell Brand and Jonah Hill flick Get Him to the Greek, playing a demanding record exec; many fans and critics alike agreed that it was a scene-stealing role.

The episode of Hawaii Five-0 is set to air this spring. —Adam Fleischer for XXL

Even Blake Griffin has limits, says Vinny Del Negro

At this point in the season, you're probably familiar with Blake Griffin's near-mythical game. He causes earthquakes with every dunk, leaps mountains in a single bound, and brushes his teeth with conifer trees. There are seemingly no limits to what he can do on the basketball court, which is what makes his future so exciting. We have no idea which great feats we might see every time he sees the floor.

With Eric Gordon set to miss three weeks with a wrist fracture, Griffin would seem to need to take on an even bigger scoring load. But according to Clippers head coach Vinny Del Negro, that might not be possible.

From Lisa Dillman in the Los Angeles Times:

"I don't know if we can go to Blake much more than we do already," Clippers Coach Vinny Del Negro said Tuesday.

It's going to take a collective effort, and then some. The loss of Gordon looms large and cast a shadow over an already troubled Clippers season. The shooting guard could be out until after the All-Star break because of an injured wrist. [...]

Rookie point guard Eric Bledsoe(notes) spoke about the loss of Gordon and what it meant to Griffin. "He helps Blake out," Bledsoe said. "So we just need somebody to help Blake out. I think somebody will step up. I think it will probably be Baron [Davis] or somebody off the bench."

With all that Griffin's accomplished this year, it's odd to think of him as someone who can't take on a greater load, let alone someone who has needed and will continue need help to achieve greatness. He plays with such otherworldly force that he seems to control his position on the floor at all times. He's both of the larger Clippers system and apart from it.

He's still a basketball player, though, and he relies on players like Gordon and Davis to get him the ball and open up scoring opportunities. The question might not be if Griffin can take on a greater role in Gordon's absence, but if he can even match his current numbers.

These next few weeks will be an important test of Griffin's impact. If he's able to maintain or improve on his numbers even without his team's best perimeter scoring threat, then he may be able to become one of the NBA's elite superstars sooner than anyone has predicted. If not, well, he's still the league's most watchable player. It's a win-win, I suppose. Via Ball Don't Lie

Larry Johnson wants to sell you some sweet tea

Larry Johnson is selling his own brand of sweet tea, and that's something I can get behind.

Even if sweet tea is abhorrent to me. I need a thirst to be quenched, not to be enhanced or dehydrated even further with the presence of all manner of glucose and fructose and iCrose or whatever the kids are taking in these days. The leaf is the thing, to me, not the pound of sugar, which is why it's doubly frustrating when my local Village Pantry (seriously) stopped selling unsweetened bottles of Lipton Iced Tea in favor of "Extra Sweet" bottles of the stuff, to put alongside the already-sweetened version. Gross.

But anything that LJ does gets a thumbs-up from me. And here's the description, courtesy of Hall of Fame Beverages:

Inspired by the sweet tea from his childhood in Texas and from the famous character created in his series of commercials for Converse, Larry will be introducing the Grandmama's Sweet Southern Tea in the coming months. This line of flavored teas is currently in development and will come in sweetened natural flavors reminiscent of the cool refreshment from hot summer afternoons sitting on the porch at Grandmama's house.

Nobody makes iced tea the way your Grandmama makes it!! Via Ball Don't Lie

Picture Of The Day: 01.26.11

Flava Flav Opens Up 'Flav's Fried Chicken' In Iowa...

L.E.P. Bogus Boys Offered Deals From Sony & Warner

Following the successful release of their latest mixtape, Don’t Feed the Killaz Vol. 3, Dec./Jan. 2011 XXL Show and Prove alums, L.E.P. Bogus Boys are fielding a lot of offers from the majors.

“The labels are calling right now, Warner called, E1 called, Sony called,” Count told XXL. “So we just want to make sure that you know we’re kind of having fun right now doing it ourselves and having our own control. Before we decide we’re going to jump in another deal we want to make sure we do everything we can and see if we can go nationally with it, and see if a label can even do what we need to do. If not we’ll just keep doing us.”

Signed to Sony back in the mid 2000s, the Chi-Town duo got lost in the shuffle when the label’s Urban Division shut down. Since leaving, L.E.P. have been making a lot of noise on the blog sites and in their Chicago hometown, especially of the success of their Coodie & Chike directed videos for “Going In for the Kill” and “Ginger.”

Count tells XXL that the group is currently working with the fellow Windy City duo on a full movie entitled The Bogus Boys.

In addition, Count and Moonie are recording a new street album called Now or Neva. —Jesse Gissen for XXL

Kicks Hawaii x Reebok Court Victory Pump

Kicks/HI (Kicks Hawaii) and Reebok are back at it again. This time around Kicks/HI offers their personalized rendition of the super popular Reebok Court Victory Pump. The final outcome features a canvas upper, green accents, speckled midsole, and white accents. We can’t forget to mention the Kicks/HI logo, seen on the side. The Kicks/HI Reebok Pumps are currently available at Undefeated and select Rbk accounts. Via The Shoe Game

Drake Considers Recording Full 'Reggae' Album

(AllHipHop News) Canadian rapper Drake recently revealed that he is exploring the option of dropping a Reggae album, which he may start working on at the end of his European tour.

Drake appeared on the Canadian network MuchMusic, where he broke the news during an interview with T. RexXx on the Hip-Hop show Rap City.

"I wanna do something for Jamaica, because we are supposed to go out there and record after the European tour," Drake said. "I was like send me some rhythms that are poppin and I'll see what I can do. He sent me some rhythms that are poppin, so I'll see what I can do. You never know."

Drake's possible Reggae project comes on the heels of reports that he will collaborate with award-winning indie rock band Florence and The Machine, as well as The xx.

Drake is currently in negotiations to star in the financial thriller "Arbitrage" alongside veteran actor Al Pacino.

The news of a full album could quite possibly draw the wrath of the Jamaican government, who condemned Drake's last collaboration with an artist from Jamaica.

In May of 2010, Jamaica's Minster of Tourism spoke out against the portrayal of the country in Drake's hit song with dancehall artist Mavado titled "Find Your Love."

"We just have to say that care has to be taken by all, including our creative artistes, in portraying images of our destination and people," Bartlett told the Jamaican Gleaner. "Gun culture, while not unique to Jamaica, is not enhancing (the island's image)." Via All Hip Hop

Air Jordan XII (12) Low ‘Taxi’ Now Available

Air Jordan XII (12) Low Retro will be back at retailers this year. While this release is nice, we could use a mid top retro of the AJXII ‘Obsidian’.

The only noticeable change from this year’s release when compared to the ’04 Retro is the sock liner. The OG mid had a black liner, the low had a black lined tongue and a white sock liner. These look like an exact replica of the OG in low top form, which is a nice touch.

The AJXII Low ‘Taxi’ is now available at online retailer VMVinc. Via Sneakerfiles

Air Jordan 2011 – Officially Unveiled

Jordan Brand has officially unveiled the Air Jordan 2011 – the twenty-sixth chapter in the storied Air Jordan Legacy. Drawing inspiration from a warrior’s mentality and boasting two different cushioning response systems, the Air Jordan 2011 adds a unique flavor the already eclectic Air Jordan catalogue. To be ‘Quick’, one can use the Zoom-cushioned insole, which features forefoot and heel Zoom Air and a composite woven plate for midfoot support and torsional rigidity, or an ‘Explosive’ option that features a 3/4-length Max Air unit in a Cushlon midsole for a softer ride. The Air Jordan 2011 also features a lightweight external structure with perforations for breathability and an Internal Locking System which contains the forefoot and heel into place. Just last night, Sneaker News gave you a look at four upcoming colorways for the month of February, but here’s a thorough, detailed look at the Air Jordan 2011 to get your feet wet. Via Sneaker News

Air Jordan CMFT Max Air 12 ‘Cool Grey’

You might have had your fill with the ‘Cool Grey’ bonanza, but here’s an upcoming Jordan release that’s worthy the energy; the Jordan CMFT Max Air 12 will release in February with a ‘Cool Grey’ motif, utilizing a combination of tonal-grey perforated nubuck and nylon on the upper with a white midsole and the translucent outsole (something that was missing the Jordan CMFT Viz Air 11 ‘Cool Grey’). Slated to drop in the first weekend of February with a $140 price-tag, the ‘Cool Grey’ Max Air 12 perfectly emulates the Cool Grey XI motif while maintaining its own identity with the different materials. Via Sneaker News

New Fitteds @ ROCK-N-JOCKS: Custom NEW ERA x MLB「Cubs」59Fifty Cubs 59Fifty Fitted Caps

ROCK-N-JOCKS latest custom creation is this Chicago Cubs New Era 59Fifty fitted. This cap is designed in a Gucci inspired color way. The crown and bill are Hunter Green with the bottom of the bill in Red. The Cub logo is embroidered up front of the hat in Gold and Red. The M.L.B. logo is back of the hat has the embroidered in Hunter Green, Red, and Gold. With only 30 total pieces in stock you better hurry over and pick this hat up exclusively from http://www.rocknjocks.com/ Via Strictly Fitteds

Reebok Insta Pump Fury ‘Tent Pack’

We just saw a pack of Reebok Insta Pump Furys ‘warning’ you with their crazy patterned uppers, but there’s very little to worry about with these new joints. Not only are the two-toned colorways from the Insta Pump Fury ‘Tent Pack’ easy to rock with a casual wardrobe, but they won’t collapse in on you when you’re trying to put them on like their muse. These are somewhat similar to the nylon flight jacket joints we saw last year but something about these colorways just screams outdoors. Via Gettry & Sneaker News

Nike Air Force 1 Duck Boot – Black/Black

Although hopefully this winter season doesn’t linger on for too much longer, Nike has prepared a special Air Force 1 Duck boot for when you have to lace up in something more heavy-duty. Pictured here is an all-black Nike boot that obviously draws inspiration from the Nike Air Force 1 silhouette that most of us have come to really like. If you like what you see, or even if you don’t, let us know it in the comments section. Also, you can start finding these at participating Nike retailers both online and in stores now. Via Sneakerfiles

Picture Of The Day: 01.25.11

Ice Cube Launches Tour Of United States In February

(AllHipHop News) West Coast Hip-Hop veteran Ice Cube has announced a 28-date tour of the United States in support of his latest album, I Am The West.

Ice Cube, who is also a successful movie and television director, will head through the U.S. starting on February 24th, at the popular Belly Up nightclub in Aspen, Colorado.

He will visit major markets like Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, New York, Chicago and Hollywood, before winding down the tour on April 3rd in Bakersfield, California.

Ice Cube, who released I Am The West in September via his Lench Mob Records, premiered the second season of his hit TV show "Are We There Yet?" on TBS earlier this month.

Tour dates are below:

Feb. 24 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
Feb. 25 - Albuquerque, NM - Sunshine Theatre
Feb. 26 - Boulder, CO - Boulder Theater
Mar. 1 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Mar. 2 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Mar. 3 - Baton Rouge, LA - Varsity Theatre
Mar. 5 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage
Mar. 6 - Asheville, NC - The Orange Peel
Mar. 7 - Baltimore, MD - Bourbon Street
Mar. 8 - New York, NY- B.B. King Blues Club
Mar. 10 - South Burlington, VT - Higher Ground Ballroom
Mar. 11 - Buffalo, NY - The Town Ballroom
Mar. 12 - Milwaukee, WI - Eagles Ballroom
Mar. 13 - Chicago, IL - MID
Mar. 15 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue
Mar. 17 - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan - Tequila Nightclub
Mar. 18 - Lethbridge, Alberta - Bully's
Mar. 19 - Calgary, Alberta - Flames Central
Mar. 22 - Vancouver, British Columbia - Commodore Ballroom
Mar. 23 - Victoria, British Columbia - Club 9One9
Mar. 25 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Mar. 26 - Seattle, WA - Showbox at the Market
Mar. 27 - Bend, OR - Midtown Rink
Mar. 29 - Chico, CA - Senator Theatre
Mar. 30 - West Hollywood, CA - House of Blues
Apr. 1 - Anaheim, CA - Grove of Anaheim
Apr. 2 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Apr. 3 - Bakersfield, CA - Majestic Fox Theater

Via All Hip Hop

adidas Crazy 8 Returns in 2011

News Flash: adidas Crazy 2011 releases.

The popular adidas Crazy 8 will return soon and will be available at a store near you. adidas Basketball brought the Crazy 8 back in 2005, and now they are hitting fans with OG and news colors of the Crazy 8. Look for the adidas Crazy 8 to arrive at stores next month. Via The Shoe Game

Supra Skytop II “Air Max 95″ Spring 2011

Nike and Jordan Brand have inspired a lot of brands, and here we see that Supra took inspiration from the Neon Air Max 95 while designing this new Skytop 2.
As you can see, this Supra Skytop II features the same gradient design, mesh detailing, and colorway as the Neon Air Max 95. Look these Skytop II “Air Max 95″ to hit Supra dealers Spring 2011. via HS & The Shoe Game

Picture Of The Day: 01.22.11

adidas x Snoop Dogg – First Look

This collaboration between adidas and Snoop Dogg should come as no surprise. Snoop Dogg has been working very closely with adidas Originals, so we figured it was only a matter of time before they released a sneaker. The most notable feature is the eyes on the tongue from Snoop’s Doggystyle album. The Snoop Dogg sneaker is part of the adidas Originals Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Look for these shoes to hit stores soon. via HS & The Shoe Game

Air Jordan VII ‘Bordeaux’ – New Images

It ain’t no April Fools joke – the Air Jordan VII ‘Bordeaux’ is indeed releasing this April. It’s been a long nineteen years since the Bordeaux VII was last released, as it was the first Air Jordan VII colorway worn by Michael Jordan when he rocked them during the ’92 All-Star Game. Sneaker News even featured the Bordeaux last year for one of its Classics Revisited features, and we even had the original box that featured the ‘Oreo’ print. With the Air Jordan III White/Cement Grey receiving a special OG-inspired box, should we expect the same for this upcoming Retro release? That certainly would be the cherry on top of the highly anticipated release, wouldn’t it? Here’s another detailed look at the 2011 version of the Air Jordan VII Bordeaux; take a look at the entire gallery and let us know if these are a must have for you. via kickz-lab & Sneaker News

Air Jordan CMFT Viz Air 13 – Black – Sport Red – White | New Images

Here’s another look at the upcoming Air Jordan CMFT Viz Air 13; although it is inspired by the Air Jordan XIII (given by the nylon upper and heeltab), you can’t help but attribute this particular colorway to the Air Jordan XI ‘Bred’ due to the black patent leather mudguard and the translucent red outsole. These new images shed light on a few more details of the CMFT 13 that are shared with the AJ13, like the shape of the mudguard and the heel panel. Perhaps the use of a small jewel similar to the panther eye or the ‘JORDAN’ tab found on the base of the lace placket would’ve solidified these as a true Air Jordan XIII-inspired release, but time will tell if any changes will be made. via modernnotoriety. Via Sneaker News

Q-Tip Checks Michael Rapaport Over Documentary Comments

(AllHipHop News) The beef between Rapper Q-Tip and Actor/director Michael Rapaport over an upcoming documentary on legendary Hip-Hop group A Tribe Called Quest continued last night, over the contents of the film.

Q-Tip took to his Twitter account earlier this morning (January 21st) and responded to Rapaport's recent comments on Q-Tip's lack of support for the documentary, which is slated to be shown at The Sundance Film Festival. "

The director of the film cannot speak to what is in my head abt the documentary," Q-Tip tweeted. "nor can this director EVER say the i dont speak for the group. when i say i do then belive [sic] me i do tribe is no different than any other collective. we experience bumps bruises and disagreements then and we still do."

Rapaport is directing the documentary on A Tribe Called Quest, through interviews, archival footage and behind-the-scenes clips. The documentary chronicles the group's inception to their present-day status as icons in the world of Hip-Hop.

Q-Tip first voiced his dissatisfaction with the documentary in December, when he revealed he would not support the film because "the filmmaker" did not "respect the band's wishes' regarding certain scenes in the film.

Last week in an interview with MTV News, Rapaport defended the documentary's contents and surmised that the Q-Tip "did the little Twitter thing" because he may have gotten "a little nervous" about the film's release.

"I think the reason he did his little Twitter thing was because when he realized that the movie was coming to completion and going to get seen by people," Rapaport said.

Q-Tip shot down that notion of nerves. The rapper, who has 20-plus years of experience in music business, said that he would simply not be taken "advantage" of regarding his complaints about the film and possible changes.

"Knowing our history and our messages in our music we will NEVER be taken advantage of like we were in the past. we dont care who it is," the rapper tweeted.

And while the public spat between Rapaport and Q-Tip over the documentary continues, Q-Tip was sure to remind fans that he was humbled by the interest shown in A Tribe Called Quest's story.

"We are truly thankful for your interest in our music and your interest in this flattering look at our career," Q-Tip said.

Q-Tip is currently working on an untitled book, but no more details are available about the upcoming project as of press time. Via All Hip Hop

Kimbo Slice returns to ring for the fake stuff ... pro wrestling

He began his fighting career as a novelty act and after trying mixed martial arts for three years, it looks like Kimbo Slice is returning to the novelty side of things. Plenty of MMA promoters have been asked about Kimbo as an MMA fighter, but no one has bitten. Now he's headed to the world of fake fighting.

Kimbo will be part of an eight-man pro wrestling tournament and will face Wakakirin Shinichi. He is the smaller of the two sumo wrestlers in the match below. Even in the fake stuff, Kimbo better keep his chin tucked and watch out for those vicious slaps. Wakakirin beat this guy silly with his slaps. The big guy could hardly stand at the end of the fight.



Wakakirin, 27, is a bit of a villain in Japan. He turned to pro wrestling after being banned from the world of sumo for marijuana possession. He pled guilty and received a suspended sentence of three years. Wakakirin also forfeited his pension of $5.3 million Yen per year. The Japanese take that ban very seriously. Wakakirin was scheduled to fight Bob Sapp at Dynamite!! 2010. The Japanese were not going to show the bout on free television.

Wakakirin's entry into pro wrestling was marked by a little controversy as well. He faced former UFC and PRIDE fighter Mark Coleman at IGF 13 in December. He defeated the MMA fighter, but Coleman's camp accused Wakakirin of straying from the script.

Kimbo hasn't fought since his UFC loss to Matt Mitrione back in May. After building his name through street-fighting videos on YouTube, Kimbo made the transition to MMA in 2007. He posted a 4-2 record, but there were questions about his dedication to training. He was 1-1 with the UFC, but also failed badly on the promotion's reality show "The Ultimate Fighter."

There were reports that the soon-to-be 37-year-old Kimbo was going into professional boxing, but he's yet to make his debut in the squared circle. Slice was going to work on the boxing side with the Shaws, Gary and son, Jared. That's been tabled for now.

"[Slice left the boxing training camp] due to some various injuries and to go film The Scorpion King. Upon his return, he didn’t show me any interest in boxing, so we just decided for right now to put it to the side," Slice’s former promoter Jared Shaw told FanHouse. Via Cagewriter

David Banner Inducted Into Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame

David Banner solidified his “Hometown Hero” status last night (January 19), as he was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame.

Noting the significance of being heralded by his native state, Banner said: “For so long we travel around the world as artists trying to find our place in the scheme of things. There is nothing like being recognized at home. Tonight I am honored and humbled to be in great musical company.”

Indeed, the Big Face Entertainment honcho is in elite company. Past inductees of MMHF include some iconic figures as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Howlin Wolf, Jimmy Buffett, and Elvis Presley.

Banner first made his mark in 1999 as one half of the duo Crooked Lettaz. His 2000 album, Them Firewater Boyz, Vol. 1, was dubbed one of the best rap discs of that year by XXL magazine. Along with releasing four more solo LPs, Banner has also delved into everything from acting (Black Snake Moan), to writing and producing a cartoon series (2007’s That Crook’d ‘Sipp), to providing the backdrop for Gatorade’s “Evolve” ad campaign. He also recently scored music for the animated Brad Pitt movie MegaMind and just last December, put out a collaborative album, Death of A Pop Star, with 9th Wonder. —Henry Adaso for XXL

Exclusive: Chamillionaire Talks 'Venom,' Explains Departure From Universal

(AllHipHop News) Rapper Chamillionaire sat down with AllHipHop.com and further explained his recent revelation that he has split with Universal Records, which was once home to the Grammy Award winning rapper and his label Chamillitary Records.

The rapper's third album Venom was delayed several times throughout 2010, due to creative differences between Chamillionaire and Universal, his recording home for the past six years.

"The reason why I haven't released any music for a while is because I was trying to get off of Universal," Chamillionaire explained to AllHipHop.com. "For a while I felt like I was fighting against the machine that was supposed to be supporting me."

According to Chamillionaire, Universal reps wanted him to record more "Pop" friendly records and pressured him to recreate his 2005 hit "Ridin' Dirty" with Krayzie Bone, which earned the pair a Grammy Award.

Instead of compromising the vision for his music, the tech-savvy artist refused to release his highly third album Venom during his dispute with the label.

As a result of his parting with Universal, Venom has been permanently shelved, along with all of the material Chamillionaire recorded during his deal with Universal.

"I left under the terms that I couldn't put out Venom or anything recorded while I was there," Chamillionaire revealed to AllHipHop.com.

While fans may be disappointed, the freedom clears the way for Chamillionaire to release more material, more in tune with his personal goals for his own music.

"I just wanted to be able to get back control so I can release content how and when I want to," Chamillionaire told AllHipHop.com. "These labels spend more time complaining about 'rap music' that isn't pop enough than actually supporting a brand and a vision."

Chamillionaire is working on a new series titled Playlist Poison. Via All Hip Hop

Nike Air Foamposite Pro – Retro – Black + Dark Pine | Fall 2011

Later this year we’ll see two of the cooler new Foamposite colorways in recent memory. The Nike Air Foamposite Pro keeps its recent trend of Foam One-style translucent soles for these new Dark Pine and Retro teal editions, both of which of course have black Swooshes on their side panels. The former is particularly interesting, because in the initial photos of the Retros, Dark Pines and that crazy LWP/Foam hybrid everybody’s buzzing about — in the initial photos the sample appeared to have been a Foamposite One, or at least didn’t have the Pro’s signature Swoosh. Now that we’re all on the same page, click the jump below to go to another one where we have more shots of these upcoming Foamposite Pro colorways and stick with Sneaker News for the exact release dates. via SFSC & Sneaker News