Billboard Top 3 Hip Hop Albums, What's Up DefJam, WTF Pitbull ?

Top 3 R&B/Hip Hop Albums

1. "Relapse" - Eminem - Shady/Aftermath/Interscope

2. "Back On My B.S." - Busta Rhymes - Universal/Motown

3. "Black Out 2" - Method Man and Redman - DefJam

Who is really surprised that "Relapse" is number one ? *Doesn't see any hands raised, moving on* "Back On My Bull Shit" is holding down the second slot for Busta Rhymes, while Red and Meth's "Black Out 2" is currently ranking third.

Universal Music Group (UMG), even during the so-called uncertain economic wave, is doing well enough to spend big money from the budget for marketing and promoting the top 2 albums really well.

My question is, how much is DefJam really investing to support the sequel to one of the most successful hit/award winning albums in their catalog ? Suspicions and rumours dictate that DefJam has fallen off, despite their incredibly talented roster of artists. I'm not so sure about that, but I wouldn't rule it out either.

What's up Def Jam ?

Is DefJam feeling the economic crunch, or are they just losing faith in their veteran (pushing legendary) hip hop artists ? Who knows, it's all speculation really...but speculation makes for good publicity. There only reason I make mention of the possible lack of support by DefJam, is because I actually read the Nielson Sound Scan numbers for these top 3 album sales.

Eminem's first week of sales went well (to say the least) selling 609,000 copies. While Red and Meth sold approximately 60,000 units, which is kind of dissapointing to see. Both albums leaked a week before release, and still one is doing extremely better in sales, although both were highly anticipated by fan followings.

Despite receiving glowing reviews and great fan support, the album is experiencing weak sales, however I'm sure these two will make a killing selling merchandise and touring around the world. Plus How High 2 (the sequel to their successful cult comedy) is due to be released but has been delayed due to undisclosed reasons. More rumours swirling around that one, but I will leave that one alone.

Don't fuck with Pitbull

Finally, I just have to say, it's hilarious when you find a situation that rap artist Pitbull has gotten himself into. If you've seen the video, you'll understand what I mean. Pitbull is apparently defending himself against charges for assault on a "fan" at one of his performances. The video shows a fan reaching out and latching onto the artist, who then proceeds to pull him onto the stage for some shine.

The "fan" (who couldnt have been much of one) then slapped Pitbull in the face with a bill of money. The artist then struct the disrespectful man in the face without missing a beat and continuing on with the performance. You should never assault your fans, but a real fan would not disrespect a performer infront of his audience during the show. If you ask me the man got what he "paid for". Pitbull gets a 1+ respect in my book, plus he's killing it on the radio and in the club with his latest joint.