R.I.P. Michael Jackson: The King Of Pop

When we think of some of the chart-topping artists of today, we think of Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Ne-Yo, Usher, etc. but when we analyze each of these artists' music, when we see its core and essence, we see Michael Jackson, "The King Of Pop", an inspiration to many of our artists today.

Today is truly a sad day. Music has lost a great. Michael Jackson has been reported to have died at the age of 50. Reports are saying that Jackson suffered a cardiac arrest Thursday afternoon. When paramedics arrived in his home, he was said to have no pulse, and the paramedics weren't able to get the pulse back.

Once they arrived at the hospital, the staff attempted to resucitate him, but were not successful.

Music legend Madonna has released this statement:

"I can't stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless."

At the time of his death, Michael was rehearsing for what was said to be his biggest comeback ever. He was scheduled for 50 shows at London Arena, which was set to begin on July 13th.

Jackson ranked alongside some of the biggest names in music, Elvis Pressley, and The Beatles. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, and his album, "Thriller" is still the best-selling album of all time. To this day, we still hear songs like "Billie Jean", "Beat It", and "Thriller" playing on our radios.

Michael Jackson is without a doubt the greatest entertainer of all time. He showed the world that it was possible for a man to "moonwalk", and his feverish, crotch-grabbing dance moves and high pitched singing defined a generation, my generation.

Quincy Jones released this statement:

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words. Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80's. To this day, the music we created together on "Off The Wall," "Thriller" and "Bad" is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all…talent, grace, professionalism and dedication. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever."

People often do not realize the effects of music on our lives. With a single song, a sad day can be turned around, it can inspire us, and a single song can lift us up, make us smile, and help us remember the days when we were happiest.

This was Michael Jackson's effect on the world. Jackson tore down walls that separated our nations, he united people of different races, and for a moment in the world's history, we sang in one voice.

People often ask me if I believed he had what it took to pull off a comeback, and I always replied, "without a doubt." Michael Jackson defined my childhood, and because of this, my heart is broken, and even wish that all this were untrue.

I remember listening to his music over and over, and watching his videos, I couldn't get enough. I even bought "Moonwalker" on DVD just a few years back.. To this day, I still listen to his music with my "King Of Pop" playlist on my iPod. Michael Jackson will always be an artist that I hold dear to my heart, and I think many can say the same. He has definitely shaped the man I've become, he is definitely the basis of my song selections today. To me, Michael Jackson will always be "The King Of Pop", as he has always been. I will always remember him and be grateful for what he gave my childhood, to all of us, his music, which will live on forever.

For those who witnessed his art, witnessed magic.

Michael Jackson has been the center of criticism in our media these past few years, but today, I believe that the whole world is in mourning, and for the last time, he's uniting the world.

Michael Jackson: 1958 - 2009

What do you think?

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Justin Timberlake x Polow Da Don Making Good Music...

Justin's producing skills are definitely showing tons of improvement, and Polow Da Don shows us why he's one of today's music's go-to-guy!

What do you think? Comment!!

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Video: Love, Sex & Magic By Ciara

Ciara's third single off her latest album, Fantasy Ride. The joint is produced by Justin Timberlake, and The Y's, and co-written by Timberlake.

"Love, Sex & Magic" is also VANTAGE's "Track Of The Month"

Download Below:

Love, Sex & Magic (feat. Justin Timberlake) - Ciara

Fantasy Ride In Stores May 5th!

What do you think? Comment!!

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JT Tequila?!?

It seems singer, Justin Timberlake is following in the footsteps of rapper, Diddy to release his own brand of alcohol! While Diddy released his own brand of vodka, Justin plans to release a frat favorite, Tequila!!

Justin has been spotted paying regular visits to a Mexican distillery in hopes to develop his own.

Now I know these celebrities have a lot of money, and most tend to venture into starting new businesses, but tequila? Really? I myself am a fan of the classics, my man Jose Cuervo, and Patron. Now would I really drink tequila from Justin? Uhm...guess we'll have to wait and find out!

Would you drink Justin's Tequila? Comment!

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Ciara: Love, Sex & Magic

For all you loyal VANTAGE readers, you guys might remember that I posted a song by Justin Timberlake titled, "Magic" a few months ago. I assumed that JT was back in the recording studio working on some new material, but I was wrong. The track was actually a leaked track from Ciara's upcoming album, Fantasy Ride. The song is produced by JT's partner in crime, Timbaland, and it features JT himself.

When I got the leaked track a few months ago, I thought that the track was tight. It was very smooth, and the beat was off the hook. But this version with Ciara is even better in my opinion!! I love the combination of these two! This is definitely a must-have!!

I've uploaded the leaked track as well for those who prefer the Justin only version.

And as always, these will only be up for a limited time, so get em while their hot!

Download Below:

Love, Sex & Magic - Ciara ft. Justin Timberlake

Love, Sex & Magic - Justin Timberlake

What do you think? Comment!!

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GQ's 10 Most Stylish Men

GQ introduces the 10 most stylish men on the issue of March 2009. The list includes, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, T.I., and Mark Ronson as well as actor/musician Jason Schwartzman and hotelier André Balazs. Check out the pictures.

What do you think? Do you agree?

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Grammy Performances

Coldplay perform "Lost" w/ Jay-Z & "Viva La Vida"

Kanye West, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, T.I. & M.I.A.- Swagga Like Us

T.I. & Justin Timberlake perform "Dead And Gone"

Estelle & Kanye West perform "American Boy"

What do you think of em'? Comment!!

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You Decide....

Greetings Readers!!

Today I give you a new jam from a collaboration I have been waiting for since last year!! This collaboration marks the first time that Hip-Hop producer, Timbaland, R&B singer, Justin Timberlake, and rock singer, Chris Cornell working together!!

Timbo was quoted saying, "Chris Cornell will be the first rock artist in the club!!" I was extremely excited and curious when I heard this coz I wanted to see if Timbo actually had it in him to put a rock artist in the club!! After all, he's supposedly a hit maker right?

Here is a joint titled, "Take Me Alive" and it's off Chris Cornell's upcoming album, "Scream." This joint features Timberlake, and is produced by Timbaland!!

Download Below:

Take Me Alive (feat. Justin Timberlake)

I was very let down with this track. I guess I had high hopes since Timbaland was attached to produce! This track however, just didn't connect with me! I find it very difficult to listen to the entire track! I actually wanted to stop the track as soon as the singing started. But hey, maybe their other tracks will be better.

This has been my VANTAGE point. You decide on yours......

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R&B At Its Finest

I know some of you have noticed that VANTAGE has cut down on the music lately, but trust me when I say that it's not because we don't wanna give you fresh tunes, it's just that there haven't been any good tracks out recently.

But today is a different day, and we're giving you not one, but four new tracks from four of R&B's biggest names. We've got new joints from Justin Timberlake, Usher, Rihanna, and Bobby Valentino.

These tracks are featured on Big Mike & DJ Neptune: R&B King of 2009 Mixtape.

My personal favorite from these have got to be Justin's and Usher's tracks. These dudes definitely know what they're doing when it comes to their music. The others are also good, so make sure you download all. We will only be keeping these up for a limited time, so buy now while supplies last!

Download Below:

Bigger Than The World - Justin Timberlake

Knock Knock - Bobby Valentino

Like It- Rihanna

To The Moon - Usher

What do you think? Comment!

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Justin Does "Single Ladies"

I've only got 2 words to describe this next vid: FUNNY SHIT!!

Justin Timberlake, Beyonce Knowles, and a couple of SNL cast members recently spoofed Ms. Knowles' music video for her track "Single Ladies".

When I saw this vid, it totally cracked me up!! It's nice to see huge stars like Beyonce and Justin show their sense of humor! Check it.

What do you think? Comment!

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Rihanna: Rehab

Rihanna has just recently released her music video for the eight single Rehab, off her now platinum album, Good Girl Gone Bad. The song was written by singer Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, and Hannon Lane. Justin and Timbaland provide backing vocals on the bridge of the song. The song has already entered the Top 30 on Pop Radio.

The video was shot in Vasquez Rocks Park outside of L.A. on October 21, 2008. The video is directed by Anthony Mandler, and it premiered on november 17th.

What do you think? Comment!

"Nuff' Said"

T.I.: Dead & Gone

"This Is So Going In My Blog,"

Rapper, T.I. has recently released his album, "Paper Trails." I have for you guys a track that I thought stood out among the rest! It features singer, Justin Timberlake, and is titled, "Dead & Gone." Paper Trails is out now, so head out and grab your copy!

Dead & Gone definitely stood out for me because of the Justin factor. He's definitely trying out new stuff with his singing, and this track is a perfect example for that! Now I'm not a huge fan of tracks that are too "hip-hop," but this one's not bad! The Justin verses definitely make this track worth a listen! check it!

Download Below:

Dead & Gone

For more info: Amazon.com

"True Story"

WILLIAM RAST - New York Fashion Week

Do you remember that post we had on Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala's clothing line? Well as of last week Mr. JT's upscale clothing line A.K.A. "William Rast" visited the runways of New York to show off its newest collection. This yearly event is a gathering of designers, fashion enthusiasts, and critics; New York Fashion Week. The William Rast collection is strongly influenced from the creator's hometown, Tennessee. Personally not my style but I applaud the two for reaching one of the biggest fashion events of the year. Below are a few pictures of the runway.

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Justin Timberlake: My Name Is William Rast

"This Is So Going In My Blog,"

"William Rast" is a clothing line created by singer Justin Timberlake, and best friend, Trace Ayala! The name, "William Rast" came from the pair's grandfather's names. William is Justin's grandfather, and Rast is Trace's.

William Rast is most known for their premium jeans. Celebrities like Cameron Diaz, Paris Hilton, Eddie Murphy, Emmanuelle Chriqui, and Nick Cannon have been known to sport the brand!


The partners describe their collection, "This clothing is representative of where we come from," Justin tells Solis. "It's sort of country, but it's also got a little edge and a little chic to it." "It's definitely a contemporary feel," adds Trace. "It's not mass marketed. We're very meticulous about the stores we're going to be in."

Justin Timberlake recently shot a mini movie for the ad campaign of William Rast titled, "I Am Wailliam Rast." The ad was shot by, Jonas Ackerlund, and features supermodel, Erin Wasson. The screenplay and score was co-written by Justin. The ad has just premiered its first few trailers!


I think their jeans look very cool.....but they are expensive. These jeans go for about $200.00 and up. Might have to save up for a pair of these! William Rast is only in select stores, so they might be a little hard to find, but you guys can definitely cop these at their website!

For more info: William Rast Official Site

William Rast Ad Trailer:



Remeber where u heard/saw it first!

"True Story"

Timbaland: Shock Value II

"This Is So Going In My Blog"

Super Producer Timbaland has announced that he will be releasing his next album, "Shock Value II" on November 4th. Last year's "Shock Value" was one of the biggest selling albums of 2007, topping the Billboard Top 100 charts. "What-Up" With hits such as, "Give It to Me" featuring Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado, "The Way I Are" featuring Keri Hilson, and "Apologize" featuring One Republic which was in the top 10 of the billboard charts for 25 weeks. The longest any song in the 2000's spent on the charts! DAYUM!!

Shock Value II promises to give us the same quality of music and maybe even more! With collaborations with top artisits such as: Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, Keri Hilson, The Pussycat Dolls, Sebastian, Ne-Yo, Lindsay Lohan, JoJo, Missy Elliot, Jennifer Hudson, Coldplay, Paramore, Sugababes, Chris Cornell, Dima Bilan, Usher, Chris Brown, Matt Pokora, Omarion, and Busta Rhymes, this album is sure to be burning up the airwaves, charts, and our iPods this November!

Timbo's also collaborating with Rockstar Games to release a music mixing game for the Playstation Portable titled, "Beaterator." Im really bout curious bout this one! With the success of such games such as "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero", "Beaterator" definitely sounds intriguing.

So what do u think? COMMENT!

"True Story"

Chris Brown Coming Soon?

"This is so going in my blog,"

Negotiations to make Manila the all-important first stop in the recently initiated Asian Tour of Chris Brown is entering its final stage.

An insider source privy to the on-going negotiations revealed that agreement in principle has been reached between the Manila promoter and the Stateside booking agency handling Brown's Asian Tour.

The source further revealed that the terms and conditions have largely been agreed on except for the definite date of the Manila concert. The Manila promoter is pushing for the date to be either on Oct. 28 or 29, before the All Souls/All Saints Day long break.

Brown is eagerly awaited by the younger concert crowd especially after the 19-year old R&B sensation garnered the second highest number of Teen Choice Music Awards in the 2008 Teen Choice held Aug. 3. (Only the Jonas Brothers had more votes).
Brown won the following Teen Choice awards:

* Teen Choice Music Male Artist (besting fellow nominees Justin Timberlake, Usher, Jesse McCartney and Kanye West),
* Teen Choice R&B Track Forever (up-ending Mariah Carey, Danita Kane, Sean Kingston and Bow-Wow),
* Teen Choice HookUp (with Jordin Sparks on No Air), and
* Teen Choice R & B Artist (winning over Beyonce, Rihanna, T-Pain and Usher).

Brown's "With You" was also nominated for Teen Choice Music Single award.

As soon as the Manila date is confirmed, the Manila promoter promises that the Araneta concert tickets will go on sale early to allow Chris Brown fans, who are mostly in their teens and even younger, the chance to purchase premium tickets offering the added value of a "Meet and Greet Chris Brown" feature.

So for all you people who have been waiting your whole lives for this concert, be sure to stay alert cuz im pretty sure these tickets will sell really quick! This concert promises to have everyone danicing "Forever-ever-ever!"

So until then, here's a remix of "Forever" for u guys! Hope u enjoy it! Download below:

Forever Remix

Remember where u heard it first!

"True Story"