In light of R&B singer Tiffany Evans sparking up much discussion about ‘devil worshipping’ in the music industry, it appears more and more R&B stars are weighing in on the debate. Former B2K singer Omarion says that there are in fact dark forces surrounding the music industry permitting many of its famous subjects to sell their souls for fame, power and money. I did not understand his point about Michael Jackson because he failed to elaborate but I’ve posted his rant after the jump. Meanwhile, here’s MY take on the situation.

Symbolic Satanism is being touted as an adversary to materialistic hedonism and domination. Many people believe that Rihanna has turned to the dark side in her ploy to become a larger entity. Musically and image-wise, her direction is seemingly dark-natured. Musically, personal experiences can enable a singer to reflect on those encounters through an artistic platform. Is there a possibility that her newfound edgier direction is being nurtured by stylists and the aid of shady business people puppeteering the strings for profit? Maybe.

However, we use tools of marketing each day to sell a product. One often uses marketing to promote their businesses, their brands and their enterprises. It’s not that much different really. Marketing is a very powerful tool in all aspects of the working field. When we go for an interview to get a job, we market ourselves. Rihanna’s newly revamped and edgier look is just another marketing tool to drum up interest. During this stage of her career, some people feel she is biting Grace Jones. I don’t recall anyone accusing Grace Jones of endorsing Satanism or being a part of the Occult/Illuminati or Masonic Symbolism. What about all the actors and actresses in Hollywood who promote their horror flicks? Does that make them devil worshippers too?

Rihanna’s new song ‘Russian Roulette’ is not at all promoting suicide as initially believed. Neither does it contain Satanic messages. It is likening the Russian Roulette game to the destruction of a relationship (purely metaphorical). Rihanna has used much of her star power to do some good in the world with assisting a six-year-old girl and a mother of two to successfully fight Leukaemia. Tiffany did not exactly say Rihanna was a ‘devil worshipper’, but she was in deed trying to emphasise that weak-minded people can easily misinterprete the song causing suicide rates to skyrocket. Her rant about the devil worshipping was a generalised statement.

I’m sure many of you are familar with the biblical statement that “love of money is the root of all evil”. Money and star power is not evil when good deeds come out of it. The only time it can be tied in with evil is when it is not used the right way (power and dominance). People use money to do some pretty vile things (power to buy prostitutes, drugs and to have someone killed), and then you have people who have too much money and fame and never help out those in need. What I’m trying to say here is that money (power) is abused on a much more broader scale OUTSIDE of the entertainment industry. The reality is, we live in a dark world, period. Evil surrounds everybody. It’s up to the individual whether or not they choose to get caught up in it and fall into temptation.

Lastly, I think it’s totally hideous that some feel a person’s success was not down to an ambitious work ethic but down to selling their souls to get to where they are today. Many of these talents are God-given, and if I were a hardworking performer, and someone tried to falsely associate my name with the devil, I’d be deeply offended.

(more…)

It was previously reported that Ne-yo is the songwriter AND producer of Rihanna’s new single ‘Russian Roulette’. The truth is, that info isn’t exactly correct. Ne-yo did in deed write the song, but it was Chuck Harmony who produced it. This is why Chuck took to his Twitter earlier today to respond to the Tiffany Evans accusation about the song containing satanic messages. Um, to say that he’s not a very happy bunny is an understatement. Read his response below:

There are no satanic messages in the music. Maybe if we did a remake of ‘Promise Ring’ (Tiffany’s hit single), then Rihanna wouldn’t be a devil worshipper. People are so closed minded. The song is not literal. Like most provocative art, its symbolism. Grow up. I’m never going to defend my art…I create it and then it’s out of my hands. So reviews don’t hurt me, but Tiffany’s unrealistic take on the song really urked me because idiots breed idiots. Bottom line, she is in the music business so she understands that the song is not indicative of the artist views, but rather, it’s the brainchild and vision of the songwriter and producer. With that being said, to use that song as a shining example of devil worship in the music business, you are saying that Ne-yo and Chuck Harmony are devil worshippers. Thats stupid!! That’s beyond stupid it’s immature. Artist should understand art. So with Tiffany Evans rant, I can safely say that the title artist should not be part of her bio.

Russian Roulette is a very dark-natured song so to not expect anyone to have a negative view of the song is unrealistic. Parents of young girls are going to have an opinion about it as well as many others. The song may not be glamourising suicide but it’s so easy to see how the song can be interpreted as such (the song is purely metaphorical and is about taking chances on a relationship which got her hurt). Either way, this whole debate is hilarious to me. I’m really amused by it all, which is why I can’t wait to see an actual visual. Maybe then, we’ll get a clearer perspective. Reportedly, the video for Russian Roulette will premiere on November 6th during ABC’s prime-time. I.can’t.wait.

Just like I predicted in my review yesterday, Rihanna’s new song ‘Russian Roulette’ is being protested against - by R&B singer Tiffany Evans. Tiff took to her Twitter to imply that Russian Roulette will cause the “suicidal rate to sky rocket!” She also vented about the ’satanic’ dealings that goes on behind the scenes in the entertainment industry:

Russian Roulette= Suicidal Rate gon sky rocket! You gotta watch what you say because there are a lot of weak people in the world. They are susceptible to anything so anything you say or do, some people actually do listen. So make sure it’s nothing bad. It’s okay to be deep, but not murder deep. Man! I really wish I could tell you guys what the industry really is and what stars are apart of destroying this world. The stars who worship satan,and those who have killed to get the respect they have now. You’d be verrrry surprised.

Sadly, I don’t think the protest will stop there either. As much as I love Tiff, some might argue that she needs to concentrate on her own career which has become suicidal in its own right. Going hard on Riri might even be career suicide in itself. I hope that’s not the case because she’s very talented - more so than Rihanna - and it’s always a bold move (as another artist) to express your controversial opinion on a superstar especially one of Rihanna’s kind. As far as music goes, I do look forward to hearing what Tiff has cooked up next year. The rest of the entry can be read after the jump.

(more…)

Tiffany Evans debuted a brand new look this week. The ‘Promise Ring’ singer unveiled her newly dyed flamin’ red hair, and let’s just say it’s a look only Ronald McDonald would be proud of. Check out the photos below:

I’m not sure how I feel about this look. It’s very pre-Keyshia Cole-ish. All I know is that she looks wild. Tiff has also been in the studio recording her forthcoming new album which is titled ‘Ms. Tiffany’. I’ll keep ya’ll updated.

A new Tiffany Evans leak surfaced this week. The song is called ‘Hair’, and for some reason, it ended up on Ashley Tisdale’s new album. Listen to the song below:

The song has that Motown-pop sort of feel to it, and I can see why Tiffany passed up on this. It doesn’t seem to fit her style. I heard Ashley’s version a while back and her voice just seems to fit the song better. Also, a few changes were made to the arrangement to make it sound more like a ‘Tisdale’ track. The lyrics are quite amateurish as well but it’s one of those fun songs not to be taken too seriously. Tiff’s new musical direction will however be more pop-influenced. She said it herself. As she is still recording songs for her sophomore project, it will more than likely see a release next year.

This week, a brand new song from Tiffany Evans‘ new album ‘Ms.Tiffany’ leaked. The leaked track is titled ‘Spotlight’ and Tiff addressed the leak via her official MySpace profile on Saturday (July 4th). Here’s what she wrote in her latest blog entry:

“Hey Loves, What’s up? Happy 4th!!I hope all is well. As you know before the weekend hit one of the records that I have recorded from my upcoming album, just got leaked, somehow, someway, I do not know. But it has been getting A lot of great feedback, so that’s a good thing. I must say that I’m taking a different route in music, and I’m kinda switching things up a bit. I think that this time around, the music will give you a full understanding who “Ms.Tiffany” really is: Fun, deep, expressive and all that good crazy stuff. “Spotlight” is not a record that showcases my vocals, and honestly I wanted to try something different, because I know you guys are so used me busting the windows, but I figured that we needed some records that are just gonna let me have fun and not even have to really sing for real. But trust and believe me when I tell you I do have some songs where I am going all out with the vocals. Ha Ha! So don’t think I’m neglecting my true gift, I’m not. I just wanna experiment and give everybody a taste of the NEW me. I’m excited, you should be as well because it’s about to go crazy. Hold on tight. And another thing, “Spotlight” is not a single, it just got leaked. Thanks to Brian Kennedy and Chase J. This is just the Tip of the Iceberg of what I’m about to do. Get ready cuz I’M COMING!!”

I recieved an email from Chase J asking me to take down the song. I was meaning to reply but accidently deleted the email. By the time I was preparing to remove the audio, Youtube had already erased it. I always get emails asking me to remove Youtube embedded audio (that I didn’t upload). The truth is, posting audio from embedded Youtube clips is something I do as a way to keep my back covered. In other words, I refrain from posting download links and stick to Youtube embedded audio, so they can’t threaten me with legal action. As a result of this, legally, I have done nothing wrong, and Youtube are the ones who end up having a lot to answer for. As I was telling a Rep from Atlantic Records, if they want the audio removed, I’m not the person they should be emailing because once I remove the clips, the audio is STILL on Youtube. Therefore, it doesn’t really make much sense. The chances are, if the audio is on Youtube, it has already made its online rounds and not much can be done about it. Anyway, I just wanted to settle that score, because it’s getting to a point that being targeted for NOT posting downloads is frustrating. There are thousands of blogs out there that post unauthorized downloads and don’t even get as much as a complaint, but yet, when I play things by the book, it’s never enough. I guess that is what comes with running a popular blog. More people take notice and you become a target. On that note, I really liked the new Tiffany leak and I’m glad she eventually changed the album title from ‘Ponytail Krush’ which was just uncool.

I have no idea what’s going on with Tiffany Evan’s forthcoming new album ‘Ponytail Krush’ (interesting title but not one to be used if you want to be taken seriously as an artist). One of the songs from those recording sessions has surfaced. The song is called ‘Spotlight’ and it is helmed by Rihanna’s producer Brian Kennedy. Listen to it below:

I crave this. It’s furiously infectious with an upbeat, danceable sure-fire pop melody. The beat sounds a lot like Keri Hilson’s ‘Do It’ minus the LL Cool J sample. Her debut may have sold a measley 4,000 copies in its first week but her album had lots of hot tracks but she hardly got any promotion so a flop was inevitable sadly. Better luck this time around hopefully. Plus, I’m definetely rooting for her. I know she reads the blog because she gave me a shout-out earlier this year on her Youtube channel.

UPDATE: Her new album title is now ‘Ms Tiffany’. I am glad she changed it, lol.

R&B singer Tiffany Evans has given Toya’s World a shoutout. Other sites that recieved the shout out treatment included That Grapejuice, Concreteloop, Bossip, Sandra Rose and B Scott. She says she would love to do interviews with us all. Peep mark 5:44:

Now, that’s what you call GRATITUDE! She certainly knows a quality site when she sees one, lol. But I’m really happy she reads the blog and likes it. I reviewed her album last year, and although it didn’t recieve the accolade it deserved, it was one of the most enjoyable R&B albums of 2008. The talented singer will also release her brand new sophomore album ‘Ponytail Krush’ later this year on Columbia Records. Thanks for the heads up Alijah.

It was only earlier this year that 16-year-old Tiffany Evans released her self-titled debut album. I even did a review for it. With lukewarm sales and lack of promotion, Tiffany has been given a second chance to come correct. She will release her sophomore album ‘Ponytail Krush’ in the first quarter of 2009. Here are some brand new promo’s for the new album:

Here’s what she says can be expected from the forthcoming project:

“When I sat down with my manager and the record label, I told them I did not want to be limited in the type of songs I recorded this time around. I want to make music for everyone. I describe this album like turning a radio dial and no matter what type of music the station plays, you can find a Tiffany Evans record on the playlist”.

I think it’s cool she wants to experiment with her sound outside of the commercial R&B-pop she’s known for but can’t see anyone taking her seriously with an album title like ‘Ponytail Krush’. Apparently, she came up with the name because: “Anybody can wear a ponytail. No matter the age, male or female—ponytails are for everybody—just like my music is for everybody”. Hmmmm….It sounds like the title of a poem written by a 13-year-old school girl. Variation is definetely good and I’m all for new music from the fiercly talented Ms Evans.

It was only earlier this year that 16-year-old Tiffany Evans released her self-titled debut album. I even did a review for it. With lukewarm sales and lack of promotion, Tiffany has been given a second chance to come correct. She will release her sophomore album ‘Ponytail Krush’ in the first quarter of 2009. Here are some brand new promo’s for the new album:

Here’s what she says can be expected from the forthcoming project:

“When I sat down with my manager and the record label, I told them I did not want to be limited in the type of songs I recorded this time around. I want to make music for everyone. I describe this album like turning a radio dial and no matter what type of music the station plays, you can find a Tiffany Evans record on the playlist”.

I think it’s cool she wants to experiment with her sound outside of the commercial R&B-pop she’s known for but can’t see anyone taking her seriously with an album title like ‘Ponytail Krush’. Apparently, she came up with the name because: “Anybody can wear a ponytail. No matter the age, male or female—ponytails are for everybody—just like my music is for everybody”. Hmmmm….It sounds like the title of a poem written by a 13-year-old school girl. Variation is definetely good and I’m all for new music from the fiercly talented Ms Evans.

After Mya caused uproar little over a week ago back in Barbados, the 28-year-old was back at events looking absolutely stunning last night. She was seen at Marquee Nightclub:

I love those sophisticated curls and the way she works the HELL out of a dress. ANY dress for that matter. Mya was certainly on fire that day. Go girl!

When you get over a split, you chill out with pals and that’s exactly what Cassie did after she confirmed her split with Diddy recently. The 21-year-old was seen having lunch at Bar Pitti in NYC’s West Village with her girlfriends yesterday:

Did she hire Rihanna’s stylist or something? Rihanna has a similar T-Shirt and Nike high tops. Cute.

Last night, Aubrey from Danity Kane attended the Vitamin Water In Style with the Best in Baseball and Music event:

Next!

It seems 106 & Park are getting a series of new female R&B co-hosts for the week, after Rosci walked out last week. As previously reported Rosci walked off the set after Terence humiliated her live on air. Yesterday’s co-host was R&B singer Keri Hilson. The newest co-host is R&B chick Tiffany Evans:

She interviewed rapper LL Cool J who was also a guest on the show. As for the Rosci situation, Internet reports claim she has been suspended for a week for walking off the set and not returning. That’s really unfair considering that Terrence was the one who did all the insulting and acted unprofessionally, so if anyone should have been suspended, it should have been him. She may as well have told him to kiss her ass on air if that were the case. I know I would have.

Yesterday, Usher attended the 4th Annual Camp New Look at the The Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta, GA:

He says his wife is NOT envious of his legions of female fans, insisting she understands it is these women who buy his records. He also claims she has since adjusted to the fact her husband has scores of amorous female admirers. He explains, “Tameka doesn’t mind when the fans throw their underwear at me. Being a sex symbol pays the bills. And she knows that”. Who is he kidding?

Check out more pics of Chris Brown performing at the 3rd Thisday Africa Rising Festival - Day 2 in Nigeria:

oyasthaspot34/this5.jpg" border="0" />

Nice. Wouldn’t have minded being there to check that out myself.

Mary J Blige also performed on day 2 at that very same event and let’s just say she was looking a real fright:

No, Mary, noooo!

SPLASH // WENN // WIREIMAGES

Ashanti attended the New York premiere of the new ‘Indiana Jones’ movie, yesterday afternoon. The show was hosted by BET’s 106 & Park:

Ashanti didn’t look so appealing at yesterday’s event. Her make-up was really overboard. What was she thinking?

Michelle Williams was there too:

Whoa at Michelle! Looks like someone is starving themselves. It’s making her look soooo aged. My own grandmother looks younger than Michelle at this rate. She looks so emaciated and sickly. I would love to spend the evening with Michelle and fill her up with a couple of McDonald cheese burgers. She’s always been slim, but I don’t recall her being THAT skinny. EVER. She looks like a rake ready to snap in two. ‘Chele was looking mad gaunt and very thin causing her to look far and beyond her 27 years. Someone needs to put her ass on a high-carb diet or something. I’m serious. She has not one curve on her body.

Estelle, Tiffany Evans and Ryan Leslie were there:

Ryan was looking real dapper.

Leona Lewis attended Logo Network’s first ever Awards Show for the best in LGBT pop culture on Monday night:

Leona looked sleek and trendy in her slimming black ensemble. She looked amazing. Right now, that chick can’t do no wrong in my eyes. From her sophisticated sandy coloured curls, well-decorated eye-make-up and cute smile, this chick was certainly all about it. Leona’s album Spirit has been sitting high on the U.S. charts along with her #1 smash Bleeding Love also dominating the top spot for several weeks.

Michelle hit up that very same event:

Michelle will always look weird in a dress, because of her non-existent frame. Her new album Unexpected is due in stores and online August 12th.

Yesterday, Christina Milian attended the 56th annual BMI Pop Awards in Beverly Hills, California:

H&M dress? I have no idea what has happened to her style but she was looking waaay better before splitting up with Nick Cannon.

Dawn of Danity Kane attended the Gen Art’s 10TH Anniversary Design Competition at Cannes on Monday night:

i157.photobucket.com/albums/t58/toyablogger8/DA4.jpg" border="0" />

I like that dress, just not in that colour. And her crap boss Diddy was there as well.

I posted the performance of when Fergie performed on the ‘Today’ show yesterday in New York City. Here’s a couple of pics:

Fergie was showing off her flexibility during her performance of Barrucuda. I am salivating over her boots in that last pic right about now. Yum.

And the biggest hot stank ghetto mess award goes to Fantasia Barrino when she was spotted in a blazing RED wig as she shopped away at the Paige clothing store on Monday:

Ew.

Bad Boy artists Cassie and Mario Winans (both pictured with Tichina Arnold) attended a party at Diddy’s Den during the Grand Opening Weekend Celebration at MGM Grand at Foxwoods Resort & Casino on May 17, 2008 in Ledyard, CT:

Another one bites the dust.

WIREIMAGES // BUZZFOTO