Simon Cowell says Nicki Minaj will have a "Phenominal" year

By The Hip Hop WriterHip Hop Vibe Staff WriterSimon Cowell has been in the middle of the hip hop news because of his new show, "The X Factor." Already, the former judge on "American Idol" has made waves. L.A. Reid, the longtime executive of Def Jam, left his position to be a judge on the new show.Rumors suggested Young Money rapstress, Nicki Minaj, would also join the show. Following days of

Nicki Minaj announces Surprise Collaboration

By The Hip Hop WriterHip Hop Vibe Staff WriterEarlier this month, Nicki Minaj said she would not be doing collaborations for two years. The only way she would work with another artist was if it was Britney Spears. But, only weeks later, she announced she was going to be on Tha Carter IV.Nicki Minaj will also be featured on Lil' Twist's debut album, along with new releases from Drake and Bow Wow.

Shyne prepares "Gangland" album on Def Jam

By The Hip Hop WriterHip Hop Vibe Staff WriterThings are finally coming together for Shyne, as he is preparing to release his first album since 2004. Titled Gangland, the album is his first release as a free man. Shyne began his career in the late 1990s on Bad Boy Records.Upon being released from prison, in 2009, a small bidding war ensued over Shyne. Rumors pointed him to Roc Nation and to