50 Cent is using his online clout to get what he wants. After the success of his latest mixtape and viral videos, the rap megastar is making threats, telling his label to move forward with his album or he’ll release more free music.

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R. Kelly is set to return in 2012 with his album Black Panties, which he describes as “the new 12 Play.” While we wait for the next chapter in Kellz’ career, two previously unreleased tracks, “Nothing On” and “I Quit You,” have hit the net. On the sexy slow jam “Nothing On,” the Pied Piper sings about seeing his girl naked (no G-strings, please), while “I Quit You” is reminiscent of his Happy People / U Saved Me era. We’ll take what we can get.

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It’s a new Dawn. Dawn Richard rounds up her Hearts and prepares for battle in the gritty trailer for “SMFU (Save Me From U),” the first solo video off her upcoming solo debut GoldenHeart. The full video will premiere January 5 on “106 & Park.” Rap-Up.com has your first look!

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The bottles will be popping and beats will be blaring as celebrities toast to the new year with celebrations across the country this weekend. Some will appear on television, while it will cost you a pretty penny to party with others like Chris Brown and Lauryn Hill at private events. From Las Vegas to New York City’s Times Square, find out where some of your favorite stars will be once the clock strikes midnight.

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Sean Kingston threw a holiday house party with his closest friends and family at his new crib in the Hollywood Hills. The singer, whose third album Back 2 Life is due next year, celebrated with Soulja Boy, Ray J, Teyana Taylor, Romeo, and his girlfriend, model Maliah Michel. Mama Kingston cooked up the festive meal and guests danced the night away while overlooking the city. Spend Christmas with the Kingstons.

Tank believes that sexual innuendo is a lost art. “A lot of these kids are like, ‘Lick it, lick it, lick it,’ in their songs. Straight at it, no metaphor,” says the singer-songwriter in response to young R&B artists that are fresh on the scene. “I don’t know that they have a concept of a real connection outside of sexual aspects of music.” A bold statement, coming from the man who’s provided the soundtrack to many steamy nights.

A thin, navy, fitted tee hugs Tank’s sinewy frame as he sinks into a supple leather couch at the Atlantic Records lounge in New York City, reflecting on his responsibility to the industry. He grins wide and often, confident in his ability to keep his music true to its original sentiment. While his new mixtape Diary of a Mad Man boasts a feistier side to the ladies’ man, he claims that his next conceptual album, aptly titled Savior, is about bringing comfort to women and resurrecting sensual and subtle love songs.

In a candid discussion with Rap-Up.com, Tank spills about lyrics, drugs, and the physical flaw that his kids won’t let him forget.

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After a busy year touring and releasing her sixth album, Rihanna returned home for some much-needed R&R. The pop superstar, whose “LOUD” tour grossed $90 million, soaked up the sun on the beaches of Barbados with her brothers Rajad and Rorrey over the holidays.

The 23-year-old hottie showed off her bikini body as she splashed in the waves and played in the sand with her youngest brother Rajad. She also stopped to take photos with locals, who came out to get a glimpse of the hometown gal.

See more pics of RiRi and family enjoying some fun in the sun.

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No one does Christmas like Mariah Carey. The festive diva and her husband Nick Cannon went all out while celebrating their first Christmas with their eight-month-old twins Monroe and Moroccan aka Dem Babies. Mimi shared photos from their magical holiday with her fans online.

In the candid pics, the loving mom hugs her daughter Roe, Roc rocks red and green for the season, and Nick kicks it on the couch with Santa Claus. The happy family enjoyed a white Christmas in Aspen, where they return each year.

See more pics of Christmas with the Cannons below.

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