1. Obie Trice - Cry Now
Never mind that a bullet is still lodged in his head from the December, 2005 shooting that nearly claimed his life. Obie Trice allegedly 'freestyled' this emotion-laden, yet raw, gem as a street single from Second Round's on Me. "Cry Now" is Obie's victory-over-death dance song: “Catch me in a Benz like 2Pac/ Catch me in a Tahoe like BIG, No...”
2. Gnarls Barkley - Smiley Faces
While "Smiley Faces" is still looking to enjoy its share of popularity, Gnarls Barkley fans would be delighted to see that "Crazy" has finally reached No.1 on the Top Digital Tracks chart and No. 2 on Billboard Hot 100.3. Jurassic 5 featuring Dave Matthews Band - Work It Out
With DJ/producer Cut Chemist out of J5 to pursue a solo career, the SoCal crew can finally live up to their name. "Work it Out," along with its controversy-friendly video is a great way to set off the campaign for their newest album, Feedback.
4. The Roots - Don't Feel Right
The Roots recently released a pre-Game Theory EP featuring a non-Game Theory track titled "Bread and Butter." If August 29th seems like a long time to you, then head on to iTunes for the pre-Game EP.
5. Lupe Fiasco - Kick Push
Although "Kick, Push" is still enjoying media rotation nationwide, Lupe Fiasco is hoping to fuel the fire with a brand new single, "Daydream." He recently filmed a video for the Jill Scott-featured song. Check out some of the photos from the video shoot at ConcreteLoop.com and CakeandIceCream.com
6. The Game - It's Okay (One Blood)
"One Blood" was produced by little known hip-hop beatsmith Reefa. The song, which samples reggae artist Junior Reid's "One Blood," is expected to appear on The Doctor's Advocate.
7. DMX - Lord Give Me a Sign
DMX's Year of the Dog...Again is slated to drop on August 1st, 2006. But, you don't have to wait that long to experience X's new album. Listen to the album first, and then decide if it's worth a purchase.
8. Beyonce featuring Jay-Z
While fans (more like detractors) were busy clamoring for a re-shoot of Beyonce's "Deja Vu" video, the Houston megastar was busy shooting something else...promo photos for her upcoming B'Day album.
9. Lil Jon ft. E-40 and Sean Paul - Snap Yo Fingers
Lil Jon snaps steady on No. 9 this week. Jon's next album, Crunk Rock, is expected in stores later in October.
10. Ciara ft. Chamillionaire - Get Up
Chamillionaire and Ciara manage to keep us on our feet with their summer smash, "Get Up."
