Hip-Hop Round Up: Wale, T.I. and 50 Cent

Posted by | Ray Cornelius

THR is reporting that hip-hop star Wale has signed with William Morris Endeavor (WME). Reportedly, the rapper, who is managed by Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, is teaming up with the agency in all areas. The Grammy-nominated rapper released his last album, The Gifted, in June and sold 158,000 during its first week. WME also reps such tops acts as Rihanna, 2 Chainz, Adele and Pharrell Williams.

S&A is reporting that 50 Cent is not only executive producing the STARZ drama, Power, he is now starring in it as well. Reportedly, the rapper has joined the cast and will play Kanan, an old friend of James “Ghost” St. Patrick, played by Omari Hardwick.

As previously reported, Power  is centered on a New York night club owner who skirts the line between legitimacy and criminality. The show also stars Naturi Naughton, Lela Loren, Joseph Sikora and most recently added, Lala Anthony and Debbi Morgan. Production is currently underway and will air next year.

At the top of the year, we reported that rapper T.I. was looking for a new $75 Million Record Deal. His contract with Atlantic Records had expired and the ATL native was looking for a new home.

THR is now reporting that T.I. has signed to Columbia Records with plans to release his ninth album under thein spring 2014. It is also being reported that he plans to collaborate with Pharrell Williams. The two both appeared on Robin Thicke’s summer anthem,”Blurred Lines.”

“I’m honored to be partners with such a successful, passionate and creative conglomerate like Columbia Records, who respects and supports the vision of their artist and partners. Nothing but love, respect and appreciation for Doug Morris, Rob Stringer and the entire staff,” T.I. says via press release. “Also, a special thank you to my big bruh, Sk8board P, for always believing in me and also executive producing my upcoming project.”

His last Atlantic album, Trouble Man: Heavy is the Head,  debuted at No. 2 on Billboard 200.

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