Much Love: BEYONCE There's NO BEEF With Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian and Beyonce don't hate each other's guts -- despite reports -- in fact, they're BFFs. There was lots of speculation this week following a story in which Bey allegedly confronted Kim at Jay-Z's recent Made in America event in Philadelphia -- asking Kim to stop posing for the cameras because she was stealing Jay-Z's spotlight. Director Ron Howard was at the event too -- and according to reports, Kim approached Ron to cast her in one of his films ... another detail that allegedly pissed off Beyonce. But sources close to Beyonce's camp tell us, there was no confrontation whatsoever -- in fact, when Kanye performed with Jay-Z at the event ... we're told Beyonce and Kim watched their men together backstage, laughing and hugging the whole time. As one source put it, "They love each other -- they talk fashion, family, Beyonce's baby all the time." As for the Ron Howard thing -- we're told Kim never uttered a word to him the entire day.

Stop Whining: USHER TO EX-WIFE YOU LOST THE KIDS ... Get Over It

Usher is firing back at his ex-wife in their bitter custody dispute -- claiming her "vile" attempts to regain custody of their children are an insult to the justice system. As we reported, Usher emerged victorious after an arduous custody trial with his ex Tameka Raymond, in which the judge awarded Usher primary custody of the couple's two sons. Tameka filed papers asking for a new trial -- on the grounds the judge had received campaign contributions from Usher's lawyer and was biased as a result -- but Usher says that's BS. The singer filed his own response on Wednesday asking the court to deny Tameka's request, claiming her motion is "an assault on the integrity of the court." According to the docs, Usher believes Tameka is delusional, claiming if she were granted a new trial, it would be grounds for a reversal of ALL trials where a lawyer had contributed to a judge’s campaign. Usher claims the motion "constitutes a continuum of [Tameka's] vile and unsupported claims that every person who dared testify against her ... is biased and tainted." A judge has yet to rule on the matter.

MENTOR: AL PACINO I Wanna Be Joe Paterno

Disgraced Penn State football coach Joe Paterno will forever be immortalized in a new movie ... and by a really good actor ... because the man who will bring his story to life, is reportedly Al Pacino. The Academy-Award-winning actor attached himself to the new film -- based on the New York Times Bestselling book "Paterno," according to reports. The film is still in the early stages of development ... but according to the report the film will be shopped around town early next week.

PULL OVER: JUSTIN BIEBER DRIVING WITHOUT A License

Justin Bieber's precious Fisker Karma sports car has been violated ... 'cause the back license plate is MISSING and the culprit is still at large ... according to law enforcement sources. We're told J.B.'s property manager noticed the missing plate last night while working at the Bieb's Calabasas mansion. Fully realizing the seriousness of the offense, the manager called the L.A. County Sheriff's Department ... which shockingly came out and took a report. It's unclear if the missing plate was stolen or just fell off. This could mean the Biebs will temporarily have to sideline his paparazzi magnet ... because it's illegal to drive without a back plate.

It's Mine: SNOOKI'S EX-BF Her Baby Hijacked My Crocodile!

Snooki's ex-boyfriend has a reptilian connection to her new baby Lorenzo -- telling TMZ, he's personally responsible for Enzo's favorite stuffed crocodile ... but the TWIST ... he didn't get it for the kid. Emilio Masella -- who dated Snooki for 8 months back in 2010 -- tells us he won the crocodile for Snooki at a Dave and Busters during their relationship ... and she's pretty much cherished it ever since ... despite changing boyfriends ... and getting pregnant. Its name is Crocodilly -- and it's made several appearances on "Jersey Shore" as well as Snooki's new spin-off with Jwoww ... even though the guy who gave it to her is long out of the picture. Most recently, the croc made a dramatic appearance in the People mag spread about Snooki's new bundle of joy (above). Emilio says it's proof Snooki still has feelings for him -- but c'mon people, it's just a damn toy.

HELP!!: MILEY CYRUS Intruder With Weapon ARRESTED At Her Home

Miley Cyrus dodged a bullet last night -- some guy armed with scissors was ARRESTED at the singer's L.A. home after he jumped her fence and said he wanted to meet her ... according to law enforcement sources. The incident occurred early Saturday morning ... cops responded to a 911 call from Miley's L.A. home, not placed by the singer. When they arrived they arrested a man named Jason Luis Rivera for trespassing. Law enforcement tells us, Rivera jumped the fence surrounding Miley's house and was carrying a pair of scissors when they apprehended him. He told cops at the time he wanted to see the pop star and that's why he was on her property. Miley was not home when the incident occurred.

CRAZY WIFE: PAUL NASSIF MY WIFE ATTACKED ME After Guzzling Vodka

Paul Nassif is Absolut-ly convinced ... vodka turns his wife Adrienne Maloof into a violent, abusive, angry woman who was prone to smacking him in the face. According to a declaration -- filed in his nasty custody fight -- Paul claims he has been repeatedly at the receiving end of Adrienne's physical attacks ... the worst of which occurred in July on Maloof's home turf in Las Vegas. Paul says they got into a spat over whether Adrienne's mother could come to a party. Paul says his wife downed 4 vodka sodas -- with a little grapefruit juice -- and became "increasingly hostile." Paul says Adrienne went on a 45-minute rampage, physically and verbally demeaning him. He says she accused him of cheating and calling him a piece of s**t. Paul says Adrienne screamed he was a horrible dad, and repeatedly beat him in the face, chest and legs. TMZ previously reported Adrienne filed legal docs claiming Paul has an explosive temper and carries a gun ... sometimes in easy reach of her children. She mentions she took a photo of the gun in the side pocket of his briefcase. Paul says in his papers Adrienne set him up by taking the gun out of the secure briefcase while he was snoozing and placed it precariously out in the open.

Big Sean Talks On How Single "Clique" Came Together

Sean Don has revealed the origins of the new G.O.O.D. Music single in two recent interviews. A new G.O.O.D. Music single dropped yesterday, just before the MTV VMAs. "Clique" was highly anticipated, ever since the artwork was revealed on Kanye's website. The song did not disappoint, and spread like wildfire through the blogosphere. Big Sean was lucky enough to be on the song with The Throne, aka Kanye West and Jay-Z. Sean Don spoke about the single in two recent interviews with Vibe and LA Leakers, and revealed how the collabo came about. It turns out, it was originally a song just featuring Big Sean. However, when 'Ye and Hova heard an unfinished version of the Hit-Boy-produced cut, they had to jump on it, the result being "Clique." Sean said, "It's crazy because I did the idea, and it was just me, and you know the hook. I didn't think he really liked it at first and then I left. And then a month or two later, I get a call like 'yeah, man I love this shit,' and then, later than that, I got a call from somebody else, like 'man, Jay on the song.' So I'm like, they probably about to take me off and shit, it's about to be Kanye and Jay-Z. Of course, everybody had their input and did their parts, but through the end of it all, when it was all said and done, I got the call like, 'nah, it's you, Kanye and Jay-Z.'" Big Sean was obviously happy with the song's result, and praised Kanye and Jay-Z as two of his idols and favorites. Check out the new single here. Cruel Summer, the G.O.O.D. Music crew compilation album, is dropping September 18th.

Lil Wayne Sues Quincy Jones III For Using Songs Without His Permission In "The Carter" Documentary

After unsuccessfully blocking the movie from release, now Lil Wayne is suing the producers of "The Carter" for using his music in the film without his permission. Lil Wayne has filed a lawsuit against Quincy Jones III, who was a producer behind the documentary about the YMCMB rapper, called The Carter. Weezy F Baby is suing Quincy for using his songs in the film, without his permission. The film makes use of a bunch of Wayne's hits, like "Lollipop," "Stuntin' Like My Daddy," "Pussy Monster," "Let the Beat Build," "La La," "Mr. Carter," "A Milli," and "Dontgetit." All the songs (*aside from "Stuntin' Like My Daddy") appeared on Lil Wayne's Tha Carter III album. Although he originally agreed to appear in the film, and allowed cameras to follow him around, when all was said and done he tried to block the movie from coming out, because he disliked the way he was portrayed. The case was thrown out by the judge, and the movie was released in November of 2009. As TMZ reports, Weezy claims Quincy never asked to use his music, and he is suing him for for unspecified damages and asking for an order prohibiting the producers from using his music.

New Release: Champions [CDQ] Kevin Rudolf feat. Lil Wayne, Fred Durst & Birdman

Here's the CDQ version of Kevin Rudolf's new single, with his fellow YMCMB members

Chris Brown & Rihanna Share Kiss & Hug At VMA's. A$AP Rocky Grabs Riri's Butt

The 2012 MTV Video Music Awards took place last night. There was plenty of excitement as Pink. Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, Nicki Minaj, Alicia Keys and more took the stage to perform. A$AP Rocky got cocky during his performance of "Cockiness (I Love It)" with Rihanna when he grabbed the singer's butt. Riri pushed him away and then segued into her hit song "We Found Love."

There was also a reunion between Rihanna and her ex-boyfriend Chris Brown as the two shared a brief kiss and hug as Riri made her way to her seat.

This Dude Wild: Tyga Directs & Will Appear In Adult Film 'Rack City XXX' + Launches Website

After the success of his strip club anthem "Rack City," Tyga has decided to take it one step further and will produce, direct and appear in his own adult film. Rack City: The XXX Movie will star smut divas Jada Fire, Ice La Fox, Havana Ginger, Kristina Rose, London Keyes, Skin Diamond, Daisy Marie, Stacie Lane and Austin Taylor. The movie picks up where the music video for "Make It Nasty" leaves off.

I Can Make It Happen: 50 Cent Says He Can Make Mayweather / Pacquiao Fight Happen

As previously reported on Thisis50 50 Cent recently sat down with Los Angeles radio station Power 106 and discussed with J Cruz & Justin Credible on the "Liftoff" on Power 106 his upcoming business ventures, and upcoming album Check out the video of the actual interview, as 50 discusses that he can make the Mayweather Vs Pacquiao fight happen!

Beautiful Settlement: CAMILLE GRAMMER Scores $30 Mil In Divorce

Camille Grammer will get roughly $30 million in her divorce from Kelsey Grammer -- and if we can say ... she deserves it. Sources connected with the couple tell TMZ ... Camille and Kelsey are "very close" to inking a property settlement agreement. We're told the total value of the assets in the marriage is around $60 million. We say "around" because a big chunk is the 3 homes they own which are now on the market. They're estimating when everything is sold the pot will be around $60 mil. Sources tell us Camille will get a straight 50% of the assets. Here's why she deserves it. We're told when the couple married, Kelsey was broke. Pretty shocking, considering he had earned "Cheers" and "Frasier" money. But bad decisions and a drug problem nearly sent Kelsey to the poor house. We're told Camille righted the ship and managed the money to where they now have tens of millions to split. That's a lot of tossed salad and scrambled eggs.

Few Are Chosen: 'JERSEY SHORE' STAR Some of My Co-Stars Will FAIL in TV

Vinny from "Jersey Shore" believes some of his co-stars are destined for failure after the show wraps up later this year ... telling TMZ only the ones with a BRAIN will succeed in TV. Vinny was hangin' in L.A. last night when we asked how he felt about MTV getting rid of "Shore" after its 6th season. "They didn't get rid of it ... they just want us to go out on top," Vinny told us ... adding, "Best show in MTV history." But when we asked if the "Jersey" cast will have better success in their own spin-off shows, Vinny replied, "I don't know about ALL of us ... but I think whoever has imagination and talent will make it." Unfortunately, Vinny didn't name any names. Still, Vinny told us the show could be a major launching pad for one of his co-stars ... noting Adam Sandler started on MTV ("Remote Control" anyone?) ... "and then he became a big movie star." As for Vinny's next project, the reality star wouldn't tell us what's next on his plate ... but insists, "Good things."

Rest In Perfect Peace: NEIL ARMSTRONG Will Be Buried at Sea

Astronaut Neil Armstrong will be buried as far away from outer space as possible ... at the bottom of the ocean -- this according to his family. The family wouldn't specify when or where the burial at sea will take place. In case you didn't know, Neil was a Navy fighter pilot before he joined the space program in 1962 -- and burials at sea are common for Navy veterans. A public memorial for Neil will be held at the Washington National Cathedral next Thursday. A private service has already been held in Ohio, Neil's home state. As we reported, Neil died on August 25th. He was 82.

Say The Truth: JOE FRANCIS Quincy Is LYING 'I SWEAR On My Life'

"Girls Gone Wild" honcho Joe Francis swears ... Steve Wynn threatened to end his life -- telling TMZ, Quincy Jones just LIED on the stand about Wynn's alleged murder plot in order to protect the casino mogul. As we reported, Quincy testified moments ago -- insisting he never saw an email from Steve Wynn detailing a murder plot against Francis. Quincy said he never even heard Wynn threaten Francis. But Francis believes Quincy is in Wynn's back pocket -- telling us, "[Quincy] is lying for Steve Wynn. I swear on my life, God strike me down, that I am telling the 100% truth in this matter." He adds, "The fat lady hasn't sung yet." Francis' lawyer is cross-examining Quincy this very moment. As we reported, Quincy was subpoenaed to testify in Wynn's defamation suit against Francis, in which Francis has claimed Wynn threatened to have him buried in the desert over a gambling debt.

NEW DIRECTOR: Tyga Directs Adult Film "Rack City: The XXX Movie"

Tyga has produced, directed, and even appeared in his own adult film "Rack City: The XXX Movie". Tyga is a star on the rise, and not just a rapstar, but a star of another kind. The Young Money rapper has produced, directed, and even appeared in his own adult film entitled “Rack City: The XXX Movie”, named after his hit single that saw him break through. It was all about pushing boundaries when Tyga decided to make this X-rated feature, from Business AVN, "I just felt like now was a time that I wanted to be involved in the sexual part of it—how far can I actually go without actually doing porn?" Not only will the feature pornographic film feature its namesake song, but there will be some new unreleased tracks featured on the soundtrack as well, “This movie really takes 'Rack City,' the song that I made, into the world of triple-X film. It's a real movie that people will enjoy, and I'm proud of it." The co-director of the film is Tyga’s boy, Justice Young, who actually lived in the same house as the rapper a few years ago and has been active in the porn industry for some time. When Tyga decided to make this film he knew exactly who to contact, “when I started to think about doing this movie who'd be better to shoot this with? So I called Justice and we put it together. It came together quickly in about a week." “Rack City: The XXX Movie” is set to start off where his “Make It Nasty” video left off.

SUSPECT: Chief Keef Under Investigation Involving Lil JoJo's Death

After Chief Keef caught wind that Chicago rival emcee Lil JoJo had died after being the victim of bullet wounds, Keef went on Twitter to gloat. Local police are now investigating if Keef had any involvement in the shooting. The list of things Chief Keef “Don’t Like” continues to mount, but he might want to stop tweeting about it. Last night he was involved in some serious Twitter beef with fellow Chicago rapper, Lupe Fiasco, which lead to Lupe sending some emotional tweets while trying to reach out to the young trigger-happy rapper. This came after Keef had posted some mocking tweets following the shooting of a Chi-town rapper, Lil JoJo, whom Keef was known to feud with. Local investigators are now looking into the tweets from Chief Keef to see if the newly signed Interscope rapper had any involvement in the shooting. Joseph “Lil JoJo” Coleman was shot and subsequently died, on September 4th, which prompted Keef, real name Keith Cozart to openly laugh at his death on Twitter. Now the Chicago Sun-Times are reporting that Keef is under heat from authorities, as they are investigating if Coleman’s shooting is gang related between the Gangster Disciples and Black Disciples, two notorious street gangs in Chicago’s Englewood community. In his tweets, Keef hastagged “#300” and it has left some wondering if this is related to the Black Disciples. Even after saying some disparaging things about Lupe, Keef later tweeted that his account had been hacked, but he is yet to remove the tweets from his timeline. The Sun-Times spoke to the young rapper’s manager, and he did not mention anything about the tweets/comments not coming from Keef himself, “a lot of the stuff Keef does, that’s just cause he’s a kid. People forget that he’s a kid, a teenager...and kids make mistakes. He makes mistakes the hard way.” Violence has been on an astronomical rise on the streets of Chicago the past couple years, and this is what prompted Lupe Fiasco to take such a strong stance against people like Chief Keef glamorizing the gang lifestyle. It will be interesting if Keef is forced to say the tweets did not come from him in order to clear his name with authorities, and if he then will say the tweet directed at Lupe was not him as well.

Lupe Fiasco Announces Retirement Amid Chief Keef Twitter Beef

n a bizarre night on Twitter, Chief Keef threatened Lupe Fiasco, who responded by reaching out to the young Chicago rapper. Lupe then announced that he plans on retiring after the release of his next album. Lupe Fiasco has been wearing his heart on his sleeve during his promo tour for his upcoming album Food & Liquor Tour: The Great American Rap Album Pt. I. Speaking openly about his dismay of the current state of hip hop, and even most recently mentioned Chief Keef specifically as somebody who frightens him, saying that Keef is representative of the problems with the violence Chicago youth are embroiled in. Further strengthening Lupe's argument, Chief Keef took to Twitter to open laugh at the death of a rival MC, Lil JoJo:

COMING TO YOU: R. Kelly Announces "The Single Ladies Tour

R. Kelly will be going on tour in support of his latest album, "Write Me Back." R. Kelly will be hitting the road for "The Single Ladies Tour." This is following his eleventh studio album, Write Me Back, which dropped this summer. The tour starts in October, and Kelly will be visiting 24 cities. Check all the dates below, via HHDX. Oct. 13 – Columbia, SC- Township Auditorium Oct. 14 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall Oct. 18 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theater Oct. 21 – Miami, FL – JL Knight Center Oct. 23 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre Oct. 25 – Chicago, IL – Arie Crown Theatre Oct. 31 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre Nov. 2 – Los Angeles, CA – Nokia Theater – LA Live Nov. 7 – Houston, TX – Jones Hall Nov. 8 – Grand Prairie, TX – Verizon Theatre Nov. 10 – Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Theater Nov. 11 – Cincinnati, OH – P&G Theatre: The Aranoff Nov. 14 – Louisville, KY – Palace Theater Nov. 15 – St Louis, MO – Fox Theatre Nov. 17 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theater Nov. 18 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theater Nov. 21 – New York, NY – The Theater at Madison Square Garden Nov. 24 – Washington, DC – Constitution Hall Nov. 27 – Baltimore, MD – Lyric Theater Nov. 29 – Upper Darby, PA – Tower Theater Nov. 23 – Upper Darby, PA – Tower Theater Dec. 2 – Columbus, OH – Veteran’s Memorial Dec. 6 – Cleveland, OH – State Theatre Dec. 7 – Merrillville, IN – Star Plaza

Good Job: Forbes Top 20 Hip Hop Earners

Dr. Dre tops the list of Forbes Top 20 Hip Hop Earners, with Diddy, Jay-Z, and Kanye rounding out the top four. Last week, Forbes revealed their "Highest Paid Celebrity" list, with Dr. Dre coming in at number five, as the sole representative in the world of hip hop. Now Forbes have released their list of Top 20 earners in hip hop over the past year. Obviously, Dr. Dre leads the list, with $110 million in earnings, mostly stemming from the payout he received in his deal with HTC in selling his majority ownership of Beats By Dre headphones. He is the first hip hop artist to reportedly make nine figures, and crack the $100 million mark, since 50 Cent did it in 2007. Number two on the list, Diddy, also made the majority of his money from business ventures outside hip hop, with the sales of his Ciroc Vodka. Jay-Z and his Watch The Throne compatriot Kanye come in at number three and four respectively. The bulk of their earnings coming from their highly successful Watch The Throne tour. Check out the list, via HHNM, of the Top 20 below along with a video from Forbes detailing the top earners. 1. Dr. Dre: $110 million 2. Diddy: $45 million 3. Jay-Z: $38 million 4. Kanye West: $35 milliom 5. Lil Wayne: $27 million 6 Drake: $20.5 milliom 7. Birdman: $20 million 8. Nicki Minaj: $15.5 million 9. Eminem: $15 million 10. Ludacris: $12 million 11. Pitbull: $9.5 million 12. Rick Ross: $9 million (tie) 13. Wiz Khalifa: $9 million (tie) 14. Snoop Dogg: $8 million 15. 50 Cent: $7.5 million 16. Swizz Beatz: $7 million (tie) 17. Pharrell: $7 million (tie) 18. Young Jeezy: $7 million (tie) 19. Mac Miller: $6.5 million (tie) 20. Akon: $6 million

MICHAEL CLARKE DUNCAN Private Invitation-Only Memorial Scheduled

A private invitation-only memorial for Michael Clarke Duncan has been scheduled for next week, the actor's rep tells TMZ. According to the rep, the memorial will take place on Monday led by famed preacher Bishop Charles Blake. Dr. H. Beecher Hicks will be doing the eulogy. So far, no word on who'll be attending. A public viewing of MCD's casket is scheduled for Sunday at the Hall of Liberty in Forest Lawn in L.A. between 9AM and 2PM. As we reported, Duncan passed away Monday after suffering a myocardial infarction in July. He was 54.

TOO MUCH MONEY: Rap Mogul Buys Biggest Mansion in South Florida -- with $7.15 Mil Cash

We've showcased some pretty big, elaborate and expensive celeb homes here on toofab, but this one takes the cake for many reasons -- rap mogul Ronald "Slim" Williams reportedly purchased what is known as South Florida's largest home ... for $7.15 million cash. The co-founder of Cash Money Records, which claims artists like Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Wayne and Bow Wow, bought the 34,000-square-foot abode through a shell company, in a deal shrouded with such secrecy that real estate agents had to sign a 14-page confidentiality agreement and the previous owner had to wait in a separate room so Slim's identity would remain undisclosed. Well, looks like someone talked.

The 9 bedroom, 12 bathroom monster is located in the triple-gated Windmill Ranch Estates in Weston, which is west of Ft. Lauderdale. Surrounded on three sides by a lake, the property has more features than you could ever want or need -- a 24-hour door person, 17-foot custom wood doors, a 15-seat movie theater, the requisite wine room and an indoor tennis court. The baller space also boasts an 8-car garage, two swimming pools -- one indoor and one outdoor, grotto-style with its own beach -- a spa, and a 7,000-square-foot grand ballroom. You know, for those last minute balls you decide to throw. Public records indicate that no mortgage or banks were involved in the purchase, meaning that, yes, the super-secret deal was done with all "cash money."

KANYE WEST Raps About Kim K's SEX TAPE

Kanye West is finally talking about Kim Kardashian's sex tape ... dropping a line about the infamous XXX video in his upcoming single ... and it's obvious Yeezy is damn proud of his "perfect bitch." TMZ has obtained Kanye's new single "Clique" from his upcoming album "Cruel Summer" ... and on the track Kanye spits out a lyric to all of the people who have been critical of his new romance with KK: "Eat breakfast at Gucci. My girl a superstar all from a home movie." West is obviously referencing "Kim Kardashian: Superstar" ... one of the best-selling sex tapes of all time. Kim openly credits her initial success to the flick ... and Kanye -- who's a self-described porn connoisseur -- obviously looks at the movie as an X-rated badge of honor.

Still Only 1 Judge: 'AMERICAN IDOL' Only 1 Judge Has Signed On

"American Idol" is in a pickle -- the judges start their on-air auditions in New York City in 2 weeks, and only one judge has signed a deal ... sources connected with the show tell TMZ. Our sources tell us ... only Mariah Carey has inked a deal ... and a good deal it is at $18 mil. We know although producers are set on Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban ... they have not fully come to terms on the deal and nothing is signed. And it gets worse. We're told "A.I." honchos want 4 judges on the panel this year, because they don't think 2 women and a man will work. And they have not picked the 4th. But wait ... there's more. Randy Jackson -- who is being kicked upstairs to mentor -- has not signed his deal either. So right now ... it's Ryan Seacrest and Mariah Carey. On the bright side, it could be entertaining to see Mariah as Sybil.

And The Winner Is: LOUBOUTIN Huge Victory in War Over Red Soles

The people behind Christian Louboutin shoes just emerged victorious in a heated legal battle over their famous red soles ... and now NO OTHER SHOE COMPANY can jack their signature style. Louboutin had gone to war with Yves Saint Laurent ... after YSL released red high-heeled shoes with a red sole. Of course, anyone who knows anything about fashion knows the red sole is the trademark look of Louboutin ... and women KILL for those things. In fact, they've been featured on "Sex and the City," "Gossip Girl" and Jennifer Lopez even wrote a song devoted to the footwear. Louboutin had sued YSL hoping a judge would ban them from the red sole business, and today ... an appeals court sided with C.L. ... sorta. According to the ruling, Louboutin can block other designers from co-opting their signature red soles ... but ONLY when they are on a shoe that primarily contains a contrasting color on the top (like the one in the photo above). But if a designer like YSL wants to make an all-red shoe (red top AND red sole) there's nothing C.L. can do about it. Fun Fact -- The most expensive pair of Louboutins shoes reportedly cost around $20,000 and are made out of crocodile. The typical low-end pair runs between $600 and $700.

HEIDI KLUM Gives NEW Bodyguard a Shot

Heidi Klum knows ... you can't mix business with pleasure ... and that's probably why she just swapped out the bodyguard she's allegedly fornicating with for a couple of new guys. Klum arrived to the ABC studios in New York City yesterday -- looking DAMN GOOD -- and accompanied by two brand new security monsters. As we previously reported, Martin Kristen was guarding Heidi's body as recently as last week ... right before Seal told TMZ they were banging each other. But, since Klum clearly has a thing for hired muscle ... you think it's wise for Kristen to leave his woman in other people's hands?

Shabby: PRINCE HARRY Drunk Vegas Aholes Are Imitating Me

Spotted: A bunch of Prince Harry wannabes in cheap paper masks Location: Encore Beach Club in Vegas ... the same hotel where the REAL Prince Harry got naked with a bunch of chicks last month. Moral of the Story: Don't be those guys.

The Word Bitch: Kanye West Questions The Use Of The Word "Bitch," Hip-Hop's Role In It

Kanye West got pensive on us yesterday, going on a Twitter rant about two of hip-hop's favorite words, "bitch" and "nigga." Every now and then Kanye West takes to Twitter to vent about what's been on his mind. Most recently, he flooded the internet with questions about the use of the word "bitch" and "nigga," and whether or not it is acceptable. He started with the simple (yet complex) question: is the word "bitch" acceptable? "I usually never tweet questions but I struggle with this so here goes... Is the word BITCH acceptable?" Kanye tweeted in a Twitter rant that began yesterday. He continued, filling more than the Twitter-allowed 140 characters, "To be more specific, is it acceptable for a man to call a woman a bitch even if it's endearing?" Yeezy asked. "Even typing it in question form it's still feels harsh?" He didn't stop there though, he went on to question hip-hop's role in the acceptance of both words "bitch" and "nigga." Read his series of tweets/questions below. "Has hip hop conditioned us to accept this word? Do we love this word as much as we love the word NIGGA in an endearing way?" "correction, Here's the age old question, would we refer to our mothers as bitches? Would' we call our fathers niggers or better yet NIGGAS?" "If nigga is such a positive word, why do we feel so uncomfortable for white people to say it, even with a hall pass?" "Is it ok to use bitch as long as we put BAD in front of it? Like you a BAD BITCH" "Perhaps the words BITCH and NIGGA are now neither positive or negative. They are just potent and it depends on how the are used and by whom?" "What if there was no profanity... What if we decided to legalise profanity in a sense? In France they play songs with cursing on the radio" He explained his sudden interest in he word "bitch": "I was recently questioned about the use of the word BITCH in my music and initially was offended by anyone questioning anything in my music" "Stevie Wonder never had to use the word bitch

Girl On Fire (Inferno Version) Alicia Keys feat. Nicki Minaj

Here's the hot "Inferno Version" of Alicia Keys' "Girl On Fire" which features Nicki Minaj dropping a couple verses

BAD ASS COMBO: T.I. Talks On "Trouble Man," Possibly Collaborating With 50 Cent

Tip promises a classic with his album "Trouble Man," and says he's ready to collabo with 50 Cent. Although T.I. seems to be in no rush to release his new album, Trouble Man, he says he does want to release it by years-end. In a recent interview with ThisIs50, Tip spoke on the impending album, saying he was going to do whatever it takes to release it by the end of the year, as he previously said, and he guarantees a classic. "I'm trying to get it done by the end of the year, man. I'm gonna do whatever it takes to make sure that when it comes out, it's gonna be classic." While talking to Jack Thriller, T.I. also spoke on the possibility of collaborating with the site's head honcho, 50 Cent. He says he's ready whenever 50 is. "We just gotta find the right thing, because we so significant in our own right, to the cultures and the regions of people we represent. We gonna have to find something that speaks to those people," Tip said of a collabo with Fif (via HHDX). Watch the full interview below.

Freeway Comments On Beanie Sigel's Arrest

Once members of the same hip-hop group, Freeway comments on his affiliate Beanie Sigel's recent arrest. Freeway, a close affiliate of Beanie Sigel, and one of the founding members of State Property hip-hop group, commented on the latter's recent arrest and impending incarceration. Freeway spoke to AHH about Beanie Sigel's shocking arrest only two weeks before beginning to serve prison sentence for tax evasion, this time on a charge of drug and gun possession. Freeway was disappointed like many, but wishes Sigel the best. “It’s definitely unfortunate,” Freeway said. “I was just on the phone with his wife. It’s looking crazy, but Inshallah, he will get through it. It’s hard on me, it’s hard on his family, but he’s got good people out here who support him." Sigel's album, This Time, is out now

ANGRY EX: HEIDI KLUM An Angry Seal IS AFTER ME!

Seal went after Heidi Klum’s fortune out of anger and jealousy ... sources intimately familiar with the situation tell TMZ. Heidi is telling close friends Seal made outrageous property settlement demands when she filed for divorce, despite the couples post-nuptial agreement. Heidi claims Seal asked for a huge chunk of her $70 million fortune and she believes it was all rooted in blind jealously. We're told Seal has since backed off his financial demands, but Heidi is telling friends, it's all part of Seal's M.O. -- to lash out when he's pissed. The anger, Heidi says, is why their marriage fell apart. Heidi is telling her confidantes ... Seal’s interview with TMZ, in which he accuses her of "fornicating with the help" during their marriage, was aggressively designed to hurt and embarrass her. Sources close to the couple tell TMZ although Seal is publicly trashing his estranged wife, he would take her back in a second. Based on what we’re hearing, Seal shouldn’t hold his breath.

It's Time: JOEY BUTTAFUOCO Don't Shoot Me ... But I'm Writing a Tell-All

Joey Buttafuoco is breaking his 20-YEAR SILENCE about his affair with Amy Fisher by writing a tell-all book, TMZ has learned. Buttafuoco tells TMZ the reason he's coming forward after so many years is due to a recent brush with death. He believes it's time to "clean the slate" and finally move on with his life -- aptly titling the memoir, "Closure." Joey tells us, "Everyone thinks they know [the story] but they really don't." Joey says the book his ex-wife Mary Jo Buttafuoco wrote back in 2009 is just an "angry account of an ex-wife who pieced together her own vision of why things happened. [She] had no knowledge of my life away from home." Joey says he thinks Amy in particular will have a problem with him telling the whole story, but tells TMZ, "It's time for all of us to move on. My book is closure for everyone and our respected families. It's time."

REST IN PEACE: MARK ABRAHAMIAN Starship Guitarist Dies Following Concert

Mark Abrahamian, a guitarist for the band Starship, passed away following a concert last night in Nebraska ... TMZ has learned. The band tweeted, "We are shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of our guitar player Mark Abrahamian. We will miss you, brother. Rest in peace, Mark." They added via Facebook, "Mark was a kind, thoughtful and innovative soul. He was also a friend and family member. Mark also happened to be one hell of a guitar player. We are devastated by the loss of our brother and just dealing with it the best we can." Abrahamian has been on tour with Starship starring Mickey Thomas since 2000. He has also played with the likes of Survivor, Toto, Loverboy and ACDC. The band was scheduled to play a concert tonight in Utah, but canceled the show.

Happy: KELLY RUTHERFORD Spends a Nice Holiday with Her Kids in France

Despite her crushing blow in family court recently, Kelly Rutherford was all smiles as she arrived in Nice, France to visit her two kids ... and TMZ has the photos. As TMZ first reported, the "Gossip Girl" star was devastated after a judge ruled that her ex husband, Daniel Giersch, was allowed to keep their two young children living with him in France 50% of the time. Kelly told friends afterwards she plans to challenge the ruling -- arguing that the difficult travel will make quality time with her children virtually impossible. But on Sunday she looked happy as a clam when she arrived in Nice Airport with her brother ... while her kids greeted her with balloons and an awesome sign that said, "Welcome Super Mama." Her ex was there too ... holding Hello Kitty balloons. Très awkward.

ITS OVER: KRIS HUMPHRIES' PARENTS DIVORCE FINAL In 26 Days Flat

Kris Humphries' parents should teach divorce school -- because the ex-couple's divorce has been finalized ... a mere 26 days after Kris' mom filed. TMZ broke the story ... Debra Humphries filed for divorce from Kris' dad William on August 3rd. The divorce settlement agreement had already been signed. A Minnesota judge signed the divorce decree on August 29th -- making the split official. It's as quick and clean as they come. As you know, Kim Kardashian filed for divorce from Kris on October 31st LAST YEAR ... and the ex-couple is STILL battling it out in court ... with no end in sight.

Hit Banger In Ukraine: We swag by Mr Wealthy ft Capital E, Fleashy & Shola brizzy

All the way from Zaporozhye from Ukraine. Its another talented Nigerian Mr.Wealthy with his hit track in Ukraine..He is scheduled to perform live on 22nd September at the Nawty Night festival....tell me who says Africa got no talent.....Listen to the track below:

HELP PLEASE: RUSSELL CROWE HELP! I Got Lost Kayaking

Russell Crowe was "Les Miserables" Saturday night -- when he got lost in the waters of Long Island while kayaking and had to be rescued (kind of) by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Academy-Award winning actor was out kayaking with a buddy in the Long Island Sound ... but as it got darker, they lost their way. Not knowing where to go, Crowe and his unnamed friend headed for shore -- problem is they ended up beached 10 miles away from where they started and were STRANDED. Crowe eventually saw a patrol boat from a distance and called out. The 48-year-old actor paddled to the rescue boat -- which belonged to the U.S. Coast Guard -- and got a lift home, along with his friend. The actor tweeted a few hours later -- "Thanks to Seth and the boys from the US Coast Guard for guiding the way ... 4 hrs 30 mins." The time indicated how long he was on the water.

Like A Boss: MICHAEL PHELPS Going Out in Style

Most people get a gift certificate and cake when they retire -- Michael Phelps spends the weekend in Las Vegas partying his face off. The greatest Olympian of all-time hit up Surrender Nightclub and Encore Beach Club to celebrate his retirement from competitive swimming. Joining him for the weekend were a few of his friends, including Olympic gold medalist and training partner Allison Schmitt. Phelps partied with two famous DJs during the weekend -- Afrojack Friday night at Surrender and David Guetta on Saturday at the pool. As TMZ first reported, Phelps' Vegas trip began earlier this week when he won $100,000 playing poker. Every retirement should be this cool.

You Are A Mess: MICHAEL JACKSON 'This Is It' Promoters Called Jackson a 'Mess'

Michael Jackson was "an emotionally paralyzed mess" who was "scared to death" leading up to his planned "This Is It" concerts in 2009, this according to newly obtained emails sent by the promoters of the show. In the emails, obtained by the LA Times, AEG's Randy Phillips traded messages back and forth with AEG President Tim Leiweke. In one email leading up to the 2009 press conference to announce the concerts, Phillips wrote, "MJ is locked in his room drunk and despondent ... I (am) trying to sober him up." Phillips said Jackson was "an emotionally paralyzed mess," that Jackson was "scared to death," and that Phillips and Jackson's manager had to dress him. The press conference ended up being very brief and very strange. The emails were part of the discovery in an ongoing lawsuit between AEG and the insurance company that backed the tour ... which is suing to get the $17.5 million policy nullified.

He's Back: PRINCE HARRY RESURFACES

Going out in public for the first time since TMZ published nude photos of him in Las Vegas, a clothed Prince Harry showed up today to the WellChild Awards ... which are being held at the InterContinental Hotel in London. The event is held annually and honors the lives of the young people and the doctors and nurses who care for them. As TMZ first reported, Prince Harry vowed he would appear at some point during this week's 2012 Paralympic Games in London, though it was unclear which event he would show up to first.

'BASKETBALL WIVES' STAR Buries $800k Hatchet With Ex-Husband

"Basketball Wives" star Tami Roman and her former NBA-playing ex-husband have finally settled an $800,000 child support lawsuit after battling for almost NINE YEARS, TMZ has learned. Roman filed a lawsuit in New Jersey way back in 2005 against her ex, retired NBA star Kenny Anderson. Roman claimed he had stopped paying the court-ordered $8,500/month in child support for their two daughters -- totaling $800k in missed payments. Sources close to Tami tell TMZ ... the two recently settled the case out of court. We're told Tami received just south of what she was owed and will be paid incrementally through Kenny's NBA retirement fund. We're told in return, all the warrants issued against Anderson for his unpaid child support were dropped. Sources close to Tami add that she is happy Kenny is becoming more involved with their two daughters and is ready to move on from this chapter in her life Calls to both parties' lawyers were not returned.

TIME FOR MYSELF: RANDY JACKSON Time to Himself

Suddenly finding himself with a lot of free time on his hands, Randy Jackson was spotted at LAX yesterday ... heading out of town. As TMZ first reported, Randy will not be back as a judge on the next season of "American Idol," but will transition into a "mentor" role on the show. As for who will be filling his seat ... Mariah Carey has signed on and Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban are thiiiis close to putting pen to paper. Adding a fourth judge is almost certain to happen as well

PROUD DAD: BRUCE WILLIS Moonlighting As a Dad

"Expendables 2" tough guy Bruce Willis showed off his softer side yesterday, pushing his 4-month-old daughter Mabel around Manhattan in a stroller. Goo-goo ga-ga, motherf**ker!

NEVER: PLAYBOY TO COURTNEY STODDEN YOU'LL NEVER Be in Our Magazine

Teen bride Courtney Stodden might have her sights set on Playboy, but they want NOTHING to do with her ... sources at the magazine tell TMZ. Stodden told TMZ Live this week she is considering doing porn -- after receiving at least 4 offers -- but then tweeted last night she wasn't ... and was doing Playboy instead. Read more: http://www.tmz.com/2012/09/02/courtney-stodden-playboy/#ixzz25LK0C255Teen bride Courtney Stodden might have her sights set on Playboy, but they want NOTHING to do with her ... sources at the magazine tell TMZ. Stodden told TMZ Live this week she is considering doing porn -- after receiving at least 4 offers -- but then tweeted last night she wasn't ... and was doing Playboy instead.

More Evidence: JUSTIN & SELENA Cops Want a Word After Alleged Photo Brawl

Cops want to chitchat with Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez about an alleged brawl with a photog back in May ... TMZ has learned. TMZ broke the story, Bieber and the pap got into it as JB and Selena were leaving a movie at the Calabasas Commons. The photog called the cops, but Justin and Selena had split by the time they arrived. The police file went to the D.A. for review in June -- but law enforcement sources tell TMZ, the D.A. has since kicked it back ... asking for more info. Topping the to-do list ... an interview with Bieber and Gomez. So far, cops have not made contact with the two singers -- but they plan to very shortly. Sources close to Jusin tell us, the singer will happily yak it up with cops. Selena's people could not be reached for comment.