Hey, hi, howdy kids. Hope you'e enjoying your week. And, look at the bright side- it's halfway over.
Calling DMX "his own worst enemy," a Federal judge sentenced the rapper DMX to a year in prison today during the sentencing portion of the tax fraud case against him. The judge also called the crime "brazen and blatant" and said it could not go unpunished. Prosecutors had sought five years in prison, citing his lengthy rap sheet and drugs.
DMX's attorneys had sought to free him so he could support his 15 children and pay back more than $2 million in taxes.
Given a chance to speak, DMX says he knows his taxes need to be paid and what he did was wrong.
"I wasn't following the rules," he said. "I was in a cloud."
In other legal news, Carver Country, Minnesota prosecutors have been ordered to share investigative files with attorneys for the Prince's family under strict confidentiality guidelines.
Attorney Mark Metz says that, since the investigation into Prince’s death is ongoing, the data is confidential- but that the family attorneys will be given access to assist them in determining whether to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.
The judge’s order says attorneys may only view the files at the sheriff's office, and that it may not be copied, shared, or openly discussed.
Prosecutors are still trying to determine what, if any, charges will be filed.
Stephen, Ziggy, Damian, Julian, and Ky-Mani Marley will appear a at festival honoring the 40th anniversary of their father's landmark album, Kaya.
Kaya Fest will be held over two days next month at the NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, California.
Organizers are calling the event "a one-of-a-kind socially conscious music and awareness experience that fosters unity, one love and peace amongst people from all over the world," and it will mark the first time Bob Marley's sons have performed together in a decade.
Lauryn Hill, Cypress Hill, Action Bronson, Toots and Maytals, SOJA, and others are also scheduled to perform. Tickets are available here.
Birthdays today include: J-Kwon (31); Lady Gaga (32); Dave Keuning of The Killers (41); Rodney Atkins (49); Cheryl Renee James (Salt) of Salt N' Pepa (51); James Atkins of EMF (51); Reba McEntire (63); John Evans of Jethro Tull (70); and Alf Clausen (77). #MusicalBirthdays
