Trent Fitzgerald

No one from XXL would ask you for money to write an article to be published. If you're here because someone using an Instagram account is asking you for money, it's a scam. Here are the fake accounts on Instagram impersonating Trent Fitzgerald and asking artists for money: https://www.instagram.com/trent._.fitzgerald/ https://www.instagram.com/trent_fitzgererald1248/ https://www.instagram.com/trent.fitzgerald___/ https://www.instagram.com/trent_fitzgerald_blog_inc_/ https://www.instagram.com/trent_the_creator998/ Trent Fitzgerald is a New Jersey-based freelance writer who is obsessed with hip-hop and pop culture. Currently, he's a music writer for XXL. When he's not writing about your favorite rapper, he's copping sneakers and blogging on his personal rap blog, BeatsandRants.com. He also goes tumbling at beatsnrants.tumblr.com. When it's all said and done, he strives for good music and journalism excellence. Follow him on twitter @BeatsandRants.

Alicia Keys Is Red Hot on Essence’s January 2013 Cover

Alicia Keys is certainly on fire and she's dressed in a red hot strapless gown for the cover of Essence magazine's January 2013 issue. The 14-time Grammy Award-winning songbird is having a fantastic year so far and is looking forward to 2013.

Rihanna to Star in U.S. Version of ‘Styled to Rock’ Series

After conquering the music and film worlds in 2012, it looks as if Rihanna wants to tackle the reality-TV business. The 'Diamonds' singer is bringing her U.K.-based fashion reality show 'Styled to Rock' to the Style Network next year.

Beyonce to Release New Music Before Super Bowl XLVII

Before Beyonce conquers the Super Bowl stage in February, expect to hear some brand new music from the R&B mama. The songbird's longtime collaborator The-Dream told Billboard that she plans to release a couple of new tracks before her Super Bowl XLVII halftime concert in New Orleans on Feb. 3.

Chris Brown + Big Sean Cover XXL Magazine’s Year-End Issue

Chris Brown and Big Sean are blinged out on the cover of XXL magazine's year-end issue. Interestingly, the two covers are perfectly timed as both artists are experiencing various highs and lows with their careers in 2012.

Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary

Although there's been much ado about Michael Jackson's influential 'Bad' album, nothing eclipses the unparalleled achievements of its predecessor 'Thriller.' 30 years ago, Michael's sixth album conquered the music world both with its astonishing sales records and musical impact.

50 Cent, Eminem + Adam Levine On the Run in ‘My Life’ Video

After premiering the song on 'The Voice' Monday night (Nov. 27), 50 Cent premiered his new video for 'My Life' on MTV. The song features Adam Levine singing the hook and a guest verse from his buddy Eminem.

Alicia Keys Celebrates ‘Girl of Fire’ Release With Empire State Building LED Light Show

In celebration of the release of Alicia Keys new album 'Girl on Fire,' a light show was held at the Empire State Building in New York. The Grammy-winning songbird flipped the switch to launch the LED tower light display, which was also synchronized to her anthemic tunes 'Girl on Fire' and 'Empire State of Mind.'

Nick Minaj to Steven Tyler: ‘Go F— Yourself’

Nicki Minaj is mad as hell and she's not gonna take it anymore! The Queen Barbz fired some verbal shots at former 'American Idol' judge Steven Tyler over comments he made about the new 'Idol' judges.

Nicki Minaj Says Big-Box Stores Are Refusing to Stock ‘The Re-Up’ Album

The holiday shopping season is underway and shoppers are hitting the big-box stores to grab the best deals they can find. However, music fans looking to buy discounted albums are having a hard time finding Nicki Minaj's 'Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded -- The Re-Up' at some retailers. What's up with that?

Nicki Minaj on Critics: ‘I’ve Already Mastered Rap’

When Nicki Minaj released 'Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded' back in April, critics frowned at the over abundance of dance-pop songs on the collection. With the 'Re-Up,' Minaj returns to her original sound that ushered her into the rap spotlight. And now she has a few choice words for the critics.

Ne-Yo to Perform on ‘SNL’ in December While Jamie Foxx Will Host

Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx will reunite once again, but not for a new song. The R&B crooner and the actor-comedian will perform and host, respectively, on the Dec. 8 edition of 'Saturday Night Live.'

Nicki Minaj Gives a Wintery Performance of ‘Freedom’ at the 2012 American Music Awards

Nicki Minaj looked like a snow bunny during her solo performance of 'Freedom' at the 2012 American Music Awards on Sunday (Nov. 18). Wearing a pink-colored wig, white fur coat, matching booty shorts and white boots, the Harajuku Barbie brought winter to the AMAs.