Quick News on Common, LL Cool J and Troy Hudson

Common will release his long awaited album, Finding Forever, on July 31 on G.O.O.D. Music/Geffen Records. The album features the lead single, “The People,” as well as the street single, “The Game,” which is produced by Kanye West and features scratches by the legendary DJ Premier. The album will also feature production from will.i.am on “I Want You,” J. Dilla on “So Far To Go” and a guest appearance by D’Angelo on “Misunderstood.”

LL Cool J was scheduled to perform at the 15th Annual Red Stripe Reggae Summerfest this July in Montego Bay. But according to The Jamaica Observer, LL is canceling his appearance at the concert, as well as all his summer shows, due in part to family issues. “We have just been advised by LL Cool J’s management that due to a family problem, LL Cool J has been forced to cancel all his summer dates and hence he will not be performing at Sumfest,” a statement from the show’s organizers read.

Minnesota Timberwolves point guard, Troy Hudson, is another basketball player venturing into the world of hip-hop. Rapping under the moniker, T-Hud, the NBA veteran will release his debut album, Undrafted, on July 17. In order to promote his LP, T-Hud is joining Bow Wow on his Price of Fame tour this month. Hudson will be the tour’s opening act, performing before artists such as Lloyd, Jibbs, Mibs, Huey and Crime Mob take the stage.