Queen Latifah and Barack Obama Top Essence's List of Most Influential

The new issue of Essence Magazine has a list of its 25 Most Influential of 2008 and Hip-Hop artists hold 5 of the top ten spots, with Queen Latifah leading the pack.

The list, which recognizes 25 distinguished African-Americans who have made a difference in 2008, features a cross section of politicians, journalists, activists and celebrities, with President-elect Barack Obama holding the top position.

Even thought Queen Latifah hasn't release any new rap songs is sometime she has been busy on the movie scene.

Kanye West Goes Ballad With Streetlights

Kanye West goes after a Hip Hop balled with this new rap song off of 808's and Heartbreak entitled "Streetlights". His singing is pretty awful on this one or perhaps awful is a bit harsh but the melody is very nursery rhyme like, he is practically talking on this one and there is less autotune than seen on other tracks from the new rap album which is on iTunes. Perhaps this is a sign of more things to come in music. More bathroom singers will get record deals as music becomes more and more of a freely distributed item the major labels will continue to fore go real talent for stuff like this since no one these days seems to want to pay for good music?

Kanye West Featuring Kid Cudi - Welcome to Heartbreak

This dark violin laced track looks to set the tone for Kanye West new rap music album 808's and Heartbreak. Heavily processed vocals, reflective lyrics and a sweet Kid Cudi hook makes this one of the definite standout new rap songs from this new hip hop album. Kanye seems to be reflecting on how his life as a rap star has cost him some of life's simple joys that we all take for granted. He has sports cars and we have kids. He has a new date and we are getting married. A very clever concept indeed. Kanye West makes something that every musician dreams of seem like the heavest burned to bare. 808's and Heartbreak sounds like it is an amazing album so far and it is avialable at iTunes along with a slew of new rap tunes.

Click here to listen to Welcome to Heartbreak