The Noise: Jay & Kanye still fly in "Otis"

The two biggest names in rap have joined forces for Watch The Throne, and if this video is any indicator they plan to keep on boasting while driving models around in Maybachs. In that sense the Spike Jonze directed video is something of a let down, but the song is pleasant enough paying homage to that great soul man Otis Redding, and sampling probably his greatest song ("Try a Little Tenderness"). Also there's a bizarre and hilarious little cameo by Aziz Ansari.

R.I.P. Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse was found dead at her London apartment. She was only 27. The young soul singer clearly had her demons. Her struggles with drugs and alcohol have been well documented (even by herself), but it is still tragic to hear that one of the most talented singer-songwriters of recent years has passed at such a young age. Her great talent will be missed, but fortunately her perfect soul/pop songs will live on. Her aching voice will live on.

The Noise: Beyoncé grows-up on '4'

Beyoncé has never been good with album titles. I mean B'Day? I Am/Sasha Fierce? But she has always been exceptional at turning out the perfect soul/pop tune. Just think of all the classics she already has under her belt. The rapturous disco-horned "Crazy in Love," the ultimate up-beat fuck you anthem that is "Irreplaceable," the contagiously jumpy "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)," among other smash hits, and the slew of girl power anthems she master minded for Destiny's Child. These hits have more than asserted her as the definitive capital D diva of her generation.