Houston area rapper, Pimp C was found dead in his hotel this morning on the popular Sunset strip. Pimp C, real name David Butler was one half of the rap group UGK and celebrated a number one album in August.

The hotel released the following statement: “Mondrian received calls this morning from the family of Chad Butler inquiring about his whereabouts. Mr. Butler had checked into the hotel on 28 November and, according to the callers, was to have checked out yesterday. Security personnel went to Mr. Butler’s room and found him in bed, apparently expired. A 911 call was placed at about 9:20 a.m. and paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced Mr. Butler dead.”

It’s unclear how Butler died. The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department is investigating.

The Luxe family will keep Pimp C’s family and friends in our prayers.

Beyonce looked fabulous Sunday night on the black carpet at the MovieRocks event at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. We are loving her green fishtail number by designer Zac Posen. We are also loving that she let the lace front take a rest tonight!

The history between Kristin Cavallari and Lauren Conrad is a shaky one. We just got word that MTV is trying to get Kristin Cavallari to be apart of the next season of Lauren’s show, The Hills. Wouldn’t that be interesting? Kristin has been laying VERY low since her days on Laguna Beach…the dramz…MTV is really milking these actresses girls.

By the way, Luxerepublic.com is the FIRST media source on earth to report this. Thanks.

Here’s the first listen of the Timbaland produced new single from Ashlee Simpson’s new album slated for release early next year. The song is called “Outta My Head” and we think it sounds ALOT like a Janelle Monae track. Hmm. We think it’ll grow on us though. We love Ashlee! What do you think of the track?

Listen and Download Ashlee Simpson’s ‘Outta My Head’

Its been a while since an album has come across as a well produced, solid piece of pop pie. That is exactly what American Idol winner Jordin Sparks debut release is. Rocketed by her lead single, the Stargate produced ‘Tattoo’ which currently sits at #16 on the Billboard Hot 100, the album is an addictive mix of poppish lyrics fused with rock and R&B. Her voice is reminiscent of the inaugural Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson. I’m not sure that is such a bad thing either. The album is jam packed wih Top 40ish radio friendly tunes that showcase Jordin’s incredible vocal ability.

Tracks to Put on Repeat: Tattoo, No Air, Freeze, Permanent Monday

Tracks to Skip: Shy Boy

7/10 Stars