http://www.startribune.co...00177.html

PRIME TYME

Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis have been in the spotlight more than usual -- most significantly on the 2002 Essence Awards that aired on Fox last week, where they were presented the Excellence in Music Award by Janet Jackson. The duo also produced most of the theme music that aired with the NBA playoffs. (At least somebody from Minnesota made it past Round One.)

{{{The next big thing for the producers should be Mariah Carey's new album. They recorded several tracks with the derailed singer, and word is that those collaborations were integral to her getting back on track with her new, much-ballyhooed $20 million deal with Island/Def Jam. Jermaine Dupri and DJ Quik also are in on the CD.}}}

Oh, oh...DJ Quik in Mariah's mix??? I'm buying this when it comes out. Ya'll don't now about the Quik??? Better ask somebody. DJ Quik is west coast gangster rap you can DANCE to...severely FUNKY beats, NON stop. His lyrics for the most part are harsh, but his beats are irresistable. I hope he is producing a track for Mariah instead of lending his voice to a track produce by Jam & Lewis.