Book excerpt: In this fun, edgy, and essential guide, the editors of today's hottest music magazine give you the ultimate, all-access pass to the exciting world of hip-hop and contemporary R&B. From the megaselling songs to the biggest stars to the most outrageous scandals, Rap-Up gives you a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the revolutionary music that's transforming pop culture. Discover: HISTORY LESSON How it all started, from rappers armed with toy keyboards and ambition...to breakout groups like Run-D.M.C. and Public Enemy who brought the 'hood to the suburbs and changed music forever. THE NEW NEW SCHOOL One-of-a-kind profiles of Jay-Z, Beyoncé, 50 Cent, Usher, Ciara, and all the hottest artists. And a look at the moguls and producers who shape the hits, including urban-flow stylist Jermaine Dupri, off-center innovators The Neptunes, and techno-beat genius Timbaland. WHERE'S THE BEEF? The inside story on rap's most notorious battles, from the legendary Juice Crew vs. Boogie Down Productions duel over hip-hop bragging rights, to the Jay-Z vs. Nas battle-of-the-giants, to the 50 Cent vs. The Game take-no-prisoners faceoff. FROM HOLLIS TO HOLLYWOOD A comprehensive list of hip-hop on the silver screen-the good, the bad, and the performers (Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Queen Latifah) who achieved box office gold and Oscar fame. Complete with takes on must-own CDs and tracks, pop quizzes, career highlights, and artist road maps, this unique, definitive book is all you need to get down with everything hip-hop and R&B.