A couple of sources are reporting Jermaine Durpi will be venturing into the Hotel business, like Jay-Z and his recent announcement of J Hotels. Jermaine Dupri, will be launching Hotel D.

Now most of the other sources are knocking Jermaine for his recent deal, noting a swagga jacking of Jay-Z’s recent mentions of the Hotel industry. Me, I thought the least besides, as of late Hip Hop thrives off jacking old styles, beats, rhymes. Having lived in Atlanta’s Buckhead, I knew exactly where Durpi was going with interest in that market. Also, being a fan of NY’s Chelsea’s area, the areas are almost kin cousing for location.

What has not been noted is that Jay-Z’s deal with a BIGGER company(not personal capital), CB Developers & SK Development Group are looking to tap into the new budding urban riches, ie (where do Black folks with money, really go?). Its obvious its a collaborative plan from real estate funders, hince the name (thats just too much of a coincidence for me but, who knows.)

Who would know better than two of the most popular from the Nawth, and Sauth. Not to say J-D and J-Z are parallels but, eyes of an upscale VC they really can’t see the difference. Also, in the note of expansion, I’d put my money on their opinion first, if I had NO clue about the “urban audience.” Like it or not people’s they are some of the few Black American reps for Blue Blood society.

What needs to be noted more than the fact two rap powerhouses are “ripping off ” each other’s business ideas, scarf couture or possible job titles. I’d more like to look at the bottom line and better yet realize Hip Hop is dying so bad, its putting its faith in other means. Its to the point now, if you don’t have something other than a damn album and a clothing line, your done.

I can’t knock the expansion game. Jay-Z involvement of expanding his 40/40 clubs across the globes, Jermaine’s venture into the restaurant business, I’m proud they are grabbing the ears of these new and open minded venture capitalist. VC’s see gold in other facets of the Black community, than music. Trust me, these dudes are a hard sell. I actually want to see more rappers invest in their spots. Ironically this new generation millionaire is changing the game past owning a Sizzler, a Rib joint and a beeper shop.

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