MTV Cribs: Hip-Hop

Hosted by “I-make-it-my-goal-to-be-annoying” rapper-actor Redman (How High), this compilation from the MTV series that takes a detailed look inside the homes (and cars and yards) of celebrities includes highlights from episodes featuring hip-hop-related stars. Leading off with Big Boi's (of Outkast) seven-bedroom Atlanta “bachelor pad” (including a shark named Billy Ocean and a “Boom Boom Room” complete with stripper pole), other participants include Ludacris (on his Corona and KFC-filled fridge: “There's nothing else you need!”), Missy Elliott (25 rooms, including one for her dear ol' mom), Nelly, Snoop Dogg (who bristles at finding his “No Food or Drink” rule disregarded) and Ice-T. Tied for this reviewer's vote for best abode are Master P's (with his 40,000 sq. ft. home, gold-plated ceilings, and a color-changing Impala) and Russell Simmons' (an eight-bathroom Manhattan penthouse). Most of the stars seem proud to show off their glitz and glamour, and although Redman's between-segment banter is often lame, you do feel a little sorry for him when he shows off his own rumpled, two-bedroom house (complete with a relative passed out on the floor). Sure to be popular with the teen and twentysomething audience at which its aimed, this is recommended, overall. Also available at the same price is MTV Cribs: Rock. Aud: P. (J. Williams)