R&B artist Usher [ tickets ] has announced the formation of a non-profit organization dubbed Usher's New Look, Inc., which aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged youth interested in careers in entertainment and sports.

The foundation's first initiative is Camp New Look, an Atlanta camp that will introduce 150 participants to producers, athletic trainers, lawyers, equipment managers and others in the sports and entertainment industries.

"From a young age, I envisioned a life in the entertainment industry, and thankfully I was able to make that dream a reality." Usher said in a press release. "But many kids with that dream do not have the opportunity to perform on stage or in an arena. In my 13 years in this industry, I've been blessed with an incredible support system, and it's important to me to show these kids the wide variety of amazing careers available to them and to help give them a new look for the future."

Lots of big-name guests contributed to Earth, Wind & Fire's upcoming album, "Illumination," due Sept. 20. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis produced two tracks, Black Eyed Peas' Will.I.Am produced a song and contributed vocals, and Raphael Saadiq turned the knobs on four tracks.

Other contributions came from OutKast's Big Boi, Destiny's Child's Kelly Rowland, Sleepy Brown, Kenny G, Brian McKnight and Floetry.

"Lotsa de Casha," the fifth and final installment of Madonna's series of children's books, hit stores this week. It's the tale of a rich man who loses his money but gains a friend.

Medeski Martin & Wood, Keller Williams and Matisyahu will join Moe. at this year's Moe.down festival, set for Sept. 2-4 in Turin, NY.