It's been one of those days! The older and more mature I become it seems easier to put things into perspective. Regardless of the situation (dead end career, financial stress, baby mama/daddy drama) we have to learn to live our lives. Most issues we stress over aren't worth the agony or attention. I'm sure you've heard the never ending list of cliches, for example "Tomorrow is never promised" or "Live life to the fullest". These sayings don't quite capture the reality of just how short life is. Well let me help to put things into perspective. The reality is, everyday we are one day closer to dying. But, the beauty lies in knowing we still have time. No matter how short or long that span of time may be, its imperative that you're efficient with your life's' stop watch. Ask yourself these questions. 1)What projects, goals, or tasks would you attempt to pursue today if you knew tomorrow would be your last day on earth? 2)If failure weren't an option, think of the list of things you would try? 3)What's stopping you from achieving those goals? 4)Who are the people that mean the most to you? 5)Are they aware of their importance?
Recently, I've been forced to answer some of these questions and incorporate these same answers into both long term and short term goals. I've known 5 people in their early 20s who have passed in the last 2 months. While very unfortunate, death seems to force us to recognize our own mortality at any age. But we must not become discouraged. We are not promised another second, minute, hour or day on this earth. Therefore it's your responsibility to make today different from yesterday. Seek that encouragement and inspiration from wherever or whomever it may be. And as T.I. says, just Live Your Life. Nothings' promised to us in this world. Anything we need and/or want we have to acquire on our own. (Of course through the guidance and direction of God) So why not dispose of all the unnecessary garbage, stop hording the baggage and just live your life! Don't worry about what people think, stop bothering yourself with the thought of failure, shed the additional anguish and worry, and just be free!
Here are a few songs that accurately depict my spectrum of emotions on 9/29/2008. It's easy to be the counselor, but hard to be counseled. Take my word for it :o)
Sullivan Earns Top Debut After becoming the first female artist in four years to reach No. 1 with a debut single, Jazmine Sullivan posts the second-best debut by a woman this year as "Bust Your Windows" bows at No. 29 (up 525 plays). Mariah Carey's No. 23 entry with "Touch My Body" stands as the best by a female in 2008. Sullivan's first single "Need U Bad," which spent two weeks at the top, dips 3-5.
I normally support ALL things Kanye, but this song is unacceptable. After listening for a little over a minute I realized he was going to use the annoying voice box for the entire song. I understand there's a need for originality, but don't you think the anime and muppet videos were enough? We get it, you're trying something new! But uniqueness these days is more than resorting to the voice box. (please take note Lil Wayne and friends) At one point I thought I was going to hear screams on the track. The bass and melody are comparable to the score played to build suspense in horror flicks. I know its time for Kanye to change up his "SWAG" (OMG I can't believe I used that God Awful word) by reinventing himself, but I don't think we were ready for this one. (let's face it not everyone can pull off the Andre 3stacks crossover) Nor do I think we (mostly me) will support his music if this is the direction its headed. Is this even classified as Hip-Hop? Word to the wise...If it ain't broke, don't fix it!
STARS OF THE ‘NOTORIOUS’ MOVIE ANNOUNCED (Information provided via Concrete Loop)
After a nationwide search, it looks like Jamal Woolard (also known by his rap name Gravy) has landed the lead in the biopic Notorious, based on the life of rapper Christopher ‘Notorious B.I.G.’ Wallace, who was gunned down in 1997.
The movie also stars Angela Bassett, who will play Biggie’s mom, Voletta Wallace; Anthony Mackie as Tupac Shakur; and Derek Luke as Sean “Diddy” Combs. George Tillman Jr. will direct the film, which begins shooting March 24 in New York City.
Make sure you peep the other side-by-side photos of the stars of the movie after the cut…
VOLETTA WALLACE PLAYED BY ANGELA BASSETT
DIDDY PLAYED BY DEREK LUKE
TUPAC PLAYED BY ANTHONY MACKIE
I'm hype this was filmed up the street from my house.. Yall might just see me walking by being nosey lol Sike
Kimberly Nordyke and Chad Williams, The Hollywood Reporter
Comedy Central has teamed with Kanye West for a project described as hip-hop meets the Muppets. A half-hour pilot has been shot for the project, tentatively titled "Alligator Boots."
It's from Jackhole Prods., the production company founded by Jimmy Kimmel, Daniel Kellison and Adam Carolla that also was behind Comedy Central's puppet-centric "Crank Yankers."
The project, which is under consideration for 2009, would feature music produced and performed by West and fellow rapper Rhymefest, both of whom are serving as executive producers on the pilot alongside Kellison.
West also hosts the pilot; the idea is to have a different celebrity guest host for every episode, similar to the setup on the original "Muppet Show."
West's new album, "808s & Heartbreak," is due Dec. 16 via Def Jam. First single "Love Lockdown" is at iTunes now.
Sidebar--I guess Champion was such a great video Comedy Central saw potential for more muppet action from Kanye lol (I hope this isn't borderline Crank Yankers)
My favorite Rican twins are back! I absolutely love this song, although I think it should have been released at the beginning of the summer. Sorry guys, I couldn't find the official version of the song with Rick Ross but hey this Brooklyn kid does the track justice.
Cristina Aguilera- Dirty Instead of looking "Dirty" it just looks homeless. I would imagine this is the pile of mess my hair would form into if I ever (God forbid) became homeless and didn't have a comb. We've seen Cristina with plenty of different looks, some appealing and others quite awkward. But the slight dreadlocks, blonde/black mix, with cookie crumbs, lent, and dirt all packed in tight is definitely not one of her more suitable hair styles. But then again I'm sure Ms. Aguilera wasn't trying to appease my tastes in hair when she decided to go this route.So ladies, exoticists, bohemians, artsy peeps etc. stop trying to go for this look. Cristina can style her hair like this one day and wear a strawberry blonde bob the next. And well you guys are kinda stuck with it if you decide to go the messy dread route, so let's leave this one for the video. (Please note I love locks. I intend on locking my hair someday)
Aaliyah-More Than A Woman R.I.P. Ms. Aaliyah!~ But I have a bone to pick with women who are still wearing their hair in the long phony pony with the little raised "bump" at the top. Aaliyah could pull off this hair style because after all, she's Aaliyah. lol No seriously she had a team of stylists (notice more than one) who could blend her hair with the texture of the ponytail and who could create an entire look surrounding this simple yet somehow elaborate hairstyle. In addition, I'm sure the creative (genius) director who created the looks for the shoot did not intend for the style to be worn as everyday casual hair wear. (I like coining new phrases) Ladies, let's retire this style and leave it as one of the many video hairstyles that need not be duplicated.
Amy Winehouse-Tears Dry On Their Own I know this picture is a bit blurry. Amy, I understand you like the 60s-70s Mod-Big-hair-look but for once please wear your hair like a normal person. If we could somehow lock her in the bathroom with only a flatiron or simple curling iron, some Garnier Fructis smoothing hair serum and a few clip in extensions, I think we might have ourselves a new (less suicidal/depressing/drug addict) look for Ms. Winehouse. You know, something a little more presentable like this.... Thatta girl, there ya go :)
Ashanti-Body On Me We all know Ashanti's style is kinda hit or miss. Sometimes she hits the target dead on and sometimes she misses completely. I didn't want to jump all over the bun/Pocahontas braid she sports at the end of the Body On Me video because that overlaps with my number 1 "worst video hair style to duplicate". This hair style is exceptionally fly in the video. I can dig the three braid action on one side with the smoothed hair on the other side to give it the Mohawk look. I also like the idea of the loose curls and exaggerated swoop bang. But, in the wrong hands and on the wrong person this can be a complete Diana Ross MESS. Ladies please do not go to the local hair store and buy a pound of hair and try attaching it to your head. Once again this was a look created for a video not a night out at the club. I can guarantee if you wear this much fake hair out to the club it will get caught in a hook on someones jacket, or possibly in someones earring. :o) Sorry to be the bearer of bad news!
Last but not least, Ms./Mrs. Beyonce Knowles Carter ...whatever! Upgrade U That braid is a definite NO NO. I remember when I was little my mother would try to put one big braid in my hair and I would break out and have a fit. I would roll all over the floor, kick and scream, cry, throw chairs etc because I knew how absolutely stupid I would look with one long thick braid growing out of the crown of my head. I have naturally thick curly hair so one big braid was just not an option, unless my mother was planning on intentionally trying to humiliate me. Ok Beyonce, this is fine for the video. I see you in the back seat of the car with gold interior to match your blonde braid. You should have provided a brief disclaimer at the beginning of the video instructing young black girls to not try and duplicate any of the hairstyles in this video. I must admit this is one of the best vids in 2007, but definitely not the best way to upgrade the style of impressionable young women.
If there are any others you can think of please leave a comment letting me know. I'm certain there are other completely offensive hairstyles many of us commoners have tried to pull off, but they just need to be left in the video
Two of my favorite artists are performing at SOB's the last week in September. I think I might go to both since VH1 slighted me on the Sadiq tix way back in August. (I'm still a little salty about that) Teedra Moses'sThe Young Lioness was set to drop sometime this year, but until then we shall enjoy her in concert.
I'm really starting to believe Harlem USA is its own planet. I mean, have you ever been? As soon as you step off the train and breathe the air, it's almost as if you've walked onto the pages of a story book. The place is quite magical and by far one of the most historical neighborhoods New York City has to offer. (Ok enough...moving on) Our second teenie bopper for the week ,Teyana Taylor, is Star Trak Entertainment's new teen protege. The 17 year old singer/rapper skipped onto the scene in 2007 decked out in her fresh Air Force Ones, Heatherette dresses and 10 speed mountain bikes. Her debut album From A Planet Called Harlem was scheduled for release in August. Although the album didn't drop, the Jazzy Pha produced hit single Google Me has received lots of attention over the internet via Youtube. You've also probably seen her 80s themed MTV Super Sweet 16 episode. (You know you're getting old when kids have themed parties for the decade you were born)But what else is there to know about the self proclaimed teen president of the nerd squad? This excerpt from a Trace Magazine article discusses Ms. Taylor's sense of style, her working relationship with Pharrell, and even her somewhat secret crush.(provided through Concrete Loop)
“She was mad focused and really wanted to learn,” recalls Teyana.
TEYANA ON HER CRUSH “It’s Shia Labeouf! I’ve got my eye on him. I mean, for real. He’s so cute and I looove his swagger.”
But she makes sure to note that her career is her boyfriend
“Yeah, I do have my eye on Shia, but to be honest performing is my boyfriend right now. That’s just what I really love and we’ve been together for so long.”
TEYANA ON HER LOOK “I always stood out as far as dressing,” she says. “I like to look different and people know me for that. My look is a mix of old-school hip-hop and skater.”
TEYANA ON PHARRELL “I sang for the Senior Vice President of A&R at Universal, and he asked me the top five people I would really want to work with and my first three were Pharrell. It was crazy to meet him. I mean I love that dude and we connected,” Teyana recalls.
Pharrell couldn’t agree more, “I heard about how talented she was, and I wanted to meet her. I was impressed she could, sing, dance and rap, so we gave her a shot.”
TEYANA ON RECEIVING FREE CLOTHES FROM ‘HEATHERETTE’ “I love their clothes. They make a dress, and it’s not like a pretty princess dress. It’s not girlie but more rock star and out there. That’s like the only dresses I’ll wear. They are just like me – they are unique and don’t care what people say. I fell in love with them, and them with me,” says Teyana.
In all honesty, I think the young teenie booper's style is more engaging then her music. Don't get me wrong, I dig a few of her songs. Let's see, if I were a stary eyed, naive 16 year old kid I would probably ditch Lil Momma and go cop From A Planet Called Harlem as soon as it droped. But since I'm past the teenage love affair stage and looking more for...umm grown up music, I'll just download a few tracks from iTunes. The fact she's Pharell's young protege and the most recent act in the Star Trak line up has her teenage fans in a craze. Having a great production squad is half the battle, and when one of your label mates is the King of hot beats its almost inevitable that you'll sell records. She can dance, she can sing, she has tremendous style, and she's interesting. After all there's nothing worse than a boring entertainer. (cough cough Deborah Cox, Maxwell, just to name a few) Check out her website for more information on tour dates, events, and featured articles.
Almost everyone I know has an iPod. If you don't you should crawl back into your cave,sit down, and think about getting one.
A friend of mine came to visit a few weeks ago and introduced me to the Radio feature on Itunes. Believe me, this is a perfect alternative to advertisement filled radio stations. The streams are categorized by genre and include over 25 stations per genre. The greatest part of it all is... NO COMMERCIALS!!!! Don't worry, they are up to date on all the NEW NEW music and actually have old school stations if you're tired of todays pop culture.
*Just as an FYI, this is perfect for: Alt to Yahoo radio (which plays the same 6 songs over and over) Non stop commercial free music to play during cookouts, get-togethers, or Saturday morning cleaning Previewing songs before they air on main stream radio
25 years after Run DMC appeared on the front cover of Word Up Magazine, Joseph Simmons and Team Blackout will follow in their footsteps. The Queens/Long Island based group consisting of JoJo Simmons and his childhood friends Zach and Reggie have been rhyming together since the 7th grade. The trio officially decided to unite in 2003 after the 2-day power outage (blackout)affecting most states in the Northeastern US territory. Their first single Billion Dollar Boyfriend off their debut album Light's Out was released August 19, 2008. The entire album was produced by upcoming production duo Chris n Teeb, Grammy award winning producer Rockwilder and Ron Browz. Team Blackout became a recognizable group after being featured on the MTV reality series Run's House.
NOW for my 2 cents-- These youngins are doing BIG things. As mentioned above, the entire album was produced by up and comping producers not to mention the video for Billion Dollar Boyfriend was filmed by up and coming video producer Joe Cap, a recent graduate of Hofstra University. My advice, if you have a dream and a little bit of change in your pocket...GO FOR IT! These young gentlemen sure did. On the other hand, if your not a fan of the artificial-studio-instrumental sound DO NOT listen to the Imeem player below THIS IS NOT THE GROUP FOR YOU! lol After listening to a few tracks, I'm under the assumption one of the members sings the chorus & bridges and the other two rap. This is a perfect combination given the direction of the industry. Now-a-days you can't find a Hip-hop song without a featured artist singing on the hook. Sure they rap about girls, money, cars, chains, and all of the things us regular people don't have. Honestly, what else is there to write about at 18-20 years old? Would we really expect Rev Run's son Jojo to spit lines inciting the struggles of growing up impoverished....NO! And I'm almost willing to bet my next paycheck his fellow group members aren't strangers to middle class living (which is quite apparent in the single Why Wouldn't I) :o) I know privileged kids when I see em. Some of the songs bare an uncanny resemblance to Pretty Ricky singles which could prove to be a issue for the trio. In my opinion, Team Blackouts 3 members versus Pretty Ricky's 4 may help with marketability.
It may be extremely difficult to top Run DMC's legacy but Team Blackout has the essentials to give them a run (no pun intended) for their money. If we are going to compare lets look at a few Run DMC songs to make the Billboard charts.
Run DMC (please note only the singles peaking at #30 or below are included) It's Like That Peaked at #15 Hard Times Peaked at #11 Rock Box Peaked at #22 30 Days Peaked at #16 King Of Rock Peaked at #14 You Talk Too Much Peaked at #19 Can You Rock It Like This Peaked at #19 My Addidas Peaked at #5 Walk This Way (f/ Steven Tyler) Peaked at #8 You Be Illin' Peaked at #12 It's Tricky Peaked at #21 Run's Hous Peaked at 10 Mary, Mary Peaked at 29 What's It All About Peaked at #24 Down With The King Peaked at #9
I see Rappers weren't that big on callabos back in the day. We are all aware the industry has changed. Hip Hop has evolved from lyrically conscious raw material to beats and swag. I mean what can I say? Soulja Boy made this a reality. So let's break down the elements they have working both for and against them.
Team Blackout In house R&B singer Cable network (MTV) platform Russell Simmons's money :-D No street credibility Mostly studio produced/enhanced instrumentals Young chicks will dig them We all love the Simmons family
Run DMC In house DJ better known as Jam Master Jay None of Russell Simmons's money (he wasn't bankin back then) Street credibility Young chicks dug them
I'm certain I'm more excited about the group being a product of the Simmons family as opposed to them being new school Hip Hop pioneers. Well, what hasn't this family done? Angela & Vanessa have the Pastry Shoe line, JoJo & friends have recently formed a rap group, now all we need is Diggy and Russy to organize some type of variety show/circus act. Watching those two is comparable to a Barnum & Bailey experience. Might I add they are quite entertaining and adorable. In the end, Team Blackout gets a 3 star rating. One for each member of the group!
New Beyonce Album Arriving In November September 09, 2008 , 10:45 AM Copied directly from Billboard.com Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.
Beyonce Knowles's third solo album will be released Nov. 18 via Music World Music/Columbia, and will be preceded Oct. 7 by the radio release of the singles "If I Were a Boy" and "Single Ladies."Beyonce co-wrote or co-produced all the material, which the label says comprises "her most personal, reflective and revelatory collection to-date."
Justin Timberlake will also appear on the as-yet-untitled project, but additional details about his contributions have not been released.The artists teamed up to cover the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell classic "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing" last Friday at the Fashion Rocks event at New York's Radio City Music Hall.Producer Jim Jonsin, the man behind Lil Wayne's "Lollipop," has also logged studio time with Beyonce on the track "Beautiful Nightmare," which leaked online earlier this year. It is unknown if the song will make the final track list.
The new album is the follow-up to 2006's "B-Day," which has sold 3.2 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
Knowles is also gearing up for two upcoming film projects. She stars as blues legend Etta James in "Cadillac Records," a release date for which has yet to be announced, and as the wife of a stalking target in "Obsessed," due Feb. 27.
I was out to lunch at Karen's organic food shop, when I bumped into Chrisette Michele. I was actually sitting having lunch with my coworker (hey Flora)and we both noticed the diva-like beauty with the long honey brown hair and fierce white blazer. (I've been watching too much America's Next Top Model and as a result have been reduced to using the word FIERCE) I have extremely keen visual sensors when it comes to celebrity sightings. One day, me and a friend spotted Rihanna from 3 miles away while shopping in Soho :) Anyway, Flora had no idea who Chrisette was nor was she familiar with any of her music. So, of course I had to break it down and give her the 411. And it goes a little something like this:
Chrisette Michele Payne (born December 8, 1982), known professionally as Chrisette Michele, is a Grammy-nominated American R&B singer on the Def Jam Recordings record label. (Wikipedia) Payne has been nominated for BET, Image, Grammy, and Vibe Music Awards since her debut album I Am. The budding R&B songstress has had 8 Billboard hits, both as a featured and solo artist as well as guest star apperances on the CW's Girlfriends.
lol Of course I didn't know all of this information when I was explaining things to Flora, but hey it captivates the moment and provides great visual imagery and detail for blogging purposes. As a tribute to my celeb sighting of the day, here are a few Crisette Michelle songs iLike. I still prefer J. Sullivan over C. Michele. Enjoy some of her music below!
September 05, 2008 , 12:00 AM ET Copied directly from Billboard.com
Hillary Crosley, N.Y. In addition to crafting tracks for Jay-Z's upcoming album, "Blueprint III," Kanye West is plotting the release of his own as-yet-untitled Def Jam album, according to his management.
West initially named his fourth album "Good Ass Job" several years ago, to follow the thread of "College Dropout," "Late Registration" and "Graduation," however, an official title has yet to be confirmed.
Still, the disc may well hit shelves in the fourth quarter and management says West is seriously contemplating that timeline. Most recently, the MC has been performing a new track called "Love Lockdown," which is rumored to be his first single and to be hitting iTunes in a matter of days.
There's speculation West will perform the song Sunday (Sept. 7) on the MTV Video Music Awards, to which he was added today.
"Graduation," released in September 2007, has sold 2.2 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
Yesterday artist Jimm Lasser opened his exhibition in New York, with Obama being the theme of the exhibition. The Obama Force One is one of the most interesting pieces exhibited. The Air Force 1 got a make-over by the artist with graphics engraved into the outer sole. From: www.highsnobiety.com After a week full of hypocrasy at the RNC I thought this was a nice little refresher. Kinda hot right? This is crazy creative. Think of all the things that can be done if you take the time out to get in touch with your inner creativity. YES WE CAN!!! Obama Biden '08
The best thing about funny rapping is of course.... THE LYRICS. Usually the beats are catchy and the videos are relatively satirical. Over the past couple of days I tried to come up with a few funny style rappers or a couple of songs that have made me chuckle. Let's see--
Ludacris Christopher Bridges(born September 11, 1977 in Champaign,Illinois),better known by his stage name Ludacris, is a three-time Grammy Award-winning American rapper and actor. Along with his manager,Chaka Zulu, Ludacris is the co-founder of Disturbing tha Peace, an imprint distributed by Def Jam Recordings. He is also the rapper with the most Top 40, Top 25,& Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 Hits of all time. Ludacris is tied with Nelly for the title of the hip-hop solo artist with the second most Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits. (Wikipedia.com)
Afroman Born Joseph Foreman,(born July 28, 1974 in Palmdale, California) better known by his stage name Afroman, is a rapper and guitarist. Afroman may be the first artist to achieve a worldwide hit with the assistance of the Internet. Citing his influences as Too Short, Big Daddy Kane, and 2 Live Crew, he began his rap career in the eighth grade when he started making homemade tapes of his own songs and passing them out to his classmates.His best-known song is the 2001 novelty song "Because I Got High", which gained popularity through Napster, local radio play, a feature on Howard Stern's radio show, and the "stoner" movie Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. (Wikipedia.com)
Alfred Matthew "Weird Al" Yankovic (pronounced /ˈjæŋkəvɪk/; born October 23, 1959) is a Grammy Award winning American singer, musician, actor, satirist, parodist, songwriter, music producer, accordionist, and television producer. Yankovic is known in particular for his humorous songs that make light of popular culture and that often parody specific songs by contemporary musical acts. Yankovic received his first accordion lesson a day before his seventh birthday, and since his first-aired song parody in 1979 has sold more than 12 million albums (more than any comedy act in history),recorded more than 150 parody and original songs, and has performed more than 1,000 live shows. His works have earned him three Grammy Awards among nine nominations, four gold records, and six platinum records in the United States. Yankovic's first top ten Billboard album and single were both released in 2006, nearly three decades into his career. (Wikipedia.com)
D4L went from obscurity to one of the most talked about groups in rap with their hit single "Laffy Taffy", in the Fall of 2005. A southern-fried tribute to the feminine form, the song dominated the airwaves in the group's hometown of Atlanta, Georgia before going on to become a national crossover hit.Formed in 2003, D4L (Down 4 Life) is made up of rappers Fa-bo, Mook-B, Stoney and Shawty Lo--all representing different housing projects in Atlanta. Shawty Lo, D4L's leader, put up his own money to launch the group, recruiting three hungry young entertainers looking to break into the music business. Two years later, D4L is another Dirty South success story.D4L's debut album, D4L: Down For Life was released jointly by Dee Money and Asylum Records in 2005. (MTV.com)
DeAndre Cortez Way (born July 28, 1990), better known by his stage name Soulja Boy Tell 'Em, or simply Soulja Boy, is an American entertainer, dancer, and record producer. In September 2007, his single "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The single was initially self-published on the Internet, and it became a number-one hit in the United States for seven non-consecutive weeks starting in September 2007. Born DeAndre Cortez Way in Chicago, Illinois on July 28, 1990, Way moved from Chicago to Atlanta, Georgia at age seven, where he became interested in rap music.At age 14, he moved to Batesville, Mississippi with his father, who provided a recording studio for Way to explore his musical ambitions. (Wikipedia.com)
Founded in 1997, the group "Hotstylz" broke the barriers and expanded they're ignorance to the world. The group consist of 3 individual songwriters that decided to take the world by storm... one victim at a time. The members, Krazee, Meatball, and Raydio G, often refer to themselves as "entertainers" and not "rappers". Their Summer 2008 debut should prove just that. Versatility mixed with clever rhythms.... Hotstylz! (Myspace.com)
Melissa Arnette "Missy" Elliott (born on July 1, 1971), is a five-time Grammy Award-winning American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. With record sales of 7.6 million domestically she is the only female rapper to have six albums certified platinum by the RIAA, including one double platinum (Under Construction). Elliott is known for a series of hits and diverse music videos including "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)", "Hot Boyz", "Get Ur Freak On", "One Minute Man", "Work It", "Gossip Folks", "Pass That Dutch", "Lose Control" and "Ching-a-Ling." In addition, Elliott has worked extensively as a songwriter and producer for other artists, both alone and with her producer and childhood friend Timbaland. Elliott's songwriting and production credits include work for a number of other female artists. (Wikipedia.com)
Jonathan Mortimer Smith (born January 27, 1971), better known by his stage name Lil Jon, is an American producer, promoter, and rapper. He is best known as a pioneer of the sub-genre of hip hop known as "crunk". Lil Jon was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from Douglass High School in 1989. He worked for So So Def between 1993 and 2000.Lil Jon’s songs have a strong relation to Miami Bass, in that it shares the avid use of the Roland TR-808 kick, high dance tempos, and explicit lyrical content, usually dealing with sexual themes and expressing the language of the Miami streets. He also samples various Disco sounds in his songs, especially in "What U Goin' Do". His productions show a preference for, as said by Philip Sherburne, "Sharp, spiky rhythms programmed on primitive drum machines and bass synthesizers." (Wikipedia.com)
Sporty Thievz was a hip-hop group, originally a trio, comprised of King Kirk (a.k.a. Thieven Stealberg), Big Dubez (a.k.a. Safecracker) and Marlon Brando (a.k.a. Robin Hood).They are notable for their parody of TLC's hit "No Scrubs" and for their song "Hit It Up" on the soundtrack to The Best Man, and also satirically providing a male counterpoint to the female-oriented R'n'B music popularised in the late 1990s and early 2000s, something that was not done by any other group at the time. They are best known for their rebuttal to TLC's hit "No Scrubs," entitled "No Pigeons", which attempted to tell things from the male perspective.
This post has no value what-so-ever. I wish I could tell you something substantial like, satirical rapping stems from the roots of Africa and made its way into main stream two decades ago. lol No I can't, I don't have anything worth quoting in this post. I know it's not informative and yes I'm aware Wikipedia isn't a reliable source. But hey you can do pointless stuff like this when you have your own blog. In light of the weekend approaching I thought this would be a relatively light-weight post. If you have any other suggestions, please write a comment and I'll try my best to include those artists as well. Why be so serious when you can listen to funny rap and lighten the mood?
This video cracks me up!!!!
Let's see if we can spot some "Lookin Boyz" lol just for fun *Just letchya soooouuuuul gllloooowww!! Curl lookin’ boy---Saw one of these on the train today *I look like I eat tuna casserole all day lookin’ boy---One of these heatin up lunch in the cafeteria right now *Wearin’ green Joggin suit lookin’ boy---Knew one of these lookin boys in college Ok enough :o)
Another trip home to Baltimore without my laptop or iPod. (How silly of me) (Besides it's not super safe to travel on the BUS of all places with a huge laptop) When I moved out of my parents house after Junior year I left only 3 things; linen, books, and my 1995 Sharp 3-disc CD changer stereo with a dual cassette tape deck. (how archaic is that?) The CD Changer doesn't work (I don't think it ever did) therefore I'm reduced to listening to the trash transmitted across the airwaves. After channel surfing (which seemed more like static searching) I decided to take refuge in a stack of old dusty tape cassettes I found in the bottom of my closet. Alas real music! Half of the tapes are broken in half and the others had the weird shiny tape hanging out, doubled in knots. So I decided to sit down and look through the towering piles of cassettes. "Hmmm let's see what do I have?"
*Jodeci Forever My Lady... not in the mood (this could be another potential post topic) *Mariah Carey Butterfly...definitely not in the mood (Me and MiMi have a love hate relationship) *Xscape Hummin Comin At Cha... that's cool but I can't listen from beginning to end *Fugees The Score... Oh hell yea... I completely forgot about The Fugees
So, popped it in the tape deck and now I'm back in 1996. The Score has sold over 18 million copies world wide and was the official album that helped the Fugees gain wide range, international exposure. The Fugees (short for Refugees)released 3 singles from The Score peaking under 25 on the Billboard charts.(see text below)
Killing Me Softly Fugees(feat. Lauryn Hill) Peaked at 1 Fu-Gee-La Fugees(Refugee Camp) Peaked at 13 Ready Or Not Peaked at 22
Thinking back, this album was undeniably sagacious. The Score touched on various social issues including, police brutality, poverty, sexism, immigration, and racism. (In my opinion groups with members of various backgrounds have the potential to cover a wider range of social issues) Years later I can respect and agree with the tenacious lyrics as opposed to simply admiring the music for the way it sounds. Check out lyrics from one of my FAVORITE Lauryn Hill verses. (The Score: Manifest)
You see I loved hard once, but the love wasn't returned I found out the man I'd die for, he wasn't even concerned And time it turned, He tried to burn me like a perm Though my eyes saw the deception, My heart wouldn't let me learn From um, some, dumb woman, was I, And everytime he'd lie, he would cry and inside I'd die. My heart must have died a thousand deaths Compared myself to Toni Braxton thought I'd never catch my breath Nothing left, he stole the heart beating from my chest I tried to call the cops, that type of thief you can't arrest Pain suppressed, will lead to cardiac arrest Diamonds deserve diamonds, but he convinced me I was worth less when my peoples would protest, I told them mind their business, cause my s*** was complex More than just the sex I was blessed, but couldn't feel it like when I was caressed I'd spend nights clutching my breasts overwhelmed by God's test I was God's best contemplating death with a Gillette But no man is ever worth the paradise MANIFEST Try this site for lyrics
Where are they now? History has taught us, "All good things must come to an end", thus one of the many theories behind the Fugees 1997 breakup. The Score was regarded as one of the best Hip Hop albums of its time as a result spawning the successful solo careers of both Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean.
So what are they doing now? Lauryn Hill is a 8 time Grammy award winner and 19 time Grammy award nominee. Hill's ongoing prestigious list of accomplishments include 3 World Music Awards, 3 American Music Awards, and a Soul Train Sammie Davis Jr. Entertainer of the Year Award. There's no doubt the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (which I pre-ordered from Sam Goddie 2 weeks before its' release) was received as one of the decades most highly anticipated,best selling albums. Ms. Hill's debut album had a powerful R&B impact and set relatively untouchable industry standards. (To think this was the same girl who was originally "escorted" (booed) off stage for her Amatuer night performance on the Apollo) Below are a few tracks from the Miseducation and peak positions on the Billboard charts
Lost Ones Peaked at #27 Doo Wop (That Thing) Peaked at #2 Ex-Factor Peaked at #7 Nothing Even Matters(feat. D'Angelo) Peaked at #25 Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You Peaked at #45 To Zion Peaked at #77 Everything Is Everything Peaked at #14
We heard from Ms. Hill again in 2002 with the release of MTV's Unplugged According to Wikipedia, Most of the songs featured only an acoustic guitar and her voice, somewhat raspy from rehearsal on the day before the recording. Hill used the set as an opportunity to give information on why she had been absent from the public for a period of time and what she had found while away. Critical reception was mixed, but the album received platinum status. Since then, we've seen a few miscellanous tracks here and there but nothing substantial. Where are you L Boogs?
Wyclef, or shall we call him Mr. Producer/collaboration/hook singing extrordinaire, had a number of successful albums/collaborative efforts since the Fugees breakup. (See stats below)
We trying To Stay Alive Peaked at #14 Guantanamera(f/ Refugee All Stars) Peaked at # 23 NoNoNo Part 2(Destiny's Child f/Wyclef) Peaked at # 1 Gone Til November Peaked at #9(Who knew R Kelly sang background vocals on this track) 911(feat Mary J Blige) Peaked at # 6 Two Wrongs(f/Claudette Ortiz) Peaked at #11 (please note these are only singles peaking at 25 or under)
And well Praswell, I'm not going to include because he isn't one of my favorite artists.(mainly because I'm tired of typing and there isn't much note worthy information about him on the internet) Ok that's not fair! I've included a few tracks(see media player below) My take on things--- The Fugees offsprings happen to be two of my favorite artists. As stated before, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was pre-orderd two weeks before its release. (Yes I was extremely HYPE) Till this day I continue to use the Miseducation as a source of reference. The lyrics remedy anything from a broken heart to being able to learn how to dig deep and unmask your true inner woman. (I know, a bit mushy but who cares) Lauryn Hill can do NO wrong in my eyes. I don't care if she was strung out living on the street, she'd always have a place to stay in my home! (provided I have a place to stay by the end of the year) lol Moving on..."911" has been my mother and I (I think that's how you say it) sing-a-long song since its release in 2000. (We role play as if we are Wyclef and Mary J. Blige. Of course I'm Mary and she's Wyclef :o) So fast forward to 2008 (ok enough of the 1996 pre-adolescent-time machine-music reminiscing)I'm sitting in my room curling my hair, listening to The Score, and wishing for a Fugees reunion. Although there isn't much hope for a Fugees reunion Part 2 the legacy (The Score)left behind will be transcended throughout generations. We will always remember Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and um ... what's his name? lol Praswell
By Gail Mitchell, L.A. Copied Directly from Billboard.com
Legendary singer/songwriter Stevie Wonder has been chosen as the second recipient of the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. The award presentation will take place in the Library's Great Hall on Feb. 23, 2009. A concert celebrating the award is being planned for the following evening.
In addition to the prize, Wonder has accepted the Library's offer of a musical commission. With that acceptance, Wonder enters a circle of noted composers-including Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein and Paquito D'Rivera-who have received Library commissions.
"It's an immense privilege to join such a remarkable roster of musicians and composers," said Wonder in a statement. "I am touched to receive this honor and look forward to creating music for the celebration."
A winner of 25 Grammy Awards, Wonder was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Songwriters' Hall of Fame in 2002. In 2005 the Library of Congress placed Wonder's 1976 double album, "Songs in the Key of Life," in the National Recording Registry, which recognizes recordings that are "culturally, historically or aesthetically important and/or inform or reflect life in the United States."
The first Gershwin Prize-established in tribute to the legacy of composer siblings George and Ira Gershwin-was awarded in May 2007 to singer/songwriter Paul Simon. This year's Prize advisory committee was comprised of Simon, singer/pianist Michael Feinstein, "Saturday Night Live" creator and producer Lorne Michaels, music producer Phil Ramone and New Orleans singer/songwriter/producer Allen Toussaint.
Check out these new tracks! Well the Isley brothers remake with Snoop, Andre 3K, and 2Pac isn't quite new. I just like the way it sounds and decided to throw it in the mix. I'll be updating from time to time, so stay tuned.
I saw this trailer as a preview to the Ice Cube movie "The Long Shots". I got the idea for the post from http://jonesin-eb-style.blogspot.com/. (Which is another awesome blog you should check out) I just ordered the book from Barnes & Noble!
Summers almost over but you can still catch a few more outdoor concerts!
Come see R&B heart throb Usher (not my personal choice of a heart throb), Brit pop sensation Natasha Bedingfeld, and country star Keith Urban free in concert tomorrow at Columbus Park. The acts will start on time at 3pm.
Few Wrap up tid bits When: 3pm, September 4 Where: Columbus Circle, enter at 58th Street and Seventh Avenue How much: Free, no tickets required What to Know: Backpacks and other large bags will not be permitted. All guests are subject to search
Somebody has their cars doors open blasting this song late as hell :o( I guess that's what happens when you live in the hood. None-the-less I used to love this song.
For your listening pleasure
Ok so now I'm being nosey. Whoever this is chillin outside on my block ... seems to be playing more interesting music then I'm listening to right now. Their playlist includes Jagged Edge He Can't Love You Case Happily Ever After Donnell Jones Where I Wanna Be Carl Thomas Summer Rain These are some major throw backs. I forgot about half of these songs :o)
One of the keys to guaranteeing a fantastic day is to make an intention upon awakening that something wonderful and beautiful is going to happen to you today. Once you set this intention you need only "expect" it to happen and then remain aware of what is going on in your life. Something wonderful and beautiful will happen, it is guaranteed, but you must recognize it when it happens. Be open to everything and see the beauty in life.
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