The AuthenticQueen Speex!

Pardon Me.

2011-11-23T12:18:00.001-06:00

The posts have been few and far between the last several weeks. WHY????

Video: Ambitious Girl (Wale)

2011-11-17T12:13:00.001-06:00

Finally, a video for Wale's "Ambitious Girl"!! This video captures the true complexity of the struggle of trying to win. It's a simple concept but a story with much more depth than what is initially assumed.

Videos: Beyonce

2011-11-17T10:22:00.001-06:00

Bey dropped two videos off of her last album, 4. Check "End of Time" with visuals from two of her recent performances at Roseland and Glastonbury and "I Was Here" with footage from Roseland and her life. Super cute.

Covered: Lotus Flower Bomb

2011-11-16T10:15:00.001-06:00

Beautiful chick covering Wale and Miguel's song with some soft, jazzy vocals. Love it.

Just Get To Know...

2011-11-08T15:34:00.003-06:00

Yessir! It's that time again, ladies and gents!! I was fortunate enough to get sent one dope new up and comer and to discover another via the wonderful world of the internets. *smize*

First up is Nyemiah Supreme. Forwarded to me by my sis. Nyemiah is uber cute and super talented! Her potential is bubbling over and as I told my sister, I love when a chick is channeling a nice hefty dose of masculine in their style. Check Nyemiah below.

Next up is Chicago's very own Tia London with her recently released track, "Nothing On You". Check that video as well!

Video: My World (Iggy Azalea)

2011-11-08T14:42:00.002-06:00

Here's Iggy Azalea with her latest video and song, "My World".

Read: 9 Things Successful People Do Differently

2011-11-07T17:48:00.001-06:00

In the quest to be great I've happened upon a wealth of phenomenal resources. The Harvard Business Review has been a huge segment of online beneficial personal development websites and the article listed below illustrates just that.

9 Things Successful People Do Differently

1. Get Specific
2. Seize the moment to act on your goals
3. Know exactly how far you have left to go
4. Be a realistic optimistic
5. Focus on getting better, rather than being good
6. Have grit
7. Build your willpower muscle
8. Dont tempt fate
9. Focus on what you will do, not won't you won't do

Covered: I Miss You (Frank Ocean)

2011-11-07T00:17:00.002-06:00

Frank Ocean wins top mixtape of the year in my book and he is definitely on the top "3 albums/mixtape of the year" list. Frank continues to prove that his innate interpretation of music is wholly unique and a music industry necessity. Check Frank singing a snippet of Bey's "I Miss You", which he penned, at a recent concert in his hometown of New Orleans.

Episode 10: Awkward Black Girl

2011-11-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

Yay! Part one of the Halloween episode of Awkward Black Girl is here!

Video: Blue Sky (Common)

2011-10-30T20:56:00.001-05:00

You know what? Common is forever.

Somehow he always manages to present material that feels true to him as an artist but also relatable enough to the general public. Here's Common in his latest video for "Blue Sky" off of his album "The Dreamer/The Believer" dropping soon!

Covered: No Hands (Neon Hitch)

2011-10-25T11:46:00.000-05:00

Here's Neon Hitch with some more goodness!

Let's also discuss how her real name is Neon Hitch. Check the BBC documentary below for more on Neon's life as a child.

Performance: Lupe Fiasco

2011-10-24T18:23:00.000-05:00

In case you missed it, Lupe performed his hit single, "Words I Never Said" on the BET Hip Hop Awards a few weeks ago. Catch Lupe rocking the Basquiat inspired updo with a burka clad Erykah Badu backing the chorus. EPIC!

Jhene Aiko with Sailing Souls

2011-10-21T12:51:00.001-05:00

Jhene Aiko dropped one of the hottest mixtapes of the year in early march with "Sailing Souls". I have been incessantly listening to it since then and now she's starting to release visuals for some of the songs off of her mixtape. Check her mixtape and the newly released video for "My Mine" below.

Download Mixtape | Free Mixtapes Powered by DatPiff.com

And the video.

Video: N*ggas In Paris (Breezy)

2011-10-20T10:15:00.001-05:00

Here's the visual to Breezy's spin on "N*ggas In Paris".

Chris Brown FT. T-Pain - Niggas in Paris(freestyle) from Mechanical Dummy on Vimeo.

Video Rundown

2011-10-19T18:05:00.000-05:00

I'm really weird about posting music videos. I think unless your name is Kanye West or Beyonce you dont deserve a spot in my life... this is unless of course, your video is DOPE. With that being said, I'll offer you a round up of videos you may have missed. Dope and more.

Here's newcomer Elle Varner with the J. Cole featured track, "Only Wanna Give It To You". Loving the colors and I am very curious about the way her team intends to brand her. Cute girl.

Now THIS video is DOPE. Check Rihanna with "We Found Love", directed by Melina.
Rihanna on WhoSay

I'm CRAZY about the styling in the video and in LOVE with the way they're branding Cher Lloyd! (A post coming soon on the duo who styled Cher in this video.)WOOORD!

New Music: Bridget Kelly

2011-10-19T17:47:00.001-05:00

New girl, Bridget Kelly dropped her EP with the Frank Ocean penned "Thinking About You" as the lead track. Download it below!

Bridget Kelly-Every Girl

Covered: N*ggas In Paris

2011-10-18T12:54:00.000-05:00

Today we have two remix's of "N*ggas In Paris" off of the luxurious, "Watch the Throne".

First up is the T.I. featured track. I must say, it was refreshing to hear his voice again! We missed you T.I.P.!
T.I. - Niggas In Paris (Remix) by CLUBNETWORK

And then we have the Breezy and T. pain version. They added some spook on theirs.

The original version still remains supreme but I appreciate the effort!

New Video: Love On Top (Beyonce)

2011-10-16T20:04:00.000-05:00

Beyonce strikes again with the latest video for "Love On Top". Check it below!

Song of the Day: Grindin'

2011-10-13T17:37:00.002-05:00

Classic Neptunes goodness.

New Video: Countdown (Beyonce)

2011-10-07T00:11:00.000-05:00

INCREDIBLE. Slaying while carrying a fetus. wow.

Get More: Beyoncé, Music, More Music Videos

Covered: Lift Off

2011-10-06T22:34:00.000-05:00

I just discovered this gem on my friend's fb wall and I couldn't be happier. Our friend in the video below has a very even and fluffy vocal tone and it is well served on this dope track. (Nod to Vo FTW.)

Episode: Awkward Black Girl

2011-10-06T11:41:00.003-05:00

A new episode of "Awkward Black Girl" is here!!!!! Check the episode below and check the rest of the incredible mini-series by newcomer Issa Ray on her youtube channel.

Video: Headlines (Drake)

2011-10-03T22:31:00.000-05:00

Drake just released the video for "Headlines" off of his upcoming album, 'Take Care". In this video Drake attempts to position himself as the head of the game or the king of the game as evident in him sitting at the head of the table and riding an elevator solo to the top. I am almost convinced that he is throwing subtle shade at reigning King, Jay Z. Check it.

Drake ~ Headlines (Official Video) from OctobersVeryOwn on Vimeo.

Just Get To Know: Iggy Azalea

2011-09-28T21:24:00.000-05:00

Australian bred new comer, Iggy Azalea, is music's real answer to the next Gwen Stefani/Lil Kim mash-up. She's offensive, witty, unsettling and an obvious star. Just like the masses like it.

I must warn you that the song you are about to experience is titled "P*ssy". In all fairness, I went back and forth about posting a song titled as such but I believe this video is the one that clearly embodies the kind of artist that Iggy is attempting to be.

Also, check her mixtape here.

Sooooo, what are we thinking?

Article: How Jay-Z Inspired a Generation of Hustlers

2011-09-25T22:02:00.001-05:00

Jay-Z is hands down one of the most influential rappers of our time and even as he goes forth in age and stage he is still apart of culture as a whole. This article takes a closer look at Jay-Z, the cultural revolutionary.

How Jay-Z Inspired A Generation of Hustlers

TiRon and Ayomari: A Dream Preferred

2011-09-23T16:47:00.001-05:00

TiRon and Ayomari are an up and coming rapper duo from L.A. with the ability to snag Hip Hop's favorite writer, dream hampton for a track and the rap skills to support the rest of it. Having released several mixtapes previous to their latest, Sucker for Pumps, they are indeed a rap duo with the ability to transcend hip hop and grab a hold of music's center stage. Their music feels like true love, gourmet hot chocolate and positive energy. Check one of my favorite songs off of the album and the dream hampton featured track below.
&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thecafeterialine.bandcamp.com/track/all-my-love-ft-yummy-bingham"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;All My Love ft. Yummy Bingham by TiRon &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; Ayomari&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thecafeterialine.bandcamp.com/track/denouement-ft-dream-hampton"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Denouement ft. Dream Hampton by TiRon &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; Ayomari&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Cover: Houstatlantavegas

2011-09-21T21:36:00.000-05:00

I've posted the "Houstatlantavegas" Sonnymoon cover before but it remains to date one of my favorite covers (with Jojo "Can't Do Better" in a close second.) This Drake original was always a fantastic musical moment but it's something about Sonnymoon's interpretation that strips it down to its bare brilliance to uncover a truth that lives inside all of us- we sometimes find ourselves stuck in the stagnant cradles of our dreams. We sale our soul to pay the bills. We allow fear to banish us from the world of pure productivity and excellence. We accept the regular, satisfactory and rational. We're STUCK. (It doesn't have to be in Houston, Atlanta OR Vegas.) It can be right in your head. Which means at the end of the day, you are the keeper of the golden key.

And now you know how this song really makes me feel. :)

New Video: Can't Get Enough (J.Cole)

2011-09-15T14:48:00.001-05:00

Get More: J. Cole, Music, More Music Videos

J. Cole's album drops September 27th so he and his team are doing some heavy promo for the month of September. Check his latest video shot in Barbados for "Can't Get Enough" featuring Trey Songz and a cameo by resident Barbadian, Rihanna.

New Music: Mr. New Watch (J.Cole)

2011-09-14T21:18:00.000-05:00

Mr. Nice Watch (ft. Jay-Z) - Dirty by J. Cole

Jay Z has said several times that he does not believe in signing an artist and immediately dropping their album, he prefers to mold them into a sustainable and impressive artist. We can't argue with that! Here is J. Cole's latest song featuring Ric Nation's boss, Jay Z. Sounds like a hit, ladies and gents!

Just Get To Know: Tiara Thomas

2011-09-13T23:56:00.002-05:00

Early this summer I gave you all the cool vibe of Wale's and Tiara Thomas's "The Cloud" and here we are with a more in depth look at Tiara the artist and full time student. Check Tiara talking about her passion for music, her chance meeting of Wale and what she imagines the future will bring. True artistry at its best.

Peace!

Art: Savant Draws Skyline from Memory

2011-09-08T16:58:00.002-05:00

I woke up early this morning to this incredible post on an autistic savant with the artistic ability to create city skylines to scale from.... memory. I felt honored to even read about such a thing. This really shows us how naturally gifted everybody is despite our situation. Click the link below to read more.

Autistic Artist Draws Skyline

Video of the Day: Hey Mama (Ye)

2011-09-08T13:57:00.000-05:00

I was listening to Kanye's "Late Registration" today and it had me reminiscing back to his live performance of "Hey Mama". Even more touching now that his mother is gone. Check that below.

New Video: Marvin & Chardonnay

2011-09-07T10:09:00.000-05:00

Check Big Sean's latest video featuring Kanye West and Roscoe Dash for "Marvin and Chardonnay".

Article: Hip Hop Finds An Artist

2011-09-05T13:16:00.000-05:00

Jean-Michel Basquiat has always been the Warhol of the black creative class and in recent years Hip Hop has adopted this creative figure as their own. On several occasions, rap royalty himself, Jay Z has referenced Basquiat as influential in the way he experience's creativity and art. The New York Times delves further into this phenomenon in the article linked below.

Jean-Michel Basquiat- Hip Hop Finds An Artist To Believe In

In Case You Missed It: Otis (Live)

2011-09-02T11:01:00.001-05:00

I've been watching and re-watching this performance the entire week. It's something about this that just makes you want to aspire to be the greatest you can possibly be. Check ye and Jay in their live VMA performance of "Otis".

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, JAY Z and Kanye West

New Music: Pharrell and The Dream

2011-09-01T14:07:00.003-05:00

This BANGS. Check "This Sh*t Real N*gga".

"You ever seen a nigga buy a Porsche on the internet? You ever seen a nigga buy a house on the toilet?"
#cash

New Video: Fly (Rihanna and Micki Minaj)

2011-08-30T19:04:00.001-05:00

This video was surprisingly captivating and beautiful. Check Rihanna and Nicki below looking gorgeous and soaring and such.

Get More: Nicki Minaj, Music, More Music Videos

Just Get To Know: Neon Hitch

2011-08-30T19:02:00.000-05:00

Neon Hitch hails from London and serves her high-pitched tone and undeniable steeze over some of your fave hits. Check her in "Gucci Gucci" and "On My level".

Gucci Gucci- Neon Hitch

"You look good though. AND you flaunting!"

spotted at wetheurban.com

The Greatest: Bey and Baby Bump Perform

2011-08-28T23:37:00.000-05:00

While the rest of us was being being regular, Jay-Z was busy making the greatest album of 2011 and creating something lovely with his wife Beyonce. Check Bey and her epic baby bump performing on the VMA's earlier tonight.

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, Beyonce

10 Years Gone: Aaliyah

2011-08-25T10:48:00.000-05:00

Today marks the ten year anniversary of the untimely death of Aaliyah Dana Haughton. I fondly remember Aaliyah as being the first "pop star" I felt inherently connected too. She had an undeniable light around her that guided her limitless amounts of talent and beauty to the hearts of millions of people. What I remember most about Aaliyah is her absolute gracefulness. When you saw Aaliyah perform or speak in an interview you knew that she was enjoying her life and that she was so ecstatic that her fans were there to share it with her. Aaliyah was a breath of fresh air and a truly committed talent. She will be forever missed.

Check Jessie Boykins with a cover of her song "I Care For You".
&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://jb3music.bandcamp.com/track/i-care-4-u-aaliyah-cover"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;I Care 4 U (Aaliyah Cover) by Jesse Boykins III&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

source

Ms. Lauryn Hill on "Miseducation"

2011-08-24T10:20:00.000-05:00

Watch a rare interview of Ms. Hill speaking about her hip hop classic, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill".Goodness.

Music: Ladies Love Me

2011-08-22T13:15:00.002-05:00

In case you missed it, Mr. Beiber low key slaughtered Breezy on this one. This is "Ladies Love Me" off of the latest Chris Brown mixtape, "Boy In Detention". Download that here.

11. Chris Brown - Ladies Love Me feat. Justin Bieber (Prod by David Banner) by hi.good.

Planet Dopeness: New Layout

2011-08-22T11:17:00.001-05:00

Hey friends! Have you all been checking out my tumblr?? Well if you haven't, you should. I'm obsessed with the minimal but sexy change that I've made plus I'm just generally obsessed with my tumblr. it makes me happy! :) This tumblr upgrade is just a glimpse into what I have planned for my blog relaunch. SUPER excited!

Planet Dopeness

New Music: The Weeknd

2011-08-19T12:53:00.001-05:00

The Weeknd dropped a new mixtape just in time for why yes, the weekend. Download it, feel great and have a lovely weekend.

Download

Today In Music: Daley & Frank Ocean Cover

2011-08-18T17:37:00.000-05:00

Today was a great day for multiple reasons- two of them being the double hit of great music I was served.

First up we have two lovely ladies covering Frank Ocean's "Thinking About You". I have some special emotions reserved for the insincerity of the clothes they're donning but their vocals more than make up for it. Thanks, George!

Nest up is the wonderful and most lovely, Daley.... from the UK. My homie Robert threw this my way and I had to give this beauty to you all. Daley's vocals are smokey and luxurious. I predict me rocking a similar haircut way soon. For real. For real. Check one of my favorite songs by him below.

And check his "Pretty Wings" cover.

PEACE!

Acoustic Video: Bridget Kelley

2011-08-18T10:23:00.002-05:00

Here's Bridget Kelley with the Frank Ocean penned, "Thinking About You". Her vocal's build and she grows more confidence as the video progresses. I'm excited to see how she develops as an artist.

Ye and His Long Money.

2011-08-16T15:22:00.001-05:00

A little Tuesday evening real life inspiration. When you're wealthy, they bring the car and the paper's to you.

KANYE WEST OTHER OTHER BENZ from Creative Control on Vimeo.

Covered: A Case of You

2011-08-15T17:56:00.001-05:00

Wow. Been listening to this on repeat for the last thirty minutes. I had no idea that James Blake had this in him. Listen to his cover of Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You". Just wow.
James Blake - A Case of You by Pretty Much Amazing

TED Talks

2011-08-14T23:16:00.000-05:00

So, I spent the majority of my weekend cleaning my closet and listening to uninterrupted hours of TED Talks and "This American Life" podcast's. And yes, it took me hours to clean this closet. You know the closet that you pack full of all the randomness that you do not feel like dealing with in an efforts to make sure the majority of your place of residence looks presentable and clean. I felt like this closet had become a strange metaphor for my life or at the very least, my brain so after months of putting it off I spent my entire weekend unpacking all the hidden randomness. Yes, I feel great but what made this experience greater was that I had hours and hours... upon hours to listen and learn. I spent this time really quenching the thirsty, wide eyed child in me that wants to know everything, I'm quite honestly sad to see it come to an end. BUT as any good blogger must do- It's time to share!

So TED- I had listened to their talks before but not as many as I did this weekend and not for hours and hours on end. One of my absolute favorite talks is actually not a talk that was presented at TED. Go figure. It's actually a talk that circulated the net several year's ago and that only after re-visiting this weekend, impacted me greatly. It's longer than your average video but worth every second. Behold, Randy Pausch on "Achieving Your Childhood Dreams".

,

And here's a shorter one that I also really enjoyed.

Hope you all enjoyed those as much as I did!

Video: Otis (Jay and Ye)

2011-08-12T10:14:00.001-05:00

You already know.

Get More: JAY Z and Kanye West, Music, More Music Videos

Photo: Kesh and Theophilus London

2011-08-11T15:22:00.003-05:00

This is one of my favorite photo's to date. Partially because Kesh looks like a warrior princess and partially because I wish I owned that dope sheer sleeveless duster she is so effortlessly rocking. If I could wear something like that everyday, I would be the happiest woman on planet earth.

source

New Music: Melo-X

2011-08-11T15:07:00.002-05:00

I came to know of Melo-X via his friend and frequent music collaborator, Jesse Boykins (also one of my faves). Melo-X is a modern day Renaissance man, delving in everything from music to photography to art. One of my favorite newly released mixes by him appropriately titled, "The Weekend Love Triangle", is below.

Also check his Amy Winehouse mix released circa 2007.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://meloxtra.bandcamp.com/album/amy-winehouse-back-to-black-the-remix-2007"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Amy Winehouse Back To Black The Remix (2007) by MeLo-X&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Check more of him and his music here.

source

Video: Rich Dad, Poor Dad

2011-08-10T22:26:00.004-05:00

I recently started reading the New York Time's bestseller, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad". And let me tell you, it is a bestseller for a reason. The financial knowledge within that book is invaluable and will truly alter the way you process wealth and your personal finances. Recently, Time Magazine sat down with the bestselling author and wealth extraordinaire Robert Kiyosaki and asked him ten questions. Watch his responses below and by all means PURCHASE THE BOOK.

The Ones: Street Etiquette

2011-08-07T21:24:00.002-05:00

Below, peep a short piece on influential style bloggers (Street Etiquette) and budding icons, Joshua Kissi and Travis Gumbs.

Make it an inspirational week!

Impossible Is Nothing

2011-08-03T17:40:00.003-05:00

‎"Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing."

-Muhammad Ali

Video: Great Scott McKenzie

2011-08-02T23:07:00.003-05:00

There are too many great quotes in this short video to even begin to jot down. The Great Scott Mckenzie is but 24 years of age but has accomplished much of his life's goals and acquired so much wisdom in his short time on this earth. I urge you to check the video below and continue your journey to great.

Ladies and Gents, Great Scott McKenzie.

Socially Awkward - Great Scott from Jonathan Stromberg on Vimeo.

And check his website here.

Song of the Day: India Arie

2011-08-01T14:43:00.002-05:00

It's only natural that the song of the day be "Strength, Courage & Wisdom" by India Arie. Check that beauty below.

Life: Day 1

2011-08-01T14:36:00.000-05:00

I've been reminding myself as of late that you ALWAYS find what you're looking for. Some people tend to regard that as a "thing" but I tend to think of the search as more of a spiritual and emotional quest. If you're looking for love or happiness or inspiration you search for it and will definitely come back to you. Never think life is that unkind. At the same token, harping on the negativity in you life or looking to engage unhappiness will bring you just that, unhappiness. I started my day with a talk with one of my good friend's and we spoke candidly about the ways in which we were trying to change our life. I needed this. Desired it somewhere in the deep corners of my mind and I embraced the opportunity to share personal growth. Not long after that, I was invited on a whim to a presentation that discussed how we connect to people we identify with as leaders. Needed that too. I didn't know it but I recognized the immediate song my heart sang as soon as the presentation ended. Just remember to put out into the universe the energy you want to receive. Life is waiting.

AND In thinking about Day 1 of the "Reset Challenge" my mantra and life song is below.

Mantra: "You can be GREAT or you can be regular, the choice is yours."
That is a really short quote that represents to me my own personal wisdom and power in my destiny. What I am really trying to change is the way I actively engage what's happening to me and around me and how I can personally become FEARLESS and change my life so that I can help other people.

Song: "Strength, Courage and Wisdom" India Arie
I think the title says it all.

*smize*

Check ya'll later!

Life: The 31 Day Challenge

2011-07-31T21:34:00.003-05:00

Hello! Hello! When I first started this blog there was a lot more personal musings and a little less outside inspiration but as this blog has grown and changed, so have I. My new vision for my relaunch is to have a blog that seamlessly engages the personal and the inspirational as I tend to believe that they are closely related. Outside inspirations encourage personal growth. For the next 31 days I will be actively involved in the Rosetta Thurman created 31 Days To Reset Your Life Challenge. I discovered Rosetta and her mission at the perfect time in my life and so I am excited to continue this journey of personal growth. I will be blogging about this experience periodically and if you are at all interested in changing your life, I urge you to join. I'm excited! Let the games begin.

New Music: Thinking About You

2011-07-29T16:32:00.001-05:00

So, earlier this week a track was released by Frank Ocean titled "Thinking About You". I wasn't too moved by it so I let it sit on my brain for a couple days. BUT THEN today I sat listening to a newly released Bridget Kelly (Alicia Key's filler in for "Empire State of Mind") track and my wheels started to turn. You know when your brain perks up with that tinge of familiarity? Yes, that. Anyway, Frank Ocean created that track for Bridget Kelly! Catch Frank and Bridget's version below.

Frank Ocean's version

Bridget Kelly's version

Covered:Party

2011-07-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

My love for Beyonce is clearly deep and never ceasing so in general I'm pretty tough on ANYBODY who attempts to cover one of her songs but this is too cute to throw shade at. Plus her tone is so slick, reminds me of Jhene Aiko. Check Jenny Suk and Adrian Per in "Party".

Live: Kreayshawn

2011-07-27T11:51:00.000-05:00

You know what? Beyonce has spoiled all of us. Her ability to vigorously throw her mane, run in heels and still manage to stay in tune and on perfect pitch has us expecting that from regular people. On one hand, you want to give everybody a break for not being superhuman and on the other hand you want to throw shade at them for not trying harder. I'm on the fence about what I want to throw Kreayshawn's way. Actually, I'm still on the fence about Kreayshawn as a whole. But as they say "make yo paper, boo boo!"

Get More: Kreayshawn, Music, More Music Videos

I'll Miss You Amy

2011-07-23T12:42:00.000-05:00

I've only felt this deeply emotional about the passing of two other artists- Michael Jackson and Aaliyah. Amy Winehouse was not an entertainer she was an artist, an artist so truly tied to her art and it's expression that to listen to her music was to connect with her life, her story and her seething pain. Amy's music defined what it was to inextricably connect one's soul to their music. She was soul music. And because Amy was able to pour her entire being into her writing, fans were able to undeniably connect to her truthful storytelling. This is an incredible loss and I can only hope that her musical legacy will live on pass her untimely death and through the tongues of those who truly believe in the power of music.

Documentary: Watch The Throne

2011-07-22T15:54:00.003-05:00

I always tell myself "You can be regular or you can be GREAT. The choice is yours."

People forget how much agency they have within their circumstances. In so many instances the decisions we make and the way we choose to believe in ourselves determines the way we manifest of potential. Jay-Z and Kanye consistently live up to their innate ability to be GREAT. There is no substitution for sublime and no shortcut to eminent but it all begins with the seed of belief in your own power. Check Kanye and Jay Z in a short documentary that recounts their rode to the long awaited super album, "Watch The Throne".

New Mixtape: Angel Haze

2011-07-21T22:27:00.000-05:00

"But how the f*ck you make a difference and still stay the same?"

Goes one of the lines to the opening track on Angel Haze's recently released mixtape, King. If you can recall, I brought you all her version of 6'7 earlier this year and this new mixtape is thankfully more of Angel's meaningful word play and undeniable talent. She glides effortlessly over the beats of some of your favorite songs and still manages to ignite the familiar music with her own unique story telling. This is a must listen if you're at all interested in being at the forefront of what's next in music. Angel Haze has the gift, the story and the power to make a difference and change not only herself but the overall breadth of the rap game.

<p>&amp;lt;a href="http://iamangelhaze.bandcamp.com/album/king"&amp;gt;KING by Angel Haze&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;</p>

Adele on Jools Holland

2011-07-17T23:38:00.000-05:00

Adele performed on Jools Holland several months ago and here is the beautiful result of that performance. Absolutely perfect music to guide you into a peaceful evening. So happy that Adele continues to share her gift with us.

And here is her performing "Daydreamer" from her first album, 19.

Peace.

New Music: Emily King

2011-07-13T21:32:00.002-05:00

Emily King had been slightly nudged to the comforts of the back corner of my brain. Today, she moved confidently to the forefront of my thoughts and made me experience why I had initially connected with her a couple year's back. I think what amazes me most about Emily King is that she still has so much purity and truthfulness to her art. It is a quality usually only seen at the start of a lot of people's careers, fades during that overconfident middle phase and reemerges after an artist reconnects with their art form. Emily King has somehow managed to grow as an artist and person and still maintain that soulful pulse that draws you to her music. "Every Part" off of the recently released EP, "Seven", will do just that.

I love when I have these moments when hearing a musical expression jolts me back to the place of remembering why I ever started blogging. Emily King and "Every Part" takes me back to that moment.

Live Concert: G.O.O.D. Music

2011-07-12T17:34:00.002-05:00

I saw this at the bottom of my youtube video and nearly screamed out in amazement. I haven't even watched this yet but I HAD to share it first. It's a G.O.O.D. Music concert! This can only mean greatness. Watch Mos Def, Kid Cudi, Kanye and Big Sean SERVE in the concert below.

Excited!!!!!

Covered: How To Love

2011-07-12T13:27:00.000-05:00

Praise Jehovah! A real singer finally covered Lil Wayne's "How To Love". Brandon Hines has been in my musical collection since my college days when I discovered him randomly via a couple Howard students. He went to Howard and produced an album, eventually landing a deal with Trey Songz. I'm not exactly sure how his music career is floating these days but I was happy to see him still in the game and adding his vocal chops to "How To Love". Check it below!

Still awaiting a Brandon Hines album!

New Music: Theophilus London

2011-07-09T10:13:00.000-05:00

Theophilus effortlessly creates the perfect summer tracks. The kind of tracks that make you want to dance care free with a group of your closest friends. "Why Even Try" featuring Sara Quin is just that. Put your slippery socks on and click *play* !!

Theophilus London ft. Sara Quin - Why Even Try (RAC Mix) by RAC

Documentary: Influencers

2011-07-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

This documentary is an absolute must see if you are at all interested in the ways in which society is molded by "Influencers". Influencers have a certain confidence in the way in which they exist and interact with the world. From Jay Z to Basquiat to Bill Cunningham, this documentary really delves into the power, courage and dilemma's associated with the lifestyle of an Influencer. Check it!

INFLUENCERS TRAILER from R+I creative on Vimeo.

Beyonce is King Part Dos

2011-07-08T10:04:00.001-05:00

This video pretty much made me question my sexuality. And that's that. Check it below!

Watch The Throne

2011-07-08T09:59:00.002-05:00

In the same vein as the post below, the royalty continues. Here's the alleged cover of Kanye's and Jay's forthcoming album, Watch The Throne. Oh yes. the excitement grows......

Beyonce Is King

2011-07-02T11:35:00.000-05:00

I remember when little rumors started to fly that Beyonce's forth studio album was on the horizon and her stan's started scammering for anything that would support the reemergence of the King. Thankfully, all of it was true and not long after we got wind of Bey's forthcoming album we were served with "Run The World (Girls)". Man, I was scared. I HATED that song. (Still dislike it.) I was scared that Bey was about to release a "B Day 2.0" and ruin her brand, her music and her legitimacy as an artist. BUT Alas, all my worries were silenced once the official album dropped. This is Beyonce's best album to date. Yes, that's my opinion but I believe it to be completely true. This is her best compilation album to date full of hard beats, complex cadences, passionate vocals and all the marks of a true labor of love. This is 4, Beyonce's attempt to solidify her place in musical history. Check her documentary "Year of 4 " below.

Video: Teyana Taylor With "Marvin's Room"

2011-06-30T15:36:00.000-05:00

Okay, I love TT so I'll just say- She could have remastered this track a bit more for the video. BUT overall, the video made me appreciate her version more. I'm still checking for JoJo's version of "Marvin's Room" though. Her lyrics, tone and production of the track are spot on.

Teyana Taylor "Her Room" Directed by TAJ & Mike Ho #TPK #oSm from Director | Mike Ho on Vimeo.

Teyana's body is BONKERS!!!!!!

Video: Marvin's Room (Official)

2011-06-28T10:38:00.000-05:00

So, after plenty cover's and continuous play, Drake has finally released the official video for "Marvin's Room". JoJo's version still reign's supreme in my mind but this is a cute look for Drizzy. :)

Drake ~ Marvins Room (Official Video) from OctobersVeryOwn on Vimeo.

Covered: Dont Let Go

2011-06-24T05:04:00.000-05:00

On my way to Minnesnowta for lots of friend time and feeling SUPER amped especially after discovering this brilliant cover. The sucker that I am for harmonies, you know I ate this UP. Watch White Sea slay EnVogue's "Dont Let Go" to the greatest degree! YEEEEEEEES.

Happy Friday!

Song Of The Day: Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops!)

2011-06-23T13:12:00.000-05:00

Remember this? This use to be my absolute JAM!!

"Hey ladies, when your man wanna get buckwild, just go back and hit 'em up style!"

I dont completely support being this deceitful when your mate does something ridiculous but it's still a catchy tune!

Covered: Best Thing I Never Had

2011-06-21T17:44:00.000-05:00

T.C. has to be one of my MOST favorite artists/songwriter's poppin' right now. He recently blessed us with a cover of Bey's "Best Thing I Never Had". His vocals are absolutely crazy! I have NEVER heard him sing anything badly! It's just a snippet of the full cover he's working on but if you enjoy it as much as I do you'll be repeatedly clicking to the start of the song. Check his cover below.

Song Of The Day: Why Dont We Fall In Love

2011-06-21T17:37:00.000-05:00

Summer is all about love, happiness and sunshine! Amerie's 2002 debut track, "Why Dont We Fall In Love", is packed full of radiance and love and is turning out to be my favorite 2011 summer track. I've been playing it sporadically through out the last two weeks and thought I needed to remind you all of it's care free brilliance. Enjoy!

Good day!

Video: Skinny Love (Birdy)

2011-06-17T14:52:00.000-05:00

So, remember that time when I was like "I loooove this Skinny Love Cover by Birdy"?? Well, unbeknownst to me, she released a video for it in April. POW! Check my fave teen indie star below in her official video for "Skinny love".

Video: Rye Rye for Prubal Gurung

2011-06-17T13:09:00.001-05:00

We'll just go ahead and call this the "Year for Rye Rye". Mark my words, Rye Rye is about to be pumping through your airwaves for the rest of the year. In the Rye Rye featured video, Prubal Gurung introduces his 2012 Resort collection. Check Rye Rye and the new Prubal Gurung pieces below.

Video: Keri Does "Lose Control"

2011-06-17T12:59:00.000-05:00

When Keri's first album, "In A Perfect World" dropped three years ago I was all over it. I played it on repeat for a good six months and to this day I could pretty much sing the whole album from start to finish. I LOVED Keri, her style and her fresh take on the R&B/Pop game. And then she dropped her album this second time around and I was all and all pretty unimpressed BUT THEN this happened. Keri's performance game generally leaves something to be desired (especially if you're an avid Bey fan) but she "did it on 'em" with this one. I can dig it.

Get it, Ms. Keri baby.

Read: Lupe Unpacks Obama and Terrorism

2011-06-17T12:53:00.000-05:00

Recently Lupe stated recently that he felt that Obama was "the biggest terrorist in the United States". Check his interview that he did over at Global Grind to better understand where he was coming from with that statement.

What's The Difference Between Osama and Obama?

Video: Choreography to Laura Marling

2011-06-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

There is absolutely no words to describe the way I feel when I discover something so brilliant that my heart sinks to my soul and harps a song. This is beautiful.

oh my.

Covered: Marvin's Room

2011-06-16T16:28:00.000-05:00

Drake and I fall in out of love pretty regularly. I mean, not literally but I go back and forth about my affinity for Drizzy. My friend said it best this weekend though when he said, "Drake has amazing quality control. He continuously releases quality record's!" That, my friend's, I cannot argue with. Drake's "Marvin's Room" has been a huge hit, so much so that JoJo decided to cover it. Listen to her version below.

I'm a huge fan of JoJo's current look! It's working for her!

New Video: Rye Rye and Robyn

2011-06-16T16:07:00.000-05:00

Two of my fave artists, Robyn and Rye Rye team up in the video for "Never Will be Mine". I think what draws me most to Rye Rye is not necessarily her lyrical prowess but her affinity for creativity in her personal style. And Robyn is pretty much the love of my life for any and everything that is Robyn. I LIVE for Robyn. The video is mad cute, yo. Check it.

New Music: Big Sean

2011-06-16T15:56:00.000-05:00

If you visit this blog pretty regularly then you are already aware of my love for Detroit's own and rapper extraodinaire, Big Sean. And finally, his highly anticipated first album, Finally Famous. Check the live stream below.

Finally Famous by Big Sean

Photo's: Bey

2011-06-16T15:38:00.000-05:00

Check some of my fave photo's from the latest Bey promo photo's. Goodness gracious, this girl is BONKERS with it.

oh yes!

New Video: Frank Ocean

2011-06-16T13:06:00.000-05:00

Everybody's favorite new artist, Frank Ocean just dropped his video for "Novacane". Check it below!

frank ocean [novacane] from christopher francis ocean on Vimeo.

Happy Monday!

I'm Back! Part 2

2011-06-16T07:01:00.000-05:00

So, the crazy 2 week back and forth to New York has finally drawn to an end. This second week back in New York proved to be just what the doctor ordered. I found myself (ooo, double entendre) on the beaches of Long Beach Island and it was GREAT. I like to think of this time in my life as a financial, spiritual, health and career transitional phase. The next year of my life will be challenging, exciting and full of much victory. BUT I'm excited, nervous and ready to really be the BOSS that I know I am. Ahhh, personal growth, gotta love it.

This week was full of so much community, self reflection and a hard personal reset BUT it would not be complete without music.*smize* Below, find a pretty random song that we played on repeat most of the weekend. (I'm laughing just thinking about it.)

Peace and Happy Monday!

I'm Back!

2011-06-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

I hesitated on the creation of this post because I thought it would be a little to me-centered for this here blog but whatever, here we go!

1. New York was splendid! Splendid, I tell you! I love bringing all of my different friend groups together, it gives me tingles in my left pinky toe. lmao. But anyway, we had us quite a lovely time together and it is "to be continued" this weekend in a beach house... in Jersey. AMPED.

2. I came home and started listening to this random playlist I created months and months ago. I use to play this playlist on REPEAT when I fist created it. These were like all of my fave songs then. Anyway, check it below if you're interested!

(The embedding was being difficult so sorry about that.)

3. "Blog Relaunch" plans are underway and I would like to give a shout out to everybody who has been lending their support throughout this whole process! And a special nod to Rachies for being Ms. Awesome on this journey. Love ya'll!

Okay, that's it for now! It's finally summertime and Bawse is back in season. :::smize::::

POW!

In Case You Forgot

2011-06-05T02:48:00.000-05:00

It's about a quarter to 3(AM) in my corner of the world and I just had to remind you of one of my most favorite songs when I need a bit of a positive push. I hope you also get what you need from this song.

Off to New York in 5 hours. Everybody make it a positive next few days until I return!

Covered: Super Bass (Karmin + ?uestlove)

2011-06-03T14:18:00.000-05:00

In case you missed this. Anything with ?uestlove is instantly awesome in my book.

Happy Friday!

Just Get To Know: Mara Hruby

2011-06-02T12:47:00.000-05:00

I took a moment to listen to Mara Hruby’s music earlier this year and though I understood her music and style vision, I was not impressed with her voice. I’m a singer by nature and therefore I tend to be rather hard on any and all aspiring singers. I also happen to believe that you should work within your gift and if singing is not your gift than perhaps you should take some time to discover what you are truly naturally gifted at.

With all that being said, I have come to understand that talent is but a fraction of what makes a singer an entertainer and ultimately, we want to be entertained. I would say survival within any sector is part talent, part ambition, part vision and part work ethic. You could be the best singer/rapper/artist to walk planet earth but if you do not embody any of the other three traits you have pretty much failed without even starting. Mara Hruby’s voice is cool, calm and soothing. No, she will not out sing (insert your fave Big voiced singer here) but she will give you the vocal depth that has become her trademark and she will definitely serve you a personal style and vision that you cannot deny. I’ve come to dig Ms. Hruby and I have to admit Jay Z definitely has something to do with it. :) Check the video and song, "The Panties", originally performed by Mos Def that brought me over to Team Mara Hruby.

Good day!

Lupe Fiasco on Gil Scott-Heron

2011-06-02T12:26:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week Lupe Fiasco posted a short piece dedicated to Gil Scott-Heron. Check it below and check his blog for more Lupe awesomeness!

The Television Will Not Be Revolutionized.

Idiot boxes of the world unite! To fight off the effects of intelligence, replace smart quotes with fart jokes, substitute sense with scenes from Martin, let the baby's bathe in that glow and learn all manner of things they don't really need to know!

The Television Will Not Be Revolutionized!

Channel the content of some rambling nonsense deep into the annals of yo' subconscious, deprogram and depress chasing some televised success, be them, that, they and those be everything but in control,

The Television Will Not Be Revolutionized!

Small claims Court drama, teenage baby mamas, Osama watching Osama, Celebrity Endorsed indoor saunas, the perfectly cooked piraña and other cannonfodder for you to ponder, all at the speed of imitations of life while the smoke of war gets inhaled thru the peace pipes, be still my beating heart and scare my brain from thinking thoughts as i sit intoxicated by the delights, sarcasm and 3 strikes thrown by my favorite pitcher in a sound surrounded, 3 dimensional, high death, full color mixture, wholly unsocializing and completely uncensored,

The Television Will Not Be Revolutionized!

By this one-eyed monster most of the world was raised, and by this hero most of the world was saved, and to this master most of the world is slaves, it factors your fears with actors and cheers from a live studio audience pushing you to engage in a heroic act of thoughtlessness for the grand prize of a little bread, fleeting fame in the circus and every thought in yo head,

Good day!

New Music: Bey

2011-06-01T07:38:00.001-05:00

I am happy to see that "Run The World" was no indication of the quality of her album. Her second single, "1+1" and this latest single are for sure hits and are all around great songs. And check the writing on the mirror, "King B". YEEEEES.

Happy Wednesday and all that jazz!

Interview: Lady Gaga

2011-05-30T23:53:00.000-05:00

Hope everybody had a lovely day off!

Today my cousins reminded me of the recent MTV interview with Lady Gaga and I have to say it did not disappoint. Gaga reveals her natural affinity for musicianship and her many experiences that created the artist we now know as Lady Gaga. This is captivating, make sure you take a watch!

Tags: MTV Shows

Goodnight!

Video: Wale and Tiara Thomas

2011-05-30T12:31:00.000-05:00

Wale put the world onto Tiara Thomas last year via twitter and now here's there latest video together,The Cloud. By the way, Tiara raps as well. Check that here.

Happy Memorial Day!

Skyler Grey-Love The Way You Lie

2011-05-29T18:44:00.000-05:00

This is BRILLIANT.

Sorry for not sharing it sooner! I had completely forgotten about it until I came across it again today. Thank me later.

Have a great weekend!!!