Luv this jumpsuit and those red bottoms.
Archive for category news
Style
Feb 5
Moments
Feb 4
Love this article!
“Women of color have tremendous spending power in the U.S. and it’s absurd to think that in 2012 we are essentially disenfranchised when they shop for lingerie,” Raines added. “It’s my hope that this campaign will drive not only awareness, but swift action by bra makers.” – Tara Raines [Source: www.fashionista.com]
JOY
Feb 2
I am beside myself right now. I am being blessed beyond measure. I will announce what is unfolding next week. I can’t even express how much joy I am experiencing in my life at this very moment.
That voice, that swag, that style and those moves. SO EPIC! RIP Brother Don Cornelius. Thank you for being such a visionary.
The Greatest Dancer
Feb 1
Had dinner with my sister tonight and this song came on. When I’m on tour, it always feels like a dream. It’s those little moments that remind me that this really is my life and I’m wide-awake through it all.
Moments
Jan 31
“What is there but a dream…You can’t trade in your dream for another dream…Dream big and dream fierce.” – Viola Davis
Viola Davis
Jan 30
Don’t Kiss Me
Jan 29
My boy Carl Thomas is back….2012 looks like it’s going to be a hell of a year for R&B/Soul Music! #YES
Moments
Jan 27
D’Angelo – Live in Stockholm
Jan 26
Lawd have mercy…HE’S BACK and all is well in the world!
Quote of a Lifetime
Jan 24
SOPA Bill Dies
Jan 21
Rep. Lamar Smith, who was the chief sponsor of SOPA, announced earlier today that he’s pulling the bill “until there is wider agreement on a solution.” He added, “I have heard from the critics and I take seriously their concerns regarding proposed legislation to address the problem of online piracy. It is clear that we need to revisit the approach on how best to address the problem of foreign thieves that steal and sell American inventions and products.”
He released this statement:
“We need to revisit the approach on how best to address the problem of foreign thieves that steal and sell American inventions and products. “The problem of online piracy is too big to ignore. American intellectual property industries provide 19 million high-paying jobs and account for more than 60% of U.S. exports. The theft of America’s intellectual property costs the U.S. economy more than $100 billion annually and results in the loss of thousands of American jobs. Congress cannot stand by and do nothing while American innovators and job creators are under attack.”
“The online theft of American intellectual property is no different than the theft of products from a store. It is illegal and the law should be enforced both in the store and online.
“The Committee will continue work with copyright owners, Internet companies, financial institutions to develop proposals that combat online piracy and protect America’s intellectual property. We welcome input from all organizations and individuals who have an honest difference of opinion about how best to address this widespread problem. The Committee remains committed to finding a solution to the problem of online piracy that protects American intellectual property and innovation.”
[Source: www.theybf.com]
RIP Songstress.RIP Etta James (Jamesetta Hawkins). People mostly know her from her hit “At Last”. I respect the fact that she sang everything (R&B/Soul/Pop/Gospel) and was amazing in any genre. Such a queen.
Obama Sings!
Jan 20
This made me smile so damn big!!!! 
“The inherent danger SOPA and PIPA present is that in the process of protecting corporate interests, it will cripple or even obliterate the distribution, access & discovery platforms the Internet provides for independent artists.
SOPA hurts the smaller and independent sites whose sole purpose is to promote independent musicians, and in turn, hurts the indie artists who do not have the support of the major labels to promote and distribute their music. Ultimately, this could lead to unstoppable erosion and an exponentially dying community left with no way to defend itself.” – Michael Canter [Source:http://sonicbytes.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-sopa-pipa-could-adversely-affect.html]
I am honored to have been included in the “Sistahs of Vizions 2012 Calendar” among all these other amazing woman. Special thanks to SpokenVizions Magazine for this distinct honor. Get your copy HERE.
Free Knowledge
Jan 18
I don’t post much on politics for obvious reasons but I had to post on my fellow Tufts Alumnus Zerlina Maxwell’s appearance on Fox. She represented in a major way. Luvs it!
Moments
Jan 16
MLK & Dorothy Dandridge.
MLK
Jan 16
He was a very well-rounded thinker. Here are some quotes that resonated with me:
- “My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary.”
- “You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say.”
- “If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.”
- “True humility does not know that it is humble. If it did, it would be proud from the contemplation of so fine a virtue.”
- “Here I stand; I can do no other.”
- “Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.”
Martin Luther King Day is Nationally Observed on Monday, January 16, 2012.
Happy Founder’s Day to all my Sorors. OO-OOP!
Craig David
Jan 8
Remember when I asked about Craig David back in October (Click here to see post). well HERE HE IS! OH MY! Your welcome.
[Source: www.theybf.com]
LOL
Jan 8
So ridiculous that it’s actually hilarious!!! Anytime a baby comes into the world it’s a joyous occasion. Welcome to the world, Blue Ivy Carter and ALL the other babies, born into the world today.
[Source: http://fuckyeahfamousblackgirls.tumblr.com/]
Rihanna had a successful run in 2011. How successful? Well, the Barbadian songbird sold over 47 million downloads last year of all her hit songs. This astounding feat makes her the biggest-selling digital artist of all time, according to Nielsen Soundscan as reported by RihannaDaily. The ‘Talk That Talk’ singer beat out some notable artists to reach the No. 1 plateau. Pop-rap group Black Eyed Peas finished at No. 2 with 42.4 million downloads, followed closely by Eminem in third place with 42.2 million downloads. Pop starlets Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift round out the top five with 42 million and 41 million downloads, respectively. [Source: www.popcrush.com]
So cool. Very honored that my single “Falling” has been included on this “best of” mix!!! Shout-out to Tim Miller for the love. Click on the pic below to listen to the compilation.
[Source: http://www.mixcloud.com/tmill205/in-tune-with-tmill-top-20-best-of-2011/]
Rae’s 2011 Year In Review
Dec 29
Ahhhh 2011! What a year. It seems as though there wasn’t a dull moment in music, politics, entertainment and pop culture, And I’m glad or I wouldn’t be able to write this…LOL! The problem is, where on earth do I begin?!?! Hmmmm….I 
think I will start with the artist/songstress from across the pond (in my best British accent) who blew the world away with her sophomore album 21. Yes, I’m talking about Miss Adele honey! She was already a bona fide star with her debut album 19 back in 2008 but “21″ gave birth to “Rolling In The Deep” and “Someone Like You”. Both records cut to the core of human emotion and earned her several honors. And when you look a little deeper, Adele, brought back the simplicity of musical execution sans the industry gimmicks and glitter we are use to seeing. And can I get a “ow!” for all of my thick girls. She also proved that you don’t have to be a size zero to win over the masses. You just gotta keep it simple and real. Kudos to Adele on all of her success.
You can’t mention Adele without also acknowledging the 5 other women in music who literally “Ran The World” in 2011. Who other than Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj. These woman broke records and boundaries with their music and style. Taylor Swift has crossed over from Country songstress to pop darling. Taylor’s success and influence in the music world even catapulted Nicki Minaj’s single “Super Bass” into record breaking status when she recited the lyrics at one of her concerts. Basically once Taylor confirmed that she loved Nicki Minaj’s music, it took Nicki’s already successful debut album “Pink Friday” to the next level.
Beyonce may not have had the commercial success that these other ladies have had but she definitely was a winner! She dropped her latest album “4″ and landed a big hit with her single “Run The World (Girls)” but who can forget the end of her performance at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards; An obviously preggers Bey walked the red carpet in a peach colored Lanvin maternity gown and at the end of her performance of “Love On Top”, which by the way she sang the hell out of, she dropped her mic and opened her suit blazer to reveal her maternity pants and round belly with a smile. I mean, this girl is incredible. The world went crazy and the internet world went even more nuts with excitement and even speculation as to whether she was really pregnant. Either way, the interest in the offspring of Hip-Hop and Pop royalty will be the talk of the town for years to come.
In the male artist category we can count Drake, Lil Wayne, Justin Bieber, Jay-Z & Kanye West, and Cee-Lo Green among the major players. Justin has amassed a level of teen histeria that I haven’t seen in a while and it looks like his fire is just getting bigger and bigger. Lil Wayne probably sold the most records in his genre, besting Jay-Z & Kanye West’s “Watch The Throne” collabo, which in itself was a major moment in Hip-Hop history. Who can forget Cee-Lo Green’s “F* You” hit! Pure genius. While that track was a massive hit, I personally fell in love with the single “Fool For You” ft. Melanie Fiona. Cee-Lo gets uber-props though for his wardrobe and performance fearlessness. The most memorable for me was his Patti Labelle tribute during the BET awards back in June. I mean, seriously!?! Dude definitely did rock the heck out of Pattie’s vintage wild do. Such a moment!
Sadly, so many game changers passed away this year. The most innovative person known to date, Steve Jobs, lost his battle with Pancreatic Cancer. His contribution to technology changed American culture and the music world permanently. Jamaica & Money Earnin’ Mt. Vernon native Heavy D passed away from what appears to be a blood clot in the lung (Pulmonary embolus or PE) that was caused by Deep leg vein thrombosis. Ironically just before his passing, I had the honor of meeting him at a Manhattan recording studio. He walked right up to me with a smile and gave me a huge hug. He introduced himself to me as if there even needed to be an introduction. His humility was refreshing. He was bubbly and energetic just like his music and the hip-hop community, his family and the whole wide world will miss him greatly. Singer, Amy Winehouse, died at the age of 27 in north London, on Saturday, July 23, 2011. The bee-hived soul-jazz diva self-destructive habits seemed to overshadow a distinctive musical talent that the world loved and appreciated. Her album “Back To Black” brought attention to the British soul movement. We are left to wonder how far she could have gone musically if her life didn’t end so soon.
Who can forget the biggest wedding of the year. Britain’s Prince William and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge wed on April 29th at Westminster Abbey, in London. The world was already in love with them. The wedding revitalized the world’s view but especially Great Britain’s impression about the Royal Family. The Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries wedding seemed just as exciting for reasons which most people can’t explain. What topped this very lavish event was Kim filing for divorce after only 72 days of marriage. I think that in a strange way mass confusion will always be the appeal. With the #1 reality show in TV history, it’s just going to get more and more interesting.
OPRAH!!!!! The indisputable Queen of Media ended “The Oprah Winfrey Show” on May 25th with a bang after 25 years on the air. Oprah didn’t end the show without carving out another historical endeavor in media. She launched the OWN Network making her the first black woman to own her own cable television network. I don’t think that there is a single average bone in this woman’s body. She always does it big and makes every moment of her life count for something. So amazing!
Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted of manslaughter in the death of the legendary Michael Jackson. While I’m sure his family is happy that justice has been served, I’m sure that everyone would agree that no sentenced could have matched the loss felt by his death. Oh would I have loved to have seen the tour he was working on before his passing. He truly was a gift to the world of music and entertainment. But who can forget the acquittal of Casey Anthony! It really made you feel like there was no justice in the world for the young and defenseless.
While I stay on top of all the news regarding the status of the War and American politics, it’s definitely not my forte when it comes to commentary although I do have my own personal opinion on certain matters. With that said I will simply acknowledge some of the big moments that happened this year. While I don’t believe in the celebration of death I can’t ignore that one of the top stories of 2011 was the death of Bin Laden under President Obama. And who can forget the Republican debates and the rise and fall of Herman Cain. The birth of the Occupy Wall Street Movement that spread all over the country became the symbol of resistance for the 99% but did very little to shake the foundation of the 1% who looked on with a SMH mentality. I think that at this point Americans just want to know that our country is in good hands and that someone with power and influence has our backs. It’s been such a tough year for the poor and middle class and the wealthy just want to stay that way. It would really be cool and so “American” if everyone just pulled together even if it meant that they had to sacrifice a little. Wishful thinking….I know :-/
2011 wad a pretty epic year for me as an artist. I continued touring with the legendary Sister Sledge; performing in Festival Mawazine, Rabat Morocco, The Beirut Music Festival in Lebanon, The MGM Grand at Foxwoods in CT, and two additional shows in Rotterdam, Netherlands. I also paid tribute to the legendary Martha Reeves at the Make A Wish Foundation, 7th Annual Prestige Awards in Poughkeepsie, NY, with sponsorship and support from Palmer’s Cocoa Butter. I got to perform with legendary indie hip-hop group, The Juggaknots at Santos Party House, NY. In between touring, I have continued to showcase locally, write songs for outside projects, and I have even begun working on my new EP Project, entitled “The Epiphany.” I shared a sample of it with the online release of “So Lovely”(Click to listen), which is currently in rotation with several internet radio stations around the country.
Now, we are inching our way to 2012 which is Epic by default because it is an election year. Of course 2012 is also epic because it is suppose to be the “End of the World”. I am not a fortune teller or prophet and if I was, so many things would be different in my own life…LOL, but on a serious note, I will tell you somethings that I have learned in 2011 that I will be applying in 2012. I am going to follow my heart and my inner-voice at ALL times. I am never going to doubt myself ever again. I am only going to surround myself with real people because “real people do real things”. I am going to do everything in my power to be a light to others and the world because I know that I have a purpose far beyond my wildest dreams. I am going to live and love because while the pursuit of music requires much discipline and sacrifice, I do believe in enjoying the journey.
So I don’t know if 2012 is actually the end of the world or not but I can definitely think of a few times where I thought it truly was the end of the world…LOL (side-eye), and yet I am still standing here with my feet firmly planted on the ground, living life to the fullest. So much of what I hope for extends far beyond 2012 and I am so excited for what the future has in store for us all. Farewell 2011 and HELLO 2012!!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! BLESS, ALWAYS, RAE.
I couldn’t include everything that happened in 2011. What did I miss? What stood out to you this year? Leave a comment below. Cheers!
COMING SOON!
Dec 27
Check out past “Year In Review” blog posts to see what’s coming. OW!
*2009 Year In Review | *2010 Year In Review
Happy Holidays Everyone!!!
Dec 23
Love him!
Beauty
Dec 10
THE ALBUM
Dec 9
“One needn’t look far to find a music industry pundit saying the album is dead and nobody buys music anymore. Yes, overall sales are down and the download market doesn’t seem to have many more tricks up its sleeve. But the growth in digital album sales, especially as a share of total digital purchases, shows neither consumers nor labels haven’t given up on the album.” [Source: www.billboard.biz]
More Grammy Backlash
Dec 7
Grousing about the Grammy nominations is a time-honored practice in the music industry, but those who felt overlooked, snubbed or robbed this year had new ammunition to bolster their complaints: a change in the rules that eliminated 31 award categories, assuring far fewer nominees than in recent years. “Damn, this really hurts,” wrote R&B singer Miguel in a series of tweets Thursday after he failed to get a nomination despite getting some of the best critical notices of the year for his album “All I Want Is You.” “I don’t think I’m God’s gift to music, but I know the album or at least the single “Sure Thing”, should have been nominated.” Nominations in the R&B categories, which were cut from eight to four by the new rules, seemed to favor tradition over Top 40. Despite major releases from Beyoncé, herself a longtime Grammy darling, Jill Scott, Ne-Yo, Jazmine Sullivan and Keri Hilson, nods went to quieter releases from Kelly Price, Ledisi and El DeBarge. There were complaints that the new rules left little or no distinction between contemporary and traditional R&B. “If your music does fall in different genres and categories, it does slim the chances of being able to be nominated once or multiple times,” said Melanie Fiona, who scored two nods for her duet with Cee Lo Green, “Fool for You.” “I know I don’t do it for the accolades, but it’s nice to be recognized. Some people wont be recognized because they don’t fit perfectly in a category.” However, Scott Borchetta, president of Big Machine Records, (Taylor Swift’s label) who scored three nominations Wednesday night, but none in the major categories, offered another view. “Sometimes we get too caught up in it,” he said. “It’s an award show. Yes, it’s wonderful to be acknowledged. But if you’re working just to get a Grammy Award, I suggest that you have to clean your glasses. “Do this art because you love it. If you really love it, it’s not work.” [Source: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/]
The nomination process is not done by the general public. Record companies are the first step in the process. The recording companies are allowed to nominate the recording artists that the company feels is deserving of such a nomination. There are then a group of about 150 music experts that have the responsibility of reviewing the recordings of the nominated artists to determine if the recordings are suitable for nomination and if they have been nominated in the appropriate categories which include 31 different recording fields.
Not just anyone is allowed to vote for the winners. Of the experts voting in the Grammy Award’s nomination process, experts only have the ability to vote in the categories for which they have expertise. They are also allowed to nominate in the four general categories which are Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. These four categories can contain artists from any genre. They also nominate in a maximum of nine of 31 categories. Once the music experts have done their nominating of the recording artists, the final step is for those who are members of the Academy to vote on those artists who have been nominated. The members of the Academy vote in the same four general categories as the music experts and in no more than eight of the 31 categories. Once the members have voted, the winners are tallied by an accounting firm that has the responsibility of keeping the winners identities a secret until the live telecast in which the Grammy Awards are presented. [Source: http://www.grammy.com]
This is pretty critical to understand because essentially, it may not matter how popular an album or single is to the general public. If the experts voting on the categories do not nominate, then the opportunity to be recognized is zero to none. So interesting. This is why they always say you have to love what you do or do it for the love.
Spike Lee
Dec 4
Too funny!
Nicki Minaj Barbie
Dec 2
MAJAH!
On Wednesday (Dec 7) Mattel will auction a one-of-a-kind Nicki Minaj Barbie doll at CharityBuzz.com, with opening bids starting at $1,000. Bids will be received through Dec. 19 and all proceeds will benefit Project Angel Food, which provides food for men, woman and children affected by HIV and AIDS.
[Source: www.theybf.com]
0 nominations. I’m speechless. Cover of Billboard, #1 cd in the country, tied/broke the record for Urban radio. Ok…so…ok. Wow…..
I don’t need a Grammy. I deserve it & I’m clear on that. The Light of the Sun was/is magical . We were lifted & filled w/ truth. I ❤ it.
No Miguel?!?!? Huh!!!? Again appalled.
excuse me?!?!? No “Love on Top”? This can’t be right…
My head is up. My son is healthy, my family is loving & so are my fans. God is real. Disappointments too still I come thru like a Kung foo.
Thank you all for ur kind words of encouragement. It’s fine. I had a moment of wtf…
At least my girls were nominated. Congrats Ledisi and Marsha
[Source: www.theybf.com]
54th Annual Grammy Awards Nominees:
Album of the Year
21 – Adele
Doo-Wops & Hooligans – Bruno Mars
Born This Way – Lady Gaga
Wasting Light – Foo Fighters
Loud – Rihanna
Record of the Year
“Rolling in the Deep” – Adele
“Grenade” – Bruno Mars
“Holocene” – Bon Iver
“The Cave” – Mumford & Sons
“Firework” – Katy Perry
Song of the Year
“Rolling in the Deep” – Adele
“Holocene” – Bon Iver
“Grenade” – Bruno Mars
“The Cave” – Mumford & Sons
“All of the Lights” – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi, & Fergie
Best New Artist
Bon Iver
The Band Perry
Nicki Minaj
J. Cole
Skrillex
Best Pop Solo Performance
“Someone Like You” – Adele
“Yoü And I” – Lady Gaga
“Grenade” – Bruno Mars
“Firework” – Katy Perry
“F***in’ Perfect” – Pink
Best Pop Vocal Album
21 – Adele
The Lady Killer – Cee Lo Green
Born This Way – Lady Gaga
Doo-Wops & Hooligans – Bruno Mars
Loud – Rihanna
Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals
“Body And Soul” – Tony Bennett & Amy Winehouse
“Dearest” – The Black Keys
“Paradise” – Coldplay
“Pumped Up Kicks” – Foster The People
“Moves Like Jagger” – Maroon 5 & Christina Aguilera
Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals
“Airplanes II” — B.o.B, Eminem & Hayley Williams
“Imagine” — Herbie Hancock, Pink, India.Arie, Seal, Konono No. 1, Jeff Beck & Oumou Sangare
“If It Wasn’t For Bad” — Elton John & Leon Russell
“Telephone” — Lady Gaga & Beyoncé
“California Gurls” — Katy Perry & Snoop Dogg
Best R&B Performance
“Far Away” – Marsha Ambrosius
“Pieces Of Me” – Ledisi
“Not My Daddy” – Kelly Price & Stokley
“Is This Love” – Corinne Bailey Rae
“You Are” – Charlie Wilson
Best Traditional R&B Performance
“Sometimes I Cry” – Eric Benét
“Fool For You” – Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona
“Radio Message” – R. Kelly
“Good Man” – Raphael Saadiq
“Surrender” – Betty Wright & The Roots
Best R&B Song
“Far Away” – Marsha Ambrosius
“Fool For You” – Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona
“Not My Daddy” – Kelly Price
“Pieces Of Me” – Ledisi
“You Are” – Charlie Wilson
Best R&B Album
F.A.M.E. – Chris Brown
Second Chance – El DeBarge
Love Letter – R. Kelly
Pieces of Me – Ledisi
Kelly – Kelly Price
Best Rap Performance
“Look At Me Now” – Chris Brown, Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes
“Otis” – Jay-Z & Kanye West
“The Show Goes On” – Lupe Fiasco
“Moment 4 Life” – Nicki Minaj & Drake
“Black And Yellow” – Wiz Khalifa
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration
“Party” – Beyoncé & André 3000
“I’m On One” – DJ Khaled, Drake, Rick Ross & Lil Wayne
“I Need A Doctor” – Dr. Dre, Eminem & Skylar Grey
“What’s My Name?” – Rihanna & Drake
“Motivation” – Kelly Rowland & Lil Wayne
“All of the Lights” – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie
Best Rap Song
“All of the Lights” – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie
“Black And Yellow” – Wiz Khalifa
“I Need A Doctor” – Dr. Dre, Eminem & Skylar Grey
“Look at Me Now” – Chris Brown, Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes
“Otis” – Jay-Z & Kanye West
“The Show Goes On” – Lupe Fiasco
Best Rap Album
Watch the Throne – Jay-Z & Kanye West
Tha Carter IV – Lil Wayne
Lasers – Lupe Fiasco
Pink Friday – Nicki Minaj
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West
Best Short Form Music Video
“Rolling in the Deep” – Adele
“Yes I Know” – Memory Tapes
“All Is Not Lost” – OK Go
“Lotus Flower” – Radiohead
“First Of The Year (Equinox)” – Skrillex
“Perform This Way” – “Weird Al” Yankovic
Best Long Form Music Video
I Am…World Tour – Beyoncé
Foo Fighters: Back And Forth – Foo Fighters
Talihina Sky: The Story of Kings Of Leon – Kings Of Leon
Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest – A Tribe Called Quest
Nine Types of Light – TV on the Radio
Producer of the Year, Non-Classical
Danger Mouse
Paul Epworth
The Smeezingtons
Ryan Tedder
Butch Vig
Bye Grandma, We Love You
Nov 26
BUY NOTHING DAY
Nov 25
Soul Train Awards, 2011
Nov 25
Janet
Nov 25
Moments
Nov 25
I AM THANKFUL…
Nov 24
I am thankful every single day and I have made a commitment to myself to show my gratitude in my own personal way. The past year has been an unbelievable journey. I can’t even begin to describe how my feelings about the world, music, people and myself have evolved. It has not been an easy journey but it certainly has been a fulfilling one. I AM THANKFUL for:
1. Life and Good Health: I am thankful that by grace and grace alone, I wake up every morning and that I can think, speak, feel, move and sing! My brother Christopher (who passed away in 2004) couldn’t talk, walk or doing anything for himself. I honor him everyday of my life by not taking anything for granted.
2. Family and True Friends: I am thankful for my family and friends who genuinely support and encourage me. Thank you for always being honest with me and for giving me a safe space to express my feelings (good or bad) with you. Your support keeps me striving towards my goals and trying everything in my power to make you all proud of me.
3. Love: I am thankful for the ability to give and receive love. It is such a complex emotion that everybody wants to feel and trust. It’s a scarey thing to know. But it’s the thing that drives all human interaction and should be respected.
4. Strength, Courage & Wisdom: The first 2 don’t always function at 100%, but boy am I thankful that they are ever so present. I am thankful everyday for the life lessons that have given me the level of wisdom I possess.
5. Creativity: I am thankful for the ability to express my feelings, thoughts, ideas and experiences through words and sounds; through my love for music.
6. Opportunity: I am thankful for all the opportunities that have come my way. I am an example of how positive thinking, endurance, prayer and hard work can lead to amazing opportunities. I am even thankful for all the no’s, doubts and doors that were, are and will be closed in my face. I need to experience the disappointment and rejection to fully realize my drive and determination and also to protect me from what is simply not meant to be.
7. Change: I am grateful for the ability to initiate and execute change in my life; not the just the ability to adapt to it.
WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR??
HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE! BLESS, ALWAYS, RAE!
Moments
Nov 24
Still Ray
Nov 23
Can’t We Fall In Love Again
Nov 22
Phyllis Hyman
Nov 22
“I’m tired. I’m tired. Those of you that I love know who you are. May God bless you.”
- excerpt from Phyllis Hyman’s suicide note
Fascinating voice and life.
[Source: http://soul-talkin.tumblr.com/]
Heavy D
Nov 18
Moments
Nov 17
Nicole Ari Parker for Denim
Nov 17
Fela Kuti
Nov 15
Quote of a Lifetime
Nov 15
All A Di Massive…Stand Up!
Nov 11
Definitely one of the only rappers I was allowed to listen to back in the day.
[Source: He was only 44 years old. RIP Bredren. RIP.
MOMENTS
Nov 8
“I think that giving people the opportunity to judge before they go and buy, I think that can only help. There’s a loyal fan base that’s gonna go and support you just based off the fact that they want to own a copy of your material, and they know what it means to give you that one sale, and they hope that there’s another hundred, two hundred, three hundred, four hundred, five hundred thousand people that are gonna do the same thing.” – [www.billboard.biz]
Whitney
Nov 7
Words To Live By
Nov 6
BLACK GIRLS ROCK PLEDGE
I am a Black girl. My life is important. I am the continuation of a history, legacy and tradition of powerful people. The lives of my fore mothers now have meaning through me. I stand today because of who they were.
I am a Black girl. My presence is essential. I am a demonstration of the past, an inspiration for the future, and I represent the unlimited possibilities of the present moment.
I am a Black girl. I have a voice. I say the important things that need to be said. I do not waste my voice on gossip, slander or disrespect of myself, my sisters or other people. I know the power of the spoken word and I use my words wisely.
I am a black girl. I know my worth. I hold myself in high esteem because I value who I am. I treat myself with loving care, respect and honor. I honor and hold sacred my mind, my body and my heart.
I am a Black girl. I am committed and confident. I am committed to a future that holds great possibilities for me, my family, and the world. As I move confidently into my next most appropriate steps, I am inspired by life and I inspire others.
I am a Black girl. I have a vision for myself and a vision for my life. It is a vision anchored in love, propelled by integrity and advanced by faith. I am committed to learning how I can improve all aspects of myself so that I will be the best me I can be.
I am a Black girl. I am not intimidated by anyone or anything. I bow to no one and nothing save my Creator. I move with elegance, grace and ease, effortlessly accomplishing all that I set my heart and mind to do when it serves my highest and greatest good.
I am a Black girl. My life is connected to a loving Creator who protects and guides me at all times. Therefore, I am humble and honorable; patient and powerful; focused and flexible; determined and dynamic; loved and loving.
Black Girls Rock!
Nov 5
Celebrating the Brilliance of Black Woman. BET Sunday, November 6th at 8:00 PM EST.
Get more info at : http://blackgirlsrockinc.com.
Studio
Nov 4
TuneCore is aiming to do for music publishing what it has done for digital distribution: make it easier for independent artists to get paid. Its new TuneCore Songwriter Publishing Administration Service, unveiled Wednesday, gives songwriters an easy way to sign up for global publishing administration. TuneCore is not taking the place of organizations like BMI and ASCAP, but will work with those and other organizations to make sure its clients’ royalties are collected. And through TuneCore’s in-house licens- ing department, the company will handle requests for sync licenses on behalf of the songwriter. The pricing is straightforward. The songwriter service will cost songwriters a one-time payment of $49.99 plus a 10-percent fee on all royalties collected. The service is currently open only to artists who use TuneCore for distribution, but the company says it plans to open up the service to all rights holders in the near future.
[Source: www.billboard.biz]
Occupy Wall Street
Nov 3
The Black List
Oct 30
Photographer Timothy Greenfield-Sanders unveiled his latest exhibition, titled ‘The Black List’, at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery during a private preview party. The very first presentation of the complete collection of all 50 images from The Black List series, the exhibit opens to the general public today and will close on April 22, 2012. Historically, “blacklist” denotes a group of people marginalized and denied work or social approval. In an effort to redefine the term, these portraits of 50 African Americans reclaim the term “blacklist” to be affirming, influential and powerful.
[Source: http://www.revamp.com/]
LMFAO’s Motown Connection
Oct 29
Fascinating…Redfoo is the legendary Barry Gordy’s Son and Sky Blue is the son of Barry Gordy, IV who is Redfoo’s brother! WOW!
Yes
Oct 29
Beyonce
Oct 27
What Happened?
Oct 27
LOL…cute. I could sure use these….would make my clumsiness sound way more interesting! LOL!
[Source: www.stayfab.com]
Live footage from the “Victory” tour.
[Source: http://popcrush.com/]
STEVE
Oct 25
Good Vibes
Oct 24
STYLE: FATIMA ROBINSON
Oct 23
StyleLikeU Closet Interview With Fatima Robinson from StyleLikeU on Vimeo.
[Source: www.urbanbushbabes.com]
Where It All Begins
Oct 22
#musicismyvoice
Oct 21
Shoe Heaven
Oct 21
I found a site that has quenched my appetite for fab shoes. Clearly all I’m doing is looking for now…lol…so for all my shoe divas….look and enjoy!
[Source: http://fffuckyeahboots.tumblr.com/]
STYLE: Miss Piggy
Oct 19
Jay-Z & Kanye West have been officially slapped with a lawsuit over a sample they used for a song on their platinum-selling ‘Watch the Throne’ album. Blues legend Syl Johnson has accused the rap duo of sampling his 1967 hit ‘Different Strokes’ for their tune ‘The Joy’ without his permission.
[Source: www.popcrush.com]
“Different Strokes”, Syl Johnson
So Lovely (Full Length Sample) by rachelwalkeronline-music
- “So Lovely” has just been added to the daily rotation on the station that has doubled its broadcast power from 3000 to 6000 WATTS. All on KCLT 104.9 FM -”The Force Of The Delta” in West Helena, Arkansas!
- The Station Delivering 50,000 WATTS Of Undisturbed Groove to 4 BIG States; Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma AND Louisiana, has added “So Lovely” to their daily debut rotation on Mon, Oct 17th! It’s all poppin’ on KZRB 103-Five in Hooks, Texas!
- Always blazin’ a trail with Today’s NEW & HOT R&B, Jammin’ Sam Britten has just added “So Lovely” to his RED-HOT daily rotation! It’s all happening on the station the grown & sexy turn-on in Champaign/Urbana, IL-WBCP 1580AM/Online!
GQ – The Rock Issue
Oct 18
Shoutout to Erykah for being one of the few women to make it into the issue.
[Source: www.theybf.com]
The Survivors: GQ November 2011 from Gentlemans Quarterly on Vimeo.
Ad Fab
Oct 18
Thandie
Oct 15
The Music Biz
Oct 14
5 Secrets The Music Industry Doesn’t Want You To Know
Interesting article. Check out the complete article it here: [Source: http://hiphopwired.com/]
MY SUMMARY BELOW
1. Views, Likes, and Followers
While you may think that looking at numbers is a ridiculous way to evaluate an artist’s worth (and it is!), millions around the world feel otherwise. Sad as it may be, high numbers often propel artists to celebrity status.
YouTube views, Facebook “Likes”, and Twitter followers can be bought for a moderate fee.
2. Buying the # 1 Spot
Once YouTube Views, Facebook “Likes”, and Twitter followers have been bought, it’s time for the label to really go all out and buy thousands of CD’s and downloads to help the artist get to # 1 within the first couple of weeks of release.
3. Professional Reviewers
Writers are paid to act like customers and write positive reviews. Sometimes, these writers are simply part of the artist’s team, other times, they’re professional writers who get hired for their review services.
4. Wardrobe Malfunctions, Nude Pics, and Sex Videos
Truth is, most of these incidents are planned by the artists and their team for publicity. As soon as the pictures or videos are leaked, hundreds of blogs and sites repost them right away. Millions of Facebook and Twitter users repost them as well. In a matter of 24 to 48 hours, that artist is Googled millions of times which causes their name to “Trend” online or on Twitter and increases their search ranking. For the artist, this is an amazing free promotional tool that would otherwise cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in marketing.
5. Fake Beef, Phony Stories, and Controversy
Replace wardrobe issues, nude pics, and sex videos with fake beef, phony stories, and controversy and the result is the same: free publicity. There was a time when this type of nonsense would have hurt an artist’s career. Now, it sustains it…and that’s pitiful.
Shoetastic
Oct 14
Worlds Collide
Oct 13
Pharcyde!! These cats performed at Tufts back when I was like a Sophomore. Brings back such awesome memories. Love Mya’s song over this track.
Esquire – Rihanna
Oct 11
It’s pretty cool that Esquire Magazine named a black woman “The Sexiest Woman Alive.”
[Source: www.theybf.com]
Tracee E. Ross
Oct 11
WOW. Mary’s looking better than ever. Looking forward to hearing this record.
Quote of the Day
Oct 8
[via Floyd Boykin Jr., Editor & Chief of SpokenVizions Magazine]
WOW!
Oct 8
Rihanna has officially broken Madonna’s record (with “We Found Love”) of having 20 top 10 songs in the shortest amount of time–6 years & four months!
As a woman of West Indian decent trying to make it in this business, I can’t help but be proud of Rihanna for this accomplishment. No matter what people think of her and her journey (hate/jealousy/negativity of any kind is so unbecoming), this is a HUGE accomplishment. CONGRATS!
So Awesome
Oct 7
I had to post!
