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Solange ft Kendrick Lamar - Looks Good With Trouble (Remix)

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:32:00 -0400

Many people sleep on Solange Knowles as she’s unfortunately overshadowed by her sister Beyonce. Depsite having to overcome comparisons and criticism Solange has definitely established a place in the music industry. Most are unaware of Solange’s most recent EP ‘True’ that debuted on the US Billboard 200. ‘True’ contains seven 80’s-like tracks that are very reminiscent of the funk/soul era of R&B.

Solange has now added Kendrick Lamar to the mix of one her tracks off ‘True’ as a promo single. ‘Looks Good with Trouble’ has just been remixed to feature the on fire Kendrick Lamar. This combination of sound suits the track so well as Kendrick never fails to execute on a feature.

For more of Solange’s recent work go here.

Stream the ‘Looks Good with Trouble’ the remix below:

Have an agenda..

Thu, 23 May 2013 23:49:52 -0400

A couple nights ago I attended a Mayoral Forum bringing together all former mayors of Charlotte that are still living today. Former Charlotte mayor Richard Vinroot stated during the forum that “It is not enough to want to be mayor, have an agenda.” This statement resonated with me instantly as I applied it to my own life. Specifically in my environment so many people seek positions of leadership without an agenda. Individuals feel worthy or qualified for certain roles and pursue them without a plan or purpose. This social pandemic has had a deeper effect on our culture than just individual status. Our culture is beginning to be built on the principle of ‘do what it takes’ in respect to achieving certain goals or tasks. This idea of involving yourself in areas even if you lack interest may seem necessary but at what expense? We are gradually adapting values that ultimately kill the concept of genuine. Who is really passionate or who is just trying to get ahead? As a result people are conforming to a culture that is unknowingly decreasing individuality. Whether joining a certain organization or becoming a member of a club. many become involved in certain areas without any true interest. I clearly understand that being involved in things we truly don’t care for is necessary; But where is the line drawn? Where is the line drawn between requirement and fabrication? We are losing what it means to live a life of authenticity and integrity. A sincere concern for what we impact and become involved with is the meaning of a genuine life.

Have an agenda, have a purpose. Live an authentic life.

Sun, 19 May 2013 01:51:56 -0400

After a somewhat considered hiatus, many have questioned whether or not Kanye West would produce another groundbreaking project..

Sat, 18 May 2013 20:09:00 -0400

I can just imagine the frenzy of fans rushing to various locations last night to witness Kanye West make history. In just the past 24 hours we were shown once again Kanye’s phenomenal ability as an innovator in artistry. Kanye West premiered his new song “New Slaves” last night setting the Social Network World on fire. The visual of “New Slaves” was projected onto 66, yes 66 different buildings at various locations. Sites included Northwestern University in Chicago, the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, and even the Bondi Junction in Sydney, Australia! Fans that had no access to seeing the premiere first-hand scrounged social networks such as Vine, Twitter and Youtube to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon that had taken over their timelines.

“New Slaves” essentially exposes the reality of the modern day slave. Kanye touches the idea of people in today’s society being slaves in respect to media along with society. Repeatedly saying, “I know that we the new slaves” Kanye addresses the racial stigma that continues to permeate culture. Expressing a strong distaste for the oppression individuals are facing, Kanye holds no remorse for attacking society.

“You see it’s leaders and it’s followers, but I’d rather be a dick than a swallower.”

Kanye would rather voice his opinion in order to shift culture than to sit back idle while nothing is said; we are no strangers to this. “New Slaves” attacks the manipulative personalities of corporations along with racial profiling against blacks. We’ve long awaited for Kanye’s voice to strike again and with such a controversial record West appears relentless in approach to his sixth studio album.

It is reported that Kanye West’s sixth studio album will be titled ‘Yeezus’ and will be released on June 18. Also, tonight on the season finale of Saturday Night Live Kanye is expected to premiere new material. 2013 is an exciting year for music and projected to be a groundbreaking year for Mr. West. Amidst the angst of his girlfriend’s pregnancy (Kim Kardashian) Kanye continues to reify his place as one of the best artists today if not of all time.

Watch a full version of “New Slaves” premiered at Prada Fifth Ave. here and tune in to Saturday Night Live tonight at 11:30/10:30c on NBC as Kanye premieres new material!

Fri, 17 May 2013 23:25:00 -0400

Kendrick Lamar | Born Sinner by: J. Cole

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:29:00 -0400

Rapper J. Cole celebrates the release of his second album, Born Sinner, by honoring the people who have been most influential in his life.

Hear Kendrick’s story here…

The Vince 'Nina' Flat featuring Delmy Rivera

Sat, 11 May 2013 19:47:00 -0400

Over the years I have taken a keen interest for Women’s Fashion due its endless versatility and appeal. Going skinny trousers with flats has been a go-to look for quite a while and here it’s executed flawlessly. The balance of proportion is what sets an outfit apart and Delmy Rivera clearly knows how to accomplish that harmony.

Here pictured is Delmy Rivera wearing; Zara parka, American Apparel lace tee, Levi’s jeans, Asos earrings and Vince flats! What stands out from this outfit are the Vince ‘Nina’ Flats adding a point-of-interest to this look. Made in Italy, this sleekly shaped d’Orsay flat features a leather upper, lining, and sole.These flats are offered by Neiman Marcus in the Nude colorway (as shown here) and a more reserved Black Faeda Calf for a price of $295. Despite the steep price these flats will definitely serve as a staple in anyone’s wardrobe, and has done so for Delmy’s. “These Vince flats have been everything. Incredibly soft and comfortable. Definitely a must have.”

Delmy Rivera is well known for her fashion blog ‘fashionbananas.com’. Rivera’s blog features hundreds of looks dating back to her start in September 2008. To keep up with and find out more about Delmy Rivera follow her blog ‘fashionbananas.com’ along with her Twitter.

“Every minute, Kobe Bryant makes $162.55. By comparison, a...

Sat, 11 May 2013 18:56:00 -0400

“Every minute, Kobe Bryant makes $162.55. By comparison, a family doctor—what most of us consider a decent occupation!—makes $1.35. In that same amount of time, an elementary teacher makes $0.43 (yes, forty three cents). And a minimum-wage worker pulls in just over a dime—a mere $0.12.”
- Mark Wilson from Co.Design

On April 29, 2013, President Barack Obama said he would nominate...

Tue, 07 May 2013 19:24:00 -0400

On April 29, 2013, President Barack Obama said he would nominate Mayor Anthony Foxx to be the Secretary of Transportation.

What if God was a her? Would I treat her the same? Would I still be runnin’ game, on her? In...

Sun, 05 May 2013 15:49:00 -0400

What if God was a her? Would I treat her the same? Would I still be runnin’ game, on her? In what type of ways would I want her? Would I want her for her mind or her heavenly body?

Until you have seen a deaf girl dance, you know nothing of passion.

Sat, 04 May 2013 10:55:27 -0400

J. Cole - Truly Yours 2

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 22:07:00 -0400

As promised, J. Cole drops “Truly Yours 2” today via Twitter. With this release Cole shut Twitter down causing his name to trend worldwide. “Truly Yours 2” contains six tracks featuring 2 Chainz, Young Jeezy, and Bas. The EP also includes production from Canei Finch and Jake One, serving as a warm up to the much anticipated album Born Sinner.

A few words from J. Cole via dreamvillain.net:

Shout to Jeezy, 2 Chainz, Canei, Jake One, and Bas- Quarter Water Raised Me Volume 2 coming soon. Born Sinner coming June 25th. Game Changer. Dreamville.

Much Love

- Cole

Born Sinner, J. Cole’s second studio album is slated to release June 25th. Until then be sure to keep this EP in your daily rotation!

J. Cole - Cole Summer

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:02:00 -0400

“This right here is not a preview”

J.Cole drops “Cole Summer” to hold us off until the release of Born Sinner, slated to drop June 25th. Cole emphasizes in the first verse, “now this right here is not a preview, of what the album gon’ bring you, or nothing like that”. So with that said we can expect to be surprised by what Cole offers on his upcoming album Born Sinner. Dropping “Cole Summer”, J. Cole has a few more days to finish the album and then it’s off to the mixing process. Recently dropping the visual for Power Trip, Cole blesses us with this new single and now plans to drop Truly Yours 2 tomorrow! Expect nothing less than a classic come June 25th. .

Be sure to stream and download the new track “Cole Summer” below:

Nadia Aboulhosn - Printed Polka Dot Jeans

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:21:00 -0400

I’m usually not a fan of heels on women but Nadia Aboulhosn pulls them off effortlessly in this look. Here pictured is Nadia in a pair of Addition Elle printed jeans, Steve Madden heels topped with an ASOS long sleeve button up and B lue V-Neck shirt. Nadia wears these vintage polka-dot skinny jeans two sizes up as boyfriend jeans in order to roll them up and highlight her heels. Rocking a pair of leather Steve Madden’s, Nadia chooses a rather blush colored heel which compliments her skin tone so well. The addition of a vibrant Blue V-Neck gives this outfit pop while the use of a long sleeve button up gives balance to the multiple blues included in this outfit.

Nadia Aboulhosn is a Fashion Blogger/Designer based in NYC. She has been featured in numerous publications such as Complex Style, The New York Times, and even American Apparel! Check out Nadia on Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, and Facebook. Also for more of Nadia Aboulhosn and her amazing looks see her Fashion Blog nadiaaboulhosn.com.

Nate Robinson leads Bulls to Triple-Overtime Playoff Victory

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 22:44:41 -0400

I’ve been a fan of Nate Robinson for quite some time now, but his performance tonight has boosted my support for him to a new height. With a clutch total of 23 points in the 4th quarter, Nate gave the Bulls a two point lead with a running bank shot in the first OT. With two seconds to go in OT, the Brooklyn Nets’ Joe Johnson lived up to his repute tying the game and taking it into a second OT. Despite fouling out with a little over a minute to go in the second OT, Nate’s efforts proved to be sufficient as the Bulls pulled out a 3-OT 142-134 win.

Nate Robinson has always been seen as an underdog due to his short stature. Nevertheless, despite his size disadvantage Nate’s strong drive and remarkable skill allows him to be arguably one of the best Point Guard’s in the league. Averaging 13.1 points and 4.4 assists for the Bulls this season, Robinson has proven to be a valuable asset and key factor in their playoff berth. If he continues to perform at this level there is no doubt that Nate will help lead the Bulls into the second round of the NBA playoffs. Although the likelihood of the Bulls being able to defeat the Heat in a series remains low, this team shouldn’t be counted out too early with a threat such as Nate Robinson.

Tune in Monday, April 29 for Game 5 of the Brooklyn-Chicago series on TNT at 7:00 PM. Also to stay up to date with Nate, follow him on his Website, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube Channel.

Supreme Updates Online Shop With New Items

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 00:31:00 -0400

Supreme releases the Schminx Coaches Jacket online and sells out three of the six colorways available. This Polyester jacket contains a cotton jersey lining along with a cotton drawcord at the waist. Similar to the previously released 5-Panel hats, this jacket features original artwork from skateboard pioneer Mark Gonzales. Mark Gonazles has done an extensive amount of work with Supreme and continues to remain as a prominent skateboarder & all-around artist. From the Gonz Crewneck & New Era Fitted Cap to the 2012 release of the M-51 Jacket, Gonzales continues to have a hand in classic pieces for Supreme.

Selling quickly, only the Navy, Red, and Bronze colorway of this jacket remain available. These jackets are limited to just X-Large and can be purchased at Supreme’s Online Shop

Similar Colorway. Competing Kicks?

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 22:40:00 -0400

The Nike KD 5 Elite+ will be dropping tomorrow 4/20 with a clean price of $200. This kick’s release will mark the start of the NBA post-season. I assume avid Kevin Durant fans will cop this joint but does KD have a equally skilled player to compete with?

The KD V Elite features Nike+ tracking technology. This KD is a part of Nike Basketball’s ‘Nike ELITE Series 2.0+’. This collection’s intention is to highlight the top 3 players in the league, being Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant. On the same release day as the KD V, the LeBron X PS Elite will also be hitting stores. Has Nike Basketball strategically placed both these shoes’ release dates together?

The LeBron X PS Elite will be released at the price of $280 in the White/Metallic Gold - Black colorway very similar to the KD 5 Elite+.

It seems only befitting that the previous NBA Finals opponents would also carry their competition into their own signature shoes. But which kick will prevail? Maybe this is a sneak peek to a potential battle we may see in this year’s Finals. One can only imagine…

J.Cole Explains "Power Trip" Production

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:15:00 -0400

Just recently we were treated to Hit-Boy giving us a breakdown of his production process, now J. Cole one of the rap game’s most prominent producers gives us an inside look on his hit record “Power Trip” featuring Miguel. Here J. Cole relives the emotion and stages in the process of creating the beat for “Power Trip”. Initially intended for another artist, Cole discovered what the purpose for this song would be while making the beat. Towards the end of the video we get a snippet of a beat Cole did for Jay Z which features a sample from the musical “Newsies”. “Brooklyn’s Here” is the track Cole sampled and hearing him remaster a Broadway hit into his own sound only increases the anticipation for Born Sinner.

Born Sinner is due 6.25.13, listen to the complete version of the first single off Born Sinner below:

Bodega BAMZ x A$AP Ferg - Trap Lords

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 20:47:00 -0400

Here’s a new track from Spanish Harlem native Bodega BAMZ accompanied with the young trap lord himself A$AP Ferg. I just recently got put on Bodega BAMZ and I’m definitely a fan. I love Bodega BAMZ’ ‘TANBOYS’ movement and his reincarnation of Latinos in the Rap game. The two emerging artists compliment each other so well on this track with Ferg just killing the chorus! This track can be found on DJ Funkmaster Flex’s new mixtape “Who You Mad At? Me Or Yourself?”.

Be sure to stream this track below and for more from Funkmaster Flex’s new tape download or stream it here!

We Are All Citizens of The World, and Our Pain Can Bring Us Together

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 20:21:00 -0400

A social uproar has been stirred by the most recent tragedy in Boston. MA. Two bombs exploded at the Boston Marathon killing three people and wounding over 144. Such an attack is quite rare in America but a commonplace in other countries. As Americans react in a frenzy to simple terroristic threats, citizens in Iraq witness bombings daily. Journalist Kevin Gosztola reveals how all citizens endure similar struggles.

The sadness that an event like a marathon would be disrupted should be coupled with reality that there are people in countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, etc., who embark on daily errands and are swept up in violence. … It is rather to highlight, in the moment when people are most paying attention, that there are other people around the world who suffer from violence daily.

- Kevin Gosztola (Civil Liberties Blogger for Firedoglake)

MORE KEVIN GOSZTOLA.

Not to undermine the disasters that occur in America, but we must realize the adversities others in the world face. Insurgent bomb attacks killed at least 36 people in central Iraq just this past week! I urge you to take the initiative to become cognizant and concerned about the current state the world is in. Rather than sending a tweet, send a prayer. Instead of simply tuning into the Breaking News read into the causes of these tragedies.

“We are all citizens of the world, and our pain can bring us together.”