Milk Was A Poor Choice...

Are Black People Too Forgiving?

2009-08-14T09:13:00.005-04:00

So I haven't blogged in apparently over a year, but I was 'inspired' by some current events, particularly, the Mike Vick situation and the range of reactions to it. (Who knows, maybe I'll start blogging again?)

While I would like to say that I'm surprised by the reactions to Vick's reinstatement and how they appear to be, in a lot of ways, split by race, I'm not. Historically, us Black folks have been quick to forgive other Black folks that others have denigrated. The easiest way to look at this is to say that we forgive because Vick, O.J., Marion Barry, etc. are Black, but I think it's a lot more than that. That is not to say that race doesn't play a part, and anyone who thinks otherwise would be misguided in my opinion, but in many ways we feel a connection to those that are looked down upon. It's very difficult for me to look at the Vick signing and people's reactions and not feel that they would be different if he wasn't a Black male. And for that reason, it's easier for me to forgive him. This is not to say that I condone what he did, but I can see that he served his debt to society and that he deserves to make a living doing what he does best.

What I find ironic/interesting is that the people who are against him keep saying that he doesn't deserve a second chance. Here is a man, that destroyed his reputation, lost countless millions, may have destroyed his career and yet people want to take more from him? What more does he need to do? And if you say that he needs to feel what the dogs felt, how are you any better? I heard one person on a Philly radio station say something to the effect of "besides going to jail, what has Vick done to show he should have a second chance?" That blew my mind. As if going to jail isn't that big a deal, and he should be castrated or something to show everyone that he's the contrite Negro and he's oh so sorry. These are the same people that were saying he wasn't humane?

What I won't do here is defend his actions, or even bring up the argument that "it was just dogs" and that there are players in the league that have killed people, but I will say that I'm glad he got a second chance because I do feel a connection to him. I feel like I've been there with him. That I've been looked down on for whatever reason, and I would love to believe that at the end of the day, I could get a second chance. That I live in a country where it is possible for young Black male to make a mistake and not have it be held against him for the rest of his life.

I would like to think that people would use this as a way to see what it's like to be 'young, gifted and black' and how difficult it can be. Maybe I'm reaching too much with this, and maybe it's not that serious and has nothing to do with race. But when much of your life has been affected by race, it's hard to not see things in shades of Black and White. And if this offends you, I'd be curious as to why that is. Do you honestly think that race doesn't matter? I'd be curious to hear why not. (and please don't say Obama)

Anyway, something to think about. I will say this though, I hope that this Vick situation brings up more dialogue because there are too many things not being said in this discussion and that's a problem.

Youngest MILF?

2008-05-08T07:56:00.003-04:00

There aren't very many words that can describe the amazingness of this video... besides the obvious allusions to BBD and the beautifully choreographed dance break down which was last seen in the mid 90's, this video is everything that is right with both music and our society.

The changing state of the family has required the need to address the status of the young MILF, and I for one am glad that Lou Draws had the fortitude to do it. Kudos brother.

However, this does bring in to question Dallas Penn's assertions that older women are better because of their similarity to seedless watermelons.

Video Link

Politics are fun?

2008-05-07T22:01:00.006-04:00

They are when they look like this

After the seriousness of last night's results... I'm glad to see someone having fun with this.

I would dance to this in the club like what...

Can we make dance that would somehow involve standing in a voting line, actually voting, and then "throwing it up"?

Someone get to work on that for me please...

Link

Thanks to illroots.com... download the song here

Who wants to go do hoodrat stuff with me?

2008-04-30T21:24:00.003-04:00

And if you "smoke with cigarettes"... thats a plus.

Little boy is in the system and he's 7... the teacher in me shudders for any that have to deal with this kid in the future...

But the regular guy in me... is laughing my ass off.

link

I love vocoders...

2008-04-08T10:58:00.002-04:00

And if you love them as much as I do... you'll love this... one of the funniest things I've seen in a while...

T-Pain and Akon go to lunch... Enjoy

Link

Trying to ball...

2008-04-06T18:51:00.008-04:00

So in addition to not blogging, I've been, apparently, trying to act like I have a lot of money.

In what may be a misguided attempt to step my game up and help stimulate the economy, I've recently purchased a couple things that have left quite the dent in my pockets but in some respects have increased the quality of my life...

The first would be my snazzy new glasses... in my opinon... they're quite nice. New glasses are nice, but can get quite expensive... and it's never the glasses, but those damn lenses. Luckily, I've got some of that health insurance to cover SOME of the cost...

The most important of my purchases however... is my iPhone.

Yes, I am of one of those iPhone people... and you know what... I love it. It seriously is one of the best things I've ever purchased. I won't get into it too much, but yea, it's great. And a number of my friends are more than slightly jealous.

And even though I have to go to the Apple Store and be one of those people... it's a small price to pay for the gloriousness that is the iPhone (White folks sure do love the Apple Store)

And they even gave me a completely new one, when mine started acting funny after I started plugging it into random things to see if it would work... don't do this.

My most recent purchase and maybe the one that hurt my feelings/pocket the most is my new LRG 'Time is Money' G-Shock...

I'd never had a G-Shock before, and when I saw this, I was quite enamored with it. Besides being the colors of my people (Naija what!), it's really well made with lots of attention to detail and one of only 500 in the world.

It comes in this nifty box...

and is made of the very stylish white rubber... bling is for bamas.

There are tons of details (and a panda) on the band of the watch and the back of it... just well made all around.

So now as I try and catch my breath from some of these purchases, I'll be waiting for that Uncle Sam stimulus check... I've done all the stimulating that I can handle for quite a while.

Been soo long...

2008-04-06T18:21:00.010-04:00

Yea I know... who does this guy think he is? He doesn't blog for two months and then comes back as if everything is all good...
My apologies folks... I've been derelict in my duties, but at the same time I've been trying to enjoy life rather than document it.

Yea... that's my excuse...

Anyway... I guess I'll start with my spring break.

I cleaned my closet, which is a really big feat... and most importantly, I went to Orlando to kick it with my girl and go to the Jay-Z/Mary J. show.

The show was amazing folks. I had never seen Jay or Mary J. perform live before, and to put it simply, they did the damn thing.

I don't think I'd ever seen someone put as much into every song as Mary J. does. (That's her singing "No More Drama") I always made jokes about how much passion Mary seemed to have before she got her life together and how mellow she is now... but that is not the case. I actually think she was in tears a couple of times. One of the best parts of the show was looking around at all the dudes that obviously came for Jay, but knew almost every Mary song. She really is the queen of Hip-Hop. Oh... and she is in pretty damn good shape right about now. She could get it...

And then there was Jay...

What can I say about this dude that hasn't been said? He's a great performer and definitely hasn't lost a step. And there is something almost electric about an entire arena throwing up the Roc and singing every song word for word. There was a point when Jay started to play about 20 different songs, just to reinforce the knowledge that he has more hits than anyone else.

Aside from the music, the most entertaining part of the evening was the audience. There were girls in freakum dresses galore... trying to climb up the stadium stairs and not fall, dudes in their Easter Church suits, 40 something white folks, and at least one 8 year old. Jay and Mary draw quite the eclectic crowd apparently...

Anyway, here are a couple more pics from the night... enjoy...

Oh yea The Dream opened... and sang 3 songs... and had dancers... doing things...(that's him in the white coat...)

Jay and Mary singing "Heart of the City"

Jay amid the flames...

2008-01-29T21:02:00.000-05:00

So I've been thinking a bit lately and trying to figure out what exactly is my problem with a bunch of the music today. I was trying to do this objectively without any of the elitist bias that I subconsciously have. And to be honest, I'm not one of those folks that think that music was so amazing in the past and doesn't see any good in the stuff that comes out now. I actually do like a lot of stuff and if nothing else, being a broke teacher that's trying to find a get rich route himself, I respect hustle.

For that reason, I can appreciate someone like Soulja Boy for what he has done, but my problem comes from the lack of history and insight he and jokers like him have. These youngins get out of pocket like it's their job. Talking greasy about every one because you got a Grammy nod? Really? Since when are Grammy's hip-hop? Didn't Will Smith win one? And I don't see him getting invited to any ciphers any time soon. I understand that hip-hop is in many cases built off of machismo and such... but you need to know your place young fellow.

What am I talking about? From Soulja Boy's MTV News interview:

"I'm Grammy-nominated," he continued, citing his credentials. "If I look at the new list and I compare myself to all 10 of the artists and some don't add up, I'll be like, 'Wow. I should be #1 if it's right now. I'm #1."

Soulja Boy was more candid when asked how he ranks specifically against alumni of the first Hottest MCs list, like Weezy, 'Ye and Jay-Z.

"Right now, yes [I'm hotter than them]," he answered as their names were read to him one by one.

He said he is the best-selling online, highest-ranking on the Web and the most publicized rapper worldwide right now.

"Today, January — whatever the date this is — 2008, yes [I am the hottest]," SB emphasized.

Wow. I mean, I love the confidence, but really guy? See... this here is my problem, you get youngins like this, who really have no concept of what hip-hop is supposed to be, and they think they're hot. Maybe he's just a product of what hip-hop made, or maybe alledgedly failing 9th grade twice is part of it, but whatever it is... this mentality needs to stop. (You know its reckless when 8th graders are saying that he was talking out his neck) But maybe this a good thing for hip-hop... he is selling... ringtones... and he did make it on CNN:

link

(I'm mad that the CNN anchor calls him Soulja Boy Tell Me and that the chick who apparently knows a lot about him is Nigerian)

So this post wasn't supposed to be about Soulja Boy, but rather his brand of lazy music with no care for history. I present you with one of the many children of the Soulja Boy movement, the Pop It Off Boyz (putting the 'Z' at the end of things is still cool?) and their "hit" song "Crank Dat Batman" which I guess could be an homage to "Crank Dat Soulja Boy". (By homage I mean, we couldn't come up with anything ourselves) Soulja is apparently all for these by the way, and so is MTV it seems.

Besides the obvious lack of effort put into both the video and the song (note the obvious references to "Two Step" and "It's Peanut Butter Jelly Time" and the My First Casio beat), my biggest problem is the fact that the song asks it's listeners to "jigg". I thought we didn't have to do that anymore? So MTV can bleep out any and all references, made up or otherwise, to drugs, sex, certain consumer goods that they don't endorse, and other things that I didn't even know where bad, but they can't bleep out racial slurs? Or is it not as bad when a group of poorly educated (or maybe they're smarter than all of us and getting theirs) young men sing and tap dance it? Or maybe I'm just thinking too much.

Anyway... enough for now... enjoy:

link

And I'm sure I could be called a hater or maybe an idealist, but that would be too easy and counter productive, wouldn't it?

If you're looking for a cool video with some effort put into it: Erykah Badu's - Honey.

Where are this kid's parents?

2008-01-10T19:44:00.000-05:00

Honestly? I mean comeon... how does this fly? Where is Brother Sharpton when we really need him? I don't even have words to be honest... and I even feel bad for directing people to such nonsense.

I'm sorry...

Link

My Favorite things pt. 3 (Music)

2008-01-02T21:15:00.000-05:00

Happy New Years folks. Here's to a positive and productive '08.

Now that that's done...

Without doing another year end list like everyone and their moms does (even though I guess this is one)... I'm gonna give you some of my favorite musics of the year... no rankings or anything... just as I remember them.

Because I can never remember when things came out, I used iTunes to make a playlist of all my top ranked songs of '07... and I've got to say... I think for the most part, it was a pretty good year for music... Alrighty... without further ado:

My Favorite Albums

Black Milk - Popular Demand - I talked about this album before and here's what I said then:

"This cd is great. A protege of the late J. Dilla who is also from Detroit. He's a producer that can actually flow pretty well without being too backpackerish. This is definitely a nice mix of "mainstream" and underground."

Blu & Exile - Below the Heavens - This cd really stood out for just being something a little different. Real smoove and heartfelt. Blu is the truth. I also talked about them in a previous post.

Freeway - Free at Last - So... I don't technically own this cd yet, but I've got most of the songs, and I've got to say... Freeway was spitting. I am going to cop the cd, but just off the songs I've heard, I had to put this on there. Freeway is one of the few dudes that actually seem scary when they spit... partly cause it seems so genuine. Check 'When They Remember' (I dare you to tell me this joint isn't gangster. I will send Freeway to your house if you do.)

Jay Z - American Gangter - I know, I know... everyone either loves this or hates it (there is no in-between as with all recent Jay it seems)... but you know what? I think Jay got it right with this one. Not that I disliked 'Kingdom Come', but this one definitely hit the spot. The samples are fantastic and for the most part, it really seemed like Jay was in the zone and he hit the time period perfectly. In addition, you've gotta respect his hustle and that whole synergy thing. He got a lot of people to see the movie that maybe wouldn't have. ("Party Life" is my jam too... especially since the original was done by Little Beaver. How great is that name?)

Kanye West - Graduation - Another one that everyone loved, but I've got to say... it was pretty good. Although I really hated 'Drunk and Hot Girls', everything else was pretty tight. I could really feel him on a bunch of the songs [||], and it seemed like he actually put some thought into some of the lyrics... One of my favorite joints (which may have just been on the iTunes version or something) Not the "real" video... but pretty good to me:

Little Brother - Getback - Def one of my favorites and I went and saw these cats live and it was great. They're just real cool dudes that spit real talk... as evidenced by Phonte's take on marriage. The whole feel of this album was just fun, old-fashioned hip-hop. Good times... and it just seems to speak to me given where I am in my life right now.

Lupe Fiasco - Lupe Fiasco's The Cool - This was an album that I was eagerly waiting. Although at times it can be a little dense, it definitely gets better with each listen. And despite the fact that Lupe alienated the very people that big him up with Fiascogate, I think he did a good job of winning some of them back. 'Paris, Tokyo' is my joint... real soulful and Tribe Called Quest-like.

Mark Ronson - Version - In the non-hip hop category, this album definitely stood out for me. This is the dude that produced a bunch (if not all) of Lily Allen and Amy Winehouse's albums. He is also the dude behind Wale's emergence. Just lots of jazzy, uptempo stuff, and the Amy Winehouse song is great.

Pharoahe Monch - Desire - People were waiting for this forever... and it didn't disappoint. Real insightful, deep lyrics, without being too preachy or complex. The song 'When the Gun Draws' is just haunting:

That's it for now... I may do some a couple songs that stood out for me later... but I may get lazy...

My Favorite things pt. 2 (Sneaker Edition)

2007-12-25T08:47:00.001-05:00

First and foremost, happy holidays to everyone.

So, some of my most favoritest things this year have come in the form of some fantastic footwear. I don't know what it is, but there is something about a fresh pair of shoes that just makes you feel all warm and tingly. [||]

I've been blessed to be able to have a couple dollars to get a few pairs this year, as well being hooked up by friends and family. So here are a couple pics of my most recent ones as well as some of my collection.

Just got these for X-Mas... thanks to brother. Good Looks sir.

My Voltron Pack Ventilators... Good looks to K with these.

And the bottom of my closet. This isn't even the whole collection. I may have to come up with a better system. Those would be my 'Good Clothes' (C)Little Brother on top.

Oh and for my DC peoples... gotta have a pair of Nike Boots.

Lastly, one of the most important things for anyone that cares about his or her shoes is keeping them crispy. Probably my best shoe related purchase this year came in the form of the Jason Markk shoe cleaner. Not to get all technical, but it has all sorts of oils and whatnot that don't hurt your shoes... and it's amazing... I'd definitely recommend it to everyone.

Have a good holiday everyone, I'm off to enjoy the family...

My Favorite Things pt. 1

2007-12-23T10:48:00.000-05:00

I know that Oprah does a version of her favorite things every year, and though I usually can't stand anything Oprah related (I even take the Oprah Book Club stickers off my books), I decided to do my own ghetto fabulous version for the next couple of days or so.

I've been blessed this year again to be able to buy or receive things that I really love so I figured I'd share a couple of them with you... in part because I hope to squeeze a couple of blog posts out of this too

My first favorite thing is my Northface Decagon Jacket.
I wasn't a big fan of Northfaces in general, partly because the P.G. Country Lil Wayne Stans stay trying to jack people for them, but now I see why they love em. Besides the obvious hood appeal, these things are fantastic on a technical level. I've never really been impressed by an article of clothing so much, and I can tell that the Northface folks put a lot into their Jackets.

It's water/wind proof, has more pockets than things I own including a couple hidden ones for iPods and other various things you want to keep hidden, and if I ever decide that I want to lose any hood status that I may have left and "hit the slopes", it would be perfect. Also note, that I def copped the "Anchorage Green" colorway so as to keep the Lil Wayne Stans away. (They love the Black ones with all the fancy straps and buckles that look very close to straight jacket parachutes or something... why do young Black men need a coat made for the alps with a built in canteen and GPS unit, when they have never left P.G. county? I'll never understand.)

My next favorite thing from this past year is my Lacoste x Christophe Pillet watch from Collete in Paris. Now before you go thinking that I'm a baller... I got a hookup with this. (My friends are my most favorite things) There really isn't too much to say about this watch. Those of you know that know me know how I roll with watches. (I've been wearing those Burger King Simpson and Rugrats watches for years) So this is a huge step up. There's something about the big face on this, that makes it really sexy, and the Nigerian in me also loves the green and white. This will prolly be the only Lacoste item I own... and I'm alright with that.

Alright, thats it for today... hopefully tomorrow I'll have a couple more things.

Back Again...

2007-12-08T09:29:00.000-05:00

So I know it's been a while, and my apologies... but there is nothing to take away any free time you've had than the beginning of basketball season... and I've started reading again... books, actually. (BTW... if you're looking for some good reads, check out Cormac McCarthy's No Country for Old Men and The Road)

Anyway... what brings me back to my few readers is the concert I attended last weekend. Little Brother came to DC and brought a hell of a show with them. Reef the Lost Cauze opened (I'd never heard of him, but he was sick... definitely look out for him) and Evidence also performed. (He too did his thing) But Little Brother was definitely the highlight. Oh yea, and they brought the man Darien Brockington with them.

There's nothing quite like going to a live hip-hop show in a small venue. First off you get a great mix of folks, and there is always so much energy. The artists are feeding off the fans and the fans are feeding off the artists.

The other thing I loved about the show, was just how real these dudes were. Like you could tell they were hustling just as much as everyone in the crowd was. After the show, they were all selling their own stuff and were around to just chill out and talk to. I chatted it up briefly with Darien Brockington and Reef (he and his peoples tried to get at me for going to Penn... until I said I was a teacher...then they felt bad for me) But it was good times all around.

Highlights of the show... Reef's spoken word, Evidence wearing a shirt that said 'I Love DC' and showing his legal marijuana card, Little Brother taking us to church, crazy white girls, and the dude behind me that knew every word and proceeded to comment on everything Phonte said. (Phonte is a hell of a showman by the way)

Anyway, here are a couple pics... sorry for the quality... but I can't afford a good camera... I am a teacher after all

Phonte and D. Brock

Big Pooh getting Sexy [||]

Showing some love after the show

Anyway... make sure to show real hip-hop some love...it always makes for good times.

Is there anything better...

2007-10-29T20:47:00.001-04:00

Than the delicious and fantasticly hood chicken wings and french fries... especially when you add some Mumbo sauce? For those that don't know, mumbo sauce is usually the sweet union between some combination of ketchup, hot sauce, bbq sauce, and whatever they throw in there at the carry-out. The thicker the better.[||] If you come to DC and go to a carry out and they don't have mumbo sauce... leave immediately.

Oh yea and please be sure to add a Rock Creek soda of a flavor that doesn't exist anywhere outside of the carry-out... Lime, Cherry, Peach, etc.

This just one of the few things that make DC the great city it is.

Oh yea... go buy the new Little Brother... 'GetBack' folks and support some good music.

That is all.

Youtube Killed The Hip-Hop Star

2007-10-17T12:46:00.000-04:00

I read something a little while ago where someone wondered if Hip-Hop would go the way of Disco and other 'fringe' music. I thought about it and the first thing that came to mind was that it would be fantastic if this happened.

Why do I say this? Besides the hilarity that would ensue from rappers in disco-like outfits a la John Travolta, singing and dancing to tightly choreographed routines, while on roller skates... I've always wondered how many rappers would still be in the game if the possibility to make a lot of money really quickly disappeared. How many of these guys do it because they genuinely love the music? (And why does this only seem to be a question with Hip-Hop? I very rarely hear this with other types of music... or maybe I'm just oblivious) There are tons of 'successful' dudes out right now that say all the time that they aren't rappers, but rather hustlers. If these guys are hustlers, what does that make us as the consumer?

Jay-Z actually said it well in a recent interview:

“When a guy says – and this is definitely no disrespect, because everybody has their place – but when a guy says, ‘I can make a mil saying nothing on a track,’ you know you have reached a bad place. Not only did you think about it, you said it. So, [Hip-Hop] is way past salvaging. So, I’m just gonna do what I do.”

This is not to hate on anyone's hustle, if you can get people to believe in what you're selling... more power to you. However, don't get upset when someone who considers your hustle an art, calls you out. Because to them... this is the only way they can truly communicate with the world. And to bastardize that, can be seen as a great sin. I've always wondered why certain rappers got so upset when people challenge their music. I mean, if you don't really care about it, whats the big deal as long as folks are still buying?

And when the bubble bursts, as it appears to be close to doing now, what happens to all the hustlers? All the kids that came up because of a YouTube song and dance... where do they go? Hip-Hop and music in general is being saturated with watered down gimmicks and flash in the pan artists and eventually people are going to get tired of it. I mean they have to... right? (I would like to blame Viacom and Vivendi and maybe even YouTube for that)

It will be interesting to see what will happen to Hip-Hop when the bubble bursts and the labels give up on it. When all the people that really have no true interest in it, or passion for it, find something else, that will be huge. Who is going to still be around and who is going to be on the next big thing? How many people are still going to care... or will it become something only done in those weird clubs by those odd people that get all decked out in their retro clothing while everyone just stares? Sorta like those people that get all dressed up for The Rocky Horror Picture Show? (Are those the hip-hop fans of the future?)

Or is Hip-Hop way too much of a cash cow for any of this to even happen?

Anyway... just my random thoughts...

As an aside: I just got an image of Soulja Boy doing his dance in a sort of Saturday Night Fever, disco-esque get up...
I think I would pay to see that. (Does that make me part of the problem?)

Crank dat Disco Stu....

Do I really want to smell like that?

2007-09-24T19:50:00.000-04:00

So in my internets journeys, I stumble across some odd things. Some of which are so odd, that they inspire pseudo-intellectual rantings that all of my 20 or so readers are privy to. This particular item might take the cake. (I was gonna talk about this ignorance, but I refrained)

Apparently, the makers of Vulva Original(there is some nudity, so be warned) have figured out a way to bottle "the odor of a beautiful women." And from the name, you can probably guess what that odor is.

Now this isn't a perfume, or a cologne, and according to the site is:

A vaginal scent which is purely a substance for your own sensual pleasure.

What does that mean you might ask? Well I was wondering that too. Well, when you consider that according to the directions, one is supposed to apply this to the back of their hand and sniff... One might be led to believe that this meant to be used for umm... taking matters into one's own hands.

Is there really a market for this sort of thing? It's almost too ridiculous to believe, and yet there it is... staring me in the face, like a sideways smile. I'm at a loss. And where did they get this scent from? I'm really curious as to whom they based it on. Or maybe it's a combination of a bunch of women. Is that better? And is this a scent that can be crafted in a lab? Or is it like banana flavored candy, that they can never get quite right?

I'm just scared that it won't wash all the way off, like when you go the club and you get that marker on the hand, and it's still there like 2 days later and you have to explain what it is... but this would be a little more awkward...

Oh yea... and to cap this all off... their website is: smellmeand.com... they even have shirts that say that...

Let that marinate on your hands a little...

Men are the New Women?

2007-09-16T10:55:00.000-04:00

It seems like a stupid/meaningless question... but in regards to hip-hop, I think it's very relevant. SO what brings up this question you might ask? Well the latest in a long list of things is the song "Duffle Bag Boy". (I'm sure you've heard it, but if not... here.)

So when did it become gangster to carry a man purse? Not to say that I'm the most gangster guy out there, but I like to think that I've got some experience in at least recognizing it when I see it. And I'm sorry, I don't care how much money you have or what brand of bag you have... but a purse is a purse. Now I understand hip-hop's infatuation with brand names, and showing you can afford a Louis Vuitton bag is cool and all... but at the end of the day, it's still a purse.

Now maybe this a good thing, this blurring of the gender lines. Maybe it's showing that hip-hop is getting in touch with it's "feminine" side. Or maybe the latent homo-eroticism that's in a lot of hip-hop is finally starting to be exposed? Or maybe I'm just reading too much into a trend and need to go get my duffle bag on?

I dont know... but I do know that when I was growing up, if a dude walked into my neighborhood with a man purse on... he wouldn't be considered cool to say the least.

Lastly and on a somewhat unrelated note... check out this group Blu & Exile. They just put out a cd titled 'Below the Heavens'. This is quality hip-hop... one of the best cds I've picked up this year.

And they don't wear man purses.

Check the video:

America Has Gone Dumb...

2007-08-29T18:27:00.000-04:00

Finally... something blog worthy...

So, I'm sure that many of you have seen the now famous clip of Ms. South Carolina in the Miss Teen USA pageant. And I'm also sure that many of you have come to the conclusion she must be quite dumb. However, if you are to believe the Today Show in the following clip, then you would be mistaken.

Now come on people... who are we kidding here? This young lady completely butchered a fairly easy question and the English language. The question was about people not being about to spot out America on a map... and she ended up talking about South Africa and Iraq! How does that happen? I don't care how "nervous" she and Ann Curry claimed she was. She couldn't even construct a sentence... I had to watch her answer like 3 or 4 times before I could even piece together some of the answer.

Now besides the fact that she couldn't put together a coherent thought in that pseudo answer, I'm mad that she got to go on TV and "defend" her idiocy. How does that happen? Not to pull the race card, but there is no way that a Black person gets that luxury. But because it's a cute white girl, they give her another chance. And she does ok with the second chance, but she did have almost a week to do so. Not that I would have bashed her when she came on the show, but I don't think that being buddy with her as Curry was, was the right call either.

I don't know... maybe it's the educator in me, but I don't like to reward stupidity and I feel like that is exactly what is going to happen.

Anyway...as the principal in Billy Madison says

what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.

But... like, such as...maps... south africa and iraq and asian countries... and such.

Please learn your kids people. Oh yea... and she came in third... now that's a prestigious competition.

video: Ms. South Carolina Today Show interview

Top 10 Hottest MCs in the Game?

2007-08-03T20:00:00.000-04:00

MTV, being the bastion of all that is hip-hop has come up with their list of the hottest MCs in the game. And me being the verbose, psuedo expert of hip-hop that I am... felt the need to comment, rip apart, and trash their selections.

Here's the list:

10. Jim Jones
9. Common
8. 50 Cent
7. Jay-Z
6. Young Jeezy
5. Kanye West
4. Andre 3000
3. Game
2. T.I.
1. Lil Wayne

So first off... our boy Jim Jones is on this list? I can't even fathom what sort of logic went into that decision. Apparently they didn't get the memo that one "hot" song does not make you an MC. (See MIMS) But honestly, do people really think this guy can rap? I don't even think he's as good as fruity-tooty rapper Cam'ron, who is not even as good as Juelz.

I won't say that Jimmy isn't entertaining, but I will say that he is not a top ten MC. I know there isn't much to choose from, but he is definitely taking a spot from more talented/qualified MCs.

As much as I don't want 50 to be on the list... given the current state of music, I guess he can stay, but only based on past achievements. His music right now is... "eh" at best. And to be honest, I'm convinced that he made a bet with Yayo or something and told them he could go platinum with any garbage that he puts out. Yall hear the song with Justin? 'Ayo Technology'? Who does that? What does that even mean? I'm confused.

I'm also confused by Jeezy being on this list. I mean I guess his first album did so well that he decided to make it twice. I mean what has he really done this past year? The White girl song was kinda funny... but I really can't remember anything else of consequence from him. And how is Jeezy better than Jay? That just doesn't even seem right. We get it... you can come up with a bunch of different words for cocaine... jeez. And if we're going for a guy with an interesting little squeal/ad-lib... why not Jadakiss?

The order of the rest of the list needs some re-arranging. Now I actually like T.I. but there is no way that anyone can convince me that he should be number two. "Big Things Poppin"? I'm gonna need him to do better. I actually really like T.I. too... but to put him above Andre 3000 is criminal. Even Kanye is doing better than T.I. right now. Although I've found that Kanye's remixes of songs are usually more entertaining than his own songs. (See the 'Throw some D's remix')

Why is the Game on this list? His album was alright... but what has he done this year? I honestly can't think of anything significant besides getting arrested for pulling a gun on someone during a basketball game and name dropping Dr. Dre and Detox.

As much as I like Lil Wayne, I'm not sure I can put anyone above Andre. He's absolutely killing things right now... he has taken over every song he's been on and made it his. I would def have to put him at one. I'd keep Wayne in the top three partly because of the sheer volume of his work. He apparently records 6-8 songs a night... that's insane.

As far as folks not on the list... I'd like to see Kweli (Eardrum will come out soon... I promise). Eaybe Nas? (Hip-Hop is Dead was serious) What about Ghostface? I don't know what he says half the time... but he says it so well. And he's basically the only one from Wu-Tang doing big things.

There are some young guys that I'm really feelin now too... especially the cat Skyzoo... and maybe even Saigon(his album will come out too... I promise)

Anyway... all this to say... MTV doesn't know crap about hip-hop and I do. That is all.

How to be a Black hipster or just a hipster in general...

2007-07-26T13:36:00.000-04:00

You too can be cooler than all of your friends... just follow my handy dandy guide to 'hipsterdom'.

The New York Times came up with the word 'blipster', which is what they called a Black hipster, and apparently they're on the rise. And even though this might be a little late, I still think it could be of some help to you guys.

So without further ado...

1. One of the most important parts of being a hipster is the hair. Your hair is one of the first things people notice about you, so to be a Black hipster, you've gotta do something different with yours. The mohawk is one way to go, but its a little played now as even Diddy had one. Some other ways to go would be dyeing it a random color (especially good for girls) shaving various parts and leaving other parts unshaved or anything asymmetrical (also good for girls). Mixing various styles (like Kele from Bloc Party above)is good too. This all shows that you don't really care what others think, and that you're above the norm, which is really important in being a hipster.

2. Clothing is another big aspect of being a hipster. One of the defining characteristics of being hip is skinny jeans. The skinnier and tighter the better. I would recommend the Levis shrink-to-fit raw denim jeans as you can tailor those to your needs. The best way to go about getting your jeans skinny would be to sit in a tub of hot water with them on... then you can ensure that you'll never be able to have kids again. (If your closest girl friend can fit in them easily, then they aren't tight enough... so try again.)

You will also need to find things from your childhood fads that didn't make it, i.e. Starter caps, flannel, etc. Basically anything you can play off as being ironic is key. And don't forget those accessories. You'll need some black rimmed glasses a la Malcolm X or Drew Carey, and for girls, mismatched earrings are a must. Even a big chain or a multi fingered ring. One of those head covers that you usually only see Arabs wearing in the desert is also a plus, except wear it like you're a bandit. That's big.

What about your feet you ask? Well I've got you covered there too. I would recommend some Vans or Chucks. But you can't wear them all fresh and clean... throw them around in the dirt a little or buy the ones that look really used, but are really expensive.

The most important thing with clothing is that whatever you do... Don't MATCH! I cannot stress this enough. You will be mocked and scoffed if you do.

3. Music is another way to define yourself as a hipster. Basically all you wanna do is listen to any 'alternative' or 'underground' rock and/or rap that you can find. Preferably anything your non hipster friends don't know. And the more 'emo' it is, the better. (If you don't know what emo is, just look for the guys with the asymmetrical hair cuts and black eye liner.) Also, liking the Ramones (or acting like you do) is a huge plus.

4. This step is not quite necessary, but if you want the image to be complete I would recommend it. Buy a skateboard. You don't have to know how to skate (it would help however), but you've got to look like you could. (If your jeans are tight enough, it will probably be hard to skate well anyway.) This shows that you're in touch with your alternative side and that you're a rebel and different... so what if every 13 year old skates now.

5. Lastly, and this is probably the most important step. You must develop an attitude that shows that you don't care about much, and that you're too cool to be bothered with anything that isn't about being cool or different. But you have to do this while acting like you aren't doing it. (Often looking into the distance is a good way to do it) Sorta Like these guys:

Well thats basically it, I hope that this helped and I wish you all the best of luck in your future hip endeavors.

And because I'm so hip... I don't actually care if you liked this or not.

(Australia recap and stories coming soon)

Bienvenidos a Miami... Pt. 2

2007-07-11T17:14:00.000-04:00

So I went to Miami... and had a pretty good time, for the most part. It's an interesting place... lots of sexy women, sexy cars, boobies, but hot and humid as the devil's taint. I mean damn...
I would walk outside and it reminded me of those old sweatbox parties from college... my glasses would immediately fog up.

Anyway, I went down for a birthday celebration, and did some celebrating. My girl from way back turned 25 and the group (me and 3 girls... I know) was determined to do it big. After the drive from Orlando to Miami (where we heard "Bartender" and "Ay Bay Bay" like 20 times), we proceded to go out and do the damn thing.

We made our way to a 20 dollar all you can drink "club" (was definitely a bar with a living room)... and some other spot... and took full advantage... almost getting into a fight/shot (partly cause the ladies I was with cursed and pushed this guy), by some dude who thought he was hard cause he was from Brooklyn and his wife. May be the most unattractive couple this side of Amy Winehouse and whoever she's with, but that's neither here nor there.

This was also the point where my girl cursed me out... and I let it slide. (It was her birthday and all) We left fairly early and on our way back we ran into this guy: James Brown's son and Mike Tyson's cousin... or at least thats who he said he was.

On the way back, I learned that "I need to open the window" actually means, "I've actually already thrown up all over myself and don't need the window open."
So that was good times...

The next day was the beach... and I learned that apparently it was also a nude beach... (That's actually a topless woman right there... about 7 feet away from me)

And then there was the woman with gigantic fake boobies... yea... and there were kids all over the place... I guess Europeans don't believe in discretion. Enjoy...

After leaving the beach, I got to hit up the M.I.A. skate shop, which is really all I wanted to do and got some new SB's...

We then attempted to go to Bed (Some big time club). After waiting in line for like 20 mins and sweating my balls off, (I looked like Shaka Zulu would look had someone put him in a button down and slacks... hot and sweaty like a mug sans spear), we didn't go in cause of some shadiness with the funds and the door. This was after the ladies were being "harassed" by a gentleman that had apparently been kicked out of a couple clubs that weekend.

We left the line, and walked down the strip... apparently in the wrong direction for about 15 mins... before we turned around and made our way to Wet Willie's (a Miami landmark) and had some 'Call-A-Cabs'.

All in all a great weekend.

This pretty much sums up Miami... sexy, sleek, and flashy. It was prolly rented... which would make it like the fake boobies and even more Miami... not quite the owner's.

Bienvenidos a Miami... Pt. 1

2007-07-09T12:54:00.000-04:00

In honor of my recent trip to Miami... I decided to do a quick PSA regarding Florida's finest R&B superstar... T-Pain.

Just in case anyone still had any questions as to whether or not the boy can sing... I provide you with the following video. Enjoy.

This is not to say that I don't secretly enjoy the boy Theodore Pain, and even though I heard 'Bartender' like 30 times in the couple of days that I was in Miami... We definitely wilded out every time it came on. But he can't sing worth a damn.... and he knows it. Its great.

Anyway... the full Miami recap with pics of fake boobies is soon to come.

As a diehard Bullets fan...

2007-07-03T10:58:00.000-04:00

I would be remiss if I didn't post a little something about our first round draft pick, Nick Young. Besides being ridiculously athletic, (check out the dunk below), he seems like a pretty decent kid.

Apparently his older brother was killed in a drive by, by a 14 year old when Nick was 5 and has just gone through a bunch of stuff which sadly has become typical for many young Black males today. But throughout everything he has gone through, he seems to have done alright for himself and his family. (They nicknamed him the "chosen one", so he had a lot to live up to)

There is a documentary that was made about his struggles/eventual success, and the Washington Post did a nice little piece about it... check it out.(I'm hoping it'll come out around here soon.)

And now the dunk... I get goosebumps thinking about him and Gil on the court at the same time...

He's already said that he can't wait to catch oops from Gil and that he'll be in the dunk contest.

I'm excited.

Foxy vs. Paris...

2007-06-27T16:19:00.000-04:00

Who's more gangster?

On first glance one would think that this question would be very easily answered. I mean Foxy has to be more "gangster" right? I mean she's from Brooklyn, beats up manicurists and raps about all sorts of gangster stuff. And Paris is heiress to the Hilton Hotel fortune and doesn't quite exude gangsterdom.

When you look deeper into this however, recent events might change just who you think is more gangster.

In case you haven't heard, your girl Foxy got stomped out by a couple girls after getting dragged out of a car. Apparently, upon learning that her boyfriend was a pimp (how do you think she figured this out? you think he tried to put her on the stroll?), she broke up with him. He then called up some of his girls and they went to work on Foxy.

Now this is obviously not a good situation. However, what happened next makes me question Foxy's gangster. After getting her weave snatched out and her hearing aid taken, she filed a police report and went around with the cops to point out the chicks that did it. What? Is that gangster? All that tough talk on songs and then this?

I protect you like a vest do
I'm the lady with a 380 special right next to you
Glock poppin' out the stock
And it's two guns, two hun', get down
I tear this whole shit down
They ain't know the vault, pull bank jobs
I banged ya squaw when I aims this rod
Y'all niggas can't do a thing to this broad
My bullets hurt the same as y'alls
I've been taught by the best, extorted the rest
Wearin' a niggas shit, crossin' my chest
Life on the line, say prayers under my breath
But knew I'd be 'aight cuz right there to my left
("Bonnie and Clyde, Pt. 2")

I guess the 5'2, 125lb. girl that was beating her up didn't hear this song... womp.

I feel defrauded. I think I want my money back for buying 'Chyna Doll', beside the fact that it sucked, and Jay was writing tracks for her for a minute, if she doesn't "pop glocks"... then she's just been lying to me... hopefully no other rappers have done that.

Because that would hurt...

Oh yea... so after all is said and done, and the police reports are filed... she said it didn't happen... huh?

On the other hand, we have Paris. She just served her time in the pen, and I heard she was getting a tear drop tattoo like Weezy. Apparently, my sources tell me that she had the jail on lock.

("We run tings... Tings no run we!")

There's no snitching for Paris and besides that, she does all sorts of drugs, alcohol, has sex with everyone, drinks and drives, and only managed to serve 3 weeks in jail. And she does all of this with the paparazzi following her around and taking pictures of it all! If that's not gangster... I don't know what is. Thats seriously on some Scarface type mess...

I'm just sayin is all...

On a random note... If you "missed" the B.E.T. awards (good job by you), here's a pretty funny recap.

Just call this hip-hop thing a wrap...

2007-06-25T23:03:00.000-04:00

To all of you that love hip-hop... just give it up. It's officially done. And I know I've said it before... but after seeing the following clip... the nail is in the coffin.

I present to you the Oregon State NCAA Champion baseball team... also known as the O State Ballaz (yes thats BALLAZ... don't forget the Z):

And in case you want more... here is the O State Ballaz website... with a full music video and everything.

There's nothing quite like a group of corny white folks rapping... I tell you what.

Little Brother - Good Clothes

2007-06-22T19:22:00.000-04:00

The first single off the highly anticipated (by me at least) 'Getback'.

I'm bout to put my good clothes on and enjoy this weekend...

Btw... you all know you've wanted to tell someone you've seen with a little too much showing that she "Better go to Lane Bryant."

Some of yall need to step up your Little Brother game...

A Bay Bay....

2007-06-21T20:57:00.000-04:00

Alrighty... at some point enough is enough right? I don't want to be a music snob or anything, but is it me, or are rappers just getting dumber and dumber? (Some would call them trash)

What brings this on you might ask? Well I was randomly perusing one of the video networks and I happened to come across the MTV "Jam of the Week"... and interesting little diddy by the name of "A Bay Bay".

Now, some of my kids told my about this a couple months ago, and I could only stand to listen to about 10 seconds of it. If you've never heard it, it goes something like this:

"I walk into the club...A bay bay
something, something, something... A bay bay
blah, blah, blah... A bay baby.
etc..."

As an English teacher, I automatically have problems with this, and as a lover of music, my problems increase many times over. I mean, can we provide basic grammar classes to these jokers? They don't have to speak the queens English, and I understand they're speaking colloquially and all, but can they at least spell the lyrics correctly?

That's really all I want... I won't even get into the repetitive simplicity of the song, or how all you need to be able to do is put random syllables together and combine them with your Casio keyboard these days to make a "hit". I just want people to be able to spell things correctly. Maybe then we could get kids to learn how to speak and read.

But maybe I should just be happy that he's trying to spell things phonetically... and hey, at least you can snap to it.

Now if you'll excuse me... I'll just be snapping my grinning ass to the local watering hole.

Messing with the same girl...

2007-06-19T19:56:00.000-04:00

There's nothing like a quality R. Kelly track to really get the summer popping... and when you throw in the almost movie-like quality of some of his videos, you know you're in for a treat...

Anyway, here's the video for the hilarious Kells and Ursher track "Same Girl"

Oh yea... there's a twist at the end

And thats definitely a real R. Kelly mannequin thats made in Japan for all of you that wanna be trapped in the closet with him...

R. Kelly Usher "Same Girl"

Not a bad start...

2007-06-18T22:26:00.000-04:00

To what could be a great summer...

So I went to the "beach" this past weekend... Dewey Beach in Delaware to be exact, and although I didn't really touch the beach at all, in principle I was there. (I didn't really miss anything, I could see the sand from the roof of our hotel.) If you've never heard of Dewey Beach, just picture lots of drunk white folks in their late 30s to mid 40s wearing offensively corny t-shirts. (For example: I do all my own money shots) Quite the spectacle indeed. When you accompany this with a little slap fighting, a game of Asshole, and a former NFL cheerleader... you're in for some quality times.

However I was a bit disappointed by the showing of the older folks I went with. I guess the married 30 somethings just can't hang like they used to... at the least the guys couldn't... The wives were definitely bout it... but thats another story. But the young folks held it down.

The highlight of the weekend and the inspiration for this blog and the accompanying picture would have to be one of the guys that I shared the room with. This guy failed to inform us that when he sleeps, he sometimes has a tendency to SCREAM.

I kid you not my friends... this dude definitely SCREAMED into his pillow on more than on occasion. Apparently I slept through the first time, and was quite hesitant to believe that this mild-mannered man could do that. And even when I heard it, I almost didn't believe it. It was like a bad horror movie. I half expected him to wake up and kill us. You haven't lived until you've heard a grown man half scream, half moan into his pillow whilst sleeping.

The funny thing about this all is that he actually told us after the first time that he forgot to mention that sometimes (read: after drinking) he might scream a little...

Anyway... it was good times... and I made it home to watch a fantastic episode of Entourage...

Lastly, I think I've discovered my new show for the summer... Flight of the Conchords. (You can watch the first episode here) These dudes are hysterical. They're a real band from New Zealand (sort of like a folksy Tenacious D), and they've moved to NY... definitely check it out... comes on after Entourage and is one of the funniest shows I've seen in a while. (They also have quite the following)

Check out this clip if you're not convinced...

"And when you're on the street... depending on the street, I bet you're definitely in the top 3... good looking girls on the street..."

With Fans Like These....

2007-06-14T23:00:00.000-04:00

And that smile of course, There is no way Obama should lose...
Although, this is probably the exact reason that White folks like this young ladies parents won't vote for him...

ah well... at least we can enjoy this and hope for more

We The Best!

2007-06-10T18:25:00.000-04:00

So, I've been away for awhile again... I know... but I was finishing up the school year... and its done. So i'm back... for now at least..

Anyway, so I downloaded a mixtape hosted by DJ Khaled... and I swear, he might be the most obnoxious, narcissistic, idiotic, pseudo-DJ ever. He constantly shouts out his catch phrase "We the best!" so much that it almost makes you wonder if he even actually believes it.
I said this to someone else the other day, and they asked if he was worse than DJ Clue used to be... I would have to say yes. (What's Clue up to these days? I guess saying your name repeatedly doesn't keep you famous)

All of this is to ask, what's the point? What do these guys do? I mean, if you're producing, ok, fine. I might be able to understand that you'd want people to know you're producing, so maybe you'd say your name a little... maybe. But most of the DJs that put out big label albums aren't producing. And if they aren't producing, why should we care? Am I supposed to get excited cause Khaled knows a bunch of rappers? I mean... that doesn't impress me too much. He's honestly just a glorified hype man.

One could then make a bigger point saying how music today is definitely more concerned with celebrity than anything else. And people will like whatever you tell them to. But that's not really saying anything that anyone doesn't know...

Take a listen and tell me it's not annoying:

We the best!

P.S. Does it bother anyone else that Khaled says the loathed "N-Word" so much? Not that it should be said that much to begin with by anyone... but last I checked, he's definitely not Black...

And now... as a treat... the song of the summer... The album is going to be worth getting just because of this song.

It's Official...

2007-05-10T09:32:00.000-04:00

50 cent is a master magician and has pulled some David Copperfield, Houdini, David Blaine type ish. He went from being "hard-core" and just destroying anyone in his path, to becoming the very thing that he got everyone to rally against... Jah Rule. Its actually quite similar to the movie Highlander. (I used to love Duncan MacLeod... "There can be only one!") He beheaded Jah and assumed his "powers". What powers you ask? The dis-ability to make any song sound extremely homo-erotic. This is actually quite a feat, and should be considered extremely remarkable. The only drawback is that he has ceased to be relevant in hip-hop entirely.

You might be wondering what sparks this... 50's new single
On it, 50 not only manages to sing/talk the hook about how various parts of his body are roller coaster rides (because they go fast for a short period of time?) and that sex with him is like an amusement park... or something like that (its hard for me to listen), but he even makes a reference to the gawd awful 'Magic Stick'. It almost sounds like 'Magic Stick Redux' in a couple parts. It's as if, while hanging out with Floyd Mayweather Jr. someone was like... "50 you really need to get back to your 'Magic Stick' roots... that's when you were nasty." Either that or I guess 50 really wants us to know about his sexual prowess.... (that's not a pretty image)

The funny thing is that I can't even imagine 50 at an amusement park. And if he were there I think he would frighten all the kids away, or the park would implode...
The carnival will never be the same again.

So to recap... 50 cent is the new and improved hip-hop Highlander. Hold on to your domes...

Some Good Music....

2007-05-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

I've been slacking again.. I know. I've been legitimately kind of busy though: developing a new class, grading, coaching, etc... but I'm trying.. anyway...

So everyone hates hip-hop now... and can you really blame them? After Cam'ron's idiotic rantings on 60 minutes, it's no wonder that people think our music is the worst thing since crack. (The funny thing is that people thought the same thing about jazz way back when..."Does Jazz Put the Sin in Syncopation?") Hip-hop hasn't been in the news like this since C. Delores Tucker was telling the world how bad "gangster rap" was for your soul.

Ultimately the real concern, as with Jazz way back when, is that hip-hop is now infecting all those young, impressionable middle class white kids, and that is a big no no. We can't have them learning all the ills of ghetto, or adopting it's beliefs (i.e. 'Stop Snitching').

All this being said, there is still some good in the music... (this not being it... besides the fact that Knowles family is a bunch of hustlers, anyone else mad at the kid named Juelz? I mean honestly, comeon... that's just wrong.)

So onto the good... I've been working on a list of the top 25 hip-hop albums of all time, which is extremely hard, but its coming. But for now, I wanted to put you on to some of the quality music that I've been enjoying:

W. Ellington Felton - Outrospective: Me Then, Me Now - A nice little mix of hip-hop, soul, funk, etc. And he represents DC... Definitely feeling this one. It's not new, but it's probably new to you.

Black Milk - Popular Demand - This cd is great. A protege of the late J. Dilla who is also from Detroit. He's a producer that can actually flow pretty well without being too backpackerish. This is definitely a nice mix of "mainstream" and underground.

Eric Roberson - Left - A real chill and soulful album. Another guy that reps DC, he's been hustling on the underground scene for a while. It's not as good as this cd (which I had been looking forever, and finally found), but its pretty damn good.

Gym Class Heroes - As Cruel as Schoolchildren - I know it's poppy and such, but you know what? It's actually pretty good. It's hard to classify, but I guess alternative hip-hop fits. They get compared to The Roots a lot, and they do play their own instruments, but that's where the similarities pretty much end. The lyrics are fairly humorous and the poetic interludes are great.

Brother Ali - The Undisputed Truth - A real deep, passionate, and very personal album. He definitely doesn't hold anything back and its refreshing to hear someone talk about things that hold true significance in their lives and that people can relate to.

Alrighty... hopefully I'll be back with my list soon... cause everyone loves a list.

And I'm back...

2007-04-10T10:42:00.000-04:00

From my impromptu hiatus... I was in Mexico for a while and then I was busy with school stuff and then I was slacking, but I'm focused now.

During my little break, I was debating on whether or not to write a 'Dear John' letter to music. I was gonna list all my gripes and maybe just suggest we take a little break. I mean, its not as if she as has been really doing her part in this relationship. She can't even bother to give me an entire album worth of material that I can listen to. How is that fair? Providing lackluster singles, and remixes to them is by no means the makings of a quality relationship:

(Did it bother anyone else that R. Kelly just Debo'd this song from young Bow-Wow? How do you a remix of someone's song and not include them on it?)

All this being said, I didn't want to be one of those people that just complains and longs for days of yore. (I remember when I couldn't wait to listen to the radio to see what was coming out) And I woulda held my tongue and thought that maybe it was just me. Maybe something was wrong with me... maybe I was the one not being fair in this relationship. But then something happened that opened my eyes forever.

It was almost like when you think you're in love "and then you catch the early flight home from San Diego and a couple of nude people jump out of your bathroom blindfolded like a goddamn magic show ready to double team your girlfriend..."(Old School) I was in complete shock and utter denial. I didn't want to believe it. And I wouldn't have... until I saw this. I mean, hearing the song on the radio in passing is one thing, but then when it's confirmed by friends, family and youtube... you know it's real.

I was flummoxed... I didn't think I could go on. There is no counseling for this. There is nothing that anyone can tell you that will make this better. As much as I tried, I couldn't get the images/sounds out of my head... and I love chapstick. Any of you that know me, know that I suck down chapstick like it's petroleum crack. But this is still unacceptable... and every time I see chapstick now I shudder.

This is how I felt... betrayed, lost, and a little cold. But I took a moment, and decided to man up and look for the good. Because any worthwhile relationship has them. My first stop on the quest for the good in music was here. Little Brother had never let me down before, and once I heard Phonte's rendition of the A-Ha classic "Take on Me" (the original video...glorious), I knew I was headed in the right direction. (Don't those guys look like rejects for the casting of Zach Morris?)

Then I happened to stumble on the path of young hip-hopper by the name of Prince Ali. Just to let yall know... this kid is sick, definitely check him out. Download the Free EP here. (It's crazy) After listening to a little k-os and Amy Winehouse (both quality albums), I was starting to feel a little better and realized that I could never cast away my love like some cheap Atlantic City hooker that had overstayed her welcome.

So after much soul searching and debate, I came back to her. And as a gift, she gave me the old Andre 3000 (he's been killing everything he touches... check his verse below), the new Dilla album, and the Royce Da 5'9" mixtape as a welcome back gift... and I realized I can't stay mad at her too long... Just as long as she doesn't start making songs about random food products, we'll be fine.

(Dre's verse is the last one)

(And as a little plug... check out my little brother's myspace page... he makes beats, and he's doing the damn thing.

Kids Today....

2007-02-25T18:58:00.000-05:00

So I was planning to write a blog on contrived rap beefs and my plans to start a business that would connect rappers and start beefs for them... or on Jim Jones, but then I saw something that hurt me deep and decided that I would get some what serious. This particular thing hurt me as a teacher, a person with common sense, and a fan of a culture that is extremely misogynistic and superficial (not sure if this is superficial, but I had to find a way to get that link in there, cause its ridiculously amazing). Now what does any of this have to do with the title of this blog you ask? Well after having just watched Byron Hurt's 'Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes' (if you haven't seen this, you need to asap), I've been particularly aware of how hip-hop affects the chilluns. And this is the basis for my rant...

In the picture above (that I lifted from Bossip), is young Justin Combs... the son of the uhh, talented Diddy Combs... And yes, he is receiving what appears to be a lapdance. Just to put things in perspective, he is 12 yrs old. Yes I know what you're thinking, a little late to get your first lapdance, but that's neither here nor there. This kid and his friends are the prime example of what hip-hop has done to the kiddies. Now this kid is obviously, extremely privileged, as his father has prostituted the hell out of hip-hop, and he may not be your typical kid, but in many ways he is. If youtube has shown us anything, it's that the chilluns love to put themselves in the music videos, and imagine that they're the new hottest pseudo thug, homo-erotic, rap star, performing a bevy of dances that are usually not even close to being age appropriate. But when watching the following video, I would like you to consider a couple of things: Where do these kids learn this, why do they think it's ok to do it, and what does this say about the music industry and on a larger scale, our society, today?

Just to preface this video: Justin is in green, and the tall kid is the son of Al B. Sure, which for some reason, I find hilarious. And the last 25 seconds or so are shocking to say the least.

After watching this, you will probably realize a couple of things. Justin Combs is nothing if not the son of his father. This applies in a couple of different respects. First off, the little bugger can dance a bit. Secondly, he sure does love that camera as he pushes other kids out of the way to make sure he's getting his shine. And lastly, when R. Kelly's 'Bump and Grind' comes on, you'll see a young Justin showing some of the moves that his father has prolly used on all the young women artists in Bad Boy.

This particular showing of the youth of today, has furthered my resolve to never let my kids watch BET or MTV, or listen to the radio, or watch movies, or use the internet... or go out at all. But seriously, isn't this a bit disheartening? As much as the 'Chicken Noodle Soup' (yes there is a Wikipedia entry for it) bothers me, there is just something about 12 year old kids doing a gun dance, singing R. Kelly lyrics about bumping and grinding, and simulating eating a girl out that really makes me worry...

One last thing... if you actually watch the video on youtube and read some of the comments, the one thing that people apparently find most "interesting" about the video is that Justin and his friends are so cute...

Anyway, I'm just gonna go back to that little place called denial and hang out there for a while...

Black People Like "Kumbaya" Right?

2007-02-13T10:16:00.000-05:00

So does that make a bad person if I loathe it? I mean, I really despise the song. Like to the point where if it is sung, the look on my face is similar to this. And the sad thing is that it's not because the song is bad or anything. It's just because all that sing-songy pseudo unity crap makes me want to throw up in my mouth a little... and apparently, it's not Black History Month unless someone sings it and everyone starts singing and swaying along with them. Plus there's the whole thing where White people sing it and think they're speaking 'African' or something. (FYI: The song is actually Gullah... but thats neither here nor there) Or that by singing the song with some Black folks during February, they've safely reached their Black History quota. They've succeeded in making it another year, without offending a black person, and look what they've got to show for it... a group hug, some chai tea, and a little race barrier breaking. And thats really the most important thing right?

In addition, the song has essentially become a punchline anyway. It's lost any panache it may have ever had, and is now used to describe any slightly humorous situation where people won't really get along. America, I think it's time to find a new 'African' song to show how much you actually appreciate Black folks.

I'm sorry, what was that? "Someone's laughing?" Yea, at your trite ass "Kumbaya". I say they just play "Chicken Noodle Soup" from now on... you'd be guaranteed to get kids dancing at least... and that's obivously more socially significant right?

Hip Hop Really Is Dead....

2007-02-07T21:23:00.000-05:00

And that my friends, in all his furry glory, is the sumbitch that killed him. Nas was right. Get out your dark suits and pour out some liks. I mean its really on some deader than a doornail type shit. (Dickens) It pains me to say it, but it's quite true.

So on my day off today (only as a teacher do you truly appreciate snow days), I stumbled upon what might be the most ignant and just weird children's show I have ever seen. The show/character is called Hip-Hop Harry (click the link at your own peril). According to CD Baby:

"Hip Hop Harry is a live action, educational, music & dance based children’s television series that airs weekday mornings on Discovery Kids & TLC’s Ready Set Learn Block!"

(Yes this bastard child of hip-hop and Barney has a CD)

Now, besides the obviously odd concept of using breakdancing and rapping to "teach" kids (the episode I watched was on the colors of the rainbow... eh), it just seems like a real life representation of all those fantastic stereotypes that people have about rap and rappers. Don't get me wrong, I think educational programming is great, and if the show was decently done I would have no problem with it. But when kids break out in a concert style call and response with this shucking and jiving, arm waving, chain wearing, overgrown muppet, and it is supposed to be educational, then I start to have a problem, as a teacher and a person with common sense.

Plus he reminds me of those creepy animatronic Chuck E. Cheese robots that freaked us all out...

Anyway... here is Hip-Hop Harry and his musical stylings. Enjoy.

This should clear up some of the reason why kids were in love with this garbage.

I'm gonna go start listening to country music or something...

Glue, anyone?

2007-01-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

I can't take it anymore. I'm sorry, but someone has to stand up and put an end to this madness. I can no longer sit by and watch as the world gets all sad and mourns a damn HORSE. Are we serious people? This is an animal that besides running is best known for being glue. Yes, tasty and delicious glue. (How great is that picture by the way? It's from Deadspin.... they do great things over there.) And I know that someone will say that this is cruel and Barbaro was inspiring and all that crap, and to that I say, "have you lost your ever-loving mind?"

People care more about this big bundle o' glue, than they did about James Brown and he only inspired a legion of musicians and sang for Apollo Creed. How does that make sense? I know James did a lot of drugs and women, but at least he could talk.

And writing messages/letters to horse? Who does that? Honestly, I'm really confused. It's just creepy actually. People act as if you don't like this horse, then you're on the Osama Bin Laden listserve or something:

So long as you continue your brave fight, this nation can rest assured that the terrorists didn't win. God Bless Barbaro, and God Bless the United States of America! Crusader; OK, USA.

Since when did a horse stand for America? Is this why the immigrants came here? Why people are dying at the borders? For a glimpse at the beauty that is Barbaro? Are they going to have his body for viewing in the Capitol? That would be something. Should they add this to the Statue of Liberty: "Give me your poor, your tired, your weak, and your horse lovers?" Now, I'm not against animals in general or horses in particular, but I must draw the line when people put animals above people. Especially when there are real things to worry about. Like when is DeBarge getting back together? And how much do you wanna bet that a large number of people who write to Barbaro don't...um... like people of um... color.

But if you had any doubt about how Barbaro would want us to feel... here's a letter he wrote (via a horse whisperer I'm sure)

(You think Barbaro was down with the swirl?)

Another Page from the Journal...

2007-01-15T22:57:00.000-05:00

Of the greatest rapper out right now... the one, the only, Mr. Capo Status himself.... Jim Jones.

Dear Journal: I know it's been a while, but things have been crazy. I've been flyin high...(zing!) But no seriously, I took some PCP the other night, and flew to Cam'ron's house. That shit was craziness... it was on some Fear and Loathing type mess.. but anyway, did you know that I've got the number one ringtone and song out right now ? I'm just glad that people are finally starting to see my talents as a lyricist and are realizing that I'm not just a pretty face with a hairy and chiseled body. This is just another sign that I'm by far the best rapper alive. I mean, if the pop charts and ring tones don't prove it, what does?

Oh yea Journal, I've decided to give back to my community... and no, I don't mean by selling coke. I'm sponsoring a poetry contest. DipPoetry like a mug...what son!?! This further proves how much I care about lyrics and why I try to put a positive message in each one of my songs. Just like the late great O.D.B., DipSet is for the kids.

As good as all this seems, not everything has been cocaine filled oreos and milk though journal. I may have to kufi slap a fool or two... Some joker had the audacity to caricature me on his mixtape! Mr. Capo Status himself? Like I'm some common dude to be styled on? I mean don't get me wrong... my man Borat was baalllin... but I would never wear a lime green speedo. That color doesn't go with my eyes. Don't let me see cuz in the streets... there will be a misunderstanding. I did get him back though. Me and my peoples... we hid out, waited till he didn't suspect anything... and definitely.... hacked his myspace account... say word, son. You don't want to bring it with DipSet.

Sincerely Baalllin,
Jimmy

The NAAMV

2007-01-03T11:02:00.000-05:00

My brothers and sisters, now is the time. I could not sit by and idly watch things continue the way that they are. Now is when "a change is gonna come." NOW, is the time to make a difference! I implore you, I beseech you, I beg of you to join with me in the forming of the foremost organization for the improvement and advancement of the music video. The National Association for the Advancement of Music Videos (The NAAMV), will be the pre-eminent authority in helping to bring music videos to the level that they need to be.

Why the need for such an organization you ask? Because we've been had! We've been bamboozled! We've been led astray my peoples! Videos have become so rife with cliches and we have become oblivious to them. It's time to expect more. In this new year of 2007, we must purge ourselves of many of the things that have become staples of these things that purport to be music videos. Let's use the following video to point out some of the things that we need to be on the lookout for.

This video belongs to our good friend... Jim "I'll smack the holy living..." Jones

Please note that within the first ten seconds, we already have a number of video cliches. There are two car closeups including the double whammy of the girl and car (a favorite of the "rap stars"). We are also given the tape measure to further emphasize just how big everything is.

The next big cliche is the posse shot. This has been around for quite some time, and will probably never completely die. (Think Naughty By Nature, Tribe Called Quest, etc.) This shows how the 'artist', Jim Jones in this case, is so cool. Not only can he do his dance, but all of his friends can too. Don't get me wrong, the posse shot can be great. It can show how much fun your group is having, and that is fine. But when used incorrectly, like above, it is just another terrible cliche.

This is followed by one of the best cliches out there right now. The throwing of cash. If you didn't realize how rich they all were in the first 15 seconds of the video, you will now.

The rest of the video pretty much follows suit: cash, cars, scantily clad girls, and "jewels". It's a veritable plethora of hood-rich cliches, and its fantastic. The lifestyles of the rich and famous guy would be rolling in his grave... if he's dead.

We need to go back to when videos were actually about the songs that they went with. Get rid of the closeups of brand names and bring it back to enjoying your music. Who cares if your jeans have a pretty logo on the butt? (Didn't that used to only be a girl thing? Just saying is all... ) And all that ice-grilling and posturing only makes you look like you need a hug.

An example of a video that stays true to its lyrics... (This was the video of the summer in '96... scared a lot of people, and it even had a Reservoir Dog-esque posse shot)

We're at a crossroads my friends. Let's get back to the side of light. Will you join me?

The preceding message has been brought to you by The NAAMV and viewers like you.

A Page from the Journal...

2006-12-19T08:24:00.000-05:00

Of the greatest rapper out right now... the one, the only, Mr. Capo Status himself.... Jim Jones.

Dear Journal: Guess what I did today? That's right, I was balllllin. Haha Journal, that still gets me every time. There is no way that phrase will ever be over used. Ever.
So after I woke up at like 3:30, and did my usual pushups with a couple girls on my back, all while doing as much coke as I possibly could hold, I passed out for an hour and then I flexed in the mirror for about 10 minutes... man that was tough.
Oh yea, did I tell you about my reality show? It's gonna be tight like those two "dancers" that did that thing with the... well you get the point. I'm doing it with VH1, so you know it's gonna be balllllin (sorry, had to do it Journal). The crew has just been amazed by my hectic lifestyle and by my charming personality... They just laugh at everything I do. Too bad they've never seen a capo status baler like myself.
Let's see... What else did I do? Oh yea, I sent a couple of X-Mas cards... (that reminds me, I've got send one to Jay-Z... I sure do love that guy. I mean let's be real Journal, without him, who would even know who I was... But shhh, that's a secret.) Speaking of the Christmas spirit, nothing gets me in it like my favorite holiday album. If only Jesus could have been ballllin on Christmas...
Well, Journal, I think I'm going to go buy a couple of close fitting shirts, cop the new Bow-Wow album (that kid is alright... I really like that song with Chris Brown) and go roller blading. Did I ever tell you my roller blading joke, Journal? Oh man... it's a doozy,but I'll save that for later...

Sincerely balllllin,
Jim

P.S. Nas saying he hadn't heard my song(#5), really hurt my feelings...

P.P.S. How funny is this headline if you remove the coma... oh man.

P.P.P.S. I love you Journal

There's always room for one more...

2006-12-15T17:06:00.000-05:00

End of the year list...

I've decided that one can never have enough of the best of year lists, so here is my take on the overdone and quite possibly annoying best of... (the first of what may be a couple, just to warn you.)

The Best Albums of the Year (In my humble opinion and in no particular order):

Gnarls Barkley - St. Elsewhere: I've been a Cee-Lo fan since the Goodie Mob days. Who didn't like 'Soul Food'? So when I saw that Danger Mouse and Cee-Lo were collabing, I pre-ordered the album, and its been in my rotation since it came out in May. Best Song(s): 'St. Elsewhere', 'Smiley Faces', and 'The Last Time'. (Thought I was gonna say 'Crazy' didn't you? Well I just couldn't do it)
Aloe Blacc - Shine Through: This CD is fantastic. I randomly picked this up after hearing about him from hiphopsite.com (a great website by the way) This CD doesn't really fit into any genres, as Aloe raps, sings and even does a Spanish version of John Legend's 'Ordinary People' that is amazing. Best Song(s): 'Busking', 'Gente Ordinaria'.
The Clipse - Hell Hath No Fury: Finally... this album has been a couple years in the making, but it's been worth the wait. People can downplay "cocaine rap" all they want, and while I'm not necessarily a fan of said music, these boys can flow. They talk about the same things as say, a Young Jeezy, but make them sound much better. Also, anyone that can make a song entitled 'Chinese New Year' and have it make sense is doing something alright. AND they have Bilal (where has he been?) on a song. Best Song(s): 'We Got it for Cheap', 'Chinese New Year', and 'Nightmares ft. Bilal'.
Lupe Fiasco - Food and Liquor: After much delay, it finally came out, and I think it might be the best hip-hop CD of the year, and one of the best cds overall, of the year. The newcomer of the year, he's got skills, plain and simple. There's nothing else to say... Oh, and he's got style too. I may or may not have a man-crush (no homo). Best Song(s): 'Daydreamin', 'The Cool', and 'Hurt Me Soul'.
Robin Thicke - The Evolution of Robin Thicke: My new favorite White boy. If you only buy one White boy crooner CD this year, this is the one to get. I've been preaching about this album since day one. He changed up his style from when he first came out a little bit, and came out with a quality album. Nevermind that 'Shooter' was on Lil' Wayne's album and doesn't quite blend with the rest of it, it's still tight. Best Song(s): 'Lost Without U' and 'Can U Believe'.
The Roots: Game Theory: It's not a best of list without the Roots. Not necessarily their best album, but definitely a return to their better stuff. Very dark and politically influenced, they came to play on this one. Best Song(s): 'Livin' in a New World', 'Atonement' and 'Long Time'.
Outkast - Idlewild: I don't care what anyone says, I loved this album. I was disappointed that not all the songs from the movie were in the album, but it was tight nonetheless. Yes, I know Andre sang "too much" and they Dre and Big Boi were only on like 3 songs together and it's not 'typical' Outkast... but you know what? I don't care. It was great. And who can tell me that Lil' Wayne didn't rip 'Hollywood Divorce'? Best Song(s): 'Morris Brown', 'Hollywood Divorce', and 'When I Look in Your Eyes'.
Little Brother - Separate But Equal: Now it may have been considered a mixtape, as opposed to real album, but the joint was sick. Whether or not the label made them do it or not, they showed a lot of folks that they can be both "backpack" and "mainstream". Aside from the "Gangsta Grillz" shout outs... this was a quality release from LB. While it didn't completely bridge the gap between backpack rap and cocaine rap (if there is such a bridge to be built), or put them on to the "common" folk that they apparently alienate, it's a good start. Best Song(s): 'Can't Let Her' and 'Speed Racin'.
J-Dilla - The Shining: Even though Dilla is no longer with us, we were still blessed to get some great music from him. As always, his beats were just too sick for words. There really isn't much to say... R.I.P. Dilla. Best Song(s): 'Love'
Murs and 9th Wonder - Murray's Revenge: 9th is one of the best producers in the game right now and Murs has always been clever and hilarious, and that didn't change on this "sequel". It is a short album, but they don't mess around. I'm usually not able to get into west coast hip-hop too often, but I was feeling this all the way through. Best Song(s): 'Murs Day', 'Yesterday & Today', and 'D.S.W.G. (Dark Skinned White Girls)'.
Kidz in The Hall - School Was My Hustle: As much trouble as I went through to get this CD, it had to be on here. Now I might be a little biased cause I went to school with these cats, but Naledge and Double 0, really did their thing and are leading Rawkus' resurgence. I remember when I was younger and Rawkus was hip-hop to me. This album is bringing that back. The album is well produced by Double 0, and Naledge's rhymes are deep, but not "backpackish". You can definitely tell these dudes know their music. And "despite" their ivy league educations (which everyone loves to bring up), the album doesn't come off pretentious or obnoxious. Best Song(s): 'Wheelz Fall Off ('06 Till)' and 'Ritalin'.
T.I. - King: My requisite "Southern" album. I bumped this in the car for a long time. Pretty quality beats, and T.I. has a very unique presence about him. Almost scary actually. 'What You Know' was definitely one of the best songs of the year. However, not sure if it was a good thing or a bad thing that this was one of the best of the year. Best Song(s): 'What you Know' and 'Goodlife'.

So I think that's it for this list even though my mind will prolly change in like a week (or like an hour), and despite the fact that rap apparently might have worn out its welcome with the Grammys this year... there still was some good music out there.

It's been a long time....

2006-12-13T08:33:00.000-05:00

I shouldn't have left you.... But i've been prompted back into action, by one of my few readers. Imagine that. There's been a lot going on with school, coaching and the like, but that's neither here nor there. So on to the 'fun' stuff...

I got this from a friend of mine: So a man in NY that is being charged with murder is having his rap 'lyrics' used as evidence against him. Take a second and let that sink in. We're talking about rap. A genre of music that is based entirely on braggadocio and posturing. One of the whole points of the music is to make those 'underprivileged' and downtrodden youth feel bigger than they are. Give them an outlet to express their frustrations with mainstream society. Now, I'm not going to discount the fact that cuz may have actually killed these two cops, but if this is the prosecution's best evidence, then there is a problem. Just because a few rappers have done some bad things, doesn't mean that lyrics are necessarily all truthful (Damn you C-Murder) If this were the case, there would be a lot less rappers out there...hmmm....interesting... but I digress.

Another problem I have with this, is that the lyrics really aren't that good. (Click the picture for proof) No offense to the guy, but he's not a rapper. As Phonte (of Little Brother) says, "Just cause you got the skills to sell dope, don't mean you got the same skills to rap about it." (I may have paraphrased some)But you know there are going to be so many people that see this as just another example of that horrible rap music that inspires the youth to go out and gang bang and deal drugs. I wonder if they would have done the same thing, if they found poems in his pocket.

The other interesting thing about this case is that the defense is calling a rap "expert" to say that the lyrics are just lyrics. As far as I can tell, Yasser Arafat Payne, is an associate professor at the U. of Delaware that has written some essays on rap music and the culture. What makes him more of an expert than me, I don't know... but either way, this case will definitely be something to keep an eye on. So until it's decided, don't write about the people you've killed.

In other news, apparently Evel Knievel doesn't agree with Kanye's statements about the 'Touch the Sky' video. (I love how in Kanye's mind, having Pamela Anderson in a video makes it amazing... If that was the case then the Pam and Tommy tape should prolly get an Oscar)

Jim Jones can ball... but he sure can't spell. (I know it seems like I'm a hater... and that may be the case, but you know what, I do respect his business skills. Anyone that can milk a phrase as much as he has and make a killing off it, is doing something right I guess.)

Speaking of rappers that suck... No rappers were nominated for any of the big Grammys for the first time in 6 years. Prolly cause rap sucked ass this year... yea that sounds about right.(Although I think that Lupe coulda gotten a best album or new artist nomination, but that's just me.)

Lastly, Lil' Wayne is wildin... repeatedly. Definitely a POOR CHOICE. Why can't we all just get along? Especially those darned rappers.

Here's wishing you a merry Dipset Xmas

2006-11-15T23:08:00.000-05:00

So it's been a long while... I've been doing my school blog (yay teaching the youth) but I'm back, and I've got a bunch to rant about.

So, even though it's not Thanksgiving yet, it's never too early to start listening to Christmas music. And if you're ready to branch out and try something a little different, I present for you, from the same people that brought you DipSkate (I thought it was a skateboarding thing, which is at least "cool" now in the hip-hop scene, but no... they're rollerblading) "A Dipset Xmas". (Pause for dramatic effect)
Yes you heard that right. I know, I too am in pure shock. Where does the madness end? What's next? (Jay-Z and Russell Simmons doing a PSA against Anti-Semitism?) And I was really trying to not talk badly about the state of hip-hop in NY anymore... but come on man. Seriously? But maybe I'm jealous cause I won't be "Baaaallin" on Christmas. (The picture is from Nah Right... a great blog)

Sidenote: I once heard this great joke about rollerblading...
So what's the worst part about being a rollerblader?

Telling your parents you're gay....
the beauty is that it works with anything... hi-lari-ous.

Ok...enough of rollerblading Christmas carolers. (What do you think Jesus would say about Jim Jones trying to co-opt his holiday? Maybe not too much cause he's "Baaallin for the Lord.")

Anyway, how about Naomi Campbell? Apparently, she's a violent super-bigot. I for one, think that phrase is just hysterical, and just trying to picture her cursing out her Romanian housekeeper in a cell-phone throwing rage for stealing some of her exclusive, super model jeans also makes me giggle a bit. I hope that she has to pay some money and gets community service picking up trash or something.

On a more serious note, it's been about 10 yrs since the O.J. murder trials, and I remember how when I was in 8th grade, all the Black kids being happy he got off and all the White kids and teachers, just shocked. We didn't know why we cared, but we felt we should and we celebrated like it was a family member. We had finally gotten justice for one of our own... it was a slap in the face to the man. And today, there are many people that are still convinced that O.J. is innocent. However, I think after all but admitting how he did it in his upcoming book and interview, I don't think there are too many more that would take that stance. It's actually very interesting to see just how the lines split racially 10 yrs ago, but I'm pretty sure that most would agree today that he's just a bad person, and needs to go away. Just not classy man.

Back to asinine... This just in: Kevin Federline is a horrible person and the epitome of a tool. (However, I can't say I wouldn't at least download a Britney Spears sex tape.) I can't believe this man has FOUR children, and is fighting for custody. Can you imagine the judge's reaction when he reads that? I would pee my pants. Are you serious guy? You like someone threw up Justin Timberlake. Get your life in order... jeez. If I were Britney Spears, I would just play his album as the reason to why I should get sole custody. And if you haven't seen the video of the supposed text message divorce notice (how classy was that marriage? I love our culture), here it is: Womp Womp.

In sports, Leon Washington says "You can get the finger, the middle." (c)(Kriss Kross) It may be hard to see, but yes, he is giving you and your moms the finger. And on his rookie card. How gangster is that? Apparently it's a shout-out to his neighborhood (East side of Jacksonville... guess they're sign is the middle finger) and the card makers didn't notice this, until recently, after much complaint. He says he would never do anything like that, but still... this should probably not happen. Aren't their people that get paid to at least look at these things before they go out? Either way, the card is now selling for around 100 dollars. (I love our culture)

Alrighty... I've given you a lot so I'm gone. Next up on stage: Leon Washington and The Birds....

See what I did there?

Happy Birthday to Lisa Bonet... we still love you

The Adventures of Agent Zero...

2006-10-30T13:22:00.000-05:00

Gilbert Arenas a.k.a. Agent Zero, probably my favorite Wizard/Bullet since Chris Webber, has had the quite the interesting life (abandoned by his mom, lived with his father in their car, etc.). Besides being one of the quirkiest athletes around these days, he just seems like a cool guy. But, in a recent Washington Post article, I learned that Gil essentially dodged his baby's mother (with the help of the Wizards) for fear of being served with a paternity suit on national television:

"Arenas was advised by his attorney to avoid being served a subpoena in the state at all costs, noting that he could suffer a severe personal loss of wealth because of California laws governing paternity and child support.
Arenas said Wizards owner Abe Pollin agreed. "Abe Pollin was like, 'This can't happen,'" Arenas said.
The team concocted a story: Arenas had the flu. "I called my teammates. They said: 'Don't worry. We're going to win this game. We'll meet you on the plane.' " Arenas watched on television in his hotel room as the Wizards beat the Kings without him. The team spent the night in Sacramento, but Arenas flew to Houston with at least two teammates, he said.
The Wizards did not deny the episode. When asked about it last week, the team issued a statement by Pollin. "We're proud of Gilbert as a player and as a person," he said. "He has overcome a great deal in his life, he has exceeded most people's expectations, and he has become an integral part of the Washington, D.C., community. Most importantly, Gilbert is a member of our family, just as everyone is that works for me."
What began as a lovers' spat morphed into a cross-country, cat-and-mouse game in which the Wizards' star hid in hotel rooms under aliases to avoid being served in person. The entire Wizards organization played its part to keep the matter out of the public eye."

This just seems a bit crazy to me... and its not that Gil was trying to avoid taking care of his kid, cause that wasn't the case. (He actually bought a house for his daughter and her mom in VA) I'm just amazed that the team did this for him. Although, I do understand that it would have been really bad press for the team, had they served him with papers at the free throw line of a game like they wanted to.
But still... I wonder how many teams do stuff like this for their players all the time. And what else do they do for their players? Hide bodies? Pay off dope men? Provide safe houses? I guess when you're the face of the organization, they'll do whatever it takes... I guess Shawn Kemp wasn't good enough to get the same treatment?

On another note...So everyone knows that Oprah gives out tons of ridiculous gifts to the people that happen to be lucky enough to make it to her audience. But her most recent big gift, kinda caught my attention a little. (Not that I watch the show or anything, being that I'm not a middle aged White woman and such) In what she is calling her most favorite giveaway ever, Oprah is giving away $1000 debit cards... Sounds good so far... but there's a catch: you can't keep the money!?!? The fans lucky enough to be on this particular show must donate the money to a charity (not family).

I have no problems donating money and I think it's an interesting idea, but if I'm getting a gift, I'd like to be able to keep it personally and do what I like with it. It just seems a bit odd to me. I guess it's another example of Oprah doing whatever it is she feels like doing. Oh yea, and in addition to the debit card, which they can't keep, they get a DVD player... cause you can't get one of those for free for signing up for a magazine subscription or anything.

This all sounds very similar to the Seinfeld episode... "A donation has been made in your name to the 'People Fund'."

And if you like the color beige... check out Oprah's site. Beige... the color of middle aged woman everywhere.

And lastly, just in case you needed it... another, extremely sad reason why "Chicken Noodle Soup" marks the end times of our society... Please note that the "artists" behind the "song" just signed a deal for $1.7 mil. They teach kids that cooning is cool, and all I do is teach kids English... just let that sink in...

Just Been Shot? Put Out an Album

2006-10-23T22:47:00.000-04:00

If you've ever really considered becoming a famous rapper, the first thing I would recommend would be that you get shot. I know it seems drastic and extreme, but it doesn't have to be somewhere that would cause you long lasting physical damage, but anything that can put you in the hospital for at least a night or so would be ideal. Then you can have a press conference afterwards where you make statements about how they can't hold you down, or how some
rival rapper, drug dealer, or just general hater doesn't want to see you shine. Then when all is said and done, you announce that you're moving up the date of your album like this guy... Poor Choice F-A-B-O-L-O-U-S...
How ass backwards is our culture, where getting shot and being arrested makes everyone automatically see dollar signs?

On a more humorous note... this is one of the funniest things I've heard in a while. How ridiculous is this? "Dipskate"? Are you serious Jim Jones? I for one would pay a lot of money to see Jim Jones on a skateboard. I would probably pee myself a little bit actually.

If you sit next to Snoop and doze off on his shoulder... he might hit you with a stick. Guess he really doesn't play when he leaves the comfort of the West Coast. (How great is that picture? Snoop and The Captain... wow)

And maybe Foxy missed her court date cause she couldn't hear the judge? I know... too soon. But it's the first thing I thought... does that make me a bad person?

Grab your cups of ice! Honestly, I'm not really sure what to say about this... He still scares me though.

Lastly... on a softer note... I love the new John Legend song/video... just makes me happy. Enjoy.

Rich People are Stupid...

2006-10-19T08:35:00.000-04:00

And this proves it... Yes, that does say "bling h2o"... Take a second and let that sink in. Besides the obviously upsetting issue that the word "bling" has been way too over used and is now considered legitimate (thank you Lil' Wayne), this might be the most asinine thing I've ever heard of. So what makes this water special you ask? Well the bottle is covered with Swarovski crystals and costs about 56 dollars a bottle. Do crystals make water taste better? I don't know, with me being poor and all, but I do know that Paris Hilton apparently gives her annoying little dog this water... I'm just confused and a bit angry.

Speaking of crystals, exorbitance, and rich people... if you, like me were wondering what the new over-priced, hood-rich drink endorsed by your favorite rapper is now that Cristal is done... well I've got your answer. It's called Armand de Brignac (sexy bottle actually) also known as the "Ace of Spades". Jay-Z shows off his new drink in the new video to that new song that sounds a lot like that other older song... if you need to ask how much the champagne is, you don't need it.

Ice T has a new album coming out... here is the cover... I'm speechless. Not really sure how you're going to sell that one at Wal-Mart.

Did Fabolous and his crew really jack Sebastian Telfair for his 50,000 dollar chain? And did Fab really shoot himself in the leg? And does this make him as wack as I thought he always was? None of this has anything to do with the fact he sucks because he has some kids thinking that's how you spell "fabulous"... Jackass.

And lastly, I have yet to comment on my Redskins in this blog, because I get sad and start to cry when I think of them. I actually think my soul has developed ulcers because of them... But its about time. I think the Redskins season can best be summed up by a conversation with my roommate: When he found out that the Skins were 10 pt favorites over the then winless Titans, he was incredulous, and extremely upset that he didn't take the points. He actually said he would have been willing to put his entire paycheck on the fact that there was no way that the Skins would be able to cover... Ouch.
And in the same vein... now we know why Heath Shuler sucked ass...

Vampires and White men are easy...

2006-10-17T16:44:00.000-04:00

Taxes? That's another story all together... Apparently, vampire hunter extraordinaire and star of the classic film "White Men Can't Jump" is not as tough when it comes to the I.R.S. He could face up to 40 years in jail for claiming more than 12 million dollars in refunds... yikes. Maybe he could find one of these to help him out. As a warning... if you're rich and black, the I.R.S. will get you. Its that simple.

So I saw the new Jay-Z video... and I've got to say, as with the song, I'm not impressed. And what's the deal with the Danica Patrick and Dale "I have a 250 person capacity nightclub in my basement" Earnhardt cameos? Is that hip-hop? Maybe I just don't know. I keep hoping for something to grab onto when it comes to Jay... but I just can't, and it makes me sad. It really does.
However, what would make the video great would be spliced in footage from the "Rump Shaker" vid. Maybe even have the girl play that sax all sexy like just like in the original. "All I wanna do is zoom a zoom zoom zoom and a boom boom..."

Is this sounding a little trite to anyone else? Its like every week a rapper is either shot, or caught with unlicensed guns, or both. Let's get our stuff together folks. I wonder if he's got an album coming out soon...

On another note... at no point in my sports watching life have I ever heard of anything like this. A commentator mad that he can't join a 30 person brawl and saying as much on air. Lamar "So what if I beat up my fiance" Thomas (of the 'U' and former Dolphin) made these great comments during the Miami - FIU brawl bowl(video if you haven't seen it):

"Now, that's what I'm talking about. You come into our house, you should get your behind kicked. You don't come into the OB playing that stuff. You're across the ocean over there. You're across the city. You can't come over to our place talking noise like that. You'll get your butt beat. I was about to go down the elevator to get in that thing."

If that's not the most ignorant ridiculousness... then I don't know what is. He was really mad that he couldn't fight. I bet he was proud of the kid that was wielding his helmet like a battle axe. He was promptly fired.
The best (or worst) part of all this madness: The Miami Dade police brought over 700 kids to the game for their annual Join-a-Team, Not-a-Gang Program. Talk about awkward... "Mommy, I decided I don't want to be a crip anymore, I wanna play for the 'U'!"
Yea... definite Poor Choices all around.

Stand Up and Wave...

2006-10-11T12:36:00.000-04:00

Apparently not every country is quite as enamored with Jay-Z as we are. Jay's show in Shanghai has been cancelled by the Chinese Ministry of Culture (read: Big Brother) to protect against inappropriate lyrics. I don't know about this though... my guess is that they heard his leaked single (which someone may go to jail for) or something and just figured he has gone corny: Personally, "Stand up and wave.... and wave" just doesn't seem gangsta to me. Here's my question: am I supposed to do that in the club when I'm sitting and then this song comes on and causes me to rise? Or is this while I'm sitting at home or what? Perplexing I know.

I can't hate entirely on Jay though... he is making a visit to my country. Even though most Nigerians won't be able to afford to see him... but that's neither here nor there.

Jadakiss pleads not guilty to gun possession but admits to being a knucklehead.... sounds about right.

In other "hip-hop" news... Diddy is apparently using his iconic(?) hip-hop status to peddle wares for the fast food industry. This is also in addition to the soon to come "Diddy-TV" on Goo-Tube and the revelation(?) that he didn't write most of his older work. I wonder how many "have it your way" references are gonna be in his album. I say there should a gambling line put on this. I'd put the over/under at about 10.

And lastly, remember when Lawrence Phillips was just a football player and not a man that purposely drove a stolen car into a group of teenagers or dragged his girlfriend down a flight of stairs? No? Well he did play football at one point.
And I guess he can still play football... just that now it will be in jail. (Sounds like a movie just waiting to be made) Oh yea, and if you're interested in buying one of his Nebraska National Championship rings and have 20 bucks, its in a Vegas pawn shop. Poor Choices all around for that guy.

Sharing is... uh? What is sharing again?

2006-10-09T20:06:00.000-04:00

In what has to be the worst timing ever, Terrell Owens has announced a children's book that he has coming out next month. (By the way, how great is that picture?) I'm not sure if the "suicide attempt/accidental overdose" was to draw publicity for his book... but I for one hope that it was. I think that would be the most brilliant marketing scheme to sell a book to kids ever. The only thing that could top that would be if he had R. Kelly produce a commercial for him... I mean I would ask my parents to get that for me if I was 3. As a matter of fact... I'm going to ask them to get it for me now. I really wanna see if Owens actually knows what sharing is...

If the Terrell's book tickles you're fancy... you might like these... just hilarious.

Are you serious Diddy? And people wonder why music sucks so bad... cause of stuff like this.

On another note... This is officially the last straw for New York. And people wonder why New York has fallen off when it comes to Hip-Hop. This is one half of the legendary Mobb Deep reduced to peddling himself on a site that may or may not be filled with mostly gay guys... And yo, you are a fairly big time performer, you should be able to pull girls left and right without posting in your 'about me' that you are: "down2 earth and very spontaneous." What a bama...
No one can convince me that New York will ever be back on top after this ridiculousness. They are sofTTTT... ("s-o-f capital T"). I was honestly at a loss for words... I mean, do I need to go back and listen to "The Infamous" again? I can' take your lyrics seriously after I see something like this. To be honest, I'm just confused, hurt, and a little sad... I'm sorry, I just feel cheated. Anyway... just a Poor Choice all around by Havoc and a slap in the face of the giant in Hip-Hop that New York used to be.

Oh yea... how bout them Yankees?

Terrell, Terrell, Terrell.....

2006-10-04T23:49:00.000-04:00

You know why I love football season? Besides actually having something to do during the day on Sundays, there is always some great drama. And we all know that the best drama involves large sweaty men all angry from steroids. Its basically like a giant soap opera for guys that also involves hitting, jock straps, and an oblong ball... Wait, did I just say that?

Let's look at this week for instance. There was a "catfight" (Haynesworth Face Stomp), there was the he said, she said (T.o. & McNabb debate over text messages), there was the weird (Dolemite Jenkins... Napoleon's Black cousin), and there was even the wild party where drunken decisions sure to be regretted later were made. (Pacman's Party)

We even had some relationships plagued with emotional problems: (From Mighty MJD)

"I'll go on record as saying that Terrell Owens vs. Pac Man Jones is the most emotionally unstable one-on-one matchup in NFL history. I'd have loved to hear their pre-game conversation:
Owens: Hey Pac, how you doin'?
Jones: Not too good, man.
Owens: Yeah, me neither."

As a sidenote: I actually got that party invitation above emailed to me less than hour after this email from a friend:

but uh…yeah they [T.O. and Pacman Jones] deserve each other. In fact I would throw Haynesworth in there with them. I’m convinced Pac-Man is an idiot. He doesn’t have anger management issues (Haynesworth) or deep-rooted psychological issues (Owens). I think Pac-man is truly just illogical.

Sounds about right to me... Where else do you get such emotional complexity besides a middle school or a telenovela?

I mean, what is there not to love? Football has everything one could ask for. And just wait until this Sunday. I hear that Philly fans have been working on a chant for T.O. that involves the letters O and D....

Does anyone else wonder how long it took them to come up with that? Do you think there was an Eagle Fan forum composed of 20 fat, sweaty men that spent hours locked in a poorly ventilated, underground room debating what would be the most effective way to get to T.O.'s psyche? Was it similar to the signing of the Declaration of Independence? I bet it was probably a little more intense... Hopefully the strain of remembering all the different letters doesn't get to them and they start chanting "T.D." whenever Owens has the ball... (Yea, yea... I know it's easy to pick on Eagles fans)

I wonder if they shouted "Terrell, Terrell, Terrell..." enough times would he cry like Darryl Strawberry on The Simpsons? I would pay money to see that...

Either way...I sure do miss the cleverness of Philly fans (Who have the best "cheer" in football) now that I don't live there anymore...

"E-A-G-L-E-S. EAGLES!"... oh yea, that's a classic. It's no "Hail To the Redskins", but it's brevity has a quality all it's own.

Her London Bridge is Falling Down...

2006-10-02T18:25:00.000-04:00

Just in case you were wondering or had any doubts...
Fergie sucks. You're shocked, I know.

As much as just being her not quite talented self should suffice as an argument, I'm prepared to offer more proof. In addition to spelling the name of her album wrong,(Dutchess instead of Duchess) she may or may not pee on herself while performing, as evidenced by the picture. I know... I'm being mean, but she basically, unabashedly and single-handedly, ruined a pretty good group. And yes, I'm extremely bitter about it. So I'm gonna take whatever shots I feel like taking. "I don't know...I'm swinging wild." (American Dad)

Anyway... If you don't believe me about her poisoning the group, please check out pre-Fergie B.E.P. stuff. And I know that I won't listen to the album and give it a fair try, but I have good reasons. #1 being that she inspired a nation of middle school aged girls to sing about their "humps"... There really is nothing as disturbing as a chorus line of 12 yr olds extolling the values of their "humps"... gives me shivers just writing about it. Also, according to HipHopsite.com, after being asked why her album was not spelled correctly while on TRL, she responded with:

"Oh I don't know, I just... wanted to be different. I like to do my own thing, I guess."

Riiiiiiiight... that's exactly what it was. Not knowing to spell is somewhat different, I guess. I personally like to do my own thing and spell things correctly.... but that's just me.

What I'm Listening To:

Who Does That?

2006-10-01T21:38:00.000-04:00

Apparently Albert Haynesworth does...

If you didn't see the Cowboys-Titans game, you missed some of the most repugnant, ridiculousness that I have ever seen in a football game. What Haynesworth did (about 1:45 into the video) was on par with the Mike Tyson ear tasting... I mean, to kick a dude in the head while you're standing over him and THEN stomp his face, is signs that you have a serious problem, and that you may need medical attention. Maybe some shock therapy or a slight lobotomy, cause you're wiring is obviously screwed up. But I guess I shouldn't be too surprised... this is the same guy that almost ran a woman off the highway in his 26,000 lb truck. (I would fear for my life too)

Don't get me wrong, I've def wanted to stomp someone before, but I haven't, for various reasons.(I don't want to go to jail is tops on the list and I'm a half-way decent person depending on who you ask) But lets say, just for the sake of argument, that in a peyote induced stupor, that we are somehow able to excuse the initial kick to the head, as just slight anger... A slightly sane person would think that maybe one would be like "Oh snap... I just kicked him in the head while he was laying on the ground... maybe I should stop right here." But to come back again, this time stomping his face, after you kicked the helmet off his head is just dirty. I guess his don't kick defenseless people in the head and open a 30 stitch gash mechanism turned off. If he had done this outside of the football field, he would be in jail right now... watching his back for Adibisi and the like.

I think it goes without saying (but I'm still gonna say it), that this was a Poor Choice.

One last thing... If you have about 15 minutes to spare and want to hear the rant to end all rants and just the most insane radio broadcast that I've ever heard... check out this blog.

Stop The Madness

2006-09-29T08:52:00.000-04:00

First off... R.I.P. Percy Miracles... we will miss you.

On a somewhat related note...You know what hurts my soul? When there are 7th graders throwing up the "Roc" sign during class when they get a right answer... and then not even knowing what the sign means... But I guess when "Chicken Noodle Soup" can be considered a song... you really can't complain about anything else. We've officially opened the 7th seal my friends... I'm personally just waiting for the 4 horsemen... we've had a good run I guess.

An update on the Screech video... Apparently it's sort of a game between he and his friends. They make these tapes and compare them and give each other points based on some weird and lewd scale... definitely still a Poor Choice to me...

But the Poor Choice of the Day goes to these two priests... I guess God doesn't pay enough? Like I said... we've had a good run... the end times are coming folks.

And so it begins...

2006-09-28T12:51:00.000-04:00

This is my first try at this blogging thing, so we'll see how it goes.

Here we go...

We could all use some more cowbell in our lives... How great would it be if this were actually true? Christopher Walken would scare the hell out of any world leader...

Is this the last sign that Jay-Z has officially lost all hood status? I think so...

Speaking of music and such..

How about that new Lupe album? It's definitely one of the top hip hop albums I've heard this year. It's up there with The Roots' Game Theory, Outkast's Idlewild (I loved it. Don't care what anyone says), Aloe Blacc's Shine Through (if you haven't heard this, you're doing yourself a disservice), Murs and 9th Wonder's Murray's Revenge and Gnarls Barkley's St. Elsewhere.

Despite Lupe's album being leaked (How Do You Review A Leaked Album?), and that some feel that some of the leaked songs should have been included, he has come up with an extremely refreshing take on music. Lyrically there aren't too many rappers that can see Lupe right now and yet, it still appears that he should be commercially viable ("Kick, Push"). Lupe didn't load up his album with guest stars or super star producers which says a lot about the confidence that Jay-Z (Co-Producer who makes an alright guest appearance) has in him. Apparently Jay told Lupe to not worry about radio play, but to just make music he wanted to make, and that's what he did. Although he does have The Neptunes ("I Gotcha") and Kanye ("The Cool") produce a track each, his in house producers do an excellent job. We've all seen "deep" rappers come out whose beats can't hang with them (Canibus, Ras Kass, etc.), but this is not the case with Lupe.

The best track on the album, "American Terrorist", shows that Lupe is pretty conscious of what's wrong with the world today, and really showcases his lyricism:

It's like
don't give the black man food, give red man liquor
red man fool, black man nigga
give yellow man tool, make him railroad builda
also give him pan, make him pull gold from river give black man crack, glocks to teens, give red man craps, slot machines

Pretty deep... Anyway... Go out and cop that album. Its about time we start supporting people that really care about their music.

On another note... Was there anyone else that was sick of T.O. saying he didn't commit suicide? I swear, I saw that press conference like 20 times. I mean... there is obviously a lot wrong with the dude, but he appears to love himself a little too much to go taking pills. This is the same dude that did pushups in his parking lot for the world to see... just doesn't quite add up. He really does know how to cause a scene though.

And the Poor Choice of the Day goes to Terrence Kiel of the San Diego Chargers: Sippin on Some Syzurp... Hope this doesn't effect my fantasy football team...

(picture from: http://www.deadspin.com/)

Honorable Mention: Dustin "Screech" Diamond... just awkward.

What I'm Listening To:
Lupe - Food and liquor
Talib Kweli - The Beautiful Mixtape Vol.2
Vast Aire - Look Mom... No Hands
Nicolay - Here
SkyZoo & 9th Wonder - Cloud 9: The 3 Day High
J-Dilla - The Shining
Aloe Blacc - Shine Through