Remember This One...

Dang music is missing something... I been talking about the music industry for a minute- and I see no end near in sight. Regardless, here's a fun look back...

Amel Laurrieux-For Real, Bravebird Album

For Real - Amel Larrieux

Christmas in February...

Need I say more...

Sade's album due to release Feb 8th, 2010...

Ya'll don't sleep!

Something Just Ain't Right...

Ever wonder why every celebrity with an alter ego has one that is- CREEPY, DARK… borderline Satanic?- things that make you go hmmmm… And they never have them to start with- there's always a point where they switch. Why can’t there be any good ones, sweet, loving- MODEST? And why the heck do we keep feeding into it each and every time… I have noticed it's usually after the $$$ begins to pour in and the fan base grows. Are we really that easy to fool? Check out the transformations below and decide which you genuinely respected vs unexpectedly followed… then decide which feeling is better… What is happening to these celebs as they gain success?- notice anything similar? Beyonce - "Sasha Fierce"

Christina Aguilera - "Maria Bratman"

Jennifer Lopez - "Lola"

T.I. - "T.I.P"

I need a new hustle...

I heard J-lo is dropping a new album as "Lola"... but that ain't what I'm talkin bout... check the shoes (CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Lace Booties) from her promo pics... REDICK- ULOUS and they're $1,785... HOT DAMMMMMMM!-smh-I thought this was a recession :-/.

G-Mix...

Before After

Here's what I did:

1) Grabbed a straight dress with pockets

2) Took 2 elastic headbands (don't laugh...I have a small waist, but something comparable will work as well) and wrapped them around my waist like a belt

3) Pulled the fabric thru the spacing between the elastic

4) Secured pocket accessibility and... there it is- Try it and Enjoy... Knock-offs I'm watching you.

Don't Knock It...

I'm sure you've heard by now McDonald's has a new effort to boost their sales called "McCafe" where they sell coffee stuff kinda like the laid-back, black'n'mild smokin cousin of Starbucks... Anyway, in addition to this effort they've been promoting this new venture with concerts- FREE concerts-... Catch a show, you may see the likes of Musiq Soulchild, Trey Songs and Anthony David. I went to the Musiq Soulchild event in Fairburn, GA and needless to say... it was worth the effort. To tell the truth once you get past the idea of being at McDonald's (in the parking lot) it's fairly decent... they have a tent and seating set-up and everything- even a couple of opening acts (the show I was at had Que from 112 and Cupid - you know the "Cupid Shuffle" guy)... a real cool intimate experience overall. Anyway, when it comes to your town check it out, it gets my stamp of approval... Peep a little of Musiq at McCafe below.<--!>

You Can't Beat It Wit a Stick...

I got a hook-up out of this world today... Went to the screening of "G.I. Joe" for the free-ski and I didn't even have to rock a press pass, which should let you know... dammit you can too. Go to www.filmmetro.com sign-up and see when and what movies are having a screening in your area. Benefits: You see the movie before it comes out free of charge... What sucks: You kinda got to wait in line for awhile until you're seated... balance that thang out for yourself and decide what matters more.

As far as reviews go... Like most action movies the storyline and acting make you want to kill yourself, but the action and special effects tend to make-up for the bs. Enjoy!

My thoughts is all...

Holey Matrimony... Music and the Net, PT1

Does anyone remember what music was like before the internet?

You know the whole experience… hearing something on the radio you liked and going to the store and having to decide, “Should I buy the whole album or just the single”? Tearing the plastic off with anxious anticipation and opening the album cover to see the pics and credits inside… Who’d they thank? What do their pictures and artwork look like? Did they write all the lyrics out in this one or just list the songs and its contributors? Who else is featured on here?… All that off of listening to one song on the radio.

Now there’s no question you can’t get answered about an artist and/or album before the big release day.

And it is big. I don’t think I ever used to even know when an album was dropping - prior to it already being dropped. If memory serves me correctly, albums used to come out the same time the single hit the airwaves. But you couldn’t tell that to a label now, or consumers of this generation. All the promotion and marketing that now goes into an album dropping is mind boggling and for what I wonder… half the people have already heard, downloaded and burnt copies for their brother, sister and neighbor before the studio mic has even cooled down.

I’m guilty. I’m big on downloading/reviewing music before I invest more time and definitely before I invest any money into an artist. It can work out to their benefit sometimes though… if they’re any good. I had a conversation with a few friends while pulling this article together. LB brought up the point, a good one at that, that because of the internet she’s given newcomers like Lady Gaga a chance. Typically, not a fan of her radio works, but through doing some research into “what all the fuss” was about with this new Pop Diva, LB became intrigued with Gaga’s soulfulness… something she(LB) hadn’t expected and would have never known if it weren’t for the easy “one-two” click she did that brought her ear to ear with Gaga’s album and outside projects. She even googled her history and start in the business, which for LB helped put Gaga into a class of her. Amazing! Do all stories wind-up this blissful in the end… Gaga gets an unexpected supporter, LB gets to explore more music she likes with a little enlightenment on the side. I gotta say, I wasn’t feeling Gaga myself but after talking to LB, now I’m little curious and might even go download a few tracks of Lady Gaga’s myself.

But I digress, because sometimes it isn’t that blissful. I found love in a new artist named Trey Songz. What got me going with Trey wasn’t any of his album works… actually, the first time I heard any of his stuff was while watching BET and his video for his first single “Gotta Make It” came on. I thought, “Damn he has a nice voice, but he’s so skinny”- not really sexy you know, like how most of us women like our R&B crooners. So anyway, years have gone by and Trey has gained more popularity… much accredited to his appearances on other artists’ albums and his mixtapes where he refers to himself as Trigga Trey. That’s where I fell in love… Trigga Trey (I even wrote about it http://dearniel.blogspot.com/2009/02/trigger.html). He can freestyle and sing all within the same song… so damn impressive. I was able to sit down and listen to countless MP3’s of Trigga Trey going hard on someone else’s song like “Blame it” by Jamie Foxx and “DOA” by Jigga… But, here’s where the love paused. I came across an interview on A BLOG (which could very well be false, but who knows) about how he used to have crabs as a teenager and how he likes to choke women during sex(well the choking part doesn’t bother me as much) – all to me seems to be playing into his “sex symbol” imaging. I get it and understand it, but it’s just that artist are putting so much more into their presence in the media than back in the day (not that far back either, I’m not that old) than their work it feels like lately.

Albums are dropping expectantly at a quarterly rate these days when there used to be some anxiety and anticipation to when you would hear something new from somebody. When Mary J. Blige was on drugs no one knew until she came out with an album about how she overcame being on drugs years later. Honestly there was something endearing about that wasn’t there? She had a secret and she didn’t have to share it, but she did anyway (thru her music)… and her fans respected and accepted her for that then. Now, who can’t you find on Youtube high. Hell, you probably can even watch video of them looking to get high, getting high, crashing and getting high again… and it all plays into their sales, itune sales, ringtones sales, concert sales – record sales. I’m beginning to think many labels and managers behind these artists may even encourage it… I would hope not, but with all the blog exposure and hits online and TMZ stories creating a buzz around you, you might be a fool not to put it all out there consistently- I mean if you want people to give your music a chance and actually take it seriously.

WHO? Atlanta 2009- Concert Review

It's a bird, it's a plane... (yeah, I know... Anyway, tilt your head to the left-you'll thank me later) She goes into the air with a gold train dangling from her leotard to the stage below. She then releases the train and floats above the audience to the center of the stadium, but not before she flips mid-air 3 or 4 times, no less than 20 feet in the air.

OK so I'm just gonna kick this straight-up... no chaser - SHE KILLED IT! Now, I know a lot of you are over Bey (so you say) even I have my moments from time to time, but that was not gonna stop me from checking out the highly exposed "Diva" live up-close and personal-I mean you have to be a little curious as to what all the fuss is about, right? Well front row was (as always) the way to go, not to say that if you sat anywhere else in the arena (Phillips that is) you wouldn't have had just as much fun (she hopped between TWO stages)... but I will say, regardless of where you "was at" she served it UP! Peep the video and don't miss your opportunity to check the best female performer in the game- no lie... sang every word... Name one person that can do that and out dance ALL her dancers- to say the least, I'm impressed! Consider this a challenge (Janet and Madonna not included)- I want to/NEED to know. Holla- and enjoy the footage (my first time filming with my cellphone) oh, and never mind the blackouts I had a couple of drinks... don't trip- I'm grown!

I Can't Breathe!...

I just got word that... you know what, just read for yourself - JIMMY CHOO is COMING FOR THE LOW! OMG!

Courtesy of stylistic.clutchmagonline.com

Repeat these three magic words - Jimmy Choo. Affordable. Yes, you’ve read correctly lovelies. Prepare yourself for history in the making. H&M is partnering with its first designer accessories brand - Jimmy Choo. The luxury shoe brand will be available in November at a fraction of the normal costs at selected H&M stores. The exclusive collection will consist not only of the shoes that we’ve lusted after but will also include a matching a line of chic clothing and accessories. Click here for the entire article.

Oh Grasshopper...

Many of you may have already thought about this... but, awhile ago I got the bright idea to try-out a spa school for a massage and some other stuff (ehhem) . You basically get all the services of a regular spa at half the price. Whether it's a massage, facials, nails, waxing, make-up, botox etc... it's all el-cheapo! Why you shouldn't worry: the students that usually work in the clinics are on their way to graduating (usually in their last semester of study so they know a lot) also, there is always a professor/supervisor present. Another reason you shouldn't be afraid of a spa school is that they have to answer to a board that regulates the schools ciriculum, unlike regular spas that can just do them and hope no one sues. Many of the schools that offer these services are considered the best in their field period as well... definitely do your research ahead of time though. In Atlanta, I've tried International School of Skin and http://www.risingspiritinstitute.com/ and I have to say I love them both. Be sure to call ahead because they, unlike a lot of regular spas, are appointment only and usually have to book pretty far out... talk about the Grasshopper showing the Sensei a little something something.

Newcomers comin up...

Dats wussup!

So, I rarely will shout a another blog, but I really like this dude! Check it and his mixtape it's kinda wussup... Cheers to something new- I get's with it... and I don't fux with much

http://artistrickards.blogspot.com/

Presidential Sweet...

I've always wanted a gaudy gigantic desk fit for a king or as we like to do it the Ol' U.S. of A President... Anyway, but I never had the dough-lo to go out and buy one... These things are pretty expensive. What I do have though that may be worth more than a green paper-back is vision. Checkout my before and afters and the next time you see that too shabby executive desk or broke-up dream home or broke-down dream car close your eyes and envision what it could be... who knows there could be a diamond under all that rough... *Note* don't expect to not get dirty while you're doing all that digging, this was most definitely no walk in the park- HOLLA!

Before

After

How I did it... (basic/short version)

1. Used paint thinner to remove a layer of the stain already present

2. Used wood putty to fill in dings and scratches, let dry and then sanded even

3. Coated several times til stain was even

*Doesn't seem like a lot... because it's not, but the steps take time so be patient and don't quit- because you will want to ;-).

That good good...

So,

Since I started going natural (3-years 100% without-perm) I noticed I've been getting dandruff quite often, like I always have it. But, I came across this dandruff shampoo and since I tried it, last week, I haven’t had any real issues (I have noticed some minor stuff closer to the back where it’s harder for me to reach, but I figure the more I use it the better the results… I’ve only used it once). What I did:

-While my hair was still dry, I rubbed the shampoo in while scratching problem areas (mainly the front and sides)

-Once it lathered really well and began to tingle a bit I rinsed it out

-Followed-up with my regular shampoo and conditioner for softness

-Blow-dryed it and was done.

Best of luck!

Check-it-out

Queen Helene Dandruff Shampoo 16 oz. A new, acid-balanced formula for the relief and control of dandruff and other minor scalp problems. Produces a rich lather cleans and conditions, leaving hair easy to manage. Will not strip bleached, toned, or tinted hair. From what I've seen it runs about $6-7.

Don't Be A Victim... Email Edition

Oh no they DIDN'T!

I got into an email discussion today with a few friends about some serious misbehaving going down with the credit card industry. Checkout our convo below and don't get caught out there...

Aisha- I got a letter in the mail from my credit card company telling me that they were raising everyone’s interest rates, no matter the payment history. They proceeded to say I was able to decline the increase, BUT they would automatically close my account if I declined. WTF?! Is this allowed? http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Story?id=4277250&page=1

Neistra- Yep! Read an article about this like a week ago… that’s why I’m glad I paid all my cc’s off and closed all the accounts. These people have lost their minds!

Aisha- I was going to close my acct, but it reflects negatively on your credit. It lowers your available credit limit and that makes you lose points.

Neistra- Yeah, I was hearing the same thing, but after some research, I discovered its not as bad as they make it seem.

Niel- If you can afford to pay it off do so… even if it hurts a bit and you have to budget elsewhere, it may be worth it to you. Interest is money lost- period… it’s like a labor fee and the longer you have a balance the more you pay for the service- unnecessarily. Pay them off and leave them open with a ZERO balance… win win situation- less cash paid out to interest and a better credit profile.

Aisha- That what I did. I have a zero balance with all of my cards. They ain’t bout to get me. SUCKAS!!! Neil, When did you get so educated?

Lauren- She just copy and pasted from creditblog.com. Verbatim.

Aisha- Ha ha ha!

Neistra- LOL

Niel- How RUDE!

Randomness...Trigger?

Dat dude Trey Songz actually may be one of my new favorite R&B artist. I got word from a reliable source that this dude can freestyle and has a catalog of mixtapes that exemplify his skillz as Trigga Trey (an alias I'm guessing)... check a little of it out below over Jamie's Blame it. If this is true- I'm impressed... Thank God for competitive natures.

blame it - trey songz

I Guess So... Randomness

You know... I ain't no hater, but I really had my doubts about Jamie holding it down a second time... You done good man, this cut is kinda wussup. Ya'll check it-you prolly should google it... this is just a clip- Hot D@MN!

JAMIE FOXX & T PAIN - BLAME IT - Various Artists *sidenote* Why is everyone using autotune even when a song don't really need it? This is a perfect example- Ya'll gotta make it stop!

"Dis ain't a remix...

It's a G-Mix!"

-Jay Z (but, my G is for garment)...

BeforeAfter

So, I bought this shirt awhile ago for someone else (it's not really my style), but I never got a chance to give it to her (long story) so I just kept it. Anyway, I felt it needed a little something so I altered it... here's how I did it and of course, how you can too... Sorry no step-by-step pics this time, but it's really easy to understand.

1.) Buy a pack of elastic head bands or rubber bands- the really long thin ones that can stretch around your waists or hips without popping

2.) Cut the band so it's just one long elastic string

3.) Without opening the hem of the shirt, push the elastic string through the thread holding the hem closed. *Whatever you do, don't let the loose end of the string get pulled through the fabric. You only want one side to actually go all the way thru*

4.) When you finally get the elastic string all the way thru, to where it's back at the beginning, tie the two ends together

5.) Spread the fabric out evenly and there it is. -Try it and let me know how it turns out.

The Jury is Out...Jaz-Sullivan (Randomness)

I really do like this chick. I think she has a future, but dis video right here... dis video right here, doesn't really do a lot for me. Kinda makes the song dull watching it and I really used to dig it on my mp3. Anyway, here it go... dat new Jazmine Sullivan. Enjoy!... maybe it will grow on me.
Lions, Tigers & Bears - Jazmine Sullivan

"I CUT Him"...

YES I DID GIRL! Oh, and by "Him" I mean my bangs.

Here's how I did it and how you can do it too. While my bangs are a 'lil' on the long-side of the bang family the same rules apply to short, medium and long... no matter what your preference. I apologize in advance for these images, they're not the greatest quality, but you will get what I'm explaining... Kno wha' um talkin bout?

Step 1: Part your hair where you want the bang to start and pull the rest into a ponytail. **The closer to the center of your head the part, the thicker your bang will be. (I went for something pretty modest)**

Step 2: **Critical** Begin cutting from the CENTER not the sides. It's a lot easier to know where you want the bang to end if you start at the focal point... The Center of the Face. Depending how far down you want your bang to fall, use markers on your face to keep you cutting evenly and ALWAYS do your initial cut a little longer than what you ultimately want to end-up with. Also, keep in mind that curling your bang will make it shorter. So, when you decide on a length, before you start cutting take that into consideration. For example, I knew I wanted something below the eye and above the cheek bone so I used the top of my nose as a mark to begin cutting.

Step 3: Chinese Bangs-If you are cutting straight across the face... It's very simple- using the center piece you first cut as check-point align your scissors to form a straight line along the bottom of the already cut section. Begin cutting towards the outside in a straight line until you've reached the end. Follow the same process for the other side. Then jump to Step 4. Asymmetrical Bangs- If you are cutting a layered bang, using the center section you've already cut as a starting point, take your scissors and form a line diagonally along your face. Use your nose as an anchor or prop for your scissors to keep them straight... see images below. Do the same to the other side.

Step 4: Clean-up the bang by cutting any missed hairs. The purpose of this is to ensure a clean cut. Do not cut hair that has already been cut. You're simply going back to cut any hairs that you didn't cut the first time and to overall clean up the look. If you decide at this point that the bang is too long follow the same process from the beginning, but only trim off the access length **In cutting remember "Less is More"**. AND remember to leave a little length for curling if that is something you plan to do.

And there you have it! If you do try this at home, send me your pics I'd love to see them... especially if you mess-up LOL -- Don't worry it grows back... usually!

It's Only Fitting...

Ya'll keep our President in your Prayers... He's about to change the WORLD (with God's help, of course)!

God bless.

My President (Featuring NaS) - Young Jeezy Naturally, this would follow... Enjoy! Oh and another thing... how fitting...