mytwocents/sense

Waka Flocka Deez!

2010-02-25T01:19:00.000-05:00

I love Hip Hop y'all...you know this. And I can't front, I love the Hip Hop from back in the day, but I'd be remiss if I was to say that I didn't enjoy some of the current-day music that's being put out. I fully understand that some of the cats aren't going to match up to my standards being that I have been blessed to witness the true GREATS in their rise...their climax...and even in their descension in some cases.

I say all that to say, I KNOW that (GOOD) Hip Hop has had its GREAT, yet IGNANT moments. Many artists come to mind, don't front.

BUT THIS, I take issue with.

Waka Flocka Flame is saddening. Like REALLY. SADDENING.

I'll let these interviews speak for themselves:

Now...even though this nigga's "so-called" hit song, "O Let's Do It" (and I only say "so-called" because it'll be interesting to see if the play that it's getting will translate into record sales), is getting burn, is ACTUALLY kinda catchy, and contain lyrics like, "I influence...drug dealing music", I respect him for doing what's obviously is in his heart as an artist. ***SIDENOTE: I'm an artist myself , and I have a few choice words hopefully he'd respect too***

==========================

**Message to Wacka Flocka**

But on some real shyt, how you gonna make yo'self out to be the MAN when YOU were the victim?

NIGGA, YOU GOT ROBBED..........AND SHOT!!!!!!!!!!

You tryin' to make the cat that did it out to be some lame, but HE got away with YO' jewlery in exchange for the lead that he deposited in you. He left without a band-aid, nigga! No aspirin or pain killers needed. Them hospital pain killers felt good didn't they? Not a scratch. Not a boo-boo. No papercut even from a doctor's bill that you have to pay now. You say he was scared, but I don't know if the nigga even broke a sweat! Yo' nerves was fucked up...on yo' right sidel

Who won nigga?? You? Not.

Honestly, in a situation like this, I know that no one wins. But don't try to make yo'self out to be some O.G. cat that can't be touched because niggas WILL try you. Everytime. And your track record doesn't look good. They even did it to your C.E.O.. Check The Rhyme

==========================

Beyond the foolishness in the interviews, I'm moreso concerned with the response on his facebook fan page. I understand the well wishes for your "hero", but DAMN:

Young South: FUCK NIGGAS ALWAYS GNE HATE

February 3 at 6:32pm

Aaron Stick Boy Feggins: yeaaa waka hanle dat shyt like a g

February 3 at 6:41pm

Devin McCall: yu a real ass nigg dawg...

February 3 at 6:42pm

Damon Doitbigstein Walker: Fuck Dem pussy Niggas dey can't beat yo Ass Wit dey hands so dey use guns

February 3 6:46pm

Shannon TheGreatest Hollingsworth: damnnnnnnnnnnnnn he so damnnnnnnnnnn fineeeeeeeeeeeee shitttt niggas done SHOT my future husband!!!! stupid broke ass niggas LMFAO

February 4 at 12:07am

Trapboy Dubz: rite flocka bounce back like it aint shit, we rockin out witch out here, Westsid Wilmington, Delaware nigga!!!! cum thrum click on my music link n hear dat trap music!!! **TRAPBOY DUBZ** WESTSIDE WILMINGTON, DE

February 4 at 2:31am

D.j. Pollard: real nigga

February 4 at 5:30pm

Trust, there's worse...everything from the love professions of "I'm Mrs. Wacka Flocka" to "Flocka, you da REALEST".

Not knowing the profiles of these individuals, I will take the liberty of assuming that they're mostly teens who may not know any better.

**YET ANOTHER SIDENOTE: Jay's "I'm afraid for the future / Y'all respect the one who got shot, I respect the shooter" lyric keeps ringing in my head.**

Damn.

What do y'all think?

Man Up Obama!

2010-02-12T00:36:00.000-05:00

First, I understand how politics work. I really do.

Secondly, what America needs right now is NOT a politician. We need a dude, let's call him a "REAL MAN", that's gonna stand behind his conviction and MAKE shyt happen.

Not one who's gonna turn the other cheek when a overly-emotional, possible racist SENATOR calls him a "LIAR" in front of EVERYONE and no repercussion takes place.

Not one who's gonna have a beer summit with a possible racist cop and Black man law abiding citizen to discuss what went wrong with no progress or point.

There comes a time when you gotta stop playing both sides of the fence when others obviously aren't. I don't know...*scratching my head pondering*...STAND for something. He has it in him (I think). I'm a fan of most of Obama's ideas and that's why I support him. But the GOP will continue to treat him like a "lil' nigga" unless he man up. Trust me. They don't have to like you, but they'll respect you more. Put your foot down and exercise the power that your constituents invested in you. Be a MAN and stop being a bytch.

Sorry I couldn't put it as eloquent as Roland Martin put it. **Please Click Roland Martin's name**

Gee, I've been sayin' this for some time now. Thanks Roland.

Is John Mayer A Nigga?

2010-02-12T00:34:00.000-05:00

This, of course, is a touchy subject and I'm still kinda more nonchalant about it compared to others (some of my "brothas and sistas"). Maybe I'm just personally disconnected and could give a fuck less. Maybe I don't put much stock into what other (not my "brothas and sistas") people think of me or my..."brothas and sistas". Maybe I feel like it's just a word and I'm of the 'sticks and stones' theorem so the idea of a white person using the word "nigger" just doesn't hurt me, EVEN when put out there on some type of public medium. It's not surprising. I almost expect it in some sort of desensitized, "put nothing past no one"-way. I've been here long enough to know that that's how people talk (even if they won't admit it). Not suggesting that it's an everyday occurrence, but I'll look at someone with a major side-eye if they have reached their adult years and won't admit to EVER saying something that wasn't offensive (indirectly or directly) towards someone or a group of people. That's people just being people. Everyone's not a fuggin' saint...let's be real. That's how people talk.

So, when I read word that Black chicks' favorite white boy singer, John Mayer, used the word "NIGGER" in an interview with Playboy and basically said that his dick was racist, it came as no surprise to me.

==============

Playboy: Do black women throw themselves at you?

Mayer: I don't think I open myself to it. My dick is sort of like a white supremacist. I've got a Benetton heart and fuckin' David Duke cock. I'm going to start dating separately from my dick.

Also in the interview:

Playboy: If you didn't know you, would you think you're a douche bag?

Mayer: It depends on what I picked up. My two biggest hits are "Your Body Is A Wonderland" and "Daughters". If you think those songs are pandering, then you'll think I'm a douche bag. It's like I come on very strong. I am a very...I'm just very. V-E-R-Y. And if you can't handle very, then I'm a douche bag. But I think the world needs a little very. That's black people love me.

Playboy: Because you're very?

Mayer: Someone asked me the other day, "What does it feel like now to have a hood pass?" And by the way, it's sort of a contradiction in terms, because if you really had a hood pass, you could call it a nigger pass. Why are you pulling a punch and calling it a hood pass? But I said, "I can't really have a hood pass. I've never walked into a restaurant, asked for a table and been told, 'We're full.'"

Playboy: It is true: a lot of rappers love you. You recorded with Common and Kanye West, played live with Jay-Z.

Mayer: What is being black? It's making the most of your life, not taking a single moment for granted. Taking something that's seen as a struggle and making it work for you, or you'll die inside. Not to say that my struggle is like the collective struggle of black America. But maybe my struggle is similar to one black dude's.

================

Not sure how you look at it.

Don't care.

I'm aware that John Mayer is a musician, but is he really any different from all the Black white, latino, asian, middle-eastern cats on Comedy Central comedians who use what some may consider offensive language?

In my opinion, John was in a really comfortable space and he felt like he could REALLY speak his mind. Yeah, nigga, No.

He kinda recanted on his twitter page saying this:

"Re: using the ‘N word’ in an interview: I am sorry that I used the word. And it’s such a shame that I did because the point I was trying to make was in the exact opposite spirit of the word itself. It was arrogant of me to think I could intellectualize using it because I realize that there’s no intellectualizing a word that is so emotionally charged. And while I’m using today for looking at myself under harsh light, I think it’s time to stop trying to be so raw in interviews…It started as an attempt to not let the waves of criticism get to me, but it’s gotten out of hand and I’ve created somewhat of a monster. I wanted to be a blues guitar player. And a singer. And a songwriter. Not a shock jock. I don’t have the stomach for it. Again, because I don’t want anyone to think I’m equivocating: I should have never said the word and I will never say it again."

Ha! I'm not sure about y'all, but I'm tired of the insincere, blanket, obligatory "I'm sorry's", "sorry for my inner-demons", rehab stints done by celebrities to save face. Shiiddd...Face That Shyt Nigga! Everybody's so politically correct nowadays...but that's a different story. *thinking to self honestly (how many y'all do that)...and raising hand as I may be guilty too*

Bottomline: The nigga just prefer white pussy. Just so happens the "nigga" I'm referring to is actually white. In essence, he likes his own, which is a trait that I know many Black women appreciate in their men.

Will I stop buying his music because of this?

Miss me with that. Although he has some cool songs and I like the blues vibe, I ain't never been no fan of his like that (if 2 negatives make it a positive, then 3 negatives must make it a negative, right?). Yeah, he's cool with a couple of my favorite Hip Hop artists, but shiiiddd...that doesn't mean I'm suppose to jock him. He's not in my iTunes.

Funny thing is, some Black women who may be offended and upset by his statements will soon forget about it and continue their support. They'll be no boycotts, no CD burnings and trashing, no John Mayer iTunes catalog deleting, no call to arms over this. Lucky for John Mayer he's not a Black man.

Yeah.

On one last note, even though John Mayer has received the "fucking" when it comes to this whole ordeal, does anyone see how PLAYBOY "baited" him with their question? Don't they deserve a little "hate" too? Just askin'...

Sade's New Album In Stores and Online TODAY!!

2010-02-09T22:29:00.002-05:00

Ok...maybe I just wanted an excuse to post this picture. Is this Sade??

What about these?

Poppin' Tags!

2010-02-04T22:40:00.002-05:00

When people say they buy ridiculously over-priced, designer goods because of the quality, they're fuckin' lying.

***NOTE: I was going to end this post right here, but I guess I'll expound a little bit so you won't take these jewels for granted. Thank me later...or now.***

I'm not talking about choosing to purchase Charmin or Angel Soft toilet paper over the dollar store brand because nobody wants a hand full of shyt and TP dingleberries when dropping the kids off at the pool. Nobody. Although I've done it myself when my budget didn't allow me the luxury of fluffy, soft, quilted with feathers toilet tissue, it's ideal to splurge a couple of extra bucks or some change for an "upgrade" like this. I mean...when you think about it, as a heterosexual male, I'm already anal about what touches my ass. Pun. And at the core of it, it's only a couple of bucks.

However, when it comes to dropping upwards of one thousand (or any plural derivative) dollars on a purse or pair of shoes with "quality" being the rationale, I'm calling bullshyt. I wish people would be much more forthcoming with their testimonials when making high-end purchases like this. Afterall, Honesty IS The Best Policy, right?

But, No.

Being on this planet for one-third of a century and particularly being raised, bred, conditioned, educated, and RE-conditioned (solely based on my own standards) in a capitalist, materialistic society, I KNOW (per fact) that the REAL reason why people make such purchases is to floss. That's It.

It's not based on quality. It's based on a need to show off or perpetuate the (facade of a) lifestyle that many Americans admire and aspire to (for some reason...usually trying to keep up with the Jones'). It's not quality, it's the NAME or the BRAND that one is spending astronomical prices for.

It's obvious that (most) many name brands are of superior quality when compared to off-brand items and I'm by no means saying that quality isn't a factor at all, but to say that THAT'S the sole reason for making such a purchase is a lie. I don't feel anything is wrong with splurging on yourself (or tricking your doe off) if that's what you want to and can afford to do. Ball to you fall, player. If you're just a fan of a certain high-end brand because of the look or prestigue and how it makes you feel, by all means, shell out those duckets for it. Just be real about it and say that that's why you're doing it.

Pissed Or Passionate?

2010-01-30T05:00:00.004-05:00

This is a screenshot from Kanye West's blog that has been makin' its round on the internet the past couple of days. Every.Last.One. of the blogs made it sound like Mr. West was just an emotional wreck, reeked with anger and hostility in their headlines and content. We all are too familiar with Kanye's antics over the past years and nothing seems to come as much of a surprise any more. He was supposedly shunned from appearing on the Help For Haiti telethon because of his past ~~showboatin'/show-stealin'~~ public antics and the Grammy's have basically black-balled him from thier 2010 awards show after being nominated countless times and winning awards in prior years for his previous works. PETA has recently been skinning and eating him and his girl alive over the fur that they've recently been photographed in. The President of the United States have even called him a "jackass" after the Taylor Swift fiasco at the MTV Video Awards. Although I feel like I am not Kanye, ~~although we all have a little bit of Kanye in us~~, one thing that ironically stands out to me in the midst of all this is that it appears to me that bloggers, who ONCE was the outspoken, unapologetic voice that "politically correct" media outlets lacked, have fallen into the same matrix of conformity and "cookie-cutter" opinions.

Not to get it twisted because many blogs still rep for independent thought and looking beneath the surface, but others have clearly abandoned "what they came here fo'" and have been transformed into commercial entities in which opinions are clearly bought and regurgitated to the public.

Sad.

I empathize with Kanye' West.

The scrutiny that people spew on Kanye definitely comes with the territory. As an artist, I he is completely open to public opinion and everyone will DEFINITELY have something to say (that's kinda like a test for some artists to see if they're still relevant....if people actually CARE because they have an emotional attachment to your work, they'll always be some sort of response). Obviously, he's still relevant because of his talent and that's why he'll remain a fixture in music ~~and blog headlines~~. His reputation (pride, ego) has been detrimental to him in many ways, but I wish people would realize that it's pure PASSION from where he speaks. Bloggers ONCE spoke with that same intensity, but now, it's moreso cats who've got a little bit of money behind crafting posts in line with the status quo and ran with it, as oppose to giving their real opinion on shyt.

Although I can't personally get behind the "808" disc, and clownish outfits (claimer: I ain't no fashion nigga), I totally respect a lot of what Kanye has to say and it's really just a matter of people seeing things in one-way (THEIR "right" WAY) when it's really three-dimensional (their way-the artist's way-and the middle ground).

Can we all just get along? ~~And can bloggers express how they really feel as oppose to following the status quo????~~

Just Some Thoughts...

2010-01-27T23:25:00.000-05:00

...after watching the State of the Union Address:

*Gang affiliation is obviously not exclusive to the youth.

*As a Black man, the hate and disgust on an old white man's old wrinkled up face is truly a precious sight that will always warm my inner soul.

*Out of all my friends on facebook who run 5+ miles a day and are doing the p90x, the democratic senators have gotten a more intense workout from the all the standing, sitting, and clapping ~~and ass kissing~~ that they're doing.

*Nancy Pelosi must've been a cheer captain in her younger days.

*Where's Nino Brown when you need him? I kept hoping he would pop in Kanye West-style and say "SIT YO' FIVE DOLLAR ASS DOWN BEFORE I MAKE 'CHANGE'...for real!!"

*War goes on :-( Well at least for another 1.5 years...they say.

*The "United" States is an oxymoron.

*"I don't accept second place for the United States of America!" - Barack Obama. Sounds like a motto for the Olympic games.

*Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi looks like they're counting every single follicle in Barack Obama's head.

*Biden = Purple tie. Pelosi = Purple suit jacket. Obama = Purple lips...at least they're all matching.

*Looking at a room full of majority white people in High Definition is similar to watching a zombie movie.

*President Obama signing autographs on the way out...Priceless.

*All this talk sounds good than a muafugga don't it??

Y'all remember this joint right here?

Rashad "Tell em what they wanna hear"

The Glenn Twins | MySpace Video

Educated Black Woman

2010-01-03T02:10:00.000-05:00

Gee...

I wonder why educated Black women don't recognize that when the term "educated Black women" is used in the media, it's often done with a very condescending tone. In a way, it's like saying "you're pretty...for a dark-skinned girl" or "you're the cutest big girl I've ever met". With all that "education", why oh why can't "educated" Black women recognize that they (read: the media) are patronizing you? On some real shyt, when was the last time you've heard the phrase "educated WHITE woman" or "educated ASIAN woman"? Probably never.

Over the past month or so, I've read about Helena Andrews, whose story "Bitch Is The New Black" (very attractive, right?) is set to be published as a book and is optioned for a movie deal (before the book is even complete). Many of my peers have blogged and posted articles about the Washington Post story and how they feel about it. VerySmartBrothas, Keep It Trill, and Sister Toldja are a few that have very insightful outlooks on the situation and I encourage you to check them out. Personally, I know several women who fall into this category and although I sympathize with their situation, I realize that in stories like these, they are being used as pawns. While the "educated" or "successful" Black woman is made out to be the proverbial victim, I feel that one point is persistently missed. THIS IS MORESO A DIRECT ATTACK ON THE BLACK MAN!

***SIDENOTE: Are these women REALLY successful if they are unhappy in their REAL lives? Life is much more than a degree and a job if you ask me. END SIDENOTE***

My passion lies in the arts and multi-media and I guess game recognize game because I can see right pass what some stories the mass media is pumping through the veins of Black American culture. Take for example, the ABC story posted above. Check the reporter's tone throughout the whole joint. Check the statistics that are and have been regurgitated to us since forever. Check the convinient way decent and good Black men are excluded from the equation PERIOD.

Although stories like this are meant to be somewhat of a voice for women who fit into that "successful woman" category, it only throws Black men under the bus...and in essence, Black women also. Black women because they are only being used to perpetuate negative stereotypes and tearing apart the idea of the Black family.

For the sistas who fall into this category, I'm not all-knowing and I don't have all the answers in how to find you a good Black man (although I can co-sign most of VSB's points). My only wish is that you look at the big picture and don't allow yourself to be used by internalizing this to be all about you. Because you and I both know, the media don't give a fuck about you...unless you're buying movie tickets, books and magazines, or increasing their ratings.

Happy Birthday Little Baby Jesus!!

2009-12-25T13:24:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to ALL...and Happy Birthday Little Baby Jesus!

SPECIAL BONUS VIDEO featuring Rick Ross, Jeezy, Lil' Wayne, DJ Khaled, Jim Jones, Wyclef, Soulja Boy, Lil' Boosie, Kanye West, and MORE!!

Dumb Jock.

2009-12-03T20:06:00.000-05:00

We've seen this story countless times.

Dumb Jock accumulates wealth and fame because of his God-given talent, passion, and skill.

Dumb Jock gets married. As a result, creating a jackpot lottery winner of some suspecting female whom of course loves him for who he is and not the money.

Dumb Jock impregnates his wife ~~thus securing a streamline of income for her for the next 2 decades of her life~~.

Dumb Jock cheats with some bullshyt, trifling ass chick(s) ~~that probably wouldn't give him the time of day if it wasn't for his money and fame~~.

Dumb Jock gets caught.

Dumb Jock's wife sticks it out and plays the supportive role for awhile. ~~Afterall, if she has any sense, she probably suspected he was cheating any way.~~ Only thing now is, the world knows and the media attention brings on a pressure and embarrassment that she's never felt before.

Dumb Jock's wife files for divorce and is granted an astronomical amount of money...and of course custody of their child(ren).

Dumb Jock who was once labeled a phenom, protege', champion, best in the world...proves to just be another Dumb. Jock.

The End.

This story has obviously just played out again with golf superstar Tiger Woods.

***SIDENOTE: I read yesterday someone said his name should be "Cheetah"...LOL!!!! Funny shyt.***

Although we don't know (or care) of what's gonna be the future of Woods and his wife, I did find this shyt right here pretty darn hilarious:

From NBA star and known cheater Shaquille O'Neal:

“Tiger’s my guy. I’m not going to be like everybody else and say off-the-wall comments. I just hope he’s OK. The problem going on is when you have people disguising as media putting out reports, and then people believing what they read. We don’t know what’s fact, we don’t know what’s true. We just hope he’s OK.”

For real my nigga?? You just "hope he's OK"?? Like he's the fuggin' victim?? Since when does gettin' your rocks off and bustin' nuts across the country all willy-nilly makes you a fuggin' victim? The nigga's gonna still be caked up after it's all said and done and it's not like he's committed a crime requiring jail time and shyt like that so I just don't understand the well wishes. Is it because what should be a private matter is going to be under the microscope of public opinion for the next few weeks ~~or until another celebrity scandal breaks~~? Since he's ultimately responsible for his own actions, which were dumb, selfish, and reminiscent of a teenaged boy who just can't keep his dick in his pants, I fail to see why he wouldn't EXPECT the shyt to play out in the media and public forums considering who he is.

Nigga, you ain't THAT Dumb.

And for Shaq to say something about it...(Actually, for Shaq to say ANYTHING)...is just laughable considering his wife is already in the "leaving" part of their story.

Fugg outta here...

Thick Skin vs. Thin Skin

2009-12-01T22:54:00.001-05:00

Although many people have dismissed the gift, internal strength, and integrity that goes along with being a model (especially starring in music videos and the such), I have always looked beyond the outer core and admired that special "umph" that goes along with choosing a profession or hobby such as modeling. ***See: "VIXENS"*** There's a strength, confidence in it that is very rare amongst women. Of course some people may discount it and say that there is nothing hard about shedding some clothes and posing or dancing in front of a camera, but it's not so cut and dry in my opinion. When it comes down to it, many women do not have what it takes physically AND mentally. As a model, every photograph you take is fair game for hard criticism and judgement. Every time you're in front of a camera or in eye shot of anyone, you will be constantly judged on your appearance...even if you're just pumping gas or perusing the aisles of Walmart. You will be called a "video hoe", slut, whore, groupie, bitch, and all the derivatives thereof even if you're NOT that. Some brothas will disrespect you and only see you as a sex object and some sistas will hate on you ~~while secretly wishing they could be you~~ simply because they ASSUME you are less intelligent or talented as them. Your parents, family members, and friends may even wish to distance themselves from you based on your decision to explore the world of modeling. There's a lot at stake and it's clearly isn't meant for everyone.

Although I've never been a woman, I know from the lovely women in my life that they are constantly pre-judged and either accepted or rejected solely based on their appearance. The scrutiny that models deal with is that times TEN (maybe a hunnid). With that said, premier video model Melyssa Ford has took some very edgy and creative photos with celebrity photographer Derek Blanks and the outcome was extraordinary. Here's what Ms. Ford had to say after the photoshoot.

Thick Skin vs Thin Skin

There are two “fixed givens” I know to be true right now: One is that you need “thick skin” to deal with the entertainment business. Two, is that Derek Blanks is the hottest photographer right now and his “Alter Ego” series is THE thing to do. Celebrities are clamoring for Derek to photograph them and the “other version of themselves”. His vision is uncompromised, his talent is undeniable and I’m grateful that we finally crossed paths.

The photos that you see are the culmination of our constant communication and the implementation of my vision. The conception of this photo came to me one day while hiking and Derek Blanks and Saisha Beecham, my makeup artist/body painter more than made it a reality, which their unimaginable talent and creative execution.All of us know what it feels like to have to “turn the other cheek” or “be the bigger person” or “turn a blind eye and ear to their critics and the nay-sayers”… I OVER-stand this concept, hence my visual interpretation of the reality: that we all hurt and are not immune to the pain caused by harsh judgment.

Love, Melyssa
Here are some photos:

Great job on Melyssa's, Blanks, and make up artist/body painter Saisha Beecham whom I've had the pleasure of working with during my "VIXENS" shoot with the homie Fabiola.

Oh yeah...Shout out to the homie Challedon "Shy" Saltor who's also celebrating a birthday today!!

Lookin' In the Mirror - 11/16

2009-11-17T22:21:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday To ME!! November 16th

The man in the mirro is really my true hero / With me when I'm broke or when I'm blessed with dinero / Sometimes tearful, but never approaches life fearful / A cool ass guy, but at times, he's just a weirdo / Great parents - always listened to the things they said / Alpha male but still never felt the need to pledge / I can't explain it, he's somehow right and left brain-ed / Articulate, but still loves to cuss and use slanguage / Funny, ain't it? He's a cool nigga to hang wit' / Not picture perfect, but his work, you can frame it / Very creative and determined to never fail / Loving heart and spirit filled with passion unparralled / Never ask no one for nothin' he won't ask of himself / Funny guy and not afraid to laugh at himself / Multi-dimensional, some sides, you'll never see / Wise and never compromise his integrity / Thoughts be kinda random, been told he's kinda handsome / Respect? He demand some...all of that and then some / Just a brotha tryin' to pass on his wisdom to kids / And I ain't braggin' on my nigga, it's just is what it is

-Monk

Pursuit of...Happiness?

2009-11-10T22:15:00.000-05:00

Just the other day, a friend of mine posted a status on her FB page that read: "Problems are a sign of life!! The only people that don't have problems live in cemetaries. In other words...if you don't have a problem, you don't have a life!"

I couldn't agree less.

I understand that her premise is based on the fact that problems are going to arise throughout our lives and we must learn from them because they strengthen us. The adversities that we face develops character and instead of shunning so-called problems, we should embrace them and tackle them because inherently, they are inevitable and we can't let them break us.

I call bullshyt.

I agree that life's adversities does all that it's suppose to do when looking at them in a positive light. It's the concept that if you lose, you really win because now you know what you did wrong and you can learn from that and be better...so therefore, in essence, you STILL "win". Or as Terrance Howard so eloquently stated in the film "Get Rich Or Die Trying": "Its like when I'm right I'm right, when I'm wrong I could been right, so I'm still right cause I coulda been wrong, you know, and I'm sorry cause I could be wrong right now, I could be wrong, but if I'm right..."

*Digressing*

But problems?

Problems??

C'mon now...I'm trying to steer away from those. I'm not going out in search of problems (sounds crazy but some people do) in order to "strengthen" my character. If I'm alleviated of financial problems, career set-backs, and drama amongst family and friends, my life will be no less boring. Actually, it'd be GREAT!!

As stated in a previous post, I don't want any "haters". I want people to love, respect, and accept me for who I am...but that's a different story.

*in my Jennifer HUDSON impersonation because it's no question, she did the song better*

"And you...and You...and YOU...YOU'RE GONNA LOVE MEEEEEEEE!!!!!!"

Okay...that was gay.

I'm not though. NTTAWWT.

Where was I?

Oh yeah, problems and shyt.

As an adult, (you like how I didn't use the played-out, overrated, non-funny-no-mo' term "grown-ass-man"), I don't want, and don't need problems and drama. Call me simple, but I'm striving for a life free of problems.

Free.

That's a word we all love, right?

So to that, I say, "Fuck Problems!" I like to think of myself as a well-adjusted adult and my life is neither boring, nor typical. I'm by no means where I want to be, but granted, I don't want more problems. Call me unrealistic if you may, but I won't design my life in a way that welcomes problems. I'll be prepared when they derive, but my goal is to eliminate as many of those as they come.

The End.

P.S. I just realized why I titled this post with the title I did.

Bottomline: It's too many people living their WHOLE lives "In the PURSUIT of happiness", but missing out on the joy and bliss they are suppose to experience by merely living.

Hip Hop Quotable: Message To Pres. Obama

2009-11-06T23:43:00.001-05:00

This is another one of your citizens and tax payers /
I fux with you tough, and don't care 'bout the nay sayers /
inspite of it all because I see the load you're tryin' to carry /
Man, you had my vote even before the primaries /
With that said, in this war, we don't stand a chance /
It's time to bring the troops back from Afghanistan /
Because the shyt we facin', is a no-win situation /
Plus war and death is not the real way to fix our nation /
Let's face it, the war is really just political /
And I'm not hatin' on you, I'm just being critical /
I've always been cynical when it came to politics /
Can't be a blind supporter like others on Obama's dick /
No disrespect but I'm just speakin' my views /
Sick of hearin' 'bout soldiers killed every week in the news /
I know it's tricky and it's a slippery, dangerous slope /
But you can do it 'cause I still believe in Change and Hope

Love vs. Hate

2009-10-30T00:14:00.000-04:00

A few months ago, I wrote a satirical, hillariously funny, insightful, creative, well-worded, introspective, mind-boggling, masterpiece of a blog called "I'm A Hater, He's A Hater, She's A Hater, We Some Haters, Wouldn't You Like To Be A Hater Too?" It also probably deserves an award for the longest title. And no...that's no exaggeration. I just reread it myself and it's STILL that entertaining to me, myself, and my nigga I. I suggest you click the link I conviniently provided.
If you're not satisfied, you can get a full refund upon exiting out of this screen. Oh that's right...I drop this game for free. I call it community service and shyt. Thank me later.

Ok, let me get serious for a minute ~~and I'll jock myself later~~.

Alright...so I wrote this great blog in which I proclaimed myself a hater. "Hater" is still a word that seems to keep extending its 15 minutes of fame longer than a celebreality show star on VH1. I hear or read this word no less than a dozen times a day from people, in songs, in blogs and other websites. Everybody's talkin' about their haters and how people hate on them.

This got me to thinkin'...

In my almost 33 years on this third rock from the sun, I can't recall a time when I came across someone or knew someone who I felt was really HATING on me. Sure my circle of friends, fam, and associates joke around and we talk shyt about one another, but I don't think I really have any HATERS per say.

Throughout the years, I have had my fair share of ups and downs. Whether it's been dealing with fickle high school and college cliques, working certain jobs, following my passion and seeing it materialize, being in certain relationships, or just living my life, people have never really hated on me like that.

One theory could be...well, he's just a cool cat who don't fuck with nobody and always seem to have a positive disposition so he ain't nobody to hate on. And that may very well be true. Who the hell am I to hate on? ~~Except the dopest, most talented-est, funniest, charming-est, smartest, person you may or may never meet...~~

However, my theory is, I just surround myself with ~~dyck riders~~ positive people who are somewhat grounded in their ideas and they appreciate me for who I am.

Seriously, if you have all these haters in your life that you obviously pay an excessive amount of attention to, then maybe you have poor judgement in whom you choose to surround yourself with. My family and friends have always supported me in all of my life endeavors whether I succeeded or failed and I love them for that. I know we all can't choose our family, but as adults, we definitely can limit the amount of time or interaction we have with someone who always seem to piss in your Kool-Aid.

I'm not trying to brag in any way, shape, or form, ~~that's a lie~~ but I do know that I make a conscious effort to distance myself from negativity. I'm also a firm believer in the simple yet complex theorem that you get what you put out. It very well may be possible that no one has ever told me I couldn't be a film director ~~or any of the other zillion things I want to do~~ because I have never shytted on anyone else's dream. I never hated on anyone's success and never celebrated with an "I-Told-You-So" attitude in the midst of someone's failures.

Of course there are some people, like Beyonce, who people just hate on for no valid reason, but those folks are rare.

It's of my belief that some people just claim to have haters just because all the "cool" folks got 'em. In essence, it's fashionable to have haters...and let Katt Williams tell it, "If you don't have haters, you're doing something wrong (paraphrasing)."

I say Fuck that! Show me love...like Kilo. And cheer me on...I appreciate the shyt, fa' real.

As always, thanks for reading.

a film called (one frame)

2009-10-14T17:17:00.003-04:00

Find more videos like this on Presidential Television and Film

"a film called (one frame)" is a collage of images captured by Damon L. Thomas set to music. Consisting of documentary photography, portraits, and landscapes, the powerful imagery takes you on a trip that keeps you on the edge of your seat always wondering what's next.

I'm NOT Kanye!!

2009-09-14T19:03:00.001-04:00

I'd be the first to admit that I'm a big fan of Kanye West's music. I mean HUGE. "College Dropout", "Late Registration", and "Graduation" are ALL astounding masterpieces with an assembly of timeless ditties that draws an array of emotions that I thoroughly empathize with.

Laced with soul far pre-dating its years, the music speaks to me - the regular Black dude that's tryin' to do a lil' sumn' sumn' with the talent he was blessed with. The lures of being raised in a major metropolitan area that thrives on materialism and status - I share that in common with Kanye. Having a behemothic love for music and being from a city that has such a rich history in undeniable musical acts - I share that in common with Mr. West also. I'm emerged in the Hip Hop culture whether I like it or not and the influences that it has on me are seen in many aspects of my life. Kanye West is too. And just in case you missed it the first time, like I said, Kanye and I are both young Black males.

These are all facts that are irrefutable.

However, with all the similarities, I am NOT Kanye West.

I'm sure you've seen or heard about Kanye's incident at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards in which he ~~alledgedly (I say "alledgedly" because the whole thing may have been staged by MTV and the artists involved)~~ snatched the limelight from country singer Taylor Swift who had just received an award for Best Female Video". Kanye took the microphone from the bewildered Swift and said, "Taylor, I'm really happy for you. I'll let you finish but Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time. One of the best videos of all time."

Although very inappropriate for the time and place, what I find more appalling is the reaction and commentary his diva-esque action has resulted in. The Black community never cease to amaze me with how personal we take shyt. When I witnessed the spectacle last night and throughout today, I have heard and read countless numbers of Black people talk about how Kanye's actions was such a bad representation of our race. Everything from "He set us back centuries with that bafoonery" to "See, this is why they look at us the way they do" comments have passed through my ears or have crossed my eyes today. Why do we always do this?

Kanye West is NOT I and I am not KANYE WEST!!

Barack Obama gets elected as President of the United States and all of a sudden, we (Black people) feel like WE did it even though the majority of people who voted for Obama was un-Black. What.The.Fuck. are we acting like that's OUR President for when he's America's President? I have a great deal of respect for President Obama, but he isn't necessarily representative of our race as a whole and neither is Kanye.

Kanye does something that can only be classified as...well, "Kanye-esque" and all of a sudden he's a bad misrepresentation of HIP HOP or young Blacks or Blacks in general??

C'mon now. As I said, I'm a die-hard fan of his music and we share some similarities, but what that nigga did ain't got shyt to do with ME...nor my race...nor my culture. There's a great separation there. We don't share the same bank account and I love my mother enough to tell her, "Ma, you're BEAUTIFUL...you don't need any plastic surgery to keep up with the hollywood standards." I'm not Kanye.

Ok, maybe that was wrong, but you get my point...I'm NOT Kanye West and he is by no means a representation of me or my race.

As much as Black people don't wish to be seen as one-sided, we constantly generalize ourselves by raising certain public figures and viewing them as examples when they are just a mere portion of the whole. Kanye West and I have a lot of shyt in common but he doesn't encompass all that I am and neither does Barack Obama or any other public figure. I'm deeper than that. And WE have more layers than what's presented to us on a one-dimensional television screen.

I do believe we ALL have a little Kanye West in us. *waving my finger like young Tre' from "Boyz 'N Da Hood" in the classroom. All of y'all. At times, we all desire the ability to just truly speak how we feel with no regard to how others feel about it. There's a little bit inside us in which we all wish we didn't always have to be politically correct and we can say what's on our minds and hearts no matter who's in our presence. Don't front, you know you do.

But to say that that type of behavior is exclusive to one race is ridiculous and very laughable.

I don't hear white folks or even gays saying Lady GaGa made THEM look bad. Why are we?

Children Are The Future, But What About NOW?!?!

2009-09-08T15:45:00.000-04:00

While everyone is trippin' off the controversy and/or how "good" President Obama's speech was to the children, I find it sad that the poingnant points can be applied to many (if not most) adults.

I didn't tune into the speech (I had shyt to do), but I did take the time to read the transcript online. Although there isn't anything in the speech that is new or ground-breaking that hasn't been said countless times, I guess it's kinda cool for the kids to hear it from someone who's not their parent or teacher. They probably could've gotten the same message from listening to R.Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly" or even Nas' "I Know I Can" though. Don't hate me, Obama dyck ryders...you know it's true.

As I said before though, the speech is definitely not exclusive to children as our society is filled with grown ass adults who can definitely learn a thing or two from it. Who the hell am I kiddin'? If we ALL (no exemption of myself) was to seriously do a serious lil' self-evaluation, I'm sure none of us is completely living up to our absolute greatest potential. Lie to yourself if you want to.

Although I can rehash many times in my personal and professional life where I have slouched off a bit on this blog and have you all read them, I rather not. Instead, I'll just turn to my inner-self, do the evaluation, and correct any ongoing issues that I may still have. And instead you reading my laundry list, I suggest you just do the same.

Some kids may take something extremely inspiring and motivational from Obama's speech, but many won't. And even though I'm not the President of the United States, similarly, many adults won't even take the time to seriously evaluate their own life and see how they can improve, but if my "Presidential" blog here encourages at least one, I guess it serves its purpose.

Just Do better.

Hip Hop Quotable - Dom Kennedy "I Apologize"

2009-09-03T23:48:00.001-04:00

*"Fuck being real wit' you, I'm just being real wit' me / We can make a home, Love, you just gotta build with me / I don't need that loud shit, you just gotta chill with me / If life's a bumpy road, it's a lot of hills with me / Never let 'em see you sweat, it's a lot concealed wit' me / I wanna do it the right way, it's a lot instilled in me" - Dom Kennedy "I Apologize"

Life Is But A Beach Chair *No Jay-Z*

2009-09-01T21:20:00.000-04:00

"Speed of life...fast."
- Ice-T

Tracy ain't never lie when he spit those simple, yet introspective lyrics some 21 years ago at the start of the classic tale of "High Rollers". Life is fast; extremely quick-paced where at the blink of an eye, one's world may be shattered and turned upside down with no prior warning or even a premonition. Life is so quick, our loved ones are often here today, gone tomorrow leaving us reminiscing on the cherished times we've shared with them mourning and celebrating all at the same time. Life races by at such a rapid pace that time flies when you're even having fun. *No Janet* The speed of life is so damn fast it doesn't even seem like it was over TWO DECADES when I first heard Ice-T rapping about the speed of life being So. Damn. Fast.

People die every day all day. Although this is no revelation and it's the one part of life that is inevitable, death remains one thing that many people have a mixed array of emotions surrounding. Those who believe in an afterlife believe that it's a transitional period to (hopefully) a better existence. Those who don't, see it as just the end of the road. *No Boyz II Men* Regardless, life's a bitch and then you die. *No Nas* And the old me is dead and gone. *No T.I.mberlake*

Okay, where was I?

Oh yeah...

We're all gonna die.

Not to sound so morbid or anything, but my lady and I was discussing funerals and how different people conduct themselves during them and how we would want people to react to our deaths.

Happy topic, right?

Actually, it is. Fortunately, for the both of us, we love laughing and shyt so although neither of us want people dancing on our grave talkin' 'bout "Ding Dong, the witch is dead...", we also don't want people falling out, in classic over-dramatical fashion, boo-hooin' and hollerin' making the spectacle moreso about THEM as oppose to the folk in the box (or churn). I, for one, don't want to be remembered as a saint who can do no wrong 'cause Lord knows, I'm not perfect. Thus far though, I've been a pretty good dude (if I do say so myself...and I do) and I pray that I have impacted the lives of many already in an extremely positive and inspirational way in regards to all people I have come into contact with.

With that said though, I've decided to make a list of things that I DO want people to do in remembrance of me ~~instead of locking themselves in a room and crying a river and shyt~~. God forbid, I pray that that time isn't coming soon (I've got shyt to do), but I don't want folks to steal my shine with all their crying and shyt.

1. Take heed and share my wisdom.

Even though I hope cats remember me as an all-around cool guy who always had something funny and entertaining to offer, I do drop gems that may either save or change your life if attention you pay. My personality, whether I'm being humorous or serious is often laced with subtle jewels and words that you can take with you (free of charge) and I'd say 94% of people I encounter don't realize the wealth that lay before them.

By no means is that meant to sound cocky or egotistical, it's just actual...and factual. *No TLC*

2. Rejoice in my art.

Anyone who knows me knows that I'm an artist...and I'm (admittedly) sensitive about my shyt. *No Erykah* Whether it's visual, written, or audible, I take my arts pretty darn seriously and I feel you should too. And I do not have a big ego. *No Beyonce and No Kanye*

I just think my shyt is dope. Maybe I'm biased. I'ont know. From all my writings, film and video projects, recordings, photographs...I just want my work to get its proper due. I'm not saying I'm the dopest who ever done any of these things, but I'm damn sure talented and want people to appreciate my art for what it is. Dope.

3. Respect my loved ones left behind.

Although I may be in pre-production for a "We're All In The Same Gang"-esque type video featuring Pac, Aaliyah, Big Pun, Biggie, Left Eye, Eazy-E, Big L, MC Trouble, dude from Millie Vanilli, and Jam Master Jay, I would still find time to haunt your ass on earth if you fuck with my folks. So don't do it.

4. Play that funky music. *No white boy*

I haven't started and God-willing, I'll have ample time to complete a music playlist that will serve as the quintessential soundtrack of my life. I'm talking about a multitude of musical masterpieces that span across a number of genres that will encompass different stages of my life. Every song will have it's own significance that some people may understand and connect with, or maybe not. Nevertheless, it's all ME.

This collection of tunes should be made available by free download on a website dedicated to my memory which will also contain other works by yours truly.

5. Party like it's yo' burfday. *No 50 Cent*

This is self-expalnatory. I encourage everyone to celebrate in their own special way, but when folks do gather together in my memory, I want everyone to thoroughly have a blast. I'd have it no other way. Not in a "dancing the night away" type of good time, but talking about how great I am/was, relishing in my accomplishments and legacy, eating, drinking and listening to my soundtrack. See #4. Don't pour out any liquor for moi, drink it up...or at least throw it up in the sky for me, sheesh.

This list is not all inclusive, but it's all I can think of right now.

In short, celebrate and cherish life RIGHT NOW. Find joy in the good and don't focus on the negative cause no matter how cliche-ish it may sound, life IS too short *No Too Short*...and the speed of life is indeed faster than a muafugga.

***SIDENOTE: This is the first and only post you'll hear me using the "No (fill in the blank)". Thank you.***

One In A Million

2009-08-25T11:17:00.000-04:00

R.I.P. Aaliyah Dana Haughton

so You're a philosopher??

2009-08-04T11:21:00.001-04:00

"Although a quote may be (or sound) profound, it doesn't mean you should live your life by it. Context is clues."

-Monk

I Guess It's Just The Penalty Of Leadership

2009-08-04T11:01:00.001-04:00

To those not under a rock (No Rocafella), I'm sure you're familiar with the whole Louis "Skip" Gates fiasco with Cambridge, MA police officers that landed him in cuffs and arrested. In summary, older Black guy didn't have the keys to his home upon returning and was seen by a neighbor as trying to jimmy the door open. Police were called. In the process of questioning him (once he was already inside of HIS home), frustration and temper resulted in him saying that the officer(s) were profiling him because of his color. The police said Gates, who walks with a cane, obviously presented a threat to them and upon stepping onto his porch was arrested for disorderly conduct.

**Note: I'm on my AfricanAmerican Berry so I can't add the links, but you get the jist of it**

Given the circumstances, I'm almost certain that "cooler heads" would have prevented this incident in becoming the news fiasco it was a couple of weeks ago. But oh well...it is what it is.

However, I think it's a damn shame that the President Of The United States Of America has entertained this mess. Both men basically acted as if they were in their own right for acting as they did. After having a brew and shyt at the White House, they still agree to disagree. Basically, no progress was made.

With all that said, I find it very disheartening that Black folks are STILL bending over backwards to kiss certain people's asses (or appease to them). When it's all said and done, we still live in a nation where racist ideologies have been passed down from centuries and there's really no changing that unless you intercept those thoughts before they infest the minds of the children (Even with that, the cynic in me says that's impossible).

To see the President of the nation feeling like he needs to take time out of whatever presidential duties to host a beer party between two men who represent two different walks of life - the racist, entitled white man of authority and the belligerent black man who has been pre-judged, is like damn.

I guess as a President in a nation where there are so many racists, you gotta sit down and talk to them too, huh?

Penalty of leadership.

NTTAWWT

2009-08-02T11:05:00.000-04:00

Saw this this morning on one of my facebook friends statuses:

"Men = Confusion"

Oh yeah, he's gay, by the way...NotThatThere'sAnythingWrongWithThat.

I consider him lucky he don't like women. Talk about confusion.

***SideNote: I love sentences that use the same word in a succedent order like "Saw this this morning...". Yeah, that's dope. EndSideNote***

Muthafugga, Say What?!?

2009-07-29T14:38:00.000-04:00

Over the past few years we've heard Kanye West say some pretty outrageous things, but this probably takes the cake.

“You know everyone loves and respects Michael but times change. It’s so sad to see Michael gone but it makes a path for a new King of Pop and I’m willing to take that on. There’s nobody who can match me in sales and in respect so it only makes sense for me to take over Michael’s crown and become the new King. First there was Elvis, then there was Michael, now in the 21st century its Kanye’s time to rule. I have nothing but respect for Michael but someone needs to pick up where he left off and there’s nobody better than me to do that. I am the new King of Pop.”

Wow!!

Talk about someone having a "big ego". The statement is beyond absurd in and of itself, but to have the gall to say that you're the successor to Michael Jackson regardless of how talented Kanye may be, is simply crack-ish. Just as a doped up Whitney Houston referred to her then-husband as the "King Of R&B" at some award show years back, I'm of the belief that Mr. West may very well be under the influence of some serious narcotics.

Think about it.

Vanity and the lures of Hollywood is largely responsible for the death of his mother not so long ago. I believe that God works in mysterious ways, but Kanye obviously still hasn't learned much from that ordeal. This devastating loss in addition to the break up of his long-time girlfriend helped produce the wacktastic "808 And Heartbreaks" album which sucked ass. That's the thing with drugs - They may free your creative juices and lead to the creation of some really mind-blowing material...OR, they can just reveal the fact that your mind was really blowed. Now he's even dating a bald head lesbian. It'll be interesting to know who's fuggin' who in that relationship. Actually, it wouldn't be.

Given these facts and considering the recent quote above, I'm greatly under the impression that the dude needs some type of drug intervention. He seems like the type to surround himself with 'yes men' who ride his dick IRregardless of how wack he may act (or his music can be) at times. They probably won't be the ones to do it, but dammit, I wish SOMEBODY would.

But then again, the two guys he mentioned as the previous "Kings", Elvis and MJ, apparently had drug problems in their past also, so hey, he may just be unto something.

Now THAT'S Television!!

2009-07-29T10:17:00.000-04:00

"Tiny & Toya"

I think it's a very good show that is much needed. I know many people who bashed it from its onset (and before it even aired) just based on Tiny and Toya's persona, but if you sincerely watch the show from an unbiased standpoint, you'll quickly recognize that it has redeemable qualities and gives a unique look into the lives of these women and obstacles they face.

I'm by no means saying that it's emmy-worthy or anything like that, but I do feel it has gotten an unjust bad rap just because people have passed judgement on them and the network and already have a preconceived notion that it's a bunch of crock.

Honestly, once you get pass the deep-southern accents of the ladies (in which a significant number of folks in the south really sound like), you'll realize that the real issues that these women face are common place in the Black community and are often taboo topics that we rarely discuss, let alone air on national television. The show's previews that were heavily promoted didn't spark my interest in the least bit, but I gave it a shot any way and was pleasantly surprised.

It disheartens me however to read or hear people's (especially Black people) negative remarks towards the show when they haven't even watched it. This is a plague that has swarmed over us for too long and I feel like in a way it's the manifestation of the whole 'crabs in a bucket' syndrome. There's a deeply-rooted "hate" (for lack of a better term) that exists in many of us and we just don't want to see others succeed and we make our discontent known to others who in turn hop on the bandwagon when it becomes a popular opinion. I hope I'm making sense to you.

And for those who have watched the show and concluded that they didn't like it, this isn't referring to you at all.

With that said, I encourage all (especially ignorant muafuggas who pass judgement on such things without actually seeing for themselves) take the time out and either watch it and form an opinion on it or shut the fugg up.

Thank you kindly for reading :-)

Dumb Smart People

2009-07-25T00:00:00.000-04:00

Some of the "smartest" folks can be so "dumb".
Exhibit A: Lauryn Hill
Exhibit B: Nasir Jones

At relationships, they suck.

Tragic

2009-07-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

Download: Amerie - "Why R U (Remix) feat. Jadakiss, Nas, Rick Ross, and Cain
Above are a few photos of a gorgeous Amerie...and a remix you can download of her latest single featuring some well notable names in the realm of Hip Hop. Check it out.

All I have to say is timing is a bytch. Damn that Beyonce'!! No one gets shine.

Hard Being Me

2009-07-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

It's hard being the one who evokes thought when no one really wants to think. Think about it.

Daddy's Girl

2009-07-22T00:00:00.003-04:00

Just read this on a "friend's" facebook status:

Jonathan King's bout to kick it wit my daughter...the only lady I love, who I knows she knows what she wants, and the only one that knows what she wants...love u princess!

4 hours ago · Comment · Like
Tony Planter likes this.

Rodney IMIGHTBEGAY Anderson I know thats right.....thats always whats up!!
4 hours ago

Karl GoodDude...BUT"IMightNeedAFavorFromJon" Simms Thats what's up Jon.
4 hours ago

Christina MakeShiftDivaInTraining Hacksaw Hey i know what I want!!!...Some Coldstone....a long run on the beach...and retirement...LOL :-)...Hope you enjoy every moment with your baby girl!!
4 hours ago

Melinda CanYouTakeCareOfMine Bridges aaawww sooo sweet get ready to have BIGGG FUNN!!!!
4 hours ago

Pre' Shiss CanYouTakeCareOfMineToo Johnson Awwwww...can you come get my daughter and her friends too so I can take a nap!! Lol!! Enjoy your QT with your Lil lady Jon!!
4 hours ago

Melody IWishYouWasMYBabyFavva Williams That's what's up...me and my first born at the arts festival
3 hours ago

Jonathan King I'm so excited watching Harry potter wit my daughter. She's so lovely.
3 hours ago
===============================================

This shyt is so sad.

Don't get me wrong, it's cool for a father to connect with his daughter, However, given the context, it doesn't seem like a regular occasion. So why is this dude receiving praises?

On another note, if he doesn't have a woman in his life, his mother, grandmother, sister, whomever...I think it's pretty pathetic for that to be the only "female" you care about in a loving manner. That speaks a lot about your character.

I'd say the same thing about chicks and their sons too.

That's it.

Is this MEAN?

2009-07-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

I recently had a conversation with an old acquaintance of mine and it went a lil' somethin' like this:

Old Acquaintance: So what you been up to playa?
Me: Tryin' ta make a dollar out of fifteen cents...you know how it is...
O.A.: Actually, I don't. I've been doing pretty damn good. Eatin' good...lookin' good...ridin' good...the hoes love it when you stay fresh. Knowwhatimsayin'? You still doin' the little video shyt?
Me: Yeah...things have slowed up a bit, but you know...it's like a marathon, not a sprint sometimes.
O.A.: Yeah, I got some niggas I fuck wit'...I might want you to shoot somethin' for them. How's ATL treatin' you man? What type of car you in now?
Me: Just a lil' bucket...'94 Infiniti.
O.A.: *cocky chuckle* Nigga we GRADUATED in NINETY-FOUR!!

He continues on about how he attended one-year of college, started hustling, and dropped out to hustle full time. In the past 15 yrs. ('94-'09) he spent close to 36 months in jail, has two daughters by two different women, two Mercedes', and lost two of his closest buddies living the hustler's lifestyle. Convo continues...

O.A.: Damn, "Mr. Big-Time Video Director!!" I thought you would be doin' better than that, down there in ATL.
Me: At least I didn't lose two of my homies who were MURDERED because of their "career" paths.

Was I wrong for that?

***By the way, I didn't say that last statement...or at least not in those words.***

Bag Lady

2009-07-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

I think that chicks who carry big ass purses EVERY WHERE they go have a lot of baggage.

That is all.

Niggas...

2009-07-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

I LOVE the group N.W.A., but I HATE niggas with attitudes.

P.S.A. - Stupidest Shyt I Ever Heard!!

2009-07-18T13:23:00.000-04:00

After attending elementary, middle, high, college, and grad schools, it seems like a lot of folks I know are truly trying to stake their claim on the American Dream. Those who haven't gone as far in education and has chose other career paths, jobs, military, "marrying rich", hustling, or whatever to create the life they are conditioned to believe as THEIR "American Dream" is on that path as well to their proverbial pot of gold.

Sort of.

To quote the "Jefferson's" theme song, everybody wants their "piece of the pie".

EVERYBODY.

However, it's been a current (maybe not so current) trend that people DON'T NEED SLEEP. Many individuals in pop culture has pushed this idea out to the masses that in order to obtain their status and live their unglorious lives, one must NEVER SLEEP.

Take a (re-read) moment if you must... but, YES, there are people who feel like you (or they) need to hustle 25/8.

*in my Katt Williams' voice*
Are you seriously hating on SLEEP??

You know what though? Everybody needs fuggin' sleep. Everybody. Rest. Vacation. Natural day-to-day SLEEP!! Not to mention, some people just REALLY do need their "beauty sleep".

I constantly hear people exclaim that sentiment and I respect people's decisions to the fullest. Although, I do tend to question them. I'm inquisitive like that. It's not a judgemental quality at all, just me gaining insight into how they feel and view things.

The more you know.

With that said, I truly question the mantra of "not sleeping" or "sleep is for the weak" or "sleep when you die" amongst business professionals, hustlers, artists, ANY ONE.

Sleep is fuggin' natural. Your body NEEDS it...just like food and air. Try holding your breath forever and see where that gets you, David Blain.

I understand the idea of not "overly sleeping" or "sleeping on opportunities" and unnecessarily wasting time, but living by the assumption that "sleep" is (insert anything negative), is the stupidest shyt I've heard. Actually, I've heard a lot of stupid shyt so it might not be the "stupidest" but it definitely rates in the upper tier.

Sleep is important for:
*Concentration
*Memory formation and bolstering your memory
*Repairing damage to your body's cells during the day
*Maintaining a healthier heart
*Reducing stress
*Preventing cancer
*Reducing inflammation
*Losing weight
*Reducing your risk for depression

Lack of sleep increases the risk for:
*developing obesity
*diabetes
*cardiovascular disease
*infections
*a bad fuggin' attitude!!

Unfortunately, I lot of people have also been duped into believing that their daily trip to Starbucks can make up for the drowsy feeling they have. Caffeine is not a replacement for good ol' fashioned sleep and resting up. I know we all have busy lifestyles and a few hours of sleep is something that may seem expendable because you're trying to provide a better life and lifestyle for yourself and your children, but is the health risks and valuable years you may be taking off your life really worth it?

So next time someone says something to the effect of "I don't sleep", "I'm a hustler baby, we don't sleep", or "I don't need sleep, I'm tryin' to get this paper," please refer them to this post. Take heed...I may just save your life. Thank me later and shyt :-)

This has been a Public Service Announcement brought to you by the good folks at Presidential Television and Film.

My Take On The 2009 B.E.T. Awards Show...

2009-07-02T19:13:00.000-04:00

"Nielsen Media Research shows the Jamie Foxx-hosted show, which was dedicated to the memory of music icon Michael Jackson, was a ratings success by drawing the cable channel’s largest audience on record with an average of 10.65 million viewers.

As a result, the viewership of this year’s BET Awards was more than any other cable broadcast this year and more than any prime-time show on the major networks."
-AllHipHop.com

SCORE CARD

B.E.T. = 1

Everyone Who Watched It, Criticized Every Minute Detail, Bytched And Complained About It Days After, Swear Up And Down That They Haven't Watched B.E.T. Since 2004 Yet Always Seem To Know What's Airing On The Network, And Vowed That They Will Never Watch B.E.T. Again, But Are More Than Likely To Tune In Next Year For The 2010 B.E.T. Awards = 0

Now THAT'S Black Star Power...LOL!!!!!!!!

"This Is Bad, Real Bad, Michael Jackson"

2009-06-25T19:53:00.001-04:00

Betcha when Kanye West rapped those lines he never expected that months later, MJ would be deceased at the age of 50.

Although many folks really have a love/hate relationship with Michael Jackson because of his accusations, trials, and a host of other issues that has plagued his life, there's no taking away the fact that he is an iconic entertainer who in many ways sacrificed his entire life for the entertainment of all. Every soul in our generation has at least one amazing Michael Jackson memory that's as vivid in our minds as if it happened just yesterday. Whether it's opening that gift box on Christmas Day to find out that your auntie bought you a "Beat It" jacket...or watching the Victory tour on TV and reenacting the brothers' performance in your grandmother's backyard as family members and neighbors watched...or trying to perfectly do the moon walk and other signature dances and moves he popularized, we all had some type of connection to Michael. Don't front...I know I'm the only one who did all those things...lol!!

My love for music runs DEEP and Jackson's legendary "Thriller" album was the first record I ever bought with my own money. I remember ripping off the plastic on it as if I could play the record in my father's car or something. Realizing that I couldn't of course, I just opted to read the lyrics and the liner notes during the car ride home. Michael's death comes as a "thriller" in it's own right, but at least the memories that we have of him will live on forever. You'll be missed Mike Jack.

Here's one of the GREATEST VIDEOS OF ALL TIME starring Michael Jackson and a slew of others..."Remember The Time".

40 Acres and a Mule...the 2009 Equivalent or SOMETHING??

2009-06-18T21:35:00.000-04:00

Pac really has little to do with this post but since his birthday just passed on June 16th, I didn't see a problem with posting it. This post does have everything to do with the mule, land, and Black family who he shares the photograph with though. As we know, the term "forty acres and a mule" derived from General Sherman's orders after the Cival War declaring that the formerly enslaved Blacks would receive that amount a land and a mule to cultivate it. After Abe Lincoln fell victim to an assassin's bullet, the new President, Andrew Johnson revoked Gen. Sherman's orders. Shyt hasn't been the same since.
I ran across this article on CNN.com and didn't really know what to think about it:

"WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The U.S. Senate on Thursday passed a resolution apologizing to African-Americans for the wrongs of slavery.

The nonbinding resolution sponsored by Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, is similar to a House resolution adopted last year that acknowledged the wrongs of slavery but offered no reparations. The House will have to vote on the issue again because the composition of that chamber changed after last November's elections.

The resolution was approved on a voice vote.

Because it is nonbinding, it does not have to be forwarded to the president for his signature.

Several states have passed similar resolutions, but the House resolution was the first time a branch of the federal government did so.

Harkin's resolution "acknowledges the fundamental injustice, cruelty, brutality and inhumanity of slavery, and Jim Crow laws," and "apologizes to African-Americans on behalf of the people of the United States for the wrongs committed against them and their ancestors who suffered under slavery and Jim Crow laws."

Jim Crow laws were state and local laws enacted mostly in U.S. Southern and border states between the 1870s and 1965 that denied African-Americans the right to vote and other civil liberties, as well as legally segregated them from whites.

Some members of the African-American community have called on lawmakers to give cash payments or other financial benefits to descendants of slaves as compensation for the suffering caused by slavery."

My understanding is that they're voting on whether or not the federal government should issue an official apology to the descendants of slaves who were essential in building this nation to be ~~the powerful world leader~~ what it is today. Some say that "time heals wounds" and I tend to agree with this statement in many aspects. This isn't one of them. The enslaving of Black people has been legally abolished for a little over a century and the Jim Crow laws that hunted Blacks after that have for the most part been eradicated in the past half century or so. *NOTE: THIS IS NOT A LONG TIME AT ALL* Affirmative action programs ~~which mostly help women and OTHER minorities who are NOT Black~~ were designed to even up the playing field in the realms of education and employment. Welfare and other forms of government assistance are often looked at by some as the government's way of helping out unprivileged Blacks who may not have the same opportunities as whites, however, the great majority of recipients are white. In essence, Blacks have never received their "forty acres and a mule" and have always been at a high disadvantage in the United States of America.

Of course some may point out the election of President Barack Hussein Obama as a sign that Blacks are on equal grounds as whites and can do whatever they want as long as they work hard. After the election, I even heard a plethora of Blacks talking about, "There's no excuse now, we have to step our game up...we got a Black president." I'm calling bullshyt. Of course we have to "step our game up" (in which we have BEEN in many ways...not so much in others), but that has always been the focus of the Black community for the most part. So my problem with this is that Blacks have BEEN working hard and struggling...to little avail. The majority of wealth in this country is passed down from generation to generation and it has little to do with much else. Of course there are many success stories of people pulling themselves up from their bootstraps and becoming "successful", but that's FAR from the majority when it comes to people who are descendants of slaves and victims of America's racist laws. This is not an excuse. It's fact. It's no doubt that the descendants of the white slave owners are doing a whole lot better than the descendants of slaves a century and a half after they were considered "free". That's common sense and it's inevitable. If you can't respect that, your whole perceptive is wack.

I say all that to say if you think that one group of people who have been discriminated against for over four centuries and is STILL considered second-class citizens in the "free world" is EQUAL to another group who haven't experienced any of that, you're sadly mistaken.

An apology from the federal government is definitely well overdue, but without any action behind the statement, it's bullshyt.

Do you feel like descendants of slaves should be compensated, and if so, how?

All Sold Out!!

2009-06-14T12:59:00.000-04:00

"Writin' rhymes, tryin' ta find our spot off in that light
Light off in that spot, knowin' that we could rock
Doin' the hole in the wall clubs, this shit here must stop
Like freeze, We makin' the crowd move but we not makin' no G's
And that's a no nooo..."
- Andre 3K "Elevators" by Outkast

We've all heard the saying before that the music business is 10% "music", 90% "BUSINESS".

This rings to be true.

Many (if not every) recording artist that is out right now (no matter the genre) is MERELY using music as a stepping stone in creating a BRAND for themselves that includes music, but definitely not limited to it. Movies, television, clothing lines, soft drinks, cologne/perfume, underwear, footwear, real estate, reality shows, internet sites, cell phone companies, record labels, TOYS...not to mention endorsing such products from existing companies have all catapulted many artists to spots on the Forbes most paid entertainers list and other accolades. With little thanks to actual MUSIC, we have seen rappers transform into moguls leading a path (or dream) for EVERY nigga in the hood to become such an entrepreneur.

I'm not opposed at all to people who are capitalizing on their celebrity...in fact, I encourage it. Shiiiddd...that's what you're suppose to do.

However, when you start compromising your own personal integrity to sell a product, that's when I take issue. That's when you're a sell out. Now for the youngins who may only be familiar with terms like "hater" and "swag", a "sell out" was a word that we used to throw around all the time when somone wasn't being true to themselves. In youngster hiphop terms, a "sell out" is the same thing as a "hater"...except they were really only hating on themselves and their culture while taking away from their own character.

It's a real slippery slope though. Many people labeled M.C. Hammer (watch for his new show if you dare) a sell out when he made commercials for KFC, Taco Bell, Pepsi, and even endorsed British Knights. Those endorsements made him millions and also branded him a sell out amongst his peers. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, he did have the M.C. Hammer doll complete with a Saturday morning cartoon. Same thing with one of my favorite rap groups Kid 'N Play. ***SideNote: I almost typed "favorite rap duos", but I'd be remiss if I didn't recognize DJ Wiz's position in the group. EndSideNote*** For the most part, they made fun-loving music, yet they were still given the side-eye amongst their peers when the cartoon and "House Party" movies franchise took off. Were they sell outs?? END SIDENOTE***

A lot of the more gangsta rap shyt I used to listen to proved that there was no room for endorsements and shyt like that. Until...

"Told all my friends / Don't drink 8ball (OldEnglish 800) cause St. Ides is givin' ends"
- Ice-Cube "Steady Mobbin'"

All of a sudden, it was the cool thing to endorse these companies.

This was ground-breaking. Cube, Wu-Tang, Biggie, 2Pac and Snoop, Dr. Dre, MC Eiht, King Tee, and others all endorsed the malt liquor. Whether they drunk the shyt or not...I doubt it. But they were making their cheese. Were they sell outs??

Before I knew it, you had emcees who were legions away from being considered commercial such as KRS-ONE and MC Shan in a boxing ring rapping about Sprite. Were they sell outs?

"Forget this rap shit, I need a new hustle / A little bit of everything, a new improved Russell" - "The Prelude" Jay-Z

It was a wrap from there. Jay-Z got a sneaker deal with Reebok...50 Cent followed suit and started selling water in addition. Lil' Jon and crew slung energy drinks...followed by Nelly and Ice-T. Diddy's actually winning awards for his clothing line and setting sales records for his cologne. And thanks to Russell Simmons, everybody and their mama is pushing clothes and accessories. Did they all sell out??

Meanwhile...

Record sales are slowly diminishing.

Earlier this year, I heard a Keith Sweat commercial advertising chicken McNuggets. That's right...CHICKEN MC-fuckin'-NUGGETS!! I'm not the biggest Keith Sweat fan, but damn, it's funny what a check can do to some people.

AND...

Just recently, my favorite producer of all time, the good ol' Dr. Dre has just recorded some television spots for Dr. Pepper. I don't see the connection at all between the beverage company and one of the architects of the gangsta rap music I'm so fond of. Maybe I need to be a "doctor" of psychology to understand this.

***SIDENOTE: I do know that on a short skit on NWA's "EFIL4ZAGGIN" tape, Eazy (Muthaphuckin') E sung, "I'm a nigga, he's a nigga, she's a nigga, we some niggas...wouldn't you like to be a nigga too?" in the melody of the famous Dr. Pepper commercial jingle. Maybe the two Dr.'s (Dre and Pepper) have been planning this since '91. I. Not. Know. Do the pop company even KNOW that Dr. Dre had this on one of his albums? I have lost sleep pondering questions like these. END SIDENOTE***

It's like NOBODY just wants to solely make music nowadays. Even cats that rap and produce such as David Banner acknowledges that Hollywood checks are WAY better than checks from music.

Yet, they STILL wonder why the sales are falling????

Seems like a no-brainer to me.

Before, everything was geared towards promoting, marketing, and selling the album. In this day and age, the album is basically the promotional tool for selling the brand. This takes focus out of putting together the best possible album because now the artists and their management are more concerned about endeavors that will bring more income as oppose to quality music.

GOOD music is my life's soundtrack. And although I'm not knocking anybody's hustle, don't expect me (a fan) to purchase subpar music. In the words of a great poet Marshall Mathers, "We're the ones who made you."

I really didn't have a point with this post, just wanted to get the shyt off my chest. Much love and continued success to all the artists out there who continue to give my life a background beat. Hope the rest get a clue.

The Worst Drug Known To Man

2009-06-12T12:33:00.000-04:00

“10lbs. 197kts. Very very real I don’t know what fake feel like.$410,000. Hola señor recession proof. With 32 cars.Oldest child 5 and already got 4 million in her own account.I dont do dumb shit like this till I know the fams good. So don’t judge me frm what I buy.Judge me frm what I do.Cuz it’s so many artists that put themself before their family.but thanx yo" - T-Pain via his Twitter.

Alright. When I first saw this piece of gawdy ass jewlery, all I could ask myself is "why, why, why??" With head down in the palms of my hands, I thought to call T-Pain every synonym I could think of for the word "coon". I mean, really, what's an appropriate time and/or event to wear this type of chain? Weighing in a 10 pounds and costing two fifths of a million dollars, I don't think this is something that you would wear everyday. If he's in the studio working, there's no reason to wear it there. Red carpet event? Nope. Music video shoot? Maybe, but once you wear it in one clip, it's kinda ran its course and it's not fresh anymore. When hanging out with his kids? Ummm, no. While making an appearance at the club? Yes, if you wanna invite dem jackboys to relieve you of that ten pounds around your neck. During the sexing of a groupie (or wife)? I'm quite sure no woman wants a "BIG ASS CHAIN" smacking up against their flesh while making whoopee. Maybe a "BIG ASS..." something else, but definitely not a "CHAIN".

Now, at a time when rappers (most who wear fake and flawed jewels anyway) switch up their "chain game" every 6 to 9 months or so, I suppose he can always create enough photo ops for himself and this "BIG ASS CHAIN" and then just recycle the stones in it for making something else. Then again, if he wants to spend his cheese that way, hey, who am I (read: broke ass) to knock him. Do ya thang...shine on 'dem fools and give your ego an ultra boost if you wanna (read: need to)...lol!!

***SIDENOTE: I think it's cool how most actors and actresses are basically LOANED jewlery, dresses, gowns, and suits by respectable designers and jewelers when it's time to make public appearances, but niggas just go crazy and feel the need to buy shyt up. END SIDENOTE***

The thing that does get me though is the fact that he admits, "I dont do dumb shit like this till I know the fams good. So don’t judge me..." yada yada yada. Whoa!! Ok, you KNOW that it's "dumb shit", yet you STILL take pride in doing it???? Your daughter may have millions in a bank account, but who knows, with a father who does DUMB SHIT, those millions can evaporate by her 21st birthday if she doesn't make the right decisions and do DUMB SHIT herself. The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Obviously though, her pops has a good head on his shoulders and she'll be raised to make good, sound choices.

*can you hear the sarcasm echoing up HERE...Here...here...??*

Trust, I'm not a fan of telling people what to do with their money 'cause I damn sure don't want nobody telling me what to do with mine. If Oprah wants to build a ~~scandal-ridden~~ school in South Africa while the school system in America struggles to keep up with the rest of the globe, so be it. If a singer (he's more of a singer than rapper folks) wants to spend a half-a-mil on one piece of jewlery, more power to ya. I just ask with all the wisdom and foresight that you apparently have, genius, is that REALLY what you wanna do??

BANGER ALERT!! - Jay-Z "Death Of Autotune"

2009-06-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

This is LONG overdue. I've been telling cats for years that we need to get back to more violence in rap music. And NO, I'm not jokin'. Too many effeminate cats out there making songs for the ladies, the clubs, and/or the radio. Using the same formula and you wonder why the people rather download your material for free instead of purchasing it. As my Summer 2009 Draft Pick, Dom Kennedy, says, "Every trend change and you bite the style / That's why people don't like you now." All the rainbow bright colors, tight ass jeans, and singin' rappers reigns will be ending soon. Poof, vamoose...(you know the rest).

Check out Jay-Z's "Death Of Autotune".

My Sound's Laid Down By The Underground

2009-06-05T11:08:00.000-04:00

Digital Underground definitely broke the mold in the late 80's when it comes to hip hop groups. Lead by Shock G, his alter-ego, Humpty Hump, and Money B, (and the "Piano Man"...not sure if he was an official member) the group took the whole fun vibe that existed before them to new heights while encouraging all to "DoWhutChaLike". They also introduced the artist who is arguably hip hop's most relevant cultural icon ever, 2Pac.

About twenty years later, I came across these rare videos of Shock opening up at a Seattle comedy club. I vividly recall the first time I heard "Freaks Of The Industry" and was bugging out off of how he used multiple choice questions in the lyrics. Crazy Creative. The story played out like a Cinemax movie in my mind detailing the kinky thought process with equally imaginative visuals. It instantly was my favorite song on the tape. Thus, this video from a couple of years back gave me a nostalgic sensation and prompted me to post this. Enjoy.

Here's an added bonus with him covering Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit".

"VIXENS" trailor

2009-06-04T15:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a trailor for a project I've been working on. "VIXENS" is designed to give a much-needed voice to the lovely ladies who grace the music video screen and magazines that we see on a regular basis. Before passing judgement, we all should take a glimpse into their lives and see what's really going on their world. It's not all about the glitz and the glamour.
Directed by Damon L. Thomas

Find more videos like this on Presidential Television and Film

To Snitch, Or Not To Snitch?

2009-05-10T09:31:00.001-04:00

Wowsers!! Don't know what to say about THIS. The Smoking Gun has published some news that's going to leave a sour taste in the mouths of lots of hip hop fans. Supposedly, ~~Grand Hustle~~ artist, Alfamega, served as a DEA informant some moons ago in return for shaving off time for a bid he was sentenced to. Of course, the matter is a little too close for comfort for T.I. as he is preparing to turn himself into a federal prison to serve a year and a day sentence after an informant participated in getting him caught up.

T.I.'s statement about the matter:

"I am stunned and totally surprised by the news about Alfa “Ced” Zellers. Even though all of our artists and employees are asked by us to be honest and open about their past history, at no time did Alfa disclose to me or Grand Hustle what has now appeared in the media. He essentially deceived us by failing to fully disclose the truth about his past, and there is no place in our organization for dishonest and misleading behavior.

As I’ve always said, you must take responsibility for your own actions. We at Grand Hustle can not support or condone blaming others for our own mistakes. I hope and pray that God blesses Cedric’s plans, but i don’t foresee me or my company playing a role in his personal or professional business."

Whoa.

I've worked with Alfamega and ran into him on several occasions and he's always seemed like a good, genuine dude. Although I don't have anything to say about his current situation, it does make me think about the whole "no snitching" code that permeates society. And YES, I say "society" because even though certain media outlets ~~and dumb ass rappers~~ may make it seem like the code is inherent to hip hop culture, it ISN'T. The "no snitching" code runs rampant in corporate America, government, the streets, education, military...all that. That's one problem I have with how shyt somehow gets misconstrued and all of a sudden typical behavior/codes are placed upon a particular demographic. It's bigger than Hip Hop as dead prez would say. That's a whole 'nother post though.

Thing is, I'll tell anybody, straight up, that if you harm me, my family, or my friends, I'M FUCKIN' TELLIN'!! Yep, damn right. I'll do anything in my power to bring you to justice if you fuck with my loved ones. That may mean ~~putting a hit out on you~~ calling the police or testifying if I know that you're responsible for something that did my folks wrong. Call me a snitch. I'll be dat.

Now, if I'm a participant in something that might not be kosher and I get caught or something, I wouldn't "snitch" on my other partner(s) who were in the clear at all. I'm loyal to a fault, but that's just me.

However, I wonder how many people would actually participate with the government in bringing down someone else whom they have no affiliation with to shave some time off their sentence (or be in the clear). Afterall, if that person(s) isn't your homeboy/girl, do you REALLY owe them any allegiance at all? Is there honor amongst thieves? I'ont know.

On another note, If you're outside of the 'A', chances are you haven't heard about the fatal hit-and-run crash that left five dead this past Easter. Click the link for info, please. The mother of Aimee Michael (the driver who allegedly caused the crash), is being charged also because she allegedly helped her daughter in "tampering with evidence" and "hindering apprehension of a criminal".

This presents an interesting dilemma.

Sheila Michael DID NOT snitch on her daughter...and as a result, she's facing charges that may land her a jail sentence. Of course when Sheila made the decision to try to protect her daughter at all costs, she was merely acting on instinct (I'm speculating), but what would you do?

As stated above, I'll snitch to bring a loved one who has been done wrong to justice (if there is a such thing *BING!!!! That's a whole 'NOTHER issue), but will I snitch on a loved one? That's the question.

Regardless, this is a dope ass video!!

I Love The Swine, More Than You Know

2009-04-29T20:28:00.000-04:00
Ok. Swine flu (or whatever they wanna call it now) has been all up in the news the past few days. Anyone who knows me know that I lubs me some bacon, ham, pork ribs, pork chops, all dat. I was relieved to hear that it's not something that you can catch from partaking in those fine delicacies. Well, at least not yet. You know how these things work. They tell you that you can't get it through this, this, and this, and then someone catches it through this, and the FDA and CDC are retracting their statements and shyt. It's a serious matter that has taken lives so I don't have no jokes about it ~~except for the picture above~~.

Anyway, it got me to thinking. Decades ago when AIDS and HIV hit, there wasn't really such a mass alarm sounded at first. As I type, I'm watching President Obama's News Conference about his first 100 days and he's talking about this flu. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I SWEAR I don't remember hearing this type of attention given when AIDS first hit. Think about it.

*thinking*

*thought processed*

Hmmm... Reflecting on when AIDS was first brought into the spotlight, I remember it was a disease that they only thought affected homosexual males. *DING* That explains it. I recall many people saying that it was God's way of letting the gays know that what they was doing is wrong. It was a plague and individuals dismissed it because it didn't affect people in their circle. As it grew and became passed on through heroin and other intravenous drug users, it began affecting more Blacks in metropolitan areas. Again, there wasn't really an alarm. It's just killing the niggas...UNTIL heterosexual whites began contracting the disease. That's when the shyt hit the fan.

My question is: What if the government would've hopped all over this at its onslaught the way that they are doing with swine flu?? Would it have helped to stop the epidemic that has claimed so many lives over the past three decades? Would less babies be born with the virus already attacking their immune system? Would Eazy-E still be alive?

Who knows?

Although I feel like the government does have some type of responsibility in providing a healthy way of life for its constituents and protect us from the swine flu, I think it's wrong for BILLIONS of dollars to be spent on such a disease when people are already dieing at alarming rates due to cancer, AIDS, heart disease, etc. etc..

What are your thoughts?

I'm A Hater, He's A Hater, She's A Hater, We Some Haters, Wouldn't You Like To Be A Hater Too?

2009-04-26T19:30:00.001-04:00

I hate cause you 'fly', I hate cause I'm not...This is why, this is why, this is why I HATE.

It's official. I'm what you may call a hater. Not to be confused with a 'lover'. Albeit, I am a lover...not a fighter. I'm too old for that. Fighting, that is. I'm also off track of what I was talking about. Where was I? That's right...me, the hater.

I'm totally aware that being considered a hater (or even a self-proclaimed hater) is not necessarily a positive attribute to one's character. However, in my defense, I will say that I'm at least an equal opportunity hater as oppose to someone who hates specifics. My brand of hate holds no boundaries or limitations as it spans from sea to shining sea, all races, creeds, and colors, genders, class, age groups, heights, weights...well, you get the picture. Sometimes I hate for no reason. Other times, with reason. And other times other than the other times I previously mentioned, I hate for hating's sake.

With that out of the way, I will now list a few things that I hate. Keep in mind this list is FAR from being all inclusive because my hate has no limit. How you do dat der? Uuuggghhh!!

To the list:

Number One: Sunglasses.
Obviously the coolest cats in the club

It's a known fact that sunglasses make you look cool. I look cool in mine and I'm sure you do too. Even the most anti-pretty person looks a tad bit better behind some cool frames. I don't really disdain sunglasses per se, but more so people who wear them at inappropriate times. Just this past weekend, I was walking around Atlantic Station and I saw a few guys wearing sunglasses. The sun was chilling on the west coast at this time and had been left Atlanta for the day, but these dudes was walking around all willy nilly like it was bright as the fuck outside. To top it off, the next day, I was reading a small article in Creative Loafing (I can read...I'm not ignorant) that asked a few people why they wore sunglasses while indoors. The answers ranged from "Because I'm fucked up all the time" to "It brings out my alter ego" to "Because I slept with my make-up on". Depending on whom you ask, I guess any of those reasons would be suffice.

On the other hand...fuck those people. I hate them. I'm not cool like them and I can't even look cool at night or in a dimly lit space as they effortlessly do. I'm hating. I already struggle to see at night sometimes cause my vision is not the greatest. Word to my momma (and papa). Not that I go often, but even the flashing lights and hazy atmosphere of a club makes it hard for me to see. These fuckers however are obviously blessed with Superman-like vision because they're able to fully function under such low lighting conditions...WITH their dark ass shades on. The end result is they can still manage to maintain their swag while I on the other hand look like a complete lame with my eyes all exposed to the public and shyt. Not.Fair. I wanna hide behind my shades (and all my insecurities) like they do. I wanna be Joe Cool and wear my $600 Prada frames when I walk through the VIP in slow motion like I'm in a video. Shiiddd...who am I kidding. I hate those folks cause I'm not rich (nor dumb) enough to pay for some glasses that cost .6 of a stack. Fuckers.

Number Two: Barack Obama.

Yep, I'm an Obama hater. Don't get it twisted, that's my man (read: my nigga). From being best qualified for the position to representing (hope for) a positive change in American politricks, I fux wit' dude. He's cool. He's so cool, it seems like he's the 'wear sunglasses in the dark' mixed with 'Men In Black' type cool. He even got a cool ass job, even though it's one of the hardest and most stressful ones. I'd even state that all the states in the United States are in a such a shytty state right now that having a great leader is one step in fixing the state of America. Luck, I pray him.

Irregardless (it IS a word, look it up), I hate the fact that he has SO many dick riders out there. Michele has to be a very confident woman to deal with all the females (and males) who have a crush on, in love, or are just uber-infactuated with everything he does. I mean his groupies are hard to the core. With their "I <3 Obama" t-shirts, buttons, bumper stickers, coffee mugs, tattoos, flasks, chicken, condoms, and everything else they wanna attach to his name and likeness, this dude is truly an American idol. Speaking of such, I hate the fact that not once, but twice during this season of 'American Idol', the shows didn't come on because of some presidential address. Out of ALL the times he could've came on TV, he chose the American Idol time slot. Out of all the shows with horrible ratings, he's gonna pick one of MY shows to talk about political shyt. Damn you Mr. President.

Number Three: Dumb Muafuggas Who Don't Know They're Dumb.

Granted, dumb folks only make folks like I look that much smarter so they do serve a purpose. Nevertheless, there's nothing worse than a fool who thinks he/she knows everything. I'm a pretty smart dude in various aspects of life and I'll be the first to admit that I don't know it all. I do try to learn something new e'ry day though.

In speaking and writing I tend to stray from the English language and rules of proper grammar and spelling a bit. Call me ignorant or dumb if you want, but in actuality, I knows how I be using my sentences and words and shyt. I just took a 'quiz' on facebook.com and I scored "Grammar Master" meaning I'm "at the top of the heap when it comes to grammar and spelling." And we all know that facebook doesn't lie, right? I'm even creative enough to make up my own words at least thrice a week so get off my bozack (copyright EPMD). However, there's a big difference between myself who knowingly does this and others who are totally oblivious to the offenses they make on a regular basis.

Here's another example from this past weekend.

***SIDENOTE: I had the Best Weekend Ever!! END SIDENOTE***

I'm at Uptown Comedy Corner with a beautiful and bright ~~(in more ways than one)~~ young lady and we're looking over the menu. I'm aware that we're not at an upscale, five-star restaurant or anything like that, but I can't help but notice a few misspelled words on the menu. I pay it no mind until my date points out the fact that they spelled "tilapia" with an "a" instead of the first "i". Being that I already cringed a little when I read "reisling" as oppose to "riesling" and "gran marnier" as oppose to "grand marnier", I concluded that the person (or persons) who drafted this menu probably doesn't realize their errors. Unless this is some huge "I gotcha" joke, my analysis concludes that they are dumb. And thinks that they are not. Hundreds of people read this menu nightly and for them to not have corrected this, is beyond me. Who cares though? It was just something else to laugh about.

So there you have it. I know it's not a very popular title to have, but I have embraced being a hater. I wear it proudly, dammit. And now, my good people, I ask, are you a hater too?. If so, what do you hate?

Coonin' part THREE!! No Mo' Fried Chicken

2009-04-26T18:50:00.000-04:00

"You mean to tell me that we can't feed our kids because y'all didn't order enough chicken. Y'all knew y'all was having this special almost two months ago."

"It's very disappointing, I wanted some chicken today."

"This is ridiculous."

"They should of had a tractor trailer out back with extra chicken on ice, you know?"

"I was trying to feed my family tonight. Can't get that bucket in now."

"I'm never coming back now. I'm serious. I'm done."

"We've been looking foward to this day."

"How you gonna run out of chicken? That's all I have to say."

As some of you know, this past Wednesday, April 22nd, Popeyes Chicken and Biscuits had a deal that advertised 8 pieces of fried chicken for the jaw-dropping price of $4.99. People.Were.On.It.

As I pulled into the West End mall to get my hair cut, the line in the Lee St. Popeyes extended well into the street. I thought to myself, hmmmm...I think I know what I'm having for dinner tonight. When I left the barber shop, the line had shrunken but I no longer desired that crispy Louisiana fried chicken. My taste buds had moved on. C'est a Vie.

Lo and behold, I later find out that in other places across the country, some Popeyes had ran out of chicken. THAT'S when the shyt hits the fan.

The quotes above are from some very disappointed folks who were unable to take advantage of the chicken deal. After watching the video, all I could do is shake my head in disbelief. After all the stereotypes that we try to debunk, here we have a handful of people crying to news cameras about how they NEED that good ol' fried chicken. Although I deeply believe that EVERYONE lubs fried chicken, all the people in the news story are Black.

Damn.

I could only imagine people of other races sitting around their television sets or computer screens talkin' 'bout, "Them niggas love their fried chicken, don't they?"

Although I want to say shame on the reporter, producer, camera op, and editor for the story, this is a special "Coonin'" moment for all the individuals who are seen and heard in this video.

Please, cease the Coonin'.

video courtesy of Telese

WAKE UP!!

2009-04-22T00:11:00.001-04:00

"Pic-a-ninny, Barbie Doll, High-Yella Heffa, Tar Baby, Wannabe White, Jigaboo...Don't start...We're gonna finish it." - classic dialogue from A Spike Lee Joint called "School Daze"

It's no getting around the fact that Black Americans (I know other cultures have similar dynamics but I'm not talkin' 'bout them right now) have truly deep-rooted issues when it comes to the color spectrum that we are born with. "Whether you're darkie or fair", it evidently shows and it's no way of getting around it. It's something that derives from ancestors, genetics, and all that good stuff that one has no control over or choice in the matter.

Some of us don't even subscribe to the color we actually are in a feeble wish to be of another complexion, and then get upset when others point out your 'true colors'. This goes both ways - from light-skinned individuals claiming not to be with hopes of furthering the lines between them and their slave masters' skintone to dark-skinned individuals who have always rationalized their darker skin as a negative based on societal standards. Stereotypes run rampant about people based on their color of skin and although many whites pre-judge us on a daily basis, there's no denying that we do it ourselves on a daily basis. Fact of the matter is, as a whole, we're pretty much a confused bunch.

Several things have caught my attention in recent weeks that has led me to want to discuss this issue. One is the casting call email that was sent out to many ethnic models about a promo event for Ciroc vodka. It reads as such:

“Ciroc Promotion. Ciroc promo is this Friday, March 27, 2009. Time: 3:00pm - 7:00pm and 12:00am - 3:00am Requirements: Race: White, hispanic or light skinned african american. Height: At least 5′6 or taller. Size 7 or smaller. Thisis a cash @ wrap job and the booking will be thru our partner. Please submit asap. Talent will only be contacted if the client is interested in booking you!!! Compensation: $35.00 per hour.”

When this posting was circulated across the internet, there was a firestorm of people threatening to boycott the liquor company as well as its spokesperson, P.Diddy. The notion that they wanted "exotic"-looking females that were particularly of a lighter hue touched a too familiar spot amongst brown-skinned and dark-skinned models in the industry. Even though the posting was from a third party management company, Diddy and Ciroc promptly put there damage-control tactics into play saying they don't discriminate when it comes to skin complexions. Pre-existing images of ads with darker-skinned models emerged to show there's no bias.

Whatever.

The slightest look into media shows clearly that there IS a bias. Not just in the realm of Hip Hop-themed videos, advertisements, and promotional events, but throughout the ENTIRE realm. But is there anything WRONG with that?

Although, for the most part, media entities aren't doing much to change the climate of things, they are merely adhering to traditional standards of beauty in what "the people" relate to or are responsive to. It's called marketing. Yes, there are entities who are trailblazing paths in changing or giving more balance to the media (little ol' me included), but just like racism and other discriminatory practices, it will NEVER fade away completely. Tough pill to swallow, huh?

If you think about it though, media entities merely have a PREFERENCE. We ALL have them. I don't like women who smoke. She doesn't like short men. He doesn't like 'loud' women. She doesn't like broke dudes. He doesn't like dark-skinned women. She doesn't like light-skinned men. Preferences. Of course even if you have a preference, you may be willing to step outside of that box for a reason or two, but it doesn't take away from the fact that you have preferences.

Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on what end of the spectrum you're on), writers, directors, producers, production companies, artists, marketing directors, casting agencies, corporate sponsors, artists' management, etc. ALL may have an opinion on what 'type' of individual they need for a particular role or part. That's the jist of it. If you fit that criteria, you have a shot. If not, better luck to you at your next audition. That's. Life.

***SIDENOTE: In my thirty-two years on this planet, I've been told dozens of times by Black women of all shades that "I don't like light-skinned guys," "You're too yellow for me," "You're cute...for a light-skinned guy," or "I need a man that's tall, dark, and handsome." Keep in mind that some of these females were my complexion or even lighter. So where does that leave a dude like me who's short, light, and kinda cute? And how did I resolve this? Easy. I keeps it movin'. ENDSIDENOTE***

If I was an actor, let's be real, I would never be cast for roles like Nino Brown, Stringer Bell, or Bishop. What if I really wanna portray the "gangster/hardcore" role? Society (and the media) will find it easier to believe if I was the light-skinned attorney dude played by Christopher Williams in "New Jack City" or Raheem in "Juice". Most Tyler Perry films also adapt to the idea that the dark-skinned guy is the bad guy, light-skinned guy is the good guy. Therefore, I would pretty much be type-casted. By the way, this is the same thing that goes on in music videos, commercials, print ads castings etc.. The dark-skinned guy is always the A-type gangsta. The light-skinned dude? Soft, Punk...these are easily words that describes HIS role.

But guess what? That's how it is in the industry. And moreso, similar thoughts and stereotypes tend to pop into all of our heads (Yes, even YOURS) on a regular basis. If you tell me it doesn't to my face, I'll call you a liar to your face.

The remainding remnants of horrid slavery, Black folks' desire to assimilate and be accepted, and self-hatred is a muthafugga, ain't it? Think about that.

Let it marinate.

With that said, before calling Rev. Al or the NAACP because you didn't get a role or part, understand that some people will recognize your true beauty and others won't. Just keep it moving.

That's Life.

Obama Wings!! *DING* Pick 'Em Up!!

2009-04-03T03:05:00.001-04:00

BEFORE and AFTER

This is a spot in Brooklyn that obviously wanted to cash in on the Obamania.

*smh*

Damn, have we come to this??

spotted at ByronCrawford.com.

R.I.P. To The KING

2009-04-02T23:18:00.001-04:00
Although I can't say it's a real shocker, KING magazine has shut down noting the reccession as the reason. I used to buy KING faithfully...for the articles of course. It was a cool men's mag and the name of it was fitting for me (since I'm a...well, KING) so I was an easy catch. I was its demographic audience.

KING mag, in my opinion, was a pioneer at promoting ethnic models at a time when there was a drastic need for this platform. As oppose to the traditional standards of beauty mainstream America drools over in white publications, KING used its covers to display the undeniable appeal of some of Hollywood's and the music world's most attractive women of color. It was also instrumental in the careers of some of the hottest up-and-coming models in the game like my homie Challedon "Shy" Saltor.

And again...they had some cool articles.

Anyway, with them folding, I wanted to give them a tribute of what I felt was some of their best covers. Check 'em out...

Shout to all the writers, editors, photographers, models, and celebrities that made KING what it was.

A Gift Fit For A Queen

2009-04-02T19:56:00.001-04:00

While in London this week for the G20 summit with attendees from various powerful nations across the globe, President and First Lady Obama gave the "queen" (Only "Queen" I capitalize is "Queen Latifah"...I'm hiphop like that, don't judge me) an customized iPod with photos and video of her visits to the states as well as some music.

While skimming through the news stories today, I took notice that many people felt like is was an inappropriate gift. What.The.Fuck!! If the old bytch is a "queen", she more than likely has access to anything she wants ~~except the fountain of youth~~ but given the fact that she is of ancient years, an iPod would be the perfect gift in my opinion. Shiddd...ain't nothin' wrong with a little technology in yo' life. However, the mp3 player is loaded with showtunes and shyt like that. That's where President Obama could've really flexed his creativity. He definitely should've threw in some classic Niggas Wit' Attitudes, 2 Live Crew, and Geto Boys to make the playlist a little more balanced...but that's just me.

Anyhow, I'm trippin' off of what people are saying about the gift and how inappropriate it is. Isn't it the thought that counts? My parents gave me an iPod this past Christmas and I was the happiest ~~little boy~~ man on the block. It's a WONDERFUL gift!!

*shaking my head*

Some people are just some ungrateful muafuggas, I swear.

It's Spring Again

2009-03-20T12:57:00.002-04:00

spring: (verb), sprang or, often, sprung; sprung; spring⋅ing; noun, adjective
–verb (used without object)
1. to rise, leap, move, or act suddenly and swiftly, as by a sudden dart or thrust forward or outward, or being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position: to spring into the air; a tiger (or MONK) about to spring.

2. the season between winter and summer: in the Northern Hemisphere from the vernal equinox to the summer solstice; in the Southern Hemisphere from the autumnal equinox to the winter solstice.

3. the first stage and freshest period: the spring of life.

Today is the twentieth day of the month of March in the year two-thousand and nine.

It is officially the first day of SPRING - my favorite season of the four. If I were a poet writing a poem about "spring", I'd start it off by saying:

*clears throat*

"Spring...*insert long ass pause*...is FRESH
Fresh...*insert another long ass pause*...is SPRING
I love the Freshness of Spring"

*the crowd erupts in a sea of finger snaps*

***SIDENOTE: I have that copywritten and if it's used without my written consent, I will sue. Thank you. END SIDENOTE***

On the real, Spring represents a time of the year where many things are given birth or rebirth to. Flowers bud. Trees spout leaves. Grass grows and turns greener. Mosquitos, flies, bees, ants, and other insects reemerge to feast on our bar-b-ques, pool parties, picnics and trash. Pollen coats our cars and our allergies fuck up our days due to constant nose-running, sneezing, coughing, itchy, red-eyes (the shyt tends to stick to my contacts), boy meets girl and they both possibly become...well, sprung. As Lisa Lisa would say, "Que sera que sera."

Gotta love the spring.

I'm taking this day to soak in the wonders of Spring. However, I also must focus on the rebirth that comes with it. By now, many of us have broken our New Year's resolutions and whatnot (if we had any...do people still make those??), but take Spring as a moment to get revitalized and rejuvenated. To be perfectly honest, my focus wavered throughout the first quarter of this year but I woke up this morning feeling different. A good different. With spring comes a time for self-evaluation. No beating yourself up over situations you may or may not have any control over. Just acknowledging things. And proceeding on.

I'm just talkin' shyt y'all. Take it for what it's worth. Just excuse me as I "rise, leap, move or act suddenly and swiftly, as by a sudden dart or thrust forward or outward, or being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position."

Jeah!!

Here's a gem from the diabolical Biz Markie..."It's Spring Again"
Enjoy!!

Eff Tha Police!! part TWO!! - T.G.F.V.

2009-02-25T19:31:00.001-05:00
Now C'mon...we've been seeing this for 1.5 decades on videotape. Someone getting brutalized by the police unjustly. It's a known fact that criminals hold court in the streets. But all too often the police who are here to protect and serve, ARE the criminals. Who polices the police?

It's still disheartening to me that police brutality runs rampant in many police departments throughout the country (or the world for that matter). What's even more disheartening is the fact that it happens (more than likely) on a DAILY BASIS, but receives very little recognition (if any) unless it's caught on video tape. Who would've thought that a $300 video camera owned by a stranger would save someone FIFTEEN YEARS of their LIFE for allgedly assaulting a police officer??

Let's ponder that for a moment...

FIFTEEN YEARS = 5475 days = 131,400 hours = 7,884,000 minutes. That's a LONG time to have your freedom and livelihood taken away for something you didn't even do. Hell, ONE minute is too long to be incarcerated unjustly. Any type of relationship you have with people on the 'outside' world will dramatically change resulting in lost connection, out of touch-ness (I don't care if that's not a word), and general strain on the relationship that causes an obvious distance. If dude has a young child, he essentially misses out on the most fundamental years of that's child's life. If he's married or have a significant other, the relationship is (9.9 times out of 10...maybe greater) dissolved. She moves on with her life with 15 years on the table. And not saying that this happens to all inmates, but the chances that he engages in homosexual sex is much greater given the years he's facing. His life is essentially ruined if/when he gets out. Felony on your record = hard to find a decent job (if any). No way of earning a fruitful living to support oneself and getting their life together easily leads to illegal activities. OR, If he finds a woman who looks out for him and cleans him up (proverbially speaking), more than likely, this will be the beginning of a tumultuous relationship that doesn't end well for either party. Not to mention, being somewhat out of the loop of what goes on in the "free world" for FIFTEEN YEARS will fuck with someone's mental quite a bit.

Given the situation at hand, dude in the above video could have easily been a victim to this type of circumstance. Luckily for him, someone caught the whole thing on tape which proved that he wasn't the aggressor.

I will say this...

This is by no means an isolated incident. It happens ALL the time, yet no one seems to give a fuck until they actually see it for themselves. Are we that blind? Are citizens SO afraid of exercising their right to police the police????

By the way, over the past day or so, the judge has handed down the sentencing to some former Atlanta Police Dept. officers who fatally shot 92-year-old Katherine Jonhston in a botched 2006 raid. The former officers did plead guilty for the tragedy after they had planted drugs in the home of Ms. Johnston in an attempt to cover up their fatal mistake.

When you think about the Sean Bell's, the Amaduo Diallo's, the Malice Green's and countless others, N.W.A's "Fuck The Police" proves to be a VERY relevant song even 20 years later.

Thank God For Video.

What's The Fuss About??

2009-02-18T17:32:00.001-05:00

Just a day after President Barack Obama signed a stimulus bill that will hopefully jumpstart the US economy, the cartoon above appears in the New York Post. The cartoon can be looked at in a number of ways. Here's some excerpts from a story about it in the Huffington Post:

"A cartoon likening the author of the stimulus bill, perhaps President Barack Obama, with a rabid chimpanzee graced the pages of the New York Post on Wednesday. The drawing, from famed cartoonist Sean Delonas, is rife with violent imagery and racial undertones. In it, two befuddled-looking police officers holding guns look over the dead and bleeding chimpanzee that attacked a woman in Stamford, Connecticut."

"At its most benign, the cartoon suggests that the stimulus bill was so bad, monkeys may as well have written it. Others believe it compares the president to a rabid chimp. Either way, the incorporation of violence and (on a darker level) race into politics is bound to be controversial. Perhaps that's what Delonas wanted."

Of course it didn't take long at all for Rev. Al Sharpton to add his two pennies into the discussion:

"The cartoon in today's New York Post is troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys. One has to question whether the cartoonist is making a less than casual reference to this when in the cartoon they have police saying after shooting a chimpanzee that "Now they will have to find someone else to write the stimulus bill."

"Being that the stimulus bill has been the first legislative victory of President Barack Obama (the first African American president) and has become synonymous with him it is not a reach to wonder are they inferring that a monkey wrote the last bill?"

I really paid no attention to the story or the cartoon and continued on with my Wednesday.

*rapping "La-Di-Da-Di" in my head to pass time*

Then, I stumbled across a couple of blogs that I frequent to find that people were up in arms about the cartoon. Commentors were demanding the head of the illustrator and his editor, expressing how it's a shame how people can STILL be so racist, and how they were totally SHOCKED about the cartoon. Well...well...well, needless to say, I was BEYOND SHOCKED my damn self. The cartoon and it being published in a mainstream newspaper didn't shock me AT ALL. I was SHOCKED at people still reacting this way when something like this comes out!!

Really??

First, if you're really offended by cops shooting a monkey (and you're not a member of PETA) and you think it's racist, well monkey, you might as well call yourself a monkey then. (Not to be confused with "Monk" cause I'm no monkey...hahaaa) if you're not a monkey and don't subscribe to the notion of calling Black people monkeys then that means the cops just shot a monkey...not a Black person. Simple. You may even argue that the artist (and he IS an artist with freedom to express himself as he feels) is using satire and drawing from "monkey" and its historical text to describe Black people. I may have to check, but I thought satire was supposed to be funny. And I KNOW funny. This cartoon is the anti-funny. It's obvious why he created such a work (but I'll get to that later).

Secondly, why are these grown ass muafuggas still so damn sensitive?? (I probably just offended some by calling them that...fuck 'em!) Imma need Black people in America to grow some fuggin' skin. Get...that...dirt (read: chip) off ya' shoulders please. What ever happened to "sticks and stones" and shyt? All y'all gonna do is get mad, fuss, yell, and shout...and not do a damn thing (action-wise) about it. That's all niggas do anyway is TALK. Even if you DO take action, what type of effect will it have. Someone will get fired or suspended, take a 3-6 month vacation, get another job paying MORE than the previous, and continue doing the same thing. They win. You lose. We should already know how that game goes. Imus anyone??

Thirdly, it's clear that this is all about creating the type of attention and controversy that you should come to expect with a new president. Especially with B.O. being a Black One. (Get it? B.O. = Barack Obama = "Black One"...I cracks myself up...lol!!) Perfect timing on their part. They knew how niggas would react and you fed right into it...just like some...well, niggas. Oh yeah, guess what. Newspaper sells are down, but guess who's 'bout to sell a whole bunch today?? You're right genius...the New York Post. Checkmate. Mission Accomplished.

I'm done. I'll let Chris take it from here...

Your thoughts?

I wonder how many children feel like this...

2009-02-17T15:27:00.000-05:00
A Kid Whose Parents Just Got Divorced Writes A Book
Pretty Funny from a kid's perspective...LOL!!

Random Thoughts And Such...

2009-02-11T21:02:00.000-05:00
What's Up My Good People!!

I haven't done a random thoughts posting in a looonnnng time and I feel it's quite overdue. It's something I used to do my myspace blog more often so I'll guess I'll just do it on this joint here. Also be sure to check out PresidentialTelevisionandFilm.ning.com for other blogs, videos, and info that's sure to keep you edutained.

Alright, let's get into it:

***THOUGHT NUMBER ONE:

FUCK THESE RUMORS!! Of course the past few days have been full of media attention, rumors, and blogs about Chris Brown and Rhianna. It's funny how everyone and there mama has something to say about this when No One besides them know the full story. I've read sites where these supposed omnipotent know-it-alls talking 'bout how CB needs his ass whooped and RiRi deserved it for giving him the herps. Media outlets have reported shyt, just to later retract their stories. Everyone's speculating and passing judgements when they don't know shyt. What part of the game is that? I guess people will be people.

Anyhow, what's kinda getting to me is people's reaction in general. I mean damn...the way some are talking about it you would think World War III had just started or the pope pimp slapped Mother Teresa or something. I'm by no means making light of what's a very serious situation (and issue that has haunted human relationships for eons), I'm just saying enough with the spreading of unvalidated information.

***THOUGHT NUMBER TWO:

I wonder do other species abuse their mates in such a way humans do. Anyone knows?

***THOUGHT NUMBER THREE:

For those who know me, you already know where you can find me every Thursday or Friday - the Barber Shop. That's right, it's a MUST that I get a funky fresh cut every week without fail. My lifespace just isn't right without it and that's just how I get down.

On the other hand, some people look like they've recently become allergic to barber clippers. I'm not one to knock the next for having their own style (regardless of how peculiar and fucked up it is), but DAMN. Do these cats have friends or just a bunch of 'yes' men? Friends don't let friends do THAT shyt.

On a sidenote, at what point in an artist's career do they just become so egotistical where they say "Fugg It...I don't need a stylist. I can do this shyt myself!!" They're absolutely right. They CAN do it themselves, but doing it RIGHT is a whole 'nother thing.

Which brings me to...

***THOUGHT NUMBER FOUR:

Why do so many artists feel like they can do EV-ER-Y-THING? I feel like there's definitely truth in the saying, "Jack of all trades, master of none." If you're hot or hot and people are going to naturally gravitate towards you, but there are some things that you KNOW that you shouldn't be doing.

At least respect folks that actually do the shyt and get pointers from them first or get a fuggin' mentor. Just because you rapdoesnt mean that you should direct your own video. Just because you sing and can perform onstage does not translate to you being a good thespian.

Some people are triple threats and whatnot, but most aren't...so cut that shyt out.

***THOUGHT NUMBER FIVE:

I read a story today talking about how KFC has gone through drastic measures to keep their "secret" recipe unknown to the public for several decades now. They just found a new home that will house I guess the original paper that the eleven herbs and spices were written on.

Have anyone had KFC lately?

I'm not Chef BoyArdee or anything but I can tell you what's in their chicken. Grease, Grease, and mo' Grease...that is all. It's not tasty. It's quite uninspiring. And I don't even fuck with their "sides"...lol!! Now Pop-eyes, that's my shyt!!

***THOUGHT NUMBER SIX:

I was on one of my favorite sites, VSB, earlier, and the Champ basically gave three good things that someone can do if they don't have no one to spend Valentine's Day with. Very Funny Shyt!! My suggestion was this:

"Monk { 02.11.09 at 9:31 am }
“I got an idea, that I wanna share / You don’t like it, so what, I don’t care”

*Cool points to whoever can guess what HipHop classic these lyrics came from*

Here’s my idea:

In the words of Junior Mafia, “F*ck bytchez, Get Money…F*ck n*ggaz, Get Money!!”

That’s right!! While everyone else is out spending money that they really don’t have, you can be making it. If you’re a poet, put your pen to the pad, and write some romantic lovey-dovey words and sell them shyts. Be as creative as you wanna be. Make floral arrangements and sell them shyts. Make your own goodie bag of treats with various chocolates and candies, tie it to a bottle of wine and sell them shyts. Everything’s over-priced any way, so create a price point that’ll help you beat out the competition but still make a good profit. If you’re not doing anything during the day on Friday, fill up the tank and be that “special delivery” guy/gal and charge people to deliver gifts to their loved ones while at work. Put an ad on craigslist if you want to advertise.

Whether you’re lonely or not at the end of the night, you’ll feel a lot better in the company of presidents."

I'm by no way suggesting that money is a replacement for love, but I am suggesting that large companies aren't the only ones who should cash in on this. Cease the moment and shyt.

***THOUGHT NUMBER SEVEN:

Damn. Barack been in office almost a month already and he haven't painted the White House BLACK yet?? What's he waitin' on for cryin' out loud?? I thought he was about "change"??????

That's all for now...catch you next episode.

Throwback Video: "You Must Learn" by BDP

2009-02-03T18:15:00.002-05:00

In honor of Black History Month, I just wanted to post this video from one of the greatest emcees of all time, KRS-ONE and his BDP crew. It's hard to believe that this song came out TWENTY YEARS AGO. 1989...WOW!! Actually, after listening to Kris' verses in this song, it inspired me to look up some of the historical figures he mentioned and I learned a lot. I vividly remembering finding out that Madame C.J. Walker did not only just invent the straightening comb, but she was the first female (black or white) who became a millionaire through her own business. I thank KRS (and HipHop) for that.
Anyway, enjoy and spread the knowledge and shyt.

Oh yeah, I have a pleasantly delightful post that will provide a little more insight to the GREATNESS of Madame C.J.Walker later in the week. Stay Tuned.

Hi, Mr. O'Reilly!!

2009-01-22T19:12:00.001-05:00

"Respected highly, hi Mr. O'Reilly / Hope all is well, kiss the plaintiff and the wifey"
- Ludacris "Number One Spot"

These sly lyrics were penned by Luda as somewhat of a backhanded shout out to the ultra conservative talk show host after he faced sexual harrassment charges from one of his show's producers. He settled out. For millions.

The top-rated cable news host has said he was humiliated by the suit, which charged that he spoke to Mackris about sexual fantasies, masturbation and vibrators while sometimes seeming to pleasure himself. But for O'Reilly to strike a settlement without an expression of regret, which is often demanded in litigation against high-profile figures, is a partial victory that spares him further embarrassment.

Morelli did not respond to requests for comment last night.

Describing himself as an "object of media scorn," O'Reilly told viewers: "On a personal note, this matter has caused enormous pain, but I had to protect my family and I did. Some of the media hammered me relentlessly because, as you know, I am a huge target, as is Fox News. . . .
Washington Post

Karma's a muthafugga, ain't it? As some of you know, O'Reilly spearheaded a slanderous campaign against Ludacris' lyrics resulting in him losing a multi-million dollar endorsement deal with Pepsi Cola.

Well, ol' Bill is at it again.

After a celebratory performance in honor of Barack Obama, Bill has lashed out at Young Jeezy and Jay-Z.

Now really, just in that brief clip, O'Reilly and Miller goes on to talk about a slew of things that has NOTHING to do with anything and it causes me to question what's his REAL motive. Jeezy thanked the journalist who threw shoes at Bush and the movers that moved Bush's stuff out of the White House. Jay-Z basically said he's tired of "Bush". Dennis Miller goes on to talk about hoes (apparently he's talking about how the word is used in hip hop music), the single-parent rate in the Black community, and even stoops to name-calling. Keep in mind, Jeezy nor Jay said nothing about hoes or having sex. Maybe he misconstrued or didn't catch Jay's wordplay on the "I don't want no more Bush" line. It's obvious that the underlined theme is being overjoyed that George W. is no longer the President of the United States and Barack Obama is. Anyway...Right after this, O'Reilly agrees with Miller and talks about the civility level of the artists.

Are you serious? After all the immature name-calling that he does on his show (pin-head), is he really going there with it?? Both of these dudes' obnoxious, insidious, close-minded personalities are on public display everyday on his cable and radio show. Is that what makes for good role models?

I'm just asking...

Now don't get me wrong. Sometimes I watch The Factor and O'Reilly and Miller make some valid points. The thing is, you have to listen REAL hard and not get distracted with the playground bickering and hollering that these grown folks do...on television...in front of an audience of millions...on a nightly basis.

All I'm saying is, Bill, be careful of who you throw under the bus. Although Jay-Z and Young Jeezy might not pose any threat to you, there's a shift in power coming. Cease with the playground tactics and stop throwing stones buddy.

16 Randoms a.k.a. What You Know About That?!

2009-01-09T22:45:00.002-05:00
The homie qb tagged me a while back and since I just posted this on another site, I decided to post it on here also.

Ok, so I was tagged to make a "Random Things You Don't Know About Me" List. You've seen these before - the rules are you make the list and tag your other friends and they make their lists and tag mo' people, mo' people make their lists and tag even mo' people, even mo' people make their lists...well, you get the point...lol. Well rules are made to be broken so I ain't taggin' no one. If you read this and decide you want to make a list feel free to let me know though...hahaaa...

Now that that's out the way, let's get to it.

Aight, these are about to be VERY random.

1. I was born in Henry Ford Hospital, took driver's training at Henry Ford High School, have owned cars from the Chrylser and GMC (and foreign) families, but have never owned a Ford.

2. My favorite rapper is white and my favorite author is Black.

3. Oh yeah, I'm my own favorite author.

***EDIT: I don't think I'm a better writer, per say, than others, I just enjoy writing and I love going back weeks, months, years later and reading what I wrote. Besides, how can I be a better writer when I'm clearly in my OWN category??Duh...***

4. I was born on November 16th and approximately nine months before that is February 14th so I have a suspicion that I was conceived on Valentines Day. When I asked my mother about the possibility, she said she couldn't say for sure, but said they used to have some GOOD times on Valentines day. Thanks mom for making me throw up a bit in my mouth.

***EDIT: Since we're on the topic of birthdays and Valentines Day, I thought I'll throw this out there. My sister's Born Day is February 14th also which is of course Valentines Day. AND, she's due to have her first child, my first nephew, on or around that day this year. Cool.***

5. I learned a whole lot from listening to Gangsta Rap when I was younger. It's really more conscious than people give it credit for...it's all about what you take from it. Also, it was more genuine and less politically-correct (read: real) back then and not watered down with artists who ONLY concern is to sell records (oops...I mean C.D.'s...or mp3 downloads) and ringtones by compromising their integrity.

6. A primary reason why I voted for Barack Obama WAS because he's Black. Yeah, I said it. Of course he's the BEST person for the job, but beyond the issues, I felt the larger impact it would have on a global scale for the U.S. to elect a Black dude was serving US and the world a greater purpose. I liked Hillary's healthcare plan better actually.

7. "Different World", "School Daze", and Freak-Nik '94 (I was a senior in high school) ALL played a part in my decision to attend Clark Atlanta University.

Oh yeah, the Communications Dept. too.

8. My moms and pops (I only have one of each but I tend to throw "s"'s on it) were both born on March 4th. Pops is exactly one year older than my moms.

***EDIT: There goes that birthday thing again...***

9. My pops recently told me that when moms was pregnant with me, he wanted to have me aborted. I think this would have bothered some people to know this information, but it didn't affect me none.

10. I love rollercoasters. There isn't a one that I wouldn't get on. I also get a kick out of teasing people who are scared before, during, and after the ride...lol!!

11. I've never owned a pair of Jordans and probably never will. I don't think they're all that fly and something that trendy is definitely not worth the money in my opinion.

12. I love spending time with me better than anyone else. Hangin' with friends, family, or a loved one is always cool, but I NEEDS my "me time". I've always said that if I decide to get married, I would have to have a room or area of the house just for myself. If my wife doesn't like it, she could leave. LOL!!

13. I want to go to Africa. I know that sounds a bit like Nas in "Belly", but I'd like to travel the continent. It has absolutely nothing to do with tracing my roots or going back to the Motherland or any other corny shyt you hear Black folks say...I just wanna go. Traveling Europe and Asia are also on the list, but not as high as Africa.

14. I love going on jet boats, jet skiing, parasailing, and getting in the pool, but I can't swim if my life depended on it.

15. My favorite type of food is seafood with pizza coming in a close second. I do think the idea of seafood on a pizza is the most disgusting thing ever though. **SIDENOTE: I think it's kinda funny that I love pizza sauce, marinara sauce or whatever you wanna call it...but I HATE tomatoes. And yes, I just checked dictionary.com to see if I spelled the plural version of tomato correctly. END SIDENOTE** lol!!

16. To piggy-back off my sidenote, I like looking up shyt and learning stuff I didn't know before. If someone uses a word in which I don't know the meaning of, I won't hesitate to ask them or go to dictionary.com and look it up myself. I also google shyt at least three times a day to find out more information. Knowledge Is Power people...lol.

***BONUS TIDBIT***

17. I don't think I like being tagged for shyt like this...lol. But I'll chalk it up anyway :-)

Black Woman STILL Walking

2008-12-29T19:33:00.001-05:00
Don't forget to check me out at PresidentialTelevisionandFilm.ning.com

"What These Bitches Want From A Nigga??" - DMX

Sorry, just felt like saying that...

Ok. This is a short documentary that's been floating around the intranets for a minute now. It's a topic that many of my female counterparts have spoken with me in disgust about on many occasions. Here's the scenario:

Black Girl walks down a street minding her own business. She encounters a few Black Boys hanging out talking about shyt that Black Boys talk about - Girls, sports, Girls, politrix, Girls, music, Girls, cars, Girls, their busta ass homeboy, Girls, what I'mma do when I get my money right, Girls, etc....you know the typical shyt. Oh yeah, did I mention Girls? Anyway, Black Girl walks by Black Boys and a couple of them make comments about her body parts...all of them check out her ass as she passes by. Black Girl ignores their comments to the best of her ability. Black Boys talk amongst each other about the Black Girl focusing their conversation on physicalities. Black Girl feels disrespected. End Scenario.

This scenario plays itself out time and time again at the workplace, on the train, in the mall, in the club, on the beach, at the bar-b-que, in the classroom, at church, at the zoo, everywhere countless times a day.

I feel the women in the video make a valid point about being harrassed (if it gets to that point), but the question that lingers in my head is what about the alternative. What if guys didn't react that way and ignored the sistas as they walked by? Better yet, what if dudes paid the sistas no mind, but showed their interest (disrespectful or not) to white women or women of other ethnic backgrounds?

Speaking in general, women seem to go that extra route to make themselves more attractive on a daily basis with the goal of being appealing all the time. That leads me to believe that they wish for their effort to not go without being appreciated. Obviously some brothas who may be lacking in the manners department go about it the wrong way, but if they didn't at all, what effect would that have on the female psyche? Would they in turn feel undesireable?

***WARNING: HARSH REALITY CHECK COMING IN 5...4...3...2...1...***

NONE OF THE CHICKS IN THE DOCUMENTARY WERE EVEN DIMES!! Not that it matters (although it maybe does) but, it would've been nice if Tracey Ross would've had a couple of knockouts that she interviewed. Truth be told, dudes tend to switch up their approach (read: game) depending on what the woman looks like. I'm not saying that gorgeous women don't fall prey to the immaturity and lack of respect that some dudes have, but I think that there will be a difference in the dynamic.

My Good People, what do YOU think?

***SIDENOTE: "What These Bitches Want From A Nigga??" was actually the working title of this post...aren't you glad I changed it? LOL!! I'm silly like that. Sue me. END SIDENOTE***

A Heartbreak Fa' Real

2008-12-05T00:37:00.003-05:00
I hope y'all join me over at PresidentialTelevisionAndFilm.ning.com.

Damn.

I guess all good things must come to an end.

"The Cosby Show" and "A Different World" back-to-back on Thursday nights...

The days when hardcore rappers didn't water their music down with R&B to sell records to the bytches...

Living carefree, wearing your play clothes all day, and not even having the mental capability to even fathom the thought of paying a damn bill.

Don't you miss those days? Yeah...*eyes watering up*...me too. But as I said, *sniffle*...all good things must come to an end and such is the case with Mr. Kanye West's stellar onslaught of bangin' ass albums.

Since 2004's "College Dropout", I was an instant fan of Kanye's. From the beats that transcended being mere "beats" and more like intricate masterpieces of composition, to his content and subject matter that spoke to my personal experience more than other shyt out there, to his lyrical passion. It was a far cry from him being a lyrical genius, but certain lines displayed a potential that could only grow. Not to mention the videos that accompanied the disc. "Through The Wire",
">"It All Falls Down" (with the lovely Stacey Dash), the three "Jesus Walks" joints, "Workout Plan", and the rare "Two Words" - all of which were dope in their own right.
***SideNote: Please click those links to re-experience the dopeness of those videos. EndSideNote***

"Late Registration" picked up right where "Dropout" left off at and "Graduation" completed the trilogy.

But now in the year of 0 to 8, Kanye releases "808 And Heartbreaks". This album has to be the most asstastic shyt I have heard since there was a white group calling themselves the Young Black Teenagers. Honestly, some of Kanye's songs of the past have been a bad song "for Kanye" being that his music is dope 93.5% of the time. But not this collection of uninspiring, lackluster, just plain BORING play of songs.

The voicecoder or autotune shyt needs to be laid to rest if your name isn't T-Pain. Not saying I condone his usage, but that's HIM. I accept that and he manages to make it work no matter how much we may front. Sure he stole it from the Teddy Riley's, Roger Troutman's, Cameo's, etc., but they stole it from Stevie Wonder (who is arguably the greatest artist of all-time). Being that Stevie KNOWS his voice isn't the GREATEST (c'mon now...he's a musical genius...he knows what his voice sounds like) he's opted to use that shyt too. Don't front.

But, what I'm asking is this. Did Kanye just decide to make an R&B/Alternative album and attempt to sing in the process? Like fa' real?? Is this the SAME dude that was LIVID a few years ago because folks didn't recognize him as an emcee/lyricist??

Maybe I'm wrong for being a Kanye fan and actually appreciating his flow. This singing shyt is WACK!!

Now...

I don't mean to get too personal, but being that music has been my mother, father, brother, sister, wife, girlfriend, booty call, bestfriend, associate, and even the nigga on the block I just see occassionally...I like to think that I know when it's being good or bad to me. I also know that history says that great artists make some of their greatest music when life's trials and tribulations are weighing heavy on their souls. We've seen it too many times for me to give examples.

In the past year, Mr. West has definitely gone through more than his fair share of life's unfortunate dealings. And although I hear the pain in his music, I'm sorry, it just doesn't make for great (or even good) songs for him.

Really, I think I saw all of this falling into play but purposely ignored it last year. When I first heard "Stronger", I immediately skipped past that joint within the first 20 seconds. And THEN, he released it as a single and it garnered rave reviews from his international audience. The video (although directed by Hype) was wack to me. *thinking to self, DAMN, I hope Common's not going down that same road after "BE"with his new joint*

Although I haven't heard for myself, the word is out that Common's new joint is pretty wacktacular itself. Again, I haven't heard so I can't speak for myself...but I'm just sayin'...

Maybe I'm just trippin' on my man Kanye.

But. What do y'all think????

Un-Shameless Plug

2008-12-03T21:18:00.002-05:00

"As a young and dumb man, gun in the waist
Sold crack to those who couldn't take the pain
And had to numb it with base
Couldn't drink the henny straight, I needed somethin' to chase
Nowadays I throw shots back, leavin' nothin' to waste
Life is like a treadmill, niggas runnin' in place
Gettin' no where fast, a whole year done past"
-"It's Like That" - Jay-Z

Greetings My Good People!!

I have bad news...and good news for ya. Which one do you want first?

Ok, y'all don't care? Aight then, I'll give you the bad new FIRST!!

As some of you may or may not know, I've been blogging on blogger for almost a year now. I've enjoyed the interactions and comments from everyone and I hope that you left feeling...well...SOME kinda way after reading one (or some) of my posts. Writing and sharing information and thoughts is something that I love to do as time permits and I really appreciate those who have checked in on ya boy to see if I've posted something new. With that said, I won't be posting as much on here as I use to.

*boooo's....chants of outrage...and jeers comes from everyone*

Here ye, here ye. Hold up muthafuggas, y'all know I only posted every now and then on this joint anyway!!

Calm y'all asses down.

I started this blogger site at the top of '08. And since I'm all about progression and shyt, I'm moving on to another site. A bigger and better site. Hence, the GOOD news. And I hope that ALL of you will join me there. I'll still post occassionally over here, but the new site will have everything you loved over here and much more.

With that being said...

I invite you all to join me at:

PresidentialTelevisionAndFilm.ning.com.

Hey, what can I say...I just celebrated my biological New Year and it's time I make some progressive changes. Tickets are free and I know y'all like free shyt so come along for the ride.

Also, with the new site, you can set up your own page, create your own blogs, add pictures, videos, notes, or just plug your own shyt...I don't care.

So, c'mon and join me at PresidentialTelevisionAndFilm.ning.com. and invite ya friends!!

Also, take words to prophet Shawn Carter and make sure you're not just "runnin' in place."

See you over at the new spot!!

ATL HipHop Meets Politics

2008-12-02T17:37:00.000-05:00

As some of you may know, today Georgia had a run-off election stemming from the close race for U.S. Senate between Rep. Saxby Chambliss and Dem. Jim Martin. I casted my vote earlier today at a relatively empty poll station which only took five minutes of my time.

Although the numbers aren't all in as of now, I believe that Chambliss has a sizable lead. I did see some people in the streets rallying to get others to vote today, but the energy and and urgency of the citizens seemed kind of blah.

One thing I did find notable though was three of Atlanta's most prominent artists campaigning for Jim Martin yesterday at the capitol building. With all the negativity that seems to surround HipHop (and these artists in particular), it's good to see T.I., Young Jeezy, and Ludacris come together and represent themselves as the men they are. All three of the artists are known throghout the community for their philanthropic activities, but to come together and take a political stance is commendable in my opinion.

The importance of this race is that the Democrats can possibly become fillibuster-proff in the Congress if Martin gets in.

Gov. Sarah Palin (whom I thought I wouldn't have to see for a few years) was in the 'A' also yesterday campaigning for Chambliss. The messed up thing is, is that if he wins, I can see how some people will still champion this broad even though she would have had very little to do with a Chambliss victory. Gotta love (and by "love" I mean "hate") politics.

photos from Getty Images

Dollar, Dollar Bill Y'all....

2008-11-19T18:02:00.002-05:00

Look, I love a good roast...as the one found over at the homies', Power and Awesome (GK and Luvvie), spot as they viciously went in on my man Dollar Bill...no-holds barred-style. I know it's all fun and games, but deez muthafathas got outta hand. We all know that "money talks" but they beat up on my dude so bad, he's been silenced.

Not to fear.

*Full Disclosure coming in 5...4...3...2...* Ya see, folks, Monk has a sensitive side. And GOTDAMMIIT I'm a fighter for the underdog. I got a tad offended by the way they left DB to die in a ditch. Therefore, it's my civic duty to speak up on this great, unjust travesty designed to smear the good name of my man lovingly known as "Buck". Ungrateful muafuggas they are!!

Feel free to check out their hilarious roast of Dollar Bill here.

*stepping to podium...taps mic*

Your Honor,

"Allow me re-introduce myself...My name is..." *hold up, wrong stage...my bad* I'm Attorney Council Monk Esq. III of George Muthafucking Washington and partners and I'm representing my dear ol' gracious friend, Dollar Bill.

With all due respect to the Lovely Luvvie and Grandioso Genius Khan...y'all some ingrate, repugnant, unappreciative, elitist ass kneegrows if I ever saw some.

Like fa real, after all Mr. Bill has done for you, this the muthfuckin' thanks he gets?? Fa Real????

To the judge and jury, I will present how these insidious, self-proclaimed "IGNANT", thankless sly-ass folks have unrighteously slandered the name of my client while totally ignoring his historic Greatness.

Now, in Every Black City, USA, there is one beverage that has always been a staple in the hood. If you guessed Coca-Cola (THE most popular brand ANYTHING on the world), please subtract one grade level from your "hood report card". If you guessed KOOL-AID, you are indeed correct. What does this has to do with the price of tea in China?? Absolutely nothing...BUT, Mr. Dollar Bill is single-handedly responsible for quenching the thirst of many hood folks across this vast land. You can go in the grocery store and easily rack up on a hundred thousand trillion packets of Kool-Aid in a variety of your most favoritest flavors...all for one Dollar Bill.

During P&A's roast, GK and Luvvie goes in on Mr. Bill's physical appearance ragging everything from his design to the smirking old face on it. However the sight of a crispy, vertically folded Dollar Bill can STILL get you:

a.) Preferential treatment from a bartender at a crowded bar where everyone else is trying to garner attention with "Hey's" and waving their empty hands.

b.) A young kid to do you a small favor like retrieving a bag of chips from the corner store for you.

c.) A sneak peek of a stripper's "pee-you-ess-ess-why" as she flirtaciously bats her eyes at you OR even a cheap feel if you place Mr. Bill in her thong just right.

Let's not forget that even though Dollar is the lowest valued US bill, when used the right way, it can make it seem like more than what it is. C'mon now, don't front...we've all at some point in time been guilty of using a knot of ones and putting a 20, 50, or 100 on top to make it look like we're ballllllin'. Shyt, as the saying goes, "Fake it 'til you make it." And in a capitalist society, perception is often construed as reality.

What would rap music be if it wasn't for my homie Dollar Bill? I know some of these cats are now jockin' euros and shyt, but think about the fabulous lines Mr. Bill has been a part of.

*"I'm about a DOLLAR, what the fuck is 50 Cent" - JayHova

*"Cash Rules Everything Around Me / C.R.E.A.M. Get the money / DOLLAR DOLLAR BILL y'all" - Method Man

*"Cuz my seconds, minutes, hours go to the almighty DOLLAR" - Lil' Weezy

*"I'm just another black man caught up in the mix / Tryin' to make a DOLLAR out of 15 cents" - Shock G

*"If it don't make DOLLARS, it don't make sense" - DJ Quik

I could go on and on but you get the point. If it wasn't for D. Bill, the greatness level of these songs would be taken down a notch.

In conclusion, judge and jury, I'd just like to say to all, lay off my man Dollar Bill. He's been having his Worst Year Ever, but he still my nigga.

Much love to Genius Khan and Luvvie!!

My Favorite Song (Right Now) part TWO!!

2008-11-13T12:43:00.002-05:00

If you're like me, you're not a fan of Jim Jones.
And when I say, "not a fan", I mean you think his ghastly lack of lyrical ability, obnoxiously pathetic flow, and fake gangsterisms is an atrocious example of what NOT to do as an artist.

With my utter disgust for him out the way, I still must say that this is the most bangingest joint out right now.

"Pop Champagne" by Jim Jones, Ron Brownz, and Juelz Santana

This is the perfect video when we're in the midst of possibly the most titanic recession the U.S. has ever experienced, ya think? Lol!! I'm not gonna hate though cause when they were just bugging out having fun, spraying champagne on each other, and all that (read: COONING), I thought it was funny...lol. They really had a good time I'd assume.

I was first hooked on the song when I heard it while listening to Ryan Cameron a few weeks ago. The beat dropped and I was in awe. I like simple shyt...lol. Somewhat reminded me of the first time I heard the Clipse's "Grindin'" beat. The shyt just knocked!! And then Luda came on and ripped it. I'm thinkin', "Damn, I can't wait for Cris's new joint to drop!!"

Then, all of a sudden, this nigga comes and tries his hardest to fuck up his own song. *shaking my damn head* Luckily, I can just use my wack nigga earmuffs and focus on the beat while he attempts to rap.

Bottomline is...if you do not like this song or AT LEAST think it's "AIIGHT", then you must really REALLY be a Jim Jones hater. Trust me, it hurts for me to admit how dope it is, but...it is.

This will actually be the theme song for my birthday, THE 16th, although I won't be poppin' champagne.

That is all.

checkmate

2008-11-05T00:35:00.002-05:00

I'll be the first to admit when I'm wrong.

And GOT DAMN, it feels SO GOOD to be wrong right now. America has elected a Black Man as their President. I knew in my heart of hearts that AmeriKKKa would never allow this to happen...lo and behold, I stand corrected.

I'm an Obama supporter and my only wish now is that the "bad apples" in America don't start trippin'. But I'm not going to entertain that right now.

Anyway, I hope everyone celebrate responsibly and don't neccessarily throw it up in Republican/McCain supporters in an exuberant way. There should be no "We Won Bytchez!!", "Take That Muthafuckaz!!", or "BooYah!!'s".

Keep in mind that there's a LOOONNNGGG road ahead and this is just one step (albeit a HUGE one) so let not get too lax. As the cliche' goes, this is checkers not chess.

So when addressing McCain/Palin supporters, just quietly say to them "checkmate".

That is all...and keep it moving.

In the words of the WU, "You best Protect Ya' Neck!!"

P.S. I am saddened that his grand mammy didn't live to see the day. I know the fact she didn't make it still weighs heavy on my dude.

P.S.S. Can we start a petition to paint the white house BLACK or is it too early?? Lol. Word to MC Breed.

P.S.S.S. I wonder what Bill Cosby has to say about have a Black President with a name like "BARACK"...I'm just asking...

SNEAK PEEK: "VIXENS" coming soon to 2BoldTV.com!!!!

2008-11-01T18:41:00.002-04:00
What's Up My Good People,

Just droppin' off a couple of snippets from an internet television show I've been crafting for the past couple of months. The show is called "VIXENS" and it will be airing exclusively on 2BoldTV.com soon. Here's a brief synopsis on the show:

===========================

***VIXENS

With the popularity of music videos and urban lifestyle men's magazines such as King, Smooth, and Show, gorgeous ethnic women of all shades, shapes, and sizes have been given the opportunity to excel in the modeling industry - an industry that has been primarily designated for super-thin Caucasian models.

"Vixens" will showcase the hottest models as well as fresh, new faces that are ready to make their mark in this intriguing profession. In-depth interviews, behind the scenes of photo shoots, and fashion commentary with some of the industry's hottest stylists will provide insightful information that digs deep into the dirt of an industry known for its glitz and glamour.

We will also take the viewer on a 'Day In The Life'-journey with some of the hottest models as our cameras follow them throughout personal aspects of their life such as attending casting calls, going to the gym, working on other projects, their home life, etc..

Captivating testimonials, raw and candid dialogue, and breath-taking visuals all contribute to "Vixens", making it a unique series in filling a huge void in the entertainment business. For the first time, these beautiful faces and dynamic physiques are given a VOICE!!

===========================

Here's a few snippets to give you an idea of what to expect. You have to wait for the actual shows to get the full interviews and other exclusive features.

2BoldTV.com "VIXENS" promo starring Challedon "Shy" Saltor from Presidential Television and Film on Vimeo.

Challedon "Shy" Saltor

2BoldTV.com "VIXENS" snippet starring Jream from Presidential Television and Film on Vimeo.

Jream

2BoldTV.com "VIXENS" snippet starring LaKeeda Kelly from Presidential Television and Film on Vimeo.

LaKeeda Kelly

If you're interested in being featured on "VIXENS", feel free to drop me an email at PresidentThomasForbes@gmail.com.

Special Thanks also to Darnik aka Spock of 2Bold Entertainment, the models who allowed us the opportunity to give a behind the scenes look at what goes on in their lives and two of the most talented young brothers on the come up in the film game Tedric and Chancler.

I will be posting more snippets soon so check back....

EARLY!!

2008-10-28T21:33:00.003-04:00
Damn.

My homie just sent me this video. It's funny as shyt and had me laughing out loud LITERALLY...but after watching, I know what I must do.

LOL!!

My Favorite Song (Right Now) part ONE!!

2008-10-16T22:47:00.003-04:00
The homie Telese posted a blog several days ago that contained the video for Ne-Yo's "Independent Woman"(Remix) (or whatever the song is called). I hate the original, but the remix, delights me much. I enjoy the video's simplicity also. It got me to thinking how I am a fan of Ne-Yo and really enjoy his writing for other people. Case In Point...

NKOTB feat. Ne-Yo "Single"

Little known factoid about me (well, actually, you might already know this), I am a fan of music...translated, that means I appreciate everything from the World's Most Dangerous Group, NWA's "Fuck The Police" to "I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack to the Carpenters' "Close To You" to "Feels So Good" by Chuck Mangione to L'Trimm's "Cars With The Boom".

I will admit (proudly) that I wasn't a fan of New Kids On The Block back in the day...But this joint is a definitive BANGER!!

As most R&B and Pop songs, the premise is corny, but hell, I can be corny (in an ultra-charming way) at times, so I can actually see myself sayin' some shyt like "I'll be your boyfriend 'til the song goes off"...lol. I can SO say this and make it work. Trust me on this...LOL!!

Anyway, NKOTB's "Single" is My Favorite Song (Right Now)...with Tip's feat. Rhiana, "Live Your Life" coming in a CLOSE second. Who knows...this may change tomorrow but that's my statement and I'm sticking to it (for right now).

Oh yeah, if you're a SUPER-hard dude (and when I say "Super-hard" ~no brokeback~), who will never admit to liking a great song like this OR an undateable, "single", classless bytch, "I wanna rough neck/thug/d-boy"-type of female you may argue about this song's GREATNESS. In turn, you'll be wrong.

A Billi,..a Billi...a Billi...

2008-10-12T17:00:00.001-04:00

I got this email earlier this week and figured I'd share...

=========================

This is too true to be funny. The next time you hear a politician use the word 'billion' in a casual manner, think about whether you want the 'politicians' spending YOUR tax money. A billion is a difficult number to comprehend,but one advertising agency did a good job of putting that figure into some perspective in one of it's releases.

A. A billion seconds ago it was 1959.
B. A billion minutes ago Jesus was alive.
C. A billion hours ago our ancestors were living in the Stone Age.
D. A billion days ago no one walked on the earth on two feet.
E. A billion dollars ago was only 8 hours and 20 minutes, at the rate our government is spending it. While this thought is still fresh in our brain...let's take a look at New Orleans ...It's amazing what you can learn with some simple division.

Louisiana Senator,
Mary Landrieu (D) is presently asking Congress for 250 BILLION DOLLARS to rebuild New Orleans . Interesting number...what does it mean?

A. Well... if you are one of the 484,674 residents of New Orleans (every man, woman, and child) you each get $516,528.
B. Or... if you have one of the 188,251 homes in New Orleans your home gets $1,329,787.
C. Or... if you are a family of four...your family gets $2,066,012.

Washington, D. C
"HELLO!"
Are all your calculators broken??

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
CDL License Tax
Cigarette Tax Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax Food
License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Gasoline Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax) Liquor Tax
Luxury Tax
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Service charge taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Tax (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge
Tax
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Utility Tax Vehicle License
Registration Tax Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax

STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY?

Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago...and our
nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt...
We had the largest middle class in the world...and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.

What happened?

Can you spell 'politicians!' And I still have to press '1' for English. I hope this goes around the USA at least 100 times What the heck happened?????

=========================

All I can say is "Wowwww..."

Too Funny!!

2008-10-04T11:34:00.000-04:00

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

spotted over at the rezidue

Failin'...oops...I mean 'Palin". My Bad...

2008-09-30T11:27:00.002-04:00
So, I'm in a local pizzaria, right?

I called in my order and expected it to be ready when I got there. When I walked in, the place reeked of something burning. I have no idea of how these folks couldn't smell anything BURNING!! They have to be experts right...at least when it comes to shyt BURNING? Even the customers who were dining in the spot said nothing. WTF??

I swear, when I walked in, I smelt the scent of 'burned-ness". I've frequented this spot for MANY times in the past couple of years (read: two point five) and I've never experienced that.

**What I've said has NOTHING to do with this post...LMAO!!!! but not really.**

Anyways, I know it may perceieved as 'childish', this pic is funny to me:

Maybe I'm wrong for finding humor in this...maybe some folks just need to lighten the fuck up.

The Lost Videos part TWO!!

2008-09-24T23:46:00.004-04:00
Now I know most of y'all have already seen this parody of the homie Lil' Duval's take on the BET interview with R. Kelly. Even though the subject matter is of a serious nature, I can't help but crack the fugg up every time I watch this.

Hilarious!!

LIL DUVAL INTERVIEWS R KELLY

Maybe I'm sick for thinking this, but the funniest part of this parody doesn't even come for Duval...It's when Robert, with a serious ass face says, "When you say TEENage, how old we talkin'?" WTF????

I've worked with R.Kelly years ago when the whole tape thing was really hitting the fan and I know his management (at the time...not sure if he's still represented by them) was EXTREMELY protective of EVERY small detail of the production. To think that someone stood around, heard him say that, and didn't immediately press to have that answer stricken from the final cut is beyond me. Nevertheless, it's funny as hell.

Oh shyt!! I got off track (not the first time, won't be the last). Anyway, I'll leave you with this video we directed for Do Or Die feat. R. Kelly. "Magic Chic".

We shot this up in the Chi and we had a BLAST!! The guys from DOD were real cool and hospitable to say the least. Truly legends but very humble. This was also my first time meeting Bishop Don Magic Juan. We kicked it with him in his hotel room and the dude is full of stories. Don't let the gaudy outfits fool you, he's really a wise and good dude. Enough about that though...here's the video.

Magic Chic

Raise Ya Got Damn Kids!!

2008-09-22T18:48:00.002-04:00
You know what, I believe that the youth of today do some silly shyt. Hold up, I take that back...looking at history, I'd adjust that last sentence and take "of today" out. Now, I a firm believer that being young and discovering the world and learning about yourself, others, and your enviornment directly affects your actions and your way of thinking. Also, when you really think about it, a child comes into this world with a blank slate and it's others (namely adults) who are around them whom have the power of influence - be it good or bad.

After watching this video, I was speechless.

Now I don't know who the older woman was videotaping and eggin' the little girls, but I'd assume it was their mother or someone with close ties with the family. Not only is she basically coaching the kids to cuss out this other lady, but she had a stroke of brilliance and decided to video tape it. I ain't one to snitch, but fugg it, if I knew these individuals, the authorities might have to get a link to this shyt. Call me 'punk ass Chauncey' if you want. Sticks and stones. That's only after I checked her for her ignorant ass behavior and made her explain to the children that she was wrong for enticing them to make such a hate-filled video. Judging by the tone of the older chick though, she would've rejected my requests so that's why her ass would have contributing to the delinquency of minors charges or at the very least reported to DFACS. This is insane.

I don't have any children and I'm not one to tell parents how to raise theirs, but they should know that there are consequences for their actions.

***SIDENOTE: Actually, I do have children. My tax dollars is paying for hella kids whose parents aren't mature or responsible enough to care for their own so shiiiddd, you might as well call me 'daddy'. END SIDENOTE***

And just to set the record straight, don't try to blame this shyt on rap music. That cop out is OLD, TIRED, and just FALSE!! People just need to raise their damn kids in a more responsible manner.

You GOTTA Love This Guy part TWO!!

2008-09-18T10:29:00.004-04:00

The first installment of "You GOTTA Love This Guy" took a good look at my homeboy's, Michael Moore, youtube videos as he represents countless times for people who don't neccessarily have a voice...or at least one that isn't heard too often in mainstream America. I just ran across a blog by Tim Wise that has prompted me to throw Mr. Wise in the same category. I encourage you all to do the knowledge on Tim Wise and recognize his work and his activism. Thanks to Sista Toldja for the link also.

Anyway, I lifted this from this website and decided to repost because I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiments mentioned. Feel free to foward this to as many people you know because it contains points of views that not only pertain to life in present-day America, but also the entire globe - past, present, and future.

Check it out:

===================================

September 13, 2008, 2:01 pm

This is Your Nation on White Privilege
By Tim Wise

For those who still can’t grasp the concept of white privilege, or who are constantly looking for some easy-to-understand examples of it, perhaps this list will help.

White privilege is when you can get pregnant at seventeen like Bristol Palin and everyone is quick to insist that your life and that of your family is a personal matter, and that no one has a right to judge you or your parents, because “every family has challenges,” even as black and Latino families with similar “challenges” are regularly typified as irresponsible, pathological and arbiters of social decay.

White privilege is when you can call yourself a “fuckin’ redneck,” like Bristol Palin’s boyfriend does, and talk about how if anyone messes with you, you'll “kick their fuckin' ass,” and talk about how you like to “shoot shit” for fun, and still be viewed as a responsible, all-American boy (and a great son-in-law to be) rather than a thug.

White privilege is when you can attend four different colleges in six years like Sarah Palin did (one of which you basically failed out of, then returned to after making up some coursework at a community college), and no one questions your intelligence or commitment to achievement, whereas a person of color who did this would be viewed as unfit for college, and probably someone who only got in in the first place because of affirmative action.

White privilege is when you can claim that being mayor of a town smaller than most medium-sized colleges, and then Governor of a state with about the same number of people as the lower fifth of the island of Manhattan, makes you ready to potentially be president, and people don’t all piss on themselves with laughter, while being a black U.S. Senator, two-term state Senator, and constitutional law scholar, means you’re “untested.” 

White privilege is being able to say that you support the words “under God” in the pledge of allegiance because “if it was good enough for the founding fathers, it’s good enough for me,” and not be immediately disqualified from holding office--since, after all, the pledge was written in the late 1800s and the “under God” part wasn’t added until the 1950s--while believing that reading accused criminals and terrorists their rights (because, ya know, the Constitution, which you used to teach at a prestigious law school requires it), is a dangerous and silly idea only supported by mushy liberals. 

White privilege is being able to be a gun enthusiast and not make people immediately scared of you. 

White privilege is being able to have a husband who was a member of an extremist political party that wants your state to secede from the Union, and whose motto was “Alaska first,” and no one questions your patriotism or that of your family, while if you're black and your spouse merely fails to come to a 9/11 memorial so she can be home with her kids on the first day of school, people immediately think she’s being disrespectful. 

White privilege is being able to make fun of community organizers and the work they do--like, among other things, fight for the right of women to vote, or for civil rights, or the 8-hour workday, or an end to child labor--and people think you’re being pithy and tough, but if you merely question the experience of a small town mayor and 18-month governor with no foreign policy expertise beyond a class she took in college--you’re somehow being mean, or even sexist. 

White privilege is being able to convince white women who don’t even agree with you on any substantive issue to vote for you and your running mate anyway, because all of a sudden your presence on the ticket has inspired confidence in these same white women, and made them give your party a “second look.” 

White privilege is being able to fire people who didn’t support your political campaigns and not be accused of abusing your power or being a typical politician who engages in favoritism, while being black and merely knowing some folks from the old-line political machines in Chicago means you must be corrupt. 

White privilege is being able to attend churches over the years whose pastors say that people who voted for John Kerry or merely criticize George W. Bush are going to hell, and that the U.S. is an explicitly Christian nation and the job of Christians is to bring Christian theological principles into government, and who bring in speakers who say the conflict in the Middle East is God’s punishment on Jews for rejecting Jesus, and everyone can still think you’re just a good church-going Christian, but if you’re black and friends with a black pastor who has noted (as have Colin Powell and the U.S. Department of Defense) that terrorist attacks are often the result of U.S. foreign policy and who talks about the history of racism and its effect on black people, you’re an extremist who probably hates America. 

White privilege is not knowing what the Bush Doctrine is when asked by a reporter, and then people get angry at the reporter for asking you such a “trick question,” while being black and merely refusing to give one-word answers to the queries of Bill O’Reilly means you’re dodging the question, or trying to seem overly intellectual and nuanced. 

White privilege is being able to claim your experience as a POW has anything at all to do with your fitness for president, while being black and experiencing racism is, as Sarah Palin has referred to it a “light” burden. 
And finally, white privilege is the only thing that could possibly allow someone to become president when he has voted with George W. Bush 90 percent of the time, even as unemployment is skyrocketing, people are losing their homes, inflation is rising, and the U.S. is increasingly isolated from world opinion, just because white voters aren’t sure about that whole “change” thing. Ya know, it’s just too vague and ill-defined, unlike, say, four more years of the same, which is very concrete and certain… 

White privilege is, in short, the problem.

"Silly Of Me..."

2008-09-11T00:24:00.000-04:00

"To think that I..." - Deniese Williams

This may be my last post about politrix (tics) until John McCain is elected and I tell y'all "I Told You So".

I love what Barack Obama stands for. His ideas for America are right along with mine. Of course our nation needs a lightning speed kick in the ass to change the status quo, better our economy, and improve our relationships with foreign countries and I believe that President Barack Obama has the power to do that...somewhere in his second term (nevertheless). Of course there's a multitude of other ISSUES that CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, other blogs, and common folk aren't really talking about.

**SIDENOTE: There's a lot of people talking greasy about Palin right now and even though I'm not a fan of the chick (I mean) bytch (hahahaha...that was funny. Laugh, I didn't mean it like that, but you probably would've said it too...lol), there's a lot of folks posting reckless things out there about her. And even though it's RIGHT, it's not right...why we gotta sling mud on each an' other?? I Hate Politics. And just for the record, SHE'S NOT ATTRACTIVE!! END SIDENOTE**

But, then again, who gives a fuck about EDUCATION, Poverty, Equal-Rights, HEALTH CARE, Illegal Drugs Shipped Into Our Country, Diminishing Economy, Rampant Violence In Our Cities, Police Brutality AND Profiling, Discrimination PERIOD, etc.,etc.????

I think we ALL do (care that is). However, the American media is SO FUCKED UP that our news outlets are focusing on BULLSHYT!! The media sources are SO biased in their broadcasting and journalism because they are tied into specific parties/relationships so they adjust what they put out there accordingly to the favor of the different factions. In addition, they take the most asinine topics and PROMOTE them like they ARE issues. This Is Fact. EVEN MUAFUGGIN' BLOGGERS LIKE YOU, YEAH YOU!!, TAKE WHOMEVER SIDE AND THROW SHYT ON THE OPPOSING SIDE...WTF!!

*taking breath*

Yeah, I'm guilty too, so what.

However, politrix are totally out of control when the public focuses on shyt like:

***in my Arsenio Hall comedic/interviewing voice*

"WHO's your Reh-verend, Barack?"
or
"What about all these kiiiiiiidddsss, Sarah?"
or
"How you a self-proclaimed "maverick" but they had you locked up and shyt, John??

***EXIT Arsenio*

My main point is:

The media (internet included) is making the election a Barnum's and Bailey's Circus Fiasco to distract people from the REAL ISSUES. Who gives a fuck if Obama attended a church who's pastor at the time told the got damn truth about America?? Why is a soildier who got CAUGHT UP, imprisoned, considered a 'prisoner of war' considered a HERO??
**SIDENOTE: I'm STILL scratchin' my head on that one.END SIDENOTE*** Why is a mother of five,six, or whatever the count is at such an issue???? And if she's so incompetent, why did she overshadow 'the dude that's running with Obama'?? Biden, right? Is that his name?? I kid. I kid. But that's how it is...

I can say, this is nothing new. THIS is actually what they've been doing for hundreds of years. In ALL situations, the candidate that appeals to the states with the most electoral votes come out as the winners. Popular votes don't count across the country so much.

Or, as we've learned in previous elections, THEY may put whomever they want into office.

Hey, this is Amerikkka, what can you do?

Anyhow, I REALLY wish the public got more involved in the ISSUES as oppose to the tabloid-worthy headlines talking about an old man being a "maverick", a Black dude with hope, a white broad from Alaska whom SOME think is "Hot!", and another cat who's thunder has been swept right below his feet...because of a "Jill-In-A-Box" from the GOP.

Another Point: I've ALWAYS thought that McCain would win against Obama just because of my experience and knowledge of the country. In the polls (which I don't neccessarily subscribe to), they say, it's neck-to-neck when it comes to "likely/probable" voters.

Let me repeat that:

"it's neck-to-neck when it comes to "likely/probable" voters."

Broken down into laymen's words, that means:

If y'all niggas (I use it as a term of endearment...I really do) don't get out there and REGISTER to vote, and VOTE, then uhhhhhh....it's on YOU!!

I already got my passport...and Toronto's lookin' REAL good.

I'm out.

P.S.

By the way, it was "Silly Of Me" to think that this election would be any different from the other name-calling, immature, mud-slinging, low-down politics of past years.

That's where my title came from. I like that song :-)

*Monk steps off soap box, tucks it under arm and exits stage left*

The Lost Videos part 1

2008-09-07T22:16:00.002-04:00

I started this series about 2 years ago on my myspace blog and thought I'd take the time to resuccitate it here...so here goes:

=======================

What's Up my Good People!! Here's an installment of "Lost Videos". *Trumpets blare..."Duh-Duh Duh-Duuuhhh"* This is the place where I delve WAAAAAAYYYYY deep into my video archives and give you CLASSIC BANGERS that I've directed in the past.

This time, I have an EXTRA SPECIAL treat for you. See, this is a little known fact but, back in the day, yours truly used to dibble and dabble around with emceeing. You know, spittin' hot 16's...setting the m-i-c on fire...things of that nature. *smile* And if I do say so myself (which I do), the kid was NICE!! Actually nicer than NICE!! Who else but me can spit lines like these...

"...never holidin' a picket sign, just comin' with these wicked rhymes / I'm the shit and like a psychiatrist, I'll leave you hypnotized / But I don't need a swingin' clock, and I'm never singin' pop / Been rappin' since back in the day, ever since I heard "King Of Rock" / and it don't stop, I always flow rhymes / Niggas be sayin' it's wack but I know they like it cause they quote lines / These dope rhymes, I author them, battle me nigga? Ya know it's hard to win / I'm takin' these wack ass rappers into a "Different World" like Kadeem Hardison / and Jasmine cause I'm that man that be never comin' false / Damien, West Side Detroit beyotch! What the fuck you thought!!"

*18-year-old Damon drops the mic and strike his B-Boy pose* LOL!!

Yeah, I used to go by the name Damien and now it pisses me the hell off when someone calls me "Damien" as oppose to my birth name "Damon". Go figure. Anyhow, I used to be a member in this rap group called The Lyrical Linx with a few homies at Clark Atlanta (What Up Von, Yemi, and Boss!!) We were the shyt...fa real!! We were doing shows around the campus AND we were the first cats out there who had our own videos.

I dug up this joint we did that was like a freakin' hit around the AUC (Atlanta University Center - for those not in the know). It's funny because we shot this video on January, 1997 and now it's 2008. Damn!! 11.75 whole years have flew by. This video was SO much fun to make. We shot all around the AUC and just had a blast. It's a special "making of..." at the end of the video that is HILARIOUS!! You can see for yourself how much fun we had. Without further ado...I present to you "Ladies Of The AUC" by the Lyrical Linx feat. D. Lorenzo...

You can also check out D. Lorenzo (the vocalist) here. Now, just so you know, the Lyrical Linx were Lavon (Gooch da Lyrical Bully) who I went to Cass in the D with as well as CAU, my man Yemi from DC who we linked up with, *SIDENOTE: Yemi still wrecks the mic but he does it WORLDWIDE now. You can holla at him here. END SIDENOTE* and myself, Damien (The Omen)...yes, nice name, I know :) Anyway, we recorded a number of songs as a group and we also did solo joints. As years went by, we went different ways but I can't help but think what could have been. Now, I look at the music industry and I can't help but be happy that I left that phase in life because of all the snakes and shady muhfuckas out there (and I'm not really knockin' the music industry cause believe me, there are similar demons in damn near EVERY industry).

Anyway, this was another banger we did in the Spring of '97..."Ain't Shit Changed"...

And there you have it...two videos that I directed AND starred in ELEVEN years ago. Hope you enjoyed this episode of "Lost Videos". Until next time...Take Care of Yourself, and Each Other.

**Damn, I LOVE that line from Jery Springer...I need to use that more often..lol!**

Just Like Music

2008-09-03T22:19:00.000-04:00

I love music.

Like, I really, REAL-LY LOVE music.

Spanning an array of genre's, I've always looked at music as being a soundtrack to life (as many of us do). When done properly, Music conjures spirits and emotions of long lasting love, abominable anger, jubilant joy and celebration, threatening fear, utopian hope, admonitory caution, dreadful sadness, compassionate reconciliation, extreme hate, wonderful insight, lustful passion, and just ignant shyt.

I feel like many songs/artists have been specifically placed on this third rock from the sun for the sole purpose to speak to me. Whether it's...

...Souljah Boy's "Yaah Trick Yaah" providing me with endless comical fodder, or DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince (I refuse to call him Will Smith) giving me early relationship advice with "Girls Of The World Ain't Nothin' But Trouble", or Bill Withers' "Lovely Day" played sequentially with "Feels So Good" by Chuck Mangione when I first wake up shielding me completely of having a bad day, or Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald's "This Is It" providing an inpirational kick-in-the-ass...

...All of these songs serves its purpose.

**SIDENOTE: I HAVE to be the first person in the history of EVER to mention Souljah Boy in the same sentence as Kenny Loggins. END SIDENOTE**

There's something very special about music. It's a universal language that may be striking to some and dismal to others depending on the song. Some people gravitate to orchestration and musicianship, some to pounding beats and intricate samples, others to introspective lyrics that they can relate to or give a window into the soul of an artist.

*hearing someone breaking out the Dave Chappelle "Wrap It Up" device*

Ok, I say all that to say, I've only bought TWO CD's this year (so far). Not saying that there's not other quality joints out there, but I have my reasons.

One being Killer Mike's "Pledge Allegiance To The Grind part 2" and most recently Solange's "Sol- Angel and The Hadley St. Dreams".

I must say that I'm throughly impressed with Solange's CD...the joint is BANGIN'!!

Bangin'....BANGIN'!!

Pick it up!! Pick it up!! *blanket Poison Clan reference*

I usually don't care for CG (computer generated) and I stay away from it, but I likes both of Solange's videos...them shyt's tight.

I'm not gonna give a review of "Sol-Angel..." but if you love quality music (with an old school feel), you needs that in your life...fa' real.

Letter To Young Monk

2008-08-25T13:18:00.002-04:00

Young Monk senior year in high school

Not sure if y'all check my blogroll, but one site that I frequent is VerySmartBrothas.com. Chopping it up with the folks there is definitely insightful, side splitting, and entertaining to say the least. It's pretty much a relationship blog but the topics of discussion that ensue have NO boundaries. And I mean, NONE!!

On Friday, August 22nd, The Champ (one of the VSB's) posted an entry titled "hop in the delorean" - a great reference to the classic film "Back To The Future". The question asked was, "if you could hop into your personal relationship delorean and give advice to your former self, what the hell would you say?"

Here's what I would say to the younger me:

*NOTE: This includes my comment on VSB.com with more things added in as I further pondered.*

**NOTE#2: VSB.com tries to keep their site "work clean so as commenters there, we clean our language the fuck up. But here, on My2Cents-Sense.blogspot.com, I gives the raw.*

=======================

Dear Young Monk,

You’re going into the second half of your 11th grade year. When you got your contacts and lost the nerdy frames you sported, you see how your swag (future slang term you’ll come to detest), confidence and charisma got a great boost?

Use this to your advantage.

Don’t let the pretty girl from the “cool” crowd use you to give her rides home. She’s cool and all but she’ll NEVER invite you in (the crib). She may buy you Burger King, but that about it. She may sit next to you in class, but that about it. When you ask her out, she will decline. Save yourself the time cause she ain’t gonna let you hit.

In going into your 12th grade year, don’t make that average-looking girl your girlfriend. And damn sure don’t stay with her your WHOLE senior year. You DO have options and you’ll miss out on a lot. Plus, she'll make constant references towards her ex and you WON'T remember anything about your prom (read: very forgettable, not-a-good-time). Oh yeah, don't wear fuckin' polka dots to your prom. It's "post-Kwame'" so don't let her influence you!!

That summer after you graduate, you’re going to meet many girls at the dollar store and music store you work. Don’t fuck with 'em!! (Well, maybe one of them)

One of which will turn out to be a stalker - coming up to your job unannounced and calling your parents’ house repeatedly. Do not...and I repeat...DO NOT bang her in the backseat of your Duster in Rouge Park after dark!! This will only lead to MORE stalkism. Even after you go away to college, she will still call resulting in your mom saying, "Damn, what did you DO to that girl?"

The really fine one will try to trap you. She knows you’re a good dude so given her “Detroit hood”-mentality, she’ll do whatever she can do to keep you including lieing about being pregnant with your child. While you're away at college, she'll even invite your Mom, brother, and sister to the freakin' CIRCUS in an attempt to get in good with Momma Monk. The Fuggin' CIRCUS?? What The Fuck?? Who DOES that?? She’ll prove to be more fatal attraction-esque after she tries to move down to Atlanta to be with you. Don't take the bait. A few years later, she’ll crank out 3 kids by 3 different dudes, none of which she’ll still be with. Not to mention, while you're talking to her long distance (we have cell phone plans with FREE long distance now also...LOL!!) using calling cards and shit, she'll NEVER mention her second or third children's birth.

As for the one who’s the daughter of your manager at the job, take Wise Monk and BBD’s advice - don’t trust that big butt and her smile. Her mom will like you enough to call you "son", but even SHE will tell you her daughter has problems so take heed. Your parents don't like her and her "loud", ghetto personality will be a HUGE turn-off. Don’t give her that $300 for an abortion. Don’t be that naïve. Once you break it off with her for good, she’ll come clean and tell you that she wasn’t even pregnant. Sucka. By the way Young Monk, make sure when you flush a used condom down the toilet, make sure that shit goes DOWN. Don't let your father come home from work and see that shit floating in the pot. Not.A.Good.Look. Even though he won't say anything to you at the time, it will come out when you're much older and be an ongoing joke with you and your brother.

The woman you meet who’s 7 yrs your senior, in the summer of '95, will turn your 18-year ass OUT!! She'll also be the first of other relationships you have with older women (and strippers). Anyway, have fun with her…she’ll make driving all the way to SouthWest Detroit worth the trip. You may get a kick out of knowing that you're too young to get into a strip club but you're still banging this chick while other cats fantasize about it, but things won't be all peaches and cream. She'll eventually tell you that she was pregnant with your baby and aborted it without even telling you. You'll never know if the story was true but you will realize it was for the best.

You’re going to learn a LOT about life and yourself in college. TREASURE THESE YEARS!! The real world ain’t no joke and paying back student loans is a bitch.

Young Monk, please do yourself a favor and stop fuckin' with the Detroit hoodrats when you come home on breaks and the summer. C'mon dawg, you're in college...don't go backwards.

You’re going to have a good time with the ladies in college, but you need to strap up ALL the time. Damn, nigga, when will you learn after the pregnancy scares?? Sittin' in a free-clinic wondering "what's up" is not what's "hot on the streets". ("Hot On The Streets" is a future phrase you'll ALSO come to detest). All I have to say, lil' nigga, is Thank God for penicilin.

Now listen to me, you’re gonna meet a sweet, smart, caring young lady who can cook her ass off (and make a bomb ass cheesecake). She’s from Detroit so y’all will immediately hit it off and have lots in common. Even though she’s a ’six’ in the looks department, KEEP HER!! The girl is DOWN for you and she'll show you in many ways. Granted, she's a virgin and saving herself, and you like to enjoy sex, suck it up. Fellow classmates will like you guys as a couple and her low key demeanor and passionate/active attitude will draw you to her. Like I said lil' homie, KEEP HER. Other chicks will prove to be supportive of you, but none like her.

When the dime piece starts giving you play, Don’t play the ’six’ to the side. Don't fall victim to the co-ed dorm building. Matter of fact, don't even stay in Beckwith Hall...Period!! The "KEEP HER" young lady will be lost in all that you have going on and not only will you feel bad about it later, but you'll lose a GREAT friend. If anything, man the fuck up and tell her that you're interested in someone else. You’ll be ‘the man’ amongst your friends for snaggin’ the dime, but you’ll eventually learn that when she told you she was going home for Thanksgiving, she really went to visit her ex. Also, stop using your birthdate as the PIN to your voicemail cause she will check your messages.

The "dime", will however, offer you great insight. Great times will be shared and you can chalk it up as "relationship practice".

Choosing your passion as your major will be a good decision, but you’ll find it difficult in getting a job right after you graduate. Be patient and persistent - it will pay off...You'll be a success. Tone down your trusting nature and separate business relationships from friendships. Some people will take advantage of you. Don’t sweat it…you’ll learn from it. And by the way, nigga KEEP GRINDIN'!!

Back to relationships, after you graduate from college, don't go bananas.

The stripper that you meet in ‘99 at Club Nikki’s will be great fun. The sex and hanging out with her will be the source of fantastic memories. Have fun but keep in mind y’all share very little in common and it will get old fast.

Stripper #2 that you meet at The Gentlemen’s Club (DAMN NIGGA!! YOU GOT A THANG FOR STRIPPERS??..LOL) will have too much going on. Right after she HOOKS you up for your birthday just let it fade away.

The weed head (ok, you're just making BAD decisions at this point) who will end up being "the Best Booty-Call Ever", be straight up with her cause she’ll eventually ask to hang out and shyt during the day. Just enjoy it while it last. You'll enjoy the videotapes you guys made years after though...you muthafuckin' freak you...lol.

You and your partner will make a good deal of cash off of selling Homecoming tapes of the various events, and that's cool, but don't carry on relations with chicks who are STILL in school after you've graduated. You will have fun, but it's not cool to be the dude hanging around campus AFTER you've graduated. By all means, get yo' money, but don't bed freshmen women when you've just graduated.

On another note, the younger dudes who's still in school at the time, limit your 'hanging' with them. They're not on your maturity level and they won't benefit you. Drinking with them WILL lead to unfortunate circumstances. Afterwards, once dude starts dealing drugs, you'll wonder if there was things you cou've done to prevent him getting locked up. If only you could've gave dome alternate advice...

The artistic lady whom you'll take an interest in, don't get too emotional because even though the beginning of the film "Brown Sugar" (and its premise) relates GREATLY to your relationship, someone else will spark her interest, but you two will remain cool friends.

In your mid-twenties, you’ll meet a sweet lady who’s four years older than you who has a very high paying job at a huge soft drink company. Things will be extraordinary between you two but don’t catch too many feelings for her. When things really start heating up, she’ll call it off and site her fear of letting a guy get too close since her divorce is the problem. This is the up-side and down-side of a relationship with an older woman. You can learn a LOT, however, you may just be at different points in your lives. So it won't work anyway. It will sting a little bit when she hits you with it, but don’t let it get to you though because once you move on, she’ll realize what she had and try to get back with you.

.Be cautious with the one that you move on with though because that will be a rollercoaster 3 years of your life (actually, more than that). Better yet, just end it at the first signs of fucked-up-ness that you have. Hold your heart and don’t fall in love. You guys will seriously consider marriage and having kids. Seriously. But good for you, you'll know you're not ready. She'll appear to be "Mrs. Monk" because of all the right reasons, but will turn out to be the total opposite. She detests her mother, yet, she is JUST LIKE HER. Please Young Monk, peep out this trait that some women have...it's a clear sign...DON'T FUCK WITH THEM!!!! Once the 'honeymoon phase ends, you'll see the truth. She'll be turn out to be BITTER, contradictory, disrespectful (although she may hide it at first), and she'll for always feel entitled to your respect without reciprocity. She'll be 3.5 years your senior also and her "game" and sense of "seeming-to-have-it-all-together" will blind you. Ironically, this will be a woman who you've known for years... Do Not flirt with her a little too much. Silly of you. She'll ask you out and you'll agree to escort her to her company's Christmas Party. Dude, don't do it. Months later, you'll both fall in love...and out of love over a 3 year period and what happens after that will lead to cops, law suits, and bullshyt.

Given your positive outlook, I know you're not gonna let past experiences take away from your awsomeness. You'll soak all of this in and do the right thing.

Needless to say, Never let a chick allow you to lose focus of yourself.

Do learn from all your experiences, it will make you an even better man.

=========================

Anyways, I found this exercise (of writing a cautionary letter to one's old self) VERY therapeutic (and fun).

What do you think about my letter?? And also, I ask you the same question, if your present-day self could write a letter to the younger you, what would it say????

I Love My City!!

2008-08-25T12:39:00.002-04:00
This is a video straight outta Detroit. Man, I swear, the talent in Detroit is SO remarkable and it's amazing how from we have come from the Motown era. Barry Gordy and them opened the door and the torch continues to be passed setting a high bar of excellence in artistry, dance, and overall musicianship even in 2008.

This video is a youtube phenomenon and I'm so proud to see my city represented to the fullest.

LIFE CELEBRATION!!

2008-08-11T01:19:00.005-04:00

The Thomas/Bacon Family on Vacation

In the past few days, the world has lost two GREAT entertainers. I'm a fan of their work, true indeed, but I do know that God takes the souls of GREAT people off of this planet EVERYDAY as He sees fit. This includes everyday people who may have never constructed one of the best ">sountracks of all time or made millions of people ">laugh on a weekly/daily basis. Fact of the matter remains - We've all lost people who have impacted our lives and who were/are dear to us and they shall always remain in our hearts.

After the (selfish) mourning, we realize (or HOPE in some cases) that they're in a "better place". In the ONE funeral I have gone to in my 31 years on this third rock from the sun, it was called a "Celebration Of Life". In conversations with friends and associates, many people who have lost loved ones have also attended funerals that were "promoted" (for lack of a better word) as "CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE". This is cool and all but what about celebrating life while we're STILL here???? Hmmmm...there's a thought.

Several years ago, my mom started something that my immediate and extended family have participated in and shall continue. Every year we have a get-together. I wouldn't neccessarily consider it a 'family reunion' because it's usually a relatively small group (although many are invited and welcome to join in the festivities).

For lack of better words, FUCK THE HOLIDAYS!!

Many people scramble through airports, train stations, or jam into rental cars that claim to be 'medium sized' when it hold the capacity of a GIO Prizm during THOSE times. Not to mention, I REALLY think rental car companies are out for blood...but that's a different story.

Regardless, my MOM have taken a step that my family hasn't done in a while. In the past years we've ventured to the Bahamas...Houston, TX,...Las Vegas,NV (while stopping at the Grand Canyon)...Orlando, FL...'THE D' and Cedar Point (OH)...and Myrtle Beach, SC.

No Holiday involved.

Just US getting together when we could.

I Love My Family.

With that said, I'd like to share some photos and video of our most recent excursion. Shout out to my sister, Brit (who's expecting my first niece or nephew come February) and my bruh Brian (whom I did a cool photo shoot with while I was in the 'D')...I hate that y'all missed the trip, but I understand. ALSO, Thanks to my cousins Raul (and Tameka) and Al for allowing their sons to come...we had a good time.

R.I.P. to Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes

Here's some footage of us at the Acquarium there:

and my cousin Derrick KILLING IT on the dance game at the arcade at Broadway By The Beach:

Funeral...TENS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS.

Celebrating LIFE while still on Earth...PRICELESS!!

Politrix Are For Kids

2008-08-04T01:48:00.002-04:00
Less than a week ago, I posted a lil' video of Ludacris making his endorsement clear in the best way that he can - artistically. Chris is a wise dude, smart dude. His talent speaks for itself and his service to his community and beyond should duly be recognized. I've seen the Ludacris Foundation doing their thing and I commend him and the staff for ALL they have done.

After that, comes the backlash. WTF??

The messed up thing with artists is that their VOICE is loud. It resonates...and it stirs emotions (if done so properly). Whether it be a painter, photographer, recording artist, actor/actress, sculptor, writer, director, dancer, fashion designer, whatever - despite what parents and conservatives want you to believe, there's SO much power in the arts.

The arts have the power to shape public belief (once again, if done so properly) OR it may serve as merely an expression of one person's emotions and beliefs. Whatever the intentions, art is fuckin' art - that's MY 2 Cents.

Within his verse in support of Obama's campaign for presidency, Luda's lyrics takes jabs at naysayers such as H. Clinton, J. Jackson, J. McCain, and G.W. Bush.

He called Hillary a "bitch"...he said that Jesse Jackson really meant the disparaging remarks he made about cutting Obama's nuts off...he referred to John McCain's age...he referenced Bush's approval rating as him being 'arguably' the WORST PRESIDENT IN UNITED STATES HISTORY. This is an "artist's" opinion by the way.

I'm STILL waitng to see what did Luda do wrong. If he had NOT voiced his opinion or just been silent, then people would still jump out the woodwork and ask how he felt about this year's election process. I mean, they do it to everybody in the public eye (unless their PR people bans those type of questions).

My whole thing is that Chris Bridges didn't say ANYTHING new that we haven't heard before. He echoed HIS voice as well as MILLIONS of others across the nation. Does Hillary come off as 'bitchy'?? YES!! Is Jesse bitter than a muafugga and his apology seems insincere?? Yep!! Is George W. Bush dumb?? YESSIR!!

***SIDENOTE: I'm not gonna say that GWB is 'officially' dumb, I'm more inclined to say that the people who voted for him are 'dumb', but that's another matter. ENDSIDENOTE***
These are sentiments that millions of Americans subscribe to. So to come down on a freakin' artist for expressing their opinion seems like a great stretch. If your ideas speak for itself (as Obama just happen to), you wouldn't have to REACH as far as these cats are reaching.

For Sean Hannity and FOX NEWS to make this an issue and to note that this is another "radical association" is an insult to the minds of Americans.

Yet, again, something else that the Republican machine uses to divert attention off of the REAL issues. Yet, again, someone using HipHop as an easy target. That's beyond played out and I hope middle-America will see through the tactics.

We've got a few months left and I'm hoping cats aren't distracted by the Shullbit.

Chris Bridges For Vice President

2008-07-29T15:55:00.002-04:00

"ATTENTION ATTENTION!! Barack to America...Barack to America. I repeat Barack Calling America"

Ludacris is definitely one of my favs who've ever blessed a mic and he flow seems to never disappoint. Witty lyrics and charismatic delivery really to him in an elite group of emcees whom seems to never get lazy when crafting their lyrics and recording them.

Here's a short verse he spits about Barack Obama...
Enjoy.

C'mon Now Rev.

2008-07-23T17:14:00.003-04:00

In this photo that ran in the National Enquirer Thursday, Jesse Jackson and his mistress, Karin Stanford (circled), appear with President Clinton and two Rainbow Coalition staffers on Dec. 3, 1998, five months before Jackson's baby was born.

Rev. Jesse Jackson obviously has issues and at least disdain for Barack Obama. Myself, and many others, have chalked it up as him being salty because his relevance in today's society is slipping away and Obama is accomplishing feats that he failed to do. Add in my theory that n*ggas will ALWAYS have SOMETHING negative to say about other n*ggas (Black-on-Black crime is what I call it) and there you have it - a disgruntled, contradicting, has-been who has cabalistic desires of castrating another man as if he was a homosexual, scorn ex-lover or something.

However, in a recent interview with the National Enquirer, Jesse Jackson's mistress, Karin Stanford, gives another reason I didn't consider at first. READ THIS.

She exclaims that Obama's Father Day speech in Chicago set off feelings of guilt in the 66-year-old Reverend. Having a child out of wed-lock from an extra-marital affair and taking minimal responsibility for said child goes completely against Obama's "We need fathers to recognize that responsibility doesn't just end at conception."

When Jesse verbalized "Barack's been talking down to black people...I want to cut his nuts off," could Rev. Jackson possibly be referring to Obama's words about absentee fathers? Of course dead-beat dads isn't solely a 'black' phenomenon, but I'd be remiss if I didn't note that it is very prevalent in the black community. Is that what he meant by "talking down to..."? If Jesse raised his damn child and accepted his 9-year-old daughter as part of his family, would he still possess the rage in his heart that he has when someone mentions fathers lacking in their parental responsibilities?

At any rate, there comes a time in a man's life when he needs to be the fuck quiet. When will Jesse do just that?

High Jump The Broom

2008-07-21T00:11:00.002-04:00

BEFORE

AFTER

"When I shoot the moon, high jump the broom / Like a premie out the womb; My partner yellin' 'Too soon! / Don't do it! Reconsider! Read Some Litera-ture on the subject / You Sure? Fuck it...'" - Andre 3000

See how dreamy the first photo is of the couple. The edges are blurred...the focus is soft around certain areas...and they're practically in Dream World.

On the second photo, EVERYTHING is clear and focused. The image is bold and unapologetic. This shyt seems so so real.

Anyway, I was listening to Michael Baisden's radio show a while back and they're talking about the proverbial "clean up woman" and "maintenance man". You know, the person that married people creep off with when their spouse isn't neccessarily responding to their "needs". Different callers have called in and voiced various opinions on how that side item can be a hinderance and even a BENEFIT to the actual marriage. Interesting stuff...

One caller posed the idea that marriages should possibly have an expiration date. Not like milk or sushi...but more like your drivers license. Let's face it, there's a great deal of marriages that start off GREAT with the promise of all that is good. That DREAM life - spouse that's gonna love you through thick and thin, raising kids to be productive members of society, growing together, yada, yada, yada...

I'm not hating on the traditional marriage, but I'm just sayin'...

Is THAT the ONLY way??

I'm yet to read a Bible passage that says every man and woman has a mate (or soulmate) that's here on this earth to fulfill all of their needs.

If you know of that passage, please let me know. Don't worry, I'll wait...

So, ummm, how would this marriage license renewal thing work?

Let's say, if every four or five years, you had to renew your wedding license. Keep in mind that the divorce rate is still around that 50% point and it's not faltering none. Also consider the fact that there's a great number of the other 50% who ARE still in their marriage that are NOT happy. ALSO consider that some of those folks in "Happy" marriages are also involved in relationships with "clean up women" and "maintenance men".

I'm not condoning infedelity, I just think it's best to have an open dialogue and think about other options that may make a marriage work as oppose to living a lie or living in unhappiness. I know it may sound radical, but believe it or not, the thought of divorce was also radical once upon a time...and now it's the norm.

I'm at that age where I'm constantly asked by family, friends, associates, muthafuggas that I barely fuggin' know, and others, "When am I going to get married?" My answer's usually either, "The day people like you stop askin' me," or "February 31st" or "Never-ary 31st". Although I haven't decided which path I will choose to take, I think one should be open to alternate ways of living. Your 'American Dream' just might not be MY 'American Dream'. Plus, I think it's fucked up that society tends to look at people in a negative way if they're a certain age and never been married. Shiiiidddd...that's WORST than being DIVORCED in most cases. Anyway...

What do you think??

GREATEST VIDEO OF ALL TIME!! part SIX!!

2008-07-18T19:14:00.002-04:00
Ok,I know the last post had y'all shakin' your collective asses in front of your computer screens and everything, but let's get serious for a second.

This video selection comes from one of the most prolific emcees of this day. Fuck that, one of the most prolific who has EVER touched a microphone - that's more apropos. I copped the CD from the homie Desiree at The SoundShop in the West End Mall (or the Mall West End) yesterday and it's on point. Very Refreshing in today's HipHop climate.

Anyway, check the video if you haven't seen it already and you'll see why I think it's one of the greatest of all time.

Killer Mike feat. Ice Cube "Pressure"

Good Ol' Days

2008-07-13T18:19:00.002-04:00

This weekend, I've been watching a multitude of music videos from the 80's-early 90's era. Christopher Williams, EnVogue, Jodeci, and SWV were a few acts on the playist - classic material to say the least. After singing along, laughing at the dance steps, and reminiscing on the good ol' days, my friend said she missed the avant-garde sensuality that was a theme in most of the videos. They were sexy, but not over the top as they are today.

Uhhhh, yeah. They were very classy and subtle in an artsy fartsy way. That's good and all...

BUT, I miss the RAW element of HipHop music videos of the past. There's nothing more artsy than seeing Luther Campbell swim between the spread legs of several chicks in a swimming pool. Just to see Luke sink into the water with a cigar in his mouth is enough to make me (and Hugh Hefner) smile.

*Luke "I Wanna Rock"*

***SideNote: "Heeeeeeeyyyy...we want some puuuuu-say!" countered by "Heeeeeeeyyy...we want some D-I-C-K!!" has got to be one of the GREATEST call and responses ever!! End SideNote***

Being from Detroit, I was sucked into the unescapable abyss of bass, techno (also known as Detrechno), and dance music that played on the radio, clubs, car systems, and 'The New Dance Show' (Remember 'The Scene'??)

***SideNote Number TWO: If You're From Detroit, You MUST CLICK THOSE LINKS!!*

***SideNote Number THREE: Remember when they would advertise strip clubs on TV???? (Female and Male)

Sure we liked lyrical cats like Kane, story tellers like Slick Rick, pioneers like Run-DMC, and gangsta shyt from Spice-1, but didn't anything get the party started like some 2 Live Crew or Splack Pack.

*Splack Pack "Let Me C'Ya Work It"*

I remember being at Belle Isle listening to mixtapes as Splack Pack's eloquent words, "Shake That Ass Bitch And Let Me See What You Got", blasted through the speakers. Ahhh...those were the days. This was from an age where dudes were up front about what they wanted. There wasn't no beating around the bush or giving mixed signals to females. You gotta respect blatent honesty no matter who you are.

Ladies, would you rather a man LIE to you, give you subtle clues about what he wants, and play the passive-aggressive role just to get in between your sheets OR do you prefer a confident man who let's you know exactly what he's about from the get-go so you can make the decision for yourself without going through the bullshyt and games??

That's rhetorical. I already know the answer.

And don't get it twisted, guys weren't the only ones being upfront with their sexuality. Women got in on it too.

*Oaktown's 357 "Juicy"*

Damn they were pumpin' it hard...LOL!!

I'd be remiss if I left out one of the greatest groups of all time..

*Salt 'N Pepa "Shake Your Thang"

This is from a golden age in HipHop when the networks (damn I miss The Box) wasn't as scurred as they are today. It was all about having a party and letting off some steam. Speaking of 'party', this time-honored jam right here captures the essence of the word by itself.

*Luke "It's Your Birthday"*

When I came to Atlanta in '94, the bass movement was in full swing. This was the Freank-nik era - a time when raunchiness ruled. Damn, I wish I still had some of my video tapes from back then!! Since I don't I'll take you back to that place and time with this...

*DJ Kizzy Rock "Yeah, Shawty, Yeah"

At the time, I was a little too young to get into the renowed strip clubs of the 'A', but that video was suffice. Shout to The Gentlemen's Club and Club Nicki's though!!

Anyway, I guess I said all that to say, what we see in videos today ain't shyt compared to back in the good 'ol days.

Here Are Some More Great Raw Videos For Your Enjoyment.