Thursday, December 27, 2007
HHM Top List & Forecast, ShoutOuts
Happy Kwanzaa, Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) is today's principle.
I haven't posted in a while and I know I was supposed to do the influential list, but that was scratched, I kept it simple with the HHM 2007 Top List & 2008 Forecast. Enjoy!
Top Hip Hop Mogul of the Year: Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson
The Most Important Intials in News: TMZ
Best Gossip Reporting (The Gossip Girls): Young, Black, & Fabulous, Sandra Rose, Crunk & Disorderly and MediaTakeOut
Top Magazine: Hip Hop Weekly
Top Athlete: Gilbert Arenas
Website: BlockSavvy.com - dope concept, but its a headache trying to navigate.
Here's the 2008 Forecast:
After last night's broadcast of the Kennedy Honors and witnessing Jordin Sparks and Ciara f-up Diana Ross' tribute and watching 5 minutes of Rihanna in concert on Christmas, get your earplugs ready for an onslaught of mediocre talent being passed off as superstars.
It was great to read that the Anti-Defamation League has accepted Will Smith's explanation in regards to his remarks about Hitler that were twisted in a Scottish newspaper. But that just let us know that Will has made the Humpty Dumpty list. So don't be surprised if their is a backlash against Will that comes out of nowhere. This was definitely a set up.
Of course their will be more college graduates and not enough jobs.
In Sports: The NBA will continue to pump up the Miami Heat and DWade and make you believe Lebron and the Cavs are the team to beat. Baseball will pretend nothing ever happened, and the NFL will continue to pass off Sundays on NBC as must see TV. I don't watch hockey, so they'll be doing what they do too!
Shaq should retire, but he probably won't. Kobe will still be a Laker, they not letting that nucca go. Tony Parker will continue to be billed as a NBA superstar as long as his wife is on a hit show.
In Politics....Oprah will continue to use Shakespearean expressions in referring to Barack Obama. She will feel salty when the women's movement runs her over and puts Hillary in office.
Back to Entertainment News: This writers' strike has got me shook. I need for them to go back to work, not only will the return of the American Gladiators take up airtime, but ABC gave the green light to another dance/sing show called DANCE WARS starring two of the judges from Dancing with the Stars. Why?
But outside of all that mess & madness, 2008 should be a great year. Shouts out to BrooklynBiznessGirl, Talia Ashley, and Bianca at Maxxposure for supporting this movement.
And to my fellow bloggers, K Luvs This Game and LexyB aka MrsWindyCity for stopping by and showing some love.
To all that actually read this blog, continue to show your support and I will continue to give it to you. I can't do it everyday because I do have a life, but when I get the urge, I go with it.
I never thought I would actually jump this blog off, but its been six months. So far, so good!
Many Blessings and Prosperity in the New Year!!! If you have a goal start working or keep working towards it. If its meant to be, you will get there, but you have to put in the work.
My resolution for 2008 - Eliminate BullSh*t!!!
I haven't posted in a while and I know I was supposed to do the influential list, but that was scratched, I kept it simple with the HHM 2007 Top List & 2008 Forecast. Enjoy!
Top Hip Hop Mogul of the Year: Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson
The Most Important Intials in News: TMZ
Best Gossip Reporting (The Gossip Girls): Young, Black, & Fabulous, Sandra Rose, Crunk & Disorderly and MediaTakeOut
Top Magazine: Hip Hop Weekly
Top Athlete: Gilbert Arenas
Website: BlockSavvy.com - dope concept, but its a headache trying to navigate.
Here's the 2008 Forecast:
After last night's broadcast of the Kennedy Honors and witnessing Jordin Sparks and Ciara f-up Diana Ross' tribute and watching 5 minutes of Rihanna in concert on Christmas, get your earplugs ready for an onslaught of mediocre talent being passed off as superstars.
It was great to read that the Anti-Defamation League has accepted Will Smith's explanation in regards to his remarks about Hitler that were twisted in a Scottish newspaper. But that just let us know that Will has made the Humpty Dumpty list. So don't be surprised if their is a backlash against Will that comes out of nowhere. This was definitely a set up.
Of course their will be more college graduates and not enough jobs.
In Sports: The NBA will continue to pump up the Miami Heat and DWade and make you believe Lebron and the Cavs are the team to beat. Baseball will pretend nothing ever happened, and the NFL will continue to pass off Sundays on NBC as must see TV. I don't watch hockey, so they'll be doing what they do too!
Shaq should retire, but he probably won't. Kobe will still be a Laker, they not letting that nucca go. Tony Parker will continue to be billed as a NBA superstar as long as his wife is on a hit show.
In Politics....Oprah will continue to use Shakespearean expressions in referring to Barack Obama. She will feel salty when the women's movement runs her over and puts Hillary in office.
Back to Entertainment News: This writers' strike has got me shook. I need for them to go back to work, not only will the return of the American Gladiators take up airtime, but ABC gave the green light to another dance/sing show called DANCE WARS starring two of the judges from Dancing with the Stars. Why?
But outside of all that mess & madness, 2008 should be a great year. Shouts out to BrooklynBiznessGirl, Talia Ashley, and Bianca at Maxxposure for supporting this movement.
And to my fellow bloggers, K Luvs This Game and LexyB aka MrsWindyCity for stopping by and showing some love.
To all that actually read this blog, continue to show your support and I will continue to give it to you. I can't do it everyday because I do have a life, but when I get the urge, I go with it.
I never thought I would actually jump this blog off, but its been six months. So far, so good!
Many Blessings and Prosperity in the New Year!!! If you have a goal start working or keep working towards it. If its meant to be, you will get there, but you have to put in the work.
My resolution for 2008 - Eliminate BullSh*t!!!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Breaking News: Mitchell Report on steroids implicates big names
Barry Bonds is already under indictment but other names mentioned include Roger Clemons, Gary Sheffield and Eric Gagne, former players David Justice, Mo Vaughn, and Lenny Dykstra to name the ones I'm very familiar with and somewhat shocked I guess.
Commissioner Bud Selig will respond Live at 4:30 - Click here to watch!
The reports lays it out that each of the 30 clubs in baseball has had a player at some time in their career involved with either steroids, Human Growth Hormone, or other performance enhancing substances.
From FoxSports.com:
The report culminated a 20-month investigation by former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell, hired by commissioner Bud Selig to examine the Steroids Era.
"Everyone involved in baseball over the past two decades — commissioners, club officials, the players' association and players — shares to some extent the responsibility for the steroids era," Mitchell said. "There was a collective failure to recognize the problem as it emerged and to deal with it early on."
(Read More)
Commissioner Bud Selig will respond Live at 4:30 - Click here to watch!
The reports lays it out that each of the 30 clubs in baseball has had a player at some time in their career involved with either steroids, Human Growth Hormone, or other performance enhancing substances.
From FoxSports.com:
The report culminated a 20-month investigation by former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell, hired by commissioner Bud Selig to examine the Steroids Era.
"Everyone involved in baseball over the past two decades — commissioners, club officials, the players' association and players — shares to some extent the responsibility for the steroids era," Mitchell said. "There was a collective failure to recognize the problem as it emerged and to deal with it early on."
(Read More)
Maya Angelou is on Team Hillary and My Take on Oprahpalooza
Author Maya Angelou announced her support for Hillary Clinton in a radio commerical that was played in South Carolina during Oprahpalooza last weekend. This was being reported like it was a surprise. Oprah worships the ground Maya Angelou walks on, not the other way around. Angelou has a long standing friendship with the Clintons dating back to Arkansas by the way.
During her appearances, Oprah had this to say about Barack Obama and you realize how out of touch she really is:
First of all truth and politics don't belong in the same sentence. And secondly, DIDN'T BARACK OBAMA LIE TO OPRAH'S FACE ON HER TALK SHOW AND SAID HE HAD NOT INTEREST IN RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT!!!!!
And the majority of people were for the war, in the beginning. That's not something to hold against anyone. Now its about an exit strategy, not who voted and who didn't.
And Oprah votes Republican? She voted for Reagan and Bush, and possibly Nixon, Carter was a Democrat right? Maybe she means in local elections. She is rich and has to look out for "her" best interest.
I didn't know that even Oprah worries about what goes on in our country. She said that like she doesn't live here. Do you really think she's concerned with the American people or what's best for us? If she was, she would know we need a Clinton back in office. Let's make history, father and son, husband and wife. Why not?
If Oprah really wanted to use her power, she would back Hillary Clinton. If she was really this knowledgeable woman her white producers portray her as, she would back Hillary Clinton.
You don't want to bring a knife to a gun fight and if anyone ever seen "Fahrenheit 9/11" or if you voted in 2000, then you know there is no way in hell Barack Hussein Obama will win the election. Hell, Hillary might not even win. But you can't stand in the way of history. And the current moves with Hillary.
I really like Obama, but he really turned me off when he said he had no interest in running and then a month or two later he said he was. I don't think he really wants to be president, I think he's just being used to take votes. And its all a show. And Oprah backing him, just made it really look phony. That's just my opinion. Hate it or Love it!
During her appearances, Oprah had this to say about Barack Obama and you realize how out of touch she really is:"The amount of time you spend in Washington means nothing unless you are accountable for the judgment you made," Winfrey said. She said from the beginning Obama "stood with clarity and conviction against this war in Iraq."
"There are times that I even worry about what happens to our country," she said. "That is why for the very first time in my life I feel compelled to stand up and speak out for the man who I believe has a new vision for America."
"Over the years, I have voted for as many Republicans as I have
Democrats."
"When you listen to Barack Obama, when you really hear him, you witness a very rare thing,” she said in Des Moines. “You witness a politician who has an ear for eloquence and a tongue dipped in the unvarnished truth.”
First of all truth and politics don't belong in the same sentence. And secondly, DIDN'T BARACK OBAMA LIE TO OPRAH'S FACE ON HER TALK SHOW AND SAID HE HAD NOT INTEREST IN RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT!!!!!
And the majority of people were for the war, in the beginning. That's not something to hold against anyone. Now its about an exit strategy, not who voted and who didn't.
And Oprah votes Republican? She voted for Reagan and Bush, and possibly Nixon, Carter was a Democrat right? Maybe she means in local elections. She is rich and has to look out for "her" best interest.
I didn't know that even Oprah worries about what goes on in our country. She said that like she doesn't live here. Do you really think she's concerned with the American people or what's best for us? If she was, she would know we need a Clinton back in office. Let's make history, father and son, husband and wife. Why not?
If Oprah really wanted to use her power, she would back Hillary Clinton. If she was really this knowledgeable woman her white producers portray her as, she would back Hillary Clinton.
You don't want to bring a knife to a gun fight and if anyone ever seen "Fahrenheit 9/11" or if you voted in 2000, then you know there is no way in hell Barack Hussein Obama will win the election. Hell, Hillary might not even win. But you can't stand in the way of history. And the current moves with Hillary.
I really like Obama, but he really turned me off when he said he had no interest in running and then a month or two later he said he was. I don't think he really wants to be president, I think he's just being used to take votes. And its all a show. And Oprah backing him, just made it really look phony. That's just my opinion. Hate it or Love it!
2007 Most Influential Update
I'll start posting the list on Monday. You can still submit your choices to hiphopmoguls@gmail.com.
It's the 2007 Most Influential People, Places, and Things, all areas are open, from entertainment, sports, fashion, cars, politics etc. It can be funny or serious. Just put Most Influential in the subject line. I'll be posting Reader's Choices as they come in. So send them in!
It's the 2007 Most Influential People, Places, and Things, all areas are open, from entertainment, sports, fashion, cars, politics etc. It can be funny or serious. Just put Most Influential in the subject line. I'll be posting Reader's Choices as they come in. So send them in!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The Randomness: Playing Catch Up; LT & Vick, Marion Jones, T.O. and Stop Hatin on Lola
I have some catching up to do.
I'll start with LaDainian Tomlinson's interview on 60 minutes and how the closing was used to throw dirt onto Michael Vick, yet again. We were reminded how the Chargers traded away their pick to Atlanta, who chose Vick. It was supposed to be ironic, but it was just another kick to a man that is already down.
Read this excerpt from "The phone call that changed history":New York Daily News 8/26/2007
Michael Vick can be anybody. One minute you're riding high and then the next knocked down and kicked in the ass. It can be for whatever reason the 'powers-that-be', what to implement.
But getting back to LT (it was a great segment by the way it might be up on CBS.com), his interview had me thinking a few things...1.) Why do our Black athletes and artists wear such big ass diamond earrings?
2.) Should leagues just start giving out Bentleys on draft night? And does everybody have the same 5 cars? 3.) Why can't athletes ban together for one common cause? You never see athletes pull their money together. Even Alan Greenspan donates to Bill Gates' Foundation, like he really needs the money.
In other news....
Today, the IOC banned Marion Jones from attending the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and may move to issue a lifetime ban. Her medals were also officially revoked and her name stripped from the history books. If they could, they probably would have us all look into one of those memory erasers from "Men In Black".
I sincerely hope that Marion Jones stays strong. I can't imagine what she may going through. This is the time when people really need to rally around and support her. Steroids shouldn't make you a public misfit. DUI, Domestic Violence, and Failure to pay child support should. I can't be mad at anyone that uses steroids. You have to be one hell of a competitor to even risk losing everything you worked for just for the advantage. Like I said before, the talent has to already be there in order for the drugs to even give you an advantage. Its just a shame.
Deep Down Philly Wishes T.O. was still an Eagle....
The Eagles play the Cowboys Sunday, so of course we have been bombarded with Terrell Owens clips thus far, leading up to the game. You would think he played here longer than a season and a half.
On a final note....
This is Angel "Lola Luv" she's a model and she carries quite a load on her tiny frame. According to some people she has butt implants. According to others its all natural. According to me, it pays the bills and gets her on red carpets, so more power to her. I have never in my life heard Black women debate over another woman's ASSets. This is really out of control. Are we that consumed with bullshit that a woman that makes a living by a having a nice body is something to debate over? Is it real or is it fake? Does what Lola Luv eats make you sh*t?
I've been told I'm Queen of the Haters Ball, but on this one, I have to say STOP HATING. There is absolutely nothing to hate this girl for. Beyonce, I understand she's amazingly talented and those gifts are bestowed on a few. I can understand being jealous or envious. But Lola Luv makes a living based on how her body looks, so if she has butt implants it worked. If she's all natural, she's blessed to not have the gut and thighs to match.
I'll start with LaDainian Tomlinson's interview on 60 minutes and how the closing was used to throw dirt onto Michael Vick, yet again. We were reminded how the Chargers traded away their pick to Atlanta, who chose Vick. It was supposed to be ironic, but it was just another kick to a man that is already down.
Read this excerpt from "The phone call that changed history":New York Daily News 8/26/2007It turned out to be one of the most important trades in NFL history. Vick has
turned from the face to the disgrace of the NFL. The Chargers took running back
LaDainian Tomlinson, who has developed into the best player in the league.
Michael Vick can be anybody. One minute you're riding high and then the next knocked down and kicked in the ass. It can be for whatever reason the 'powers-that-be', what to implement.
But getting back to LT (it was a great segment by the way it might be up on CBS.com), his interview had me thinking a few things...1.) Why do our Black athletes and artists wear such big ass diamond earrings?
2.) Should leagues just start giving out Bentleys on draft night? And does everybody have the same 5 cars? 3.) Why can't athletes ban together for one common cause? You never see athletes pull their money together. Even Alan Greenspan donates to Bill Gates' Foundation, like he really needs the money.
In other news....
Today, the IOC banned Marion Jones from attending the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and may move to issue a lifetime ban. Her medals were also officially revoked and her name stripped from the history books. If they could, they probably would have us all look into one of those memory erasers from "Men In Black".I sincerely hope that Marion Jones stays strong. I can't imagine what she may going through. This is the time when people really need to rally around and support her. Steroids shouldn't make you a public misfit. DUI, Domestic Violence, and Failure to pay child support should. I can't be mad at anyone that uses steroids. You have to be one hell of a competitor to even risk losing everything you worked for just for the advantage. Like I said before, the talent has to already be there in order for the drugs to even give you an advantage. Its just a shame.
Deep Down Philly Wishes T.O. was still an Eagle....
The Eagles play the Cowboys Sunday, so of course we have been bombarded with Terrell Owens clips thus far, leading up to the game. You would think he played here longer than a season and a half.
On a final note....
This is Angel "Lola Luv" she's a model and she carries quite a load on her tiny frame. According to some people she has butt implants. According to others its all natural. According to me, it pays the bills and gets her on red carpets, so more power to her. I have never in my life heard Black women debate over another woman's ASSets. This is really out of control. Are we that consumed with bullshit that a woman that makes a living by a having a nice body is something to debate over? Is it real or is it fake? Does what Lola Luv eats make you sh*t?I've been told I'm Queen of the Haters Ball, but on this one, I have to say STOP HATING. There is absolutely nothing to hate this girl for. Beyonce, I understand she's amazingly talented and those gifts are bestowed on a few. I can understand being jealous or envious. But Lola Luv makes a living based on how her body looks, so if she has butt implants it worked. If she's all natural, she's blessed to not have the gut and thighs to match.
Rock and Roll Legend Ike Turner Dies at 76
Source: The Associated Press
SAN DIEGO -- Ike Turner, whose role as one of rock's critical architects was overshadowed by his ogrelike image as the man who brutally abused former wife and icon Tina Turner, died Wednesday at his home in suburban San Diego. He was 76.
"He did pass away this morning" at his home in San Marcos, said Scott M. Hanover of Thrill Entertainment Group, which managed Turner's musical career.
There was no immediate word on the cause of death, which was first reported by celebrity Web site TMZ.com.
SAN DIEGO -- Ike Turner, whose role as one of rock's critical architects was overshadowed by his ogrelike image as the man who brutally abused former wife and icon Tina Turner, died Wednesday at his home in suburban San Diego. He was 76.
"He did pass away this morning" at his home in San Marcos, said Scott M. Hanover of Thrill Entertainment Group, which managed Turner's musical career.
There was no immediate word on the cause of death, which was first reported by celebrity Web site TMZ.com.
Note: Peep how the Associated Press gets news from TMZ.com:)
The Rumors Were True: Saliesha Wins Top Model...
In case you missed it, word spread that Saliesha won Top Model weeks ago. Apparently, Saliesha was a model on Tyra's talk show either the first or second season. Word was Tyra took a liking to her and invited her to do Top Model. I thought it was just a rumor, but she really won. So did ANTM just lose all its credibility as a legit contest/reality show? At this point does it even matter? Congrats are still in order!!!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Pacers' Guard Jamaal Tinsley Targeted in Late Night Shooting
I told ya'll Blood Diamonds are forever.
Jamaal Tinsley and his group were approached after leaving an Indianapolis club earlier this morning. Another group of people surrounded Tinsley's Rolls Royce and gave him a hard time about his cars and his money.
Tinsley's motorcade which included his Rolls, a Mercedes, and a Charger were being followed by two vehicles. So instead of driving home, he pulled into a hotel parking lot, where the assailants opened fire. The Pacers' equipment manager was hit in both elbows as he sat in the Rolls Royce. Tinsley's brother gave chase and returned fire. The Rolls Royce was hit several times and five bullets were found in the Charger. No one was seriously hurt. The equipment manager was treated and released.
When will this new generation of millionaires learn. You don't hang with common folk, you help the common folk. Going to the club doesn't make you appear down to earth or humble, you're just trying to show off.
There has been only one occasion that I have ever seen an athlete chill in the club and go unnoticed. I was standing right next to him and I just thought he looked like the dude. It was only confirmed when I noticed his platinum bracelet. But he wasn't flossin or anything. Unless you're unbelieveably tall, no one would even recognize an athlete in a crowded ass club unless you knew their face and you were up on them like I was. Other than that, if the DJ doesn't announce them or you don't see their diamonds sparkle in the strobelight, you wouldn't even pay them any mind. Keepin it real is, keepin it smart. Now Tinsley got a shot up Rolls Royce sitting in the garage.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
And the nominees are......
Ok, I wasn't exactly sitting on pins and needles waiting to hear this. But I was glad to hear Kanye leads this year with 8 nods and may actually have a shot at winning the majority, if not all, of them.
Other Observations:
Amy Winehouse is actually nominated in a Pop Vocal Album Category. I really didn't think she was considered Pop. Especially when she shares it with Bon Jovi, Paul McCartney and Maroon 5.
Two American Idol alums are nominated Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry, I think both will win and Simon will make more money.
"Umbrella" by Rihanna is a bigger song than I thought it was. Didn't think that was "Record of the Year" material, not by usual Grammy standards, maybe Billboard.
"Irreplacable" is also up for "Record of the Year" which means "Rehab" by Amy Winehouse is going to win.
Who is Emily King? Whoever she is, she must be the winner for best R&B Contemporary Album and she must pay her dues on time.
With everyone talking about Kanye, people have missed the real story with these nominations. Peep how "Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)" is nominated for Best Rap Song.
Limited List:
GENERAL FIELD
Nominees for Album Of The Year are:
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace - Foo Fighters
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace - Foo Fighters
These Days - Vince Gill
River: The Joni Letters - Herbie Hancock
Graduation - Kanye West
Back To Black - Amy Winehouse
Nominees for Record Of The Year are:
"Irreplaceable" - Beyoncé
"The Pretender" - Foo Fighters
"Umbrella" - Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
"What Goes Around...Comes Around" - Justin Timberlake
"Rehab" - Amy Winehouse
Best New Artist nominees are:
Feist
Ledisi
Paramore
Taylor Swift
Amy Winehouse
Song Of The Year nominees include:
"Before He Cheats" - John Kear & Chris Tompkins, songwriters (Carrie Underwood)
"Hey There Delilah" - Tom Higgenson, songwriter (Plain White T's)
"Like A Star" - Corinne Bailey Rae, songwriter (Corinne Bailey Rae)
"Rehab" - Amy Winehouse, songwriter (Amy Winehouse)
POP FIELD
Nominations for Best Pop Vocal Album go to:
Lost Highway - Bon Jovi
The Reminder - Feist
It Won't Be Soon Before Long - Maroon 5
Memory Almost Full - Paul McCartney
Back To Black - Amy Winehouse
Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals nods go to:
"Steppin' Out" - Tony Bennett & Christina Aguilera
"Steppin' Out" - Tony Bennett & Christina Aguilera
"Beautiful Liar" - Beyoncé & Shakira
"Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" - Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
"The Sweet Escape" - Gwen Stefani & Akon
"Give It To Me" - Timbaland Featuring Nelly Furtado & Justin Timberlake
R&B FIELD
For Best Contemporary R&B Album, the nominees are:
For Best Contemporary R&B Album, the nominees are:
Konvicted - Akon
Just Like You - Keyshia Cole
Fantasia - Fantasia
East Side Story - Emily King
East Side Story - Emily King
Because Of You - Ne-Yo
Best Urban/Alternative Performance nods go to:
"Make A Baby" - Vikter Duplaix
"That's The Way Of The World" - Dwele
"Daydreamin'" - Lupe Fiasco Featuring Jill Scott
"Fantasy" - Meshell Ndegeocello
"Dream" - Alice Smith
RAP FIELD
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration nods go to:
"I Wanna Love You" - Akon Featuring Snoop Dogg
"Kiss, Kiss" - Chris Brown & T-Pain
"Let It Go" - Keyshia Cole Featuring Missy Elliott & Lil' Kim
"Let It Go" - Keyshia Cole Featuring Missy Elliott & Lil' Kim
"Umbrella" - Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
"Good Life" - Kanye West Featuring T-Pain
Nominees for Best Rap Song are:
"Ayo Technology" - N. Hills, Curtis Jackson, Timothy Mosley & Justin Timberlake, songwriters (50 Cent Featuring Justin Timberlake & Timbaland)
"Big Things Poppin' (Do It)" - Clifford Harris & Byron Thomas, songwriters (T.I.)
"Can't Tell Me Nothing" - A. Davis & Kanye West, songwriters (Kanye West)
"Crank That (Soulja Boy)" - Soulja Boy Tell'Em, songwriter (Soulja Boy Tell'Em)
"Good Life" - A. Davis, F. Najm & K. West, songwriters (Kanye West Featuring T-Pain)
For Best Rap Album, the nominees are:
Finding Forever - Common
Kingdom Come - Jay-Z
Hip Hop Is Dead - Nas
T.I. vs T.I.P. - T.I.
Graduation - Kanye West
For a complete lists of nominees visit: www.grammy.com.
The show will air live February 10 at 8pm on CBS.
Program Note: Will-mania Goes Into Overdrive
Will Smith's "E! True Hollywood Story" premieres Saturday, Dec. 8 at 6pm ET/PT on the E! Television Network.
According to a production rep, the show will "provide a revealing look in the dynamic life of the entertainment power player and family man featuring interviews with his close friends and co-stars."
"I Am Legend" hits theatres December 14.
Jason Kidd's 'strike' fuels trade speculation
Apparently, the Nets star called in sick yesterday and missed last night's game against the Knicks. A source with the team is quoted to have said Kidd was "on strike" because he unhappy with either the general state of the team (which fell below .500) or not being offered a contract extension. Who knows?
Maybe he really did have a migrane, which could have triggered by both of those things. Being a migrane sufferer myself, it happens. I think he justs wants another chance at a ring.
Another source said the Nets would (could or have) spoken with L.A., Dallas, and possibly Cleveland about a trade.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
PIMP C: The Underground King
This came as a shock to me a few minutes ago....on myspace of all places. But its true.
From MTV News:
UGK's Pimp C: An Underground Legend Who Defied The Mainstream
Grab that icon off Pimp C's myspace page and show your love: http://www.myspace.com/pimpcofugk
From MTV News:
UGK's Pimp C: An Underground Legend Who Defied The Mainstream
Grab that icon off Pimp C's myspace page and show your love: http://www.myspace.com/pimpcofugk
NFL Player Says Official Called Him 'Boy'
During last's night game against the New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens cornerback, Samari Rolle, says the official called him 'boy' five times.
"The ref called me a boy," he said. "I will be calling my agent in the morning and sending in my complaint. I have a wife and three kids. So don't call me a boy on the field ... in the game. Because we said you never played football before?"
But wait, the official is Black and a also a former NFL player, so he knows better.
Apparently, Rolle and the official, Phil McKinnely exchanged words after Rolle's teammate Bart Scott was charged with a penalty. Scott was given two personal fouls, one included throwing a flag into the stands.
"He called me a boy several times," Rolle said. "After Bart got the first one (penalty) I said, 'Man, you never played football before, and you're going to call the game like this?' And he was like, 'Shut up, boy, and play, boy.' He just kept saying it. He'll be hearing from my lawyer."
The league office is supposedly going to look into it. We'll have to wait and see how this plays out.
But Rolle is right. It is disrepectful to address a grown man as a 'boy' in that manner. After all that is their workplace.
But being as though, McKinnely is Black and a former player, I wonder what his motivation was, like I said, he knows better. That came down to respect.
In the heat of the moment, being called a 'boy' can trigger a chain reaction and can be taken as testing someone's manhood.
To top if off the Ravens were losing, so that only made it worse.
McKinnely probably talked like that all the time and it was just never given a second thought by a player. After this, it'll never happen again.
"The ref called me a boy," he said. "I will be calling my agent in the morning and sending in my complaint. I have a wife and three kids. So don't call me a boy on the field ... in the game. Because we said you never played football before?"
But wait, the official is Black and a also a former NFL player, so he knows better.
Apparently, Rolle and the official, Phil McKinnely exchanged words after Rolle's teammate Bart Scott was charged with a penalty. Scott was given two personal fouls, one included throwing a flag into the stands.
"He called me a boy several times," Rolle said. "After Bart got the first one (penalty) I said, 'Man, you never played football before, and you're going to call the game like this?' And he was like, 'Shut up, boy, and play, boy.' He just kept saying it. He'll be hearing from my lawyer."
The league office is supposedly going to look into it. We'll have to wait and see how this plays out.
But Rolle is right. It is disrepectful to address a grown man as a 'boy' in that manner. After all that is their workplace.
But being as though, McKinnely is Black and a former player, I wonder what his motivation was, like I said, he knows better. That came down to respect.
In the heat of the moment, being called a 'boy' can trigger a chain reaction and can be taken as testing someone's manhood.
To top if off the Ravens were losing, so that only made it worse.
McKinnely probably talked like that all the time and it was just never given a second thought by a player. After this, it'll never happen again.
Imus' New Tune: Conducting “an ongoing discussion about race relations in this country.”
Photo:Librado Romero/The New York Times Don Imus returned to radio yesterday morning and I don't think anyone really cared except for his loyal listeners who missed him. In his efforts to open dialogue about race, he has added Karith Foster and Tony Powell, two black comedians. You may know Foster from Comedy Central.
But don't mistake these two for being "sellouts", both see this as a real opportunity to bring a needed voice to Imus' historically show.
Interviewed after yesterday's show Ms. Foster said, “A sellout is someone who does something that harms the community, for the greater good of themselves. I have more of an intention for this.”
“I’m not here to be his policeman,” she added. “But I’m not here to be his defender. I’m not a sycophant. I’m here to contribute to a historically entertaining show. And when I need to speak up, I will.”
Mr. Powell's responsibilities will include covering the program's sports news.
I'm not sure if Imus' show even attracts an audience in which race can even be on the agenda. Honestly, if his comments never made the news, no one in the Black community would have known. It was actually the women's rights organizations that spoke up first.
All this dialogue, and nothing much has changed. I am happy that two deserving people got jobs that they probably wouldn't have gotten had this not happened. So it works for them.
But seriously what did BET or MTV change? What did video directors change? With the exception of Master P, Romeo, and Chamillionaire, what did rappers change?
At least Imus or his backers did something, sincere or not.
But don't mistake these two for being "sellouts", both see this as a real opportunity to bring a needed voice to Imus' historically show.
Interviewed after yesterday's show Ms. Foster said, “A sellout is someone who does something that harms the community, for the greater good of themselves. I have more of an intention for this.”
“I’m not here to be his policeman,” she added. “But I’m not here to be his defender. I’m not a sycophant. I’m here to contribute to a historically entertaining show. And when I need to speak up, I will.”
Mr. Powell's responsibilities will include covering the program's sports news.
I'm not sure if Imus' show even attracts an audience in which race can even be on the agenda. Honestly, if his comments never made the news, no one in the Black community would have known. It was actually the women's rights organizations that spoke up first.
All this dialogue, and nothing much has changed. I am happy that two deserving people got jobs that they probably wouldn't have gotten had this not happened. So it works for them.
But seriously what did BET or MTV change? What did video directors change? With the exception of Master P, Romeo, and Chamillionaire, what did rappers change?
At least Imus or his backers did something, sincere or not.
Monday, December 3, 2007
There Is No 'Black KKK', Blood Diamonds are Forever
"Regarded for their exquisite beauty and the timeless qualities of love and devotion that they represent, diamonds have fascinated mankind throughout the centuries. The most precious and enduring of all gemstones, diamonds were formed billions of years ago, deep within the earth. Only a small number survive the journey to the earth's surface; fewer still are of a quality that can be made into a precious piece of jewelry." - Diamondfacts.org
There Is No 'Black KKK', Blood Diamonds are Forever - Have Blood, Not Diamonds
This is in response to the Professional that moved too soon writing an article about a man that is gone too soon, all because of the good he possessed, and not for the goodness in his heart.
This is about those in search of the almighty Blood Diamond. Now Blood Diamonds represent all that is material: money, clothes, jewelry, cars, and status. It is anything of no cash value or of no real value in terms of what you need in life or what you will take with you to the afterworld.
Since the beginning of a time when status became quo and having the most meant you were the best or superior to those that don't, there has always been conflict. Its almost seems second nature to hate on those that have more material than you. We don't hate on those that give of themselves by feeding the homeless, for example.
Most of us look to see where we have to climb and we want to conquer the mountain. Some of us decide the mountain is too steep and quit in the middle of the climb and some choose to just stay on the ground and cheer for the climbers. The rest climb up only to take from the top or pull on your legs to make you fall back down.
The state of Black America is not in jeopardy because of guns or hip hop, there is a prevailing mindset that places no value on life, liberty, or the pursuit of happiness. While this mindset exists regardless of race, color, creed, or country, Blacks in America have a unique situation.
Our middle and lower class citizens live in the same neighborhoods. We fought long and hard for intergration, but the middle class failed to fight against Section 8. The program means well in theory, but I've seen no improvement to my community. Its actually had the opposite effect.
We are the only people that had to endure an influx of drug corners, crack dealers, crack heads, crack houses, and crack babies into our neighborhoods and even our families. Like I always say there needs to be a T-Shirt that reads "I Survived 1988-1990"!
We are the only people that promotes this ignorant message of "keeping it real", meaning money shouldn't change you or your situation. So if you come into a million dollars it is expected of you to not change the people around you. That would be true, if you were surrounded by positivity and people that loved life and loved you. But let's be real, you probably had haters before you came into your money. People hate on you because you're special. Being special and a go-getter is something that shines brightly amongst the lowlifes, for lack of a better word. Or maybe that is the right word. I'm just being nice. But its perfect low-life is exactly what it is. People that put a low value on life.
For whatever reason lowlifes have the nerve to want the same things as you, but don't want to work for it. But they will take the time to rob and shoot at will. I didn't say lowlifes were smart. The thing is lowlifes are not born, they are created. I never met a 3 year old lowlife. They are victims of their environment.
Now, for the fortunate ones, the ones that can bob and weave from time to time and socialize with the lowlifes, because you all grew up together and you still see the good in them. You work hard for yours, go to school, get a good job, and have your head on straight. But being a have amonsgt the have-nots is impossible and not very smart. Most go-getters take this time to show off, maybe its not intentional. In a perfect world, of course you can drive your Bentley to the projects and not second guess it. But in the real world, while most will stare in awe, there is always one or more plotting.
And it doesn't even have to be a Bentley, it can be a Toyota Camry. Anything that equates a certain level of status that the lowlife doesn't have. You become fair game.
So what is it that keeps the fortunate ones on the right track? Who knows. That's why they are fortunate and special. In spite of their predicament they have a determined idea to want the best that life has to offer. And that's not material wealth. Material is just something that comes with having enough income to purchase goods. It has nothing to do with who you are as a person.
In the opening of Jason Whitlock's article "Taylor's death a grim reminder for us all", he opens with, "There's a reason I call them the Black KKK. The pain, the fear and the destruction are all the same." Not hardly. The reign of terror the Ku Klux Klan inflicted can be compared to no another. The Klan was a full fledged organization whose intent was to keep Blacks and their supporters in their place through intimidation, lynchings, torture, bombings, and assassinations. What's happening in the Black community is hardly organized or even deliberate.
"The Black KKK claimed another victim, a high-profile professional football player with a checkered past this time." Some would say President Bush has a checkered past or any other political figure for that matter. Whitlock wrote this article too soon to speculate the real motive behind Sean Taylor's murder.
I know one thing, hip hop has nothing to do with it. Unlike Hollywood, which has a talented force of writers who can create a tale that is brought to life on screen, music is the other way around. Life creates the music. And in the commercial realm of hip hop, ignorance sells. Even the so called King of Hip Hop, Jay-Z, at close to 40 years old still spits the same tales he did 10 years ago. Why not rap about being president of Def Jam and being part owner of a NBA team? Now that's American Gangster. Throw up that Diamond sign!
R.I.P Sean Taylor and to all those that have lost their lives due to senseless violence.
There Is No 'Black KKK', Blood Diamonds are Forever - Have Blood, Not Diamonds
This is in response to the Professional that moved too soon writing an article about a man that is gone too soon, all because of the good he possessed, and not for the goodness in his heart.
This is about those in search of the almighty Blood Diamond. Now Blood Diamonds represent all that is material: money, clothes, jewelry, cars, and status. It is anything of no cash value or of no real value in terms of what you need in life or what you will take with you to the afterworld.
Since the beginning of a time when status became quo and having the most meant you were the best or superior to those that don't, there has always been conflict. Its almost seems second nature to hate on those that have more material than you. We don't hate on those that give of themselves by feeding the homeless, for example.
Most of us look to see where we have to climb and we want to conquer the mountain. Some of us decide the mountain is too steep and quit in the middle of the climb and some choose to just stay on the ground and cheer for the climbers. The rest climb up only to take from the top or pull on your legs to make you fall back down.
The state of Black America is not in jeopardy because of guns or hip hop, there is a prevailing mindset that places no value on life, liberty, or the pursuit of happiness. While this mindset exists regardless of race, color, creed, or country, Blacks in America have a unique situation.
Our middle and lower class citizens live in the same neighborhoods. We fought long and hard for intergration, but the middle class failed to fight against Section 8. The program means well in theory, but I've seen no improvement to my community. Its actually had the opposite effect.
We are the only people that had to endure an influx of drug corners, crack dealers, crack heads, crack houses, and crack babies into our neighborhoods and even our families. Like I always say there needs to be a T-Shirt that reads "I Survived 1988-1990"!
We are the only people that promotes this ignorant message of "keeping it real", meaning money shouldn't change you or your situation. So if you come into a million dollars it is expected of you to not change the people around you. That would be true, if you were surrounded by positivity and people that loved life and loved you. But let's be real, you probably had haters before you came into your money. People hate on you because you're special. Being special and a go-getter is something that shines brightly amongst the lowlifes, for lack of a better word. Or maybe that is the right word. I'm just being nice. But its perfect low-life is exactly what it is. People that put a low value on life.
For whatever reason lowlifes have the nerve to want the same things as you, but don't want to work for it. But they will take the time to rob and shoot at will. I didn't say lowlifes were smart. The thing is lowlifes are not born, they are created. I never met a 3 year old lowlife. They are victims of their environment.
Now, for the fortunate ones, the ones that can bob and weave from time to time and socialize with the lowlifes, because you all grew up together and you still see the good in them. You work hard for yours, go to school, get a good job, and have your head on straight. But being a have amonsgt the have-nots is impossible and not very smart. Most go-getters take this time to show off, maybe its not intentional. In a perfect world, of course you can drive your Bentley to the projects and not second guess it. But in the real world, while most will stare in awe, there is always one or more plotting.
And it doesn't even have to be a Bentley, it can be a Toyota Camry. Anything that equates a certain level of status that the lowlife doesn't have. You become fair game.
So what is it that keeps the fortunate ones on the right track? Who knows. That's why they are fortunate and special. In spite of their predicament they have a determined idea to want the best that life has to offer. And that's not material wealth. Material is just something that comes with having enough income to purchase goods. It has nothing to do with who you are as a person.
In the opening of Jason Whitlock's article "Taylor's death a grim reminder for us all", he opens with, "There's a reason I call them the Black KKK. The pain, the fear and the destruction are all the same." Not hardly. The reign of terror the Ku Klux Klan inflicted can be compared to no another. The Klan was a full fledged organization whose intent was to keep Blacks and their supporters in their place through intimidation, lynchings, torture, bombings, and assassinations. What's happening in the Black community is hardly organized or even deliberate.
"The Black KKK claimed another victim, a high-profile professional football player with a checkered past this time." Some would say President Bush has a checkered past or any other political figure for that matter. Whitlock wrote this article too soon to speculate the real motive behind Sean Taylor's murder.
I know one thing, hip hop has nothing to do with it. Unlike Hollywood, which has a talented force of writers who can create a tale that is brought to life on screen, music is the other way around. Life creates the music. And in the commercial realm of hip hop, ignorance sells. Even the so called King of Hip Hop, Jay-Z, at close to 40 years old still spits the same tales he did 10 years ago. Why not rap about being president of Def Jam and being part owner of a NBA team? Now that's American Gangster. Throw up that Diamond sign!
R.I.P Sean Taylor and to all those that have lost their lives due to senseless violence.
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