Happy Holidays from HHM

ENJOY & BE SAFE!!!

Are There Energy Vampires In Your Life?

I think we all have come face to face with an energy vampire. Especially this time of year. Make it a point to rid yourself of these people. Now is a great time to do it.

Just wanted to share this piece written by Stephanie J. Hale, an author/speaker, trader, and entrepreneur.

"Have you noticed how energy is contagious? If you go to a
motivational seminar or read an inspiring book, you come away
buzzing.

Then, after a few days, your energy levels start to fade again.
You need to find fresh ways to recharge yourself.

Millionaires are great self-motivators. They know they need to fire
themselves up every day - and they have strategies for doing exactly
that.

One of the easiest ways to lift your energy levels is to
surround yourself with positive people and engage in enjoyable
activities.

Here's a quick exercise you can do right now to help with your own
energy levels:

1. Make a list of all the activities that inspire and motivate you.
2. Make a list of your family, friends, acquaintances, and
business contacts who are uplifting and positive.

Once you've done this, write a list of the activities and people
who drain you.

Sometimes energy vampires will come in the guise of ‘victims'
- people with 'problems who never seem to do anything to help
themselves. As a caring human being, it's easy to think you can
help them by listening or offering advice. But if they're draining
you, you really need to reassess what you're getting out of
the relationship and whether it should continue.

Be aware of energy and the way it impacts on your life. Whenever
you meet a new person, tune in to their energy. Chances are you
already intuitively know who has positive or negative energy
just from their posture, facial expression or tone of voice.

Make a decision today to attract more 'feel-good' people into
your life. Within a very short time, you'll find yourself excited
and enthusiastic with very little effort.

To your success and fulfilling your dreams.

Warm wishes

Stephanie"

Learn more about Stephanie by clicking here. If you haven't already, sign up for her newsletters.

DivaSpeakTV: Year End Review

Monica "Knock Knock"

Watching "Still Standing" so I wanted to post a Monica vid for today's Throwback. This was one of my favs from her this decade.

Nardwuar v. Kid Cudi

Now this is a memorable interview. Everything was all good and smooth and usually Nardwuar's interviews end on a comically good note, but things just fell apart at the end. Well, Cudi did at least. I don't know who they are but the other people in the room should have been a bit swifter. Seeing that his uncle was going to be brought could've got to him. He was trying to end the interview and make a quick exit and it got kinda messy and weird. Just watch.

Tasha Ramos "Screwed" (Live)

This is a performance from last year. I'll just assume Tasha didn't want to be in N.E.R.D...I'm just sayin!

will.i.am Brings Kelis To Interscope Family

He produced a hit for Kelis' estranged husband Nas in 2006's "Hip-hop Is Dead." Now, Black Eyed Peas' frontman will.i.am signs the songstress to his will.i.am Music Group, a subsidiary of Interscope Records. After tenures with Virgin, Arista and Jive respectively, the singer discovered by another Interscope star, Pharrell Williams, is headed to the California-based imprint.

“I love that I am now a new part of the Interscope family. 2010 is around the corner and I can’t wait to put out new music and spend time with real music fans on tour again,” said Kelis in a statement. will.i.am added, “Kelis represents the kind of edge that pushes all of us not just musically but stylistically as well. She has always opened new doors for her audience and we’re ready to walk through this next one with her.” Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records concurred, “Kelis is a true artist and we’re so excited to start this new chapter in her musical life.”

Kelis' next album will be produced by will.i.am and frequent BEP collaborator David Guetta, among others, and is planned for 2010 release.

- hiphopdx.com

WELCOME BACK!!!

The "REAL" A.I. is back in town and Philly is just abuzz with excitement and anticipation. The naysayers are enjoying their crow buffet and that negative energy is eating them up inside because THE MAN IS BACK! I got my ticket to see Bubba Chuck....yuuup!

Boycott is over. Destiny prevails and business is good!

I have this same question, its Day 5 of my NBA boycott

My answer is: The league no longer wants to market itself with players like the legendary Allen Iverson, in spite of his talent. Its practically turning into a development league with a bunch of no name players unworthy of a marque, with a few exceptions (i.e. Lebron, Chris Paul, Carmelo, etc). But I live in Philly and they expect a player like Lou Williams to develop a scorer's mentality. Isn't that the reason A.I. was traded in the first place? Ridiculous. Nothing against Lou, I think he's a good player...coming off the bench.

I think teams want players they can control and mold into what they want versus a player that stays true to who they are and makes no excuses or exceptions. Players that won't challenge coaches or make demands. Its what you call a 40 Million Dollar Slave.

Lords of the Underground "Chief Rocka"

This is a goodie from 1993!

Miss Issa "Throw Up"

Finally a song that really expresses this urge, lol. I like it.

Wale: "If Tupac Had Twitter"

Wale poses some questions that I found myself answering out loud. People knew Pac was the from East Coast, so that wasn't breaking news when the beef started. Let's set the record straight it was Death Row vs. Bad Boy, the East vs. West was the media hype. And Pac wasn't even signed to Death Row he was still locked up. It was Suge calling out Puff at The Source Awards. So Pac had his own issues about being shot at the studio and Suge played on that and got him out of jail and signed him to Death Row. It was the perfect move.

During the days of Tupac, people got information by reading magazines and listening to the radio. All of the breaking news came via radio and usually a magazine like Vibe or The Source would do an in depth article in their next issue. I would say VIBE provided the best coverage during this time.

If twitter was around back in 95-96, Biggie would have sent Pac a direct message or texted him on his phone and they would have talked. It would have been over in a week I think, if not the day Pac got wheeled in the courtroom after being shot up the night before. And Pac didn't revolt against East Coast artists, they came at him first and he slayed them. He also never got a chance to build his empire the reason why he was killed, duh.

I still got love for Wale, he just needs a refresher course on his Tupac History, lol.

Weekend Fresh: Clipse respond to blog comments (Funny vid)

While We Were Stuck on Old Sh*t...Rihanna was making the funky dope moves

Nokia, Island Def Jam Music Group, Universal Music Group International & Superstar Artist Rihanna Announce Breakthrough Global Music Partnership

Nokia announced the launch of a groundbreaking new global music partnership - Nokia
Play 2010 - with the Island Def Jam Music Group (IDJMG) and Universal Music
Group International (UMGI). This announcement coincides with the global
availability of the Nokia X6, a powerful entertainment device in combination
with Comes With Music, Nokia's 'all-you-can-eat-music' offering.

Created to deliver unique and exclusive music content to fans around the
world, the partnership will see IDJMG & UMGI launch international superstar
Rihanna's highly-anticipated new album, Rated R, with Nokia via an exclusive
live, streamed concert and simultaneous listening parties in multiple
locations around the globe on November 16th 2009.

Streamed live from London, Rihanna will perform for the very first time a
select number of tracks from her new album. In front of fans in London and an
audience globally, the exclusive gig will showcase Nokia and IDJMG's ability
to bring fans closer to artists, and artists closer to fans via its home on
http://www.nokia.com/rihanna.

Click here to read more!

Jay-Z's BP3 2010 Tour Dates Announced

Opening Act will be Young Jeezy!

Confirmed Dates as of 11/5/09:

Feb 22 Houston, TX Toyota Center
Feb 23 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
Feb 25 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
Feb 27 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
Feb 28 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum Complex
Mar 03 Washington, DC Verizon Center
Mar 07 Norfolk, VA Scope Arena
Mar 11 Boston, MA TD Garden
Mar 16 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
Mar 19 St. Louis, MO Scottrade Center
Mar 20 Indianapolis, IN Conseco Fieldhouse
Mar 22 Denver, CO Pepsi Center
Mar 24 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion
Mar 26 Los Angeles, CA Staples Center

Pre-Sale begins on November 10th. Additional information will be announced shortly for stops in East Rutherford, Uniondale, Atlantic City and Detroit. For complete ticket, tour and on sale information visit LiveNation.com.

Source: roc4life.com

The Jacksons - Can You Feel It

I'm Back

Between Septa strikes, midterms, and presentations. I'm back with a Throwback video.

Gangstarr ft. Nice & Smooth: "Dwyck"

Do they even still shoot videos in Atlantic City anymore? LOL. This song is still a must at a party, if its a real party, classic.

Hip Hop Honors (Spoof) Russell & Rick Recap (LOL)

Weekend Fresh: B.U.R.N.S means Be Ultimately Realistic & Never Sellout, New Doc Project from Kenny Burns

B.U.R.N.S. Documentary Trailer from KENNY BURNS on Vimeo.

Pharrell f/ Jay-Z "Frontin"

Getting ready for my presentation next week, so I'm in Pharrell mode. This is the summer I was on my grind: I worked, went to school, did my dream internship, and couldn't wait to get my damn degree (which sits in a storage box, horrible). 2003 was a very good year:) This is one of my favorite songs...enjoy!

Seduction "Heartbeat" Soul Train Performance (1990)

Thought the wiki on them was a great note in musical history. You always wonder what happened to your favorite groups. Here one day, then gone tomorrow. Now that I'm older I understand the business aspect of it all. Sidenote: I'm noticing variations of this look more and more on the streets.

From Wikipedia:
Seduction was a female dance-pop, urban contemporary, house music, and freestyle trio from New York assembled and produced by Clivilles and Cole of C+C Music Factory, consisting of members Idalis DeLeon (born 15 June 1966), April Harris (born 25 March 1967) and Michelle Visage (born 20 September 1968).

Originally intended as a studio project, Seduction's first single, "Seduction", featured lead vocals by Carol Cooper. The second single "(You're My One and Only) True Love" featured uncredited lead vocals by Martha Wash.[1] The song ended up becoming a hit, and a group was then assembled for the recording of the album Nothing Matters Without Love and subsequent singles. Their biggest hit came in early 1990 with "Two to Make It Right", a #2 pop hit. In mid-1990 DeLeon left the group and was replaced by Sinoa Loren (born 6 December 1966). After a pair of hits with this line-up, the group broke up in 1991.

DeLeon went on to become a prominent MTV VJ and actress on shows such as Living Single.

Michelle Visage performed guest vocals on the single "Crash" by freestyle act TKA, as well as the single "It's Gonna Be a Lovely Day" by C+C Music Factory alter-ego The S.O.U.L. S.Y.S.T.E.M. Visage later co-hosted a VH1 talk show show, the The RuPaul Show with RuPaul, and eventually went on to be a popular on-air personality for New York radio station WKTU. In 2005, Visage joined the morning show "The Morning Mix" on WNEW-FM "Mix 102.7" FM (now WWFS). She is currently the host of Sunny 104.3 Morning Show on WEAT-FM in West Palm Beach, Florida.

April Harris earned a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University’s School of Communication. She has held principal roles in the following plays: Dreamgirls (National Tour), Wicked Ways (National Tour), Smokey Joe’s Café (National Tour), Foot Loose (National Tour), Ain’t Misbehavin (National Tour), The Wiz, Medea and Beehive. She toured internationally with her all-female band (Koffee)being featured on the BET Soundstage Tour, Blackapalooza Tour and the U2/Kelis European Tour. In 2004, April started AVH Entertainment LLC, a music and TV production company. She owns the rights to the name Seduction and reassembled the group with two new members, Maria Flora and Eunice Quiñones, (Miss New York Latina 2006), and released an album of new material, Feel Brand New, AVH Entertainment in 2005. In addition to producing a TV show geared towards teens (still in production).

Carmelo Anthony Launches ThisIsMelo.com

NBA star Carmelo Anthony has really upped the ante with his new website, ThisIsMelo.com. The site not only serves as a way to get to know the Denver Nuggets forward, but also serves as a social networking host complete with member profiles and blogs. Its definitely worth a visit just to check it out. I personally think it gets a A+, for choosing a familiar brand formula using the "this is" in the title (the very popular thisis50.c0m) and I like when athletes make the effort to brand themselves outside of their leagues or team organizations.

Event: {GGT NYC} Green Light Luncheon - Sex & Relationships Edition

::THE DETAILS::

About the Green Light Luncheon
This informative luncheon series celebrates the special bond among women. At each event, inspirational speakers share insight from their personal experience, words of wisdom, and offer sound tools of encouragement while providing guidance to empower the lives of every woman in attendance.

This quarter's panelists are:

Alicia Marie Rivers
Editor. Author. & Self Esteem Specialist.
Pretty Thoughts of a Hot Chick

Erika Kendrick
Author. Producer. Thought Leader.
Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader & Appetite

Demetria Lucas
Dating & Relationship Blogger
A Belle in Brooklyn.com

~ ~ ~

Saturday, October 10, 2009
11:00am - 2:00pm

Village Lantern
167 Bleecker St. @ Sullivan
New York, NY

TICKETS: $35 Online tickets*; $40 Door
*Advanced ticket purchasers receive giftbag*

For tickets, visit: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/82696


Questions? Contact us: (646) 867-2732 / info@GirlfriendsGetTogether.com

PunchlineTV Launches New Website

PunchLine TV launches its new website Punchlinetv.com. The website is a host to the PunchLine TV monthly series that airs on NYC TV 74, one Wednesday out of the month at 6pm.

Unlike any comedic filmed media, the raw shot interviews brings audiences a documentary stylized view of the personal truths of comedians with integrated glimpses of their funniest moments on stage.

Some featured comedians include Hailey Boyle from Carolines on Broadway, Marlon Randolph of Bill Bellamy’s Who Got Jokes, SNL's Dean Edwards, Queen Aishah, April Brucker, Drew Fraser from Comedy Central, A.G. White from FOX’s The Uptown Comedy Club and over 60 more reputable familiar faced and up and coming comedians.

PunchLine TV was created by new jack comedian Merv Jay, who felt there needed to be a platform for comedians to show not only their craft but to give an insider look into their lives. He wanted audiences to know the comedian behind the stage and “the real” behind the laughs.

PunchLine TV currently has a sister network, PunchLine Radio. PunchLine Radio broadcasts on Fridays 3-5pm in the Brooklyn, New York area on BCAT Channel 70 through Medgar Evers College and 10am-12pm on ThatsGoodRadio.com

For more information contact E. Lane, BrooklynBiznessGirl at 347-613-3135 or worldwidecomedy@gmail.com.

Log on to PunchlineTV.com

It's A Mary October

FFAWN, The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now, has announced the following events in which their co-founder, Mary J. Blige will be honored and/or performing this month:

On October 14th - Mary J. Blige will perform for the New York Women's Foundation Gala.

October 17th - The 4th Annual Black Girls Rock Awards 2009 will honor Mary J. Blige. The Awards will be hosted by celebrated actresses Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross at the New York Times Center.

October 22nd - Mary J. Blige will present Gucci's Frida Giannini with the Superstar Designer of the Year Award.

October 22nd - The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Mary J. Blige Center for Women will take place. GUCCI has confirmed that Frida Giannini will attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony along with Mary and other members of the FFAWN Board of Directors.

October 26th - Mary J. Blige will receive the 2009 Breaking Barriers Award at the 22nd Annual Awards Dinner.

Also on October 20th - FFAWN Co-Founder, Steve Stoute will be the keynote speaker at the Pew Forum, "Philanthropy and Democracy: An Insider's Look at Policy Change," in Washington, DC. The forum will assemble national thought leaders and government officials, as well as many of America's most prominent philanthropists, with the goal of inspiring solutions to many of today's most pressing challenges. Steve Stoute will speak about how he transitioned from marketing maverick to philanthropist and became the co-founder of FFAWN.

For more information about FFAWN, visit FFAWN.org. Make sure to subscribe to their newsletter for updates.

Weekend Fresh: Pharrell's Hermes Hoodie

You know I rarely do Fashion Fix features, but this masterpiece of clothing right here that Pharrell is rocking is Absolutely Dope!!! It is so 88!!! It shits on you slowly because at first glance you're thinking grey hoodie nothing special but then its like....DAMMMNNNN!!!! (25 days and counting until the Jay-Z tour road trip to B-More, yay!).

Source: blog.honeyee.com/pharrell

Classic Footage: Puff, Kim & Cease in NYC "Crush On You" Live (1997)

Long day at the factory...I was asked to name my best concert today. One of my favorites was the No Way Out Tour back in 1997. So I chose a performance from that year for today's Throwback Thursday pic. Hope you enjoy. I'm somewhat delirious for getting up so early, lol.

"Jazz in the Diamond District" - NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD!!!

Jazz in the Diamond District
Starring Wood Harris & Clifton Powell

ORDER THE DVD TODAY
(Click Here)

Soundtrack available digitally the same day
Purchase & download the soundtrack at http://www.gogorocks.com/

http://www.jazzinthediamonddistrict.com/
twitter.com/jddthemovie
myspace.com/jazzinthediamonddistrict

TEXT GOGOROCKS TO 39970 TO JOIN MOBILE MAILING LIST

MyCypher.com Wins National Prize

On September 23rd, 2009, MyCypher Inc. CEO Curtis Jewell, II, participated in the finals of the National Black MBA Association's (NBMBAA) Innovation Whiteboard Challenge in New Orleans, LA, during their 31st Annual National Conference. Of the 6 entrepreneurs who pitched their ideas, MyCypher.com won the top prize of $10,000 for the concept of allowing Hip-Hop artists from around the world to post freestyles to the web directly from any cell phone. Congrats.

Make sure you check out MyCypher.com

Oaktown 357 "Get Loose"

This is from back when you could work out while watching videos. You had to get up dance. I used to this entire routine in my room, lol! Memories. I don't front I loved MC Hammer and Oaktown 357. This was one of the best concerts I ever went to back in 1990. Oh yes, I remember it was MC Hammer, Oaktown 357, Troop and it might have been one more. I think it was B. Angie B. LOL...Get It Girl!

Making The Band Gay 26 **Spoof Movie**

The latest production by comedian Kenny Johnson. Visit his YouTube Channel and make sure to check out Rihanna's Revenge too, if you haven't already.

How To Add An Extra 24 Hours To Your Day: Part II

Here are 3 more tricks from Stephanie J. Hale, CEO of the Millionaire Bootcamp for Women and author of Millionaire Women, Millionaire You:

1. Remember the Pareto Principle.
Roughly 80% of your rewards come from 20% of your efforts.
Ask yourself: are you using your time wisely? Do you really need
to do all that research? Are you spending too much time surfing the net?
Either automate, delegate or delete anything that's unimportant.

2. Make a 'don't do' list.
Keep track of what you are spending your time on. Ask yourself:
is this really necessary? For example, do you really need to
cook an elaborate meal every night? Why not have salad on a couple
of nights instead? Are you spending too much time on Facebook or
MySpace? Is this the best way to help you achieve your goals.

3. Delegate.
It's easy to think no one else will do things as
well as you. But something done 'ok' is better than it not being done
at all, or running yourself ragged. Draw up schedules sharing
out tasks and errands. Write simple flowcharts and checklists
for the jobs that you do - both at home or in the office. That
way, you won't need to explain yourself if a new helper comes along.

Stephanie also suggests planning ahead how you'll be spending your extra time.
Don't just fill the gap with more busyness or chores.

To learn more about Stephanie J. Hale, The Millionaire Boot Camp for Women and to receive correspondence click here.

Click Here for Part 1

Today Marks 13 years....Can You Believe It?

2PAC Forever

(June 16, 1971-September 13, 1996)

By Special Request.....Feelin It

Thinking of following Jay-Z on tour like a 18 year old groupie with no cares in the world after that show last night. I was in my living room with the TV on full blast. One helluva show!!!

Weekend Fresh: Young Problemz "Fuck Yo Myspace"

My homie Neka put me on to this group from Texas. We agreed that these are the hardest cats in the industry right now based on this song alone, lol. Make sure to check out their songs Ms. Beyoncé & U Fired. Their debut album "How's My Rappin" is available now. Get more info on Young Problemz at myspace.com/youngproblemzmusic.

Throwback: Common Sense - Take it Easy

Went to NY for Fashion Night Out so I missed posting a Throwback "Thursday" video. I chose to stick with a Common theme today. Back when he was Common Sense. I remember I had this cassette single:)

Event: Common & Friends

On Saturday, September 26th, The Common Ground Foundation will host an all-star concert featuring its founder, Common, along with The Roots, De La Soul, Nas, Ludacris, and more, at the Hollywood Palladium. Show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are just $65 for general admission and $150 VIP. Click here for tickets.

About The Common Ground Foundation
The Common Ground Foundation was created by Hip Hop artist, actor and children’s author Lonnie Rashid Lynn, known as “Common”. Common’s social-conscience message serves as inspiration for equality, opportunity and hope among youth in undeserved communities. The Foundation is committed to empowering youth in urban neighborhoods and providing life skills needed to achieve their dreams. For more information visit www.commongroundfoundation.org.

Hip Hop Icons Make the New York City 400

Russell Simmons, Grandmaster Flash, Sean "Diddy" Combs & Jay-Z (Shawn Carter) have made the NYC400 as chosen by the Museum of the City of New York.

The NYC400 is the first-ever list of New York City's ultimate movers and shakers since the City's founding—from politics, the arts, business, sports, science, and entertainment.

In commemoration of Henry Hudson's epic 1609 voyage into New York Harbor, the Museum is celebrating our City's 400th birthday by recognizing the people who have had the greatest impact and influence on the world's greatest city.

Our goal in creating the NYC 400 is to help educate the public about New York City's fascinating and dramatic history—its heritage of diversity, opportunity and perpetual transformation—by humanizing our amazing common story.

To view the complete list click here!

Event: WNBA's New York Liberty Celebrate Sisterhood Day, Sept. 13th

Join the New York Liberty as they celebrated Sisterhood Day this Sunday, September 13th at 4pm vs. the Washington Mystics at Madison Square Garden.

Tickets are $40 and includes admittance to a pre-game networking event at 2pm on the South Terrace.

$5 from each ticket will be donated to FFAWN, Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now.

To Get Tickets Click Here! Use Code: SISTERHOOD


Partner organizations include:
The Phenomenal Women Group, Inc.
Pretty Thoughts of a Hot Chick
Girlfriends Get-Together
FFAWN
Avenue Pink
Madison Square Garden

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Supporting Organizations:

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc - Delta Beta Zeta Chapter
Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
National Association of University Women
Mocha Sisters Organization®
Real Sisters Rising
BDPA-NY Chapter
Urban Momentum Network

How To Add An Extra 24 Hours To Your Day: Part I

Are you banging your head against a wall trying to stay awake so you can get everything done? I know I keep some late nights and it never seems to be enough time to get everything done.

Stephanie J. Hale, CEO of the Millionaire Bootcamp for Women and author of Millionaire Women, Millionaire You in the UK, shares 3 tricks to help with your time management:

1. Remember that things don't have to be perfect.
Remind yourself what your goals are. Decide what needs
to be 'excellent', and what can be just 'good' or 'ok'.
Put your effort into the things that matter most and spend
less time on the insignificant stuff.

2. Hire a Virtual Assistant.
Professional freelancers can quickly and easily be hired at
Elance.com. Many of them work for fees ranging from $1-$15 per
hour. If you want to be 100% certain you're hiring the right
person, give them a small 'test job' to do first.

3. Give yourself quiet time.
Go for a walk, listen to music or take a bike ride. These quiet
periods - even if they only last for a quarter of an hour - will
help to give you a fresh perspective on what you need to do to
achieve your goals. Sometimes you get so lost in
busyness, that you lose sight of where you're heading.


Note: If you need #2 let's talk!

To learn more about Stephanie J. Hale, The Millionaire Boot Camp for Women and to receive correspondence click here.

A little Freddie Mercury won't hurt...

Happy Belated Birthday to my favorite singer (9/5)....wish I could have been one of the claps at Wembley during "Radio GaGa", its so awesome. Queen always gets my blood pumping and Freddie just makes me wish I could sing just like him. Be warned this is filed under Acquired Taste for a reason. HHM loves you...Happy Labor Day everyone. Watch Freddie rule the stage and this crowd and take that energy back to work or school tomorrow. Enjoy!



"We Are The Champions"

Tonight in DC: The Steve Francis Roast hosted by Joe Torry

You should have some time left to get tickets for this. Sounds like fun!

The Steve Francis Roast
hosted by Joe Torry

Saturday, September 5, 2009
7-10 p.m.
Takoma Station

Free Buffet and Ciroc Drink Specials
7 p.m.- 8 p.m.
Music by : DJ Ben Hameen


Featuring:
Sam Cassell
Cuttino Mobley
Walt Williams
Malik Rose
and many more!

Seated VIP: $30
General Admission: $20
purchase tickets on www.tazevents.com

Foxy Brown feat. Jay-Z - I'll Be

Back when I was a teenager believe this was my junior year of high school. Foxy was so fly. I think every girl wanted that dress for the junior/senior prom that year, lol! And I can't believe I used to wear glasses similar to Jay-Z's I thought I was doing something. Oh how I heart the 90s!

RIP DJ AM

Much love to such a talented individual. I wanted to see him spin in AC this summer but never made it out. I know its impossible to do everything, but you never know when its your time and this time he was called for. RIP

Gil Scott Heron talks to ReelBlack TV

In this extended interview (taken from Reelblack's award-winning film POET, starring Ursula Rucker), Godfather of Rap GIL SCOTT-HERON ruminates on the definition of the word POET, his upcoming projects and what rappers he considers worthy of the term.



via reelblack

The Millionaire Mindset

Pharrell Williams is a clear cut example of having The Millionaire Mindset in his LV Millionaire Shades he co-designed with another MM example, Nigo.

Stephanie J. Hale, CEO of the Millionaire Bootcamp for Women and author of Millionaire Women, Millionaire You in the UK, shared some tips of the 'millionaire mindset' and I thought I'd share:

• Be authentic - talk with passion from your heart;
• Do what you love - work for love, not money;
• Use PR and the media to build a global brand;
• Serve your clients - give them what they want, not what you want;
• Use clients' endorsements in your advertising;
• See the ‘gift’ in problems and challenges.

This is not a paid endorsement by HHM, I just love her e-newsletters. At the core, this is what being a Hip Hop Mogul is all about without selling your soul.

To learn more about Stephanie J. Hale, The Millionaire Boot Camp for Women and to receive correspondence click here.

Remembering Aaliyah

Today marks 8 years since the tragic plane crash that killed Aaliyah and 8 others: pilot Luis Morales III, hair stylist Eric Forman, Anthony Dodd, security guard Scott Gallin, video producer Douglas Kratz, stylist Christopher Maldonado, and Blackground Records employees Keith Wallace and Gina Smith. [Source: Wikipedia]

Just to let you in on how much Aaliyah inspired me, one of the characters in the Black Magnolia series was inspired by her and the next book is being titled after this song.

So, When Did You First Fall in Love with Hip Hop?

I was watching Brown Sugar with a new appreciation for it actually. So I wanted to share my answer. If anyone ever received an email from me its in my signature, the answer is when I first saw A Tribe Called Quest "I Left My Wallet in El Segundo" video. I couldn't embed that video (thanks Sony) so I'm posting the video that sealed the deal. Native Tongues for life and yes I was 10 year old backpacker floppy hat, braids, medallion and all, lol! If you're reading answer the question:)

Hilarious: Drake - Best I Ever Had Spoof Video

DJ Rick Geez Presents: The Official Clipse Banger

CLICK THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CLIPSE BANGER

27 TRACK wav files. (CD VERSION)
https://www.yousendit.com/download/YkxMaXRITkFCTW52Wmc9PQ

1 TRACK MP3 VERSION (MP3 PLAYER VERSION)
https://www.yousendit.com/download/YkxMaXRHSytVbTljR0E9PQ

Producer Pack Announces the release of Hip Hop Construction Kings

For all the aspiring music producers out there this one is for you:)

Become inspired and let your creative juices flow with this amazing new samplepack. Ever fancied yourself as the next Timbaland, Neptunes or Dr Dre? Maybe your inspiration has run dry or your latest project is missing that certain something to make it BANG?

Or perhaps you're simply looking for a solid library of dope drum loops and construction kits, that will take you to the next level.Whatever your musical needs, 'Hip Hop construction Kings' is sure to meet them. Containing over 300MB of banging original royalty-free sounds and upfront loops, you will find a superb library of samples here certain to fuel your creativity and inspiration.

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Kid N Play "Do This My Way"

I caught "Class Act" the other day and was reminded how much I loved Kid n Play. These guys were stars making blockbuster films back when it was unheard of for rappers. I miss videos when women were women and wore clothes that made sense, lol.

Event: Saturdays on the Green (NYC)

Just catching up on email. Missed posting the launch party for this last week. But it goes down every Saturday. Seems like something to check out if you can. Contact: je@jenyc.com for more information.

Amanda Diva "NEON"

I dumped Twitter last week....

...in case you're wondering where I am. I was bored and I realized I didn't care what everyone was doing anymore because we're all pretty much doing the same thing. I still use my username xianvuitton, for now only on the bbc/icecream blog, so if you see it, yes its me:)

In case you're wondering what I'm up to: The main thing right now is getting ready for school. Its been five years since I graduated from college and I'm going back for fashion marketing. I didn't see this coming, but it takes time to really put it all together. I've been using my 20s wisely, I didn't want to go into my 30s in a confused state of mind. I can officially announce my quarter life crisis is over. YAY!

This past Saturday night...

I had a rendevous with Hip Hop...front and stage left watching the Clipse put on an awesome show at Sneaker Pimps in Philly. I also got to play with my new camera nothing fancy but it gets the job done:)

In this first one, Clipse took it back to 2002 & 2003 and perform "What Happened to that Boy" and "Hot Damn" w. Ab Liva. Fiyah! My boi DJ Rick Geez holding it down!

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

I spent last weekend chillin, sightseeing and rockin out in LA. Here is a clip someone posted on YouTube of the N.E.R.D concert at the Rockstar Energy X-Games After Party. I can see my arm and even a full blurry shot of myself - woohoo, lol. I'll post pics soon. Its posted under Weekend Fresh because I would have blogged, but I was on hiatus which for me includes staying off the internet:)

Five Star - All Fall Down

Intelligent Hoodlum - Black & Proud

MOTIVATION

Weekend Fresh: MJ making a grown man scream

Today is a special day, not just any day

Its my 29th Birthday!!! Proud to say it because I still don't believe it, lmao. Shouts out to all the Cancers out there. Let's Get It!!!!!

Forbes' Hip Hop Cash Kings 2009

The Forbes Hip-Hop Cash Kings list includes male recording artists whose work is primarily classified as hip-hop or rap. Earnings estimates, which include income from record sales, digital downloads, touring, films, TV shows, endorsements, books and other entertainment ventures, are calculated between June 2008 and June 2009. Management, agent and attorney fees are not deducted.

[Click Here for the Full Report]

20. Jay "Young Jeezy" Jenkins
$6 million, tie

20. Jayceon "The Game" Taylor
$6 million, tie

20. William "Rick Ross" Roberts
$6 million, tie

20. Tramar "Flo Rida" Dillard
$6 million, tie

18. Antwan "Big Boi" Patton
$7 million, tie

18. Andre "Andre 3000" Benjamin
$7 million, tie

14. Kasseem "Swizz Beatz" Dean
$8 million, tie

14. Clifford "T.I." Harris
$8 million, tie

14. William "will.i.am" Adams
$8 million, tie

14. Lonnie "Common" Lynn, Jr.
$8 million, tie

13. Christopher "Ludacris" Bridges
$10 million

12. Calvin "Snoop Dogg" Broadus
$11 million

11. Andre "Dr. Dre" Young
$13 million

10. Marshall "Eminem" Mathers
$14 million

9. Faheem "T-Pain" Najm
$15 million

8. Pharrell Williams
$16 million

7. Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley
$17 million

6. Dwayne "Lil Wayne" Carter
$18 million

4. Aliaune "Akon" Thiam
$20 million, tie

4. Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson
$20 million, tie

3. Kanye West
$25 million

2. Sean "Diddy" Combs
$30 million

1. Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter
$35 million

Blacks not welcome: Condemn the Valley Swim Club‏

Dear friends,
Two weeks ago outside Philadelphia, sixty-five children from a summer camp tried to go swimming at a club their camp had a contract to use. Evidently, the club didn't know the kids were largely Black.

When the campers entered the pool, White parents took their kids out of the water, and the swimming club's staff asked the campers to leave. The next day, the club told the summer camp that their membership would be canceled and that they would refund their money. When asked why, the club's leader said the "kids would change the complexion ... and the atmosphere of the club."

A "Whites only" pool in 2009 should not be tolerated. The club's actions appear to be a violation of section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act. Whether or not any laws were violated, a "Whites only" pool should be something every American condemns.

I've just joined ColorOfChange.org in doing exactly that -- will you join me, and email your friends and family asking them to do the same? We're also calling on the Department of Justice to evaluate suing the facility under federal law. It takes just a moment to do both, here:

http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=2016-145161

Obama is President but that doesn't mean that suddenly all is fine when it comes to race in America. This is a vivid reminder of what we know still lies beneath the surface.

We all know stories like this one -- similar incidents play out quietly every day in different communities across the country. The difference in this case is that folks got caught and there was a contract in place that makes for a potentially illegal act.

Standing up now isn't just about making things right for these kids in Philadelphia or bringing consequences to this swim club (called the Valley Swim Club). It's about creating a climate of accountability everywhere. If we can publicly shame the Valley Swim Club and hold them accountable for this incident, it will make others think twice before engaging in this kind of discrimination.

Please join me in condemning the Valley Swim Club's blatant discrimination and calling on the Justice Department to investigate whether they violated civil rights laws. And please ask your friends and family to do the same.

http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=2016-145161

Thanks.


Here are some links to more info:

"Pool Boots Kids Who Might 'Change the Complexion,'" NBC Philadelphia, 07-08-09
http://bit.ly/90Zyr

"60 Black Kids Booted from Philly Pool For Being Black -- Speak Out," Jill Tubman at Jack and Jill Politics, 07-08-09
http://bit.ly/GkJTs

"Valley Swim Club: Day Two," Adam B at Daily Kos, 07-08-09
http://bit.ly/qbpSA

"Section 1981 Summary," Employment Law Information Network
http://www.elinfonet.com/1981sum.php

The Summer Groove hosted by Zo & D. Wade

Today the 13th annual Summer Groove kicks off in Miami, Florida. The event will run until July 12th and is a five day weekend consisting of a golf tournament, comedy show, concerts, parties and community events that will benefit Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade's World Foundation.



WEEKEND EVENT LINEUP:

Thursday, July 9, 2009
ZSG GOLF CLASSIC
9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Doral Golf Resort & Spa, Miami, Florida

Friday, July 10, 2009
ZSG COMEDY SHOW/CONCERT HOSTED BY HARD ROCK LIVE WITH SPECIAL GUEST HOST: CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER
8:00 PM
Hard Rock Live, Hollywood, Florida
Tickets: $100, $65, $45 available at Ticketmaster.com

Saturday, July 11, 2009
PUBLIX CHARITIES "DECO AFTER DARK" ZSG BENEFIT DINNER HOSTED BY SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO
7:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Hard Rock Live, Hollywood, Florida
Table of ten- $5,000, Individual seating- $500
To register, please contact Samantha@amcharities.org or by phone at (305) 476-0095/131

Sunday, July 12, 2009
ZSG BLOCK PARTY
1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
AmericanAirlines Arena, Miami, Florida
Free

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES ZSG ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAME
6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
AmericanAirlines Arena, Miami, Florida
$5, $15, $25, $45, $60
Purchase tickets at TICKETMASTER

Scheduled Participants: Carmelo Anthony, Andray Blatche, Aaron Brooks, Caron Butler, Kevin Durant, Larry Hughes, Lebron James, Mike James, Joe Johnson, Damon Jones, Kenyon Martin, Joakim Noah, Zaza Pachulia, Chris Paul, James Posey, Quentin Richardson, Rajon Rondo, J.R. Smith, Delonte West, Chris Wilcox, Mo Williams, and many more.

For more information visit: www.zsg.com

Thank You Michael

Forever in My Heart

Classic TV Footage: Jackson 5

On MJ: I really didn't think it would be this hard. I don't take deaths in my own family like this its kinda weird, lol, so I just think about the good times (pun intended).

I favorited this 3 years ago. This is from the Jacksons Variety Show. They performed an awesome pop locking routine. Of course I wasn't alive to see this originally, but I take it these will be coming to DVD real soon (if someone is smart enough to do it along with the cartoon).


Always loved Dancing Machine - one of my top 100 songs. Here they are on Merv Griffin!

De La Soul "Buddy"

Had to rep the Native Tongues today, that's what I've been vibin on for the past month.

HHM Remembers: Phyllis Hyman

Today HHM honors Phyllis Hyman

July 6, 1949 — June 30, 1995

Vibe Magazine 1993-2009: End of an Era

I remember borrowing my first Vibe Magazine from my friend in 9th grade so I could read an exclusive interview with Jodeci back in 1994. I was hooked from that moment on. The lastest issue of Vibe was a hot commodity so if someone happened to see it in your bookbag (sidebar: Vibes were wide as hell and couldn't fit perfectly so you could never really hide it) you knew they were going to ask to read it and give back to you by lunch time, in another period, at your locker, or hold it overnight. I was a subscriber from 1995-2005. Orignally because they were hard to find on the newsstands. My favorite years had to be from 1993-2002, I know I wish they would stop coming after a while. It lasted that long by default. I subscribed to Blaze, which was Vibe's answer to The Source, but that folded under a year and I got comped. But Vibe played a major role in how I got my entertainment news and info on the industry.

Its a shame it had to end like this but we're in a midst of a transition. Its a sign of the times. Vibe lost me years ago and I never see young kids browsing through the magazine section like I used to do as a teen and still do out of routine. I love magazines, the layout, the artwork, the photography, these things don't fully come alive for me on a computer screen. This is the same reason why I still refuse IPods & itunes and stick to CDs and my dinosaur of a discman (I do have an MP3 player). I need to know that something is still within my hands. That it is really there and no virus, crash or some other crap beyond my control can keep me from it.

HHM Spotlight: Damian Dame

I wanted to get back to my regularly schedule post, orginally a Throwback Thursday, I'm so out of it, I can't even think so I had to do snatch from Wikipedia. But life is just amazing and you never know when you're gonna go so appreciate it and live your best life even when things just seem so wacky.

Tomorrow marks the death anniversary of the talented duo Damian Dame, who died on the same day June 27th two years apart.


Damian Dame was an R&B duo consisting of Debra Jean "Deah Dame" Hurd (September 20, 1958-June 27, 1994) and Bruce Edward "Damian" Broadus (September 13, 1966-June 27, 1996).
In 1991, Damian Dame became the first act signed to LaFace Records. The duo's self-titled debut spun off two radio hits, "Exclusivity" and "Right Down To It."

Right before Damian Dame began working on their sophomore album, tragedy struck. Deah was killed in an automobile accident in June of 1994. She was just 35 years old. Damian succumbed to colon cancer in June of 1996, at the age of 29. Ironically, his death came two years to the day of his groupmate's passing.

Wikipedia.com

My First Concert

Awesome memories. Most of my childhood memories involve Michael Jackson, I swear we're related, lol. But when I was about 4 my mom got tickets and took me and my fellow MJ fanatic, my cousin Kareem, to this concert at the old JFK stadium in Philly. I even think this was my first subway ride to South Philly we usually drove everywhere. I remember being so excited my nose started bleeding and I was really anxious I couldn't sit still. Something else I can recall is all the people that were there and having to use binoculars. I mean we were in a stadium and so far away like I tweeted earlier I just remember seeing glitter. I also remember being mad he didn't sing Thriller, lol. I was really disappointed because he didn't sing by himself. I knew about the Jacksons through my parents but I only really cared about Michael at that time. My mom said the tickets were just $20, they would be $500 in 2009. I remember going home with a poster that I hung up on my wall to hang with the many others I had. Funny thing about that time in my life I used to talk to my Michael Jackson posters. I didn't have imaginary friends. I had Mike. I had my Mickey Mouse night light because Mike loved Mickey and the huge posters and I would feel safe. Never thought there were monsters in my closet because Michael's big ass poster

was on the front of it, lol. Just wanted to flashback on that memory since it came to me:)

Thank You Michael! XOXO

I'm glad you gave as much as you did. I'm glad you cared as much as you cared. What a pleasure. I'm glad I was a witness to true greatness in talent and just in the human spirit. Thank you for inspiring me to think beyond belief. To believe in my dreams and if something didn't exist to create it.

This one is for you...

How to Sell a Screenplay from Filmmaker Jameel Saleem (LMAO)

Check out more of his vids on YouTube: Click Here

Kanye West & Guru Energy Drink Strike a Deal

Kanye West will be collaborating with Guru to create his own signature drink. In April, Kanye became a shareholder in the company after discovering the product in a NYC deli. “I express myself through music, fashion, art and design and that’s why I am excited to collaborate with GURU; because the brand values what I value, and I can put what inspires me into this new product,” West said.

Last week on June 11th, Kanye hosted the 2nd “Stay in School” Benefit Concert at the historic Chicago Theatre. Proceeds raised by the concert will benefit Loop Dreams, the music production program of the Kanye West Foundation, and the Dr. Donda West Scholarship fund. In case you didn't know Nike donated proceeds from the sales of the Air Yeezys to Loop Dreams & the Dr. Donda West Fund as well. So all those people slept on the streets for sneaks for a very good cause.



For More Information Visit:
Guru Energy
Kanye West Foundation


via Urban Guru