Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Guess who's back. (?)
Well, well, well. What do we have here? I guess somebody's got all the gay bashing, diss track apperances, and downright periods of seeming [or should I say feeling] uninspired out of his system, and just wants to have fun again. And as an unabashed fan of Busta during the years 1996-1999, I gotta say, this is definitely a good look. Keep it up. Or go home.
Busta Rhymes.
Don't Touch Me.
Busta Rhymes.
Don't Touch Me.
Get innocuous!
You know how I know you have a problem? This song, presented below, is nothing more than a shoutfest, and a guitar and an amplifier turned up to the nines, and yet you just can't get enough. It's simple, it's harmless, and damn near forgettable (?) [yet inescapable], and you know what? You love it.
How do you know you love it?
You know what made my night last night? [aside from Paula's slip-up on AI] This bombastic mess:
I wish I was kidding.
How do you know you love it?
You know what made my night last night? [aside from Paula's slip-up on AI] This bombastic mess:
I wish I was kidding.
Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers!
While listening to the new Santogold album last night -which, it must be said, is pretty fucking fantastic- I couldn't help but hope that the kids eat this shit up, the same way they do with Gwen Stefani, Karen O, or, well, the same way they did with this chick:
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Heartbreaker.
Wow. Really Mariah? Of all the tracks to go with as your second single, you choose this? Alright. At least it's not one of those other "We Belong Together Version 1.0" tracks from E-equals-M-C-squared.
Shawty Get Loose!
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Bump, bump, bump, bump, bump!...
DISCOBELLE: Bangers & Cash - Loose (Spank Estaw fix)
Bump, bump, bump, bump, bump!...
Viva Hollywood!
FILE UNDER: Oh Word?
Never too much.
This Saturday, May 3rd.
Watch what happens.
PITCHFORK: Radiohead In-Studio Performance Headed to VH1
Never too much.
This Saturday, May 3rd.
Watch what happens.
Old school funk for the true funk soldiers!
This one goes out to all you Madonna fans out there today. You're happy to get your hands on some new material from the [clears throat] "Material Girl", but upset that it's doing little to nothing for you, and/or doesn't hold a candle to the shit that originally made you fall in love with her in the first place.
Monday, April 28, 2008
This is how we do it.
Yes it is The Dream. You don't even know...
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
There are few things more rewarding in life than when an artist gets it right. When they, like us, play their album and go "this, this should be a single."
The Dream feat. Young Jeezy*.
I Luv Your Girl.
Act like you know.
*It's official, Young Jeezy is officially a "guest rapper on the bridge" for hire.
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
There are few things more rewarding in life than when an artist gets it right. When they, like us, play their album and go "this, this should be a single."
The Dream feat. Young Jeezy*.
I Luv Your Girl.
Act like you know.
*It's official, Young Jeezy is officially a "guest rapper on the bridge" for hire.
Wildin' Out. (!)
FILE UNDER: Oh Word?
A yo Mariah, "Touch my body!"
How does this boy do it? I mean, seriously.
From People:
"The pair held hands at the bash at Cadillac Lounge at Tenjune, which followed the movie's premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival. The two also looked cozy in Vegas on April 14...Asked what he loved about Carey, Cannon, 27, told PEOPLE: "Everything.".."
And to think, all this time I thought Mariah Carey was asexual and/or of the mindset that boys give you cooties...
PEOPLE: Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon Stir Engagement Rumors
I can't. I just can't...
A yo Mariah, "Touch my body!"
How does this boy do it? I mean, seriously.
From People:
"The pair held hands at the bash at Cadillac Lounge at Tenjune, which followed the movie's premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival. The two also looked cozy in Vegas on April 14...Asked what he loved about Carey, Cannon, 27, told PEOPLE: "Everything.".."
And to think, all this time I thought Mariah Carey was asexual and/or of the mindset that boys give you cooties...
I can't. I just can't...
Get innocuous!
You know how I know you have a problem? This song, presented below, is nothing more than a hook and a rap at the bridge, and yet you just can't get enough. It's simple, it's harmless, and damn near forgettable [yet inescapable], and you know what? You love it.
How do you know you love it?
(1) Cut to a few weeks back. Post work. Playing in the background with the sound down low is BET's 106 & Park. This video comes on and you stop your music, turn up the tv, and say aloud, "ooh this my shit" for both everyone and no one to hear without the slightest trace of irony in your voice.
(2)Saturday night. 11 something PM. Howard Hughes Parkway. Some dude is feeling like a million bucks today. He's got on his expensive "metro" jeans, fitted gray thermal, and his shiny SUV sitting on dubs [or something of that ilk]is parked in front of On the Border, with the passenger side door wide open, and soundsystem bumping like it's 3 in the afternoon and we parkin' lot pimpin.' But we're not...and it's 11 something PM...and we're in front of an On the Border. But all is forgiven, cause he just started your jam, and you can't help but dance up the escalator for all the world to see, sing along, and mutter to your friends "ooh this my shit..."
How do you know you love it?
(1) Cut to a few weeks back. Post work. Playing in the background with the sound down low is BET's 106 & Park. This video comes on and you stop your music, turn up the tv, and say aloud, "ooh this my shit" for both everyone and no one to hear without the slightest trace of irony in your voice.
(2)Saturday night. 11 something PM. Howard Hughes Parkway. Some dude is feeling like a million bucks today. He's got on his expensive "metro" jeans, fitted gray thermal, and his shiny SUV sitting on dubs [or something of that ilk]is parked in front of On the Border, with the passenger side door wide open, and soundsystem bumping like it's 3 in the afternoon and we parkin' lot pimpin.' But we're not...and it's 11 something PM...and we're in front of an On the Border. But all is forgiven, cause he just started your jam, and you can't help but dance up the escalator for all the world to see, sing along, and mutter to your friends "ooh this my shit..."
Girl, you'll be a woman soon.
So quit ya bitchin' and recognize game.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Annie.
I Know Ur Girlfriend Hates Me.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Annie.
I Know Ur Girlfriend Hates Me.
Super Tuesday.
If you're like me, and money tends to burn a hole in your pocket most Tuesdays, then you gotta admit that tomorrow [April 29th] is looking kind of purty when it comes to new releases. I mean, check it out:
Not bad. Not bad at all. So get out there, shop, and hope for the best.
[If you can afford it, of course...]
Not bad. Not bad at all. So get out there, shop, and hope for the best.
[If you can afford it, of course...]
That's my dawg(s)!
Youmustnotknowboutme!
I just want to say big ups to Tina Fey and Amy Poehler for scoring the #1 movie in the country this past weekend. Yeah, competition wasn't exactly stiff, but I still didn't see that one coming. I saw this movie on Saturday night, and it was a highly enjoyable, and completely servicable situation comedy. So big ups ladies. And I can't wait for a new 30 Rock this week.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Riddle Me This?
Doesn't this song*,
Remind you of this song?
*Oh my God, how great is Lil Wayne's rap in the bridge?
FOURFOUR: The most commercial song ever
Remind you of this song?
*Oh my God, how great is Lil Wayne's rap in the bridge?
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Friday, April 25, 2008
This is how we do it.
Yes it is Toni. You don't even know...
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
A little Midnight Love for y'all right now. Why? Cause this my jam.
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
A little Midnight Love for y'all right now. Why? Cause this my jam.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Philidelphia Freedom.
FILE UNDER: PRIMARIES: So Fucking Disco!
I'm Hillary Clinton and I approve this message. Real talk.
My winning strategy
"By Hillary Clinton"
"Thank you, Pennsylvania! What an incredible margin of victory you gave me! Ten percentage points over Barack Obama. Count 'em! Ten!
All right, 9.2 points if you insist on actually counting. But they said I had to win by double digits to keep my campaign alive, and I think 9.2 points counts as double digits. And I am alive! And kicking! And punching and biting and kneeing my opponent in the groin!
Oh, we know what the pundits are saying now. They're saying that most polls showed me ahead by 25 points in Pennsylvania a few months ago. But is it my fault if people just don't like me as much as they used to? Thanks to me, they don't like Obama as much as they used to either.
And you know what? I think I deserve a little bit of credit for that!
Who said elections were supposed to be popularity contests, anyway? Go ahead, like Obama better if you want to. I read the polls too. Americans think Obama is more "trustworthy" than I am, more "sincere" and "down to earth," less "cold" and "mean." According to the polls, a majority of Democrats actually think he ought to be the presidential nominee. Well, who needs them!
Presidents don't need to be popular. Look at George W. Bush. He has the highest disapproval ratings in the history of public polling, but he still gets to live in the White House, and Congress still funds his wars. If he can do it, I can too!
But you know, what I really want to do here is talk about a fundamental misperception many have about this race. People seem to think my opponent has some kind of "lead" because he's won more "delegates" and more "votes" and more "states" than I have. But are we going to decide this important race on the basis of such arbitrary metrics?
Start with the delegates. How is it fair for the Democratic nominee to be selected mostly by elected delegates?
Sure, it's in the Democratic Party rules. But let me ask you: Is this a country of rules? Once again, take a look at our current president. Does he let rules bother him? Laws? He does not!
He believes in power, and he's made it clear that not even Congress' laws bind him when he's exercising his executive prerogatives. The same principle should be applied to me when I'm exercising my prerogatives as would-be executive.
On that theme, let me remind our party's pledged delegates of another thing: Just because you made a pledge doesn't mean you have to keep it.
For instance, I pledged in August 2007 not to campaign or participate in states that broke Democratic Party rules by holding early primaries -- as in Florida and Michigan. But you don't see me sticking to that pledge, do you? I kept my name on the Michigan ballot when Obama honored the pledge and withdrew -- which just goes to show you, he's too naive to be president -- and I swore that the Michigan vote "is not going to count for anything." But guess what? I had my fingers crossed!
You "pledged" Obama delegates, do you catch my meaning?
Let's turn to "votes." My opponent seems to think it matters that he's ahead in the popular vote. But Mr. Popularity isn't ahead in the popular vote if you count the votes I got in those nullified Florida and Michigan primaries. And pledge or no pledge, I'm counting those votes, even if no one else is.
Of course, my opponent also claims to have won victories in more than twice as many states as I have. But what makes those states so special? I won by 42 votes in American Samoa. Also, let's not forget, a lot of Obama's victories came in states that held caucuses, and everyone knows that caucuses bring out Democratic Party activists, who don't support me, so how can this be fair?
Still, the naysayers ask, do I have a strategy for winning the nomination? Yes, I do! Will I win? Yes, I will! My message boils down to this: Superdelegates, pay no attention to polls or votes or elected delegates or states. There are better and more appropriate ways for you to decide how to pick a winner.
Take anagrams: My name, rearranged, spells out "Only I can thrill." My opponent's full name, rearranged, forms "I am a hack, abuser, snob." Given his history of elitism, I think this surely must be taken extremely seriously.
Superdelegates, it's up to you now. Are you going to let arbitrary factors like elected delegates and votes influence your decisions? Or are you going to focus on the most important issue, which is that I believe I ought to be president?
Remember, no matter what, I am so going to be president of Pennsylvannia."
Taken from:
LA TIMES: My winning strategy
I'm Hillary Clinton and I approve this message. Real talk.
My winning strategy
"By Hillary Clinton"
"Thank you, Pennsylvania! What an incredible margin of victory you gave me! Ten percentage points over Barack Obama. Count 'em! Ten!
All right, 9.2 points if you insist on actually counting. But they said I had to win by double digits to keep my campaign alive, and I think 9.2 points counts as double digits. And I am alive! And kicking! And punching and biting and kneeing my opponent in the groin!
Oh, we know what the pundits are saying now. They're saying that most polls showed me ahead by 25 points in Pennsylvania a few months ago. But is it my fault if people just don't like me as much as they used to? Thanks to me, they don't like Obama as much as they used to either.
And you know what? I think I deserve a little bit of credit for that!
Who said elections were supposed to be popularity contests, anyway? Go ahead, like Obama better if you want to. I read the polls too. Americans think Obama is more "trustworthy" than I am, more "sincere" and "down to earth," less "cold" and "mean." According to the polls, a majority of Democrats actually think he ought to be the presidential nominee. Well, who needs them!
Presidents don't need to be popular. Look at George W. Bush. He has the highest disapproval ratings in the history of public polling, but he still gets to live in the White House, and Congress still funds his wars. If he can do it, I can too!
But you know, what I really want to do here is talk about a fundamental misperception many have about this race. People seem to think my opponent has some kind of "lead" because he's won more "delegates" and more "votes" and more "states" than I have. But are we going to decide this important race on the basis of such arbitrary metrics?
Start with the delegates. How is it fair for the Democratic nominee to be selected mostly by elected delegates?
Sure, it's in the Democratic Party rules. But let me ask you: Is this a country of rules? Once again, take a look at our current president. Does he let rules bother him? Laws? He does not!
He believes in power, and he's made it clear that not even Congress' laws bind him when he's exercising his executive prerogatives. The same principle should be applied to me when I'm exercising my prerogatives as would-be executive.
On that theme, let me remind our party's pledged delegates of another thing: Just because you made a pledge doesn't mean you have to keep it.
For instance, I pledged in August 2007 not to campaign or participate in states that broke Democratic Party rules by holding early primaries -- as in Florida and Michigan. But you don't see me sticking to that pledge, do you? I kept my name on the Michigan ballot when Obama honored the pledge and withdrew -- which just goes to show you, he's too naive to be president -- and I swore that the Michigan vote "is not going to count for anything." But guess what? I had my fingers crossed!
You "pledged" Obama delegates, do you catch my meaning?
Let's turn to "votes." My opponent seems to think it matters that he's ahead in the popular vote. But Mr. Popularity isn't ahead in the popular vote if you count the votes I got in those nullified Florida and Michigan primaries. And pledge or no pledge, I'm counting those votes, even if no one else is.
Of course, my opponent also claims to have won victories in more than twice as many states as I have. But what makes those states so special? I won by 42 votes in American Samoa. Also, let's not forget, a lot of Obama's victories came in states that held caucuses, and everyone knows that caucuses bring out Democratic Party activists, who don't support me, so how can this be fair?
Still, the naysayers ask, do I have a strategy for winning the nomination? Yes, I do! Will I win? Yes, I will! My message boils down to this: Superdelegates, pay no attention to polls or votes or elected delegates or states. There are better and more appropriate ways for you to decide how to pick a winner.
Take anagrams: My name, rearranged, spells out "Only I can thrill." My opponent's full name, rearranged, forms "I am a hack, abuser, snob." Given his history of elitism, I think this surely must be taken extremely seriously.
Superdelegates, it's up to you now. Are you going to let arbitrary factors like elected delegates and votes influence your decisions? Or are you going to focus on the most important issue, which is that I believe I ought to be president?
Remember, no matter what, I am so going to be president of Pennsylvannia."
Taken from:
OH MY GOD!!!!
Too cool for school.
Beck. MGMT. Spoon. The Hollywood Bowl. September 20th. Tix range from $20 to $75.
I.
am.
so.
there.
HOLD UP! WAIT A MINUTE!
FILE UNDER: A Moment of Clarity.
"Sensitive Thugs, y'all all need hugs..."
And now we turn to Jeff Weiss over at Passion of the Weiss with this very Special Report:
"...a tell-all confessional from a former MTV executive named Terrance Dean, who allegedly will reveal that “homosexuality is a reality at nearly every level of Hip-Hop...Whether the book is true or not, next month should prove very interesting. I’m willing to bet that at this very moment, there are a whole lot of rappers on the phone with their “Kosher” lawyers, preparing a mess of lawsuits and furious denunciations of Terrance Dean. Who they are, we’ll just have to wait and see. But based on rumors and speculation bandied about over the past decade, I’ve compiled a totally unscientific short-list to who might be named. I have absolutely no idea whether or not any of these rappers are gay, nor is there anything wrong with it if they are. If by chance you find something deeply offensive, may I recommend getting a sense of humor. Hopefully, one better than my own..."
PASSION OF THE WEISS: The Passion of the Weiss Guide to the “Gay Rapper”
"Sensitive Thugs, y'all all need hugs..."
And now we turn to Jeff Weiss over at Passion of the Weiss with this very Special Report:
"...a tell-all confessional from a former MTV executive named Terrance Dean, who allegedly will reveal that “homosexuality is a reality at nearly every level of Hip-Hop...Whether the book is true or not, next month should prove very interesting. I’m willing to bet that at this very moment, there are a whole lot of rappers on the phone with their “Kosher” lawyers, preparing a mess of lawsuits and furious denunciations of Terrance Dean. Who they are, we’ll just have to wait and see. But based on rumors and speculation bandied about over the past decade, I’ve compiled a totally unscientific short-list to who might be named. I have absolutely no idea whether or not any of these rappers are gay, nor is there anything wrong with it if they are. If by chance you find something deeply offensive, may I recommend getting a sense of humor. Hopefully, one better than my own..."
"Tha-tha-tha that that don't kill me..."
FILE UNDER: ...
I..I...I don't know even know where to begin with dear old Papa Joe. I mean seriously.
DEFAMER: Papa Joe Simpson Officially More Ruinous To Daughters' Lives Than Dina Lohan
I..I...I don't know even know where to begin with dear old Papa Joe. I mean seriously.
I wanna be down.
FILE UNDER: Headline of the Day!/Oh Word?
Here are two things I thought I would never see in a sentence together, let alone a concert stage: the Crenshaw High School Drumline and Vampire Weekend. Hmm. Guess the fellas of Ladysmith Black Mambazo were busy.
STEREOGUM: Vampire Weekend and Crenshaw High School Drumline Visit Kimmel
Here are two things I thought I would never see in a sentence together, let alone a concert stage: the Crenshaw High School Drumline and Vampire Weekend. Hmm. Guess the fellas of Ladysmith Black Mambazo were busy.
Old school funk for the true funk soldiers!
I blame this one on being H U N G O V E R this past Saturday afternoon, and not being able to turn away from a marathon of Scrubs* on Comedy Central.
*Cause really, where else would you hear this song in 2008? And I must say, it did make for yet another poignant and heartfelt end of the episode voice over from Zach Braff and the gang.
*Cause really, where else would you hear this song in 2008? And I must say, it did make for yet another poignant and heartfelt end of the episode voice over from Zach Braff and the gang.
Big ups Lil Wayne!
...With this shit right here, which I enjoy playing at loud levels.
Hair Necessities.
R.Kelly.
Mixing business with pleasure -and getting his hair did in shops filled with empty space, beautiful women, and flashing lights- since 12 Play.
Hairbraider.
Mixing business with pleasure -and getting his hair did in shops filled with empty space, beautiful women, and flashing lights- since 12 Play.
Hairbraider.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Where were you in 92?
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Wow you really want that #1, huh?
No, seriously. There is no way this song is new for the two-double O-eight.
Bye Bye [RMX] - Mariah Carey feat. Jay-Z
Wow you really want that #1, huh?
No, seriously. There is no way this song is new for the two-double O-eight.
Bad luck.
FILE UNDER: A Moment of Clarity/PRIMARIES: So Fucking Disco!
"Aww hell naw. Somebody done gone and lost his cotton picking mind. And it sho' ain't one of us."
"On September 18, 2006, Pastor John Hagee — whose endorsement Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) said this past Sunday he was “glad to have” — told NPR’s Terry Gross that “Hurricane Katrina was, in fact, the judgment of God against the city of New Orleans.” “New Orleans had a level of sin that was offensive to God,” Hagee said, because “there was to be a homosexual parade there on the Monday that the Katrina came.”"
I would go on and say "boy I can't wait for the public to latch onto this", but I'm not going to hold my breath.
THINK PROGRESS: Hagee Says Hurricane Katrina Struck New Orleans Because It Was ‘Planning A Sinful’ ‘Homosexual Rally’»
"Aww hell naw. Somebody done gone and lost his cotton picking mind. And it sho' ain't one of us."
"On September 18, 2006, Pastor John Hagee — whose endorsement Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) said this past Sunday he was “glad to have” — told NPR’s Terry Gross that “Hurricane Katrina was, in fact, the judgment of God against the city of New Orleans.” “New Orleans had a level of sin that was offensive to God,” Hagee said, because “there was to be a homosexual parade there on the Monday that the Katrina came.”"
I would go on and say "boy I can't wait for the public to latch onto this", but I'm not going to hold my breath.
Dancin in the Moonlight!
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Testify.
DISCOBELLE: Bruce Springsteen - I’m On Fire (Cousin Cole’s Bad Desire Mix)
Testify.
"You gotta understand the reason why I only want to make things right!"
This chick. I swear man. Can't stop, won't stop.
Earlier.
Me and my thoughts on As I Am:
"...She's just a little older. A little wiser, and fully aware of who is she and/or wants to be.
It's all here.
It's in the way this album feels live without having that word or the word unplugged attached to it.
It's in the way she pushes and pulls, simmers and soars, showing that her voice, not the piano, could very well be her favorite instrument.
It's in the way her voice soars with youthful exuberance on the soulful odes to young, unsaturated love, Teenage Love Affair, and Wreckless Love..."
Don't believe me? Peep the vid.
Great song? Check! Great choice for a single? Check! Great video? Check! Excellent reference points? Check! [School Daze fans STAND UP!] Big ups Alicia. Big ups...
IDOLATOR: Alicia Keys' New Video Pays Respect To Dean Big Brother Almighteee
Earlier...
Songs in the key of life.
Earlier.
Me and my thoughts on As I Am:
"...She's just a little older. A little wiser, and fully aware of who is she and/or wants to be.
It's all here.
It's in the way this album feels live without having that word or the word unplugged attached to it.
It's in the way she pushes and pulls, simmers and soars, showing that her voice, not the piano, could very well be her favorite instrument.
It's in the way her voice soars with youthful exuberance on the soulful odes to young, unsaturated love, Teenage Love Affair, and Wreckless Love..."
Don't believe me? Peep the vid.
Great song? Check! Great choice for a single? Check! Great video? Check! Excellent reference points? Check! [School Daze fans STAND UP!] Big ups Alicia. Big ups...
Earlier...
Rise up with fists!
And get on the Soul Train,
with The legendary Roots crew feat.
Wale and Chrisette Michele.
Rising Up.
New Roots disc. Rising Down. In stores next Tuesday.
Act like you know.
with The legendary Roots crew feat.
Wale and Chrisette Michele.
Rising Up.
New Roots disc. Rising Down. In stores next Tuesday.
Act like you know.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Seasons of love.
FILE UNDER: Happy Earth Day!
This Earth Day open up your heart, and give a little love.
One world.
One love.
One.
This Earth Day open up your heart, and give a little love.
One world.
One love.
One.
SMART is the new gangsta.
That phrase presented above was on someone's t-shirt in that new Bun B video I caught yesterday afternoon, and I thought it was the best thing since slice bread. But this shit right here? Not so much.
Big girls don't cry.
FILE UNDER: A Moment of Clarity.
I just want to take this moment to say peace out to my girl Khia. Baby girl...we hardly knew ya.
I just want to take this moment to say peace out to my girl Khia. Baby girl...we hardly knew ya.
New flava in MY ear!
Yesterday. Post work. MTV2. This video got the best of me.
Bun B feat. Sean Kingston.
That's Gangsta.
That's whassup!
Bun B feat. Sean Kingston.
That's Gangsta.
That's whassup!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Are you smarter than a 5th Grader?
U.S.A. A O.K.!
President Bush. Deal or No Deal. NBC. Tonight. Check your local listings. Set your tivos.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Riddle Me This?
Anybody remember this Mariah Carey single? Granted it wasn't a number one hit, but it has got to be near the top of the list of songs from Mariah Carey's catalog that laid the angling for street cred on thick. Needless to say, I still enjoy it. [Due mainly to the fact that the original Cam'Ron joint was my shit back in the day.]
Mariah Carey.
Cam'Ron.
Oh Boy,
(I Need You).
From Charmbracelet. You know that one album many Mariah Carey fans tend to delete/overlook when looking back on Ms. Carey's career.
Mariah Carey.
Cam'Ron.
Oh Boy,
(I Need You).
From Charmbracelet. You know that one album many Mariah Carey fans tend to delete/overlook when looking back on Ms. Carey's career.
Attack & Release.
Did anybody else catch the Black Keys's performance on Letterman last night?
Wow, just wow.
Wow, just wow.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
This is how we do it.
Yes it is Ms. Mills. You don't even know...
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
Riding in the car with the homie on a Sunday afternoon.
HIM: I have an 80’s mix in my CD player if you want me to put that on.
ME: Oh hell yes! 80’s music? You can never go wrong with 80’s music.
HIM: [Gets his New England transplant on the West Coast driver on: Cigarette in mouth, one hand on the wheel, and one hand in his lap where the disc changer currently resides, all while entering the 405. CD starts. Track one. It’s a groove.] I used to think this was Diana Ross. Doesn’t she sound like Diana Ross?
ME: Yeah, she does, but wait, is this…STEPHANIE MILLS? OH MY GOD I HAVE NOT HEARD THIS SONG IN SO LONG. CLASSIC. Excellent start to the disc buddy.
-END TRANSCRIPT-
Why?
Cause there’s no time for conversation when this is blaring through your speakers on the 405.
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
Riding in the car with the homie on a Sunday afternoon.
HIM: I have an 80’s mix in my CD player if you want me to put that on.
ME: Oh hell yes! 80’s music? You can never go wrong with 80’s music.
HIM: [Gets his New England transplant on the West Coast driver on: Cigarette in mouth, one hand on the wheel, and one hand in his lap where the disc changer currently resides, all while entering the 405. CD starts. Track one. It’s a groove.] I used to think this was Diana Ross. Doesn’t she sound like Diana Ross?
ME: Yeah, she does, but wait, is this…STEPHANIE MILLS? OH MY GOD I HAVE NOT HEARD THIS SONG IN SO LONG. CLASSIC. Excellent start to the disc buddy.
-END TRANSCRIPT-
Why?
Cause there’s no time for conversation when this is blaring through your speakers on the 405.
Serial Mom.
FILE UNDER: A Moment of Clarity.
And now, a few words of wisdom from the one they call Madonna.
And now, a few words of wisdom from the one they call Madonna.
Franks and Beans.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear?/The Kid Stays in the Picture.
Pork and Beans - Weezer
Guess who's back?...
Guess who's back?...
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
A Moment of Clarity
Also known as how to make it in the music biz with Ms. Erykah Badu.
Game. Recognize. Game.
Big ups toFresh for the clip.
Game. Recognize. Game.
Big ups to
Rock Me Amadeus.
FILE UNDER: A new flava in ya ear!
From Discobelle:
"...If you watched Beverly Hills Cop you’ll remember this [Junior’s 1985 club hit “Do You Really (Want My Love)”], it was on the soundtrack one year before it came out on it’s own. The Heat Is On!..."
DISCOBELLE: Remember 1985?
From Discobelle:
"...If you watched Beverly Hills Cop you’ll remember this [Junior’s 1985 club hit “Do You Really (Want My Love)”], it was on the soundtrack one year before it came out on it’s own. The Heat Is On!..."
Sparkle.
On last night's American Idol featuring tunes from the Mariah Carey songbook, it can't be denied that,
THESE FOOLS
STRAIGHT
KILLED IT!
THESE FOOLS
STRAIGHT
KILLED IT!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Just like a star.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
What, me worry?
Seriously, this new ?uestlove produced Al Green album is going to be off the chain. Oh my God.
What, me worry?
Seriously, this new ?uestlove produced Al Green album is going to be off the chain. Oh my God.
That Chick.
And y'all thought this was a dissapointment?
Really?...
This CD is a dissapointment. It's just all sorts of awkward. And this is somebody who, with Mariah, "go back like babies and pacifiers." And it's a shame because for the first time in what may be ever, Mariah Carey, with her appearance on tonight's episode of American Idol, came off as someone who is relatable, knows what's up, and is far from girlishly aloof. And many of the performances, particularly those by Kristy Lee Cook, David Cook, and Jason Castro showed just how majestic and vast her back catalogue is.
But the future?
Yeah...
...I don't know dawg.
I have never been on Team "damn, Mariah done gone hip-hop. I sho' do wish she would act like she could sing and stop whispering". No. But this whole album seems a bit, off. Few things gel, MC sounds tired in parts, and often, it seems, surrounded by "yes" producers and songwriters who drown her in tiresome, easy route taking lyrics and production. Don't get me wrong, it has a few high points, but even when Mariah Carey fans thought she was at the height of her "damn Mariah done gone Hip-Hop" phase, it didn't seem as lazy and uninspired. [I swear I heard I Stay in Love on Janet's Discipline disc.] Cause let's be real, this album ain't that much better than [or as good as] Rainbow, Charmbracelet, or Glitter.
Just saying.
-Sigh-
Alright. So let's see. Who's next? We've had new music from Janet, Leona Lewis, Kylie Minogue, and now Mariah Carey. Who's left? Oh yeah, Madonna and her Hard Candy. She'll bring the goods right?
Hmmm...guess not...
Somewhere Janet Jackson -she whose CD is the strongest of the bunch- is sitting in a corner weeping.
For Your Consideration. [Redux]
From LAist:
You Want Portishead? We've Got Portishead! Come Get a Pair of Tickets to their Private Rehearsal
We have five pairs of tickets to give away to this special intimate rehearsal, so chances are higher than usual than with other LAist contests. Here are the rules:
-You must comment once (double commenting will disqualify you) with a tip about Coachella on this post (see above for ideas, make your comment below).
-You must be able to provide your own transportation to the secret unannounced location (seriously, people from Texas better stop entering these contests if they are not going to be in town).
-Contest ends Thursday, April 17th at 11:59:59 p.m. All comments must be posted before then.
-Winners will be e-mailed at the e-mail address attached to their LAist profile. If you win, you must be able to confirm on Friday, April 18th, on or before 11:59:59 p.m., by an e-mail reply stating that you are able to go to the Portishead rehearsal. Otherwise, the tickets will be released to another winner.
Good luck!
Old school funk for the true funk soldiers!
Was I a huge Audioslave fan? No. Could I point out a Soundgarden song if it blared from the speakers? No. Am I overtly familiar with Rage Against the Machine’s back catalog? No. Upon its release, did this song make me go back and rethink all that?
Yes.
Yes.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Listen.
Seriously, don't watch, just listen. The dancing [and most importantly, the music] starts around the two minute and thirty seconds mark.
All that Jazz.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Yeah, I still don't see what all the fuss is about with this, Animal Collective.
Yeah, I still don't see what all the fuss is about with this, Animal Collective.
Play that beat!
Believe me, I adore playing an old school hit like nobody's business, but sometimes there's nothing better than putting on one of your favorite long players, and enjoying it for what it is: a tip-top, start to finish "headphone masterpiece".
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah-Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
AND
Apologies to the Queen Mary-Wolf Parade
Did any bands have any more positive buzz in 2005 than CYHSY and Wolf Parade? Taking a cue from the Talking Heads songbook, the Brooklyn five piece Clap Your Hands Say Yeah surround themselves in underproduced song structures and the scatterbrain vocal delivery of frontman Alec Ounsworth, creating idiosyncratic songs that still manage to leave a charming impression. Meanwhile, Montreal’s Wolf Parade enlisted Modest Mouse frontman Issac Brock to produce a large portion of their album that’s heavy on the loud, goth like/androgynous vocal inflections and song structures that bounce and move with an almost chaotic groove. Guess grabbing onto the hype machine while supplies lasted [and believing it]wasn't such a bad idea after all...
Key Tracks [WP]: You Are A Runner And I Am My Father’s Son, I’ll Believe In Anything, Dinner Bells
[Clap Your Hands Say Yeah]: Clap Your Hands!, Gimme Some Salt, Over and Over Again [Lost and Found]
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah-Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
AND
Apologies to the Queen Mary-Wolf Parade
Did any bands have any more positive buzz in 2005 than CYHSY and Wolf Parade? Taking a cue from the Talking Heads songbook, the Brooklyn five piece Clap Your Hands Say Yeah surround themselves in underproduced song structures and the scatterbrain vocal delivery of frontman Alec Ounsworth, creating idiosyncratic songs that still manage to leave a charming impression. Meanwhile, Montreal’s Wolf Parade enlisted Modest Mouse frontman Issac Brock to produce a large portion of their album that’s heavy on the loud, goth like/androgynous vocal inflections and song structures that bounce and move with an almost chaotic groove. Guess grabbing onto the hype machine while supplies lasted [and believing it]wasn't such a bad idea after all...
Key Tracks [WP]: You Are A Runner And I Am My Father’s Son, I’ll Believe In Anything, Dinner Bells
[Clap Your Hands Say Yeah]: Clap Your Hands!, Gimme Some Salt, Over and Over Again [Lost and Found]
This heart's on fire.
FILE UNDER: For Your Consideration.
What else should I be?
I don't think I'll ever grow tired of Wolf Parade's debut album Apologies to Queen Mary, but I also wouldn't mind something new. Luckily, the boy's in the band are answering prayers.
New flava in ya ear!
Wolf Parade.
Call it a ritual.
Get excited!
What else should I be?
I don't think I'll ever grow tired of Wolf Parade's debut album Apologies to Queen Mary, but I also wouldn't mind something new. Luckily, the boy's in the band are answering prayers.
New flava in ya ear!
Wolf Parade.
Call it a ritual.
Get excited!
New flava in ya ear!
FILE UNDER: For Your Consideration.
Let these beatz from the streetz get all up in yo cerebellum!
From my MYSPACE inbox to your ears:
Date: Apr 14, 2008 7:07 PM
Subject: whats up
Body: check out our music and tell us wat you think
So I did, and found myself with a jaw dropped* to the floor when I pressed play on this:
MYSPACE: Bang Out Music - The Simpsons
[DISCLAIMER: Please please please don't press stop before the theme song ends. The magic comes after that draws to a close].
*I'll let you decide whether my jaw dropped because a) I was surprised as all hell by the sample choice, b) tickled [and not in a good way] by the sample choice, c) baffled by it all, or d)all of the above.
Let these beatz from the streetz get all up in yo cerebellum!
From my MYSPACE inbox to your ears:
Date: Apr 14, 2008 7:07 PM
Subject: whats up
Body: check out our music and tell us wat you think
So I did, and found myself with a jaw dropped* to the floor when I pressed play on this:
[DISCLAIMER: Please please please don't press stop before the theme song ends. The magic comes after that draws to a close].
*I'll let you decide whether my jaw dropped because a) I was surprised as all hell by the sample choice, b) tickled [and not in a good way] by the sample choice, c) baffled by it all, or d)all of the above.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Surf City U.S.A.
Islands in the stream...
FILE UNDER: Big Ups Safari Sam's...
...for turning 2 YEARS OLD today. And thanks for the memories. Like that one Halloween where you wouldn't let me and the crew inside that MSTRKRFT/Justice show; the countless majestic Divisadero shows, and, of course, for introducing me to the Henry Clay People.
If you're in Los Angeles today, head on over to Sunset near Western, and "CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES, COME ON!"
From LAist:
"...2:00 p.m., there's a Special Texas BBQ. Then at 5:30, the Steeplejacks play with 50 Cent Haircut, Hillstomp and others playing into the night..."
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Ramblin' Man.
Whose leather's so soft...
Shout out toRizoh for the clip presented below!
I ain't gon lie, I was watching this on BET last night and was way too into it. Especially during that The Block is Hot-Hustla Muzik block.
Shout out to
I ain't gon lie, I was watching this on BET last night and was way too into it. Especially during that The Block is Hot-Hustla Muzik block.
A Moment of Clarity.
FILE UNDER: PRIMARIES: SO FUCKING DISCO!
Stuff white people like?...
Seriously, can we please get to November already? JE-SUS!
Stuff white people like?...
Riddle Me This.
That Chick.
"..."E=MC2" is a little better -- the songwriting is more consistent, the feel a bit more natural -- but it too lacks a ruling temperament or artistic vision. Without that, it's a savvy sampler of mainstream commercial craft, plush aural lounges designed and furnished by such producers and writers as Jermaine Dupri, Timbaland associate Nate "Danja" Hills and hip-hop's Swizz Beatz.That often leaves Carey sounding like an ersatz Beyoncé, and she never approaches the cathartic soulfulness of Mary J. Blige or the auteur credentials of Alicia Keys...What's most striking about the album is the further toning down of Carey's famously powerful voice. She was always criticized as a technically gifted singer with no interpretive intelligence or instincts, but now that the instrument itself sounds physically diminished, she seems to be groping toward some kind of expressive ground. Those signature high notes pierce the stratosphere a couple of times, but she's even more reticent to wail -- there's no counterpart to "Mimi's" showy "Mine Again" or "Joyride."...Instead, Carey tests registers and dynamics. In "I'll Be Lovin' You Long Time," her singing is so direct, understated and unglamorous it's almost shocking -- like seeing a diva without makeup. The piano ballad "I Stay in Love" is similarly unadorned, and her voice is almost leathery in the lower notes. It's not flattering, but it rings true emotionally..."
Why do I feel like this is the most accurate and spot on review of this album that I'll read all week?
Needless to say, I'll probably more than likely love this album...
This heart's on fire.
FILE UNDER: New flava in ya ear!
Play underneath the stars with,
THE PRESETS, and
This boy's in love.
Play underneath the stars with,
THE PRESETS, and
This boy's in love.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Teenage Love Affair.
I missed the final half of last night’s American Idol results show. 30 Rock is back after a nearly 6 month hiatus [NOW WORKING WRITERS STAND UP] with an episode entitled MILF Island, and there was no way I was going to miss that. I hear I missed quite the shocking elimination. [MICHAEL JOHNS! OH MY GOD!] But if you think about it, every elimination from here on out will be shocking when it comes to this random assortment of singers and personality and, of course, the voting habits of we the people. But it wasn’t all about cold hard bitch moves [I’m looking at you Mr. Seacrest] and shocking elimination results, no it was also a night about music. [After all that’s what we tune in for right ?] And the one thing I am truly upset about missing is the live performance of No Air by Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown. It’s no secret, I love CB’s latest disc Exclusive, and towards the end of AI’s season last year, I became more accustomed to the stage presence and personality of Ms. Sparks. [Plus that Tattoo song really isn’t that bad]. I’ve been secretly digging on this song for a minute, and when you give it a listen, it’s not hard to see why. Both vocalists attack the song and subject matter with adult like ferocity, offering a breath of fresh air [no pun intended] to a genre and/or trend –the male-female R&B duet – that often comes off as tired or uninspired. Clearly one of the best singles of the year. Hands down.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
This is how we do it.
Yes it is Maxwell*. You don't even know...
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
Press play.
*Maxwell may not be a fair candidate for This is how we do it. You could pretty much do this post with every single one of his singles.
Now if you visit this blog often, you know that old school jams are more often than not posted under the "Old School Funk for the True Funk Soldiers" headline. But sometimes old school joints are so good, so well put together, so classic to a brotha, [see Montell Jordan's This is how we do it] that all I can do is marvel at their goodness as they boldly play on and show us how's it done. This jam, presented below, is one such example.
Press play.
*Maxwell may not be a fair candidate for This is how we do it. You could pretty much do this post with every single one of his singles.
Black Thought.
FILE UNDER: Quote of the Day!/A Moment of Clarity
"WE ARE FAM-ILY!"
“This record is a lot more serious than hip-hop,” says Nas, who tackles race and American history on his new album. Polow da Don, Stargate, and Cool and Dre contribute beats to the disc, which includes “Be a Nigga Too” (a play on the Dr. Pepper jingle), the Fox News-slamming “Sly Fox,” and “This Is Not America,” on which he raps about sexism and racism in the U.S. “This album is like talking to your child about sex,” says Nas. “It’s uncomfortable, but it’s important.”
From your mouth to Bill Cosby's ears Nas.
THE RAP UP: Nigger Summer
Earlier...
A Moment of Clarity.
"WE ARE FAM-ILY!"
“This record is a lot more serious than hip-hop,” says Nas, who tackles race and American history on his new album. Polow da Don, Stargate, and Cool and Dre contribute beats to the disc, which includes “Be a Nigga Too” (a play on the Dr. Pepper jingle), the Fox News-slamming “Sly Fox,” and “This Is Not America,” on which he raps about sexism and racism in the U.S. “This album is like talking to your child about sex,” says Nas. “It’s uncomfortable, but it’s important.”
From your mouth to Bill Cosby's ears Nas.
Earlier...
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