Ari Lennox is NOT your average singer.  Having ripped stages from Howard University to BET’s 106 & Park, she has brought a much needed energy back to the music business.  With her mixtape, Five Finger Discount, and her current EP ARIOGRAPHY, she has folks in the industry watching her every more!  See how she plans on taking over the game below

What inspires you? In music?  In Life?

I’m inspired by many things, out side of the great Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Marvin Gaye and Minnie Riperton, I’m inspired by the madness on the radio and the struggles of life. I’m inspired by investigation discovery and  animal planet! Everything I consume and watch inspires what I write, how I live, and how I think.

It is important that I remain as real and as recognizable as possible. I carry an important message for all of my supporters, “BE YOU”. No matter how weird, wild, awkward or crazy. Whether I’m rocking my huge fro or fish-head shoes, I want my message to be recognized more so than my image. My message is my image, that is all that matters.

Howard University changed my life! I was able to be more free with the college crowd, so I became a lot more goofy-chill-cool during my live show, Its a part of me now! I was able to meet my amazing manager Justin LaMotte, who would introduce me to countless music executives, rappers, singers, my publicist, Andrew Asare, many incredible producers and countless opportunities worldwide.

I knew YouTube was the most accessible platform and the best strategy to expose my artistry to potential fans, label execs and other industry folk. When I realized that I didn’t want to go to college, I just propelled myself into my youtube account 24/7. Whether I was remaking covers or creating originals, I was perfecting my voice and song-writing skills, preparing myself for all of the greatness that God would bless me with in 2013. Through youtube, I was discovered by George Chapman, a Howard student who would give me my first break in the college performance world! Hard work and consistency pays off. If you are good, people can’t sleep on you forever!

How was your experience on 106 & Park?

106 was an excellent platform and landed me a lot of new supporters. It was my first taste of show business, you can’t F up live  haha. People will not forget. Or worse, they might completely forget you as an artist! So it instilled humility, strength and enlightenment about show business. I thank God for Pat Charles, he was the first man with TV power that believed in me! BOY that audition was nerve wrecking AF haha. (Sorry if all this is too much)

Never change who you are, just simply IMPROVE. Be optimistic, step outside of you, don’t be afraid to be guided. Stop smashing for a little while and focus on your dreams, the sexy dudes and dudettes will always be there, but your window of opportunity to achieve your dreams MAY NOT always be!

Yo I don’t freaking no why but ever since 2013 hit, everybody has been calling me a baby macy gray lol. But she’s a cool cat, I do not mind!

Yes Koncrete is now Crete Oxford, he’s the “East Coast savior of Hip Hop” so I’m routing for him, he’s incredible!! Besides the incredible Common, Bilal, John Legend, Ryan Leslie, Pharrel and Diddy, I would love to work with Phony Ppl (brooklyn soul band, new school toni tone tony flavor) and Jasmine Mans (A poet who needs to start spitting over beats, THE NEXT Lauryn Hill) !!!

Five Finger Discount – dope title and mixtape!  Can you explain it – and tell us more about this mixtape?

FFD is a compilation of my experiences growing up. I cover the struggles of bad relationships, good sex, insecurities about my sexy large nostrils, my BLACK GOLD skin in a predominately white world, politics, anxiety attacks and more! If you want to know ARI LENNOX get FFD today!

I am working with Hal Linton, Omen The Producer, and Reggie Volume on some dope futuristic shit! I will keep yall updated when its due to be released. My current EP dropped on March 28th, ARIOGRAPHY! Cop it, bump it and share it if you like.

Expect lots of confetti and official music videos and photos and more meaningful and dope music. As I remain focused, I know my future will continue to be bright so let’s see what it holds for us together!

Everything is perfect thanks for this opportunity my youtube is youtube.com/arilennox

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I couldn’t be any more relieved it’s the start of the Weekend, and I am sure many of you feel the same! In the meantime, I have to stomach 5 more hours of Corporate America, and boy am I “not about this life!”, haha.

Killing time on Twitter and attempting to keep up with Joneses, I stumbled upon a video trailer for what I thought was a Classic Film re-make. I thought to share it all with you guys; Happy Friday!

Check out the footage below for the single “Bank Job” from Up and Coming Artist BeatsBangFame:

Bank Job Trailer from Dolo Filmz on Vimeo.

Like what you see? View more Videos and Live Footage from BeatsBangFame here.

Twitter/Instagram: @BEATSxBANGxFAME

Website coming soon!

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In recent Entertainment News, Tar-Heel State native J. Cole has released the video for his single “Power Trip”. As Cole is known to be lyrically inclined, the song is nothing short of appeasing.

It seems as if there are few to none story-tellers in music now. An overall lack of visual expression if you ask me. Usually the imagery is subject to trend or simply overtly sexed. However, in the video “Power Trip”, J. Cole introduces us to an unexpected story line and Miguel is down to play the part!

Check it out below:

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Over the years of Music's heavy influence in culture and society, there have been many Artists and Entertainers denoted as Legends.

I wanted to take a moment of time to remind everyone of, who I feel is, one of the top Impressionists,  the Legendary Tupac Amaru Shakur.

Tupac, was much more than a Rapper and Entertainer. Tupac, to me, was a Thinker, Thought Provoker, People Believer, Poet, and above all, Inspirational. Below are a few of my favorites from Pac including, Poetry of his, Videos, Interviews, Quotes, and Photos.

LONG LIVE PAC!

Poetry by Tupac Shakur

In The Depths of Solitude by Tupac

A young heart with an old soul
How can there be peace?
How can I be in the depths of solitude
When there are two inside of me?
This duo in me causes the perfect opportunity
To learn and live twice as fast
As those who accept simplicity...

And Tomorrow by Tupac

Words of  Tupac Shakur Quoted

"Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete? Proving nature's laws wrong, it learned to walk without having feet. Funny, it seems to by keeping it's dreams; it learned to breathe fresh air. Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else even cared.” -Tupac Shakur, The Rose That Grew From Concrete

"There’s no way that Michael Jackson or whoever Jackson should have a million thousand droople billion dollars and then there’s people starving. There’s no way! There’s no way that these people should own planes and there people don’t have houses. Apartments. Shacks. Drawers. Pants! I know you’re rich. I know you got 40 billion dollars, but can you just keep it to one house? You only need ONE house. And if you only got two kids, can you just keep it to two rooms? I mean why have 52 rooms and you know there’s somebody with no room?! It just don’t make sense to me. It don’t.” -Tupac Shakur

"No matter what these people say about me, my music doesn't glorify any image. My music is spiritual when you listen to it. It's all about emotion, I tell my innermost, darkest secrets.” -Tupac Shakur

Footage of Tupac Shakur

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HELLO SUNDAY! Here I am, en route to one of my favorite Urban Chic cafe’s in Montclair, catching every yellow light in Essex County, and need I mention, every muddy puddle too. Rain with a little bit of tardiness seems to be the forecast!

Despite the circumstances, I walk into the modern lit, evenly populated room to be greeted by the warmest smile and darkest lips! This being my first time metting La, I honestly did not know what to expect, and boy did I sure leave feeling the same way! I got to sit down and learn more about her craft and unintentionally, her undeniably bright Spirit.  I promise you I didin’t see this one coming! Read up more below.

With my Lisa Frank era Pen and Pad handy, the first thing La says is that she loves Unicorns too! I immediately wrote her off as complete coolness! Soon after knocking out our lunch from the petite menu selection, I ask that La please introduce herself to everyone, and tell us a little about what she does.

 

DELILAH: My name is Delilah Vera and I’m an artist and set designer based in the NJ/NYC area. I create large-scale, intricate paintings and I also am known for the skulls I hand-paint. I get a lot of requests lately for my black&whites as well. My primary focus at present is painting, but I also use film and photography to express my ideas.

With a huge smile on her face and a cat-faced mug in hand, she finishes up with the statement, “I basically live to create. It’s the biggest part of who I am.”

 Me: The Skulls that you paint are absolutely admirable! I don’t consider myself a ‘skull person’, but the flowers and colors truly compliment the skeletal structure. Who would’ve thought something so simple could be so beautiful?!  May I ask how long you have been at your craft?

DELILAH: I’ve been painting and drawing since I was maybe 3 or 4. I always had a notebook and some pens or something with me. In high school I got deeper into it and experimented with sculpting and other forms of expression, but within the last 3 years I’ve taken it way more serious and started coming into my voice as an artist and wanting to be heard. As for set design, my grandfather owned a hardware store so I’ve been building since forever. I can build anything and I really want to do installations at some point. Set design is kind of an extension of that for me.

 Me: That strikes a memory. I remember writing stories and poetry on my Mothers E-Machine Computer so many years ago. Totally different from our sleek Macs we have now! What’s funny is I didn’t notice I would discover a nitch for writing years later. It was always something I just did. Simple as that; so I can totally relate to your evolution in Art!

At this point, after growing into your Artistic shoes, if you had to create a name for the genre of what you make, what would it be?

After a deep sigh and a pleasant grin Delilah then answers…

DELILAH: I’ve been asked to define my art before and the closest I can come to what I do might be abstract neo-expressionism or something around that area of the spectrum.

We both giggle simultaneously as she continues…

I guess because I’m really inspired by those movements. Honestly though, I can’t really say because some of my work is actually pretty literal while a lot of it tends to kind of blur boundaries. I’d rather save that for the viewer to define. I also express myself through different mediums so that might change things a little.

Me: It is interesting that you say you would rather the viewer decide that. I absolutely agree. Art, like Life, is very much perception!

 So how did you discover the Arts? You mentioned before it goes back to you being a toddler; do you recall if it was something innate or more so of an outside influence?

DELILAH: I think it was a mixture of both. I think the urge to create is something that is very much a part of my nature and I’m naturally drawn to creativity in others. I always had a really active imagination and that hasn’t died, but my family is also very into the arts. Growing up with a young single mother, we didn’t have a lot of money. On the weekends, we would go into the city and go to museums and galleries; places that allow you to name your own price, or are generally free to the public. We’d go to Union Square Park and watch street performers or, whatever, you know? I saw YoYo Ma perform at the Newark Museum when I was like 8 or 9… people think you have to sacrifice culture when you don’t have money, and you don’t. All those things definitely shaped who I am as a person and as a creator because I saw so much art in so many forms.

Me: Wow. That’s deep. “[ ]…people think you have to sacrifice culture when you don’t have money, and you don’t.”. That is true! The same with the misconception that you must have money to gain knowledge or simply SEE things. There are so many ways to the World around us, but it is up to us to make our way! Kudos to your Mom. Exposure definitely makes an imprint on who we become, and you appear to be a well-rounded young-Woman; both artistically inclined and intelligent.

Do you experiment with anything else creatively?

DELILAH: I went to college on a Performing Arts scholarship and I majored in Music and I went to school for Audio Engineering as well. I compose and sing and I’ve worked heavily in the music field, but more so on the business and engineering side of things. Recently though, I’ve gotten into songwriting and composing again. I’ve just been experimenting, seeing how it feels to write again. It’s just something I do for fun.

Me: Writing?! We have more in common than Unicorns I see! You are truly a mysterious person. I honestly didn’t expect that! I find that the most talented people are so humble that it can come off as modesty. That was certainly a pleasant surprise! Please do keep me posted with that. With your hands in so much, pun intended, what would you say is your definition of the word “artist”? How does the term apply to you?

DELILAH: An artist to me is somebody who applies a great deal of creativity and ingenuity to their work. It’s somebody who can make you look at the world through his or her eyes and clearly communicate their vision. There is an art to everything and some people become masters.

How does the word apply to me? It’s my passion for creating and the balance that it brings to my life that lets me know that I’m an artist. Art is subjective – some people love my work and I’m sure some people will have something else to say about it. All I know is that each piece I create is an extension of my being and it’s what I want to give to the world. I think I’m still growing as an artist. I’m just now getting to a place where I’m able to express my point of view clearly in such a way that the viewer has some grasp on what I’m trying to say.

 Me: I love how you explained that your passion for creating and the balance it brings to your life is how you know you are an Artist. That could not have been worded any more sincere! You say that you are still growing as an Artist…

Where would you like for your work to take you? Most importantly, what would you like for it to do for others?

DELILAH: [Great question] I would love for my work to take me around the world. To be able to travel and experience and share and create in different atmospheres is my goal. Art is so powerful, and through it, we as artists are creating our own platform to share a piece of who we are with everyone [who comes in contact with our work]. I would hope to inspire others the way I’ve been inspired! There’s something that happens when I see a piece of art that resonates with me. There’s a pause. A tiny lapse in time where nothing else matters but me and the connection I’m having with that piece. Some art makes me think and question, some is just really fun or beautiful to look at. Either way, that pause is what I want people to have when they look at my work. There’s so much going on in this world and in our minds and I feel like we’re so desensitized. I just want people to stop. If only for a minute, just stop and take it in-however they feel about it. At least they took the time to feel something about it!

Me: Amazing and passionate! The luster for your craft, for Art, and for life overall is evident in your eyes, your smile, and in your work. That is the true beauty (and essence) of an Artist!

DELILAH: I pull from a lot of pain and joy to create. []…but it’s my work that brings balance to my life and that’s what is helping me become a better person, a better soul. And that to me is the best way I can give to the world.

Me: True indeed. I think that is something we can all take from this interview. To remember to give to one another, this way, ultimately, none of us go without. That is love!

You, my dear, are a Trill Queen! Do you have any upcoming projects that we should know of, or that you would like to share with everyone?

Bringing out her warm smile again, she goes on to tell more about her current and upcoming projects…

DELILAH: Right now I’m working on a collection called, “Huyendole a un Sueño” or “Running from the Dream”. It incorporates a great deal of my work up to this point including the skulls that I mentioned earlier. The collection tells my story up to this point. For a while, I was trying to be successful at doing everything else but this, because I was scared. There’s no more fear now though, and I’m all in! I think my works show that.

I’m also curating a project along with Sheena She (ChainsawsandJelly.com) for The Bad Pegasus, an amazing artist/producer. I’ve been working with MisterLeeDigital, a jersey-based photographer, on some projects as well. I’ll be shooting a few videos this year too.

Me: Lovely! “Huyendole a un Sueño” SOUNDS amazing; I can only imagine how it will look! The title alone is drawing me in!

I’ll be sure to be on the lookout for all of your projects and work, in general.

Speaking of, how can we see more of your work and keep posted with upcoming events, showcases, etc?

DELILAH: [Awww! Thank You!]

You can stay up to date with news through Twitter and/or Instagram ; I have the same handle for both accounts, @DelilahVera.

Me: Delilah, it has been beautiful. Truly! I am glad to have caught you in the midst of your journey; I am certain this is only the beginning!

Thank you so much for your time and energy. Peace and Love!

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Beyoncé, Beyoncé, Beyoncé… who can ever get enough of her? How is it even possible to be so amazing? Haha. I think a lot of the amazement comes from the choice in keeping her (self), to herself, and away from the public. Well, all of that will soon change, and as shallow as it sounds, this is a major moment in History.

Multiple Grammy®-winner, entrepreneur and actress Beyoncé will be the focus of an intimate feature-length HBO documentary film debuting Feb. 16, 2013, it was announced today by Michael Lombardo, president, HBO Programming.  Directed by the superstar, the film is a fusion of video that provides raw, unprecedented access to the private entertainment icon and high-voltage performances.

“Everybody knows Beyoncé’s music, but few know Beyoncé the person,” said Lombardo.  ”Along with electrifying footage of Beyoncé onstage, this unique special looks beyond the glamour to reveal a vibrant, vulnerable, unforgettable woman.”

“HBO has a history of pushing every boundary with class and authenticity,” said Beyoncé.  ”Some of my favorite shows are on HBO, so I am excited that my film will be part of its bold programming. This film was so personal to me, it had to have the right home.”

The film is a multi-faceted portrait of the 16-time Grammy Award-winning singer, businesswoman, songwriter, actress, entrepreneur, wife and mother, showing off the extraordinary gifts that have made her a global phenomenon, and stripping away the veneer of stardom. It includes extensive first-person footage, some of it shot by Beyoncé on her laptop, in which she reflects on the realities of celebrity, the refuge she finds onstage and the transcendent joy of becoming a mother last year.

The film sheds light on her childhood in Houston, with home movies revealing the close bond she built with her family and charts the challenges Beyoncé felt when she decided to manage her career and build her own company, Parkwood Entertainment.  The film also captures the intense physical and emotional demands she goes through in the studio, preparing for live performances, running a business and her family life including her return to the spotlight after the birth of her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, in January 2012.

Beyoncé also serves as the film’s executive producer.

SOURCE

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It’s the funniest thing… I feel the first words that come to mind when I think of all great people making a mark in this world, whether living or not, my initial statement is always, “Where do I begin?…”!

With that said, below is footage from an 1980 Interview of Bob Marley. Where do I begin? haha.

I can not recall the exact moment I learned of Mr. Marley, as I like to call him, but I remember thinking, “What is so special about this guy and all of his iconic pictures?!”. I soon learned, only after witnessing his words, both in song and literature, why he has and always will be an iconic figure in the world of Music and Morality! I would love to share with you all an interview Mr. Marley did with the legendary Gil Noble in 1980.

Take what you need!

HAPPY MARLEY DAY

——————–

How do you handle fame?

‘By not being famous.’ -Bob Marley

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Why is it everyone (seems) to care more about if a song was sung live more than the actual words said at the Inauguration?

Do you know what the Inauguration was about? Do you know the purpose of the ceremony?

Are you aware of the action(s) those words will provoke, and how they will affect your life and the lives of generations to come?

Here’s the thing…

We live under a system of absolute control. Our rights are written for us, and proposed as freedom, yet we’d rather make fuss over a song that really means nothing to our current state (of being).

Needless to say…

We, ‘The People’, are so very easily distracted.

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Like a Rolling Stone, well, diamond in this case, Rihanna is taking the World by storm on her upcoming “Diamonds World Tour”, and guess where she is stopping?! ‘Bad Gal Rih’ will be performing live at The Prudential Center, downtown Newark. I don’t know about you, but I’m going to have to catch this one! You can purchase tickets by visiting The Prudential Center’s Official Site. ENJOY!

 

• Date: Sunday, Apr 28, 2013
• Time: 7:30PM
• Doors Open: 6:30PM
• Seating: End Stage Concert Seating
• Tickets: Tickets go on sale Friday, January 25th at 10am. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, charge by Phone (800-745-3000), and any Ticketmaster outlet. If tickets remain, Prudential Center’s box office will start selling tickets on Monday, January 28th at 11am.
• Ticket Prices: $153.50, $98.50, $68.50, $43

source

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Although Aaliyah’s life was short and fast, her Spirit is the true definition of “Gone But Not Forgotten”.

Below is Behind The Scenes footage of Aaliyah’s “Rock The Boat” and a few other personal favorites!

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A word of many meanings to multiple perceptions, Art’s true definition is in its essence.

A blank piece of paper turned into a coiled dove , 16 sentences turned into a harmony, a portrait of a woman so captivating its legacy outgrows the influence, and not because of the act itself, but because of  the “feel”.

There I was, scrolling aimlessly on Instagram one Saturday afternoon expecting nothing more the normal hoorah, I then came across a portrait of Notorious B.I.G.. The shading immediately caught my eye! Its intensity brought to life the features of the now deceased Legend.

There have been countless paintings, portraits, and replicas of the well-known Brooklyn Artist, but this particular portrait caught my eye. After some time of ‘paroozing’ and lurking, ha ha, I decided to reach out to the artist himself. Below is an up close and personal with the man behind the vision, Dee Thompson.

His story, his craft and most importantly, his message!

Enjoy =)

Me: Please introduce yourself to everyone who may be unfamiliar. Who you are and what you do!

Dee: Well, my name is Darius but everyone knows me by “Dee” and I’m an artist.  I paint and draw. (with a humble stature and subtle smirk) I don’t really like the title “artist” I feel I’m just a regular guy with creative hobbies.

Me: Interesting enough. Well I must say you totally ‘look’ like an artist. Or maybe an Underground Rapper haha. Just kidding… How long have you been at your craft? Judging from your work, it doesn’t seem to have any staples on it. It definitely has modern feel but not so much so something that is new to you..

Dee: I’ve been drawing off and on since I was about 7 years old. Its funny cause with me I don’t take my art too serious. Sometimes I go months without picking up a pencil to draw anything! I have to really be inspired and in the mood to create something. There are times seeing someone elses art may inspire me to create, or an idea might come to mind and I’ll play around with that idea. For instance, I’ll see a fashion magazine or drive past some random graffiti on the streets, and then create. Music also inspires me a lot.

I usually put my head phones on when I’m working on something. (chuckles a bit) I used to be a DJ in high school.

Me: Cut it out! Let me get a spin. Haha, I could see that in you. 

Dee: I always tried being creative. I drew up this logo the DJ group I was a part of called the “Fabulous 3″. I was always trying to find some way to be creative and express myself.

Me: That’s cool. So from the turn tables to the Pallet… How did it begin? Was painting something you kept to yourself?

Dee: It began with me drawing power rangers actually. I used to draw the characters off video games and cereal boxes when I was young just for fun. I looked at it as a hobby, I always wanted to be a fashion designer though. That’s where I felt my drawings can go beyond just a piece of paper or a canvas. With clothing, those drawings and illustrations can be brought to life and worn, and seeing an idea or drawing become something tangible like a shirt, hat, denim etc., is amazing to me!

Me: I absolutely agree. For something to be a figment of your imagination one day and brought to life the next is absolutely amazing. It’s a subtle reminder that anything is possible, you know?!

Dee: In high school me and my boy sold custom shirts we made out of our lockers. Seeing that people appreciated my art and the way I customized my clothes opened my eyes to the possibility of doing something in fashion or the art field.

Me: Safe to say that may be a future endeavor. I see lots of people collaborating with my brands such as H&M and stores like Top Shop and Target. Two different markets with endless possibilities! That would be cool. Even something in that arena is sure to require lots of work and dedication. With pursuit comes challenge…. With that said, what would you say has been your greatest hurdle [as an artist] so far?

Dee: My challenge would be staying motivated. Like I mentioned before, its hard to stay motivated. I get in moods where I’m not creating because I’m not inspired. I like my work to be organic and not forced. So finding motivation is my challenge. Pushing myself to complete things I normally wouldn’t is a big challenge also. I just started doing human portraits 2 months ago and that has been a huge learning experience and challenge for me too.

Me: That is actually what drew me to your work. Your portrait of Malcolm X! Portraits have got to be difficult. A person like me would say something ridiculous such as, “he didn’t even do my face right.” Haha! Portraits are definitely something I’ve known for artists to shy away from for that very reason. Kudos to you!

Would you say you feel any pressure being labeled an Artist? What do you think of that term in our new-age world?

Dee: (lowers head in laughter) Thank you, but yes, there is pressure in my opinion. People automatically put you in a category expecting great things from you based on their knowledge of what an ” Artist” is. For example, considering the dopest artist they know of, they compare you to them instantly just because you both paint or draw, design or whatever. It puts you in a box creatively. Art is self expression, a lot of times I see things people create and call “Art” I don’t understand. That’s whats great about Art! It’s so many different forms of it, you can’t really label it. In today’s age, there are crazy talented people! Kids drawing pictures I probably never could do at like age 11. I see stuff on Instagram from young kids that blow me away.

Me: Well put. Comparing anyone or anything absolutely buts you in a box. I think that folks sometimes are under the impression that there is a right or wrong to Creation, and there isn’t. That is the beauty of Creation. It’s really it’s own thing. I actually went to the Keith Haring Exhibit last year at the Brooklyn Museum and I was blown away at his work. Merely because it was so much of his own thing. Simple and intriguing. I feel like it to you to his mind at that time. He became one of my favorite Artists. Anyone who paints themselves into a corner is pretty damn awesome. Who thinks of that?!

 Speaking of favorites, who is your favorite Artist?

Dee: Keith Harrng is dope. Rudolf Vogul is a crazy artist! It’s a lot of ArtistS I admire ’cause so many bring different things to the table. We all want to leave something behind that lives forever; for me that would be my kids. As far as Art, I’d like to feel something I’ve done or created inspired someone say way, shape, or form. They say no one praises you ’til you’re gone, but I’d like to get the roses while I can still smell them.

I don’t want people to admire my work only when I’m gone, but things seem to work out that way if you look at everyone that’s past and left behind a legacy.

Me: True indeed. One of my favorite poetry books is “A Rose That Grew From Concrete” by Tupac Shakur, one of the most relative book of poems I have read to date. Sadly so, it will probably be ages before he is acknowledged as a poet, and that he truly was, but those ‘boxes’ society is so eager to put folks in has labeled him otherwise. Would you say you fit into any ‘box’?

Dee: My work, is a mixture of modern and reality. I do portraits of music artist, actors, etc. I try to bring to life people that are popular in our culture as far as music, reality TV, and sports. I feel like those people spark a time and place in history. I’m inspired a lot by fashion spreads in magazines. I actually want to start tying that into my art, right now. [Basically], I’m pretty random with my direction.

It’s all about what mood I’m in…

Me: I can dig it. Before I let you go and do what you down to Mars Artists do, haha, I have to ask will we be seeing more of your work? Any upcoming projects we should know of? Let the people know how to keep updated and in-touch…

Dee: I post a lot of my work on Instagram. My name on there is @DeeThompson_ . I’m thinking about starting a blog with my art. [If so, everyone can def check me there.]

[As for upcoming projects or just the future in general] Photography is always something I’ve wanted to mess around with. That will probably be a big part of an upcoming project. I’m [currently] working on a children’s book also.

(Laughing while adjusting his cap) he saysRight now I’m a lil’ all over the place with ideas and creating! Just trying to see what sticks and keeps my attention.

Me: Sounds good to me! I will continue to follow your work. If you get any H&M deals keep me in mind, haha. Thanks again for your time Dee! It’s been real.

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Where to begin…

Some of you may or may not be familiar with Jhene Aiko, and if you are not, I soulfully suggest you get acquainted!

Out of California, Miss Aiko has quite a back story, as well all, and it is well spoken through her music. Our generation loves to classify things and people and for the sake of those who do so, she is commonly referenced as the ‘Hippie-type’. Being the polar opposite, Aiko’s music is very relative and just … different.

Brand-free, Aiko goes by “Sailing not Selling” her soul and giving the people the truest parts of her, those of which lie embedded in us all…

and this who I’ve been listening to!

Check out her live debut performance in NYC at SOB’s performing “What A Life” from her upcoming album, “Souled Out”; as well as her most recent video for her self-written song, “Mirrors”.

I hope you all enjoy. Happy Listening :]

Learn more about Jhene Aiko as she personally updates her profiles on tumblr and twitter:

http://jheneaiko.tumblr.com/

https://twitter.com/JheneAiko

oh and Instagram too, @jheneaiko !

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I am an avid supporter of “Thug Life” and its original relation to the struggle, according to the legendary writer, thinker and musician, Tupac Shakur…

Well, needless to say Rihanna’s Thug Life is a bit different from ours! What a life…

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We live in a world where there is so much going on at once, it is hard to know where we are at times, let alone the motion of the seemingly infinite World around us. The least complex, yet least grasped, is the UNIverse inside ourselves. How often do you remove the many hats and labels you wear and go within, to who you are?

Regardless of your culture, religion, or any beliefs, it is safe to say we can agree that we are more than just bones, skin and melanin.

One of the spirits I admired who held this very point of view was Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes.

She was alotted a life path with the opportunity to present herself to the Public and Media through her gifts of character, prescence and music inclination. In that very spotlight, many perceptions of her were established, nonetheless, she held close to her (true) self.

Something we should all try doing.

Before Lisa’s untimely death in 2002, she had another gracious opportunity to put together a documentary to expose a more personal-her; opposite and more true than what was portrayed in the Media. I’ve always felt that the documentary was an essential part of [me] being reminded that even while here, if we allow ourselves to tune in, we can still feel a connection to the higher.

Sometimes it requires we remove ourselves from circumstances, people, or places we once found fitting, but it is possible with the least resistance.

Lisa stated in the documentary, “Man, it is amazing how the mystery of life works. I mean after every dark night, there it is, a bright day. And that always gives me hope. [] Every time there is a struggle, it is nothing but a preparation for what is to come.”. Those words mean a lot to me, and can, to any person who is purpose driven.

“You see a lot of the beautiful things about her, especially this incredible honesty she had in the way she bared herself and exposed so much. Not a lot of people would be willing to go as deep and be as honest. She really just wanted to share so much of herself.”

Some of you may have never saw her documentary and many of you possibly have. I find that sometimes I absorb things and people much better when I reevaluate the state of being I am in when attempting to do so. Even when I am taking a second look at who I am.

So if you haven’t before…

Here is the full documentary, with no interruptions. I hope that you take a heart full of something away from it!

SOURCE

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They say, “Everything that glitters ain’t gold…”…

and I say, “Everyone who is a celebrity isn’t a role model… “.

Artists in the entertainment industry are just that, artists. Often with stage names, their art can be different from who they are as a person.

I think we all forget to see past the stage and into the eyes of beings who are human, who are just like we are, but on a different path. The pressure to put forth their art while walking on egg shells for the sake of reputation and influence is something serious.

Has society put the pressure on them to do so?

Let’s take Chris Brown and Rihanna for examination…

You may be tired of hearing about them, and I was too, simply because what needed to be said has yet to be spoken, written or televised.

Let’s make this clear, I am not for domestic violence, or any form of violence. I like to believe I am logical when need be and most of all, fair.

Moving on…

We all know of their incident some time ago, which has constantly been bought back to the forefront, especially when Chris seems to be doing or TRYING to do him and/or his work, music and entertainment.

Chris has constantly been provoked if you ask me. It is almost as if people want to bring lower vibrations out of him; both anger and rashness, the same vibrations they bashed and ridiculed him for acting out.

Chris and Rihanna are both in their 20’s, the years we’re typically told are the times we’ll live and learn, find ourselves and all the other hurdles that come with maturity. Why does it seems both Chris and Rihanna were stripped of this? No? Is it because they happen to be in the spotlight? That makes the pressure of your 20’s a bit rougher if you ask me.

Almost as if time doesn’t exist, like they’re not living by age, but by lifestyle.

When media got hold of what seemed to be a forgiving Rihanna, after (allegedly) staying in Miami with Chris not too long after their pow-wow, they began to come at her for not being a positive influence for females who look up to her, as well as not taking a stance against domestic violence.

How typical is this though? This,  being  couples of ALL ages going through different disputes, unfortunately some being physical, and then getting back together? Why were they chastised to such degrees? And if anyone feels so adamant about ANYTHING in this world, why wait for something to happen for any voice to rise other than your own? Why not stand up for what you believe in, firmly? Why knock those who do not? Instead, hope that you influence them to do so. If you do ridicule others for not acknowledging or rallying the cause, are you putting more of your energy into people who do not care versus gathering the voices of those who do?

There is always work to be done.

What either party said or did will never be known in its complete truth, only they were there. That is not my place to say who is what and why. What I will say is, WE are, as parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, mentors, neighbors, etc.,  here with the young men and young women the media is worried will be improperly influenced.

It is OUR duty to make sure that the youth can and will decipher entertainment and influence.

Just as we go to our jobs, and more times than not, “act accordingly”, these artists do the same. That is their job, their means of income; it is what they do… entertain. That does not necessarily include truth in image, or lyrics for that matter.

Being in the Spotlight does not make them Saviors of OUR children.

Granted, people would be ecstatic to see artists take a stance and to use their power in such a way (which some do); however, it does not make them any less of a person because they stuck to doing their job… entertaining.

I find it interesting and amusing how people gravitate to the drama as much as the reunion. What about what’s in between?

We, as a people, have to learn and make habits of seeing the glass half full AND half empty, understanding the better in it being BOTH ways. Whether siding with optimism or pessimism in the situation, being able to possess a roundabout view of things!

This is the beauty of criticism.

You, the criticizer, can take what you do not necessarily honor or agree with and then present a different view, not to be deemed right or wrong, but perhaps a better or simply… more comprehensive way to view things.

Point being, expecting seems to be the issue.

Let us bring up our youth in a manner that allows them to be armed, not shielded, in the many situations life will present to them. Armed in such a way that they can decipher the “either/or” in circumstances, from their backyards to the media…

IT TAKES A VILLAGE.

Written By: Starr A. Moore

SOURCE

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Check out the new video from 2 Chainz featuring T.I. in “Spend It”.

2 Chainz says his name change signified his second chance in music, says the name also has more substance to it.

“I’ve been doing a lot of media runs up in New York lately promoting my CD T.R.U. Realigion and every single interview I do they like, ‘What’s up with the name change?’ So this is the universal answer,” 2 Chainz explained. “I just came up with it yesterday over a big bowl of kush for breakfast. I thought of it yesterday morning, check it out. I go by Tity Boi, let me run this to ya’ll, I’m one half of Playaz Circle. I did a song called ‘Duffle Bag Boyz’ in ’07 with Lil Weezy. I was signed to DTP/Def Jam and all that. And so people ask me where the 2 Chainz came from I tell them I always talk about jewelry and I always been saying 2 Chainz in a lot of my songs. But lately like the last year or so I’ve been saying it in introducing my records like ‘2 Chainz!’ and kinda making it family friendly. However you wanna say it.”

2 Chainz went on to explain that the name 2 Chainz also signified his second chance in music after being a part of Playaz Circle and being signed to DTP/Def Jam.

“I started noticing a change early in the year when I was going to the mall and young ladies would be yelling ‘2 Chainz’ or whatever. So my answer is when I did ‘Duffle Bag Boyz’ in ’07 that was like my first look. Now this right here would be my second chance,” said 2 Chainz. “You know like 2 Chainz, second chance. So I thought that that would have a little more substance.”

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An Artistic Musician on a mission 2 follow his dreams, work hard & persevere! One of the new wave of  Soulful Hip-Hop artists to emerge on the scene, hailed from Irvington, New Jersey  Mil Brandon says “I just wanna bring back that organic feel back to Hip-Hop”. His fan base continues to expand due to his original, laid-back flow which is accompanied by his smooth , spacey beats.

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