tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52234237587423671222024-02-21T08:36:16.621-05:00A Renaissance Man's DaybookWelcome to the blog that is everything Bryan Payton. I am a man of many interests. See the things I love, care about, and do. See my writings and about my daily occurrences."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-83537663389230872542011-01-16T00:02:00.003-05:002011-01-16T00:08:16.164-05:00My (Bad) NFL Playoff Picks: An Explanation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4XPW4t_gKTNpbLmPSdJhB4gu3QI3ijuidW0VS3BW50ltyjbViYAOi0GpMlxxTKCnn29uFWliJbcBAMNHiUX7_mWVADsZd8GEjpaeKQ_eJbAwv8U5bwIu6Pa2BNvhLIJZe4GpdcmPndc7/s1600/Aaron+R..jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4XPW4t_gKTNpbLmPSdJhB4gu3QI3ijuidW0VS3BW50ltyjbViYAOi0GpMlxxTKCnn29uFWliJbcBAMNHiUX7_mWVADsZd8GEjpaeKQ_eJbAwv8U5bwIu6Pa2BNvhLIJZe4GpdcmPndc7/s400/Aaron+R..jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562646175015439954" /></a><br />Today, I was a loser. Really. I announced my picks to win in this weekend’s NFL Playoff matchups earlier this afternoon, and today I came up empty. The bad thing is I’m 0-2 this so far weekend and my track record for picking big games (Auburn vs. Alabama, SEC Championship, Sugar Bowl, NCAA Football National Championship). The good thing is I’ve realized the problem: I’m picking mostly with my heart, not my brain.<br /><br />You see, I picked the Ravens to beat the Steelers, Falcons to beat the Packers, Patriots over the Jets, and Bears over the Seahawks. The Ravens signed my friend and former teammate James Hardy to a future contract earlier this week, Ray Lewis is one of my all-time favorite players, and I just love to watch Ray Rice. I ignored to recognize the fact that Ben Roethlisberger has won two Super Bowls and is much better than Joe Flacco. I also chose to turn from the Steelers greater ability to make big plays. I should’ve listened to Colin Cowherd earlier in the week when he talked about the teams who made more explosive plays (runs over 15 yards or more, passes of 25 or more) did better in the playoffs. <br /><br />The same was the case for the Falcons. My former college running back coach, Gerald Brown, is now the running back coach for the Falcons, and I love Michael Turner in the Falcons’ running game. I should’ve recognized Aaron Rodgers’ greatness and the Packers’ big play ability. Silly me.<br /><br />I’m hoping tomorrow goes much better for me. I mean, a .500 record for the weekend isn’t so bad is it?"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-55804251313425092222011-01-12T21:12:00.002-05:002011-01-12T21:20:01.567-05:00Yelawolf, Slaughterhouse Get Shady<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vAdK2KR7JN3rW2bidt9RJ47GIHC5GRvGO7dEPqAPGJ4ppdADvH0XDw3DoYHhN1GDVYniRtA4srehwz5Ry-5igGYB5VVVRT12irkY7PiXHJgb84OcYNS16kwArcnACFoyWlXEKGAYLUHD/s1600/xxl-shady-450x600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vAdK2KR7JN3rW2bidt9RJ47GIHC5GRvGO7dEPqAPGJ4ppdADvH0XDw3DoYHhN1GDVYniRtA4srehwz5Ry-5igGYB5VVVRT12irkY7PiXHJgb84OcYNS16kwArcnACFoyWlXEKGAYLUHD/s400/xxl-shady-450x600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561489255804576226" /></a><br />After much deliberation, Slaughterhouse has joined Shady Records and Interscope Records. There were rumored problems in getting member, Joel Ortiz cleared from Koch Records, but the deal was worked out. The group has already recorded with Eminem in Detroit, which is good news for fans anxious to hear their new material. <br /><br />Alabama-bred rapper, Yelawolf, who was already signed with Interscope Records, which released his most recent mixtape Trunk Muzik 0-60, has made the in-house move to sign with Eminem’s Shady Records as well. <br /><br />The new signees along with Eminem appear on the cover of XXL’s February issue.<br /> <br />XXL has released these quotes:<br /><strong>Eminem:</strong> <em>Yelawolf and Slaughterhouse, it’s kinda phase two of Shady. It’s the new generation of Shady Records and as we’re trying to rebuild our label, it’s exciting for hip-hop and with all of these forces coming together and with what everybody’s capable of on the mic, it’s gonna be fun.”</em><br /><br /><strong>Yelawolf: </strong>“<em>Considering where I’m from and the shit I’ve been through, it’s hard to put into words what partnering with Shady means to me, my team at Ghet-O-Vision, and my state of Alabama. I can tell you that when you’re willing to give your life up to see a dream through, the reward is great. And now that I’ve become an apprentice to one of the greatest artists in the world, my potential reaches beyond anything I ever imagined. Let’s kill this shit.”</em>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-60081486838574594372010-10-26T09:15:00.005-04:002010-10-26T11:22:05.827-04:00Morning Video: Lebron James "Rise (What Should I Do?)" by Nike<object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cdtejCR413c&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cdtejCR413c&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="410" height="340"></embed></object><br />Nike doesn't make good commercials - they make great ones. And this one featuring Lebron James is one of the best they've <em>EVER</em> done. It's spot on and very affective. It's Lebron playing the villain and owning it. It's him saying, "I'm going to be who I want to be and I don't care what you think." I absolutely love it. Sure, there's subtle shots at Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley, but Lebron is doing one of the things that makes leaders great - not doing what's popular and being his own man. If he did what everybody else - the people outside his inner circle - wanted him to he'd be a follower. And being a follower isn't bad if you follow diligently, but why follow when you're in a position to lead? You can't. And Lebron won't."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-62759721318894982312010-10-25T19:49:00.005-04:002010-10-25T20:27:09.349-04:00My Jacket of Dreams: The Shawl Collar Dinner Jacket<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizMHi6dw9K-SVA9JMBLtgH017xjVtuwrHJ1g_6hnfsTDSfRtITgvPhQCXpdixE-EhiER1XotDHwkBYEG7IpCsO6fhMHXezqLcM0MPKQHyFtCD_3suyzKcWlQrK1s60GfVUv2aotBLSSIFq/s1600/Band_of_Outsiders_Shawl_Collar_Dinner_Jacket.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizMHi6dw9K-SVA9JMBLtgH017xjVtuwrHJ1g_6hnfsTDSfRtITgvPhQCXpdixE-EhiER1XotDHwkBYEG7IpCsO6fhMHXezqLcM0MPKQHyFtCD_3suyzKcWlQrK1s60GfVUv2aotBLSSIFq/s400/Band_of_Outsiders_Shawl_Collar_Dinner_Jacket.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532142655236996546" /></a><br />In many ways the <strong>Shawl Collar Dinner Jacket </strong>is what I aspire to be. It’s elegant, sophisticated, luxurious, and most of all, it’s so grown up. For about a year now, the shawl collar blazer has been on my “to buy” list. Really, it should be on my “you better buy that shit once you’ve made it” list, but can you blame me? I mean, <em>look at it</em>. When you wear one it says something. It’s a statement all its own. It’s the classic “you can’t tell me nothing” jacket. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNgKzcRjdON9nrnH4QTC02I9VpZBxH8fl47hWBFhfvGd6NsoXN2s9OE2_uXCRsik4Q8SEz9z2FmBapiHIDyfgimx_WEph6sBZEDvJB0TnsLEpKmhTvWDqDJQlT6LISNNd7ofTO_U6zHsl/s1600/Band_of_Outsiders_Shawl_Collar_Dinner_Jacket-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNgKzcRjdON9nrnH4QTC02I9VpZBxH8fl47hWBFhfvGd6NsoXN2s9OE2_uXCRsik4Q8SEz9z2FmBapiHIDyfgimx_WEph6sBZEDvJB0TnsLEpKmhTvWDqDJQlT6LISNNd7ofTO_U6zHsl/s400/Band_of_Outsiders_Shawl_Collar_Dinner_Jacket-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532142649595722914" /></a><br />Most recently, the jacket has caught my interest because Kanye West rocked it in his movie <em>Runaway</em>, which aired last Saturday. While he is my number one inspiration when it comes to anything creative, the jacket stays on my mind like a beanie in the winter time. <br /><br />The jacket dates back to the 1860’s, when Henry Pool & Co. designed a short smoking jacket for the Prince of Wales to wear to informal dinner parties as an alternative to white tie dress. It didn’t receive the name “dinner jacket” until 1888. <br /><br />While many are two-button versions, my favorite is the one-button design. The one shown (above and below) is the Band of Outsiders Shawl Collar Dinner Jacket said to be priced at $1,824. It’s hand tailored, made with natural cotton canvas, and features front flap pockets, back side vents, and functional buttons at the wrist. I love how you can dress up the jacket or dress it down. Ideally, I want one like the Band of Outsiders version here, and one in light gray with a black shawl collar. I’ll own them one day. Then, when I walk by people will fantasize and think, “Damn, that boy made it.”<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSgM931DyRM_JerFr6Cfzckjx17C0AEgegq7KB7UlrHjn7nwgcW0EJqUHusYpriLjqliVVM92WcZgYdCWppGIGYngJ2TGiTS8O_z_h5cKKOr2JbXyRlGFhj37eY0iKDSDk_XXLvViuOie/s1600/Kanye-Dinner+Jacket-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSgM931DyRM_JerFr6Cfzckjx17C0AEgegq7KB7UlrHjn7nwgcW0EJqUHusYpriLjqliVVM92WcZgYdCWppGIGYngJ2TGiTS8O_z_h5cKKOr2JbXyRlGFhj37eY0iKDSDk_XXLvViuOie/s400/Kanye-Dinner+Jacket-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532142643816129922" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoGJ861UsM-cxQPMeLfJsLLMWCSTtB-tPOJBkKb2r5D8jfIux3ouOiyUKsplY8IAbvDH2mrF0wL8ulIULdgN7BPA-Nev3l-6QDJ9VqXrC4CEPgj8M5TCcGeEX7atMytQOl6hLW1AOm0JgW/s1600/Kanye-Dinner+Jacket.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoGJ861UsM-cxQPMeLfJsLLMWCSTtB-tPOJBkKb2r5D8jfIux3ouOiyUKsplY8IAbvDH2mrF0wL8ulIULdgN7BPA-Nev3l-6QDJ9VqXrC4CEPgj8M5TCcGeEX7atMytQOl6hLW1AOm0JgW/s400/Kanye-Dinner+Jacket.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532142639836491314" /></a>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-43633963898513401752010-10-25T15:25:00.008-04:002010-10-25T15:45:54.788-04:00Can A Brotha Get A Phoenix? (Or just Kanye and Miss Ebanks)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAifgOZl-pnB4HmTHTKBq2IXJOnq4vUyFCOKf6J5wAw4DgzMWova9DY5lykq8qR7nc-lfgeX-oSO0zhY9twMg9UI5HauHaovCFwFzMtP2IfyBDQeiC92twh30xeKSp0_T8uQ8BuqFyUqZl/s1600/selita.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAifgOZl-pnB4HmTHTKBq2IXJOnq4vUyFCOKf6J5wAw4DgzMWova9DY5lykq8qR7nc-lfgeX-oSO0zhY9twMg9UI5HauHaovCFwFzMtP2IfyBDQeiC92twh30xeKSp0_T8uQ8BuqFyUqZl/s400/selita.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532069507402861170" /></a><br />Kanye West's long talked about 35-minute short-movie “Runaway” (below) premiered on MTV, MTV2, and BET Saturday night. In the movie a phoenix (played by model Selita Ebanks) falls to earth, crashing Kanye’s car. He, then, takes her to his home, falls in love with her, and tries to help her adapt to this world in hopes she’ll be accepted by humans, but she is not. It features nine songs off Kanye’s upcoming album <em>My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy</em>, to be released November 22. While the film was packed with creative, awe-inspiring scenes featuring lively colors, interesting shots, and amazing cinematography, the one thing you couldn’t take your eyes off of was model Ms. Ebanks.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGORrq7L0fe-fQi89KrerGTRC2B95nEQJXBd7fhy9XM7zy_7UmuLpE8nc8trOOrfRklu_zxtarT_wbK3HHb35WzPUOw_-1_f5IsZhZlnlRZcFWkB2DhqZJqHrm60z7Pt6c6nV7-FL7HgU1/s1600/kanye&selita.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGORrq7L0fe-fQi89KrerGTRC2B95nEQJXBd7fhy9XM7zy_7UmuLpE8nc8trOOrfRklu_zxtarT_wbK3HHb35WzPUOw_-1_f5IsZhZlnlRZcFWkB2DhqZJqHrm60z7Pt6c6nV7-FL7HgU1/s400/kanye&selita.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532069505299786370" /></a><br />Basically naked with feathers covering her privates and wings on her back, Ebanks looks like a bird – a sexy bird. She doesn’t speak much but she doesn’t have to. She stole the movie just by standing there. According to my twitter feed, I wasn’t the only one who couldn’t take my eyes off her. In case you missed it, peep the photos of Ebanks and you’ll see what I mean. If all birds looked like this, I’d house an aviary.<br /><object width="400" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/O7W0DMAx8FY&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/O7W0DMAx8FY&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="400" height="340"></embed></object><br /><em>I also posted this for Men's Health magazine blog "The Cache" <a href="http://blogs.menshealth.com/thecache/?p=2231&preview=true">here</a>.</em>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-55731499039013711382010-10-19T20:11:00.003-04:002010-10-19T20:18:14.588-04:00Tommy Hilfiger "Icon Collection"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnH4-BkBW5_zmbQsSKofcqdml2l-fvwErh7vpbBkh7V6r9j-_TxkBGqrAD42yCYTxFksKbnA9T6k0bR0Bjr-PFH5cCalD4i-FIH9kVFFTkfVBso911SpYLqz5hEUCNK7Tk3Z9oEEz2mTVG/s1600/james+dean.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 233px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnH4-BkBW5_zmbQsSKofcqdml2l-fvwErh7vpbBkh7V6r9j-_TxkBGqrAD42yCYTxFksKbnA9T6k0bR0Bjr-PFH5cCalD4i-FIH9kVFFTkfVBso911SpYLqz5hEUCNK7Tk3Z9oEEz2mTVG/s400/james+dean.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529914766639305058" /></a><br />Tommy Hilfiger is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his label by launching his Icon Collection this month. The dope paintings you see were made by Marcos Zavros for the occasion. The 25 limited edition pieces are every bit of classic-driven preppy All-American sportswear with a modern twist. The inspiration comes from true American icons is blended into every piece of fabric from the James Dean-inspired leather jacket to the Jim Morrison-inspired leather jeans. Tommy also features traditional button-downs, denim shirts, and shawl cardigans. The collection is currently available at all Hilfiger retail stores and online at usa.tommy.com<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVM-rh_-9qGmxUc5Jl2JOd3EgTa-1_cmzEi8Fa1sjivk60V2YeFU2P1objDmsgBrH_ZWz8alEUx3Hmaeox27ZMJB_aumCxO6dOXm0Qxgkm7Rz5fJXhizl50I7O_WURQ7ru38DIgz9U9OCi/s1600/debbie.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVM-rh_-9qGmxUc5Jl2JOd3EgTa-1_cmzEi8Fa1sjivk60V2YeFU2P1objDmsgBrH_ZWz8alEUx3Hmaeox27ZMJB_aumCxO6dOXm0Qxgkm7Rz5fJXhizl50I7O_WURQ7ru38DIgz9U9OCi/s400/debbie.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529914756814891842" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOBTuoVQyCleYs2oQc9j_qVzh8AC0wpnZPfLn0mGAjE5jyXpVQyPW_sajj4rW3xa-MsNcGh3Plzc9Ji1PJh5peJNlEcMd_5VYaaDd4y3eiARBnO66w1jCb1h2PV9TZsoTUazkcVyOIlNB/s1600/farrah.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOBTuoVQyCleYs2oQc9j_qVzh8AC0wpnZPfLn0mGAjE5jyXpVQyPW_sajj4rW3xa-MsNcGh3Plzc9Ji1PJh5peJNlEcMd_5VYaaDd4y3eiARBnO66w1jCb1h2PV9TZsoTUazkcVyOIlNB/s400/farrah.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529914753709920018" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifInmzLzxqKAyK8kEfRAziwBmhvd_Q89je_R8LifF3SwKpFqg9p0wbitXJUQrXkNp2HmFzsXPZl9BZ4aU2h8V6J6DxxnmB8ICr5gmILJ_AyfIYd3lyIh1IJB8SQvOcwyOttFOzO88hyphenhyphenrx2/s1600/woman.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 305px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifInmzLzxqKAyK8kEfRAziwBmhvd_Q89je_R8LifF3SwKpFqg9p0wbitXJUQrXkNp2HmFzsXPZl9BZ4aU2h8V6J6DxxnmB8ICr5gmILJ_AyfIYd3lyIh1IJB8SQvOcwyOttFOzO88hyphenhyphenrx2/s400/woman.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529914746151348706" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLSEckFeGaBR913WtKhTgQpNZJXI6OjHx-SEp9rA0v5na_4lTe5o_GXv2Az-L7LR6a3YV3P5gLMv3Rl_PV8nfUwo7ulGMkTRGmpS9ZtoPRN9SgyWStHWlDwwUOX9le4xaXMZS7cGycIw_/s1600/clothes.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 277px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLSEckFeGaBR913WtKhTgQpNZJXI6OjHx-SEp9rA0v5na_4lTe5o_GXv2Az-L7LR6a3YV3P5gLMv3Rl_PV8nfUwo7ulGMkTRGmpS9ZtoPRN9SgyWStHWlDwwUOX9le4xaXMZS7cGycIw_/s400/clothes.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529915252602379986" /></a>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-56476836088416449672010-10-13T10:01:00.004-04:002010-10-13T10:20:31.886-04:00Morning Video: G.O.O.D. Music BET Hip-Hop Awards CypherIncase you missed last night's BET Hip Hop Awards, different groups of rappers entered the cypher (a crew of rappers rapping in a room, basically) and all went hard. There were five in all featuring the star veterans like Kanye West, Common, Raekwon, Rev Run, and Ice Cube as well as up and comers like Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa, Tyga, Yelawolf, and Diggy and JoJo Simmons (Rev Run's kids). All of them were dope, but my favorite was (you guessed it) Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music cypher featuring Kanye, Common, Pusha T, Big Sean, and CyHi Da Prynce. Kanye spit first and last killing it with his signature introspective, boastful, and thoughtful flow, but the most surprising came from Big Sean. He flowed with such ease and he looked like a true pro ready for the flashing lights. I got excited. After you see this, you will, too. Run it back!<br /><br /><object width="400" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/xf6je8_2111221324_webcam?additionalInfos=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/xf6je8_2111221324_webcam?additionalInfos=0" width="400" height="340" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed></object><br /><b><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xf6je8_2111221324_webcam">2111221324</a></b><br /><i>Uploaded by <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/yardie4lifever2">yardie4lifever2</a>. - <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/us/channel/webcam">Discover more webcam videos and video blogs.</a></i>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-57713319980335968742010-10-12T08:58:00.002-04:002010-10-12T09:18:37.956-04:00Morning Video: Jay Pharoah Spoofs Will Smith & Denzel WashingtonNever heard of Jay Pharoah? Well, it's time for you take notice. The 22-year-old Virginia native became the latest addition to the <em>Saturday Night Live </em>cast on September 25, making him the first African-American addition since 2003, when Keenan Thompson arrived. He's made a name for himself by impersonating celebrities like Jay-Z, Drake, President Obama, Will Smith, Denzel Washington, and others. Below, I've posted my favorite video of his when he impersonates Will Smith and Denzel Washington. It's a spoof of a behind the scenes look at why a movie between them never happened. If you don't laugh at this, you might be dead. Enjoy.<br /><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EqZGGqO6Eu0?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EqZGGqO6Eu0?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="410" height="340"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-39572411542137218302010-10-05T09:36:00.005-04:002010-10-05T09:54:27.989-04:00Morning Video: J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League on the Making of "Aston Martin Music"The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League is a group of producers you must know if you're into hip-hop. But, just in case you're not they consist of three producers (Erik "Rook" Ortiz, Kevin "Colione" Crowe, Kenny "Barto" Bartolomei) based in Tampa, FL. They took home a Grammy for Best R&B Album in 2007 for their work on Mary J. Blige's album "The Breakthrough". They've also crafted hits for Lil' Wayne, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Drake, and Fabolous among many others. This video shows their work on Rick Ross's summer banger "Aston Martin Music" featuring Drake and Chrisette Michele. The track was quite possibly the single of the summer. See how it all went down.<br /><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=15314342&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=ff6f00&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=15314342&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=ff6f00&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/15314342">Let The Story Begin - Aston Martin Music</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/decaturdan">Decatur Dan</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-46862922120192184162010-10-01T17:42:00.004-04:002010-10-01T17:49:47.664-04:00Song of the Day: Chris Brown f/ Drake, T.I., Kanye West, Fabolous, & Andre 3000 - "Dueces"Breezy recruits some of the hottest in the game and drops the remix of the year.<br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FlAhITec7lU?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FlAhITec7lU?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="410" height="340"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-21188421087523978512010-10-01T16:59:00.007-04:002010-10-01T17:10:39.375-04:00My Favorite Magazine Covers: October<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTMD4f323wauXDmuPfArVxGY6uMM9_uwXqI1ALALK2z7gRwJ4CFRrxToGrjPKAUdZTWPclyWOntR9blZc0zAzAO6TZqVEYJEtb7nXTSr3ZbduqixIiy0XFBLMnkKTOAD5h2GHmRHqbUwx/s1600/Kanye-West-XXL-October-2010.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 291px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTMD4f323wauXDmuPfArVxGY6uMM9_uwXqI1ALALK2z7gRwJ4CFRrxToGrjPKAUdZTWPclyWOntR9blZc0zAzAO6TZqVEYJEtb7nXTSr3ZbduqixIiy0XFBLMnkKTOAD5h2GHmRHqbUwx/s400/Kanye-West-XXL-October-2010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523186035289861506" /></a><br />I bought 3 copies.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4HCRGcdZX6Fw9ErzRlE9MfatUXs525mlNFDgSVJ1NBZzjVdfL4QmlbPqbG82x8LPP0-x1bKdrr-sMFmfadQq3hhwDqca-OIwqacNiRICNOcq0vsW0tcztkLAc3Md4Qyhx8jKnlws1yVJ/s1600/V+Mag+Fall+2010.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4HCRGcdZX6Fw9ErzRlE9MfatUXs525mlNFDgSVJ1NBZzjVdfL4QmlbPqbG82x8LPP0-x1bKdrr-sMFmfadQq3hhwDqca-OIwqacNiRICNOcq0vsW0tcztkLAc3Md4Qyhx8jKnlws1yVJ/s400/V+Mag+Fall+2010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523185653937741682" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiszPm_8TXSNar4fB-jnn7AVwbJeXvLfbQrpF_6dxGU7yK8TzgP5f0xw3PK2X9q4qYmrmEocWwFHMDzJS9yyrsy2Rv9rzqceIDl3Oesc2cnBYAU-gy2PqjsU44-wm4uoWQq61upqvdx0Z/s1600/Complex-KidCudi-Cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiszPm_8TXSNar4fB-jnn7AVwbJeXvLfbQrpF_6dxGU7yK8TzgP5f0xw3PK2X9q4qYmrmEocWwFHMDzJS9yyrsy2Rv9rzqceIDl3Oesc2cnBYAU-gy2PqjsU44-wm4uoWQq61upqvdx0Z/s400/Complex-KidCudi-Cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523185669491145970" /></a><br />Gaga and Marc Jacobs cover <em>V</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wWsh5jy8Op6AXw7iDvU158B_ERD9aT6R5lsTVPKQKkbc7JaNfcjrELu3Y29gVrDF8Gp49HULcVnvQtfmSv0gon802hjEjPbvRUQNrIvBguxXz6c-WucxN08O5cVbbsXriFX5Jm5Vw1Fs/s1600/Complex-NickiMinaj-Cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wWsh5jy8Op6AXw7iDvU158B_ERD9aT6R5lsTVPKQKkbc7JaNfcjrELu3Y29gVrDF8Gp49HULcVnvQtfmSv0gon802hjEjPbvRUQNrIvBguxXz6c-WucxN08O5cVbbsXriFX5Jm5Vw1Fs/s400/Complex-NickiMinaj-Cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523185662447788210" /></a><br /><em>Complex</em> dope double-cover features Kid Cudi and Nicki Minaj<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOTptFGtfcUFt_8YwnxN0VD-3q8O3IcErXEtvRBOL1Ufxh7I2Kb7tnlJH4lgLn2LvD9rBw4u970Bx6wCaBHsdxVMt_ih5p90UQp672BSwtGKn3DpRTwMvsjnJiMjsE3FppkU6u4oMR7U9/s1600/Sasha+Grey+Playboy+Cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOTptFGtfcUFt_8YwnxN0VD-3q8O3IcErXEtvRBOL1Ufxh7I2Kb7tnlJH4lgLn2LvD9rBw4u970Bx6wCaBHsdxVMt_ih5p90UQp672BSwtGKn3DpRTwMvsjnJiMjsE3FppkU6u4oMR7U9/s400/Sasha+Grey+Playboy+Cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523185640727526482" /></a><br />My favorite, ummm, actress covers <em>Playboy</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kLikT1Ejziuwx_BZtZK39zqe3PcJ1WKM0KoZkaGEN4rxoP0ASHtuTMICBolAgzTgZMmHVMq8TY-OrCK3SdRFNWgfdLh1Fk0EFaq8-NeRvbzCCdZqnCPZBxRr0SeFLZlgE2imZh0VAZXB/s1600/Elle+25th+Anniversay+Covers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 315px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kLikT1Ejziuwx_BZtZK39zqe3PcJ1WKM0KoZkaGEN4rxoP0ASHtuTMICBolAgzTgZMmHVMq8TY-OrCK3SdRFNWgfdLh1Fk0EFaq8-NeRvbzCCdZqnCPZBxRr0SeFLZlgE2imZh0VAZXB/s400/Elle+25th+Anniversay+Covers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523185631055516962" /></a><br /><em>Elle</em> 25th Anniversary cover. My favorite is the Amanda Seyfried cover"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-86756893761613309902010-10-01T11:05:00.005-04:002010-10-01T11:19:43.299-04:00Morning Muse: Beyonce's Fall 2010 Dereon Ads<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQUT5ezbM96xNuthK6kkRg5PNhFfp8k5oiqFrvpB6Ooq5a3LHX1hJvqV-wDxrVRnXh6ySThwQZ9RObfCGEGZwHo5UxR1fVcMoc6ngbRxqGYUm7E2RRbPjSJ2PtNt9bl6biDG7LQ0-twQf/s1600/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQUT5ezbM96xNuthK6kkRg5PNhFfp8k5oiqFrvpB6Ooq5a3LHX1hJvqV-wDxrVRnXh6ySThwQZ9RObfCGEGZwHo5UxR1fVcMoc6ngbRxqGYUm7E2RRbPjSJ2PtNt9bl6biDG7LQ0-twQf/s400/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523095193624719698" /></a><br /><em>"Wow, is that Beyonce?" </em>They were the first words out of my mouth as I flipped through this Fall's issue of <em>V Magazine</em>. My mouth dropped. The baddest chick in the game just got badder. Sporting outfits and fake tattoos from her Fall 2010 Ads for her clothing line Dereon, Beyonce poses and stares daringly looking sexier than (or at least as sexy) we've ever seen her. Enjoy the pics.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjowqeojWUmxcZtmo4vKwjqwL4xDdJXvn_0Ivi-fkzaLbeEOwsgiDMD4sPi23CsQre4Qmhkf3zKFBrRNWJ-RC8ucH8u3CfS1DG9tD9lsMzeOAoZyqWWPhJbPNdeBsrJ6oFxWE6pOKlZR4hX/s1600/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjowqeojWUmxcZtmo4vKwjqwL4xDdJXvn_0Ivi-fkzaLbeEOwsgiDMD4sPi23CsQre4Qmhkf3zKFBrRNWJ-RC8ucH8u3CfS1DG9tD9lsMzeOAoZyqWWPhJbPNdeBsrJ6oFxWE6pOKlZR4hX/s400/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523095198427643362" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDeI7RjlasldNafd2begWMNawNaCXTb3aYewdTvKnHnrkna8DYFnJVQ7rEvPPfAR6b_Bb83u0mOMaqLOKSVbe_JcQBoD9nFuoaLgv-x6LkbXdkYGA-lI4_ZkJaS9Zn-6AoT6iHt1VIPRB/s1600/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDeI7RjlasldNafd2begWMNawNaCXTb3aYewdTvKnHnrkna8DYFnJVQ7rEvPPfAR6b_Bb83u0mOMaqLOKSVbe_JcQBoD9nFuoaLgv-x6LkbXdkYGA-lI4_ZkJaS9Zn-6AoT6iHt1VIPRB/s400/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523095196543944242" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXH35kT6IPxetAU3nBD88lpEhS_tFs0kT9kPzdhpvSlyM3WDEkRv6vy2SPPBDzNexytNn0Dr3KO8dJX5RnQGnzTHfMxJTInGJTH-HVbOD2eEnNRqHIzuMkIYKcks84LYfN4aw_Nbgdccp/s1600/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXH35kT6IPxetAU3nBD88lpEhS_tFs0kT9kPzdhpvSlyM3WDEkRv6vy2SPPBDzNexytNn0Dr3KO8dJX5RnQGnzTHfMxJTInGJTH-HVbOD2eEnNRqHIzuMkIYKcks84LYfN4aw_Nbgdccp/s400/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523095186633854146" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXELJOnKgKsryAvaR-072RpAkf-iSUmKXvrrbShflx2AwglIxSxd9MdQKvXX_1Jk1NtSk3-SyxDDa4109c5AVnehyphenhyphen7cIO1T3tda3DYN7CCuMTREa8DCP_L1ruLYyu3jLGjh2OIx1VSKv51/s1600/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 280px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXELJOnKgKsryAvaR-072RpAkf-iSUmKXvrrbShflx2AwglIxSxd9MdQKvXX_1Jk1NtSk3-SyxDDa4109c5AVnehyphenhyphen7cIO1T3tda3DYN7CCuMTREa8DCP_L1ruLYyu3jLGjh2OIx1VSKv51/s400/Beyonce+Fall+10+Dereon2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523095182999468242" /></a>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-69746200158690564452010-10-01T10:19:00.001-04:002010-10-01T10:21:46.784-04:00Morning Video: Eminem f/ Lil' Wayne - "No Love"<object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KV2ssT8lzj8&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KV2ssT8lzj8&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="410" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />The moment I first heard this track in my SUV I just shook my head with the beat knowing it was going to be a hit. Lil’ Wayne’s verse is slow, but thorough, and it’s done so well it’s quite possibly one of my favorite verses of his (I always have the words “No love lost, no love found” in my head). Dude even appears in the video, which is just a bad-ass, surprising moment if you ask me. Eminem spits hot fire all over this song just like he does on the rest of his album <em>Recovery</em>. I like how the video is dark and more toned down than ostentatious and the storyline is pretty cool. Bottom line, bullies suck."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-79052545864261882522010-09-13T12:30:00.009-04:002010-09-13T13:09:21.531-04:00Kanye West "Runaway" Trailer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrfK4sWvTkmQ39_YOs0fldvEtJjRQ00OjmBg4XunUg0Tqx_8r4ZvZNPlRBnclH0vE4KjplLK7jwxb-nFOC9_SL0udkcdDvCqX5E0z6h5pUcOMvBzmjjZPDeF4rZst2Umo9DlXOe8N-CeP/s1600/Kanye.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrfK4sWvTkmQ39_YOs0fldvEtJjRQ00OjmBg4XunUg0Tqx_8r4ZvZNPlRBnclH0vE4KjplLK7jwxb-nFOC9_SL0udkcdDvCqX5E0z6h5pUcOMvBzmjjZPDeF4rZst2Umo9DlXOe8N-CeP/s400/Kanye.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516444227001202578" /></a><br /><em>Leave it to Kanye West to bring me out of my blogging slumber. I sat and watched the MTV Video Music Awards last night in my apartment in Pennsylvania apartment. Kanye performed his new song called "Runaway" with The Clipse's Pusha T. His performance was so simplistic, yet so memorable. I enjoyed every second (evident by my rants and "shouting" on <a href="http://twitter.com/Bryan_Payton">Twitter</a>). He recently filmed mini movie he's made, titled "Runaway" for the new single. It has a dark vibe to it, but not 808's and Heartbreak dark. The teaser was shown at last night's show and I haven't been able to get it off my mind sense. Peep the 49-second trailer below.</em><br /><br /><embed src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:uma:video:mtv.com:571625" width="410" height="340" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashVars="configParams=id%3D1647632%26vid%3D571625%26uri%3Dmgid%3Auma%3Avideo%3Amtv.com%3A571625" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" base="."></embed><div style="margin:0px;padding:4px;width:500px;text-align:center;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2010/" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">2010 MTV Video Music Awards</a> - <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2010/video.jhtml" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">More VMA Video</a></div>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-78438654229599915012010-07-09T12:08:00.007-04:002010-07-09T12:14:53.345-04:00The Lebron Effect<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPEo-5xZOxn8X5cFfs4F9-3TZi1GDS7QZcKehP9cq2XWX3R7L_W4sarseEq_f4o2ZxcE6_Cmn6dYnCp_CfQVM-Wx7QcF6sq9dFE_ZcfUmL8rpobzijFuUaWmJS8l2WxDbEUb-o6R7tl6VJ/s1600/Lebron-Gone.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 219px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPEo-5xZOxn8X5cFfs4F9-3TZi1GDS7QZcKehP9cq2XWX3R7L_W4sarseEq_f4o2ZxcE6_Cmn6dYnCp_CfQVM-Wx7QcF6sq9dFE_ZcfUmL8rpobzijFuUaWmJS8l2WxDbEUb-o6R7tl6VJ/s400/Lebron-Gone.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491939181251824322" /></a><br />I’m not sure where to begin about Lebron James’ decision and all the hoopla of last night. So, I’ll just jump right into it. I don’t want to break down why him going to Miami is a good or bad thing because there’s so much else that went on last night and there will be plenty of time for player talk. But, for the record, I was surprised he chose Miami, but I’m still excited he did.<br /><br />I spent much of the day functioning while checking my Twitter feed on my blackberry. The outrage of so many for Lebron having an hour special was enormous, yet ridiculous. People came at me about how “Lebron thinks he’s bigger than the game”, “He’s going about this all wrong”, “He’s a quitter”, “I have no respect for him”. And on and on. <br /><br />First of all, Lebron decided an hour special was good idea to raise money for the Boys and Girls Club charities. Secondly, he has never said anything about being bigger than the game. He’s only said and demonstrated the opposite. He’s the ultimate distributor on and off the court. <br /><br />People said he went for the money. Not true. He left $30 million plus on the table by not signing with Cleveland. He’s preached TEAM all along and said that he wants to win. Period. Some say he’s big headed and has a big ego. If that were true he wouldn’t go to a team where it was unclear who the best player was (a number one trending topic on Twitter was people were calling him the new Scottie Pippen). If he was all about himself and being the man, he would’ve gone elsewhere to be the clear number one guy. He didn’t do that. He thanked Cleveland for everything they’d done for them. He explained he was sorry he couldn’t bring them a championship. He didn’t even react when his jersey was being burned. Some said he quit on his team in the playoffs. Since when is having bad games quitting? He looks for his teammates, his shot may be off at times, hell, he may even get tired at times. None of that is quitting. It’s part of the game. So what is there not to like about the guy? You tell me.<br /><br />Following Lebron’s decision, Cavs owner Dan Gilbert lost his mind when he wrote a public letter to the fans. Instead of telling you what he said, I’ll let you read it for yourself.<br /><br /><em>Dear Cleveland, All Of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers Supporters Wherever You May Be Tonight; <br /><br />As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier. <br /><br />This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his "decision" unlike anything ever "witnessed" in the history of sports and probably the history of entertainment. <br /><br />Clearly, this is bitterly disappointing to all of us. <br /><br />The good news is that the ownership team and the rest of the hard-working, loyal, and driven staff over here at your hometown Cavaliers have not betrayed you nor NEVER will betray you. <br /><br />There is so much more to tell you about the events of the recent past and our more than exciting future. Over the next several days and weeks, we will be communicating much of that to you. <br /><br />You simply don't deserve this kind of cowardly betrayal. <br /><br />You have given so much and deserve so much more. <br /><br />In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight: <br /><br />"I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE" <br /><br />You can take it to the bank. <br /><br />If you thought we were motivated before tonight to bring the hardware to Cleveland, I can tell you that this shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels. <br /><br />Some people think they should go to heaven but NOT have to die to get there. <br /><br />Sorry, but that's simply not how it works. <br /><br />This shocking act of disloyalty from our home grown "chosen one" sends the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn. And "who" we would want them to grow-up to become. <br /><br />But the good news is that this heartless and callous action can only serve as the antidote to the so-called "curse" on Cleveland, Ohio. <br /><br />The self-declared former "King" will be taking the "curse" with him down south. And until he does "right" by Cleveland and Ohio, James (and the town where he plays) will unfortunately own this dreaded spell and bad karma. <br /><br />Just watch. <br /><br />Sleep well, Cleveland. <br /><br />Tomorrow is a new and much brighter day.... <br /><br />I PROMISE you that our energy, focus, capital, knowledge and experience will be directed at one thing and one thing only: <br /><br />DELIVERING YOU the championship you have long deserved and is long overdue.... <br /><br />Dan Gilbert<br />Majority Owner<br />Cleveland Cavaliers</em><br /><br />Classless . That’s the first word that comes to mind. He’s the owner, but he sounds like a bum at some bar in Cleveland. He’s way out line. Gilbert gave a lot of talk about loyalty. Mike Brown had the best NBA record for two years straight. He was fired. Where’s the loyalty there?<br />Players are consistently blind-sided by trades every year. They find out while on cruises, from the ESPN ticker, from fans, etc. People complain all day about how players need to be loyal and not chase the money. If that’s the case, the front office needs to be held to the same standard. They fire people and chase money all the time. <br /><br />Dan Gilbert must learn one thing: Fans, especially in Cleveland, are fickle. They’ll show up if you’re good, they won’t if you’re bad. So, there’s absolutely no need for him to be spouting off to all the fans about how he thinks Lebron is disloyal a narcissist, and a coward. The fans can’t win games. Players do. Last night Dan Gilbert killed himself in the player/agent world. If I’m an NBA player or agent I’m in no hurry to ever discuss anything with him. No deals, no money, trades, and especially not free agency.<br /><br />That’s another thing that Gilbert lost sight of in all this. Lebron was a free agent. That means he’s free to work wherever he wants! He’s earned that right. He owes nothing to Dan Gilbert or to Cleveland for that matter. He’s lived and played there for years. He entered a business where you use your body to make your living. Making as much money as possible is important because you could be cut, traded, or released at any moment. It’s a business. Also, it’s not like Lebron said ‘I hate the city the city and am never coming back.’ He made the best decision for him and his family – the decision that makes him happiest. Shouldn’t we all be doing that in our lives? Why criticize someone for doing so? It makes no sense. He obviously still loves Cleveland. It’s his home, but he just chose to work somewhere else. Cleveland fans will survive."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-60343496670979466712010-07-06T15:24:00.006-04:002010-07-06T15:59:35.113-04:00Kanye West's Horus Chain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcRLd0efaxTAkviqgo6PZ3Srw0EBj9OozacPhd9AHitXe2Oya3h9-0q4yl5BoTYMaVjOiQrd6auBOneeNWTavq8wS-AADcig0SJXr5-c_lfC-cGFY9Aq3wufysQELOz8CgWZCQxR6BGkr/s1600/KanyeChain_Lead.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcRLd0efaxTAkviqgo6PZ3Srw0EBj9OozacPhd9AHitXe2Oya3h9-0q4yl5BoTYMaVjOiQrd6auBOneeNWTavq8wS-AADcig0SJXr5-c_lfC-cGFY9Aq3wufysQELOz8CgWZCQxR6BGkr/s400/KanyeChain_Lead.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490885332076245746" /></a><br />Kanye West made his triumphant return from exile by opening the BET Awards on June 27 with his new single, "Power". While he rocked his performance on top of a faux mountain rapping to everyone down below, I couldn't help but notice the huge chain hanging from his neck. All of us Kanye fans have grown accustomed to the Jesus piece he consistently wore. But this was no Jesus piece.<br /><br />It was a "Horus" chain custom made for him by the often hip-hop name-dropped "Jacob the Jeweler". According to mythology, a Horus is the ancient Egyptian god of the sun, son or borther of Osiris and Isis, represented as having the head of a hawk. Horus means "the high-flying one."<br /><br />According to multiple websites, the chain costs a reportedly $300,000. I'm wondering if Kanye will rock the chain elsewhere or if it was just for the performance. Either way, I'm elated to see him back. Word is, his album, titled Good Ass Job, drops September 14th.<br /><br />Check more pics and the video Kanye's performance below.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDSUPHASpw8HbgJSlmOyftvNrc2F94GUiSW6_xYGb_sdxTjwXKZWE441Yr2_5Qfj-f6BzCxB8tcTSdWLmWDnGcYABwRhqO_Nt5ODKfywT_EPkFkQOgRFpHqIF23TOa38TjJWlI2Qf_qjE/s1600/KanyeChain1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDSUPHASpw8HbgJSlmOyftvNrc2F94GUiSW6_xYGb_sdxTjwXKZWE441Yr2_5Qfj-f6BzCxB8tcTSdWLmWDnGcYABwRhqO_Nt5ODKfywT_EPkFkQOgRFpHqIF23TOa38TjJWlI2Qf_qjE/s400/KanyeChain1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490881911902781106" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxD5afbkcoH5BQvU_erVxMWlrxBThAD_AdA0S64aJldZ3bsWZQfY-A9rrRtmbVwtLJCk022xwFBv6N3Qux6hVJG_BuBXWRga8jhtFPIbc6CLw0a9iUe-t_UrtmW378OsLfz52hOPfHnO8e/s1600/KanyeChain2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxD5afbkcoH5BQvU_erVxMWlrxBThAD_AdA0S64aJldZ3bsWZQfY-A9rrRtmbVwtLJCk022xwFBv6N3Qux6hVJG_BuBXWRga8jhtFPIbc6CLw0a9iUe-t_UrtmW378OsLfz52hOPfHnO8e/s400/KanyeChain2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490881900763677890" /></a><br /><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/xdutks_kanye-west-power-performance_music"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/xdutks_kanye-west-power-performance_music" width="410" height="340" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-86531430196437761422010-07-06T00:07:00.009-04:002010-07-06T01:02:50.309-04:00Mad Men. Nice Style.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9mLdk9Jc4Tmwx82V0KajcnKk1YQEIw4JnPdBWmnoYTgv799OFjmIpp0O_JXWD5QA-9NRmuByLNG2mlKNsSO7HSzJuM-3nafSTAFAyxRaTN2bxZFLgOMD96JSDk015sTkvySBcKDlgsUg/s1600/mad-men-cast.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9mLdk9Jc4Tmwx82V0KajcnKk1YQEIw4JnPdBWmnoYTgv799OFjmIpp0O_JXWD5QA-9NRmuByLNG2mlKNsSO7HSzJuM-3nafSTAFAyxRaTN2bxZFLgOMD96JSDk015sTkvySBcKDlgsUg/s400/mad-men-cast.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490653453833988082" /></a><br />I've only watched <em>Mad Men </em>in passing. I know, I know. Big mistake on my part. While I may be late in becoming a regular viewer of the show, I've always admired the style. <em>GQ</em> and <em>Esquire</em> fell in love with the look, therefore, so did I. I've even adopted it with a couple of dark, tailored suites, crisp white shirts, and the famous straight, white pocket square. Word is the outfits have been slightly toned down for the season 4 premiering July 25.<br /><br />If my roommate and I decide to get cable I will be watching it. Although I'm not sure I'll know what's going on, as I'll be drooling over Christina Hendricks.<br /><br />Check out this video featuring <em>Mad Men </em>costume designer Janie Bryant giving a preview of the clothes you can expect to see in season 4.<br /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f8/1119352258" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=104611123001&playerId=1119352258&viewerSecureGatewayURL=https://console.brightcove.com/services/amfgateway&servicesURL=http://services.brightcove.com/services&cdnURL=http://admin.brightcove.com&domain=embed&autoStart=false&" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="410" height="340" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-60011030936451724312010-07-05T16:17:00.006-04:002010-07-05T17:42:38.700-04:00Meet Uffie. Hot Mama with a Hot Album.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lwIXPhzOKLlPJ0_1Pgpflvh60guhaz3DQcVeXpi07Qvuc-wp5Ls6INZN992_iqsZTYpR0S4TBm6Cb_Nj9HL9kgmAn5SZjT9RWJt1x6YYH3UklkXVGFz76PgE8yPtrlDZFCY7OmsE8J20/s1600/Uffie-All.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lwIXPhzOKLlPJ0_1Pgpflvh60guhaz3DQcVeXpi07Qvuc-wp5Ls6INZN992_iqsZTYpR0S4TBm6Cb_Nj9HL9kgmAn5SZjT9RWJt1x6YYH3UklkXVGFz76PgE8yPtrlDZFCY7OmsE8J20/s400/Uffie-All.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490537518163167570" /></a><br />I was browsing through the iTunes store last week sampling new music when I came across a unique sound of electro hip-hop/pop from an artist who I found to be sexy, but one I'd never heard of. Who was this artist? Her name is Uffie.<br /><br />I listened to the 30-second snippet of all 17 tracks on her studio debut album <em>Sex Dreams and Denim Jeans </em>(released June 11) and was really impressed. She sounds like an artist who won't sell a hell of a lot, but she'll garner a strong niche audience. I'm also betting she probably puts on one hell of a concert. <br /><br />Born in Miami, raised in Hong Kong, and living in Paris, Uffie is a sassy young thing who raps tough lyrics over auto-tuned, synthy beats. The media have already compared her sound to Ke$ha. Uffie was recently interviewed by <em>Complex</em> magazine where she addressed that issue along with tattoos, hickeys, and guns. It turns out she's a 22-year-old divorcee and just had a daughter. But, before you say "Yikes!", know that this sexy mama still loves to party and her music reflects it. I have yet to buy her album, but I will soon. So, count me in that special niche. And yes, I think she's better than Ke$ha.<br /><br />Below is her video for her first single "Pop The Glock"<br /><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/E1v2PtoxwNo&hl=en_US&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/E1v2PtoxwNo&hl=en_US&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="410" height="340"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-35184896555759649002010-07-05T10:12:00.006-04:002010-07-05T11:38:10.142-04:00Designer Spotlight: Kelly Framel<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcK-iePoYgfIvlubv-bnQ2AbssouLj5los-H69laFPhu327719On00PQD6Duh8vxurvjEJJHqOD9ufoT2MhlkqcM86hVt8VVK-ESyJlC36jgFbaK7_xD2BnkvxDpQgTNx63JoC808PadTj/s1600/kelly_framel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcK-iePoYgfIvlubv-bnQ2AbssouLj5los-H69laFPhu327719On00PQD6Duh8vxurvjEJJHqOD9ufoT2MhlkqcM86hVt8VVK-ESyJlC36jgFbaK7_xD2BnkvxDpQgTNx63JoC808PadTj/s400/kelly_framel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490443495681875826" /></a><br /><br />What comes to mind when you think of jewelry, Texas, and fashion? Probably gaudy cuff links, pins, and topaz pendants. But rising jewelry designer/stylist/blogger Kelly Framel goes against the norm.<br /><br />A native of Austin, Texas and graduate of the fashion school at the University of Texas in Austin, the 26-year-old Framel's style resembles very little of her Texan roots. She mixes styles from the 1920's through 1970's, loves a garcon look, caftans, chiffons, and vibrant prints. Her blog, <a href="http://www.theglamourai.com/">theglamourai.blogspot.com </a>shows off her personal style and sartorial prowess. <br /><br />I've long admired Framel without really knowing anything about her. I saw a picture of her on a fashion blog over a year ago and it stopped me in my tracks. She was stunning, sexy, hip, and chic. She's an "it" girl. You can't take your eyes off her. She came to mind yesterday as I equated her looks to a friend of mine (and yes, she's stunning, too.)<br /><br />Among others, Framel has worked for designer Naeem Khan, known for his impeccably cut dresses, gowns, and chic embroidery all done by hand. His long list of celebrity clientele include Beyonce, Eva Longoria, Michelle Obama, Elizabeth Taylor, and Queen Noor of Jordan. <br /><br />Framel recently released her capsule jewelry collection for Shrimpton Couture. An assembly of avant-garde pieces with an elegant DIY spirit, she's designed something for every woman.<br /><br />With her jewelry embodying her cool, chic, ambitious, free-spirited lifestyle it's safe to say she should be on your next shopping and gift-list. Even if her jewelry roots are from Texas.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJmhvuuNUQfBS78-GTb9z1kWgSgJu5OD9PU9Jk1K5OlWtsazc7WeD52dR6yuvxHqlnFbEMFoXOv_k6MFT1MFjYHBqY_UjU7kQ-6Qg_pUAJsNrwoUmbQoBirHTLRFq8IF61m8ucEMG9oCoI/s1600/kelly_framel1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJmhvuuNUQfBS78-GTb9z1kWgSgJu5OD9PU9Jk1K5OlWtsazc7WeD52dR6yuvxHqlnFbEMFoXOv_k6MFT1MFjYHBqY_UjU7kQ-6Qg_pUAJsNrwoUmbQoBirHTLRFq8IF61m8ucEMG9oCoI/s400/kelly_framel1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490443482878459410" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYLRm_q1UsiBKD2Z2xFuDFbHBpiyDLEiTcZhsWKQmsvRFaJViQ6ybWM9eLKo1uOGllAXmNpUZHJWVWIi1ktJF-3rMIObl4BGCMcTVNrhwTl1Hgbv5fO5_8FXjcuJgnhbLY1B0jQoM8mWV/s1600/kelly_framel2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYLRm_q1UsiBKD2Z2xFuDFbHBpiyDLEiTcZhsWKQmsvRFaJViQ6ybWM9eLKo1uOGllAXmNpUZHJWVWIi1ktJF-3rMIObl4BGCMcTVNrhwTl1Hgbv5fO5_8FXjcuJgnhbLY1B0jQoM8mWV/s400/kelly_framel2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490443476417939090" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://twitter.com/theglamourai">Follow Kelly Framel on Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://twitter.com/Bryan_Payton">Follow Me on Twitter</a>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-27858274200392516072010-06-17T09:25:00.003-04:002010-06-17T09:42:19.933-04:00Jay-Z Brings Out Kanye West at Isle of Wight FestivalJay-Z headlined the Isle of Wight Festival in the UK last weekend. During his set he brought out a special guest - Kanye West. West has slowly but surely been easing his way back into the spotlight. Two weeks ago he released his the first single titled, "Power" off of his upcoming album Good Ass Job due out in September. He's also performing at the BET Awards on June 27. Watch as Mr. West shocks the crowd and prove that the best way to be forgiven is to rock a show.<br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FnCNWl1DFoA&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FnCNWl1DFoA&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="410" height="340"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-70965504363804577502010-06-16T19:01:00.005-04:002010-06-16T19:28:03.918-04:00The Infamous (and awkward) Kobe Bryant Press Confrence<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJiKm77aTbqplZDR1QWyqDRa8hHhP4h0cpKLLZSTxUC4AseUCpVtZxsp3ngdY7TvKZBIRXxBuXYeKQRgW_Hw9PXApTzRs1KwafrWjC6HkLsj4MJ-l7s8Ls96nfZ6Ordy6Yexe18Myvepl/s1600/kobe+presser.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 317px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJiKm77aTbqplZDR1QWyqDRa8hHhP4h0cpKLLZSTxUC4AseUCpVtZxsp3ngdY7TvKZBIRXxBuXYeKQRgW_Hw9PXApTzRs1KwafrWjC6HkLsj4MJ-l7s8Ls96nfZ6Ordy6Yexe18Myvepl/s400/kobe+presser.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483516021375827154" /></a><br />You're sure sportswriters everywhere just <em>love</em> to interview Kobe Bryant, right? Wrong. The best player in the NBA is also the worst interview in the NBA - in press conferences anyway. A journalism friend of mine sent me a link to this video full of Kobe's press conference highlights. The Lakers star has it down to a science. Simply, give a series of one-word answers, cliches, sarcastic laughs, and rub your face when annoyed and wallah! You've successfully mastered the worst press conference interview ever. <br /><br />I know Kobe does speak more in some interviews, but his lack of printable answers in press conferences is ridiculous at times. My dad thinks he speaks less in pressers because he doesn't want to give any bulletin board material. That may be true, but I think Kobe's easily bothered by lots of questions. As a former athlete, I know the feeling (although nowhere near to the same extent). If the Lakers win Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Celtics tomorrow night, I'm sure Kobe will have plenty more to say... I hope.<br /><br /><object width="410" height="340" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="ep"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><param name="movie" value="http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/swf/1.1/cvp/nba_embed_container.swf?context=nba&videoId=channels/playoffs/2010/06/15/PRESS_COnFERENCE_KOBE.nba" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000" /><embed src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/.element/swf/1.1/cvp/nba_embed_container.swf?context=nba&videoId=channels/playoffs/2010/06/15/PRESS_COnFERENCE_KOBE.nba" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" wmode="transparent" height="340"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-28658423809187305232010-06-16T11:38:00.006-04:002010-06-16T11:59:47.097-04:00Album Review: Drake - Thank Me Later<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIiIEsc_8Fc1aE30suD7BiBwxo4DoAqI-BReZAUtUonq1wyamq_-dEJgRqC8Kv7ZLlE4QzHhY2EvQ1csMVZcynimU-nMeH6JZ3R_OChGiBnTFes4Z5feaIkFmtxqOkC4SU9ocOUGPWdcVf/s1600/drake-thank-me-later.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 398px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIiIEsc_8Fc1aE30suD7BiBwxo4DoAqI-BReZAUtUonq1wyamq_-dEJgRqC8Kv7ZLlE4QzHhY2EvQ1csMVZcynimU-nMeH6JZ3R_OChGiBnTFes4Z5feaIkFmtxqOkC4SU9ocOUGPWdcVf/s400/drake-thank-me-later.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483397111616707138" /></a><br /><strong>Grade: A-</strong><br /><br /><strong>My Three Favorite Tracks: "Light Up", "Fireworks", "Over"</strong><br /><br />What does it mean to keep it real? In hip-hop keeping it real has often meant keeping your eye to the streets or “the game” from which you come from - to display a reality to many who know nothing of the sort.<br /><br />Drake redefines what it means to keep it real. On his debut album <em>Thank Me Later </em>the Canadian actor turned rap phenom doesn’t rap about the streets, clubbing, or thug life. He raps about emotion and proves that a rapper doesn’t have to be hard all the time to keep it real. Like his famed mixtape <em>So Far Gone</em>, he’s vulnerable, meditative, and honest. He shifts hip-hop from the streets to modern introspection for everyone to hear and even relate to. A concept first explored in 2008 by Kanye West’s <em>808’s and Heartbreak</em>, and later followed by Kid Cudi’s <em>Man on the Moon</em>, Drake consistently displays the ability to make you feel something. <br /><br />Part of what separates Drake from others is, despite his subsistent fame, his style makes him touchable. In contrast, listen to Jay-Z or his mentor, Lil’ Wayne. They’re lyrics, style, and personas make them untouchable and difficult to relate to. Drake speaks to most. He’s afraid, still seeks fame, and is humbled by it. He hurts, feels, and reflects in a refreshing way that’s further enhanced by his solid, nasally tone and tight flow. <br /><br />The album’s first single, “Over” hits you with a surprising hook that speaks to young people wanting to live the life and be successful. It’s a triumphant opening single, solidifying his ascendance to hip-hop celebrity status. The second single, “Find Your Love” is closer to the rest of the album, which is a distant, misty fog full of harmonious tones and wavy synthesizers, and a trance of 808 drums. Even up-tempo tracks “Fancy”, “Unforgettable”, and “Miss Me” fade into a foggy coda.<br /><br />The subdued Drake shines as it is in those moments when we are invited into the depths of Drake’s mind and flow. Few artists are able to display such a sense of restraint while giving you so much. Drake consistently takes strong chances with long verses, shocking beats, unique jerky hooks, and personal lyrics. His trademark variations in vocal levels create a different feel to every verse, which is something rarely heard. Songs like “Fireworks” and “Shut It Down” linger but their melodic tones capture you like an arresting symphony. <br /><br /><em>Thank Me Later </em>features cameos from heavy-hitters Alicia Keys, T.I., Swizz Beats, The Dream, Young Jeezy, Nicki Minaj, and Jay-Z. However, the only truly memorable verse was delivered by Jay-Z on “Light Up”. Drake succeeds in not being outdone on his own album. <br /><br />Many will call Drake’s debut average partially due to its hype, but upon a further look, <em>Thank Me Later </em>is complete - meant to be heard from start to finish. It has no wasted tracks and each song complements the other. It reads like a story book, ending with “Thank Me Now” – a triumphant, boastful finale with an infectious beat. Drake pulls off being himself and telling his stories. They’re stories better than most our own. They’re stories that make keeping it real realer than you knew it could get."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-64948092559153920672010-06-14T08:20:00.005-04:002010-06-14T09:08:59.573-04:00Song of the Day: Common ft. Lily Allen - "Drivin' Me Wild"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdRl4DCBdK0TlwngeYVyDTRf8B68iFc8Pe2H0MjM4_g5edspb6wOFAyAtn_gey6x_ivZZVaMlhGMn1loj4pZ9cHBeJoEynXal15-l25OIAcB5qQBM7VN-pjrE3XF8tWjkHrkNdj9-j4js/s1600/common-lily-allen.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdRl4DCBdK0TlwngeYVyDTRf8B68iFc8Pe2H0MjM4_g5edspb6wOFAyAtn_gey6x_ivZZVaMlhGMn1loj4pZ9cHBeJoEynXal15-l25OIAcB5qQBM7VN-pjrE3XF8tWjkHrkNdj9-j4js/s400/common-lily-allen.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482615564333681602" /></a><br />I bought my first Common CD last week, which is inexcusable. He is one of the best rappers to ever touch a mic and his political and societal-conscious lyrics are second to none. For some reason I never bought his CD's. My official intro into the Common world was serviced by his <em>Finding Forever</em> CD, released in July of 2007. I've been a fan of Common ever since he released his single "Retrospect For Life" featuring Lauryn Hill back in the early '90's. Now, I'm on a mission to get every CD he's released. His latest release was the techno-funk inspired <em>Universal Mind Control</em> released in December 2008. And word is he's currently working on his next one possibly due out later this year or early next.<br /><br />The video below is "Drivin' Me Wild" featuring English pop star Lily Allen. It's a single off of <em>Finding Forever </em>and is one of my favorite Common tracks. Enjoy. <br /><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV70704594&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV70704594&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object>"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-45372851884646868302010-05-28T22:30:00.014-04:002010-05-29T01:39:25.776-04:00Why the greatest racer in the country isn't in the Indy 500The two most dominant drivers in the country won’t be racing in the Indianapolis 500 tomorrow. They might not even be in attendance. Race fans will debate over who will take the checkered flag this year. Will Helio repeat? Or how about Danica? Scott Dixon maybe? While hundreds of thousands will gather in Indy to witness speed at its greatest on its biggest stage the future of racing lies in two kids who are years from being able to drive legally.<br /><br />Who are these whippersnappers, you ask? Meet Santino Ferruci, an 11 year-old from Woodbury, Connecticut with the racing smarts of a seasoned veteran and swagger to back up every one of his towering trophies, and Jack Miller Jr., a confident and fearless six year-old from Westfield, Indiana who’s been racing since age four and has never been beaten.<br /><br />So who’s the better driver? Let’s take a look.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichyphenhyphenCJIPz5dnvcv-q3URLrlCYSxdV3kTnxjTE1ivOk5NbzFd5cf2Dr-2adBilc9O_bNhaDHvf-xcsXjHnDdi4UroewZU1W1KB6FkRuL63j6J5l8kH8H_2Bca-lqGNtyRBD_cnfjHI1iKGL/s1600/Santino.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 279px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichyphenhyphenCJIPz5dnvcv-q3URLrlCYSxdV3kTnxjTE1ivOk5NbzFd5cf2Dr-2adBilc9O_bNhaDHvf-xcsXjHnDdi4UroewZU1W1KB6FkRuL63j6J5l8kH8H_2Bca-lqGNtyRBD_cnfjHI1iKGL/s400/Santino.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476514619148566130" /></a><br /><strong>Santino Ferrucci </strong>– “The most dominant young racer in America.” –<em>GQ</em><br /><br /><strong>Featured in</strong>: <em>GQ</em> magazine, May issue (by Josh Dean)<br /><br /><strong>Record</strong>: Hasn’t lost in over 2 years in the U.S. Northeast Region<br /><br /><strong>Weight</strong>: 60 pounds<br /><br /><strong>Toughness</strong>: Has flipped on 5 occasions. No injuries.<br /><br /><strong>Pedigree</strong>: Supportive father<br /><br /><strong>Racing Idols</strong>: Michael Shumacher, Lewis Hamilton<br /><br /><strong>Beats kids older than him</strong>: Yes<br /><br /><strong>Home track</strong>: Oakland Valley Race Park in Cuddeback, NY<br /><br /><strong>Swagger</strong>: Nickname "Smooth" has nothing to do with racing. From <em>GQ</em>: <em>One night Santino dined with his dad at a Florida Hooters when Santino wandered off and was spotted chatting up a gaggle of waitresses. A good while later, he came back and said, “Dad, I’m going to the movies with them at nine. Don’t worry – it’s right across the street.” </em><br /><br /><strong>Legend</strong>: Wins all of his races with blurry vision. He’s getting glasses soon. He says he wins because he has great “hand talent” which he says means “knowing when to turn.” <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R7lLufjP2mVdWjohvDIB5HRd4YenEF44Ipic2NMnASQQshjSPUM0mddP11wcHy7iNYM1PMFs3aeagqaYDHhdatHmCwnX-QyVNXngPP7O51fQyvSgtHOlh_ZyfDfF0kP-GEyrE156Mbrq/s1600/Jack+Miller.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R7lLufjP2mVdWjohvDIB5HRd4YenEF44Ipic2NMnASQQshjSPUM0mddP11wcHy7iNYM1PMFs3aeagqaYDHhdatHmCwnX-QyVNXngPP7O51fQyvSgtHOlh_ZyfDfF0kP-GEyrE156Mbrq/s400/Jack+Miller.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476515201480212898" /></a><br /><strong>Jack Miller Jr.</strong> – “The winner of the 2025 Indianapolis 500.” –<em>Indianapolis Monthly</em><br /><br /><strong>Featured in</strong>: <em>Indianapolis Monthly</em> magazine, May issue (by Daniel S. Comiskey)<br /><br /><strong>Record</strong>: Unbeaten<br /><br /><strong>Weight</strong>: 40 pounds<br /><br /><strong>Toughness</strong>: Watched video of his dad’s career ending fiery crash in 2001 and earned his own trip to the hospital by flipping his kart. None of it scares him.<br /><br /><strong>Pedigree</strong>: His dad, Jack Miller Sr., raced in the Indianapolis 500 from 1997-1999<br /><br /><strong>Racing Idol</strong>: His dad<br /><br /><strong>Beats kids older than him</strong>: Yes<br /><br /><strong>Home track</strong>: The one in his back yard built by his dad.<br /><br /><strong>Winning quote</strong>: “I want to win every race. It will be easy. I’m going to lap the entire field. They try to beat me, but they never will.”<br /><br /><strong>Swagger</strong>: While I was talking to his dad over the phone, Jack Jr. yelled from the background, “There’s just no competition!”<br /><br /><strong>Legend</strong>: Decided to start a race in last even though he had won the pole (which would enable him to start first) because races were too easy. He still won."Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223423758742367122.post-89018660184200733822010-05-13T17:13:00.002-04:002010-05-13T17:27:38.060-04:00Music Videos That Move You...Or Make You MoveMusic videos are one of my favorite art forms besides the music itself. I feel videos are in a really good place right now, especially with summer upon us. The storylines are unique and/or haven’t been seen in a while, particularly in hip-hop and R&B. Even the ones that aren’t so creative have elements of excitement in them. I’ve decided to feature six of my current favorites from Drake, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Diddy, and Ciara along with my thoughts afterwords. Listen to them, let them move you, or make you move… even if you can’t quite move like Ciara. And ladies, I know you’re going to go home and try. Enjoy.<br /><br /><strong>Drake – “Find Your Love”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USCMV1000026&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USCMV1000026&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />First of all, “Find Your Love” is quite a risk for Drake. Why? Well, it’s produced by Kanye West (not a risk), but it has more of a somber 808’s and Heartbreak feel more than raw hip-hop like his previous single “Over”. Nevertheless, Drake hits this one out the park, meaning the risk was worth it. <br /><br />As for the video itself, I think the idea and storyline is great. I saw a very funny tweet on Twitter the other day about this video. It read, “Let Drake’s ‘Find Your Love’ be a lesson to you all. Don’t ever chase a girl to Jamaica and dutty wine with her in the club. She will kill you.”<br /><br />Hilarious. <br /><br /><strong>Alicia Keys - “Un-thinkable (I’m Ready)”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USJRV1000011&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USJRV1000011&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />Beautiful song. The video is emotional and touches on a subject that absurdly still bothers some today: Interracial love. I love how the settings switch back and forth between point of views times and the emotion of the actors feels real. Great song, even better video. <br /><br /><strong>Mary J. Blige f/ Trey Songz – “We Got Hood Love”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV71000912&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV71000912&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />The queen of R&B is sharper than ever. This song is classic Mary, yet the tune is so modern and new. I really like the plot of the video, it touches on the one thing that will make or break a relationship: trust. Waiting on their men to come home, wondering if he’s out doing dirt, is a feeling many women everywhere are all too familiar with. This video shows it well. If you’ve got that “hood love” you’ll withstand anything.<br /><br /><strong>Usher f/ Will.i.am – “OMG”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USLV41000004&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USLV41000004&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />Autotune is not dead (sorry Jigga) and neither are drop-crotch pants (I wish they were). Usher rocked this Will.i.am produced track and showed out in the video with his signature dance moves and smooth R&B look. I can’t say there’s much creativity in this video, but I like the song and I enjoy watching Usher dance… and peep the red pocket square with the white blazer. I will be stealing that look.<br /><br /><strong>Diddy: Dirty Money f/ Rick Ross & T.I. – “Hello Good Morning”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV71000945&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USUV71000945&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />Nothing creative or new about this video. Everything is done on a large scale just how Diddy likes, I can dig it. I like Dirty Money’s look and the song makes me wanna dance. <br /><br /><strong>Ciara f/ Ludacris – “Ride”</strong><br /><object width="410" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USLV41000009&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded"></param><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.vevo.com/VideoPlayer/Embedded?videoId=USLV41000009&playlist=false&autoplay=0&playerId=62FF0A5C-0D9E-4AC1-AF04-1D9E97EE3961&playerType=embedded" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="410" height="340" bgcolor="#000000"></embed></object><br />Uh…ummm… er… Go Braves!"Pops"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05445450486394509882noreply@blogger.com0