More Random Videos...

I feel like there's been nothing but videos coming my way. I let Hulk get its own post just to let it marinate amongst all of the comic book heads...

Here's dead prez talking about their collabo with K-Salaam



Amanda Diva's latest episode...hey that hoody looks awfully familiar...



Fall Out Boy's rendition of "Beat It". Via OnSmash.

NEW INCREDIBLE HULK TRAILER

I got wind of this through First Showing...

Aright, it looks a little better, but it still doesn't rank up there with Iron Man , (which I might add there's a The Dark Knight(scene-by-scene description of the soon to be released trailer over at MTV), or Hellboy 2.

Wasalu Finally Goes Gold

Via Big Ced:

“LUPE FIASCO’S THE COOL,” the chart-topping second album from 1st & 15th/Atlantic recording artist Lupe Fiasco, has been certified gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000. The critically acclaimed album – which features the hit singles, “Superstar (Feat. Matthew Santos)” and “Hip-Hop Saved My Life (Feat. Nikki Jean)” –debuted on Billboard’s “Top Rap Albums” chart at #1 upon its December 2007 release, and remained in the peak position for nine weeks.

Yay 'Lu...you finally made it. You're album, The Cool, has gone gold--which in this era is a crowning achievement. With that said I hope you're retirement LP, LupEND, sees the same success. On a personal note, I thought Food & Liquor was a better album, but The Cool served well as a follow up. Congrats.

Random Videos....

Since a lot of videos came my way today i figure I share them with the world....

IGN.com - Decoding Metal Gear Solid 4


Metal Gear Solid 4 video (via IGN on Myspace TV)



Buckshot & 9th Wonder "Formula" video



The Roots & David Banner Live. Via OnSmash. Haven't heard from Banner in a minute.

Pat Riley Says "Thank You And You're Welcome"

My bad for being late with this one. If anyone hadn't gotten the memo, here it is. Pat Riley, the Knicks coach who preceded Jeff Van Gundy, announced on Monday, his retirement from coaching professional basketball:

Pat Riley, 63, retired from coaching Monday, almost assuredly for the last time. He’ll still run the Heat from the president’s chair, but after a painful 15-win season of trades, turmoil and injuries, he seems to have had more than enough.

“I’m tired,” he said. “No regrets.”

He had come to fame as a stylish, ultra-cool 36-year-old, pacing the sideline in Los Angeles in Armani suits that seemed to redefine the job of NBA coach. He was no glorified gym teacher or curmudgeonly old disciplinarian. He was as much “Showtime” as Magic and Kareem; the Laker girls and Jack Nicholson. Soon nearly every coach in the league was working the coaching box like it was a fashion week runway.

The NBA’s youngest coach won a world championship his first season, 1981-82, by relating to his players. The Lakers would go on to win three more titles under him in the 1980s, playing with a passion and flair that drove the NBA to unthinkable popularity.

Then he went on to stints with the Knicks and the Heat where he changed everything. He preached physical defense and ball-control offense, demanded intense effort and focus, and was so unrelenting in practice that even into his 60s he wasn’t afraid to challenge his players to a fight if necessary.

Via Yahoo!

The story about the rosary beads is great if you read the article. Yes folks, the man responsible for leading the Miami Heat to their 1 championship, the NY Knicks to the '94 Championship (the one in which they lost), and trademarking the word "three-peat" has called it quits.

Random News...

If the Celtics lose, then it is officially NOT Boston's years...(via Yahoo!)...even if the Red Sox win the World Series

A few years late, but so what...take a trip down SNES lane in style..(via Engadget)

Ghostface scene cut from the Iron Man movie?...(via Nah Right)...Arggh!

Andre 3-Stacks mixtape...(via 2 Dope Boyz)..how sweet it is!

Howard Dean giving Hilary and Obama a June deadline...(via AM NY)

Man pleads guilty to hate crime charges related to Jena Six marchers...(via Highbrid Nation)...just another example of racism..it's always racism...

Gay couple denied marriage license...(via AM NY)..someone mentioned this to me on the phone yesterday. I found it interesting given the timing, since the last time the issue of gay marriage sparked serious media attention was roughly 4 years ago--during the last election. It's been mentioned in the news here and there, but it was such a polarizing issue 4 years ago. That and the war...

Speaking of war...Iran's Nuclear program...(via NY Times)..we're not going to war, but let's be clear--Iran, neighboring country to Iraq, has nuclear power...

John McCain has this great idea for health insurance...(via USA Today)...

Gene therapy helps someone with near-blindness...(via Reuters)

Mariah Carey ft. Juelz Santana "Touch My Body" Remix...(via On Smash)...how many remixes are out? There's definitely one with Cam. Are any of them official?

Mark Jackson being courted by the Bulls as well...(via AM NY)

Thoughts On The Acquittal

There are laws against bullying in schools in some states. But there's no law that can protect you from something like this. If you read the graphic novel The Watchmen, the storyline revolves around the Latin phrase "Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?"--"Who watches the watchmen?" If you look up the meaning behind the phrase, it asks who will protect the people when those that were elected to protect them do not. In our modern society, it draws into question issues of corrupt politics and legal system. In essence, power or authority should in no way become centralized (see V For Vendetta--another Alan Moore graphic novel, for further reference). Our tax dollars go into paying for protection from crime, yet some of the most egregious acts in recent years have been committed by police to civilians. I am not an anarchist, and in no way am insinuating anything to the effect that those graphic novels dealt with, however, there needs to be more dialog, research and institutional action.

This verdict comes around the same time that the Feds feel that Wesley Snipes needs to go to prison for 3 years for not paying taxes. Not that you shouldn't pay your taxes, but its disturbing knowing that Snipes is going to be punished for something that can be easily resolved, and these three cops are going to remain free despite the fact that they took a man's life--a man who was also planning to get married and had several kids to raise. Where's the justice in that?

Race is inevitably tied to this issue. Up until college I don't think I had ever been in a car that was pulled over by cops without warrant. However, just last year (around this time coincidentally), I saw the humiliation that people who have experienced it face. As Good Money wrote in his blog entry about the whole situation "you have black homeboys you should feel like shit too; your friend can get his life taken by a cop and it won’t mean anything."

"The Sean Bell murder itself was a reflection of how expendable black men are In the eyes of many.
The verdict was a far worse crime because it stripped a dead man of his rights and it stripped a community of hope. We came so far as a people yet gained little momentum but I would like to thank society for re opening my eyes to the myth called equality and the justice that eludes just us! Power to the People!"

-Cormega

What A Weekend (& Monday Afternoon)...

I was busy earlier this morning so I couldn't work on this entry. My bad if you were eagerly hoping to read it before y'all went to work. I had a lot of stuff to do while I was @ work so I'm sorry for the lateness.

This weekend was...like the music and news I put up...random. Friday, Neurotic Neuron and I discussed our plans to take over the World (Wide Web), like Pinky and the Brain. Saturday, Video Vixon, Varyus Waise and I hung out in downtown BK. We were supposed to hit up some blog meet over @ Junior's initially, but it ended up not happening (well it did...just we ended up not meeting up with the crowd). CapCity has an entry over @ her blog. Check it out.

So upon not accomplishing what we had intended to do, my cohorts and I found ourselves at the Brooklyn Peace Fair @ the LIU campus. Not that we had planned to be there or anything, but we recognized one particular act that was scheduled to show up: Amanda Diva.



After watching some spoken word, a few music acts, and Amanda Diva perform, we made our way backstage and I managed to get an impromptu interview with the Diva herself that turned into a full blown conversation. And afterwards, her crew + my crew ending up eating at (of all places)...Junior's (Sorry to CapCity if you feel betrayed...um I didn't know things were going to turn out this way). Be on the look out for Yellow Rebel's Interview With A Diva over @ Brooklyn Bodega soon.

Then Sunday rolled along and Video Vixon needed a ride back to school. Varyus and I decided to make a one day trip to our old school and see the annual events to end all annual events.....



Much like LIU's Peace Fair, Rock Against Racism involves unity, music and the discussion of social causes. After making the trip to my Alma Mata, some the organizers asked if I could give a ride to one of the acts. With that, I accepted $17 in gas money and went to pick up Sunru & DJ Kiva. Video Vixon managed to give a speech about the events that have taken place at SUNY New Paltz in the last semester. My initial plan was to stay until M1 of Dead Prez showed up, interview him and request that he perform this song...

Unfortunately I wasn't able to stick around for the performance due to time constraints. However, my homegirl called me up later to inform me that he performed it @ the show. I really wanted to interview M1 and get his thoughts on the acquittal in the Sean Bell case. The last time i saw him perform as a matter of fact was at show that was about the issue of police brutality.

So this brings me to Monday. The weather was bad, but the one thing that stuck out in my mind today was the promotion for The Dark Knight that was set to take place @ Bryant Park. Varyus Waise and I were there to witness the treasure hunt that ultimately brought a bunch of comic geeks to (where else) 42nd St. I mean gee, where else are they going to have a space big enough to fit 300 nerds to watch a trailer. After all of the running, my friends and I got see the new trailer for The Dark Knight. Unfortunately it's not out yet (they made everyone check in their camer aphoneas and all that), so you're all going to have to wait until next week for it to appear. And yes it's friggin' hot. With that said I will leave you with yet 2 more posters for one of the most anticipated movie of the summer...

(via Movie Web)

Also, I found out my interview with Big Noyd of the Infamous crew is up @ The Industry Cosign. You might wanna check that out too....

Kidz In The Hall ft. Pusha T, The Cool Kids and Bun B "Drivin' Down The Block" Remix

via 2 Dope Boyz

I first heard the remix @ the listening session/video premier (the one where I interviewed Naledge at and took this picture). Unfortunately it hadn't leaked until the other day. Bun B brings a nice touch to the track.

I know I haven't posted much this past weekend folks. you will hear a grand rundown of how I spent this past weekend when I wake up and post tomorrow. Most of y'all probably won't hear this song until Monday. And yes I also have a post on the acquittal in the Sean Bell case coming up.

I Really Can't Wait For This Batman Sequel To Come Out...

Peep this from First Showing:

The website where it was discovered was located at whysoserious.com/itsallpartoftheplan/. However, the site hinted that more would be coming and now its been updated. A new viral hunt will take place on Monday, April 28th in those cities mentioned above and this time I know you'll want to get involved. I'll bet anyone $10 that they'll end up at a movie theater in the area where you'll be shown the brand new trailer (or even more?) in its entirety. Why do I think that? Read on…

The website now features 12 clickable defaced photos of presidents on the wall. Each one corresponds to a city. If you click each photo, it will open a new window that has instructions on how to play the game on Monday. Here is what each photo reads:

Gather with 300 of your closest friends at this exact spot on April 28th.

You'll need to be in contact with a partner-in-crime who has online access to relay your instructions once you're there. These instructions will give you the TRAIL to follow, but be sure to look both ways when crossing the street; we wouldn't want you to make an unscheduled visit to the ER now, would we?

Put on a smile and plan to spend about an hour or so bonding with your fellow clowns.

Check back here often for updates or changes.

To all my New York people, if you peep the Abe Lincoln pic on whysoserious.com, it hints that something huge is going to happen @ Bryant Park this Monday!

Random News...

Cops acquitted in Sean bell case...(via NY Times)...I posted this earlier this morning...I have more thoughts on this that will be posted soon

Rza doing a kung fu movie...(via Grand Good)...go figure

The amalgamation that is the Air Yeezy...(via Sneaker Files)...

Hot 97 Summer Jam 2008...(via Hip Hop DX)...last time I went to Summer Jam was '04...like 1 of 2 years Jay-Z didn't show up

Wendy's buy out...(via BBC)...yes Wendy's the fast food chain/Mickey D's alternative

CO's coming under fire...(via NY Times)...this is probably A LOT more frequent than people realize

There was a K train line???? (via AM NY)...I been by that location A LOT of times and never noticed. I'm mad now...

Somalian pirates...(via BBC)


Rush Limbaugh "dreams" of rioting at Democratic National Convention...(via The Denver Channel)...found this on Digg. Smh...smh...

Cops Acquitted In Sean Bell Case

During the 26 days of testimony, the prosecution sought to show, with an array of 50 witnesses, that the shooting was the act of a frightened, even enraged group of disorganized police officers who began their shift that night hoping to arrest a prostitute or two and, in suspecting Mr. Bell and his friends of possessing a gun, quickly got in over their heads.

“We ask police to risk their lives to protect ours,” said an assistant district attorney, Charles A. Testagrossa, in his closing arguments. “Not to risk our lives to protect their own.”

The defense, through weeks of often heated cross-examinations, their own witnesses and the words of the detectives themselves, portrayed the shooting as the tragic end to a nonetheless justified confrontation, with Detective Isnora having what it called solid reasons to believe he was the only thing standing between Mr. Bell’s car and a drive-by shooting around the corner.

Via NY Times

This is troubling. Troubling in so many ways. If you check the NY Times link, they have a brief history of victims who have died because of overzealous police. I'm going to wait and post my thoughts in a separate blog...

Sean Bell Verdict This Friday

By the time many of you read this, a verdict will probably have already been made. I figure I post this now just to give you an idea what's happening. When an update comes, I will post. I found this on the NY Times:

It is rare to know far in advance the exact date and time of a courtroom verdict, but the timing of this one was announced on April 14 by Justice Arthur J. Cooperman of State Supreme Court, who heard testimony in the case over seven weeks without a jury. Some lawyers not involved in the case said the detectives’ decision to waive a jury trial was a risky legal strategy.

The judge gave himself almost two weeks to render a verdict, and the wait has promised to bring beyond-capacity turnout to the courtroom in Queens where the case was heard.

Some see the case as far-reaching in its possible ramifications on the conduct of the city’s police officers during undercover operations or in those moments when they must decide whether to shoot at a suspect.

Outside the courtroom and around the city, the police have tried to anticipate any type of reaction to the verdict, an effort that has been done more out of municipal habit than as a response to any direct threat of unrest.

“We are prepared for any contingency,” said Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly.

Random Music...

You know what...I'm going to make this my new theme. Aside from doing the "Random News", "Random Music" is also going to be my thing.

Cuddle Bums ft. Tanya Morgan "88 Keys"



These guys were actually at the Brooklyn Hip Hop festival last year. (via LDN x 10)



Nino Bless "Da Livest"



Got this in my email. I smell a NYC anthem?


The Roots ft. Truck North & p.o.r.n "Singing Man"



via Che Sing The Cool




Fokis. ft Joell Ortiz "Pandemonium"



via Nah Right

Interview With Havoc & Alchemist!

My interview with Havoc & Alchemist is up @ The Industry Cosign and The Hip Hop Cosign.

The Roots ft. Chrisette Michele & Wale "Rising Up" Video

Via OnSmash

I'm a little late with the video. I like the Roots, I actually met them once. There seems to be a lot of hype about their upcoming album, which I'm sure will be cool. My personal favorite from them was Illadelph Halflife. This video is a great look for Chrisette Michele (who I met twice last summer) as well as Wale (who's been killing it lately).

Usher ft. Beyonce & Lil Wayne "Love In The Club Part 2"

UHeardThatNew has been crushing it with the music these last few days.

Alicia Keys "Teenage Love Affair" Video

Peeped this over @ Highbrid Nation.

Shani-O would like this, there's strolling and everything. This video was obviously inspired by the Spike Lee classic, School Daze. Of course, the conundrum is title of the song is "Teenage Love Affair" and the video takes place in college. True, you are still technically a teenage when you enter college, but for the most part you're legally an adult (unless you're one of those genius types like Double-O and go to college @ like 16). And Alicia Keys epitomizes high school block shorty-dom by wearing door-knocker earrings big enough to break 50's jaw.

Random News...

Clinton wins Pennsylvania..(via NY Times)

300,000 possibly dead in Darfur...(via BBC)

NYC's building commissioner resigns...(via AM NY)

Jamont Gordon of Mississippi State heads for draft...(via USA Today)

Clinton willing to use nuclear weapons...(via MSNBC)...um, wow...that's kind of extreme

Pacman Jones got extorted...(via Dallas News)..this story is kind of crazy

Pacino & De Niro are past their primes...(via LA Times)...interesting read...there next appearance on screen together features, ahem, Curtis Jackson...

Other acts at Rock the Bells...(via Hip Hop DX)...I went to RTB's last year and to be honest it wasn't a great experience. The weather was terrible, Randall's Island was packed and I think I had a better time at Farm Aid. Yes, I seriously went to Farm Aid. But that story is better saved for another blog entry...

Murdoch moving closer to owning Newsday...(via NY Times)

Dante's ex-wife is writing a book...(via YBF)

The Pentagon says war will cost less than $170 Billion...(via Reuters)...they said that like its a good thing

Mark Jackson might not be Knicks coach just yet...(via AM NY)

Mugabe takes W in first recount...(via BBC)

The music industry lost $4.2 Billion...but where did that four-point-two go?...(via Esquire)..This article is like 2 weeks old, but I just seen it through Digg. You can go ahead and chastise me for putting up dated material. It's a noteworthy read still. I'm still working on my music industry post...it'll be up shortly

More Random Music...

Mariah Carey ft. Jay-Z "Bye Bye" Remix



The blogs go crazy when they hear that boy Jay-Z...even if it's not technically his song. (Song via UHeardThatNew)

The blogs also go crazy when they hear some new Yeezy...well it's really Madonna featuring 'Ye
(MAJOR big ups to Mike B. over @ Highbrid Nation for this!)


Madonna ft. Kanye West "Beat Goes On" (produced by Pharell)





Buckshot (prod. by 9th Wonder) "No Future"



Off the album that was released the other day via ITunes. Song via Che Sing The Cool

Little Vic ft. Kool G Rap "Caked Up"



I found this mad randomly through Hip Hop Press Releases. I figure hey, why not.


Also: Random Music News...ATCQ @ Rock The Bells (via NahRight)

6 Unspectacular Quirks About YR

Initially I thought a tags post just involved using tags in some creative way, but I re-read posts by others that have been tagged and found out there were rules. So I was tagged by Da Vinci, and to ensure that this blog doesn't simply become a music/news blog, I figure I go ahead and do this...

So Da Vinci was the one who tagged me.

1. Link the person who tagged you…
2. Mention the rules in your blog…
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours
4. Tag 6 following bloggers by linking them…
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged blogger’s blogs letting them know they’ve been tagged.

Let's see:




1. I'm not a huge Michael Jackson fan...



I'm pretty sure a collective GASP has been made across the entire non-news oriented blog-o-sphere. Lemme be clear--I am an MJ fan. Just not as big other people. And if you ask me if I'm a bigger Prince fan, the answer is yes. I didn't become a Prince until a few years ago, but once I started getting into his lyrics, I was sold. Of course the two do two different styles of music, but there's this undeniable rift amongst the two that causes many great debates. It's like Nas v. Jay-Z. I actually asked Varyus Waise about a particular song that happened tobe a Jackson 5 song, and almost got thrown out of the comic convention Incredible ulk style for not knowing it.



2. I have poor vision


I used to read a lot and watch too much TV. Now I spend too much time on the computer. And because of that, my vision has suffered. I'm one of those people with black, plastic frame glasses...which narrows it down to about several million Americans. They're actually slightly bent out of shape and I'm getting new ones soon.


3. I'm not heavy into sports...



I grew up without Cable so I don't have access to ESPN and it never became a habit to check the latest scores. However, I am a surface sports fan, and sports history and the latest trades tend to allude me. I do follow it, but not as closely as some people. My dude Professor P usually keeps me updated about the latest happenings, and likewise I do the same for him when it comes to music.


4. I like to draw (sometimes)


At the expense of sounding like the illest Asian uber-Geek this side of Queens (the only thing missing is an affinity for anime..which I sometimes watch). I know it doesn't exactly sound cool that I wear glasses, don't follow sports incisively, and that I like to draw on occasion, but its a part of me. I grew up reading comics and had parents that were artists so its there. I actually carry around a sketchbook which I doodle in sometimes (since the high school days of zoning out and drawing on the corner of the page are over). As a mater of fact, its the same sketchbook I got signed by the co-creator of TMNT. It helps me think and plan things out. Of course I don't just draw in te sketchbook--I also keep notes in there as well.


5. I'm inside the album cover of TI's King album


Ha! This is a very little known, peculiar thing that few people know. I was at the photoshoot for the album cover a few years back (I saw a Craigs List posting), and as it turned out when I got there it was for one of TI's best albums. I signed a release, so my appearance, as well as everyone who was appeared in it (except TI), went uncredited. Varyus remains unconvinced to this day that its me. If you own this album see if you can spot me.


6. I'm afraid no one cares about this blog...


Despite all of the cool feedback, I rarely get any comments. Big ups to all those that do comment, but I have this tremendous insecurity no one cares enough to check me out consistently. I often theorize that its because a)I put up too many posts, b)I don't have any pics of myself on here or c)I'm not a girl. I guess I shouldn't be too insecure about this. After all, if I'm still doing it despite little feedback, it must mean something, right?

So there you have it. At first I was going to put up tags in the form of a spoken word poem. I guess that's better saved for another time. Also better saved for another time is why I'm not into Scarface as much as every other person that listens to excessive rap music.

Here are the next victims:

Neurotic Neuron, Professor P, Video Vixon, Lucky, Mahaiba Luv, & Eye D.

Central Park Summerstage 2008

(Please pardon the jpeg jack)

I received word that the Central Park Summerstage line up for 2008 has been announced. Click here to check it out.

Notable events:

June 14-Vampire Weekend & Kid Sister

Vampire Weekend would be the indie rock hipster favorite of the month (my younger brother digs them and actually helped them out on the set of one of their videos). They're a cool band. Kid Sister would be the indie Hip-Hop hipster/hypebeast/"I-Look-Like-An-Urban-Outfitters" ad/Kanye co-sign favorite of the month.

July 10-Movie: The Harder They Come

This movie is actually a cult Jamaican classic. Before Shottas there was The Harder They Come (big up to all my West Indians!). Jimmy Cliff was actually in this movie. Also, I-Wayne will be performing @ this event.

July 18-Video Music Box 25th Anniversary

This guy Ralph McDaniels has been doing dag thing for a fat minute. Sadly I can't say i was raised on VMB, although I managed to catch it while I was in HS (between that and Flava Videos lol...ah its a NYC thing). I did listen to Uncle Ralph on the radio (he still does his thing on Hot 97 & WNYC TV's The Bridge).

July 20-Santogold, Diplo, DJ A-Trak & Plastic Little

Wow Santogold is doing her thing. Aside from catching the attention of YR (and just about every blog more important than mines), she's doing the Summerstage thing. I know MIA did it a few summer's ago, and it looks like her affiliates are doing it this year. Kanye's DJ, A-Trak, should kick an ill set. I've heard 1 song from Plastic Little, so I can't really say much about them. They did a song with Ghostface called "Crambrodia" that I listened to for like a week

August 3-Janelle Monae

Yes folks, the woman who the blog-o-sphere (including this one), have been raving about for the last few months will be there. It surprises me actually that they were able to get her on the bill being as she's probably set to blow up (last year I actually spoke to someone @ Summerstage and recommended Amy Winehouse and they said she was already too big--this was back in March of '07, before "Rehab" blew up the charts...and her personal life). I guess they booked Ms. Monae @ just the right time. There are other acts set to perform as well, and not to downplay them, but I'm not familiar with them. If you've heard of Jose James, Little Jackie or Gilles Peterson, than its an even better reason to go.

More New Skyzoo

Skyzoo ft. Wale "Lyrically Inclined" (prod. by Illmind) (via 2 Dope Boyz)

2 Dope Boyz has been killing it with the updates. Once again, I present Skyzoo, one of NYC's up & comers, this time with Wale, Aftermath's latest, who was doing the independent thing for a minute. Production by Illmind.

Right-Wing Media Bias...

I initially saw this on Digg and followed my way to the Brave New Films website. As their "About" section states, they are an organization that "challenges corporate media with the truth and empowers political action nationwide." The above film is there take on the misinterpretations made by FOX News about Senator Obama. Being a media & communications major in college I felt obliged to post this. It's segments like this that make me think back to this book I had started reading (but unfortunately did not finish) in January called What Liberal Media? In essence, with the major news outlets slowly (or quickly if you look @ it a certain way) being bought out by the same organization, the news, opinions and pundits that we see on TV are all showing unanimous opinions, despite the fact that they are distorting facts.

Kanye No Longer Engaged....

I really try to stay away from reading about celebrity personal lives, but every now and than there's a celebrity who you really got respect for that manages to make you pay attention to them despite how morally opposed you are to reading gossip. Well, I heard about this in the morning on Z100, but didn't see any news post on it until now:

"They'd been having problems," a friend of West's told the site. "Kanye is really focused on his show; he's putting everything into the show right now. Alexis is a nice girl, but Kanye has been going through a rough time. They hit a rough patch and for now they've split."

The couple, who have dated on and off since 2002, got engaged over a lobster and pasta dinner during a vacation on the island of Capri in August 2006, the site reported.

A rep for West, who is currently on his Glow in the Dark Tour, had no comment.

Via MTV (see also: MTV Newsroom)

Wow that's kind of depressing. Especially since dude's "Big Brother" got married a few weeks back. Given the schedules of artists, especially if you're a mega rap star, you can only imagine what type of strain that would put on a relationship.

Random Music...

Aright...I'm a bazillion hours late but here's the Nas track that I linked in my Random News post a few hours ago. I would've loved to post it hours ago, but I was @ work and given the content, I wasn't in the position to listen, download or preview the track. Literally within that hour EVERY major Hip-Hop blog had it up (think: the blogs that YR looks up to). So for post's sake, here's the Nas track...and a few other assorted songs I think are worth your time.

Nas "Be A N----r Too"


I think an opinion on this song is worthy of an entirely different post.....

Jadakiss "From Now Til Then" (prod. by Alchemist) (via UHeardThatNew)

I swear Jada & Styles P were two of my favorite rappers when I was in high school. I mean they're still up there now, but my taste in music has changed (somewhat...I mean I am posting a behemoth amount of rap music)

Santogold "Starstruck" (via Che Sing The Cool)

I went to the listening session for Santogold's album and liked what I heard. Be warned, she's not for everyone. Her music is eerily similar to M.I.A's (whom she's actually affiliated with), so if hipster-esque music pisses you off...then don't listen. And don't say I didn't warn you.

Prodigy "Real Power Is People"

Yeah, I know what y'all are thinking--"Yellow Rebel is jocking Mobb now because he went to their listening session." Aright, let's be clear--it's a good album, but it's not for everybody (much like Santogold...just on the opposite side of the musical spectrum). And me being @ the session has little to do with my opinion in the album. I can't say that I've been a Mobb Deep enthusiast (I've been a fan of their music on the surface), but P really came through on the joint. 2 Dope Boyz actually put this song up already. I respect artists that get in where they fit in, Prodigy really came through with a grimy, NYC street album. So if you enjoyed his Return of The Mac album, than by all means, definitely listen to HNIC 2. By the way--album drops April 22 (tomorrow)

AZ "Superstar"

This song made it's way around the blog-o-sphere last month. Pardon my lateness, but I recently review the album for the Brooklyn Bodega. Peep it if you get the chance.

Big L "Rock & Will Audition"

I just came across this old Big L freestlye mixtape via The Smoking Section. RIP Big L--definitely one of the nicest.

So there you have it folks.....

Kidz In The Hall "Drivin' Down The Block" Video!

They finally released it! This was the joint I saw a few weeks ago when during the listening session. Props to Nah Right (where I first peeped it).

See also:
Yellow Rebel's interview with Naledge of Kidz In The Hall @ The Brooklyn Bodega
Yellow Rebel Gets A Shout Out from Naledge
(sorry for the shameless self-promotion)

Random News...

New Blackberry...(via OnSmash)

New Nas..(via Miss Info)

Bank of America suffers profit loss...(via Wall Street Journal)

Lots of trouble in Zimbabwe...(via NY Times)...The UN needs to do something

Trailer for The Spirit, directed by Frank Miller..(via MTV)...for all of my comic book fans. I got to see the trailer @ Comic Con. It looks cool...much in the same vein as Sin City. Many of the movie blogs/sites have been raving about this.

McCain showing respect to the civil rights movement...(via Reuters)

More bureaucracy and injustice in the Sean Bell case...(via AM NY)...

It's Racism, It's Always Racism: Sikh graduate student attacked in Texas...(via Angry Asian Man)...no really its is racism

Possibilities for peace in the Middle East?...(via BBC)..

Personal Update: The Great Adventures of Yellow Rebel

Wow have I been busy...

Sorry for my lack of updates.

Thursday night I was @ the listening session for HNIC 2. That would be the latest solo project from Mobb Deep's Prodigy (who is currently incarcerated). My interview with Havoc & Alchemist should be up @ The Industry Cosign in due time--as well as interviews with other Mobb affiliated acts. Definitely check out HNIC 2 if any of y'all are interested in that grimey NYC street hop. The album drops this Tuesday.



Friday, I went out to the Slick Rick thing, but dipped early because one of my friends wanted to meet up @ this Prince vs. Michael Jackson party.



Yes, I went to a Prince vs. Michael Jackson party.


And yes, party was slamming. (My apologies to Slick Rick & Blitz the Ambassador).

This Saturday I attended the NY Comic Con. Although, it wasn't exactly what I had hoped it to be, once I saw Stan Lee, you can say I was happy with how the convention turned out. I also met one of the creators of TMNT. He signed my sketchbook...

(This is why I'm cool)

I also went on Sunday as well with my friends (yeah we're all geeks) and bought a few items. Afterwards I went to see Forgetting Sarah Marshall--friggin' hilarious.

So yeah, that was weekend in a nutshell.

New posts coming soon!

CL Smooth & Skyzoo "Perfect Timing"

Got this in my email today. Don't front on Skyzoo...one of the few new acts that makes me still believe in NYC Hip-Hop

Random News...

Knicks fans rejoice...(NY Times)

China is trying to shut down one of its most lucrative markets...(ARS Technica)

The Justice League (movie) is dead...(via First Showing)...

A TV series based on the Black Panther comic book character is coming to BET...(via Highbrid Nation)...we shall see how this turns out

Kanye sneakers...(via Kanye's Blog)...I like them. If they had them in black it'd be a wrap

Speaking of sneakers... THE AIR JORDAN IV's ARE COMING (via OnSmash)

The Mets worth less than Jay-Z, 50 & Diddy together... (Forbes.com)

Study Black Enterprise; earn a Master's...(via Big-Ced)

50 offended by Alicia Keys; expect diss track soon...(via Nah Right)...okay I'm joking about the diss track part, but the first part I am....

Buckshot & 9th Wonder ft. Talib Kweli &Tyler Woods "Hold It Down"

This actually premiered at the Kidz In the Hall listening session I went to the other week, but they didn't release the video until yesterday. Buckshot don't get enough props. Via Nah Right & Okay Player.

"3rd Degree" Scram Jones ft. Nino Bless, Saigon, & Crooked I

That's one helluva photoshop job

Anyhow I got this in my inbox, so I figure I post it. Joint is kind of hard--I actually enjoyed this.

Here's the link for download.

Wu Tang @ The Filmore

Hey RZA showed up! Courtesy of Grand Good

Michelle Obama on Colbert!

I found this via Digg

Thought it was hilarious.

Random News...

Guilty plea in NBA betting controversy...(via Reuters)...this whole situation ROCKED the league this past summer

Akon's not-as-sordid-past...(via The Smoking Gun)...I first peeped this on NahRight. This whole thing is pretty crazy, especially given how detailed it is.

Barack Obama proves print isn't dead...yet...(via NY Times)...it's not dead if you're a Democratic presidential hopeful that manages to instill a sense of hope to listeners in one's speeches.

Edward Norton finally speaks about the state of the Incredible Hulk movie...(via First Showing)...hey maybe it'll be good afterall

Search engines might be dying out?...(via Popular Mechanics)...interesting article. It actually occurred to me once that the rise of social networking was in some ways the evolution of internet. It's a network within a network, almost like an intranet if you will (although intranet is usually in reference to private internet). And given that the rate of obsolescence is so fast nowadays, it wouldn't surprise me if this happened.

China wins again...(via Reuters)

It's racism; it's always racism...number of black MLB players decreases...(via ESPN)...notice how I use that phrase a lot...

Clinton: Obama supporters are brash, young and stupid...(via Huffington Post)..aright he really didn't say that (oh man, where are my journalistic ethics?)...I was just hyping it up...but definitely check out the link for what he really said

NYC commuters are officially ballin'...(via NY Times)...I'm baffled...Mercedes Buses...

See Slick Rick Perform For Free*

Since this flier stays getting blurry every time I upload here are the details via Fusicology:

04.18.08
NYC: Slick Rick & Rich Medina
@ Studio B

Mighty Healthy Clothing, Lyricist Lounge, Mass Appeal & Studio B present an exclusive release party for Mighty Healthy Clothing's Spring 08 line. We will have special performances & music by the incredible Rich Medina! Make sure to RSVP to get in Free!!!

Event Information:
Friday, April 18, 2008
9:00 PM - 4:00 AM
21+
cover: FREE | Free only if you RSVP via email below
music: Hip Hop, breaks and beyond

Contact Email:
mightyspringrelease@gmail.com

Venue Information:
Studio B
259 Banker St
btwn Meresole & Cayler, Greenpoint | G train to Nassau
Brooklyn, NY
http://www.clubstudiob.com/
view Mapquest
view Yahoo Maps

Links:
http://www.mightyhealthynyc.com

*To reiterate in case y'all read it fast, to get in for free you have to RSVP to the email address mightyspringrelease@gmail.com

There are other notable acts that will be there so definitely check it out if you have the chance!

New Outkast Album Coming Sonner Than You'd Expect!

This was a news announcement so fresh (and so clean...pardon the corniness) that it deserves its own post:

It seems like a stretch that we're going to get an Oukast album so close to the duo's solo ventures, but with them you never know. In the meantime, fans can marinate in Big's "Royal Flush." The track features Andre and Raekwon the Chef, and it's the first single off his second album, Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty. The song is named after Big's production group.

"I said I wanted to bring that hip-hop back," Big said. "My album is about lyricism and about the craft. I saw Raekwon and he jumped on it. Actually, me and Raekwon recorded three songs. We were gonna finish it with just me and him. When Dre came back from Japan, he heard it and said, 'I wanna be on that.' I gave him the beat. He came back in a couple of months and was like, 'Let's do it.' "

Daddy Fat Sacks' album is just about done, but Big said he will be recording until the very last minute.

"Thirteen cuts. Everything is brand new," he promised. "I got a duet with Mary J. Blige that will probably be the second single, called 'The World Is Too Big.' It's definitely monumental. I needed somebody that could sing with that emotion and power. Like an old-school soul singer. That Motown throat! I always wanted to work with her."

Via MTV

I been bumping a lot of Outkast lately. Three songs with Raekwon! That's crazy! I think a lot of people front on Big Boi, personally. Sure Andre always manages to deliver his eclectic, show-stealing verse, but f you really peep some of the stuff Big Boi says, I think it's noteworthy in its own right.

Soulja Boyz II Men!

I first heard this track via ItsTheReal.com with their "Failed Hip Hip Ideas" video

Failed Ideas in Hip-Hop 2 from jeff on Vimeo.

The only thing that stuck out to me was the song...which they have thankfully put up as video post & audio track much to my bemusement...

Soulja Boyz II Men from jeff on Vimeo.

Check out ItsTheReal.com for more funny stuff!

Naledge of Kidz In The Hall Meets Yellow Rebel!

Via Yellow Rebel TV

Please note: THE STATEMENTS MADE BY THE ARTIST ARE BY NO MEANS, IN ANY SHAPE OR FORM, AN ACCURATE REFLECTION OF THIS BLOGGER OR THE SITE HE IS AFFILIATED WITH

So I know my posting has been kind of awkward. I try to juggle this and a full-time job so it can get complicated. i know most people check during the day, nd I sincerely hope that those that check during the night are able to peep this. Last week I went to the Kidz In The Hall video premier for "Drivin' Down The Block", which also featured a preview of their upcoming album The In Crowd (in-stores May 13). I managed to get this quick shout out from Naledge and, oh yeah, there's an interview with him that you all should most definitely check out over @ the Brooklyn Bodega:

"...it’s sort of the reason why soul music has always been around forever. Love is something that’s never going to go out of style. And that’s kind of the way I look at what we do with our hip-hop. The type of hip-hop we do—it’s something that we explore, the fabric of the every man; the common man as well as the person up top and the person at the bottom. And they’re facing issues that are never going to change. There’s always going to be somebody who’s in love, that falls out of love. There’ always going to be somebody that’s struggling with their 9-5. There’ always going to be somebody that’s having issues with their girl, with their parents. There’s always going to be somebody that’s going out to the club and drinking, getting intoxicated. There’s always going to be somebody—it’s things that we talk about that are always going to happen. They’re timeless. And our opinions, and our spins on it, and my poetics, and Double-O’s sounds, you know we try and take interest in our crafts as well. ‘Cause sometimes it’s not about what you say, its how you say it. It’s not just the beat; it’s the way the sample was chopped. You know what I’m saying? Certain things about it speak to you. I can get 5 producers the same sample and they not going to do it the same way Double-O’s going to do it..."

-Naledge of Kidz In The Hall

Feel free to comment.

Wu Tang Clan-The Heart Gently Weeps Video

Peeped it over @ NahRight

Judging by the video maybe it should be titled RZA& GZA "The Heart Gently Weeps." I'm still baffled @ how long it took for this video to come out. Interesting vid though. Word to me.

Random News...

New Line cuts jobs....(via Hollywood Reporter)

Deaths after a riot in Kenya...(via BBC)

Oil might cost more than the car at the rate its going...(via Reuters)

School fire in Uganda claims 19...(NY Times)...

Yankees remove buried Red Sox jersey...(via NY Daily News)

Spielberg planning a live Ghost In The Shell movie...(via First Showing)...for those unfamiliar, Ghost In The Shell is a cult classic anime that came out in the late 80's (much like Akira--another anime being turned into a live action movie). It actually helped inspire the Matrix...

Brazil finds oil...(via BBC)...well if this helps refute the claims made 4 lines up than maybe we should be happy. I think we would be happier if we found an ALTERNATIVE FUEL RESOURCE ALREADY...

Jay-Z & Mary J. Blige "You're All Welcome" Video

Via OnSmash

It's footage from the tour if you're all contemplating playing it.

Yellow Rebels Footwear Prediction For This Summer....

Pic via Sperry Website

Something tells me boat shoes will be big this summer. I always had an inkling that maybe my younger brother was onto something after he purchased Sperry's a few months back.

But after seeing these upcoming Converse (via Sneaker Files)....




The Mad Jibes over on Jamaica Avenue (pic via Pick Your Shoes)...

These BBC sneakers (via High Snobiety)...


I'm no fashion expert but I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that the next "it" thing for the summer is boat shoes...or at the very least sneaker-inspired boat shoes.

Jay-Z & Bun B Perform Together @ Houston Stop of the Heart of The City Tour

Props to UHeardThatNew

Random News...

China rules the world...(via Daily Mail UK)...seriously, and I'm not posting this just because I'm Asian--they get it. They been got it.

The Daily Show ethers FOX News...(via Huffington Post)...If y'all get a chance, watch some of the footage, its pretty funny...

The MTA is gentrifying the ocean floor...(via DVice)...I kid, I kid, but in all seriousness those old trains are really dropping on the sea floor like Monopoly houses...

A lengthy analysis of Bill Cosby's conservatism...(via The Atlantic)...really long, but definitely worth the read

The Incredible Hulk movie might be an incredible disappointment...again...(via NY Times by way of Screen Rant)

Human beings are so advanced that we've created a multi-billion dollar way of potentially destroying our very fabric of existence...(via LA Times)...aright, if you're afraid to the click the link, scientists have created an atom-smasher that could open up a black hole on Earth. I was sort of into physics in high school which is what drew me to this article

The struggles facing the community in an East New York Project...(via NY Times)..nice read. I like when NY Times does features like this. It gives you an alternative look at how the general media may portray a neighborhood. As I was reading it, i found myself recognizing many of the streets and locations mentioned in the article. In the words of Uncle Murder "EAAASST NEEEW YAAAAWK!"

Stay fly, even in a post-apocalyptic, Resident Evil-like situation...(via Hoodman)

IT'S RACISM....IT'S ALWAYS RACISM: The Magazine Industry Is Racist

On the lack of pics from the Bey-Z/Jayonce wedding:

But even wedding photos make less money for black stars, says another source. "Eva Longoria can get $1 million for wedding photos, but without the expectation of cover sales, Beyoncé might have gotten as little as $250,000 if she had sold hers," says a top editor.

Magazine publisher and black gossip pioneer Flo Anthony responds: "That sounds to me a very racist statement. Beyoncé is one of the biggest stars in the world, much bigger than Eva Longoria."

Anthony publishes Black Noir for women, as well as Toy Box, a black parenting magazine with a celebrity focus. She said: "It is hard for African-Americans in magazines. Only a few people, like Will Smith and Halle Berry, are mainstream. Editors really still think that only blond hair and blue eyes sell magazines."

As another tabloid source says: "We have a saying, 'Only Oprah.' Oprah is the only black celebrity big enough to put on our cover."

Via Daily News

Hmmm... I found this interesting after the whole Lebron James/Vogue cover fiasco that lit up the blog-o-sphere.

Lupe Fiasco-Paris, Tokyo Video!

Peeped this over at Nah Right

Looks like Wasalu traded in the street wear digs for some classy suits for this vid....

The Strangers..In Theatres May 30!

Okay sorry about the small screen. I got it from the website for this movie.

Here's the YouTube version (via Blood Disgusting)

So I watched The Ruins tonight (or last night if you wanna get technical) and this trailer accompanied the showing. Of course I saw the Iron Man and The Dark Knight trailers while I was in there (you're probably all rolling your eyes like "here he goes again"). Since I've seen virtually every preview for those two movies that I could get my greedy yellow hands on, this trailer for The Strangers stuck out. What makes it intriguing is the small cast and how the shots are set up. That particular scene where Liv Tyler is staring at the kitchen table silent, and you the creepy masked figure in the shadows is one of those great techniques used to build suspense. I hope this movie lives up to its creepiness.

Harold & Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay!!! Apr. 25, 2008

Arrrghh!! I'm late with this!....

via Harold & Kumar on YouTube

Real talk, y'all gotta head over to that YouTube page--they got mad clips from the movie on there that I'm sure y'all will find pretty funny

April 15, 2008: NAMD Mixer @ Lola's NYC

I figure I post this since I was at that other NAMD event last month. Read the info:

ABOUT LOLA'S RESTAURANT: Lola is Soul (www.lolaissoul.com) is a smashing upscale southern/Cajun restaurant owned and operated by husband and wife Tom and Gayle Patrick - Odeen b/k/a Lola. Since relocating in 2004 from its location on 22nd Street, (where it hosted an amazing live R&B music showcase as well as a Gospel Brunch) to its new digs at 15 Watts St. on the corner of Thompson St. (Soho, New York), Lola's has been blacklisted by its neighbors and The Soho Alliance who has successfully rallied to cut out all live music for fear it would bring an "undesirable" read: BLACK, URBAN crowd. WITHOUT LIVE MUSIC LOLA'S IS SUFFERING. Tell and bring your friends to Lola's on Tuesday, April 15, 2008 where you will meet Lola herself.

To RSVP: Click Here or Email Raychelle LeBlanc: shenotes@gmail.com

Via NAMD website.

Hmmm...I wanna say that I'm going to be there. But I'm not certain just yet. I'll keep y'all posted.

New York Comic Con 2008 in Less Than A Week!!!!

Folks I'll be dropping by over the weekend, so if y'all manage to go on either Saturday or Sunday, you might see me.

Oh and definitely check this guy out...

Blame McCain For Making Me Into A Monster...

Peep this quote:

Mr. McCain did not explain how he plans to balance the budget, but spoke generally about hoping to stimulate the economy – and cited President Reagan.

“I don’t believe in a static economy,’’ Mr. McCain said. “I believe that when there’s stimulus for growth, when there’s opportunity, when people keep more of their money — and the government is the least efficient way to spend your money — that economies improve.’’

“When Ronald Reagan came to office,’’ he said, noting that few in the audience were old enough to remember, “we had 10 percent unemployment, 20 percent interest rates, and 10 percent inflation, if I’ve got those numbers right. That was when Ronald Reagan came to office in 1980. And so what did we do? We didn’t raise taxes, and we didn’t cut entitlements. What we did was we cut taxes and we put in governmental reductions in regulations, stimulus to the economy, and by the way, Jack Kennedy also did that as well – and so my answer to it is a growing economy. And I think you best grow the economy by the most efficient use of the tax dollar.’’

Mr. McCain – who has said that he wants to balance the budget while making the Bush tax cuts permanent, cutting additional taxes, and keeping troops in Iraq – said: “I believe we can grow this economy, and reduce this deficit.’’

Via NY Times

I'm no political science or economics expert, but, um I'm not quite sure how those last things that were listed will help grow the economy.

Lil Boosie @ Spring Bling

Via World Star Hip Hop

Ah, the Summer 2007 Rap Anthem live

NYCAASC 2008

I feel as if I should be here....

Via Angry Asian Male

Random News...

Barack Obama states the obvious...(via Reuters)

A scene rumored to be cut from the bestest-comic-movie-of-all-time-that-hasn't-even-come-out yet?...(via First Showing)

Rice is like gold...(via BBC)

The father of Professor P's nemesis makes a Sesame Street appearance...(via MTV)

Jay-Z, Diddy, & 50 together still couldn't fill the US deficit...(via Wall Street Journal)

Goodbye AZN TV...(via Angry Asian Male)

The real cost of bling...(via Corporate Takeover)..well written blog entry

Homophobia in the Anglican church...(via BBC)

Free food @ the Garden on Monday...(via AM NY)...that's only if you got tickets for the last game of the season

Mark Cuban doesn't want anyone underage in the Mavericks locker room...(via Mark Cuban's blog)...well he really just thinks there should be a minimum age to play in the NBA...

Corporate advertising to the rescue yet again...(via Real Talk NY)...for those that couldn't guess the link, its the announcement that's been making its round through out the blog-o-sphere that Jermaine Dupri is starting a new record label called TAG Records...yes the spray deodorant. To me its just another show-an-prove example of how corporate entities may very well be the key to saving the music industry. Let's face it, corporate sponsorship is everywhere. But this takes it another step--an industry outside of music wants in on the cake. At times I live by this somewhat guided belief that Hip-Hop is now one of the biggest corporate advertisements in the United States and its incidents like this that only re-affirm this belief. As a matter of fact this reminds me of a blog I never got around to posting....

Yet Another Zombie Movie Trailer...

Movies called Quarantine. Found it via Bloody Disgusting TV.

To be honest, I can't say I'm too thrilled. I think this shtick was already done with Diary of the Dead.

AZ On Rap City

AZ - Burn Freestyle (Rap City)
by itsshake

Via 2 Dope Boyz
I don't care what no one says, the dude still has it.

IT'S RACISM....IT'S ALWAYS RACISM: PRODIGY'S 2 CENTS

As much as I'm willing to strike up convo about this particular aspect of life, I couldnt' help but laugh when I found this on Real Talk NY. You can read the full posting on Prodigy's blog over @ Vibe.com. Here's an excerpt:

"I’M NOT A RACIST AT ALL BUT LET’S TAKE A MOMENT TO EXAMINE THE WORD…………… RACIST HMMMMMMMMMMMM. WHAT IS A RACIST REALLY? WELL, AN HERBALIST IS A PERSON WHO IS A PROFESSIONAL WITH HERBS. A MOTORIST IS A PERSON WHO IS A PROFESSIONAL WITH A CAR ON THE OPEN ROAD. A CHEMIST IS A PROFESSIONAL WITH CHEMICALS. A SCIENTIST IS A PRO WITH SCIENCE. SO ON AND SO ON….SO A RACIST MUST BE A PERSON WHO STUDIES AND PRO WITH UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT OR ONE PARTICULAR RACE. AND TRUST THAT I AM CORRECT. THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE IS ONE FUCKED UP TRICK KNOWLEDGY SON OF A BITCH. THE BITCH BEING “THE QUEEN,” AND THE SON BEING ONE OF THEM “SO CALLED” ROYAL BLOODLINE MUTHFUCKAS WHO CREATED AND PASSED THIS STUPID ASS SHIT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO 2008.

THESE “SO CALLED” ROYAL SON’S OF BITCHES GOT A LOT OF DAMN NERVE TO COME AND INVADE THE LAND OF AFRICA AND AMERICA. THEN BRING IN BOAT LOADS OF MORE WHITE PEOPLE AFTER THEY’VE KILLED EVERYBODY OFF AND SECURE THE TERRITORY, SO THAT IT’S SAFE FOR THE OTHERS TO GET OFF THE BOATS. THEY GOT A LOT OF DAMN NERVE TO CALL PEOPLE “FOREIGNERS,” “IMMIGRANTS,” AND “ILLEGAL ALIENS”

WHAT?! YOU LITTLE DIRTY ASS, STINKIN ASS, PALE CAVE MAN NIGGA FROM THE CAUCUS MOUNTAINS. BRINGIN WITH YOU DISEASE, HATRED, LIES, CORRUPTION, DESTRUCTION, PHONEY RELIGION AND SUN BLOCK…YOU ARE IN FACT THE “FOREIGNER!” THE “IMMIGRANT!” THE “ILLEGAL ALIEN!” YOU’RE THE ONE THAT DOESN’T BELONG IN AMERICA OR AFRICA, NOT TO MENTION THE OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD. YOU ALL JUST INVADED AND TOOK OVER THROUGH LIES, MASS MURDER AND FEAR."

Wow Prodigy...I wonder how Alchemist feels right now.

NBA Playoff's Start April 19th

Goodness gosh Yellow Rebel is posting late! Here's a reminder from Kobe & Shaq about the playoffs.

There Can Only Be One: Kobe/Shaq


Via NBA Myspace TV

Usher ft. Young Jeezy & TI "Love in The Club" Remix

Via Concrete Loop

So this song has been making the rounds throughout the blog-o-sphere. I actually like it. Usher, once again, repping his Atlanta roots. Of course this isn't quite like "Yeah", but the dude did his thing.

Spike Lee Interview With New York Magazine On "Do The Right Thing"

"Do the Right Thing never won an Oscar.
Remember what Kim Basinger did? Onstage she said, “The best film of the year is not even nominated, and it’s Do the Right Thing.” I didn’t even know her. But when Driving Miss Motherfucking Daisy won Best Picture, that hurt … No one’s talking about Driving Miss Daisy now.

Was the studio prepared for the controversy when the film came out?
At the last moment, Paramount asked me to change the ending. They wanted Mookie and Sal to hug and be friends and sing “We Are the World.” They told me this on a Friday; Monday morning we were at Universal.

New York’s former political columnist Joe Klein and its former film critic David Denby had very strong reactions.
One of the big criticisms was that I had not provided an answer for racism in the movie, which is insane. And what’s even more insane is people like Joe Klein and David Denby felt that this film was going to cause riots. Young black males were going to emulate Mookie and throw garbage cans through windows. Like, “How dare you release this film in summertime: You know how they get in the summertime, this is like playing with fire.” I hold no grudges against them. But that was twenty years ago and it speaks for itself."

Interesting. I was just talking about Do The Right Thing the other day. Read the rest over @ NY Mag.

Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival + Lyricist Lounge=FUN FUN FUN!

Here's the press release:

April 8, 2008
Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Bodega, the producers of the 4th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival and The Lyricist Lounge announced today that the two premier Hip- Hop event producers will be joining forces for this year's Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival. The two companies will be co-presenters of the main date on July 12th at Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park as well as a new date - June 28th at Prospect Park.

The Lyricist Lounge will be joining the Festival's SUPPORT CELEBRATE REPRESENT network of cultural programming partners. This group of like minded promoters, DJ's, artists, writers, and activists are working together to produce top notch events around Brooklyn, New York City and beyond.

In addition to adding the new date to the Festival calendar, the two companies will work together on talent buying, promotion, marketing, branding, business development, sponsorship and vendor sales.

"I have known Lyricist Lounge co-founders Danny Castro and Anthony Marshall for years and have always had great respect for their ability and accomplishments. They built the Lyricist Lounge brand from the ground up. From parties to tours to MTV, they created the road map that so many follow today," added Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival founder and executive director Wes Jackson from his DUMBO office. "This year's Festival is going to be a great moment for Hip-Hop. 8 days of movies, concerts, and parties at an affordable price. In the community."

The additional performance day of June 28th at Prospect Park is the immediate result of the collaboration. In 2007 Lyricist Lounge brought over 8,000 fans to the Park and were working with Celebrate Brooklyn for another stellar day in 2008. The date will now be a part of the Celebrate Brooklyn and The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival calendar. Although performers have not been officially announced the lineup is rumored to feature a reunion that will make all of Brooklyn proud.

The performers for the July 10th and 12th dates will also be announced in the coming weeks. The word is another Brooklyn legend will make a triumphant return along with local and emerging acts from the Bronx to Los Angeles.

Tickets for the entire 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival will be released in May. Donation packages will range from $10 to $100 dollars and will include premium seating at the Film Series, free product courtesy of Brooklyn Brewery, discounts on ticketed events and more. More information will be released next week.

The 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival calendar to date is: BHF Film Series: June 13th, 20th, 27th and July 10th 4th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Performance Dates: June 28th at the Prospect Park Bandshell July 10th at The Masonic Lodge in Fort Greene July 11th pre-party July 12th at Empire Fulton Ferry State Park and official after party For venues and artists announcements check www.brooklynbodega.com

Brooklyn Bodega
info@brooklynbodega.com

So there ya have it folks....

Dear Nike....

...will you please stop doing this to the 3's...

Pics Via Sneaker Files...

I won't lie though, if I played Football, I'd probably wear those Cleet 3's. Dunno how I feel about those Fusions. On the brighter side...New Olympic 6's coming out...

Pic also via Sneaker Files

Hmm..that colorway...expect to see some Block shorties rock these with their LV bags

G-Unit Classics!

Via 2 Dope Boyz

Click here to hear album. Click here for tracklisting.

I know yesterday I mentioned I don't follow G-Unit as much as I used to. Don't get me wrong, I still mess with their music, I'm just not on top of their news headlines as much as I was before. I was perusing 2 Dope Boyz, and came across this free download, and the tracklisting jogged my memory back to 2002-2003, back when 50 had the Ave. littered with his music. These were the songs that made me a believer. I know many of you are cringing, wondering how someone like me could be a fan of this type of work, but hey I like to keep it diverse. Just because I bump Prince and Outkast doesn't mean I can't appreciate this stuff. I mean come on--the Unit did their thing on these tracks. The only track missing is that "Follow Me" joint off of the Cradle 2 The Grave soundtrack.

Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs Trailer...Coming Summer 2009

I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure the Ice Age took place after the Mesozoic Era (that would be the era of the Dinosaurs). Anyhoo, the trailer looks cool.

KANSAS WINS THE NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!

Yes folks the Kansas Jayhawks won the 2008 NCAA Championship beating out Memphis 75-68. I was actually rooting for Kansas (I guess that KU v. Davidson game rubbed off on me), but it would've been something if either team had won. Kansas almost lost it during regulation, but managed to tie it up @ the end, which led to overtime and them winning.

See: Yahoo! Sports for more info

Random News...

Folks it must your luck day...a "Random News" posting a day after another "Random News" posting! Geez, you'd think I couldn't have anything else to blog about!

Intel to Economy: "Recession can't hold me down"...(via BBC)

Digital ads are the wave of the future...(via NY Times)...heck, they're the wave of the present!

Play for the US; rock 'Lo...(via Wall Street Journal)

Nas and Mark Cuban have something in common...(via Mark Cuban's blog)...

Speaking of Nas...he spoke with MTV...(via MTV)

Dante endorses a watch line made for skaters...(via Wooohah!)...not that there's anything wrong with that. I actually like Nixon watches. Been meaning to get one for myself actually.

Bloomberg wants us to pay $8 to get into Manhattan...(via BBC)...relax folks, it was blocked...

Young Buck no longer in the Unit...(via Hip Hop DX)...this was rumored for a little while now. I mean I haven't really been following G-Unit as much, but this isn't exactly a shocker.

Nina B. Feat Madonna Mash-Up

This is off that free download I was talking about a few weeks ago. Not bad Ms. B. That's a lot of name-checking, though.

Amanda Diva "Windows Over Harlem"

I found this via YouTube....

Apparently its her upcoming single. It sounds pretty good. I think I like the singing more than the rapping. Beat is very soulful. Take a peep if you get a chance.

Random News...

Al Green dropping new album...(via Big Ced)

R.I.P Charlton Heston...(via Screen Rant)

Chris Rock on the hot seat...(via NY Times)...interesting story.

20 killed in Iraq...(via NY Daily News)....sad to hear.

Microsoft to Yahoo: "Comply in three weeks!"...(via Reuters)...

Chinese Columbia University grad student killed in traffic trying to evade attack...(NY Newsday)...this whole story greatly troubles me...

New IPhones in 2 months...(via Mac Daily News)...

Early 90's nostalgia is officially the new thing...(via Wooohah!)....

College parties are no joke....(via AM NY)...

Janelle Monae Metropolis Suite I EP !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh baby, props to OnSmash for putting this up. I been dying to hear this for a minute. When I first heard "Violent Stars, Happy Hunting", I was pretty much convinced Ms. Monae had something on her hands. Despite all the criticism being thrown her way for signing with Bad Boy, I think she has the an overwhelming amount of potential and I think if critics just put all of their feelings towards Bad Boy aside, and let her do her, we would have the next big thing. With " Violent Stars, Happy Hunting" I can envision a very over-the-top sci-fi video--think Star Wars, meets I, Robot. Coincidentally, I saw a play in high school about a robot that falls in love with a human (or maybe it was vice-versa?), though I forget the name.


By the way, I didn't make it to Blender Theatre, but the media buzz about it was tremendous. Peep the video:

Bey-Z/Jayonce Are Official

Here's an excerpt from People Magazine:

"Though there is no official confirmation, the friend says, "It happened earlier this evening. Jay wanted it to be a really private affair – close friends and family."

The ceremony was followed by a lavish party at the rapper's Tribeca apartment that drew Beyoncé's mother Tina Knowles, her father/manager Mathew, her sister Solange, her Destiny's Child mates Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, and the couple's friend Gwyneth Paltrow.

The wedding buzz began when the couple went to get a marriage license at a village hall in Scarsdale, N.Y., on Tuesday.

DJ Cassidy, a favorite of Jay-Z, was hired to spin. "Cassidy mentioned a week ago that he was really excited for the Jay Z and Beyoncé's wedding party to happen," says the friend.

Early Friday morning, workers erected a white tent atop the building in Tribeca, where Jay-Z owns a penthouse apartment. Not long after, an SUV carrying what seemed to be AV equipment arrived, followed by deliveries of party rentals and flowers."

Props to Miss Info for finding this..ahem.. info. If you're feeling extra nosy, peep the TMZ play-by-play.

I feel ashamed for feeding into this type of celebrity gossip, but I guess a detour is ok every now and then. On a sidenote, here's Jigga & Mary on Letterman:

Via RealTalk NY

Signs of A Bad Economy: NY Times Headline That Reads "Unemployment Rate Rises After 80,000 Jobs Cut"

Here's an excerpt:

"The unemployment rate ticked up to 5.1 percent from 4.8 percent, its highest level since the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in September 2005. More Americans looked for work than in February, when many simply took themselves out of the job market. But employment opportunities remained sparse.

“Three months in a row of payroll job losses and a sizable negative revision: these are clear signs that the job market is in recession,” said Jared Bernstein, an economist at the Economics Policy Institute. “I’m hard-pressed to imagine anyone who would raise doubt to that at this point.”

In the last 50 years, whenever there has been an employment downturn like the one of the last few months, a recession has followed.

Stock markets on Wall Street turned slightly lower in afternoon trading after spending much of the day in positive territory.

But economists were less optimistic. The drop in payrolls was worse than feared: many analysts had expected a decline of 50,000 jobs and an unemployment rate of 5 percent."

For the rest click here

I really hope people are paying attention to this. The stakes are higher than ever and its getting harder & harder. All the May grads, I hope you guys are paying attention to all of my economy posts. I'm grateful to have a job, but there's a side of me that's worried as well. I know I said that before, but in case anyone missed it the first time I'm saying it again; for all that read this, I really hope stuff this resonates in November during election time.

Wasalu Muhammad Jaco Show @ SOB's May 14

Yeah, I definitely won't be making this. Tickets are $37.50 (for more info check out SOB's website). I'm sure some of my blogging brethren & sisthren (is that a word?) will be checking it out; or @ least interested. I try to limit myself from going out on work nights, although this past Wednesday I made an exception. I will more than likely try & find some video footage from this.

Kanye @ The Brooklyn Museum

Via Miss Info

Yes, Kanye was in BK last night to perform @ the opening of the Murakami exhibit. I was trying to get passes but it was booked by the time I sent the email. I really wanna step my museum game up....

Mark Jackson To Replace Isaiah Thomas?

"Removing Isiah Thomas as coach is one of the easiest moves Walsh will make. Finding a replacement will not be as simple. Former Knick Mark Jackson is emerging as a favorite to succeed Thomas. Jackson has no previous head coaching experience, but Walsh did give Larry Bird and Thomas their first head coaching jobs.

However, there is some sentiment that Walsh may look to hire Jackson as his general manager, according to a source close to Walsh. Last year, Jackson interviewed for the GM job with the Memphis Grizzlies.

If Jackson - who had two stints as a player on Walsh's Pacer teams - joins Walsh in the front office, there are several coaching candidates that could appeal to them. Walsh admires Scott Skiles, an experienced coach who could achieve Walsh's first goal: making the Knicks competitive every night.

Another name that cannot be ruled out is Louisville's Rick Pitino, the former Knicks coach. Jackson considers Pitino the best coach he played for and the two have remained close throughout the years. Whether Pitino would leave college and return to the NBA for a third time is not known. The fact that Pitino would be answering to both Jackson and Walsh might also keep him from taking the job."

Via NY Daily News

Nothing set in stone obviously, but who knows. This could be a great look for the Knicks....

R.I.P. Martin Luther King, Jr.

40 years ago to this day our country lost one of its greatest leaders. And despite the differences in opinion some may have about him, you cannot deny that his impact was everlasting.

R.I.P. MLK, Jr.
January 15, 1929-April 4, 1968

NEW HELLBOY 2 TRAILER!!!!

Well gosh guys ain't it my lucky day...

Uploaded by Bloody Disgusting TV/ For Hi-Def check out Yahoo!

I heard about this through First Showing (my new addiction--by the way their video player has an ultra stream-lined media player so you may want to watch the trailer on there), and I was already hyped after seeing the first trailer, but this one gets me extra amped. To be honest, I was never into Hellboy when I was younger, though I was familiar with the character. After seeing the first movie I knew Guillermo Del Toro was on to something. This man is so dope when it comes to the fantasy/sci-fi realm! Watching the trailer, it felt like a mix of Star Wars, Men In Black and Pan's Labyrinth (one of Del Toro's films) all balled into one seismic adventure. I really feel this movie is like the underdog. As a matter of fact, on a Fandango survey on highly anticipated movies of 2008, Hellboy 2 didn't even make the list! To be honest, I think this movie looks better than than the Incredible Hulk. Anyhow, I hope this trailer peaks your interest. I have friends that don't even want to roll with me to see it. If anyone else is down, holler @ me!

Random News...

So what do we have on the news plate today....


Obama gets money (again)....(via Wall Street Journal)..there really is no stopping this man...

Murdoch speaks on his interest in Newsday...(via AM NY)...so Rupert Murdoch, the man who owns FOX, Myspace, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Post and just about every major media source that your life may revolve around, has his eyes on yet more media.

Air Jordan VII "Hares" coming out as part of a double pack...(via Sneaker Files)...they're coming with the XVI's! Ah takes me back to my high school years....

Albinos being killed in Tanzania...(via Reuters)...this is a pretty scary story...

Google cutting jobs...(via BBC)...I'm sure some of y'all heard about this...so if I'm not mistaken both CBS and Google made the decision to cut jobs during the same week...I hope everyone thinks about this when they go vote in November

Bey-Z (or Jayonce) getting married tomorrow...(via Hip Hop DX)...I really don't believe this. I'm sure everyone's heard about the marriage license that was taken out on April 1 (Fool's Day coincidentally). Jay has had one heck of a week, and it would be interesting if this is the way he were to end it, but I highly doubt this is going to happen. Especially since he is on tour and oh yeah, he's scheduled for Letterman tomorrow night. Sorry. I really don't like celebrity gossip...

Myspace & Record Companies get money...together...(via NY Times)..first peeped this on Illmind's blog.

City high schools have lower graduation rate than suburban ones...(via LA Times)...I know this is a serious statistic, and not even trying to be sarcastic...but hasn't it been that way for a while?

New DJ K-Salaam & Beatnick: Buju Banton & Trey Songz "Street Life"

Off of K-Salaam & Beatnick's up coming album Whose World Is This (VP/Universal)

Got this in an email blast. Sounds tough. Nice use of the "Roxanne" beat. For more on the album check K-Salaam & Beatnick's Myspace.

You Know You're Major When....

Hey young world,

Sorry for the late post, I had a long day. Since I don't want to divulge where I was tonight (I'm not sure if it's ethical to do that), I figure I hit you with some interesting news. Apparently Jay-Z has acquired a nice *cough* $150 million package with Live Nation. You know you're major when you're doing business with a company who's main partners are U2 & Madonna:

Live Nation’s core business has revolved around major rock and country tours, and with Jay-Z it is making an unexpected foray into hip-hop. The company is also placing an enormous wager on a performer who, like many others, has experienced declining record sales. (Last year’s “American Gangster” sold one million copies in the United States; “The Black Album,” from 2003, sold well over three million.)

But the arrangement would also position Live Nation to participate in a range of new deals with Jay-Z, one of music’s most entrepreneurial stars, whose past ventures have included the Rocawear clothing line, which he sold last year for $204 million, and the chain of 40/40 nightclubs.

Jay-Z, 38, whose real name is Shawn Carter, owes one more studio album to Def Jam, where he was president for three years before stepping down in December after he and the label’s corporate parent, Universal Music Group, could not agree on a more lucrative contract.

His first undertaking with Live Nation is his current 28-date tour with Mary J. Blige, his biggest live outing in more than three years. After that, Live Nation envisions integrating the marketing of all Jay-Z’s entertainment endeavors, including recordings, tours and endorsements.

“I’ve turned into the Rolling Stones of hip-hop,” Jay-Z said in a recent telephone interview.

Peep the rest @ NY Times

Talk about staying relevant. Personally, I think Live Nation is the future. The minute I found out about Madonna signing with them back in '07, I knew Live Nation was on to something. Their emphasis is on live shows and there's no better way to reach your fans than touring.

I have this fundamental belief that as long as we are human, we have this innate desire to be engaged. In the 24/7 media age that we live in, entertainment undoubtedly remains a solid part of it. However, despite the advancements made in technology, the power of live show remains an unquestionable force. In many early civilizations, the storyteller was considered one of the most prominent figures in the community. In Africa they had griots, Greece had dramas, and to this day Broadway still remains popular (if not ridiculously expensive). So with that said, I think this is definitely something to pay attention to and maybe slowly changing the face of music.

RELATED NEWS: Kanye launches travel agency...(via Corporate Takeover)

"Inside A Change" by Three/21 Films

Got this in an email this morning from Three/21 Films

For those that don't know, Three/21 Films is an independent film company run by Rik Cordero that has carved a reputation for itself by producing straight to YouTube videos for the likes of Joe Buddens, Joell Ortiz and The Roots. "Inside A Change" is a feature film, not a music video, produced by the indie organization. Here's the synopsis and cast listing that came in the email:

Monday April 7th
Fader Films and Three/21 Films present

The "Inside A Change" Wrap Party
A Feature Film by Rik Cordero

Doors Open @ 7:00pm

STAY
244 E. Houston St. (B/W Ave. A & B)
New York City
Synopsis
A young man (Ephraim Benton), sentenced to six months in prison, goes home for his last day of freedom to throw a birthday party for his mother (Karen Chilton) and try to bring his two brothers together - and be a family. (insideachange.com)

Starring
Ephraim Benton, Karen Chilton, Donte Bonner, Darrell Vanterpool, Andre Blake, Joell Ortiz, Alfonso Christian Lover, and Consequence

Written By
Rik Cordero and Aaron F. Schnore

Executive Producers
Dwight King
Michael Skolnik
Rob Stone
Producers
Mike Fox
Steve Carless
Nancy Mitchell
Brady Nields
Seth Abrams

Casting
Serena Stanley

Director Of Photography
Jon Chen

Gaffer
Bernard Hunt

Key Grip
Freddy Cintron

1st AD
Nancy Mitchell

2nd AD
Lyndon McCray

Hair and Makeup
Lilybeth Gonzalez

Sound
Justin Gray
Art Director
Neo Afan

Location Manager
Bre Wilson

Jay-Z & Mary To Make Stop @ David Letterman This Friday!

I heard through Soul Bounce that Jigga & Mary are making an appearance this Friday at the Dave Letterman show. Dag, I'd like to go.

"So I Keep One Eye Open Like C-B-S..."

Things are looking awfully glim:

"Over the last several days, layoffs were ordered at local stations that CBS owns, including ones in New York, Chicago, Boston and San Francisco. Dana McClintock, a spokesman for CBS, said the actions at the network and the local stations were not related.

“This is not the result of any corporate mandate,” Mr. McClintock said. The moves are the latest in a wave of cuts at news operations in both television and print organizations.

The cuts at the local stations owned by CBS were related to the financial performance of the station group in the first quarter of 2008, a CBS station executive said. The executive, who requested anonymity because the company was restricting comment on the moves, said that CBS had not issued a corporate order to cut jobs but that the stations “had to deal with their budget numbers.”

The executive added, “It looks big and ugly, but it’s not something that was ordered from on high.”

CBS revenues declined 14.6 percent in the fourth quarter. Like most media stocks, the share price has also been in decline, down almost 20 percent for the year."

Via NY Times

Kind of crazy how things are looking with the corporations...

Legend of Zelda Trailer; Possible April Fool's Joke

From the good folks @ IGN:

IGN.com - Legend of Zelda Movie Trailer Premiere


Via Myspace TV

Looks great, don't it? The reality is that it's probably a April Fool's joke; albeit, a VERY official April Fool's joke. There hasn't been any word on a official Legend of Zelda movie (as far as I know), and the fact that the trailer says April 1, 2009 at the end leads me to believe it's a joke (why would they release a potential blockbuster). The trailer mos definitely looks tight tho, and if they ever pursue something like this, I think it would definitely do well. I mean heck, if IGN ever decide to make this into a full-length internet movie, I think they'd have something hot on their hands.

Kanye West Ft. Chris Martin "Homecoming" video

Kwest
Uploaded by RealTalkNYnet

Found this via Real Talk NY (courtesy Daily Motion)

Kidz In The Hall ft. Talib Kweli & Bun B "Work To Do (Change)" Remix

Song via 2 Dope Boyz

"Kidz In The Hall's whose soulful ode to Barack Obama is entitled, "Work To Do," will be world premiering their "Change Remix" tonight on two mediums; one on Hip-Hop mega-site, Allhiphop.com, as well as on super DJ/Producer Green Lantern's Sirius Satellite "Hip-Hop Nation" radio show---and both premiers will happen simultaneously. The "Change" remix is produced by Kidz In The Hall member Double-0 and features heavyweights Bun B and Talib Kweli, who like many in the hip hop community, are proud to show their support for Obama. The song's content focuses its attention on many of the issues facing both the artists as individuals, as well as the country as a whole. Having three emcees, all from different cities in the US – Chicago, Brooklyn and Houston respectively – shows the unification within the Hip-Hop community that will hopefully encourage young people to take a long look at the issues affecting them in this country."

Quote via press release on Hip Hop Press Releases


Wow would you look @ that? It's like the past, present and future working together on one track. These cats rank as some of my favorites in the game , so you can definitely say I'm excited about this track. Yes, I admit, I was venting a little bit earlier about Hip-Hop's endorsement of Obama. But for music sake, I'll let this one get the pass. Kidz In the Hall was vouching for Obama for a minute, so they definitely get my respect. I personally have been vouching for them as a group for a little while now. What sparked my interest in them was the title of their Rawkus debut, School Was My Hustle (a VERY underrated album i might add).