end is near...

think my time on my blogger might have reached it's peak...

Visually Bloggable: Idle Warship "Black Snake Moan"

Got word a few days ago that this was out. This would be the music video that I attended the shoot for a few weeks back. I didn't get any screen time but Hackman (aka C-Hack) gets a cameo at about 3:18.

88 Keys also makes an appearance.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I know..a bit late and lacking in creativity. But as I explained in my email, I couldn't really conjure something up when I opened up Photoshop.

A Conversation w/ Homeboy Sandman...

Homeboy: the yellow rebel cannot die
the yellow rebel is immortal
me: LOL...yes he can
Immortal???
2:12 PM Immortal is something in mythology, happy endings and the Highlander series
Yellow Rebel was a symbol
Homeboy: who is this?
this can't be the man they call yellow rebel
who speaks such blashemy?
2:13 PM me: and that symbol has slowly been transformed to represent somehting it no longer can be
Homeboy: which is what?
and by the way, the symbol yellow rebel stands for all that is good and pure
2:15 PM me: the yellow rebel stood for the misunderstood concepts that despite their honesty, are interpreted as spiteful
Homeboy: really?
nobody ever put me on to that
me: sandman...have u ever watched an adult movie?
Homeboy: to me, the yellow rebel meant speaking the truth
yes
2:16 PM me: likewise, I'm sure you've been forced to watch a cheesy romance or novella before correct?
Homeboy: long ago, yes
me: and which one o those taught u more about the love making process most?
The adult film or the cheesy romance?
2:17 PM Homeboy: i ain't really learn much from either, but i think it see what you're getting at
me: well for me it was the adult film
2:18 PM but nobody will ever recommend that as a learning experience...despite the fact that if ask most men (or guys going through puberty)...that the adult film gave them a greater understanding of what is to be expected in the future
yet society shies away from it...rather than considers its unbridled honesty
2:19 PM Homeboy: i see the yellow rebel as the voice speaking that truth though
me: that unbridled truth has now been shunned by society and written off as a mere gimmick
2:20 PM no one wants to take the rebel seriously
the ones who understand him do...hence our convo right now
but the ones who dont...well...
they killed him
Homeboy: but they can't kill you rebel
that's what makes you a hero in the eyes of those who understand
me: all good rebel's must die
2:21 PM Homeboy: and if you give up, you're not gonna be a martyr
you're gonna be a quitter
me: am not a martyr
i am not a hero
Homeboy: i'm not talking about you
i'm talking about the yellow rebel
and the yellow rebel
is a hero
2:22 PM me: he was to some..
but he is no more.
Homeboy: so there's no talking you out of it then?
2:23 PM me: well
to be frank there was indication that the yellow rebel was ever alive
some might argue that he was dead to begin with
Homeboy: nonsense
2:24 PM i have heard the yellow rebel with my own two ears
trumpeting truth for all
and the truth is
2:25 PM yellow rebel is bigger than you
to me
he will never die
no matter what you say
me: can u be certain he was alive?
Homeboy: absolutely
me: maybe its best not to hope that way
you see sandman
2:26 PM You can't kill what's already dead
and if YR was dead from the beginning
than there's only one way to go from there
2:27 PM Homeboy: you talking about yellow rebel being dead
saying he was never alive
is like when harvey dent turned to two face
it's like corruption of something incorruptable
i won't accept it
there's nothing you can say to change my mind
2:28 PM me: is that what you truly believe?
Homeboy: absolutely
me: u wanna know what I believe
Homeboy: what?
2:31 PM me: I believe what doesnt kill u simply makes you...stranger
2:32 PM Homeboy: haha

The Definition of Gully...

Janelle Monae has been blogged about so many times, I mine as well start a fan blog (I was considering trying to start a blog that fit into the theme of Metropolis but I'd want the OK from W.A.S. first).

So why is this ad gully? Pretty simple, Ms. Monae (or Ms. Robinson) performs "Winter Wonderland" which is really an on the low shout-out to her crew...the Wondaland Arts Society!

The only artist to have done that in a Gap ad was LL Cool J ("reppin' for us, by us/on the low"). In keeping in line with this tradition, Janelle Monae has proven that she is a heavyweight much like James Todd Smith.





AIight all jokes aside, Janelle Monae was probably not intending to shout-out her marketing team. I jest. But it is an interesting choice in song. She still gets my draft pick for '08.

Remy Music Lounge

Just got in from the Remy Music Lounge...

Some changes happening...

All will be explained soon...

Visually Bloggable: "Slumdog Millionaire" Trailer

So I been hearing about this film for a fat minute, and my lazy self never took the time to check out the trailer. After watching it (props to Poplicks), I must say I am intrigued....




The only comparison I can think of is 8 Mile, being as how both seem to deal with preparing for a final moment. City of God also comes to mind in terms of capturing third world poverty in a movie.

Visually Bloggable: Another Watchmen Trailer!

Peeped this on RealTalkNY


Oh man this preview is so clutch.

Yellow Rebel x Allen Edmonds/GQ x XXL/Fila

Yeah it was one of those nights last night....

Here we gooo...

Despite the poor weather last night in NYC, I felt obligated to check out a few events. I had received confirms for 2 events: Allen Edmonds/GQ and XXL/Fila. Since the Allen Edmonds & GQ event started earlier, I headed over there to check it out...

This was my first GQ event which was pretty cool. For every purchase of Allen Edmonds shoes you get 10% off and a free belt. They also served beer and had free shoe shining which was cool.

After that it was time to head over to the Fila store where XXL was holding a celebration for the latest issue and the release of the Wu-Tang Fila Boot....



Met up with Kingpin Kels before I got there. Met up with some cool people. Shout-outs to 8thW1, Loj, Dox, Ryan, Esso, Tori, Mickey Factz, Panama (of The Wire--peep the guy beating up Bubbles), St. Paul, Carl, and Ms. Officer.

Audibly Bloggable: Ludacris ft. Nas & Jay-Z "I Do It For Hip Hop"

Remember that song I was hyped about a few weeks ago? Here it is...

It's tagged, but so what. Song is heat!

D/l here

Visually Bloggable: Colin Munroe Trailer

Peeped this on Sickamore's blog.

Looks to be a cool mixtape.

Zack & Miri Review

I know it's Friday, but I figure I just mention this since it was a apart of my week. I watched Kevin Smith's Zack and Miri Make a Porno on Wednesday night. I won't sit here and dissect it (since it was a comedy), but I have to admit this was one of the funniest movies I'd seen in a while (Role Models is next).

Prior to the release of the film, there was a quite a bit of (in my opinion) unnecessary controversy due to the word "Porno" being in the title. It's not a movie for children, but it's most certainly far from controversial. At the end of the day it's really just a love story.

If you do decide to go see it, just be on the look out for this particular line:

"She frosted me like a cake"

You'll either die laughing or throw up your popcorn.

My thoughts exactly...

ESSO - Party Started from stupid GENIUS on Vimeo.

We're headed towards a depression (yes, I said it). We mine as well party right? Click here to check out more of Esso's music.

Lol...Transformers in Hollywood

Peeped this on Mick Boogie's blog. Classic.

Janelle Monae Concert Contest

So there's this huge concert next week in NYC that features two of my favorite artists on the bill: Nas & Janelle Monae. RSVP is closed already, but I get an email from Wondaland Art Society about the following...

*****************************************************************************************************************************

"Sincerely, _______" Contest

Great news, Rolling Stone Magazine has asked Janelle Monáe to come and perform in New York City!!!

Due to high demand there are only a limited number of tickets available for this event. We all know how Janelle Monáe feels about having her supporters at any AND all of her performances. It's a must! She loves when her supporters are there, participating in the action and having fun with her while she performs.

In order to make sure we can have some of the most loyal Janelle Monáe supporters at this next show, we've decided to host a contest!! We are asking you to take Ms. Monáe's electrifying tunes, "Sincerely, Jane" or Violet Stars Happy Hunting! and record yourself singing & dancing to the first verse and chorus! Can't decide between the songs?! Do both!

Don't worry, there's no pressure. This contest is meant to be fun, and a great vehicle for you to use your Imagination. Don't worry about submitting something that is "professional" quality or professionally "edited," etc. We only ask that you adhere to this one requirement-- This video MUST be from your heart.

Go! Find a computer, a web cam, a digital camera, an HVX, a my first Sony Cam, or whatever you can get your hands on and start making your "Sincerely, (insert your name here)" video!


CONTEST DETAILS:

We will be selecting 5 true supporters who have uploaded their "Sincerely, _______" video.

Those 5 will receive free concert tickets to be with Janelle Monáe and The Wondaland Arts Society on November 19th at 7pm The Highline Ballroom.

First 5 people to submit their Sincerely,____ video win!!

How?

• Upload video to youtube and email thechase@wondalandarts.com with the link.
• Email must have the subject line: Sincerely,__(insert your name)__Contest Submission

Deadline:
November 16th COB/5:00pm (close of business)

Contest Winner Notification:
November 17th

*All contest winners are responsible for all personal travel & lodging accommodations to New York City.

Should be interesting.

My Semi-Homekoming...

So after many months of not visiting my alma mater, I made a trip up this past Sunday for the final day of a well-marketed venture called "Homekoming". It was SUNY New Paltz' attempt at having a weekend long celebration for alumni, filled with Greek-parties, a dance show and a fashion show. I was only able to make it up there for the fashion show, but nonetheless has a great time. I saw many familiar faces, linked up with the good homey Video Vixon and got to get out of the city for a day.

Pics weren't great, but feel free to comment about them. Video Vixon had more extensive coverage of Sunday's festivities...

Mickey Factz was there to perform. He had some technical difficulties early on in his set...


Mickey Factz @ the 2008 SUNY New Paltz Envied Fashion Show from yellowrebel on Vimeo.

Post Midnight Bloggin': Sunday To Monday After Thoughts

I went up to the alma mater this past Sunday. Linked up Video Vixon and numerous other college chums who are still up there. Glad to have gone. It was minute since I last been up there and I had a better time than I thought.

Got some footage to and pics to put up....

R.I.P. Byron Lee

A little late, but I just found out about it from SoulBounce. The man was a legend in Caribbean music.

Visually Bloggable: Old Janelle Monae Footage...

Found this via Harlem Loves

Lol kind of creepy. But I figure some of y'all might dig this.

Tonight...

Can't say for certain whether I will make this, but it looks like a good line-up. Plus Smoking Section, Ill Roots and Herfection are co-sponsors.

Visually Bloggable: Obama's Victory Speech

First peeped on Nah Right



That victory speech was great. The celebration reminded me of the last scene in Return of the Jedi.

Hey It's Election Day....

Let's face it--whether you're voting for him or not, he is representative of that bold 8-letter word. To me it's almost a clear sign to the traditional right-wing that perhaps maybe the old ways may not be working anymore. Of course, usually by the time those in power get the message, it's a bit late. But let me not be pessimistic. Maybe he will lead us in the direction that we need to go.

Roughly four years ago, I was beginning college and listening to a remix to Jadakiss' "Why". It featured Nas, Styles P and Common. All emcees did their thing, but for some reason I managed to remember the part Common's verse where he says the following...

At the time, I could barely make out the name that rhymes with Osama, but after doing some research I figured out who this person was. My dad also explained to me his significance. Four years ago, Barack Obama was probably best known for making a rousing speech at the Democratic National Convention (that speech was "The Audacity of Hope" for those that don't know) and now four years later here he is still making strides. Even if he doesn't win, he has still managed to make history.

What I Did On Sunday....

A bit late but....

So Sunday I was at Walbaum's buying groceries when I decided check out the cheap DVD's next to the check out. I came across yet another obscure 80's movie that I had to purchase...

Some of you may not remember this film. Some of you may not even know what this film was about. But if you were one of those kids that was glued to channel 11 on Sunday afternoons (or WPIX as it was called...not the CW), you might actually remember this film. Batteries Not Included is the story of several tenants who are struggling to save their apartment until their prayers are answered and they are saved by flying, robotic beings that have the ability to fix things.

It's really not as lame as you might think. The movie is surprisingly moving, and actually makes me consider all of the changes taking place in NYC now. I can imagine a re-make of this taking shape, and the message being just as clear.



Also, the Giants showed the Cowboys why they are the champs. Sorry Hackman.

Now a Word From Its The Real...

The Night Before November 4th from jeff on Vimeo.

LOL.

Yellow Rebel + Idle Warship (Talib Kweli & Res) Video Shoot!

Thursday afternoon I found myself at Rehab (no, not that "rehab", it's a lounge on the Lower East), where they were shooting the video for Talib Kweli & Res' (and I now presume includes Graph Nobel) group, Idle Warship.

The video shoot went well. I'm not sure how much of me you're going to see in it but definitely check for the "Black Snake Moan" video when it drops. Tanya Morgan, Che Grand & 88 Keys were in the building as guests. Got to talk to some great people while I was there. I also got a chance to meet Res (whose name is pronounced like 'Reese' not 'Rez" as I had previously thought) and take a quick flick.


Although it was brief, she was real cool about everything and really sweet. Definitely check out her music.

Around 5:30 I had to go to a meeting in Midtown but later returned to see the rest of the video shoot. This time I was with with Hackman and we both ran into Sickamore of the Famous Firm.



We spoke briefly and I was soon back at Rehab, this time with Hackman, watching them shoot the "party scene".

All in all it was a cool experience. When I spoke to Res earlier I mentioned to her that it felt somewhat surreal being in there. I wouldn't say I was starstruck--I think the best way to describe it is nostalgia.

I first bumped Train of Thought when I was 14. I was a big Blackstar fan and I used to wish I was older because I always wanted to check them out live at SOB's or Wetlands (shout-outs to anyone that can remember the Wetlands). When I was 16 I remember watching Res' video for "They Say Visions" on Flava Videos (I don't have Cable and we didn't have fast internet then, so any music videos I watched were either on Flava Videos, Video Music Box, a friend's house or at a retail store) and seeing her in some Ecko ads. This was all when I was in high school.

And here I was, years later, a college grad in the same room as them. How crazy is that? Makes you wonder where life can take you.

Been MIA...My Bad...

So I been kind of out of the loop these last few days. Forgive me. I was going to post something on Friday about a music video shoot that I attended, but Photobucket was giving me some problems. I'm still getting the hang of using it, but I think Picasa might be my internet photo album organizer of choice for now.

I'll have some stuff up shortly....