Hey Nu World

Ransom 2012 Resort Collection Lookbook

2012-01-27T21:59:00.000Z

Canadian label has released some shots for their upcoming Resort Collection for the year. There is an obvious camo theme apparent when looking at the shots as well as smart shirts and print hoodies. Ransom prides itself out on quality more than quantity, so the prices will be for the individual after quality garments. More shots below and expect these items and some to trickle through to a few indie stores.

Via Hypebeast

Lacoste L!VE x Breaks of 10- Selector Sessions Party

2011-12-22T14:19:00.000Z

Last week at their Soho store, Lacoste L!VE threw a collaborative party with blog site, Breaks Of 10 showcasing some of the freshest and talented artists and DJ's in the London hip-hop scene. Last Japan and DJ Motive committed some crimes on the decks, playing the biggest tracks new and old, from this side of the pond and Stateside. The kid, ItsNate was the main performer on the night, the North Londoner doing no harm to his increasing buzz and rep as a talented wordsmith. Nate also invited TR Fernandez to join him, and the two peformed a new number, that had several heads knocking. Free 'juice' was supplied on the night by Koppaberg, and with many attendants in good spirits in the packed store, the night could definitely be seen as a success.

Above is a video of the said event and yours truly can be seen towards the end of the video.

Butterflies

2011-12-14T12:52:00.000Z

Talented lyricist by the name of Kieron Boothe showcasing his skills ahead of the release of his upcoming project, "Still Life". You may have to listen more than once to clock all the punchlines though. 17 year old MC from East London, Kieron may be one to watch in 2012 and beyond.

I Don't Know

2011-12-13T22:50:00.000Z

Nice, simple and stripped down performance with a strong hook by Joel Baker and well-crafted verses by Barney. The rapper is only 20 years old and hails from Forest Gate. This is the first release from the forthcoming EP #TheAcousticSessions. The project should be with us in the New Year, I for one will be giving that a listen.

Nikes On My Feet

2011-12-01T23:00:00.000Z

Brewer is back with a new freestyle, and as can be expected does not disappoint over the Mac Miller instrumental. Smooth flow and introspective lyrics, fans and followers of the 22 year-old will not be surprised.

For those that are not in the know, you can be brought up to speed by checking this and this out. And this.

P.S. Video was directed & filmed by I.Tell.A.Vision

A$AP X NSW Destroyer Jacket

2011-11-29T10:21:00.000Z

Nike Sportswear (NSW) continue to collaborate on their popular Destroyer Baseball Jacket. Dom and Jabari from the A$AP Worldwide were given the opportunity to rework the piece. A$AP Rocky's flamboyant crew have got the internet going nuts since this video. The jacket looks very tidy, especially with the leathered texture on the arms and featuring the group's acronym on the bottom left hand pocket. With two popular videos ultimately leading to a multi-million dollar deal with Sony look out for more from the Harlem Collective in 2012.

To THa Beat (F'd Up)

2011-11-29T09:46:00.000Z

ScHoolboy Q's ignorant anthem from #Setbacks gets some visual treatment. Fellow TDE reppers, Jay Rock & Kendrick Lamar make expected cameo appearances as well as Mac Miller & Like of Pac Div. Hype song from a brilliant mixtape . Expect the follow up, #HnC to drop soon.

BNDS Bracelet Collection

2011-11-04T17:46:00.002Z

Beaded bracelets are really on the up and up right about now, especially in men's fashion. Bracelet's can enhance or complete a desired look, an individual was after. Blog site BrryBnds are now offering handcrafted bracelets made to buyers wrist size under the moniker BNDS. As the pictures below and above show, we are talking about some very nice pieces, the buzz grew through word of mouth and now the site has opened a web store to satisfy demand.

Visit the store here.

Nike Huarache 'Free' Q's

2011-11-03T13:54:00.000Z

Nearly 20 years after the release of the first Huarache, Nike are gearing up for a re-release of the famous shoe. Nike have brought back the hi-tech running shoe and its well known basketball variation with the addition of the Nike Freesole unit.

These trainers or at least the family, takes me back to my school days, when boys and girls all around me were sporting what I could only see as Nike rock climbing trainers. #NoACG. The trainers are okay, nostalgic folk and sneakerheads will no doubt be foaming at the mouth or doing the 'cooking' dance for days on end. If you want the product, it will be available from your connect, from the Friday 11th November.

Wale #NoDaysOff Vlog: Ohio & Maryland

2011-09-27T11:05:00.000+01:00

Another vlog from the Maybach Music Empire, showing footage of recent shows Wale put on, in anticipation of his upcoming album, Ambition. If Warner drop the Bad Girls Club video soon, the November 1st release should be concrete. Eagerly anticipating this LP. Like EAGERLY.

Slondon

2011-09-07T21:19:00.000+01:00

Intro off ItsNate mixtape, Never Ask Take Everything. Tape drops 30th September.

Slondon by ItsNate

Bars aplenty as usual.

TDE in NYC

2011-09-04T14:25:00.000+01:00

Top Dawg Entertainment In New York City from Dwayne LaFleur on Vimeo.

Some dope footage of the most exciting rap group out now, Black Hippy. For the uneducated, Black Hippy is comprised of Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Ab-Soul & Jay Rock. The educated will spot the cameos by ASAP Rocky, Smoke DZA & Freeway.

HiiiPower

1977

2011-08-31T11:11:00.000+01:00

The-Dream today released the free album, '1977'. Going under his government name on this one, Terius Nash, this should be nothing short of ignorant, witty, R&B brilliance, if any of his first three albums are like this one.

Frank Ocean and especially The Weeknd fans should give this a listen, this was the first R&B singer to swear like a rapper.

Download here.

Dam

2011-08-25T09:59:00.000+01:00

The homie TR Fernandez drops his debut track , which was filmed out in Amsterdam, where a lot of us were for the Wiz concert, in May. Directed by Henry Houdini of PHD-LDN, quality stuff all around.

Shouts to whole Slobbervorst-Gang movment!

Vitamin Water Uncapped With Casey Veggies

2011-08-23T11:40:00.000+01:00

Footage of a day in the life of LA's own, Casey Veggies. This consists of hanging on Fairfax Ave, committing drive-bys on civilains with water pistols, dropping a few nice bars when he returns home.

Be on the look-out for Casey, he is definitely going places. He graduated out of high school in the summer just gone. Yes, high school.

Kanye Buys His Other Other Benz

2011-08-17T17:54:00.000+01:00

KANYE WEST OTHER OTHER BENZ from Creative Control on Vimeo.

Footage of when Kanye back in 2002, traded his first Benz to get a new one.
Funny how Lance, the car salesman, tries to get 'Ye to purchase a Maybach, the same car he would so famously gut out and give a facelift for the recent 'Otis' video.

Video shot by the ever-impressive Creative Control.

Ya'll Dont Hear Me Tho

2011-07-27T10:52:00.000+01:00

Definitely the Rookie of The Year. Look out for Dream Chasers, dropping August 11th. Shouts to Dave Patten again for the visuals.

Origin London Exhibition

2011-07-25T17:12:00.000+01:00

Should be a lot of stuff, if local check it out and if your not local, its London so you can be local in a minute. Shouts to Henry Houdini and Gabriel, some good times were had over the weekend.

House Called Home

2011-07-04T17:52:00.000+01:00

AKS "House Called Home" from Okayplayer on Vimeo.

I received this gem in my inbox earlier on today, it's been on repeat for a while. Strong hook, lyrical talent in abundance, nice video and a positive message. Last week, AKS became the first UK artist to have a video premiere on okayplayer. Taken from his well-received offering, The Bus Stop EP, with material like this, I doubt many passengers will be getting off soon.

Betty

2011-07-01T12:30:00.000+01:00

New video from two guys defo doing their thing, Ash Catch'Em and Its Nate. Directed by Morgan Keyz of SBTV. Dopeness.

The Legacy

2011-06-09T00:59:00.000+01:00

Nike pays homage to the one of the greats, Ronaldo. I would go as far to say he is the best striker I have ever seen, and considering I've been about since the late 80's, that is one heck of a player.

Keys To The City

2011-06-07T13:12:00.000+01:00

Nipsey Hussle - Keys To The City from Nipsey Hussle on Vimeo.

Clean. Off Nipsey's impressive free offering, The Marathon.

I was banging this mixtape on many bored hot afternoons in Ghana, especially during powercuts.

The Life and Times of Albert Heijn

2011-06-02T13:02:00.002+01:00

Myself and a bunch of others went to Amsterdam not too long ago, to see Young Khalifa perform. DJ Motive was on the bill that night and there was bunch of us out there. 3/4 of the Trapstar Collective were present, Skits, Shadez The Misfit and Its Nate- Henry Houdini, JC Adams, Jack Cannon and countless others. The concert was alright, and Amber Rose is something else. Good times were had. And then some. Pics below.

When Fish Ride Bicycles

2011-06-01T15:45:00.000+01:00

I have been following these kids since my little sister told me to listen to Gone Fishing. That was some two years ago, anyways, Mikey Rocks and Chuck Inglish's first LP, is due to drop July 12 in the US. Not sure about a physical release over here, as they are signed to Mountain Dew's Green Label Sound. If you don't understand imagine Oasis or Powerade had a record label, fingers crossed it works out for them. Nice artwork though.

The Cool Kids - "Bundle Up" by greenlabelsound

First single, Bundle Up is up above.

Oh and yes I am alive, until the next time.

Thursday Thoughts - Rolling Paper or Toilet Paper

2011-04-21T23:28:00.000+01:00

Around this time last year I found myself chilling to the sounds of Wiz Khalifa's "OJ & Kush" and even a few times engaging in that "Taylor Gang" lifestyle. I even woke up extra early, the day his tickets were going on sale to make sure I got one.

He followed up with "Black and Yellow" which increased the anticipation of the album, then the bootleggers got it a week or two before it's official release and the report was negative, I thought I would hold out and purchase the cd like my partner Kwarmz. He then told me it was one of his worst purchases. I then proceeded to download (don't judge me)

I couldn't believe what my ears were hearing, it was a sound completely different to what I was expecting. That being said, the album performed well commercially speaking as it came in at #2 on the Billboard Charts and in it's first weel shifting close to 200, 000 units off the back of a multi-platinum selling single. But as an original fan (well the first wave of OJ & Kush listeners) I feel like Wiz dissed me, I feel like an Everton fan when Rooney lifted his shirt after scoring and it had the message "once a blue, always a blue" then went to Manchester United the following season., as you do.

Before

After

Maybe I'm being over dramatic just a little, but hey thats how I feel and I guess with 'fans' like myself choosing to download, whereas 'die hard' fans since "Black and Yellow" would have been happy to hear the same sort of sound. Just happier, poppier and something that also ends with 'er' at the end.

I really do hope at Young Khalifa's show he doesn't perform too many tracks off the album or it will be a long night., and an appearance from Amber wouldn't hurt nobody or maybe thats just wishful thinking.

Till then I'll keep playing the songs which made me a fan.

Shouts to my brother Nomes on the title.

Pusha T - My God

2011-04-18T22:59:00.002+01:00

The second video to drop from Pusha's latest mixtape "Fear Of God"

Fear Of God 2: Let Us Pray is slated for a release in June.

Enjoy

Thursday Thoughts- We're So Appalled

2011-04-14T22:20:00.025+01:00

The latest internet phenoms, all have one thing in common, despite their musical styles appearing like night and day. One is a shirtless rapper from Los Angeles, that has gathered a lot of die-hard fans, over one video, in which he tops himself. The other is a 13 year old girl, that cannot sing, sings badly written songs, in which she details interesting about her day, events such as eating cereal and waiting for the bus stop. The last, is from these shores, a young girl from Birmingham, bragging about how sexually prolific she is, this being made more sensational, the fact she is 17 years old. Now what has made Tyler, The Creator, Rebecca Black and OG Niki overnight YouTube sensations, is nothing to do with their musical talents, in Rebecca's case, its her actual lack of it, the three of them have achieved internet notoriety because something about their song/freestyle has been so outrageous.

Tyler, because he appears fully clothed at the start of the video, rapping about everyday things (threesomes with f****** triceratops), eating a coakroach, his eyes turning black, taking off his shirt and ends up hanging himself. Rebecca Black's laughable but bankable 'Friday', people check her video to actually laugh at her, not realising they and countless others are racking up millions and millons of views (over 100 million in fact and two million downloads for the song), which naturally results in a bidding war, because hungry label execs are in search of a YouTube monster they can make a lot of money off, I'm talking Euros, Dollars, Pounds, Yen heck even Cedi's. The young girl from Birmz, now has a Verified Account status on Twitter, usually stated on the profiles of mega celebrities or tweeting politicians. Word around the online watercooler is, that she is holding several meetings with important people in the industry, her rise to fame might be the most shocking, a girl bragging about her sexual exploits is nothing new, but being so graphic and talking about taking on six men, I am pretty sure this is brand new. Not even the Notorious K.I.M. or Ill Na Na herself (that's Foxy Brown, for uneducated) were talking about things the way OG Niki does.

A still from the shockingly bad yet humorous video. Check out the grammar as well.

Which led me to thinking, if an aspiring artist wants a whole load of YouTube views, and to be a #hash-tag trending topic on Twitter, they might have to shock us, not blow us away by musical talent. Even look at a certain Ms. Minaj, before people started listening intently to her, the talk was whether her asset's are real or not, and how everybody wants to hit it, many girls included.

The real shame is not that OG Niki and Rebecca Black may end up being exploited and scribbling newly developed signatures on many papers, not knowing what they are signing on the dotted line for, but as of writing this, I am watching a Cyhi Da Prynce interview on The Monique Show, someone with great potential, but may not realise it, because he could be too 'ordinary' for us to tweet and update our Blackberry's about him. Tyler's line about picking Steve Wonder as a running back in American Football is pretty darn cold, but the drones off Tyler 'fans' who had only heard or seen him when the Yonkers vid dropped, but now rep Odd Future (his team) like they have been with them during the Myspace age, really annoy me. If the video wasn't out there, most of them probably still wouldn't have heard of him.

Peep the Tyler vid if you haven't (above), and you know where to go see Rebecca and the young OG.

Finally, any aspiring artists out there should intentionally make a bad song, have a video with a lot of T&A, or just be outrageous, that's the quickest way to gain the most amount of follwers or views on the ol' Tube. Maybe Tyler, Niki and Rebecca aren't so night and day after all, perhaps they met in the afternoon, and with plans to make the netboyz go crazy. I believe, it can be claimed they have. And then some.

HiiPoWeR

2011-04-14T14:23:00.000+01:00

Kendrick Lamar over a J.Cole produced beat, some of the dopest ish to drop in a while.
Kendrick Lamar - HiiiPoWeR Prod by J.Cole #Section80

Just Play Your Part

2011-04-11T22:22:00.000+01:00

Earlier on I brought Maybach Music Group to your attention, today they have released the video to "Play Your Part" one of favourite songs off Rick Ross' latest mixtape "Ashes To Ashes".

May 24th "Self Made, we'll be cool as long as you play your part"

Enjoy

My Last Freestyle

2011-04-07T11:36:00.001+01:00

Video of Pepstar riding over Big Sean's latest. Footage of him out on the road, Pep is definitely doing his thing, look out for his new mixtape, 'No Fly Zone'.

Alone With My Thoughts Part 2

2011-04-05T13:03:00.001+01:00

I don't what kind of life I have been leading, I apologise to present this to you four days late. I received this on Friday afternoon, but didn't have time until the early hours of Monday morning to listen to this. Brewer delivered his first effort, in February of last year. Things are still the same, an exceptional flow, strong lyrical content and production overseen by production team, The Confectionery. Guvna B, Ghetts and Ny are some of the supporting cast members.

Hit the download link, you will not be disappointed. The EPK providing an insight to the mixtape and more about the artist himself, is located below.

Thursday Thoughts- Last Of A Dying Breed

2011-03-31T23:57:00.000+01:00

Been a while, but we are back with another thought for this day of the week. While I unwisely think of adding to my modest Lacoste collection and I can only dream of having an assortment of Jordan trainers, I do have quite an impressive CD album collection. Probably beat into me during my younger days, when I would take a look at my father's hi-fi system and could easily see a Lionel Richie LP sandwiched between an ABBA, Take That or Barry White. On any given day I could even see an Elton John CD on top of a Daddy Lumba disc. Can't even lie, that stuff is still kinda hard to this day, that Elton John Duets album is no joke, and the song with ladyboy RuPaul, I can remember hearing on countless journeys in the car, is a certifiable banger.

This is not a post about Elton and his Rocket Man exploits, but one asking the question, does anyone still buy albums any more? My older brother used to bring new albums home on a weekly basis, as he got older, and I got a little bit of change, I took on the mantle and probably have contributed to the half of the CD collection currently gathering dust in my room.

All of the artist's here, have at least 2 album entries in my collection.

People have asked me many times, why I continue to shell out on CDs, when I can download them for free and even get them before they are supposed to come out, that's all fine and dandy for some but not for me. When you downloaded Get Rich or Die Tryin', and burned the disc, when you hear the songs, they might take you back to when you wearing Akademiks or slapping down your hair with Freeze Gel, but the burned disc doesn't, the actual album does.

It's all about the memories, when I bought the disc, the tracklisting, the fashion, the thank you's, the popular producers and rappers at the time, all this can come flooding back when you just pick up the case, well for me anyway.

Also, I buy albums from the artists I respect and the albums I have been looking out for, like eagerly anticipating. That being said, if I don't buy an album, I won't download it, cos I feel if I really wanted to buy it, I would have.

Close up of the albums in heavy rotation.

Matty and Nate get on to me about another one of my rules, not listening to an album's second single or some of the tracks that will appear on the LP, this is because I want to hear as much fresh material as possible, rather than having heard half the album, so only listening to like 7 tracks for the first time isn't desirable for me.

I have more rules, but I will leave them out for now. Also a lot of people I know have tons of DVD's, like serious collections, which to me is similar to blowing a stack on albums. What's even worse with films, after one or two plays, you probably wont watch them again and the longer they sit on your shelf or are just in your room, the more your friends have a tendency to want to ask to 'lend them for a bit', only for you to not ever see or to be in possession that film again.

The dusty rack, these CDs NEVER get played. There are like 20 albums here.

I don't know, maybe I am weird, but wanting to support my favourite artists's is not a bad thing, you get details on where the song was recorded, who did what and looking at the cover can bring back a ton of memories, a DVD or burned disc for me , just can't do that.

Are you a buyer like me or a RapidShare beast?

An Evening With The Black Stars

2011-03-30T22:18:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, the whole HNW team, (there's just two of us by the way) rolled to Wembley to see England take on Ghana. I have never witnessed such an atmosphere in my life, really happy I witnessed this game up close. It could have been oh so different, as Dante had me standing near a hot dog stand, waiting for him to provide with my ticket. To top it off, I was wearing my prized pair of kicks, so I was looking out in fear random drops of ketchup and trying to spot a dimpled stocky individual at the same time.

Despite some instances over-excited folk standing up when Ghana had the ball on the halfway line (in footy, this usually only happens when a team looks like they might score). Best match I have been to, and one of the funniest nights of my life. On the train, on the walkway to the Stadium, queuing up for £8 cheeseburgers, (not me, way too cheap for that) I heard some wild score predictions and I saw many friends, family members and old school/college people.

When Baby Jet netted that last minute equaliser, I think the noise we made could have been heard in Kumasi Market, the real one.

Shouts to Haw, Abz and Marc and everyone else I saw.

Thursday Thoughts- Public Service Announcement

2011-03-24T23:59:00.000Z

Have to apologise, no Thursday Thoughts again this week. Just got home, will be back next week with more than one though, that's a promise.

Fear Of God

2011-03-20T22:17:00.000Z

It's been long awaited, but tomorrow should be the first solo release from Pusha-T of the 'Clipse'. I've been from early and I also believe that his features during Kanye's G.O.O.D Friday series has earned him a wider a fan base. I have great expectations of this mixtape and hope to hear more cocaine filled rhymes from Pusha.

Pusha T - My God (Mastered) by Hypetrak

I'll be waiting for the download link as soon as I have it, so shall you. Till then peace.

Gassed

2011-03-11T23:48:00.000Z

Just come across whilst browsing my timeline and I'm fully buzzing, littered with highly flammable punchlines and a lot of boastful claims Dirty Danger presents us with "Gassed". I believe it will appear on Dirty Dangers debut release "I Aint Rich Yet" and the song features fellow Ruff Sqwad/Flee Gang members Tinchy Stryder and Slix.

Enjoy

Thursday Thoughts- LASERS- Great Marketing Ploy or Real Talk?

2011-03-10T15:01:00.004Z

Lupe Fiasco has basically been to hell and back with his label, Atlantic Records, over the release of his new album, LASERS. Originally meant to be a triple disc LP, called LUP.END (probably to quickly fulfil his contractual obligations, and then be able to retire). The label obviously scoffed at this idea, and Lupe had to release albums the good old fashioned way - one at a time. Many release dates for LASERS came and went, frustrated fans set up a petition for Atlantic to release the album, protests were even organised in show of support for Fiasco, a week before the protest, Lupe posted this image on Twitter (below) with Atlantic President Julie Greenwald, in an attempt to show, the artist and label were on the same page, with the March 8th release date (7th over here) being given as final.

Then the the first single, Show Goes On dropped,. No talk, obviously in the lead time to an album release, artists have to do a lot of press.

Lupe Fiasco Feat. Bruno Mas - Nothin' On You (Original)

(Atlantic supposedly gave Lupe many songs to record, this being one of them. Many songs, choruses and beats are shopped around before seeing the light of day. B.o.B was given this song, because Atlantic were not happy with the job the 1st & 15th representer did).

Lo and behold two weeks before the album drops, Lupe seemingly every other day has something to say, about he hates certain songs on the album, how he was feeling suicidal after his botched version of the song that became B.o.B's worldwide smash, you name it he said it. The general public responded, by turning out in their droves to purchase the album, I would have thought, publicly disowning your latest album was not the smartest move, however Lupe has been projected to sell well over 200,000 copies. This would be the biggest opening of the year so far (in the US) behind Adele's 21. It led me to start thinking, is Lupe really unhappy or wants people to feel sorry for him and rush out and buy the album?

The album in its final form.

Like think back to The Black Album, the reviews, all the hype, all the interviews were not about another rapper from in my opinion, The Greatest Rapper, they were all about his 'retirement'. Kingdom Come, American Gangster and Jay-Z Collections Vol.1 later, a major label accepting a succesfull rapper's resignation is like if Paramount allowed Steven Spielberg to retire in the middle of production Saving Private Ryan or something, the income that would come in, is too great too ignore on compassionate grounds.

I rate Lupe Fiasco very highly, although I cannot understand what he is on about sometimes, he is a top class lyricist and The Cool was a great album. However, every day I was waking up to quotes and soundbites from Fiasco, I am just wondering if it was from a disgruntled employee, or the ugly duckling who turned into the label's precious but problematic child, who was finally taking orders from upstairs.

Any thoughts?

Reebook GL 6000 SS11 Collection

2011-03-10T13:49:00.000Z

I have been a fan of some of the most recent products, I own a pair of Paris Runners and my own pair of GL 6000. These two are part of the Spring/Summer collection and this time, its a thumbs down from me.

Someone said, this is the best part of either colourway.

Turn Off The Radio

2011-03-10T13:37:00.000Z

Nate will be there, so will I, you can be there if you want. Simples

Air Jordan Retro I-XXII (1-22)

2011-03-09T22:52:00.000Z

Entertaining video by a sneakerhead from Oslo, (Norway) by the name of Mike displaying his Jordan trainers, ranging from numbers 1 to 22. Now, that is what I call a collection.

Kindle Freestyle

2011-03-09T22:25:00.000Z

Nice freestyle from the guy they call Brewer, clever use of the instrumental used on the Amazon Kindle adverts. Listen closely, yours truly gets a mention.

Trapstar YoYo Mixtape

2011-03-08T23:32:00.000Z

Last Thursday, the Trapstar and YoYo showcase popped off. I wasn't present because at that time, I was paying my phone bill (at work), however these pics and personal reports confirm to me I should have pulled a sickie. Pics and the serious showcase mix provided by DJ Motive is below.

Trapstar X YoYo Mix by DJ Motive by TrapstarLDN

Pics courtesy of the Trapstar blog.

6 foot 7 foot

2011-03-04T00:09:00.000Z

I posted the audio for this a while ago, the video has now dropped. Hype Williams is the director and you do not have to worry about having epileptic fits.

Enjoy

Thursday Thoughts - Oral

2011-03-03T22:59:00.000Z

Oral sex also known as "head", yes my Thursday Thoughts is about this often called "taboo topic". For ages I've had this debate with my friends, both male and female, about it. Many claimed they would never indulge or looked in disgust and there was always the odd person who would put themselves out there and admit to being a keen practicer.

"You niggers are sweet like the pussy i eat" :s

The above lyric is from the P***y Monster himself Lil' Wayne. I have heard Tunechi and many another rappers from the other side of the Atlantic (America for those of you who were late to Geography) come up with inventive ways when rapping about 'eating'. I have even heard jokes about napkins and whetting the appetite. Over here some older guys let me know, they are down for the cause of pleasing their lady in every which way, so maybe it's a youthful frame of mind, which is the reason why some are so opposed.

 
 Amongst males, or at the least the ones I have come across in my life, it seems here in the UK giving head is frowned upon, but if you receive it your the GUY, where as in America its more of a social norm but I believe it's slowly but surely being accepted in society.
I'm not going to lie I'm a fan of receiving head, then again who isn't?

I remember back in my school days anyone that even had the thought of doing it was deemed or labelled something negative, but as you get older these views change... Surely?

I guess it's different for boys and girls, I mean its always seemed just that little bit more acceptable when a girl gives it to a guy but why is this?? I suppose, being honest, to give it to a woman is more intimate you can't deny that and no male wants to be on the receiving end of the "bow cat" jokes.. But at the end of the day we are all adults having fun..

So that being said, will more men and women be using their head, to please one another, and own up or will we in public be vocal about it never going 'DownTown' but have a yearly season pass in the bedroom?

Time will tell, but are you or any of your friends oral (speak about it) about giving oral?

Like That

2011-02-28T19:24:00.000Z

A brilliant song. If you trust my musical opinion, please click. If you don't respect my musical opinion, click and you may be pleasantly surprised. And if you don't know anything about my musical opinion, you might as well click, what's 4 minutes out of your day?

Fly Union are from Ohio, (only one member spits on this, Jerreau) go over relationships with West Coaster, Dom Kennedy. Smooth

Thursday Thoughts- Nando's First Date Or Too Bait?

2011-02-24T23:59:00.009Z

Being African and despite my slender frame, it should be no surprise that I am a chicken lover. A fanatical one, mother ~~tells~~ me, more like she abuses me when she thinks my portions or pickings, are a tad on the generous side. Now let me say this, before I get some e-mails from their legal team, well it doesn't even matter. But amongst us 'urban folk', whenever there is a celebratory dinner or just a place to go to rather than your Auntie's yard, Nando's is usually at the top of the list. Which got me to thinking, why? Is it because they do chicken well and that is something us 'urban folk' can't resist? Or is it because we have been conditioned on it, and its safe option, most of my friends have eaten there before, my family years back fell in love with the place, cos it was one of the only places where you could get hot/spicy food and chicken, outside of your house, relatives house and in a public/everyday setting- a restaurant.

Me, personally I think Nando's is cool, but would prefer to go somewhere else a Wagamama's or something along those lines, #justsaying.

The question I am posing, if you had got on with a guy/girl over BB/Twitter/FB or -shock horror- a good ol' fashioned phone call, and the location of the first date was being sorted, would the suggestion of Nando's let you down in terms of predictability or would be you licking your lips? Also secretly hoping that your date would pay for the whole order, there are some guys like this for real.

And if any of you kids are hooking up at Nando's, bon appetite.

All Of The Lights

2011-02-20T00:03:00.000Z

Beautiful song, crazy drum programming and a Kanye & Hype video, not too out there. I'm a happy chap.

Nice to see 'Ye sporting the 3's in black at the end.

G-Shock East Sessions (Feb 18th)

2011-02-19T23:47:00.000Z

Keeping to my promise, I am now sharing some images of the G-Shock East Session at the flagship store in Brick Lane. This was easily the most attended session I have been to. Space was few and far between and I saw performances by Fearless and the boys from the Trapstar Cypher, Nate, Shadez, Ash and Skits. Fearless had a few heads rocking with that 'Duku Man' tune, and new material offered by the guys from the Cypher was well received. Pics above and below, excuse the quality, check the tags if baffled.

SB.TV - Beats & Bars - Pepstar

2011-02-18T13:36:00.000Z

True musical talent, I knew Pepstar could spit and got busy behind the boards as well, but didn't know he could play the drums AND the piano.The East Londoner basically produces and records a track in 6 minutes.Wait for the bit near the end, I looked away to check my phone for one second and then..... well see for yourself.

Dude should be going places.

Penfield 2011 Spring/Summer Lookbook

2011-02-18T12:56:00.000Z

Penfield, who are known for making outdoor garments, that will stand the test of time and unpleasant weather, have just released their Lookbook for the upcoming season. I am feeling a lot of the pieces displayed below, although I am yet to purchase some of their stuff on these shores, I think I preferred the Euro conversion rate, whilst out in Dam.

Thursday Thoughts- MMG, What Happens Next?

2011-02-17T22:57:00.005Z

Now that all the fuss of Monday has passed (although I did nothing) it's time to get back to doing what I do. To pass time I have found myself (whilst not working, studying or making trips around the capital) getting highly gassed of what could be released from Maybach Music Group. As it stand's the head man "Roozzzaaaayyyyy" (I did mention i was gassed) has recruited DC spitter Wale. To me personally it's a very good addition to the squad as on Wale's debut, "Attention Deficit", I believe his craft wasn't exposed enough or respected enough. After dropping which Kwarmz claims to be the best mixtape of last year, I do not beg to differ "More About Nothing" it got his buzz going and with that ear Rick Ross has for beat selection, it's looking like his next release will display his talents and may be a real problem to the scene.

Another signing is an up and coming artist from Philadelphia called Meek Mill. He featured on Ross' latest mixtape "Ashes To Ashes" on a track alongside Wale, he's definitely one to keep an eye out for real aggresive with a swag hopefully under the guidance of Ross he can molded into the finished article.

Rick Ross Ft. Meek Mill & Wale - Pandemonium by RWDMagazine

As it stands this ever growing imprint is caught up in the midst of a bidding war, labels such as Cash Money, Warner Brothers and Def Jam are trying to make MMG sign on their dotted lines.

I predict a bright 2011 for MMG, I just hope they can fulfill Wale's potential and push him to a strong first week sales and an album that garners critical acclaim. As for Meek I hope he's given a platform to showcase his skills, and that in a few years his name cannot be grouped alongside Gage and Bishop Lamont. If you have never heard of Gage or Bishop Lamont then this is exactly what I'm talking about.

Until next time.

UPDATE: 19th Feb, It was announced that MMG has signed to Warner Bros. Good luck to them.

G-Shock East Sessions

2011-02-17T00:00:00.000Z

Another G-Shock event, the likes of Bashy, new Parlaphone signee G FrSh and the Trapstar Cypher boys will be present. Not one for geo-tagging, and there will be no need on Friday night, because I will be at this event. Expect pics from the session.

Blog out.

In The Morning

2011-02-15T10:34:00.000Z

Filmed in Paris, the most popular track from Cole's Friday Night Lights. I wonder who the main girl is, more importantly I need a name.

Thursday Thoughts- Feb 14th, Just Another Day

2011-02-10T15:14:00.001Z

Saint Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching, and whilst many couples will snuggle up over the weekend in cinemas and various Travelodge's up and down the country, it will be a regular 24 hours for me. That will be if you don't know, going on the Sky Sports webiste and Nah Right, keeping it locked to Sky Sports News the whole day, (even with the transfer window now closed) and work, if I am in that day.

Come Monday, I won't be surprised to see many people on Facebook dedicating their status or making angry posts about how much they hate the day, when most of them would be making some soppy, moist ode to their lover if they had one. Myself, I will keep it 100, and do what I always do, look and laugh at the same people over-exposing their lives and post nothing about my own. Some people on Facebook need to re-locate to Twitter and stop broadcasting their life to 800 friends, 782 of them are the people they DON'T speak to on a regular basis. You can embarass yourself a lot less when you have a limit of 140 characters.

Clinton Cards and Love Hearts must make 42% of their annual revenue in February times.

Funnily enough during my younger years, I seemed to think every boy hated Valentines and every girl ranked it as the second most important day of their lives just ahead of getting married or seeing David Beckham/B2K in the flesh. Nowadays, a lot of girls actually do not rate the day, seeing it as a waste of time, and something with little meaning, I don't know whether that is to do with the sudden of influx of trill bitches we have but a few ladies have changed to their tune about February 14th.

I can't recall ever celebrating a Valentine's day, and on Monday the only thing I will make love to is that Kendrick Lamar's Overly Dedicated mixtape. Some stuff on there, like this is actually unreal.

Whatever you get or don't get on Valentine's day, it could be worse.

Something like this.

My Last

2011-02-08T00:01:00.001Z

First single off Big Sean's long delayed debut, Finally Famous: The Album. Song is cool, but I just really hope Def Jam finally release the album. They really messed up not doing anything with that Juelz and Breezy banger, 'Back To The Crib'.

My Last ft. Chris Brown by overratingtheunderrated

The MC + The Break Up Song

2011-02-07T10:59:00.000Z

Just got off the phone with Kwarmz, who is having some technical issues at the moment. He told me to upload these two vids from his favourite mixtape of last year "More About Nothing" I still play the mixtape most days as well. #nobandwagon.

The MC above and The Break Up Song below.

Thursday Thoughts - Life Is A Roller Coaster

2011-02-03T15:05:00.001Z

This week I've had many thoughts more time negative than positive, but through the course of this post I aim to give you an insight to the latest roller coaster I've been riding without being too emo or boring you.

This last fortnight it seems dark clouds have been following me "Shit is to too crazy,/I had bad luck like I went and fucked the voodoo lady" (Styles P).
To begin with I seen my everything (Mum) collapse in front of me, it was most probably the most scariest thing I've witnessed in my life. I  had thought I was parting ways with my first love, the only woman I've genuinely whole-heartedly cared for, thank God she woke up. This was the beginning of events or as I call it the big dip of a roller coaster "Life is a roller coaster, just got to ride it" (Ronan Keating).

As the week progressed I thought maybe it would pick up but I was met with yet another dive on this wild trip. My cousins (well my boys, but they are more or less family) were in a serious car crash, like the ones you see on TV but never consider to be real. The car flipped 8 times, once again a glimmer of lady luck shined, and nobody died but the injuries were intense and recovery has been slow but its looking like they're all on the mend. For a moment I thought I had lost them too, it seems all too much all too soon right?  Surely things can only get better right? Wrong, true to the saying "bad things happen in three's", the last straw has been taken, prior to the first to events my cousin was on trial, for ages I waited in hope that he would be found "not guilty" but on this constantly descending roller coaster there could only be one result "guilty" so now my my I've lost a sibling to the system for a minimum of 19 years.

Although everything seems negative whilst alone with my thoughts I've come to the conclusion I need to appreciate the more simpler things in life, because tomorrow is not promised, and I believe the most important things in life are priceless. I believe that for the people you love you shouldn't wait for their absence to show appreciation for their presence. So to all those in my life this is my PSA to you, thank you for your contribution it doesn't go unnoticed. To the friendships that died or faded, "My success to you even if you wish me the opposite" (Nas).

I write this not seeking sympathy, or attention only to share my thoughts.

The Tune Up

2011-02-03T11:38:00.000Z

Stalley "The Tune Up" from Kellen Dengler on Vimeo.

The song, the beard, and the production. All crazy.

C'est Magnifique

2011-02-03T11:26:00.000Z

A lot of you probably won't know and will not care but Nike are now the official kit sponsors of the French Football Federation, which basically means it they (Nike) and not Adidas will sponsor the football team. Adidas had sponsored the French Football team for 40 years.

That being said, the reason for posting, is the NSW French Football Federation collection. Some of the pieces are superb, well at least to me anyway. I have long had an affair with French football for years, Paris Saint-Germain and their great Nike kits, large of pool of unfairly skilful players and the crazy excitement of Ligue 1. Seeing the FFF, along with NSW just does it for me. Check the pics below.

#footyrantover

Roll Up

2011-01-28T10:52:00.002Z

Wiz Khalifa-Roll Up

Second single off Khalifa's debut album, Rolling Papers. Set for release in the US, March 29, so prob on the 28th or a week later on these shores. Song isn't as obvious as you think. Kinda happy-go-lucky, not so big on it, but boy did this one grow on me. Again, StarGate produced.

JC Adams iPad Illustration

2011-01-28T10:36:00.000Z

Please, just watch this. The talent displayed in this short vid is a lot of stuff. If you listen closely, you can hear myself and Nate in the background. Major shouts to the artist, JC Adams and the director Henry Houdini.

Thursday Thoughts - Family Intruder

2011-01-27T21:06:00.003Z

As the days roll on it appears single parent families are on the increase and the age of women having babies has decreased. I know a few females with children and no partner and see plenty of pretty girl's pushing buggies around. This has often left me to ask myself could I go out with or start seeing a girl who has a baby?

More time I find myself saying no, as I believe the father of the child will always come before me (not that I'm selfish, I'm just saying) providing he is still around. Also at times I ask myself is it fair for me to enter the child's life like that when it's not guaranteed I'll stay around, but I would like to believe I have a lot to offer (not any time soon) so that shouldn't be a problem, but still I question myself.

In addition I'll have to deal with the constant ear ache of extended family and my friends complaining about the excess baggage, not that I care what they have to say but I cant be bothered to deal with them.

People are becoming younger and younger these days, for now I can't foresee me being put in that situation but as it's said "you can't help who you fall for" #Justsaying.

3's- Some 10 Months Later

2011-01-25T18:48:00.002Z

Finally, been waiting on a long time to get my hands on these. A long time.

God bless the delivery man.

Meet Meek Mill and Dave Patten

2011-01-25T12:34:00.000Z

Stumbled on this video, and only checked it because I liked the sound of Meek on Rick Ross' latest mixtape, Ashes to Ashes. Through this video I discovered Dave Patten, not only a singer and producer, but also a video director. Patten really delivers a nice hook, and I think the video is serious.

Both hailing from Philadelphia, these two are set for bigger and better things in 2011. Dave Patten has been attracting interest and turning heads with his various talents combined with his rock-crooner style voice over hip-hop beats. Meek has me sold and apparently Rozay too, Bawse is supposedly in the process of inking Meek's signature to his Maybach Music Group Imprint, along with Wale.

Another video from the duo, not a fan as much of 'Believe Me' (above) but really like the verse supplied by PA spitter. Nice to see two different musical styles meshing well, its funnt, one video, kicked off a lot of research and now this.

Blog Out

Thursday Thoughts - Trashy TV and Video Girls

2011-01-20T18:55:00.003Z

Its likely this week, you either watched Jersey Shore or Bad Girls Club this week, or someone you know was watching it and was enjoying witnessing the 'everyday happenings' of either show. Jersey Shore or Bad Girls Club, iswhere we see recklessness on another level and yet we know and love it, the Hills wasn't trashy, but it was us thrown in another life some of us would love to live.

Some girl from a Bad Girls Club Series

If that wasn't you, you may have seen a nice pic of a model/fashion icon/ ex video girl on holiday in the Bahamas, or wiping their nose, being snapped by the Paparazzi.

Famous ex-girlfriends of rappers, Kim K and Amber Rose have a truckload of followers and fans on Twitter and Facebook respectively. There's nothing wrong with that, but we start getting tight and scratching our heads, when we hear news of Rose stunting in a Lamborghini.

Amber Rose, who I do not hate and wouldn't mind if she got my BB pin, does seem to have a penchant for rappers, whether it be Wiz, 'Ye or Fab. Yes, the girl is stunning, yes the girl is bald, but this was not enough for her to became famous on her own right, that's where a the famous Chi-Town MC/producer comes in. Like ultimately, that's the reason for the fame and the ever increasing amount of 'fans'.

Amber Rose

When Sheryl Gascoigne went on I'm A Celebrity...., the reason being she was one married to ex-footballer, Paul Gascoigne. So you divorce the guy, that was a lousy and violent husband to you, but keep his surname for celebrity purposes? Alex Reid, will probably be in the limelight for a long while now, even after his failed marriage with Jordan is finalised. Works both ways, I fully know this.

I am not saying we should all follow Princeton Professor Cornell West on Twitter, but don't get upset when all these Tweets and YouTube searches about these said characters, earns them multi-millions in revenue from farcical reality shows, 'self-penned' books, and sponsorship deals. And please for me whatever you do, don't call them great businesswomen or men for that matter, any day now, one of the WSHH pre-op sex change video hoes will make it. They have a team which tells them to sign the biggest and most lucrative, stars don't spend hours pondering over deals, aligning themselves with brands, they have well paid experts to do that.

Forget the outfits, you understand what I'm getting at.

So the next time, you see a Snooki high up on the Forbes money list, or Kim K with her own chain of hotels, acknowledge they have gone far, but they were not the brains (no pun intended) of the operation.

TDK Chronicles: Nas (Full)

2011-01-20T10:21:00.000Z

I dropped the trailer for this a little while back. Now here is the feature in its full-length. I am still looking for the G-Unit freestyle tape in my house. No lie.

SB.TV x Trapstar Cypher

2011-01-17T20:43:00.000Z

Cypher recorded by the SB.TV crew, at the Trapstar London store. The cypher features Skits, Nate, Ash Catch'Em & Shadez The Misfit. Who impressed you the most?

Thursday Thoughts - Concerts & Shows

2011-01-13T22:22:00.000Z

This week my good friend @AbzPapes and I were one of the few lucky people who did not end up spending my Monday evening watching EastEnders or Crawley vs Derby.

J Cole

As we managed to get a pair of Drake tickets before they sold out. Upon arriving at Hammersmith I saw a long queue of fans eagerly waiting for the doors to open, some with posters others singing his songs. The show was intense and full of good vibes. It kicked of by J. Cole taking to stage and warming up the crowd with tracks of "Friday Night Lights". Before his set ended and left fans with mainstream single "Who Dat". At this point fans where more than ready to see the man they had lining up for in the cold (some longer than others).

The lights dimmed, voices rose and Drake took to the stage like a man with a point to prove. Commanding the stage and performing songs from "Thank Me Later" as well as hook's and verses he featured on for other artist's such as Rick Ross' "Aston Martin Music" and Timbalands' "Say Something". Come to think of it, he performed a catalogue of music, and had me singing along for quite a long time.

Drake

As I reflected on the show and other artists that I had seen prior to this I thought to myself I thoroughly enjoy their shows and genuinely have a very good time. Also, that seeing an artist live allows people to see them in a different light when compared to seeing them in music video's or documentaries. Some might say they have the chance to actually connect with the artist.

That being said I have promised myself to get to more shows and concerts if I like the artist. Looking at this year's calender I will be going to see Wiz Khalifa in May, and I might just find myself at one of Ne-Yo's tour dates which will feature Trey Songz and Chipmunk next month.

What do you prefer seeing the artist live, or catching everything on YouTube a few ~~days~~ hours later?

Corporate Thugs

2011-01-13T16:10:00.000Z

They even paint people's houses and shops with the logo and featuring the company's colours. No cost, just a really good paint job which works out as great publicity and high visibility for their company.

Pics were obviously taken, guerilla style. Forgive me.

Thursday Thoughts - My Year End List

2011-01-06T22:42:00.000Z

Since its the first Thursday of 2011, and we have been slacking lately (apologies), I present to you my list of all things good and bad in 2010. Mostly music related with a little bit of fashion and popular culture added into the Gumbo pot. Don't judge me.

Mixtape of The Year: Wale - More About Nothing

A lot of people will probably go for J Cole's Friday Night Lights, which was brilliant to be honest, but offered nothing new on two counts, subject matter and what we have come to expect. I have heard about Wale for a long while, but this mixtape opened my eyes, impressive beat selection, several stellar verses and the various topics he touches upon. On top of that, with all the Seinfield excerpts, making that sitcom seem humorous to me, is an achievement in itself.

Below one of the standout cuts, in which he explains why he fell out with fellow '09 GQ Man of The Year, Kid Cudi.

06 The Numbers Won (Competition)

Album Of The Year: Really wanted to go with Pilot Talk, but this musically blew me away. The production, some serious guest verses by the like of Nicki Minaj, Rozay and Pusha Terrence. 'Gorgeous' is simply that, the arrangements on many songs, both vocally and production-wise not to mention the Chris Rock piece on 'Blame Game'. It's still hilarious to me to this day and more enjoyable than a lot of your favourite songs. A plethora of reasons why, but honestly could have won off the drum programming on 'All Of The Lights' alone. One of my greatest albums. Of all-time.

Two Favourite Male Looks: Pocket Tees and Espadrilles.

I am about to go OTT with the pocket tees, I have like 5 already, in two designs. And with the 'drilles, they can do a lot of things to any outfit. I do, however question folk that wear them on those Syberia-like nights.

Two Least Favourite Female Looks: Fur Jackets and Fake Eyelashes

I have spoken about my disdain for furs before. But these 'feather' eyelashes have got to go, not only are they over-elaborate and just plain silly, girls have stopped wearing for them occasions, and started plastering them on a day-to-day basis. Like in the morning, where is one going at 10am, where feathered fake eyelashes are a must? Hope this ~~trend~~ thingybobby dies very soon.

Some personal moments of 2010: Graduating from Uni
Getting asked for I.D. for a 18+ game
Celebrating Christmas in GH.

Thursday Thoughts - New Years Resolutions

2011-01-06T21:54:00.000Z

It's the first Thursday of the year, I believe everyone has had time to settle and recover from all the festivities of the Christmas and the run up to New Year. After speaking to a few friends the common question always pops up, "What's your New Years Resolution?". I've been met with a few answers some claim to join the gym, cut out fast food, make as much money as possible and so forth. Although they're intentions are good I'm led to believe that they are half hearted promises as my friends are yet to put one foot forward in the direction of achieving they're resolutions.

Me personally when asked that question my response is I don't really have any, I just want to better myself as a person and learn from my mistakes of the previous year.

Those are just my thoughts ...

TDK Chronicles: Nas

2011-01-06T09:47:00.000Z

Nice trailer for a short film by Nas on his childhood experiences of cassette's and trying to make his own mixtape. The film is directed by the famous photograher Jonathan Mannion (The Eminem Show and Reasonable Doubt). The film will be released in full, on January 19th, on the TDK hi-fi website.

Takes me back to my younger years, when I would tape Commander B Garage sets on Choice, and Tim Westwood shows every week. In fact I am still hoping a 2003 G-Unit freestyle tape is lying around somewhere in my house , Lloyd Banks did a lot of things with the English language on that one.

All For Me

2011-01-04T02:11:00.002Z

Nice song from up and coming rapper, XV, featuring a notable supporting cast with the likes of G.O.O.D. Music signee, CyHi Da Prynce and Dipset affiliate, Vado. Singer Erin Christine supplies the additional vocals. A feel-good song, that feels right for this time of year and some clever lines littered all over the song. CyHi's line about Mo'Nique, was quite nice.

XV ft. CyHi, Vado & Erin Christine- All For Me (prod. by Omen & Audio BLK) [DIRTY]

Apologies for the lack of posting, still on holiday out here in GH, a lot of time chilling with fam, haggling with pesky cab drivers and getting bit by mosquitoes. Until the next time.

Nate x Tim and Barry

2010-12-17T10:58:00.000Z

The boy Nate showcasing his skills for TimAndBarryTV, at the Wholesome store in Shoreditch. Bars aplenty, peep the vid.

6'7"

2010-12-16T17:39:00.002Z

This track, the first single off "Tha Carter IV" has been out for a few days now, I overlooked it at first but after listening I can assure you it is a banger. Its produced by Bangladesh who made "A Milli" and it's clear the chemistry is there, as the beat is crazy and Wayne goes in as does Cory Gunz.

Lil Wayne (feat. Cory Gunz) - 6'7 (Dirty)

Enjoy

Hercules

2010-12-10T00:27:00.000Z

Ohio native Stalley serves up the first offering 'Hercules', off his new mixtape, Lincoln Way Nights (Intelligent Trunk Music). Stalley is a regular at DD172 and I personally have interviewed him twice. Here's the first and the second one is coming soon.

Thursday Thoughts- WTF Is Urban?

2010-12-09T23:52:00.003Z

So another big year, for the UK urban scene with acts like Tinie Tempah reaching the stratosphere, N-Dubz still churning out hits like nobody's business and acts like Roll Deep, Skepta, and Wiley all charting with mainstream dancy tracks, in the case of William and his boys, consistently. Pro Green also had a very good 2010. Devlin, who released his major label debut this year, Bud, Sweat & Beers, earlier this year didn't really deviate from his sound, rapid-fire delivery, lyrical content and thought provoking material. However because of this he was never going to set the world alight, and he didn't, haven't heard the album, but unlike some other acts, will happily give it a listen.

Mainly what my gripe is, the moment when you get signed, the moment every MC/rapper (sometimes artist) dreads, underrated or overpaid? Griminal just inked with Universal a little while ago, we will see if his music steers from him single-handedly repping NASTY Crew at every possible chance to more poppy crossover appeal? 'Supa Dupa', his first release after the signing of his deal, implies otherwise. Not for a second, am I criticising any of these acts or MC's I have mentioned, but with the power of the internet I am surprised. Surprised, we haven't earthed an unknown talent, most of the time, its a popular artist who has been grinding for a while and then finally gets the little push, the backing of a machine and bucket-loads of Pounds on marketing and what not. There's no Kanye West similarity I can make off the top of my head, nor a British hip hop lyricist that has ~~fiends~~ fans going crazy over the product being supplied, like Jay Electronica. Not even a Soulja Boy reference or similarity can be made. Interestingly, Jessie J, Britian's newest Pop Princess, made her name on YouTube as a aspiring singer belting out hits on her bedroom floor.

I would just like it, if artists on their second album could make songs like 'She Likes To' that would chart Top 20, but the album would sell on the strength of the artist, not whether the first single was soppy or synthy enough. The scene is called urban for two reasons, its not big enough and it has no sound. Hip-hop has trends, soul samples, Auto-Tune, chopped n screwed voice effects, but the sound more or less is the same.

Selling out is cool, I'm all for catchy singles with bait and over-featured R'n'B singers, but having to leave your genre or comfort zone, (can tell this when a song sounds forced), just so radio will pick you up, speaks volumes of a scene in its infancy.

Any thoughts on the 'urban' scene?

Monster

2010-12-09T11:02:00.003Z

I have been a fan of this track since 'Ye leaked it all those G.O.O.D. Fridays ago. A sneak peek has surfaced and I'm posting in anticipation of the full video. I'm especially looking forward to seeing Nicki Minaj's show stealing performance, "Pink wig, thick ass, give 'em whiplash/ I think big, get cash make em blink fast" This line gets me gassed every time!

The video looks a little scary, but I guess it suits the name of the song.

Enjoy

A Day in the G.O.O.D. Life

2010-12-09T10:16:00.000Z

G.O.O.D. Music: Pusha T Welcomes Big Sean To Virginia .

In this video, G.O.O.D. music brethren, Pusha T and Big Sean are followed around by Illusive Media, during their time in Pusha's hometown, Virginia. They are seen in the studio with Lex Luger, (B.M.F. and Hard in Da Paint). I have been listening to Clipse from early, I was even reciting Pusha T verses in my Year 9 Maths classes. No lie. Sean has been steadily improving for a while now. Nice video, and reminds me I have to get back to VA, my home from home.

Trapstar A-W '10 Lookbook- Pics and Vid

2010-12-08T09:52:00.000Z

Video showcasing the upcoming Trapstar collection for the Autumn/Winter collection, which can be picked up in pizza boxes from the brand's flagship store in Portobello Road. Some stills, below, from the said video shoot.

Video and pictures both by Lau Stevens.

Start It Up

2010-12-07T11:22:00.000Z

Song has been out for a while, but never with the Pusha T verse on, now things have changed. I go on holiday next Monday, I expect to hear this a lot in the clubs. I also expect when the speakers blare out the 'Vroom Vroom bit', a lot of Aff's doing the Yung Joc motorcycle dance, circa '06. Banks (one of the best punch-liners ever) getting a buzz again. NICEEEE!!
Lloyd Banks ft. Kanye West, Fabolous, Swizz Beatz, Ryan Leslie, Pusha T – Start It Up (Extended)

Thursday Thoughts - Ugg Boots

2010-12-02T20:03:00.002Z

Is this fair?

Most probably the most common footwear likely to be found on females come this time of the year. Whether they are authentic or just imitations from shops like New Look or Shoezone, Ugg boots are the ~~shoe~~ boot built for these cold winter days. I must admit I am a fan of girl in Ugg's, especially when they are in good condition cause like most folk I'm sure they'd agree that slumped Ugg's are a sight for sore eyes, what's worse is when they are slumped and I've made the effort to look for the Ugg logo at the back, as soon as they walk past me, only to be greeted by nothing but the sound of the girl dragging her feet.

Is this fair?

That's my venting over, as I was saying they are very common amongst females coming in a variation of styles and colours, and nowadays I've seen a few males wearing them, and they are often slated as gay or camp. I personally think they're alright well only the classic black pair anything else is way too far out of the comfort zone. On my trips to Amsterdam I've seen males in abundance wearing them with Moncler jackets and I must say it drops nicely. That being said no matter how many times I hear how comfortable or how warm they are I highly doubt you will find me galavanting around the capital with them on, well not for now anyway.

So as I leave I ask what are your thoughts on men wearing Ugg's? And also if your Ugg's are slumped or leaning please put them to a side and accept that a new pair (real or fake) maybe your best option.

Real Estate

2010-11-26T07:19:00.000Z

This song dropped yesterday, didn't play it until this morning and now I cannot stop playing it. No idea about the placement of this song but it (to me anyway) is something special. Wiz Khalifa is really doing a lot on hooks these days, not to say I wasn't listening a while ago. The beat is retarded as well. And yes, another Taylor Gang/JETS related post. Sue me. Listen below.

Wiz khalifa - Real Estate

Thursday Thoughts - Dr Who Capes and 'Chinchilla Fur' Coats

2010-11-25T18:55:00.005Z

Chinchillas. Not this kind but more like.....

These. Not one of Fif's finest moments.

Almost all high street stores are now selling faux fur jackets, in the store I work in, they also sell these 'fur jackets'. Because of this I have seen how people can try on the ghastly things, and start swanning around or strutting their stuff as if they are modelling the Emperor's New Clothes. In reality, they are just wearing German Shepherd but seem to think they are decked in the finest of Chinchillas.

Now I am not a member of PETA, nor am I an animal lover, my typical West-African diet does not allow me to be one, its a Thursday so I am just sharing my thoughts. Wearing a faux fur coat is cool, but a one that drapes to floor like the one that got Frank Lucas (American Gangster) in trouble or one with bristling with whiskers is a no-no.

Capes

These I am actually cool with, I can respect a woman in a nice cape. Its just that I am concerned to as how far can the Dr Who obsession go? I have even seen tweed blazers coming into play a lot more recently, and even riding boots (No Yeo Valley). I am just saying lets not overdo it ladies, and in this increasingly unisex world we live in, we now have men's jeggings, and open-toed sandals, mandals. I just don't want to see no men or women head to toe in the Good Doctor's gear, hanging around telephone boxes and trying to communicate with Daleks.

Note to manufacturers, not everyone should try their hand at certain clothes, if you pop into ASDA for grapes and walk out with a fur coat, that is not correct.

Shouts to Beezy on this one. What do you think, have any thoughts on capes or 'faux fur'?

VA-G x G-Shock East

2010-11-24T19:15:00.001Z

Last Friday, there was another G-Shock Session held at the G-Shock Store in Brick Lane. In conjunction with the Casio brand, VA-G (Visual Artistic Garments) displayed a limited number of collaborative pieces on the night. Artists and DJs on the night included the likes of Wretch 32, Cherri V, Marcus Nasty and Random Impulse. Video footage shot by Henry Houdini.

Skepta vs N-Dubz

2010-11-21T01:06:00.005Z

Another calloboration from Skepta and N-Dubz

Another catchy hook, and more solid verses frome Skepta and Dappy. Plus a catalogue of 'Trapstar Clothing'

Enjoy.

Trapstar Starter Cap

2010-11-20T22:00:00.001Z

For ages I've been after a snapback and I've always had a soft spot for London street brand 'Trapstar'. When i showed my brother ItsNate of Itstheleak (make sure you check that blog) that I was after a snap back he told me to get a Raiders starter cap, I just never got round to purchasing it.

Call me lucky but Trapstar have remade the Raiders starter cap with their own spin on it, which is to be released on the 26th. Although it's not conventional for the current weather I'm still going to pick it up, I guess I'm getting the best of both worlds here!

Grenade

2010-11-19T13:13:00.000Z

Second single off Bruno Mar's debut album, Doo Wops and Hooligans. Great song, nice video from an exceptionally talented singer-songwriter.

J'Aime Mon Carre! Launch Party

2010-11-19T12:35:00.006Z

The other night, French high fashion house Hermes, hosted a launch party in the celebration of their campaign J'aime Mon Carre, which translates into 'I Love My Scarf' coming to East and West London. In East London at the Rochelle School of Arts, from the 18th to 21st November. In West London, the festivities will begin on Ledbury Road from the 25th November onwards.

Myself and some of the Other Likely Lads, were present at the Launch Party. There were scarves elaborately placed everywhere, over tables, hanging from the walls, you name it, it was done. War Paint, an experimental rock group from LA, provided the evening's entertainment and there were delightful fancy fingerfoods on hand and as well as free drinks. Good times were had, photos below.

Shouts to Mister Lego.

Thursday Thoughts - Diamonds Are Forever?

2010-11-18T17:05:00.008Z

In the past week, it was made public that rapper Jay Electronica has signed to Roc Nation. This might not jump out as you read, but I aim to explain and help you understand what is going on and why I have selected this story as the topic of my Thursday Thought.

Jay Electronica ~~was~~ is an undeground artist hailing from New Orleans, building a buzz and demanding attention from the mainstream hip hop community as well as purists after dropping underground gems such as "Exhibit A" and "Exhibit C". Below is the much-talked about "Exhibit A".

Jay Electronica - Exhibit A (Transformations) (Produced by Just Blaze)

Fans and critics alike have been singing his praises and annointed him as the next "God MC" and have placed the burden of him to restore Hip-Hop back to a "healthy" state for some, maybe back to the days of ATCQ (A Tribe Called Quest) or something similar to The Roots or Mos Def. As a result the buzz Jay Electronica has built for himself, it was only a matter of time before the majors came fishing for his signatures. Big names such as Nas, T.I. and Diddy all asked where he was going to make his recording home, and when he would drop his mainsteam debut LP. Keeping many in the dark for almost a year now he has just signed to Roc Nation as I mentioned before.

This may have raised a few eyebrows, as it did it to mine. I've asked myself on many occasions was it the right move, as labels ultimately hold the cards and tend to interfere with artists work too much. Thus not showing the true colours of the artist but showing that they can make what will sell at the current time.

Jay Eletronica also was good friends with Mr Carter's former partner in crime, Dame Dash. Jay Elec has been found at DD172 on many occasions, and has recorded with several DD172 artists such as Mos Def and Curren$y. What will Dame make of this move? Respect his friend's business acumen or see this as an act of betrayal?

Amanda Diva, Dame, Curren$y and Jay Elec back in the gold ol' days.

Also I asked myself him working under Jay-Z would he flourish as an artist as the current roster boasts J. Cole as well as Willow Smith both acts in which I believe his time will be dedicated to, to add insult to injury while Jay-Z was the head of Def-Jam some may argue his time in that position was not utilised correctly. That being said, some may argue that him signing to Roc Nation will introduce him to a whole new audience, however his die hard fans will hope that he does not become consumed of the idea of chasing platinum selling albums but rather focusing on making a classic LP.

Recently to hit the net is a track that features Jay Electronica, Mr Carter, The-Dream and Charlotte Gainsbourg called "The Shiny Suit Theory".

Jay Electronica featuring Jay-Z, The-Dream & Charlotte Gainsbourg - Shiny Suit Theory

When I first heard this I had to shout my brother Kwarmz just to make sure he has heard what I had just listened to, if this is a product of what is to come then all Jay Electronica fans have nothing to worry about as the chemistry shown on the track is nice.

What do you think about Jay Elec's decision?

Stay tuned for next week's Thursday Thought with Kwarmz.

Jetlife To The Next Life

2010-11-16T12:48:00.002Z

If you have been keeping up with this blog for a while, following me on Twitter or have me as a BBM contact, you would know I have been going on about this album for way too long. I tried to order the album in the past (twice) and could be only satisfied with the physical copy. My HNW brother Dante, surprised me with this the other day, when he rolled to my house and presented me with this gift. Much love. I had to commemorate this special occasion.

JETS. Just Enjoy This Shit.

Matty, I got you.

NSW - Destroy To Create

2010-11-15T14:09:00.001Z

Nike Sportswear recently held an event at 1948, in celebration of a new series of the Destroyer Jacket. On display, were previous jackets from older collections, work by the likes of Mike Cavendish x Duffy and I Have Pop to name a few names. There was free booze, a boxing ring, for some surreal boxing match with two female boxers. It wasn't weird because the brawlers were females but because it had just followed a mental moshpit in the ring, minutes before. Ohio native, Stalley performed as well. Nate and Blackstar were in attendance with me on this occasion.

Peep the pics below.

Thursday Thoughts

2010-11-12T23:09:00.000Z

From next week, you can expect a brand new weekly feature, Thursday Thoughts. Myself and the boy Dantz at HNW, will be expressing our opinions on a variety of topics. We will take alternate turns, so I will start next week and then Dante the following week, and so forth and so on.

Just giving you lot the heads up. Blog Out

An Animal A Day Keeps The Doctor Away

2010-11-10T23:13:00.000Z

~~My good friend~~ sorry my motherfucking homeboy, Mister Lego, is holding his own exhibition later on in the month. The Firm is presenting the exhibition which will run from the 18th November to the 4th December.
A multi-talented designer, with a sinister sense of humour and an intricate style, the exhibition will allow you to delve further into the mind of Mister Lego.

Private View: Thursday November 18th
Location: The C.A.M.P. 70-74 City Road, London, EC1Y 2BJ

RSVP: info@thefirmbiz.co.uk

An Animal A Day Keeps The Doctor Away - Misterlego from misterlego on Vimeo.
Enough from me, check out the work for yourself.

What I've Been Up To...

2010-11-10T00:03:00.000Z

As of recent times, I've been quite busy doing nothing out of the ordinary but just doing me, this mainly consists of being the poster boy for the "Corporate Monkey" 2010 Autumn/Winter collection. I haven't been strutting down no cat walk, just running across the shop floor back forth in order to raise those funds at some unsociable hours. Trust me it's peak!

Apart from that I've picked up Call of Duty: Black Ops I didn't queue up at midnight though. My place of employment had me ready to clock in at the early hours of the morning, so any thoughts of queueing up had to be abandoned. I've been playing for a few hours, already addicted and I haven't even gone online yet. I'm still getting preping myself for all the sharp shooting, abuse and banter that comes with it.

Currently Friday seems so far away but with that said, J Cole's album seems much further with no release date in sight. All fans like myself must sit and wait patiently, until then he has a mixtape dropping this Friday called "Friday Night Lights". If the new tape is like "The Warm Up", then we will all be nice.

I'm also feeling the new Ruff Sqwad video called "Champion", it takes me back to days of Anna and De Ja 92.3 FM, Mondays 4-6, minus a few man but none the less it still has that Ruff Sqwad vibe to it.

Anyway as today comes to an end, it is essential that I try catch up on some sleep, as when the sun rises so do I, to reclaim the title of corporate monkey. On that note I would like to state that I do have papers and the right to be in this country.

Enjoy

Lost Pics and Random Sh!t

2010-11-09T07:53:00.001Z

I was going through my computer and my phone the other day, and thought these pics needed to be shared with others. A lot of them I thought I had deleted it, so I was pleasantly surprised to still see them. Warning: Some of these pictures are completely random.

Looks like someone just came home.

2 Peas In A Pod- Classic, I had to stay behind and capture the moment.

Lazy Journalism. He actually is 29, but The Sun thought as he is Nigerian.... well you know the rest.

Midget sized bottle of Dettol. If life is rough, and you cannot get access to pills, graze your knee,pour the whole bottle on the cut and you might do some serious damage.

Rise And Grind. I understand the need to advertise, but a little compassion

here would not have gone amiss. The poor guy only had a t-shirt and some headphones in his ear. I hope whatever music he was listening to that day, was real motivational.

Shitto, I was not bored at the time. I had to verify something with my brother.

Suarez. Full time striker, part time goalkeeper. If this guy ever happens to get lost in Ghana or North London, it will be a wrap for him.

Lyon's Miralem Pjanic. The 20 year old is one of the most technically gifted players in European football right now. Mark my words. He WILL be a worldwide superstar in years to come.

Well Done

2010-11-08T11:43:00.000Z

Young Money's Tyga is back with the release of his latest mixtape, 'Well Done'. Tyga has been doing his thing lately, spazzing over famous beats, touring all over the place, he is due to come back to Europe in January, and scoring a #14 position on the Billboard Hot 100 off a mixtape record, 'Deuces'.

This mixtape mostly consists of freestyles on popular beats, but one of the highlights for me, is the track below, with his new best friend Chris Brown, on 'Wonder Woman'. Chris killed the hook and then some. Talented rapper, witty lines and a real nice flow, check out the tape some time.

Tyga - Wonder Woman (feat. Chris Brown)

Lacoste 12 Legends

2010-11-02T09:03:00.014Z

My favourite brand of all time, Lacoste, (check this blog's first post) have come up with a fresh and innovative way of reworking some of their most signature sneakers. Mr Renè Lacoste, created the world-famous L.12.12 polo shirt, back in 1933. Now Lacoste have teamed with 12 collaborators from different fields and industries to help bring some new and exciting design ideas to life. Record label Stones Throw have been tapped up, as well as retail giant, i-d Magazine and Japanese high fashion desinger, Ato, this gives you an idea on the variety of brands working together with the company. Lastly, the entire rage will be (smartly) available on 12/12, December 12.

Below, are just some of the trainers available from the 12 Legends range.

Spotted @ Hypebeast.

Too Fake

2010-11-02T00:23:00.000Z

Big Sean - Too Fake (Ft. Chiddy Bang) from illRoots.com on Vimeo.

Visual for G.O.O.D. Music Artist, Big Sean and the track off his Finally Famous Vol.3 mixtape, featuring Chiddy Bang. Nice video, some cool effects by the folks over at illRoots. My little sister put me on to Sean like a year and a half ago, and in that time he has come a long way. On this track, Sean displays some clever lines and some nice melodies. Chiddy does his thing as well.

Christmas Has Come Early For Some

2010-11-01T14:26:00.000Z

My HNW brother, Dante, might be just be busting his favourite dance move, the Stanky Legg right about now. For his wildest dreams have come true, Gucci have made 3D glasses. Not that he will not care too much about the 3D experience, but more so relieved whenever he is at the cinema, he will not need to take off his glasses, and others will envious be in their geeky big 3D spectacles. At the moment, only available from American stores, I have already joined the mailing list, the moment UK stockists get their hands on them, I will be getting asked for online verification. One man's rubbish is another man's treasure.