new music form the COOL KIDS

Music found at Nahright.com

Download Here

"Ever since politicians jumped on the social-media bandwagon, critics have been questioning the wisdom of elected officials using Twitter on the job."

It seems as though the rapid surge of politicians gravitating toward social media is raising some eye brows.

See full story here:

posted by Patrick Dieudonne

Heard this song and lost my mind.K'naan talks about the Somali pirates that plague his native land. Give this one a close listen.

Shouts to LLayo and Recruit Zero

Download HERE

Interesting insight on the republican mindset. Michael Steele also talks about the "embrasure" and open armed nature of the Publican Party. Enjoy.

Cited at Milehive.com

Posted by Brian Murray

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

One can only remain puzzled at Pat Buchanan's overtly racist remarks about supreme court justice nominee Sonia Sotomayor. He rambled on with numerous subjectively erroneous statements rooted in condescension and haste. Take a look at Rachel's response.

I wrote an article on J.Cole last week for Limite Magazine, and it dawned on me that I hadn't put his mixtape on the site, so here it is!. This guy is definitely a huge talent and a lot of this sucka MC's better step it up. Enjoy.

Full article here.

Download J.Cole- The Warm up

If you guys don't already know, this health care reform stuff is quite serious. "Reform of America's health care system is necessary to prevent economic instability for families, the medical industry, and the government, President Obama said on Wednesday." Full story here.

Article cited at CNBC.com

Posted by Patrick Dieudonne

...Everybody get on up...everybody get on up...get up...get on up. The DJ opens up with a historical piece from James Brown as he scratches the record giving the atmosphere the most appropriate hip hop ambience. Stretching his arms over the crowd he introduces an artist baptized in Hip Hops own flow. With no further interruption Q-Tip strolls out onto the stage with the expected nonchalant demeanor and begins to perform like the vet he is. Performing hits from Midnight Marauders, The Low End Theory, and People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm the hundreds of people gathered to see Q-Tip were pleased to see that one of HIP HOP’s icons has still remained true to the game.

Written by Brian Murray

Born into a country in civil war, MIA has taken revolutionary action in the name of injustice, been nominated for Grammy and Academy awards, and touched millions across the globe. She is now dealing with the real world effects of motherhood and the future path of her career. Click here for the full story.

Full story at Spinner.com

Racisim in Washington continues. When will it end?

Hip Hop mogul Sean Carter has inked a book deal decoding the double entendres buried in the elaborate wordplay of his vast discography. The book breaks down chapter and verse of what the lyrics mean, what people thought they meant, and what came out of them. This is some pretty interesting stuff. Jay elaborate on parallels between Marilyn McCoo and Mrs. Butterworth.

Get the rest of the article here at Complex Magazine

After a long hiatus from the spotlight, Dave Chappelle has surfaced in Oregon doing a free show at Pioneer Square in Portland. Hopefully he will continue to make more public appearances going forward.

See the full article here

Posted by JJ of 3Sidez

If you're not a fan already, you need to be!. Entourage season 6 premiered last Sunday and the first episode did not disappoint. Even though it seems Vinny is back to super stardom, the rest of the crew is branching out and doing their own thing. Looking forward to the rest of the season.

Supreme court justice nominee Sonia Sotomayor has been all over the news as of late due to her ambiguity on her stance on abortion. Here, she "threatens" to shoot Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn, while also deliberating on marijuana and abortion.

See full article here


Researched by Brain Murray

Traditionally community colleges are a last resort as a form of higher education, but president Obama is trying to change that. In a speech on Tuesday, Obama has proposed to invest nearly 12 billion dollars in the countrys Community College programs,"$9 billion in grant money to boost academic programs and raise graduation rates, plus another $2.5 billion to upgrade school facilities. It would also fund open-source online courses so that schools don't have to build more classrooms to admit more students.

See the rest of the article here

Very interesting debate.

I usually don't put up anything to "gossipy" or foolish but I felt this was somewhat relevant. Allegedly Chris Brown was scheduled to perform at the BET awards and do a tribute to Michael Jackson along with other artists. It's rumored that Jay-Z threatened to remove himself and other label mates if Brown was allowed to perform. Jay is blackballing Brown because of the recent incident with singer Rhianna, but let's not forget how Jay was caught on tape smacking some women in the face twice some years back. Hypocrite!! That is all

Please fast forward to the 2:55 mark, the rest of video is nonsense.

Not really much to say...Enjoy...Shout out to JJ from 3Sidez

Jay-Z gave a world premiere of his new video "D.O.A." the lead single off of his Blueprint 3 album last night after the BET awards and he did not disappoint. Although I've already covered the message and history behind this record in the "48 laws of hip hop", I still wanted to address the video....and it is tough! This is the Jay we all know and love. Super cool, crazy video, bravado on a Billie. Enjoy.

The Hypocrisy of a Nation: The Power of Media

As the world mourns the King of Pop, and music television stations have Michael Jackson tribute shows on repeat, all I can do is shake my head at the hypocrisy of this country. For the last ten years of Michael’s life he endured extreme character assassination. Michael was slandered by American media for years. He was persecuted and ridiculed for his extensive nose jobs, questionable sexuality, skin color, and being an alleged child molester. I was listening to the 98.7 Kiss FM today while writing this and the DJ said, “he was a giant and we should honor him for all time.” Where was the honor when he was in times of despair? Where was his praise then? The most sentient and controversial moments of Michael’s life became the butt of every comedians joke and the blueprint for innumerable sketch comedy shows, but now that he's dead...we're sorry? Michael has said time and time again that he's a perfectionist, and nothing is every perfect enough. So is it possible that Michael tore his body apart to fit into the perfect mold he thought his fans wanted? Is it worth it to dedicate your life to millions of people whom didn't have your best interest at heart? Michael may have been the King of Pop and sold 100 million records, but he died a lonely man. I guess that's the price of fame. The good Michael did heavily out weigh any questionable "bad" and that is what he should be remembered for. Michael is among a handful of artists whose music was powered by an energy that was bigger than them and served a bigger purpose. Michael Jackson wasn’t, R&B, or Pop, or Rock n Roll, or Hip Hop. He was Music. The media was able to destroy this man, like they do so many other people. Again, lets remember not only what Michael has done as an artist, but as a humanitarian.

Dr. Cornell West has said time and time again that, “There can be no calling without a recalling, and there can be no vocation without an invocation.” These words stand true but have a much abbreviated duality. I personally believe what Dr. West is trying to say is that to be who “you” are, you have to go back and find out where “you” came from. People of all colors and creeds have benefitted and suffered from the rights and wrongs of the people that came before them. Many preach the ideology that the secure understanding of your history brings you to a more complete understanding of self: a minor echoing Ghanaian proverb “Sankofa”. Dr. West says that it is beneficial to you and your people to delve deep into your past to find your voice, but I feel it is just as important for people of the past to make it their obligation to help shape the tender minds of the future. The black community has been labeled as having a “crabs in a barrel” mentality where in direct contrast Jews and Italians “take care of there own”. Hopefully one day the “take care of you own” mantra will break past racial barriers and turn into an altruistic social standard. Reaching down from high places of achievement to help the next young person succeed is the catalyst that will spark maturation of an entire people. Mentorship is key. Helping to shape the paths of the future is something we all can do by tapping into the lives of other people. So as Dr. West urges the youth to learn their history, we as the youth should encourage and invite the past to come and help shape the present.

During the election, Sen. John McCain threw out the notion that, then, Sen. Barack Obama was a celebrity, comparing him to the likes of Lindsey Lohan and Britney Spears. The senator's remarks were seen as childish and were met with some "poopooing" and backlash. However, now, five months since his election in January, Present Obama has been more of a high-profile celebrity and low-profile politician; not mention his recent "Cribs" special on NBC.

I thought only rappers and actors and other "celebrities" were featured on that show. I thought 50 Cent was doing it when he had an entire hour of MTV Cribs to himself; but Obama eclipsed that by having his own White House tour special on NBC for TWO HOURS! The only thing he didn't show us was what was in his fridge! Which probably had in it: some old leftover "yellow cake" [think: Dave Chappelle]; maybe a bottle of Cristal; and of course, John McCain's lunch! I don't think there was ever a President--except maybe Ronald Reagan--with this much celebrity and exposure. Who is this guy? Who does he think he is?

Bill Maher recently addressed this issue on his show, Real Time with Bill Maher, saying that he would like to see less of this president in the limelight and a lot more "audacity"referring to his [Obama's] "The Audacity of Hope" book. As Bill Maher said: " 'The Audacity of Hope" part if over." I sort of understand what President Obama may be doing with all this transparency and exposure on his part. Though it's making him look good as an idol, it's making him look bad as a President--and that's what he's here to be.

The songs, the videos, the t-shirts, the A-List celebrity endorsements, the campaigning, it's all done. Now--and this is a charge to President Obama personally--we need you to be the presidential businessman we elected you to be and get the job done. Leave the "Cribs" and the other brand-building strategies to the celebrities. The road ahead--which I'm sure you know more about than any of us--looks bleak. We elected you to be the President and change this miserable condition here in America; not tickle our fancies with your special guest appearances and soothing, well-spoken speeches. Enough of being "Denzel" and more of being "The President!"

This is Washington. Not Hollywood.

Up and coming production duo "So Japan", has made their latest musical mark by producing the song "Outti" track 13 on G.O.O.D Music artist Big Sean's latest mixtape Uknowbigsean. The track also features artist Pat Piff, who was recently signed to Pharrell William's STAR TRAK record label. Courcy Magnus and Kyle "Micky Park" Edwards met in college 4 years ago and began experimenting with music. These Philly and Connecticut natives have very distinct styles individually and when they they come together they create a sonically unorthodox, genre breaking, limitless sound full of dirty drums and memorizing melodies. With Courcy currently acting as the solo artist, the impeccable production is developed by both members of the group. They most recently are focusing on Magnus's solo mixtape tenatively titled ,"TV under the bed". They are also working on some songs with the NYC based club hoppers the Retro Kidz who already have a single out entitled New Era. We really look forward to hearing more from So Japan in the future and the highly anticipated mixtape.

In the mean time we have blessed you with a few Courcy Magnus/So Japan unreleased tracks.

1.) The Streets the Runway
2.) Blazed and Confused
3.) Crunches
4.) Another Planet


Pic: Kyle "Mikey Park" Edwards, Russel Simmons, and Courcy Magnus

First and Foremost, I want to say that the new Jay-Z single “Death of Auto Tune” that has been circling the Internet for the past few days is a banger. The production by NO ID is insane. The coliseum ready drums are painted with the brush of a baseline from the 70s, and a cinematic guitar sample. With that being said, lets look beyond the bass clef under the melody into the truth of this record.

The producer of this record is NO ID, Kanye’s mentor. It’s also rumored that Kanye helped produce the track. Now, being that Kanye just recorded his genre breaking album 808s and Heartbreak in COMPLETE auto tune. One can only assume that this is emphatically a diss record and Ye is one of those on the receiving end along with T-pain, Lil Wayne, Ron Brownz, and other artists who use auto tune.

Now let’s back track. Kanye’s 2007 album release “The Graduation” was brought to a close with the track “Big Brother”, a song dedicated to the mentorship and guidance by Jay-Z. My initial reaction was that this reminded me of the first law in the 48 Laws of Power written by Robert Green, “Never outshine the master”. At this point in music, Kanye was bigger than he’d ever been and there was a buzz about him being the biggest artist on Def Jam. But to quiet down the rumors, and prevent any out lash from the Rap guru, he stokes Jay’s ego by dedicating a song a song to him. The same thing happened with Lil Wayne and his Carter III album. There was again talk about Lil Wayne saying he was better than Jay, which caused controversy in the media. What does Wayne do? He drops “Mr. Carter”, a song in honor of both of them demonstrating another “don’t outshine the master” move.

So while Robert Greene’s philosophy was being demonstrated by Wayne and Ye, Hov is applying the exact same philosophies. After Jay’s 2003 “Black Album” release Jay “retired” from Hip Hop. This was Greene’s 16th law, “Use absence to increase respect and honor”. Jay left the game when he was at the top of his career. This retirement then put Jay into a powerful business role with Def Jam. In this new found white collar position Jay exemplified, by the nature of his job, law number 11, “Learn to keep people dependent on you”. During Jay’s retirement we heard him on a few random features with some pop artists but that was it. Jay also applied law number 34, “Be royal in your own fashion, act like a king to be treated like one”. We all know that Jay is the epitome of all things fresh and behaves like he’s the air to the throne in the kingdom of “Cool”. Unfortunately it seems as of late, Jay has been undoing all of this. Simultaneously Wayne and Ye were following law number 41,”avoid stepping on a great man’s shoes.”

After the public homage paid by Ye and Wayne, by dedicating songs to Jay, and appearing in countless videos together over the years why would Jay put out a song called “Death of Auto Tune”? Ye and Wayne are of the few artists who use auto tune the most in the industry. It seems as though Jay was applying law number 3, “Conceal your intentions”. Why the public blow? Can he really put out a song like this and say it’s not a diss toward these two artists? Jay has almost UNapplied all of these successful laws. Why would Jay come out and attack the artists of today who have found some success? It’s almost childish. Isn’t Jay above something like this? I would think so. Others may feel the same way Jay does, but isn’t Jay above being the “messenger”? Or is Jay just trying to generate hype around the Blueprint III.

This may be a stretch, but this does demonstrate the calculated methodical moves done with extreme precision that artists have to follow in order to be successful.

The other day a friend said to me, “A realist is a pessimist in disguise”. I thought about it for a minute and it started to resonate. One persons fear is another person’s reality. When someone tries to talk you out of something and says, “I’m just being a realist” there secretly saying, I’m afraid to do what it s that you are trying to do. Being a “realist” puts a ceiling on natural progress. Instead of being real, be undeniable! Be purposeful and extraordinarily zealous! Live beyond the realm of comprehension in between passion and insanity. Because being a “realist” just isn’t good enough.

Inspired by Courcy D. Magnus

This past weekend I went to the sex museum in New York and had an interesting experience. For those who don't know, on the first floor are a bunch of exhibits about the sexual history of animals, while the second and third floors have human exhibits. I found the information about animals and sex to be deeply interesting and enlightening. This trip led me to some very unusual questions.

So here I am watching two lions hump each other like Peter North and Jenna Jameson and I think to my self, "wow, that man lion sure is tearing that lady up!” I bring my eyes to the caption above and it reads "Same sex with animals". Eye brows were raised. Apparently it is very common for many animals to have sex with the same sex. More than common, it is sometimes preferred. This is consistent for other animals like gorillas, baboons, snakes, and flamingos. I found this to be odd given my ignorance on the subject and the level of controversy homosexuality causes in the human world. Being gay in the animal kingdom is as common as being straight. Animals also partake heavily in the intensely taboo acts of masturbation and group sex (orgies).

As I'm reading all this animal fact on gorilla masturbation and snake orgies, all I can think to myself is, "They're just like us". We, do the same things in our sector of the food chain that they do in theirs. So if we (in the spirit of evolution) "evolved" from some "ape like" creature into the now Homo-Sapien, and seem to be mimicking and taking part in the same things that they are.....where is God in all of this? Because it is religion that tells us that these things are sinful acts punishable by burning eternally in the depths of hell. The "Bible" recites chapter and verse what is and isn't allowed sexually by man, and the "gay" phenomenon, that has become almost a paradigm shift in the 21st Cen, is heavily scrutinized in the church. Not to say that being gay wasn't going on before, but it was not nearly as heavily as publicized. Homosexuality is one of, if not thee most controversial topic socially, politically, and culturally. This never ending argument is the reason for new legislature, hate crimes, and election votes. So just the "thought" of "gay" is pretty powerful.

So let’s stick with evolution for a minute. Wouldn't the knowledge of animals engaging in the same twisted kinky sexual routines that humans do strengthen the argument of evolution vs creationism? Because if Homo Sapiens were not the "first", then the behavior had to be inherited genetically through those who came before no? So what is our connection with the animal world? Do animals have that sophisticated of a consciousness that they understand the idea of a GOD?

"A college degree is one of the most blatant forms of oppression"

What’s really relevant? Is it more useful to spend your life climbing up the academic ladder, getting countless graduate degrees validating your academic worth, or immersing yourself into the world and learning things that no class will cover? The obsession with “name brands” takes away from the human focus. People put themselves in a lifetime of debt to go the “name brand” schools and learn about great people and how they lived their live. This path seems to guarantee some form of a successful future….success by the “American” standard. But success isn’t something that can’t be measured on a customary rubric. Success is an individual journey but it seems that we take the formal, nationally accepted path to our own success.

Is college really the answer to a bright future? It is the only way that you will learn, and become intelligent? Is the goal to become as smart as you can, or to become smart enough to make money? The obsession with college almost seems to come back that notion of personal celebrity. “So, what is it that you do?”…”It doesn’t matter I went to Harvard”. People graduate from “brand name schools” and don’t know anything. I’m not knocking these schools at all, but this is a fact in any college.


A college degree is one of the most blatant forms of oppression. You spend foolish money to learn a bunch of abstract ideologies. Then you apply for a job, and they tell you that everything you learned over the last four years was bullshit so they put you in their “training” program and hire you anyway. Then it’s that same degree that they deemed worthless that dictates how much money they are willing to pay you. Ironic

We need to learn to valid success by our own measuring stick, and focusing on educating ourselves, but opening our minds to new places, cultures, and ideas. We need to step outside of our comfort level and put ourselves in positions of great responsibility. This is how you learn, grow, and mature.

Just some food for thought......

*I wasn't able to articulate this point as well I wanted to due to my concentration on the CAVS MAGIC game. My apologies

The obsession with these social networks (facebook, myspace, twitter) has become a paradigm shift in the digital world over the last few years. But what is the real addiction? Is it that you can find your first girlfriend from the 4th grade after not talking to her for 15 years? Is is that you use it as a great networking tool for jobs and internships?.....very possible....or is it that people are so obsessed with themselves that they want people to know what they are doing at all times? Are we that narcissistic that we need to have 15 albums of face shots in countless poses?

It seems to be a combo of both, but the "thc"(chemical in weed that gets you high) in these networks are the responses we get from other people. The "someone commented on your photo". The "someone likes your status", or 12 person threads on a picture/article/or video you posted. The affirmation of your friends and strangers makes us feel important, and we all love that feeling. When you log onto facebook, and you see that number icon above "inbox", it makes us feel good. You were important enough for someone to message you. On twitter, you have to "follow" someone. How ego boosting is that? " say man, I have 467 "followers" on twitter now. How many do you have?"". These social networks definately bring our personal celebrity into fruition. But its funny how a lot of these online celebrities tend to be very quiet in real life.

So I've been following the HBO series Brave New Voices for the last couple weeks, and every time I watch it I get goose bumps. These kids are using language to massage souls and stimulate minds in ways I never thought were possible. To publicly recite your most private of inhibitions, in a way that's therapeutic not only to an individual but to an ideology, is nothing short of amazing. The show gives us a true understanding of how powerful language really is. Talented teenagers across the globe show us how to use language to love, to fight wars, to apologize, to grieve, and most importantly heal. To be brave enough to tackle some of these issues and the reward that comes along with it is something I think we all should aspire for.

If people are placed here for a reason; then does that mean if a person misses their mark (meaning, they do not fulfill their purpose here on earth) that they can be considered not worth keeping or maintaining; or in a word: expendable? Just a thought: For those who believe in the Purpose-filled Life; what significance or reason for living does a person have when they've totally missed their mark in life and constantly are ignoring all the signs pointing towards their calling? Is it fair or even humane to go as far as to say that the wages of negligence and negation are death?

One has to wonder: what's the difference between two people, both seemingly healthy and "successful", and good people; however one freakishly dies out of nowhere? Was God; or the Universe; or Life disappointed with this particular person for their continued "failure" at even looking towards their purpose? Why, why, why...What separates people and their, perhaps, not so inevitable fates: Is it their negligence; maybe it's their stubbornness and unwillingness to pursue their presupposed "destiny"; what is it? Is it just Life: You live; you die?

What a scary thought though that should you, right now, not be on the right track in life; should you be ignoring your calling or have missed your mark -- you could be, at any moment, be wiped out! This is only a thought though...

Lately in the news, "Swine Flu" has become the newest scare tactic implemented by the U.S. (to keep us reticent and docile, and thwart our efforts in raging against The Machine). Isn't ironic that we have a Black president named "Barack Hussein Obama" and now he has to protect an entire country from a disease that stems from PORK!? Funny. Let's look at the facts surrounding this "cold":

1. Supposedly originated in Mexico

2. Comes from a pig ::oink oink::

3. ONE AMERICAN has died -- an infant -- and you can probably accredit that death to the child's underdeveloped immune system

4. And...it's no different than the "Flu Flu" (for lack of a better word) which kills on average --ready for this...36,000 people a year!

Now listen: The media cries "Swine Flu" and we all wear mask; the media cries "AIDS" and we don't wear condoms!? -- C'mon people! In 2007 alone, 2 million people died from AIDS, GLOBALLY! Swine Flu kills one American and a bunch of Mexicans and we panic? --No offense: condolences to our Mexican brothers and sisters, but there's evidently something we as Americans have (or don't have) that is sustaining our civilization amid this "pandemic." The cowardice and bitchassness of America lately is awfully sickening and very disturbing.

Challenge to the readers: take your thumb, stick it in your mouth; BLOW!; and puff your chest out. MAN UP! Take the mask off America! Slip on a condom! Go find Ol' MacDonald and find out what he's doing on that farm of his: first Bird Flu; then Mad Cow disease; and now Swine Flu!?! Stay healthy....it's allergy season, too.

Featured above is the image of a star -- a dying one! Sparing you guys the harangue, just look at it...Look! It looks like a hand reaching out for something; the red cloud above, to me, symbolizes past passions, old dreams, lost sparks, just something that was once an influence (a good one) and drove that "hand." Too many times, we lose our "mojo", we lose vision of the vision that we may have had for our individual lives -- we allow our happenings and circumstances to destroy the life path that may or may not have been determined for us (whether it be through our own decision-making, or some divine, predestinated plan -- whatever you believe.) Just like that hand, when we've finally realized how far astray we've gone, and how deep we've gotten ourselves in the muck of life, we're left gasping, reaching...reaching...REACHING....but it's too late. Another 'star' is lost.

We're all stars, powerful "pulsars" spinning wildly, lighting up our surroundings. With all our power, we have the potential to do some much; we burn so brightly that even amongst the crowd and cacophony of society, there will always be someone, at some point, watching us, individually -- like how we stare at stars in the sky, there's no way we can focus on them all at the same time, but amid the scatter, we find one that just stands out to us. That's how we are: we're "stars." We all have a purpose and a place in life. We all have a calling and an answering to perform. We musn't fall short of our dreams and goals, we cannot allow ourselves to die! As scientifically-intriguing and oriented as this picture may be, I believe there's a greater message to be taken away from this spectacle: Keep burning! Stay strong! Don't die, Star!

Cornell West and Lupe Fiasco give lecture at Calvin College


Grammy nominated Lupe Fiasco and laureate extraordinaire Dr. Cornell West displayed regal caliber enlightenment and intellectual prowess on stage at Calvin College a college in Grand Rapids Michigan. The irony is that they had never met before this encounter but in my following them over the years they have both cited and expressed inspiration from each others work. Dr. West acts almost as if to be a humbled reporter interviewing the world renowned musician. They go into deep reflection about the idea of "self" and both of their "legacies". I found this lecture to be extremely progressive, and a great way to show the depth to those involved in Hip Hop Music.

Courtesy of Nahright.com

you can stream it or download it here

"some n****s wanna sit down and complain about, I wanna sit down analyze see how it came about"

To a lot of you this video may be old, but this may be one of the most revolutionary assessments of hip hop culture that I've heard and I felt I needed to bring it to light again. This 15 minute cultural autopsy looks deep nucleus of hip hop music, challenging the very fabric that we use to sow our consciousness. As of late, Joey has had much digital success taking over the internet with endless music and giving the public a direct look into his life with Joe Budden TV. Joe Budden is giving fans a REALISTIC view of the life of a rapper. He uploads footage of him and his close group of friends having realistic conversations about real life. He's constantly filming: in the studio, on the street, and in his house (not the house he rented for the MTV cribs half hour special that was financed by his label) Surprisingly he has many uploads with his girlfriend Tihiri, and talks about proposing and getting married constantly. I find this amazing because this is not the stereotypical action of a rapper. To have "one" woman and profess your love for her publicly is the exact opposite of what a lot of rappers portray, not because that’s who they really are, but because they have to fit into an image molded by the public. I commend Joey for not being plagued by social cowardice and giving fans an organic blueprint of him. Shout out to Jump off Joey. Enjoy!

A walk in the park, a seemingly never-ending talk over the phone with an old friend, a "departure kiss": all poetic scenarios that we only seem to read about in books or see on TV or even movies. But these same meaningful instances are the makings of a beautiful, poetic life. Hollywood depicts them so eloquently and almost in a step-by-step fashion, as if we're supposed to emulate and apply them to our lives...and now that I'm thinking about it -- and writing about it -- I think that we should. These are the moments that most touched us when we watched movies like Casablanca, or even during the series finale of our favorite sitcom; no matter how action-packed, dry, dull, exciting, or even just plain sucky a feature was, the "poetic moments" that kind of just brought the tension down -- probably made some men feel uneasy and just made women melt -- were the most seismic and emotionally-affecting scenes of the entire feature.

I want to challenge the readers of this article to be more poetic, more meaningful in certain areas of their life -- engage the "simple gifts" that life has to offer such as friendships and intimate relationships; maybe for some, being a parent, or even a teacher. Take these opportunities and apply a "poetic twist" to them; multiply your time and energy, and your "heart" by 100 and take them to new heights, unbound by the limitations of normalcy and complacency! Don't miss the opportunity to rekindle a relationship, or reopen the communication lines; potentially brighten someone's day or possibly turns someone's life around. Live poetically.

So I'm at work when I noticed something disturbingly odd about everyone's (the employees) seating arrangements: they sit in cubicles with their seats facing a corner. What's the purpose of that? I thought...so then I began to think...and eventually it all made sense. Personally, I view work, or any sort of supplanting, intellect-deadening job as a mode of slavishness. Anything that stifles genius and forces people into a state of dependency is, in my opinion, sinister. And given my present thought process, I came to my own conclusion about this whole sit-in-the-corner seating arrangement in the workplace: back in the day when you misbehaved you were either, probably, spanked, punished, or...you sat in the corner. And what was the purpose behind sitting in the corner? To think about what you did -- correct? Remarkably, this same disciplinary measure, has become a beneficent practice in the workplace: Keep the people in corners so that they can think -- think about their families, their bills; lose hope (almost) but not so much that they kill themselves, but become inured to the system and dependent upon it. That's the purpose of the corner, so that you keep coming back to work! All the time spent in the same cubicle, facing the same corner, will have you stuck in a job until infinity, shattering dreams and thrawting all plans and personal agendas! So today, people, recognize the corner's detriment to your existential lives, and turn away before it's too late! ...Go!

Through our many discourses, my friends and I have always encountered, particularly, the topic of "love" with some need: Love, already, is difficult matter to discuss, let alone trying to indetify whether its natural or learned. And personally, based on personal experiences and observances, I believe love is a natural/learned emotion, a borderline disciplinary emotion, that instructs one to "commit" to someone or something. And just like any natural emotion or behavior, it can be tweaked, meaning: one has the ability to love or not love. Just like someone has the ability to fight or not fight; get mad or not get mad; cry or not cry.

Love isn't like a thief in the night and just enwraps you suddenly and dialates your pupils leaving you partially blind from the realness of a situation. Love is an emotion -- a power -- that we all have the ability to exhibit towards one another, towards something, or even, a more passionate kind of love, directed towards a special someone -- a mate. Love isn't necessarily a "level" to be reached, inasmuch as it's a "choice" to be made. Of course it be foolish to "love" someone (Love in the traditional, ideal fashion) upon meeting them, but overtime, maybe; after several dates, countless exchanges, and glimpses of a future, that could be, with that particular person, one may make the responsible, conscious decision to "love" another person, wholeheartedly and passionately. See...love is too big of a deal to just be some divine impartation on behalf of the universe and other ethereal ideas. Free will is still something to account for: Love, just like with any other emotion has an according action to follow. What we must learn though is how to control our actions and direct them accordingly and to the right people. Emotions warrant careful calculation because if not, in the case of "love" -- you'll be looking for love in all the wrong places...and expressing it to all the wrong people.

I once thought that the feeling of uncontrollable fatigue after a meal was a paradigm among the black culture. People have referred to this as "Nigger-itis" or "ethnic fatigue" for centuries. The stereo typical hour lunch outing being completed with a 15 minute power nap was a sight that employers have seen for quite some time. It has become so common it's written into your contract when you’re hired, "Anything more than 15 minutes "itis-time" is docked from your pay". It turns out there actually a scientific reason for all of this and its not exclusive to members of the darker nations, we just don’t hide it as well. Apparently, large amounts of blood are diverted away from muscles to the bowel to aid digestion. This would make it unwise for us to try and run and as a defense we feel like resting. Hunger keeps us awake, while sleep aids the digestive process. This is probably the most useful information I’ll ever write.

Strait comedy!

Christianity is the monotheistic doctrine of the New testament though the word of Jesus Christ. Originally a Jewish sect in the mid-first century, Christianity evolved into a dominant religion in the Roman Empire. Christianity also was responsible for shaping the foundation of Western civilization starting in the 4th Cen. Now...in 313 Constantine issued the Edict of Milan that proclaimed religions toleration throughout the Byzantium empire which heavily propelled the Christian faith. This essentially in my understanding,is the forceful indoctrination of a faith onto the people, and a direct contradiction in the "separation in church and state" that reverberates with fervor throughout the Western world today. Its pretty clear that the separation of church and state is non existent. Not with politicians campaigning in churches, using certain Christian beliefs sway a vote one way or the other. Not with for years people having to put there hand on the bible and swear to God they are telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

It is understood and no secret that Christianity was used for social control but not necessarily in nefarious manner, because in some fashion, there has to be order. But now, a group of people in the 4th Century who may have been poor, uneducated, so on and so forth are dedicating their lives to solely getting into heaven. With the advancement of humans mentally, physically, and emotionally, is buying into an ancient "story" hindering your ability to reach your human potential? Does it make sense to live under laws that were applicable centuries ago, in completely different context? Just my thoughts...not necessarily my beliefs....

Black Thought, Talib Kweli, & John Forte Jr. from Okayplayer on Vimeo.

Video Courtesy of Nahright.com

Andre and I have had a few posts that have acknowledged president Obama for his success so on and so forth. I purposely have been somewhat objective and left and any thoughts about coercion and corruption out of my writing on any level because that isn’t the purpose of this anthology. The Obama Deception video is rather interesting. It not so much a conspiracy theory as it is factually based information by individuals who pay close attention to detail...Assuming this video is 100% accurate, how do you feel about you government now?

As you know we support L.A. Based artist Blu. Here's a video from 2006...Blue Collar Worker. The soung touches on being a broke artist with a regular blue collar job, which is the case for most artists. It's just uncool to talk about such truths.

Krs One spits a freestyle about true democracy founded in 508 B.C. Athens by Klisthenis and the end of this "true" democracy in 322 B.C. with the conquering of Athens by Alexander of Macedon. Apparently we havent seen democracy since.

Here's some positive, encouraging music for all those out there working a 9-to-5: Consequence's "Job Song" should be a morning "hymn" for every aspiring entrepreneur, rapper, DJ, musician, writer, dancer, designer...whatever, that's currently working, solely, as a means to an end. Though we shouldn't despise small beginnings, let's always remain antagonistic to the systematizing measures of the "industry", and mindful of our dreams and ultimate goals.


Remember: Sometimes you have to "starve" yourself, just to stay hungry.

New single from the L.A. compilation album Curly Tops and Nautica Jackets

L.A.U.S.D ft. Blu & Miss Jack Davey- I Feel.

Get song here: Download

Pic Courtesy of Nahright.com

Remember the first time you heard Jay-Z's "Do it Again (Put ya hands up)" off the volume three album? I know...you went nuts......"Rocafella....you know what this is...we giving ya’ll 5 seconds to put your drink down and report to the dance floor immediately...all the bustas we givin ya’ll 5 seconds to get close to an exit..its bout to get real ugly in here....5 seconds is up....lets GO!!! BEAT DROPS!! Bananas!!...Then you went home and asked you moms for 10 bucks to go cop it at Sam Goodie. You brought it home, put it in your portable CD player and you were spazzing because the album was so hot. But none of your friends had the album. Just you. So they couldn't hear the real heat like "Snoopy Track" feat Juvenile or "It's Hot"(Some Like it Hot). All your boys were still bumping the "radio single" when you had all the gems. You felt like Hov made that track just for you and no one else. You were 1 up on everyone. You were exclusive. Then maybe 6 months later one of your boys comes to you and says.."Yo man, you heard that 'Snoopy Track" on the Vol.3 album.?..it's crazy."" For some reason...all this does is piss you off!!...thoroughly!!!..and you reply.."You idiot, i heard that song months ago!!!"...your so mad because the little musical leverage you had was now gone. You personal euphoria stripped away and stomped on because your lame friend decided to buy the album on sale 6 months later and tell you about somthing you already knew waaaaay before they did.Don't you hate when that happens??

In the last couple of years, the eyes and ears of American music fans have turned in awe toward New Orleans, Louisiana, to witness the transformation of the previously unspectacular rapper Dwayne Carter. We watched as he released thousands of songs and hundreds of mixtapes, appeared on everyone’s songs and videos, and sold millions of records.

They say every person has their opposite, the yin to one’s yang…Je’Ri Allah, known more commonly as Jay Electronica, also hails from New Orleans, and has built a buzz by NOT releasing material, by NOT appearing in public, and by being an enigma in general, in contrast to Wayne.

For a solid year, there was one real profile on him on the whole internet, and about 15 songs. The most prominent of the songs was unquestionably the 15 minute epic “song” Eternal Sunshine, recorded over Jon Brion’s soundtrack to the movie of the same name, separated into 3 verses with 2 interludes in the form of monologues by Erykah Badu (who he now shares a newborn baby girl with) and Just Blaze. He raps with a strange pacing, slow but controlled, pausing for effect often. His rhymes are filled with references to various literature, religions, art, history, and sciences. He covers philosophical ground and existential dilemma without the forced nature of a Canibus or the deliberate reasoning of a Lupe Fiasco…when he does it, it’s almost casual. Conspiracy theories, stories of betrayal, religious miracles, and moral quandaries are all fair game on any given track.

While in 2007 he was known mostly by other underground heads in Detroit, he is now a player to watch in the rap game, known by everyone from the Detroit battle rappers to Nas, who commissioned him to produce the intro on his last CD, to P. Diddy. He is signed to Erykah Badu’s record label, as a flagship artist. He has toured with Nas and Talib Kweli, but has yet to hint at any official releases. His hype has reached a fever pitch recently, with the release of the random single Exhibit A, produced by Just Blaze, which was in my opinion the best rap song in 2008. Will he ever be mainstream? I don’t care. I just want more songs, and an album. The ridiculous skills he possesses on the mic need to be displayed more, and it will be tragic if no projects ever come to fruition. Either way, just keep a (third) eye out for him in 2009. P.S. He’s the nicest rapper out of New Orleans.

Check out http://3sidez.blogspot.com/
VERY DOPE

It's hard to imagine that, right now, anybody is doing well. Sure there are those out there that are sitting comfortably on capital gains and revolving, lofty pay checks -- but what about those of us who have no investments, are paid minimum wage, work part-time, and just live simple middle-class lives: is it possible that there are those, like us, doing well in this extraordinarily stressful economic time? ...sure. These people are the ones that held back when friends and others leapt into poor, frivolous "investments" such as partying, or shopping, or even eating out; these people are the ones that lived modestly before the economy hit rock bottom and didn't splurge unnecessarily; these people are the ones that sowed during the "good times" so that they were able to have during the "bad times." Plainly: You reap what you sow. It's not that people all over America are just simply "losing" money now -- a lot of them lost it even before they had it!: bad debts, poor investments; living the "good life" on "so-so" income: all these unhealthy and unwise spending habits have led to many of the struggles that Americans are experiencing right now. Had they been "sowing" and saving beforehand, I'm pretty sure they would have been better off and living comfortably now. Should we feel bad for these people? ...of course. Because it's sad to know that they did not know this "profitable" proverb earlier on.

A word to the wise: Sow. For you shall reap abundantly in due season.

All Jamaicans smoke weed, all Mexicans sell oranges and cut grass, all Jews are cheap accountants and lawyers, all Middle Eastern people blow shit up, all Irish people are alcoholics, all Italians are in the mob, all Chinese people are mathematicians, all Cubans swam to America, Asians are all good in the martial arts, All black people play some sport and eat fried chicken, all Asians own a convenient store in the hood, Athletes are dumb, all Africans have shot someone by age 10.

It is this ignorance that keeps the world divided. Once we rid ourselves of the indoctrination of the "stereotype", we will realize that the next man is just like you and it was complete fear that kept us from seeing it.

This post really doesn't have shit to do with anything but if you don't have a Blackberry or a Macbook, your just behind the times. So sorry. Please excuse my ignorance.

With the recent success of brother Barack and the subsequent victory of the Pittsburg Steelers in the SuperBowl (being coached and lead by brother Mike Tomlin) earlier this year...being Black, right now, has never felt so empowering. It may be a reach, but think about it: sports, like politics, is equally and inherently racist, and in extraordinary fashion, a Black man became the president of the United States; and yet, in another extraordinary fashion, a Black head coach wins the Super Bowl becoming icons in their respective "arenas."

Now, sports has always been a disturbingly, singular reality for most Black young men in America, but now when you think of "Black" you can connote not only sinewy, ball-dribbling, slam dunking bodies on the basketball court or incendiary, elusive, unstoppable, running-backs on the football field -- but also: Politics, and President ...and Possibility ...and "Yes" ...and Opportunity! All these once seemingly foreign terms when talking about Blacks has become -- even in this premier occurence -- the status quo. Black people have a "heritage" to uphold now: if its not going to be that of Dr. King , ...or even that of Rosa Parks, ... or maybe even that of Gandhi... It should be that of President Barack Obama -- a vestige of progress, and success, and even "mission accomplishment" in Black America.

*Picture courtesy of pro.corbis.com

2009 brought monumental events, the biggest being the election of the first black or mixed president into the White House. Turns out brother Barack, lucky number 7 and not number 1. The First president of United States that was of color was none other than Thomas Jefferson. He was then followed by Andrew Jackson, Abe Lincoln, Warren Harding, Calvin Coolidge, and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Why has this monumental truth gone unknown for generations? These men denounced their black heritage and went as far as to destroy any document that made these facts known. Why don’t you know this? Ask your 10th grade US History teacher.

There's a great article written by a friend of mine on his blog that goes into much deeper detail about the cultural background of these men.

Click here for the article

"I am thankful for what I have been through because it has given me the courage to fight the war on traditional thinking." Kanye West said this during his performance on VH1 Storytellers after singing "Flashing Lights". Traditional thinking is what causes the masses to be social pacifists and follow as opposed to lead. Traditional thinking is based on rationality in which most of our thought processes lie, but Kanye like many other icons tend to think light years outside the box and embody the courage to walk down a different path and march to the beat of a different drummer. People who dazzle us with their personal genius make it look as natural as breathing but face the internal battle of trying to fit in by standing out, a path asymmetrical to normality. Most people want to fit in. why are we afraid to stand out and think differently?Are we afraid of the ridicule of others? Are we afraid of failure?.....or are we afraid of success and the responsibility that comes along with it?

Currency

a. Something that is used as a medium of exchange; money.

b. A continued, uninterrupted course or flow like that of a stream...

This may sound corny. but...I subscribe to Rev Run's Daily Words of Wisdom (WHAT!? Say something!) Seriously though, I enjoy them -- I find his 'words of wisdom' to be very thought-provoking and meaningful, most of which I've even applied to my own life --and believe me, they've been helpful. Today I want to share an small excerpt from one of his "words" that I received earlier this week:

Money is at it's best when it's moving.... Not accumulating.... That is why it's called currency... It's supposed to flow in currents..... A wise man once said... “Rich people are not ALWAYS happy people..

How timely: How true is that right now, in America? -- money is supposed to flow...not STACK! Everybody talks about "saving money for a rainy day", but right now in America we are exeperiencing a monsoon and no one is spending! Saving now means nothing if you're not going to spend later: These big-time execs with their insatiable, voracious, money-hungry nature have sucked the economy dry, and furthermore, we on the ground level of this economy have ceased spending altogether: we've practically dammed up our own economy. There's no cash flow! I understand people having their trepidations with the economy, but the money has to go back in order for it to come out. Hoarding it up is only going to prolong our state and belabor the recuperation of our own, once copious, American Econ-river. I'll admit it: Fat Joe was right: we need to 'make it rain'.

I am truly convinced that Chris Brown is Kurt Russell's "doppelganger": Have you guys read the police report from the night he (Chris) beat up Rihanna??? Supposedly this brawl between Chris and Rihanna-- the punching, the head slams, the bites, the scratches, the suplexes, the DDTs, and "Stone Cold stunners" -- all went down inside the car....while he was driving! That is some Quentin Tarantino, "Death Proof" type shit! Does anybody remember that movie? ...it came out in 2007 ...it was part of a double-feature, the other movie being "Planet Terror" ...anybody remember? Anyway, the movie featured Kurt Russell, Rose McGowan, Rosario Dawson, Zoe Bell, Tracie Thomas, Vaness Ferlito, and some other people: in the movie Kurt Russell played "Stuntman Mike" who is this crazed stuntman who stalks two seperate sets of young woman and uses his "death proof" car to execute his sinister plans. If you've ever seen it you probably remember the first victim, played by Rose McGowan, whose head was smashed into the dash board as Stuntman Mike abruptly stopped his car after traveling at incendiary speeds, or even the head on collision he purposefully had with the first set of young ladies which sent their bodies (and body parts) flying from their car. And Kurt Russell walks away without a scratch on him -- death proof, baby! In the end, the other set of girls end up having the last laugh -- for their car too is "death proof" -- and get the best of Kurt...and end up killng him in the end.

Now, after reading this police report, whenever I think of Chris Brown I will always think of "Stuntman Mike" and his "death proof" car. Let's just hope, for Chris' sake, that the car was "jail proof" too. Check out the report :here

If you’re like me, then you sometimes like to listen to music while reading; if so, then the next time you are reading, or even just listening to your music please take a moment to consider your play list. What are you listening to? How would you describe your play list: is it vivacious, is it “crunk”, is it “hood”, is it “punkish”, is it conscious, does have any substance - is it empty, does it have any meaning or morale? I personally am scrupulous about the type of music people listen to because I believe that people "march to a beat" and that beat stems from their music tastes. Now, I’m no judge of music sophistication but it’s safe to say that the conscientiousness of music, particularly Hip Hop, has drastically waned in the past several years.

May I ask a question: What the hell are we listening to these days?!? There’s a difference between a trumpet and a party horn: party horns are festive instruments normal for a party, nonchalant, celebratory atmosphere; on the other hand, a trumpet was once a sign of war, an indicator to charge the enemy, a tune of seriousness. So now I pose another question: what is our battle cry in this war - this war on injustice, on terrorism, on inequality, on greed, and corruption? Who is our trumpeter in music against these issues that we face today in America?

Sir Francis Bacon once said: "Knowledge is Power." Right now in the early 21st century of America that statement has probably never been more appropriate. I am a firm believer in the power of knowledge: the more you know, the more you grow; and the more you know the more you should show what you know: TEACH THE PEOPLE, I say. Not necessarily in the classroom but...even on a 'soapbox' if you have to. DO NOT CONCEAL THE TRUTH.

Ari Gold from HBO's Entourage has got to one of the most memorable TV characters in recent time. (Although his character is based loosely on prominent American talent agent Ariel "Ari" Emanuel) His anti-gay, cultural , and gender epithets make for the bedrock of satirical genius on which the show stands. Here are some of his most noteworthy quotes. Enjoy.

1) Lloyd: "Are you hiding something from me Ari?" Ari: "Only my cock and my asshole Lloyd."

2) Ari: "I want you to pass this message along to Dana. Tell her that I still have the pictures from Cancun, tell her that I’m gonna start a website. I will take a full page ad out in the L.A. Times advertising it. Tell her it will be called imahollywoodexecutivewhore.com and that no password or fee will be required. Tell her I Want A Fucking Call Back!"

3) Ari Gold: "Listen to me, Lloyd. Do you want to make it in this business or fold shirts at a Chinese Laundromat? Pledge."

4) Lloyd: "What’s wrong?”Ari: "Has so much cum squirt in those eyes you can’t see what’s right in front of your face? Amanda Daniels takes that job, Vince is fucked and I’m fucked. Which means we’re all fucked. And we’re fucked in the way you like to get fucked not fucked in the way normal people like to get fucked."

5) Ari: "Listen, Lloyd, I want you to put all my files, folders, binders, *everything* into a box! If you find a used condom, an executioner's mask, and a fucking spike paddle, don't think, just pack that bitch! Chop suey!"

6) (Ari shows Lloyd the dust on his finger) Lloyd: "The cleaning staff’s on strike, you know that". Ari: "They strike, you work. You’re Asian; you’re supposed to be a neat freak. Go get a rag............ Go Lloyd, go. I want every desk sterile enough for you to get trained on."

So...the Bible: It's celebrity over the years has exploded, surprisingly, making it an integral element to American pop-culture. But is it possible that the Bible's ubiquity and spreading the Gospel has backfired for the Bible making it an easy target for stark repudiations and blasphemy? Think about it: We don't casually argue the viability of, let's say, Paul Revere vs. Israel Bissel, or even, whether golf is truly a Black activity considering how a Black man invented the golf tee; but the Bible on the other hand has been a revolving topic, pedestaled by believers and unbelievers over the polemic whether Jesus Christ was real, if God is alive, Heaven and Hell, and even the preciseness of current events that are said to be predicted and outlined by the Bible--hundreds of years ago! Such reports and proclamations (even if they are from a book) are certainly going to arouse the emotions of people all over, and let's face it--some "authors" are just ahead of their time and will never find their contemporaries; nonetheless, the Bible has been puffed up in such a way that it's modernity and credibility is questionable. Is it safe to say that now, in the early 21st Century, that the Bible has lost it's novelty and the only way for it to regain it is by....keepin' it on the hush?

I once believed that Reggaeton was the only form of music that was displaced from African-America culture--stemming from Reggae and Dancehall music influences. But this just in: Salsa is too. Apparently Salsa is an African (and European) inspired dance style that was espoused by Spanish-speaking people in the Carribean. Who would have thought that we were the originators of this "love dance" flavored with self-expression, grace, and ambiguity: for instance, the "Boogaloo"--a type of Latin dance and music--is a fusion of doo-wop, blues, R&B--music tastes which Latin Americans shared--with mambo. I'm convinced that being Black is cool; it's just that--what makes us and everything about us, or at least everything that was about us, so advantageous to everybody else?

Kanye West delivered a powerful performance on VH1's Storytellers, performing a combination of songs from his last two albums The Graduation and 808's and Heartbreak. The show consisted of "unplugged" versions of the studio productions coupled with poignant monologues by Kanye in-between each record. There's a dope article about Kanye on 3 Sidez to a Story, a blog geared toward the uniquely insightful understanding of Hip Hop music. Click here for more.

Download: Kayne West Live From VH1