Thursday, November 19, 2009
Music Thursday- Beyonce and Lady Gaga- Video Phone
Well, the musical stars aligned as two titans of radio play have collaborated for a much-anticipated new video, the remix of Beyonce's 'Video Phone'. The video features a scantily clad Beyonce in numerous skimpy outfits, with a quick guest spot by Lady Gaga, who has been stripped down, and as her "real self" is almost unrecognizable. We all know Miss Gaga is known for her outrageous outfits, and here she is well, really normal. Finally, the two perform choreography in matching white bathing suits.
I am a Beyonce fan. I should say that first. I think B is extremely talented, and is one of the best entertainers out right now. And really, she didn't need a collabo, but since Lady G is hot right now, I'm sure she figured, I rather join than compete. I can dig it. I think Gaga is fierce, so I can't blame B for wanting to hook up. I am not so sure what Gaga really got out of it though. She became Gaga Lite, because she didn't want to "compete" or upstage B in her own video. I can respect that. Gaga is very secure is her fabulousness, and performed like a trooper. But Gaga is a dynamo, and can't really be bottled up, or else the final product suffers.
But here is my real beef..
There is a very short walk from sexy street to slutty ave., and B has been straddling the fence for some time, without formally crossing over to the dark side. However, I think she has finally crossed the raunchy line. The video, while colorful and visually interesting, is nothing but B gyrating in half-naked outfits. And not just her usual gyrations, but really hypersexualized.
What is going on, B?? I mean really. I know sex sells, but are there no limits? I know she's a grown woman, and her audience is no longer little kids, but this in my opinion is a bit ridiculous.---
And can we change up the outfits? How many one-piece/bathing suits can we pull off? Yes, her body is sick, and I'm not hating. She should accentuate her positives. But she is not the only woman with a great body, (i.e. Mary J. Blige). Further, I think B has really benefited because she has gotten a virtual pass for her behavior. Other artists, (think Mrs. Aguilera in her heyday) have been drug through the mud for too tight/short clothing, or simulated sex in videos. Is the current Beyonce really that much different?
Also, as a lover of music and video, B really needs to get a bit more creative with the videos. She has really overworked the "B in leotards with 2 backup dancers" routine. Single Ladies was great. But Single Ladies times three is a bit much. Can we get a story, a concept, a plot?
I say this in love, because I am a fan, I like her and have bought her music. Whether she wants to acknowledge it or not, she does have young fans, (even teens are getting too young for this) and I wish she would just tone it down a bit.
It's not all about me and my thoughts though. I really want to hear your thoughts. Have you seen the video? If not, here it is. Let me know what you think. Love it? Hate it? Am I on point or overreacting?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Fall/Winter Trend- Over-the-Knee boots



Type Z Airdrie- $173.00- shopbop.com

DKNY- $275.00- shopbop.com

Jeffrey Campbell- $355.00- shopbop.com


Manolo Blanik- Nieman's- $1450
What do you think of the new trend? Loving the over-the-knee, or a bit too Pretty Woman?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Precious- The ATF Review

Thursday, November 12, 2009
Music Thursday- Melanie Fiona's The Bridge

For those who prefer a more updated sound, you will love “Ay Yo”, a reggae tinged anthem that masterfully exemplifies Fiona’s Caribbean roots, and celebrates living life to the fullest. And of course, there is “It Kills Me”, a song that while a bit lyrically sparse, hits the right note. Its relatability, and Fiona’s raw emotion make it an undeniable winner.
The Bridge is a great debut CD from a promising young artist. While some may find the song selections to be a bit schizophrenic, they do work together to make a rather enjoyable CD, and one that you’d be glad to have in your collection.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Taraji P. Henson's new look- Hot or Not?


Before or after? What say you?
Monday, November 9, 2009
Happy Birthday to Me!/ Can It Be I Stayed Away Too Long?
Some of you may have noticed that I have been off the scene for the last few days. So sorry I haven't been able to update my blog. I just returned from a GREAT trip to Nassau for their 2nd Annual Islands of the World Fashion Week. I was covering it for N'Digo newspaper here in Chicago. As soon as I am able, I will give you all of the juicy details. On another note, today is my birthday, and after getting in pretty late last night, I am going to take one more day off. So, I will be back tomorrow with a new post.
Hasta manana...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
On the Entertainment Front- MJ, Gaga and my crush

On Friday, I asked if you were going to see Michael Jackson's "This Is It" during its' limited two-week run. Well, as I suspected, it turns out that the two-week run has been extended and is expected to run through the Thanksgiving Holiday. I went to see it on Friday, and it is definitely worth a viewing. I must say that it wasn't quite as good as I expected it to be, but satisfying nonetheless. The movie gave a real behind-the-scenes look at Michael's upcoming London tour. From the dancers to the musicians to Kenny Ortega, the crew really gave their heart and soul to the concert, and to Michael. It really is something to see. And not unlike what we have come to expect from Michael, the concert was clearly going to be a tutorial on how to "come high or stay at home". Michael was all about excellence, and it is evident that this concert would be unlike anything most people have ever seen. More impressively, the viewer had the rare opportunity to see Michael not just as performer, but as maestro and creator. Michael didn't just play music. Michael WAS music. Plain and simple. His command of all things musical has been seen over and over again, but it was particularly interesting in this setting. And his vocals were incredibly in tact. It was a bit sad to see what was, and what could have been, but if you are a MJ fan, you will likely enjoy Michael Jackson's This Is It.

I am surprised that as much as I talk fashion, that I have not discussed supreme it-girl Lady Gaga. Seriously, with the exception of maybe Rihanna, no one gets more coverage than Gaga for her jaw dropping creations. What do you think of Lady Gaga's style? Is she serving up over-the top fabness, or over-the top fooletry? What say you?
Finally, this is completely irrelevant to anything, but this weekend, I somehow ended up re-watching Cadillac Records. (You know cable TV plays reruns ad nauseum). Anyhoo, can I just say that I love me some Columbus Short? Good lawd! Even as a good-tooth wearing "Little Walter", he was sexy. When he sang "My Babe", and in his real voice, mmmh! Too bad he really is short is real life. In any case, he is fiiine and seriously talented. His new movie, "Armored" is slated to be hit the theatres next month.
All for now. Later...
Monday, November 2, 2009
Beauty Monday- All About the Holidays

MAC Magic, Mirth, and Mischief Collection
Lip Kit- $22.50
Eye Kit- $ 36.00

NARS Anniversary Collection- $75

Bobbi Brown -Chrome Collection- $75
Stila Holiday Lip Glaze - $25

Smashbox Wish for the Perfect Palette- $59
So makeup junkies, have you gotten a new palette for the holidays? Do you plan to?
Friday, October 30, 2009
Pop Culture Randomness
There is so much going on in the pop culture world, the topics are unlimited. A few that are hot right now...
"The Real Housewives of Atlanta"
So did you see the Reunion show for Real Housewives of Atlanta? Wow. You could cut the tension with a knife. Everyone looked moody, and no one wanted to talk. The point?? I mean really. I think the ladies wanted to make sure they didn't look crazy and "act a fool", like they did last season. I can respect that. However, there is no point in having a show if no one wants to talk. Also, can I say that I have a new respect for Kandi? She's the only one who really has her own money, and she is the most level headed. It's quite refreshing. Well, part 2 comes next week and Kim is performing her "Tardy for the Party". I'm sure the other girls will be throwing her some serious shade.
"This Is It"
Have you seen the new Michael Jackson flick? I know its only been out for 2 days, but that is long enough for some diehards to have made it to the show. The more I see the footage and hear the reviews, the more I want to see it. With only 2 weeks to catch it (allegedly), we've got to get their soon. Somehow I suspect that with all the money that will be made, that film will manage to get extended. Will you be watching?
"America's Next Top Model's" Biracial Photo Shoot
I haven't watched ANTM in years, but came across this photo from the show. Apparently Miss Tyra thought it would be edgy to have the models portray other races by changing their complexions. What is up with people lately? A couple of months ago French Vogue had a white model in blackface, and Tyra now has everyone in paint. When did this become acceptable? Did I not get the memo? Note: People can we stop with the ethnic paint? I could say a whole lot more about this but it would be a dissertation and not just a blog post, so I will stop here.

What pop culture happenings have you excited? upset? curious? Do tell..
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Must See TV- NBC's The Office

Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Kiddie Couture/Stella McCartney for Baby Gap
Anyhoo, prices range from $14 for wool tights to $128 for a finely detailed military jacket.
(I must interject again, but is it me, or is $14 for kiddie tights a bit on the expensive side? Once again, I'm just saying).
Check out Stella McCartney for Gap, coming soon.
What do you think? Would you consider purchasing Stella McCartney for GAP? What kiddie lines do you adore?
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Blogcation/Music Thursday
Like many bloggers, we sometimes have to take a break for whatever reason. The last couple of months have been very busy and I need to regroup. So, I'm taking a few days off. No worries, I will be back next week. So, I guess that isn't really a big break. Let's call it a long weekend. As my "weekend" begins today , today's blog is short.
It also happens to be Music Thursday. Since I haven't gotten my hands on any new good music this week, I will share a bit of music news and my "hot single" pick.
1) Meshell N'degeocello dropped a new disc this week, "Devil's Halo". I have not yet gotten my hands on the CD, but hope to really soon, and if it's hot, you will be hearing about it. (I'm a long time N'degeocello fan).
2) For all you Adam Lambert fans (American Idol runner-up), Mr. Lambert will be dropping his debut CD November 23. The hot news though, is that he just recorded a song with Lady Gaga. I can't wait to hear that one.
3) Hot artist Melanie Fiona's new album "The Bridge" dropped on I-Tunes this week. The CD officially drops on Nov. 10. I will admit I'm old school, and am not into downloading whole CD's on my MP3 player. I may put a song or two, but for whole discs I still buy CD's. I know. I'm a dinosaur. I guess I would call myself a collector. Anyhoo, if you want to purchase now, it's available on I-Tunes for $5.99.
4) Rihanna's new single "Russian Roulette" was debuted this week. Have you heard it? What do you think? I'm just glad she is getting back to making music. Dont get me wrong. I love her style, but it was time to her to get back to the music, instead of just being photographed by paparazzi. It was starting to feel a bit contrived.
Since I don't have a CD to review this week, I am giving my hot single pick. And it may be a surprise to some of you who follow me regularly since I have typically covered R&B, or neo-soul music. It's "Uprising" by MUSE. The video has a whole cheesy 80's thing going, but I'm diggin' the song. I told you I liked ALL kinds of music.
Enjoy! and catch you next week...
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's







What say you? What do you think about the new LC line? What do you think about Lauren Conrad's style in general?
Friday, October 16, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Christian Siriano for Payless



Photo by Imaxtree
What do you think? Love it, hate it, somewhere in between?
Monday, October 12, 2009
Sonia Kashuk for Target- 10 Years to Celebrate
For 10 years, award-winning makeup artist Sonia Kashuk has wowed us with her Sonia Kashuk Beauty line sold exclusively at Target. I personally wanted to give Ms. K a shout out because I think that the Sonia Kashuk line is truly professional quality at affordable prices. Among my favorites are the Luxury Lip Color, (creamy like buttercream frosting with a lovely scent-see my previous review), and her fabulous brush line. Seriously, her brushes are the bizness. I’m not the only blogger whose a fan of Kashuk’s work. Tia at Shake Your Beauty gave pub to Kashuk’s super sheer liquid tint, and Afrobella loves the gel eyeliner. Kashuk also keeps it fresh by offering cute packaging and well-designed limited edition collections. If you are not using Sonia Kashuk Beauty, check it out. There’s a lot to like.Have you tried Sonia Kashuk's line? What do you think? What's your favorite Sonia K product?
Friday, October 9, 2009
She By Sheree Fashion Line
Many of you may know that after much pomp and circumstance, Sheree from ATL Housewives has finally debuted her line "She by Sheree". She recently featured her new line during New York's fashion week. I acknowledge that I am a bit late covering this topic. I really planned to skip it. But after watching "Housewives" last night and listening to Sheree, once again, stroke her own ego, I thought I had to put this out there. Here's a look at She by Sheree, the much touted debut collection. I would love to hear your thoughts...






Do tell!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TV's Hot Boys- Part II
With the new fall TV schedule its time to roll out our updated picks for TV's Hot Boys. Whether its their raw good looks, or sexy swagger, these easy-on-the eye fellas are some definite standouts. Talk about "Must- See TV". Making the cut...


James Tupper

Derek Luke
Cliff Curtis

Taylor Kinney
Although the season has ended, I had to include:
FX's Rescue Me

Who makes your hot boy list?
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Lindsay Lohan for Ungaro



Photo by Imaxtree

Photo by Imaxtree

What do you think?
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Music Thursday
Song that I am feeling right now...
Letoya Luckett's "Regret"- I first must acknowledge that I am a little mad that the beat of this song so closely resemble's Mary Mary's "God In Me". Artists, please make sure your producer didn't sell your beat to everyone and their mama. That clearly seems to be the case here. But, that aside, I am really diggin this track right now. For those of you who are wondering, how could I diss a Mariah, a give love to a Letoya, its because Letoya is what she is. She not's a big singer, but doesn't pretend to be. The song is hot, and has much attitude. I personally LOVE big singers, and I think Mariah is capable of better than what she's giving right now. That said, check out the song "Regret". Still waiting on the official video, but you can hear the song here...



