Music Thursday/ Happy Thanksgiving

On this Music/Thanksgiving Thursday, I am giving you a mini-review of hot CD, "Pink Elephant". Enjoy and have a great Thanksgiving holiday. See you next week.

Soul singer N’Dambi brings the heat with Pink Elephant, her 4TH CD release, and Stax Records debut. On Pink Elephant, N’Dambi lays her smooth vocals over easy beats, and leaves you feeling good. “Pink Elephant” gives a nod to old school sound, but keeps it sounding fresh. Even better, N’Dambi is a skillful songwriter and gives us songs that tell a story. On the lead single, “Can’t Hardly Wait”, N’Dambi sings about her lover, “I can’t hardly wait to be through with you”, even she can seem to get over him. Relatable? Absolutely. On the clever and oh- so- smooth, “L.I.E”., she sings of a married man’s double life as he travels across the Long Island Expressway (LIE) to meet his lover. With its groovy bass line and “supporting-my-man” theme, “What It Takes” begs you to sing along. The 80’s flavored, “Nobody Jones” is a great story of a woman who won’t let her surroundings keep her down. For jazz lovers, check out “Imitator”, a quirkily off-kilter little tune. Other hot cuts include the sexy slow jam, “Ooh Baby”, the breezy, “Mind-Blowin” and “The One” and “Take It Out”.

To get a taste of N’Dambi, check out her website here.

Alicia Keys Launches New Jewelry Line

R&B songstress Alicia Keys is the latest celebrity to throw her hat into the fashion ring with the launch of her new jewelry line, The Barber's Daughters. The new collection is founded with jewelry designer Gisele Theriault, and features pieces made of sterling silver and gemstones, inscribed with poetry and prayers. The line ranges in cost from $85 to $2500. The line launches Nov 23 and 24 at a pop-up store located at 26 Clinton Street in lower Manhattan.

To get a look at the new collection, click here.


What do you think? Would you be interested in Ms. Keys new line?

Music Thursday- Beyonce and Lady Gaga- Video Phone

Today I had planned to review soul singer N'Dambi's "Pink Elephant", however, with the dropping of Miss B's new video this week, I had to interrupt my plan to discuss her new video, " 'Video Phone'. N'Dambi will be featured next week. Now on to Beyonce...

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?

Fall/Winter Trend- Over-the-Knee boots

One of the biggest trends this season is the over-the-knee boot. Other than the bootie, the over-the-knee boot is the hottest thing in footwear. At approx 5'2", I've not gotten onboard said trend, but for those of you who are a bit less vertically challenged, or who just love the look, here are a few hot boots for you to consider:

Pleaser USA- $71.00- zappos.com

DIBA- $99.00- zappos.com

Type Z Airdrie- $173.00- shopbop.com

DKNY- $275.00- shopbop.com

Jeffrey Campbell- $355.00- shopbop.com

Rock and Republic- $450

Manolo Blanik- Nieman's- $1450

What do you think of the new trend? Loving the over-the-knee, or a bit too Pretty Woman?

Precious- The ATF Review

Well, normally this would be Beauty Monday, but I have no new beauty news or reviews. I am soooo behind on reviews. So, today will be 'Movie Monday' as Friday night I saw the much discussed, much lauded, and yes, much reviewed "Precious" directed by Lee Daniels. I debated seeing this on a Friday night, because I like you, had heard about how serious and disturbing this movie would be. Lord knows, the last thing I need on a Friday night is to be depressed. Well, I bit the bullet, and I'm glad I did.

'Precious' is the story of Claireece "Precious" Jones, a 16 year-old severely overweight, illiterate teenager who is pregnant for the second time from her now-absent father. Yes, it is at times brutal, and hard to watch, but please don't be deterred from seeing this movie. Precious is a riveting, well-made movie with a compelling plot and first-rate performances.

It's hard to believe this is a debut performance from Gabourey Sidibe who is fantastic as Precious. She effectively captures the pain, lack of esteem, and eventual resolve of her character, and should definitely make the "one to watch" list. Supporting performances from Lenny Kravitz, Mariah Carey and the stunning Paula Patton are all noteworthy. These are roles unlike what we've from Carey and Patton respectively, and they performed beautifully. However, Monique, starring as Precious' mother is mesmerizing. The hype is true. She kills this role with a performance that is as nuanced as you'd find from a veteran actress. It really is something to see.

If I had one complaint about this movie, it would be the questionable colorization of the casting. Specifically, the title character and her parents who had serious problems were dark-skinned, while the more redemptive, positive characters, (Kravitz, Carey, and Patton) are very fair skinned. With the history of light vs. dark skinned bias and stereotypes, it's surprising that someone in charge did not consider this more carefully. Indeed, other reviewers were disturbed by this aspect of casting as well. (Mediatakeout.com made this a non-recommend based on this fact).

However, the movie is strong enough that I would still recommend it. At a time when there are a lack of serious roles for Black actors/actresses to showcase their talents, 'Precious' is a welcome change. I know this movie is still in limited theatres, (I don't know why they thought this slow rollout was a good idea), but if it's in your area, check out Precious.

What about you? Have you seen Precious? What are your thoughts?

If you haven't seen it, do you plan to?

Music Thursday- Melanie Fiona's The Bridge

Melanie Fiona’s, The Bridge is probably not what you think it is. If you’ve heard Ms. Fiona’s breakout single, the sassy “Give It to Me Right”, or her current radio hit “It Kills Me”, you are probably expecting a very current R&B sound. Well, you’d be right, and wrong. While the aforementioned songs, along with a few Caribbean flavored ones, are very "now", a good deal of the CD is dedicated to a more old school 60’s and 70’s sound. And guess what? It works. “The Bridge” clearly aims to “bridge” (pun intended) old and new school sounds in a fresh new way. Tracks such as “Bang Bang”, a very 70’s Austin Powers-like fun and funky cut, and “Monday Morning”, a song that the Supremes would be proud of, make you want to break out your swing skirt. Fiona also gives a nod to the 60’s with the upbeat “Please Don’t Go (Cry Baby)”, and “You Stop My Heart,” a track really takes you back, and feels as though Fiona is singing live from the studio with full instrumentation. It is truly beautiful, vocally and musically. “Walk on By” pays tribute to classic sound, but keeps the its subject matter relevant to today’s audience with lyrics such as “I’m gone make it hell in your life….Fool me once, but you won’t fool me twice, Don’t say sssh, just walk on by.” In general, the CD’s 60’s references are very reminiscent of Raphael Saadiq’s latest work, or Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black. Admittedly, Fiona lacks the vocal heft of Ms. Winehouse, but does indeed do a fine job.

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.

Taraji P. Henson's new look- Hot or Not?

I just got hip to Taraji Henson's new look and wanted to get your take. Taraji had been rockin' what I think was a very fierce bob for quite some time, and clearly wanted something new. Let's take a look at the before and after: Taraji's much loved bob vs. her new as she calls it "Malaysian hair". I guess she wasn't sweating Chris Rock's "Good Hair".

Before or after? What say you?

Happy Birthday to Me!/ Can It Be I Stayed Away Too Long?

Hola friends,

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...

On the Entertainment Front- MJ, Gaga and my crush

Michael Jackson's This Is It

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.

Are you gaga for Gaga?

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...

Beauty Monday- All About the Holidays

While it's only November, 'tis the season for the new Holiday 2009 collections from all of your favorite cosmetic lines. I must say that their all so cute. A gold star for the MAC collection, whose packaging is "to die..." They really do take the aesthetics to the next level.

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?

Pop Culture Randomness

Hola peeps, it's Friday and I am feeling random.
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..

Must See TV- NBC's The Office

Now I know many of you are thinking, "This show has been on for years". And yes, I know that. However, this is for those who may not be watching. NBC's "The Office" has been funny for years, but this season, has been a must see. It is HANDS DOWN- one of the funniest shows on TV. What makes The Office so special is its originality. The characters, the camera close-ups, all of the nuances make it hilarious. I mean I actually laugh out loud. In my opinion, it is much funnier than 30 Rock, which has won the Emmy for comedy for the last umpteen years. I think this season "The Office" is really trying to give "30 Rock" a run for its' money.

Make sure you check out the Office, Thursdays at 9pm Eastern. You'll thank me later.

Previous episodes are also available on nbc5.com.

Do you watch The Office? Are you a fan of 30 Rock?

Kiddie Couture/Stella McCartney for Baby Gap

Photo by GAP

Ever since the birth of my adorable neice Nylah 5 months ago, I've not been able to stop myself from wandering over to the baby clothing section. (She's my first niece. Yaay!!) I'm like Pookie in New Jack City, "It be calling me!!" To say that kid's clothing has come a long way since I was a tot is a HUGE understatement. I distinctly remember baby basics like Garanimals, and my favorite Osh Kosh B' Gosh. Well Osh Kosh is thankfully still around, but there is sooo much variety. Seriously, you don't want to go overboard on expensive clothes that babies can only wear for five minutes, but for those who love fashion, it can be hard to resist. Luckily for me (the currently financially challenged) Target, Carson Pirie Scott, and Kohl's offers loads of affordable finds. And yes, I did splurge once at Janie and Jack for a fabulous little pink tweed pageboy hat. I know. I know. I had to.

Well, now designer Stella McCartney is launching her kid's collection for GAP, which hits select stores on Nov. 2 in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France and Japan. The collection is geared for newborns - kids 12 years old, and will feature lots of natural fibers to make the kiddies more comfortable. The line will be a mix of practical wears like wool peacoats and organic cotton jeans, and wee versions of her adult ready-to-wear collection. The kids in Stella McCartney ready-to-wear? Watch out, world! On a personal note, I hope she keeps it age appropriate. I think 5 years olds should look like little kids, not mini versions of their mothers. I'm just saying.

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?

Blogcation/Music Thursday

Greetings fabulous ones,

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...

LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's

Hola my lovelies,

So I'm sure many of you are familiar with Lauren Conrad, aka LC from the Hills. Then you probably also know about her design aspirations. Initially she launched a clothing line named Lauren Conrad Collection. However, that bit the dust, conceivably due to an exorbitant price point for her target audience. And frankly the line was particularly underwhelming. Now, she's back with her new line for Kohl's department stores called "LC Lauren Conrad". This line features much more reasonably priced items topping out at about $60. Now, I have never understood the hype surrounding Ms. Conrad and her "style". I think she's worn some cute things, but I don't see why she is being anointed as a style star or some sort of uber-fashionista. Anyhoo, here's a look at her new line for Kohl's, LC Lauren Conrad.

What say you? What do you think about the new LC line? What do you think about Lauren Conrad's style in general?

Friday Quote

Fashion fades; only style remains the same.

-Coco Chanel

Have a great weekend!

Christian Siriano for Payless

Since his victory on Season 4 of Bravo's Project Runway, Christian Siriano has been a marketing dynamo. He's been everywhere from tv appearances on Ugly Betty, to the frontman for the Christian Siriano collection for Victoria Secret. Siriano has now debuted his new fashion footwear and accessory line- Christian Siriano for Payless. Check out the fashion.

Photo by Imaxtree

What do you think? Love it, hate it, somewhere in between?

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?

She By Sheree Fashion Line

Happy Friday,

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!

TV's Hot Boys- Part II

Hola Chicas,

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...

From TBS' "Meet the Browns"

Lamman Rucker

From NBC's Mercy

James Tupper

From the cast of NBC's Trauma

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?