Empire returns to prime time TV tonight. The show’s fans have been eagerly anticipating the new episode. However, the real buzz is about Jamal’s new single. Wait. This song actually has nothing to do with Jamal. Jussie Smollett steps front and center into the spotlight to reveal a new “artistic expression” as he calls it. The song and its accompanying video is not a publicity stunt or a teaser for a new album. However, he clearly stands behind the song. He believe it’s a message that needs to be conveyed.
Jussie Smollett does not like Trump. Should I have said President Trump? Eh, for the sake of this blog, let’s just leave it at Trump. There is even one scene in the video where he rolls a bicycle over a plastic mask resembling Donald Trump. “Build a wall/It won’t keep us from loving each other/Rewrite the laws/You won’t keep us from loving each other,” he sings. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Jussie Smollett confronts issues like police brutality, immigration, the AIDS epidemic, LGBT rights and racism. Oh and he directed the poignant video himself.
“F.U.W.” does not reserve all of its sting solely for Trump. However, this is easily the smoothest and most blatant stand against the current presidential administration. Dare I say it, the song is an awakening, thought-provoking ballad that should be heard. Jussie Smollett may not have created this song for Empire ratings or personal gain. Nonetheless, people will definitely be talking about this video for a while.
So, what are your thoughts on “F.U.W.”? Do you think Jussie Smollett has gone too far?
How much does it cost to say, “Good morning”? What pain does it cause to ask someone, “How is your day”? One of my biggest pet peeves is people who don’t speak. I dislike it so much that I will shame people into speaking. Yep, I said it. I do it all the time. Even to this day, I encounter people who never say utter a simple “hello” in passing. The killing part is many people make eye contact with you and keep on walking. Who does that? Apparently they do. I once broke someone down by repeatedly speaking to them until she finally spoke back. She even admitted that she was purposely avoiding speaking to me.
Ok, so what is the purpose of all this? We all have personal issues that hang on our sleeves wherever we go. We could be battling illness, depression, fatigue, or just waking up on the wrong side of the bed. But guess what? It’s NOBODY’S FAULT. Life’s trials don’t give us pass to act an ass. Period. I always hold a special admiration for people who are able to smile through their pain. Granted, it’s never easy to do. Everyone is entitled to have a bad day or two. However, a simple “good morning” could lift someone else’s spirit.
Contrary to popular belief, many of our struggles are not for us. Sometimes we have to go through hard times for everyone to witness. People hone in closer to see how we handle stress. Give people the opposite of what they wish to talk about. Keep your head up and smile sometimes. It just might lift someone up…..and ourselves in the process.
Also, if you don’t have your copy of my latest poetry book, Stingrays, get your copy on Amazon Kindle or Nook today! The links are available on my homepage.
Lorde shook up the music scene four years ago with her debut album, Pure Heroine. “Royals”, her monster hit single, led that collection of witty numbers that became her brand. Fans started pleading for new material in 2016. Lorde has now come out of the shadows with her audible reply. She has never been one of those artists to soak up the limelight. Perhaps that mystique is what makes her artistry that much more intriguing. Her upcoming album, Melodrama, is a summation of the last two years of her teenage years. Unlike her counterpart, Katy Perry, Lorde is more reflective woman than teenage dream girl.
Her aura has always given off a glow that’s wise beyond her years. The album artwork features the work of Brooklyn artist Sam McKinnis. So, it shouldn’t come as much surprise that heartbreak is the center of attention on the album’s lead single, “Green Light”. She’s clearly angry here “She thinks you love the beach/You’re such a damn liar/Those great whites they have big teeth/Hope they bite you”. The music video features her dolled up in a form fitted pink dress. Lorde spills out her feelings in the back of a random SUV, then outside of its window and eventually on top of its roof. Someone, I expected Alanis Morisette to jump out of the backseat yelling, “You Outta Know”.
Lorde is heartbroken on “Green Light”. However, she’s also triumphant and unapologetic. Although “Green Light” will likely be another chart topper for Lorde, “Liability” is the song that will take your breath away. Her vocals and lyrics are at the forefront here, against the subtle backing of a piano. The song has a bit of a melancholy undertone with lyrics like “You’re all gonna watch me disappear into the sun”. Nonetheless, this one is the real showstopper of the two songs. Lorde seems to shine brightest when she digs into herself the deepest. Looks like Melodrama is set to be one hell of a heartbreaking, love struck roller coaster ride.
What are your thoughts on “Green Light” and “Liability”?
All hurricanes are not created equally. The original hurricane drink was crafted in New Orleans. This is one drink where the taste depends on who makes it. Last month I got a chance to try out Ida Claire’s version of this signature drink. Be sure to check out my review of the Pearfect 75 I tried that same day too. I didn’t know what to expect with the hurricane. Nevertheless, I felt adventurous to try something new. The Ida Claire offering of the hurricane comes in a smaller glass than I’m used to. However, as the saying goes, big things come in small packages.
First, let’s recap the ingredients. Ida Claire smoothly avoids revealing which brand of rums are included on the drink menu. The establishment opts to list a “trio of rums”, passion fruit, cranberry, orange juice, grenadine simple and lime. Sounds good enough, right? This hurricane is sweeter than most of the ones I’ve tasted. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Ida Claire does a stellar job of mixing the drink just right, to be able to taste all of the flavors. I wasn’t prepared for the buzz that was soon to come though.
I only had one of the hurricanes. The alcohol content was strong though. Exercise caution when tasting this drink. Trust me, it will sneak up on you. Make sure to at least pair this with an appetizer. I recommend the crawfish beignets. Ida Claire wins here for a unique spin on an old favorite. The drink gives just enough of a sweet taste, with a smooth mixture. If you’re a fan of hurricanes, I’m sure you will enjoy this one.
Yesterday I was not in the best of moods. Yes, I admit it. Most people think I am always a happy person. This is true. However, I am human and I have my moments. Many of you may remember the OutKast song “Roses“. The chorus says, “I know you like to think your sh!t don’t stank/But lean a little bit closer/See, the roses really smell like boo boo”. As corny and nasty as it sounds, this can be all of us at any given moment of the day. We find every reason under the sun to justify our “stank” attitudes. Granted, there may be some viable reasons there. Who is really hurt at the end of the day though?
I spoke to someone today who had been very ill over the course of the last week. The person does not know it, but speaking to them gave me a new outlook on my situation. I instantly felt rejuvenated and grateful. My issue was a mustard seed compared to what they were going through. That’s not the best part though. Their attitude stopped me in my tracks. They sounded as happy as can be, DESPITE their unfavorable situation. I was floored by their upbeat demeanor. That conversation motivated me for the rest of the day.
Yep. We can be those “boo boo” roses at times. This happens due to our own negative thoughts. Some things are really not worth worrying about. So, change what you can and let the rest go. Negative people have a stench that precedes them. Who wants to be that person? I know. Don’t all raise your hands at once. A negative spirit makes everyone sick of us (and even sick of ourselves). Don’t be that person caught holding the smelly roses. The worst that we imagine in our heads almost always never is.
Cherish was riding high on the music scene in 2006. Their single “Do It To It” was blasting out of every car stereo that summer. They followed with the hits “Unappreciated”, “Chevy”, and “Amnesia”. They seemed poised to beat the sophomore jinx so many first time artists suffer from. Then all of a sudden….poof! The group released two more studio albums, their last in 2011. Then, they disappeared for years. Cherish has now resurfaced with new music. However, you may not recognize them. The group originally consisted of sisters Farrah, Felisha, Fallon and Neosha. Oh, but something looks different this time around. Two group members are missing.
Fallon and Felisha have decided to trudge forward as a duo, without Farrah and Neosha. There is no definite information on what caused the group’s split. We can likely predict there was some sort of infighting happening though. Cheirsh’s new single is a mellow slow jam called “One Time”. Their sound surprisingly remains similar to their early days. Their harmonies still sound intact. Ah, but there’s one dilemma here. The music industry has changed greatly even since their absence. “One Time” doesn’t have the umph to get fans attention much longer than its title suggests. Although they did have a few slower tempo driven hits, they were known for club songs.
There’s one more thing though. The song’s lyrical content. Groups like SWV made chart topping hits talking about stealing someone else’s man (revisit “I’m So Into You” and “You’re The One“). Cherish has missed the mark here though. Something tells me that requesting one time to be in bed with someone else’s guy isn’t the best comeback single. Eh, maybe it’s just me though. Check the song out for yourself below. Are you excited about Cherish’s partial reunion? Would you play this one more than just “one time”? Plus, reminisce on some of their signature hits.
Bai has been a longstanding favorite drink line of mine. I love how their drinks taste great, but also are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. However, Bai has recently unveiled a brand new “Black” line. The Bai Black line has cool packaging, with a black matte finish and accent colors. I have tried all of the flavors in the new Black line. The Columbia Cream is the best one, if I have to pick. Bai has catered to the throwback taste buds in all of us. The complete specialty line includes Columbia Cream, Kohala Kola, Jambi Ginger Ale, Rioja Root Beer and Simbu Citrus. These flavors represent the classic taste that is underrepresented in many of today’s beverages.
So, today’s post is just for Columbia Cream. This is a must have for cream soda fans. I felt like I was drinking a soda the first time I tasted it. This drink uses no artificial sweeteners. Columbia Cream is also packed with antioxidants. The can alone makes you feel like a part of a trendy insiders club. Let’s not forget that there are only 5 calories in one can. Also, there are only 10 grams of carbs. The drink contains no grams of sugar. Columbia Cream contains about as much caffeine as a cup of green tea. This helps give that extra boost of energy you need to get through that midday slump. Oh, there’s even a little Vitamin C here too.
Basically this drink is awesome and you need to get your hands on it asap. Plus, here’s a link to an adult beverage that uses this flavor for an added twist. Try the new Columbia Cream today. You can also try the variety pack and taste all of the flavors.
Xscape was one of the premier female R&B female groups of the 90s. They only have three studio albums to their credit (Hummin, Comin At Cha, Off The Hook and Traces Of My Lipstick). However, they had an impressive string of hits including “Understanding”, “Do You Want To?” and “My Little Secret”. Trouble in paradise within the group forced them apart, immediately following their third album. Kandi and Tiny have since kept a high media profile. Kandi is a staple on Real Housewives of Atlanta, not to mention her songwriting feats “No Scrubs” and “Bills Bills Bills”) and Bedroom Kandi. Tiny was married to T.I., which kept her in the headlines. The new news about the couple is they are now going through a divorce.
Sisters LaTocha and Tamika haven’t been as prominent. LaTocha released some solo singles and the duo also performed at the So So Def 20th Anniversary celebration. Fans have been wanting an Xscape reunion for years, but it just didn’t seem likely. Rumors, public shaming and hogging the spotlight were all just some of the reasons the group couldn’t hold it together. The fat lady hasn’t sang just yet though. The group announced this week that they are back together, working on a new album and preparing for a tour. They cited the New Edition biopic as motivation to make it happen for the fans. Although an Xscape reunion sounds great (and frankly needed in today’s music), I just don’t know how long it will last.
Here is their recent interview with Big Tigger, detailing their comeback. Also, check out some of their best songs when everything was peachy king.
Ella Mai, DJ Mustard’s new British artist, took the music industry by storm last year. Now, she’s back with her third EP, appropriately titled Ready. DJ Mustard produced the entire EP. However, Ella Mai doesn’t let his stellar beats outshine her for one minute. She starts off strong with the lighthearted love song, “Boo’d Up”. The track has a hard, R&B influenced knock that may remind you of Keith Sweat’s classic “Make It Last Forever”. She showcases her sexy low growl on the seductive “Breakfast In Bed”. Her melodies flow effortlessly as she pleads her case for a lover she’s infatuated with. So, she just wants to give him breakfast in bed. This song is a surefire contender for a hit single.
Hopefully Ella Mai releases a full length debut album soon. Her EP Ready will at least satisfy our appetite in the meantime. “Nobody Else” will definitely keep people moving on the dance floor. Part of Ella Mai’s appeal is that she can play pretty bad girl and beautiful songstress all in the same breath. She’s the jealous girl here, over a guy that she’s technically not in a relationship with. Hey, we’ve all been there before though. She isn’t one to compromise her needs and desires, as evident on the chin check anthem “My Way”.
“Makes Me Wonder” has all the makings of a summer love mid tempo jam. “Anymore” is just the opposite. She’s dismissing a love let down with the quickness. She doesn’t seem to be too sad about it either. Make sure you catch Ella Mae opening for Kehlani’s SweetSexySavage tour at a city near you.
Here’s a look back at one of Ella Mai’s first songs, “She Don’t” featuring Ty Dolla $ign.
“Yooo! Mic check, 1 2, 1 2. We in the house. Yeah come on!” I can still actually remember the first time I saw TLC’s music video for “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” on TV. That single is still one of my aunt’s favorite songs. However, I didn’t realize until I got older why she avoided playing it around me back then. TLC emerged on the music scene in 1992, wearing bold, bright colors and over sized pants that often fell to their knees. They were cute, playful, humorous, tomboyish, yet sexy. Girl groups of that time (SWV, Jade, En Vogue, etc) wore fitted dresses and heels. However, TLC climbed to the top of the charts (and stayed there) without showing a stitch of skin. February 25, 2017 marks the 25 year anniversary of the release of their fiery debut album, Ooooh…On The TLC Tip.
T-Boz, Left Eye and Chilli took quite a risk tackling issues like safe sex (complete with huge day glow condoms), women’s independence and injustice. They brought all the hot sauce to a newfound Hip Hop and R&B fusion. This was long before the Spice Girls made “girl power” popular. TLC has always had a knack for catchy, cautionary tales. They warned us about our close circles on “What About Your Friends”. They warned women about the gender bias on “His Story”. That song alone proved their intolerance for injustice by dedicating the song to rape victim Tawana Brawley.
The sum of TLC’s parts are greater than the members on their own. Don’t mistake it though. Each member stood out on their own. T-Boz’s cool, raspy toned voice gave the group its unique sound. Left Eye’s militant raps and vibrant personality kept them at the forefront of musical and personal headlines. Chilli smoothed it all out with her southern charm and slick melodies. There haven’t been many girl groups since (if any) that we have cared so deeply to know individually. Songs like “Baby Baby Baby” proved their versatility. They were able to rap and sing seamlessly.
Let’s not forget the interludes. The intro of the CD features a man criticizing their style of dress but admitting how cute they are. Then there’s case of hoe remover (just a sprinkle a day). Then, T-Boz playfully assaults a lying boyfriend, before Left Eye and Chilli join her on the women’s liberation anthem, “Bad By Myself”. The group stood up for what was right and even for what may have been wrong, on their own terms. TLC even turned down an appearance on In Living Color, upset because Keenan Ivory Wayans cited their lyrics as toosexually explicit. All the while they kept trucking along, with their hats to the back and their pants down low. Oooohh….On The TLC Tip also marks the first and only time in TLC history well all three members rap on a song (“Das Da Way We Like Em”)
TLC created a brand of female empowerment that gave confidence to the ladies. However, their strength and beauty caught the eyes and respect of men. T-Boz, Left Eye and Chilli did it on their own terms over 25 years ago. They successfully blended a concoction of soul, funk, rap, R&B and unadulterated pop. Now, they are preparing to do it all over again this summer with their upcoming album. As Left Eye would say, “TLC is forever”! The group’s 18 year anniversary of Fanmail was this week as well (on February 23rd).
Check out some of the biggest moments from TLC’s Oooohhh…On The TLC Tip debut below.
