Click! Click! Click! Flash

Ciara is taking it all off and getting down and dirty in this month's issue of Vibe Magazine. The sexy stallion is dishing about her 'Fantasy Ride' album, hush-hush celeb relationships, and stripping off the fitted and baggy jeans. With such a seductive photo shoot, one would assume the album is reaching a more mature, sexy, 'good girl gone bad' type of direction, but Ciara makes it clear that she's simply trying something new. Still maintaining her sweet and sleek persona, it is clear to see it takes more than a charming smile to woo this songstress and more than one interview to get her to dish about who she really is.

And, just a major bite. . .

I Love,Love,Love her record 'Click Flash'. Check it out ladies! Definitely a song to strike a pose to with the girls!!

Light Skinned Blacks vs. Dark Skinned Blacks

So, I was watching a re-run of the Tyra Show last night and it was on the taboo topic of Light Skinned Blacks vs. Dark Skinned blacks. When discussing the subject, she had the audience determine who fell under which skin complexion, what women felt about their skin color versus that of someone who is lighter or darker, and lastly what men felt about skin color when choosing the women they date. As a young black woman, this topic is a situation that we confront daily and often times it creates prejudice within the black community. One woman on the show who was of a lighter skinned complexion looked foolish as she degraded darker skinned women by considering herself superior and by disallowing her 12 year old son to bring home a dark skinned girlfriend. Sounds preposterous huh? Well, it's true and it's happening in our society today. As a dark skinned woman I will say that 'Black is Beautiful' period. Regardless of the shade, we are all one people. Dark skinned women have taken the fall while light skinned women have reaped benefits in other areas such as entertainment, magazine covers, and shows. Many seek the light complexion, long hair, and hazel eyes, without realizing that dark women too can have long hair without the aid of extensions. While Hazel eyes are not so common, a black woman with brown eyes can be just as beautiful. I have friends that vary in skin color and I have noticed a trend where groups of guys notice us due to my lighter skinned friends first. Has this ever occurred in your group of friends?


On the show, Whitney of 'America's Next Top Model' mentioned when guys approach her they will comment ' Your bad for a dark skinned girl'. What's that supposed to mean? I can relate all too well when I've had guys, even male friends, make the same comment. While I may brush it off with a thank you and a smile, it is wrong and meaningless. I, too, play a part by allowing them to sway me to feel as if they just said something positive, when in all actuality they are downplaying ethnic women. As equally interesting, when the men were asked who they approach the darks stuck with the darks and the lights stuck with the lights. Surprising? Yes and No, I'm of two minds. Some choose to stick with what they know because physically it looks better. Others choose to branch off to their opposite because of their taste preference as well as silly reasons such as the predicted color of their offspring's. For personal testimony, my cousin and I are opposites in complexion. I'm of darker skin and she is much lighter than I. However, she tends to date darker guys and I somehow end up with lighter guys. Pure coincidence, no such preference. My friends always joke around when I tell them I've met someone new by responding 'He's light skinned, ain't he?'. Surely enough, he usually is, but not by choice per say. I'm not the bold type, so I rarely approach men, they generally approach me. So the guys that do approach me more often are lighter skinned guys. I can remember a time when I was talking to a guy and I was supposed to head back over to his house. Instead of telling me to head over, he instead responded 'my sister's home'. What that had to do with me coming baffled me, but I let him go on. 'She and her friends are here and they're clowns. They're gonna say 'Oh she's too dark . . .'. Was I hurt? Taken aback? Hell yea. But did I say anything? No.


It's happening Ladies, and it's not so much a new thing, it's an ongoing historical thing amongst African Americans. The women who columned in Essence weren't afraid to confront the issue and Tyra wasn't afraid to bring it out on her show. As her little protege (he he), I wanted to put it in the air as well. So tell me ladies, have you ever faced the light skinned versus dark skinned issue?

Italian Vogue Models Will Be On Tyra!!

I'm excited to reveal that the beautiful black faces you've seen bless the pages of the July Issue of Italian Vogue will make guest appearances on an upcoming episode of the Tyra Banks Show. Yay! I know some of you may dismiss Tyra's show and say that she tries to hard, but I honestly love the show and watch it as faithfully as I can. Tyra has definitely adjusted to the hosting role and her show is much more personable and fun to watch, not to mention the chick is fierce and she has a way of rubbing off positively on her audience, viewers, and guests. Hey, she taught me how to smile with my eyes and has taken me very far. Now walking down the streets I dont have to hear men yelling 'You forgot something...your smile!' because it's all in the eyes, kind of similar to a smirk. Thanks Tyra. Here's some of the photos taken of the beauties while they were in NY.

Danity Kane in Envy Magazine

Enter The Dollhouse. . .

The ladies of DK are doing their thing and welcoming you to their Dollhouse in Envy Magazine.
In the spread, you are introduced to each band member as you learn a little more about who they really are. The spread:

Haven't seen their official video for 'Bad Girl'?

See it here on F&F.

And the Fiercee Award Goes To :::drumroll:::

Rihanna!

Tyra needs to have her on the show with a podium and an award because Rihanna truly has the industry and the fashion game in a headlock. She's running the game right now and is currently rocking her crown like none other. From beautiful unique vocals with a hint of the islands, oh-so-cute young love with Chris Brown, and a fashion sense that makes even moi blush, Rihanna is truly a role model across the board. I have purposely avoided using Rihanna for "Style Crush" because her style is obviously one to watch and follow and hoards of blogging sites shine the spotlight on her. I really just wanted to give other ladies a chance. you know? But it's too hard to not succumb to the rising dashing diva. But this post is not for style crush, it's to get you ladies ready for striking spread in Essence Magazine! These photos are amazing. Can't to scoop a copy. Keep it up Rihanna, you have every fashion fiend standing on their toes. Fabulosity at it's best. Hands Down,this is one of her best shoots thus far. Better yet, one of Essence's best shoots thus far.

The Carters Are Making Waves

One of the first in the limelight to successfully keep their relationship hush while concealing their private love life, Jay-Z and Beyonce are sought after more and more each day. From quick cute outings to performances and shopping, there's always something stirring up and gossiped about the two. While I do not promote gossip on F&F, both issues relate to my frequenting Ad posts and Magazine obsession.

Beyonce's newly released L'Oréal Paris Feria Hair Color campaign is stirring up controversy after she appears to be lightened and touched up. Although I refrain from skepticism I myself see the difference between this ad and others she appears in. However, in the industry this is all too common. J-Lo has appeared lighter in ads, as well as Halle Berry,Vanessa Williams, and Rihanna. Beyonce, who is a serious icon and role model for young girls however is walking on eggshells with this one. The ad is set to appear in upcoming issues of Elle, Allure, and Essence Magazine.

Denying all claims and false accusations, L'Oréal Paris' states:

"Beyoncé Knowles has been a spokesperson for the L'Oréal Paris brand since 2001.We highly value our relationship with Ms. Knowles. It is categorically untrue that L'Oréal Paris altered Ms. Knowles' features or skin-tone in the campaign for Feria's hair color." source: E!online

And her busy beau takes claim of the throne as King of Vibe's 15th Anniversary Juice Issue.

Here's a couple snippets from the issue snagged from theybf.com:

Jay-Z on supporting Senator Barack Obama: “What [Obama] represents is, we as a people are part of the American Dream…We were left out of the dream at a certain point. Now the dream is, you can be anything – and it’s not cliché.”

Jay-Z on Lil Wayne: “You should embrace the next generation…I think he’s really a fan of mine. I think he really loves the sh-t that I’ve done…The public has him in line next, and for me to say he’s not in line next would be foolish.”

Jay-Z’s response when asked to confirm his marriage to Beyoncé: “I just think it’s really a part of your life that you gotta keep to yourself…You have to have something sacred to you and the people around you…I shared so much of my life…I should have something to hold on to.”

Jay-Z on his tenure as President of Def Jam: “Everyone always analyzes the job that I’ve done at Def Jam…I always feel the need to justify it…If anybody in their tenure had Kanye, Rihanna, and Ne-Yo…One album for each one of them in three years is a superb job.”

Despite the paparazzi, tabloids, blog sites, and gossip rumors, I respect the Carters and don't blame them from dodging the personal questions. Not everyone kiss and tells, so why should they?

On Stands Now. . .

We have three influential African American women from all different professions gracing the covers of current famed magazine issues.

First up, the sophisticated girl-next-door edgy Keri Hilson. . .. . .who makes an appearance in the latest issue of Trace Magazine in their 'Black Girls Rule!' issue. As early as it is, I admire Ms. Hilson, her fashion sense, personality, and her new video for 'Energy'. Haven't seen it? Go check it out! From the concept to the wardrobe and acting, it's a favorite already.

Second, the fierce Tyre Banks in this month's issue of Harper's Bazaar. . .

In the issue Tyra pays homage to Michelle Obama as she role plays and poses as the First Lady. In the spread she reveals her beliefs and ideas as a model citizen, the fierceness of Abigail Adams, her admiration and fascination with Michelle Obama, and the affect a black president would have on kids today.

Here's a couple more shots from her spread. . .

"When Barack won the nomination, I just started bawling. I started calling all these people, and everybody was talking to me like I was crazy. They're like, 'Well, he hasn't won yet,' but I'm like, 'Yes, he has, because he's gotten this far.' I think he gives everybody so much hope." […] "I did a talk show, and we were testing racism with little kids. We showed them a picture of a black man in a suit and a picture of a white man in a suit. And we asked, 'Which one can be president?' These kids were all of different races — black, white, everything — and not one of them said that the black man could be president. Not one. So what gives me tears is if Barack Obama wins, kids are going to say that a black man can be president, too.” - Tyra

And lastly, Michelle Obama herself graces the cover of Ebony Magazine with genuine and warming essence.

Continue reading the articles on line or pick up the issues at your local news stand. These women have impeccable voices and they're truly using them to make a difference. 2008 has had a lot to offer and with the presidential election creeping up and the new year rolling around, I only hope to hear more voices such as these make their mark on society.

Wanna Be On Top?

The time has come yet again for another season of 'America's Next Top Model'. While many criticize the creator of 'fierce', I think the show is still a Wednesday night must-see and her talk show, yep, I watch it. Season 11 kicks off September 3rd and I will be right there starry-eyed watching the premiere. With such a festive advertisement, I'm exciting to see what Tyra and the panel has in store for the new round of hopefuls. Maybe my application will be sumbitted for season 13. ; )

And speaking of a retired Angel, Victoria Secret's Angels beautifully illustrate the cover of GQ Magazine UK. In their three cover special collector's fold out spread the girls are going wild!

The Princess of the Game is Back!!

“It was scary. I was used to ­being this spoiled little girl
who was taken care of. If something didn’t go my way, I cursed and I shouted at the top of my lungs and I got what I wanted.” - Ashanti

This month, you can find the Princess of Hip Hop & R&B, Ashanti, making an appearance on the cover of Page Six Magazine. As a Grammy award winner with 14 hits and an actress, Ashanti was involuntarily missing in action for three and a half years after going on what seemed to be a music hiatus. Wondering why? With the indictment of Irv Gotti, CEO of Murder Inc., due to money laundering, all artists and albums were put on hold until all accusations were cleared. Due to her affiliation with the head of the label, other labels were hesitant to pick up the leading lady. When discussing the effects of Gotti's money laundering charges on her career as an artist, Ashanti states:

“That was the worst part—not having a say as to what’s happening in my own life,” she says now. “To a singer, that’s like telling them they’re dying. It was tragic.”

With Ashanti being gone the past few years, other artists have taken over the spotlight and are becoming big names industry. With artists such as Rihanna and Fergie making their mark, it was hard for a hit maker such as Ashanti to dwindle behind the scenes and listen to the voices of others booming through the stereo, knowing hers was not to follow.

She admits:

“I’m not gonna play—it was hard,” she admits. “I’d hear a song on the radio and wish mine was next. But I respect a lot of the artists who’ve come along since I was out, especially Rihanna. She’s smart and she’s worked the business instead of having the business work her.”

And as if her relationship with Nelly isn't cute enough, she further describes her suave beau as "an amazing person with a big heart, who’s taught me a lot". Contrary to the rumors buzzing around numerous media outlets, the two have yet to set a wedding date let alone an engagement. While hearsay spirals announcing there are kids in the near future, Ashanti confirms such rumors as false. However if they do tie the knot she would love to have kids. To be exact :

“I want 10 kids! [...] I love my career, but to one day be a mom is more important to me than any platinum albums or awards.”

Continue >>

Also check out her video 'Good Good' and cop her fifth album 'The Declaration'.

You Guessed it. . .

Nelly is the next 'Eye Candy' up for grabs!!

With his new album cover for the September release of 'Brass Knuckles' and sexy underwear ad for Sean John, Nelly has got to be one of the sexiest men out in the game. . .

. . .And although he is currently courting his sweets, Ashanti, that doesn't stop one from wondering exactly what it would be like to get better acquainted with this three-time Grammy award winner. . .

. . .gracing the covers of a few famed magazines this year alone. . .

. . .where he discusses his upcoming release of 'Brass Knuckles', his buff build, romance with Ashanti, the passing of his sister, the controversy over his “Tip Drill” video, and so much more.

. . .Look out for the album! After being the first creative genius to make simultaneous album chart entries at #1 and #2 with 'Sweat' and 'Suit', I'm excited to see what Nelly has to offer in this album. Until then, check out both his videos. 'Stepped on My J's' featuring Ciara and 'Body on Me' featuring Ashanti. ; )

Speaking of Cassie. . .

She is looking fab as usual on the upcoming issue of Complex Magazine. With two different covers for the issue, she's sporting two different looks, both very sexy and fierce. Still crushing on Cassie from the last post, how about you?

Ladies, Take notes. . .

Also, Complex also had cover shoots for both Lupe Fiasco and N.E.R.D. Both very hot might I add.

If you're a magazine junkie like yours truly, make sure you get your copy! : )

Vibe: Guess Who?

Can you keep a secret?



Vibe Can't!!!

Last night, Vibe revealed it's 15th annual Juice issue celebrity cover model. With a wide variety of guesses (Michael Jackson being so far fetched that even I didn't take it there), Vibe has let the cat out the box and announced none other than 'Jigga Man' as their cover superstar.

Hey, I don't blame them. With the rate these blogs are going at, it was bound to be leaked and posted. Congrats to Mr.Carter though.