Music Madness

With Fall semester rolling around, music is what truly gets me through my classes and papers. Unfortunately my Ipod was stolen and I have yet to buy a new one. So, until them I'll purchase cd's. And I must say I have more than a handful that I can't wait to buy. With all of the released promo shots of these celebs, and upcoming albums, these artists are truly doing their thing and I have yet to frown when hearing their leaked tracks.

Keri Hilson.

This new edgy girl-next-door is hitting the scene by storm and shes taking it all in with more than one direction. Not only is her music inspiring and relevant to the emotional being of women, but her fashion sense is on the rise as well. As a product of Timbaland, you can expect a great beat, and with amazing vocals to match, her album is sure to sell. Her video for 'Energy' and her guest host appearance on 106th caught my attention. September 23rd be sure to cop her album.

Jennifer Hudson.

Jennifer Hudson first made a name for herself on American Idol and continued her celebrity with a role in 'Dream Girls'. With powerhouse vocals and a curvacious physique, J.H has become a role model for black women. As she continues her time in the 'Spotlight', her album release is well overdue. I have been patiently waiting to hear a record from Jennifer and finally she dropped 'Spotlight'. I love it. It is definitely an anthem for women that is sung at the top of your lungs in and around the house. Her promo pics are just as stunning and J.H has been ditching the pounds. I do, however, hope that she sticks to her curves. It's a good look for her and I dont think shedding too much weight will be flattering for her. She is currently gracing the cover of Upscale Magazine so pick up a copy if you want to hear more about her anticipated album release. Rumor has it she's dating 'Punk' from 'I Love New York 2', but she has yet to confirm/deny such rumors. Look out for her album which is said to be released September 30th under the Arista Records label.

Ciara.

Ciara has been missing in action and I have to say I have missed her. I enjoyed both of her albums and am still anticipating her third album drop. After taking a mini music break, she has begun to pop back on the music scene featured in 'Stepped on My J'z', a performance with Chris Brown on the '2008 BET Awards' as well as talk about a modeling gig with Victoria's Secret, spokesmodel for the 'Secret Obsession' fragrance, and an acting role in 'Mama, I want to sing'. Talk about a come back, huh? The film is an on screen rendition of the stage play 'Mama I Want to Sing'. Ciara co-stars aside Lynn Whitfield, her mother in the play, and Hill Harper. Her album is set to release in September under Jive Records

Lloyd.

Lloyd's sweet and sexy vocals are bound to lure you in with his third album release ' Lessons in Love'. With some of my favorite hits like 'South Side', 'You', 'Players Prayer' and 'Certified', this young man is well on his way to keeping the ladies on their toes and giving guys an easy way to get back in his ladies good grace. As Lloyd has successfully aimed to pleased with both 'Street Love' and 'Certified', he is unmistakably set to keep it up with a more mature and suave 'Lessons in Love'. With one debut single from the album 'Girls Around The World' hitting the countdown there is only more hits to come. His album dropped August 5th, so there's one back to school album you can go out and check off your list.

Neyo.

Neyo, Neyo, Neyo. Singer, Producer, Writer, Actor, Performer. Is there anything he can't do? Not only has he produced some of the hottest records for himself such as 'So Sick', 'Sexy Love', 'Do You', 'Go On Girl', 'Closer', and 'Miss Independent', he has also put his touch on hit records of other industry mates. Neyo has a record for every occurrence in life and i must admit his lyrics illustrated my AIM away message too many times to count. With 'Year of the Gentleman' set to drop September 16th, I'm setting the bar beyong high for this unique and creative vocalist. He truly puts on and produces good music. My Ipod is a must for this album, so it looks like i have to get to Apple, quick.

Solange.

Solo has been doing her best to make a statement, and that is, shes her own person. Many readily make comparisons between her and her diva sister Beyonce, but she's more than just the kid sister, shes a young woman and she's making that known now more than ever. She spoke with Parlour Magazine in an interview. . .

P: Do you think people will get your music?

S: I have never felt at home in one demographic. That’s my struggle with management and my label, getting everyone to identify that just because I’m African-American, that doesn’t mean that I’m an urban artist. I make music for people that have a sophisticated ear and are brave enough to support something non-traditional. People complain about the state of music, but there are alot of diverse and talented artists with people that support them. But their fans aren’t the ones calling the radio station, they just want to see a good show. So I said, we should just do a tour and all of the artists that are going to be a part of it will have the same voice and stance on music. So, we, Janelle Monae, Chester French, the Knux and I, got all of our managers on the phone and started making a tour happen. It’s in the very early stages, but we’re trying to put something together. continue >>

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.

Chris Brown's Hitting The Big Screen Again

With both 'Stomp the Yard' and 'This Christmas' under his belt, the young and talented R&B heart-throb, Chris Brown, is continuing his acting career with a new flick in the near future.

“It’s a movie called ‘The Heist’ that I’m doing with T.I., Idris Elba and Matt Dillon. I’m playing a killer. I’m not going to give anything else away! It’s a bank-robbing movie, so it’s one of those action-packed films. You get a little different side of me in that movie [...] At the end of the day, I’m going to focus on my music first. [But] me being onstage enhances me being in the movie, and then me being in the movie — acting, catching characters — gives me time to transform into a different character onstage.”

The Eva's are Taking it Off

As a fan and admirer of every 'Eva' you can name (Eva Mercier, Eva Longoria, Eva Mendes) it should be of no surprise that personally I do not find either one of their ads beyond racy. These women are being bold and they are trying something new, while still preserving a level of sophisticated sexy.

Eva Mercier did surprise me when the photo surfed the net because I didnt expect to stumble across such a promo shot. None the less, she still is strikingly fierce and the photo is edgy, high fashion and acceptable in my books. As many models opt for the same look but commonly decorated in paint or leaves, Eva donned the same shot but wore only her confidence. Confidence is the best accessory and I say she wore it well.

The cuban actress whom I featured in a previous post, Eva Mendes, looks just as classy in her new ads for Calvin Klein. Despite the trashy titles other women receive upon posing in the nude, Eva Mendes has a certain light that shines and casts her as different from others. Her photos are beautiful and shes one of a handful that can pose in the nude and still be admired for her beauty

According to Lossip.com:

Eva admitted she was “thrilled” that the ad was considered too saucy for US broadcast. Eva, 33, said: “I love it. That means the ads are totally Calvin, totally provocative and a little controversial.” She continued: “In the commercial you’ll see me rolling around in bed a lot, that’s basically all I do. I have been a fan of Calvin Klein’s Obsession ads since I can remember.” She added: “I love to feel super-feminine. I love dresses and skirts and dislike jeans. I think what makes a woman sexy is confidence."

What do you Ladies think?

Photos courtesy of bossip.com

Young Hollywood is Team Obama

The ATL trio (Malika Haqq, Lauren London, Khadijah Haqq) is making non-stop appearances. Their most recent photo is from 'A Conversation With Young Hollywood' in L.A marking day three of the 12th annual Black Film Festival. Loves it! ; ). BTW. . .I want that T-Shirt!

The Evolution

I'm loving the new ads out for Jay's 'The Evolution' collection for Rocawear.

Extra Kudos for the team for having Joy Bryant gracing the ads.

Diddy Crowns Today's Kings

"I Am King is a statement about all men [...] We are all descendents of royalty”

After the kickoff of his reality series 'I want to work for Diddy' to his new Sean John Underwear Model announcement, Nelly, you can only expect great results from all of Diddy's endeavors. Wondering what's next for the HNIC?A new and royally improved men's scent crowned 'I am King'. WWD announced that the scent is set to release exclusively in December at Macy's before going global the following February. With such high expectations in the volume of sales, the scent is forecasted to make over $100,000,000 globally in its premiere year alone. Wow. Wait, I take that back. It's Diddy were talking about. He is the 'King', so it's only fitting he creates a scent that suits his persona.

Diddy believes in determining your own destiny.

"If I say, 'I am not going to succeed, I'm a loser,' then that's what I am going to be. If we say we're kings and we say we're queens, that's what we're going to be. It has nothing to do with being arrogant."

According to nymag.com:

The print and TV campaign for I Am King portray Combs as a mogul in a suit, cavorting around Monaco and Saint-Tropez with models Bar Refaeli and Ana Paula, on jet skis around the French Riviera, lounging aboard his palatial yacht and playing the tables inside the Casino de Paris in Monte Carlo.

Sounds like a great Christmas gift for the Kings in your lives ladies. What better way to spoil them than to spoil them royally? ; )

Sources: nymag & wwd

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.

A Weekend of Tears

In the matter of one short weekend, we have lost not one, but two of the greatest and most talented African Americans in the entertainment industry.

Bernie Mac
Bernie Mac was pronounced dead at 50 years old early Saturday Morning due to the complications of a pneumonia. With previous complications from sarcoidosis, inflammatory disease of the lungs, family announced to People.com that "his immune system was compromised. He had an infection ... He was on a new medication that suppresses the immune system, and that's where the pneumonia came from". Terrible loss. Mr. Mac’s funeral arrangements are scheduled for Saturday, August 16th, at an undisclosed location. By the request of the family, all donations can be made to the Bernie Mac Foundation for Sarcoidosis, 40 E. Ninth St., Suite 601, Chicago IL 60605.

A few of his celeb friends released statements as well:

Brad Pitt: "I lament the loss of a ferociously funny and hardcore family man. My thoughts are with [his wife] Rhonda and their family. Bernie Mac, you are already missed."

George Clooney: "The world just got a little less funny. He will be dearly missed."

Chris Rock: "Bernie Mac was one of the best and funniest comedians to ever live, but that was the second best thing he did. Bernie was one of the greatest friends a person could have. Losing him is like losing 12 people because he absolutely filled up any room he was in. I'm gonna miss the Mac Man."

Cedric the Entertainer: "It's hard to put into words just how I feel and what a painful loss this is. Bernie was a brother, a friend and one of the comic masters of our time. Sharing the marquee with him during the phenomenon of the Kings of Comedy tour bonded us like family, and created a unique moment in comic history marking some of the most meaningful, memorable and fun times of our lives. His comedic approach was his own brand and will definitely stand the test of time. The level of his talent always inspired me and other comedians to 'bring their A-game.' I promise you that you never wanted to be the guy who had to follow Bernie's set! As a husband and father, he was THE MAN and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will truly be missed, but so well remembered."

Don Cheadle: "This is a very sad day for many of us who knew and loved Bernie. He brought so much joy to so many. He will be missed, but heaven just got funnier."

Ocean's Eleven costar Carl Reiner: "It's a tremendous loss because of his age and the fact that he was such a vital, original human being. When I use the word 'original' I really mean it. He was like no other person I knew. He lived his life to the fullest, even when we were on the set of Ocean's. He had his own little apartment and he cooked and invited people to lunch every day and he had food that was for everybody. He made very exotic things. His conversations were always different than any conversations I had with anyone else. They were very family-oriented; he talked about his wife and children with such love and it's very hard to believe that he's not with us anymore."

Samuel L. Jackson, Mac's costar in the November 2008 flick Soul Men: "It goes without saying that Bernie was one of the preeminent comedians of our generation. He was also an attentive husband, a great father and loving grandfather. I feel blessed to have shared years of friendship with Bernie Mac and I'm honored to have finally costarred with him in what I consider to be his finest cinematic acting achievement. My sincere prayer is that his family will be comforted by the warmth of love from all of us who knew and respected this man."

Issac Hayes

Issac Hayes, legendary soul crooner, was pronounced dead at 2:10 pm on August 10th in Memphis, TN, after what is believed to be of natural causes due to working out. The 65-year old Rock & Roll Hall of famer was found lying unconscious next to a running treadmill. While the family has released news that the soul music pioneer suffered a mild stroke in Jan. of 06' due to exhaustion, they believe his passing may have something to do with his history of high blood pressure. Hayes leaves behind 12 children, 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.


And as if both of their passing isn't already too much to fathom, both men were co-stars in their movie Soul Men which also stars Samuel L. Jackson. According to theybf.com as well as cinemablend.com:

The film stars Samuel L. Jackson, Bernie Mac, and yes, the recently late, great Isaac Hayes in the story of two estranged soul legends (played by Jackson and Mac) who reunite at the Apollo Theater to honor their recently deceased band leader. Principle photography was already finished, so there should be no problem with getting it ready for release, but you have to wonder now whether or not Dimension Films will want to release it. Death is a big subject in the film. The entire plot of the movie revolves around Mac and Jackson eulogizing the death of their friend with music, only now two members of the film’s actual cast really are dead. Three days ago it sounded like a fantastic idea for a film, especially in light of the way Sam Jackson belted out blues tunes in Black Snake Moan. Now, it seems almost too sad to watch. Buying a ticket to Soul Men could end up feeling like you’re purchasing a seat at someone’s funeral.

WoW. Can only imagine the statement that will be released from Samuel L. Jackson now, after not one but both of his co-stars have left him. It kind of reminds me of Aaliyah's passing and the 'Rock the Boat Video' and how she floats to the top at the end of the video. Remember?

God Bless both families during their time of loss.

Sources: People, Cinema Blend, theybf.

Celeb Ladies Are Taking The Short Cut

As a fan and follower of the bob trend, chopping a couple inches off was no biggie and I was excited about the transition. With a thick texture to my hair, my bob was nice and full and I had no regrets after. I think it suits a lot of women, ranging in ages and head shape. But, there are a few women who have jumped on the bandwagon and I scream 'why?' when I saw them. Not because the look wasn't for them because they are all still stunning, but because with beautiful hair such as theirs I'd feel so blessed.

My biggest upset:

Tia Mowry

Why Tia? Since the Sister-Sister days I was always jealous of the twins' hair. While I put pom-poms in my hair playing dress up, these girls had all I ever wanted. Maybe she was going for a more mature look? Still beautiful none the less, but I'm disappointed the trend got to her. Long hair is not extinct. It will never go out of a style. To me, a bob can.

Not to mention:

Eva Longoria:

With her first lengthy bob, I thought the look was very sophisticated and cute. Fit her well and I gave it a thumbs up. But once she allowed her hubby, Tony Parker, to become scissor happy, i stuck my thumb in my mouth. The look screams 'soccer mom' to me on her. Agree? Maybe it's the part on the side. I think she should have stuck with her length.

And Now Selita Ebanks:

Blissfully, we had an ebony beauty strutting her stuff and posing to perfect for Victoria's Secret. Beautiful skin, charming smile, and fabulous length. Now, she's displayed her new look. And again, with such beauty, versatility is amazing. She can make any style look good. I did, however, enjoying seeing an ethnic woman with long hair blowing like the blonde's.

Man, who's next. Wondering what's next for me? Fall semesters around the corner, and I'm ready to tweak the do. Without further or do, meet my new hair styling diva Keri Hilson.

Not that big of a change, but I love it! What's the next hair-do in line for you?

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?

Style Crush: Kelly Rowland

The more I see Kelly, the more I want to be Kelly. Period. From standing in what many considered to be the shadow and backdrop of Beyonce's stardom, Kelly Rowland sets herself apart from her band member flawlessly, fabulously and of course, fashionably. Not to mention she is in the works of making moves for herself, starting with her trips to Africa and London, to her new lifestyle and travel show which is rumored to have began taping back in May. The show entitled 'Around the World' is described as a modern and trendier version of 'Rich & Famous' and will feature specials on restaurants, luxury hotels, the place to be for the hottest parties, and more. Oprah's OWN, Style Network, and Bravo have been looking into the show. Hopefully one of them picks up the show for the 08-09 season. She told ya'll she was gonna bump like this.

As a styling diva, Kelly brings her A-game with elegance and edge.

. . .from t.v show appearances, autograph signings and live performances. . .

. . .to chic sophisticated red carpet shots . . .

. . .and my favorite, a dashing diva's day off. . .

. . . What's not to love about Ms.Kelly? With a bubbly down-to-earth personality, I would leap out my seat for an opportunity to hit the stores with the starlet. She has a cute girly fashion sense and her wardrobe suits me perfectly. ; ).

Who's your style crush? Let me know for upcoming posts.