G-Dep opens up about his Drug Addiction, Why he was Dropped & Getting back on Track!

Another Black Man Killed By Cops....

Another Black person shot and killed by NYPD police officers. Another death at the hands of the people who are sworn and paid to protect the very same citizens they end up killing. Of course, I don't know the circumstances, but it seems to be an alarming pattern to shoot to kill Black people, despite or in spite of the situation. And, he had no criminal record but I would imagine if he did, it would have been key in the defense of the police officers.

I am still and will always be a staunch opponent of the shoot to kill mentality of police officers when it comes to facing Blacks. It always seems to me that at any other time, with a different race, in a similar situation, the police are never that quick to, not only shoot, but shoot to kill. How often do you hear of white people being shot to death by police officers in stark contrast to their Black counterparts?

Now, I'm in no way saying that the young man killed was right in any way or that he didn't pose a realistic threat to the cops, all I'm saying is that it seems all too common that we are reading and hearing that Blacks are more than likely to be killed by police officers than whites. What makes it worse is that there hasn't been any referendum, retraining or even talk about the aggressiveness of police forces when it comes to the 'apprehension' of Blacks, even if they are innocent of anything outside of being Black.

This is the time when I'd like to see politicians, especially the likes of the more visible Blacks in office to take a stand, do a study, at the very least, INVESTIGATE the reasons this is a common occurrence! President Obama, Governor Patterson, Mayor Booker and any Black politician or influencer NEEDS to speak about this and have reforms when it comes to the mentality of police officers!

It just shouldn't be Al Sharpton being the leader when it comes to this, we NEED dialogue and answers as to why this happens ALL THE TIME!

And my brothers, stop giving the police reasons to shoot us! It's that simple! You know what's going on and yet, your ignorance puts my life in jeopardy because of your actions, police fear me based on the stereotype you perpetuate! It won't stop if you're out here doing stupid shit....

SAHARA MEDIA LAUNCHES HONEYMAG.COM 2.0

Sahara Media Holdings (SHHD.OB), a SOHO based Digital Media Company, announced today the launch of HoneyMag.com 2.0 with rising recording artist and Roc-Nation signee Wale as its November cover story; controversial ordained minister and YouTube sensation Alexyss Tylor; emerging recording artist and also Roc-Nation signee, J. Cole; and more. Enhancements to the site include improved interactive features, user-friendly functionality and a sleek, modern design.

The redesign also includes the launch of HoneyTV a new video portal featuring breaking news and gossip, celebrity interviews and user generated videos. In addition, The HoneyMag.com 2.0 platform expands the site’s social media components via a blog network comprised of leading bloggers, actors, journalists and professionals.

Photographed for the first time with his band in Los Angeles’s Leimart Park, Wale’s exclusive interview addresses his anxiety and the pressure surrounding the sales of his debut album, Attention Deficit, the unfortunate early online leaks, his desire to connect with a female audience, and his rumored romance with Solange Knowles, Honey’s hugely successful October cover girl. HoneyMag.com also features a Q&A with Alexyss Tylor on the “Power Of The P.” as well as “Tales From Tour” by J. Cole, a personal journal entry during his time on Jay Z’s Blueprint 3 Tour.

“Honey’s identity has always been about branding ‘what’s next’ so we continuously strive to be at the forefront of breaking trends,” says Shanel Odum, Editor-In-Chief of HoneyMag.com. “Unveiling Wale as our November cover story corresponding with the 2.0 launch in addition to other key components to the site such as HoneyTV, The Swarm Blog Network, etc., keeps us one step ahead of the curve.”

Enhanced new features of HoneyMag.com 2.0 include:

HoneyTV - The latest in fashion, beauty, entertainment news and music for the multicultural fashionista. HoneyTV will feature breaking news, user-created video and entertainment content from around the globe capturing the voice of HoneyMag.com on video.

Swarm Blog Network - A unique community of hand-selected columnists, from leading artists and actors to buzz worthy bloggers, editors and publicists. The Swarm provides an energetic online destination for all to promote projects, share thoughts and breaking news.

Live Social Feeds - An innovative widget where readers can get real-time updates from Honey's Twitter and Facebook pages; the most recent posts from the Swarm blog network, and breaking news - all in one place.

Honey Careers - In partnership with Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (WEEN), the new careers section will offer job opportunities in fashion, entertainment and media. In addition, it will include profiles of top female executives and provide advice on landing your dream job, as well as provide tips on balancing work, life and family.

“The HoneyMag.com 2.0 platform capitalizes on the current trends and technologies in website design which allows us to enhance our readers’ experience,” says Chuck Baker, Chief Technology Officer and General Manager. “In an effort to become the number one lifestyle website in our space, the new site design speaks to our user's needs for broader content, more accessibility to fashion and entertainment and real-time information.”

In addition to HoneyMag.com 2.0, the digital lifestyle portal recently revealed the newly redesigned HoneyGram, Honey’s weekly newsletter. By joining Honeymag.com, members are kept up to date on the latest Celebrity, Music, Fashion and Beauty feature stories that are recently posted on the site. As an added bonus, HoneyGram is also an interactive haven where readers can share its content with their friends via Facebook, Twitter and email.

About HoneyMag.com
HoneyMag.com originated from the highly successful Honey Magazine, which first hit newsstands in 1999. To date, Honey is the largest selling magazine in the 18-34 African American female demographic, having reached a readership of 1.5 million through Honey's loyal consumer base, brand awareness, foundation of advertisers, and proven editorial formula. The first magazine to feature the largest array of multi-cultural cover models including Beyoncé, Tyra Banks, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill, Jada Pinkett Smith, Lil` Kim, Boris Kodjoe, LL Cool J, Lisa Left Eye Lopez and Aaliyah, HoneyMag.com is designed to fill a necessary void in the way beauty, fashion and lifestyle content is delivered online to its readers. Serving as a how-to-guide on four key areas in young women's lives: communication, community, career and connection, HoneyMag.com is organized by key topics such as "the buzz", "the look", "your life", and "love&sex." With a finger planted firmly on the pulse of today's young woman on a mission, HoneyMag.com celebrates and empowers their audience to draw inspiration from the break-through moments of Honey girls everywhere. www.HoneyMag.com

Suburban District Launches Website

Suburban District Launches Website

Hip Hop Band Launches Website and Readies Debut Album and Video

11/19/2009

Suburban District is the future. After their website launch today, they hit the studio to put the final touches on their highly anticipated debut album with DJ Benzi. The album, entitled, "Don't Mind Us We're Just The Future", takes you on a journey through time a space, from club to car, bar to bedroom and iPod to college campus. This debut album will be released for FREE through their new website, www.SuburbanDistrict.com on November 30th!!! The album debut will be accompanied by their video debut of 'No Louis V'. After recently inking a pressing and distribution deal with Malaco Music Group / XRecords, Suburban District is poised to take the world into the future!!!

www.SuburbanDistrict.com

www.SmoothDirtyProductions.com

Is There Really An Industry Anymore?

I know, I know, I'm starting to sound like a bitter old parent reminiscing about the 'good ole days' but I'm starting to see a shift that is quite alarming. The industry, as we know it today, isn't the exclusive, 'pay your dues' mindset of recent years. I would never knock someone's hustle but it's too easy for people to 'think' they are part of the entertainment industry these days.

Even when I worked at The Source 4 years ago, these interns had the attitude that they didn't need to do anything to 'earn their stripes'. You can't go into a company and declare yourself a CEO when you're applying for an internship. People think they are the next Diddy, Puff, Puff Daddy, Sean Combs or whatever his moniker is today. Yes, Diddy stared as an intern and is now a mogul but even if you ask him, he will tell you that there are certain protocols and unwritten rules that must be followed in order to 'get ahead'. Some of these interns act as if they are doing you a favor by becoming an intern. I can guarantee that if Puff had that attitude 22 years ago, he wouldn't have gotten too far!

And let's talk about what we used to call journalism. Nowadays, anyone with internet access can obtain a FREE blog, go to other sites/blogs, copy content from these sites, place it in their blog and now they're in the industry! What da fuck!?!?! No, just because you grab an embedded code from Vlad TV, or grab a story from All Hip Hop, doesn't make you a part of this industry! And whatever happened to originality, doing something different, creating your own niche? NETWORKING, building up REAL contacts and actually knowing what you are talking about when you might write or knowing the 'rules' about giving credit when you swipe content from another source?

And how can you call yourself industry when you can't call anyone to get anything?!? When you can't get an interview or a quote because you know no one in the industry and you HAVE to wait for another site to post something so this way you can post it in your blog. What part of the game is that?

I had a conversation this summer with a 'blogger' who was complaining that he doesn't get invited to industry events. No listening parties, no screenings, no exclusive interviews, etc. I'm looking at him like he has 3 eyes. I asked him if he knew any publicists, he says no. I ask, who does he know at the labels? He knew a mailroom guy and the cousin of a neighbor who works as a receptionist. I then asked him how does he get his content and of course, he names the more popular sites he gets it from. So, I look at him and then ask him, why would ANYONE invite him anywhere for anything with that great resume he has! The audacity that no one invites him to anything!

It's that attitude that is making this not an industry anymore because anyone with a blog, a camcorder, a voice recorder and a studio, can declare themselves industry, just because....

The Reasons Why Bill Thompson Lost the NYC Mayoral Election

We live in a country that is quick to blame everyone but themselves when a situation doesn't work for them. In politics, it's not always about money despite people thinking so. Specifically, in New York City, people are trying to say Bloomberg bought his way into office each time he ran, but that isn't the case, in my opinion. But, let me focus on why Bill Thompson did not win the election.

The Soft Exterior: First off, Bill Thompson has a soft exterior. This is New York City, you HAVE to have a certain attitude and mind set to lead this city as evidenced by our past mayors. He didn't have any spirit, looks aloof and doesn't seem genuine or even sure of what he says or at least that's the impression I have. Bill Thompson has never had fire in him and when he tried to display that, it look forced, like his political strategist told him he has to have that fire in his eyes when he campaigns. Look at our recent mayors, Ed Koch, David Dinkins, Rudy Guiliani and Michael Bloomberg! All of them possesses that fire that if you wanted a fight, they would fight you until you're defeated or if they lose, it would be the toughest fight they've been in. Can you honestly see that in Bill Thompson?

The Obama Factor: First off, for anyone to say that President Barack Obama didn't do enough for Bill Thompson needs to place the crack pipe down. The Obama factor backfired in the Virginia and New Jersey elections where both candidates Obama campaigned for, lost, so what can you say now about the Obama factor? Plus, it was evident from the half-ass endorsement Obama DID give, he was better off not injecting Obama in his campaign. I mean, the man campaigned in New Jersey for Corzine like he was actually running for governor of New Jersey himself! So, the next time you want to lay blame, look at the results of the governors' elections in New Jersey and Virginia.

The No Platform Position: I'm sorry, but you can't run a campaign on saying your opponent extended term limits and he is outspending your campaign and THAT'S the reason you should vote for him. I watched the debates, I've read what was reported in the newspapers and the internet, I've heard his sound bites and watched him at press conferences and speaking opportunities. Bill Thompson did NOT give me a reason to vote for HIM, he only gave me a reason to NOT vote for Bloomberg and I am MUCH smarter than that!

The D Minus Factor: In their second debate, at the end of it, the moderator asked Bill Thompson to rate his opponent, Michael Bloomberg, in his job performance and his response just made me want to vote for Bloomberg even more! He gave Bloomberg a D minus and then quipped that he was being nice in giving him that grade. Now, I understand him not wanting to give Bloomberg a high grade because it would be self-defeating, but I think he looked foolish in saying a D minus because Bloomberg has done and is doing a much better job than Rudy Guiliani. And to make matters worse, Bloomberg responded by saying Thompson is a good controller, thus, in my mind, placing the final nail in that coffin!

Expecting Black Support: This is an area I really get upset about because it always seems as if whenever there is a Black candidate for any political office, we Blacks are a lock to vote for the candidate simply because he/she is Black. That thinking has buried candidates before and I think it burned Bill Thompson. In my conversations with many black people who were watching the NYC mayoral contest, a very small percentage vowed to vote for Thompson and most agreed that he can't get our votes on the premise of him being a Black man. Once again, he had no message outside of Bloomberg extending term limits and him buying his way into office and many Blacks saw through that.

Not Effectively Defending His Board of Education Tenure: Michael Bloomberg snatched control of the Board of Education partly because of the way Bill Thompson ran it. So why didn't Bill Thompson defend himself? By not proving Bloomberg wrong, it looked like he conceded that fact to Bloomberg and Bloomberg made it a point to keep harping on the fact that the schools were in shambles before he took over.

Low Voter Turnout: How is it that there were record turnout in the election just a year ago and now this election involving another Black man for a major office generated low turnout? I'm sure many people who were Bloomberg supporters just knew he would win convincingly so they stayed away from the polls. Bill Thompson should have been driving people to want to vote instead of allowing people to not care about the election.

Not Having The Confidence of Fellow Democrats: Going back to the top Democrat in the country, President Obama gave a luke-warm endorsement and he didn't even give the endorsement himself, instead, having an underling make the announcement. and even when pressed upon his luke-warm endorsement, he basically said as the leader of the Democratic Party, he gave his blessing to a fellow Democrat, not saying that he thought Bill Thompson would be good for the job. You had many other prominent New York Democrats either waiting until the last possible minute to give an endorsement or flatly endorsing Michael Bloomberg. This didn't bear well for Democratic voters as well, especially being a heavily Democratic town, most endorsements seemed along party lines at best instead of being fully behind Bill Thompson.

I think Bill Thompson has 4 years to get it together and run again so this time he will win. I really like Thompson but, as i stated earlier, he gave me NO reason to vote for him, hopefully, he'll get wind of this and follow this advice.

Can We Arrest Drunken Police Officers?

Why is it that in this society and specifically in New York City, the police are supposed to protect and serve but only if it's another police officer? Of course I will say that there are good cops but the whole police force takes a beating when they, um, are doing the beating. Whether it's beating civilians or beating the law, it' s getting to a point that they are, in fact, above the law, not the enforcers of the law. We always hear about police shooting, the majority of the time, minorities. It wouldn't be so bad if they mistreated all races but it's very rare you ever hear of police shooting whites!

But, that's not what this article is about today. We have witnessed 2 drunk driving cases in New York recently. Both cases involved drunken police officers who not only hit, but killed their victims. Innocent victims who may not have even seen the vehicles coming towards them. And both times, both cops refused to take a breathalyzer test and both times at least 5 hours passed before either cop had been tested. One passed the test after 7 hours of refusing and the other, after 5 hours, had 2 1/2 times the legal limit (imagine if he took the test sooner).

I may be wrong but, if I or any other civilian, were stopped for suspected drunken driving, would be charged with a DWI if we refuse to take a breathalyzer, yet, police officers are allowed to do so? What's wrong with this picture? If anything, they should be held at a higher standard or at the very least, be treated like a civilian when they're off duty.

We have to start putting pressure on our elected officials to stop being punks and hold law enforcement accountable for any and all criminal acts committed by police officers! I would even go as far as having harsher penalties for these type of officers as well as the officers who attempt or accomplish covering up the misdeeds of criminal cops. I know I'm sick of reading in the papers and internet and watching on television about cops practically getting away with murder and elected officials not speaking out against it!

Why Is a Grown Man Depending on Another Grown Man?

OK, I will say this, I haven't heard the Beanie Sigel song yet but I am amazed that a grown ass man is relying on another grown man to take care of him. Now, my beef with Hip Hop and the mentality of the Black community is that if my man is of a certain status or he is a celebrity, he should be taking care of me. What kind of bullshit is that? Yes, it's cool when an artist brings his boys with him when he gets put on, but the ignorance factor usually ends up hurting an artist who is trying to have a successful career. The artist is being loyal and I understand that, but if your ignorant boys are preventing you from making money, are they really your boys?

Most times, when an artist is in any trouble, more than likely, it's one of his boys that is causing problems but the artist gets the attention from it, even though he may not have had anything to do with it. But people don't see the artist's boy, they see who the boy is hanging out with and attributes that problem to that artist. But, instead of containing his boy, he, instead, allows his boy to continue being an ass and preventing him from elevating his career, thus limiting or eliminating the financial earning aspect of the artist. All of this in the name of staying loyal or being concerned of being labeled a sellout if he cuts his boy off.

So, when an artist finally realizes that his earning potential increases once he leaves his boys alone, he does the right thing for his business and then is labeled as a betrayer because he starts to think about his longevity in his career. But, if his boys were really his boys, they would stop the ignorant shit or allow him to make his money and have a successful career but the ignorance factor is so high that it usually leads to these same characters beefing that their man thinks he's too large for them. This primarily happens in the Hip Hop/Black community where a lot of people would rather see their peoples on the corners than on their own property.

So, for a grown man to say that he is upset or disappointed that another man hasn't taken care of him, I can't respect a man who isn't or hasn't thought about taking care of himself. Unless that man is my father and I am unable to take care of myself, then there is NO WAY I should be relying on another man who doesn't share my DNA to take care of me and mine.

Don't Call It A Comeback!

OK, I've heard the whispers, people have been contacting me, the internet is boring, everyone is doing THE EXACT SAME THING and POSTING THE EXACT SAME CONTENT, 'WHEN ARE YOU COMING BACK, CED?!?!??!?!

Yes, people, the fire is coming back, I'm ready to make the internet interesting again! I'm ready to start calling the fakes out, I'm ready to make people honest, I'm ready to be the BIG CED you've come to know over the years! I apologize for not being me, but sometimes you get off track when pursuing other things and trying to build your empire. But my voice, my words, my, um, venom, is what made me.... me. That is what made most of you want to know who BIG CED is and I am bringing that back!

So bear with me, I do miss being me and now may be the time to make people be orginal again. There are many people, blogs, websites doing things I did 5 YEARS ago and they think they are doing something special! All I have to say is, 'IT AIN'T NEW IF I DID IT 5 YEARS AGO!!!'

Shouts to everyone who has been asking me the same question for some time and I am here to say I'm back! Bear with me as I dust off the artillery and the weapons!

Special Shout to Eric Harrield... You are right, I have to be me again, set the world straight!

Like Michael Jordan CED when he returned from his retirement: 'I'm Back!'

Obstacles

In life there will, no doubt, be obstacles and it should be expected. But most people see obstacles in a negative way, but not me! I see obstacles as a strong way to build character, strength and a better understanding of yourself. I truly believe that obstacles are placed in front of you to test you, to see what you're really made of and to see if you can utilize your inner strength to deal with and then overcome them.

Some people go through their young life untested and when a situation presents itself that doesn't favor them, they usually revert back to their childhood ways or look for someone or something to get them out of it and if that does work, a pattern ensues once another situation occurs. This doesn't help or prepare them for obstacles that they have to handle themselves and they usually take a downward spiral because they lack the ability to comprehend and deal with it in a manner that will help them handle and jump over that hurdle. You can usually tell the type of people this applies to but they can't, won't and don't see it that way and then wonder why they have to have a crutch to rely on instead of dealing with it head on.

Yes, an obstacle presented does cause fear, panic and an unstable view, depending on the depth of the situation. And sometimes an unwillingness to want to deal with the situation is usually the primary thought and feeling, which is cool and may be seen as a normal reaction. The key is the next step or the thought process of how to handle it, what to do to overcome it and then actually doing it. Sometimes there are obstacles to overcome the obstacle and at times, it's not a short or easy process but when the task of getting it done is completed, your confidence in yourself increases because you know that you persevered and overcame the obstacle.

My life has been a constant stream of obstacles that has shaped me into who I am today. I play to win, never think about losing and I know whatever is thrown my way, I can handle and if I don't think I can handle, I'll know I have the strentgh to cope with it. At times, I think I'm my own obstacle, but, of course, I have to overcome that as well!

Strategic Planning?

What happens when you are being set up for failure and you don't fail? Does the person or people setting you up stop? Or do they try to make it more difficult for you to accomplish what you set out to do? If those persons were deceptive from the start, do you go along with the deception therefore deceiving them into thinking you went for the deception in order to deceive them? Are you just as wrong as they are by doing that? Or do you carry out your original plan knowing you were deceived?

What if you know that their plan backfired, thereby making you look good in the process? Do you act like you don't know what's going on, although you do, for the sake of playing like you don't, just so you don't make them look or feel bad? Or do you give them not so obvious signs where they have to contemplate if it is what it is or is it not what it's supposed to be? Who ends up with the upper hand in this situation?

What if those people think you need them more than they need you, but you know that each party needed each other to make it work? But you are willing to give a little but they aren't willing to give anything? And even when you give more, they feel compelled not to give back anything? Should you continue or should you pull back? And if you pull back, should you take offense that they take offense knowing you were giving more than promised while they gave less?

And what about the strategy put in place that is really no strategy? Would it be wrong to strategize your strategy based on their thinking of the strategy? And what if your strategy is really their strategy but you already know the outcome while they just speculate what the outcome may be? Is your strategy, therefore good?

Since life is a game and it's not always about winning or losing but how you come out of it, should you let them know you've already won even if they think you're losing? Should you even hint at them being the loser despite the outcome because you've already won and they could also win if they stop trying to beat you? If you know you can't lose, should you just take your victory in stride or should you try to get them to win too?

You always choose both sides winning cause you only play to win while they play not to lose! Maybe by the time they realize that you're only in it to make it best for both parties, then they will win as well...

My Disappointment With The Urban Media

I want to know why is it that whenever any Black artist/celebrity/entertainer/athlete is in any trouble, all the blogs, websites and magazines are quick to publish and report such bad behavior/news but the same mindset is missing whenever Black celebrities do positive things? We bitch and moan all the time about the negativity amongst our community but 'we' are quick to be the first to post it in the name of exclusive news. I do understand that it's because it increases hits for websites or chatter for other outlets but don't you think it can have the same effect when you report positive news?

The reason for this 'rant' is this article I read in today's NY Daily News- Rapper behind 'Roxanne's Revenge' gets Warner Music to pay for Ph.D. Now, in defense of those who did not know, it's understandable because we didn't know, but how many of you, who has read this, repost or 'aggregate' this on your blogs/websites? If Dr. Roxanne Shante had shot and killed 3 people, you would have made sure your site had that on blast immediately!

I wish I had known this before so I could have had this exclusive for my website and I want to congratulate Dr. Roxanne Shante for her achievements! This is a great story to post as it shows that something good CAN come out of something that wasn't so good! We need to be placing stories like this up on our sites to encourage others that there are good things that can be made out of bad ones and that ALL artists NEED to read and re-read their contracts and hold the companies liable for the language placed in said contracts! These same companies would have NO problem taking away whatever earnings you signed away and of course, Warner Brothers doesn't want news like this getting out for fear that they would have to actually honor their contract!

People, let's uplift and educate each other by either balancing the news or by limiting the bad ones. We have to police ourselves when it comes to this because we are always fighting a battle for respect and we can't always blame the knuckleheads we give extensive coverage to!

A Man’s Response To Why Women Cheat

So, I’m reading this article on the 'Hello Beautiful' site titled, 3 Reasons Why Women Cheat, and I have decided to give you women some advice based on what I have read:

Feeling Lonely in a Relationship

Ok, realize that men sometimes go through this as well so it’s not gender based when it comes to feeling lonely. The expectations placed on a man while in a relationship should be discussed as opposed to being expected, ESPECIALLY if your man happens to be popular or very driven when it comes to his career or work. If you are feeling lonely, it is up to you to include him in other activities that he may not normally be involved in where you wouldn’t feel so lonely. Also, keep in mind that, just like women, guys like to hang out with the fellas every now and then, so if your expectations are greater than he is willing to give, then you may have to resort to the infamous female support group! Otherwise, occupy your time with your passion and goals so that way when the two of you DO get up, the time together will be cherished even more while both of you are trying to achieve personal goals and dreams!

Feeling Taken for Granted

As stated above, men go through the motions when feeling like they are also taken for granted. But instead of focusing on the negative, focus on the positive and as with any relationship, whether work, play or friendship, this can be a task. But as with any task, there has to be common ground so that it can be completed to satisfaction! What most women tend to do is focus on their needs and themselves when having a conversation about ‘us’. You also need to be open to hearing and catering to his needs and wants as well so that way BOTH of you can be equally fulfilled! I hate to word it like this but, it has to be a mutually binding agreement so that way no one feels taken for granted, you give a little, I give a little and hopefully, we both benefit greatly!

You Are Leading Separate Lives

Well, as with anything in life, you grow, sometimes together, sometimes apart. It should be the focus of both partners to extend themselves to each other so that way both of you are still on the same page when it comes to a common bond which should be love. We can’t help who we are or who we become based on life experiences and what most women (and men!) don’t understand is that it is BECAUSE of you that he decides to take another direction in life, whether negative or positive. We should make each other stronger but at times, we tend to get weak out of being used to being with the one we are with, so we can and do get complacent. So, communication may be the most important tool in this situation so you can understand what the other is going through in order to want to stay in each others live! You can lead a separate, yet together life if both parties are getting what they want out of it, specifically on an emotional level. But you MUST discuss it with each other!

Revenge Can Be Bittersweet

This is definitely a hard thing for women and ESPECIALLY men! Since society accepts cheating men more than they accept cheating women, we, as men, are distraught when we find out that our woman has cheated, even if we were caught first. Hey, don’t blame us; society has made it acceptable for us to get away with cheating! Nonetheless, if it’s within a marriage, when you take your vows, you said for better or for worse, so you must remember that when you do find out as we, as men, have to think along the same lines. As far as a lover, I would say it should be based on what is transpiring in the relationship as to why the cheating was done and if it can be, not only forgiven, but placed aside for the good of the relationship.

The Ego Needs Stroking

As far as ego, I can safely say that the male ego is more robust than a woman’s ego, so we are at a disadvantage when it comes to that, especially if we are attractive or have a status or have money or have all three! Women are always eyeing us, trying to get our attention and with the slightest bit of neglect from you, make it easier to submit to the desires of a woman who is obviously trying to give us the goods. So, if anything, if our egos need stroking, guess what, something else of ours will get the stroking.

Artists, STOP Being So Sensitive!!!!

One of the biggest laughs today is hearing about the news about the 'fight' between The Black Eyed Peas' Will. I. Am and Perez Hilton. Funny because I can't picture ANYONE wanting to fight ANY member of The Black Eyed Peas, well, let me rephrase that, funny because I can't see ANY of the members (Except maybe Fergie) having the guts to actually fight! But then again, it WAS Perez Hilton, who doesn't exactly strike fear in ANYONE!

Supposedly, the basis of this 'beef' is that Will. I. Am asked Perez Hilton to stop dissing them in his blog and Perez said no and allegedly, Black Eyed Peas tour manager, Polo Molina, punched Perez. It's still funny that anyone with any male chromosome in them, would hit Perez. This brings me to say this to artists: STOP BITCHIN!!!!

Artists are so insecure and vain that anyone who harps praise on them is well respected, well received and generally liked. Artists need to learn to accept the bitter with the sweet! ESPECIALLY rappers!!!! Artists NEVER have a problem when they are getting favorable coverage and that's understandable, but just as there are sunny days, it does rain and like with the weather, you HAVE to accept the good and the bad!

Artists NEED to accept that not everyone will view them in a favorable light, regardless of what they do! Even Mother Teresa had haters! It's the way of the world! Believe it or not, the world does NOT revolve around you! This is also part of the STOP BITCHIN' campaign that I have started!

STOP BITCHIN' when there are bloggers, people, writers, journalists or anyone who doesn't care too much about you or what you do. And for these artists (Rappers) who say that writers who write unfavorable about them, are taking food from their mouths, GET OVER IT! NOT EVERYONE will enjoy what you do! If you are great at what you do, believe it or not, there WILL be some people who still like you and will support your project! I know that I don't have that much power. If I write that you are a dick or that I think your latest project is as good as the 2008 Detroit Lions football team (For non football fans, they lost EVERY game last season), live with it! I am sure there will be someone to counter me and say that you are great and your project is the best thing since sliced bread!

STOP BITCHIN'

Young Rappers Need Teachin'....

So, I'm reading blogs, websites and watching videos of these young rappers bitchin' about rappers like Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes and even Redman and Method Man, still in the game, recording, releasing albums and doing shows. What these little bitchin rappers don't realize is that these and other older artists have this thing called a CAREER! They have stood the test of time! They have STUDIED what it takes to still matter over the years, although styles have changed and we are officially in the ring tone era of Hip Hop.

Wait, my bad, it's the Auto-Tune era and if it weren't so, half the rappers you are listening to today wouldn't be off their block, so I guess I can understand the bitterness when these wack ass rappers have no clue on how to build a career beyond 'x amount' of ring tones sold! If you see the press releases I get from publicists and labels bragging about how many ring tones their artists sold and then you don't hear about them a year from now, you'd laugh, as I do when I read it!

So, to all the young wack rappers who we won't be reading about or hearing about next year, take a back seat and learn why the Jay-Z's, The Bustas and the 'Older' rappers still matter and why we'll see them releasing yet another album next year and beyond because they have what you should aspire for, A CAREER! So I'm gonna start a movement, it won't be called, Stop Snitchin', let's make it, STOP BITCHIN'

Online Solicitation

OK, it's seems like it's now a daily occurrence that someone who follows me on Twitter or sends me an email, asks me to vote for them in some online contest or to vote for them so they can obtain a high number of votes to gain interest in some online contest. Nothing wrong with that cause this is the way of the world today. My problem is the method used or lack of thought placed into the solicitation!

Now, ever since I can remember, I've met the best rapper, artist, singer so many times and through so many people that whenever someone claims to be the best, they sound like Charlie Brown's teacher in my ears. Yeh, I'm used to that approach, so it's easy for me to tune people out when they claim to be the best. Only problem being is that they may be the best in their house or room, but that's besides the point. I get requests DEMANDING that I vote for someone or just based on their solicitation, I should automatically vote for them JUST because they requested! This will cause me to not only IGNORE the person and request, but it will make me make SURE I don't even go NEAR the site they are asking me to vote on!

Now, I know some of you reading this has done and will do this and I might be talking about you specifically, so take note to what I am writing! First off, I don't know YOU or your music, so why should I take precious seconds out of my already busy and hectic life, just to adhere to your demands because you found my name on Twitter? Also keep in mind that you are definitely not the only one bombarding me with such an inane request. You've never 'talked' to me on Twitter, let alone, read what I write and yet, because you need votes for a contest that will do nothing to advance your career, you hit me up with a link to vote for you? Does that even make any sense?

My advice? ASK me to check out your profile/song/page first to see if I would even listen to it and THEN, ask me if I like it, to vote for the song so that way it can stroke your fragile ego to win a contest that A & Rs don't even know or care about! THAT would go a long way to maybe gaining my attention and maybe, just maybe, if I do, first, actually go to the page and then actually listen to it and then, I may even like it enough to give you that vote you seek. Now wasn't that better than just sending the SAME damn link to everyone while having an online passive-aggressive attitude?

Oh, and for the idiot (yes, I wrote idiot!) Who called me a hater because I politely CED no when such a request was spammed to me, do some research before spewing dumb words because you never know who can help you get to the next level and not only that, other people read other people's Tweets that are sent to people and you may have alienated someone who may have even liked your stuff, but because you showed online ignorance, you blew a realistic chance at actually having a career outside the Twitter walls.

I'm just sayin'

Police Shootings

It's become so commonplace to hear that a black man was shot by a police officer. You never hear about white people being shot by cops. It seems that police officers have a natural instinct to shoot/kill a black man, even if he hasn't committed a crime! Only thing needed is a presumption that a crime has been committed or looks like a crime may have been done or even look like a crime may happen to take place and it (The shooting) is a preventive measure.

And it is in part racial, because minority cops have no problem shooting other minorities! Is it acceptance by their white peers that makes them feel like they can or is it the Police Department's way of training and teaching how to handle minorities? I can't ever recall hearing a black officer shooting a white 'suspect' without probable cause. Shit, EVEN WITH probable cause! That's probably cause the punishment will be harsh for shooting a white person than it is for killing a black one! Wait! There is usually no punishment for a cop killing a black man. Maybe this is why there is no restraint when a police officer pulls a weapon on a black man.

What scares me most is that it can realistically happen to me! I've had cops draw guns on me before and for no legitimate reason other than me being a dark skinned black man. And please don't question a police officer! This is justification for them to 'use force'. I have seen white people get pulled over, yelling at cops for stopping them and then be allowed to leave without even a warning! I've NEVER been arrested but you would think I was a known criminal whenever a cop stops me. Although I wouldn't go as far as saying I hate cops, I can and will say that I don't trust ANY police officer because there are many people in jail railroaded by the system in the name of racial injustice!

Cops should be placed on a higher standard because they are 'trained' to uphold the law yet they are also breaking the law because they feel they are ABOVE the law! Why are cops given 48 hours to come up with a perfect story to tell based on the crime they've committed? When a suspect is arrested, they aren't given ANY time before they are questioned! Police officers who commit blatant acts of lawlessness should NOT be given ANY privileges!

The Police Department should be run by an independent and neutral entity to ensure that when a police officer shoots a black man or is involved in any questionable activity, we will be ensured of a thorough investigation, as opposed to the police clearing their own officers.

Are Black People Stupid?

Are Black people stupid? And if so, did I get that memo? The reason I ask is because I've noticed in politics, whenever a Black runs for office, it is naturally assumed that Black people will ALWAYS vote for Black candidates, simply because they are Black. Now, it doesn't matter if the person isn't qualified for the job just as long as he/she is Black and that and ONLY that reason is necessary to gain the votes of other Blacks.

Since I live in the New York City area, I am being told, indirectly, that I HAVE to vote for Comptroller William Thompson for mayor because, as a Black man, I have to support him. And although Governor Patterson is not doing such a great job, I MUST vote for him for re-election because, hey, he's Black! And you do know that Barack Obama is a Black man, so we MUST continue the trend of electing Blacks to office!

Now, don't get me wrong, I am a GREAT supporter of Black people, but, I am a BETTER supporter of people who will do a great job for me when they get in office. If I had a choice to vote based on race versus based on getting the job done, I am voting based on the latter, but hopefully, the candidate would be both.

So, all I am saying is, we, as Black people, are being viewed as not being smart enough to make the right choice for ourselves. It seems that even Black politicians want us to vote simply based on the pigment of the skin or the cultural aspects of the candidate. I say, as I do, base any vote on who you feel would do the best job out of the candidates and with all things being equal, then racial pride would win, otherwise, we can't let people do our thinking for us! We need to research and listen and read up on ALL candidates for any office that is being pursued as all decisions based on the winning candidates WILL affect our lives, which makes it that much more important to be educated, not forced to pick our own candidate.

So, all I am asking is for Black candidates to not anticipate just getting our votes based on the fact that you are Black as well and put forth the effort to prove to us that you are qualified for the job. And Black people, stop going with the theory of voting based on skin color because, believe it or not, there ARE stupid black politicians out there....

Cheating Spouses, Conniving Cheaters

As I am reading the New York Daily News, right on Page 3, is an article exposing the extra-marital affair of Citigroup Board Chairman, Richard Parsons. Not that this is a new revelation or that this doesn't happen often, but I thought I'd write about the infidelities and who would be considered at fault based on the circumstances!

Now, this also brings to mind the Swizz Beats/Alicia Keys situation and even Jesse Jackson's affair that produced an out of wedlock child. Who is primarily at fault when it comes to extra-marital affairs? Is it the committed person, who signed into an agreement with his/her spouse to be dedicated to that spouse until 'Death Do Us Part'? Or is it the fault of the other party, (Provided that party knows the interested party is in fact, married) who has no legal or moral obligation to the married party, although knowing that the other party, is indeed in a committed relationship?

I would have to say that it's primarily, morally and legally, the fault of the married party simply because that person, before God and many witnesses, made a commitment and in essence, signed a contract (Marriage license) to stay committed to this person, 'For Better Or For Worse', not until someone better comes along.

But, the blame also falls on the willing party, ESPECIALLY if this person knows/knew that the person is in a supposedly, monogamous relationship and then, as the case of MacDella Cooper (The 'other' woman in the Dick Parsons situation), who knew/knows that Dick is married, yet chooses to not only cheat with him but also bear his child. What goes through the mind of a woman that knowingly has a child with a man who has been married for almost 31 years?

I don't know about you, but I feel that, although things do change, marriage IS a commitment that should be taken serious and, despite the circumstances, if you feel that strongly about seeing someone else, enough where a child is brought into the picture, you should man up and either end your marriage or be a man and keep your end of the bargain and NOT fornicate with another!

As far as a woman who is cheating with a known married man, although the man should bear the majority of the fault in this, you also should bear blame as well, especially if you know that this man has an actual family. If you are bold enough to have a family with a man who already has a family, how ignorant can you be, especially knowing that this same man can do the same to you? Although i know in most cases, it's a financial situation knowing that this man is worth millions, on top of millions of dollars, but where is the moral obligation?

What's My Motivation?

Over the past couple of years, my level of excitement has sunk to levels I never thought I would experience until I was in my 70s, but, sadly, it has hit an all time low. But, let me clarify, I mean in terms of music nowadays. My zeal for life is still high, I love and appreciate my family and friends and close associates, but the passion I once had for music has me wondering what's next? I don't listen to the radio, I don't watch the video shows and I can't remember the last time I WANTED to purchase a CD that was coming out. My recent CD purchases has been for much older music, classic tunes, but there is not one artist who makes me want to go to a store and stand on line and purchase their CD, even if I am getting it for free. I remember when there was excitement when an artist had a new project coming out, I remember when I would watch video shows in anticipation of seeing a hot video. Not anymore....

I was actually thinking that I may just be old, but please.... That argument can't or won't work simply because I am still young in terms of life but maybe it's the same argument our parents had. They always told us, growing up, that music was much better and we looked at them like they were crazy, but they were right! When you think about the timeless classics of Al Green, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Gladys Knight, Barry White, Lou Rawls, The Jackson 5, Teddy Pendergrass, Aretha Franklin and then even the classics of even 20 years ago, Guy, Bobby Brown, Christopher Williams, Prince, Michael Jackson, Chic, The SOS Band and then in terms of Hip Hop, A Tribe Called Quest, Ice Cube, Run D.M.C., Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, De La Soul, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Heavy D and The Boyz and then you think, what is there today?

What's my motivation? Radio plays the same wack songs 33 times a day, even satellite radio does the same thing. As a matter of fact, I am about to cancel my XM/Sirius subscription because they play the EXACT SONGS that free radio plays. I thought they were the alternative?

But, outside of that, originality has taken a backseat to the assembly line way of making music nowadays. Let's do a brief comparison: Can The Dream even fuck with Babyface? Can T-Pain even be allowed in the same room as Teddy Riley? What Hip Hop producer can even fuck with Dr. Dre on a very sick day? Can J. Holiday even step in the same vocal booth as Luther Vandross? Can Day 26 hold a candle to Jodeci or Boyz II Men?

Can anyone help get me motivated?

Please??????

Now Is The PERFECT Time To Become Self-Sufficient

With the economy being the way it is, people, with good reason, fear losing their jobs or not finding work. But, I feel this is a great time to become self-sufficient as being so builds up the confidence and swagger necessary to stay afloat in these tough times. Knowing that you can make things happen and make your own money or make moves that will bring in money is something most people don't have. The majority of people who work, tend to need to feel reliant on their position and/or their job to be relevant, but if you have the type of personality and/or drive to do things without feeling the need to have people help you, then this is the perfect time to step your game up because it will get worse before it gets better and if you can survive in this climate, you will thrive when the economy comes up again.

I know people are fearful in starting their own company or doing something outside of their position, but it is very empowering knowing you can and will make things happen because you want to and not have to rely on someone, people or a company to make it happen! At the same time, it's not for everyone. I know people who are great at what they do when they have direction and a stated goal, but put them in a situation where they have to fend for themselves and they get lost immediately. I never understood it before, but I have a better understanding now! If you are not that confident that you can do it without direction, then stay in your position and make yourself even more valuable because it is rough out here!

I feel I am in a very great position having navigated myself through tough times before and anticipating it happening again but before, nerves almost got the best of me, but now, I welcome the challenge as I set my sights higher for bigger goals and to do so when the rest of the country is nervous and struggling, will make it sweeter for me when I do accomplish what I am setting out to do!

Sometimes you have to follow your passion to find satisfaction in your life and since there are too many disgruntled people working and even some making great money, I choose to enjoy my life and what I do so that way I feel great waking up and setting myself up to work and do the things I want to and can do! I am not and have never been money-driven, which may be the reason I am not rich or even content YET, but I DO know that being this way WILL benefit me in the long run as I plan on staying relevant until I don't want to do it anymore (Whatever that may be!) or until The Lord calls me to join him.

Dame Has Been Dashed....

So, it's being reported that Damon Dash, former CEO/Co-Founder of Roc-A-Fella Records, is broke and now his wife, Rachel Roy, is filing for divorce. My, how the mighty have fallen! I don't know what and where Dame went wrong but it's a sad story when you think about what he has done for Hip Hop and Harlem. Despite what you think about Dame and how he handled himself, he NEEDS and DESERVES to be credited with being responsible, even if partially, for the careers of 2 of the biggest Hip Hop artists today (Jay-Z and Kanye West). In fact, I will even go as far as saying 3 (Jim Jones)! By my observation (I could be wrong), Damon Dash had a hand in every platinum act that Roc-A-Fella has produced. Of course, there is Jigga, who is/was the cornerstone of the label and movement but let's go over the roster to highlight the others.

Now, keep in mind, outside of promoting the very first Roc-A-Fella Records single, In My Lifetime (Yes, it's true, I had a hand in Jay-Z' success lol), the information i am supplying is based on what I've seen and/or heard and it's not firsthand knowledge, in fact, it may even border on speculation, but nevertheless, this is what I've noticed.

Now, look at all the acts that Damon Dash was responsible for (Please correct me if I'm wrong), Jay-Z, DJ Clue, Kanye West and Cam'Ron, all platinum acts. Now, i may be wrong, but, outside of Jay-Z, from my understanding, all these artists were signed and co-signed by Dame. i even heard that Jay didn't even respect Kanye as an artist, he only saw him as a producer and that Damon Dash gave Kanye the freedom to become the artist that he became, which left a lot of people puzzled when The Roc split and Kanye stayed with Jay-Z. Once again, i say this for the record, that i don't know any of this as a fact, but i do know people who were close to the situation.

I do hope Dame bounces back because, despite what he displays at times, he's always been cool with me and he definitely deserves better.

An Open Letter to Fellow Urban Website Editors, Bloggers, Magazine and Newspaper Writers

Reprinted with the express permission of the author.....

I know it’s hard to get by a day without using the N word that we have so richly accepted and embraced in this Hip-Hop/Black culture. I know it’s easy to continue to use the word without abandon simply because it’s a part of our vernacular. I can even agree that I’ve been caught up in the constant use of the word, but, can we make a collaborative effort to stop using that term in the presence of ‘company’?

I try my best not to use the word in my articles, rants and columns, unless done so for emphasis, not to say that it’s right, but just to drive home a point sometimes. What I hate seeing, is when I read a magazine, such as XXL, and the first column I read, within the first two paragraphs, I am already exposed to the N word and then I think to myself, ‘Damn, we are not in the hood speaking amongst ourselves anymore’. Hip-Hop has such a diversified audience nowadays that every word that is literally spoken or written in Hip-Hop is exposed to the masses and we have to stop and wonder why ‘others’ feel as if they can comfortably repeat a statement, phrase or a verse they hear on a rap record or read in an article.

Now, I hate to call out Datwon Thomas, because he is one of the few guys that I honestly like from a standpoint of being a good guy (Except the fact that I haven’t written not one article for XXL, KING or any other Harris property!) or any other Website Owner or Editor that has control over these matters, but we NEED to be careful with what we are putting out there for the masses. None of us would want to hear a white or Asian person using that word so freely, but how can we get mad when we are putting it out there for them to use. And not only use but use in front of us?

I’ve been advocating for years for artists to curb the use of the ignorance of the word but of course, money talks and most rappers continue to use the N word in song. Nowadays, we hear it blatantly on the radio and if the radio stations don’t even bleep it out anymore, then what does that tell us?

It’s bad enough that most popular publications and websites report the negativity that goes on in Hip-Hop without offering the positive aspects of this community. We, as property owners or delegators of content, should be held to a higher standard ESPECIALLY the more popular publications and I would like to see the use of the N word brought to a minimum when you KNOW your audience is mostly the general public.

Collectively, we have to take responsibility for what the general audience is seeing and PARTICULARLY, our children are witnessing the lack of respect not only against us, but amongst us.

Questions To The Radio Stations That Banned Chris Brown Songs.....

Now, I never chimed in on the Chris Brown situation because, um, everyone else has! We don't know what happened between he and Rihanna and we may never know the exact truth, but that's not what this conversation is about! (And for the record, men shouldn't hit women, maybe a very strong bear hug to calm her down may work!)

I've read, heard and seen radio stations banning his songs after the incident with Rihanna and that's the stations decision. My question to those same radio stations is, Did you ban R. Kelly when he was accused of 'having relations' with that young girl? If you answered yes, then I applaud you, but if you answer no, I ask, why the moral decision now? I also ask if you will ban any other artist who has been accused or arrested for an illegal act? And if not, why not? Did you ban T. I. when he was arrested for his illegal gun charges? Will you ban Lil Wayne for his weapons possession charge? Does this mean that when an artist is arrested, will you include that artist on your ban list? Please explain why only Chris Brown when we always hear about an artist being accused or arrested for something?

I don't understand when an outrage only applies to certain artists. If you want to do the right thing, then why are the radio stations only playing the same song and artists 28 times a day when there are BETTER artists trying to reach our ears? Why do we have to hear the same song once every hour when the diversity of GOOD music is right under your noses?

Well, this could go on but I really want to know why other artists aren't banned for their alleged illegal activities? I KNOW no one at a radio station will respond and I'm cool with that but don't get righteous for a week and then return to your old ways again.

Why I Hate Queens

There is an article in today's NY Daily News that pits Brooklyn and Queens against each other as the top borough to produce Hip Hop artists and I hated to see the fact that they didn't include The Home of Hip-Hop, The Bronx, but then again, I can't be mad. I am a staunch defender of my home borough to the death but I also have to give props where props are due. We've produced the likes of Kool Herc, Afrika Bambataa, KRS-One, Fat Joe, Big Pun and countless others, but the impact and the amount of Hip Hop artists that have made a commercial impact has come from the borough of Queens. Maybe it's because of the size of Queens or maybe it's the water that's generated the amount of successful artists from that borough. Either way, i hate to admit it, but Queens has it locked when it comes to the achievements that the rappers that have hailed from that borough have accomplished!

People make some great points when saying that Brooklyn has the best lyricists and I may have to agree with them on that. you can't front on MC Lyte, Jay-Z, Big Daddy Kane, Biggie, Talib Kweli and many others that would put to shame any artists that would try to go word for word with them. But, the commercial success of such artists as LL Cool J, Run-DMC, 50 Cent,, Nas, Ja Rule and A Tribe Called Quest can't and shouldn't be denied, even by a strictly Bronx Hip-Hop, transplanted Harlem head!