Old School Mondays

Peace and Love people. As I write this lil entry to take you all back to when music had a different feel to it I'm playing Love Is The Message in the background (do your homework). This Old School Monday's post is all about that Boogie. Grove with me people.

Kool G Rap & DJ Polo - Road To The Riches
Straight hard core dance track.



Special Ed - I Got It Made
Flatbush Stand Up and Dance YO!


MC Lyte - Cha Cha Cha
Yea I'm keeping it in Brooklyn. This is my favorite song from a female MC ever!

MC LYTE - CHA CHA CHA
by ineptique

Boogie Down Productions - My Philosophy
My favorite BDP song ever! There are no empty lines in this song. KRS takes no breaks every bar is important.


Ceybil - Love So Special
House classic, get familiar.

Even Black Cops Aren't Safe From Cops

I woke up this morning and started my normal routine. Hop in the shower to get refreshed. Get my clothes and things together and load up twitter on my phone. On the train ride in I read an update which says Black Cop killed by white officer in Harlem. Immediately I'm filled with anger and resentment. I feel as thought I've made this post before on the MotherGreen blog.

This time an off-duty cop with gun drawn is in pursuit of a possible car thief. Another two cops in an unmarked vehicle see the chase and join in. They yell for the gun holder to stop. He does and as he turns they shoot him dead. This man was an officer of the law who happened to be Black which was his fatal mistake in my opinion.

Please show me the instances of white cops shooting white officers by mistake. "I'll wait" (c) Kat Williams. This only happens to my people and I'm SICK of hearing about training! No amount of training is going to erase generations of discrimination and hate which has festered within the NYPD. I'm starting to think people need some blood in the streets in order for these cops to wake up. We are not walking target practice nor are we all criminals. There are plenty of white criminals just the same. *smh* DAMN!

Daily News Story

I'm DONE! Now for some theme music.

From NY to DK

Here I am taking a nice long plane ride over 8 hours long to paint. It's getting harder and harder to paint in NYC. Thankfully I was able to come on this trip to Copenhagen (Brian DK-good lookin on letting us stay over!!) and catch up with some heads who I haven't seen in years, 16 to be exact. Shout to CMP, Spin and Swet!! The other funny thing was Ill Will and I were on the plane with Jeru the Damajah all the way to Copenhagen. While we were waiting at baggage claim he was telling us he'll be at the jam performing in Malmo(Sweden). I forgot that Wane had done his character logo way back. He had nothing but good things to say about Copenhagen.

As soon as we landed we made a stop to Fresh Connection which is the main Molotov distributor out here.

Denmark is a big Bike city which is what NY is turning into. Check out what we saw on the streets.

We just couldn't resist to try it out.

Just in case you don't know a lot of the train systems in most of these countries out here are bombed.

After an hour or so ride on the train we started treking our way to the destination.

Laying out the sketches

Sye almost finished

Wane "the Ambassador" doin his thing

Wen Rockin next to CMP.

Signal and Rath doin it up


Vins EOS FC

Sye TC5

Wane COD "Cheaters always prosper"

Tweb
After all this we had missed the express train back and had to take locals. Ontop of that the sun doesn't set till 10pm. The clock reads 11:30 so it kind of messes with you. Connection shot comin soon. Next stop Malmo tomorrow!!

Weekend Warrior pt.1

What a weekend.

I got to ride my bike through the streets of Brooklyn with the sun kissing my face. I went down to Dance Africa on Saturday to start the weekend off right. The fish was in full effect. So many beautiful people out in the streets. I loved seeing all my Brooklyn representatives showing out their best outfits and smiles for family. There was a group of women having a double dutch set going on right in front of the Brooklyn Acadamy of Music. This was right across from the steps to BAM which was filled with people (including myself) chowing down on some tasty outdoor grub. My favorite bakery in Brooklyn Abu's had a nice presence along the street fair.

At one point I bumped into the Afro Mosiac Dance Collective at their booth. My boy Scott straight pulled my bags out of my hands so I could join both he and his brother dancing to some house music. After a few moments of heavy duty vibing there was a whole crowd around us watching. I saw one of my dance partners Rachone in the mix and pulled her out to cut a rug (or asphalt in this case). While in the mix my childhood friend James Mills pulled me out of the circle to see another elementary school friend I haven't spoken to in YEARS. After that it was back to the circle.

There were so many BBQ's going on that I didn't know what to do with myself. After the first day of Dance Africa and enjoying the day with the beautiful Shino and our comrade Stephanie I joined some friends for some chilling and grilling. I met up with the loveable old James and Alma to get some turkey dogs and watch their hometeam lose to LA (sorry guys).

Sunday was the major day for the weekend, with Shan's BBQ on deck I couldn't wait to hit the streets. After getting lunch at Dance Africa again I met up with Shino, Stephanie and her family in from Seattle to take in the scene. When I returned from a run to the store I found Shino talking with a friend of my family, the great photographer Jamel Shabazz. We got a chance to talk about the history of some of his photos and the impact his work has had on people (including myself). If you haven't purchased any of his books PLEASE run to get A Time Before Crack.

After that we scooped up Lorraine and made our way to Long Island CIty for the super dope deck BBQ hosted by my man Shan Boogie. The music was on point as well as the food. Tons of beautiful people from the window to the wall. The MotherGreen team was in full effect shaking hands and kissing babies (well not the latter but definitely the former). The party was rocking until ...

Pt 2 coming up (c) ODB but peep the pics for now by the kid.

Some Black Men Stole My Child!!...Just Playin?

Down in Philly the city of brotherly love it seems a "brotha" can't get a fair shake. A mother wants to take one of her three children to Disney Land. Fine. There's nothing wrong with that right? However once you cook up a story to the police regarding two black men kidnapping your daughter that's when the record skips.

This woman told authorities that the two men rear ended her truck with a 1990's Cadillac (yeah two cats are gonna mess up their ride to kidnap your daughter for no reason). The men then physically hit the little girl and threw her in the trunk of their car. Pretty elaborate story eh? All a lie, yes.

It turns out the woman just wanted a private getaway with her daughter to Disney world and did all of this to throw cats off her scent. Are we that disposable people? This makes me look back to Susan Smith who said a Black carjacker kidnapped her sons. The reality of the situation was she killed her children herself. Why make a Blackman your go to criminal to throw the police off your scent? There is plenty of history in this country of whites accusing black people of crimes they didn't commit and the results being much worse than an undue prison sentence. I'm glad that in this day and time a case like this can be quickly debunked and justice (hopefully) served.

Let's be glad we don't have to add this to another "fit the description" tragedy tale.

For the full story click the link below.
The Full Story

Even Iron bends under such tragedy

Growing up in Brownsville I never had much to be proud of regarding my home. It was ALWAYS one of the most violent neighborhoods in Brooklyn (which I guess you COULD be proud of). There were crack addicts everywhere during the 80s. The overall education level was low and we had very few people come from the neighborhood and "make it". That all changed when Iron Mike Tyson stepped on the scene.

Here was a young cat from my neighborhood that took the world of boxing by storm. At age 20 he won a heavyweight championship belt, setting a record for the youngest to ever do it. His left hook was the stuff of legends. To top all of this off, Mike came back to the hood. He would often come and visit old friends from his childhood and overall share his love with his old neighborhood. When I was a young lad in summer camp Mike showed up in a red Porsche (something I never saw in real life at that point) to greet the young folks. I mean this was the Heavyweight champion of the world in front of me (not that much taller than me ha!). Not too long after that his life hit a downward spiral that we are all familiar with and I feel no need to revisit today.

In the aftermath of a documentary showcasing his life as it stands today Mike is hit with another low blow (pun intended). His 4 year old daughter meets an early death from an accident on a treadmill. I'm sending my prayers out to Mike and his family. While this is not a man who was seen by many as someone to admire, I always felt sorry for him. I knew where he came from and saw the heights he was able to reach. It seems like as he now pushes past age 40 and is starting to get some clarity about his life something like this kicks him. I hope he is able to maintain and grow from this grief.

Here's a tribute to one of my childhood heroes who has long since fallen on hard times.

Mos Def - Casa Bey

Brooklyn's own Mos Def is getting ready his new project The Ecstatic. This will be his first album on new a new label. If this song is any indication of what's to come, the boy might be back on his deen. I love the experimentation being exhibited on this song. Just seems like a real cool jam session that was captured and put out. Sometimes jam sessions should remain jam sessions but when the result is a song like Casa Bey I say go for it musicians. The album is due to release June 9th on Downtown Records (home to Santigold & Justice and others).

Mos Def - "Casa Bey" - The Ecstatic - 6.9.09

Old School Mondays

Peace to All,

I hope everyone has enjoyed the weekend heat, I would like to add on to today's throw back since it's a throw back weekend. It's all about the good times.
This song I had on my mind this past weekend with a follow up from the same aritist. Here you go Inner City.



Next...

Old School Mondays

In the name of Mahdi I bring you the latest addition to our Old School Mondays thread. PEACE to our peeps that come by check, comment and refer their associates to knowledge the INTEL gathered by MG Fam. All Praises Due to YOU my brothers and sisters!

In the last couple of years my brother Alyasha has inspired me to broaden my scope in classic American music (50's, 60's & 70's). So I'm dedicating this post to him and his Ol' Earth, Carolyn Owerka (read herstory @ http://www.stack-aly.com/index.php?id=131). She has always been there for me, guiding me in the RIGHT direction! All praises due to you, my MOTHER from another BROTHER.

I've always been a fan of the Queen Aretha Franklin, here are 3 of my favorite performances by Lady SOUL. Thanks for sharing your talent with the world baby GURLLLLL!!







In my youth, one of my favorite shows was BATMAN staring Adam West. I liked him becuase Batman is an Ordinary man that used intelligence, pure muscle and the tools made by using the 2, to accomplish his mission. Plus he showed and proved he's a 5%er, through his relationship with Robin! I always loved the cool music, dancing and the gurlz in this show. This one I got directly from Aly's Blog and it took me right back to Robins' afterscool hangout, where he rolled with a book stash. CRAAAAAAZZY BABY, CRAZY!



This one here I got when I asked Aleim Supreme (one of my elders and brown seed) by Screaming Jay Hawkins an artist who Aly had mentioned to me. Aleim said "that boy is crazy, check the side called Constipation Blues, talk about real pain". As I was watching it Allah B (another one of my elders and black seed) walked in and said "I saw him perform I put a spell on you at the APOLLO and people were passing out! That's one talented MO'FO'."





As my young brother Just C likes to put it HOT DAMN, and Peace Fam!

Memorial Day and it's time to play

The moment we've all been waiting for is here. Three day weekend and all the sunshine you can shake a stick at. There are soooo many things going on I don't know where to start.

First things first, I hope you have a BBQ lined up (or two). A BBQ is a must for a weekend like this to be truly epic. There's nothing like getting some good grub outdoors fresh off the grill with a cold side and a cold beverage to match. BBQ's are the perfect opportunity to get reacquainted with old friends, run into old girlfriends/boyfriends and listen to some good ole music from back in the days. I have two on deck this weekend but that's just part of the plan.

Next up you need to look for a street fair. In Brooklyn this weekend is the illustrious Dance Africa festival. Outdoor and indoor even located at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. This happens every year rain or shine where tons of vendors come together for the love of mother Africa (and money). The food there is always on tilt as well as the ladies. Fellas if you are rolling dolo from state to state these days you might want to pay a visit. Dance Afrika is happening all weekend starting Saturday thru Monday. Enjoy

Dance Africa 2009

And last but not least there's the late night parties. On Sunday this year there are gonna be a gang of events in the city. Down in Brooklyn there's the regular reggae party at Deity. In the city DJ Scratch is having his birthday party over at SUTRA. Rich Medina and Bobbito are having their yearly summer party series Happy Feet start up at Le Poisson Rouge. So if you're like me I'm sure I'll see you out and about at something. Let's get it!

FanAddicts Sports

Peace to all my Fanaddicts.

May is always a Basketball month! Nice to see the heat of the playoffs finally here as well with the Draft. This year's draft is not as rich in talent as previous years, but there's still talent out there, especially in the guard position. Being the Knick fans that we are, getting the 8th pick is not entirely bad. We really like James Hardin, but we really see him going at either 3 or 4. So the chances of him sliding down to 8 are kind of slim. The two guys who may land to the Knicks hands is PG/SG Stephen Curry from Davidson, and SG/SFDemar DeRozan from USC. between the two, I really can't tell you up front who I would take. Something tell's me Demar is going to be special. He has a huge upside, and he's more athletic then Curry (and younger). To be quite honest, both are great fits for the Knicks. The Nets could use a nice PG, we could see them either pick Ty Lawson from UNC or Eric Maynor from VCU. This guy is being compared to Stephon Marbury without the headaches.


check DeRozan in action





As far as the playoff, Lakers are up 1 & so is Orlando, this is so far one of the great playoff's series starting from the 1st round.


Today we wanted to touch on the Michael Vick Issue. We're really glad to see him free, though the crime he commited was wrong. We think to much is being made out of it. Our opinon is that there are worse that goes on in the world crimes commited by people in higher rankings that would make Vick look like Richie Cunningham. We understand that he needs to be made an example of... but lets keep things in perspective people.


(Gamar) Im also making a prediction that Mike Vick will land a job with the Vikings as a QB. I can just see him and Adrian Peterson (the next Walter Payton) line up for the Wild Cat Offense....How sick would that be!!!


(Oxini) I just hope his attorney, probation officer and even the justice department don't allow the NFL to deny him reinstatement to football. The NFL has let so many violent criminals back in why not Vick?


Baseball, what can we say the Yanks are doing there thing, & the Mets are doing there normal thing (losing).

10 Deep BBQ BDay Luncheon

The MG Fam would like to wish Scott of 10 Deep a happy birthday. He wanted something small and personal get together for lunch and that's what he got. Dontay, Just C, Jamal and myself got together to kick it with the homey. Good times and a lot of laughs. A lot of history with us all together. Here's a few shots from our bday lunch.

Scott was craving for Shake Shack but as you can see behind us that line was straight up & down ridiculous!!! On a nice day you'd easily wait on line for like an hour. This park back in the day was home to another type of fiend (not the Shake Shack burger fiend but the dope fiend. A park we you'd try to avoid at night if possible.

After that we decided to hit up Hill Country for some BBQ. Can't go wrong up in that place and as you can see we were all smiles.

They got the meanest beef ribs (second to O Doggs bbq beef ribs). Summer time bros plenty of cook outs and laughs!!!!

Now you know what time it is...nice single barrel Jack shots!!

Salute bro, keep doing your thing reppin NYC!!

Jamal (my arch nemesis)...he just don't look normal unless he has a drink in his hand. Dontay about to get busy with dessert, he is the official dessert king!!!
Scott givin the thumbs up on the german chocolate cake he got

One for the road, Final MG Salute before breakin camp.

What do you know about Getting Lite / Jerkin?

Now that I'm 30 (which is not old!) I find it interesting to see what teenagers do amongst themselves on a regular basis. When I was in high school the internet was just becoming mainstream. Windows was still in it's 3.0 stage and was literally making usage of "windows". Compuserve was an actual contender in the ISP game. Well times change and now there's cable modems, youtube and world wide messageboards. Teens of this day and age can communicate with one another with one click across the world. I had to rely on rap music to learn about what my peers were into across the country. It was through Twista that I learned about people in the Chi loving Pelle Pelle jackets. It was through Gangsta Rap that I learned about LA gang culture and California slang. Now these kids can go on Youtube and see what their peers are into right as the movements begin. There is no lag, nor any filter really to stop it.

In my search to see what's going on these days I learned of two forms of dance. One is kinda old in NYC but it's called "getting lite". I liked this from the first time I saw it just because the kids really look like they are having fun and coming together for that one purpose. What's so dope to me about getting lite is you don't even need music. There's a hand clap sequence that can be done by the kids on the set for the dance to be done. Here is an example of some kids getting lite in NYC. (I can't vouch for the skinny jeans though.)

*I apologize for any extra language in the video below, kids will be kids I guess.*

Now on the west coast there's a similar yet completely different dance being done by the teenagers called "Jerkin". Like the "Get Lite" scene there are crews which roll together and dance together. This youtube generation have found a way to use the internet and their peers to create stars on their own without tv or radio. Jerkin actually does have music that goes along with the dancing. This music is original and sounds similar to early 80s hip hop with an electronic feel added. Peep this video of one of the most famous Jerkin crews out, the Go Go Power Rangers.

I like both of these forms of expression for the kids and as long as they are dancing and not fighting I'm with it. (Again I can't rock with the skinny jeans affair.)

*Please note there is some language in this video (and jerkin music) that I wouldn't use but the kids do, view with caution.*

Chin Chin and Friends in Brooklyn

What a weekend people. The day after loosing my mind at another installment of Keistar's Wonderful party with Bobbito and Spinna, Park Slope has a street fair. Now this isn't just ANY street fair because the good folks at South Paw put together a stage set up on the street and my boys Chin Chin got to perform.

However before that performance I walked along 5th Ave to see some beautiful people and energy. My first focus was to get something to eat and I wasn't really feeling walking while eating. Shino, my boy Richard and I met up and grabbed something at a new spot right above Union St. My Sunday lunch involved fish taco's, complimentary flavored popcorn AND garlic fries. All were quite tasty and appreciated. By the time we were done eating we had about 20 minutes to kill before the Chin Chin performance a few blocks south.

We were now a group of four as the lovely Stephanie joined party (Ali you were missed). As we walked down 5th there were all kinds of corn being cooked, Thai food for sale right on the street (which didn't look bad at all) and some really REALLY good smelling burgers on the grill. There was not a frown in the crowd at all.

Once we reached South Paw I ran into my boy Torbitt (drummer for Chin Chin) and got to catch up briefly before the performance. At this point my good friends James and Alma joined us and the crew was complete. Chin Chin rock shocked the house. The crowd was dancing along and a group of kids walking by just started breaking right in front of the stage along with the music. An older cat even got in on the action but bit off more than he could chew (he hurt his head doing a spin).

In case you didn't know Brooklyn is the place to be this summer. make a note of it.

The pics below were taking my Shino and myself.

Brooklyn is so Wonderful

This year even more so when Keistar Prod. decided to move their beloved Wonderful party to my home. The day was plagued with uncertain feelings of possible rain and humidity that just made you feel sticky. On my way to the designated place for the designated time (c) Shonuf I ran into my homie Herbie picked up my homegirl Harue on Flatbush and walked down. It felt good being able to party in my own borough with great people. The line was redic stretching from corner to corner (literally going from the middle of Waverly Pl around the corner down Fulton). I was fortunate to have the loveable Old James and Alma already on line for me. Once we got inside (after an hour and a half wait) the vibe was sick. The space was large enough to hold 2000 people and we kept it crazy in there.

For those of you who have never been to Wonderful it's a party played by DJ Cucumber Slice (Bobbito) & DJ Spinna. They spin all Stevie Wonder music which includes originals, covers, and songs inspired by Stevie. People from all over come out to dance to the sounds of Wonder. From Another Star to For Once In My Life everything is touched on (even Part Time Lover much to my chagrin). We danced the night away and ladies this is not a party for heels (ask Shino). Early on there was a Soul Train line started and as soon as I told Spinna he let Bob know and BOOM they were out from behind the turntables dancing down the line. Greatness people, pure greatness.

There were two floors, the bar ran out of water, the floor began to sweat with so much heat and none of that stopped Savior from dancing hard and doing floor work. If you missed it you missed it but if you were there...

The following pics were taking by a few folks. We had such a good time the camera passed through some hands. It was good partying with Lorraine, Hilda, Roni, James and Alma , Tall James and Baruch James all the same place.

See you next year.

Party People in the place to be

John rockin out!

Tah and Dancing Savior making a statement

Good Times w/ James & Jordan

Zawadi doing his best to hold a note

Rasu and Renae...how nice.

Big Brian

The Lovable old James and Alma

Spinna and Bob Soul Train Style

The man the myth the legend

We had fun

So did Toru and Harue

Ohana - Hawaii to New York

I doubt any of you may know this but the In4mation Family and I go back since the late 90's during the Alphanumeric days. Anyways I've been doing a lot of artwork for them which I will be showcasing in the future and building on the thought process behind the concepts.

Now to break down these tees even more this first one was mostly a love for Hardcore Punk Music that Rhandy and I share. I remember when we were building on the concept I presented a picture of the movie poster Howard the Duck. It was just one of those 80's movies that was so strange that it didn't do the comic and justice. The image itself reminded Rhandy of the "Egg Raid on Mojo" song off the Beastie Boys first 7 inch Polly Wog Stew. We started laughing and shortly after that we combined the Classic Agnostic Front tee with the Circle Jerks and sprinkled it over the howard the Duck movie poster and here is the outcome of it...Street Justice.



This piece Rhandy and I went back and forth with trying to make it look right. I remember the discussion about skulls still being dope since they got so played but if its done right then by all means. He had wanted it to say "Respect Locals" in spanish. So we again took it back to a punk feel but mixed in a little dirty LA-Venice Beach/Suicidal Tendencies and sprinkled it with Dia de Los Muertos. That's how this was born.



As far as these go, well we get a bit thirsty with all of our hard work so it brought back some memories of great time in Santo Domingo.



For more just check out the Summer 2009 look book they have available on the link to their site In4mants.

The Horned Gods

I have been wondering who to post about recently and then Simon Bisley came to mind especially since it is something that helped inspire me in some of my recent works. I can tell you this that in months to come I will start showcasing my work and even show sequence shots that I took to document the progression of it. Ideas for graphics are a dime and a dozen but what makes something so genuine is basically the delivery.

Death Dealer...Bisley's rendition.......Frazetta you are the illest!!!

FAKK 2, got the animated movie as well as several issues in Heavy Metal Magazine

Simon Bisley like most of us was inspired by Frazetta. His style is a combination of Oil, Inks and air brush. He's done work for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Batman, Lobo and of course Heavy Metal just to name a few.



I remember when Me, O and Jabs (also Wise aka Angel) would sit down read and just dumb out on Heavy Metal Magazines. We would always talk and draw things inspired from it all day and then shortly afterwards you'd see us attempting to reproduce it in a production on a wall. One of the nastiest people out, Simon Bisley.

Don't Sleep On The West Coast Please...

For those who don't know, I'm a huge fan of the homie Kurupt. I love west coast hip hop in general (shouts to the homies Born Allah, and QDIII). Every since I first heard the Dogg Pound I knew Kurupt was a serious spitter (pause). Well there was a rumor going around that out of the long dormant West was an album on the way from Kurupt and DJ Quik together. For those that don't know this is a big deal because both are dope artists in their own right but also Quik is blood and Kurupt is a crip.

This is the first record / video from the album. Peep the heat that's on the way. West West Yall!

Old School Mondays

Ahhhh yeahhh, another manic Monday.  About to take yall back to some good time's in music. Look out for next weeks Memorial Day edition, Dashaun is gonna set it off.  Don't forget Shans bbq about to set it off for the summer (even though summer begins 6/21) the 1st party Heat is here..let's get it poppin, O-MG. Peace!!!!!

This was one of those rare party classics, $45 for the wax single.(Today)

For some reason I had this song in my head this weekend (and I don't drink). I know, it's the beat, original Marley Marl.

For real this was that thing thing in the strip clubs, aight.. athem for them Money making Flushing boys...

I'm about to slow it up for a moment, this is one of my old joints for the day. Enjoy..

Damn.. doesn't feel like too long ago...but it is E.O.S. days...good times.

Thanks for rockin with the best, of the best..check it A BONUS....

'Til next time..Peace.....

Rooftop Legends Part3

It was a great time on this beautiful Saturday. The turn out was really good and the music was popping thanks to DJ Enuff. I ended up staying there longer and painting on top of that which wasn't part of my plan but it was worth it. If you've been peeping the other 2 posts for this event I'm sure you got to see a few highlights. Here are the rest of the pics I got so enjoy and if you didn't get a chance to catch it this time, no worries there will be another event coming up toward the end of the year. It is truly an event for all so feel free to come through with the fam next time around.

King of Wha....King of Style Case2 TFP

Team and Wolf

Vouge TDK Reppin the West Coast with an RIP to Dream TDK-FC

Finished Product from Waqs
Ket
Reas AOK
Doc TC5 (for more check out TCfive.com)
Almost completed
Finished Product - Bath 175
Grand Wizard Keo workin it out
adding final touches
Keo TC5 - XMen
Rhandy from the In4mation Ohana dropped through to show some love
Dontay working adding some izm's
Vins setting up the sketch for a Dontay Character
Sye and Vins adding on to the wall
Finished Product Pas-Vins EOS, Part TDS and Dontay TC5
ICE SCREEEAAAAMMMM
The Boys showing me some love
Nice doggy...Sit Uboo Sit!!
Later that night Blust sent me an email with a pic of him doing a piece. Come to find out he was rockin out in Ohio. I remembered I asked a co worker of mine "what is out in Ohio?? (which is where she's from) and her reply was "Duh the Buckeyes". Anyways...Bluster Freshness Burgers

Tahleim's Birthday Bang Out

It's may so if you don't know this is the time we Taureans reign supreme. This time the event was my brother big Tah's birthday party. White Rabbit was the place to be and the music was off the chain. Between Tah, Shan Boogie and DJ Eli the sounds were crazy. It was pretty much a family affair in the LES that night. While it rained a lil outside the sun was shining inside.

Much love to everyone that came out to celebrate with Tahleim. Let's do it again soon.

Just, Dashaun and the Man of the Hour... Tahleim

Tah with the ladies

Shan Boogie (yes party people the BBQ's are back this summer!!)

Dynamic Duo Tahleim and ITruth

ITruth, John Deus, O Doggs and Tah

Deus and Saves

O, Mahdi and Ngina

Dashaun with Ngina

O Doggs and Saves

90's Hip Hop Party

Come through, enjoy and show some love y'all!!

Rooftop Legends Part 2

Pas Primero Piece

Got to go out again and do few touch ups to my last piece and also got the chance to bring Dontay with me as well and we were able to rock with Part TDS. It ain't finished but here's a preview of it and Saturday when the event is going on Dontay will be adding the finishing touches to his piece. DocTC5 is supposed to paint live as well and don't forget DJ Enuff will be there to supply the music.

Dontay setting up his Nab outline

Part and Dontay rockin

Vins doing a Pas piece

Big Doves came thru and doing his thing
(Congrats on winning that contest last weekend at Riverside Park - Now he gets a chance to rock in Cali)

Almost completed

Finished Doves product

Doves Character

Retouched Vins + Fritz the Cat (R. Crumb you are one of the illest!!!)

Tanya Morgan Album Release For Brooklynati

Tuesday night at the LES hot spot Sutra, the homies Tanya Morgan (We Be!) had their album release party. The good folks of Rare Form Promotions did an excellent job putting this event together. Normally when you go to Sutra you are treated to the musical treats of one DJ June followed by Tony Touch (and whoever else decides to fall through). I normally keep it upstairs but this week downstairs was where all the action was early on. All of the Tanya Morgan fans and supporters were downstairs getting it in. I ran into a couple of friends in the place both old and new. The alcohol was flowing and the music was right. I kept going in between upstairs with June and her 90s R&B set and the downstairs underground hip hop sound. I ran into my homeboy Kenshin (shouts to Rocksmith) randomly in the place to be. It was good seeing the boy.

As for the members of Tanya Morgan they were in good spirits. When I walked up to Sutra I saw them on the side with a camera in their faces being interviewed. Damn it feels good to see people up on it (c) Biz Markie. There were too many friends in there to name them all but it was a good to see you all. The lessondary was in full effect as well as my fellow Okayplayers in general. After reading a nice review on the boys in Time Out New York I expect great things from TM. Keep up the momentum guys.

Much respect to all of the work that went into releasing this album. This is clearly a labor of love for all involved. I haven't heard the full album yet but I'm gonna cop (I sill like physical cds). What I heard so far was a step up from the last album. Go cop that new Tanya Morgan album Brooklynati. It's available in stores and on iTunes. Now we just need to get them in some MG gear.

Check the pics below taken by yours truly to remember the occasion.

What A White Party!

This past Saturday I was fortunate to be invited to the birthday party of my homegirl Veronica. Now lady V has been one of my dance partners for some years now. If you attend the Keistar functions (Prince Vs. MJ, etc.) you've seen us cut a rug. Well the venue for this affair was a dope loft on Atlantic Ave. in Brooklyn. The Dj lineup included OP, DJ Spinna, DJ Geology and Statik (sp). The whole night was just crazy with energy and music. I ran into a couple of good friends. Some of which I see often and others I don't see enough. Veronica asked for everyone to wear white (at least a top) and for the most part everyone complied.

The dancing was very serious with a couple of circles being formed. The girls in my opinion were going the hardest on the dance floor. There was some bboy battles that were really good. Of course I got my boogie on but also knew when to play spectator. I left the spot close to 5 and there were still people there. That should let you know we partied hard.

The music ranged from Soul and dance classics to afro beat and house with a little Michael Jackson mixed in. I can only pray to hear such a dope lineup of DJs under one roof again. CRAZY!

Happy birthday to lady V and all of my Taurus people. We may be stubborn but we are stay cool as a fan.

The following photos were taken by Shino Yanagawa.

World News by the Babies

In the name of Mahdi, PEACE!
My son Supreme-Being and his classmates worked on this world news project.







Supreme did a peice regarding tourism in Dominican Republic! (in the middle of part 3)



Thank You to all that took the time out to do the knowledge.
All Praises Due to the Supreme of all Beings, Peace!

Etta James At Last

One of the perks I constantly talk about when discussing this great city of New York is the concerts. Last night I was able to take in a performance at B.B. Kings on 42nd by the one and only Ms. Etta James. Now I'm not that familiar with Ms. James' work outside of At Last and I know of that song because of the movie Cadillac Records and the Beyonce' controversy (we'll get to that). The show was billed to start at 8pm with Etta James being backed by The Roots Band. I was hyped to see Questlove and the crew throw down with this Blues great. What I saw instead however I was not prepared for.

The crowd was mostly in their 50's and up. It was old school Tuesdays in B.B. Kings that night. The opening act was a blues band which had on auto mechanic outfits. They were a good opening act. After a brief intermission the MC of the evening came to the stage to announce the main act.

"The Roots Band" was a bunch of older cats I'd never seen before. They were not the hip hop band from Philly I love so much. However that being said they were good. After warming up the crowd Ms James joined them on stage. This is a woman who has been performing for a long time. She told us she's 71 and I must say, there's plenty of life in that woman. She has a blues soul and it shows. The crowd went crazy when she did the Janice Joplin hit "Piece of my heart".

Ms. James has a raunchy edge to her performance. On many occasion I saw her rub on her breastesess. This is someone's grandmother who was gyrating on the stage to some old blues records. I cringed a few times but my co-pilot Shino thought it was sexy (or at least she joked it was). I felt more at ease when she would go into some very melodic scat sessions. Ms. James finished off the set with her hit "At Last" starting off with a rant aimed at a certain child of destiny. "This is MY SONG! I've sang this song for a LONG time!". The song did not disappoint and the crowd let Ms. James know it.

After such a long career Etta James still knows how to entertain. Well done.

Eminem is back with Relapse

Detroit's own Marshall Mathers is back after a long hiatus from the mic. In the time away a few things happened. He lost his best friend Proof to a gun fight in the D. His Shady label shrivel up to include only 50 Cent for actual releases. Em also left the public with arguably his weakest album to remember him by "Encore".

So here we are in 2009 with a new Eminem album on deck. Now I'm not a person who normally downloads whole albums. I actually still purchase CDs. However when I thought about it, I've never actually purchased one Eminem album. I own the first two because I worked in the music industry at the time they were released so they were free (and DOPE as hell). After those albums I kinda lost interest. So when the internet started going crazy like Dope Boys for Jeezy records I thought "did he bring the goods?". Download I did and I'm glad I did...because it's not worth a purchase from me.

The album overall sounds like an Em album would sound after a long hiatus with issues of lost loved ones, drugs and divorce. It's kinda focused I guess (if you can call STILL talking about his moms, doing drugs, and dissing pop stars focus). As for me I'm a bit tired of it all. That said I did LOVE his flows on the album. Man can that boy ride a beat and flow for days. He can still spit, he just spits about nothing worth hearing about in my opinion. Perhaps for others that find child molestation and child abuse interesting topics then you will dig it. Now I don't think these topics should be silenced I just don't care to hear those songs again.

The funny thing is as I write this blog entry Brain Damaged comes on my Last.fm station. This is still a dope ass song. I guess it was dope because it was the first time he went there. This is the fifth time and I suppose I shouldn't be mad if I still like MOP and they've been on the same ish since around 92.

I'll give it another listen and see if it grabs me. But I'm not copping.

Old School Mondays

Peace Party People, Droppin in once again to bring back the freshness on a Monday. Since there's been all this talk about chicken from KFC to Popeye's I've decided to set it off in a way to remind people (with some help) that there's nothing like home cooking. Peace!!!!

Organized Konfusion out of Southside Jamaica Queens

Kurious from Uptown



Grand Puba outta Now Rule and of course gotta show some love for my brothers Tahleim and ITruth doing some fancy footwork in the background.


The Bum diddly Heavy D showing you that u don't need to curse in verse to be funky with some help from Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth & Q-Tip


Now to slow things down a bit just wanted to put down one of my favorite songs by Bernard Wright.

Rooftop Legends

I've been fortunate enough to have been taking place in Rooftop Legends for the past 2 years., especially when places in NYC are becoming more and more scarce to paint. Unfortunately this year I wasn't able to come through with a crew and do a nice little mini production due to everyone with hectic schedules. The cool thing I have to say on this day I did get to see a couple of heads whom I haven't seen since our days in Art & Design High School. It was good to at least that know that we still have love for this and are still rocking. So to keep you guys posted this is a preview of some of the pieces you'll see when you stop through. The main event is this coming Saturday with DJ Enuff. So if you have time swing through Seward Park High School (New Design High School) in the Lower and check it out.

Just a simple Vins chunky style but wanted to show some love with Fritz the Cat

Waqs working on his piece

Cool Enue COD..Happy Birthday Bro!!!!!
Stay, Wen and Signal
Main Wall TATs Cru Reppin..Bio, BG 183, How, Nozm and Nicer
Knows and Can2
Noxer
Spot
Tack FBA
Dips - Part TDS
Snatch CWK
Wane COD

Black Book Secrets

I used to hardly ever do full color burners in black books (mainly because I'm colorblind...yeah don't laugh) but these past few months I've been "goin in" with a little bit of help. I'm not the only one who's also caught a fever for this because Gets and Dontay (check out what goes on in Dontay's mind at 12oz Prophets) both have been going bonkers. We'll send each other our sketches just to inspire and keep pushing us to improve our skills. Here's a little taste of what we've been cooking up.

Vins FCK (I liked this sketch that I decided to do it at Rooftop Legends)

Gets COD x Box Fresh

Pod TC5ive

Pas Primero EOS

Oprah : REthink KFC! *food for thought*

I ran across this video while discussing the recent KFC coupon craze on Okayplayer.com. This brother really breaks down the negative nutritional value for KFC's "Grilled" chicken. He definitely opened my eyes to somethings regarding MSG and it's many forms. I was already a person who stays away from fast food (for the most part, I eat Chik Fil A when down south). Check this video out and spread the word. Be Healthy people.

Rhymefest - Chicago (Finished Version)

So my last post about this video was stopped in it's tracks. Here it is again but this time it's complete. Director Konee Rok knocked this joint out the box. The producer Scram Jones did it up too. All in all Rhymefest could have a banger on his hands here. Go Chicago! (Oh and I'll be there soon for some Harold's 1/2 chicken hot and mild!!!!)

Enjoy

Gay Marriage on the move... to the D.C.

After a vote of 12-1 (ex-Mayor Marion Barry voted no) the Washington D.C. passed a gay marriage bill yesterday. That's another win for human rights in my book. Dupont circle is going to be on tilt I would imagine (if the "kids" want to get hitched that is). Being known in some circles as the Black Gay Mecca I'm truly interested to see how the political landscape changes with this kind of move. Pride might grow to another level following this news.

Check out the full story by clicking the link below.

Boston.com article

Great Minds Think Alike

Any thoughts????

The C is FREEEE!

So in case you haven't been keeping up Popeyes had a big sale on chicken and the world went crazy for a day. Now KFC is getting in on the action, but they got some help. The last time this woman made a push a Black man became President of the United States. Oprah is pushing the grilled chicken for KFC and providing a coupon for the people to get a free 2 piece (not the kind you get in Brownsville for not minding ya business either). I had to go and check it out and make sure if was official tissue before letting yall know.

Well it is. I waited on line at the Herald's Sq. location for my two piece (manager's choice on which pieces) w/ two sides and a biscuit. While waiting I saw one woman get pretty upset with her server regarding missing sides. She told this woman over and over "BUT I WAS GONNA PAY FOR THE EXTRA SIDES ON THE SIDE!" Really is it that serious people? A dynamic duo got in line behind me scheming out loud on which line would be best to acquire their chicken meal of the day. "You betta not move and lose our place! People want they chicken boy!"

Is this what I'd been missing by not going to KFC in about 5 years. Once the duo got up to their server and the orders were placed I realized that they didn't even have the coupon I did. They were just SERIOUS about their chicken! "Put some jelly and syrup in there please! Bag us up, we out!"

I could hardly contain my laughter. But I did long enough to get my free two piece, take it back to the office and dig in. The cold slaw was the best part of the meal. Grilled or no grilled it's still greasy and I say avoid. However if you are a KFC fan, here's the coupon link for you.

http://www.oprah.com/kfc

Old School Monday: MASH OUT POSSE EDITION

Peace. The following is a collection of videos from the rawest, most uncompromising, group of all time, "M.O.P." 4 albums and 1 EP deep, this is one of the groups that people will be talking about 30 years from now, that I will see on my grandson's ipod. I was lucky enough to catch a MOP show sometime back and I tell you the energy was awesome, inspiring and created one of those situations where anything can happen. Without further ado, First Family, M.O.P. Salute!

Jazz on a Sunday Morning

I'm a person who likes to tradition. For instance once I discovered my favorite turkey burger spot in NYC BLT Burger, I pretty much ONLY go there for my burger. I get the same thing every time (T. Burger, waffle fries and a strawberry shake). I'm told it's a Taurus trait that we stick with what we love. Eh.

That being said this Sunday I started out watching Like It Is with Gil Noble and then tuned on some Jazz. First was Ahmad Jamal then Donald Byrd, rounding off with Miles Davis. I think Sundays are perfect for playing some Jazz. This will probably become a new ritual for me. Sundays with some Jazz. After my last trip to Japan I was immersed into way more jazz than I knew about previously. I still have a LONG way to go though. Sunday being for most a day of rest I think it's the perfect music to slip into that mode.

So for those of you who are not knowing about which songs to play so you can get your Jazz Sunday's jump started, check the following jams out.

Ahmad Jamal - I Love Music - Ahmad Jamal

All Blues - John Coltrane, Miles Davis

My second favorite city stand TALL!

A brother who knows how to put on a show and hails from Chicago. His name is Rhymefest and I want yall to know.

Aight this video is so dope he got me wanting to rap again. Check it, the first single off the El Che album entitled Chicago. This video directed by Konee Rok is off the chain man. Makes me want some Harold's ASAP! The bol Rhymefest is going super hard on this Scram Jones track. Check the joint.

The Way We Were (I Love My City!!!)

I grew up as a young lad in the 80's. Going to school I walked on empty crack vials, made beats with my peers on the school lunch tables and rapped until I couldn't anymore. This video below is a documentary done by a Dutch cat showcasing NYC in the mid 80s. The name of the movie is called "Big Fun in the Big City". They caught some good footage and I though I would share this with yall. This is when the city was oozing with freshness...and crime. Peep Game.



The BX. Nuff Said.


Doug E Fresh giving a tutorial on beat box excellence.


Shout out to the brothers from Chicago in this clip.

Cool Worlds

Before CGI came into effect there was a whole different way to go about animation. I remember when I was younger my brother put me on to a large assortment of animated movies & magazines which allowed me to become more creative and experimental. Soon to realize one of my main inspirators was a ground breaker ahead of his time by the name of Ralph Bakshi. If you haven't heard of him he is one of Brooklyn's own and hales from Brownsville. He changed the game considerably and I am sure you may have seen some of his works (Mighty Mouse & SpiderMan) but had no idea he was behind it. He's worked with the likes of the legendary Frank Frazzetta for a collaborative effort on Fire and Ice. He also worked with Barry White, Philip Michael-Thomas (Tubbs of Miami Vice people) and the late Scatman Crothers as his main character voices in Coonskin.

This is an old article I wrote back in 96 for Rappages Magazine

In the graffitti world these names are just a few who have inspired many to reach for their heights when it comes to their art.

Fritz the Cat, Coonskin aka Streetfight, Wizards

American Pop, Fire and Ice, Cool World

The last work I remember was a series he worked on for HBO called Spicy City. Needless to say he has a great catalog of movies (not all are intended for the babies but for the kid in us all) so check them out. Just to name a few are Lord of the Rings (Animated), Hey Good Lookin' and Heavy Traffic.