Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Grammy Award: Start from the Drawing Board?





There is no way on God's green earth that these songs on the 2015 Grammy Nomination list made it this far. The Recording Academy needs to go back and start all over again. "Tuesday", honestly? We'll cross that burning bridge when we get to it.

I am an old fashioned music head who would rather prefer the 90's hip-hop/r&b over whatever sorry excuse of music this generation has to offer. With the small few artists I DO listen to, unfortunately, those who rightfully deserved nominations did not get them, and those who did probably will get cheated of their recognition (Ain't that right, Kendrick?) I read this list, and I was like "The hell is this?"

I'm just going to go through the categories that I have good knowledge of and give my winner prediction based on who the Academy may choose and my vote on who deserves the award. No need to comment on categories I do not listen to. Plus my vote versus my overall comments may be a little backwards at the most so forgive me.

1. RECORD OF THE YEAR

Fancy - Iggy Azalea Featuring Charli XCX

Chandelier - Sia

Stay With Me (Darkchild Version) - Sam Smith

Shake It Off - Taylor Swift

All About That Bass - Meghan Trainor


Now all these songs I must admit were all OVERPLAYED this year, so that's probably one reason they made it to this list. Honestly, better these five then that overrated Beyonce album. Like do you know how TIRED I am of seeing Drunk In Love on every award show list? Plus, the woman has no respect to even show up to any of the award shows, with the exception of the VMA's. I don't care for Taylor Swift at all. She bores me with ex-boyfriend shade records for the longest. I love All About That Bass and Fancy, but that will probably be the last hits we hear from either Iggy Azelea or Meghan Trainor. Chandelier was not all that for it to be considered "Record of the Year", so Sam Smith has my vote. He's the female Adele!
Prediction/My Vote: Stay With Me - Sam Smith

2. ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Morning Phase -Beck

Beyoncé - Beyoncé

X - Ed Sheeran
In The Lonely Hour - Sam Smith
Girl - Pharrell Williams
Here goes Beyonce again. Does anyone else feel like she's overrated? Like calling her Queen is like calling Will & Jada the next Barack & Michelle. They would be in close running if their kids weren't so wack in the head. I love Sam Smith, but I don't think Pharrell's album as a whole gives the award title much justice, but I think having Happy would save him. I still think Kendrick Lamar should've won last year. I'm still trying to get over that cheated loss.

Prediction: In The Lonely Hour - Sam Smith
My Vote - Sam Smith....duhh

3. SONG OF THE YEAR

All About That Bass

Chandelier
Stay With Me
Shake It Off
Take Me To Church
I didn't mention this earlier, but All About That Bass was in heavy repetition on my iTunes playlist. I love artists who tell me that big girls are beautiful. I just love the boost in self esteem the songs gives me. However, on the production and vocal side, Sam Smith takes this one. The only reason All About That Bass would win is because it's catchy and it has a meaning. Sam Smith's voice gives "Stay With Me" much more than it's overall message. I'll have to leave the verdict in the hand of the Recording Academy.  

My Prediction/Vote: All About That Bass or Stay With Me

4. BEST NEW ARTIST

Iggy Azalea

Bastille
Brandy Clark
Haim
Sam Smith

If they don't get outta here, and just give Sam Smith that award? If they don't there's a problem. He's the best one on this list. Next ----------

5. BEST POP SOLO PERFORMANCE

All Of Me (Live) John Legend


Chandelier Sia
Stay With Me (Darkchild Version) Sam Smith
Shake It Off Taylor Swift
Happy (Live) Pharrell Williams
I swear Happy won every award it was nominated for at the 2014 BET Awards. However, this is not BET, so we have to think more with higher standards. Happy was a good song. Positive message and all that jazz, but I wouldn't be surprised if the heavenly voiced Sam Smith won again. However he has stiff competition with John Legend in this category.

My Prediction/Vote: Sam, John or Pharrell is fine with me. It's probably going to be John or Sam.

17. BEST R&B PERFORMANCE

Drunk In Love Beyoncé Featuring Jay Z

New Flame Chris Brown Featuring Usher & Rick Ross
It's Your World Jennifer Hudson Featuring R. Kelly
Like This Ledisi
Good Kisser Usher

My mom once told me that every song Usher released was a hit. That couldn't be more farther from the truth. He's a good singer, but I would not consider myself a huge fan. His songs are good but his live performance blow me over. He's trying SOOOO hard to be Michael Jackson, it is depressing. Anyway, Drunk in Love doesn't have my vote. I cannot even consider it true R&B. I have to give it to Jennifer Hudson. Her song was really good too. Ledisi was okay, but I'd rather her win over Beyonce (that's definitely not gonna happen)

Prediction: Probably Beyonce, unfortunately
My Vote: Ledisi or Jennifer

19. BEST R&B SONG

Drunk In Love - Beyonce

Good Kisser - Usher

New Flame - Usher, Chris Brown & Rick Ross

Options (Wolfjames Version) - Luke James

The Worst Jhené Aiko 


R&B, in it's definition and sound has completely changed, and personally not my cup of tea as far this generation is concerned. Usher and Beyonce are killing in these categories so far, so I am honestly not surprised if they win. Luke James is probably the only artist who is clinging onto what's left of true R&B. I like his voice live when he came to Lincoln University (#HailHailLincoln 1-8-5-4)  Jhene Aiko? I don't see the hype. She can sing, I guess but I don't understand her voice. Like I don't know what her true voice sounds like for real.

My Vote: Luke James

20. BEST URBAN CONTEMPORARY ALBUM

Sail Out Jhené Aiko


Beyoncé Beyoncé
Chris Brown
Mali Is... Mali Music
Girl Pharrell Williams
Please let Pharrell take this award home. I take back what I said before. I'm sick of seeing Beyonce. Jhene Aiko still confuses me. Mali Music was ehhhh okay. It was good, but it wasn't Pharrell. In the case of Chris Brown, the dude has much potential, but I haven't been a fan girl of him since I was like 13. If he wins, I'll be content.

My Prediction: Pharrell
My Vote: At this point, anyone who beats Beyonce has my vote. Sorry Bey, you've been seen too much.

22. BEST RAP PERFORMANCE

3005 Childish Gambino

0 To 100 / The Catch Up Drake
Rap God Eminem
Kendrick Lamar
All I Need Is You Lecrae
DONALD EFFING GLOVER AND KENDRICK EFFING LAMAR! Those two have came some far, and after that let down last year, KENDRICK better win! Now, the rest of the nominees are fully entitled to this, but I feel K-Dot deserves a lot more. Everyone is awaiting his official return with his new album. I am retreating in Bugs Bunny's rabbit hole until the album drops. Until then, I'll be bumping "i". Childish Gambino can hold his own as well, and I LOVE 3005. 

My Prediction: KENDRICK!
My Vote: If not Kendrick, the Childish, then Lecrae, then Eminem, then Drake. Sorry Drake fans........

23. BEST RAP/SUNG COLLABORATION

Blak Majik Common Featuring Jhené Aiko

The Monster Eminem Featuring Rihanna

Tuesday I Love Makonnen Featuring Drake

Studio Schoolboy Q Featuring BJ The Chicago Kid

Bound 2 Kanye West & Charlie Wilson


How did "Tuesday" get on this list? Drake probably. I'm not hating. I heard the song. It deserves a BET Award rather than a Grammy. I'm DEAD SERIOUS. Idk if he sings or raps. I Love Makonnen looks more like I Love McDonalds. He looks like a giant ass Teddy Graham. Enough of that........

My Prediction: Kanye, Common, or Eminem. I can't choose
My Vote: Schoolboy Q

24. BEST RAP SONG

Anaconda

Bound 2
I
We Dem Boyz
0 To 100 / The Catch Up
This category is completely tough to tackle, even though it should not be simply because of the major hype of that one song: ANACONDA. That has to be the most catchiest song Nicki Minaj ever recorded. Overall as an artist, I feel like her priorities of what she sees as a female rapper is skewered and Anaconda is an example. You're representing us women by twerking and bouncing those balloons. I mean whatever. Do you boo. I like Kanye, when he's not smelling his own ass. We Dem Boyz, I never considered a Grammy level type song. 0 to 100 earned its props. Of course, you already know my vote.

My Prediction: KING KENDRICK
My Vote: I hate to repeat myself.

25. BEST RAP ALBUM

The New Classic Iggy Azalea

Because The Internet Childish Gambino
Nobody's Smiling Common
The Marshall Mathers LP2 Eminem
Oxymoron Schoolboy Q
Blacc Hollywood Wiz Khalifa
I really didn't care for Iggy Azalea unless you mention Fancy or Black Widow. Her whole album didn't do much justice in my eyes. Common will be Common, meaning his meaningful lyrics can hold his own. Same for Eminem. Schoolboy Q's album was amazing, considering that he's under the same label as King Kendrick. But this award, I have to give it to Donald. Like hearing that album opens your mind to so many wonderful things and ideas. It's like reading a story. Dude can spit too, so what's not to like about him.

My Prediction: They'll probably give to Eminem or Common.
My Vote: I'm staying Childish all the way.


Honorable mention: Frozen better win every damn award!

Who do you think deserve of Grammy Award winning artist? Comment below.


Sunday, November 2, 2014

Happy Sunday Folks.

Today's been pretty slow for me since time went back an hour. Come check me tomorrow. Byeeeeeeee

Saturday, October 11, 2014

Aaliyah's Movie Trailer??? Bishh Whaaa??

Before: It's about time they premiered this.

After: WTF did I just watch? That chick looks nothing like Aaliyah.

Look, I didn't expect an exact match. That's asking for too much. But you couldn't at least find a girl her shade???? Like honestly. I didn't know brown skinned girls were inaccessible these days. The producers thought it would be more fitting to make Aaliyah look Asian................. not to mention that girl looked completely off beat and a little too confident in whatever routine she was trying to pull.

I see you boo. Hopefully your day job didn't take you off the payroll. But that's none of my business.

Completely off the record but Iggy Azelea was completely unknown to this industry until like 2011 right? Right. I thought so too. So whose bright idea was it to put Iggy's music in Aaliyah's movie trailer? That chick was still going by the name Amethyst and playing with koalas and bamboo in dem' Australian streets. No One in a Million? No Rock the Boat? A MISSY or TIMBALAND song would have worked!!! I'm just........... okay.

At least for Aaliyah's sake, they're airing it on Lifetime and not VH1 and BET. That means more viewers are likely to watch otShe deserved that much respect.

Maybe I'm wrong and this movie will change my mind,..... I hope. But from what I can see, I am not impressed...... sorry Aaliyah. I really am.

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Hip Hop Then vs. Hip Hop Now

Hip-Hop then: Keeps me calm. Helps me think. Gives me reason to move forward. Describes my emotion. Sounds amazing.

Just seeing their faces and knowing what these guys brought to the industry's table gives me so much life and peace. I mean look at them. 

~ Linden Boulevard's Finest ~ 



These dudes are the only exception. (Kendrick better pull a BEYONCE on these n*ggaz)


Them too. (Currently awaiting Frank's Return)



Now look at this dude, and tell me that the sight of him doesn't give you a headache.



That bitch set our people back 500 years with Anaconda. I digress and sip my tea.



Sorry that I don't much to say on how I feel but you clearly all have access to Google. I suggest you use and really listen to the rap...or trash you put against your ears.

Thursday, September 4, 2014

The Freshman HBCU Survival Guide


If that ain't the truth! Not speaking for myself, but that's according to Tumblr.

I am not a huge fan of creating countdowns and Top 10 lists because it's just too much. Well, there's a first for everything. I'm only naming 5, because I'll be holding you freshies' hands if I give you 10. Ya'll gonna learn today!

For current students and alumni of HBCU's, I applaud you for making the right choice because we all know that ain't nothing like attending an HBCU and we strive to let the world know how great we are! Yes "I am black and I am proud!!!!!!" That's James Brown talking for us. Most of us went to an HBCU just to stay black while others tried to "get away" if you catch my drift. Ultimately, we can all agree we made the right choice, whatever school it may be.

The best part of every school year is meeting the freshman. Freshmen these days put on blast how excited they are about college all over their Twitter (yes I'm talking to you), and you have every right to be excited. You're going to college. Your getting away from mom and dad and all that other foolishness that's bugging you at home. This are sorta my "10 Commandments" for surviving at this wonderful land called a college cam


I'm telling you what "30 Signs'" decided to leave out! Check it out if you don't believe me:

http://www.buzzfeed.com/shani/signs-you-went-to-a-black-college

Honestly,I'd give anything for Hillman College to be a real school, but I love my Lincoln even more and you should love your school just the same. And just the same, it is not what it is depicted on television. Sorry to break your heart, but BET and TVOne lied to you. I mean McDonald's is still hiring, so whatever floats your lifeboat.

For those who attend anything other than an HBCU, most of this information may be useful. Hence the word, most. I mean college is college. You going to graduate broke and confused to what you'll do with your life, anyway If that sentence or the image below scared you, then maybe college let alone an HBCU probably isn't for you.




Enough of the fun stuff. Time to get gritty. I may lose my newly obtained upperclassman card for this but I hate having to see the you youngin's suffer.

So ya know! You're welcome.

1. TURN UP.....I mean Transition Week.

I mean it is the only week where it's nonstop turn up mixed with boring sessions. Transition week..... If that isn't the most fakest form of school spirit I've ever seen. It's like coming out of Bring It On sequel. My advice is don't let that be the reason you find sudden hate for the school. Typical college welcoming is expected because your new but it doesn't undermine the fact your freshman. After the week of festivities are over, you nowAfter a while, you'll find your own reasons to love your school. Years will go by and you'll discover the right reasons.

2. On Wednesdays, we eat fried chicken. (or whatever odd day your school picks)

Did you say fried chicken? You attend an HBCU folks.....I guess you didn't read the title. Unfortunately, it's not momz fried chicken, or even KFC or Popeyes. At least you get a biscuit....But what better way for the cafeteria staff to remind you all of your black culture? They throw chicken at your face and you all start running faster than ya'll go to class! So make sure you get to the café on time so you can grab an ounce of something that reminds you of home. So get to the café early!!!! I've seen people skip class just for Fried Chicken Wednesday. Sad......

3. You don't need your textbooks? All truth.

I lied. There is some truth to that statement only because upperclassmen try to feed off of your vulnerability. If someone tries to sell you a book, find out if you actually need it because then you'll be stuck with a book you don't need. Don't fret, go sell it at the bookstore. You'll get your money back and then some. ;-)

4. If you don't go to Howard, then Homecoming won't be that lit!

That statement is far from lies and shenanigans. Every year, I dream of skipping my homecoming just to go to Howard's. Haters gonna hate but give credit where credit is due. I'd write the HBCU Homecoming Handbook if I could but I don't attend the Mecca of Homecoming Excellence. Howard is where it's add. Don't waste your money and time on an event that won't be popping. All depends on the artist for real. Would you pay money for events that lead up to a IceJJFish concert? If you wanna dress in your thot-for-a-night outfit for a night, be my guest. I can't speak for guys, because they'll wear anything, bless their souls. Just make sure it's worth it. That's none of my business (invisible tea though).

5. Don't be afraid of the Ramen. It wants to be friends

I laugh at the students who say they can't afford groceries so they'll stick with cafeteria food, and not resort to ramen noodles. It's just beneath you, right? Well kids, just like the Financial Aid office, the café has office hours too and they don't care whether you starve. So stock up, in case! If your broke, just ask three people for a quarter, and buy you a 52 cent cup for yourself.



Complain if you must, but some weren't fortunate to receive the knowledge you will obtain this upcoming school year. Some were not that lucky, I'm afraid. Be grateful and good luck freshman. You'll need it.


R.I.P Mike Brown #DontShoot

Dedicated to my little brother Elijah (BROOKLYN!)

Friday, August 15, 2014

Those 90's Babies Though!!!!!!! What Ya'll Know About Us?

These past few years roaming through these streets make me wonder what this world is coming to? Maybe it's this new adult thing, or I just miss not having to worry about various responsibilities. Contrary to popular belief, there was such a simpler time before adult hood and no one a had a care free in the world. That time my friends was childhood and these kids today do not have one whatsoever. Forget what you heard. Just because you are a child doesn't mean your living the life a child should. I feel bad for you New Kidds who are accustomed to this politically correct society. Sad just thinking about it. The 90's hands down is the best decade to live in and that includes the early 2000's (2000-2004). Trust me, ya'll don't know what you've missed. New Kidds, take notes. If your not sure if your a new kid, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you remember the line up for Cartoon Cartoon Fridays and Toonami Sundays?

2. Finish this lyric, "I wanna be the very best, that no one ever wassssssss (DUH DUH DUH DUH)"

3. Did you and your girlfriends compare your school supplies from Lisa Frank to see whose was better?

If you were stumped after the first question, your just a lost cause. What in the world do you kids know about chasing ice cream trucks (nothing. i never see ya'll play outside. That's why ya'll two pound short from Terio now. SMH) and watching REAL Saturday morning cartoons (who misses Kids WB?) !!


I'll let you suck ya teeth and roll your eyes. That's none of my business if you were born haters. It's all good. Look at what the "2010's" have to offer you:


 
That's nice. All you can do is be great.


To my fellow Old Kidd's, shed a tear, pour out the Pixie sticks, and just reminisce on the good ol' days.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Transformation Challenge: Nail it or Fail it?

Let me get this straight. You mean to tell me that with some make-up, a blow dryer, or whatever inanimate bathroom objects you can find, I can become my favorite celebrity in less than 4 snapshots? You mean to tell me with some cocoa butter and a flat iron I would end up looking like this gem:

 
Aww hell, with my luck, it would probably backfire and end up like her:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



She looks so mad at the world. Vee's gone so she should be happy now right? I guess we'll find out in Season 3. Ughh June can't come any faster! But anyway....


So I guess that was better left unsaid, but of course Twitter had to expose 'em all!!!!

Twitter gave all unattractive people a reason to dream again. Boys who wanna be girls, girls who wanna be boys, dark skinned girls who wanna be light, and light skinned boys who wanna be dark (YESS LAWWD!!) Of course some of you Tweetheads know that your beloved Twitter doesn't come with a chill button. And unfortunately, it gave ya'll the excuse to act like the ratchet hooligans you are inside. Don't let the shade fool you, some posts nailed it beautifully. Some of these #transformationchallenges should be placed in the Transformers Hall of Fame. Rest of ya'll need to let Jesus take the wheel and get thrown back in Twitter jail (if that still exists anyway). You thought you were Optimus Prime or C Breezy for that matter. Despite my shade, some of ya'll I have to give you props.





 
 
 
 
 
I am a big fan of Earl Sweatshirt's music, but not his big ass lips. I hope this girl transformed with some good flow.
 
 
 
 
 
I DIED and went to Happily Ever After!!! Then I saw her face................... NOW I'M A BELIEVER!