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I AM MADLY IN LOVE with HIPHOP, not just the music but the culture as a whole. Throughout my journey in life, I have been blessed to have crossed paths with soooo many different artists as well as the behind the scene cats that make shit happen. Through these individuals, I have learned that "All that glitters isn't GOLD". The entertainment industry whether it be "commercial" or "underground" can and at times will be fucking cold and ugly. The truth is shitty and reality is a bitch but through my own experiences I have found that if you're a fighter and refuse to succomb, you gain respect and your voice is heard.
Music is beautiful, without it my soul can't breathe. Regardless of all the bullshit that has been invading our televisions/radios recently, I try my best to stay up to date with all new underground artists. They produce real music. Now, don't get me wrong I LOOOVE some of the crazy shit on the radio these days, it's so RIDICULOUS, I can't help myself. It's a GUILTY PLEASURE and I fucking LOVE IT! However, it doesn't change the fact I believe in supporting the Arts and feel as though a lot of GREAT TALENT is looked over and fucked over because of some of these knuckleheads that want to make a quick buck.
Hip Hop has regressed, it's now about convenience and money, no longer hard work, love, and respect. I know we all need change, CHANGE IS BEAUTIFUL but it should always be for the good not the opposite.
Whatever happened to the use of vinyl?
Whatever happened to creativity and the use of live instruments both on stage and in the studio?
Days when I need a quick pick me up, I grab my portable record player (thank you Dusty) and head to a thrift store or record shop, sit on the floor and dig. You wouldn't believe some of the records I've purchased for under $1, shit most Dj's or vinyl addicts alike would shank their mama for. I don't dare tell people though, that's how shit gets STOLEN! Bragadocious peons!
I've been diggin' for the past 7yrs and honestly not until recently did I truly understand why. On nights when I'm stressed to the max and in need of a boost or some R&R, I play records.
It's THERAPY FOR MY SOUL. I listen closely as the music flows from the speakers, through my veins, intoxicates my brain and then seeps from my pores. I've come to understand and celebrate our love for one another. At times it's so strong, I breathe it and can sometimes taste it.
Other than my love for Hip Hop, I am a serious FANATIC for CLASSIC SOUL, FUNK , HOUSE and
I have been inspired and influenced by many; Bahamadia, Heltah Skeltah, Jamiroquai, Hall & Oates, Jay Z, Diplo, Average White Band, Portishead,Twista, Mobb Deep, Boogie Monsters, Do or Die, Psycho Drama, Pharcyde, Tim Deluxe, Los Amigos Invisibles
Donald Byrd, Santana, Derrick Carter, Black Moon, Rah Digga, Pacewon, Company Flow, Simply Red, Benny Benassi, Nas(pre- Nastradamus), Roy Ayers, The Strokes, Amel Larrieux, Mos Def, Talib
Common, Ivy Queen, Mary J blige, Last Emperor, Dialated People, Fania All Stars, Teena marie, Kanye, Apache, D'Angelo
Tito Puente, Atmosphere, Biggie, Tito Rojas, Typical Cats, Erykah Badu, Big L, Chi Ali, Freestyle Fellowship, Maker and Glue, The Roots, Musiq, James Brown, Souls of Mischief, Sade, Jazzy Fat Nastees and many more....
I am a HUGE fan of martial arts films.
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Definition of a hero...A person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrificed his or her life.
Throughout my short life I have encountered many that have inspired and changed me in some way, mainly positive. But in my heart there's nothing like having a real woman to look up to and be inspired by. Sure, my heroes may not be able to fly or see through walls, they may not even be able to tap their head and rub their belly at the same time. But all of that is useless when you have 4 children to raise, a husband that doesn't respect your life, a low paying job, and barely anytime to take care of yourself.
My world has been impacted by those who refused to fail and have managed to rise from their shattered lives and broken homes taking with them the experience, positive thoughts and a strong spirit. Cultured and Educated women, young and old.
OPTIMISTS AND REALISTS.
Single mothers working two jobs struggling to provide for their family but remaining strong for the sake of their children.
Everyday, I take a piece of these women and find a way to incorporate them into my everyday struggles so that I may become a strong woman but a better person in general. I give thanks to these AMAZING individuals everyday, they know who they are.
This is my younger cousin GREG... he is my hero for "LYFE"... this kid is quite the entertainment! Willing do just about anything for a good laugh and I LOVE him to death for that... hahahahaha...