Hello there. Thanks for visiting All Things Fantabulous. As you can see we've had a bit of a hiatus. But, if you like what you've seen here, check me out at my new site We Live Style at www.welivestyle.com. It's a lifestyle blog covering fashion, beauty, culture and all things style. Just like you've seen here but new and improved.
Hope to see you there. www.welivestyle.com
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Friday, March 19, 2010
All Things Fantabulous- On Hiatus
Hello friends,
Some of you who have followed my blog for awhile have likely noticed that the posts have become much less frequent as of late. As much as I'd like to, it's become quite a bit more difficult to post consistently. Life can sometimes have a way of taking over. --In any case, I hate for this little blog to suffer any further, so I am going on hiatus. I'm not quite sure when I will be back, but a good break is in order to give us both a product to be pleased with.
And lest I leave you completely hanging-- my DVD pick for this week is "Up In The Air" with George Clooney. As much as I love me some Clooney, I wasn't so sure about this movie from all of the trailers I'd seen. However, all of the Oscar buzz made me curious. Turns out, it's really good. The casting is great, and the story is relevant. With a nice blend of humor and seriousness, it's worth seeing. Also, in stores this week is "Precious". (If you haven't seen it, check my previous review).
Well, all for now. Thank you for all of you who have supported All Things Fantabulous.
Some of you who have followed my blog for awhile have likely noticed that the posts have become much less frequent as of late. As much as I'd like to, it's become quite a bit more difficult to post consistently. Life can sometimes have a way of taking over. --In any case, I hate for this little blog to suffer any further, so I am going on hiatus. I'm not quite sure when I will be back, but a good break is in order to give us both a product to be pleased with.
And lest I leave you completely hanging-- my DVD pick for this week is "Up In The Air" with George Clooney. As much as I love me some Clooney, I wasn't so sure about this movie from all of the trailers I'd seen. However, all of the Oscar buzz made me curious. Turns out, it's really good. The casting is great, and the story is relevant. With a nice blend of humor and seriousness, it's worth seeing. Also, in stores this week is "Precious". (If you haven't seen it, check my previous review).
Well, all for now. Thank you for all of you who have supported All Things Fantabulous.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Avon Amps It Up
Hola,
You may have noticed that Avon, a venerable mainstay in the world of cosmetics, has seemingly undergone a reinvention. Out with the old school, and in with flashier advertising, celebrity endorsements, (Jennifer Hudson, Reese Witherspoon) and online ordering capability. Just in time for Spring, Avon has launched its High Definition line, and I’ve had a chance to try out a few items. The verdict (s)….

Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick- Avon delivers with a rich, creamy finish that feels nice and smooth on the lips. Mega Impact also gives a bit of a pearlized shine, so gloss isn’t a must. And for a plus, Mega Impact includes SPF 15. Note: the lipstick itself could use a little more firmness, so it’s best not to untube it completely when applying. Overall- nice lipstick at a good price- $8.

Glimmersticks Diamonds Eye Liner- This is for the lady who wants a little shimmer in her liner. If that’s you, you are in luck. Glimmersticks Diamonds gives bold color, is long wearing and waterproof. Glimmersticks is retractable and comes in 7 shades. If you are not into shimmer- the classic Glimmersticks Eye Line has garnered impressive reviews.
And, not part of the High Definition line, but still worth your dime...

Glazewear Intense Lip Gloss- I must say, I really like this gloss. Great color, good shine, and not too-sticky. I tested this in Crimson Rouge Violet, and it’s a lovely color choice for brown girls like myself. For an inexpensive gloss, this one gets a thumbs up.- $6
There’s one more Avon product that is pending my review, but based on my preliminary thoughts, looks like we’ve got a winner. And it's not a cosmetic. Stay tuned…
Have you tried Avon products recently? What are your thoughts?
*FYI- In keeping with FTC policy, I disclose that I received several sample items from Avon for testing and review. Please be assured that this is not a paid review, and this and any other review given on All Things Fantabulous represent my honest opinion based on my personal experience.
You may have noticed that Avon, a venerable mainstay in the world of cosmetics, has seemingly undergone a reinvention. Out with the old school, and in with flashier advertising, celebrity endorsements, (Jennifer Hudson, Reese Witherspoon) and online ordering capability. Just in time for Spring, Avon has launched its High Definition line, and I’ve had a chance to try out a few items. The verdict (s)….

Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick- Avon delivers with a rich, creamy finish that feels nice and smooth on the lips. Mega Impact also gives a bit of a pearlized shine, so gloss isn’t a must. And for a plus, Mega Impact includes SPF 15. Note: the lipstick itself could use a little more firmness, so it’s best not to untube it completely when applying. Overall- nice lipstick at a good price- $8.

Glimmersticks Diamonds Eye Liner- This is for the lady who wants a little shimmer in her liner. If that’s you, you are in luck. Glimmersticks Diamonds gives bold color, is long wearing and waterproof. Glimmersticks is retractable and comes in 7 shades. If you are not into shimmer- the classic Glimmersticks Eye Line has garnered impressive reviews.
And, not part of the High Definition line, but still worth your dime...

Glazewear Intense Lip Gloss- I must say, I really like this gloss. Great color, good shine, and not too-sticky. I tested this in Crimson Rouge Violet, and it’s a lovely color choice for brown girls like myself. For an inexpensive gloss, this one gets a thumbs up.- $6
There’s one more Avon product that is pending my review, but based on my preliminary thoughts, looks like we’ve got a winner. And it's not a cosmetic. Stay tuned…
Have you tried Avon products recently? What are your thoughts?
*FYI- In keeping with FTC policy, I disclose that I received several sample items from Avon for testing and review. Please be assured that this is not a paid review, and this and any other review given on All Things Fantabulous represent my honest opinion based on my personal experience.
Labels:
Beauty
Friday, March 12, 2010
RACHEL Rachel Roy Spring 2010
Spring is coming! How excited are we? And naturally, with spring comes new fashions. Well the new Rachel Rachel Roy Spring 2010 collection has hit the streets. The RACHEL Rachel Roy collection is made up of contemporary sportswear, footwear and accessories that
are fun and suprisingly affordable.
The line retails from $59 to $299 for sportswear; $79 - $199 for footwear; $69 - $109 for handbags and $40 - $195 for jewelry. These are looking pretty cute....

One-shoulder draped dress- $99
Center Seam Dress- $99



To check out more of the RACHEL Rachel Roy collection, visit your local Macy's or visit her website http://www.rachelroy.com/RRR/LOOKBOOK_MAIN,default,pg.html
Thank you for reading. Please check out my new site at http://www.welivestyle.com/
are fun and suprisingly affordable.
The line retails from $59 to $299 for sportswear; $79 - $199 for footwear; $69 - $109 for handbags and $40 - $195 for jewelry. These are looking pretty cute....

One-shoulder draped dress- $99
Center Seam Dress- $99
Turquoise Beaded Necklace- $95

Fairwinds clutch- $79.00

Emillia Shoe- $109.00
Shredded Back Biker Jacket- $249
To check out more of the RACHEL Rachel Roy collection, visit your local Macy's or visit her website http://www.rachelroy.com/RRR/LOOKBOOK_MAIN,default,pg.html
Thank you for reading. Please check out my new site at http://www.welivestyle.com/
Labels:
Fashion
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
The Return of Southland- Must See TV

Don’t you hate when you get into a new TV show and it gets cancelled? When NBC decided to cancel its Cop drama "Southland" in favor of its Jay Leno Show experiment, (Jay Leno at 10pm EST 5 nights a week), I was not pleased. Really not. Headed by a great cast including Benjamin MacKenzie and Regina King, “Southland” was a dark, and gritty drama with realistic storylines and an almost “live on the streets” feel. I thought it gone into the TV land abyss, never to be seen again.
Well, to my delight, Southland was picked up TNT and is now in its second season. And fortunately, Southland has not missed a beat. Southland remains edgy, and has added a couple of new crew members to its cast: Amaury Nalasco, and the yummy Laz Alonso. What keeps Southland interesting is that it goes beyond the crime scene and gives a glimpse inside the cops’ individual lives. With its compelling stories and first rate cast, Southland is good TV.
It’s not too late to get onboard with Southland. Catch it tonight- 10 EST, 9pm CST.
Labels:
Entertainment
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Beauty Review- C.O.Bigelow's Lemon and Pomegranate Body Scrub

It's hard to describe just how delightful C.O.Bigelow's Lemon and Pomegranate Body Scrub smells when you open the jar. Almost like strawberry lemonade in a jar, C.O. is aromatically blissful. But how does it scrub you ask? Nicely. It's consistency is reminiscient of a whipped yogurt, and initially I thought it might be too soft. However, the scrubbing granules are nice and firm, and effective at sloughing the skin, making it silky smooth. And the product is easy to spread, unlike some other body scrubs.
C.O. Bigelow Lemon and Pomegranate Body Scrub touts it's antioxidant rich formula, and contains 1% each of lemon and pomegranate extract. Not too much. The product also claims to brighten skin, which I didn't really notice. On the positive side, while this isn't a skin moisturizing scrub, it also didn't dry my skin out.
In the final analysis, I would recommend C.O. Bigelow's Lemon and Pomegranate Body Scrub. It has a great perk-you-up scent, and really gets the skin nice and smooth. This would make a really good product for the spring/summer season. It's a little pricey at $15 for an $8 oz jar. However, you can catch it on a Bath and Body Works/C.O. Bigelow sale. I got it for $10. Not bad at all.
Labels:
Beauty
Thursday, February 25, 2010
RuPaul: Workin' It: RuPaul's Guide to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Style

When it comes to the world of “drag”, one thing is indisputable: RuPaul Andre Charles is its’ king, or shall I say, queen. RuPaul, as he is commonly known, has almost singlehandedly elevated what was once a practice found only in gay clubs, into an international phenomenon. And he, himself has evolved into a one-named magnate. You name it, he’s put his stamp on it: albums, tv/movie appearances and production deals. When he is not serving as host and mentor for his hit TV show: “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, he is penning books, the latest of which is ‘Workin’It: RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Style’, with photography by his longtime makeup artist Mathu Andersen.
In ‘Workin It’, RuPaul dishes on everything from makeup and hair, to his thoughts on success and hard earned life lessons. Known for such quotables as, “We are born naked, the rest is drag”, and “What other people think of me is none of my business”, Ru does not disappoint in giving his readers the real skinny. ‘Workin’ It’ is written in the conversational style you would expect from RuPaul: honest, frank and certainly humorous. And it’s not just for aspiring “queens”. There are real practical ideas that are applicable to any reader who loves beauty, or is interested in personal success. Naturally as presentation is the name of RuPaul’s game, ‘Workin' It’ is visually gorgeous. It’s filled with fabulous photos that would inspire any makeup artist or lover of the makeup palette.
While I didn’t agree all of RuPaul’s philosophy, there were certainly a number of good “takeaways”, that I found useful and memorable.
To see for yourself, check out ‘Workin’It: RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Style’ at http://www.amazon.com/ or a bookstore near you.
Labels:
Books
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Just In Time for Spring- Liberty of London for Target
“Liberty of London”, a London-based retailer, known for its distinctive floral prints, is partnering with Target to launch a line of exciting fashions for men, women and children, home décor and garden to be sold exclusively at Target stores.
The collection will stay true to Liberty of London’s trademark style, featuring whimsical patterns and bold prints that can make anyone, or any room, a standout.
Target Corporation continues to prove itself as a force with which to be reckoned as they embark on this venture, the latest in a growing list of news breaking collaborations between it and other major designers and retailers. Remember, Target and Anna Sui, anyone?
Target Corporation continues to prove itself as a force with which to be reckoned as they embark on this venture, the latest in a growing list of news breaking collaborations between it and other major designers and retailers. Remember, Target and Anna Sui, anyone?
Stay tuned for this fun and eye-catching collection which hits Target stores on March 14th.

Liberty of London

Liberty of London for Target
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Smoothie Review

Due to a need to save a little dinero, lately I’ve been opting to do my own hair, rather than make my usual salon appointment. This may not seem like such a big deal except that my hair is past shoulder length and tangles quite easily after washing. Thus, hair washing can become a bit of an ordeal. So, as I was looking for a new shampoo and conditioner, finding a good detangler was a major goal. Finding a product with decent ingredients was also important. Since I had heard good things about Carol’s Daughter’s Tui Hair Smoothie, I thought it was worth a try. Admittedly, I had tried Carol’s Daughter’s Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner and was less than impressed. I was definitely hoping for better results.
So the verdict…
Me likey. First, Tui Hair Smoothie smells divine. Really. It’s almost worth the price just for the smell. Tui Hair Smoothie contains Olive, Shea, Cocao and Buriti oils, and is paraben, petrolatum and mineral oil free. It also did a nice job detangling my hair. I still had a little work to do, but it was considerably less than normal. The lack of hair left in my comb was a really good thing. My hair also felt nice and soft after use. For the record, I used Organix Tea Tree Shampoo which is sulfate free. The only complaint is that Tui could have delivered a little bit more shine. All in all, I definitely like this product and would use it again. Carol’s Daughter’s Tui Hair Smoothie retails for $19 and is sold at sephora stores or at http://www.carolsdaughter.com/.
Me likey. First, Tui Hair Smoothie smells divine. Really. It’s almost worth the price just for the smell. Tui Hair Smoothie contains Olive, Shea, Cocao and Buriti oils, and is paraben, petrolatum and mineral oil free. It also did a nice job detangling my hair. I still had a little work to do, but it was considerably less than normal. The lack of hair left in my comb was a really good thing. My hair also felt nice and soft after use. For the record, I used Organix Tea Tree Shampoo which is sulfate free. The only complaint is that Tui could have delivered a little bit more shine. All in all, I definitely like this product and would use it again. Carol’s Daughter’s Tui Hair Smoothie retails for $19 and is sold at sephora stores or at http://www.carolsdaughter.com/.
Have you tried Carol's Daughter's Tui Hair Smoothie? What did you think?
Labels:
Beauty
Friday, February 12, 2010
Soul Train- A Good RockDoc and a GREAT Performance
To commemorate Soul Train's 40-year anniversary, VH1 has premiered a "rockumentary" titled "Soul Train The Hippest Trip in America", a 90-minute documentary highlighting the creation and development of tv's longest running syndicated program. Narrated by Terrence Howard, the documentary features interviews with show creator and host Don Cornelius, as well as a bevy of familiar faces from the early Soul Train days. One of the great aspects of the program is that it gives a real behind-the-scenes look at of one of the country's most popular shows. It also gives the audience a rare look, and I think appreciation for the talent and innovation of Don Cornelius. Cornelius is an often overlooked pioneer in the Black entertainment world. What Cornelius accomplished was literally unheard of at the time of Soul Train's inception in 1970.
And as great as is to learn about Soul Train's history, it's also really fun to watch some of its' vintage performances. There have been many great ones over the years, but there was one that stands out in the Soul Train "Best Of" category. It's Al Green circa 1974 singing, "Here I Am". After seeing a clip of this performance on the Soul Train special, I was thrilled to find the full version courtesy of Youtube. It was so good, I had to share. Al Green, broken arm and all absolutely kills it. It's hard to find soul and passion better than this. Enjoy!!
To see "Soul Train The Hippest Trip in America", check your local listings for VH1.
And as great as is to learn about Soul Train's history, it's also really fun to watch some of its' vintage performances. There have been many great ones over the years, but there was one that stands out in the Soul Train "Best Of" category. It's Al Green circa 1974 singing, "Here I Am". After seeing a clip of this performance on the Soul Train special, I was thrilled to find the full version courtesy of Youtube. It was so good, I had to share. Al Green, broken arm and all absolutely kills it. It's hard to find soul and passion better than this. Enjoy!!
To see "Soul Train The Hippest Trip in America", check your local listings for VH1.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
This Should Be Good...

Andre Leon Talley, Vogue magazine’s esteemed Editor-In-Chief will serve as the 4th judge on America’s Next Top Model (ANTM), replacing model Paulina Porizkova. The venerable fashion icon, partially known for his massive stature, and even larger ego, will be sure get tongues wagging as he spars with resident divas Ms. Banks and runway coach Miss J. As Vogue’s Editor-In-Chief since 1998, and a veteran in the world of fashion, Mr. Talley has likely seen more runways than Delta. If anyone is qualified to pick a good model, he should be. Frankly, I am a bit surprised that Talley signed up for this, and more importantly that Ms. Wintour has given her blessing. I personally haven’t watched ANTM in years, but it just may be worthwhile to tune in for at least one episode of this “Clash of the Titans”.
Cycle 14 of America’s Next Top Model premieres on March 10 at 8 pm EST.
What do you think of Mr. Talley taking a turn at judge?
Fashion for a Cause & Cute too.

Singer Mary J Blige has teamed up with designer Catherine Malandrino to create a new line of message T’s called the FFAWN and Malandrino collection. The line is aimed is at empowering women and supporting Blige’s charity, Foundation for the Achievement of Women Now (FFAWN). FFAWN was created to "aid women through scholarships, grants, and programs that foster strong self-esteem, career development, and personal growth". The new line debuts on February 17 and will be sold at Malandrino boutiques and Bloomingdales stores nationwide. The tees will start at $39.
Labels:
Entertainment,
Fashion
Friday, February 5, 2010
Music Throwback- Well sort of

Hola,
From time to time I want to shine a spotlight on some of the many underrated, unknown or under promoted musical artists who are deserving of a little love. There are so many good artists under the radar, so many CD’s that were “slept on” due to poor promotion, and even a few incredibly talented artists who while popular, haven’t gained the billing they deserve. Pink’s performance on this week’s Grammy’s illustrated how truly underrated she is.
So, as Chicago DJ “The Diz” would say, today I am” digging in the crates” to highlight a CD, that was a bit of a sleeper here in the states: The Brand New Heavies 2006 release- “Get Used to It”. (Ok I didn’t dig too far) Many of us will remember the Heavies from the 90’s with such radio hits as “Dream on Dreamer” and “Never Stop”. (Their 1994 CD Brother Sister was a CLASSIC.) However, the Heavies have continued to make music throughout the years, and have maintained a devoted following. Years ago, I had the pleasure of seeing the Heavies at a small club in Chicago, and it was SOOO GOOD. There is nothing like real musicians playing live. Unfortunately, one thing the group did lose over the years was the much loved lead singer N’Dea Davenport. But after a long hiatus, Get Used to It marked Davenport’s return to recorded music with the group, and the results were lovely. Get Used to It is exactly what you want from the Brand New Heavies: sprawling horns, booming percussion, and great vocals. It’s heavy hitting funk that would make the late James Brown proud. Grooves like “We’ve Got” and “Let’s Do It Again” are fabulously raucous, while “Get Used to It” and “We Won’t Stop” and cool and easy. And Ms. Davenport reminds us what we were missing on “I Don’t Know Why (I Love You)”, a pleading mid tempo ballad that any love-confused woman could relate to. Get Used to It is a great disc to play for a party or while driving on the highway. BTW, the Heavies also released a “Live in London” CD last year.
To get a taste of the Get Used to It CD, check out "I Dont Know Why I Love You" :
Do you dig the Heavies?
Labels:
Music
Monday, February 1, 2010
Grammy Night-Actually a Really Good Show
It was music's "biggest night" last night as the 2010 Grammy's took place. In my opinion, it was the best show they've had in some time. Back in the 80's and early 90's the Grammy's were FABULOUS! It was full of big artists: Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Mariah Carey,Bon Jovi, etc. We, the public couldn't wait to see every show. However, over the years, the shows increasingly became less interesting. Some were just flat out boring. But, it appears that Grammy's are back. Last night's show gave some great performances, and every artist seems to be trying to elevate their game, and possibly outdo the other. Lady Gaga and Elton John opened the show with a fierce medley of Gaga's Poker Face and Speechless, mixed in with a little classic Elton "Your Song" for good measure. Beyonce soon followed with a rock version of "If I Were a Boy" complete with what looked like about 200 armored men. In a twist, she mixed in a little "You Oughta Know" by Alanis Morrisette. I must say I didn't think it was B's best performance. The armored men seemed as though they were just there for theatrics, but didn't fit the song. Perhaps we've seen this from her before. LOVED her boots, though. The real showstopping performance of the night was Pink performing "Glitter in the Air". Accompanied by aerial dancers, Pink sang beautifully as she was lifting and twirled in the air "Cirque de Soleil" style on silk bands. At one point, she was dipped in water (which the audience couldn't see), and reemerged dripping as she was relifted into the air. Stunningly, she did not miss a note. Unbelievable. I have always been a Pink fan, but she was nothing short of AMAZING!
Also raising the bar was Mary J. Blige and Andrea Bocelli. I LOVE these two together. They gave a fantastic performance together at Christmastime on Oprah's show, and last night they again brought the house down with "Bridge Over Troubled Water". In my humble opinion, vocally Mary J. Blige is at the best she has ever been in her career. Where many of her former performances were a bit uncontrolled, lately Mary's vocals have been both controlled and soaring. And did I mention that I love Andrea Bocelli. I hope these two keep singing together. And of course, there was no way to have a Grammy's this year without a tribute to the King of Pop Michael Jackson. Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Smokey Robinson, and Celine Dion performed along with Michael Jackson's "Earth Song". It was a unique and nicely done tribute. At times, it felt a bit awkward as part was sung by Michael himself, but it was a lovely and fitting tribute. As a side note, I didn't know anything about the Zac Brown Band, but they started their set with "America the Beautiful" and it sounded phenomenal. Those boys can SANG. Shout out to the Zac Brown Band.
Did you see the Grammy's? What did you think of the show? Who did you like/dislike?
Also raising the bar was Mary J. Blige and Andrea Bocelli. I LOVE these two together. They gave a fantastic performance together at Christmastime on Oprah's show, and last night they again brought the house down with "Bridge Over Troubled Water". In my humble opinion, vocally Mary J. Blige is at the best she has ever been in her career. Where many of her former performances were a bit uncontrolled, lately Mary's vocals have been both controlled and soaring. And did I mention that I love Andrea Bocelli. I hope these two keep singing together. And of course, there was no way to have a Grammy's this year without a tribute to the King of Pop Michael Jackson. Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Smokey Robinson, and Celine Dion performed along with Michael Jackson's "Earth Song". It was a unique and nicely done tribute. At times, it felt a bit awkward as part was sung by Michael himself, but it was a lovely and fitting tribute. As a side note, I didn't know anything about the Zac Brown Band, but they started their set with "America the Beautiful" and it sounded phenomenal. Those boys can SANG. Shout out to the Zac Brown Band.
Did you see the Grammy's? What did you think of the show? Who did you like/dislike?
Labels:
Music
Thursday, January 28, 2010
First Lady Michelle Obama- Doing It!
I don't know if you've been checking out the First Lady lately, but she is really doing her thing on the fashion front. Of course, Mrs. O has been lauded as a fashion icon since she stepped into the role as First Lady, but as of late, she seems to have stepped up her game even further. The First Lady recently turned 46, is rocking a fresh new bob, and some fabulous fashions. At the recent State Dinner that was the scene of the unfortunate Salahi debacle, the First Lady wowed the masses in one of the most fierce evening gowns seen in years. And at yesterday's State of the Union address, Mrs. Obama impressed yet again. She was stunning in a most regal eggplant 3/4 sleeve sweater with bubble skirt. See some of Mrs. Obama's latest looks.
At the State of the Union AddressPhoto- Mark Wilson- Getty Images

At the State Dinner
Photo- Smialowski/Getty
Photo- Getty Images

Michelle in Moschino
(Love the hair)
(Love the hair)

Photo- AFP/Getty Images
What do you think of the First Lady's new haircut? What about Mrs. Obama's style?
Thank you for reading. Please check out my new site at http://www.welivestyle.com/
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Baby It's Cold Outside- Protect Your Skin

It's January, and if you are in a cold weather climate, you probably have felt the pain of dry skin. No matter how many layers you put on, sometimes it's just not enough. It is critical to use the right moisturizers and change up from your summer skincare routine. As it is pretty darn cold here in Chicago, my face and hands have really taken the abuse. Dermatologist Dr. Doris Day recently spoke on Good Morning America, and gave some good tips and reminders to take note of. They also showed a few products that you may want to consider. She actually gave a tip or two that I had not thought of. Click the link below to check out the video.
Labels:
Beauty
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Hope for Haiti concert
Hola!
Yes, this is indeed a rare Sunday night post. I am sitting here watching the Saints/Vikings and hoping the Saints will pull it out. Sorry Vikings fans, don't hate me. Anyhoo, unless you've been under a rock, you know that on Friday night, many of the major networks aired "Hope for Haiti", a concert presented to raise funds for Haiti relief. It was a wonderful event for a truly great cause. Many of Hollywood's finest gave their time: some manned phone lines, and roughly 12 artists treated the masses to some great live performances. Among the performers were Madonna, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Sting, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, and several others. However, one of the BEST, if not THE best performance came from none other than Justin Timberlake. Along with singer/songwriter Matt Morris, Timberlake performed Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujuah". The duo was in my opinion, AMAAAZING! The harmony was impeccable. I enjoyed many of the performances, but this one really almost made me throw my shoe at the TV, and I mean that in a good way. If you didn't see it, here is a look at Justin Timberlake and Matt Morris' version of "Hallelujuah".
BTW, did you see the concert? If so, what did you think of the performances? Who did you like?
Yes, this is indeed a rare Sunday night post. I am sitting here watching the Saints/Vikings and hoping the Saints will pull it out. Sorry Vikings fans, don't hate me. Anyhoo, unless you've been under a rock, you know that on Friday night, many of the major networks aired "Hope for Haiti", a concert presented to raise funds for Haiti relief. It was a wonderful event for a truly great cause. Many of Hollywood's finest gave their time: some manned phone lines, and roughly 12 artists treated the masses to some great live performances. Among the performers were Madonna, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Sting, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, and several others. However, one of the BEST, if not THE best performance came from none other than Justin Timberlake. Along with singer/songwriter Matt Morris, Timberlake performed Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujuah". The duo was in my opinion, AMAAAZING! The harmony was impeccable. I enjoyed many of the performances, but this one really almost made me throw my shoe at the TV, and I mean that in a good way. If you didn't see it, here is a look at Justin Timberlake and Matt Morris' version of "Hallelujuah".
BTW, did you see the concert? If so, what did you think of the performances? Who did you like?
Labels:
Miscellaneous
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday Thought: Where are all of the female MC's?
So, I was driving down the expressway the other day when Nicki Minaj’s track, “I Get Crazy” came on. It was an instant reminder of a thought that had previously run through my mind: What happened to all of the female MC’s? Although hip hop is generally in a bit of a decline since its heyday, the female MC has become virtually extinct. I remember the good ole days when boom boxes blasted out with old school rappers like Roxanne Shante, Salt and Pepa and one of my faves, MC Lyte. You can go to any party right now, and put on Lyte’s “Paper Thin” or “Lyte as a Rock”, and the party will still get hyped. The crowd could sing every word. As time went on, a new crop of more conscious rapstresses blessed the mic like Bahamadia and our girl Queen Latifah. And what can say about the ladies who were at one point, some of the hottest names in the rap game, male or female? Of course, I am speaking of none other than Foxy Brown and Lil’ Kim. Were they positive or enlightening? Absolutely not. Were they oversexualized and raunchy as all get out? Absolutely! And yes, I was mad at Lil’ Kim for all of the outrageous plastic surgery she accumulated over the years. But for all of their faults, THEY COULD RAP. I mean for real. There was so much buzz when these chicks hit the scene: Foxy rhyming with Jay-Z, and Kim debuting with Junior Mafia. There was something about a Foxy Brown or Lil’ Kim record that made you stick your chest out and think you were the baddest chick alive. I remember vividly when Lil’ Kim’s solo debut Hard Core was released. I hate to admit it was my guilty pleasure. It was contrary to everything I stood for. I knew I shouldn’t like it… but I LOVED it. Riding on the El train downtown to work, it was heavy in my rotation. Those ladies brought crazy delivery, creativity and pure talent. Eve also made her mark, particularly bringing the crossover appeal, and a bit of positivity. I really dug her track “Love is Blind.” Very real and poignant. Of course, there have been many other females in the game : too many to name here. But I look at the state of the rap game right now and I think wow: Nicki Minaj. Don’t get me wrong, I am not hating on the girl, at least not completely. The fact that someone as skilled as Lil’ Wayne vouches for her is certainly worth a few points. But, I think I will need to see, ( or should I say, hear) a lot more of her before I am sold. Maybe it’s just me, but she feels a bit gimmicky. It’s been said that she does have skills, and is not just another fake boobed Lil’ Kim imitator. (“Barbie” is actually what Minaj likes to call herself). Time will tell.
Maybe I’m just getting old. The truth is, I really don’t listen to rap as much as I used to anyway. I’m just glad I’m old enough to remember the classics. On that note, here’s one for you. Enjoy!
Do you miss females in the rap game? Who are/were your favorites?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I Heart IHeartRadio

Attention music lovers! I recently got turned on to a lovely new IPhone and Blackberry App , called IHeart Radio. It’s now much easier to listen to the radio on your IPhone. IHeart Radio features Clearchannel radio stations from cities all over the country. It provides all formats: from Hip Hop and R&B to Jazz to Rock. It’s like having satellite radio on your phone! And for you music truists, there is even a section for you to check out "undiscovered" artists. For you who don’t have an IPhone or a Blackberry, don’t fret, IHeartRadio is also available online at http://www.iheartradio.com/ where you can find videos and live performances.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
R.I.P. Teddy Pendergrass (1950-2010)

This certainly is a week for bad news. As you by now have probably heard, soul music legend Teddy Pendergrass has died of colon cancer at the age of 59. Whether you called him Teddy Pendergrass, Teddy P, or for the real old schoolers, the "Teddy Bear", you know his music. Both as the front man for Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes, and as a solo artist, Teddy was authentic and undeniable. Sexy, soulful, and incredibly talented, Teddy P was the man that women loved, and men wanted to be. He was one of the true original Philly soul singers, and was on top of the world until a tragic car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. However, he kept an unstoppable spirit, and still sang from his soul.
I have personally belted many a Teddy slow jam. "Love TKO", "Close the Door" and "If You Don't Know Me by Now" are still on the late night radio play lists. And I have danced my butt off at many a house party to Teddy's "I Don't Love You Anymore", "You Can't Hide From Yourself" and "The More I Get". It really didn't get any better.
We are blessed to have his music catalogue that will live on. I think I'll be pulling mine out today.
Rest in Peace, Teddy Pendergrass.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Bodycology Foam Bath and Body Wash / Help Haiti

It’s not easy to find a good bubble bath that gives lots of bubbles that are long lasting. Bath and Body Works has a pretty nice one, but it really is best when you can get it on sale. With few dollars available, I was on the look for a really cheap but good bubble bath: Enter Bodycology Foam Bath and Body Wash. (This product does double duty as a body wash, but I have used it only as a foaming bath). Bodycology supplies a generous amount of bubbles that actually last, and you don’t need to use a lot of it. Bodycology comes in 12 scents including Peach Mango, Apple Orchard, Coconut Lime, Fresh Water, and the one I chose Brown Sugar Vanilla. And what is really fabulous… the 16 fl oz. bottle was only $4 at Walmart. Note: This is not a natural product and thus is not filled with natural ingredients. However, I am primarily a shower girl so I won’t be using this daily. If you want a good bubble bath on a budget, and don't mind non-natural ingredients, you will likely enjoy Bodycology’s Foam Bath and Body Wash.
On a seperate note, I just want to acknowledge and give love to the people of Haiti. In a country that has seen its share of hardships, yesterday's earthquake is devastating. There are multiple organizations through which you can help: American Red Cross and Unicef are two large organizations that can assist you. Wyclef Jean's organization Yele Haiti is also accepting donations with 100 % going to relief efforts. You can reach his organization at http://www.yele.org/.
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