Saturday, February 28, 2009

KANYE WEST LIVE ON VH1 STORYTELLERS


Ever since I got word that Kanye would be the next to appear on the Vh1 Storytellers series, I have to admit I’ve been pretty hyped. The full episode premiered tonight. Yeezy put his all into some dope performances. Song in and song out you could see the passion he puts in. Here's a preview. And check your local listings to see when it airs next.


SNEAK PEEK | LIL' WAYNE "PROM QUEEN" VIDEO


Lil Wayne recently pushed back the release date for his upcoming rock album "Rebirth" from April 7th to May 19th, however, his “Prom Queen” video was recently shot and now you can get a sneak peek. In the teaser, Wayne is shown singing on stage as his band rocks the crowd In related news, Lil Wayne’s new album, Tha Carter III, recently past the three million copies sold mark. The 3x platinum album was 32 on last weeks sales charts as it sold another 16,543 copies.

Friday, February 27, 2009

BEYONCE COVERS EBONY


Beyonce graces the April 2009 of Ebony magazine. Inside she discusses home life with Jay-Z among other things. The spread is visually dynamic and is a departure from the Sasha Fierce look we've all grown a bit tired of. Nevertheless, you gotta love her.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

NEW VIDEO | JADAKISS "CAN'T STOP ME"


Jadakiss releases his video for his second official single "Can't Stop Me," from his upcoming third studio album titled The Last Kiss scheduled to be released March 10th. Directed by Marc Klasfield.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

OH I KNOW THIS BRUISED HIS EGO!


Kanye who? That’s what designer Vivienne Westwood was wondering after the rapper introduced himself to her during London Fashion Week. Yeezy rushed over to Westwood after her runway show and gushed that he’s a fan - but after he left, the British fashionista had to ask her friend who Kanye was, shrugging, “I think he’s famous in America.”

LINDSAY LOHAN x HEDI SLIMANE


My Favorite Mean Girl

Having captured the likes of Amy Winehouse, Kate Moss, and most recently Courtney Love, Hedi Slimane's infatuation with shooting Hollywood’s bad girls has become more evident with time. Adding more imagery to Hedi’s fashion diary, the famous fashion designer and photographer conducted a photoshoot alongside Lindsay Lohan with that same provocative nature as his previous projects.

NEW VIDEO | JAMIE FOXX "BLAME IT ON THE ALCOHOL"


Check out the official video for Jamie Foxx's hit single "Blame It" featuring T-Pain, from his third studio album Intuition, in stores now.

So many cameos... You got Ron Howard, Quincy Jones, Samuel L. Jackson, Forest Whitaker, Jake Gyllenhaal, Cedric The Entertainer, Morris Chestnut, Clifton Powell, Alex Thomas, Tatyana Ali, Bill Bellamy, and more.

Directed by none other than Hype Williams.

NEW MUSIC | OMARION "COMFORT" FEAT. LIL' WAYNE


Check out the much anticipated new joint from Omarion, produced by Timbaland’s camp; the same guys who brought you the “Icebox,” hit. The new single “Comfort” features Grammy-award winning rapper Lil' Wayne.

O will be releasing his third solo album VIA Timbaland’s Mosley Music Group/Interscope Records.


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | MIGUEL ANTOINNE




It seems that this truly is the year of the gentleman, which became ever more apparent after seeing my close friend, Miguel Antoinne's A/W 2009 collection during New York Fashion Week. His 47-piece collection featured an array of looks that he describes as the “bad boy ganster” type from the 1920’s. With an equestrian edge on a military structure, Miguel Antoinne definitely designs with the gentleman in mind. His work has a refined, modern elegance. I LOVE the attention to fit and detailing. He used zippers as trim in places totally unexpected, leather embellishment; and has these oxford shirts with large stand-up collars that are to die for. Inspiration falls into his lap intuitively from the looks of it. Be on the lookout as he is bringing excitement and new life into the under-served market of menswear.

For a complete look at the collection visit Miguel Antoinne Online...

Designer Miguel Antoinne with models at his A/W 2009 collection show.

RUMOR MILL | KANYE'S NEW JUMPOFF, AMBER ROSE


After specualtion that he had been dating Brazilian supermodel Sessilee Lopez, Kanye West has been seen sportin’ a new chick on his arm recently, model/video vixen Amber Rose. Amber accompanied him to several events during New York Fashion Week and the two were also spotted getting real cozy at Rose Bar in NYC. Now it appears that Ye brought his new 'piece' across the pond where they've been spotted making rounds at London Fashion Week. Word is Amber is actually doing pretty well with the pressures of dating a world famous rapper. A source tells the NY Daily News,

“She’s going to be good for him. Amber is a model with a fly, out-there, in-your-face style and attitude, just like Kanye. She’s his match. Traveling with Kanye can be rough - photographers swarms him wherever he goes, but Amber is cool and collected about it all. She doesn’t care about industry stuff, and she actually understands Kanye.”

NEW MUSIC | DAY 26 "PUT IT ON HER"


Check out this new joint from Day 26. It's called “Put It on Her” and is rumored to appear on there upcoming, yet to be titled sophomore album. In stores April 14th.

DOWNLOAD/LISTEN: DAY26- “PUT IT ON HER”

Monday, February 23, 2009

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT


Last night, The 81st Annual Academy Awards took place at The Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, CA. Beyonce performed a medley of showtunes with host Hugh Jackman. Check it out..

NEW MUSIC | T-PAIN x KANYE WEST "FLIGHT SCHOOL"


This joint is crazy... I have no words. Rumor has it that it’s actually a GLC song featuring Kanye & T-Pain. Right now, all that’s out there is this version with T-Pain & Kanye on the track, with talks of someone jumping in on the end. So until the official version leaks, we’ll label it as it.

UPDATE:FLIGHT SCHOOL WAS BEING SAVED FOR GLC ALBUM AND WASN’T SPOSED TO BE LEAKED YET BUT IT’S ON THE RADIO NOW… ALSO I REALLY WANTED TO DO A RECORD WITH DREAM CAUSE HE’S MY FAVORITE ARTIST AND I’M EXCITED ABOUT THIS SONG TOO.

BALENCIAGA PLEATED LEATHER HI-TOPS


Balenciaga presents these new hi-tops as part of their Spring/Summer 2009 collection - the Pleated Leather Trainer. The sneakers feature pleated leather uppers, silver eyelets and loops and rubber soles. They are now available in two colorways at Browns, $ 443.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

NEW VIDEO | KID CUDI " DAY N NITE"


Check the video for KiD CuDi's joint, "Day 'N' Nite" which comes off of his debut album Man on the Moon: The Gaurdians, coming soon.

GQ's 10 MOST STYLISH MEN IN AMERICA


The March 2009 issue of GQ will feature the magazine’s picks for their “10 Most Stylish Men in America”.
The list includes: Justin Timberlake, Alexi Lubomirski(Photographer), Kanye West (Pop Musician/Aspiring Designer), Sid Mashburn/and staff (Haberdasher/Southern Gentleman), T.I. (World-class MC), Glenn O’Brien (GQ's Style Guy), Jason Schwartzman (Actor, Indie Rocker), Mark Ronson(DJ/Producer), Ed Ruscha/and son Eddie (Artist/L.A. Icon), and André Balazs (Hotelier/Scene Magnet)


For more info click HERE

NEW VIDEO | KANYE WEST "WELCOME TO HEARTBREAK " FT. KID CUDI


Check out the video for Kanye West's new joint, "Welcome To Heartbreak" featuring KiD CuDi, off the album 808s & HeartBreak, available now!

HAS THE "OBAMA EFFECT" COME TO BRYANT PARK?

Courtney, Marcus, Domonique and Shawn backstage at Duckie Brown.

This season we've seen a sprinkling of color on the runway but for the most part it's the same tokenism. Designers will say that their concept for this season was Victorian or a summer in Paris, giving them the shield to say : "whites only." It's sad that among the ranks of the many new great black male faces that now exist in New York still go unseen for the most part. The New York Times weighs in on the issue in article featuring several of our favs. Check it out...

MARC BY MARC JACOBS | FALL 2009 COLLECTION


Marc Jacobs’ work within his Marc by Marc line has the New York-based designer focusing on heavy garment layering, highlighting a wide range of textiles that includes argyle, corduroy, tweed, and even velvet. Taking a spin off all your thrift shop favorites, the collection does well in combining a vintage technique into contemporary designs, in essence allowing for an endless amount of stylish combinations with a timeless, luxurious look.

i-D, TIMES TWELVE!


Leave it to i-D to outdo previous multi-cover mags; this month, the British book has twelve (yes, twelve) different covers to celebrate the Best of British issue. From icons like Twiggy, Kate and Naomi to newbies like Jourdan Dunn, Alice Dellal, and Daisy Lowe, bevies of lovely Brits grace the glossy, along with some words of wisdom from Agyness Deyn.

VIDEO | KID CUDI x COMPLEX MAG SHOOT


Kid Cudi is the artist that sits atop my list when it comes to contenders for hip-hop’s rookie of the year in 2009 . The Cleveland, Ohio native made a name for himself last year with his hit single “Day N Night” and his mixtape A Kid Named Cudi, but now he’s looking to become more a household name with the release of his debut album on Kanye’s G.O.O.D. Music.
Complex mag co-sign's on our claim, featuring Cudi in the “Upstarts” section of their February/March 2009 issue (click here to read the full magazine article). And for the photo shoot, they took the lonely stoner to a place where he could really come out of his shell: Dave & Buster’s in Times Square. Watch the behind the scenes video below…

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

NEW VIDEO | T.I. "DEAD AND GONE" ft. JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

Check out the video for T.I.'s new joint, featuring Justin Timberlake - Dead And Gone, off the Paper Trail album, in stores now.

LIL' KIM PREPS FOR DANCING WITH THE STARS


Lil' Kim was spotted rehearsing with her Dancing With The Stars partner this past weekend. Kim is set to make her debut along with the rest of the cast of has-beens on March 9th, on ABC. This should be quite interesting…




KANYE WEST COVERS DETAILS


As if Kanye West wasn’t egotistical enough without any additional exposure, Details magazine has gone and put him on the cover of its March issue. We love them for that!!!

In an exclusive video interview, Kanye sounds off on why it’s not narcissistic when he talks about himself in the third person, his favorite websites, and his signature style.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

IT'S FASHION WEEK IN NEW YORK. BARE WITH ME!


got plenty to post. from models to rappers & actors. stay tuned. I got you!

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

NEW VIDEO | JENNIFER HUDSON "IF THIS ISN'T LOVE"


Jennifer Hudson's video for her second single "If This Isn't Love", from her self-titled Grammy Award winning self-titled, debut album, in stores now.

AUBREY O'DAY PLAYBOY COVER REVEALED


The March 2009 cover of Playboy has been released and as expected, it features former Danity Kane group member Aubrey O'Day. Not expected, though, is that she's actually wearing clothes.

Inside - which, we presume, gets more naked - the heavily airbrushed O'Day said:

"You could never imagine how empowering it is to be nude in front of
cameras and have people looking at you in that way and seeing you as beautiful... Nudity is a beautiful thing.”

RIHANNA PIC A FAKE!!!


In case you areceive an email with the subject line "OMG LOOK AT RIHANNA'S FACE!!!" -- it's photoshopped. Seriously, whoever took the time out of their lives to do this needs to get a life.

NEW VIDEO | THE-DREAM "ROCKIN' THAT THANG"


Check out the video for The-Dream's new joint, "Rockin That Thang" off of Love vs. Money, in stores on March 10th. Directed by Ray Kay.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

RYAN LESLIE’S SELF-TITLED RELEASE IN STORES TODAY!!


It seems like forever since Ryan Leslie first exploded on the scene with “Diamond Girl," then came doubly hard with his smash hit Addiction featuring Cassie. Finally after many Push backs, his self-titled debut has been released. Look out below for a few joints from the album that you haven't heard. This should be incentive enough. Everybody needs to make sure they go out and cop that.

THINGS GO FROM BAD TO WORSE FOR CHRIS BROWN


Chris Brown is still in Los Angeles as he awaits his upcoming court date. Police are now telling media sources that additional charges may be filed against him when the case is presented to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office.

Brown was booked for making criminal threats rather than domestic abuse, given the fact that Rihanna — had “visible injuries," including two “huge contusions” on both sides of her forehead, a bloody lip and bloody nose, on top of the swelling and bruising. Law enforcement sources tell us they typically book a suspect for the most serious crime they can be charged with — it’s then up to the D.A. to file any additional charges. Given there were allegedly visible injuries, the crime of making criminal threats is punishable by up to nine years in prison. Domestic abuse is four years.

In related news... Chris Brown has so far lost two endorsement deals. The "Got Milk" people have taken down Chris Brown's ad on their website and released a statement saying "The Milk Mustache campaign is taking the allegations against Chris Brown very seriously. We are very proud and protective of the image of the Milk Mustache campaign and the responsible message it sends to teens. Mr. Brown's ad was launched last fall and is scheduled to end this week." Earlier Chris also had his ads with Wrigley suspended. Wrigley also canceled their popular commercial that played during the Grammy's which features performances by both Rihanna and Chris Brown.



MICHELLE OBAMA COVERS VOGUE


Michelle Obama looks fabulous as she graces of the cover of next month’s Vogue in a Jason Wu dress.

“It’s a wonderful achievement for Vogue,” said editor at large Andre Leon Talley, who interviewed Obama for an hour at the Hay-Adams hotel a few weeks before the inauguration. Obama’s cover portrait, said Talley “absolutely reflects who she is without any questions. There’s such a warmth that she emanates. It’s the warmest cover you’ve seen in a long time on Vogue. Models pose, actresses pose. This is a real woman.”

Beautiful cover. Obama is the 2nd first lady - after Hilary Clinton - to grace the cover of the magazine.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT


T.I. performed his hit single Swagga Like Us featuring M.I.A., Kanye West, Jay-Z and Lil Wayne, from his album Paper Trail. Live at the 2009 51st Annual Grammy Awards.

LIL' KIM JOINS DANCING WITH THE STARS


It’s official! Lil’ Kim is a has-been! She is set to join season 8 of ABC’s hit show, Dancing With The Stars, where she’ll join stars such as Jewel (singer), Belinda Carlisle (Go-Go lead singer), David Alan Grier (actor), Shawn Johnson (gymnast), Gilles Marini (actor/model), Ty Murray (rodeo athlete), Steve-O (tv personality), Nancy O’dell (TV host), Denise Richards (actress), Lawrence Taylor (football player), Chuck Wicks (singer), and Steve Wozniak (Apple computers). Hopefully her face won’t melt on the dancefloor. The only question I have is did Kim actually apply for this herself or has ABC finally consulted with VH1’s programmers?

Sunday, February 8, 2009

BREAKING NEWS | CHRIS BROWN ARRESTED


Chris Brown turned himself in at the Wilshire Police Station this afternoon, in connection with an alleged domestic violence felony battery report. He was arrested and charged with one count felony criminal threats. His bail was set at $50,000, which he paid and was subsequently released.

Officials are still declining to identify the injured party in the assault, although we all know it's Rihanna. His court date is scheduled for March 5th.

Brown and Ri Ri both cancelled their scheduled Grammy appearances and performances this evening.

Story developing….

Friday, February 6, 2009

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | WEEZY'S INTERVIEW WITH KATIE COURIC


Katie Couric has interviewed a lot of people, but somehow I am sure this interview will go down in history as one of her most interesting.

It was something about the way he answered the questions… Katie went in for the tough questions however, asking about the syrup and weed issues that he has.

ETTA JAMES vs. BEYONCE "AT LAST"


Let’s go! Who rips it?! You decide...


Thursday, February 5, 2009

KANYE DRESSES FOR THE RECESSION


These days, it is rare to find Kanye West wearing an article of clothing or accessory that is not from another country or does not cost an arm and a leg. But when the general public is able to stick within their budget and buy accessible brands Kanye wears, it is definitely an accomplishment. Below, Kanye is wearing the Fallout t-shirt by Tank Theory, which can be purchased on their webstore for $27. But that is where the bargain shopping ends in this photo. Kanye is also wearing the pink Casio G-shock DW6900 x Bape watch that can be purchased at Bape stores.




FRESCO GIRL | OMAHYRA MOTA GARCIA


Before Angelina and Rihanna came to the dark side, and before Oxygen glamourized "bad girls" reality TV style, there was Omahyra Mota Garcia! Say what you will, Omahyra is the epitome of kick ass and fashion's favorite bad girl (don't tell Naomi). Photographer Phillip Meuller really captures the essence of edge in these photos. It's almost as if Omahyra emanates all things fresh... the tattoos, the confidence, the clothes, the hair, the grundge, even the blatant androgyny. Dope

VIDEO | PHARRELL WILLIAMS X NYLON MAG COVER SHOOT

KRIS VAN ASSCHE X OLIVER PEOPLES | S/S O9 COLLECTION


These are Fresco Daily approved!

Originally debuting a little bit over a year ago, luxury eyewear makers Oliver Peoples linked up with at the time newly appointed creative director for Dior Homme, Kris Van Assche. The collaborative effort featured Van Assche’s penchant for masculine cues in a plastic interchangeable frame. A new ivory colorway has been added to the mix for this season alongside the original colors. Slight details can be seen throughout the frames including a custom case and a KVA logo. The eyewear was recently seen worn by Usher at the Barack Obama Inauguration last month as well. The new colorway should be available soon at OliverPeoples.com.

50 CENT TO LAUNCH COSMETIC LINE


Reports say that rapper-mogul 50 Cent is finishing a new cosmetics line for men, which will include moisturizers and health supplements. Oh, don't act so surprised. Every rapper uses night cream! We hear it helps with the hustle. A source says that "his range will be for the guy who likes to be pampered, but the supplements will make it more butch." Hip-hop is no stranger to manscaping — Jay-Z and Kanye both love it. But launching a line? 50, just who do you think you are... Diddy?

EDITOR'S PICK | FENDI VOODOO HI- TOPS


Although I don't usually get into monogram prints, I'm kind of digging the new Voodoo High Tops by Fendi. Featuring woven nylon with signature Zucca skull pattern, smooth leather trim and a rounded toe, these could possibly be the dopest Fendi kicks of all time.

$535

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

MUST-HAVE | PRADA NYLON TOTE

Manbag lovers: Meet the next level. Today’s MUST-HAVE ITEM is the Nylon Tote by Prada, with it's rolled leather handles, removable shoulder strap and leather trim. Check inside for the jacquard fabric-lined interior and three additional pockets. …PRADA NYLON TOTE

5 WAYS RICK ROSS CAN SAVE HIS HIP HOP CAREER



Well, we can’t say we didn’t see this one coming. Anyone who’s followed 50 Cent’s history of beef knows full and well that Curtis doesn’t half step when it comes to embarrassing his opponents. So it was only a matter of time before Curtis’ latest nemesis, William Leonard Roberts II bka Rick Ross got the Southside Special.

Yesterday, 50 released a video of him taking one of Rick Ross’ baby’s mothers shopping for furs and Gucci bags. Was the hilariously embarassing move a career-ender for Officer Ricky? All eyes are now on the Boss, waiting to see how he reacts. We’d advise Ross to respond using one of these methods...

#5: RECORD A SONG WITH THE REAL NORIEGA
The rap public scoffed when Ross boasted that he knew “Noriega—the real Noriega” on his debut single, “Husltin’.” We still don’t believe the boast, but his “realness” would seem a lot less fraudulent if he finally hooked up with the former De Facto Leader of Panama on a track. We’d even settle for a phoned-in interlude.

#4: CREATE THE ‘09 VERSION OF COP RAP GROUP 5IVE-0.
It may seem unbelievable in today’s world of hustlers-turned-rappers, but back in 1994, there was actually an entire rap group comprised of police officers called “5ive-O.” See, Ricky? Being a gloried security guard isn’t that bad!

#3: HIT THE GYM AND GET IN FIGHTING SHAPE
In the midst of his battle with 50, Fat Joe challenged Curtis to a boxing match saying he couldn’t beat him one on one. Rick Ross could do the same and promptly end this fiasco. But, because he’s the size of an adult sea cow, we suggest he hit the gym first. He already called himself Kimbo Slice on the mic. He should get down with the dudes who trained the fellow Floridian (before he got knocked the F out) and then arrange a time and place to whoop 50’s a**.

#2: MAKE HIS OWN VIDEO WITH 50′S BABY MAMA
Since 50 already threw the “no women, no children” rule out the window, Ross has no choice but to bring 50’s baby mother, Shaniqua Tompkins, into the mix of things. Playing off the line in “Mafia Music” where he talked about 50 burning Shaniqua’s house down, we suggest he shoot a video where he goes through her new crib and installs various fire safety equipment. “RAWSE!”

#1: RECORD AN ACTUAL DISS TRACK ABOUT 50 CENT
Out of all the things he could have dissed 50 about, we’re not sure why he chose to focus on him burning his baby mother’s house down. Was he scared to talk about all the real chinks in 50’s armor? Like, his canceled MTV reality show, getting outsold by Kanye, his numerous singles that have flopped, or his roster of failed G-Unit artists? Any and all of those would make great ammo for a follow up diss track. The man’s hard to beat, but he’s definitely not invincible.

ETTA JAMES NO LIKEY BEYONCE



Just when we thought Etta James may have been happy about Beyonce singing her song “At Last” for the President Obama and the First Ladies’ First Dance on Inauguration night, seems we were wrong. In a Seattle concert a few nights ago Etta popped off extra hard on Beyonce. She told the crowd: You know, YOUR President, the one with the big ears-he ain’t MY President–had that woman singing for him at his Inauguration. She’s going to get her a** whooped.”


She went on to say, “How dare Beyonce sing MY song that I been singing forever. Now I’m going to sing it for y’all….” Even the Seattle papers were shocked. I always knew Ms. Etta was fiesty thang, but damn. Somebody no likey Beyonce at all.