Jumping the Broom Screening and after party

The cast got together in Texas with producers T.D. Jakes and Tracy Edmonds

NEW Kelly Price

You are now Under Marshall Law

The war is on and no one is safe from it, you can run but you can't get away from it...The war you are wondering is the PLATFORM WAR. Ever tried to call someone and they did not answer,but text you back? How did that go over with you? Chances are not too well. But its reality, and what do you do with reality? Accept it. If not, hardship will follow. Truthfully speaking, it is not that serious, However I read in article in the AMNY which presented an entire forum for the debate over this sign of the times:

"For more than a century, almost everyone agreed that a phone call was the best and often only way to reach out and touch someone, to quote the Ma Bell commercials. But today, it’s our lives against countless inboxes as we jockey with various degrees of aggression and passivity to communicate in our preferred means: scratchy cell or high-fidelity land line phone calls, text messages, Twitter, Facebook, emails, Skype — why not throw in smoke signals and interpretive dance?'

'The individual with the most power in the professional or interpersonal hierarchy is the person who generally determines how a communication will occur, noted Gilbert Melott, founder and president of dog-ear labs, a GenY marketing firm. “If the boss only wants to communicate with you by PowerPoint, email and the morning meeting, those will be the three ways you communicate with him,” Melott pointed out. "(http://www.amny.com/urbanite-1.812039/platform-wars-how-technology-is-changing-the-way-we-talk-1.2845447)

think about that for a minute. I heard it said, "the Deejay controls the music that everyone dances to." I was fascinated by that analogy, and it made total sense. Generational divides aside, we have become slaves to technology and the chains are almost impossible to break away from. If you cannot adapt or cope you are lost.

Tip to Remember:

People more often than not feel overworked and under-compensated: However you can make a persons job easier, try it. Visual representation always work. If you can see it, you are less likely to forget.

Basquiat Presents....Dutch New York

Harlem representative by way of the Bronx, Dutch originally became enamored by music as a teen. Casually at first, became something more of a serious nature when encouraged by hip hop heavyweight Jadakiss, whom after hearing some bars, suggested that Dutch persue a career and not just do it recreationally. Coupled with his desire to obtain a better life and overcome his environment / the fast life, Dutch began to go hard.

A lyrical beast, quick witted, and unique delivery is what sets Dutch apart from his up and coming contemporaries; The young MC has been able to bless the hip hop community with a refreshing sound. A fierce work ethic landed him some more recognition and a place on Dame Grease's Vacant Lot Records roster. To date Dutch has had an impressive run on the mixtape circuit via his release "Katrina Flood". To his credit are a host of features, radio spins and show appearances; some of which include:

Real's Harlem Lounge
Club Speed
Sovereign Bank Arena Trenton, NJ
Overtime Concert

The question you might ask, what's next? For this budding star, more work, branding, and the desire to make hits, while leaving a footprint, not just exist.



Check out Dutch NY's catalog:








SINGLES:

(SIngles)
"Poppin Rubberbands"
http://omg.ly/Xy3N

"The Broadway Show"
http://hulkshare.com/3edcj3dpvk38

(mixtapes)
Katrina Flood
http://www.mediafire.com/?hbjdoxbk665u2kd

The Perfect Crime
http://www.mediafire.com/?9p843oz9xwv7gv4

Grind 101 and 102
Stack Land (hosted by Dj Delz)
http://www.mediafire.com/?mz3iyojn5tg

Wave Gang 5

Best of the Best


Fact is fact, there are rappers then there are artists, those whose passion for the craft take precedent. Dutch New York embodies that and more, if you didnt already, you know now.

the Ellsworth Bumpy Johnson E.P.

TRACKLISTING:

Track List
1.The One & Only (Produced By Alchemist)
2.Go Off (Produced By Sid Roams)
3.Black Devil (Produced By Sid Roams)
4.Twilight (Feat. Havoc) (Produced By Sid Roams)
5.For One Night Only (Produced By Alchemist)
6.Strong (Produced By King Benny)


Listen here: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/mixtape/id.1398/title.prodigy-the-ellsworth-bumpy-johnson-ep

the N.O.R.E.aster

TRACKLISTING:

1.Intro
2.N.O.R.E Shot Somebody prod. by Scram Jones
3.Like The Way feat. Pharrell prod. by Neptunes
4.Look At Me Now prod. by Cool & Dre
5.Animal Thug Skit
6.Stay Up feat. Juvenile prod. by SPK
7.Something That' feat. Masspike Miles
8.Warrior feat. Mysonne prod. by Hazardis Soundz
9.I Understand prod. by Kyze
10.Living My Life prod. by Digga
11.Queens Get The Money prod. by Hazardis Soundz
12.Stand Tall feat. Curren$y & Ace Hood prod. by Hazardis Soundz
13.Bottles Go Bang feat. Styles P prod. by Kyze

NEW MUSIC Yo Gotti

JILL SCOTT

TRACKLISTING:

« Eminem to Headline Lollapalooza’s 20th Anniversary Festival
New Music: Kat DeLuna – ‘Drop It Low’ »
Tracklisting: Jill Scott – ‘The Light of the Sun’



Jill Scott beams down the lineup for her fourth studio album The Light of the Sun, due June 28. The soulstress kicks it old school with fellow Philly native Eve on “Shame,” duets with Anthony Hamilton on the jazzy first single “So in Love,” and collaborates with the unlikely pair of Doug E. Fresh (“All Cried Out Redux”) and Paul Wall (“So Gone”). See the 18-song deluxe tracklisting below.


1. “Blessed”
2. “So in Love” feat. Anthony Hamilton
3. “Shame” feat. Eve and The A Group
4. “All Cried Out Redux” feat. Doug E. Fresh
5. “Le BOOM Vent Suite”
6. “So Gone (What My Mind Says)” feat. Paul Wall
7. “Hear My Call”
8. “Some Other Time”
9. “Making You Wait”
10. “Until Then (I Imagine)”
11. “Missing You”
12. “When I Wake Up”
13. “Womanifesto”
14. “Rolling Hills”
15. “The Light of the Sun”
16. “Love Soul Bounce” (Bonus)
17. “Quick” (Bonus)
18. “I Love You” (Bonus)

Independence Day

What your life like? Well Odd Futures is exactly the way they want it to be- freely creative. After being sought after by all the major labels, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All has decided to remain independent. They are currently in the process of inking a deal with RED Distribution/Sony to put out albums. This is big for the group as they will be able to release albums without sacrificing the content that has made them a phenomenon. As a true fan of artistry you have to take your hat off to anyone who is in the position to demand that conduct business and music their way. I salute.

According to manager Chris Clancy, the deal allows the West Coast crew to control their art and own their masters. “It’s based on getting the distribution deal we’ve always envisioned that allows the group to ‘sign themselves’ to their own company and keep their masters,” he told RapRadar. “They will have 100% creative control of all aspects of their music, art, and release schedule with no third party participation in outside business. Freedom and ownership was the whole point. RED and Sony know that it’s in everyone’s best interest to maintain the group’s authenticity and control,” he stated. “They built it, they deserve it. There’s no cheesy hooks or fluorescent liquor product placements in the works. … It’s about to be fun…and different.” (rap-up.com)

If you can't respect that your whole perspective is wack!

Bad Meets Evil

She can be my Pussycat doll any day

Check out the behind the scenes of Nicole Scherzinger's "Right There" feat 50 Cent:

Classic re-visited

What started as a mixtape is turning into a full fledge remake, by Souljah Boy and director Rage (“Crank That” and “Kiss Me Thru the Phone”) of the CLASSIC movie Juice; orginally starring Omar Epps and Tupac amongst others Rage and Souljah seek to re-enact with the help of Wacka Flocka and Cam'ron. In fact footage has already been captured in Atlanta. How much of a reality this becomes remains to be seen.

My first reaction to this was disbelieff, Souljah and Tupac should never be in the same conversation to be honest, but some crazier things have happened. We all know that the homey Cam'ron's catalog has some success movie wise (discount Killa Season, which I still have not seen). But all in all, a movie like Juice with Souljah as the lead, I dont know. The jury is still out.

“It’s basically the same thing. It’s just 2011,We’re gonna do it the right way, give the people something to look forward to, and just keep it positive.”

Easier said than done. The critics may never take his head off the chopping block if he messes this one up. GOOD LUCK.

WELCOME TO MY HOOD (REMIX)

Opinions....

Are like assholes, so they say but what if one can back up how they fee? Ultimately I will respect it if thats the case. In this instance, I may be a little bias but hey dont take my word for it, check out what Rico Love has to say:


“I love Teairra, She has such a crazy personality. I love the youthful, urban bounce to her voice. She’s been through a lot. She has a story to tell and I just want to show people that you grow. I think the consumer sometimes doesn’t give the artist the chance to go through what they go through and to grow. Public opinion is what makes or breaks artists in the music industry, but Rico isn’t allowing others’ negativity to cloud his vision. If I see something special in somebody, I don’t care what everybody else feels about them, I remember when I first started on Usher’s album [and people were] like, ‘Usher’s over!’ I’m like how is that even possible to say? He sold over 100 million albums. How is he over just because he had one album that wasn’t as successful as the other ones? If I see something that I believe in, I’ll work with an artist and I believe I could pull out the greatest in them. If it sells a million, I will love it. If it sells 20 copies, it’s still gonna be the best I feel like I could’ve done at that time with that artist.” (interview with rap-up.com)

Check out some footage of the two working together:

WORDS I NEVER SAID

Lupe, ever the out-spoken one, uses his second single off of Lasers to if not anything, share his thoughts. In his own words: "“It was more so me being this liberator, undercover agent who was sneaking into this prison to kinda rescue one of my comrades from the clutches of the evil people,There’s fight scenes and a whole lotta action. It’s very aggressive, but at the end I get the girl, so that’s all that counts.” (as told to Rap-up TV)

See for yourself:

Homage due?

when you really think about it, Rule has a point he did kind of pioneer this soulful spin on rap with the harmonizing, or rather melodious songs. 50 came out and used that as a platform for attack, then turned right around and re-enacted it. To date, Kanye West, Drake, and some others have made a mark doing so. Is Ja Rule correct in saying that some credit is due? Numbers dont lie, late 90s to early 2G's he had a headlock on sales. That tells a story in and of itself. According to Ja Rule:

“I always admit it. I’m a shallow singer. But I think that’s what attracted people to what I was doing, because I made you feel like you too could do this,” he explained. “I’m not blowing Luther Vandross notes over here! You could do what I’m doing.”

POINT TAKEN...FOR MORE OF THE INTERVIEW:

Ja Rule Recieves Wisdom From Supreme Regarding Prison Sentence

First part of your post goes here!

Rest of Entry goes here!

Spread Love. Live life. Be Inspired.

JIM JONES

Fabolous feat Red Cafe

Fabolous feat Red Cafe

NYC's Summer Concert Series

The City Parks foundation has released its roster for the Summer in the City free concerts. Check out the up and coming schedule....good music, no fee, can't beat that.


6/7, 7pm @ Betsy Head Memorial Playground
EPMD / Funkmaster Flex

6/8, 7pm @ Betsy Head Memorial Playground
Special Ed

6/15, 7pm @ Herbert Von King Park
Nice and Smooth / The Awesome 2

6/21, 7pm @ Red Hook Park
Talib Kweli

6/28, 7pm @ Soundview Park
Funkmaster Flex and special guests

7/12, 7pm @ Crotona Park
Slick Rick / DJ Brucie B

7/19, 7pm @ Queensbridge Park
Kool Moe Dee

7/21, 7pm @ Queensbridge Park
Funkmaster Flex and special guests

8/2, 7pm @ Tappen Park
The Sugarhill Gang

8/9, 7pm @ Marcus Garvey Park
Rob Base / Funkmaster Flex

8/21, 7pm @ Central Park/Mainstage
Rakim / EPMD / Funkmaster Flex

8/24, 7pm @ East River Park
Cold Crush Brothers

And the hits keep coming

Check out the boy Weezy posted up with the amazing J Lo...guest appearance on her new single.check it out here:

And Your Vote is....

This may be one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make...Two classic beauties...who rocked it better?

MAY 2011

Check out Idris Elba, who stars as THOR this summer, on the cover.

REGULATORS

Warren G pays homage to his comrade Nate Dogg, with some help from Latoya Williams:

COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU

June 17 – WaMu Theater – Seattle, WA
June 20 – Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE – Los Angeles, CA
June 23 – Valley View Casino Center – San Diego, CA
July 6 – Williamsburg Waterfront – Brooklyn, NY
July 7 – Mann Center – Philadelphia, PA

NEW MUSIQ

CAN I LIVE 2011

NEW Ludacris feat Slaughterhouse

SHE

“I’m a bad bitch, I’m a cunt/ and I’ll kick that ho... punt/ Force trauma, blunt/ Ya’ll in the back, bitch I’m in the front”

Wow! talk about a bold statement. I know that was a bit vulgar, however these are the words we as women and young girls repeat. Why? Well I’m gonna say it gives some women a sense of power. Power is something women have been struggling with since the beginning of time.


The role women have played and are continuing to contribute to society has been phenomenal. With this success into the workforce, home-life and the social circuit came a wave of independent women who see themselves just as strong if not stronger than men. The term “Pit-bull in a skirt” was something a lot of women adopted especially in hip-hop. Women started to see the attitudes that very successful men displayed and began to follow suit. Most successful men are deemed aggressive, rude, inconsiderate, and careless to feelings of their subordinates. As successful women started to dominate the work-force, this male-like attitude was adopted and the “bitch” was born.


As a small business owner, a lot of my friends have asked me this question with a glimpse of hope in their eyes; ...So are you a bitch at work? I always laugh at first because I can clearly see they want me to say yes. However, it then makes me evaluate the definition of the term Bitch. According to Webster’s Dictionary a bitch is (1) a female dog or fox (2) a woman regarded as bad-tempered and/or malicious. So according to the technical term of the word, I answer no. However the slang definition (as stated in Webster’s as well) of bitch is (1) anything especially difficult (2) to complain. I have to admit that taking to heart the slang definition, at times in my work environment yes I am, considered by others, a bitch. I can make things especially difficult for my staff and yes I will complain until something gets executed properly. Do I neccessarly want to take ownership of the term “bitch?” Absolutely not. I too grew up in the era where if someone were to call a female a bitch they probably got smacked. It was a very offensive term and it was used to demean a woman. Shari B. made a very good argument in her blog post and I too agree with her perspective. She believes that we as women should not embrace the bitch term and being aggressive and successful does not make you a bitch.


I think it is important in our environments today to know the boundaries of our attitudes. Growing up I remember elders in my family repeat “there’s a time and place for everything.” Today I believe that phrase should still apply. Being aggressive, head- strong, and independent is something that should be embraced and shared positively. Part of being a positive role-model to younger girls is in the attitude you display. As confident as we are to display aggression, drive, fearless and being assertive; we need to be just as confident to display love, nurture, and pure kindness to others especially other women. In most work environments there is always an opportunity for a woman in a higher position to execute being head-strong, aggressive and assertive. With that being said in most home and social environments that same opportunity is waiting for a woman to display acts of kindness, nurture, love and respect.


Best Regards,

Zee

Cool and Dre ink venture with Interscope

Heavy hitting Miami Producers Cool and Dre have inked a joint venture with Interscope Records, for their Epidemic Imprint. The first act to be released is Memphis Tennessee rapper, Don Trip, who hit big with Internet single "Letter to My Son." The 25-year-old, who is also co-signed with First Family Music, has been rapping since the age of 15. The second artist signed to Cool & Dre's Epidemic record label is K-Rose, an 18-year-old the reps for the producers described as "reminiscent of a young Janet Jackson."


Cool and Dre are hard at work on Rick Ross' new project, produced Lil Wayne and Game's Red Nation, as well as have cuts on THA CARTER IV

Still the QUEEN?

Since the beef between Nicki and Kim has ceased I guess Kim can get back to branding and business, dont you agree, check out some new pics. Not so HARDCORE, but a very good look.

SELF MADE EMPIRE

Ohio rapper Stalley has signed with Rick Ross' Maybach Music Group. The buzz in the street is that Ross is building an Empire. Question: Whats the last one that we've seen? Its been a while. Roc A Fella might be the last, and we all have seen how that ended. Resource: Death of a Dynasty, just in case you haven't learned. Well Ross has my support and admiration, I'm all about people uplifting themselves and branding. If Ross feels he has the blueprint, I support it. As far as the homey Stalley is considered, if you aren't familiar with him, get to know:








SUPPORT MAYBACH MUSIC!

With All Due Respect

Carmelo Anthony might have played one of the greatest games I have ever personally seeen with my own eyes. A few fall into that category which Im not exactly sure I viewed but I know are on that level; Kobe's 81, MJ's 69, Lebron's 50 against Detroit in the East Finals where he single handedly took Cleveland to the NBA Finals.

It is efforts like these that help clarify the distinguished category "SUPERSTAR". Superstars rise to the occasion, and true fans can appreciate that. As I watched the Celtics-Knicks game last night, the basketball purist in me made me fortunate to witness that display. When it comes to pure heart and desire, Carmelo displayed it all last night. A part of me wish I could run out on the court and grab a rebound or take a charge to help the cause. Thats love and basketball at its highest.

On the other hand I felt disgusted with the effort of the rest of the Knicks players whom showed no type of passion. (exception: Ronnie Turiaf) I am trying my hardest not to turn this into to a Knicks bashing segment, I love my city and the team. I appreciate what they have been able to accomplish this year but some things are just inexcusable. In order to take that step to the next level, the idea of moral victories has to become unacceptable.

I think that the Knicks owe it to Melo, and the city of New York to get their swag back this Friday, if not for anything- pride. The pride that one takes in playing the game they vowed their heart and life to.

THA CARTER IV OFFICIAL COVER

GUNZ n BUTTA

AVAILABLE NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CHAMILLIONAIRE: MAJOR PAIN 1.5

Major Pain 1.5 Tracklisting

1. Already Dead Intro
2. War to Your Door
3. Slow City Don
4. Slow It Down
5. Next Flight Up
6. Never Come Down BREAK***
7. This My World (feat. Big K.R.I.T.)
8. King Me
9. Chandelier Ceiling
10. Livin’ Better Now
11. Gotta Be the Baddest
12. Naked Man Skit (Roy Wood Jr.)
13. When Ya On (feat. Nipsey Hussle)
14. Think About It
15. My Toy Soldier
16. Stay Screwed ‘N’ Chopped
17. Forever Be a King Break
18. Tone for Life (Famous)
19. Wake Up Outro

Fabolous: The S.O.U.L Tape

AVAILABLE APRIL 21St

TRACKLISTING:

1. Pain / Fabolous / Produced by Santana & P-Thought
2. Wolves in Sheeps Clothing / Fabolous ft. Paul Cain
3. Really Tho / Fabolous / Produced by Teddy da Don
4. That’s Not Love / Fabolous ft. Lil Wayne / Produced by StreetRunner
5. Leaving You / Fabolous / Produced by Sonaro
6. In the Morning / Fabolous
7. Drugs (Do This to Me) / Fabolous ft. Paul Cain & Broadway / Produced by Broadway
8. Ya’ll Don’t Hear Me Tho / Fabolous ft. Red Café / Produced by Cardiak
9. Phone Numbers / Fabolous
10. Mo Brooklyn, Mo Harlem, Mo Southside / Fabolous ft. Vado & Lloyd Banks
11. Riesling & Rolling Papers / Fabolous
12. Slow Down / Fabolous ft. Trey Songz / Produced by DJ Swivel
13. PayBack Music / Fabolous ft. Freck Billionaire
Bonus: Look at Her (You Be Killin’ ‘Em Pt. 2) / Fabolous ft. Ryan Leslie & Ne-Yo

IN STORES MAY 24TH
TRACKLISTING:

1. Selfmade – Wale, Meek Mill, Pill, Rick Ross, & Teedra Moses
2. Tupac Back – Meek Mill feat. Rick Ross
3. 600 Benz – Wale feat. Rick Ross & Jadakiss
4. Pacman – Pill feat. Rick Ross
5. By Any Means – Wale, Meek Mill, Pill, & Rick Ross
6. Fitted Cap – Wale, Meek Mill, & Rick Ross feat. J. Cole
7. Rise – Pill, Wale, & Teedra Moses feat. CyHi the Prynce & Curren$y
8. That Way – Wale feat. Jeremih & Rick Ross
9. Ima Boss – Meek Mill feat. Rick Ross
10. Don’t Let Me Go – Pill feat. Gunplay
11. Pandemonium – Meek Mill feat. Wale & Rick Ross
12. Play Your Part – Wale feat. Meek Mill & Rick Ross
13. Ridin’ On Dat Pole – Pill
14. Big Bank – Pill, Meek Mill, Torch, & Rick Ross feat. French Montana
15. Running Rebels – Wale feat. Meek Mill & Teedra Moses

The "LOVE LETTER" TOUR

To support his certified gold "Love Letter" album R Kelly is touring this summer with Keyshia Cole and Marsha Ambrosius. Check the dates near you

“Love Letter” Tour Dates

June 2 – Southaven, MS – DeSoto Civic Center
June 3 – New Orleans, LA – UNO Lakefront Arena
June 4 – Mobile, AL – Civic Center
June 5 – Houston, TX – Toyota Centre
June 10 – Oakland, CA – Coliseum
June 11 – Los Angeles, CA – Nokia Theater L.A. Live
June 16 – Chicago, IL – Allstate Arena
June 17 – St. Louis, MO – Chaifetz Arena
June 18 – Kansas City, MO – Sprint Center
June 19 – Dallas, TX – Verizon Theater
June 24 – Raleigh, NC – RBC Center
June 25 – Atlanta, GA – Philips Arena
June 26 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC
June 29 – Cleveland, OH – CSU Wolstein Center
June 30 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
July 1 – Baltimore, MD – 1st Mariner Arena
July 2 – Washington, DC – Verizon Center
July 3 – Philadelphia, PA – Mann Music Center

MY GOD

ROLE REVERSAL by Zakiya

It seems that nowadays the traditional roles between men and women have done a complete 360 degree turnaround. Since when has men become so much more sensitive than the women, and women become so less connected with their ability to nurture that. In so many instances, women have turned callous. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying this with degradation to women. Bare in mind, I am one. I’m merely noting that the society we live in has lost something; That something being sophistication of concrete relationships.

I would like to thank all the many female revolutionaries. Today’s woman has a sense of pride and independence that is fun, sexy, and free. Why shouldn’t we love our freedom, embrace our beauty, and rejoice telling the world we live in just how fierce we are? Why should we feel tied down to anything or anyone except ourselves?
Unfortunately the byproduct of this has been cynical, sensitive men. Now I’m not talking about a “crybaby,” unfortunately I’m speaking of guys that have become so out of touch with women that they don’t really know how to communicate effectively with them. There is a huge gap between men and women when it comes to voicing the needs of one another. Sex is the common ground in my most humble opinion of course.

Sex is no longer a taboo topic. Its leisure, casual, and comes with absolutely no strings attached nowadays. A woman’s decency can be taken for the exchange of mental satisfaction. What I mean by that is the majority of men no longer have to do any footwork to bed a woman. As seen on reality in so many cases, one being "Jersey Shore", one my favorites I might add (trying not to be hypocritical). Mike” The Situation” Sorrantino as well as the others, can call a woman over at anytime of the night for sex. What’s worse is she like so many other women risk their decency for the satisfying thought that She pleased him (nationally might I remind you) and hoped he’ll call her back for another “good time.” It’s crazy!!!

NEW Killer Mike feat Jeezy

TIPS FOR LIVING:

METRONY, yes that Metro NY; the free paper distributed every morning by the train station. If thus far you have been avoiding it, let me give you reason to indulge. Metro can be very helpful in a variety of ways especially in Quality of Life areas.
Want some tips on how to make the most out of a job fair, check this out:


http://www.metro.us/newyork/life/article/831918--making-the-most-of-a-career-fair

WARNING: EDUCATED BLACK WOMAN

Women & Wordplay


"I am the Baddest Bitch." Females between the ages of four to eighty- four can be heard boasting this in every neighborhood, in every city, in every state. This phenomenon has spread like poison ivy and appears just as crude. Thanks to artists like; Lil' Kim, Trina and Nicki Minaj this statement has become even more glorified. We are in an era where women are not only happy but willing and competing to be the top female dog. In 1993, one could hear Queen Latifah's UNITY lyrics blasting from cars, houses and any nearby speaker. The first verse started "Instinct leads me to another flow/ Everytime I hear a brother call a girl a bitch or a ho/ Trying to make a sister feel low/ You know all of that gots to go..." Based on Latifah's lyrics, to call one a Bitch, why those were fighting words. To be called a Bitch was a slap in the face. Most importantly, to call one a Bitch would get you a slap in the face. What a difference a decade makes fore, those days seem to be over.

Throughout history, women have always fought for their right to be treated equally to men. Until 1920, with the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment, women could not vote in the United States of America! Black women suffrage activists such as; Ella Baker, Septima Clark, Rosa Parks,Fannie Lou Hamer and countless others have paved the way for the modern day woman. Women no longer have jobs and play roles that are strictly related to domesticated duties. Women are getting higher educations, fighting for countries, and managing Fortune 500 companies. To be Black and a woman has always been a challenging role in the United States. It is a constant battle to prove that you can get the job done just as right if not better than your male counterpart.

Similar to the way Blacks use the word "Nigger", women now embrace the term "Bitch" as a term of empowerment, endearment and authority.Many women have taken the term and used a positive spin on it. They feel proud to be called a bitch because that means they are being aggressive and getting the job done. This may be a direct correlation to why Black Women are often referenced as angry. This may also have to do with the exploitation of black women and the disrespect and disregard with the black woman's body.


Another serious consequence, is young girls can be heard referring to themselves as a Bitch and claiming it like a badge of honor. Do we want our daughters and nieces to feel equal to a female dog? Do we want them to believe that to be a Bitch is a great thing? Do we want to project this image on the leaders of tomorrow? Words and verbage are extremely powerful. The way one views the world, more importantly oneself, determines how the world and society will respond to them.

We should be enlightening these beautiful queens. Informing them that they have control of their thoughts and thier actions. They should know that it is not what they are called but what they respond to. They should know their history and know who they really are. It is the responsiblity of each individual to teach others not just by words but by actions. Black women come from a lineage of queens, mathematicians and scientists. It is by choice not chance that determines one's destiny. Instead of boasting about being a female dog women should glorify exactly what they are beautiful strong women.

How profound, poetic and powerful if instead of claiming to be the "Baddest Bitch" Women chanted "We birthed men. We birthed leaders. We birthed a nation. We are not Bitches, we are Strong Black Women."


Regards,
Shari B

A piece of My Mind

I was upholding my daily routine and checking in with Good Day New York, this morning and was taken back by some news which stated that the officer who shot the young man whom was a student at Pace University, was honored by the Union with "Policeman of the Year". If you arent familiar with the story, read up on it here:


http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2011/04/14/2011-04-14_cops_honor_officer_in_pace_shoot.html


Im gonna try and remain as politically correct, or diplomatic as possible as I express my frustration with this matter. How do you priase someone who acted in such a manner, the young man was not armed, nor acting in commission of a crime. Its not bad enough that as always the officers in question were vendicated, but to add insult to injury, they're praised. I heard it said best by Steve Harvey, " Harm a dog, get 2 years in prison, kill a black man go free.' (referencing the Michael Vick case.) What I am left to ask is why? As soon as something happens to another ethnicity or sub-group of Americans, there is an outrage (ie Kobe Bryant being fined 100K for the lipreading.) Now I dont condone offending anyone or not respecting the freedoms outlined in the constitution, what I do mind is the lack of universal reprimand. How many times does it have to happen, before raparations are applied. At thie point in time, the term reparation may not be the ideal term, but I hope you get the gist of my rage.

Could it be our(african americans) lack of protest that leads it to be that we are victimized at such an alarming rate when it comes to these types of matters. Let us do wrong, we will get our 15 minutes. A beat is never missed when it is time to exert or perpetuate public opinion by applying nicknames, and criminal background to any article involving one of ours. I just laugh. But the humor is slowly fading, and another feeling emerging.

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