Now that the NBA season is back, some teams are having a tremendously hard time adjusting to the pace of the consolidated NBA season, most notably the Dallas Mavericks who are the top of the list of underachievers running neck and neck with the Los Angeles Lakers. Still it comes as no surprise, an obvious result of the near 5 month lockout. The condensed schedule provided teams with roughly 10 days to prepare for a whirlwind of games, including the almost never seen back-to-back-to-back games.
The 2011-2012 Dallas Mavericks have suffered through the first three games of the season. In my personal opinion their tribulations are the product of bad karma; Karma that is a by-product of bad personnel decisions which include the loss of defensive anchor Tyson Chandler, as well as its best one-on-one perimeter defender Deshawn Stevenson; and energy guy JJ Barea leaving town. To say the least, the Mavs have looked old. Not only has age caught up Jason Kidd and Dirk, but Lamar Odom has not gotten on track yet after being thrust into a starting role after only being with the team for about 2 weeks. To say that it will take the Mavs some time to get it together is an understatement. More importantly the question becomes, is that time available? Before you know it the All-Star game will be among us. The trade deadline will come and go with presumably minimal involvement by the Mavs, as they do not have much to offer any other team in return. The light at the end of the tunnel for the Mavs is the salary cap space that they have, which will be available this coming summer to entice the likes of Dwight Howard and Deron Williams.
For now, the fans of the organization can and will enjoy the days of last summer as they saw their team fight tooth and nail for its first NBA crown, wondering if the Mavs can emulate former dynasty's like the San Antonio Spurs and Lakers who have in recent times been able to hoist multiple trophies, is realistic for their team. In this time of Holiday spirit let me not play Scrooge, but if the first 3 games of the season are any indication, I do not see it happening. What I do see is an inevitable rebuilding process that will begin with the free agent class of Summer 2012.
On the other hand the Miami Heat's future is NOW and every game played thus far has been proof. Their most recent game against Boston showed just how lethal that combination of Lebron and D. Wade can be. Furthermore, with clutch shooting and fearless play such as what they have been getting from rookie Norris Cole I can see why Vegas has listed 9-5 odds that the Heat will win this year's ring.
It seems that while a lot of people took the NBA lockout for a joke and were at home preserving themselves, players like Kevin Durant, Melo, Lebron, CP3, D Wade, and the big dog Deondre Jordan have been prepping and it shows in their play, as all of their teams are off to fast starts. And to think, Chris Bosh hasn't even begun to bring his A game. His play has been modest, but let us not forget that he is a proven star and when the lights come on this Spring look for him to make the Big 3 go.
Rounding out my three the hard way is the New York Knicks. Their recent moves, dating back to trading for Melo mid way through last season, has provided a ray of hope to New York City fans. As a lifelong Knick fan (yes, I rep my city) it’s like a breath of fresh air to be able to turn to MSG and be enthused about the Knicks. The last time I can remember the Garden being this alive, #33 was still in the mix. Gone are the days of Allan Houston's sweet stroke, but Melo, Tyson Chandler and STAT have given the Big Apple something to be thankful for this holiday season. I'm not going to go out on the limb and put too much pressure on the team, or put my foot in my mouth but I will say that the Knicks will be something to deal with for years to come, if they can pull it all together, learn each other, and execute. That in and of itself is something to applaud.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Excuses, or a Blueprint?
How ironic is this, I made a statement the other day that it may be over for Fab when it comes to putting out albums, and that the rest of his days as a rapper may be better served with mixtapes, and features. To that I was informed that, " He is better on features now a days." I thought about that one, and had to agree. It seems that in this current market, fabolous is content with dropping 1 mixtape a year and riding that tape to show money. I will be the first to admit that you can't knock him for it, but at the same time where does that leave his legacy? to go from a platinum seller to a mixtape award nominee. Yes we all know that the market is very different BUT there remains a class of artist who can and have stand the test of time. Not to burden Fab with the TOP 5 conversation, but i would put him in a category of second tier artists, and not to mention a class of success. To date every one of his albums if I am not mistake has gone at the very least Gold, before the collapse of sales.
Has punchline rapping ran its course? It would seem so. My substantiation- both Fabolous, and Lloyd Banks, whom are arguably the poster childs for punchline raps, are at stalemates when it comes to putting out albums. Mixtapes are cool, but leave that to those who are in that lane, or are just using it to keep momentum leading up to an album; similar to what Rick Ross and Lil Wayne does. Not to put either of those artists in their categories (top of the game) but I think you see my point. Without a doubt both 'There is No Competition II' and 'Soul Tape' have taken on a life of their own, but where are the albums? i'd rather there be clarity and admit to us, that you dont have the backing for it right now, or the material; Its one or the other.
If you disagree, I would love to hear it. For now, consider fabolous' explanation:
Has punchline rapping ran its course? It would seem so. My substantiation- both Fabolous, and Lloyd Banks, whom are arguably the poster childs for punchline raps, are at stalemates when it comes to putting out albums. Mixtapes are cool, but leave that to those who are in that lane, or are just using it to keep momentum leading up to an album; similar to what Rick Ross and Lil Wayne does. Not to put either of those artists in their categories (top of the game) but I think you see my point. Without a doubt both 'There is No Competition II' and 'Soul Tape' have taken on a life of their own, but where are the albums? i'd rather there be clarity and admit to us, that you dont have the backing for it right now, or the material; Its one or the other.
If you disagree, I would love to hear it. For now, consider fabolous' explanation:
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Cynthia Does Denim
The Magazine that is. I wonder if they wouldve asked about the rumors of Peter and Nene having a pre-existing relationship. If thats true, man, I would love to be in attendance when that *expletive* hits the fan.
Check out footage of the lovely Miss Bailey also:
Love & Hip Hop's Emily B in Kontrol Magazine
They say that the homey Fab got his mind right for the holidays and came up with a good gift for the misses, a matching Rolex, to go with his. #GOODMOVE. Their relationship problems have been promoted any and everywhere, especially on Love&HipHop; Rather than prey on the negative, I'd like to support the positive and keep the chain going of their official rekindle. I wonder if any of her recent stardom and power move making was a reality check. Check out the lovely Emily B here in her Kontrol magazine shoot:
MMG- Rich Forever VideoShoot
Check out some behind the scenes to the video shoot for the title track to Rick Ross' forthcoming mixtape....'Rich Forever' the Mixtape Coming Soon!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Rihanna ROLLING STONE Magazine Outtakes
I've been in denial for quite some time in terms of putting Rihanna in her rightful spot of top 5 in the game today, up there with the Beyonces and Myas of the world. But I think I just may have come across something that has put things in the proper perspective. So with no further adue the justification of Rihanna's TOP 5 DEAD OR ALIVE STATUS:
Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Rick Ross- Talk that Talk
Check our Rick Ross over Rihanna and Jay'z Teflon Nights
TEFLON NIGHTS MIXTAPE COMING SOON
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
And another one......
I was watching some footage last week of the "Bad Boy NYC takeover" last week that was filmed on In Flew We Trust up at Hot 97 studios, and French Montana said something that made a lot of sense to me. When asked why would he pick Bad Boy and Diddy over some of the other opportunities that lay in front of him, he replied "I got to hang out with Diddy and learn him, with that I was able to overcome and look past the rumors" WELL SAID. At the end of the day the way that you know a person,and the bond that develops is the true testament of your opinion of someone. Can't always listen to the rumors. As he elaborated, French Montana went on to praise Diddy for being about the checks coming in. If by chance you doubted it all, check out this NIKE clip, and do remember French Montana was not always getting looks like this. I guess it really is Bad Boy Forever. Shout out to French Montana for getting his checks up..
Crooks and Castles Holida 2011
For all the certified #FLYBOYS check out the Crooks and Castles Holiday collection:
Crooks & Castles Holiday 2011 Collection: Video Look Book from Crooks & Castles on Vimeo.
Monday, December 19, 2011
BasquiatMind Presents....Yung Stud Life CEO Leek Yoba
Basquiat: Explain to people a little bit about ur background which is considered one of the 1st families in entertainent amongst Black America
Leek Yoba: I say that due to the fact that my family is already imbedded in the entertainment industry. From acting, to marketing, styling, broadcasting, to name a few fields. With that experience, I feel as though this arena is nothing new to me. My uncle, actor Malik Yoba, paved the way for the Yoba's to explore our talents and share them with the world. Now it's MY TURN! . With the Harlem Hip Hop scene up in the air, I'm not hesitant at all to step up and claim my throne as a Harlem king. My formula is to work hard, and I'm sure that I will enjoy the fruits of that labor.
Basquiat:Outside of music what other ventured do you have going on?
Leek Yoba: Aside from music I have a lot going on. I'm definitely getting it popping in the event scene. With the upcoming "Hustle Hard Ball 2012", I'm sure to make a mark on the social world as well. Sponserd by the Destined For Greatness Foundation the HHB2012 will be the largest hip-hop n r&b event yet to take place in West Palm Beach, FL area. It will include live performances from South Florida's favorite son of hip hop Ace Hood, and of course Harlem's own Leek Yoba. With the love the newest single Ready to Fly is recieving, I'm establishing a position which will allow me to make my mark in the music industry. This feel good record for the ladies has male and female fans alike Ready to Fly and anticipating whats next from me.
Basquiat: You've lived on both sides of the map L.A. And New York if you had to sum up the experiences of both how would u?
Leek Yoba: Yes I have lived on both coasts. Both in New York and L.A. , and I feel like the music I make definitely attest to that. With musical influences from NY to LA the sound is distinctive yet broad, and will appease fans from East to West and in between. With the Hustle of New York and Cali swag combined, my sound is no doubt unique and to be watched for.
Basquiat: Tell us about Young Stud Life Music Group?
Leek Yoba: Young Stud Life Music Group is the label I started based on an already established culture. YSL gang is my fam. YSL is a movement, which simply incorporates being a real man at all times in whichever field you are in, or whatever it is that you do. A Stud, to us signifies, a leader. One who lives with HONOR, RESPECT, and is about forward progress in a positive manner. Of course we love of the ladies, and good music is what YSL is all about.
Basquiat: What seperates you from other artists?
Leek Yoba: I feel like what seperates me from other artists is that, for one thing, I am actually good at writing music! Not to be overly cocky, but I feel like that there's so much garbage out there. To each his own but I'm definitly gonna clean $h*t up. I came up on music that had subsatnce, music where u actually had to be good to rock.
Basquiat: Where can the people contact you in terms of features, bookings, and such?
Leek Yoba: You can find me on Facebook as Leek Yoba, follow me on twitter @Leek_Yoba, visit my page leekyoba.com or yslmusicgroup.com. For bookings, features etc, hit me at 855.STUDLIFE.
Friday, December 16, 2011
The Art of Celebration
Ciroc Boys stand up! Check out the mogul himself "Diddy" showing everyone how to celebrate. In case you are not in the know, the ratpack is alive! #TOAST
Thursday, December 15, 2011
BasquiatMind Presents.....Shawn Rch AKA Richlyrics
With his penning of many hits as well as his vocal skills, Shawn Rich has fortified his existence in today's music game; His work ethic undoubtedly ensures longevity, as he refuses to not excel. "For me its all about the grind, the work that you put in to get what you want. It comes as second nature at this point, and I feel I have the blueprint for success." To know him, or to watch him you have no choice but to agree.
His latest venture further proves his hunger, and his goal of expanding his marketability. HIs foray into the fashion industry, with Richwearz, Inc. is the substantiation of Shawn Rich as an easily identifiable and quality brand. Slated for unveiling Spring 2012, the brand itself is, as described by Rich "My way of supplying the public with what I believed to be missing- authentic style." If current success is any indication expect Richwearz to be just as great.
Basquiat: What drew you towards the art of songwriting:
Richlyrics: Well I grew up in a very musically-oriented household, much like anyone else, you can think back to family members playing music on the weekends, and at gatherings so the art has always been in me. Also my grandmother Josephine was a poet and she always encouraged me to put the pen to paper. The one thing she said that stuck with me was to write from my heart.
Basquiat: At what point did you know it was your calling?
Richlyrics: Well I used to kick the songs to females, and close friends. They all were supportive so I knew I had a shot you know. Over time that shot grew into a real passion, to the point where I feel like today I have good music for the people. Songs that they need to hear! Ive been writing songs since about 14 years old, and I take my craft very serious and Im always looking for new challenges and ways to make my material more insightful and identifiable to the office.
Basquiat: What is your niche as a songwriter?
Richlyrics: Without a doubt its making people feel how I feel. When I write a song, I make sure it comes from my heart, into the heart of my listeners. My things is to be honest about who I am and what i do, and I remind others to do the same. I think thats the blueprint for great music.
Basquiat: I understand that you are more than just an artist, you have other ventures going on, can you tell us about it?
Richlyrics: For sure. In addition to songwriting, I also have a clothing line coming out this spring, that I want the people to be looking out for. Its called richwearz. You can see samples on my website: richlyrics.com as well as the richwearz website is coming soon.
Basquiat: Whats the vibe behind the clothing?
Richlyrics: Well I just felt like I wanted to give the world clothes that they could feel good in while wearing them you know. First Impression is everything, I take my appearance very serious and I wanted to give the public a way to do the same; And be authentic doing it. Also its just about expanding my brand, the name Shawn rich, and myself as a businessman. Ambition is what I am all about.
Basquiat: When exactly is the launch?
Richlyrics: We're working on it for early Spring you know so we can set 2012 up right for the people, with everyone looking good. Right now, you can catch various people wearing it, and we are currently taking pre-orders so if you're interested please contact me.
Basquiat: Give the people your contact so if they want to get at you
Richlyrics: Definitely, definitely for all those who are interested, i'm all about business and progress. Please contact me. Check out my website: RICHLYRICS.COM; also follow me on twitter: @richlyrics. Lets network, and support the arts and the culture.
Basquiat: Any thing else you wanna say to the people
Richlyrics: I just want to give a shout out to the entire #richlyrics team, we're definitely working hard to give the public authentic and quality products. Please support us as we get out our dreams.
For More on Shawn Rich and Richwearz clothing, be sure to check out:
www.richlyrics.com
www.richwearz.com
Follow him on twitter: @richlyrics
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Meet Dea
Climbing the Canadian Hip Hop/Pop and R&B scene with force, Dee at the young age of 9 began serenading her friends and family with her impressive voice. Originally from small town Georgetown, Ontario, Canada her passion for singing Hip Hop/Pop & R&B music and dancing evolved into an inspiring talent which continues to blossom. During her Grade 3rd-5th year she joined the choir club where she demonstrated competency for the ukulele guitar, drums, guitar and vocals. Her inspirations for music were initiated by her families’ misadventures, which shaped and transformed her as a person and her talents as music became her surviving outlet and outlook on life. She has proven to be strong, driven and eager individual by her dedication and determination to prove that any boundaries in life are limitless. During her teenage years, her passion for music transpired into songwriting and poetry and she continues to write music currently in production. At the age of 16, She pursed vocal training at famous Canadian Academy of Music Vocals a renowned academy where artists like Shania Twain once attended. The honest consistency and conviction in Dee's lyrics mixed with the softness of her fragile voice and will give you chills. Her determination is uncanny and without doubt a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Her single "Pillow" Feat. Jstaffz has people all over singing over. She is truly a star in the making, and this is just the beginning.
Basquiat: How comparable is the Canadian Music Scene to that here in the US?
Dee: Well the music scene in the States Vs. Canada is not comparable at all. For one, the population difference makes for a larger audience in the states equaling a greater market response BUT we make due.
Basquiat: I understand you gravitated towards music at a very early age of 9, is that correct? What about music compelled you to do so?
Dee: I have music in my family. Back home (Lebanon) my mothers cousin is actually "Ramy Ayash" who is big back there. I started a lot younger than most. When I first fell In love with music, I used to hold a comb and pretend I was Marah Carey. lol. What really pushed me was not really having my parents around. I turned to music to guide me, and as I progressed I wanted to do the same for kids who feel like there's no one listening, or understanding them.I am an example to show them that they are capable of anything.
Basquiat: You are an instrumentalist as well?
Dee: Yes I am, I actually play the guitar. Also I used to play the drums/ ukulele back in elementary school, but I'm not too sure how amazing I would be right now lol
Basquiat: What is the greatest inspiration for your music? what are some of your muses?
Dee: To be honest I get inspired by a lot of things. I am always working to create something amazing. I get influenced by listening to amazing talents such as The Beatles, or Stevie Wonder; some Marvin Gaye, or Michael Jackson. They all allow me to set my goals higher. On the other hand listening to Mozart and Beethoven, clears my mind, and helps me write.
Basquiat: What are your strongest qualities as a person?
Dee: I would have to say my Persevereance and Strength. I might look fragile, and sound fragile but I'm Very hard to break down. Also I must add that I have a big heart, and I will never be judgemental.
Basquiat: Do you ever write a song and end up being selfish, wanting to keep it to yourself?
Dee: No, If I have something I wrote, I usually want to share with the world. I'm not afraid to show how I feel.
Basquiat: What makes you unique as an artist?
Dee: I would have to say my sound, I have a very soft Voice. My birthmark is also very unique, Its right in the center of my neck and you cant miss it! But most of all, I have had a lot of life experiences, and although I'm young I can relate to anything emotionally,
Basquiat: Tell us about your single "Pillow" whats the concept?
Dee: Pillow was just a random song. Producer "Jstaffz" actually wrote the song for me. We were just hanging out, vibing, and magic happened.
Basquiat: Where can the people get in touch with you?
Dee: Definitely on Social Media Outlets. You can Follow me on Twitter : @MusicByDee and support me and my music
Drake announces Club Paradise tour
The Club Paradise Tour – North American Dates
Feb. 14 – Miami, FL – BankUnited Center
Feb. 15 – Gainesville, FL – Stephen C. O’Connell Center
Feb. 17 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
Feb. 18 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center
Feb. 21 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena
Feb. 22 – Lexington, KY – Rupp Arena
Feb. 24 – Tallahassee, FL – Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center
Feb. 25 – New Orleans, LA – UNO Lakefront Arena
Feb. 27 – Austin, TX – Frank Erwin Center
Feb. 28 – Oklahoma City, OK – Chesapeake Energy Arena
March 1 – Kansas City, MO – Sprint Center
March 2 – Arlington, TX – College Park Center
March 4 – Tucson, AZ – Tucson Arena
March 5 – Los Angeles, CA – Galen Center
March 8 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center
March 10 – San Jose, CA – Event Center
March 11 – San Diego, CA – Viejas Arena
The Club Paradise Tour – European Dates
March 24 – Dublin, Ireland – O2 Arena
March 26 – London, UK – London 02 Arena
March 29 – Sheffield, UK – Sheffield Motorpoint Arena
March 30 – Cardiff, UK – Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
April 1 – Manchester, UK – Manchester MEN Arena
April 2 – Glasgow, Scotland – Glasgow SECC – Hall 4
April 5 – Paris, France – Palais Omnisport de Bercy
April 7 – Brussels, Belgium – Forest National / Vorst Nationaal
April 8 – Amsterdam, Holland – Heineken Music Hall
April 10 – Frankfurt Germany – Jahrhunderthalle
April 12 – Berlin, Germany – Max Schleming Halle
April 13 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Valby Hallen
April 15 – Stockholm, Sweden – Ericsson Globe
April 16 – Oslo, Norway – Oslo Spektrum
April 19 – Birmingham, England – Birmingham LG Arena
April 22 – Liverpool, England – Liverpool Echo Arena
April 23 – Newcastle, England – Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
April 25 – Nottingham, England – Nottingham Capital FM Arena
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Eddy Curry to Sign with the Miami Heat
The Miami Heat, in search of weighs to bolster their lineup and get over the hump are set to take a chance with a roster spot and contract for Former New York Knicks Center Eddy Curry. The childhood prodigy, High School Superstar, if you remember was selected in the lottery of the 2001 NBA draft with the 4th pick by the Chicago Bulls. With a career average of 13 points, stat wise Eddy Curry is nothing short of a formidable and very serviceable big man, last starring for the Knicks, averaging 19.5 ppg in the 2006 season.
In more recent times tragedy and disappointment has struck for the 7'0" former manchild from the Chicago area; A Sexual harassment suit from his former chaffuer, and the untimely deaths by way of homicide for his daughter and ex-girlfriend. To say that he has had to deal with a lot is an understatement, all the while dealing with cardiac problems, as well as chronic problems as it pertains to trying to get into basketball shape. At one point in recent times, Eddy Curry had ballooned to well over 325 pounds which is a far cry from his playing(efficiently, that is) weight of about 280 lbs.
Despite these road blocks, redemption is within reach for Eddy, as the Miami Heat who have flirted with the idea for much of this year, are reportedly going to take a leap of faith and sign him to a deal. Miami itself has a need, as its frontcourt has been dessimated by the departure of Jamaal Magliore, not to mention age catching up with Juwan Howard and Erick Dampier; both of whom were not the presence that Miami needed during its finals match up with the Dallas Mavericks this past June.
Will Eddy Curry be the answer? Only time will tell. His trainer, Tim Glover, this past October was reported as saying that Eddy is in "great shape" (according to cbssports.com) and was projected to be ready to join a roster when the lock out ended. Well the time is now, and may not be revisited if Eddy doesnt step up to the plate. How more fitting can it be to have the opportunity to make an impact on a title contender, alongside the big 3 in South Beach
Monday, December 5, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
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