In the heat of the night...

So I am playing around with the GarageBand application on my new Macbook and I happen to record myself singing the first verse to one of my favorite songs, "Seven Days", by Mary J. Blige. This is the first song that I learned all of the words to, purposely. This was because, not only did I love the song to death, but I actually understood what the lyrics meant at a young age (how proud I was lol).

So I just had to look up this video and share it with you all. In this video, Mary looks so beautiful, relaxed and calm. I can't help but to think of all of the things that she dealt with prior to her "Share My World" album when I look at this video, and I get so happy to think of how far Mary has come. She looks absolutely stunning in this video, a far way from the broken-hearted girl that she was in her "Real Love" and "My Life" days.

So this song is tributed to all of my smooth-groove lovers out there, and most importantly, my MJB fans out there! On the late night tip! Peace and love! ♥

Beauties of the week...

I came across this photo via bglhonline.com and I was just in awe and amazed by these three young ladies.

The Caribana Festival popped off in Toronto, Canada a couple weekends ago, which is a festival that celebrates Caribbean culture in all forms. A young lady by the name of Eniola, who is a rising fashion designer and featurette of bglhonline.com, went to the event and took pictures of the many beautiful Black people of Toronto with natural hair. This happened to be one of the photos and the beauty of these three women is captivating to me. Their style, sassiness and all was just inspiring to me. I just love to see Black women doing their own thing, naturally. And to me, these are the beauties of the week. Please check the link to see more pictures from the event, from what I heard, it was pretty live.

So to all of my beautiful Black Queens out there, keep doing ya thang! Big up yaself!
Have a great weekend, everybody! Roll it! ♥



Eniola's fashion blog: Creationdavid
bglhonline.com: Natural hair at Caribana 2010

Staying strong...

I just feel the need to send some positive vibrations and major love to Fantasia Barrino. I don't think that I really need to explain why, because it is all over the news. I am just so tired of seeing this happening to Black women in the industry (Whitney Houston, Phyllis Hyman, Florence Ballard ). We gotta hold each other up, but it seems like just the opposite is happening. I pray that this woman gets her strength back and puts the right people in her circle and not just those who want to leech off of her. Learn to do for yourselves people, no one can help you but you. I hope that you all are having a great week, many blessings and love to you all! ♥

RIP Baatin

If you don't know who Baatin is of the Hip Hop group Slum Village...Then there is a problem. This man had an impeccable style, ridiculous flow and beautiful spirit. Today marks one year since his passing and Hip Hop lovers all over the world are sending him praises. He was born in Detroit, Michigan and there he met two other dudes from around the way, T3 and J Dilla, and created one of the greatest Hip Hop groups of all times. Being that I was just in Detroit last weekend and I was able to get a feel for the city that I always had so much respect and love for, musically, it was only right that I pay tribute to this great man.

We miss you, Baatin! We will continue to RAISE IT UP! Peace and ♥

P.S. Slum Village just released their new album, Villa Manifesto, last Tuesday which includes material from T3, Dilla, Baatin and Elzhi...Simple amazing!

The Color Purple

So there is no coincidence why purple is one of my favorite colors, why the name of this blog is "Inna Leigh's out of Her Mind and in Purpleskyyys" and why the movie The Color Purple is one of my favorite movies (lol)....Well, its a color that is just so powerful to me. It has various meanings; it can mean royalty, it is the last color of the color spectrum and represents the crown chakra.......But to me, its just a color of freedom, love and all good and positive things wrapped into one.


I came across this awesome National Geographics article last night called Life in Color: Purple. This article shows pictures from different places all over the world that have a hint of purple in them; they are simply amazing. The picture above was taken in Tasmania on an ancient bridge built in the early 1800s.....Cool right? There are more purple pic included on the link below.

Life in Color: Purple- National Geographics

And to my people who may be fans of other colors, please don't get discouraged....They have amazing pictures of red, yellow, green and everything else. So if you are as into colors and scenery like me, please check out these cool articles. National Geographics is awesome.

Well, I hope you all have an amazing weekend. I will be attending Macy's Cincinnati Jazz Festival all weekend. I will be seeing acts that range from Charlie Wilson, Erykah Badu to Raheem DeVaughn....So you know that im excited right? And with all of this color talk, let me end this post with a very COLORFUL video. Take care, yall! Peace ♥

LIL KIM - CRUSH ON YOU from LA BELLA SOUL on Vimeo.

Mmmhmmm......I'm feelin' this one...

Flying Lotus is one peculiar artist, but in a very magical and artistic way. I just came across his new video for his single "Mmmhmm" off of his latest album Cosmogramma that dropped earlier this year. The groove is undeniable. It takes me to a higher level, automatically. The video is like a kaleidoscope of a whole bunch of unearthly things that are weird, but oh so lovely at the same time. The fellow singing on this song is an artist named Thundercat and his vocals just add to the flava of the flow. Flying Lotus has been out for years, and being the nephew of the great John Coltrane just adds to his musical genius. His music is a mix of jazz, r&b, techno mixed all together into one......And it is simply amazing!

Feel the funk yall, this is for all of my futuristic lovers out there! Enjoy! ♥

Flying Lotus - Mmmhmm (2010)

Flying Lotus's: website

Inspiration....

Recently, I have been on hiatus....Doing a little soul-searching and finding out more about myself and my creative side. And through this, I found that art, which has always been inspiring to me, is something that I absolutely love. I came across a great artist named Regina Agu a couple of weeks ago and her art is truly one-of-a-kind. It is a breath of fresh air and it is very whimsical and dreamy in my opinion. One of her pieces that directly inspired me is the one to the left of this post (click to enlarge).

As soon as I saw this simple drawing of a young man floating into air...I was in love. It is something very free and happy about this drawing. Don't we all wish that we could just dance around and do whatever we want at times without being judged or looked at in a weird way? Well I know that I do....And to make a long story short, after seeing this I was inspired to create a short story about a young boy based off of this picture. This is the first time that I have EVER written a short story, but why not try something different to see where it leads you right?

Artist Jesse Lott and Regina Agu

I have recently shared with Regina my love for her work and the inspiration that this piece in particular has given me and I am waiting to hear from her. Once edited, I may post the story up for you all. Possibly may even share it with the world on another level. I suggest that you all check out more of Regina's work, it is truly amazing.

Have a blessed week guys, one love! ♥

Regina Agu's:
Flickr
Website
Twitter

Prettiest thing EVER...

So it was love at first sight when I laid my eyes on this beautiful purse. And you might ask, who this purse belongs to...no one but the 1 and only, Kelis. At her album release party in NYC on Wednesday, she rocked this stone-studded pocketbook that matched her dress perfectly. I am SO feeling this bag and I really would love to have it (I already know it costs a fortune, but there is nothing wrong with admiration). She has not announced who created this purse or her lovely dress, hopefully she will tell because it is bangin'.

I hope you all enjoy looking at it as much as I do. And I must say that Kelis indeed looked like "The Boss" that she is on this night that was dedicated to her. Go, Kelis! Love ya 4eva!
Peace, yall! ♥

P.S. Her new album, Fleshtones is out....COP DAT!

Kelis - 4th Of July (Official Music Video) from 233004095 on Vimeo.

We'll always remember you...

Harvey Fuqua, singer, songwriter, producer and mentor to the incredible Marvin Gaye passed away July 6, 2010 at the age of 80. Fuqua was a member and the lead singer of the legendary R&B/Doo Wop group, The Moonglows. They were a big hit during the wave of rock-n-roll that was rockin' America in the 1950s, with hit songs such as "Sincerely" and "See Saw". In the late 1960s, he became an executive at Motown Records in their Artist Development sect at the request of Berry Gordy. There, he made musical magic with many of the great artists that were a part of this label such as, Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrel, Junior Walker, The Marvelettes and many more.


Not only did he groom artists like The Supremes, The Temptations, Junior Walker and the All Stars and The Four Tops, he produced songs like "Sexual Healing" for Marvin Gaye and "You Make Me Feel" by Sylvester. Fuqua truly does not get all of the respect and props that he deserves for how he built up what we would call the music business for African American entertainers. We salute you Harvey Fuqua and your work will always be appreciated.

More on Harvey Fuqua: Billboard.com

New Music Tuesdays: Big Boi is doing it BIG!

So the day has finally arrived. It has been a long time coming for us Outkast fans who have been waiting for one half of the group to come out with a mixtape or even one unofficial single. But the buzz of Big Boi dropping a new album got his fans excited months ago, and we knew that he wouldn't let us down with this one.

Today Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty has officially been released and I am so excited. After listening to a couple of the leaked songs (ooops :-) on the internet weeks ago and viewing his video for his first single off of the album, Shutterbug, I knew that this album would be classic material. With Big, you can always expect him to incorporate a funky, out of this world type of sound to his music....while still having that dirty south hip-hop twang to it. And this album is just that and more! I am so excited that week after week many Hip Hop albums have been dropping this summer, and Big Boi is just putting icing on the cake with this one.

Go support this album, yall! If you are looking for some good music to listen to while trying to cool off on these hot days ahead, pick up Sir Lucious today! You won't regret it.
Have a great day, peace yall! ♥






Big Boi's website

If the shoe fits, wear it...

Especially if they are Billionaire Boys Club sneakers!



BBC has unveiled their new low-top sneaker for their Fall/Winter 2010 collection and I must admit that I would cop these if I was a dude. I really love them because they are simple, canvas shoes....But they are still very different in their own way. You could rock these with almost anything; they would give your average outfit a dope/street feel. They kind of remind me of shoes that you would see people in California wear or maybe its just me lol.




Anyways, I think they are hot. And mostly anything that Pharrell Williams is rocking will sell to the masses. Its great to see him modeling again, lookin' hot and fly as ever.
Ya feelin' it? ♥

Billionaire Boys Club website

A weekend of great surprises...

It is indeed the end of the week guys and you know what that means, WEEKEND TIME! Plus, the fourth of July will be on Sunday so there will be many things going on ALL over the U.S. Although July 4th isn't much of a day to celebrate to me, it is a time that you are able to cookout, relax and be with family and friends. Also, my sister's birthday and a couple other family members birthdays land within this week so I have alot to be excited about.

So I hope that whatever you all do, please be safe and celebrate GOOD TIMES! And remember one thing, have fun!
Blessings and love! Peace ♥

New Music Tuesdays: The Choice is Yours!

So many of us music lovers complain about music being " too negative", "lame", "not the way it used to be" and even "dead". Well I am here to squash all of that chatter, why? Because a classic album is being released today by a classic artist.

Dres, of the legendary Hip Hop group, The Black Sheep, is releasing his long-awaited album, From The Black Pool of Genius, today and Hip Hop fans are ecstatic! A lot of people may think that this is Dres's first album release since Black Sheep's debut, A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing in 1991, which isn't true. Since then, Dres has decided to carry on the group's name by himself while releasing several albums and touring all over the world ALL in the name of Hip Hop.

Recently, Dres has been giving sneek peaks of a couple songs off of his new album on the internet and I also just listened to the songs on iTunes. After reviewing these songs, I am here to say that Dres's unique flow and clever lyrics reign throughout all of these songs and his golden touch on the mic has not tainted. Not to mention, he has AZ, Q-Tip, Mike G of the Jungle Brothers and Dave of De La Soul also on this record, just to name a few!

Dres has really out done himself with this new record and I cannot wait for fans to cop it. Dres is a very humble, intelligent and down to earth man. From seeing many of his interviews, I can tell that when it comes to making an album....He puts his heart and soul into it and proof of this can be found on his new album. So please go to iTunes or your local internet music store and buy this album; support GOOD MUSIC!

Here is a song off his new album called "Party Tonight" Featuring Jean Grae. I am really feeling this song, you can also click the link to download the full song if you please.

Have a great day, everyone! Blessings! ♥




From The Black Pool of Genius on iTunes
Dres of Black Sheep's website
Dres's twitter

You will always be a part of my life....

By the many posts that I have done on Michael Jackson, it is obvious that he majorly influenced my life. Its officially been a year and I can't believe it. But if feels just like yesterday when he I heard that he died, I remember exactly where I was and what I heard. But let's forget about all of that and celebrate!

I just want to start off by saying that his music has been penetrating my ears, heart and soul ever since I was a little girl. The Jackson 5 was played at all times by my parents, but it wasn't until later that I discovered more about his later music.

His accomplishments, accolades and awards surpass that of any other musical artist out there. From Grammys to humanitarian awards, Michael had all of it and touched people of all walks of life with his love for music. I just wish that more people would accept and respect that, because he is still so disrespected even after his death by so many people. But this only makes his family, friends and fans more appreciative for being able to know MJ in his entirety......Forget what everybody else thinks!


So the question that I would love to pose to you all is, what did you love the most about MJ? For me, it was his strength and compassion for others. Michael was loved by the world, and hated by those who didn't care to understand him. But through it all, he remained true to himself and still lived his life doing what he felt was right. His strength was beyond comparison. And his compassion for people is what made him so surreal. He wanted to the heal the world; he wanted all negative things that prevented the world from being united to cease. He was a great man.

So I will leave you with some videos that show MJ in his prime. We miss you Michael and the world is celebrating you today! Keep dancing and singing, wherever you are! Love ya! ♥

David Banner unveiling some truth...

What's up, lovely people?
I hope that everyone had a great weekend. Well, I have just came across one of the freshest Hip Hop songs and most creative videos that I have seen this summer (next to Big Boi's "Shutterbug"). David Banner has had a song out called "Slow Down" for a couple months and the official video was just released yesterday. I knew nothing about this song which is surprising, but thank God that I did stumble across it. I am so happy to see David doing what he does best, delivering a message for the people to hear. I consider this a true Hip Hop song with some true southern flava. The beat is awesome as well, thanks to the producer, 9th Wonder, who is also in the video.

Like I am really in love with this video and song. Mr. Banner is doing his thing and is proving once again why he is one of the greatest rappers from the South. Check it out yall.......
Peace and shoutout to Mississippi! ♥



David Banner's myspace
9th Wonder's myspace

Without a doubt.....

Tupac Amaru Shakur June 16, 1971- September 13, 1996

This man is one of the greatest rappers that ever lived. We want to celebrate Tupac on the day of his birth and indeed the whole world is, as well. I just really thought about how influential Tupac would be if he was still alive. He was such a revolutionary.....He was an advocate of change and the youth actually listened to him. I have a feeling that this world would be so different if he was still around. We miss you, bruh! And love you sincerely! No more tears!




Previous post that I made about 2pac

A sign of the times...

Hmmm....The rain in Southwestern Ohio recently has been hella weird this past week. So to find out that this happened last night some miles outside of my city is not a surprise. But it is so much deeper than it looks.....
A sign of the times.....Of the world that we are living in.



Article

Color me bad...

Kelis recently performed at an event for ELLE and also just shot the video for her new video "4th of July". Since then, she has revealed her new copper-blonde hair color. I must admit, it is a very funky-stylish color but I don't know if I feel it on her as of right now. And I have been a Kelis fan for year, but recently I have been questioning some of her fashion statements. And what's up with her skin tone and uneven foundation. I'm not trying to tear the sista down, just really wondering where she is coming from with these recent choices.

So what do yall think?
(BTW, I love this picture. Very dreamy.)

More photos here

Attention: Nashville!!

I have very, VERY exciting news for all of my music-heads in Nashville. The amazingly talented, Res will be there next month on July 15th to perform in concert at 2nd Avenue Live. If that isn't enough, two other amazing artists will also be performing, Ya Za and Denitia Odigie AND this will be a triple album release party (YAY!).

Res has always been one of my favorite artists and I have always felt that she does not get enough credit for her music and unique sound. I have been a fan since her debut album, "How I Do", and I am so excited to hear that she will be in Nashville. After just recently being introduced to Ya Za and Denitia Odigie's music, I must admit that I am in love. Ya Za's sweet and melodic voice is one of a kind. And the way she uses her vocals on her different beats is phenomenal. Denitia Odigie is quite a trendsetter as well, with her soothing lyrics, voice and captivating beats. This show should go down in history, because these three sisters are all BAD in their own way. And I cannot wait for the people of Nashville to be hit by there music.


DaKatalyZt MUZIXITY MC, who I've fore mentioned on my blog, has made it possible for Nashvillians to hear these three beautiful women in one concert and for that we are thankful. To learn more about these three artists, follow the links below.




PLEASE spread the word, everybody! This will be a night of music to remember! Got out and show your support and I will also keep you all posted on this event.
Peace ♥








Order your tickets in advance here
Res
Ya Za
Denitia Odigie
DaKatalyZt

RIP Marvin Isley

Marvin Isley (top row; last person on the left) played the bass guitar for the legendary group, The Isley Brothers. He passed June 6, 2010 at the young age of 56. RIP brotha, we're still here rockin' with ya. Shoutout to Lincoln Heights, Ohio.

Hip Hop Honors? Let's Try This Again...

Ok, so I watched VH1's Hip Hop Honors honoring the "Dirty South" last night on VH1, and I was not pleased. On a scale of 1 to 10, i'll give the show a 4.5-5. Honoring Southern Hip Hop in general is already a touchy subject in the eyes of many Hip Hop fans. The South's music has always been downplayed and seen as "too country" or not "hip hop enough" by other regions, so I knew that this show was going to be interesting in the way that they honored the south.



I was happy to see Uncle Luke, No Limit Records, and Organized Noize be honored...But what about Cashmoney Records? And I know that Outkast turned down the offer to be honored, but damn, I couldn't stop thinking during the show how excellent it would be if they were there. Also, Timbaland's tribute was poppin' because of Missy Elliot (you already know she wasn't going to let him down). She pulled out a couple of songs from the early 2000's that we all loved, but what was up with Fabolous and Keri Hilson performing songs that came out like 3 years ago? Timbaland has so many classics that date back to the 90s that I know SOMEBODY could've put performances to them. But when you have a studio audience that gets more excited to see DRAKE come out and perform a southern classic that he shouldn't have performed more than seeing Nelly and Murphy Lee perform "Southernplayatisticadillacmuzik" then you know what kind of show you are dealing with.

I mean, there is so much more that I can say about the show but I will leave it at that. Also, many people wondered where Scarface was last night, well see what he had to say about this "dirty dirty" show in his own words:

I was nominated [to be honored at the "Dirty South" VH1 Hip Hop Honors] but I declined to accept because I don't wanna be classified as just “Dirty South.” I'm Hip Hop, man. I’m not going because I feel slighted. Even though it was a nice gesture, I feel like it’s just a pacifier. They’re like, “Let’s give these n***as down there a pacifier so they can stop feeling left out. We’ll make Luke and all these n***as down here look funny,” you know? “Let’s put a plate of fried chicken and some watermelon and let’s just do some n***a-ass s**t.” (laughs) Quote, end quote. "Some n***a-ass s**t." Fried chicken and watermelon. "s**t, the faster we get this over with, the better."

To read more click here

Well, if you all watched the show...How did you feel? I'd love to hear your opinions. And to Southern Hip Hop, thank you for the inspiration and the realness that you brought to light and for ultimately putting the south on the map.

Peace, yall! ♥

P.S. What the fuck was up with that ending? Rick Ross, Pitbull? Then Jermaine Dupri tributing to So So Def by himself? Oh, no!

Its Black Music Month...Let's Celebrate!!!

In my eyes, EVERYDAY is a day to celebrate Black music...This is because 96% of the music that I listen to is from Black artists and because it is the music that makes me feel happy and that represents who I am as a person. But just for holiday's sake, I would like to kick off this month with a classic song from the greatest singing duo of all times...


Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, two artists who were one of a kind when it came to their music and sound....and when they came together, NOBODY could try and replicate their sound as a duo.




And 3 decades later, this Hip Hop and R&B CLASSIC was birthed! Happy Black Music Month everyone! I love our music so much......ITS A CULTURE, ITS A LIFESTYLE.....ITS US!
How will you celebrate this month?
Peace, yall! ♥

Awareness is KEY

Current TV is one of the most informative and refreshing stations on cable/satellite tv. Their documentaries are by far some of the best that I have seen. These documentaries ranging from the topics of music, movies to homosexual awareness. You name it, THEY SHOW IT...And it is needed. Today, I happened to come across a documentary on a troubled Native American reservation camp in South Dakota. Rosebud, South Dakota has a high crime, rape and sexual assault rate amongst its community. This caught my attention because I have always known of the crimes that have plagued these camps; as well as, the depressive and abusive state of the people their, but seeing this video proved it all to be that more true. Without giving too much of this video away, I just want all people who have a heart for mankind and the world around you to watch this. This just goes to show what can happen to people when everything is taken away from them that they know to be real. And being that blood from indigenous Indians of America runs through my veins, it makes it that much harder for me to watch this. Our ancestors wouldn't have wanted this. We need to make a change, one day at a time.
"One nation, under God, with Liberty and Justice for all". - America


More on this documentary and Current TV: click here

Picture: Dakota Indian Woman in a concentration camp in the late 19th century

Tuesday will be GRRRREAT!!!

What's up yall?!
I am happy to report that there is hope for HIP HOP and TODAY'S MUSIC and that it will be proven this week. On Tuesday, two amazing albums will be coming out by some of my favorite artists. Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek, collectively known as "Reflection Eternal", will be releasing an album on Tuesday entitled "Revolutions Per Minute". These two have not released an album together since their 2000 debut, "Train of Thought". But it has been 10 years and fans are excited to hear what kind of magic Talib has laid to wax, lyrically, and Tek, musically. From the tracks that I have heard, fans will not be disappointed.

Next up to release an album is my MAIN MEN, Damian Marley and Nas. Just thinking about it makes me anxious (lol). As a duo, they have entitled their album, "Distant Relatives", but the chemistry between them on this album is far from distant. This album was set to be released months ago but due to label problems, it has been pushed back several times. I am happy to hear that fans will finally be able to cop this joint and when I tell you that from the couple of songs that I heard that this album is crazy, ITS CRAZY!


Below, I have a video of Tek and Talib performing some of the singles from their album. I also have a footage of Nas and Damian making the video for their single "As We Enter". I really hope that you all go out and support these two albums because these men work hard to put out good and conscious music during a time where positive music is unheard or swept under the rug. With that being said, enjoy your week and COP THESE ALBUM!
One love ♥
P.S. The Nati is proud of you, Hi Tek! Cincinnati, stand up!





For more info on these groups:
Reflection Eternal
Distant Relatives

Find Your Love

Drake a.k.a. Drizzy Drake a.k.a. a creator of the new age "Hip Hop" just released the video to one of his softer songs, "Find Your Love". I am a true fan of the video. It is shot in Kingston, Jamaica and features the "Gully God" himself, the dancehall dj, Movado. Its about time that Movado gets a little shine, I haven't heard from him in a while but his presence is definitely felt in this video. I love how much of a drama it is, and how it shows the gritty and real essence of Jamaica. Big ups to Drake and Movado for this video.

Happy Tuesday, enjoy! ;-)

A jewel has been taken from us...

June 30, 1917 – May 9, 2010

One of the most influential African American artists of the 20th century has went home. Lena Horne was not only one of a kind when it came to her talents, she was an activist and always stood up for what she believed in. Her family is in our prayers.
We love you and will miss you! ♥

I wish that I could....

Have the same mind/conscious that J Dilla had, musically...
Have you ever wished that you could exist in another person's mind because you are so fascinated with their thoughts and ideas? And how they transformed these mechanisms into reality? This may be a weird thought to you, but this is what I feel when I really listen to J Dilla's music and try to come up with a conclusion on how he made his beats.........

To me, they are hella inspiring and I just go into a trance while listening to them...
Don't you agree?






Do you all think about the same thing? If so, who (what artist/writer/actor etc... inspires you) and why (what about their mind intrigues you)?

RIP J Dilla...your fans will keep your spirit alive 4eva
Peace ♥

The Queen B is making you "purrrr"....

UH-OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Kim is back!

Lil' Kim is back, yall! With all of this recent Nicki Minaj rae-rae I have been longing for Kim or Foxy to come out with something....and low and behold Kim gives her fans a sneak peak of one of her new songs called "Pussy Purr". I am very excited to hear Lil' Kim's voice and know that she is not letting the game play her, but I am not a fan of this song......When you all listen, I am pretty sure you will know why. It sounds too similar to the rapper that I mentioned before. Kim knows better than this and could've came so much harder than this....But I will not underestimate the Queen. She is my favorite female rapper and I know her better than, "making a pussy purr"....But we shall see what other songs that she has to drop this summer..... But you all be the judge, what do yall think?

Peace ♥

I need a Window Seat, this is going to be a long ride...

This past Saturday, Erykah Badu premiered her official music video for her second single off of her new LP, New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh, that is set to be released this Tuesday. The song "Window Seat" is so powerful, and the video is even more moving. But I wanted to share this video with you so that you all can understand how ill this woman is. The message that I receive from this video is that you must escape the harsh realities of this programmed world that we live in in order to realize your true self and to live freely. I mean, Badu is doing some bold things in this video....Things that I could NEVER allow myself to do, but this is why I love her so much.....She does whatever she wants to do because it frees her mentally and spiritually and all I can do is respect her for that.

So with that being said, what do you all think of the video? I respect all opinions.
Be easy, yall....Have a great Sunday! Jah Bless! ♥



Album Cover artwork by Emek

Thursday Morning Inspiration

Hello, all!

Need a lil' inspiration this morning?
Just think of Happy Feelings......

I chose to post this amazing tune by Frankie Beverly and Maze today, because I feel that we all become stressed out by this time of the week......With work, family, friends among other things.....Life gets hectic. Sometimes you just have to slowdown and think about the happy times that you've had throughout life. It is only these kind of memories that will make you realize why life is so worthwhile. So don't give up yall, we have one more day until the weekend! KEEP ON MOVIN'!

Have a great day, guys.....Love ya! ♥

Friday night grooves

I hope everyone had a great Friday and that your weekend is starting off right. At soulbounce.com, today was Sade Day and I went totally bonkers. I just love Sade's music; to me she is in her own league of music. I can't even put her sound into a box, it is so unique and profound to me. I really hope that she considers doing a world tour because I would love to see her in the US in concert or even doing a callabo with a US artist would be nice.....WE WANT TO SEE MORE OF HER (lol)!

On another note, It seems like in a lot of cities today it rained (like it has here) and I feel that alot of Sade's music goes right along with that kind of mood.....calm, soothing and chilling....That's why I had to come on here and post one of my favorite songs of all times, Love Is Stronger Than Pride. The lyrics to this song always get me and I just love the instrumentation of the song. Sade really put her heart and soul into this song and you can feel it.

I hope you all enjoy this live performance, stay up and have a blessed weekend! ♥

This is why I love her so much...

Need I say more?

I am sorry, but Kelis is the single most creative female artist to ever grace this Earth. I came across this photo last night and became totally mesmerized. If anyone knows me, they know that my favorite color is blue and that I love dark things (hence, the blue photo of me on my side bar). This photo is heaven for me. So eerie, so dark yet light and beautiful. She took this photo during her photoshoot for her upcoming album entitled, Fleshtones. I am already in love with her album by this picture alone. I can tell that this album will have some pleasant musical and photo surprises for her fans and I am so ready for them. And I hear all of this RAEEEE RAEEEE about Lady Gaga and all of these other biting a** females but Kelis Rogers has BEEN on this futuristic tip and if you know her as an artist, then you already know this.

I hope you all are having a great day, keep hope alive. One ♥

Photo courtesy of HelloBeautiful.com

"We'll always love Big Poppa..."

Christopher "Notorious B.I.G." Wallace died on this day 13 years ago at the age of 24. He to many was seen as the greatest rapper of all time, but to those that really knew him he was seen as the greatest dad, son and friend of all time. Today, people all around the world are celebrating Biggie's life in a major way, so it is only right that Purpleskyyys do the same. Sometimes I wish that Biggie was still alive to show these current rappers a thing or two, but I know that he is in heaven smiling down on all of us... Especially those who were truly inspired by his music.

So we honor you, Biggie, and all of that you did for Hip Hop. We thank you so much....
Rest In Peace ♥

DaKatalyZt

Are you all familiar with this song?



If you aren't, then let me give you a lil' history on it. This song was on N.E.R.D's Seeing Sounds LP, which was released in 2008. I really like this song, but what I did not know was that there was a demo done by the amazing artist Res. Res, Santigold and Pharrrell all co-wrote the song, and Res recorded it first but for the album, Pharrell did the final version. I happened to stumble across her demo, which I though was amazing but I also came across a remix of her demo.



This demo was done by a Nashville artist named DaKatalyZt. I love they way he remixed this song by adding a couple verses and simply repeating some of the things that Res said. This dude is very creative and I am currently doing more research on him and his music. It is also interesting that I currently go to school in Nashville and that he also lives here as well. I would definitely love to see him perform here in the future.

Keep doing ya things, DaKatalyZt! And happy MONDAY, guys!

DaKatalyZt: myspace page
youtube channel

I am SUPER excited....

So it is official....
I have created and uploaded my first youtube video!
This past week I happened to stumble across a person's self-made music video with instructions on how to create a youtube video. For the longest, I have been saying that I wanted to create one but I never did...But that time has come!

It is a video dedicated to the J5 fans out there and I did it to their song "Sugar Daddy". I really hope that you all enjoy it as much as I do. And as soon as I learn how to create more videos in a more creative way, be looking for more from me. Be blessed, yall!

I'm back, with a lil' soulful love....

Hello, my fellow followers!!!!
I am so sorry for my absence on my blog recently. Things in life have been HELLA crazy, midterms just came around and life in general is just shaping into something new and different for me. I know that you all understand, so I beg your pardon lol....

BUT BACK TO MY MUSICAL BUSINESS.....

Tonight's post is dedicated to all of the lovers our there. No, I don't mean those that are booed up (although this would be a lovely song for you), I mean those that are in love with soulful, R&B love songs. Well, this song is dedicated to you.


Teena Marie and Rick James really out did themselves with their 1981 classic, "Fire and Desire".
This song to me is the epitome of hot, compassionate love. If any person ever says that they want a dose of real R&B/Soul....Then this song NEEDS to be put on heavy rotation. Teena's sweet, yet powerful soprano reigns throughout this song, while Rick's rugged and soulful tone makes the ladies just want to fall out of their seats blushing...I mean the song will do something to you.

Listening to this song made me realize that they just don't make songs like this anymore and the universe does not birth artists like this anymore (smh). This song is a true classic, and will go down in history for probably being one of the earliest "baby-making songs" recorded in the 1980s. I know you all will enjoy this as much as I did....and that Rick and Teena makes it that much better *winks*.....Have a great week, yall! Peace ♥

"I Know You Want To, Reach To a HIGHer Level"..

Didn't I say that Erykah Badu was about to come at yall a**es again with the realest talk?

Well she is back, like I promised with the first single off of her soon to come LP, entitled, New Amerykah Part II, Return of the Ankh. "Jump Up In The Air" has an undeniable beat that I love, and the rigid male voice that you hear on the chorus is that of the sexy soul singer, Bilal.....But what has shocked Badu's fans and even me is that she chose to put the world's most controversial rapper on the track....Mr. Weezy F. Baby. Now, I have never really been a fan of Lil' Wayne since his Cashmoney Millionaire days, so I really cut up the whole idea of him being on the track. I feel like the song is a hit with our without him......I will let you all be the judges on that.

But as for Ms. Badu, I am so happy that she has come out with some new music. I have really been craving the music of some of the artists that really molded my taste of music like Erykah. I love her music and her hustle and this video is a true piece of art, which I really appreciate because she always comes out of the left field with her videos and their concepts. According to her, this album will really move her fans because she feels that she went back to her days of Baduizm on this new LP and if so....Then it must be a classic.

I wish Ms. Badu love and prosperity with this new album, I know that it will have a distinct message and create musical frequencies that we have never heard before. What do you all think of the song and video?

Peace

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Although I do not have someone special in my life, I am celebrating this day keeping all of the people that I love and that love me in mind. There is no reason to go around on this day pissed off and hatin' on others because they have someone.....Make this day into your own special day!

With that being said, spread some love! Show some love and affection towards those around you, whether it is family, friends or maybe even someone that you have your eyes on. Just make today your own personal LOVE day.

And I leave you with one of my favorite love songs from one of my favorite groups. Special shoutout to my sister, creator of BlankBareClean, for being not only my sister but someone who has guided me in the right direction my whole life. If it was not for her, I really don't know where I would be so this post is dedicated to her because she is my valentine's. Love ya sis!
Peace and ♥

And the birthday's continue during Black History Month...

To one of the most moving and prolific African American writers of the 20th century,

Happy Birthday, Alice Walker! A true African American Queen is what this woman is. She has made her place in Black History by using her words and creating stories that capture the hearts and souls of Americans, because she is indeed telling stories that relate to who we are. Much respect and honor is due to this woman.

Her work means a lot to me because she wrote the bestseller and award winning book, The Color Purple, which was later turned into a movie that is one of my favorite movies of all times. I used to watch the movie almost everyday in 7th grade (I know it was extreme, but I loved it). The movie touched my heart and soul because it told a story about my ancestors that I would have never been able to know about without the movie. The fact that I have an old soul and that most of my family is from the south also made me fall in love with this movie. It reminds me of the great stories about Fort Valley, Georgia that my Great Grandmother and Great Aunt used to tell me about "back in day". The characters and the story line were brilliant; a true tale of the African American lifestyle and culture of the early 20th century is what this movie represented and is still held to high esteem within Hollywood cinema today.

So thank you, Ms. Walker for your contribution to our culture and Black history through your work. I now leave you with the climax scene of the movie, which is one of my favorite parts...
ENJOY!

"I'm poor, black, I may even be ugly
But dear, God...I'm here, I'M HERE"!

More info on Alice Walker: HERE

And another one....Birthday, that is...

Happy Birthday, J Dilla!

Today, James Dewitt Yancey would've turned 36. He definitely left us way too young. He is another artist that I have just recently began research on within the past 3 months. His music to me is the epitome of mid-western Hip Hop and Soul. It takes you to another level of music, that not many artists can take you. And don't get me wrong, I love his work with Slum Village....They are one of my favorite groups but his production abilities were by far my favorite. His beats put me into a trance and his love for sampling old school songs makes it even better. His beats were so smooth, so calming....So REAL. He worked with some of the greatest artists of the past two decades, Common, T. Kweli, The Pharcyde, Busta Rhymes and was the creator of one of the greatest Hip Hop groups of all time, Slum Village.


Slum Village as a group was so underrated while they were out and still are. And its so sad that there is only one living original member, R.L. "T3" Altman. Titus "Baatin" Glover passed last year, but the real Hip Hop lovers of the world are carrying on their spirits in many ways. Since Jay Dee's death, his music and life has been celebrated largely. Many tribute concerts have been done in dedication of him, CD's of his unreleased work have been released and many artists all over the world are still crediting Dilla by sampling and using his beats. His impact on music has been tremendous and has been called the favorite producers of Pharrell Williams, DJ Premiere and others. He has produced so many songs that we know of as hits, but never knew who the mastermind was behind the beats.

I am currently doing more research on Dilla's music and life, be looking for more posts about him in the future. And I will now end my post with a few of his many classic songs and a great documentary on his life. RIP, Dilla! We miss you brother, and we will continue to life you up! PEACE!







P.S. just found out that "Didn't Cha Know" by Erykah Badu, which I posted about 2 weeks ago was produced by Dilla....Now what do ya know?