But You're Just Like Him....

Have you ever been in a relationship where the person reminds you so much of a love in the past but not in a good way?

I've found myself in that situation. They are just so damn similar and it drives me crazy. Like the guy I'm dealing with now is a great dude and I'm so aware that  he's not my ex but I still see him doing things that my ex did and it truly stops me from really opening up to him and trusting him like I could and should.

For example, my ex and I used to really only talk late at night and sometimes we didn't even talk at all. That's how it is with this guy. Some days we'll go all day without hearing from each other. And I find myself saying "He used to do that same shit..." or, the fact that he has a really care free type of personality so when I bring up things, he doesn't really see "the big deal"...once again "He used to say that same shit....".

Typically, similarities between guys wouldn't bother me, but because my ex and I went through such a emotional rollercoaster which led to me finding out he had been dealing with another guy, I find myself wondering if they are so much alike, is he doing the same things too? Is the reason we might not talk all day because you're busy or because you're talking to that other guy all day? Or, do you really not understand where I'm coming from or are you just dismissing it because you don't care?

I hate comparing the two because it's not fair to him. Especially if there's no validity to what I'm assuming. He hasn't given me any reason to not trust him, if anything I've given him reason to not trust me. Which is also one of my concerns. I messed up in the past and I feel like since then he's been so closed off and it's becoming harder and harder for us to move forward. That's my fault, I know. And I think, "How do I have the nerve to wanna leave and say I'm fed up when had I not done what I did, we wouldn't be here?", and it's not that I want to leave. We're so different but every time we part ways something brings us back together. So no, I don't want to leave. I want this to work. But the odds are against us. That's just the facts. I mean, there's a pretty long distance between us (also like the other dude, might I add...) and the fact that we're just soooo different. We think differently, we act differently...we're different. But I believe differences in people are just ways to learn from each other.

I just gotta find a way to put those insecurities away and give him the fair chance he deserves and hope that he'll do the same in spite of events taken place in the past...start new? That's so much easier said than done......

VIDEO PREMIERE: Amerie ft. Fabolous - "More Than Love"

Just checked out the new video for Amerie's third single off the In Love & War album, "More Than Love". I LOVE it! It reminds me of the "Talkin To Me" video for some reason. It's a great video and I think this was actually a good choice for her in terms of which single she released because although I have grown to love the album there aren't really many that would do well on radio but I could see this one gaining play.

Check out the video and let me know what ya think!

SPOTLIGHT: Steph Jones- "Little Drummer Boy"

Okay any and everyone knows how much I love Steph Jones! I've been talking to all my friends about him since he was with DTP years ago. Since then, Steph has stepped out on his own and gone on work on some amazing projects including his recent lifetape "Gravity" which I did a review on. Anyone who has heard it knows this guy is more than just the finest man on earth. His voice is great and his music is the epitome of feel good music.

Today, Steph released his video for his latest song "Little Drummer Boy" which everyone knows is a holiday classic. Steph puts his Mo City swag on it and takes the song to a whole different level. The video features cameos from the beautiful and amazingly talented Jordin Sparks as well as blogger B.Scott. (Who's a love muffin? I know I am! Double Kisses! Haha, had to do it!)

According to Steph, the video symbolizes more than just Christmas but uniting different groups of people to better society.

"When me, Jordin, and B. Scott were marching with those drums I imagined us being on the front line in a war and it was my way of saying it doesn’t matter if you are man, women, gay or straight – we should all be able to come together and fight for a certain cause no matter who you are.. And once we truly figure that out then that’s when we grow as a people."

Sexy and socially aware! Gotta love it! 

Check out the video and be sure to follow Steph on Twitter! 

NEW MUSIC: KeKe Wyatt- "Who Knew?"

Alright, yesterday I told you guys that singer KeKe Wyatt would be releasing her 2nd album "Who Knew?" in February. Well today, she premiered the single by the same name on her Myspace. It's a great song! It's actually classic KeKe. If you're a fan you know what I mean. If not, just check out the song and you'll get the picture. I'll post a download link when I find a better quality version. Until then...

SPOTLIGHT: "The Back Up Plan"

It seems like Ms. Lopez is REALLY back! With the upcoming release of her new album, it looks like Jennifer Lopez is trying to top both the record charts and the movie charts once again! This April the release of "The Break Up Plan" will bring Jennifer back into the romantic comedy field which she DOMINATES!

The film stars Lopez as Zoe, who for which seems like a lifetime has been searching for her soul mate. She is ready to settle down and start a family but without a husband, how do you start a family? Impossible. Not according to Zoe. She is determined to be a mother and is resorting to any and every alternative possible. Deciding not to let lack of love hinder of chances of having a child, she makes the appointment be artificially inseminated.

On the day of insemination, she meets Stan and so quickly she realizes that this man may be the man of her dreams. Just one problem. How do you tell a man you've just met that you got pregnant the day you met him? So with that being said, Zoe goes through all types of hilarious ways to hide the pregnancy until she can't anymore when Stan tells her he loves her. After Stan finds out the news, he decides he's going to stick with Zoe and help her with this baby. The film shows both Zoe and Stan try to prepare for this baby while building a relationship.

Will it work?

Check out the movie to find  out on April 16th, 2010

CHECK OUT THE TRAILER BELOW

The Return Of KeKe Wyatt!

After several push backs and controversial set backs, songstress KeKe Wyatt has returned! It's been 8 years since the release of KeKe's first album "Soul Sista"  and fans have been anxiously waiting for a follow up and after getting our hopes many times, only to be let down, it seems as though 2010 may give us what we've all been waiting for!

KeKe announced this week that her sophmore album, titled Who Knew?,will be released on February 23rd through her new label Shanachie Records (home of soul artist Leela James).

"We are extremely excited to be bringing out KeKe's new music" says label head of A&R, Randall Grass, "She is one of the outstanding singers of her generation and is recognized as a true singer". And that she is!

Stepping into the spotlight at the age of 15 with Avant on the song "My First Love" and later on her own hit single "Nothing In This World", Wyatt was on the verge of really making her mark on the music world. However, controversy struck when KeKe and her husband and the time were involved in a domestic dispute and she was arrested for allegedly stabbing her husband. KeKe recently spoke on her marriage and divorce.  "Those 10 years are over. They're over." she says to Euerweb's Lee Baily. "You go through so much as a woman and you can't take too much of the hands on type of thing. I refuse to do it anymore and so I'm done.."

After failed attempts with two different labels (Cash Money 2004-2006, TVT 2006-2008), KeKe is sure that this year will be the year for her and fans are overly excited.

"Thanks for the overwhelming reaction to the announcement of my new project! Can't wait to share more!" KeKe posted this on her Myspace today. She is currently promoting her holiday single, a remake of Rachelle Ferrell's "Peace On Earth". Check the song out as well as some of KeKe's best work below! And be sure to look out for KeKe's new single and video "Who Knew?"

www.myspace.com/kekewyatt

Keke Wyatt ft Avant
Uploaded by sweetgapeach. - See the latest featured music videos.

KeKe Wyatt - I Don't Wanna
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Avant - My First Love
Uploaded by banatchec. - See the latest featured music videos.

This Really Wasn't Supposed To Happen This Way!

Alright, so a friend and I were having a conversation tonight that really had me intrigued. We were discussing how in most cases you can date someone and when it's over...it's over. No broken hearts...no hurt feelings...nothing It's just a wrap! BUT, then there are those who are not so easy to shake. Those who if you're honest with yourself, you really don't want to shake. You know what I mean! The ones who you keep around and maintain friendships with because either:

 A) You would prefer have them around as friend than not at all

B) You're waiting for that day when they'll have this epiphany and say "I miss you and wanna be with you!"

But you know option B isn't likely to happen so you'll build a friendship and it'll be genuine but because you still have feelings there, you'll find ways to have more intimate moments with them. Late night deep conversation, lingering hugs, leaning on them and the occasional holding of hands (but as buddies!). All those things remind you of how things were before and you love it! BUT...what happens when all those things that are cool for the moment become not so cool when he/she starts seeing someone else? Now they are having those late night conversations with them and they are getting lingering hugs AND kisses and instead of just  leaning on them they get to hold them.

What do you do?

How do you deal with that?

Do you stay away and distance yourself or do you maintain your friend role? Because in your mind you are thinking "What the hell?! It wasn't supposed to happen this way!"

It now becomes complicated because if you distance yourself, they probably won't notice too much because they are so focused on this other person and it leaves you feeling sad and neglected but who can you blame but yourself? And if you play the friend role, you REALLY have to be a friend, which can end up sucking more than distancing yourself. Why? Because you don't REALLY wanna know whats going on in their relationship. You don't REALLY wanna be the one they come to for advice about their partner. You don't REALLY wanna know about the mind blowing sex or how ideal and perfect their partner is. All you wanna hear is "I miss you and I wanna be with you!"...but once again....probably won't happen.

So how do you deal?

Which road would you choose?

Do you let it go or do you be a friend?

Or...do you do what you gotta do to get back the one who you know should really be with YOU....?

You Kinda SUCK....So Why Do I Want You?

Know your worth...

Don't sell yourself short...

Never settle for less than the best...

All those generic quotes we hear everyday. There's always someone telling you how much you're worth and how you deserve this and that but why is it so hard for you to believe it yourself? And even if you do believe it, why is it so hard to use that knowledge when we're in relationships?

Most people allow themselves to get so deep into relationships or the thought of being in love that they will tolerate a bunch of nonsense and inevitably downplay their own worth. I've done it. On many occasions. I won't even lie. There was a situation recently in which I was so into this dude that even though I wasn't getting a small fraction of what I wanted, needed, and DESERVED. I allowed myself to stay in that situation because of the possibility of being "loved". I was one of those people that swore I knew my worth and was confident and what I brought to the table. You STILL can't tell me another dude is capable of holding their place in a relationship like i can. However, I didn't think of that when I was dealing with this guy. I didn't think of how much more I could have been getting from someone else who would truly appreciate all that I bring forth and would respect me and treat me they way I deserve to be treated.

It baffles me. I don't understand how that happens at all. But I'm not shocked at how common it is. I see it everyday with friends of mine. Dealing with people who treat them like mere afterthoughts even though they (my friends) are giving their all to build a relationship. Why are we so willing to be someone's option...someones "Oh yeah...let me call them". Why do we settle for "Oh wassup..." when we could be getting "Hey Baby..." ?

And why is it so hard to move on from those people? Anyone who is honest with themselves and has been in that situation knows that its so hard to totally forget about someone who treated you like shit as opposed to someone who treated you well. Why?

It really took me reevaluating the situation before I was able to let it go. I had to step out and be like "I do all this to show you how much I wanna be with you and I get less than your bare minimum?"  How stupid does that sound?

So when I think about all those quotes, as corny as they sound, they are so true. It's so important to really have a clear understanding of your self-worth. As much as some people might want to find love, there are better ways to go about it than to tolerate someone who will not treat you as you are perfectly aware that you deserve.  Know exactly what you want and do not want. If you go into a situation, be honest about what you are looking for. If it's a relationship...Say That. If it's a friend...Say That. If it's sex...Say That. Be honest with them and allow them to be honest with you. If you wanna be in love and they say they don't. You can't try to change their mind, so politely decline the offer to further anything between you two. No need in wasting anyone's time or putting yourself in a position to end up disappointed. But be honest...say what you want and mean what you say. If you say you want a friend, don't try to sleep with that person who claims they want it to. (That's not friendship!)  If you say you want a relationship, then act like it! (That wishy washy stuff is NOT cute!)

What do you guys think?

New Music: Karina- "Perfectly Different"

Many people are familiar with Karina from her debut single "16 @ War" which was released last year. Her album "First Love" was nominated for Best R&B Album at last year's Grammy Awards. Karina has been working hard on her follow up album and recently she released her first single title "Perfectly Different". Some of you may have heard it, but if you haven't it's truly a amazing track and will make you love this girl. Check it out! 

[DOWNLOAD]

Check Out Her On Twitter & Mypsace
www.twitter.com/karinapasianwww.myspace.com/karinapasian

Chris Brown Concert!

So the other night was the concert that I've been waiting for months to see! Chris Brown, live in Philly!

When I tell you it was the most amazing thing I've ever seen in life, it's truly an understatement. It's one thing to  be mesmerized by him on television, watching his performances but to actually see it up close and personal is a completely different experience.

The show started with performances by Meek Mills (I still don't know who he is...so I kinda just stood there the whole time....) and The New Boyz, who actually also gave a great show! I was really surprised by that, their performances actually made me wanna go buy their album "Skinny Jeans and a Mic".

Around 9:20, Chris took the stage. He opened the show with the first single off his "Graffiti" album, "I Can Transform Ya", and it was nothing short of amazing. I've never seen a crowd so hyped before!

Being it was the "Fan Appreciation Tour", Chris performed alot of his older material. Songs like "Ya Man Ain't Me", "Just Fine", "Wall To Wall" along with alot of his other fan favorites. His energy was just crazy and his vocals were amazing. I actually never really realized how much of a vocalist he really is!

Check out some of the pics and videos I took that night!

VIDEO PREMIERE: Mariah Carey- "H.A.T.E.U."

Earlier this evening Mariah Carey released the new video for her latest single "H.A.T.E.U" off the "Memoirs of a Imperfect Angel" album....check it out!

ALBUM REVIEW: Chris Brown - "Graffiti"

So today Chris Brown released his third LP "Graffiti" and as big of a fan as I am of Chris, I am honestly disappointed. After being so hyped and going as far as to pre-order the album I was shocked when I was anticipating it's end!

I was reading reviews all day and people were slamming him about the slow tracks where he was "whining" and asking for forgiveness but went to praise him about his uptempo songs saying they would be great in the clubs. I beg to differ! The ballads and mid-tempos were actually the only appealing tracks. It seemed like Chris was doing too much this time around. Most of his uptempo tracks were kinda "Forever" but in a bad way....

But lets get into it. The stand out tracks that I actually did enjoy included "Lucky Girl" where he makes alot references to his relationship with Rihanna. Some subtle, some quite direct. Outside of the song giving you insight on alot of the allegations that were made in regards to the situation, it's actually just a pretty hot track!

"Lucky Me" and  "Fallin Down" are also great tracks. They show a more sensitive and vulnerable side of Chris. They are really personal tracks and show Chris' vocal maturity. That is actually one thing I will say I enjoyed about this album. You see just how much growth there is vocally between this album and the last album "Exclusive".

Now...lets REALLY get to it. This song "What I Do"....What?! It's horrible. I hate it. And "Pass Out" with that girl Eva Simons. Now am I the only one who noticed that he ran out and did a track with the chick everyone says Rihanna rips off? If I ever heard either one of these songs at a party or in a club I'd be the first person out the door.

Overall, I think Chris really missed the mark with this album. Compared to his previous work, this album was just too all over the place! I'm still a fan though! I support him and I wish him the best but this album didn't do it for me!

Such a random turn of events......

These last two weeks have been...a roller coaster to say the least! One minute things are amazing and almost instantly they turn to shit. I know this week was Thanksgiving and you're supposed to reflect on what you're most thankful for, but I truly found myself asking "Why?". I try to live life as optimistic and positive as possible. I'm always the one trying to resolve conflicts and make things happy for everyone else and I keep getting slapped in the face with drama. So why? Why do these things continue to happen to me?

Let's recap, shall we?

I finally start to let go of things in that past that have stopped me from trusting and dating. I start to find my way back to love and what happens to that? It's snatched away from me! The relationship I was putting so much work into just vanishes. Why? What did I do to lose that?

I take the high road and start rebuilding relationships with family members that I haven't spoken to much due to petty stuff, things are going great and everyone is happy. What happens next? BOTH my parents end up in the hospital with the damn swine flu and I have to watch them suffer to fight off this thing. Why? What did THEY do to deserve this??

Now I find out one of my friends has been in a car accident. Apparently a minor one, but still!

It's truly one thing after another and it's driving me nuts!

Now this is all happening around the holiday's. The time when you are supposed to be happy! In love, comfortable and spending time building amazing memories with the ones who you care about. I don't have that. My family doesn't have that. It sucks and I'm so angry about it!

But on the flip side, I am forever grateful that I've been blessed enough to be surrounded by great friends and family who always look out for me and make sure I'm alright. They help  me deal with life's day to day events and push me towards positivity and I love them for that. I think that's why I was bummed about Thanksgiving. That's the day I look forward to most because you really are able to reflect on how these people affect you. I mean if you ask any of them, I let them know how much I love and appreciate them on a pretty regular basis. Even for minor things, it's important for them to know how much they mean to me because CLEARLY, you can have them one day and  the next they can be gone. I'm not talking death. But  in terms of them just not being there. My parents are NOT in their room right now...i take that for granted. Tiff could NOT be right around the corner for me to drop by unannounced whenever I need to hide from life. Things like that are so important and should be cherished...I don't know.

Since I no longer have any idea where I was going with this, I'll stop! I think I just needed to vent!

HAHA!

 

UNDERGROUND REVIEW: Wayne - "Reformation"

After being unable to stop singing the songs all day I felt compelled to let you guys know about the highly anticipated release from underground artist and YouTube fan favorite Wayne a.k.a. Wayne Da Star. His first mixtape titled “Reformation” was released recently and it’s apparent that this 21 year old country boy is so much more than what’s at the surface.

Reformation is undoubtedly one of the most creative and cohesive pieces of work that I’ve ever heard from an underground artist. It tells the story of a man who is going through the stages of losing love and overcoming heartbreak. Sounds typical, right? Guy breaks up and he’s so sad and he wants her back…all that mess. But it’s not like that. Reformation explores every emotion that comes with having to let go of the one you’ve loved for so long.

It starts with the track “One Favor” where Wayne is questioning why things have played out the way they have and wishing his girl would stay and try to work things out, it’s the “Please Don’t Go” track. But then there’s the up tempo “No More”, which happens to be my favorite on the cd. On the track listeners will surely be able to relate to the feeling of giving all you can to a relationship but being unappreciated and getting tired to the point where you’re just like “I can’t take no more!”

LISTEN UP!! 
(Right Click To Open Links In New Page)

"No More (Giving Up)"

"Breakdown"

"Never Letchu Go"

 The lead single “The One” shows Wayne’s versatility as he transitions from R&B to Pop. On this one, Wayne reflects on the relationship and finds himself asking the question “What to do when you know you’re the one?”  Being 100% honest, I don’t love the track. While it’s apparent that this guy has amazing talent as a songwriter, this song doesn’t showcase his vocals in a positive light. It sounds badly produced and his vocals are underdeveloped.

That’s pretty much the only downfall of this mixtape, while it has great songs that listeners won’t be able to help but sing with and relate to, Wayne clearly lacks the vocal training to really solidify a spot in the entertainment industry at this point. Many of the tracks highlight his potential vocally, others fall flat, one being his first single.

However, there is redemption at the end with the track “Never Letchu Go”. This particular song stands out and exudes the emotional connection and vocal performance that makes me really want to see what’s next for this talented artist.  Finally, the cd ends with the song “Promise Me”, it’s the perfect conclusion to the story. I can see a lot of people getting misty eyed from this track! Overall, Reformation is a great first effort from Wayne and well worth the listen.

Download "Reformation"  here

&

Check Wayne Out!

www.myspace.com/waynedastar

www.twitter.com/waynedastar

www.youtube.com/waynedastartv

TV Spotlight: American Music Awards 2009 (Performances)

Okay so the American Music Awards went off about an hour ago....

Some interesting moments but overall it was pretty bad. Maybe because I don't care for award shows much. So while everyone else will be doing reviews...I could be doing something better...

Whitney is still on crack....Shakira was biting on Beyonce and Taylor Swift SHOULD have been Kanye'd and Alicia Keys need to let go of that purple lipstick....

There goes my review!

However, there were some pretty good performances so check out my faves!

Janet Jackson

Mary J. Blige

Jennifer Lopez

Rihanna

Really Though?

Okay so I've always been the friend that everyone comes to when they have issues. No matter what it is, everyone knows they can come talk to me and I'll be there to listen and give advice etc. I love that. I love that my friends trust me enough to confide in me. I think that's one of the things I'm most proud of about myself. I'm a damn good friend. Period. I bend over backwards all the time to make sure my friends are happy because that's how seriously I take the word. It's like "love"...I'm not gonna tell some random person I love them if I don't mean it, just like I'm not gonna call just anyone a "friend". I take it very seriously.

So with that being said, I'm really feeling some type of way tonight because tonight was the second time this week that I've been snapped for trying to be a friend and show that I care. Tonight had me really upset because this particular friend is one that truly means  a lot to me and I value their friendship to a pretty high level. But I'll get to that later. Earlier this week, I hit up one of my friends like "Hey, how are you feeling? I haven't heard from you...", the response i got was "Ummm aren't you friends with _____".

WHOA!!! WHAT?!?

Now me and this person have been friends for YEARS and I've always been there for him through any and everything he's been through. Stuck by him when no one else would and you're telling me you haven't spoken to me because you aren't fond of my involvement with someone else? Huh?

I could see if my relationship with this person was taking away from you and I was neglecting one for the other, but I STILL hit you up regularly and ask if you're okay and all the normal stuff so our friendship hasn't changed but because I've begun a friendship with someone else, you now have an attitude with me and can't return my calls?!

Then tonight, I'm speaking to another friend of mine for the first time in a few days...just trying to see whats going on and see how they are along with some other things. The majority of the conversation was cool...some things were cleared up and we were straight. That is until, I reiterated a statement that I assume they didn't feel as though I should have....so they snap! All of a sudden I'm gettin cussed at....obviously I don't really understand why this is happening so in my mind i'm like "WTF just happened...." soo i update my facebook status with the same message "WTF just happened..." to which they respond something along the lines of "Here we go with the status updates.....blah blah blah" as if what I said was some kind of attack against them.

At any rate...I leave and go out for a minute and while im out I call my sister and tell her what happened and I'm like "Yo it ain't even that serious, I'll probably call him tomorrow and try to clear the air once things kinda settle down cause I don't like the way this all happened...", damn if i don't get home and see that he's pretty much tried to clown me to a former friend of mine. (FACEBOOK IS KINDA THE DEVIL IN SOME WAYS! LOL) The chick said somethin like "they need to grow up" to which he responded  "Ya peoples was like that before I came onto the scene..."

REALLY THOUGH! That's how you view me? We've been through all that we have and now you're trying to play me like I'm some immature kid? I've done everything I could to be the best friend to you that I could and now because you're mad you wanna take digs at me?! I won't even lie...that shit HURT! Because as i said before, I really do value this person and their friendship so for them to put me out there was kinda foul to me. Once again...realize that I take friendship very seriously.

All this because I was trying to communicate and work things out and even after it went down I was STILL trying to work things out.........this shit makes no sense to me!

What should I do yall? I'm not one to hold grudges but I will say that the way all this went down kinda hurts so should I try to talk to them and work things out or wait for them to come to me????

JANET: NUMBER ONES AVAILABLE NOW!!!!! + ABC Special & AMA AWARDS!

It's Officially November 17th!!

Yall know what that means?!

YOU BETTER!

JANET's Greatest Hit's Album "Number Ones" is available to purchase NOW! liiike RIGHT NOW!

It includes her latest single "Make Me" along with all the other tracks that have caused us to fall in love with Ms. Janet! "If", "Control", "Nasty", "That's The Way Love Goes"....you know you wanna fly out the door and find whatever Wal-Mart is open right now so you can get in to it!

ALSO! As i posted before Janet will be doing a ABC special with Robin Roberts that will air THIS WEDNESDAY!!!! 1 Hour with Janet! Who could ask for more?!?! Ummm ME! That's who!

On Sunday, Janet will be kicking off this years American Music Awards!!!

I'm SOOO EXCITED! You all MUST support Janet!!!

VIDEO PREMIERE: Beyonce- "Video Phone"

Okay after the longest wait ever, we finally have the official video of  Beyonce's "Video Phone" featuring Lady Gaga. I digg the video alot! It's playful and fun! A lot of colors and different costumes. It's cute. Extremely different from what we've been getting from Beyonce as of late..which had me SO BORED! The black and white HAD TO GO! The "Video Phone"...ehh video...is kinda reminiscent of "Check On It" which i LOVED. Downfall though...LADY GAGA! Ugh! Beyonce was on some real sex kitten stuff in the video and it was hot! The ghetto girl look with the scarf and all, i loved...but when Lady Gaga came into the picture...I was DONE! The routine they did together..she didn't need to do cause she is gross! The woman is UGLY....let me repeat, UGLY! I'm not really feeling her on this song, although I've had their song "Telephone"  on repeat for the last few days....anyway, check it out!

Your Lovescope - Today, Nov. 16, 2009

A conspicuous dearth of communication with a current romantic partner could have you in a blue funk, wondering if maybe your friend no longer wants you; that it's all over. Chances are this isn't the case, but something is making you believe the worst of everything. Your friend may be having career problems, and thus could also be feeling rather downhearted. Don't jump to conclusions. Hang in there.

.....lets hope this shit is right. 

Janet Video Compilation!!

Amazon.com is promoting Janet HARD! I love it!

They are doing an exclusive presale for her Number Ones album (Available on November 17th!).

Check out this video compilation they put together of all of Janet's best material!!

VIDEO: [PINK,USHER,MYA DANCE TRIBUTE TO JANET!]

It's Janet month on the site! Gotta love Ms.Janet!

I came across one of my favorite performances EVER. It was done by Pink, Usher, & my girl Mya! They all did a dance tribute to Janet at MTV's Icon series in 2001. Janet was the first to be given this honor! Check it out cause they did a amazing job!

Natural Progression....

After dealing with the last guy, I said I wasn't gonna discuss my love life anymore and for the most part I haven't. Not through blogs anyway. But I've had alot on my mind about the current situation I've found myself in so I decided to vent a little.

Sooo here's an update for ya! Lately, a friend of mine who I was once somewhat involved with in the past came back into the picture. I was so apprehensive about getting into things with him again because the last time didn't end so well and it took us a while to get back to being friends. However, I'd come to the conclusion that it took us so long to be friends because neither of us really wanted that to be our title. So we've been seeing each other and things have been wonderful. I don't think I've been this happy in a while. However, I find myself getting frustrated and rather stressed out because I feel like we should be moving a bit quicker than we are. For us to have known each other for the amount of time that we have, things are going...slow. Not that slow is bad, but I think what bothers me more is that he seems to be so hesitant and guarded from me. He has his reasons and I know them so I try to be understanding and patient but that gets really hard at times.

Anyway, tonight I found myself REALLY evaluating our entire situation and I've come to this conclusion.

The way we went about being involved with each other before was totally WRONG. In sooo many ways! The timing was just wrong. So now it's like getting to know him all over again the RIGHT way, if that makes sense.  Before we never had the opportunity to "date". Movies, dinner, chill at the crib and just talk etc...that NEVER happened. So the way I look at it, NOW is the time where all those things come into play. And I'm excited about it, maybe too excited because there are times where I see him kinda shying away from it all. But like I said, he has his reasons, but it leaves a sense of disappointment. However, like I was saying, after kinda thinking about and comparing how we were THEN to how we are NOW, there's a MAJOR difference. And being as though it's kinda like we're starting from scratch, I guess we're pretty much where we should be....probably further since our feelings are already pretty evolved.

But then it's like alot of those things don't really matter because as frustrated as I get with him for his hesitance, I can't deny how happy the dude makes me. When I'm with him, it's like I'm in a totally different world and everything's okay. There's complete sense of comfort and safety with him. I feel like a 13 year old girl cause I've been talking about him to anyone who'd listen for about 3 weeks now...

And with the fact that he's so guarded, he's also very open with me. He's trying. I know he's trying and that alone makes me happy and hopeful for what's to come.

I think the lesson is, even  if things are going the way I want them to go at that moment, I can't force someone to measure their comfort level by mine. I have to allow them to naturally progress to the point in which we can both be content and move to the next chapter together. It's difficult. The "baby steps" theory is soooooooo difficult! But i think it'll be worth it...hell i've been waiting two years now..it BETTER be worth it! lol

Rihanna on 20/20

Okay, so as I'm sure millions of people just witnessed, Rihanna FINALLY spoke out on the Pre-Grammy situation that occurred between her and Chris Brown. I don't really care for the situation anymore and as anyone who has read previous posts knows, I am a total Chris Brown supporter but I will give my opinions since everyone else is. Lol.

A lot of people that I spoke with as the interview was being aired felt like Rihanna was lying on Chris. Personally, I don't believe that. I do believe she was being honest in what she was saying. There were times where her story didn't really line up so I do believe she might have altered things a bit more for her benefit. There were moments where body language just kinda seemed like she was only agreeing with Diane Sawyer was saying just because it worked in her favor. But for the most part I do believe she was being honest. I actually commend her for not blasting Chris as badly as she could have. She handled herself in a very mature way which makes me somewhat respect her again.

According to Rihanna, the incident was the first time Chris had actually hit her and as most of us knew already it was caused by a verbal argument over a text message from one of Chris former girlfriends. Many times she stated that she just wished it would stop and that it seemed as if Chris had blacked out during the entire episode which from what I know about domestic violence, that seems to be typical for the abuser to blackout.

Was she at fault? No. As much as I dislike Rihanna and I'll get to that in a moment, I would never say a victim of domestic violence is at fault. Whether its a man/woman or a man/man or whatever the case may be, within a romantic relationship there is absolutely NO reason for physical violence. There's no reason for it to escalate to that point. So i will not say she was at fault and I do agree with her in saying that Chris needs to "grow up" and "accept responsibility as a MAN".

I'm trying to be as unbiased as possible because I am a fan of Chris and not so much one of Rihanna. I'll tell anyone anyday, I think she should get hit by a bus. But one thing that did really upset me about what she said when the topic of her going back to him was that she ultimately ended the relationship once she realized the effect she had on many of this generations young women. That pissed me off and THIS is why I don't bang with Rihanna anymore. I feel like for her to say she is held at such a high standard that she chose not go back to Chris because of how much girls looked up to her and then to still walk around in damn near NO clothing...it's very hypocritical to me. I am NOT a fan of her image, I believe it to be extremely trashy and inappropriate. I for one would not want my sister to look up to  Rihanna as a role model. When she first came out, I loved her! The album "A Girl Like Me" was my ish! But as of late, I lost major respect for her. I still enjoy her music from time to time but as a whole, I can't say I'm big on the girl.

Was this a publicity stunt? More than likely. But it was smart. VERY smart. Everyone knew she would say something sooner or later and what a better time than two weeks before your album comes out when everyone wants to hear what you have to say. She didn't really say anything more than what we already knew....therefore, we'd go buy her album to see if it reveals anything else...it was smart in terms of marketing, BUT i'm STILL on Team Chris! SORRY! :-)

Listen to Janet Jackson's New Single, Make Me

Listen to Janet Jackson's New Single, Make Me

SPOTLIGHT: Janet Jackson [Album/Label News + TV Appearances + Why Did I Get Married Too Trailer]

Most people know I am the biggest Janet Jackson fan you could imagine! From know every word to every song to even knowing all of her choreography! It's really THAT deep! So with the upcoming releases of her greatest hits album "Number Ones", I am so excited to finally see Janet getting back out there doing appearances and press!

Confirmed today on Janet's official website, on November 18th, Janet will for the first time allow cameras to come into her home for a 1-hour long interview special with ABC reporter Robin Roberts. The special will allow fans to see Janet discuss the state of her musical career as well as her relationship with Jermaine Dupri. She will also for the first time speak on her emotional state after losing her brother Michael.

The last time we saw Janet Jackson grace our television screens she was performing a tribute to her brother at the MTV Video Music Awards that absolutely floored everyone! But as excited as we were to see Janet she kinda went back in hiding, with the exception of her appearance at Fashion Week. However, along with the ABC special Janet will also be performing on the UK's "The X-Factor" on December 6th.

In terms of her music career, mega producer Rodney Jerkins recently announced that he had been working with Janet on her upcoming 2010 album. Without official confirmation, it has been rumored that Janet will release the effort through A&M/Interscope. But I don't know that for sure so don't hold me to it! I do know that Janet just finished filming her new video for "Make Me", the first single off the "Number Ones" album.

In other news, Janet's new movie "Why Did I Get Married Too", the sequal to Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married?" is set to be released in April 2010. Now I know EVERYONE loved the first movie and the official trailer to the sequal was released yesterday and i am TOO excited for it! It looks great! Check It Out!

Janet's Greatest Hits Album "Number Ones" will be in stores on November 17th, 2009!! 

ALBUM UPDATE: Chris Brown - "Graffiti"

Okay I know I'm doing alot tonight! I'm sorry! I feel like I haven't posted in FOREVER and now that I'm up and going well...you get the point. ANYWAY! I just got news that Chris Brown's upcoming album "Graffiti" has been pushed UP from it's December 15th release date. It's been moved to December 8th. Just in time to compete with Usher who will be releasing his latest effort "Raymond vs. Raymond" around the same time. Apparently Chris is having a hard time selling tickets to his "Fan Appreciation Tour" that I posted about a few weeks ago. I know me and my crew bought our tickets already so the album push up is PERFECT! By December 13th, I'll already knew every word to every song!

The album is to have the singles "Transform Ya" and "Crawl" (both of which can be heard here!) so make sure you guys go support my boy!

Oh and a quick SIDEBAR....if anyone really cares to hear Rihanna's side of the Pre-Grammy event, check out her "Tell-All" on Good Morning America on Thursday and 20/20 on Friday. I'm kinda curious to see what she has to say as I'm sure most of you are too so I'll be watching!

ALBUM REVIEW: Amerie - "In Love & War"

Amerie's third studio release (in the U.S anyway) "In Love & War" dropped yesterday. I've had the cd for about two weeks now and I've been really torn about how I felt about it. I've listened to it over and over again everyday since the first listen but I just couldn't figure it out. I've come to the conclusion that it's a pretty solid album. It takes a while to grow on you and you definitely have to be a Amerie fan to truly grasp and appreciate the direction in which she chose to go with this one.

                                              

Anyone who heard her actual third album "Because I Love It" will quickly realize how similar 'Love & War' is to it. Many of the same beats and a few of the same lines. Which to me was a shame because I'm always looking to see where she goes lyrically. However I think she accomplished her goal with this one. It's a true break-up album! Anyone who is going through hard times in a relationship or trying to get over an ex, this album will surely do it!

Check It Out! (Right Click To Open In New Window)

"Swag Back"

"Dear John"

"Heard Em' All (Remix)"

With songs like my personal favorites "Swag Back", in which Amerie talks about being in a positive place after ending a relationship and being able to move forward and get over all the tears and heartache, As well as "Dangerous", where she's talking about being involved with someone and being so into them that it's a bit risky! Some people were telling me they were feeling her track "Red Eye"...I on the other hand....not so much. It's kinda boring to me. I couldn't even tell you what she was talking about.

Overall, I like the album. It's not my favorite piece of work by Amerie. I prefer the "All I Have" album above it all. Her work with Rich Harrison was amazing. I know alot of people are hoping they get back together soon, and from what I hear that might be happening in the near future! Anyway, I'd say definitely go buy this album. It'll be worth the 10 or 15 bucks when the relationship is in a sour place and you need something to keep your head up!

Mending A Wounded Heart......

A short while ago, I found myself just kinda wondering why it's so hard for people to allow another individual in. Why is it such a fight for people to believe that someone could actually be interested in knowing them and enjoy spending time with them etc. A quote that someone once said to me came to mind. "Sometimes people build walls not to keep others out, but to see who cares enough to break them down". Then it kinda clicked....kinda.

I can understand that some people just go through so much that emotionally they are incapable of growing attached to other people because they don't want to be hurt. They don't want to deal with the pain of being disappointed by yet another individual who claimed they'd be there. I get that. But my question is, being on the receiving end of that how do you go about knocking those walls down? How do you say to them in a way that it'll be mean something "LOOK! I'm not them! I'm not the ones that hurt you....don't punish me for that! Don't push me away...allow me to be the person you never have to worry about hurting or betraying you. Give me a chance...let me love you like you deserve to be loved". It sounds like the perfect way of saying it, right? You would think so, but if you'd been through so much that you had developed insecurities and trust issues at the hands of several different individuals, wouldn't that all sound like bullshit?

India Arie - Ready For Love
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So what do you do? How do you show them? How do you prove yourself? I can't stop asking myself that question. How do I prove myself worthy of a mere chance...it sounds kinda pathetic when you think about it, but I think it's one of those things when you know that you've worked so hard to try to gain progress in someones life, you gotta find ways to make sure your work pays off.

I read in a book once that when a man finds someone male/female (whichever your preference fellas!) that they want to build a future with, they know immediately. Even it doesn't reach a surface level as soon as it happens, subconsciously they know. With that being said, the book went on to say if the man has previously stated that he wasn't ready for a relationship, once he finds that person, he will make himself ready. It leads one to wonder "Are you THAT guarded or do you just not see a future with me?"

It becomes a complicated situation when you have one person so ready and willing to give love and another who has love to give but has such a tarnished past that they are hesitant to share it.

How do you help the person you want to share your future with get over whatever it is that holding them back from you???