Verse Simmonds - "I Wanna See You" ((Video))

USVI Native Verse Simmonds is really on the up and coming list, if you ask me. I love his single "Boo Thang," and this new track "I Wanna See You" is off the chain as well. Whoever his production team is, they have great instrumentals for sex music. Synthetics are a porn star's dream. Former Crime Mob member Diamond plays his leading lady, and I think she did pretty well. Kudos to him for picking a brown-skinned beauty to take the role. 


Not to mention, I dig the fact that he throws his accent into the mix. Reminds me of one of my favorite underground groups Roc City (signed to Konvict Music), who are also USVI (US Virgin Islands) Natives. I hope he keeps this momentum for a while. He ain't too bad on the eyes, either... 


Catch him on Twitter @versesimmonds


Download the Mixtape - "The Sextape Chronicles Vol 2" - Here 




Verse Simmonds - "I Wanna See You"... 

New Year's Revolution

I never make resolutions. I feel that they're cliche. What I do, is promise myself to make changes in my daily, monthly, yearly life that will benefit myself and others whether now or in the future. I think I've already been implementing some of these ideas, but it is always best to put it on paper. 

1. Follow my passions - and follow through with them.

     - I have created a few lovechildren in my mind, and have not made the time to see them all the way into fruition. I will do my best to tackle each one and make them happen. I am in control of my success. 

2. Spend more time with my loved ones.

 - Sometimes, I spread myself too thin. I will find a way to incorporate my friends into my activities; be it travel or otherwise. I truly understand and appreciate the sanctity of good friendship.

3. Get along with my father. 

 - THIS is going to be a challenge, but I make it a point in my life not to walk around with malice or negative feelings in my heart. I know I will come across hurdles in this - but it will happen. Even if it kills him. 

4. Move Out.

 The one I'm looking forward to the most. Buying my first house and not looking back. That taste of solace has gotten me sprung! 

5. Make better & more profitable investments. 

 - Self explanatory. 

I know everyone's making promises for the new year. I dare you all to actually do them. Lose that extra five pounds, kick that smoking habit, break up with those bad friends. Do it for yourself - cuz no one is going to do it for you. 

God speed! 

Rihanna - "You Da One" ((Video))

Rihanna has dipped back into her island roots with this beat and melody. Every time I hear it in my car, I have to "buss a whine" and dance a little bit. I love Rihanna the most when she's singing upbeat, happy songs - so this is one of my favorites on the album so far. Not to mention the outfits and hair are on point as usual. She's rocking the Blonde look from her Armani shoot that you can peep here. I love the lyrics, too - for personal reasons, lol.


It's nice to see her looking like she's enjoying herself - the past few years has shed a  not-so-great light on her, and it's time she get back into the positive swing of things. I dig it, I think you will too. 


Oh, and she's #teambreezy, too - go figure.


Rihanna - "You Da One..." 

The Weeknd - "D.D." ((Dirty Diana Cover))

I was blown away. That is all. 




Abel is the epitome of silent publicity. And obviously, it works. He is a musical wonder. I used to get chills listening to the original version, and I felt my hairs stand on end on the first chords of this track. Simply incredible. 


Make sure you download "Echoes of Silence," - here. 

Drake - "The Motto" ((Video))

We drove past a restaurant named Y.O.L.O. (You Only Live Once) last night. The acronym stands true every day - gotta enjoy life on any and every scale. After hearing and seeing everyone quote the song for this past month - we finally got a drop on the new video. Enjoy! 




Drake - "The Motto" (Y.O.L.O)...


Drake ~ The Motto Featuring Lil Wayne & Tyga (Official Video) from OctobersVeryOwn on Vimeo.

Holiday 2011 - Tis The Season...

The Holidays have rolled around once again, and I was blessed this year to have my LittleSister fly in from New York to spend Christmas with the family. It's been three years since we've had her here and I have been long overdue. With my work schedule being so out of wack - our days have been more like late nights of facials, movies and Christmas shopping. Last night we wrapped gifts, tonight we stay up video blogging. Those are soon to come. 


As my social circle rearranges once again - I am further solidified in the fact that family should always come first. They will never forsake me or abandon me, and they love unconditionally. Some are not as blessed as I to have such a great base - but I appreciate it more and more each day.


Anyway - enough of the mushy stuff. After teaming up with CousinJin, we've spent this weekend finding little gems throughout Fort Lauderdale - including a cute little candy shop on Las Olas. You know we had to go in... 

First stop - Primanti Bros. on the beach...

CousinJin and CousinJay 

Santa in the tricked out classic Ford definitely ended the night well. It was a lovely evening for a walk on the beach...

Ventilation...

The tables have finally turned. 


It actually doesn't feel as good as I thought it would. I can't apologize for your mistakes, but I can thank you for making them. I hold no grudges. It is through you that I realized what love should really feel like - and I will continue on this journey until I find that true love. Until I feel that heart beat skip. Until I know for sure. When it will happen, where, with whom - is a mystery.


 It might be now. Who knows? Only time will tell...

Art Basel Weekend 2011 - TI$A Collection Debut At Rare Footage...

This weekend has been awesome thus far; between the Art Basel scene in Downtown Miami and the American Apparel Warehouse sale in Winwood - I have been making the most of these few days. Last night, I had the honor of attending TISA Clothing's gathering at Rare Footage at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The brainchild, Taz Arnold was there in full effect - I managed to sneak some conversation time in with him. That man is something else! 

If you haven't heard of TISA, chances are you haven't watched TV or paid attention to the streets lately. Taz Arnold is the creative mind behind many of your favorite artists' wardrobes, under the artistry of the luxury brand MCM, and now his own lovechild - TI$A. He has collaborated musically with the likes of Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music label with the group Sa-Ra. Karl Lagerfield ring a bell? Bottom line - he is a force to be reckoned with. 

The night was very mellow, the usual skater/sneaker head crowd was ever present. My little brother was definitely working the crowd, networking for his crew - Anarchy Dreams. I am so proud of him! He even got Taz's contact information, that is saying A-LOT! 

Taz drew the TI$A logo on every autograph he signed - and he signed a LOT! He also raffled off his latest line of snap backs and fitted caps, as well as t-shirts. 

Taz: Are you Seminole? I'm askin' - cuz I don't know what Seminoles look like.

Me: I'm black! Seminoles are Native American!

Taz: Yeah, but you LOOK Native American! 

Me: ((Faints))

It was a great night - and I was definitely inspired to work on my own pieces. I've read his interviews and watched videos on him, and I really and truly respect him as a creative entity. I have to love and respect big named artists and designers who take the time out to remember the people who got them to the top. Taz has a lot of success ahead of him, and I'm glad to have met him along the way. I know I haven't seen the last of him...

Take a peek at his work - 

Interview With Complex Magazine  

Big Sean + TI$A Photo Shoot...

TI$A Mission Statement - 

The epitome of being yourself... 

Tyrese - "Stay" ((Video))

There was a time in Tyrese's career when he told the world he would quit music for good and pursue his acting career further. Now, as real musicians know - it's very difficult to leave your first love. Many have tried and failed - but Tyrese from Watts had a very strong musical career behind him. Of course, he caved and came out with a few songs just for Twitter - but this here looks like the real deal. The past few singles he's put out have been club songs, but "Stay" has a beautifully simplistic, classic element to it. Glad he decided to stay with us music lovers.


Not to mention he looks delicious - I love seing Black men in suits!! 


Tyrese - "Stay"... 

_Insomniac Dreaming..._

I have chronic insomnia. I've had it for as long as I can remember. There was a time in my life where my sleeping patterns would go in cycles. One week I would sleep great, the next week I would sleep a little less, then less the next week, then five days without sleep. Then ten days. Then - my body would crash. I'd be unable to focus, feel irritated, and then I would fall asleep. Anywhere. Sometimes while working. While talking to customers, too. I would sleep great for a few days, then the cycle would start again. 


With insomnia, at my worst - I'd sometimes see things. People walking past me who didn't, hearing people say things they never said, blurred vision. It was bad. I haven't had it that severe in a few years, but I still have problems sleeping. Last week I was jerked out of my sleep from a bad dream. You know, the type where you feel like you're falling, so you reach out to catch yourself. Or reach up to block your face from being hit by a rock. Woke up in a sweat, but could not remember the dream. Last night - I had another one. This one lasted long enough for me to grab some of it. But I cannot figure out what the dream is saying to me. 


Myself and two girls (one of which I think I don't like much) are walking down a street. I don't know which city, and I don't know which girls  - but I know they were familiar like friends or acquaintances. We walk up to a warehouse looking building, and try to peek into the door window. It is unlocked, so we open the door and go inside.


The room is huge, with various hallways on each wall. We look down the hallways, but don't enter any. As we turn to leave the warehouse, someone walks by rolling a table. They don't say anything, they just walk from one hallway across to another. Two more people pass by. The warehouse door opens, and a man with a ski mask comes in, pushing a hospital gurney. On that bed was what appeared to be a body bag, but it was white. It seemed to be made out of felt or gauze, and blood was seeping through the fabric. 


Somehow, I end up on a gurney - and the masked man is raping me. I'm not screaming, but I am resisting. It then seems to become consensual, since I stopped resisting. I remember thinking within the dream that he is cute, because he took the mask off somehow. I think he asked me to lunch after. 


That's all I remember. I don't know how to read the dream, and I wonder if had anything to do with my last dream. I just want to figure out what it may mean - because it may be a key to avoiding danger...

The Weeknd - "The Knowing" ((Video))

I won't lie - I was afraid to watch this video ((Y'all know I'm a fraidey cat)). I have known The Weekend for his eerie songs and even creepier videos. This, however, was a beautiful piece of work. Shot in "Jankyvision," the director used still shots and illustrations to piece together a moving, living music video. With a complicated, yet awesome storyline. 


There's an official synopsis of what's taking place in the video, but I'll break it down in real-world terms. A jaded woman cheats on her boyfriend, so he decides to go out and reciprocate the action. The girlfriend is hurt, so she does what she can to bring hell to his world. He cheats on her, but decides that the greatest pain he can give her is to stay in the relationship - knowing all the while that she betrayed his trust. She steals his heart with intentions of breaking it, yet she cannot. It continues to grow, and grow - until she gives up and puts his heart somewhere that no other woman can find it... 


You can read Necole Bitchie's story run-down after the jump. I think I may watch this again. Word on the street is that The Weeknd is Ethiopian, which completely explains his Haille Selassie reference in the video. Everyone has endured heartache at least once in their life. We choose to live, we choose to move on - despite the fact that our exes may not want us to. It's all about The Knowing... 







via Necolebitchie.com...
The video for this twisted, emotional track takes a sci-fi approach by featuring The Weeknd as emperor of planet Ethios X. His empress created him by combining a man she enslaved with an emperor from Earth (Haile Selassi) she had killed in 1974. Together, they rule Ethios X until an alien shows The Weeknd a vision of the empress’s quadruplet offering herself up to some hellish figure. He has her assassinated at his throne, and the empress gets so pissed about it that she splits their planet in two. This starts a war between both worlds with the empress sending assassins over to steal The Weeknd’s heart for her to destroy.

Lotus Flower Bomb (Cover)

I've been singing this in the car for weeks now, did it in the shower today and decided to record it. Been feeling like hitting the studio lately, might wanna start practicing a bit...

Hahahah, I keep playing it over and over. I only did one take, hope it came out okay! 

Flights & Skype...

Distance. Definitely a trial in any relationship. What I've learned, though - is that the strong bonds can survive through any mileage. It gets tough, being away from the one you want to spend your days with, but there's a reason for everything - and destiny always gets what she wants. 


Songz, of course is discussing the lifestyle of a successful celebrity - but the lyrics apply to us regular people, too. Life keeps us busy sometimes, no matter where our significant other lives. It's definitely more difficult to maintain an out of town romance, but the challenge sometimes adds to the allure. Long distance relationships require real desire and interest, or I can guarantee they won't work. I have a homeboy who lives in Florida and his girlfriend lives in Canada! They seem to be working out quite fine, while couples that live towns apart can't even maintain. It's all about the passion. It's all about enjoying the journey...


"So, let's Skype - tonight..." 


Trey Songz - Flights & Skype...

For the Love of Food...

Everyone knows I am a foodista. If there's nothing else I could be able to do in life, I should hope I never lose the ability to eat. My Granny instilled in me the theory that if you eat and appreciate every meal, you will never go hungry. So far, so good. 


My goal is always to introduce my friends to new experiences. On my last trip to Orlando, I got Kendra to try sushi for the first time. This weekend, we chose to dine at a spot called JinSushi. It's a small place, but the service was great and the food was awesome. The layout is perfect for group dining, and they serve the sushi on planks instead of dishes. 

The appetizer - Age Tofu...

Dessert - Mochi ice cream - my favorite!



The price point was extremely affordable, I am so glad I stumbled upon this little gem. Next time, I'll venture towards the sake, but I was driving :-/.

I can't wait for the next food adventure!



JinSushi

8250 Sunset Strip  Sunrise, FL 33322

(954) 747-1101 

8250 Sunset Strip  Sunrise, FL 33322

Tattoo Lifestyle - Interview With Rico Zombie

Never judge a book... 


I first saw this guy in someone's music video. I can't remember who - but then he showed up in Lady Gaga's "Born This Way". Clearly he wasn't born like that, but I am always intrigued by tattoos and why people get them. I know with mine, each one has a story - but it seems like each one of his stories has a tattoo! Rico is a very handsome young man, and he has definitely been through a lot. Peep the Dermablend transformation after the jump - and you'll see just how handsome he is... 



Dermablend Promo...

Infidelity - Me 4 U

Songz's Anticipation 2 Mixtape has got me thinking...


A lot of the songs tie into my life; things I've been through, places I've been - even my journey now. This song is a part of my past, and each time I hear it, I shake my head. The dialogue at the end really brought back some feelings for me, and it makes me wonder who else has experienced this type of heartache.


Is it possible for a human being to love another so much that they would cheat on them, yet not allow that person to leave the relationship? This is one question I could not find the answer to. Is it truly love that draws someone to psychosis, or is it pure selfishness? Listening to the lyrics, I'd shake my head every so often and think back to the past few years. 


"She told me I'm dying, I'm trying to survive. I'll never be enough if it's just me 4 u." 


Any woman would become jaded if they felt that no man can be satisfied with just one woman. When you fall in love with someone and find out he's unfaithful, or even just plain old promiscuous - you begin to question yourself. I wondered what could be wrong with me. Just listen to Infidelity (part 1) - "You kept me on this pedestal, no matter how much I let you down." I really put myself in a place where I felt like maybe I wasn't good enough, and that's a low point I've never experienced before. I found myself putting up with things, lowering my standards - and for what? To remain in an unhappy, unhealthy relationship with someone who only half way wanted to be there. But wouldn't let me leave...


Listen to the dialogue. Ladies - have you been here? Are you still there? If not, what made you leave? If so - where is your breaking point? When do we take the time to think about what WE need? Is it okay to lower your standards for someone you love? 


"You can never find another man, cuz I ain't never gonna understand. Even though I'm doin' wrong girl, you can never move along girl - cuz it's just me 4 u." 


And believe me when I say - no level of stalking, no abuse (which I would never EVER tolerate. I wish a ninja would...), no threats should keep you with someone who's hurting you emotionally. He may think I don't notice, but I do. I see you...


I tell no lies when I say music is my life. I think it was that song that actually made me get up and leave. It was a long road trip, and the drive home always seems longer when you leave your destination. I heard so many songs that weekend, over and over again. "Infidelity" came on, and I was disgusted. To think that I could sit and take that kind of disrespect. Because that's what it is - no matter how much they say they love you. 


In retrospect, I can look back at this and smile, and hope that other women who have been in that place get the sense enough to walk away. Know your worth - know their worth, too. Walk away and walk towards the destiny they deserve...


The journey continues... 


Infidelity/Me 4 U...

Holiday 2011 Wish List...

Everyone knows I absolutely adore the holidays. Not because of the gifts, but because of the food, family and friends (not in that particular order). There's something about sharing space and time with the people I love. I do find joy in buying gifts for my loved ones; it is a great feeling when I see my siblings' eyes light up because they got something they wanted, or to see the excitement in a friend's eyes when they get something they didn't expect. This year will be no different. 


I have a few things I am eyeing this season - more than likely I will jump the gun and buy them for myself (^_^)...

Hello Kitty laptop bag. 




Hello Kitty is my favorite animated character of all times, and even at 24 years old, I still like having her around. I want a subtle, adult laptop bag with a little Kitty touch to it. At the rate that things are going - I may have to make this bag myself. 

Cat-eye Lenses...


I've always wanted a pair, but just haven't found any in the optics stores. eBay is going to be my best friend on this search. These are perfect! 

Analog Watch...


I've had a few, but I need something new and casual for daily wear. Brightly colored watches add a stylish touch to even the simplest outfit. 

Pink Loves NFL Line...


I am getting more into American Football and Basketball as the years progress - I was raised on Soccer and Baseball - but I love this new line from VS. The panties are in my favorite cheeky cut, and the loungewear looks very comfy and warm. Steelers or Giants are the way to go on this one. 

Michael Kors Olympia Python flats...


Not really big on monograms or big logos,
I pay more attention to quality and detail. 
These are perfect for light days at work, or semi-casual lunch and dinner dates. I can see this with a nice T-shirt, simple straight leg jeans and a blazer. 


Ooh, I'm gonna need a clutch to go with it! 

L.A.M.B. Dorset Barcellon Clutch...


Perfect! Simple and chic, looks spacious enough to house my phone, lip gloss, keys and taser. ((Yes, I carry one of those)) 












I can't wait for Christmas to come! It just gets me in the happiest mood. I start my holiday shopping this week, and I'm so excited to get everything what they want this year. Hope everyone enjoys the season as much as I do! 

R.I.P. Heavy D.

R.I.P. Heavy D...


Information is still pending on how Heavy passed away, but we definitely lost a real musician today. He represented Mount Vernon (NY) anywhere he went, and we appreciated him for that. Real music heads bow our heads for the Overweight Lover. 

Drake Feat. Rihanna - "Take Care"

This album has been much anticipated by Drake, and of course it would be leaked nine days before the official release. All these successful rappers definitely need to take a page from Hov's production team, and keep their masters airtight and hand-delivered...

Anyway, I "came across" this track from the album, and I am very excited to hear what else the album has in store. I refuse to download the album, but I will definitely have this song on repeat in the car next week.

Drake feat. Rihanna - "Take Care..."