Monday, December 28, 2009
Culture Shock Viewing Mixer 12-29-09
Aight! This is the final webcast of 09. We are gonna end the year off with a blast as we release our newest webisode featuring Ruben Studdard, Joe Torry, Candi, Jaafar, and much more. So if you find yourself in the Montgomery area, check us out at The Board Room! BTW, check out some footage from our last viewing brought to you by Eddie Spangler of Great News Montgomery.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Skinny Jeans: Trend or Trash?
Chillin at the Holiday Party last night the subject of skinney jeans came up. This is a subject that seems to be very borderline when it comes to males and sexuality. Some think that men who participate in the low waist and skinney jeans trends. Some think that they are manly enough to pull it off. What do you think. Trend or Trash?
Fantasy Football
The football season is winding down and I must say that this year has been an intriguing one to say the least. The addition of fantasy Football has truly enhanced my football experience. If you have not tried it I would suggest you start, because that is the future of being a sports fanatic. And that's REAL! Our Internet Reign CONTINUES!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Jamie Foxx and Guicci Mane: Speak French
I can't say that I like this song but it seems like a pretty good idea!
Believe
I had the opportunity to be the guest columnist for this weeks Weekend Pass. I thought that the column would make a great blog. Be sure to check out The Weekend Pass for everything social in Montgomery!
Believe!
Humans are blessed with the intangible ability to believe. To believe is to accept something as truth. Something that does not exist is a reality in the heart and mind of one who believes. As kids we grow up believing in Santa Claus, The Boogie Man, Super heroes and so much more. The very thought of our beliefs being true kept us aspiring so that we could fully indulge or become what we believed in.
As we get older, we begin to lose our ability to believe, and begin to accept what people call reality. If we are all honest, Christmas was much better when we believed in Santa Claus. Playing sports was much more fun when we believed that we could be the next Michael Jordan, or Jerry Rice. But somewhere in life, some stop believing and began accepting “reality.” They relinquished their dreams and start to reach only for what they can see. They find a job that sustains a lifestyle, and become comfortable in living in “reality”, only to soon grow bored and soon dislike their job. This discomfort comes from natures desire to believe. The drive and push for something more.
As humans, we must hold on to our ability to believe. The purpose of our being is to believe. Our spirituality is based on belief. Every person should have one thing within their heart that they believe in. Something that is not yet seen, but your belief is going to make it reality. If you achieve your goal, begin searching for the next belief. Believing keeps us striving, growing, learning and achieving. What do you believe in? What are you doing to achieve it?
Terrence Baldwin, Culture Shock
Real People, Doing Real Things
Montgomery Spotlight Magazine Release!
Shout out to our cousins over at Montgomery Spotlight Magazine. Their newest release came out on yesterday with Sheree Whitfield from Atlanta Housewives as the cover feature. You can also see a new hot fashion spread, new tips for the 2009 tax season, and What Women Want from Montgomery Most Phenomenal Women. Check it out!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Dynamic Tax Solutions
Hello our Montgomery family. You know that we always point out Real People, Doing Real Things. With that said, Minna Carter and the staff at Dynamic Tax Solutions is your place for this coming tax season. Dynamic Tax Solutions is so unique because 5% of their proceeds from each tax return, will be donated to a Montgomery Public School of YOUR choice. Here is an opportunity for us the support local business and give back to the community. Please support Dynamic Tax Solutions.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Robin Thicke (Sex Therapy)
It is challenging for artist to create music that sparks the same feelings that fans felt at first listen. One reason is because artist evolve. Secondly, is because its kind of hard to surprise people twice. Once we like you, we pretty much know what you have to offer. All you can do as an artist is maintain what we know about you. Very few artist challenge their fans and change their sound drastically.
This explanation is how I feel about Sex Therapy by Robin Thicke. It has a very classy, musical, distinguished soul to it. So does the other three. If you are a fan I would suggest you go get it. If you are expecting to be surprised, wait for the next one. Overall it's pretty cool tho! Expect to hear features from, Jay-Z, Estelle,Jazmine Sullivan,Game,and more. Grade B
Monday, December 14, 2009
How Can Facebook Affect Your Love Life?
Are you constantly on Facebook? Is your significant other on Facebook? Many times the social networking phenomenon causes insecurities amongst lovers, because of the all day access to people, old flings, and new flings. It's like being in the club all day. I know that not everyone is tempted the engage in extra curricular activities but there is room for doubt for your lover.
The question is what steps can be made to make our ;lovers feel secure in our social networking journey.
1. Your time on Facebook should not be in "The Closet." That simply means you should check it in the presence of your mate. Maybe even share some interesting moments that you encounter. Your openness about your activity gives your partner the opportunity to feel apart of your cyber experience. Welcome him or her to sit with you while you surf.
2. A picture of your mate on your profile never hurts. It shows that you are not ashamed of your commitment and that you are not on the market. And while you're at it go ahead and change your relationship status to accurately state your position. Don't be slick JACK!
3. As addicted as you are to Facebook, set aside times to where you do not communicate at all on Facebook. No matter what text updates hit your phone. Show your mate that your time with them is more valuable than that time you spend on Facebook.
Follow these steps and you are on your way to a relationship stress free cyber experience. Be Out!
Media on Tiger
The media is one of the most complicated yet influential avenues that we the people feed on. They control the ability to stir the emotions of the people. They feed us sadness, anger, happiness, which in all keeps us the viewers coming back for more.
But there are times when the media exploit there abilities to the detriment of those they helped build. Celebrities are put under a huge microscope in an attempt to dehumanize these superstars. The media makes big to do's about things that we as fans do everyday.
The truth of the matter is that Tiger Woods, Chris Brown, Brittany Spears, are Real People, and they do Real Things just like me and you. If anything, adversity and temptation approaches them at a stronger and faster pace than the ordinary human being.
Tiger Woods is being unfairly criticized by people for something that is done everyday. We did not grow to love Tiger because of his commitment to his family. We enjoyed his genius like approach to the game of golf. But as we see the 24 hour invasion of his life he is wrongfully portrayed as an immortal that has committed an unheard of crime that is suppose to change everyone opinion of him. It is almost more beneficial for celebrities not to let the public define who and what you are. Never let them place you on a pedestal because it only leads to a media led decline.
Be Out!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Just a Few Cats Reunion Concert feat. Ruben Studdard
Get ready to experience the magic that jump started a revolution for the music scene in the South. One of Birmingham's most esteemed groups will be reuniting with 2003 American Idol for the annual concert that celebrates their musical accomplishments. Each year this event grows, and is not slated to do otherwise as The Cats break in the newest special event facility Old Car Heaven. Get your tickets at www.oldcarheaven.com
Poetically Correct
Looking for a mid week groove, come kick it at Servers in Montgomery and jam with Shanessa Sweeney, and some of the South's hottest poets for what will be labelled Poetically Correct. This is not your ordinary open mic so be out!
Take a look @ Sweeney as she rocks CS Unplugged!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Championship Weekend @ MLounge
It's The SWAC Weekend, and although ASU isn't playing, it should still be a momentous occasion. Tonight The MLounge and Seagrams Gin brings to the Magic City, from The Housewives of Atlanta and Grammy award winning songwriter Kandi. She is gonna be in the place, so don't be Tardy for the Party. Yung Vocalz and Precision Grooves will be providing the entertainment so you know that the party will be on Fiyah!
And on Saturday, the weekend continues with soul artist Calvin Richardson and Birmingham crooner Jaafar. This promises to be an evening of style, fun, and some good ole fashion SANGIN! Join us all weekend on the red carpet at The MLounge.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Album Review: Timbaland's Shock Value
Just as I was about to pop in dat 50 Cent in the player, I saw that Timbaland released Shock Value II. So I said, what the hell, let’s see what ole Tim is talkin bout. I have witness Timbalands style evolve quite a few times. This is why I like him. He doesn’t allow his listeners to get too comfortable with any particular sound or style. But I feel that he has found a pop style that is allowing him to crossover. And we all know that better checks come with crossing over.
While I enjoyed Shock Value II, it feels like the sequel to Shock Value I, and that ain’t necessarily a bad thing. I would recommend you give it a listen. The album features Lady GaGa, Drake, Keri Hilson, Estelle, and more.
Album Review: Snoop Dogg Malice n Wonderland
I’m not sure how many of you are still Snoop Dogg fans, but the Boss Dog is still on fire. His new release Malice n Wonderland was released on yesterday, and since I’m still not ready to listen to 50 Cent, I bumped Snoop. He has official cleansed himself of the West Coast gangsta rep, and allowed society to accept him as an artist and family man. Don’t get it messed up, he hasn’t turned into Will Smith and Get Jiggy, but he speaks about his newly found love for his wife. He no longer pimpin hoes! The Dream also played a big role in this compilation. This guy is on the rise. I give this album 7 G’s up! (That’s pretty good if you didn’t know) Check out my favorite track featuring Jazmine Sullivan, Different Languages.
Album Review: R. Kelly's Untitled
I know that many people get offended when you speak negatively about R. Kelly. BUT, his previous 2 albums were kinda nonexistent. There was cool music, but it felt like vintage R. Kelly. I enjoyed his song writing, but his music was not evolving to my ears.
Untitled is his newest release and I was reluctant to listen to it, but because I’m not ready to listen to 50 Cent, I went ahead and gave it a listen. It makes me proud to say that now I feel that he is evolving as an artist. His music is fresher, and it is allowing him to shine more as a writer. Also, I think it is in order to tip hats to new writer/producer The Dream. Dreams’ music has always resembled the mind of Kels, but it is even more obvious in this work. My favs are Be My # 2, Pregnant, Elsewhere, and Like I Do. If you don’t have Untitled you can listen here.
Monday, December 7, 2009
McNabb and Vick (A Big Deal)
The Resurrection of Michael Vick has been a slow and depressing experience. But on yesterday, a bit of truth and reality was shined on the Michael Vick debacle. It was a chance for people to see how much support that Vick has from the general public. The media only accentuates the odds. On yesterday, Vicks return to the ATL was the opportunity to play under the spotlight of truth. And as a result he shined.
Finally, I want to give double kudos to Donavan McNabb. The amount of selflessness that he has shown throughout this process is nothing short of impeccable. The willingness to minimize his role for the sake of another should be recognized and celebrated. I wish nothing but the best for both of these men in the future! For they truley are Real people Doing real things.
The Gig is Up
Is it a surprise that the highest unemployed ethnicity is black people. Sometimes its hard to tell because majority of my friends have jobs, and the very people you think are unemployed have jobs. However, this article documents that it is indeed a fact. We need jobs not policiess, with all due respect.
Read more here
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Album Review: Wale (Attention Deficit)
This weekend I had 3 albums on the agenda to check out. R. Kelly, 50 Cent, and the odd ball out Wale. Not in any hurry to hear any, I started with Wale, the guy I knew nothing about. Attention Deficit was a very colorful and refreshing musical expression. Wale seems to have no chains binding him to a particular sound or message. I would recommend any fan of hip hop to give this guy a listen. Wale features with artist such as Guicci Mane, Jazmine Sullivan, Chrisette Michelle, Pharrell, Bun B, Lady Gaga and a few more. Give it a listen here.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Out With Trappin In With App'in
There is a new type of hustle that is penetrating this digital world. With the huge growth of app based phones, creates the opportunity for everyday Joe Blows to hit a lick. I personally have two app based products, and I have encountered apps that turns my phone to a flash light all the way to being a calorie counter. They really bring truth to the slogan, "There is an App For Anything." Read up, and do some research. Maybe you can create the worlds next big app. Read more here.
What the Hell Wrong With This Katt?!
Just when you think Katt Williams has dropped his newly found fame to its lowest, he continues to show just how much lower he can go. Today Katt Williams was arrested for being affiliated with a gang of people causing a violent disturbance and eventually pulled out a shotgun. I'm starting to think that he seriously needs help or these acts are publicity stunts. Either way, this Kat is running out of lives. Click here to read the story.
Culture Shock Radio is Coming Back with Avengence!
Men Who Love Mary
I am an avid fan of Bamalovesoul.com, and DJ Rahdu added a link to a Tribute album to Mary J. Blige called Men Who Love Mary. This is a remake of her first hit album My Life. It features tributes from the likes of Eric Roberson, Jesse Boykins III, Nino Moschella, Bradd Marquis, TL Cross, Darien, D Maurice. so if you're in the mood for something familiar, yet different download the entire album here.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Drake the Great
I am not a hater, but up and coming artist Drake is recieving a ride in the fast lane by chauffeur. This guy is recieving accolades that far exceeds his accomplishments. Let the jitterbug release his first album before we crown him. He's gonna need far more than a great mixtape to fill the shoes that the game has awaiting him. Last nite the 23 year old, unknowingly was nominated for 2 Grammys. Thats right 2! Best Rap Solo Performance, and Best Rap Song. I truley hope his album represents cause if not.....
Jay-hova vs. Jehovah
Alright, alright! I have been waiting for two years for Jay to address allegations of him being a devil worshipper. I must admit, he has had some questionable lines but recently he addressed the issue and he had this to say about these allegations. Hope it satisfies uncomforted fans.
Jay: “He should be arrested, seriously. My position is not unlike anyone else who ascends to the top of their field. That comes with the game. But that’s crazy. That might be the craziest one I’ve had.”
When pressed further, Jay admitted that he did not attend church but he did have a personal connection to God.
Jay: “Nah, I’m more spiritual than [having] organized religion. I have a personal relationship with God. …I believe in karma, I believe in cause and effect…but religion, I have my opinions about religion."
Pleasure P (The P is for Pervert)
Damn Pleasure P! Just when it looked like you had Beyonce’d Pretty Ricky, BAM! According to sources it is being said that freshman solo artist Pleasure P is facing child molestation charges. I am a firm believer in fans separating personal opinions of artist from the quality of the music, but damn P. I’m looking forward to seeing how his career survives this debacle. Click here to read more from NecoleBitchie.com
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Tiger in the Woods
Blak Roc
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Concrete Jungle Where Dreams are Made of....
Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys
"Empire State of Mind"
-Deonshay Danson
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
He's back....
2009 has really been a comeback year, and singer Jaheim is on the comeback trail as well...check out the first single from his upcoming album.
-Deonshay Danson
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
It's Gucci Baby!!!
Okay I can admit I've been a kinda-sorta Gucci Mane fan for a while now. I have my hood moments, and Gucci's music hits the spot. Lately, he has all over the radio in some killer collabs. Whether he's "wasted" or "obsessed" or "breaking up" Gucci is finally broadening his fan base.
"Spotlight" featuring Usher and produced by Polow Da Don, is the first single off of Gucci's upcoming album "The State vs. Radric Davis."
"Gucci!!!"
-Deonshay Danson
Thursday, October 15, 2009
My deepest apologies
But thank you guys for bearing with me, I am out of my brief stint of frustration and I am ready to move forward. Just started the interview for the next segment of "Real people doing real things," and I have quite a line-up waiting to be interviewed. I guess this means I'm back in full force.
Ready...Set....GO!!!
-Deonshay Danson
Friday, October 2, 2009
Unplugged Footage...
So Culture Shock posted footage of their Unplugged event on their YouTube page, so I had to share the highlights of the night.
-Deonshay Danson
Monday, September 28, 2009
Just an Update...
-Deonshay Danson
Unplugged!!!
What happens when talented individuals collide with the right venue and a receptive crowd...?
You get Culture Shock Unplugged!!!
My roomate Lamont, myself, and the audience of CS Unplugged a great night of "culture" as we enjoyed the Souled Out Band, talented singers, visual artists, rappers, and spoken word artists. I don't remember the name of the featured singer, but I have my $10 now because Lamont and I want her on our playlist.
We had a good time at the event as we chilled with the hosts of Culture Shock, and got a good daily dose of culture. Saturday made 2 nights in a row that I was caught out with Terrance and Jarmar, and I'm looking forward to many more events...keep me posted guys!
-Deonshay Danson
Soundtrack to my Life...
The other week I told you guys about my love affair with rapper Kid Cudi. He has a very distinct and original sound that has been on my playlist since March.
So I decided to share some of that sound with you today.
-Deonshay Danson
Their back!!!
Singers from my childhood are really making a comeback this year and Boyz II Men just jumped on the "comeback" bandwagon. "Open Arms" is the first single from their 9th studio, and it is classic B2M. I like it.
-Deonshay Danson
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Real People Doing Real Things...
Sorry about the delay, but the new segment of "Real People Doing Real Things," is finally here!!! Today's spotlight is on Jurian Isabelle, a filmmaker from Huntsville, Ala. I got to talk to Jurian about his current and future projects, as well as how he became interested in film. So here we go!!!
1. How did you get involved in film? When did you know that film was what you wanted to do? My first time getting involved with "filmmaking" was when I was eight years old, believe it or not. I used to sneak in my dad's drawer and play with his JVC camera. I just always had an inner attraction to the idea of telling a story through images and emotion. I remember making my first "film" when I was 11. It was right after the film "Independence Day" came out with Will Smith, you remember that? LOL! I didn't have the budget for the "effects" but my creativity went a loooooong way. LOL! My mom still pulls that first movie out at family functions, and I, of course, run upstairs and hide under my bed.
2. Where did you get the inspiration for your first film, Veils of Color?
3. How did you go about filming your movie?
4. What do you hope people will gain from viewing film?
My main goal when I create films is to communicate some sort of relevant message to challenge and change people's hearts and minds. In"Veils of Color", I am communicating to the audience that you can't judge a person from outward appearances - skin color, background, hair, weight, height, they are all "Veils" that we have to remove to see the real person beneath.
5. In what venues will/has your movie been viewed?
So far it has been viewed at the Capri Theatre in Montgomery, AL at the Montgomery Black Film Festival back in August. The next screening will be at the International Black Film Festival in Nashville. Also there will be showings here in Huntsville, AL. I am still talking with the managers at Monaco Pictures, but it's looking good so far.
(Trailer for "Veils of Color")
I'm doing a short film called "The Last Disciples" for the BET short film competition. The script is done and I will begin shooting that in a few weeks. Prayerfully, it will win. It's basically about three people going through life's trials and tribulations. After that I'm working on a full length film, which is going to be based on the Harlem Renaissance. I can't tell you the complete details on that yet. Sorry Shay, good ideas are the only thing a filmmaker has! LOL!
7. How can people get a copy of the film?
I am currently setting up a film site for "Veils of Color" since it's doing so well. But for the mean time, people can hit me up on Myspace or Facebook to place a money order. Starting next Monday, they can order it through PayPal on my Myspace page. Just google me.
They can find me on Facebook: Jurian Isabelle, or shoot me an email: jurianisabelle@gmail.com I check my email fanatically, so they can reach me there for sure.
9. Anything else you want to add?
I just set up my blog nothing's up yet, I'm trying to be like you Deonshay. LOL! This blog is dope. I like it. I also just started my twitter page (@jurianisabelle) so everybody can follow me through all this madness. I never would have believed 18 years ago, I would have accomplished all this. All thanks goes to God definitely.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A Healthy Poke at Health Care...LOL
This video is so funny, but it is so true. Health Care is a priority for all people, but yet it a commodity that some people just cannot afford. The time has come to make health care an affordable commodity rather than a luxury that some can't have. To find out more about the Pres. Obama's Health Care Plan go here.
-Deonshay Danson
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Roll the Film
Jurian and I met in college, as we were both communications majors; he was focusing in radio/television and my concentration is public relations. I didn't know that we were both from Huntsville until the summer of my sophomore year when we ran into each other in the mall.
Jurian graduated from ASU in 2008, and is employed by WHNT-19, Huntsville's CBS affiliate doing production and writing movie reviews. He wrote, directed, produced, and acted in his first film, "Veils of Color," this year.
I can't give it all away, tomorrow my exclusive interview with Jurian will be posted on the blog so stay tuned.
-Deonshay Danson
Monday, September 21, 2009
More from BJ!!!
-Deonshay Danson
Thursday, September 17, 2009
You Better Be There...
I will be in the building, so hope to see you there.
-Deonshay Danson
Talk with Culture Shock
Recently the guys of Culture Shock got to sit down with WSFA-12 anchor, Tonya Terry. They talk about Culture Shock, the upcoming Culture Shock Unplugged, Kanye West, Whitney Houston, and more. Check it out.
I see Terrance with the wayfarers, and Jarmar rocking the Chucks. And did Terrance just say "Send it to us on Twitter," notice he didn't say "Facebook it to me." LOL!!!
-Deonshay Danson
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I Be that Man on the Moon
Last week I got my copy of BP3 and it has been in constant rotation for a week now. Today I snuck off to Best Buy to cop Kid Cudi's debut album "Man on the Moon."
Friday, September 11, 2009
I Don't know Why I like Heist Movies...I just Do!!
I love heist movies, and the movie Takers looks like one that I will have to see. The line-up of actors is ridiculous!!! The movie features T.I, Idris Elba, Matt Dillon, Paul Walker, Michael Ely and Chris Brown.
Definitely a MUST SEE!
-Deonshay Danson
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
It's finally here...the first exclusive interview of the new segment "Real People Doing Real Things."
Today's spotlight is on Eric Ramey, musician/producer.
1. How and when did you fall in love with music? When did you know that you could take your talent beyond just a hobby?
I don't know when exactly, my dad is a musician so I've been around music my whole life. I used to sit around and watch him play, go to his band rehersals, and shows...fun times :) I really got in to it when I was about 16; that's when I actually picked up the bass and got serious. I realized when I was working jobs like Hollister and Sam Goody, and could make more money in 3hrs doing music than in a week at these jobs, and be doing what I would do for free...MUSIC!!!
2. What are you doing currently with your music?
I'm submitting my stuff to different artists mainstream and indy. I work with a couple other guys, when we get together we are called the Hit Frat. Kameron Pearson is my right hand man; he is a monsterous keyboardist. We have taken stuff to Warner Music, and it was being played for A&R's of a lot of labels. We also have some things going on over seas in Asia creating a buzz. A lot of the dj's are digging the stuff.
3. Where have you performed and where would you like to perform?
LOL I don't remember the places I've peformed. Um... I've been on Bobby Jones Gospel, Canada, did a tour with the Albert Dudley Singers, and I used to play with Obvious Obsession Gogo band, we used to kill live shows. Now I'm with Michael B. Hicks, a cat outta Nashville Tenn., his album "This is life" is gonna be crazy hot, soulful type stuff. Check him out on facebook! I don't have a specific place I would like to perform at, I just love being on stage small, medium, large I don't care I just wanna play.
4. Who have you worked with? Who would you like to work with?
Amber Bullock, Jstyles, Mike B. Hicks, Phil Hughley, Eddie Spanky Alford, and others buts that's a few...I'd like to work with... Musiq, Mary Mary, Common, India Arie, John Mayer, The Neptunes, Justin Timberlake, PJ Morton, Rihanna, Brandy, and lots of others too many to name.
5. Who are some of your musical influences?
Kelvin Wooten, Spanky Alford, my dad, Pfunk, John Mayer, and all the motown stuff. James Jamerson, Coldplay, Steely Dan, Pino Pallidino, Jaco, Darkchild, Norris Jones, Al Green,
Average white band, Concha Buika, Raphael Saddiq, Marcus Miller, and lots more but i won't put them.
6. What is your biggest goal musically?
To get my music heard and apreciated, and to start getting mailbox money lol. I don't want to get to a point where I'm stuck in one place as far as the type of music I do. I want to be able to produce and write every style and genre effectively and authentically from country and rock to r&b and hiphop.
7. How can people get in touch with you to book you for events?
eramey85@gmail.com
8. Anything else that you want to add? What has been your biggest obstacle?
Support indy artist don't burn their cds!!! The biggest obstacle has been getting heard I have hot material, but without an avenue to get heard you have hot stuff with no listeners!