Legendary Moment

With the recent emergence of of the BET Awards I have honestly forgotten about the Soul Train Awards. But as we all know Soul Train is where it all began. This years Soul Train Awards was very refreshing. Despite the absence of many A level artist, I was happy to see many of the B listers.

In todays music industry, to ever be considered a legend, one of the criteria is that you document a legendary performance. Michael Jackson's Motown Live 25, Prince 1985 AMA performance, Celine Dion at the 1996 Olympics, Jay-Z's MTV Unplugged, and many more are all performances that almost serve as the cherry on top of a flavorful career.

Sunday Night R&B's most scrutinized (well deserved might I add), prolific, and most recognized artist of the past 20 years finally had the opportunity to imprint his legendary status by giving a performance of a lifetime. R. Kelly surprised the world by even showing up, and while there gave fans a blast from the past singing a medley from his numerous hits young and old. He climaxed with his new and yet bold single "When a Woman Loves." I can't lie and pretend that this is one of my favorite songs, however, I must admit that the the guy is singing the hell out of it. The guy stood flat footed and out sang any guy in the game right now with an old school melody and it was a genuine soulful performance. The performance drew emotion whether you like the song or not. He capped it off with a celebratory reprise to the song and even danced and played the piano.

Regardless the flaws of us as human beings, our talents and abilities have the power to change the world. I am glad to have lived through his career to see it evolve.



Holla, Da Nasty 1

Class Acts

Change is good! Therefore, change has come. Not only as it pertains to the face of the NBA as we know it, but as highlights the morals and pride of professional athletes in sports. For two years, teams along with the hopes of thousands of fans, have placed the pressure of LeBron joining their team. Tonight James has made history as he chose The Miami Heat as his next destination. Our hats go off to the professionalism shown by Wade, Bosh and James setting aside egos, financial gain, and personal gain and pushing towards a greater cause.

Though, many will celebrate,the City of Cleveland, will long despise James decision. Many despise the glamorous style in releasing his decision. I don't think that we should diminish the fact that James only agreed to broadcast his decision, if all proceeds benefited The Boys and Girls Club of America. This again, further shows the classiness of one LeBron James. Now, he just has to win!

Mel Gibson's Braveheart

The director of "The Passion of the Christ" may need to be cleansed with holy water. Mel Gibson was caught on tape again making racial slurs and profane remarks to his ex-wife. As a fan of Mel Gibson, I am not offended by his use of the N-word as much as I don't approve of the context of use. He suggested N***ers would rape his ex-wife. Sorry Mr. Gibson don't hold Blacks liable for your outrageous behavior. The way you cursed her out should have been considered rape. Click on the photo to read more about Mel Gibson's latest tyraid.

It's Getting to Me! HELP!

Trust me, I'm not a fan. But, why in the hell can't I stop singing this song!?! It's viral!

Album Review: The-Dream "Love King"

This week was the release of singer/superwriter The-Dream's, "Love King." It took me a few days to digest the album because my initial listens didn't offer me any worth while sensations. But after 3 days, I removed all of my expectations and listened to the album for what it was.

"Love King" caught my attention from the self titled single that proclaimed his dominance over the female gender. One thing that I can appreciate about Dream is that he does not saturate his albums with colabs. He truly gives his listeners a peek inside of his brain and his personal life through self confession. He continues a saga created on his first album about a fling he addresses as Nikki, which seems to be coming to a head. I guess fans have to keep following this story which is only told on his records.

Despite Dreams commercial success he contributes a simplistic relevance to R&B. Suggested listens are: Yamaha, Nikki,Panties To the Side, Love King. Grade B Check out the video Trilogy below hot shit!

The Dream - Trilogy from Motion Family on Vimeo.

Success in Death

One of the Notorious B.I.G.'s livest songs is "You Are Nobody til Somebody Kills You." In this song, he discusses how being assassinated makes not only the victim but also the assailant famous. Maybe he had a point when it came to artists and death. Biggie, along with Tupac, Marvin Gaye, and many others sold more records after they were assassinated. Likewise, a new report says Michael Jackson has sold over 300 million albums since his assassination. Music's allure is ambivalent. We love music because she is attractive, but we hate her because she likes to entertain all forms of company. Let me be first to say Happy Birthday to the King of Pop, RIP to Pac, BIG, and the illustrious Marvin Gaye.. Click on the photo to read up on how Michael Jackson's estate has grossed $1bn.

Album Review: Drake "Thank Me Later"

The wait is over. Hip Hops new king is here to reign! Or is he? The anticipation has set standards that are almost impossible for Drake to live up to. It was my fear that he was set up for failure.

My first listen through was very unfulfilling. Not that it wasn't good, there just wasn't an "initial impact." No super hot tracks, no clever hooks. And after listening to the album I realized that he was singing just as much as he was rapping. I personally enjoy him more as an emcee considering the fading trend of Auto Tune.

I don't want to be a total hater, so I will say this: Drake is very close to being a lyrical genius. There are great metaphors, and superb verses on this record. The guy can rap. But with the expectations set by the industry and himself, this album is far from classic work. Especially from someone who claims to run hip hop!

Get the record. Expect to hear great verses, great colabs (Jeezy, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, T.I., Alicia Keys), but thats about it. My Fav is "Thank Me Now."

DaNastyOne

Grade: B-

Hip Hop Artist Spark Screaming Tattoo Craze

Everyone knows that along with heat, fun, and cookouts, summertime brings the craze of getting "tatted up". Fashion Newspaper places the blame of young teens wanting hip hop tattoos on the hottest hip hop artists. The newspaper claims that the ink seen on 50 cent, Lil Wayne, and Eminem serve as inspiration for the screaming crave of hip hop tattoos. Now as we all know, people want tattoos that have a specific meaning. Is it really fair to say that getting your hometown tattooed on your back or initials on your arm was an idea given to you by a hip hop artist? I have two tattoos, both of which were inspired by what I love the most. Do hip hop artist really deserve the credit for permanent symbols on our bodies? I don't think so. For more insight check out the article.~Dezired

http://www.fashionnewspaper.com/blogs/673/Hip-Hop-tattoo-storm-lead-to-screaming-tattoo-craze.html

Big Boi Stands Alone

Looka here! I know that I'm late, but it's never too late to let you know when something is hot. Take this from a person that is not the biggest Big Boi fan w/out Andre 3000, but this new single "Shutterbug" is blazing. This high impact head knocker is produced by Scott Storch. Check it out below. Also, click here to read why Jive records blocked Andre 3000 from appearing on Big Boi's upcoming album Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son Of Chico Dusty.

Gotta Love That New Ross!

Man this song goes hard, and the video goes even harder. I wonder if this video was a Kanye diss?!

Don't Start None, Won't Be None!

You don't have to be a follower of politics to hear about the mud being thrown by the two candidates running for the house seat of District 76. Maurice Rollins, is a young candidate that is running on his determination for change. His incumbent opponent, Thad McClammy, has years of service and has played a huge role in the economic development of this city. Both candidates seem to have what is needed to succeed if elected.

BTW GO VOTE JUNE 1ST

Earlier this week, the two candidates appeared on a local radio station and IT GOT UGLY! Expletives, and legal threats combined to give listeners an earful. McClammy is accusing Rollins of lying about McClammys health issues, insinuating that he is not fit to serve another term. (BTW GO VOTE JUNE 1ST)Rollins has launched a side campaign, challenging McClammys work ethics in completing a charity effort to get water to Haiti.

BTW GO VOTE JUNE 1ST

All of this activity has truly given us the public something to watch. However, the issues are lost. I wish that these two "BROTHERS" would not fall into a side of politics that there is no winner. Quit the fighting and get back to the issues!
BTW GO VOTE JUNE 1ST

The Somali-born K'naan Bucks Hip Hop's Violent Code

Born Keinan Warsame, K'naan uses his own poetic nature to tell the story of his life. Warsame states that the violence he witnessed, and sometimes was a part of, was too strong to restate in his lyrics. Instead of creating songs that glorify his struggle in the violent city of Somali, K'naan chooses a different route to reveal the hardships he faced growing up. With this method, K'naan hopes to reform hip hop and its overall message.~Dezired

Bloody Diamond

Is Naomi in trouble? What should she do? Click on the image and see why Naomi Campbell may have to testify about a diamond she received as a gift.`Dezired

Kronos-The Future of Hair Care

Maintaining your hair could be a hard task. Daily beauticians and barbers recommend different products that will help you keep dandruff and other bacteria out of your hair. However, most shampoos are a waist of money. But don't fret. I got you covered. A new hair care company set in California, called Kronos, is actively working to create new products that will ensure clean and healthy hair. Click on the photo to learn more about this new line of products. ~Dezired

The New Dynamic Duo

Thanks to my good friend Reggie Jones, I got put on new music by, who I'm calling The New Dynamic Duo, Rich Ross and John Legend. They don't seem to be a good match, but judging from the success of "Magnificent," and this new track, the results are great. Take a listen.

RIP Guru

Another hip hop jewel has fallen. Rapper and gang Starr co-founder has died from cancer complications. R.I.P

Do The Right Thing

NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, is scheduled to punish Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for his second sexual assault accusation within 12 months. To Roethlisbergers credit, no charges will be filed against him by the State of Georgia, citing there was no incriminating evidence, but the Pittsburgh Steelers and the NFL seem to not be pleased with his lack of responsible decision making over the past three years.

Lets be real. Many are awaiting to see if consequences are gonna equal that of previous players (Adam "Pac Man" Jones, Tank Johnson, Michael Vick, etc.) Some of these players were not convicted, yet punished by NFL for inappropriate behavior. You gotta know if the consequences do not equal to some of the others there is gonna be hugh public reaction. IJS

Marvin Gaye: Here My Dear

By 1976, the relationship between Marvin Gaye and his first wife, Anna Gordy, had become estranged and was far from being repaired. Marvin, who was now carrying on an open relationship with singer Janis Hunter, and Anna often accused each other of infidelity over the years before his relationship with Hunter. Shortly after Marvin and Janis welcomed the second of their two children, Frankie, in November 1975, Anna filed for divorce. At this time, Marvin was running low on money because of an extravagant spending habit to support his lifestyle which included, among other things, a fleet of cars, several homes in and outside the country, and an increasing cocaine habit. Marvin's spending habits had made it impossible for the singer to pay Anna money for alimony and child support for the couple's only son, Marvin III. Marvin's attorney Curtis Shaw came up with a solution to Marvin to give half the royalties he would earn from his next project to Anna. After agreeing to the deal, the singer went into his recording studio in an effort to give Motown a "lazy, bad" album starting sessions in the spring of 1976. However, as Marvin set on making the "lazy" album, the singer's deep emotions and bittersweet feelings for his soon-to-be former wife took over the music

Happy Birthday to Marvin Gaye

I don't celebrate April Fools, but I do look forward to the day after which is the bday of Marvin Gaye. Yall groove out to this!

Minaj the Lil Freak!

I try not to get into too much hip hop gossip, but up and coming rap star Nicki Minaj is taking radio by storm. Her most recent episode is her feature on Ushers Lil Freak. This is a very colorful song where Usher is in search of a female to help him jump off a threesome. Well Minaj's verse accepts the challenge of finding a third party. Great concept, but this also brings up another question.

Is America become to immune to its conscious? This is a song that is being played on mainstream radio. This means that our kids are listening. Is this sending a relaxed statement on homosexuality?

Give it a listen

Blast From the Past: Herbie Hancock "Sunlight"

I just wanted to give you music lovers a blast from the past. I know this on ain't for everybody, but.... Herbie Hancock created a work over 30 years ago in which he experimented with the vocoder (now known as auto tune). It is safe to say that he was having a Kanye West moment. This album was not by far one of his most popular albums. However, he had the freedom as a artist to venture out and expand as a musician. Check it out. May fav is Come Running to Me.

Album Review: The New Amerykah Pt. 2 :Return of The Ankh

Let me preface this review with this statement

Artist should never box themselves in, even if it means losing some fans. As fans, sometimes we desire to relive the initial sensation felt when first discovering artist. Not acknowledging that we must allow our artists to evolve. True artist push the envelope to do more.

With that being said, Erykah Badu’s The New Amerykah (Part Two): Return of the Ankh is a compilation that is the softer side of the militant Part One. She managed to not take her sound too far outside of her natural vintage feel. Personally, I love this project because I am a fan of Badu.

I encourage all soul music fans to buy this CD, even though it excluded what I thought was gonna be the first single Jump Up in the Air. My personal favs are Window Seat (has nothing to do with the video :)), Get Munny, and Fall in Love. Check out Get Munny!

Erykah Badu Bares All on her New Video.

Just as I'm preparing my Erykah Badu album review, I see the video for her new single. Can you say , STRIPPER? Check it out.

Culture Shock is Getting thier 6 Pack Abs On!

Hey fellas, in an attempt to get my 6 pack abs on for the summer, I decided to try the Abs Diet, by David Zinczenco (editor-in_chief of Men's Health Magazine. This diet is different from your average diet because it urges you to eat more not less. It gives you several ideas for meals and it give quick results. Check it out! My wife still hasn't given me permission to go out in public with my shirt off tho!
BTW THERE IS A WOMENS VERSION TO THIS DIET ALSO!

Ladies, Are You Buying Used Underwear?

I was watching The Today Show and came across something that I think every woman should know. Major distributors on womens underwear sold used garments after they were returned! Some even stained. And I'm quite sure your store was named. Check it out here.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Album Review: Lil Wayne Rebirth

Last week Lil Wayne released a new yet very different album. Rebirth was Waynes equivalent to Kanye's 808 & Heartbreaks noting his recent infatuation with singing. I must say, that I am highly impressed because I personally get tired of Wayne and most times desire more than his quirky metaphors. The rock n roll feel almost recreates a reason to listen to the guy. I give him a B! Listen to my favorite track.

Tiger Coming Outta the Woods!

Here we go again with the Tiger Woods saga. Today is the first day that Tiger will address the public since his infidelity scandal that almost ruined his marriage. Many think that it is his business and does not owe anyone an apology. Some think that because of his fortune and success, that he owes everyone an apology. What do you think?

Culture Shock hosts The Magic City Black Expo

This weekend, we will be hosting The Magic City Black Expo, brought to you by DTR Promotions. This event is uplifting to the African American community. The expo will consist of multiple vendors, speakers and artists all in effort to stimulate the black community. So join us this Saturday Feb 6th, for MCBE.

Lil Wayne to headline "We Are The World" Remake

Remember the 1985s world healing song "We Are The World?" This was a combination of the music industrys leading artist starting with Michael Jackson, onto Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, and many more, all for the effort of creating a song that would insprie the world over. Well, 25 years later, Wayne and others are gathering for 2010s rendition. Think it'll have the same effect? Read the story here.

Hip Hops New Rat Pack!

Jay-Z, Jeezy and Trey Songz make up the Mob Squad! Don't know if thats the mix for success! We shall see. Click here to read more.

Badu's Upcoming album

According to our friends @bamalovesoul.com, at 3:33 pm today Erykah Badu will be leaking music from her new album coming out in March on erykahbadu.com. The second part of her New Amerykah series is entitled The Return of the Ankh. You don't wanna miss this one!

Tru Divas presents: The Masquerade Ball

If you are in the Montgomery Area Feb. 13th, Tru Divas are hosting a a Masquerade Ball at the RSA Plaza, with a DJ and SOULED OUT performing live. For more info see the above flyer.

The Modern Day Match Maker

Over the past month we have become aquainted with another brother from a cyber mother, who has a very unique concept. Onedegreefrom.me is a website dedicated to providing solutions to contemporary love issues and match making. Mr. Paul Carrick Brunson, the founder of Onedegreefrom.me, has dedicated the past 10 years of his life matchmaking until recently he has decided to create a living out of it. We think that you should visit his site and subscribe to his movement. You can also watch episode 3 here.

Computer War continues....

Man, I cant afford it but the new Apple Tablet sure looks like its gonna be off the chains! Announcement is scheduled for Wednesday. Check it out here!

Quit Your Job by Jamie Foxx

New music by my homie Jamie Foxx! First he liked cause she had her own, now he wants her to quit her job! Get her Foxx!

Where da Hell are all the Eggo Waffles?

Man, I know I may be a little late with this, but I've been noticing that every store that I go to doesn't have any Eggo Waffles. I was raised on them, and so are my kids. So I decided to do some research. Click here for the scoop.

Where is Bilal?

I know many music lovers are in deep search of soul singer Bilal. Well, look no further because on Feb 12, in Atlanta, Ga, he along with Foreign Exchange, Jesse Boykins III, and more will be gearing up for a night of soul! To find out more click here.

Kimani Mumpfield's "My Soul's Window"

The best thing about being apart of Culture Shock is that you get to become acquainted with the best in culture. I have had the opportunity to meet a young man born and raised in Montgomery, who is actively chasing his dream. I have progressively been reading Kimani Mumpfield's book of poetry entitled "My Souls Window." This is an honest documentation that seems to touch a broad range of good vs. evil plots that each man faces. Although Mumpfields writings are personal, I think that there is something for everyone to feel in this book. Click here to purchase a copy.

Tiger a Sex Addict? LOL!

Tiger Woods has been spotted at a rehab facility for sex addiction. Some believe that this is more like rehab for his career. Hollywood is so unforgiving, that if celebrities fall out of grace they enjoy watching them humbled. I seem to think that this saga has far expired. Read more here.

Jay Leno vs. Conan O'Brien

I hear the baby boomers are holding Jay Leno down. Conan O'Brien is on the ropes. What do you think about this late nite talk show war? Read more about it here!

The BAMAZ!

On last night we had the opportunity to witness The Bamaz perform live at The Alley Bar. Socially Awkward, is the name of their new movement. This describes exactly the sound and image The Bamaz possess.

These young men started on their path to success right here in Montgomery, Al. Since then they have relocated to Houston, TX and have recorded with many profound artist and recieved numerous accolades for their production.

I was personally sold on their 2007 release of Meet the Bamaz. But since that release their sound has evolved into a sonic revolution that transcribes everyday situations into a new age robotic synergy. Please support The Bamaz by downloading Socially Awkward here.

Tonea Stewart stars in a Lifetime Network. Movie.

Montgomerys own Dr. Tonea Stewart starred in the Lifetime Movie Network Premiere of The Wronged Man.  This was a story about Mahershalalhashbaz Ali, a black man who spent 22 years in prison for a rape crime he never committed.  Dr. Stewart plays the grandmother of the accused as they fight to redeem his freedom.  Please set your DVR's to support ASU's own.

A Fallen Legend

The world has lost another great soldier of music. Teddy Pendergrass moved on to the next phase of life on last night due to his battle with colon caner. Either way, his time here was well spent and his music has touched generations. Besides, he was one of the pioneers of the full beard. Thats our Teddy P swag. Rest in Peace, and we will miss you.

Networking for a Cause

Shot out to everyone who is using their facebook and twitter pages to keep the casualties in Haiti fresh on our mind. Check out how the social networking sites were able to deliver not only first hand accounts but also a tool for communication during the earthquake. You guys are wonderful!!!

Sleep but Sleep

Sleep the Great Equalizer. Check out this article and find out some better ways to truly get the most out of an important part of your day.

First Lady Speaks on Her First Year

Michelle Obama discusses her first year as the first lady. Check out the article from Sun times in Chicago and tag along for what seems to be a hell of a ride.

Did Jigga Murder "I Wanna Rock" (remix)?

Snoop and Jay-Z seem to be an interesting mix! Check out the remix to I Wanna Rock!

Be Thankful!

The events that have occurred within the past 24hrs in Haiti have been devastating. When a catastrophe of this magnitude happens, it gives me a huge mirror to evaluate the things that I value. Americans speak of recession, and these people are losing everything. Make sure that you pray for the victims of this massive earthquake. Be sure to do something that will help in this cause. Real People Doing Real Things.

Check out this video of some damage:

Soul Sessions Coming to Montgomery

Get ready for a musical extravaganza that promises to deliver.  Two of Montgomery's most talented crooners will grace the Davis Theatre for a night of good ole soul sanging. This session will feature Eric Nettles and Rodney Wilkerson and feature band SOULED OUT.  For ticket info call 334-450-5191

Unreleased Dwele Tracks

Our guy, DJ Rahdu of BamaLoveSoul.com is back at it again. Today marks the his exclusive debut of unreleased Dwele tracks. Go check it out! Be sure to also listen in on Culture Shock Radio!

Legalize It

Peter Tosh suggested the legalization of marijuana a long time ago. It seems his voice is beginning to be heard in the 21st century. Now, more and more states are are considering approving the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Today the New Jersey legislature approved a bill which would allow patients who suffer from illnesses which cause chronic pain to use if they have approval from a doctor. The sponsor of the bill Reed Gusciora said, “I truly believe this will become a model for other states because it balances the compassionate use of medical marijuana...” The question is will other states begin to follow the play of the 14 states? To be honest, I don't think Alabama will. What about you? Let's chop it up.