Still recovering from this cold...at least I feel much, MUCH better now. Drinking lots of fluids and taking my nightly NyQuil every night to completely get rid of this fucking cold I've been having now for 4 days.
On top of that, I wake up smelling the same ish all over...again. All the media hype about another pandemic plaguing our nation. First, it was the Bird Influenza that hit last year...now, it's the Swine Influenza. To my understanding, these two aren't old news...and they have returned. But one of which...well, you know what it is...
ATTACK OF THE ANIMALS. FOR A VENGEANCE. Did you know, recently, that Egypt has slaughtered a good number of pigs? About 300,000 of them. Looks like they're won't be anymore of those pig roasts and Lechon for quite awhile...World's gone mad. Can it get any tougher? Are we seeing an annual epidemic or something? Best be careful...shit is crazy out there...
Anyways, semester is winding down...and everyone is on survival mode as I type this and I'm looking at this final review for Precalc...and it's LONG. REAL LONG. About 30+ pages we're talkin' here. I have to do well on this final to pass so I can get out of here...Better job? It's a good idea...
Survive.
Stay safe. Masks up...
Peace.
b.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tweets (Pt. 2) + More News On The Swine Flu Pandemic
My cousin on Twitter on an RT:
"LOL. WTF? RT @________: The Pandemic Alert Level has been raised to 5. That means we are almost willing to blow someone for Tamiflu."
____________________
WHO raises swine flu alert level as virus spreads
By LAURAN NEERGAARD and TOM RAUM, Associated Press Writers Lauran Neergaard And Tom Raum, Associated Press Writers – 46 mins ago
WASHINGTON – The Geneva-based World Health Organization on Wednesday raised its alert level for the fast-spreading swine flu to its next-to-highest notch, signaling a global pandemic could be imminent.
The move came after the virus spread to at least 10 U.S. states from coast to coast and swept deeper into Europe.
"It really is all of humanity that is under threat during a pandemic," said WHO Director General Margaret Chan. "We do not have all the answers right now but we will get them."
In the United States, President Barack Obama mourned the first U.S. death, a Mexican toddler who had traveled with his family to Texas. Total American cases surged to nearly 100, and Obama said wider school closings might be necessary.
Read more...
More here...
"LOL. WTF? RT @________: The Pandemic Alert Level has been raised to 5. That means we are almost willing to blow someone for Tamiflu."
____________________
WHO raises swine flu alert level as virus spreads
By LAURAN NEERGAARD and TOM RAUM, Associated Press Writers Lauran Neergaard And Tom Raum, Associated Press Writers – 46 mins ago
WASHINGTON – The Geneva-based World Health Organization on Wednesday raised its alert level for the fast-spreading swine flu to its next-to-highest notch, signaling a global pandemic could be imminent.
The move came after the virus spread to at least 10 U.S. states from coast to coast and swept deeper into Europe.
"It really is all of humanity that is under threat during a pandemic," said WHO Director General Margaret Chan. "We do not have all the answers right now but we will get them."
In the United States, President Barack Obama mourned the first U.S. death, a Mexican toddler who had traveled with his family to Texas. Total American cases surged to nearly 100, and Obama said wider school closings might be necessary.
Read more...
More here...
Pac-Man
Pacquiao a Filipino uniter
By Martin Rogers, Yahoo! Sports 5 hours, 9 minutes ago
They took away the death penalty, then brought it back, before three years ago abolishing it once and for all.
But still, two decades removed from the autocratic and brutal regime of Ferdinand Marcos, the Filipino authorities face a serious crime epidemic.
Drugs, gangs, murders, vigilante death squads and warring religious factions combine to provide a scourge to society in the Philippines that never stops.
Except when Manny Pacquiao fights.
Read more @ Yahoo! Sports...
By Martin Rogers, Yahoo! Sports 5 hours, 9 minutes ago
They took away the death penalty, then brought it back, before three years ago abolishing it once and for all.
But still, two decades removed from the autocratic and brutal regime of Ferdinand Marcos, the Filipino authorities face a serious crime epidemic.
Drugs, gangs, murders, vigilante death squads and warring religious factions combine to provide a scourge to society in the Philippines that never stops.
Except when Manny Pacquiao fights.
Read more @ Yahoo! Sports...
Tweets...
My cousin Marybeth is hilarious! I'm on Twitter--yet again--and just finding her tweets just makes me laugh. Sorry, but I just had to post these up...
"Listening: Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees. The Swine Flu Pandemic Theme Song. "You know, it's alright, it's okay. I'll live to see another day..""
Here's an RT (I just found out what it meant; Re-Tweet for all you non-Twitter-ers out there...)
"Holy crap. The world has gone bananas. RT @________: Walgreens is reporting shortages of Lysol and Hand Sanitizers."
"Listening: Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees. The Swine Flu Pandemic Theme Song. "You know, it's alright, it's okay. I'll live to see another day..""
Here's an RT (I just found out what it meant; Re-Tweet for all you non-Twitter-ers out there...)
"Holy crap. The world has gone bananas. RT @________: Walgreens is reporting shortages of Lysol and Hand Sanitizers."
And Now A Public Service Announcement...
Questions & Answers
Swine Influenza and You
What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?
In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.
Is this swine flu virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
More information can be found here at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website
Resident Evil: Chicago
Think you've played all the Resident Evil games and watched both movies? Well, think again...I had to, just thought it was hilarious coming from my cousin (@ Twitter)...But not hilarious about what they're beginning to call a pandemic...Be careful out there people...put you're masks up...
"Oh snap. Swine flu in the Chi. Dust off your SARS masks, kiddies. It's about to get Resident Evil up in here."
"Oh snap. Swine flu in the Chi. Dust off your SARS masks, kiddies. It's about to get Resident Evil up in here."
Musical Cure
Back in effect. Feeling alot better compared to two days ago...Still a little coughing and a little runny nose, but no more fever and no more drowsiness/dizzyness...
...Anyways, unlike the medicine that supposedly made me "feel"better--damn DayQuil didn't work wonders for me. In fact, it had the opposite effect! What supposedly did work, however, was just listening to music from my collection and from my iPod. Don't call me crazy...but music does work wonders for anything...even when you're sick. So I guess it's a cure. So, here's what's been in my ears...on constant rotation, no less...
...Anyways, unlike the medicine that supposedly made me "feel"better--damn DayQuil didn't work wonders for me. In fact, it had the opposite effect! What supposedly did work, however, was just listening to music from my collection and from my iPod. Don't call me crazy...but music does work wonders for anything...even when you're sick. So I guess it's a cure. So, here's what's been in my ears...on constant rotation, no less...
- Study Guide
- The Foreign Exchange - Leave It All Behind
- Finale - A Pipe Dream And A Promise
- some Marvin Gaye joints
- Kero One - Early Believers
Monday, April 27, 2009
Teach The Children Well
I got shivers and chills watchin' this video...Perfect harmony! I feel so crappy today. Damn cold! Got that ish from yesterday...I was sneezing and sniffling all over the place. I gotta rest up and eat...But anyways, here's the video, via Jimmy Fallon's site; A New York City middle school choir with an ill choir teacher teaching them to sing "Eye Of The Tiger".
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Spankin' New Vid
I like Sundays. Especially weather like this...cloudy and rainy, a little warm. It's all chill. ALL chill. The comforts, confines, and privacy of your own home or bedroom...maybe with just yourself chillin', bummin'...or maybe with your special lady-friend you got with you...layin' on the couch...snuggled. Love those things...Sunday's are ill. Especially if you have some dope music on and just vibin' out with it. Speaking of which...got a brand new music video from the very own Freddie Joachim--you know, from Study Guide and his solo LP, In With Time, which dropped last year in Japan. Spotted at the Organology blog--big ups! Make sure you stop by. This music vid is titled The Crystals from Freddie's LP In With Time. Peep this ish...and enjoy the lovely Sunday...
Make sure to pick up those LP's...which are out now!
Freddie Joachim - "The Crystals" official video from Freddie Joachim on Vimeo.
Make sure to pick up those LP's...which are out now!
Freddie Joachim - "The Crystals" official video from Freddie Joachim on Vimeo.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Mind On My Money, Money On My Mind
Couple of days ago in Precalc class, we were learning about models--logistic models and compound interest applications; Logarithms and whatnot, to be specific--and our professor was talking about the U.S. National Debt--and the Debt Clock.
So, I thought it was interesting, for both me and you, that I should inform you of this matter.
Here's the outstanding U.S. national debt as of today, April 23, 2009, currently, we are at: $11,200,698,908,809.15. Also, that means that each citizen living in the United States shares this debt. How much? About $36,596.99.
Outstanding! Good job people!
b.
So, I thought it was interesting, for both me and you, that I should inform you of this matter.
Here's the outstanding U.S. national debt as of today, April 23, 2009, currently, we are at: $11,200,698,908,809.15. Also, that means that each citizen living in the United States shares this debt. How much? About $36,596.99.
Outstanding! Good job people!
b.
Express Concerned Talent For Some Of My Masses
This may not concern all of you...Maybe just a certain few out there that know me and that I know...
Okay, so I am a musician. An all-around dude that lives, eats, breathes, and sleeps music. I play drums...I collect all sorts of records. Hip-Hop connoisseur/aficionado and Jazz cat. Most of how I live my life I express in music. Okay, that's out of the way. Let me get to the point...
...Since I've been playing drums for about 10 years now, I feel like I should express how I play in terms of how I enjoy music so much. Alright, so I play drums at church almost every week on Sunday...Rewind back for a minute. Maybe you might be asking me and yourself, how I prepare for each week other than practice? Well, I come up with styles that are originally from me. How I come up with these is all mostly from my mind, talent, imagination, and creativity. Another, is just strictly listening to different kinds of music altogether; listening to different styles of beats...tempos, rhythm, melody, and different harmonies. The style I have is mainly focused on my originality. It's mainly composed of that old "boom-bap" style of Hip-Hop, to Jazz, to Funk, House...and a little in between. I also add a little twist or flava' of my own...And, not sure if you notice, but I do a lot of improvisation. Okay, that's just a little bit or a sliver about me on how and what I play. With that said the point is how I play right? Well, when I do play...I get in what is called--cliche, I know--"in the zone..."
When I play, I play on what's in my heart, mind, soul, and body. At church, it's all that...with my faith involved, it's the whole praise and worship experience, the church I feed off of. I'm moved by the Spirit and the songs that I play. I'm in the zone and it's just all-natural and automatic from there...What I like to say is that I'm not playing loud because I can or just doing that in purpose...I'm not playing a totally different style or tempo because I can or just showing off or just doing that in purpose...no. That's not how a musician is supposed to act or have an attitude. Not very aesthetically pleasing, either. I play how I play and what I play because this is me. How I work with music applies all around me. I ain't bragging at all. I'm just doing me. Me orginally. My own originality. There's just so much more than practice and experience for me...That's how I became so good in playing drums...and more so for loving and enjoying music. Experimenting, observation, and listening are key to me for what and how I play. Not really others trying to stop me, no offense.
See, music isn't just to play for fun, or just listen, or have to or whatever...and I'm also talking about playing any kind of instruments, it's so much more than that. Look beyond it and look past me. Look through me. Music is like a conversation...Communication of back-and-forth...that whole 'question and answer' thing. With that, music conveys alot of expression and feeling when played properly and played right. From something so simple as a hand clap to difficult chords on a guitar, music has--and should--have that feeling to that person listening or playing...or both, and others, towards others.
All I'm sayin' is that I'm moved...And that's something that you should be concerned about. Not what I'm doing. Be concerned on how I perform, like my expressions--feelings, thoughts...that whole movement. Just believe me...
So, take time to consider that you have to be patient with me...and just keep up. Don't ever tell me this or tell me that...I know what I am doing. If it ain't right to you, well...tell me! But I'll tell you if it's right to me, it's right to me. I may be stern, but I know what things are right and not right. You don't like it...you don't like me...tough.
I can go on and on and on and on...but I'll save that to myself.
Look at me, you see this...?
Let me do me...
b.
Okay, so I am a musician. An all-around dude that lives, eats, breathes, and sleeps music. I play drums...I collect all sorts of records. Hip-Hop connoisseur/aficionado and Jazz cat. Most of how I live my life I express in music. Okay, that's out of the way. Let me get to the point...
...Since I've been playing drums for about 10 years now, I feel like I should express how I play in terms of how I enjoy music so much. Alright, so I play drums at church almost every week on Sunday...Rewind back for a minute. Maybe you might be asking me and yourself, how I prepare for each week other than practice? Well, I come up with styles that are originally from me. How I come up with these is all mostly from my mind, talent, imagination, and creativity. Another, is just strictly listening to different kinds of music altogether; listening to different styles of beats...tempos, rhythm, melody, and different harmonies. The style I have is mainly focused on my originality. It's mainly composed of that old "boom-bap" style of Hip-Hop, to Jazz, to Funk, House...and a little in between. I also add a little twist or flava' of my own...And, not sure if you notice, but I do a lot of improvisation. Okay, that's just a little bit or a sliver about me on how and what I play. With that said the point is how I play right? Well, when I do play...I get in what is called--cliche, I know--"in the zone..."
When I play, I play on what's in my heart, mind, soul, and body. At church, it's all that...with my faith involved, it's the whole praise and worship experience, the church I feed off of. I'm moved by the Spirit and the songs that I play. I'm in the zone and it's just all-natural and automatic from there...What I like to say is that I'm not playing loud because I can or just doing that in purpose...I'm not playing a totally different style or tempo because I can or just showing off or just doing that in purpose...no. That's not how a musician is supposed to act or have an attitude. Not very aesthetically pleasing, either. I play how I play and what I play because this is me. How I work with music applies all around me. I ain't bragging at all. I'm just doing me. Me orginally. My own originality. There's just so much more than practice and experience for me...That's how I became so good in playing drums...and more so for loving and enjoying music. Experimenting, observation, and listening are key to me for what and how I play. Not really others trying to stop me, no offense.
See, music isn't just to play for fun, or just listen, or have to or whatever...and I'm also talking about playing any kind of instruments, it's so much more than that. Look beyond it and look past me. Look through me. Music is like a conversation...Communication of back-and-forth...that whole 'question and answer' thing. With that, music conveys alot of expression and feeling when played properly and played right. From something so simple as a hand clap to difficult chords on a guitar, music has--and should--have that feeling to that person listening or playing...or both, and others, towards others.
All I'm sayin' is that I'm moved...And that's something that you should be concerned about. Not what I'm doing. Be concerned on how I perform, like my expressions--feelings, thoughts...that whole movement. Just believe me...
So, take time to consider that you have to be patient with me...and just keep up. Don't ever tell me this or tell me that...I know what I am doing. If it ain't right to you, well...tell me! But I'll tell you if it's right to me, it's right to me. I may be stern, but I know what things are right and not right. You don't like it...you don't like me...tough.
I can go on and on and on and on...but I'll save that to myself.
Look at me, you see this...?
Let me do me...
b.
Gentle Reminder...
...I've been knockin' this LP on my iTunes and my cd player in my room and car...Can't seem to put this down...and neither should you. What I'm I talkin' about, he asks? Well, I'm talking about Question & Freddie Joachim's Study Guide. It's been out now for a little over a week and I highly recommend this album...for anyone young or old. If you haven't picked it up already, chances are, you're missin' out on dope instrumentals by these two...It's a good investment from your wallet. Well worth your money...Out now digitally on iTunes, compact discs on cdbaby, and HMV (both Japan and Germany). U.S. limited edition cd's are droppin' some time in July, so look out for that as well.
Really, I'm tellin' you, if you love dope music, real, feel good music support these independent artists and other fine independent artists all over...They're waiting for you guys out there just waiting to be heard...And freak the rest...
b.
Really, I'm tellin' you, if you love dope music, real, feel good music support these independent artists and other fine independent artists all over...They're waiting for you guys out there just waiting to be heard...And freak the rest...
b.
The Foreign Exchange At Double Door, Chicago
Gyeah. Mmhmmm...The Foreign Exchange is coming to Chicago at the Double Door Sunday June 7, 2009--posted on Nicolay Music. So if you're down and wanna come with me, get at me...I definitely want to go! That's if you are 21 or older. Sorry...Got that at the Double Door site. Get at Nic's site for more information...***Just in case you miss this post, I'll be happy to post it up again once it comes closer to the event...You know, for another reminder...
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Another Reason I Prefer To Talk On My Cell...
See, this is why I like talking on the cell with people versus texting...SO DON'T DO IT WITH ME. Well, not too much, though...
Record attempt reaps 217K texts, $26K phone bill
By BILL BERGSTROM, Associated Press Writer - Wed Apr 22, 2009 7:13AM EDT
PHILADELPHIA - Their thumbs sure must be sore. Two central Pennsylvania friends spent most of March in a text-messaging record attempt, exchanging a thumbs-flying total of 217,000. For one of the two, that meant an inches-thick itemized bill for $26,000.
Nick Andes, 29, and Doug Klinger, 30, were relying on their unlimited text messaging plans to get them through the escapade, so Andes didn't expect such a big bill.
Read more...
Record attempt reaps 217K texts, $26K phone bill
By BILL BERGSTROM, Associated Press Writer - Wed Apr 22, 2009 7:13AM EDT
PHILADELPHIA - Their thumbs sure must be sore. Two central Pennsylvania friends spent most of March in a text-messaging record attempt, exchanging a thumbs-flying total of 217,000. For one of the two, that meant an inches-thick itemized bill for $26,000.
Nick Andes, 29, and Doug Klinger, 30, were relying on their unlimited text messaging plans to get them through the escapade, so Andes didn't expect such a big bill.
Read more...
Lollapalooza 2009 Chicago
Shouts to The Press Play Show--good look. Chicago's Lollapalooza 2009 is lookin' to be at it's best, yet, again this year. The event will take place in Grant Park from August 7-9. Check the full flyer for this year's lineup and the site for more information. Chicago stand up!
Economics Can Kill.
Can someone tell me why...?
Freddie Mac official found dead in apparent suicide
By MATT SMALL, Associated Press Writer Matt Small, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 11 mins ago
WASHINGTON – David Kellermann, the acting chief financial officer of mortgage giant Freddie Mac, was found dead at his home Wednesday morning in what police said was an apparent suicide.
Mary Ann Jennings, director of public information for the Fairfax County, Va., Police Department, said Kellermann was found dead in his Reston, Va., home. The 41-year-old Kellermann has been Freddie Mac's chief financial officer since September.
Jennings said that a crime scene crew and homicide detectives were investigating the death, but that there didn't appear to be any sign of foul play.
McLean-based Freddie Mac has been criticized heavily for reckless business practices that some argue contributed to the housing and financial crisis. Freddic Mac is a government-controlled company that owns or guarantees about 13 million home loans. CEO David Moffett resigned last month.
Read more...
Freddie Mac official found dead in apparent suicide
By MATT SMALL, Associated Press Writer Matt Small, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 11 mins ago
WASHINGTON – David Kellermann, the acting chief financial officer of mortgage giant Freddie Mac, was found dead at his home Wednesday morning in what police said was an apparent suicide.
Mary Ann Jennings, director of public information for the Fairfax County, Va., Police Department, said Kellermann was found dead in his Reston, Va., home. The 41-year-old Kellermann has been Freddie Mac's chief financial officer since September.
Jennings said that a crime scene crew and homicide detectives were investigating the death, but that there didn't appear to be any sign of foul play.
McLean-based Freddie Mac has been criticized heavily for reckless business practices that some argue contributed to the housing and financial crisis. Freddic Mac is a government-controlled company that owns or guarantees about 13 million home loans. CEO David Moffett resigned last month.
Read more...
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Rick Ross W/ The Roots On Fallon + CuDi [Mixtape]
I just watched last night's show awhile ago on L.N.W.J.F. and it was easily one of my favorite episodes because it wasn't only that Ross performed with The Legendery, but also Booker T. was there--no, not the wrestler. If ya'll know, it's Booker T. the organist...from Booker T. and The MG's--get it now? But anyways, here's Rick with, you know who, performing Magnificent. Shouts to Okayplayer. Ricky's LP drops tomorrow...
Spotted on Okayplayer, yet, again, is KiD CuDi--I'm really into this dude. If you like him, also check out Blu, Charles Hamilton, and Wale, just to name some. Anyways, his brand new mixtape which dropped today on the 'Net titled, Dat Kid From Cleveland. The tape is a collection of CuDi's latest work in anticipation of his upcoming debut LP, Man on the Moon: The Gaurdians. There's some brand new ish as well as joints you may have already heard on here. Download is FREE--of course. Click album cover for it...
Spotted on Okayplayer, yet, again, is KiD CuDi--I'm really into this dude. If you like him, also check out Blu, Charles Hamilton, and Wale, just to name some. Anyways, his brand new mixtape which dropped today on the 'Net titled, Dat Kid From Cleveland. The tape is a collection of CuDi's latest work in anticipation of his upcoming debut LP, Man on the Moon: The Gaurdians. There's some brand new ish as well as joints you may have already heard on here. Download is FREE--of course. Click album cover for it...
New Video From The Foreign Exchange
Just got this on Nicolay's Twitter...Brand new video from The Foreign Exchange, Take Off The Blues. Peep...It's lovely...
Related: The Foreign Exchange - Daykeeper
Related: The Foreign Exchange - Daykeeper
Another Birthday...
Happy BORNDAY to April (swapped this from your page...from John's Myspace). Wish you all the best...Enjoy being 21 for a whole year!
Monday, April 20, 2009
What Are You Doing? (140)
This is it. I fell and gave in. I've been debating whether to join or not...and, well...here I am. Why? Not sure...However, you can also find me here on Twitter--don't fret, I'll still be here on my blog almost daily. Get at me at www.twitter.com/bTilinfinity.
Don't Believe The Hype...?
I'm not sure what the deal and all the hype is about for this album. No disrespect or anything...but I'm not sure for myself that I'm feelin' this album...Well, at least not yet...I mean, there was coverage EVERYWHERE on the net lately--Asher this, Asher that...the videos, leaks, etc.--I don't know...Um, no thank you...? *Shrugs shoulders, shakes head*I don't know, but since I'm at it, Asher Roth's debut album Asleep In The Bread Aisle is out now...That's if you dig it. Me? Not so sure...yet. But anything with me can change...MAYBE...
b. Ya'll don't have to take my word for it.
More Q-Tip On Noisemakers III
Got more Noisemakers coverage via Okayplayer and High Voltage's site, plus FREE audio/interview download from the event...
Q-Tip - "Noisemakers" (Complete Interview + Tribute Sets)
Q-Tip - "Noisemakers" (Complete Interview + Tribute Sets)
Sunday, April 19, 2009
J$P LP X Dilla & Black Thought
Don't say I didn't tell you...Pete Rock has mixed and arranged a 25 track collection of unreleased--and some released--beats by Dilla to bring you Jay Stay Paid. The J$P LP will be droppin' on June 2nd via Nature Sounds. This brand new LP is mostly instrumentals, but also boasts some vocals backed by MF DOOM, Black Thought, Illa J, Raekwon, Blu, Havoc, M.O.P., and more. Executive produced by Ma Dukes--word up. Shouts to Okayplayer for this one...I can't wait!And here's a special treat for ya'll...FREE download track off the upcoming LP titled Reality Check ft. Black Thought. Peep...
b.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
When Life Smacks You Upside The Head
Just when you think life is just beginning--whether just been born, tying the knot, having kids, whatever it is--life can just unexpectantly come to an end...a sudden, ubrupt halt. A traffic jam in our lives. We can come from different kinds and types of lives that we live, but it's all too the same when everything just stops...Suddenly, things change and become much more apparent and different...It's as if life has been changed for good. A lot of us ask, "Who do we blame?" Us? Why didn't they do this right? Why couldn't they just try harder? Is it God's fault? Why did God do this? "God is to blame for this!" Those, I bet we ask...and then some.
But life can also bring and reep it's benefits. Always. I'm not going to dwell on that, really, because we've all been through those times when life goes down...We spring right back up, remembering, and hopefully, not forgetting...We learn and cope...We move on...
This brings me to what I have just recently been told by mom this morning...
This morning, I woke up around, just past 9AM, and obviously every morning my parents are awake cooking breakfast or already having breakfast, with the occasional stereo being on, with the same cd played over and over in the player, where you can hear it throughout the house. Anyways, I've just gone from upstairs from the bathroom heading down for breakfast when my mom stopped me and said, "Something happend..." Before I even opened my mouth, she kept going, "...Manang (that's Ilocano for sister/cousin, for all you non-Ilocano Filipinos out there) Gigi passed away yesterday during sugery...They couldn't stop the bleeding and she went on cardiac arrest." I was shocked. I didn't say anything...So sudden...
...I wasn't sure what to think or what to do...let alone how to feel. I mean, I do know what I feel and how I feel...it's just...it's hitting me from all sides. So unexpected. She leaves behind her husband, Jeff and their two kids...She's at least 10 years older than me, and yes, she's still young...and yet...she's passed. Another thing was that she also babysat me when I was young and so did my other half-cousins. I mean, this is hard to shake off...My half-cousin. Gone. Young; already with a family and young in marriage...
But you know...I guess this what life is. What it is about and should be. And I guess things really do happen for a reason...even if it's unexpected.
I can honestly tell you that I never had someone still young pass away all of a sudden. This is really a first for me...I mean, look at me...I'M STILL YOUNG! It just goes to show that anything can happen...Those moments in life...should be treasured and cherished. Anything can go down, can change in a blink-of-an-eye. It could sneek up on you, blindside you, come around, stalk you, ambush you...all directions...
...My eyes are wider opened; Life's fragile...maybe moreso than glass. It's given me a whole new perspective...and life shouldn't be a waste...
I ain't wasting mine...
Cherish those moments, experiences, memories, thoughts, feelings, etc., every single day...Because you never know...
Those I love and miss...I'll see you when I get there...
b. I'm alright.
But life can also bring and reep it's benefits. Always. I'm not going to dwell on that, really, because we've all been through those times when life goes down...We spring right back up, remembering, and hopefully, not forgetting...We learn and cope...We move on...
This brings me to what I have just recently been told by mom this morning...
This morning, I woke up around, just past 9AM, and obviously every morning my parents are awake cooking breakfast or already having breakfast, with the occasional stereo being on, with the same cd played over and over in the player, where you can hear it throughout the house. Anyways, I've just gone from upstairs from the bathroom heading down for breakfast when my mom stopped me and said, "Something happend..." Before I even opened my mouth, she kept going, "...Manang (that's Ilocano for sister/cousin, for all you non-Ilocano Filipinos out there) Gigi passed away yesterday during sugery...They couldn't stop the bleeding and she went on cardiac arrest." I was shocked. I didn't say anything...So sudden...
...I wasn't sure what to think or what to do...let alone how to feel. I mean, I do know what I feel and how I feel...it's just...it's hitting me from all sides. So unexpected. She leaves behind her husband, Jeff and their two kids...She's at least 10 years older than me, and yes, she's still young...and yet...she's passed. Another thing was that she also babysat me when I was young and so did my other half-cousins. I mean, this is hard to shake off...My half-cousin. Gone. Young; already with a family and young in marriage...
But you know...I guess this what life is. What it is about and should be. And I guess things really do happen for a reason...even if it's unexpected.
I can honestly tell you that I never had someone still young pass away all of a sudden. This is really a first for me...I mean, look at me...I'M STILL YOUNG! It just goes to show that anything can happen...Those moments in life...should be treasured and cherished. Anything can go down, can change in a blink-of-an-eye. It could sneek up on you, blindside you, come around, stalk you, ambush you...all directions...
...My eyes are wider opened; Life's fragile...maybe moreso than glass. It's given me a whole new perspective...and life shouldn't be a waste...
I ain't wasting mine...
Cherish those moments, experiences, memories, thoughts, feelings, etc., every single day...Because you never know...
Those I love and miss...I'll see you when I get there...
b. I'm alright.
You Won't Find Me.
Driving home on a wonderful, clear, 40 degree weather night...my mind just wonders while driving multi-task-ably, trying not to stare at the other driver's lights on the opposite, incoming lane, keeping my speed, and being aware what's around me and the car. A straight road I was driving at with absolutely no light posts to brighten up the roads--this is a shortcut going back home, by the way--I started thinking about dance.
Yeah. Danc-ing, really. It's safe to say that I can dance...but I'm not that great of a dancer. But this isn't about me talking about how well people can dance or how well I can dance...but, really, aesthetically speaking...Like how people dance.
Before I go on, I'm not here to offend or diss how people dance or dancing, in general...but I'm talking about free-form, self-expressive dancing, if you catch what I'm saying. And, no, I'm not dissing other types of dances, either.
To make it more clear, I just don't like the kinds of dancing that you're being forced or controlled by...Being all limited and shit...I don't like that, preferably speaking, personally. It's just not me...Not what I would want to see with myself; not really my style. I mean, I like dancing...how it's supposed to be dancing. I like that feeling and expressiveness out of it...So free-form that it comes so natural, psychadelic even, and all that jazz...very unlimited, and YOU are the person in control...not some other dude or woman.
I'm not saying I'm mad about this...it's just I ask myself, WHY? Why be so limited, controlled, and not too "expressive"? Shouldn't be dancing be more of the self and the feel of a musical tune, melody, and rhythm? Shouldn't dancing be THE showcase of the self...and not the showcase of instruction, specific step and less dancing/movements?
I just believe that people who dance (and who, and can, dance well) should just...BE FREE. Not controlled by any other means. I mean, I do understand that there are some types of dances that do have some limitations and disciplines, and I respect that, but...I don't know. Just a few types I've seen; Say...hmm...those fake-tryin'-to-be-breakdancing ish. You know...those peeps tryin' to be 'real wit' it'. What's up with that lately!? What happend? Never saw that shit before growin' up. Not to diss those peeps...but the moves now, man...the moves and steps...What happend!?
See, that's why ya'll don't see me do any choreograph dances...a) because I could hardly remember any steps/movements...all that ish and b) it's this other reason I'm writing about. Right here.
I just like dancing...just FREELY and not having to worry about any damn steps, movements, footwork, "This is how you do it. Ready?" type ish or keeping the tempo and rhythm of steps...counting 1, 2, 3,...5, 6, 7, 8, and so on and on and on, bleh.
Let me be who I am...What I would want and like to do. I like to dance the way I like and want to dance...very free-form and expressive...Just lettin' loose on the dance floor. That's it...Period. So, if ever you guys out there that are asking me to dance...I'll dance, but asking me to do any typ e of choreograph dancing...forget it!
Does anybody feel this other than me...?
b.
Yeah. Danc-ing, really. It's safe to say that I can dance...but I'm not that great of a dancer. But this isn't about me talking about how well people can dance or how well I can dance...but, really, aesthetically speaking...Like how people dance.
Before I go on, I'm not here to offend or diss how people dance or dancing, in general...but I'm talking about free-form, self-expressive dancing, if you catch what I'm saying. And, no, I'm not dissing other types of dances, either.
To make it more clear, I just don't like the kinds of dancing that you're being forced or controlled by...Being all limited and shit...I don't like that, preferably speaking, personally. It's just not me...Not what I would want to see with myself; not really my style. I mean, I like dancing...how it's supposed to be dancing. I like that feeling and expressiveness out of it...So free-form that it comes so natural, psychadelic even, and all that jazz...very unlimited, and YOU are the person in control...not some other dude or woman.
I'm not saying I'm mad about this...it's just I ask myself, WHY? Why be so limited, controlled, and not too "expressive"? Shouldn't be dancing be more of the self and the feel of a musical tune, melody, and rhythm? Shouldn't dancing be THE showcase of the self...and not the showcase of instruction, specific step and less dancing/movements?
I just believe that people who dance (and who, and can, dance well) should just...BE FREE. Not controlled by any other means. I mean, I do understand that there are some types of dances that do have some limitations and disciplines, and I respect that, but...I don't know. Just a few types I've seen; Say...hmm...those fake-tryin'-to-be-breakdancing ish. You know...those peeps tryin' to be 'real wit' it'. What's up with that lately!? What happend? Never saw that shit before growin' up. Not to diss those peeps...but the moves now, man...the moves and steps...What happend!?
See, that's why ya'll don't see me do any choreograph dances...a) because I could hardly remember any steps/movements...all that ish and b) it's this other reason I'm writing about. Right here.
I just like dancing...just FREELY and not having to worry about any damn steps, movements, footwork, "This is how you do it. Ready?" type ish or keeping the tempo and rhythm of steps...counting 1, 2, 3,...5, 6, 7, 8, and so on and on and on, bleh.
Let me be who I am...What I would want and like to do. I like to dance the way I like and want to dance...very free-form and expressive...Just lettin' loose on the dance floor. That's it...Period. So, if ever you guys out there that are asking me to dance...I'll dance, but asking me to do any typ e of choreograph dancing...forget it!
Does anybody feel this other than me...?
b.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Who Knew...?
I've come across some great music since I started record collecting for the past several years now. I've come across and listened to, no less, to some great gems--some I have in my personal collection, others people had shared to me, and some I've heard in other places. But reading issue 34 of Waxpoetics (The Jazz Issue), on the 're:Discovery' section of the magazine, there was this record called Here and Now by The Third Wave, and while reading...who knew!? Five teenage Filipino sisters from Stockton, California...on a piece of wax!? I flipped. And I thought how awesome that is. I honestly never have come across any kind of Filipino music on wax--just cassettes and cd's--let alone have any in my collection. And mind you, this is The Jazz Issue...and they were vocal Jazz artists! (Double WOW factor there). Yeah, if you can guess...never heard Filipino Jazz before--Embarrassed? Not really. This is all new to me...But there is always discoveries in life that no one has ever seen, done, explored, or heard...even in music. I mean, after just reading that article, it just makes me think how awesome music can just seep through lives, race, and culture...and knowing what unlimitless limits the condition of human self can go through. No one doesn't want to be in control, other than themselves...and this record just speaks to me. Now my purpose of record digging/collecting and being a listener of fine music has broaden more and much more meaningful. My philosophies have opened up and broaden, also...Much more open-minded...Man...I wanna get that ish, NOW! Eh, I'll probably come across it someday...Just gotta be prepared to pay some pretty pennies for it...Fascinated.
b.
Papercraft
If you have a little time and patience--and like art and toys--...or just bored out of your boxers, get at this...it'll be fun...!
Get more CUBES here
Spotted on some sites, like Freddie's site, rappcats.com, and Stones Throw...I'm kinda' enjoying this...
Oh, and I know that Jas will get a kick out of this...
Shouts to robeast.com (You can download and print it here)
Get more CUBES here
Thursday, April 16, 2009
It's Like...
I'm feelin' alright...Pretty good, actually. I feel inspired...loved, really. Who? Well, sorry...not you...but You. Yeah...You. Not sure where this is coming from...but it's a dope feelin'. Though, it may be just a feelin'...I dig that. I dig You.
For You and I, it's more than a knowin'. But one of I says that my heart is showin'.
I see what those thugs must've done to You. But I know I can't forget I was like 'em, too.
See, I don't think for me this is more than a crush, Love, I'm still chasin', rollin' like ?uestlove.
High above, it's almost scary that You know me than I know me...But damn, Girl, I'm weak when cutey go, "Hey, B."
I'm not really sure what I'm sayin', let alone where this is goin'. These are just words, but not any words. Trueness; random, uncontrollable, like water flowin'. Just remember, what I want You to get out of this, it's me, just B., that I want be part of this...All of this if You let me; Let's share, not those thangy's in your hair, 'Le, you know I'm there, for let me love for the love for Two...
b.
For You and I, it's more than a knowin'. But one of I says that my heart is showin'.
I see what those thugs must've done to You. But I know I can't forget I was like 'em, too.
See, I don't think for me this is more than a crush, Love, I'm still chasin', rollin' like ?uestlove.
High above, it's almost scary that You know me than I know me...But damn, Girl, I'm weak when cutey go, "Hey, B."
I'm not really sure what I'm sayin', let alone where this is goin'. These are just words, but not any words. Trueness; random, uncontrollable, like water flowin'. Just remember, what I want You to get out of this, it's me, just B., that I want be part of this...All of this if You let me; Let's share, not those thangy's in your hair, 'Le, you know I'm there, for let me love for the love for Two...
b.
Lyrics To Go
"Every, anywhere; Heights, plains, peaks, or valleys
Entrances, exits, vestibules, and alleys
Winding roads that test the firm nerve
Fortune or fatal behind the blind curve
The engine oil purr, lights flash to a blur, speed work through the earth make your motor go scurrr
Tonight at noon watch a bad moon risin'
Identities in crisis and conflict diamonds
Blindin', staring at lights 'til they cryin'
Bone gristle popping from continuous grindin'
Grapes of wrath in a shapely glass
Ingredients influential on your ways and acts
Zero tolerance to raise the tax
It don't matter how your gates is latched
You ain't safe from the danger jack..."
b.
Entrances, exits, vestibules, and alleys
Winding roads that test the firm nerve
Fortune or fatal behind the blind curve
The engine oil purr, lights flash to a blur, speed work through the earth make your motor go scurrr
Tonight at noon watch a bad moon risin'
Identities in crisis and conflict diamonds
Blindin', staring at lights 'til they cryin'
Bone gristle popping from continuous grindin'
Grapes of wrath in a shapely glass
Ingredients influential on your ways and acts
Zero tolerance to raise the tax
It don't matter how your gates is latched
You ain't safe from the danger jack..."
b.
On Rotation...
Thought I'd share what's in my ears to you. Here's what's playin' currently on my playlist on my iPod...and cd player--gyeah, I still own one. Okay...maybe several...
1) Question & Freddie Joachim: Study Guide
2) J. Period/Q-Tip: The [Abstract] Best Mixtape
3) Kero One - Early Believers
4) Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx
5) Souls Of Mischief - '93 'Til Infinity
6) Enter The Wu-Tang - 36 Chambers
7) Profile - Greatest Misses
8) Soulpatrol--got that off of 2dopeboyz--Just some good ol' classic soul ish...
9) The Roots - Rising Down
10) Miles Davis - Kind Of Blue (Mmmhmmmm...and what?)
11) The Foreign Exchange - Leave It All Behind
12) John Coltrane - A Love Supreme
b.
1) Question & Freddie Joachim: Study Guide
2) J. Period/Q-Tip: The [Abstract] Best Mixtape
3) Kero One - Early Believers
4) Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx
5) Souls Of Mischief - '93 'Til Infinity
6) Enter The Wu-Tang - 36 Chambers
7) Profile - Greatest Misses
8) Soulpatrol--got that off of 2dopeboyz--Just some good ol' classic soul ish...
9) The Roots - Rising Down
10) Miles Davis - Kind Of Blue (Mmmhmmmm...and what?)
11) The Foreign Exchange - Leave It All Behind
12) John Coltrane - A Love Supreme
b.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Mm, Mm, Better...
Gyeah. Okay...so, I'm excited and happy now because Study Guide just dropped--along with some other goodies in constant rotation, like Kero's new LP, Profile's Greatest Misses mix, and DJ Day's The Day Before LP (yeah, I'm goin' back to that...)--and so, it's makin' me feel better...Been under-the-weather lately, not sick, just...eh...But I'm cool now...
...Not even half-way through it's already dope as heck! Ish is fresh...I recommend that you cop this now...And other fine independent artists out there...
Real music...
PeacePeace.
b.
...Not even half-way through it's already dope as heck! Ish is fresh...I recommend that you cop this now...And other fine independent artists out there...
Real music...
PeacePeace.
b.
Your Study Guide Is Due Now, Sucka'!
I've been at it for some days now...And it's FINALLY HERE! Question--aka DJ Style--and Freddie Joachim...Get the download on iTunes...
Monday, April 13, 2009
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Lyrics To Go
"...So, he headed to the top without a doubt...Drivin' big cars now, million dolla' house. Cop the fancy clothes, chillin' with his bros, forgot how Christ rose from the dead to save souls. Get'n a bad reception, caught up in this life now he losin' his perception. Now it's like deception, took his interception, no love, thug, stick 'em up like an erection. A bad mistake, he lookin' for correction. Fell from the sky said the skies is the lesson..."
b.
b.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Done Live...
After CLC, at the LRC (got out early) we were at Villa Park for a dope performance--entitled The Promise--from our fellow youth group members at IPJM. Honestly, I didn't know what to expect...but once we got in...MAN. They were hooked up with tons. I didn't expect to see that many people there all fitted in a small gymnasium...and all the fixins' and thangs...Geez. An ill night with our group and their's...Shouts to EVERY SINGLE ONE OUT THERE THAT HELD IT DOWN. Honestly, that was the best dramatic performance/play I've probably ever seen done by just amatures--let alone younger people. I mean, the actual score and composition LIVE...just brought that effect on the play. That ish just brought the house DOWN! You guys were awesome! Word up...
The following are videos and photos--these are not even half of them--that were taken there right after the show--and some from just recently...and some before the show. The first video comes from Y4JC performing before the show...and the second video is just to get you an idea how the dance was done (shot not long ago)--the first video wasn't as good. I couldn't really see well; Had a bad position...And pardon the overall quality of the video, might want to turn up the volume a bit--but overall...BEST NIGHT.
b.
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