Barack Obama's Democratic National Convention Speech

T-Pain Feat. Lil' Wayne: Can't Believe It [Video]

T-Pain ft. Lil Wayne - Can’t Believe It Video

NFL: Osi Umenyiora Out for Season

If being the defending champions wasn't hard enough, the New York Giants will have an even tougher hill to climb [in repeating] without their leading pass rusher, Osi Umenyiora. Being a Patriots fan, I'm jubilated by this news; however, not to the point that I'm emotionally numb for something like this to happen.

On the respect tip, Osi is a solid player with tons of talent and I hate to see something like this happen but I [fully] blame the NFL. The pre-season is too long and when "accidents" like this happen, it takes the competitive balance out of the game. Wouldn't you agree? Anyway, come back healthy Osi and continue to do your thing. You will surely be missed, but as a fan of the Patriots...that's, unfortunately, where I have to draw the line.

The Sweet Taste of Redemption

How many people actually believed in Team USA after what happened in '04? I, myself, didn't but am proud nonetheless, as Team USA managed to get it done with a 118-107 victory over Spain. Closer than the score indicated, Spain put up quite a fight and gave the U.S. their toughest test in these Olympic games; but it was the MVP Kobe Bryant who helped seal the deal. Not to be outdone, the [whole] team rallied and put forth a collective effort that was commendable and I'm quite sure there's no sweeter taste than that of redemption. Without question, Team USA is back, but we still have a long road back to dominance. The rest of the world is catching up and the only way to keep pace is to prove otherwise every four years. Therefore, goodnight China. Good morning, London.

John Legend Feat. Andre 3000: Green Light [Video]

Tropic Thunder

In all fairness, laugh out loud comedy should be unapologetic to a certain extent; but with Ben Stiller, there seems to never be a line that can't be crossed. Stiller's particular brand of raw, in your face comedy has entertained fans for years and has not only spawned memorable pop culture references but, in a way, has defined our generation as well. Movies such as There's Something About Mary and Dodgeball represent both ends of the spectrum and although he's tried once before with the outlandish Zoolander, Tropic Thunder will [undoubtedly] go down as Stiller's finest work to date. Why? Simple. Tropic Thunder excels in the fact that it doesn't take itself seriously and knowing that allows for a premise of this nature to pull no punches.

First things first, however, if you are easily offended--I highly recommend that you do NOT see this movie. Tropic Thunder openly crosses the line on many occasions and preys on the sensitivity of those who may be watching; but only to the extent of blatant truth. In no way is any of this intended to be taken seriously and as long as you keep that in mind, you'll laugh and enjoy yourself at the same time.

So, now that that's out of the way. Tropic Thunder, for lack of a better word, is a paradox of sorts in that it is a parody of a parody. Let's face it. War movies have become mundane and/or commonplace in this day and age of ours, but I truly feel that Tropic Thunder will represent a concerted effort back towards the importance of originality. So much recycled b.s. is thrown at us constantly and instead of disallowing such behavior to continue, we feed into it by shelling out $7 bucks or so each week; only to see the same mindless crap. Now, if that's your idea of quality, then so be it. Me, on the other hand, I expect more and luckily Tropic Thunder was just that.

So, what's it all about? Usually, I would go into extensive detail and point out the highs and lows of the plot; but I think it's better served to let you find out things for yourself. Besides, critics [in my opinion] spoil things ever so slightly with some of their reviews and I, myself, feel that I would be following down that same path if I, too, were to do so. Therefore, I'll put it to you like this. Tropic Thunder offends, yet succeeds on all levels as a laugh out loud comedy and is more than worth the price of admission. Point. Blank. Period.

P.S.

Three(3) things to look out for: Booty Sweat energy drinks, Bust-a-nut bars, and "Never go full retard". LOL, you'll soon see what I mean.

Rating: 4 inkblots out of 5

Nas: Untitled

The term "shock value" would be an understatement when describing the approach Nas took with his latest album, but not without reason. The issue of race has long since been swept under the rung, however, quietly racism remains a prevalent problem in this country of ours. Racism STILL exists and while not a open as it once was, it is still something that needs to be addressed. Far be it from me to suggest a solution to the problem, but to ignore it would only make matters worse. Therefore, any idea, thought, or conviction could only help [not harm] and with the release of Untitled (formerly titled Nigger), Nas' voice not only reflects the feelings of a generation, but the animosities of it as well.

The unbridled truth of the matter is that Nas is on a whole 'nother level when it comes to rappers and politics. Not since Dead Prez has an artist poured so much emotion into a piece of work and with Untitled, Nas makes his message quite clear. His views, thoughts, and/or opinions are that of his own and instead of trying to get the listener to conform; instead, his purpose is only to inform.

Getting things started, Nas drops knowledge over the Jay Electronica produced "Queens Get The Money" and achieves lyrical perfection in the process. From there, "You Can't Stop Us Now", "Breathe", and "Make The World Go Round" featuring Chris Brown and The Game revert nicely back to the concept of the album, but it's the lead single "Hero" that stands out. Produced by Polow Da Don, the drum heavy production serves as the perfect backdrop for Nas as he viciously attacks the beat in pure veteran form. Not to mention, the smooth vocals of Keri Hilson make for the icing on the cake. Up next, "America", "Sly Fox", and "Testify" examine the issue of race and the media, while "N.I.G.G.E.R", "Untitled", and "Fried Chicken" featuring Busta Rhymes shifts the [proverbial] mirror back at African-Americans as a whole.

So, in a sense, both sides of the fence are being displayed and the way Nas is able to balance the two is remarkable. His flow comes off as effortless as ever and the subject matter is on some real knowledgeable shit. Self-conscience or not, people need to know the truth for what it is and I'm glad that an artist as respected as Nas, is not afraid of the backlash he may receive from speaking out on politics. This, in no way, is about selling records to Nas; but, rather an attempt to open the eyes of those who have been walking blindly. Besides, as much as the truth can be stretched out and manipulated, the more naive we become. It's up to us to see things for what they really are. Therefore, which one are you. The slave or the master?

Rating: 9.5 headphones out of 10

Max Payne [Trailer]

Lloyd: Lessons In Love

Consistency goes unnoticed, in my opinion, but Lloyd has quietly put out two solid albums thus far. While he may not be as mainstream as say an Usher or Chris Brown, his music is equally on par with such heavyweights and I truly feel that he deserves more recognition then what he's been given. Plain and simple, a lot of people don't like Lloyd. For whatever reason, I don't know. However, with this new album Lessons In Love, Lloyd comes correct and whether you're a fan of his or not, it'll be hard pressed to deny that.

Getting things started, "Sex Education" sets the mood and not only serves as the perfect precursor for the album; but transitions smoothly into the Lil' Wayne assisted "Girls Around The World". I'll admit. At first, I hated this song with a passion, but it became one of those that grows on you after awhile. Maybe it's the fact that Lloyd and Lil' Wayne just have great chemistry together or whatever but, regardless, this song is the shit! Up next, "Treat U Good" finds Lloyd in his comfort zone and you can really tell that he's having fun with this, however, it's the smooth and melodic "Year of the Lover" that takes things to an even higher level. By far, THE standout track of note, Lloyd really connects with this song and I hope he goes with this as his next single. Words can't even begin to describe how much I love this song; besides, I doubt words would even do it justice.

From there, "I Can Change Your Life" and "Lose Your Love" have there moments but I vibed instantly with "Love Making 101" and "Have My Baby". Each song, as a representation of itself, is good in its own right--and again, telling you about them just won't do it justice.

Plain and simple, this album [as a whole] is on point from start to finish ("I'm Wit It" and "Heart Attack" close the album perfectly) and save for "Touched by an Angel" and "Party All Over Your Body" serving mostly as album filler; this album is absolutely incredible. Lloyd really stepped his game up and delivers a timeless piece of work while, in the process, validating his career as well. No longer will he be cast into the shadows and forced idly by, reduced to the background; Instead, Lloyd shines brighter than ever and if Lessons In Love is any indication, I'm sure Lloyd has plenty more tricks left up his sleeve. Therefore, class is in session. I suggest you pay attention.

Rating: 7.5 headphones out of 10

Yung Berg: Look What You Made Me

If the old adage of "controversy sells" rings true, then Yung Berg should prove to be quite successful with his new album Look What You Made Me. Well, at least in theory anyway. In actuality, the album will most likely flop by commercial standards but, still, it's no secret that Yung Berg has made quite a name for himself. Since exploding on the scene with the radio friendly "Sexy Lady" and shortly thereafter with the Ray J. assisted "Sexy Can I", Yung Berg has typecast himself as this "gangster and a gentleman". The only thing is, while it may come off well in small doses, it doesn't really work for an entire album; and therein lies one of the many problems for Yung Berg.

As much as this notion of Hip-Hop being "dead" is concerned, I honestly feel that the concept of this statement has been run into the ground. I'm so sick of people saying what is Hip-Hop and what isn't; but with Yung Berg, I think he fits somewhere in between. It's no question that the guy can make hits because his current single "The Business" featuring label mate Casha is burning up urban radio but, still, it's all about substance. Nothing about Yung Berg stands out in the least bit, but in spite of my reservations I decided to give his album a listen anyway.

Not surprisingly, the album was pretty much what I had expected and had its moments, but those came few and far between. "Where Do We Go" featuring Twista and "Do That There" are guaranteed to bang heavy on the block, but street cred is not exactly Berg's M.O. Instead, Berg sticks to the winning formula he found success with from songs such as "Sexy Lady" and the aforementioned; and pretty much the album remains mostly R&B oriented. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but to each his own.

All I'm saying is, Yung Berg [still] has time to grow as an artist and I honestly feel that he has the potential to do so. Whether or not he ever maximizes that potential remains to be seen, but in the meantime Look What You Made Me is solid in it's attempt to introduce the world to Yung Berg. Sure, it may fall [way] short of anything "classic" or "memorable", but Yung Berg will have more to say before his limelight fades. Until then, I guess this will have to do for now.

Rating: 5.0 headphones out of 10

Bow Wow Stunts On The Game [Part 3]

Ne-Yo: Miss Independent [Video]

Lil' Wayne's October XXL Cover

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Lil' Wayne likes to think he's from another planet and maybe he was right all along. Whatever the case, Lil' Wayne graces the cover of the upcoming issue of XXL magazine and this looks like it will be a great read. Be on the lookout when it hits newsstands and check it out for yourself.

Hoopz Covers October Issue of King Magazine

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For some reason, I can't seem to get that "Business" song by Yung Berg out of my head when I look at this; but, obviously, for damn good reason. All I know is, if Hoopz WAS an action figure, I would gladly become a kid again because all I would do is play with her. Get it? Anyway, as you can see, Hoopz graces the cover for the upcoming issue of KING so be sure to pick up your copy when it hits newsstands here shortly.

Dream Girl

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Jennifer Hudson is a dream girl in the true sense of the word and these promo pics don't even do her justice. Now, I don't care particularly much for her as a singer but I do respect the fact that she's a very attractive woman. Her beauty shines through and reflects in her personality and I wish her all the success with her upcoming album next month. In the meantime, however, I came across these promo pics and had to share with you guys so let me know what you think. You feeling them?

Hellboy II: The Golden Army

Guillermo del Toro may not be a household name, but his visionary style of directing is [simply] one of a kind. Although he is most well-known for his brilliant work behind the adult fairy tale Pan's Labyrinth, del Toro's cinematic approach to film making is unlike any other. His sharp focus for detail, combined with his excellent use of stunning visual effects is more than meets the eye; and with his latest film, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, his quality work only continues to speak for itself.

First things first, if you were NOT a fan of the first Hellboy--then I strongly suggest that you do not see this film. Why? Well, unfortunately, I was not a fan of the first myself but, still, opted to see this film in support of del Toro; only to spend a majority of it lost and disinterested. Sure, part of that can be attributed to the face that I loathed its predecessor but, still, Hellboy II is far from a bad movie. In all fairness, it's bigger and better then it's previous counterpart and from that standpoint, I applaud the producers for expanding on an already established concept.

In essence, the Hellboy franchise is the "B" movie of comic book movies and fails to hold weight amongst such heavyweights as Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk. Not to be outdone, Hellboy's strong cult following helps in its appeal and it's fair to assume that a lot of fans will be thoroughly pleased. Unfortunately I wasn't, but I digress.

Overall, I would say that a little more could've been done with the story; but to go into extensive detail would be a waste of time. Not so much because it would require a detailed summary of the plot, but simply because I really don't care. Plain and simple, Hellboy II: The Golden Army passes with flying colors...if you're already a fan but, if not, it serves better as a late night rental from Blockbuster.

Rating: 2 inkblots out of 5

Bow Wow Lays Down A Madden '09 Challenge to The Game!

Tay Dizm Feat. T-Pain & Rick Ross: Beam Me Up [Video]

Torque & Leather

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Ever since her role in The Player's Club, LisaRaye has been a fan favorite for many (I, myself included). Anyway, peep these new promo pics of LisaRaye and while I'm not particularly a fan of leather, I would say that she pulls this look off quite nicely. Don't you think?

The Game Feat. Lil' Wayne: My Life [Video]

Gym Class Heroes Feat. The Dream: Cookie Jar [Video]

Serena Williams Serves Up For Men's Health Magazine

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Next to Candace Parker, Serena Williams is the only other [female] athlete that just does it for me. The sad thing is, these pics don't even do her justice but it's not like I'm complaining in the least bit. She still looks great here and it almost makes me wish her and I were together but, just give me time and it'll all come together in due time. Trust me. I know these things.

Kanye West: Champion [Video]

Pretty In Pink

It would seem as though I can't get enough of Esther Baxter with all the pics I've posted of her lately, but, really, that's not the case. Simply, I just have a "weakness" for girls who look good and I dare anybody to say differently. Yet and still, I've come across a couple new pics and decided to share so until I find more, enjoy.

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The Rocawear "Evolution" Ad Campaign

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"Jockin' Jay-Z": A Preview of The Blueprint 3!

BLUEPRINT 3 from kwest on Vimeo.

Packers Trade Favre To Jets

After all the analysis and the constant coverage, a bittersweet divorce was made official late last night as the Green Bay Packers have parted ways with Brett Favre; sending him to the New York Jets of all places. In the hearts of hearts, I'm sure many would have liked to have seen Brett remain a Packer, but it kind of makes you wonder why the deal to Tampa Bay fell through.

It seemed almost certain that his departure for Tampa was imminent, and for that reason, I'm here scratching my head, wondering how/why a move to New York makes sense. As respected as Brett is, the Jets are far from being a contender and, last I checked, the Patriots own that division and will almost certainly claim yet another division title. If not, much credit to Brett and the Jets organization for pulling the trigger on this deal, but something like this is bound to blow up in the long run. All's well that ends well, I suppose, and until this season is over, I guess we'll never know.

Bun B. Feat. Rick Ross, David Banner, & 8Ball & MJG: You're Everything [Video]

T.I.: Whatever You Like [Video]

Keri Hilson Gets Traced

Keri Hilson is incredibly talented when it comes to her songwriting ability and I'm happy that she's [finally] set to release her debut album, In A Perfect World here shortly. She's certainly paid her dues and with the positive response she's been getting from her lead single, "Energy", I'm sure her album will be a breath of fresh air, combined with raw talent.

In the meantime, check out Keri Hilson as she will grace the cover of Trace magazine this month and the article will be a nice read, I'm sure. That being said, be sure to check it out when it hits newsstands and be on the lookout for Keri's album as well.

Lil' Wayne Covers Blender

Lil' Wayne is the most sought after M.C. in the game right now--that, we already know. His presence in Hip-Hop is at an all time high and if he continues along this furious pace, his legacy will be cemented forever.

All that aside, I've always thought it was interesting to delve deep into "Wayne's World" and with the upcoming issue of Blender that features Lil' Wayne on the cover, I guess we'll all get that chance once again. Therefore, be sure to check out the new issue of Blender when it hits newsstands here shortly.

Young Jeezy: The Recession Album Cover

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Young Jeezy has a built-in audience that respects what he does and I, like many, am eager to hear what he has to say on this new album of his, The Recession. His last two albums have done fairly well [financially] but it's no secret that his music has more of an impact in the streets then on the charts. That being said, we'll see 9/2/08 if Young Jeezy The Snowman can sell in this "climate" of low album sales, but if not, the silver lining will always be that "inspiration" that Jeezy likes to spit so well.

Eva Mendes' Calvin Klein Ad Banned In The U.S.

I don't know if this is the case of America being too gotdamn sensitive when it comes to sensual imagery but, for those who haven't heard, the latest Calvin Klein ad that features the lovely Eva Mendes has been banned from the United States on account of a slight nipple slip (see vid below). Now, in a way, I can kind of understand how this can be deemed offensive and something that would cause quite a stir here in our country, but it's a gotdamn nipple. It's not that serious, people! Anyway, peep the ad for youself to see what all the fuss is about and let me know what you guys think.

Eva Mendes- Secret Obsession Banned Commercial
by CelebriNet2

Terrence Howard's Album Cover

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I'm a little reserved when it comes to Terrence Howard and this music career of his, but I think it's good look for him nonetheless. Anything he touches turns to gold and I expect this to be no different, but we'll see. In the meantime, peep the cover and feel free to chime in on what you guys think. Feedback is always a plus.

Cassie's Complex Mag Photoshoot

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Cam'Ron Sells Juelz Santana's Contract To Def Jam For $2 Mill

The Dipset movement isn't as prevalent as it once was but, with all the label politics that have been involved, it's no secret that Juelz Santana has had a hard time pressing forward with the release of his next album, Born To Lose, Built To Win.

Partly in lew of the fact that his deal was a joint venture with Dipset and Def Jam; both sides had to be on amicable terms [as far as the setup is concerned], but no longer will that be an issue as Cam'Ron has sold Juelz Santana's contract to Def Jam for $2 Mill, making him the sole proprietorship of Def Jam Records in the process.

Now, while this move will benefit Juelz the most, I think Cam was put in a position to pull the trigger on this because Juelz is a really talented M.C. He's not quite on par with some of the greats, but what he lacks in versatility and hip-hop "quotability", he more than makes up in swagga. By far, Juelz is one of the most confident M.C.'s in the game right now [next to Lil' Wayne] and I'm glad I'll get to see him shine as a free agent. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know it's still Dipset for life, but I think Juelz should take advantage of this golden opportunity and shine bright [finally] in his OWN right.

Ludacris: Politics As Usual

I don't know if it was a case of poor judgement on the part of Ludacris, but some sense of responsibility should've came into play while recording his "ode" to Democratic nominee, Barack Obama. In the song, Luda lashes out at both Hillary and John McCain and declares an imminent victory for Obama but the backlash in doing so may cost him not only fans, but support from Obama as well.

Let's face it. Hip-Hop already gets a bad "rap" as it already is and this mishap will only further that unfair stereotype. News syndicates like Fox News will eat this up and [unfairly] blame everything that's wrong with America on Hip-Hop but, then again, what's new?

I'll admit, Luda was wrong in his choice of words/lyrics and should be lamented for his actions, but I fully understand his intentions and I really don't think he intended for this to be spun into a negative. Clearly he was displaying his support for Obama and instead of being praised like he had hoped, the media is painting him as an incoherent, misogynistic bigot and [rightfully so] some would say he deserves it. Me, myself? I could care less what a rapper thinks because I have my own opinion and would never allow someone to conform my thoughts, ideas, and opinions to that of their own. People are too sensitive these days in my opinion and until we learn to let go and not be so cynical about shit that really isn't all that important to begin with, I fear that this country of ours will never break the mold. Therefore, in a sense, I guess it's still "Politics As Usual". Who woulda thunk it?

Nelly's Ad Campaign For Sean John

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I'm not jealous in the least bit because I, too, could look like this if I wanted to, but is it me or is Nelly really trying to sell himself right now. I realize his new album [Brass Knuckles] is slated to drop sometime within the next month, but was a underwear ad for Sean John really necessary? I, myself, say no seeing that this really doesn't appeal to me, but feel free to feast your eyes if it does you.

The Watchmen [Trailer]

I'm not too familiar with the graphic novel this movie is based on, but after watching this trailer I'm psyched to learn as much as I can. The special effects look breathtaking and I'm sure this will be a huge success by comic book standards, but for now it's all wait and see. In the meantime, peep the trailer for yourself and let me know what you think.

Lupe Fiasco & N*E*R*D Get Complex

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Complex magazine never really appealed to me before, but even I will admit that this is a pretty dope cover. I'm a huge fan of both N*E*R*D and Lupe Fiasco and btw, if you don't have either of their new albums then I suggest you do yourself a favor and cop 'em both, their both ill in their own right. Anyway, be sure to pick up the new issue of Complex when it hits newsstands here shortly and big up to both artists. Hip-Hop is alive and well because of y'all. Real talk.

Miss American Dream

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You would never think that an American flag could look so sexy but, somehow, Esther Baxter has made that possible. I'm just trippin' over the fact that she recently had a baby and unlike most girls who let themselves go after giving birth, Esther toned herself back up and is killing the game as if she had never left. So, in the meantime, enjoy these new pics and be sure to check out her new website by clicking here.

N*E*R*D: Spaz [Video]

I ♥ Rosario Dawson

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God, I love this woman! I really do. It's not even the fact that she has a bangin' body (trust me, looks are not everything) but, more so that Rosario seems like a pretty down ass chick. She's almost like one of the guys with the personality she puts off and when you combine that with how sexy she is, I think you have everything a guy can ask for in a girl. Well, at least everything I could ask for a in a girl.

Anyway, peep these pics I came across a while ago but never had time to post. Rosario is lookin' mad sexy here and I dare anybody to say differently, but enough about my secret wants and desires. There's more where this came from (click here) and trust me, you want to see more. God, knows I want to.

David Banner Feat. Lil' Wayne: Shawty Say [Video]

Manny Ramirez Traded To The L.A. Dodgers

Why Boston would make such a move is beyond me, but apparently the beloved franchise has had enough of "Manny being Manny". I'll admit, I'm not an avid fan of baseball and could care less for the game (it's too boring, in my opinion) but I'm a little surprised that Boston [actually] pulled the trigger on this deal. It had been reported that a deal was close to being dead, but this 3-way deal to the Dodgers came in close to the end of the trade deadline and was made official once Manny waived his no trade clause to approve it.

Again, why Manny would leave Boston in spite of all the turmoil surrounding him and his antics is beyond me but last I checked, the Red Sox are the defending World Champions. Why the hell would you leave a team that is prime for another championship run? See, it just doesn't make sense. At least, not to me anyway. For better or worse, the Red Sox remain a lesser team without Ramirez in the line up and his departure will [undoubtedly] make the L.A. Angels the odds on favorite to win the A.L. But, until then, that remains to be seen and to think...who would've imagined that we'd have such a compelling pennant race heading into this year's fall classic? Yep, this will be a hell of a post season indeed so stay tuned and watch how it unfolds..

Solange Covers Up

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Solange has been a welcome breath of fresh air as of late and I'm eager to hear this new album of hers when it drops on the 26th. Her current single, "I Decided" has been making its rounds at radio and the video is doing moderately well, but it's a shame that the mainstream will overlook this girl's originality. Solange is just as, if not more, talented as her sister but to compare the two would be unfair. Plain and simple, Solange does her own thing regardless of what people may think and as long as she keeps that same mindset, I'm sure she'll find an avenue for those who love and appreciate her music and all that she may encompass.

*£åïlµrê †ð Çðmmµñï¢å†ê

"Language is for liquid that we're all dissolved in. Great for solving problems, after it creates a problem." -Modest Mouse

It's funny how the events in our lives are shaped by our words and actions. However, the irony of all this is that miscommunication seems to be the most prevalent theme embodied by us collectively as human beings. By some sort of recollection, if you will, one would find it hard to argue against the fact but beneath any irrational façade…the underlying message of all this would be that some things are better left unsaid. While anything else would be indicative of a lie, the perception of being closed minded only leads to limiting one's self to something we, otherwise, would have never known existed.

In order for a growth to occur, a change must be the prior result and after wrestling with a certain issue the past couple of weeks I've realized that sometimes the only thing standing in the way is pride; and as much as it goes against human nature to do so…the best thing to do is swallow it and move on. I think Fabolous said it best--"…It's ok to lose your pride over someone you love/Don't lose someone you love though over your pride/Stick wit'cha entrée and get over your side"--Words to live by, in deed, but my whole problem has been what most would call a "failure to communicate".

Over the years, I've found that it's been much easier for me to express myself through my writing than through anything I could say verbally so I kind of feel that there's a part of me that I really don't know about. Up until recently, I hadn't been called out on this particular character trait of mine but after someone holds up a proverbial mirror in front of you…you finally see things for yourself and the natural thing to do is to respond in a negative manner. What can I say? I have an icebox for a heart but for damn good reason. Sure, I give people the benefit of the doubt in most cases if not all, but the moment someone does something to hurt me…it's fuck you and I don't want nothing to do with you.

Blame my head, not my heart is what I've always maintained because it's hard to think straight when you let your emotions get the best of you. Lord knows I bit my tongue a lot especially with all the bullshit I had to go through while working at Video Warehouse (and now @...well, nevermind) and with some of the people that work there (hint: She's fake…and in more ways than one…think about it/as for where I'm @ now, he's fake too and all he does is kiss ass...think about it) but it is what it is. Sometimes you gotta call an ace an ace and a spade a spade and when I threw my cards on the table , I saw that I had been working with a bad hand for two years and it was time to reshuffle the deck and try my luck with a better hand. What goes around…/…comes around though and when that day comes I would love nothing more than to have a front row seat right along with all the other people you've [both] fucked over, but all that is in due time.

In hindsight, "the possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not react" so none of the aforementioned is even a concern and has pretty much become an afterthought. More importantly, the subject at hand is the character analysis of Trimaine J. Irby and after a lot of self-reflection, I've sorted through all the things I need to work on in order to become a better person. The obvious being my inability to communicate my thoughts and feelings verbally rather than through my writing.

I wouldn't say I hide behind this particular medium as a defense mechanism but the more and more I continue to pick apart the social structure of my life, the more and more I'm finding this to be true. I have a really hard time in opening up and letting people in and the sad part of all this is that I have people I consider to be my closest friends, yet know nothing about me. It's a gift and a curse all at the same time and it's something I've carried with me for the [22] years that I've been on this earth. To ignore it any longer would be a mistake on my part because it means I would have missed out on the beauty of friendship but the "icebox" part of me is saying that I'm making things bigger then they really are. Whether this is true or not remains a mystery to me but until then…call it a work in progress.

"…I'm In repair"-John Mayer

Trina Feat. Killer Mike: Look Back At Me [Video]

Lil' Wayne Feat. T-Pain: Got Money [Video]

The Game Feat. Travis Barker: Dope Boys [Official Uncensored Video]

*Whå† Gðê§ ÄrðµñÐ.../...Çðmê§ ÄrðµñÐ

"Excuse my French emotion and my passion/But I wear my heart on my sleeve like it's the new fashion"-Lil' Wayne

*Continued from †hê Èlêþhåñ† Ìñ †hê Rððm [The Elephant in the Room]

It's like this…for a far as I can remember, it seems like I've always gotten the raw end of the deal. So much so that when things take a turn for the worse, the only justifiable means I can come up with is to shrug my shoulders, say "it's no big deal", put on a smile, and pretend like it doesn't even bother me. Deep down, a lot of pent up frustration lies dormant after all these years of being suppressed but if it wasn't for writing, I fear my only outlet would be one that was non-constructive. Not that it matters anyway but, to each his own. I just feel like all this "bad luck" of mine serves a higher purpose of sorts and may be a way of telling me when things aren't right for me, but who am I to question fate? Things happen for a reason is what I've always believed and for some reason, I've always been that nice guy to finish last.

Outside looking in, I suppose I'm not aggressive enough in my nature to go after what I want, when I want it but I'm starting to think that dating is not my thing. Bad things happen when I try and, besides, my history suggests that any girl I start talking to will end up in the arms of another guy. Don't believe me? I'm 8-for-8 so far and you can bet 9-for-9 will be a sure thing. It all depends though, I really like the person I'm talking to now and want to see where that goes, but I'm not as confident about it as I was when things first started. I'm not exactly sure what changed or what I may have done to have her lose interest, but then again it's me that we're talking about. Too many times I hear, "Trimaine, you're such a nice guy, any girl would be lucky to have you" and if that isn't bullshit then I don't know what is. My personality is MY personality and so far, nobody has been able to click with that like I had hoped; but lately I've found hope in her. The only thing is, I'm just not sure if that is what she wants anymore. . .

So, there's this girl. . .now that that's out of the way, why not continue deeper into the dark recesses of this mind of mine and see what else is in there. Other than friends being fake (*surprise, surprise*--not really) and this "No Country For Old Men" policy I strongly want to advocate, I'm at a standstill right now with life as I know it. No part of me is happy in the least bit, but in every dark cloud is a silver lining and from here lies an uphill struggle that I know all too well.

Indeed, it would be nice to have a "pocket full of sunshine" that I could enjoy for once and embellish with those around me, but dark clouds seem to follow me and it seems like I'll never break the mold. For what it's worth, it seems like I'm destined for a life of solitude but FUCK THAT…I'll be damned if that happens. My shit is just as good as the next guy so it's time for me to wake up, smell the roses, and get my swagga on full tilt. I'm superbly confident in what I can bring to the table and sure that I will make someone happy one day, but what the fuck is crying over spilled milk gonna do? The past is the past, the only thing I can do is learn from my mistakes and try not to make the same one's twice, right?

Easier said than done, I know, but my demeanor is on par as we speak and things are starting to come full circle. No longer will I give my heart so willingly, only to have people step all over it when they feel the need to and no longer will I be as naïve. The most important person I can/should care about is me, everybody else can kick rocks for all I care. That being said, I don't have a care in the world. Fuck everything to be more specific. And last but not least, before I hit the kill switch. Fuck Y.O.U.---And THAT'S HOW YOU LET THE BLOG BUILD, BITCH!

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